Farms.com Home   News

Potato Planting Progressing

Potato planting has started in Manitoba.

Vikram Bisht, with Manitoba Agriculture, gave us an update.

"They started last Friday," he said. "They were hoping to go about a week earlier but this cold weather snap, and the snowfall, basically delayed the plans. We are now about normal. We were thinking that it might be earlier planting. The ground is a bit dry, some of the growers may have to find sources of water and soon."

He expects to see a few thousand acres more than last year, which saw 70,000 plus acres grown in Manitoba.

Bisht says its important for potato growers to wait for the soils to warm up, adding the slower the potatoes emerge, the greater the chance of disease.

Click here to see more...

Trending Video

Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners

Video: Five Confirmed New World Screwworm Cases Raise Alarm for Livestock and Pet Owners


Pat Hoffman, Swine Technical Consultant and Elanco Animal Health tells us about the inpact or New World Screwworm. The emergence of New World screwworm in the U.S. creates a threat for veterinarians, livestock producers and pet owners that has not been seen north of the Florida Keys since the fly was eradicated from the United States more than 50 years ago. New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax) larvae feed on living tissue and can affect a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including livestock, companion animals, wildlife, and even humans.
“New World screwworm could have a devastating impact on animal health, welfare, and producer livelihoods,” said Jeff Simmons, President and CEO, Elanco Animal Health. “We want to thank the FDA, EPA and USDA, for all their work to prepare for this threat. We’re committed to supporting our customers during this challenging time by delivering innovation, scientific expertise, and available resources to help treat New World screwworm and support the health and well-being of animals.”
Elanco is working alongside the U.S. animal health industry to help them fight against this parasite, offering a portfolio of options for pets and livestock that can help treat New World screwworm larvae infestations.