SFC launches new Integrated Pest Management resource on website

Jun 13, 2023

There is a new Integrated Pest Management (IPM) resource on Small Farm Canada’s website. It is a great resource if you are fine-tuning your pest management strategies and want to integrate strategies that have less impact.

Anyone with any-sized operation can use these techniques. It starts with understanding the conditions upon which pests thrive and pulling a ‘George Costanza’, that is creating conditions that are the opposite to those under which they thrive.

Here is a comprehensive definition of IPM from the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources:

“IPM is an ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and use of resistant varieties. Pesticides are used only after monitoring indicates they are needed according to established guidelines, and treatments are made with the goal of removing only the target organism. Pest control materials are selected and applied in a manner that minimizes risks to human health, beneficial and nontarget organisms, and the environment.”

If you wish to learn more about how to fine-tune your pest management with IPM check out our new resource page on pest controland let our editor know of similar resources you would like to see on our website.

For more information, tips about managing pests on your farm, homestead and property, subscribe here and get Small Farm Canada delivered straight to your door!

Source : Small Farm Canada

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.