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: Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

A rapidly changing Midwest weather pattern is unfolding in 2026 as areas that recently slipped into abnormal dryness and flash drought conditions are now facing the threat of heavy rain and repeated storm systems.

After a wet spring erased early drought conditions, regions across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern Missouri have quickly dried out again since mid-to-late May. Soil moisture is dropping fast, and crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to feel the stress of rising temperatures and lack of consistent rainfall. Now, weather models show a major shift.

A developing system moving in from the Northern Plains is expected to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall across the Midwest. While some areas may miss out, others could finally see much-needed relief from the growing dryness. In this video, we break down:

Current drought conditions across the Midwest

Why a flash drought is developing quickly

Timing and path of incoming storm systems

Which states are most likely to see heavy rain

How long this wet pattern could last

Will this rain end the drought or create new flooding risks? Watch the full forecast to find out.