The ABC’s of Bees by Certified Bee Master

Nov 22, 2022

In the November-December 2022 issue of Small Farm Canada, Certified Bee Master, Deborah Acheson advises on what to expect, how to be successful as well as the mechanics of getting started in beekeeping on your farm, homestead or property.

Deborah raises strong, healthy bees at Smith Lake Farm, Black Creek, British Columbia and also teaches and certifies others in beekeeping.

During the pandemic Acheson altered delivery of her beekeeping certification courses to online between February and May with two onsite days to complete the certification in June.

For more information on how to become a certified beekeeper see the November-December issue of Small Farm Canada magazine. Subscribe here and get each publication 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.