Scarification Methods of Cicer Milkvetch Seed *Project Complete*

The Saskatchewan Forage Council and partners recently completed the ADOPT project titled Demonstration of Scarification Methods for Cicer Milkvetch Seed. The objective of the project was to assess practical methods by which producers can scarify cicer milkvetch seed on-farm. Scarification is a technique used to improve the uniformity of germination in cicer milkvetch by abrading the impermeable seed coats to allow uptake of moisture from the soil. This project demonstrated different modes of action to scarify cicer milkvetch seeds and evaluate effectiveness by germination and vigor testing. In addition, small field plots were used to demonstrate emergence of cicer milkvetch seedlings using different scarification techniques.

This project was supported by the Agricultural Demonstration of Practices and Technologies (ADOPT) initiative under the Canada-Saskatchewan Growing Forward bi-lateral agreement.

To read more, visit our Completed Projects page.

Posted April 8, 2017

Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) Launches New National Website

Today the Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) program officially launches their new website, a single-stop comprehensive resource for all matters related to VBP+. Located at verifiedbeefproductionplus.ca, the new website offering reflects the progression of VBP+ towards national program management and delivery.

To learn more, read the full BCRC article.

Posted March 29, 2017

Species at Risk Farm Program

Simply Ag Solutions is excited to be offering a new farm program in Saskatchewan!
The Saskatchewan Species at Risk Farm Program
The goal of this program is to:
• Work with agricultural producers across the province to protect and enhance species at risk and their critical habitats.
• Increase awareness to Saskatchewan Species at Risk and what we can do to ensure these species continue to survive and thrive in their critical habitats.
• Provide producers access to funding through the Saskatchewan Species at Risk Stewardship Program.

Read More

Posted March 26, 2017

Saskatchewan Species at Risk Farm Program

Simply Ag Solutions is excited to be offering a new farm program in Saskatchewan!
The Saskatchewan Species at Risk Farm Program
The goal of this program is to:
• Work with agricultural producers across the province to protect and enhance species at risk and their critical habitats.
• Increase awareness to Saskatchewan Species at Risk and what we can do to ensure these species continue to survive and thrive in their critical habitats.
• Provide producers access to funding through the Saskatchewan Species at Risk Stewardship Program.

The following species are the main focus of The Saskatchewan Species at Risk Farm Program:
Upland Birds
Burrowing Owl
Chestnut-Collared Longspur
Common Nighthawk
Ferruginous Hawk
Greater Sage Grouse
Loggerhead Shrike
McCown's Longspur
Short-eared Owl
Sprague's Pipit

Wetland Birds
Long-billed Curlew
Piping Plover

Mammals
Little Brown Bat
Swift Fox

Amphibian
Northern Leopard Frog

Why Would I Want To Participate?
• You will gain an understanding of what species at risk are, what habitats they require and why they are a valuable asset to your farm. You will be provided with information to help assess suitable habitat and potential species at risk and learn about Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs) specific to each species. You will also be provided with an opportunity to complete a Species at Risk Action Plan specific to your farm/ranch.
• You will be eligible to apply for funding through the Saskatchewan Species at Risk Stewardship Program. Successful applicants will receive 100% of funding to cover costs of implementing the BMPs.
Added Benefits include:
Maintain prairie biodiversity - plants, mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, micro-organisms and amphibians all contribute to a healthy functioning ecosystem.
Help with pest control. Many species at risk consume large quantities of mosquitoes and grasshoppers.
How Do I Become Involved?

Attend a free workshop where you will be provided with a Saskatchewan Species at Risk Farm Program workbook, aerial images of your farm/ranch and an opportunity to complete a farm self-assessment and action plan. Your Action Plan will include Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs) implementation. All information will remain confidential.
Upcoming Workshops

Maple Creek – Mar 27
Val Marie – Mar 29
Edenwold – Mar 27
Carnduff – Apr 12
Saskatoon Area – April 2017

For more information please contact:
Tracy Hansen
Saskatchewan Species at Risk Farm Program Coordinator
306-955-5477 ext 205
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.