How do we make canola oil?
How does a bright yellow flower turn into a versatile culinary oil? For canola – one of Canada’s most widely grown crops – it starts with a good squeeze.
Farming Up: What is Vertical Farming?
With the right technology, food can be grown anywhere. Food doesn’t always come from the field – sometimes it can be grown inside.
Insect Farming in Canada
Insects are common fare in many parts of the world. In recent years, edible insects like crickets and mealworms are gaining in popularity in Canada.
Pesticides and Paperwork
The use and availability of pesticides is regulated by Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA). The PMRA must deem products safe for people and the environment before farmers can use them.
The Science Behind Apple Farming
Science and creativity are critical tools for apple growers. These characteristics have fostered more efficient production methods – from genetic tools to new orchard designs.
Sweet Potatoes in Canada?
New variety of sweet potato designed to grow in shorter spring and summer seasons.
What is an Agronomist?
The science of crop production is called agronomy. These professionals help farmers fight challenges like insects, weeds and diseases.
Plants That Defend Themselves
Crops can take a big hit from insect pests. To protect them, some farmers take a genetic approach. One of those control tools is the bacterium Bt.
Keeping Disease at Bay
How farmers work to keep crops fungus-free. Fungicides are a type of pesticide used to stop the spread of fungal pathogens.
Farming Across Generations
Farming often means doing many things at once. Historically, this was the main reason two or more generations of a family would work together.
Why Do Farmers Use Herbicides?
Why do farmers use herbicides?
What herbicides are, and where they fit on the farm.
Ranchers & Brewers Make Two Products From One
Farmers and brewers save money, keep organic waste out of the landfill, and produce two valuable food products from one ingredient.
Matt McIntosh
Matt works with his family on their sixth-generation grain farm near Lake Erie’s northern shore. He’s also a journalist and communications professional specializing in science, agriculture, social issues and all things critical thinking. Matt tries to bring a wider perspective – and a little dry wit – to his work, while emphasizing scientific rigour and the practicality of asking big questions.