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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2001-02-28, Page 1574' ..1.'17`,411W ‘14,,,,•-• 1111.e-111%M • NI= 11= SWEEP "ff rr You need a soybean program you can count on. That's why there's CLEAN SWEEP," a proven, reliable tank-mix that delivers broad-spectrum, one-pass weed control — whether you're growing conventional or Identity Preserved beans. It gives you peace of mind with contact and season-long control of grass and broadleaf weeds, including the tough ones like ragweed, velvetleaf and nightshade. It's no wonder PURSUIT"+ BASAGRAN' FORTE is the #1 tank-mix choice for soybean growers in Eastern Canada. For more information on CLEAN SWEEP, call 0 BASF AgSolutions at 1-877-371-BASF (2273) or visit our website at www.agsolutions.ca EAN SWEEP is a tfai.kanark cif BASF. 'BASAGRAN is a 10.,01.11Pf0C: iraile•ifaik of BASF AG. owl finder•11...W1:10 by BASF -PURSUIT is a rkgisteteil fradaniatk :A BASF BASF THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2001. PAGE 15. AALP gets producers to study own operation When Bill Wallace applied to the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) he wanted to find out more about how his sector of farming was shaping up within the global picture. But what Wallace found was a closer look at himself. "AALP really was a valuable experience. It made me question my preconceptions by exposing me to other opinions and opportunities," said Wallace of Rowill Farms. "And I didn't have to go too far from home to get eyes opened." Wallace credits his AALP training with his improved ability to step back and look at all sides of an issue. "Being able to do so has helped me see other opportunities in my home town. I started to see the value in niche marketing and John Ferguson from the Environmental Commissioner's Office will be speaking at the Huron County Water Quality Coalition's upcoming annual meeting. "We are thrilled to have Mr. Ferguson attend our meeting to speak . mi the Environmental Bill of Rights and what it can do for you," said Evert Ridder, Chairperson. The coalition was founded in 1998 as a not-for-profit community based organization. It is a combination of individuals, Heifers sell for $135 Continued from page 14 weighed 1,935 lbs. and sold for $88. There -were 238 head of veal on offer. Beef sold $105 to $132; Holstein, $90 to $104; Plain Holstein, $75 to $90. Angus Martin, Dobbinton, consigned one limousin veal heifer weighing 580 lbs. selling for $132. One gold veal steer consigned by Decroft Farms Ltd., Clinton, weighed 735 lbs. selling for $125. John Richardson, Harriston, consigned one black veal steer weighing 660 lbs. selling for $124.50. Lambs, under 50 lbs. sold $177.50 to $215; 50 ; 64 lbs., $162.50 to $200; 65 - 79 lbs., $147 to $172.50; 80 - 94 lbs., $132 to $154; 94 - 109 lbs., $122 to $130; and 110 lbs. and over, $112 to $117. Goats sold $37 to $116. Sheep sold $32.50 to $140. Steers, under 400 lbs. sold $123 to $169; 400 - 499 lbs., $129 to $175; 500 - 599 lbs., $134 to $167.50; 600 - 699 lbs., $135 to $153.50; 700 - 799 lbs., $129 to $146.75; 800 - 899 lbs., $123.50 to $136.25; 900' - 999 lbs., $103 to $132; 1,000 lbs. and over, $99 to $118.75. - Heifers, under 300 lbs., sold to $113; 300 - 399 lbs., $128 to $152.50; 400 - 499 lbs., $112 to $145; 500 - 599 lbs., $116 to $139; 600 - 699 lbs., $110 to $146; 700 - 799 lbs., $107 to $136; 800 - 899 .lbs., $113 to $129.25; and 900 lbs. and -over, $96 to $12-5,50. have since gotten involved with the local milk processing plant, Quality Jersey Products Ltd. I now have the ability to question the traditional and ask if there is a way to do something better, rather than just continuing with the way it's always been done." This kind of mid-stream re- evaluation is just part of the personal development that occurs for many participants of AALP. A 1998 study by the Agri-Food Division of the Angus Reid Group indicates that AALP graduates feel increased levels . of confidence; develop better problem solving, negotiating and public speaking skills; and are exposed to industry contacts and networks that might otherwise take decades to culminate. "The goal of AALP is to municipalities, organizations and conservation authorities within Huron County. As the name suggests, these concerned citizens and organizations want to improve water quality and are combining their efforts. The annual meeting will be held on March 1 in Holmesville at the Goderich Twp. Hall beginning at 7:30 p.m. Other agenda topics include committee reports, elections and an update on provide an opportunity for individuals to develop the skills, knowledge and broad perspective needed to effectively manage today's issues, trends and changes in the agri-food industry and rural communities," explains Ann Gordon, executive director of AALP. "For some participants, this starts right at home." The financial returns on AALP are not just reserved for the graduates of the program. A 1996 Economic Impact Study conducted by the University of Guelph showed a benefits-to-cost ratio of 11 to one as an overall return to Ontario's agri-food industry. These benefits are realized in the ag-industry leadership and volunteer work done by the 204 current AALP graduates as they work Intensive Agricultural Operation Legislation by Harold House of OMAFRA. Huron's bounty of natural resources, rich soil, long, sandy beaches and lifegiving waters, were, irresistible to early settlers. Over the years the County has become a provincial leader in agricultural production and developed into a leading tourist destination, popularly referred to as Ontario's West in all levels in the agri-food industry bringing forward new ideas, improving performance, and influencing and directing change. This study was the first tangible evidence of the high returns on an investment in this type of leadership training and leading-edge human resource development. Established in 1985, AALP is • a two-year educational program for men and women who aspire to help shape the future of Ontario's agriculture and food industries, and the 'rural community. It attracts high-performing individuals from all sectors, looking to further enhance their leadership skills, gain perspectives on critical issues and broaden their knowledge of the national and international forces affecting Coast. Currently, Huron residents endeavour to maintain these two important economic sectors along with their quality of life and the right to clean water. Any concerned citizens are invited to attend the HCWQC Annual Meeting and can obtain further details from Evert Ridder 482-5033; Tom Prout, Ausable Bayfield CA at 235-2610 or Phil Beard, Maitland Valley CA at 335- 3557. agriculture. The 50-day program is delivered over the course of 19 months, creating learning opportunities that combine instruction and practical application, distance education, international travel, and dialogue with each. other as well as with today's business, government and Huron farmers are urged to get their production and financial figures to MP Paul Steckle. The Huron Federation of Agriculture says even though governments have admitted that the playing field is tilted, it seems they still require hard numbers to base their decisions on for enhanced support. "We need to support our requests for a level playing field with U.S. producers, by providing financial losses per acre" said Huron Federation Director Wayne Hamilton of Stanley Twp. Huron-Bruce MP Paul Steckle, in a recent speech to the House of Commons was able to supply some financial figures from an actual grains and oil seed producer in Huron County. The figures quoted showed a loss of approximately $90 per acre, from a well established farm operation. community leaders. Upon completion, AALP graduates are awarded a University of Guelph certificate from the Office of Open Learning, and are eligible for membership in the OAC Alumni. Information on the 2001- 2003 program can be obtained from the AALP office at (519) 826-4204. The local Federation is encouraging grains and oilseed farmers in similar circumstances, to come forward with their figures from 2000. In discussion with Paul Steckle's office, the local MP has indicated a willingness to accept these figures, the Federation said. "It seems that Ag Canada is not supplying income numbers sector by sector, therefore the financial losses in the grains and oilseeds, whether for cash or feed purposes, is not readily available to our politicians" said Hamilton. "At the' present time , we don't even have a signed agreement for the Market Revenue Insurance program for 2001, let alone a commitment for the enhancements that farm groups continue to lobby for." Assurance was given that all names will be held in confidence. J. Ferguson to speak to HCWQC Farmers gather figures