Posted: November 22, 2011

The November 21, 2011 deadline for Alberta farmers who want to apply for funding support under the Integrated Crop Management (ICM) program under Growing Forward has been dropped. The program will now remain open as long as funding exists and interested farmers should check regularly for updates.

The Growing Forward ICM program allows producers to apply for funding to support practice change projects toward ICM approaches, based on specific criteria.

Funding limits for program have also been adjusted. Maximum program funding for the ICM program has been adjusted to $10,000 per applicant. Maximum funding for an individual category activity will be $5,000 per applicant. A producer may only apply for funding on one project within each project category.

Among other key details:

• An Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) is a required for application to any of the Stewardship Programs available under Growing Forward.
• Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) will not accept faxed copies of work plans and applications for ICM.
• Old forms will not be accepted for ICM.
• The EFP certificate number or letter of completion date must be on the work plan. Applications will not be processed without it.

Check www.GrowingForward.Alberta.ca for more information including the most up-to-date lists of projects eligible for available funding.

Posted: November 22, 2011

Growers have a new option to battle broadleaf and grassy weeds within the Clearfield canola system.

BASF Canada announced regulatory approval for use of ARES on Clearfield canola for the 2012 growing season.

"For Clearfield canola growers with broadleaf and grassy weed challenges, ARES is your solution," says Joel Johnson, brand manager at BASF Canada.

ARES is a broad-spectrum herbicide with flushing weed control combined with an enhanced window of application. It provides protection against wild buckwheat, lamb's-quarters, cleavers and wild oats.