Shows
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast – S2E2 – An Ag Research Update from Lethbridge PolytechnicResearch is fundamentally important to agriculture, and serves as the primary engine for increasing productivity, ensuring global food security, fostering environmental sustainability, and driving economic growth. Without research and innovation, the agricultural sector would struggle to meet the demands of a growing population while facing challenges like climate change and resource scarcity.
On this week's podcast, RRC’s Craig Lester has a conversation with the senior research chair at Lethbridge Polytechnic, Willemijn Appels. They discuss research projects that got underway last year, and what projects we might expect for the year ahead.
2026-01-1408 minRural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast - S2E1 - Conferences, China, Canola, and CattleHappy New Year! On the new season of the Rural Roots Canada podcast, powered by Alberta Canola, it’s a busy start to 2026 for RRC!
Craig Lester is heading back on the road, preparing for the Alberta Seed Producers Conference, the Ag Services Board Conference, and Crossroads as farmers gear up for new season of growing. Meanwhile, Tim Parent dives into some of the biggest stories shaping Canadian agriculture, including Prime Minister Mark Carney’s upcoming trip to China, where canola and trade are high on the agenda. The two also discuss new leadership at the Canadian Cattle Association and a re...
2026-01-0918 minRural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 21 - Looking Back on RRC’s Year in AgricultureOn this RRC podcast, hosts Tim Parent and Craig Lester look back on a busy year in Canadian agriculture. From their trip to the Yukon, where farmers like Leona Watson are forging their own path in the North (2:44), to celebrating the Perry Family Farm, winners of the inaugural PepsiCo Global Farmer of the Year Award (11:24), the team covers a lot of ground. They also talk changing perceptions around beef with Jenna Sarich (13:52), visit Cudlobe Angus to chat with David and Dyce Bolduc (16:50), and wrap up with a look ahead to 2026’s canola outlook with Alberta Canola chair Andre Harpe (21:15).
2026-01-0126 min
Rural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week - Vegreville and Bonnyville - Monday, Dec 15Prairie Weather reports from RRC Meteorologist David Spence.
2025-12-1501 minRural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week - Olds - Monday, Dec 15Prairie Weather reports from RRC Meteorologist David Spence.
2025-12-1501 minRural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week - BC Peace - Monday, Dec 15Prairie Weather reports from RRC Meteorologist David Spence.
2025-12-1501 minRural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week - Lloydminster - Monday, Dec 15Prairie Weather reports from RRC Meteorologist David Spence.
2025-12-1501 minRural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 19 - Compassion, Community, and a Canola Industry UpdateIn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada podcast, powered by Alberta Canola, hosts Tim Parent and Craig Lester celebrate the season with a look at how Alberta Milk is helping make the holidays a little brighter by partnering with the Alberta Children’s Hospital Foundation to give back in a big way.
Then, Tim and Craig shift gears to the field, catching up with Alberta Canola Chair André Harpe to reflect on the year that was, the challenges producers faced, and what the canola sector can expect heading into 2026.
Compassion, community, and canola, all in one RRC podcast.
2025-12-1119 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 18 - John Barlow, Grow Canada, and the RRC Road AheadAs the ag sector sprints toward the end of 2025, there’s no shortage of energy, innovation, and conversation shaping the year ahead. In this episode of the Rural Roots Canada podcast—powered by Alberta Canola—host Tim Parent and RRC’s Craig Lester recap some of the highlights from Grow Canada in Calgary, where industry leaders gathered to discuss Canada’s role in global agriculture and how to unlock the sector’s full potential. Plus, hear insights from MP John Barlow at the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference, and find out how you can have your say at Alberta Canola’s upcoming gro...
2025-12-0506 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 17 - From Scotland to Zimbabwe to Alberta: Nuffield Scholar Claire Taylor Shares Agricultural JourneyIn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, Craig Lester sits down with fellow 2023 Nuffield Scholar Claire Taylor, a Scottish agricultural journalist now based in Australia. Fresh off a global Nuffield journey that took her to 16 countries, Claire shares her insights on agricultural policy, food security, curiosity-driven learning, and why the pressures facing farmers today demand better leadership, stronger mental health support, and more global connection.
The pair reflect on their first meetings at the Nuffield Contemporary Scholars Conference, overcoming imposter syndrome, learning from farmers around the world, and the value of listening deeply. Claire also shares the origin...
2025-12-0228 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 16 - On Location at AWC East in Niagara FallsOn this special edition of the RRC podcast, Craig Lester joins Tim Parent from the Advancing Women in Agriculture East conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The conference empowers and promotes the importance of women in Canada's agriculture sector. Craig has a conversation with Lauren Van Ewyk, CEO of the National Farmer Mental Health Alliance, about blending the balance of work and life into your day-to-day (1:50). Craig also has a conversation with a trio of future leaders in the ag sector and their goals as they begin their agricultural career journey (5:14). Rural Roots Canada is also a proud sponsor of the...
2025-11-2514 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 15 - Talking Spuds at the Potato Growers of Alberta ConferenceOn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada podcast, brought to you by Alberta Canola, Craig Lester and Tim Parent are talking potatoes. Boil ‘em, mash ‘em, put ‘em in a stew, the versatile potato was in the spotlight at the annual Potato Growers of Alberta conference. Potatoes had a spud-tacular growing season according to Chair Allison Davie who joins the conversation (3:07), while Tony Kirkland, vice-chair and owner of Sandhills Seed Potatoes, talks about the strong potato market (4:15). We also catch up with Emily Owen from Second Harvest, who’s helping ensure potatoes make their way from fields to families in need...
2025-11-2117 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 14 - From Farmfair to Farm SafetyIn the latest RRC podcast, harvest has wrapped up, but ag conference season is just getting started. Hosts Tim Parent and Craig Lester chat about Craig’s upcoming trip to Niagara Falls, Ontario, for the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference, plus his recent stop at Farmfair International in Edmonton. We also hear from Jackie Payne of Greenwood Cattle near Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, who shares her family’s long-time connection to Farmfair (4:25). And with harvest behind us, there are still some key safety reminders to keep in mind. Jody Wacowich from AgSafe Alberta joins us to talk about staying safe around grain bins...
2025-11-1313 min
Rural Roots CanadaBC Peace - Monday. Nov. 10 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-11-1001 minRural Roots CanadaLethbridge - Monday, Nov. 10 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-11-1001 minRural Roots CanadaVegreville & BonnyVille -Monday, Nov. 10 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-11-1001 minRural Roots CanadaLloyd - Monday, Nov. 10 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-11-1001 minRural Roots CanadaOlds - Monday, Nov. 10 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-11-1001 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 13 - On Location at Agri-TradeOn this special edition of the RRC podcast, Craig Lester joins Tim Parent from the Agri-Trade Equipment Expo in Red Deer, Alberta.
The Expo, now in its 41st year, has been off to a great start and show manager Krissy Fiddler breaks down the successes from the show floor (3:02). Agri-Trade is also the host of the Ag Innovations Competition, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of manufacturers and marketers of agricultural products and services. Mac Hunik, CEO and founder of Threshold UAV, was one of this year's finalists and discusses his company's unique drone technology (4:54). And with harvest over, RRC meteorologist...
2025-11-0712 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 12 - A Brief Conversation About the WeatherIn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, hosts Tim Parent and Craig Lester have a conversation with RRC meteorologist David Spence about all things weather-related. The discussion kicks off about the drought experienced by Alberta this past growing season, and a review of the crop hail report for the summer (5:50). David explains what role the mountains play when it comes to Prairie weather (7:02). The hosts also talk about the harvest weather this year and a look ahead to the winter and spring seasons (9:47). Finally, we’re experiencing a La Nina again, the second in two years. David explains th...
2025-11-0316 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 11 - Agricultural Dispatches from KenyaIn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, Craig Lester joins Tim Parent from Kenya, where the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists is hosting its annual world congress. That leads to a discussion between the two about the splintering of media into more niche journalism coverage, including within the agriculture sector (3:16). Craig also shares some insights about agriculture on the African continent (8:33). They wrap up the podcast talking about another country, Mexico, and Canada’s push to strengthen agricultural ties between the two nations (14:05).
2025-10-2219 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 10 - Rooted in Learning: Discussing Ag Education in CanadaIn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, hosts Tim Parent and Craig Lester sit down with the newest members of the RRC team — Olivia Taylor and Hayden Lester — for an engaging conversation about agriculture education in Canada.
As students deeply passionate about the ag industry, Olivia and Hayden share their insights and first-hand perspectives on what’s working, what could be improved, and how the sector can better inspire and attract the next generation of agricultural leaders across the country.
2025-10-1520 minRural Roots CanadaLETHBRIDGE - Tuesday, Oct. 14 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-10-1401 minRural Roots CanadaBC PEACE - Tuesday, Oct. 14 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-10-1401 minRural Roots CanadaLLOYDMINSTER - Tuesday, Oct. 14 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-10-1401 minRural Roots CanadaVEGREVILLE - Tuesday, Oct. 14 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-10-1401 minRural Roots CanadaOLDS - Tuesday, Oct. 14 - Farm WeatherRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report.
2025-10-1401 minRural Roots CanadaThanksgiving Weekend Farm Weather ReportRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on the weather forecast for the Thanksgiving weekend for Alberta, the BC Peace and parts of Saskatchewan.
2025-10-1001 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 9 - On the Road, Homes on the Range, and the return of Peavey MartIn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, hosts Tim Parent and Craig Lester begin by discussing their recent agricultural excursions to Ontario and Saskatchewan, as part of a project they’re working on with CAAIN - the Canadian Agri-Food Automation and Intelligence Network. RRC is expanding! The two introduce the two newest members of the RRC team that will help bring the stories of Canadian ag to life (10:15). Tim and Craig talk about a new documentary released by the Canadian Cattle Association called Homes on the Range, which explores how beef production and wildlife habitat go hand-in-hand. We he...
2025-10-0620 minRural Roots CanadaVegreville - Bonnyville - Farm Weather Report for the Week of October 6RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report for the Lakeland region of northeast Alberta.
2025-10-0601 minRural Roots CanadaBC Peace Region - Farm Weather Report for the Week of October 6RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report for the BC Peace Region.
2025-10-0601 minRural Roots CanadaLloydminster - Farm Weather Report for the Week of October 6RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report for northeast Alberta and west central Saskatchewan.
2025-10-0601 minRural Roots CanadaLethbridge- Farm Weather Report for the Week of October 6RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report for Southern Alberta.
2025-10-0601 minRural Roots CanadaOlds - Farm Weather Report for the Week of October 6RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares his insight on this week's farm weather report for central Alberta.
2025-10-0601 minRural Roots CanadaOlds Farm Weather Report for September 29RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight into the weather forecasts for the week of September 29 for central Alberta.
2025-09-2901 minRural Roots CanadaBC Peace Farm Weather Report for September 29RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight into the weather forecasts for the week of September 29 for the BC Peace.
2025-09-2901 minRural Roots CanadaVegreville - Bonnyville Farm Weather Report for September 29RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight into the weather forecasts for the week of September 29 for northeast Alberta.
2025-09-2901 minRural Roots CanadaLloydminster Farm Weather Report for September 29RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight into the weather forecasts for the week of September 29 for northeast Alberta and northwest Saskatchewan.
2025-09-2901 minRural Roots CanadaLethbridge Farm Weather Report for September 29RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight into the weather forecasts for the week of September 29 for southern Alberta.
2025-09-2901 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 8 - Sept. 19 - Agriculture & Nation-Building with Dr. Sylvain CharleboisIn this episode of the Rural Roots Canada Podcast, host Tim Parent sits down with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois, the Food Professor and Director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University, to discuss why food and agriculture were left out of Canada’s first wave of nation-building projects. Dr. Charlebois unpacks what that omission says about Canada’s priorities on the world stage, the risks of sidelining agrifood in big-picture policy, and why infrastructure, research, and strategy are key to strengthening Canada’s rural future.
2025-09-2017 min
Rural Roots CanadaLLOYDMINSTER - Farm Weather Report for the Week of Sept 15RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight for the weather for northeast Alberta and parts of Saskatchewan.
2025-09-1501 minRural Roots CanadaOLDS - Farm Weather Report for the Week of Sept 15RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight for the weather for central Alberta.
2025-09-1501 minRural Roots CanadaVEG-BV - Farm Weather Report for the Week of Sept 15RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight for the weather for northeast Alberta.
2025-09-1501 minRural Roots CanadaBC PEACE - Farm Weather Report for the Week of Sept 15RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight for the weather for the BC Peace and northwest Alberta.
2025-09-1501 minRural Roots CanadaLETHBRIDGE - Farm Weather Report for the Week of Sept 15RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares insight for the weather for southern Alberta.
2025-09-1501 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 7 – Sept 12 – Harvest Safety and Mental Health as well as an AWC PreviewOn the latest Rural Roots Canada podcast, we discuss the busy harvest season and the importance of safety on the farm. We also look ahead to the Advancing Women in Agriculture Conference, which will be held in Niagara Falls, Ontario, in November.
Alberta rancher Ashley Perepelkin joins us to share her story, including how AWC became a turning point in her life and helped her overcome imposter syndrome.
2025-09-1221 minRural Roots CanadaVegreville - Bonnyville Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 8RRC Meteorologist David Spence gives insight into this week's weather in the Vegreville and Bonnyville area.
2025-09-0801 minRural Roots CanadaLethbridge Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 8RRC Meteorologist David Spence gives insight into this week's weather in Southern Alberta.
2025-09-0801 minRural Roots CanadaOlds Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 8RRC Meteorologist David Spence gives insight into this week's weather in central Alberta.
2025-09-0801 minRural Roots CanadaLloydminster Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 8RRC Meteorologist David Spence gives insight into this week's weather in northeast Alberta and northwest Saskatchewan.
2025-09-0801 minRural Roots CanadaBC Peace Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 8RRC Meteorologist David Spence gives insight into this week's weather in the BC Peace.
2025-09-0801 min
Rural Roots CanadaLethbridge Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 2RRC Meteorologist David Spence provides a farm weather report for the southern Alberta region.
2025-09-0201 minRural Roots CanadaNortheast Alberta - Northwest Saskatchewan Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 2RRC Meteorologist David Spence provides farm weather reports for northeast Alberta and northwest Saskatchewan.
2025-09-0201 minRural Roots CanadaVegreville and Bonnyville Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 2RRC Meteorologist David Spence provides farm weather reports for Lakeland region of northeast Alberta.
2025-09-0201 minRural Roots CanadaCentral Alberat Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 2RRC Meteorologist David Spence provides farm weather reports for Central Alberta.
2025-09-0201 minRural Roots CanadaB.C. Peace Farm Weather Report - Week of Sept 2RRC Meteorologist David Spence provides a farm weather report for the B.C. Peace region.
2025-09-0201 min
Rural Roots CanadaTake a Moment to Slow it Down - AgSafe Alberta Reminds Farmers to Keep Safety Top of Mind During HarvestRRC talks with AgSafe Alberta's Jody Wacowich about safety during harvest season.
2025-08-1901 min
Rural Roots CanadaNortheast Alberta Weather ForecastRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares the weather forecast for Northeast Alberta for the week of August 18th.
2025-08-1901 minRural Roots CanadaNortheast BC - Northwest Alberta Weather Forecast - Week of August 18RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares the weather forecast for Northeast B.C. - Northwest Alberta for the week of August 18th.
2025-08-1901 minRural Roots CanadaCentral Alberta Weather Forecast - Week of August 18RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares the weather forecast for Central Alberta for the week of August 18th.
2025-08-1901 minRural Roots CanadaSouthern Alberta Farm Weather Report - August 18RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares the weather forecast for Southern Alberta for the week of August 18th.
2025-08-1901 minRural Roots CanadaLloydminster Area Weather Forecast - Week of August 18RRC Meteorologist David Spence shares the weather forecast for northeast Alberta and northwest Saskatchewan for the week of August 18th.
2025-08-1901 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 6 - Aug. 18 - 2025 Alberta Growing SeasonWhat happens when you put an agronomist and a meteorologist in the same conversation? That's what we find out in this podcast as Beyond Agronomy's Steve Larocque joins Meteorologist David Spence and Craig Lester for a chat about the 2025 growing season in Alberta.
They chat about the 'feast or famine' precipitation situation that different regions of the province have experienced during the growing season.
They conclude the podcast looking ahead to harvest, which may be pushed back for many farmers.
It's an in-depth discussion of the 2025 Alberta growing that you don't want to miss.
2025-08-1823 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 5 - Aug. 11 - Cudlobe Cattle Field DayOn this week's podcast, Rural Roots Canada travels to Stavely, Alberta, to take in the Cudlobe Cattle Field Day, hosted by Cudlobe Angus and Cudlobe Angus West. From community to cattle science to cow patties, we round up the sights, sounds, and stories from the pasture.
2025-08-1127 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 4 - Aug 4 - Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ SigurdsonThis week on the podcast, Alberta’s Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson, joins us for a wide-ranging conversation on some of the province’s most pressing ag issues.
From celebrating 75 years of being rat-free to the ongoing fight against Richardson Ground Squirrels and the call to bring back strychnine, Sigurdson shares his thoughts on pest management. He chats about pressing the federal government to make agriculture more of a priority. We also examine several counties and municipal districts that have declared agricultural disasters, with the Minister outlining the tools available to help them navigate these issues.
2025-08-0419 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 3 - July 28 - Canada's Food System, A Unique Ag Research Platform and A Great Ag ExtensionIn this week's chat, Tim and Craig delve into Canada's Food System a new national, sector wide initiative led by Canadian Centre for Food Integrity (CCFI), which aims at elevating the conversation about what goes into producing food in our country. Executive Director Lisa Bishop-Spencer provides insight into the initiative.
We journey out to Brooks, Alberta to see the evolution of the Crop Diversification Centre - South, which is now being headed up by the County of Newell. The County sees the facility formerly run by the Government of Alberta has an economic opportunity. The county's Director of Agricultural Services...
2025-07-2819 min
Rural Roots CanadaJuly Hail Damage UpdateSummer storms are taking their toll on Prairie crops.
According to the Canadian Crop Hail Association, farmers across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba have filed well over 1,600 crop damage claims since the start of summer.
But is it a particularly unusual hail season so far?
RRC's Tim Parent talks to Meteorologist David Spence about the storms we have seen.
2025-07-2201 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep.2 July 21 - A Nuffield Yukon Ag AdventureIn our latest podcast, we discuss our recent ag learning journey in the Yukon, where Nuffield Canada marked its 75th Anniversary in Canada's North. We chat with Leona Watson, a Nuffield Scholar and one of a small but determined group of farmers looking to redefine what farming looks like in the Yukon's stunning, rugged landscape. We also hear from Hanna Fish, Executive Director of the Yukon Agricultural Association, about both the opportunities and challenges of farming north of the 60th parallel.
RRC specializes in sharing local stories from the agricultural community.
2025-07-2116 minRural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep. 1 – Drought, Hail, Calgary Stampede and BASF’s Growing Home ProgramWe kick off our first podcast, wrapping up our coverage of the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, including our coverage of the vintage tractor pull.
David Spence weighs in on the drought situation and provides a bit of insight into the recent hailstorms we have seen across the prairies. (7:00)
How much water do you think it takes to produce a Stampede breakfast (5 Pancakes, Beef Sausage and a cup of coffee)? It's more than you think! We have insights from an interesting study from the Simpson Centre at the University of Calgary. (11:25)
We wrap up the program by talking to BASF...
2025-07-1525 min
Rural Roots CanadaRural Crime: Wire Theft From Irrigation Pivots On The RiseRural Crime: Wire Theft From Irrigation Pivots On The Rise by RRC soundbites
2025-06-1801 minRural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week: Northeast AlbertaRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares the forecast for NE Alberta
2025-04-2801 minRural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week: Central AlbertaRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares a forecast for Central Alberta
2025-04-2801 minRural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week: LethbridgeRRC Meteorologist David Spence shares the southern Alberta forecast.
2025-04-2801 min
Rural Roots CanadaPrairie Weather this Week - Dec 23, 2024In this Prairie Weather this Week report, RRC Meteorologist David Spence looks at whether the prairies will see a white Christmas.
2024-12-2401 min
Rural Roots CanadaEyes on the Sky: Understanding What Causes Tornadoes and Severe StormsA series of tornado warnings in east-central Alberta last week reminds us that it's that time of year again. RRC Meteorologist David Spence has more on how long they last and what to watch for in the sky.
For more details, go to ruralrootscanada.com.
2024-05-2002 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Episode #7: Selecting a Canola Hybrid and Silage Corn HybridIn this RRC episode, we explore what farmers should consider when selecting a Canola Hybrid and a Silage Corn Hybrid.
Kassi Rinas, Proprietary Representative for Nutrien Ag Solutions in Northern Alberta, shares her insights on what questions farmers should be asking themselves before making the selection.
Rinas talks about:
• Why farmers should write down what is essential on their
farm when selecting a Canola Hybrid (2:00)
• Considerations when selecting a Canola Hybrid (2:15)
• Preventing Podshatter and Poddrop (3:10)
• Selecting the correct herbicide resistance package for your
crop (5:25)
• Three biggest things farmers should consider when selecting
a Silage Corn Hybrid. (9:00)
This feature is powered by Proven...
2023-11-0714 min
Rural Roots CanadaPercentage of Precipitation: What It Means and How to Interpret itYou often hear it in weather forecasts or read it in weather reports: percentage of precipitation (POP). But what does that mean? We find out the answer to that question with Meteorologist David Spence here on Rural Roots Canada.
To find out more about POP and listen to more RRC features go to Rural Roots Canada.com.
2023-09-1702 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast #6 - Just Do It! Getting Succession Talks UnderwayGetting succession plans started can be difficult.
RRC's Craig Lester and Dalke Law's Eric Dalke explore the hang-ups that keep families from having tough talks about a farm's future.
They cover everything from how a third party in the room can lower the temperature of the dispute, how people are not alone with their family disputes, and what unique succession characteristics exist in the cattle industry amongst many other topics.
For more on this story go to Rural Roots Canada.com.
2023-08-2110 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Episode #5: Alberta Open Farm Days at Farming Smarter in LethbridgeAlberta Open Farm Day events took place across the province on Saturday and Sunday.
Rural Roots Canada ventured down to Lethbridge to take in Farming Smarter's event.
In this episode, RRC's Craig Lester chats with Jamie Puchinger from Farming Smarter about the importance of bridging the gap with consumers, Keshav Singh from Agriculture and Agrifood Canada on research he and his team are doing to advance technology in crop management. He also talks with agronomist Scott Gillespie, owner of Plants Dig Soils, about the skillsets required to have a career as an agronomist.
For more on this story, you can...
2023-08-2111 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast #4 - Grains and Oilseeds Market Update with RaboBank's Stephen NicholsonIn this episode, I chat with Stephen Nicholson, Global Sector Strategist-Grain & Oilseed for Rabobank, as to what we can expect in terms of wheat prices as producers move into harvest.
If you enjoy this podcast, be sure to check out the Podcast Farm at Rural Roots Canada.com.
2023-08-1209 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast #3 - Beef Market Update with RaboBank's Lance ZimmermanIn this episode, we get an update on the beef markets and what producers can expect this Fall.
Lance Zimmerman is a Senior Beef and Cattle Market Research Analyst for Rabobank.
He comments on the explosive cattle market trends we have seen in the first half of the year - why it is happening, the shrinking herds in Canada and U.S., and what producers can expect this Fall.
If you liked this feature, be sure to check out the Podcast Farm on Rural Roots Canada.com.
2023-08-1216 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast #2 - We Are Beef: 2023 Canadian Beef Industry Conference2023 Canadian Beef Industry Conference Chair Dr. Elizabeth Homerosky sits down with RRC's Craig Lester to talk about the upcoming conference and why this is a can't miss event for producers and industry stakeholders a like.
From the keynote speakers, bull fighters, producer boot camp, stock dog showcase and all the networking that goes along with the an event like this, Homerosky says it is a can't miss.
For more information and to register go to Rural Roots Canada.com.
2023-08-0109 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Podcast Ep 1. - Alltech ONEIt has been a very, very busy July.
Between the International Federation of Agriculture Journalist Congress happening in Olds, Alberta, Alltech ONE's world tour coming to Calgary, the Calgary Stampede and Ag in Motion in Saskatoon and of course, the ongoing drought conditions farmers have been dealing with there has been no shortage of things to talk about conversations to be had and stories to be told.
We are trying something new a podcast designed to cover all of the conversations we are having and stories we are telling across our platforms.
This first episode is a bit of a...
2023-07-2413 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Tech Tuesday: Drone spraying tech taking offThe world's first precision AI spraying drone. We talk to the Founder and CEO of Precision AI about how this seemingly futuristic tech can help farmers in the here and now.
To read more about the technology, go to ruralrootscanada.com.
2023-07-2202 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC International: Growing a farm using an IT skillsetUsing an IT skillset to grow a farm.
In this episode of Rural Roots Canada, we travel to Melbourne, Australia where these skills are paying dividends for an organic vegetable operation.
Peninsula Fresh Organics is owned by Natasha and Wayne Shields.
Find out more about Rural Roots Canada.com.
2023-05-2102 min
Rural Roots CanadaNuffield Update: Lester shares about his travels through Asia - PacificExploring media's impact on agriculture, is the message getting through?
Nuffield Scholar and RRC owner Craig Lester is on a mission to shed light on the media's role in shaping our perception of the agricultural industry.
Lester's Nuffield journey is sponsored by the Alberta Wheat Commission, Foothills Forage and Grazing, Western Stock Growers' Association through the James Hargrave Legacy Fund, Eastern Irrigation District, Rolling Hills Ag Society, Hemsing Farms, Curt & Lynn Lester and Stephen Lester & Chantal Larose.
2023-04-2402 min
Rural Roots CanadaRob Saik: Building consumer trust, sustainable intensification, and AGvisorPRO“One of the things we need to bring into the discussion is the discussion of the emotion of farming as well as the practicality,” says AGvisorPRO CEO and Founder Robert Saik referring to how agriculture can strengthen its relationship with consumers.
In this interview, Rob and RRC’s Craig Lester also talk about why sustainable intensification at the farm level will help feed the world and why everyone in the industry needs to adopt technology at a quicker rate.
They also take a trip back in time as Rob reflects on what he would tell his younger self if he had th...
2023-02-0119 min
Rural Roots CanadaHow to turn a spent gravel pit into a flourishing grasslandA Manitoba farm family turns a marginal piece of land into a thriving pasture for their cattle. They tell RRC how they were able to rejuvenate the land here on Rural Roots Canada.
2023-02-0102 min
Rural Roots CanadaElaine Froese: Having courageous conversations about farm transitionFarm Family Transition Expert Elaine Froese encourages farm families to have courageous conversations.
In this podcast, Elaine and RRC's Craig Lester talk about what is holding families back from having tough conversations about farm transition plans and the dangers of putting them off.
Using relatable examples from her family and farm businesses, Elaine talks about navigating farm transition and ensuring expectations are clearly communicated.
Elaine Froese, CSP is a certified professional speaker, certified coach, and author. She’s a go-to expert for farm families who want better communication and conflict resolution to secure a successful farm transition.
As a farmer an...
2023-01-1133 min
Rural Roots CanadaChoosing the seed that best fits your farmIn this RRC podcast, Craig Lester sits down with Twyla Jones, an Agrologist and Crop Advisor with Nutrien Ag Solutions.
During their conversation they discuss:
- The growing conditions this past year in northeastern Alberta
- What farmers need to be thinking about when they are choosing seed for next year,
- Why they should take data from a single research plot with a grain of salt
- What disease pressures may come into play during next year's growing season in northeast Alberta.
This feature is powered by Proven Seed.
2022-11-2110 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC in Conversation: Jillian Byers, Andrea Stroeve-Sawa and Adrienne IveyIn this podcast, Rural Roots Canada talks with Andrea Stroeve-Sawa of Shipwheel Cattle Feeders from Taber, Alberta, Adrienne Ivey of Evergreen Cattle Co. and host of the podcast View From the Ranch Porch from Ituna, Saskatchewan and Jillian Byers of Blue Ridge Farms from Blue Ridge, Alberta at the Alltech ONE Conference in Lexington, Kentucky.
The three of them talk about the sustainable practices they carry out on their farms, their journey in agriculture and the incredible contributions women have played in agriculture.
For more on this story, go to ruralrootscanada.com
2022-09-1120 min
Rural Roots CanadaDigitizing Your Farm RecordsHave you moved your farm records over to digital?
In this RRC podcast, Farm Credit Canada AgExpert Product Specialist April Popadynec talks about the benefits of digitizing your farm records, including the time-saving efficiencies that come with it. For more on this podcast and AgExpert go to Rural Roots Canada.com.
This Podcast is sponsored by FCC AgExpert.
2022-08-1508 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Cattle Producer Profile: Cudlobe Angus and Cudlobe Angus WestMeasuring success by the success of their customers. We take a look at the Cudlobe Angus and Cudlobe Angus West cattle operations located near Stavely, Alberta in this Rural Roots Canada Cattle Producer Profile.
2021-10-1102 min
Rural Roots Canada2020 Year in Review: Grain farmers plant late, deal with COVID and trade issuesGrain growers faced a number of challenges in 2020... We discuss what they were and what they need from the Federal Government with the Grain Growers of Canada in the latest RRC Podcast... To hear and read more on this go to Rural Roots Canada.com where we Amplify Canadian Agriculture.
2020-12-2702 min
Rural Roots CanadaRRC Virtual Ag Days to feature array of experts on farming issuesA chance to hear and discuss farm issues with experts for free. Grain marketing, agronomy, public trust, veterinary, tax, and legal experts all in one place to help will be at the upcoming RRC Ag Days on July 14th more on the virtual ag day and how you can take part here on Rural Roots Canada, where we get to the Stem and Meat of Agriculture.
2020-07-0702 minRural Roots CanadaRRC Ag Days goes virtualRural Roots Canada Ag Days are going virtual with an event in July. We talk about the panels, demonstrations, and interactive segments here on Rural Roots Canada, where we get to the Stem and Meat of Agriculture.
2020-05-1202 minRural Roots CanadaRRC Interview: Kenny Corscadden - Lethbridge College - Farming Smarter MOULethbridge College and Farming Smarter have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Dr. Kenny Corscadden, Vice-President of Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CARE) at the college talks about how formalizing their long-standing partnership will further both college and Farming Smarter's goals and objectives.
2020-04-0503 minRural Roots CanadaRRC Ag Days set for Fort Macleod in FebruaryGrazing practices, grain marketing strategies, animal nutrition, succession planning and much more. A look at the upcoming Rural Roots Canada Ag Day in Fort Macleod in February here on Rural Roots Canada, where we get to the Stem and Meat of Agriculture.
2020-01-0602 min
Rural Roots CanadaYear-round grain marketing discussion at RRC Ag DaysThinking about grain marketing year - round to improve your revenues. Ag Exchange Vice President of Strategy and Business Development Mike Witkowicz shares some insight into the marketing discussion he will be leading with farmers at the upcoming Rural Roots Canada Ag Days in Airdrie, Rolling Hills and Fort Macleod in June.
2019-05-2702 min
Rural Roots CanadaPhD Student to talk Advancing Ag and Canola at RRC Ag DaysExperts from across western Canada will be gathering for three Rural Roots Canada Ag Days in Southern Alberta in June including a PhD student talking about the Advancing Ag program, more here on Rural Roots Canada, where we get to the Stem and Meat of Agriculture.
2019-05-2002 min