Industry News
Terry Boland, Editor-in-Chief

Ice Storm Aid

While the ice storm of ‘98 may be over and electrical power restored, the effects will be felt for months to come. OCPAhas donated through Regions 1 and 2, $5,000 to aid the victims of the ice storm. The funds were divided up equally between the two regions and producers decided to make their donations to funds which will be matched by government. Our thanks to all of those who provided aid to farmers victimized by the storm.

Ethanol Tax Incentive

Ethanol supporters in the United States received a major vote of confidence when Senators voted 71-26 to reject efforts to eliminate the ethanol tax exemption. While the exemption is one step closer to an extension to the year 2007, the House of Representatives must agree with the Senate move. The legislation extends the exemption, but it also begins a phase-out of the support over several years.

PEAKÔ

Novartis Crop Protection Canada has received approval for PEAK, which is designed for use in field corn throughout Eastern Canada, as a post-emergent control on a wide range of broadleaf weeds. PEAK is recommended as a tank-mix with Banvel from the two to seven leaf stage of corn growth providing for a wide application window. The combination of PEAK + Banvel enhances the products effectiveness while, at the same time, reducing the application rate. A reduced rate of Banvel, along with a very low rate of PEAK, also provides growers with a new strategy for resistance management.

Consumer Action Centre

AGRICORP launched a consumer action centre hotline in March. Ontario farmers can now call 1-888-AGRI-999 to have all of their crop insurance questions answered, such as new applications, claim status, changes in coverage, insuring new crops, reporting crop damage or general inquiries.