The paper created EXCLUSIVELY for farm families and rural residents of east central Alberta 12 Pages – February 23, 2016 Davin O’Malley, grandson of Dave and Tracee Vikse of Vikse Family Farm, Donalda, has found a friend in this purebred Red Angus calf.
On many farms calving season is well underway, and the next several weeks are guaranteed to be busy for producers. Cattlemen in the area have already seen many new arrivals in past weeks. With daily above-average temperatures and spring-like conditions, producers have been experiencing one of the mildest calving seasons on record.
kids and calves are a winning combination! A great way for a youngster to learn – an important start to becoming a future farmer!
Inside... A variety of merchandise and services: Farm equipment and supplies, homes, entertainment, health, home decor, real estate, finance, and more!
News Features…
2 Clark puts Albertans first by opposing Bill 6 . . . . . . . . . . 6 Truck inspections help keep county roads safe. . . . . . . . 10 MLAs to attend surface rights meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Win a colour enlargement of your farm! See page 12
Always better – always better read Visit our website: www.camrosebooster.com
Photo by Sue Nelson
For many farm families
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 2
S T O R E W I D E
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Real Estate FARMS • ACREAGES • RANCHES
80 ACRES ON PAVEMENT NORTH OF BAWLF WLF F – older d r trailer t D home,,PR newer 40x60x16 shop nnew ewer 40 40x60x x60x16 60E16D 6 U shoC p Ewith ith i two R CE IC P overhead and concrete floor. h d doors d $310,000. S-80 4 ACRES BARE LAND IN DAYSLAND – Great place to build your dream course dreeam m hhome. home m Close C o e to t golf gC lff E cours D and school. ol.ll. Asking A ki k $150,000. $$1500 0000 S-45 S 45 60x150 INDUSTRIAL SHOP IN DAYSLAND – on 8.5± acres currently used for an earth-moving and gravelhauling business which is available for sale by separate negotiations. S-83 QUARTER OF RECREATIONAL LAND – in Smoky Lake County with year-round off-grid cabin. $525,000. S-64 NEW LISTING – Insulated, heated shop with living quarters in Heisler. Great place to start a business or to live and store your toys. $125,000. S-94 NEW LISTING – 40 Acres west of Bashaw with immaculate yard and 5-bedroom home, ideal for horses. $575,000. S-95
NEW LISTING – 5-bedroom home at Meldal Beach on Red Deer lake, nice yard with lake views. $399,900. S-96 HIGH PRAIRIE PASTURE LAND – six quarters deeded and four quarters government lease. $850,000. S-79 10± ACRES – on the south side of Daysland, suitable for acreage or highway frontage business. $150,000. S-81 4 ACRES IN DAYSLAND – with 1400± sq. ft. bungalow home with newly renovated basement, large attached garage and heated insulated shop. $525,000. S-44 150± ACRES OF GRAIN AND PASTURE LAND AND D – Between Be w we n Ryley Dshh 3 and Holden 40x60 Ho olden wiE R 40E x 0Dmachine mUC hiE shed, RenICwith PR dugouts. Great place to build. $270,000. S-90 ACREAGE – With meat processing business, remodelled home, shop and 2 quonsets on 7 acres between Daysland and Strome. $700,000. S-92
If you are thinking of selling your farm or acreage, please give us a call. All replies treated in strictest confidence.
BOOKS A FRACTION OF THE COST OF NEW • Buy • Sell • Trade HOURS: M, T, W, F, S, 10-6; Thurs. 10-8 5017-50 St., Camrose Ph. (780)608-1501
RCMP address harassing text messages February 8 to 14
A concerned resident attended the RCMP detachment to report stop signs had been stolen at the intersection of Hwy 854 and Hwy 13, along with signs around Hwy 609. A total of four signs were reported missing. A motorist on Hwy 854 and TWP 462 called to report a flat deck trailer in the middle of the road. The complainant saw a truck driving away from the trailer but was unable to obtain a description or licence plate. Upon arriving on scene, RCMP contacted the registered owner of the trailer who
was unaware the trailer had gone missing. The owner of the trailer arrived to retrieve his missing property. RCMP were requested to attend a county school when harassing texts were reported being exchanged between two students. A meeting was held with the students, RCMP and school officials with permission of the parents. RCMP had the opportunity to discuss the severity and consequences of such actions. RCMP received a complaint of a theft of a white enclosed 30’ trailer from the yard of a business located
off of Highway 21 in Camrose County. This occurred sometime between February 12 and February 14. This matter is still under investigation. RCMP responded to four dangerous driving complaints, two 911 hang ups, two false alarms and three animal related collisions. If you have any information regarding any of the above mentioned incidents that may lead to an arrest, please contact your local RCMP Detachment at 780672-3342 during business hours or Crime Stoppers Tips at 1-800-222-8477.
Gordie Fischer
780·754·3864 email: gordie@linview.ca
George Singer
www.linview.ca 1.888.546.3070
780·608·6555 email: george@linview.ca
MLAs to attend Surface Rights Federation meeting By Murray Green
Two Alberta MLA’s will be addressing the annual Alberta Surface Rights Federation meeting at the Norsemen Inn on Friday, Feb. 26, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. After registration, the meeting begins with the appointment of a resolutions committee and the presentation of the treasurer’s report by Bernie von Tettenborn. At 10:30 a.m. Peter Dobbie and Michele Del Colle of the Farmers’ Advocate office will share thoughts on items coming through the department. Wild Rose Party agriculture critic Drumheller-Stettler MLA Rick Strankman will be the guest speaker at 11 a.m. The reading of resolutions will be on the agenda right after lunch. NDP Edmonton-Castle Downs MLA Nicole Goehring, chair of the all party standing committee, will talk about resource stewardship. Surface rights board director Jill Mason takes the floor at 2:15 p.m. until the resolutions are ready to be voted on. All acreage and landowners, as well as interested persons, are welcome to attend to share concerns regarding surface rights problems. For more information on the meeting contact vice-president Stephan Hodgetts at 780-672-6494, or secretary Tom Nahirniak at 780-672-6021.
SPORTSMAN SHOW
Lori Larsen, Camrose Booster Mike Eschale of Uncle Buck’s Beef Jerky offered Dan Hofer of Killam samples of different types of beef jerky including some rather spicy options during the Gun and Sportsman Show held at the CRE Feb. 12 to 14.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 3
FARMLAND FOR SALE BY TENDER The Estate of Bruce Greenwood hereby offers the following parcel of land located approximately 4.5 miles northeast of Hay Lakes, Alberta for sale by tender, subject to the restrictions, reservations and non-financial obligations in the existing Certificate of Title: MERIDIAN 4 RANGE 21 TOWNSHIP 49 SECTION 16 QUARTER NORTHEAST CONTAINING 64.7 HECTARES (160 ACRES) MORE OR LESS EXCEPTING THEREOUT: HECTARES (ACRES) MORE OR LESS A) PLAN 8821060 – ROAD 0.808 2.00 B) PLAN 0224194 – SUBDIVISION 7.55 18.66 EXCEPTING THEREOUT ALL MINES AND MINERALS
There are no buildings on the land. The land is fenced and cross fenced and has three (3) surface leases on it. Annual lease payments are approximately $6,350.00 but are not guaranteed by the seller. Seller will retain all lease payments made before closing, without adjustment. Tenders are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “Greenwood Tender”, to Scott Farnham at Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP, Barristers and Solicitors, 5016-52 St., Camrose, AB T4V 1V7, on or before 12:00 noon, March 10, 2016, and shall be accompanied with GST number and a cheque payable to Farnham West Stolee Kambeitz LLP in trust for 5% of the tender price. No conditional tenders will be accepted and the highest, or any tender, will not necessarily be accepted. Tenders will not be opened in public. The deposits of all unsuccessful tenderers will be returned to them by mail. The successful tenderer shall be obligated to complete the purchase on or before April 11, 2016. The 5% deposit shall constitute a deposit towards the purchase price. If the successful tenderer does not complete the purchase after acceptance of the tender, their deposit will be forfeited. For further information, or to view the property, please contact Teresa Greenwood at 780-965-2357.
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BANK QUALITY, BANK SECURE … Small Business Cheques 7.5” x 3.25” plus stub, black ink, white paper, numbered
500 cheques. . . . . $108.00 1000 cheques . . . $149.00
Personal Cheques All security features, unique background pattern to head off reproduction, copying and cut-and-paste operations.
80 cheques . . . . . . . . . . $25.95 120 cheques . . . . . . . . . $32.50 160 cheques . . . . . . . . . $35.00
PHONE 780-672-3142 4925-48 STREET, CAMROSE
Audit • Tax • Advisory
For Beth, it’s about much more than numbers.
Environmental Plan addresses areas of risk The Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) is a free, confidential and voluntary self-assessment tool that allows agricultural producers to evaluate their current farm practices. On completion, each producer has an action plan to address areas of environmental risk. The Alberta Environmental Farm Plan (AEFP) program began in 2003 and has been delivered by the Agricultural Research and Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA) since 2013.
Since 2009, just shy of 2,000,000 acres of Alberta agricultural land has been covered by an EFP. Approximately 13,000 Alberta producers have contacted AEFP about the program (24 per cent of registered Alberta farms). Over 8,000 producers have completed their EFPs and received letters of completion. The Potato Growers of Alberta was the first agricultural industry group to require its members to complete an EFP.
Meet Beth Kushnerick, a principal in our Camrose office and an invaluable member of the team. Beth grew up in Camrose and is a big supporter of local sports, serving on the board of the Camrose Academy of Curling and billeting players for the Camrose Kodiaks. Professionally, Beth focuses on owner-managed businesses in a variety of industries. She thoroughly enjoys helping her clients solve day-to-day problems and plan for future growth. For Beth, success means one thing: helping her clients succeed. If you haven’t met Beth, it’s time you did! Give her a call. She’d be delighted to chat with you. Beth Kushnerick CPA, CA | Principal 4870 - 51 Street | Suite #201 | Camrose | AB | T4V 1S1 T +1 780 679 6428 E Beth.Kushnerick@ca.gt.com © 2016 Grant Thornton LLP. A Canadian Member of Grant Thornton International Ltd. All rights reserved.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 4
Retirement Living with Small Town Values Services Included: ✔ Monthly rentals on 1 and 2 bedroom suites ✔ Health conscious meals, three times daily
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Stony Plain Office • Alain Turcotte • 780-975-3748 Vermilion Office • Ryan Maxwell • 780-581-5822
The Smith Clinic has employment opportunities for the following positions: Receptionist- Casual Position requires a candidate who is familiar with computers, excellent at multitasking, and has experience working in a fast-paced environment. Strong people skills are a must. Must be committed to accuracy with strong attention to detail. Must be willing to learn medical terminology and some medically related tasks. Successful candidate would be able to work regular clinic hours and walk-in clinic hours when needed. Medical Office Assistant – Permanent Part-time (approx. 22.5 hours/week) Position is available at the Smith Clinic main clinic. Must be able to work between 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Must be familiar and comfortable with medical office procedures, taking heights, weights, blood pressures, and assisting with excisions. Medical background would be an asset. Medical Office Assistant - 1 Year Maternity Leave Position available at the main clinic starting May, 2016. Person must be able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of medical terminology an asset, ability to take heights, weights, blood pressures. Successful candidate will have strong commitment to accuracy and detail. Must be comfortable with computers and learning new technology. Hours would be Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. All applicants must submit a current criminal record check. The Smith Clinic is an equal opportunity employer. We appreciate all applications – only the most suitable will be contacted. Please submit your resumé in confidence to: cforre@smithclinic.net Chelsea Forre #1, 6601-48 Avenue, Camrose, AB T4V 3G8
Harve$t the best refund. H&R Block is here to help you get yours. ,ΘZ ůŽĐŬ ƐƉĞĐŝĂůŝnjĞƐ ŝŶ ĮŶĚŝŶŐ Ăůů ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ĚĞĚƵĐƟŽŶƐ ĂŶĚ ĐƌĞĚŝƚƐ ƐƉĞĐŝĮĐ ƚŽ ĨĂƌŵŝŶŐ͘ tĞ ŐƵĂƌĂŶƚĞĞ LJŽƵ͛ůů ŐĞƚ ƚŚĞ ŵĂdžŝŵƵŵ ƌĞĨƵŶĚ LJŽƵ ĚĞƐĞƌǀĞ͘*
Visit or call us today. 5022 49 Street Camrose, AB 780-672-0155 Ξ ,ΘZ ůŽĐŬ ĂŶĂĚĂ͕ /ŶĐ͘ Ύ /Ĩ ǁĞ ŵĂŬĞ ĂŶLJ ĞƌƌŽƌ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ƉƌĞƉĂƌĂƟŽŶ ŽĨ LJŽƵƌ ƚĂdž ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ƚŚĂƚ ĐŽƐƚƐ LJŽƵ ĂŶLJ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ Žƌ ƉĞŶĂůƟĞƐ ŽŶ ĂĚĚŝƟŽŶĂů ƚĂdžĞƐ ĚƵĞ͕ ĂůƚŚŽƵŐŚ ǁĞ ĚŽ ŶŽƚ ĂƐƐƵŵĞ ƚŚĞ ůŝĂďŝůŝƚLJ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĂĚĚŝƟŽŶĂů ƚĂdžĞƐ͕ ǁĞ ǁŝůů ƌĞŝŵďƵƌƐĞ LJŽƵ ĨŽƌ ƚŚĞ ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ĂŶĚ ƉĞŶĂůƟĞƐ͘
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 5
Advocate for farmers
Premium Quality
Agri-News
One of the roles of the Farmers’ Advocate Office is to respond to landowner inquiries around well site reclamation issues. “As an example, an interesting situation concerning well site reclamation was recently brought to our attention,” said Jeana Les, research and communications specialist at the Farmers’ Advocate Office. “Reclamation certificates are issued once a company has met its legislated reclamation obligations at the end of the life of development. In this case, the reclamation certificate was issued in 2011 and, after an audit on the site in 2012, the certificate was cancelled.” The company and landowner went through the mediation program at the Environmental Appeals Board and a resolution agreement was signed with terms and conditions for both parties to follow. “The conflict came up in 2015 when the new reclamation certificate was issued,” says Les. “The company didn’t believe that they were obligated to pay the surface lease rental from 2012-15, stating that their rights and obligations ceased with the issuance of a reclamation certificate in 2011.” The Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act states that a cancelled certificate is considered to have never been issued. “In this case, it was determined that the company was responsible for the three years of rental payments because the 2011 reclamation certificate was considered non-existent.” Landowners with similar issues or other questions about reclamation may call the FAO at 310-FARM (3276) for more information.
POLLED HEREFORD AND ANGUS
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Ken Prichard & Family . 780-608-6080 Jonathan Prichard . . . . 780-781-5137 Steven Prichard . . . . . . 780-678-4770 glenrose@syban.net
Camrose AB
East of Camrose on Highway 13 to Highway 56, 1.5 miles south and 0.5 miles west
We’re looking for a Top Drawer Autobody Technician
is published for Controlled Distribution By CAMROSE BOOSTER LTD. Blain Fowler, Publisher Circulation 12,660 copies
If you’re a talented 3rd Year or Journeyman Autobody Technician, we want to talk to you about joining The Auto Shoppe, a leading Alberta autobody shop.
Providing coverage to the communities of Camrose (RRs and Boxes only), Ohaton, Edberg, Meeting Creek, Donalda, Bawlf, Kelsey, Rosalind, Daysland, Heisler, Strome, Forestburg, Galahad, Castor (farms), Killam, Sedgewick, Lougheed, Coronation/Brownfield, Alliance, Hardisty, Amisk, Hughenden, Czar, Metiskow, Cadogan, Provost (farms), Armena, Hay Lakes, New Sarepta, Round Hill, Kingman, Tofield, Ryley, Holden, Bruce, Viking, Kinsella, Irma, Wainwright (farms and lock boxes), New Norway, Ferintosh, Bashaw, Bittern Lake, Gwynne, Stettler (farms).
We offer: • Industry-leading wages and benefits • Bonus performance plan; you share in the profits • A clean, modern shop employing the latest in equipment • Respectful, professional atmosphere built on teamwork and trust • On-going training to sharpen your skills and keep you up-todate on the newest developments in the autobody industry
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to 12 noon
Phone 780-672-3142 Fax 780-672-2518 News email: news@camrosebooster.com Display Ads email: ads@camrosebooster.com Classified Ads email: ads@camrosebooster.com Website: camrosebooster.com
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CFCW’s Jackie Rae is The Auto Shoppe’s celebrity apprentice
The entire contents of THE CAMROSE BOOSTER and THE COUNTRY BOOSTER are protected by copyright and any unauthorized reproduction of it, in whole or in part, without consent in writing, is expressly prohibited.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 6
Clark puts Albertans first by opposing Bill 6 By Murray Green George Clark isn’t happy that the provincial government is not putting Albertans first, so he is lobbying for support to stop two important bills in the legislature. Clark gathered signatures at the Best Western Plus Camrose Resort Casino on Feb. 11 to force a plebiscite on Bill 6 and the carbon tax. “We have a simple way to force Premier Rachel Notley to not just reverse course, but to effectively have her finally rule for Albertans, not for the NDP national manifesto. Albertans deserve better than she’s given and on March 8 we will force her and her entire caucus to defend their actions, rather than arrogantly ignore the wishes of the majority,” said Clark. He hoped for 1,000 volunteers in December but received more than 2,500 supporters and canvassers. Over the last three months he has toured across the province. Clark credits his mother for giving him a mandate after waking from a week of unconsciousness. “She told me, on her deathbed, to not just oppose something I believe in, but to use my knowledge and share my voice to protect the people of Alberta. I did some research and became more passionate about giving the majority their say,” he shared. Three days later, she passed away. He’s now doing his best to honour her wish. No one could have imagined it would lead him to the point where he was threatening to peacefully bring down the Alberta government. “They are bills that clearly the majority of people oppose,” he said. Clark plans to present the signatures to the lieutenant governor on the steps of the Alberta legislature. The petition is asking
Murray Green, Camrose Booster
Deb Martin of Slave Lake signs a petition to force a plebiscite on Bill 6 and carbon tax. Alberta First held an information meeting in Camrose Feb. 11.
for a plebiscite regarding the proposed carbon tax and the controversial Bill 6. If the request for a plebiscite is denied Clark will enact a clause in the Elections Act that will see the end of the NDP reign. He’s keeping the clause a secret until he finally pulls the trigger. He is tackling two bills at once. “Both issues affect all of us, nobody more so than farmers,” he said. “We are encouraging everyone to get signatures for both issues as they both have very high public disapprovals (less than 23 per cent for Bill 6 and 24 per cent for carbon tax) and the NDP government did not expose these agendas during the spring election campaign.” Although there is no set number of signatures required to force the Lieutenant Governor to act upon the petition, Clark wants the
weight of public pressure to be strong. Once a plebiscite is called it has to be held within 60 days. The results, while not technically legally binding, have never been ignored. However, if two or more such questions were put to the people in a plebiscite and the elected government were to lose two or more such plebiscites, prior parliamentary tradition would suggest that they would need to seek a new mandate to govern. “We protested at the legislature on Monday with 1,800 people. By Thursday, we were over 3,000 people. That can’t be ignored. That gave me encouragement to keep going,” said Clark. “With our rallies and town hall meetings, we have had about 250,000 come out to oppose the bills. The government has no case in claiming democracy.” The Alberta First group
is opposing the government without using anger. “We are using positive methods to get our points across and Albertans have embraced that,” said Clark. “We give a positive course of action with the knowledge that we don’t have to sit back and be frustrated.” Although the number of family farms have gone down over the years, people still have that close-knit connection to family farms. “A lot of people are just one generation removed from family farms, so Bill 6 still has a deep connection to the land that many people have,” explained Clark. “The right to own land to produce food is the envy of the world. The accident involving three young girls was tagged as a safety issue. In fact, WCB could only come up with three cases in the last two decades that had still ongoing issues with the way they
(claimants) were treated as far as agriculture was concerned. Those were not even family farms.” About 65,000 family farms were being targeted for other reasons. “It is a waste of money going through WCB when private insurance can do a better job,” said Clark. “The ultimate protection is being able to sue anyone of wrong doing. I don’t think the government did this for a cash grab. I just don’t think they have a concept of what family farms are about. Firstly, they (farmers) grow products to feed themselves, then the community and then the rest of the world.” Clark has indicated he is not doing this for personal gain and has said repeatedly that he will not be running for office. He just wants to help people.
BRCF grant assists Bosmans Memorial Garden The Battle River Community Foundation has awarded a grant to the Emile Bosmans Memorial Garden at Round Hill to assist with the costs of fencing an addition to the cemetery. The grant is from income from the Foundation’s Community Funds. The Community Funds were created by donors to allow the Foundation board to select projects for funding based on applications received. The Battle River Community Foundation exists to support projects in East Central Alberta which benefit communities and have
a positive impact on the future. Grants from the Battle River Community Foundation are primarily made possible through the generosity of individual donors and organizations who have created endowment funds. The principal of these endowment funds is kept intact and the income is made available annually to support local projects and organizations. Since it was founded in 1995 the Battle River Community Foundation has granted over $3,900,000 to support community facilities and programs such as the Emile Bosmans Memorial Garden.
Battle River Community Foundation executive director Dana Andreassen, presented a cheque to Jeanne Campbell, treasurer, Jane Oracheski, director, and Dianne Campbell, director of the Emile Bosmans Memorial Garden at Round Hill.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 7
Building this spring? Have you considered an Insulated Concrete Foundation? ICFs are polystyrene forms that stack like blocks with steel rebar inside.
INCREDIBLE R-FACTOR Reduce energy costs, your building will stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Once these blocks are assembled, concrete is poured into the hollow core of the blocks to create walls.
MOLD AND MILDEW RESISTANT TANT LOW MAINTENANCE ANCE
TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT ICF CONSTRUCTION CALL
STRONGER CONSTRUCTION to withstand high winds. RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • AGRICULTURE
See us at this year’s Camrose Trade Show March 11, 12, 13
FRANCIS THOMSEN 780-361-5989 ANITA OLSON 780-781-4960
Senecc 910 “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might”
Travelling throughout Alberta couldn’t be better this year Bruce Hinkley, MLA, Wetaskiwin-Camrose Constituency
FIVE GENERATIONS
Submitted Daysland/Strome area family posed for a milestone photo of five generations, from top to bottom Lillian Koehli, Priscilla Hawkins, Gerald Hawkins, Korey Harrison, and baby Zander Anderson. Lillian also celebrated her 99th birthday last week in Strome.
Affordable small business websites – created locally
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With gasoline pump prices being the lowest we have seen in a long, long time we now have reason to travel Alberta. By visiting places in our own province we can help stimulate local economies. One of the committees of which I am a member (Standing Committee on Families and Communities) is reviewing the Mental Health Amendment Act, 2007. If you are concerned about involuntary admissions or community treatment orders you can make a submission online at assembly.ab.ca/committees/familiesandcommunities by Monday, Feb. 29. Join the conversation on mental health! To help with job creation and diversifying our economy a new program was announced in early February. The new program will encourage companies to invest in value added facilities in Alberta. Part of that announcement included a petrochemicals diversification program which will provide economic incentives up to $500 million in royalty credits. There is potential for two to three new facilities to be built in Alberta, requiring up to 3,000 new jobs during construction and more than 1,000 jobs in a variety of related industry sectors once a new facility begins production. This type of diversification can create jobs and
economic activity that will help to increase and broaden Alberta’s tax base over the long term, supporting important services for Albertans such as health care and education. From methane and propane to be used as feedstock for the manufacture of a variety of consumer products – everything from toys and plastic cups to detergents, textiles, antifreeze, fertilizer and carbon fibre. Speaking of jobs Alyssa Haunholter, the vice-president of government relations at North West Refinery at Redwater, has given this website which lists job opportunities. North West Refineries currently employs over 3,000 workers and is expecting to have 5,000 at peak production during the next two years. Visit http:// www.nwrpartnership.com/ careers for such openings as industrial hygienist/occupational hygienist, process operator/field operator, electrical technicians, control room operator, instrument technician, rotating equipment/millwright, pipefitters, pressure equipment engineer and crude supply coordinator. When I was last on the website there were over 20 jobs to choose from and there will be more coming. You can visit government jobs at www.jobs.Alberta.ca/jobs-dynamic.html. For example, six positions are needed for the Appeals Commission for Alberta Workers’ Compensation. The Commission is presently recruiting six part-time appeals com-
missioners for both Edmonton and Calgary. Another one is at the Health Disciplines Board (needs a public member). To learn more about Alberta Health and what it has to offer, follow this link www. health.alberta.ca/. Four more infrastructure announcements which will help provide stable, predictable funding to municipalities and counties to ensure communities have the resources to meet their local infrastructure priorities and strengthen those communities were made in December to the County of Wetaskiwin. The MSI (the Municipal Sustainability Initiative remains a provincial priority and continues to assist with building strong, safe, and resilient communities. Our government has also made $5.5 million available for municipalities and farms to install solar panels. Applications for farms are now available and for municipalities they will come out in March.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 8
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Armena backstop By Murray Green
The Armena Athletic Association is making major upgrades to its recreation grounds. President Ernie Lange wrote a letter to County council indicating the Association would like assistance in constructing a new backstop for the baseball diamond. “The backstop for the ball diamond is now unsafe. There are several holes in the backstop. If a ball hits the hole just right the ball will go through. There are bends in the metal, which causes the ball to take weird bounces. This can be dangerous for the players,” he pointed out in the letter. “We have been advised that repairing the backstop properly is not possible. We request that the Camrose County budget for a new backstop to be installed in 2016.” Councillor Doug Lyseng moved to have the item included in the budget, but other councillors and administration agreed that the project falls under the Legacy Grant and that the
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TRANSCONLIVESTOCK.COM organization has to apply. The amount requested for the materials and construction was about $25,000. Association spokesperson Angie Selin said the Association used the money it had for other projects and didn’t have
any left over for the backstop project. Administrator Paul King indicated that the whole Legacy Grant process was formed to treat all recreation areas the
same when it came to funding requests. “The Legacy Grant covers 25 per cent of the project and the group has to come up with the rest,” explained corporate services manager Teresa Gratrix.
“The community takes over the ownership of the project.” Councillor Trevor Miller recommend that the Armena Athletic Association apply for the full amount to help pay for the $15,000 worth of materials. Authorized Bobcat Dealer
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The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 9
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The The CAMROSE COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 10
Truck inspections help keep County roads safe By Murray Green
Camrose County will join forces with a Commercial Vehicle Enforcement crew to conduct free farm truck inspections March 30 and 31 at the east end Wildrose Co-op bulk gas station. Last year the annual inspection ran into some bad weather but the trucks rolled in at a steady pace. Of the 38 trucks inspected in 2015, 12 were found to have defects that would place them out of service. If stopped on a highway, those same trucks could easily have been towed and the drivers ticketed. Nine trucks required attention and 17 trucks passed the inspection. “Because this is a free farm truck check no vehicles will be towed and no tickets will be issued,” said officer Manie Germushuysen, of County Protective Services. “Camrose County would like to encourage farmers to take advantage of this inspection program in order to avoid any on-highway problems.” Inspections will include critical safety items such as brakes, steering, lights, frames, fuel systems and drive shafts. Prizes will be available for producers who have their trucks inspected. Wildrose Co-op will allow Camrose County to utilize its card
Camrose County Protective Services conducts a yearly truck inspection to assist producers with safety issues and warn drivers about future problems they may encounter on the road.
lock parking area and provide refreshments during the inspection. Camrose County and Commercial Vehicle
Enforcement perform truck inspections on an annual basis, usually near the end of March or the beginning April.
Last year, inspections were made by Alan Doutre, Gurpreet Bajwa, Todd Thompson, Sgt. Dan de Melo from Justice and
the Solicitor General Commercial Vehicle Enforcement program, and Camrose County peace officers.
County Ag Services provides soil sampling advice Soil sampling and testing can give an excellent inventory of plant available nutrients and other soil chemical factors important for crop production. “Soil nutrient levels vary from year to year, and frequently will vary within fields, even on fields that seem to be uniform,” said Camrose County Agriculture Services manager Mark Millang. “It is therefore necessary to follow certain recommended steps for soil sampling and testing to develop a sound ongoing soil fertility management program.” “Soil testing is a controllable you have as a land manager,” said Camrose County Agriculture Services assistant manager William Davies. Changing levels Nitrogen levels can change with environmental conditions such as rainfall and temperature patterns during a growing season, type and yield of crop harvested, date of harvest, fall tillage, amount of fertilizer applied to the previous crop. Potassium and phosphorus levels do not change substantially in a soil over a period of several years. Therefore, sampling for phosphorus and potassium
may be conducted every two or three years, or when changing crop type. Sampling for sulphur should be done annually in anticipation of future legume and oilseed crops. Reduce guesswork While it is recognized that soil testing is not an infallible guide to crop production and that other factors also come into play, soil tests help to reduce the guesswork in fertilizer practices. “In the past, Alberta farmers that have soil tested, have generally applied significantly more fertilizer than farmers that did not soil test,” said Millang. “Past observations suggest that Alberta farmers that do not soil test in many instances may be applying less nitrogen fertilizer than needed to obtain the most economical yield.” Being familiar with the proper soil sampling procedures is important whether you are doing the sampling yourself or it is being done by a custom operator. Determine where and how to soil sample each field Soil sampling should be done on an individual field basis. Samples from
different fields should not be mixed. “Begin by evaluating each field to determine representative areas,” said Millang. “Sample hilly fields with knolls, slopes, or depressions, separately from mid slope positions to ensure any potential sulphur or other nutrient problem is detected.” Major areas within fields having distinctly different soil properties such as texture should be sampled and fertilized as separate fields because of different nutrient requirements. Problem areas such as saline spots, poorly drained depressions, and eroded knolls should not be sampled unless they represent a significant portion of the field. If they do, separate samples should be obtained. In addition, other abnormal areas such as old manure piles, burnpiles, haystacks, corrals, fence rows or farmstead sites should be avoided. “At least 15 to 20 sampling sites are required for each field to give a good representative sample,” said Millang. “Samples taken from only four or five sites in a field are generally not representative and often
result in incorrect fertilizer recommendations.” There are four basic methods for taking soil samples: 1. Benchmark Soil Sampling. This method involves selecting uniquely different areas within a field and sampling each area separately. Unique areas are selected based on soil types, topography and crop growth. “Once sites are selected, the producer will take soil samples from each specific area each year to use as a guide of fertilizing all similar areas within the field,” said Millang. “This method is rapidly gaining popularity in Alberta, particularly with farmers that are adopting precision farming techniques. This is the current recommended method which has the best chance to maximize your economic yield.” 2. Grid Soil Sampling. With this method, a field is sampled in an organized grid pattern. Soil sample frequency may range from taking one sample in 0.5 acre units of the field to one sample for each five acre units of the field. The smaller the soil sampling unit the greater the accuracy of the sample. The advantage
of this method is that a field map that can be prepared for each nutrient and be used for variable rate fertilization and precision farming. The cost of taking the soil samples and the soil analysis is very high and therefore is not economical for many producers. Topographic Soil Sampling. With this method, a producer selects the separate soil sampling sites based on topography. A set of soil samples is taken from each uniquely different topographic area within a field. 4. Random Soil Sampling. This involves taking soil samples in a random pattern across a field, generally avoiding unusual or problem soil areas within a field. “Normally, 15 to 20 sites must be sampled to obtain a representative soil sample of the field,” said Millang. Sample at the proper time of the year Ideally, samples should be taken just prior to seeding. However, from a practical standpoint, this is difficult because little time is left to plan a fertilizer program and purchase fertilizer in time for seeding. Continued on page 11
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 11
Soil sampling advice from Camrose County Continued from page 10
“The best alternative is to obtain soil samples taken in the fall once soil microbial activity has declined,” said Millang. “The proper sample time in the fall is after the soil surface temperature drops to less than 7°C. At this temperature soil processes such as mineralization (breakdown of soil organic matter into plant available nutrients) that cause changes in soil nutrients proceed quite slowly and therefore changes in plant available nutrient levels are normally not great.” Obtain soil samples from the correct depths Many soil testing labs suggest that a zero to 30 cm (zero to 12 in) depth sample is adequate for developing fertilizer recommendations. However, for ideal plant nutrient evaluation it is suggested that samples be taken from the zero to 15 cm (zero to six in) and 15 to 30 cm (six to 12 in), separately and also take samples from the 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24 in) depths. Keep samples from each depth in a separate container. Phosphorus and potassium recommendations are based on a measure of the amounts of the available forms of each of these nutrients contained in the zero to 15 cm (zero to six in) depth sample. Generally, most of the plant available P in soil is confined to the plow layer as P is very immobile. Nitratenitrogen (NO3-N) and sulphate-sulphur (SO4-S) are both mobile nutrients may be found in significant amounts in the 30 to 60 cm depth. Therefore, N and S fertilizer recommendations based on a zero to 15 cm (zero to six in) depth sample usually suggest a higher than necessary fertilizer application rate. For this reason, recommendations regarding nitrogen and sulphur are based on a measure of the amount of nitrogen and sulphur from depth (zero to 60 cm) soil samples. Handle soil samples properly As mentioned, soil from each depth should be placed in separate containers. Immediately after the samples have been taken: 1. Mix the soil in each container thoroughly in order to obtain a homogeneous mixture. 2. Remove the soil and spread on a piece of clean paper. 3. Allow the soil to completely air dry at a temperature of not more than 30°C. Do not dry in an oven or at a high temperature since this can change the levels of some nutrients. 4. Care should be taken to avoid contamination of the samples with fertilizer materials such as commercial fertilizers, manure, salt, water and dust. “Samples should be air dried on clean paper or on an unused paper bag,” said Davies. Fertilizer recommendations Fertilizer recommendations are based on the results of the soil test analyses and on the nutrient requirement of the crop to be grown. Recommendations on time and method of fertilizer application are also included. Each soil testing lab has its own philosophy for making fertilizer recommendations. Two examples are: 1. Recommendations which indicate the nutrient requirements and yield potentials for optimum economic production based one or more moisture conditions of the field. 2. “Target Yield Recommendations” which indicate the nutrient requirements for a range of various lower and higher yield potentials under the same moisture conditions. With this information the producers have the flexibility of selecting a fertilizer application rate or target yield that best suits their individual situation. Producers must keep in mind that optimum yields of high quality crops can not be obtained without adequate fertilization if the crop to be grown on soils deficient in essential elements. “Keep in mind that fertilizing and soil testing is important but many variables can still affect the outcome,” said Davies. “Fertilization will neither increase yield or quality of wheat if other management inputs and cultural practices are not optimal, nor will it increase yield if the added nutrients are not required. Therefore, the most successful fertilizer program will be based on a knowledge of soil nutrient status combined with optimum crop and fertilizer management practices.”
Van Petten new manager of seed plant By Dan Jensen
Murray Van Petten was named manager of the Camrose seed cleaning plant on Jan. 4. He has worked at the plant for the last nine years, so is familiar with all parts of the operation. As the manager he will be responsible for booking g rain for cleaning, the g rading of pedig reed seed, and overall plant maintenance. Van Petten’s goal is to maintain or improve the services that are provided to local farmers. “I feel we have developed a great relationship with the farmers of this area over the years and I am very proud of that fact,” he said. Although it isn’t one of the biggest in the province, the Camrose seed cleaning plant ranks highly in the amount of seed that is cleaned every year. “We cleaned over 800,000 bushels of seed in 2015,” said Van Petten.
Murray Van Petten is proud of the relationship the Camrose County Seed Cleaning Plant has built with farmers.
Seed Cleaning Plant upgrades equipment
By Dan Jensen
The Camrose County seed cleaning plant has been upgrading all of its equipment over the last five years. “We have installed and are using a new debearder, grader, indent and screen machine, and this spring will be upgrading our treating system with a G-40,” explained seed cleaning plant manager Murray Van Petten. The G-40 will double the treating rate from around 20 bushels per minute to around 40 bushels per minute. “This will dramatically increase the wait time for our customers looking to
treat their seed,” said Van Petten. One final piece that’s still to come is a new gravity table, which is scheduled to be installed this June or July. The plant’s Buhler Sortex Z+ sorter uses fluorescent lighting and high resolution cameras to detect, separate and clean grain. “Say for example we don’t want any ergot, heated kernels blackpoint or unripened grain,” said Van Petten. “We simply enter that information into the computer and jets of air from a compressor eliminate them from the main sample.” The Buhler Sortex
Z+ sorter cuts losses to between six and eight per cent, compared to eight to 10 per cent with a gravity sorter. “The dockage is less because we are going after a selected colour and not separating by the weight or the size of the grain,” said Van Petten. “The equipment is able to process about 400 bushels of seed an hour.” The Camrose County seed cleaning plant cleaned just over 800,000 bushels in 2015. All profit goes into a reserve fund for the purchase of new equipment. Camrose County has operated a seed cleaning plant since 1947.
The COUNTRY BOOSTER, February 23, 2016 – Page 12
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The farm appearing in this photograph is located in the Camrose trading area. If you recognize it as yours, come to the Camrose Booster, 4925-48 Street, Camrose. You will be presented with a free 8” x 10” color enlargement of the photo.
• This week’s prize must be claimed by March 1, 2016. • Congratulations to Ken and Carrie Bulat of Killam, the January 26th Mystery Farm winners! • This week’s Mystery Farm is sponsored by the businesses on this page.
Rural Services
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Discover the benefits of Co-op membership! • Is owned by its members. • Stocks a full range of quality products, including our popular Country Morning meats and Harmonie and Co-op brand items.
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The more you use your Co-op membership, the more you benefit. Sign up for membership today! Be an owner … become a Co-op member! You’re at home here.
Wild Rose Co-op Locations in Camrose, Killam, Sedgewick, Viking, Galahad, Alliance and Hardisty
DIRECTORY CABINETS
Camrose Custom Cabinets 3623-47 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-7875 Toll Free 1-800-251-9705
INSURANCE
Camrose Insurance Services Ltd. MICHAEL KELEMEN 5704-48 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-9251 Phone 780-672-2273
BUILDING MATERIALS
Hauser Home Hardware Building Centre 6809-49 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-8818
Visit Nufloors today for ALL your floor covering needs. 3810-48 Avenue, Camrose Phone 780-672-4983 Toll Free 1-888-672-4983
Add a flag to your farmyard We sell top quality, long-lasting flags – from Canadian and provincial flags to flags from countries around the world. Choose from many sizes to suit your specific needs. 4925-48 Street, Camrose Phone 780-672-3142