FALL
2019 L
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(780) 385-6693
(780) 336-3422
(780) 662-4046
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Page 2 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Recycled power poles and trees turned into works of art Leslie Cholowsky The Community Press
A few years ago, Killam businessman and farmer Dan McRae saw an opportunity when he found out that old power poles were being taken to landfills to be buried in pits. He asked the company if they would consider bringing them to him, which they did. He worked with the province to meet environmental guidelines for reclaiming the wood safely, and has built his business, ReVive Wood. The company takes these used utility poles, removing embedded wood, glass, and plastic, as well as the parts of the poles that are treated, processing them into useable red cedar, white cedar, fir, or yellow pine raw lumber which they then can cut into custom sizes for furniture, panelling,
mantels, cupboards, and more. McRae has also started collecting certain green wood from deadfall stands, or removals, which, when cut and dried, can be used to create natural-edged furniture pieces and planks that are truly striking. ReVive Wood also supplies local shop classes with wood to create picnic tables and gazebos, which he then sells. McRae says that local builders, craftsmen, and homeowners have used the wood in their homes and projects, and that 2019 orders are the highest yet. He attributes that in part to his new sawyer, Joel, and Joel's partner Bonnie, both who work for McRae's other business, BeDevil Enterprises, and who he has encouraged to learn the reclamation business, and use their creativity to create new pieces with this incredible resource. Joel, a welder by trade, had never run a saw or worked with wood at all before, but he was willing
to learn, and he and Bonnie are now working together in the sawmill. He's using both the giant saw used to prepare and cut the poles, as well as the smaller saw used to plank the wood into custom sizes. McRae says there are only six facilities in North America working with reclaiming utility poles including ReVive wood. “We go through blades faster on these poles than mills who work only with new wood,” he says. “We're getting about 10 per cent of the amount cut than we would with green logs.” The lifespan of an average utility pole could be up to 70 years, add that to being made of trees that were already centuries old, and you've got some hard wood. “We've searched for better blades from Thunder Bay to the coast, but at present we're stuck with constantly sharpening our blades.” Not only can cutting off the chemically treated portion of the poles be tough on blades, they also have to be careful to remove any metal, glass, or even plastic See ReVIVE Fall 21
The ReVive Wood pavilion at the 2019 Clan Gathering in Sedgewick featured everything from raw wood pieces to custom made furniture items.
r u o t u o k c Che ! r o c e D l l a F e l b i d e r c In New Items Arriving All the Time!
Killam, Alberta
Serving Town & Country since 1962
Hours: 8-6 Monday thru Friday, 9-4 Saturdays & 12-4 Sundays
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 3
CONDITION YOUR CROP WITH Wild Rose
GRAIN DRYING WITH PROPANE Your Wild Rose Co-op offers bulk propane supply and delivery. Farmers are choosing Co-op Propane as their trusted propane supplier. Co-op provides propane for a diverse range of agricultural applications, including barn/space heating, grain drying, home heat, vehicles and propane-powered engines for irrigation systems.
So, why choose Co-op? • Co-op Propane is committed to providing a seamless experience for our members, starting with a full-service installation package including permits, utility line locating and trenching. Co-op also offers free competitor tank switch-outs for members.
•Dedicated to reliable delivery, Co-op offers customers flexible delivery plans that work best for them: from scheduled deliveries to automated tank-monitoring systems that track inventory levels to determine delivery demands.
•Co-op Propane ensures that members receive competitive pricing on propane supply and service. Most importantly, each purchase you make with Co-op contributes to your annual cash back and equity.
•Regardless of the job size or application, Co-op Propane will work with you to find a bulk storage tank that fits your needs. Sizes vary from 500 or 1,000 gallon tanks, most commonly used for small buildings such as houses, to 2,000 gallon tanks required for large-scale facilities or operations.
For more information about your grain conditioning needs call:
Wild Rose Camrose Agro (780) 672-3051
Sedgewick Agro (780) 384-3679
Killam Petroleum Viking Agro (780) 336-2100 (780) 385 3805
Page 4 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Working with the weather Moush John Tofield Mercury
One of the most decisive factors for the agriculture industry has always been the weather, and keeping this in mind, the Alberta Agriculture and Forestry has set up a very useful and valuable weather program on their website, called Alberta Climate Information Service (ACIS). “Weather tends to be our most common – and all consuming – subject of discussion no matter
where you go in Alberta,” said Harry Brook, crop specialist at the Alberta Ag-Info Centre. “In agriculture, weather is the most important factor in determining the success of a growing season.” The service is a network of close to 400 weather stations around the province reporting weather conditions in near, real-time. “It may be no better at predicting future weather than any other website, but it has detailed information on the weather
just past and even back all the way to 1961,” he explained. “There should be a weather station within 20 miles (32 km) of your farm, no matter where you are in the province.” Elements covered by this network include accumulated and recent precipitation, extreme and average temperatures, relative humidity, wind speeds and directions, solar radiation, snow depth, soil temper-
Tofield in fall
Fall 85 Continued on Page
The Town of Tofield
RYALTA INDUSTRIES LTD. 5105 - 50 St. Ryley
5407 - 50 Street Tofield, AB
780-663-3759 Working together with the local farmers to help bring in the harvest. All the best in the fall of 2019! THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATRONAGE
The Tofield soccer field bathed in the golden light of a fall sunset. KYLIE KUFLAY PHOTO
780-662-3269
Best wishes to the farmers during their harvest! From Trevor & Staff at Tofield, Camrose, & Wetaskiwin SHAREK ENTERPISES
The Town of Tofield wishes our local Farmers a Bountiful Harvest!
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 5
Terrible accident near Chipman reminds drivers and farmers how important road rules are during harvest He said to travel on the roads the farmers do requires a permit but it is free. The height of the farm vehicles can be up to 16 feet, and the length can be up to 100 feet. Wright said a combine pulling a trailer with its header, and a load trailer could easily stretch a long distance. Wright added the larger vehicles which feature much larger rubber tires do tend to make it easier on the road, than vehicles like those in the past with small, skinnier tires, which did make it hard on a rural road. Farm vehicles are exempt from any width requirement on public roads. He states the other big concern of his at this time of year, although, it can occur at anytime of the year is farmers travelling with unsecured loads. Wright said he is mainly stopping those people with unsecured loads and trying to give them an education on how and why to secure their loads. “For many it’s people just moving from one field to another, not far away, but still they have to secure the load. “I stopped one fellow recently and he had nine bales and three stacks on top which weren’t
BY JOHN MATHER More than a week ago, a driver of a vehicle was seriously injured when he passed a slow moving baler on Highway 15 near Chipman only to crash head on into a combine moving the other direction. With the harvest season moving into full swing, Lamont County peace officer Derek Wright travels around the county warning people of the hazards of travelling and sharing the roads with slow moving farm equipment. He said he talks to FCSS and to many other local groups. “The large farm equipment being operated on our roads at this time of year poses a hazard to commuters,” he said. “Drivers might not be aware of the slower speeds of these vehicles and need to reduce their own speed accordingly.” He added the farmers should remove headers from oversize combines, ensure loads are securely tied down, and if possible use pilot vehicles or at least make sure all their slow moving vehicles have flashing hazard lights. “A few weeks ago, I followed a combine for more than a mile on heavy haul routes and absolutely nothing could get past him.”
5109 50 Ave, Lamont, AB 780-895-2454
A Safe & Bountiful Harvest to Our Farmers
To our farmers, Thank you for all you do. we wish a safe & plentiful harvest for everyone.
strapped down.” I told him he still had to secure his load. “If a person is hauling silage and it’s blowing out the top it’s a $776 fine,” added Wright. He said much of the issue with secured loads is just people not wanting to take the time to secure their loads.
“Someone will say, ‘I’ve farmed for 40 year like this’, and I’ll answer him saying yes, but in 40 years the speed and size of your tractor had greatly increased.” He added wth farmers now farming sometimes 20 to 30 miles away from the home farm it is more important than ever to
secure the load. “It’s all about the safety aspect for the members of the public in our County,” he said. “I’d rather be giving them advice on securing a load, or even writing a ticket, than informing them later that an unsecured load has meant the loss of a loved one or
family member.” Wright said he’d be talking to council about the larger farm vehicles to see if there were any measures they could come up with to increase safety for oversized loads travelling County roads..
It is important for drivers to slow down and be patient with farmers at this time of year, but also for people in the agriculture industry to make sure to secure their loads.
Happy Harvest to our farmers.
From the Mayor, Council and Staff
To Our Farmers, Best Wishes and Warmest Weather for a Safe Harvest ~
To our farmers, all the best for a safe harvest.
Lamont Value Drug Mart Lamont, AB 780-895-2411
May the weather hold and the sun shine, until farmers park the last combine.
Page 6 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Farmers work overtime to get crops off before wintery weather takes hold
Patricia Harcourt The Weekly Review
Many farmers in the region were out in the fields working hard to get their crops off this past week as good weather warmer temperatures and windy conditions - finally allowed for the harvest to continue. But a cold blast of arctic air, and possibly snow, is forecast to pass through Alberta towards the end of the week,
potentially curtailing the harvest yet again. This means that those who can get their crops off in time would be ahead of the game. The weather predictions are now saying snow may occur this week, forecasting a 20 degree drop in the seasonal temperatures for the western and southern parts of the province. The provincial crop report for Sept. 17, says in the North East region, only about three per cent of major crops had been
brought in with half of canola being swathed. In the same area, about 65 per cent of crops were still standing as of Sept. 17, 28 per cent were swathed and seven per cent combined. These figures have likely improved since the decent harvesting weather took hold these past few days. Latest crop reports put 66 per cent of dry peas, 15 per cent of spring wheat, 27 per cent of barley and 20 per cent of oats either swathed or in the bin.
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Great Northern Grain Killam, Alberta
780-385-3622
As of last week's report, less than one per cent of canola has been harvested, with 50 per cent swathed. Again, the figures have likely improved since farmers were once again able to get into their fields this past weekend. Harvest progress is behind in all regions of the province based on five year trends, with the North East region 15 per cent behind, and Central and North West Regions 12 per cent behind.
During the During he h home ome heating season, if you are away from your home for extended periods of time, you may need someone to check your home regularly to keep some insurance coverages in force.
er k o r aps B e c no g n a ur are are s n I re you r e u h yo re t hile e! l l Ca ke su ge w hom a ra rom e m v o t n co ay f i S. James Agencies Killam 780-385-3654 aw Sedgewick Land & Insurance 780-384-3639 Battle River Agencies Hardisty 780-888-3999
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 7
Buying feed or custom feed, what’s better? Even though hay production in many areas of Alberta this year has been adequate, high feed costs are still a concern for producers. Dean Dyck, farm business management specialist at the Alberta Ag Info Centre, compares buying feed for cows to moving them to a custom operator to feed and care for those animals. “Feed and hay prices are still higher than average in 2019; producers are faced with either buying expensive feed or moving their livestock to feed if they want to keep ownership and equity in their animals,” Dyck explained. “Choosing an option depends on the
economics of each alternative.” The first step is to calculate the cost of putting feed into the feed bunk. This is the sum of the cost to purchase the feed, along with shipping costs, yardage charge on the farm, the opportunity cost of labour for feeding the animals, and shrink and waste. “For example, if each cow needs about 35 pounds of hay per day to maintain her, it will take about 6,300 lb. or approximately 3.15 tons of hay over 180 days,” saidDyck. ““If good quality hay costs about $140 per ton, the total cost of the Continued Continued on on Fall Page20 6
Thank you to the farming community for all they bring to our table!
Country Bottle Depot 780-688-3378 780-632-9313
Wishing our farming community all the best during the harvest season! Marsha Matiyek • 780-662-4886
Beaverhill Veterinary Services Ltd.
Wishing our farming community a safe and productive harvest season!
Busy B North store 780-662-4116 South store 780-662-4325 Wishing all the farmers a successful harvest!
780-662-3400
Wishing all the farmers a successful harvest!
Your waste services provider Phone: 780-663-2038
Volunteers are welcome!
RAVENHILL GENERAL
AGENCIES LTD
INSURANCE
780-662-0051 • 5221 - 50 St. Tofield We would like to wish the farming community the best during their harvest!
Wishing the farming community an abundant harvest!
• Septic Cleanings • Pump Sales • Portable toilet rentals Serving the areas of Camrose, Viking, Daysland, Tofield and More!
5023 52 Ave., Tofield 780-662-3988
Come check out our in-store specials!
D&D Septic Services 780-663-2147 or 780-984-2000
We wish the farmers all the best during their harvest!
Economy Concrete Farmers are our bread and butter.
Thanks for all you do!
780-662-4400
780-662-2600
Page 8 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Knowing the weather Fall 42 Continued from Page atures, elative humidity, wind speeds and directions, solar radiation, snow depth, soil temperature at four different depths and soil moisture as a percentage of field capacity. According to Brook, with this information one can also compare them to long-term averages. Despite the general feeling that the farmers haven’t had a summer, most of the province has experienced a summer with heat accumulations very close to long-term averages. In addition to those features Brook noted, there is a large amount of data on long-term average for air temperatures, maximums
and minimums, growing degree days at base 0 C, 2 C and 5 C, and frost probabilities in 1 degree increments from 0 C to -5 C. “For people interested in temperatures, there is even a wind chill index. There is also a huge collection of maps for the province for drought indices, fire danger, precipitation, soil moisture and temperature.” ACIS can also access current weather radar and local forecasts. It includes detailed moisture information for Southern Alberta through Irrigation Management Climate Information Network (IMCIN), which helps with irrigation decisions. “So, how can you use all this information? Let me tell you,” Brook
added. “Soil moisture and temperatures are useful to predict when soils should be ready to start seeding and to decide if moisture is sufficient to allow germination. Temperatures and wind speeds can help to decide when it is safe to spray pesticides or to help diagnose the possibility of spray drift.” “ACIS also includes a fusarium head blight risk map. Using the preceding weather conditions, it can predict the likelihood of fusarium establishing in your vicinity, and it can help with timing for any fungicide application,” Brook stated. “Plans are also underway to develop insect pest prediction maps for some of our most damaging insect
BP s Glass
pests.” Brook said that growing degree days, potato heat units and corn heat units for localities are useful when estimating if various crops can be successfully grown. “As well, these average numbers combined with frost probabilities are useful tools to estimate whether there is enough time left in the growing season for a crop to mature,” Brook added. “The big, expensive question on most producers’ minds currently is when will a killing frost occur,” he adds. “Using longterm averages you can get a probability for anywhere from a -1 C to a -5 C frost.” Source: Alberta Agriculture and Forestry
Ph: 780-662-4881 Cell: 780-884-5698 5204 – 50 St. Tofield, AB
Best wishes to the farmers during harvest!
Tofield Autobody “Collision Repair Specialists”
780-662-3432 Hoping the weather holds for the farmers this harvest season!
• Tofield 780-662-0165 • Holden 780-688-3865 • Mundare 780-764-2238
Wishing the best for the
780-918-9300 Greg Litwin, Realtor®
farmers
5118 - 50 Street, Tofield
during this
Wishing all the farmers a plentiful harvest season! 780-662-3334 5018 - 52nd Avenue, Tofield
Wishing all the farmers a successful harvest season!
harvest season!
THE TOFIELD AGRICULTURE SOCIETY WANTS TO WISH THE FARMERS A
Village of Ryley 780-663-3653
Tofield Hotel 780-662-3116
GREAT HARVEST SEASON!!!
780-662-3707
or 780-916-8642
Wishing the best for the farmers during harvest time!
Tofield Liquor Mart Come check out our new look and new stock!
Good luck to the farmers during their harvest!
John Daoust Shingle Co. 780-662-4901
Wishing the farmers the best during their harvest!
Open daily at 10:00 a.m. COLDEST BEER IN TOWN!
780-662-0085 Wishing the best for our farmers during this years harvest!
Tofield Bottle Depot would like to wish the farmers a great harvest season!
Tofield Car, RV, & Truck Wash 780-913-5318
Beaver County Seed Cleaning would like to wish the farmers a bountiful harvest season!
Wishing everyone a bountiful harvest!
Hours of Operation Tuesday - Saturday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm We are located at 5304 - 56 St. We sort your bottles!
Phone: 780-688-3917 • Holden, AB
780-662-3936
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 9
Getting a peek at Alberta’s wildlife usually rewards great photos JOE HARTUNG PHOTOS
Clockwise from left: Cute songbird calling to its friends. Cute to some and just another rodent to others, the red squirrel is an intelligent creature. This holstein seems to be unperturbed by her watery twin.
Strome Seed Cleaning Plant We Appreciate Your Business! Friendly i d to t gett reminder i your grain tested! 780-376-3573 UNRESERVED AUCTION SALE Crowd Pleaser Motorsports (Mike and Linda Black) Hoadley, Alberta
Saturday, October 5 at 9 a.m. LOCATION: 450051 Rg. Rd 20 Hoadley, Alberta DIRECTIONS: Being from the Junction of Sec. HWY's 771 and 611, go 3 miles west on Sec. 611 to Rg. Rd 20, then ½ mile north.
Watch For Signs. GST will be charged where applicable. Lunch Available.
To those that work In acres, not in hours..... We are proud to support you!
Vehicles, Trailers, & Boats: 2007 Chrysler 300, 4door Car, 5.7 Hemi, auto, fully loaded, leather int., Carfax Inc., 188,000 km, S/N 2C3LA63H17H813369, like new; 2014 Dodge 1500 Crew Cab, A, 4x4, short box, JVC stereo, 20” wheels, 3000 watt inverter, 204,000 km, lifters done 182,000 km, S/N 1C6RR7LT0ES206904; 1981 Malibu Race Car, Ford 9” ladder bars, cage, new Wildwood brakes, 2 sets wheels, no motor or trans S/N 1W27KA1424207; 2013 Bumper Pull Flat Deck Trailer c/w 7½ x 20 deck, Beaver Tails, ramps, 12V winch, 10,000 lb axles, NVSN; 2008 Bumper Pull 22’ Flat Deck Trailer c/w hoist, double decker, 6000-lb axles, S/N 009584; 17’ Sled & Quad Trailer, single axle, S/N ST8L016555H722029; Single Axle Alum. Motorcycle Trailer c/w 3’x4’ box, S/N 2AT60717161U102643; 1976 21.5 Jet Boat, designed by EI Coyote for Free Bar Marine Jets, small block, 350 Chev c/w Berkley pump, new helm & steering cable, runs well; 27.5 Alum Jet Boat c/w trailer, restorable; 466 Motor Big Block & Omc Jacuzzi Jet sold separately Motorhome: 1995 Pursuit 33’ Motorhome, 454 E.F.I., auto trans, awning, sleeps 6, generator, 23,500 miles, S/N GBKP37N033328080 Motor Bikes: 2012 Yamaha 42 450F Timbersled Snowbike, 5 hrs on build, EFI, double fuel controller, Rekluse clutch, rad guards, High Comp. Piston, hand guards, engine Bra Nitrous, Rox Risers, Air Pro Forks Kit, bike needs nothing, S/N JYACJ15C9CA015349; 2000 Harley Davidson Screamin Eagle CVO Road Glide, 46,000 km, 95”, 6-sp & FI, S/N 1HD1PAC24YY951087; 1977 Yamaha RD 400, 8079 Km, restored, new motor,
new paint, tuned pipes, K&N filter, drag bars & rear set pegs, 5 km since rebuild, S/N 1A1-304455; 1985 Honda 1000 Interceptor, Dealer installed full faring, Corbin Gunfighter seat, Holeshot 4-1 header, K&N filter, windshield deflector, 12,897 km, S/N SC1502FM100253; 1999 CR80 Frame Up Rebuild, 2 hrs since built, S/N JH2HE0429YK700378; 2008 YZ 450FEx. Blackfoot Bike, raced by Klatt & Nelson, new hi comp piston & cam chain, tons of extras, S/N YJACJ10C28A028023; 2018 Huffy Beach Cruiser, 2 stroke 50cc motor, as new; 2011 Big Chicken Barstool Racer, like new Seadoo; Misc Parts SeaDoo: 1989 Yamaha Wave Jammer 500 c/w trailer, after market grate/intake, runs great Snowmachines: 2012 Arctic Cat M8 Custom Turbo, 174”x2” track, new motor, harness, stator, Red Line turbo, rails, SLP Mohawk skis, Billet Spider, 911 Clutch cover, C-3 drive belt, Fox shocks, Billet wheels, custom cover, 200 km since complete rebuild; 2009 Dragon 800-155 lots of upgrades, S/N 1PG8ES29C686652; 1978 Skidoo Everest 340, ES, lots of restore work done; 1977 Elan 250 Single, original condition; 2003 Polaris Vertical Escape Custom, AKA “lil Bullet”, 152”x2” track, 1000 km on rebuild; 1997 Summit 670 159 km on rebuild, needs nothing; 1997 Wedge Custom “Miss Behavin” 680 triple, CMX chassis, 800 km since rebuild; 1999 Summit X670, runs great; 1997 SChassis Skidoo AKA “Barney” 670, EFI, turbo, completely redone; 2002 Polaris Pro X 800, complete rebuild, S/N SN1NX8C903C349821; Approx. 150 Sleds of all models for parts & various states of restoring
Visit our website for full listings and pictures: www.millersauctionservice.com Mr. and Mrs. Black are doing a reduction of inventory of their business therefore this Sale. If you are in the Motorsports Business plan on attending. For more information call Mike Black at 403-963-0656 or Miller’s Auction Service at 780-789-2226 or 780-920-6738. www.millersauctionservice.com
For all your crop input needs Killam - 780-385-2230 Forestburg - 780-582-3887 Strome - 780-376-3552
This list is subject to additions or deletions. TERMS: Cash or valid cheques, certified check, bank draft or ALVIN MILLER (780) 789-2226 bank letter of credit, e-transfer, or Cell 920-6738 Mastercard and Visa (3% useage fee on TREVOR MILLER (780) 722-2705 M/C & Visa transactions). No purchases BARRY KASHA (780) 374-2472 Camrose, Daysland, Killam, Tofield, Holden to be removed until settlement has been DARCY SHEETS (780) 336-6485 made. List is subject to additions and/or Kingman, Rosalind, Viking deletions. Neither the owner, the Clerk: Judy Bentley “For Reasonable Rates and Excellent, auctioneer or staff of the auctioneer shall be held responsible for any loss or Friendly Service, Give Us A Call” accident on or off the auction site.
License No. 200809 Box 71, Sunnybrook, AB
Page 10 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
WE’RE PROUD TO SUPPORT AREA FARMERS Stop by our dealership in Killam for all your Case IH equipment needs.
FIND US: ROCKYMTN.COM
@RMEHQ
RME KILLAM 4707 - 51 AVE. TEL: (780) 385-3652
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 11
Sunrise Farm Co-operative trying to preserve environmental stewardship in rural Alberta Emily Tanton The Community Press
Back in 2018, The Flagstaff County Conservation Easement Program Bylaw was approved by County Council, and among the first to enroll were Don and Marie Ruzicka, owners of Sunrise Farm. This program protects all of the work the Ruzickas have put into their farm to make it as sustainable and resilient as possible. “The fact that one or all of our kids may like to return to farm someday motivates Marie and I to continue farming using this holistic management model.” Some of this work includes raising certified organic beef, poultry, eggs, and natural pork, planting thousands of trees and berry shrubs in shelterbelts and wildlife habitat covers, mounting hundreds of bird houses along the perimetre fences of the fields, and fencing off the riparian areas around creeks and wetlands on the farm, including their dugouts. Ruzicka says, “In 1989, the meadowlarks did not show up in the spring to nest. “We had been overgrazing the native prairie where they prefer to nest. We began resting it and decreasing our stocking rate. “After an 11-year absence, the meadowlarks came back in 2000 because we were leaving more grass going into winter, which provided lots of litter for nesting the following spring.” It took the Ruzickas nine years to attain a 97 per cent nesting occupancy rate in their 220 nesting boxes. After 10 years their riparian area was finally back to good health. Eleven years after they implemented their holistic model, meadowlarks returned to the farm. It was the Ruzickas who brought the idea of conservation easement to Flagstaff County Council, and now any owner of Sunrise Farm after them will be obligated to maintain the diverse land they’ve encouraged. Now, 36 years after the Ruzickas took ownership of the four quarters of land northwest of Killam, they are ready to retire and pass the farm on to a group who they believe will continue to preserve the environmental legacy of Sunrise Farm. The Spirit of the Land program at the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus contains a group of students, teachers, and members of the community who have been inspired to work together to reshape their connection to community and land. For the last eight years, Spirit of the Land has visited Sunrise Farm regularly. Now, as Don and Marie consider retirement, a group of Spirit of the Land students have pledged to form a cooperative that will purchase Sunrise Farm, under the guidance of local elders. The group is hoping to bring back to light the Treaty agreements that did not view the prairies as something to develop and profit from, but as something present and future generations should share and care for together.
RAJAN RATHNAVALU PHOTO www.spiritoftheland.ca
Facilitating next generation farmers’ access to prairie lands without the fear of debt can allow for less of a push to monetize every aspect of the farm. Oftentimes wetlands are drained and forests are cut to allow for more land to be harvested. The Ruzickas support the new Foundation’s plans wholeheartedly, saying, “With no mortgages for those who will farm the land that they purchase, it is the best plan that we have encountered that will renew rural economies.” Don admits for the first few years of operating Sun See SUNRISE Fall 23
A female mountain blue bird keeping her young ones warm.
We are working Crews are in in the East the area area! Central Alberta
CALL NOW FOR A CALL NOW FOR FREE A FREEESTIMATE ESTIMATE!
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Page 12 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Training centre supports new hemp related businesses Vegreville finding new use for lost immigration centre BY JANA SEMENIUK When the Vegreville Immigration processing centre closed its doors in 2018, it not only left a big building empty, but left a big building open for a new opportunity. Mike Salvatore owns the old Immigration Centre building. Teaming up with his grandson, Travis Dahl, a new organization was born – Cannabis & Hemp Innovation Centre (CHIC). CHIC was incorporated last January. Local area hemp growers and potential hemp businesses will benefit from not only the new processing plant in Bruderheim, headed up by Canadian Rockies Hemp Corporation, but also by the business support and education offered by CHIC. “We are developing an Innovation Centre focused around hemp,” said Dahl. “We are providing programming for people who have different ideas, interests and intentions focused around the hemp industry.” He explained that it took 15 months of research and planning to get the organization off the ground. “We didn’t know the first thing about cannabis or hemp so we started doing some research,” said Dahl. “We knew Alberta Innovates had an agricultural research centre right around the corner from us and we both
have a common interest in industry development.” Dahl explained that CHIC is offering two tracks for potential hemp businesses. The first is the education portion, which will be an on-site college campus where cannabis and hemprelated programming will be offered. The second will be a business incubator and accelerator to assist early stage businesses with concepts that need development. In addition to education, research and programming, funding can also be applied for. “We are targeting where the industry needs the most development and finding entrepreneurs that have technologies and processes that fill that void,” said Dahl. Dahl went on to explain that currently there are two courses being offered at CHIC, the first is a NorQuest workshop scheduled for November. This workshop will be taught by one of the global leading experts on hemp, Dr. Jan Slaski. Dahl added that although adding hemp to a farmers’ field can benefit them financially there are many things to consider. CHIC wants to help farmers minimize their risk with education. The second workshop, also scheduled for November, delves into the processing of the hemp product.
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Area 1 your - Lamont (weekly).Leader EADER Contact community newspaper today! Area 2 - Tofield Mercury (weekly). Area 3 - Viking Weekly (weekly). Review Area 4 - The Community (weekly).Press
LMTLeader@gmail.com 780-895-2780 www.LamontLeader.com
780-895-2189
Call or Email The Weekly Review! ads@weeklyreview.ca We wish the farmers a safe & successful harvest this fall! 780-336-3422 From the webb’s team at Lamont
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 13
Viking Auction Market Ltd.
5116 116 - 61 Ave. A V Viki Viking, k AB T0B 0B 4N0 780-336-4048 www.vikingvetclinic.com follow us on Facebook or Instagram!
Corner of Hwy 26 & 36 780-336-2209
Full service Veterinary Clinic for all your Bovine/Equine/Small Animal Needs
LES A S E L T T A C R A L REGU 9am every Tuesday at 9am @ 1 ct. e/ O , s Tue attle Sal ce C fluen n I s Angu
Effective Immediately: Extending our on call hours to 24/7 for all your animals needs
Calf/Yearling Sal es Friday, Sept 27 @ 9am Oc t 11, 18, & 25
Cliff Grinde 780 780-336-6333 336 6333
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Darcy Sheets 780-336-6485
We now have 2 Ultrasound Machines and 3 Veterinarians so we can pregnancy test your herd at your convenience. The ideal timing to Preg. Test is at 2-5 months pregnant. Call to book your appointment.
Robert Kunnick 780-336-6301
Deworming Horses in the Fall
Mel Pydde 780-933-0048
We recommend waiting for the first good frost before deworming in the fall. Call the clinic to see which dewormer is right for your horse!
Toe Nail Trim Thursday: Dogs, Cats and Rabbits Welcome! We do this service every day of the week, but offer specials on Thursdays!
Dr. Pru Maxwell, Dr. Lacey Fowler, Dr. Lauren Ricer, Dr. Jillian Russnak
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Page 14 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
ReVive Wood
From Power Poles to Masterpieces “These poles carry the story of our country, the story of this land, and it is now our responsibility to ReVive them from waste. ReVive Wood is set to honour the legacy of the trees and give the wood new life. We honour the trees and the land through sound business practices and environmentally responsible reclamation.”
• Custom Cut Timber Orders • Furniture • Fireplace Mantels • Garden Pavilions • Gazebos • Pergolas • and much more!
Killam, AB 780-385-5640 revivewood0@gmail.com
ReVive Wood ...from an out of the woods mill....
ReVive Wood
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 15
Killam, Alberta
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Page 16 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Flagstaff teen a fiddling sensation and an accomplished blacksmith Emily Tanton The Community Press
Ethan Harty is a Strome resident and at just 17 years of age has a list of talents that he has perfected to a professional level. Harty has been playing the fiddle since he was eight and has been blacksmithing since he was 11; and says having a passion for both hobbies at a young age has lead to his great success now. Harty laughs at the stark contrast in his two passions and says the connection between the two is rooted in his interest in old-fashioned things.
“They were two things that I was completely taken by, my interest was piqued and I knew I needed to pursue both passions and not limit myself to one or the other.” The Canadian Grand Master Fiddling Championships is an invitational competition, with five fiddle players from each province getting invited every year to compete. Winning the Alberta Open Contest in 2016, a part of the Grand North American Championship, gave Harty the chance to be invited to the Canadian Grand Masters. In 2017, Harty was invited to the Grand Masters and made it into the top 11, a placement which ensured his
invite for the following year. In 2018, he placed second, which brought him to Abbotsford for this year’s competition. He says in the two days leading up to the competition he amassed over 16 hours of intense practice, dissecting his performance mercilessly; further proving his desire to reach his full potential. “I wouldn’t say I ever get discouraged, just madly encouraged.” On Aug. 23 and 24, Harty showcased his incredible talent and determination and won the well-deserved Canadian Grand Master title, his family cheering him on at every step. “Everyday I am thankful for my hugely supportive family. They are all such great role models. My grandpa and my dad passed on their work ethic and advice, and even though they’re not fiddlers or forgers, they have an immense impact on my life.” Finishing on top has given him not only a great sense of accomplishment, but also a permanent invitation to all future Canadian Grand Master Fiddling Championships. See FIDDLING Fall 19
Salute to Agriculture!
with a big
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McGOWAN 24 hour emergency service Small & Large Animal Medicine & Surgery Small & Large Animal Digital Radiology In-House Lab including blood work, urinalysis and culture
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Iron Creek Veterinary Hospital For all your pet and livestock needs
Sedgewick, AB 780-384-0003 Happy Harvest to all of our local Producers!
• Oilfield, Rig & Industrial welding • General Welding & Manufacturing • ‘On-the-spot’ Portable Service • Ornamental Iron Railings • Bobcat Services Bernie McGowan - Killam, AB Ph: 780-385-3808 Residence: 780-385-2118
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 17
Fall postcard from Beaver County
Building works of art using recycled material Moush John Tofield Mercury
With the bowhunting season in full swing, hunters are out and about early to get their hunt. The power of a bow is determined by its peak draw weight and arrow draw length, measured in pounds and inches, respectively according to a Beaver County hunter who has been hunting for over a decade. SUBMITTED PHOTO
Winner and runners-up of the BMS Upcycle Challenge, Ryley’s Morley Knudslien is an artist who works with recycled wood and other material. “I became interested in the recyclable material from a young age as I saw my father take apart old buildings for the wood and use it in other building projects on the farm,” Knudslien recalled. “I remember straightening bent nails that he took out of the buildings so they could be used again.” For the upcycle challenge, he made billboard tire covers and a guitar out of recycled pallet and construction wood. “While making the gui-
tar I had to make a lot of tools and jigs that were required in its construction,” Knudslien explained. “I had to make a jig to cut the slot in the neck where the metal truss rod is installed (which is used to adjust the bow in the neck), another one to cut the grooves in the fret board to get them the right distance and depth, a jig to put the radius on top of the fret board, among a few others ones.” The body of the guitar was made out of five layers of wood – a combination of hard wood and soft wood.
780-662-0307 #101, 5116 46 Ave. Parkstone Plaza, Tofield
Wishing the farmers a successful harvest! 5020 - 50 Ave. Tofield
(780) 662-4842 Bringing Freshness, Quality and Grade A Service to Your Dinner Table. Thank You Local Farmers for Your Patronage!
Continued Continued on on Fall Page253
#1 20332 Township Road 512 - Sherwood Park, Alberta T8G 1E8
780-662-2227
www.hastingslakevet.com
Hours are now: Mon./Tues./Thurs./Fri. 8:30 am - 5:30 pm; Wed. 8:30 am - 7 pm; Sat. 8:30 am - 1:30 pm.
It is a pleasure to serve our farming families by taking care of your farm pets. Thank you so much for your support and referrals, we greatly appreciate it! We take great pride in ensuring veterinary visits for our patients, even those that rarely leave the farm, are as stress free as possible. Our staff are all Fear Free certified practitioners and we can help you make that trip to the vet clinic much easier! Some of our community events to look forward to in 2019: • Farm Cat Spay/Neuter Clinic Friday, Oct. 11th • Goat & Backyard Poultry Lectures date TBA 2019/2020
We care for cats, dogs, caged pets and farm pets including poultry, goats, sheep, pot bellied pigs and alpacas.
Page 18 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Harvest in Lamont County on schedule despite wet summer BY JOHN MATHER Harvest in the Lamont County area are progressing despite setbacks from a wet spring and soggy fields. According to Harry Brook, an agricultural specialist for Alberta Agriculture, the harvest will be slower than normal. In checking rain accumulation in the area from May 1 to now, Brook said it was average from the first week of June, but then it got wet. “Average for that time is 315 millimetres of rain in the Elk Island Park area, but it actually received more than 400 mm. “That is four inches more rain than usual. “In the Andrew area it was about two to three inches more than average.” Brook said the area was dry to the middle of June and “then it basically hasn’t stopped.” The problem this now
poses for harvesting, he said, is getting on the field. “In your area it hasn’t really been wet since about the second week of August. “From then until now in Andrew there’s only been another 40 mm.” “North of Lamont up to Skaro it’s flatter than a pancake, so if you don’t have good drainage it will be hard to get equipment onto the fields to get the crops in.” Brooks said he feels the crops are good, but they might be light. He said the actual growing condition in the area was only slightly under average. “Your area is within 95 per cent of the long term average,” said Brook. “It’s a little cooler but not appreciably.” Going further, Brook said there’s not a shortage of hay, but rather a shortage of good weather to put the hay up.” He said the only farm-
ers who may have really good hay were those making hay silage in tubes. “There’s very few who made hay in July. There are still people cutting or just finishing their first cut. That means the quality is going to be a lot worse.” He stated some farmers will be harvesting over mature hay now. “If you cut the hay late, the feed quality may suffer.” It’s is imperative to do a field test so they know what supplements they will need for their cattle. “If there’s going to be a shortage, it will be a shortage of quality feed.” Brook said the early crops are maturing but a lot of crops could still use a few weeks to reach ideal condition. “Now you have to start looking at temperatures because we’re getting close to frost conditions.” “There is a point
where crops are sort of bulletproof from frost,” said Brook. “It becomes a point of cutting it now or holding on to try and get a little more yield.” He said there comes a point where you need to
get down to 20 per cent moisture. Once it’s there it not as susceptible to a killing frost. Brook added while canola is still a little green it’s probably time to cut it and take a small
loss. Spraying the crop sometimes means another two weeks before the spray takes affect and then you’re into a high risk of cold weather. “It’s a quality concern right now,” said Brook.
A swather lays down rows of crop in a field west of Lamont at the beginning of the 2019 harvest.
This tractor hauling a grain unit operates in front of a small gas plant in a field west of Lamont. The photo shows the two major sources of industry for Alberta – its agriculture and its oil and gas industry. Trevor Mikolajczyk
Wishing our farmers, a Happy Harvest!
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We thank our farmers, for your hard work and committment. May the sun shine down!
(780) 895-7620
Thank you Open Mon.-Fri. 6:30 am to 6:00 pm
Ages 12 months to 12 years Fullylicensed-pre-accredited-subsidy Licensed - Accredited - Subsidy Accepted Fully accepted! 780-764-2272 5219 - 5050Street, 780-764-2272 5236 Street,Mundare Mundare
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May the weather hold til the last of harvest. Best wishes to our local farmers.
For all your real estate needs
Office 780-764-4007 5004 50 Street, Mundare www.kowalrealty.ca
Shannon Kowal 780-920-3076
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 19
Fiddling Continued from Fall P16 “It would be a dream of mine to be an inspiration to someone the way my mentors have been inspirations for me.” Calvin Vollrath, a world-class fiddler, was Harty’s guitar accompanist in the Grand Master Fiddling Championships and Harty names him as one of his role models. Harty is also grateful to include Daniel Gervais on the list of his mentors as well. Gervais was the first Albertan to win the Canadian Grand Master Fiddle Competition. Harty hasn’t been named a mentor yet himself, but he says social media makes it much easier for him to get in contact with fans, customers, and even heros of his own. He says his most memorable fiddling achievement, besides winning the Grand Masters, is when he got the chance to record his first album at just 12-years-old. “If I wasn’t in motion already, that is what set me in motion to become the fiddle player I am today.” When Harty was 13, he also knew he was very interested in and wanted to pursue blacksmithing. “There’s nothing more intriguing to 13-year-old Ethan than fire and hot metal; it was the epitome of all that I could be interested in.” Harty went to England and studied the Tools to Make Tools curriculum under Alec Steele, which to date has been his most memorable forging opportunity. “Alec has been a role model and a friend ever since, and I’d say that was when I started really getting serious about forging.” To gain experience in forging, Harty used to spend summers with another mentor who built steam engines and guns where a lot of metalwork was involved. An opportunity also arose for him to try blacksmithing at museums; festivals would bring the forge alive and Harty would volunteer to be in the blacksmith workshop for the day. Harty often thinks about choosing one of his vocations over the other, but is adamant that there is no choice between blacksmithing and fiddling. He says he needs to ensure that his potential is reached in all that he is passionate about. “If I were to have an overarching philosophy that connects my two passions, it would be the obligation that I feel to fulfill my potential completely in both blacksmithing and fiddling.” In terms of plans after school, Harty is already there. Quitting school after Grade 10 has allowed him to expand his blacksmithing business and hone his talents as a fiddler. “It was a huge decision that was made not just by me; it was also encouraged by my mentors and allowed by my parents. “I needed to prove my life would either be better off or it wouldn’t be hindered in the future by taking these last two years off.” He’s not advocating dropping out of school to anyone, but for himself, he feels it was the right decision. After becoming a Grand Master Champion Harty says there’s lots up next in his journey, “just not things you get a trophy for.” In these last two years Harty has travelled not just for fiddling but also with his blacksmithing, teaching workshops in various universities. His blacksmithing business is flourishing; he ships hammers, tongs, and various created pieces to places as far as Australia. “I had people close to me, including my family, tell me that I could monetize my passions. “As far as I can see, it doesn’t look like I will need to go back and get a high school diploma in order to get a job that would be worth more than what I am doing right now.” Harty says he draws large amounts of determination
from looking into the future, rather than just relying on the talents he has now. “I hope to provide my kids with the same opportunities that I had, which involves a lot of work. So I can’t fail. That motivation is a big part of my success now.” Despite being out of school, Harty does still like to spend his free time absorbing new information. Along with that, quality time with friends is also very important to him, without his circle of friends or supporters Harty says he’d burn out pretty quick. “I have the same fascinations that any person my age would have, it isn’t just constant work. “However, I do understand the gravity of all I have accomplished. I look around and am very appreciative of the opportunities that have been given to me.” Along with friends, the community that surrounds him has also been very encouraging and Harty appreciates any recognition he receives for his talents. Seventeen-year-olds with such distinguished
achievements aren’t too common, but Harty has always been driven to set goals for himself, reach them, and then surpass them. “People always tell me that I have lots of time to figure things out, but I’ve never lived by that philosophy; I’ve always worked at things as if I don’t have forever and it’s made me very successful.”
JOE HARTUNG PHOTO
What am I? The colouring, ears, antlers, and tail all seem to say different things in this photo!
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Page 20 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Comparing feed costs Continuedfrom fromPage Fall 74 Continued hay will be $441 per animal. Shipping charges to transport the hay to the farm need to be added. According to Alberta Agriculture and Forestry’s custom rate survey, freight charges are approximately $6 per loaded mile. If hay is picked up 100 miles away, the cost will be $600 per load. Assuming 18 tons per load, the freight cost is $33 per ton or $104 per animal for the 180 days.” Yardage charges on the farm include the cost of operating equipment, corral cleaning, utilities and wear and tear on facilities. Using approximately $0.70 per head per day for “at home” yardage, the total cost of hay delivered to the farm is $671 per animal for 180 days. “This example assumes that there is less
than 15 to 20 per cent of wasted hay per day and that the farmer has no opportunity cost for labour,” he said. “That is, if the owner can use the labour to generate alternative income, then the opportunity cost of not feeding cattle must be added to the cost of purchasing and hauling feed.” The second step is to calculate the cost of moving the animals to a custom operator and pay for the feed and care there. This is the sum of shipping the animals to and from the lot, along with the cost of feed at the facility, and the yardage charge by the feeder to care and feed the animals. “These are just examples and you must figure your own costs including the purchase price of feed and the cost of shipping hay and
cattle,” Dyck added. “Comparing the two options, if the cost of feed is the same for the producer and the custom feeder, the primary factors in making your decision are the distance and the cost to ship the
hay or cattle, the yardage charge, and the amount of feed waste. If you are considering custom feeding, both parties should agree on a body condition score going into and coming out of the feed yard as
well as a fairly accurate estimate of pregnancy.” Saving the most equity in the cows should be the primary goal, according to Dyck. “Evaluate your decision based on your risk-bearing ability, market outlook
and distance/availability of feed or custom feeding operations. After considering all the factors, choose the best single or combination of alternatives that will give you the best change at preserving equity.”
TTofield ofield ofi Tofield
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MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY
10 AM - 2 PM (NO DENTIST) 9 AM - 4 PM 9 AM - 6 PM 9 AM - 6 PM CLOSED
5111-50 Street • Ph: 780-662-3553
Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 21
ReVive Continued from Fall 2 plugs used on the poles, finding one while cutting could lead to serious injuries, so they take care to examine every pole. While Joel cuts, Bonnie cleans, processes, sorts the stacks and the orders, and keeps everything in order. When the couple expressed an interest in seeing how some of the wood pieces that come into ReVive Wood could be used, McRae encouraged them to try. “My first attempt wasn't that great,” Joel says. He was working on a new piece late into the night, and says he probably should have waited for morning before finishing the piece with epoxy, but couldn't wait that long. It didn't turn out well, but he used it as a learning experience. “It's trial and error. I've got some funny stories about some of the things I've tried. I almost gave it up at one point, and Bonnie lost a collection of cool rocks in one of my projects, but they both encouraged me to keep at it.” Joel and McRae say that many of the ideas for unique projects come from Bonnie, and she and Joel recently found a number of old auto parts on a property they've purchased, which started a whole new line of unique pieces. “I've used pistons for legs, old tailgates, leaf springs, even headlight casings from a '57 Chevy,” Joel says. “They ended up okay, but definitely presented some challenges. I'm not a professional furniture maker.” The fusion of old auto parts with raw wood has allowed them to create unique and stunning pieces. McRae says, “You can't just go out and buy the specialized tools you need to make furniture, it would cost a fortune.” But sometimes needing to use their ingenuity has resulted in some of their most creative pieces. Joel created a special router jig recently on a huge
greenwood stump to even out the top, then added a clear acrylic top to create a stunning table that showcases the natural wood. Other pieces are finished to a high gloss with epoxy, exposing the knots and natural variances in the wood itself. Between them, they have created some incredible items, unlocking the potential of the wood that would otherwise have been gone forever. The company mission says, in part, “Together, we believe that with our community we can positively impact our future and the future of our home, by creating a local sustainable solution.” McRae's home has become a gallery of sorts for ReVive, finished using all wood from the poles, with stunning results. ReVive Wood had a
pavilion at a recent Clan Gathering in Sedgewick, where they showed off many of their unique products and materials, including projects created by local students, with many items available for sale. While the sales of wood products to be used by others has always been the goal of the c o m p a n y, this creative team has also created a niche market for crafted items using reclaimed materials that would otherwise just end up in a landfill. Top: This giant stump was hand routered to create a unique table, paired with a clear top to show off the wood. Bottom: ReVive Wood’s artisans get creative, using a half-pole for a bench, with pump jack wrenches for the legs in this stunning piece.
UNRESERVED ACREAGE AUCTION SALE Mel Misener Onoway, Alberta Sunday, October 6 at 10 a.m. LOCATION: Lot #26 Cheyenne Estates Onoway, Alberta DIRECTIONS: Being from the junction of Highway 43 & Secondary 633, go 2 miles west on Secondary 633 to Rg. Rd 25, then north to 2nd approach, then east to Lot #26.
Watch For Signs. GST will be charged where applicable. Lunch Available.
Tractors: JD 70 Gas Tractor, PTO, hyd, PS, good rubber, S/N 7028264; JD “D” Tractor, PTO, not running, S/N 18597C Yard Equipment: JD 112 Riding Lawn Mower c/w electric lift, rototiller, mower, snowblower & front blade; JD 325 Riding Lawn Mower c/w 48” deck & rototiller; Husqvarna 48” Lawn Sweep, like new; Husqvarna Yard Trailer; Honda HR 21 Push Mower; Dain & MH Horse Mowers; Belt Buzz Saw; 5’ MH Tiller c/w hyd. lift; 8” Cultivator c/w power lift & steel wheels; 2 Wheel Trailer c/w tank & brass pump Miscellaneous: Champion 3500W Generator; 9500-lb 12V Winch; Sears Tool Box c/w chest; Hitchmount 12V Grass Seeder; Power IT Gas Pressure Washer; Western Saddle; Steel Job Box; Chains & Boomers; Assort. Hitches; Tiger Torches; Welding Tables; Bolt Bins; Fire Proof Steel Doors; Chain Hoist & Come-ALongs; HD Cords; Propane Heater; Assortment Tires; Assortment Railroad Ties; Ramps; (2) Hand Water Pumps; Assortment Steel Wheels; 50-gal. Water Tank; Assortment Welding Iron & Grating; Mastercraft Drill Press; Large Assortment Hand Tools, Wrenches, Socket Sets, Grinder, Vises; Cutoff Saw; Chain Hoist c/w “A” Frame; Camping Supplies; Many more items Visit our website for full listings and pictures: www.millersauctionservice.com Lots of good tools on this Sale. Plan on attending. For more information call Mel Misener at 780-967-2071 or Miller’s Auction Service at 780-789-2226 or 780-920-6738. www.millersauctionservice.com This list is subject to additions or deletions. TERMS: Cash or valid cheques, certified check, bank draft or ALVIN MILLER (780) 789-2226 bank letter of credit, e-transfer, or Cell 920-6738 Mastercard and Visa (3% useage fee on TREVOR MILLER (780) 722-2705 M/C & Visa transactions). No purchases BARRY KASHA (780) 374-2472 Camrose, Daysland, Killam, Tofield, Holden to be removed until settlement has been DARCY SHEETS (780) 336-6485 made. List is subject to additions and/or Kingman, Rosalind, Viking deletions. Neither the owner, the Clerk: Judy Bentley “For Reasonable Rates and Excellent, auctioneer or staff of the auctioneer shall be held responsible for any loss or Friendly Service, Give Us A Call” accident on or off the auction site.
License No. 200809 Box 71, Sunnybrook, AB
ReVive Wood sawyer Joel shows the giant saw blade that does the initial cuts in the poles in the first step to retrieving the wood within.
IRMA
We salute farmers of today and tomorrow because they keep us fed. Without farmers and farming industries we would not be provided with the great variety of food we enjoy today.
Thank You
From Management, 0 ûČ & Board of the Irma Co-operative Association 780-754-3654
Hurry! Deadline to order for Thanksgiving is Oct. 3
Viking Meats (1994) Ltd. • Groceries • Fresh Produce • Viking Weiners • • Dairy • Meat Counter • Custom Sausages •
**Limited quantities of smoked Hams and Turkeys! Come in and get all your Thanksgiving Trimmings here!
Open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
780-336-3193
MAKE THE SMART CHOICE WITH YOUR ADVERTISING!
Page 22 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
Don’t throw money away on bad promotion KNOW where your ad is going. KNOW your customer base. Media M di from f llarge centres t may seem iimpressive, i but are they actually looking out for your best interests, or just trying to make the sale? How likely is someone from a metro area to travel to your town? Ft. Saskatchewan Bruderheim
Area 1 St. Michael
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Mundare
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Hilliard
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Manville
Innisfree
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Kingman
Round Hill Holden Bruce
Area 3
Camrose 14
Viking
Ohaton
Kinsella
Bawlf Daysland
Irma Strome
Killam
Wainwright
Sedgewick Rosalind
Lougheed
Heisler Forestburg
36
Hardisty
Area 4
13
Amisk Galahad Castor
Hughenden Alliance
Provost Czar
Fleet
Federal Caribou Publishing KNOWS Halkirk East Central Alberta. Our 4 Coronation Consort newspapers combined share over 300 uninterrupted years of service as the most-trusted medium of each area. Contact us and make the smart choice for you! 12
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Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 23
Sunrise Continued from Fall 11
an economical sense, not an ecological one. Shifting models to allow for interconnectedness between not only farm animals but wild plants and animals as well is what has made Sunrise Farm truly successful. “From our experience of having farmed this land for 36 years, we have come to understand that if we don't pay attention and take greater care of the Nature Economy, the Market Economy will fail. For example, I used to drain the water from low spots such as sloughs and wetlands to grow more grain. “What I didn't realize is that the aquifers need constant replenishing to sustain the water table.” Now, with climate change being an increasingly alarming issue, Don says
that there is a school of thought supported by many that farmers and ranchers may soon be paid for the carbon sequestered in their trees, riparian areas, wetlands, tame pastures, and native prairie. The Ruzickas feel that their farm has been sequestering an abundance of carbon which, if recognized, could be a financial benefit to the next owners. Once off the farm, Don and Marie will continue to reduce their carbon footprint as much as possible. “There are a variety of options that one has to choose from to make a smaller footprint in the way that we live. We hope to live simply so that others may live.” The Ruzickas are happy to be passing on their farm to a group so dedicated to preserving the work they’ve done. “Most of the people engaged in the Spirit of the Land Foundation have all been to our farm many times in the last
A healthy riparian area, one of several areas on Sunrise Farm that are protected by a conservation easement.
Below: Eco-buffer planting to attract native pollinators. Sunrise Farm has three of these on the farm as they provide critical habitat for pollinators. Each planting has 21 species of trees and shrubs as well as 20 different species of native flowering plants. These are also features protected by conservation easement.
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15 years and believe that we have found a way to manage the land in a way that they would like to see continued. “It is our wish for the future of our farm that this will be a successful transition that will inspire other farms to follow our lead.” The Ruzickas hope that their efforts
can be recognized by consumers so that everyone in the surrounding communities can make informed decisions that support ecological preservation. “We can be the best stewards of the land but if the consumer does not support us in purchasing what we raise and grow, then the farm is not sustainable.”
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Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 25
Recycled art
Continued from Fall Page17 1
“Cutting up the wooden pallets, laminating and thickness plaining all the pieces together to the right thickness in order to make the plank the same size so that I could cut out the body was one of the major hurdles I faced while working on the project,” Knudslien said. “I had to learn the art of faceting as well, which is all done by hand with a file and then a series of lines had to be drawn on the back.” The neck of the guitar was made from a piece of maple hardwood that was originally a bench in a change room in an Edmonton college and was destined for the scrap bin. “I think it is good that we are always thinking of ways to recycle our waste as we all produce it and
We hope that the farmers have a great harvest!
the more we can use our waste the better it will be for our future generations,” Knudslien noted. “I am not sure of what kind of future there is in this kind of recycling, but it all depends on how much people are willing to pay to have something that is recycled; you would think that it should be cheaper because the materials are free but the problem is that sometimes it takes a lot more time to get the material into a condition where they can be reused!” He said that it’s not impossible but someone needs to figure out an “efficient way.” “I think we also need to get back to buying better quality stuff rather than throwing them away; our forefathers did why can’t we.”
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Page 26 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
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Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019 - Page 27
Edible flowers useful in adding flair and spice to the dinner table James Cox Student Reporter
While your typical “garden variety” vegetables add a sense of freshness to any dish they’re placed in, they can sometimes leave something to be desired in terms of presentation and variety. For the aspiring culinary botanist, a simple way to add flair to a dish is by using edible flowers. Edible flowers work as a colourful garnish, and many can add a unique flavour to a meal. The nasturtium flower is a prime example of this. The entire plant is edible, with a mild peppery flavour. The flowers provide great decoration to salads and the seeds can be pickled and used as a substitute capers. When preparing the nasturtium plant, consider removing the long spur at the back of the plant, as it may contain small insects. An edible flower that might surprise some people is the dandelion. This flower is entirely edible, with the leaves making for a slightly bitter addition to a salad, and the flower itself is claimed by some to have a sweet, honey-like taste. The flower is even touted as having medicinal properties, often being brewed in herbal teas as a treatment for a variety of minor ailments. Before the frost hits, it’s good to know marigolds are also a bright addition to any salad. Often called “poor man’s saffron,” marigold petals can add a bright golden colour to dishes that they are added to. The flowers are said to have a slightly peppery flavour. Tuberous Begonias have a variety of uses in cuisine. The petals have a citrus taste that makes them ideal as a garnish or in a salad, and the stems are useful as a
substitute for rhubarb. Warning however, as Tuberous begonias contain oxalic acid, sufferers of kidney stones, gout, or rheumatism should refrain from eating them. Pansies and other violas are in some ways the ideal edible flower because unlike most other edible flowers, they require little preparation and can be eaten whole. They have a wintergreen-like flavour and are a welcome addition to a dessert or fruit salad, or can be used as a garnish. Always be sure you know what a flower is
and where it came from before using it. Before you begin eating a flower you found in your yard, ensure that you are certain what it is and that no harsh chemicals have interacted with it. Make sure that pesticides have not been sprayed on the flower. Do not pick flowers from the side of the road, as they have been exposed to carbon monoxide. Before using flowers in your cooking you should either grow the flowers yourself or get them from a trusted grower.
Pansies, like those above, are one species of many types of flowers that can be enjoyed not only for their bright colours in the flower garden, but also on a dinner plate, where they bring beauty and good taste.
Page 28 - Fall Section & Salute to Agriculture, September 25, 2019
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