Manitoba Government drops case against farmers

May 07, 2013

The NDP government in Manitoba has dropped the case against several farmers including Joe Johnson, in relation to the farmer blockade that took place on April, 29th 2013 The farmers were protesting the provincial government’s decision to open the Portage Diversion, to avoid flooding to surrounding communities.

The three-dozen farmers were rallying against the opening of the diversion, claiming that the government had failed to provide adequate compensation dating back to the 2011 flood. Farmers are calling on the government to provide compensation and the diversion fixed up.

The farmers involved say that they are relived that they don’t have any charges against them and are happy with the progress that they have made thus far, noting that more people are now aware of the issue.

About 100 farmers and First Nations groups rallied outside the Manitoba legislature on Tuesday. Emergency Minister Steve Ashton met with some demonstrators to hear their concerns. Both sides are now in talks to avoid future conflict.

Video: Dr. Emerson Nafziger: Nitrogen Fertilizer Rates for Corn

The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. Emerson Nafziger from the University of Illinois breaks down decades of nitrogen research. From the evolution of N rate guidelines to how soil health and hybrid genetics influence nitrogen use efficiency, this conversation unpacks the science behind smarter fertilization. Improving how we set nitrogen fertilizer rates for rainfed corn is a key focus. Discover why the MRTN model matters more than ever, and how shifting mindsets and better data can boost yields and environmental outcomes. Tune in now on all major platforms!

"The nitrogen that comes from soil mineralization is the first nitrogen the plant sees, and its role is underestimated."

Meet the guest:

Dr. Emerson Nafziger is Professor Emeritus of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, with degrees in agronomy from Ohio State, Purdue, and Illinois. His research has focused on nitrogen rate strategies and crop productivity. He co-developed the Maximum Return to Nitrogen (MRTN) model, which is widely used across the Midwest. His research spans N response trials, hybrid interactions, crop rotation effects, and yield stability.