New Tech Peaks Farmers’ Interest

Nov 20, 2018

Can DNA testing protect crops from disease?

One of the exciting presentations held at the 2018 Farms.com Western Precision Agriculture Conference and Ag Technology Showcase on November 15, was by a DNA company, the topic was “bringing precision agriculture to farmers through genomics”.

Quantum Genetix does DNA testing for livestock and plants. The company has a rapid DNA test called Q-Protect which can be used to help farmers determine the risk and severity of developing Sclerotia, Fusarium, Aphanomyces, and Club Rot.

The Q-Protect collection kits are used to collect plant samples from the field and send to the lab to show the level of spore activity. These test results are used to determine fungicide timing and efficiency and used to avoid unnecessary spray application. In some cases, the test results are available the next day, allowing the farmer to act quickly to protect their crops.

To make it even more user-friendly, Quantum Genetix will be launching its new Q-Protect mobile app by the spring of 2019. The app will better assist in fungicide management decisions and allow producers to easily compare the cost of spraying to the disease risk.

Quantum Genetix also provides livestock solutions for herd improvement, performance traits, optimal carcass growth, and food safety.

More than 350 people attended the 2018 Farms.com Western Precision Agriculture Conference and Ag Technology Showcase held in Saskatoon. To learn more about the 2019 Farms.com Precision Agriculture Conference and Ag Technology Showcase in London, Ontario, visit https://www.farms.com/precision-agriculture/eastern-conference-2019/.

Video: Why Port Infrastructure is Key to Growing Canada's Farms and Economy

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) knows that strong, modern port infrastructure is vital to the success of Canada’s agriculture. When our ports grow, Ontario grain farmers and Canadian farms grow too—and when we grow, Canada grows.

In this video, we highlight the importance of investing in port infrastructure and how these investments are key to growing Ontario agriculture and supporting global trade. The footage showcases the strength of both Ontario’s farming landscapes and vital port operations, including some key visuals from HOPA Ports, which we are grateful to use in this project.

Ontario’s grain farmers rely on efficient, sustainable ports and seaway systems to move grain to markets around the world. Port investments are crucial to increasing market access, driving economic growth, and ensuring food security for all Canadians.

Why Port Infrastructure Matters:

Investing in Ports = Investing in Farms: Modernized ports support the export of Canadian grain, driving growth in agriculture.

Sustainable Growth: Learn how stronger ports reduce environmental impact while boosting economic stability.

Global Trade Opportunities: Improved port and seaway systems help farmers access new global markets for their grain.

Stronger Communities: Investment in ports means more stable jobs and economic growth for rural communities across Ontario and Canada.

We are proud to support the ongoing investment in port infrastructure and to shine a light on its vital role in feeding the world and securing a prosperous future for Canadian agriculture.

Special thanks to HOPA Ports for providing some of the stunning port footage featured in this video.