Farms.com Home   News

Manitoba Government supports farmers with new agriculture offices in Virden and Shoal Lake

The Manitoba Government has opened two new Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) offices.

It’s part of the Manitoba government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rural communities.

The offices in Virden and Shoal Lake will provide farmers with the tools and support they need to succeed after the previous government closed these offices, according to Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn.

“By opening new MASC offices in Virden and Shoal Lake, we are making it easier for producers to access programs and services closer to home, where they are needed most,” he said.

The new offices will provide in-person support for crop insurance, lending and other key resources and will play a role in supporting the province’s agriculture sector through risk management, financing, and advisory services.

Virden Mayor Tina Williams is pleased to see the ag office located in her community.

“The value of having a local office for our surrounding farm communities cannot be overstated,” Williams said.

The Virden and Shoal Lake offices are now open to serve 650 to 700 farmers and agri-businesses in the surrounding regions. Each new service centre is staffed by four full-time employees and a team of insurance adjusters.

Click here to see more...

Trending Video

Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

Video: Midwest Weather Shock: Flash Drought Turns Into Heavy Rain Threat This Week (2026 Forecast)

A rapidly changing Midwest weather pattern is unfolding in 2026 as areas that recently slipped into abnormal dryness and flash drought conditions are now facing the threat of heavy rain and repeated storm systems.

After a wet spring erased early drought conditions, regions across Illinois, Iowa, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and northern Missouri have quickly dried out again since mid-to-late May. Soil moisture is dropping fast, and crops like corn and soybeans are beginning to feel the stress of rising temperatures and lack of consistent rainfall. Now, weather models show a major shift.

A developing system moving in from the Northern Plains is expected to bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall across the Midwest. While some areas may miss out, others could finally see much-needed relief from the growing dryness. In this video, we break down:

Current drought conditions across the Midwest

Why a flash drought is developing quickly

Timing and path of incoming storm systems

Which states are most likely to see heavy rain

How long this wet pattern could last

Will this rain end the drought or create new flooding risks? Watch the full forecast to find out.