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Tackling Risk in Agriculture has Never Been Harder, Ag Expo Hears

The risks for today’s agricultural producers has never been higher — but that doesn’t mean the industry can’t adapt and thrive.

“Today’s farmers must navigate a complex web of interrelated challenges,” says Dr. Camille Ryan, Senior Business Partner in Industry Affairs and Sustainability at Bayer Crop Science Canada. “The industry’s resilience hinges on a comprehensive grasp of these risks and the relationships between them.”

Perhaps not surprising, economic turbulence was at the forefront of Ryan’s discussion.

“We’re looking at a lengthy list of economic risks that are always shifting,” she says, pointing to market fluctuations, changing commodity prices, rising input costs, and shifting trade laws as key factors complicating profitability for farmers. “These challenges make it increasingly difficult to maintain sustainable operations.”

Most notably, the looming threat of tariffs from the U.S. administration creates increased unpredictability and the potential to severely impact farmers’ bottom lines.

“A proposed 25% tariff could drive up costs and create logistical headaches for producers,” she says. “We need to stay informed about these developments and advocate for our interests.”

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Sclerotinia and Lygus in Seed Canola: Field Update with George Lubberts, CCA | Enchant, Alberta

Video: Sclerotinia and Lygus in Seed Canola: Field Update with George Lubberts, CCA | Enchant, Alberta

Join Certified Crop Advisor George Lubberts for this Prairie Certified Crop Advisor (Prairie CCA) field update from Enchant, Alberta. In this 12th video of the series, George takes us into a seed canola field where the male rows have been removed and the female plants are filling pods. This video was taken in the third week of August 2025.

George discusses the early signs of sclerotinia stem rot, explaining how infection begins in the stem, impacts pod development, and leads to premature ripening. He also shares insights on lygus bug management, including timing of spray applications to minimize feeding damage and maintain seed size and quality.

With cool, damp summer conditions, George notes that while disease pressure is present, overall field health remains good. The crop is just beginning to show early seed colour change, signaling progress toward maturity.

Topics Covered:

•Sclerotinia stem rot identification and impact

•Managing lygus bugs in seed canola

•Crop stage and seed colour change observations

•Timing insecticide sprays for optimal protection

•Insights from a CCA field perspective in southern Alberta