NewsIndustry EventsMCDC Hosts Record-Breaking Field Day Turnout

MCDC Hosts Record-Breaking Field Day Turnout

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The Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre (MCDC) enjoyed a record-breaking turnout at its Annual Field Day, Aug. 7, drawing over 160 participants to its sites in Carberry. The event was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including potato growers, livestock producers, regenerative agriculture enthusiasts, agronomists, soil scientists, researchers, university professors, students, grain farmers, industry experts, and provincial and federal scientists.

“This field day was crucial for disseminating the latest research and practices in potato production,” says Haider Abbas,applied research specialist at MCDC. “It emphasized the importance of sustainable practices and the role of technology in enhancing potato production. By attending, growers gained valuable insights that can directly impact their productivity and sustainability efforts.”

The day began with registration and coffee, sponsored by Simplot Canada (II) Limited, offering attendees an opportunity to network and discuss industry developments. The event officially commenced with opening remarks from MCDC Board Chair Susan Ainsworth, setting the stage for a day’s discussions and presentations.

The morning agenda was packed with sessions on cutting-edge technologies and sustainable farming practices. Leanne Koroscil (EMILI) presented first, with a talk on how digital tools are revolutionizing farm management and decision-making. Dr. Mario Tenuta (University of Manitoba) delivered an insightful talk on greenhouse gas (GHG) management in agriculture, emphasizing the importance of measurement in effective management. Dr. Joanne T. Martens (University of Manitoba) discussed the benefits of incorporating legumes into crop rotations to enhance soil fertility. Laura Schmidt (Manitoba Pulses and Soybeans Growers) highlighted the potential of lupins as a crop, while also addressing the challenges associated with their production. Shawn Cabak (Manitoba Agriculture) examined the pros and cons of using annual forages and cover crops, providing valuable insights for optimizing crop systems. Morgan Cott (Manitoba Crop Alliance) presented on various crop rotation strategies, offering practical advice on how farmers can diversify their cropping systems for better yields and sustainability.

A free lunch, sponsored by McCain Foods Canada, provided a welcome break before participants headed to the off-site Potato Research Site, located two miles north of the MCDC main site. This segment of the day was led by the MHPEC Research Consortium in collaboration with KPPA, McCain Foods Canada, and J.R. Simplot Canada.

Key research trials and updates included:

Dr. Mohamed Elshetehy (MHPEC Agronomist) shared findings on optimizing nitrogen use in potato farming. Dr. Tracy Shinners-Carnelley (Peak of the Market) presented the latest research on managing leaf spot disease in potatoes. Scott Graham (Simplot Canada) discussed how row orientation can impact potato growth and yield. Scott Wolfe (McCain Foods Canada) explored the benefits and challenges of intercropping barley with potatoes. Ehsan Abadi (University of Manitoba) demonstrated how digital tools can enhance fertility management in potato crops. Vikram Bisht (Manitoba Agriculture) provided an overview of current challenges and developments in Manitoba’s potato industry.

The day concluded with a wrap-up session, where Ainsworth reflected on the information shared and discussed potential collaborations and future research opportunities.

Why attend field days?

“Field days provide growers with hands-on learning experiences and direct access to cutting-edge research and experts,” says Abbas. “They offer practical insights and networking opportunities that can help growers implement innovative practices on their own farms, ultimately leading to better crop management and increased yields.”

Though fall is almost upon us, several field days are still scheduled for the end of August and beginning of September. Check them out here!

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