Future of grain
HIGHLIGHTING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN GRAIN PRODUCTION AND UTILIZATION
Farm biomass to cellulosic sugar viable in Ontario
Bioindustrial Innovation Canada (BIC) has completed its economic and technical viability assessment of the agricultural biomass to cellulosic sugar value chain in Canada. This project evaluated developing and physically validating cellulosic sugars and co-products conversion technologies and assess the fit with the emerging agricultural biomass supply chain.
The evaluation process managed by BIC consisted of the three-part stage-gate process which focused on agricultural biomass supply, biomass conversion technology economics, and cellulosic sugar and co-products market acceptability. The assessment concluded that there is sufficient economic value to support further development of a commercial cellulosic sugar and co-products production facility in southwestern Ontario utilizing locally-harvested corn stover.
The Cellulosic Sugar Producers Cooperative, an Ontario-based farmer’s cooperative, has accepted the recommendations and is now actively collaborating with potential partners to establish a sustainable agricultural biomass supply chain and commercialize cellulosic sugars and co-products conversion technology.
In its first phase, creation of this agricultural biomass to cellulosic sugar and co-products value chain will generate over 100 direct and indirect full-time jobs and inject more than $100 million into the Ontario economy, while also reducing green house gas emissions in the province.
This project was funded in part by Grain Farmers of Ontario. For more information, visit www.BInCanada.ca. •
Who are you following?
Farmers are using Twitter to stay connected and up to date with industry news. Each month, Ontario Grain Farmer magazine will highlight Twitter accounts we think you should consider following or hashtags (#) that will help you join specific conversations.
@BarlowFarms1843
Get to know one of your newest Grain Farmers of Ontario directors, Jeff Barlow. Jeff was elected by his fellow farmer-members to represent District 6 (Haldimand, Brant, Hamilton, Niagara) in January. Jeff was also featured on the Good in Every Grain/OHL farmer card for Niagara.
#MarchClassic
Keep up with the largest grain-focused conference in Eastern Canada this month. The March Classic features world-class speakers, over 60 exhibits, and meet-and-greets, and more.
The 2016 conference will take place in London on March 22. •
The Digital Toolbox
The smartphone, tablet and computer are important tools on today’s farms. Each month, Ontario Grain Farmer magazine will highlight an app, online tool, or website that may help you in the field or in the farm office.
New App for Searching Pesticide Labels
Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has launched a new mobile app, Pesticide Labels, that allows individuals to access pesticide labels registered for use in Canada.
Homeowners, farmers, and industry can now look up specific details of pest control products from the convenience of their smartphone or tablet. Users are able to download product labels; labels added to a user’s ‘favourites’ are also accessible offline. The most up-to-date health and safety information will be right at users’ fingertips with this new, user-friendly tool. The app is available on iOS, Android, and BlackBerry devices. •
