Ontario Grain Farmer June/July 2021

It has been shown that intercropping has several benefits for soil and crops. She is studying the impact of different intercropping species in cereal production on weed communities. Four treatments are being studied in organic oats: the control, then crimson clover, white clover, and sweet clover individually intercropped with oats. Chida has identified that the choice of species is very important and the management of the species is crucial. Frédérique Lavallée of the University of Quebec is studying “Agroforestry and Intensive Grazing for Maximizing Carbon Stocks Within the Cattle Industry”. Climate change predictions expect fewer frost days, longer growing seasons, an increase in high temperature events, a change in precipitation patterns, moisture deficit, drier summers, and increased winter and spring precipitation. “In Canada, agriculture is responsible for 8.1 per cent of GHG emissions. But farming is also a great source of mitigating climate change,” says Lavallée. Researchers and farmers are developing innovative agronomic practices that can help offset the GHGs that are created. Lavallée is looking at trees and pasture in a single system, and so far, it looks to be very promising for climate change and storing carbon. Northern Ontario is at the forefront of change and research in agriculture. It is in a unique situation featuring many acres that have never been cultivated. A lot can be learned from this amazing area and it has a vast potential for growth. l ONTARIO GRAIN FARMER 25 JUNE/JULY 2021 The climate, soil, weather, and crop diversity is not the same as in southern Ontario and this creates more challenges and barriers. GET TO KNOW THE ANDERSONS Rooted in agriculture. Growing enduring relationships. The Andersons has been a trusted partner in the agriculture industry for more than 70 years. THOMPSONS LIMITED IS NOW THE ANDERSONS GRAIN MARKETING RISK MANAGEMENT EDIBLE BEANS FOOD-GRADE SOYBEANS ORGANIC CROPS Learn more at AndersonsCanada.com