2025

Pulse and soybean crops have diversified incomes and provided rotational benefits in all corners of Manitoba. The good news is even more opportunities are knocking. Hear from growers who have tested the waters beyond traditional pulse and soybean enterprises to gain a foothold in emerging markets for fava bean, lupin, food grade soybean and more. In a world filled with risks see how diversity can be your safe harbour.

Laura will be joined by 4 producers on her panel – Kyle Case (Portage la Prairie) Eric McLean (Oak River), Nick Burla (Russell), and Jeff Kostiuk (Roblin)

Have you ever wondered where your soybeans are going and what your customers want? Come to hear how protein and oil demand is growing, creating opportunities for northern soybeans. From local crush to feeding animals globally, to soymilk and tempeh manufacturers, join Brian as he covers how diverse markets provide value for Manitoba soy growers, and some hurdles to overcome as a young crop that has become a mainstay for Manitoba farmers. 

Increasingly, consumers are demanding that their food be produced in a manner that is ‘sustainable’. This demand is reflected in local processing contracts, government programming and international markets. The agriculture sector must demonstrate sustainability throughout the entire supply chain in order to meet these evolving demands. What does this mean for you the producer and how do we communicate on-farm sustainability up the supply chain to demonstrate our performance?

Some of the key drivers of population levels of insects are weather, habitat and natural enemies. Moisture cycles, temperature extremes and frost-free periods can determine which insects have an advantage and are more likely to be at higher levels in a given year. John will explore patterns of grasshoppers, wheat midge, spider mites and many species of aphids.  

Enhancing the efficiency of fertilizers is promoted as the key to better crop farming. It can be achieved through 4R practices but also depends on much more. It is important to manage not only fertilizer, but also nutrient use efficiency. There are many ways that metrics for both can be calculated, including better profits, better soil health, more health-functional foods, increased recycling and reduced pollution.

Return on Investment on fertilizer dollars becomes more important when crop prices slump, yet input costs remain high. Fertilizers such as nitrogen, with limited residual value, require an annual return on investment. Other nutrients that are banked in soils, like phosphorus and potash, must be considered for a longer time frame. Soil testing is a great tool to have in your toolbox. Join John as he explains how to understand your soil test results and how to make the best management decisions. 

Kristen Phillips

Brittany Cousins

Phone Number:

Mailing Address: