Recent soil test trends suggest potassium may be quietly limiting crop and forage performance in parts of Alberta. This article looks at why potassium matters, what declining soil test levels could mean for forage and grazing systems, and how producers can take a closer look at their own fields.

Pasture measurement is common practice in grazing regions like Ireland and New Zealand, but far less common in Western Canada. This article explores different pasture measurement approaches, from plate meters to satellite-based tools, and what lessons from other regions might be worth exploring locally.

Producers around the world are using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) ferments to manage odours, support soil health, and accelerate composting. This article looks at how LAB is used in Japan, what the science says, and whether it could work in Alberta.

Azolla, a tiny aquatic fern, is gaining attention around the world as a fast-growing, nutrient-dense livestock feed. But could it work here in West-Central Alberta? In this article, we explore how countries abroad are using Azolla, how it’s grown, and what opportunities — and challenges — it presents for our climate and livestock systems.

Ask the Expert: The 5S of Soil Sampling
Collecting consistent, quality soil data can make all the difference in understanding your soil carbon and fertility trends. Graham Gilchrist, PAg, shares a simple “5S” approach for taking samples the same time, place, depth, and way each year.

Recycling ag plastics doesn’t have to be complicated. Through Cleanfarms’ Alberta programs, farmers can recycle grain bags, baler twine, and more — turning farm waste into useful products instead of burn piles. Inspired by our What a Waste seminar, this article shares where to find your nearest collection site, easy first steps from APRG’s Assar Grinde, and tips to make plastic recycling part of your operation.

Fresh forage in the middle of winter? Fodder systems make it possible. From a basement setup at Titan Ranch to a larger cattle-feeding system at Warrior Rizen Ranch, Alberta producers are experimenting with sprouted grain as a supplement to winter rations. Learn how fodder works, and see examples you can scale to your own operation.

Welcome Jessica back into her new role as Assistant Manager at Farming Forward.

Good soil tests start with good sampling. In this article and video, we show how to take and prepare a soil sample using a Dutch auger, from clearing plant residue and pulling cores to mixing and preparing the final sample for the lab. Farming Forward members can rent a Dutch auger for free, get help submitting samples, and receive discounted soil test rates — plus, our new soil sampling truck will be ready soon.