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North Peace Applied Research Association

2007

ANNUAL

REPORT

NORTH PEACE APPLIED

RESEARCH ASSOCIATION

Box 750 Manning, AB

T0H 2M0 PH: 780-836-3354 FAX: 780-836-2670

NPARA FARM: NW 32 - 90 - 23 - W5M

North Peace Applied Research Association—2007 Annual Report 2


Table of Contents

2007 NPARA Staff……………………………………………………………. Page 4 2007 Board of Directors…………………………………………………….. Page 5 Acknowledgements…………………………………………….……...…… Page 5 2007 Extension Activities……...…………………………………………… Page 7 2007 Precipitation…………….……………………………………….……... Page 10 Crops Program Alberta Pest Survey…………………………………………………….……. Page 11 Glyphosate Resistance Study………………………….…….……………. Page 11 Growth & Survival Rate of Shelterbelt Trees In N. Alberta…………… Page 12 Wheat Variety Demonstration . ……………………………………………..Page 17 Alternative Crop Choices: Camelina……………………………..…...… Page 19 Diagnostic Field School: Growing Successful Pulses………………... Page 21 Forage & Livestock Program Alternative Forages Demonstration..…………….…………………….… Page 25 Restricted Dugout Access Ramp Demonstration..……………………. Page 29 Murdoch Lake Agro Forestry Demonstration…………………………... 1


North Peace Applied Research Association

The North Peace Applied Research Association is a non-profit, producer

driven organization that conducts applied agricultural research, demonstration trials, research plots and extension in the Municipal District

of Northern Lights #22.

Nora Paulovich Research Coordinator Email: [email protected]

Greg Nichiporik Rural Extension Staff Email: [email protected]

Sara Mortimer Research Technician Email: [email protected]

Mission Statement

The North Peace Applied Research Association’s mission is to serve farmers within Municipal District #22 to meet the special needs that

result from our unique climatic, geographic and soil conditions. To meet these needs, NPARA conducts applied research as determined by our producer Board of Directors. Our goal is to promote soil and water

conservation, agricultural production, marketing and technology transfer in Municipal District #22.

2007 Staff

Box 750, Manning, AB T0H 2M0

PHONE: 780-836-3354

FAX: 780-836-2670

www.areca.ab.ca


MD #22 Teresa Tupper Box 15 Keg River 981-3928 Rob Dueck Hawk Hills 836-0016

Agribusiness Willy Hardy North Peace Agro Manning 836-2771

2007 North Peace Applied Research Association

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT Bill Gaugler Hawk Hills 836-3652

VICE-PRESIDENT Arie Loogman Chinook Valley 971-2103

SECRETARY-TREASURER Garry Gurtler North Star 836-2125

Directors Michael Scott Box 1279 Grimshaw 332-2848

Ed Schmidt Box 543 Manning 836-2107

REPRESENTATIVES

Acknowledgements NPARA would like to acknowledge the contribution of our membership, municipal, provincial and federal governments as well as local and regional businesses. The success of our research program depends on the dedication of numerous individuals who contribute their expertise, time, land and equipment to assist our association in achieving its goals.

COOPERATORS: Lanny Soroka & Ken Vreeling & Gerald Zatelny Agriculture Opportunity Fund (AOF)

Alberta Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture (AESA) Greencover Canada Technical Assistance Program (GCTAP)

Municipal District of Northern Lights #22 Alberta Agriculture and Food (AAF)

Reduced Tillage Linkages (RTL) Progressive Farm Safety

Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) Agricultural Financial Services Corporation (AFSC)

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture Intiatives Program (ESAIP)

Alberta Environmental Farm Plan Company (AEFP)


AGRI-BUSINESSES, CORPORATE SPONSORS, LOCAL INDUSTRY & PRODUCERS Agricore United—Manning & Falher

Battle River Agricultural Society Bayer Crop Science Becker Underwood

Brett Young Bussey Seed Farms, Airdrie

Camelina Company Cargill AgHorizons—Manning

Daishowa Marubeni International EFD Ventures

Heglund Seeds, Wembley Homesteader Building Supplies

Dave Kamieniecki Sam King

Gene Kuhn Leading Edge—Manning

Manning Diversified Forest Products Ltd. Manning & District Further Education Council

North Peace Agro Service Inc. Patricia Ford Sales Ltd.

Warren Pharis Pioneer Seeds Prairie Seeds

Peace Pedigreed Seeds Peace Regional Economic Development Association

UFA—Grimshaw, and Manning Venture Parts & Supplies—Manning

PRODUCER GROUPS

Alberta Pulse Growers (APG) Alberta Beef Producers (ABP)

Alberta Canola Producers Commission (ACPC) Alberta Natural Health Agricultural Network (ANHAN)

Agricultural Research & Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA) Mackenzie Applied Research Association (MARA)

Peace Country Beef & Forage Association (PCBFA) Smoky Applied Research and Demonstration Association (SARDA)

Battle River Research Group (BRRG) Grey Wooded Forage Association (GWFA)

Lakeland Agricultural Research Association (LARA)


2007 extension activities

WINTER GRAZING SEMINAR In February we hosted an afternoon seminar on alternative winter feeding strategies. Steve Kenyon of Greener Pastures Grazing Management, Ltd gave presentations on bale grazing, swath grazing and corn grazing—outlining the pros & cons of each and the economics. Local producers also offered their points of view with good discussion following. Steve also had a slide presentation on different watering and fencing systems. BODY CONDITION SCORING CLINIC Three producers and NPARA staff attended this clinic hosted by PCBFA at Fairview College. John Milne gave a presentation/demonstration on live cows and then we were given the opportunity to practice our new knowledge. GRAZING SCHOOL Nine farm units attended a 2 day grazing school in early April, conducted by Steve Kenyon of Greener Pastures Grazing Management, Ltd. Participants learned about grazing management, pasture rejuvenation, weed control, cell design, watering systems, economics/finances, swath grazing and bale grazing. Then the group designed and planned year round grazing systems for each farm unit. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Our AGM was held on April 17 with 14 members in attendance. An update on NPARA activities was given followed by the general meeting. Our guest speaker was Roger Andreiuk with Reduced Tillage Linkages on sod seeding, green manure with zero till, fertilizer placement and openers. PASTURE WALK On June 21, 2007, NPARA organized a pasture walk. The day started off at the local Homesteader Building Supply store with Doug Bidulock of Kane Vet Supplies doing a high tensile electric fencing demonstration. Part way through the demo it started to rain and by the end we were soaked. But the owners invited us in for coffee and goodies and we had an opportunity to dry off. We then proceeded up to the local Ag grounds and continued with our fencing demo inside - tying knots and learning other helpful fencing tips. Following lunch, Rob Davidson with Keddies of Grande Prairie gave a presentation/demonstration on solar watering systems. We concluded the day with a pasture walk. Doug Macaulay with Alberta Ag examined fresh and old cow patties to determine insect activity and answered many questions. Then we had an open discussion on pasture management. There were 15 participants and they found the day to be very informative and really appreciated the hands-on fencing portion of the day. FARM SAFETY DAY On June 25 we took Farm Safety to the schools!! In the morning we had a 1½ hour session with the Grade 6 class at the Manning Rosary School with 22 participants. That afternoon we moved to the Manning Elementary School and gave the same presentation to eighteen Grade 6 students. This was a cooperative effort with MARA staff. The itinerary and presenters were as follows: 1. Quad & Bike Safety - We had a two wheel bike plus a quad and helmets on site. Kelly

Zeleny of MARA gave the presentation.


2. Chemical Look A-Likes & Grain Safety - Sara Mortimer (NPARA staff) had samples of candy, drinks and agricultural products that looked very similar and asked the students to identify them. She also did a hands on grain safety demonstration using a 2 liter pop bottle with the bottom cut off, ½ full of grain, inverted and then dropped a ‘Lego man’ into the grain. The students were very impressed with this very realistic prop.

3. First Aid - Ron Weiler (MARA staff) gave a presentation on basic first aid. 4. Sun & Water Safety - Kelly Zeleny (MARA) talked about precautions to take when out in

the sun. She also discussed water safety with the prevalence of dugouts in the area and demonstrated the use of a floatation device which can be easily made with a length of rope and empty bleach bottle.

5. Tractor Safety - For demonstration purposes we used NPARA’s tractor, equipped with a front end loader and bucket plus a gyro mower attached. Greg Nichiporik gave a very personal presentation as he had just rolled his car the night before. Greg demonstrated front end loader safety with a watermelon; he also had a ‘helper’ constructed of panty-hose, newspaper and overalls to demonstrate NO riders, general tractor safety and PTO safety.

6. Lawn Mowers - Nora Paulovich (NPARA) demonstrated safety procedures when operating a push lawn mower. Each student and teacher were presented with a Farm Safety ‘goody bag’ (with pencils, pads, info booklets and a CD) plus a Farm Safety t-shirt. There was good interaction with the students, they had good questions and the whole day was very successful. RIPARIAN HEALTH ASSESSMENT WORKSHOP AND DEMO The field day was held on July 27 with 5 participants on one of Garry Gurtler’s pastures with the Buchanan Creek running through it. Staff from the Cows & Fish Program taught us how to perform a Riparian Health Assessment using the Cows & Fish Field Workbooks. On May 24 trees were planted in a creek pasture of Bob Noble’s. This riparian area project is in cooperation with Doug Macaulay, Woodlot Extension, Alberta Agriculture. In July the Cows & Fish staff did an assessment of this riparian area. SHELTERBELT TREE PEST DAY On June 26, about 10 landowners gathered at the Battle River Pioneer Museum. Doug Macaulay, Woodlot Specialist with Alberta Agriculture toured the participants through the shelterbelt trees at the museum pointing out various insects, diseases and other pests. Following the tour there were presentations on the Pine Beetle and Weed Control. The afternoon concluded with identification of different pests or problems attendees had brought with them. ANNUAL FIELD DAY & TOUR Our annual crop tour was held August 3. We had 12 producers tour the plots at the NPARA farm which included: Shelterbelt Tree Demo, Wheat Variety Demo, Nutrient Effect on Pea Nodulation & Yield, Grow Your Own Nitrogen Demo, Camelina plot (False Flax). We were rained out before we could finish touring the remainder of our plots which included our Alternative Forage and Perennial Forage Plots. Our guest speakers for the day included Nick Underwood, Reduced Tillage Linkages; Yves Dooper, Alberta Pulse Growers; Gerard Aldridge, Conservation Technician; Kelly Zeleny, Research Coordinator, MARA; and Doug Macaulay, Woodlot Specialist, Alberta Ag. Also in attendance were Fred Young, Agriculture Opportunity Fund and Blaine Calkins, Pioneer. Albert Michaud with Leading Edge supplied the door prizes.


Also on tour day, a park bench was installed at the NPARA farm

and dedicated to the late Andrea Vavrek, NPARA Research Coordinator March 2006—January 2007.

The inscription on the bench plaque reads:

Andrea Vavrek August 12, 1981 - January 8, 2007 “Hey Buddy, Take A Load Off!”

This bench was placed in her honor by her ARECA family: NPARA, MARA, PCBFA, BRRG, CARA, SARDA, SARA, WCFA, LARA & LFA

Eventually this bench will be placed in the Shelterbelt Tree Demonstration since the project was originally Andrea’s idea.


0.0

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May June July Aug Sep

Inch

es

inches

0102030405060708090

May June July Aug Sep

MM mm

2007 precipitation levels at NPARA farm

ENVIRONMENTAL FARM PLAN WORKSHOPS Two workshops were held in our municipality with 25 participants. SUCCESSION PLANNING WORKSHOP Together with Further Education Council we co-hosted this workshop with 3 farm units attending. MURDOCH LAKE TOURS Together with Doug Macaulay, Woodlot Specialist, Alberta Ag; Florance Niemi, Daishowa-Marubeni and Nick Underwood, Reduced Tillage Linkages—we conducted 2 tours of this Agroforesty project. NEWSLETTERS Two newsletters were published and mailed to members. BIOFUEL TOUR In December NPARA board members and staff toured out to Ken Herlinveaux and Judy Bowcott’s farm where they demonstrated 3 different canola crushers. They are running their tractors, pickups and Kenworth truck on canola oil and all of their animals are enjoying the tasty byproduct! They have also crushed some of the camelina they grew this past season and have agreed to crush the camelina we harvested from our test plot.


Glyphosate ResistanCE Study Funding provided by ARECA

Background Crop plants that are genetically engineered to be resistant to glyphosate have simplified weed management for producers. Application of a single herbicide without concern of damaging the crop plant itself has reduced the number of herbicide applications. It is often argued that these genetically engineered varieties reduce soil erosion, because they make adoption of soil conserving practices like "no-till" easier (Cornell). Glyphosate resistance concerns exist and protecting the integrity of this chemistry is important. Within all types of tillage systems (especially reduced and zero tillage), glyphosate offers effective and cost-efficient control of weeds. Some producers are spraying glyphosate-based products many times in a growing season, compounding resistance concerns in weeds. Objective To find glyphosate resistance if it has occurred. Materials and Methods Local producers were provided with a questionnaire to identify situations where glyphosate resistance was most likely to occur. From these surveys, the highest risk sites were chosen for monitoring throughout the 2007 growing season. In previous years, glyphosate products were usually applied once as a pre-seed burn, twice as in-crop applications and once as a final fall burn of winter annuals. Glyphosate resistant canola was grown every alternate year in rotation. Weeds that survived the pre-seed burn were flagged and their locations were marked with GPS. They were then monitored after each glyphosate application for survival. Results and Discussion Glyphosate resistant weeds were not found on the sites we monitored during the 2007 growing season. References Genetically Engineered Organisms: www.geo-pie.cornell.edu/traits/herbres.html

Alberta Pest Survey Funded through ARECA

These surveys are conducted province wide to provide local and timely information on insect numbers and distribution to producers for management decisions. It is important for producers to scout their fields on a regular basis and understand economic thresholds. This will reduce or eliminate insecticide applications decreasing input costs and the impact on the environment. Bertha Armyworm Survey The Bertha Armyworm over winters as a pupae and adults emerge from mid-June until August. Females lay eggs on the underside of canola leaves. When hatched, the larvae are pale green in color and turn brown to black with yellow stripes on the sides of their bodies as they mature. Canola is food of choice but you may find them in flax, alfalfa, peas and corn. Two traps per site containing a pheromone and insecticide were set up in canola fields near Hawk Hills and North Star. Numbers of bertha armyworm did not increase to significant levels during 2007. Diamondback Moth Survey This moth does not over winter in Canada but migrates in on southerly winds in May and June. Females lay eggs on the upper surface of leaves. Larvae hatch and “mine” the leaves. Older larvae eat the under surface of the leaf. Larvae are pale green and actively wriggle when they drop from a leaf on a silken thread when disturbed. Diamondback are mainly found in canola and mustard fields. The traps for Diamondback moths resemble small white houses with a pheromone hanging inside. As the moths are attracted to the traps, they become stuck to the adhesive floor. Five different types of diamondback moth pheromones were tested on-site. The numbers of moths were not of economic importance this year.


GROWTH & SURVIVAL RATE OF SHELTERBELT TREES IN NORTHERN ALBERTA

Funded by the Greencover Canada/Alberta Technical Assistance Program &

Agriculture Opportunity Fund & Alberta Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture

Objectives: • Determine survival and winter hardiness of trees and shrubs used in shelterbelts • Demonstration of varieties available for shelterbelts • Demonstration of recommended spacing and design • Determine which varieties are fast growing and easy to establish • Demonstrate the use of plastic mulch

Background: Trials conducted by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s (AAFC) Shelterbelt Center have illustrated the benefits of yard shelterbelts for reducing home heating costs. Research comparisons found that homes on sites protected by shelterbelts have a reduction in fuel use by 18-25%. Field shelterbelts will reduce wind and soil erosion and increase snow retention resulting in increased soil moisture. Shelterbelts also provide habitat for diversification of wildlife, encouraging nesting sites and hunting habitat for raptors (birds of prey) which will help control agricultural pests. Additional benefits include wood for fuel and depending on the species of tree, fruits for human consumption. There are 25 species of trees and shrubs available through the PFRA Prairie Shelterbelt Program and many more from privately owned nurseries. Every year rural landowners order trees from the PFRA Shelterbelt Centre for planting on their land. Careful consideration is required to select the appropriate species for each shelterbelt design and planting site. A lot of work goes into planning, planting and maintaining a shelterbelt, so knowing what species grow well in this area is helpful. Materials and Methods: In consultation with Doug Macauley, Woodlot Specialist with Alta Ag, the proposed shelterbelt demonstration was designed and the varieties to be planted were determined. Fourteen different varieties of trees and shrubs were ordered through the Prairie Shelterbelt Program. In preparation the planting area was cultivated three times. The trees were planted on June 1, 2007 using the spade and elbow grease method. On June 1 & 6 they were watered. Sheep’s fescue was broadcast seeded between the rows on June 4. One week after planting, on June 7, the plastic mulch was laid down using the PFRA mulch applicator from Peace River.

Figure 1: Shelterbelt Tree Demonstration At NPARA Farm


Mowing was conducted frequently, between the rows, for weed control and to give the grass a chance to establish. On September 25 (after leaf fall) Lontrel was applied at a rate of 336 ml/acre with a shrouded sprayer, between the rows, for perennial weed control. On September 7 the height and survival of all the trees where recorded. The map below shows the design of the shelterbelt. The shelterbelt was placed close to the road to attract the attention of people driving by and to give the project high visibility. Signs were installed with the tree variety names.

400 ft

400 ft

400 ft

400 ft

400 ft

300 ft

400 ft

400 ft

350 ft

350 ft D R I V E W A Y

25 Buffalo Berry 25 Lilac 25 Sea Buckthorn 25 Choke Cherry

15 feet

25 Maple 10’ apart

40 Acute Willow Cuttings 10’ apart

40 Green Ash 10’ apart

30 Larch 10’ apart

32 feet from edge of the road

10 Green Ash 10’ apart

15 feet

15 feet

15 feet

20 feet

20 feet

20 feet

20 feet

20 feet

50 Katepwa Poplar 8’ apart

50 Walker Poplar 8’ apart

50 Assiniboine Poplar 8’ apart

50 Okanese Poplar 8’ apart

50 Hill Poplar Cuttings 8’ apart

MAIN ROAD


Results and Discussion: The first year survival rate of all the trees planted was 89% with four species achieving 100% survival. As shown in Figure 2, the tree with the lowest survival rate was the Choke Cherry at 70%, followed closely by the Assiniboine Poplar at 73%. Growth ranged from 47 cm (18”) to 120 cm (47”). The greatest average growth came from the Okanese Poplar with an average growth of 80 cm (31”), followed by Manitoba Maple with 78 cm of growth. Problems with deer did occur as they ate the leaves and punched holes in the mulch. Results from using Lontrel will not be known until the summer of 2008. Survival rates and average heights will be measured annually in the fall. This project was toured during the annual NPARA summer tour. We have had lots of interest in the project. NPARA will expand the project in 2008, planting different species of trees, which may include fruit trees.

Figure 2: Survival and growth rates of trees in shelterbelt project measured on September 7, 2007. Vertical bars represent the minimum and maximum heights.

Shelterbelt Tree Project at NPARA Farm

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Buffalo

berry

Vilosa

Lilac

Sea B

uckth

orn

Choke

Che

rry

Manito

ba M

aple

Acute

Willow

Green A

sh

Larch

Katepw

a Pop

lar

Walker

Poplar

Assini

boine

Poplar

Okane

se Pop

lar

Hill Pop

lar

TREE SPECIESFirst Year Survival (%) Average Height (cm)

We have included descriptions of each tree variety planted. For more information you may go to the website: www.agr.gc.ca/pfra/shelterbelt.


Buffaloberry Silver buffaloberry is a large, thorny shrub or small tree with multi branches. It reaches a height from 2 to 4 m (6 to 12 ft) with a spread of up to 3.5 m (11 ft). It is an erect shrub with an open structure, suckers freely and forms a dense irregular hedge. This is a slow growing shrub, that can live 25+ years. It can grow from 10 to 30 cm (9 to 12 in) a year. Silver buffaloberry is very drought resistant; does best in full sun, and will not tolerate shade. It does good in nutrient poor soils and is extremely winter hardy. Suckering can be controlled by cultivation. The reddish orange fruit develops in late August to September and is very good for jams and jellies. The silver buffaloberry has some capacity for fixing nitrogen. Sea Buckthorn Sea buckthorn is a hardy, deciduous shrub which thrives in moist soils and can tolerate cold and extreme conditions. Native to Asia, sea buckthorn was used for centuries as a staple food and to cure everything from arthritis to skin disorders. Modern medicine looks to sea buckthorn for its antibiotic, antiflammatory and analgesic properties. Nutritionally, sea buckthorn is a good source of vitamins C and E, beta carotene, flavinoids and essential fatty acids. Environmentally, this versatile, quick rooting, nitrogen fixing shrub can be used for planting in degraded soils, to enhance wildlife habitats, in shelterbelts and for erosion control. Villosa Lilac, Late Lilac Villosa lilac is a large coarse shrub, with rapid growth rate and can reach heights of 3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft), with a spread of 2.5 m (8 ft). It is a long lived, tall hedge plant and can live 50+ years. Its growth rate can vary from 5 to 30 cm (2 to 12 in) a year. This shrub flowers during mid and late June, thereby giving its name late lilac. This lilac is non-suckering and deep rooted, and does not compete with adjacent crops or gardens. Villosa lilac performs best in well drained clay or loam soils and is very drought resistant. It grows best in full sun, can tolerate some shading, requires full sun for maximum bloom quality, is tolerant of moderately alkaline soils and is very winter hardy. Choke Cherry Chokecherry is a large, deciduous shrub to a small tree growing to a mature height of 4 to 8 m (13 to 26 ft), with a spread of 5 m (17 ft), and an annual growth of 10 to 50 cm (4 to 20 in). The flowers are white and the fruit is dark purple with stones. Chokecherry prefers a loam soil, can withstand some shade, and will survive while exposed to short periods of low moisture. They will survive under extreme climate exposure. Suckering habit can be controlled by cultivation. Manitoba Maple, Box Elder Manitoba maple is a tall deciduous tree growing to a mature height of 7 to 12 m (23 to 40 ft), a spread of 11 m (36 ft), and an annual growing rate of 10 to 60 cm (4 to 24 in). It is a good soil stabilizer with wide soil adaptability, can survive drought conditions, and can withstand some shade. Will survive under extreme climatic conditions. Weak branch crotches make this species susceptible to wind damage. It is susceptible to pests, especially aphids and box elder beetles. They actually attract aphids and drip honeydew. Is short lived and has an irregular growth habit. Heavy seed set may result in weed problems in nearby gardens. Can suffer top dieback during drought years. Green Ash Green ash has a straight single trunk with a high-headed, open crown. Leaves are late to appear in the spring and drop early in the fall. Easy to transplant, green ash can attain a mature height of 12 to 20 m (40 to 65 ft) and a spread of 9 m (30 ft) with an annual growth rate of 10 to 60 cm (4 to 24 in). It has a useful lifespan of 50 to 90 years. Green ash has a wide soil adaptation, tolerating wet, alkaline and drought conditions, should be planted in full sun, but can withstand some shade. Is fully hardy to northern Alberta and will survive under extreme climate exposure. Acute Leaf Willow Acute leaf willow is a fast-growing shrub or tree with a large number of wide spreading stems.


It can reach a mature height of 8 to 15 m (26 to 50 ft) and a spread of 9 m (30 ft). Its annual growth rate varies from 50 to 200 cm (1.5 to 6 ft) and it has a useful lifespan of 25 to 60 years. Acute leaf willow can be planted in full sun or half shade. It likes moisture, but not poorly drained soil. It will survive under extreme climatic conditions, but is liable to tip kill when young. Performs poorly in arid sites, is moderately disease free. Siberian Larch This tree is a medium to tall size deciduous tree. Larch can reach a height of 15 to 20 m (50 to 65 ft), with a spread of up to 7.5 m (25 ft). It can live up to 100 years with a growth rate of up to 20 to 150 cm (8 to 60 in) a year. The leaves are needles - slender, flexible and soft to touch and they differ from all other conifers in not retaining their foliage over the winter. Larch are found on a wide range of soil textures but grow best on moist, light, well-drained soils and are adaptable to dry conditions. It has fair tolerance to drought, very low shade tolerance, high tolerance to acid soils and requires well lighted situations. Larch are fully winter hardy.

Description of Hybrid Poplar Clones Hybrid poplars are crosses between native selections and/or introduced species which have been shown to exhibit superior traits. Hybrid poplars are produced vegetatively, resulting in uniform stands on sites with good growing conditions. Poplar is most commonly used to provide quick summer shelter in farmstead belts but is not used for roadside or field belts because of its competitiveness and generally short life span. Roots are shallow and may spread 15 to 20 m away from the tree. Male and female flowers are borne on separate trees. Female clones produce an abundance of cotton which may be undesirable. Walker This clone was selected from open-pollinated seedlings of Populus deltoides by John Walker at the PFRA Shelterbelt Centre in Indian Head, Saskatchewan. Walker is a vigorous clone with a growth rate of 1.3 m (4 ft) per year. It has a narrow crown and is usually single stemmed. It has shown resistance to leaf rust, canker, and poplar bud gall mite though it occasionally shows winter injury. Walker is a female clone, producing seed cotton every year after it reaches maturity. Assiniboine Poplar This clone was selected from an open-pollinated stand of Walker poplar at the PFRA Shelterbelt Centre. Assiniboine has a rapid growth rate reaching 7 m (22 ft) after five years in tests at Indian Head. It has a fairly narrow crown. Other favourable characteristics include good winter hardiness, resistance to insects and disease and a moderately branched growth form. Because it is a male clone it will not produce seed cotton. Katepwa Poplar Katepwa poplar is a fast-growing tree, reaching 8.8 m (27 ft) in 8 years. It has a mature height of 18 m (54 ft). It has a large semi-upright crown. Katepwa is a male clone and does not produce seed fluff. It is extremely cold hardy and well adapted to variable climate conditions. Shallow roots compete with adjacent crops, making this variety unsuitable for field belts. Performs poorly under very dry conditions. Okanese Poplar This hybrid clone has superior drought and disease resistance. It grows quickly, reaching 10m (32 ft) in 10 years. Distribution of the Okanese hybrid poplar will begin in the spring of 2008 and will be made available through the Prairie Shelterbelt Program, as a component of a new hybrid poplar mixture. Hill Poplar This is a fast growing tree reaching 14 to 18 m (45 to 60 ft) at 15 yrs. It is extremely hardy with moderate resistant to canker and rust. It is a female clone and therefore produces seed cotton at maturity.


Wheat Variety Demonstration

Funded by Agriculture Opportunity Fund Seed donated by Agricore, Falher & Peace Pedigreed Seeds

Objectives: To provide a side by side visual comparison of six popular wheat varieties grown locally and obtain harvest data to compare yield, protein level, grade and dockage. Background: There are about 60,000 acres (census 2006) of land seeded to spring wheat in the MD of Northern Lights. With rising wheat prices resulting from demand in the ethanol market and poor weather conditions in major wheat growing regions of the world - even a small bushel increase in yield will improve net returns. There is definitely yield differences between wheat varieties. Materials and Methods: Six varieties of wheat were obtained for the demonstration: 5602 HR, Harvest HR, Superb HR, Infinity HR, Peace HR and Foremost CPS. The wheat varieties were seeded at 100lbs/acre on May 16, 2007, with 58 lbs/acre of 11-52-0 and 117 lbs/acre of 46-0-0, in 40’ x 300’ plots. On June 7 the wheat plots were sprayed with a tank mix of MCPA, Refine Extra and Agral 90 at the three to four leaf stage. NPARA staff harvested and collected the yield data on September 14. Samples of the varieties were submitted to Viterra for grading and protein analysis.

Wheat Varietal Descriptions AC FOREMOST- red seeded, semi dwarf variety registered in 1994. Similar to Biggar, but with resistance to bunt and loose smut. Improved sprouting resistance, earlier maturing than AC Taber. Like other CPS cultivars, is susceptible to common root rot and relatively late maturing. PEACE - Hard red spring wheat adapted to the Parkland and Peace River areas. Slightly earlier (one day), higher yielding with excellent common bunt resistance and good leaf rust resistance compared to AC Barrie. Lodging and Fusarium Head Blight reaction no better than AC Splendor. INFINITY - Hard red spring wheat registered in 2004. Higher yielding than AC Barrie by 5% but lower than Superb. Matures earlier than Superb and similar to AC Barrie. Similar protein levels to AC Barrie. Moderately resistant to leaf rust and bunt. Resistant to stem rust and loose smut. Susceptible to Fusarium head blight. Fair lodging resistance, similar to Katepwa. SUPERB - Registered in 2000, this awned hard red spring wheat has large kernel weight, high test weight, high grain yield (20% over Neepawa and 1-2% over McKenzie), shorter straw with better lodging resistance. It is resistant to leaf stem rust, moderately resistant to bunt, loose smut and root rot. However, it is late maturing. HARVEST - Hard red spring wheat registered in 2004. It is higher yielding than AC Barrie by 5% but lower than Superb. Matures earlier than Superb and similar to AC Barrie. Moderately resistant to leaf rust and bunt. Resistant to stem rust and loose smut. Susceptible to Fusarium head blight. Fair lodging resistance, similar to Katepwa. 5602 HR - Registered in 2004, this hard red spring wheat yields 9% higher than AC Barrie and is equal to AC MacKenzie. It has high protein and improved Fusarium head blight resistance. It is resistant to leaf rust, stem rust and loose smut. Has good straw strength and a higher test weight than checks. Kernel weight is similar to AC Barrie. This is a medium-late maturing variety—one day later than AC Barrie.


Results and Discussion: The graph below compares the yield and protein content of the six wheat varieties (Table 1.) Superb HR had the highest yield and 5602 HR had the highest protein content. All varieties graded a # 1 with the exception of Infinity which graded # 2 RS and Superb HR was a poor # 1 RS. Also, 5602 HR and Peace HR had the lowest dockage, while Infinity had a high dockage due to inconsistency in seed size (Table 2). NOTES: The wheat was not desiccated. This was a demonstration only, not a replicated trial. The data collected is based only on the average yield across the plots.

39.6

34.1

52.349.947.346.6

10.212.412.012.312.913.5

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5602 HR Harvest HR Superb HR Infinity HR Peace HR Foremost CPS

Wheat Variety

Yield less Dockage (bushels/acre) Protein (%)

Table 1: Yield Results From Wheat Variety Demonstration.

2.6 3.0 2.8 2.63.2

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5602 HR Harvest HR Superb HR Infinity HR Peace HR Foremost CPS

Variety

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(%)

Table 2: DockageFrom Wheat Variety Demonstration


Objective: To find an alternative oilseed with lower input requirements and higher weed competitiveness.

Alternative Crop Choices: Camelina Product provided by Camelina Canada (Mercer Seeds Ltd., Lethbridge)

Figure 1: Camelina at the NPARA farm

Background Camelina sativa is a cool-climate oilseed (brassica family). It is native to southeastern Europe. As a cultivated plant it has been known for about 4000 years. In Europe, it was used as an oil plant in the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans. The oil is used for beauty products, an animal feed source and in the bio-fuel industry. Camelina is an annual (or winter annual). It is better able to compensate for early water deficits with its taproot and it has potential for hav-ing the lowest input costs and lowest environmental impact of all oil seeds. It has proven to be compatible with reduced tillage, low seeding rates and competitive with weeds. Some pro-ducers in southern Alberta have eliminated tillage and annual weed control while growing successful camelina crops. The seed can be safely stored at moisture levels between 8-10% at 25° C. The seed is 38-40% total oil. Compared to other oil crops, camelina has a unique profile including some fatty acids that are rarely found. Over 50% of the fatty acids in cold pressed camelina oil are poly-unsaturated. The major components are alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) 36-40% and linoleic acid (omega-6) 13- 15%. These fatty acids are known to reduce the LDL-cholesterol level in the blood and are good for heart and cardiovascular health. The oil contains several natural antioxidants such as tocopherols with a unique oxidative stability. The vitamin E content of camelina oil is approximately 10mg/100g. The meal is 10% oil, 42% protein. Camelina oil is good for spreading properties, providing lubricity, improve elasticity, offers protection coating for hair follicles, stable shelf life against oxidation due to high content of tocopherols and an anti-aging agent.


Materials and Methods:

Camelina seed is small, about half the size of canola (bushel weight = 50 lbs). Plants have narrow, smooth edged basal leaves and a pale yellow (self-fertilizing) flower. At maturity, the plants had a tiny, pear-like pod with 8-10 yellowish brown seeds. This demonstration site benefited from a pre-seeding application of glyphosate since some of the weeds had good growth early in the season. The seed was sown at 5 lbs/acre (1/2 inch deep) with a Seed Hawk drill. Camelina exhibits an alleleopathic affect on weeds (like rye) and so producers may not have to use herbicides. The crop was straight cut in mid October after an application of Reglone (a desiccant was applied to aid in ripening during the wet fall, but normally is not used). Shattering did not pose a problem. An alternative option would have been swathing at the 75% “golden-green” stage. It is recommended to use high cylinder speeds, close setting and fine adjustments on the air. The small seed makes camelina a challenge to collect. The seed we harvested was taken to Ken Herlinveaux & Judy Bowcott’s for crushing. Samples of crushed camelina and heated canola were submitted for nutritive analysis. The table below summarizes the results.

Table 1: Seeding & Harvesting Details

Seeding Date June 14, 2007

Seeding Rate 5 lbs/acre

Seeding Depth 1/2 inch

Fertility No fertilizer used

Seeding Implement Seed Hawk

Weed Control Pre-burn with glyphosate/ no in crop

Desiccant September 12, 2007 / Reglone

Harvesting Date October 12, 2007

Plot Size 0.5 acres

Soil Type Clay Loam

Average Heights 80 cm

Average Yield 1140 lbs / acre

Protein (%) Digestible Energy (Mcal/kg)

Total Digestible Nutrients (%)

Crude fiber (%)

Canola 29.9 3.53 80.66 8.8

Camelina 32.8 3.39 77.74 9.8

For more information go to the website: www.camelinacanada.com or contact Ryan Mercer of Mercer Seeds 403-308-2217


Diagnostic Field School: Growing Successful Pulse Crops

Co-applicant MARA. Funded by the Alberta Pulse Growers. Thanks to Yves Dooper for attending the field tour as a speaker and for statistical analysis consultation on the data. Also, thanks to Nick Underwood, Reduced Tillage Linkages for attending the field tour as a speaker.

Part I: Diagnostic Field School: Effect of Nutrients on Nodulation & Yield Demonstration

• Demonstration of inoculants on field pea nodulation and yield • Demonstration of molybdenum on field pea nodulation and yield • Demonstration of phosphorous on field pea nodulation and yield • Demonstration of nodule assessments

Part II: Diagnostic Field School: Benefits of Growing Pulses Demonstration

• Economic benefit of using pulse crops in crop rotations • Growing nitrogen on-farm as green manure applications

Background: Many different soil additives are available to improve soil quality for plant growth. Producers should have an idea of which ones will give them the greatest return for their dollar. Our intention is to give pulse growers in northern Alberta information on nutrient management for optimal pulse crop growth. The Mackenzie Applied Research Association (MARA) and the North Peace Applied Research Association (NPARA) toured the field schools on August 2 and 3, respectively. The first part of the field school was designed for local pulse growers to observe the effects on field pea growth from different application rates of inoculant, molybdenum and phosphorus. The second part was a demonstration of growing nitrogen on farm and growing alternative pulse crops.

PART I: Effect of Nutrients on Nodulation & Yield Demonstration

Materials and Methods: Five rates of inoculant (0, 3.5, 7, 10.5, 14 lbs/acre), four rates of molybdenum (0, 0.15, 0.30, 0.45 oz/acre) and five rates of phosphorous (0, 14, 27, 41, 54 lbs/acre) were applied in three separate field pea trials. The main objectives were to observe root nodulation and yields in an effort to determine which rates were optimal for profitability (yield).

Figure 1: Pulse Trials


Details are summarized in the tables below.

Table 1: Inoculant Treatments

Phosphorous Application

Actual Rate (lbs/acre)

Control 0

P2O 5 14

P2O 5 27

P2O 5 41

P2O 5 54

Molybdenum Concentration

Rate (oz/acre)

Control 0.00

Low Concentration 0.15

Medium Concentration 0.30

High Concentration 0.45

Inoculant Application

Rate (lbs/acre)

Treatment 1 0

Control Full Rate (7 lbs)

Treatment 2 0.5 x Full Rate



Table 2: Molybdenum Treatments

Table 3: Phosphorous Treatments

Table 4

Seeding Date May 18, 2007

Seeding Rate 226 lbs/ac

Seeding Depth 1.5 inches

Seed Variety Cooper Peas

Inoculant 7 lbs/ac

Date of First Emergence June 5, 2007

Weed Control Odyssey on June 13, 2007

Harvest Date September 15, 2007

Plot size 20 X 50 feet

Seeding Implement Seed Hawk

pH of Soil 5.8


Effect of Inoculant Rate on Yield

0

20

40

60

80

0 0.5 1 1.5 2

Rate of Inoculant (x recommended rate)

Fiel

d Pe

a Yi

eld

(bu/

ac)

Figure 2: Inoculant Trial Figure 3: Phosphorus Trial

Figure 4: Molybdenum Trial

Effect of Phosphorus Rate on Yield

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0 14 27 54

Rate of Phosphorus (lbs/acre)

Fiel

d Pe

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hels

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e)

Results and Discussion: The Cooper peas had exceptional emergence and grew evenly. Moisture levels were adequate at seeding and heavy rains at the end of June carried the peas through the dry summer. Odyssey was applied to reduce weed competition. However, some sweet clover remained and made harvest difficult. Frequent light rains also made harvest difficult. There were no noticeable differences in plant height, color, or ground coverage between treatments. One plot in the inoculant trial had a yellow color to it, but no reason was found to explain this difference. Due to unforeseen circumstances, root and nodule weights were not obtained. The main focus of the field school was the tour on August 3, 2007.Yves Dooper spoke to producers about pulse management, demonstrated nodulation assessments and answered questions from producers. The inoculant trial experienced some wildlife damage, taking out one replicate. Only the inoculant treatments resulted in a significant increased yield (LSD, p=0.11) over the control. A protein analysis was conducted on two replicas of the molybdenum trial. There was no significant difference between the treatments as each sample tested between 24 and 26 percent protein.

What is molybdenum? Molybdenum is a trace element required for the assimilation of nitrogen in plants. It is essential for the transformation of nitrogen to forms readily used by plants: reduction of nitrate to nitrite. Molybdenum is also required for nitrogen fixation by the enzyme nitrogenase in Rhizobia. The molybdenum concentration required for nitrogen fixation far exceeds the requirement by the host plant. Up to 10 times higher concentration of molybdenum has been observed in root nodules than in the leaves. The molybdenum content of plant tissues has been estimated at 1 ppm while soil concentration is usually between 0.2 to 5 ppm. Availability of Molybdenum is affected by soil pH (Salisbury and Ross, 1992). While most metals become available in acidic soils, molybdenum is strongly adsorbed onto aluminum and iron oxides and thus becomes unavailable for plant growth in acidic soils. The objective of this project was to evaluate the effect of inoculant-placed molybdenum on field pea nodulation and yield on acidic soils.

Effect of Molybdenum Rate on Yield

0

20

40

60

80

0 0.15 0.3 0.45

Rate of Molybdenum (oz/acre)

Fiel

d Pe

a Yi

eld

(bus

hels

/acr

e)


PART II: Benefits of Growing Pulses Demonstration Materials and Methods: NPARA sowed five legumes in the ‘Grow Your Own Nitrogen’ demonstration: lupins, faba-beans, peas, 90A01 soybeans and 90M01 RR soybeans. Each crop was sown without fer-tilizer and crop-appropriate inoculants applied. These legumes were then incorporated at three different stages during the year, using a roller for the first two incorporations, and a mower all three times. The first incorporation was targeted for the flowering stage and the second incorporation was done at early pod stage. The third incorporation was the result of not being able to harvest the legumes in the fall. Originally a roller for leveling lawns was used for rolling, but in the end the tractor tires were used because the roller would not break the stems of the soybeans, lupins and fababeans. A seven foot, three point hitch mower was used for the mowing.

Table 5 Seeding Date May 26, 2007

Field Peas (Cooper) / Seeding Rate / Depth 226 lbs/ac / 2 inches

Fababeans (Snowbird) / Seeding Rate / Depth 250 lbs/acre / 2 inches

Lupins / Seeding Rate / Depth 88 lbs/acre / 0.75 inches

Soybeans (90A01 & 90M01 RR) / Seeding Rate /Depth 85 lbs/acre / 2 inch

Seeding Implement Seed Hawk Weed Control Glyphosate - May 20(all plots)

Sencor - June 13 (Lupins) Odyssey - June 13(Faba, Soy & Peas)

Dessication MCPA & Glyphosate Mix - Aug 15 (all 2nd incorp) Reglone - September 13, 2007 (all 3rd incorp)

First incorporation June 21, 2007

Second incorporation August 23, 2007

Third incorporation September 22, 2007

Plot size 20 x 80 feet

Results and Discussion: Date of first emergence did vary: Lupins - June 3rd, Peas-June 5, Fababeans - June 6 and Soybeans - June 8. We found most of the legumes difficult to incorporate as the roller would not flatten the lupins, fababeans and soybean for good plant to soil contact and the mower would leave piles or windrows, resulting in uneven distribution of the plant material. However, the roller worked great to flatten the peas and so did the geese! Different methods of incorporation will have to be looked at, such as grazing or using a roller that will crimp the plants to obtain the desired plant to soil contact and even distribution of residue. The fababeans looked like spoiled bananas and the Round-up Ready soybeans did not fill, so these legumes were not combined but mowed instead. The complete results of this trial will not be known until the fall of 2008 and 2009. Each crop area will be soil tested for nitrogen levels in the spring of 2008 and then wheat will be sown. Yield data will be collected from each crop area. An oilseed crop will be planted in 2009 and yield data collected .


Alternative Forages demonstration Funded by Agricultural Opportunity Fund and Seed Companies

Objectives: This trial was designed to compare dry matter yields (DM), digestible energy and protein levels plus the cost of production of alternative forages. Non-traditional and traditional forages were included in this demonstration to give producers information on more species when choosing which forages could lower their feeding costs and also ideas if they wish to experiment on their own farms.

Background: Some producers in the area are extending their grazing season by swath grazing. Most are using oats or barley or an oat/barley mixture. Even though swath grazing reduces feed costs, it is not a perfect solution. One problem is delayed seeding to minimize weathering losses. However, delayed seeding can limit the yield potential. Research at Lacombe shows that delayed seeding of barley and oats until mid-June reduced yields by about 40% when compared with mid-May seeding. One alternative would be warm season annual grasses like millets. Later seeding dates actually favor these grasses because they need to be seeded into warm soils. Their warm season metabolism and rapid maturity also make them more drought tolerant. Yield and quality tend to be comparable to spring cereals. Millets are actually able to resist some weathering while in the swath, due to a thick waxy coating on their leaves and stems. Producers may also be looking for forages with higher levels of energy and/or protein and which are more economical to grow. With escalating fertilizer prices there is a need for alternative sources of nutrients. When intercropped with a spring cereal, peas will provide the nitrogen and the oats and barley will provide stems for the peas to climb. Intercropping also reduces the risk of pest outbreaks and increases competition against weeds.

Figure 1: Alternative Forages Trial: Three Millets—AC Prairie Gold, Golden German & Red Proso


Materials and Methods: Land preparation consisted of a pre-burn with a glyphosate herbicide in early June. The forages were seeded with a ten foot Seed Hawk drill on June 15th and 16th at the recommended seeding and fertilizer rates (Table 1) . Appropriate pea inoculant was applied. On August 17, 2007 four yield samples were collected from each plot with wet and dry weights recorded. Samples were also submitted for nutritive analysis.

FORAGE SEEDING DEPTH (inches)

SEEDING RATE (lbs/ac)

FERTILIZER BLEND (lbs/ac)

46-0-0/11-52-0

4010 Silage Peas 2” 110 0/0

4010 Silage Peas & Mustang Oats 2”/1” 110/16 50/25

4010 Silage Peas & Lacombe Barley 2”/1” 110/24 50/25

Everleaf Oats 1” 100 100/50

Waldern Oats 1” 100 100/50

Baler Oats 1” 100 100/50

Sundre Barley 1” 120 100/50

Xena Barley 1” 120 100/50

AC Prairie Gold Millet 3/4” 27 80

Golden German Millet 3/4” 27 80

Red Proso Millet 3/4” 27 80

Table 1: Seeding Information

Figure 2: Input Costs

0

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70

Red P

roso M

illet

Golden

Germ

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Waldern

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mbe Barl

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Musta

ng O

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4010

Silage

Pea

s

Forage

Cos

t ($/

acre

)

Cost of inoculant ($/acre)

Cost of Fertilizer ($/acre)

Cost of Seed ($/acre)


Results and Discussion: NOTE :This trial was not replicated, so the results are not statistically significant. This was a demonstration so no real conclusions can be made. In Figure 3 the protein, digestible energy and dry matter levels have been graphed for comparison purposes. Barley was the highest yielding closely followed by oats. However, peas led the way with the highest protein and energy levels.

Variables that may have affected the results are the seeding dates and the fertilizer rates. Yield and quality might have been different if each forage type was seeded for its ideal harvest stage. Keeping the fertilizer rates the same for all the cereals would also have produced different results. The millet may have yielded similar to the oats and barley with the same fertility. Although the millets did not fair as well as the other forages in dry matter yields or digestible energy levels, according to producer reports, it does remain very palatable. With high protein levels and good palatability, millet may be a good choice for grazing early weaned calves. Then the goal would be the cheapest cost of gain. To determine this a group of uniform calves would be split up and grazed on the different forages to establish the cost of gain for each forage. However, intercropping peas and barley or peas and oats looks more promising than millet, because a balance of yield, protein and energy are achieved at a lower cost of production.

Figure 3: Results from Nutritive Analyses

2.87 2.69 2.87 3.13 3.17 2.87 2.82 2.69 3.13 3.04 3.31

02468

1012141618

Red P

roso M

illet

Golden

Germ

an M

illet

AC Prai

rie G

old M

illet

Xena B

arley

Sundre

Barley

Baler O

ats

Waldern

Oats

Everle

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Peas /

Laco

mbe Barl

ey

Peas /

Musta

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4010

Silage

Pea

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Forage

Prot

ein

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DE

(Mca

l/kg)

0.00.51.01.52.02.53.03.54.04.5

DM

Y (t

ons/

ac)

Protein (%) DE (Mcal/kg) Dry Matter Yield (tons/acre)


Land rent ($20/acre) was added to show how additional costs factor in with lower yields (additional hours on equipment would be another cost associated with lower yields), and also to show that productivity (yield) should not always be the focal point when considering which forages to grow. For example, the peas alone have the lowest yield per acre, but they require less fertilizer so the cost per ton of dry matter (DM) is lower. These dollar figures are included for comparison purposes only .

Figure 4: Economics of Growing Forages: $/ton of Dry Matter (DM) Forage

Figure 5: Intercropping Peas & Oats

0

5

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15

20

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30

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Red P

roso M

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Golden

Germ

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Baler O

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Waldern

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e ($

/ton

of D

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)

Cost of Seed, Fertilizer& Inoculant ($/ton ofDM forage)Cost of Seed, Fertilizer,Inoculant & Land Rent($/ton of DM forage)


Restricted Dugout Access Ramp Demonstration

Funded by the Greencover Canada/Alberta Technical Assistance Program &

Agriculture Opportunity Fund & Alberta Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture

Objectives: Our objective is to demonstrate and encourage producers to adopt an alternative watering system that protects riparian areas and provides quality water for livestock. Background: In MD #22 there are over 35,000 head of cattle (2006 census), grazing on either crown or private lands. To graze land there has to be a reliable water source. Various summer watering systems are available for cattle, but most are mechanical and subject to malfunctioning. When grazing cattle on remote pastures, there is a need for a reliable watering system that won’t break down, leaving the cattle with either no water or a flood. The simplest system would be full access to a dugout or other surface water body. However, allowing cattle full access can cause localized soil erosion of banks, increased risk of livestock drowning, more hoof ailments and increased contamination of the water, leading to more disease problems. An alternative would be the construction of a restricted access ramp which would minimize contamination of the dugout by limiting the area the livestock have access to. The ramp and dugout will be fenced allowing only 2-3 head to water at one time. This should discourage loitering and hopefully minimize defecating and urinating in the ramp area. The ramp will provide the cattle with solid footing to access the water and there will be hopefully less hoof problems. Materials and Methods: Local producer, Bill Gaugler grazes remote pasture sites and wanted a simple watering system that was foolproof and inexpensive. In cooperation with NPARA, Bill constructed two restricted access ramps at two different sites. Site One: NE 10-95-22-W5M Bill had a dugout excavated in October of 2007. On the east side of the dugout a 60’x13’ ramp was constructed with a slope of 5:1 (run:rise). Plastic reinforcement geogrid was laid down extending 100’ from the base of the dugout up to ground level beside the dugout. Using his industrial loader, Bill hauled 1 1/2” crushed gravel and placed it on top of the geogrid, leveling and packing it to a 6-8” thickness. The dugout and ramp will be fenced with electric wire. Two posts were put in for anchoring an adjustable wire for varying water levels. This site will be used to water cows in April 2008 as they are calving. Site Two: NW 11-95-22-W5M This site was at an existing dugout. Bill hired a backhoe to excavate a ramp 40’ by 13’ with a slope of 5:1; leaving a one foot bank of soil between the ramp and dugout. Geogrid was laid down on the ramp followed by a packed 6” layer of 1 1/2” crushed gravel. Then the barrier of soil between the ramp and dugout was removed, allowing water into the ramp area. The dugout and ramp were fenced with electric fence allowing only 3-4 animals to water at one time.


Results and Discussion: Bill used the ramp at site #2 this fall to water 300 head of cow/calf pairs from November 5 –30. He did have to break the ice in the ramp area for the cows to water, but only in the morning when the temperature dropped below –10°C. Bill is relieved that the cows do not have to go out on the dugout for water. In 2008 both sites will be monitored for water quality and how well the ramps stand up to hoof action.

Table 1: Estimated Costs to Construct A Restricted Dugout Access Ramp

Electric Fencing $75

Excavation of Ramp $225

Tensar Geogrid $200

20 yards 1 1/2” Crushed Gravel $500

TOTAL $1000


Murdoch Lake agro forestry demonstration

Project Partners: Ducks Unlimited, Daishowa-Marubeni International Ltd (DMI), Alberta Environmentally Sustainable Agriculture (AESA), Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA), Woodlot Extension Program (WEP),

Reduced Tillage Linkages (RTL) and NPARA

Location: From the Hamlet of Deadwood: 4 ½ miles west and 1 ½ miles south or from the juncture of Hwy #35 and Hwy 690: 2 miles east and 1 ½ miles south. The site borders the waterfowl rich Murdoch Lake and is approximately 60 acres in size.

Background: This field demonstration was developed to show landowners the potential benefits of combining tree farming with traditional agricultural practices. The purpose is to allow farmers to see that raising trees and livestock or hay on the same land can be an economically viable practice while providing wildlife and waterfowl benefits. The goal of a tree improvement program is to develop fast growing aspen and poplar genotypes that would be suitable for use in agroforestry. Companies would be able to obtain portions of their fiber requirements from these privately owned woodlots. Silvipasture refers to planting trees with an agricultural crop, usually forage, and could provide a new opportunity for Alberta farmers. Similar agro-forestry projects have occurred in the United States, New Zealand, Brazil, Australia and Africa. These experiments have shown optimum livestock and fiber production can be achieved through integrated land management. While information is available on the effects of grazing in pine, coconut, and eucalyptus plantations, little is available on how grazing affects species such as fast growing hybrid poplar. Objectives: • To establish an extensive, long term demonstration site that will showcase tree

production and forage management, which will include hay production and grazing livestock


The Site There are 60 acres inside the elk fence. It is divided into three replicates running north and south. Each replicate is divided further into three treatments: Treatment #1 - Trees Only, Trees are spaced 2.5 meters within and between the rows. A turf grass was seeded between the tree rows to reduce weed invasion. Half of the trees had plastic mulch laid down between the rows and herbicides/mowing are used on the other half for vegetation control. There are 6 rows of trees with plastic mulch alternating with 6 rows of trees without mulch, repeated throughout Treatment #1. Treatment #2 - Trees and Hay In this treatment there are 6 rows of trees with 2.5 meters within and between the rows, alternating with 15 meter wide hay fields. This pattern is repeated across the field. Every other block of trees has mulch laid down within the rows. In the block without mulch, herbicides/mowing are used for weed control. Treatment #3 - Hay Only History :

2002 Planning & preparation began 2003 Site preparation was done. Herbicide application and tillage 2004 In late May - 17,352 hybrid Walker poplars, supplied by PFRA, were planted. Also an alfalfa/brome/timothy forage mixture was seeded for the hay treatments. An elk fence was erected around the site and permanent sample plots established. 2005 The local vole population was very hard on the trees during the winter and girdled over 90% of the trees. All the girdled trees were pruned off and a new shoot trained. This worked well and new shoots on many of the trees, especially in the mulched area, came back vigorously. The hayland also grew well with sweet clover over 5 feet high. 2006 Girdling was minimal and tree shoots were singled to avoid the formation of poplar shrubs. Three raptor perches and nest boxes were erected to encourage vole predation. Weeds were sprayed with glyphosate between the tree rows. Mowing was conducted between the tree rows. The hay was harvested and yields recorded. 2007 The trees in the mulched area performed very well. It is very evident that there is a definite advantage in planting trees using mulch vs trees planted without. Again herbicide application and mowing was conducted between the tree rows. Haying was completed in August. Eventually the plan is to graze cattle on the site and monitor the effects.

Benefits to Producers • Diversify • Environmental and Riparian health • Ensure long term income • Short term and long term income • Greenhouse Gas Mitigation


Legend: M&H - Mulched Trees & Hay M - Mulched Trees Alone NoM - Unmulched Trees & Hay NoM&H - Unmulched Trees Alone

Results & Discussion: The hay yields for the past 3 years have been average. The Hay Only treatments have tended to have higher yields. In 2008 ¼m² cuts will be done to obtain more accurate data. The plan is to do a grazing trial in 2009 with cattle. Mulching definitely had a positive effect. Growth of the mulched trees was much greater than the unmulched trees, and mortality rate much lower. There has been some phenomenal growth by these hybrid trees with heights of up to 5.4 meters (almost18 feet) recorded in the fall of 2007!

M&H M

NoM

NoM

&H

050

100150200250300350400450

LS M

ean

Ht0

7 -

cm

Treatment

Height response to mulch and hay 2007

M&H M

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NoM

&H

0102030405060708090

100

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val %

Treatment

Survival response to mulch and hay 2007

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