According to the latest trade report from Farm Credit Canada (FCC), one of Canada’s greatest opportunities for growth in global trade is in the food and beverage processing industry. “World population growth, higher purchasing power in emerging markets and new trade agreements are key factors in potentially creating more opportunities for Canada to increase exports,”… Read More
The Agronomists, Ep 3: Composted, dry, liquid, oh my — all about manure management
Some call it stinky, others call it the smell of money, but whatever your thoughts on manure may be, we also know it’s a valuable soil amendment and nutrient source. It’s also a rather tricky one, as manure is highly variable, and requires specific handling to make the most of it. For this episode of… Read More
Heinz returns to making ketchup in Canada, but not in Ontario
Kraft Heinz has announced it will return to making ketchup in Canada by late summer 2021 at an existing Kraft facility in Quebec. The project is a joint investment between Kraft Heinz Canada and the Government of Quebec’s business expansion program. Located near Montreal, updates to the Mont Royal facility are expected to allow for… Read More
Best Type of Truck for a Farm
A versatile truck is an indispensable tool that makes the jobs on the farm easier. But with so many brands to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select a farm truck that applies to your needs. Also, there are so many considerations when it comes to finding a reliable truck. Let’s look at the options so that you can be informed of your next purchase.
Ford F-150
This is a top truck for all American farmers. It’s powerful, dependable, and reliable. But what makes it the best-selling pickup truck is that it offers a towing of 3200 lbs. and a payload of 3720 lbs., so you won’t have a problem towing heavy loads. Unlike other comparable models, this farm truck can handle anything that you throw on its way.
On the other hand, this model comes with an 8” screen to increase productivity. You can get useful information like towing data, fuel economy, etc. Even better, you can customize the menu so that you can make decisions that matter most to you.
When it comes to power, this truck will meet and exceed your needs. It’s powered by a 5.0-liter, V8 engine that generates 395 HP. Of course, the new military aluminum alloy frame increases its strength and helps to cut the weight of the vehicle.
Ford F-250
The Ford F-250 is another most sought farm truck loaded with high-tech features. It comes with the best-in-class payload of 7630 lbs. and a towing capability of 21,000 lbs. You also get an optional gooseneck. So you can tow 34,000 lbs. If you’re a farmer who wants to tow heavy loads, then this truck is for you. Besides that, you get technologies like:
- Trailer reverse guide
- Side view mirrors
GMC Sierra 1500 Denali
Sierra 1500 Denali is a cool pickup truck with features that you can’t find in comparable models. It’s the best farm truck for a modern farmer. If you’re trailering on steep ground, this machine will automatically engine the brakes. Besides that, it offers the best-in-class towing capability of 9200 lbs. Furthermore, it comes with a customizable driver display, so you have everything you need at your fingertips. Some of the key features of this model are:
- All-weather floor mats
- Heated leather seating and steering wheel
- Power adjustable pedals
- Adaptive ride control
The 6.2-liter V8 engine offers 420 HP and 650 ft. lb., enough to tackle all farm applications.
Chevy Colorado
Chevy Colorado is a farm truck that competes well with other models and brings a lot to the table. Despite its smaller stature, this machine doesn’t compromise on performance. It’s equipped with a V6 engine that generates 305 HP and a towing capability of 7000 lbs. You expect quicker takeoffs, acceleration, and great fuel economy. Also, it can maneuver in tight spaces with ease.
But what makes Chevy the best truck is the sturdy construction. The chassis is made of high-tensile steel so the truck can maneuver obstacles with ease.
Billed as a `high-performance vehicle’, this machine has what it takes to do any farm task. It also features improved fuel economy, thus a great farm truck for eco-conscious operators. This means that you’ll spend more time working and less time filling at the pump. Other features include:
- Different bed options
- 7-inch touch screen display
- Rearview camera
- Four-way driver power seat
Ram trucks
It’s estimated that 20% of farmers in the US own a RAM truck. RAM has a department that caters to the needs of farmers and has partnered with a variety of organizations to ensure farmers get the best. The top truck in this category is the RAM 1500.
RAM 1500
This model is built for ruggedness rather than refinement. The first thing you’ll notice with this farm truck is the variety of engine options. You can choose either a 3.6-L diesel engine that generates 305 HP or a 3.0L EcoDiesel engine that produces 240HP. This means that farmers can choose an engine option that suits them best.
The RAM 1500 farm truck has a unique torque system that gives better engine-start smoothness and improves fuel economy. What’s more, all RAM trucks are equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission system. Still, you can choose a 4-wheel drive or a rear-wheel drive. In terms of towing capability, this machine is a real workhorse and has no flaws.
RAM 1500 comes with a nice interior with soft-materials. It also has easy-to-use infotainment systems in the market.
This farm truck also comes with a crew-cab or quad-cab configuration. For both configurations, you get more foot and headroom. With the crew cab, you can choose a long or short cab (5, 7-feet) while the quad cab comes with 6 feet, 4 feet bed. Other features include:
- Reclining rear seats
- Hill descent control
- Forward collision mitigation
- Power-deployable running boards
- Electronic locking differential
Toyota Tundra
Toyota Tundra is a powerful machine that can meet the needs of a modern farmer. With the ranging engine options, you can choose a 4.6-L engine that generates 310 HP or a 5.7L engine that produces 381 HP. Since the engine has changeable valve rates, you get a low-end torsion, so the engine gets a broader band on the peak torque. You also get a towing capacity of 9000 lbs. so you can transport heavy equipment on the farm.
Another feature that makes Toyota Tundra a great farm truck is the anti-lock brake. Also, the brake assist comes in handy during emergency events. Sometimes, it can be challenging to administer adequate force to the pedal to halt the truck. Thankfully, the brake aid indicators employ extra power to aid in halting the track.
What else does the truck offer to a farmer? This model is equipped with a traction management feature that helps to preserve grip on slippery roads. And because the system uses brakes separately, the driver can manage the truck with ease.
Looking at the bed, the farm truck is spacious enough for all your farm needs. You can choose either a 5.5-feet or 6.5-feet bed. However, if you choose the double cab, you get a limited bed.
Still, the interior is packed with comfort features that are helpful when working for long hours. You also get a bunch of safety upgrades like:
- Lane departure warning
- Automated emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward-collision warning
- Antilock braking
Without a doubt, this is an excellent farm truck in every way.
Nissan Titan XD
Nissan Titan comes with the largest engine in its class and offers unmatched truck capabilities. It has a towing capacity of 11,950 pounds and a payload capacity of 2,990 lbs. With this in mind, the XD is suited to pull lots of trailers in the landscape market. There’s also a gooseneck provision for hauling excavating and agricultural applications. Unlike the traditional heavy-duty pickup trucks, the XD offers better performance and fuel-efficiency.
The XD has a lineup that includes a single cab, crew cab, and single cab body styles. But what makes the XD the best truck is its capabilities. It comes with a 5.8-L engine that generates 317 HP and 385 feet of torque. And just like other standard models, you get a 4-wheel drive system suitable for tackling tough agricultural terrains.
Apart from that, farmers can enjoy a hands-free calling and can stay connected at all times. They also stay connected at all times thanks to the rear camera and in-dash camera.
Perhaps, the most unique feature about this farm truck is the strong and durable chassis. The unique design is reinforced extensively and comes with added features like lateral & vertical bending and torsion rigidity.
This farm truck boasts of a reinforced front suspension system that is tuned for hard use. It also has a rigid rear axle suspension system that utilizes leaf bushings, twin-tube shock absorbers, and leaf springs. You also get increased ground clearance and a suspension lift of about 3 inches.
For enhanced towing capabilities, this track is fitted with an integrated trailer brake controller. There’s also a trailer light check system that allows for a one-person hook operation – you can check the brake lights, turn signals, and clearance lights while in the cab.
Other features that come with the farm truck are:
- Side cameras to you maneuver in tight spaces
- Intelligence around view monitor
- Moving object detection
Chevy Silverado
If you’re a farmer who needs a tough machine, then Chevy Silverado can be a sure bet. This is a top-performing farm truck that acts as a mobile office. It uses state-of-the-art technology to allow farmers to communicate in their networks.
Chevy Silverado is equipped with a powerful engine that generates 420 HP and offers a maximum payload of 2,200 lbs. This is enough power to pull big bales of hay and market-ready steers. You can also add cargo-hauling capabilities and switch the tires for a freshly-tilled field.
As you work on your farm, you’ll enjoy the luxury of space. Even tall folks will have plenty of head and legroom. On top of the expansive cabin, you get cup holders and bins. There are also lots of storage compartments that cater to the needs of families. Due to the changing interests of farmers, farmers can get more flexibility than before.
Toyota Tacoma
This is a farm truck suited for day-to-day operations. It comes with sophisticated dynamic control technology and offers two drive terrains (2-wheel and 4-wheel drive).
On top of the lineup, you’ll get the unique X-runner that blends design and performance. You also get different configurations – regular, access, and four-door double cab. The cab also features a 73.5-inch bed, while the double cab has a 73.5-inch bed.
In terms of power, the Toyota Tacoma farm truck offers two engine options. You can either get a 4-liter V6 engine that generates 266 HP or a 2.7-L Four-cylinder engine that produces 159HP. Still, you can choose either a five-speed or 6-speed transmission system.
This truck also incorporates shorter springs, firmer bushings, and a rear stabilizer. To ensure your safety and comfort while in the fields, this model comes with:
- Electronic brake force distribution
- Anti-lock brakes
- Brake assist
- Vehicle stability control
Cab styles for pickup trucks
Farm Truck Body Styles
A farm truck is designed to carry goods is designed to carry your farm produce with ease. You can also use attachments to carry out specific tasks on your farm. The easiest way to understand the layouts and what the manufacturers offer. Here are the various body styles you can choose from:
Crew cab
A crew cab truck has the driver or passenger layout lengthened to allow for rear seating. It also comes with a second layer of hinged doors, and the cargo carrying area is part of the chassis. Because crew cabs have four doors, you get less hauling cargo capability.
Extended cab
In the intended cab, the passenger layout is extended to include an area behind the front seats. The cargo-carrying area is part of the chassis, but there are no rear doors. However, some come with rear doors that are reversely hinged.
Regular cabs
As the name suggests, a regular cab is a standard pickup truck. You get one row of seating and one pair of doors. You get plenty of cargo space behind the seats, and you can stick a few valuables inside the cabin.
Modified parts of farm trucks
A truck can be modified to perform better. However, that all truck inspections are completed when a truck is modified. Some of the parts that can be modified to give a better experience include:
Tonneau covers
This is an important accessory for any farmer. Besides protecting the truck bed itself, the cover also protects the farm produce. You can also choose the cover you want to improve the aesthetic appeal of the truck.
Truck bed liners
A bed liner protects your truck bed, especially when the rainy season strikes. Of course, without a good liner, you will damage every equipment you haul.
Truck bed organizers
You can modify your farm truck by installing truck bed organizers. If you want something unique, there are several options to choose from. Generally, the organizers help to maximize the truck bed, so you get plenty of space for large equipment. Since the trays mount on the truck bed, loading and unloading become easy.
Step bars
Step bars make it easy to move and out of the truck with ease. They can be helpful if you have a full-size pickup, and you’re finding it difficult to make a huge step into the cab.
Final thoughts
A modern farmer needs a versatile truck that gives unmatched performance. If you’re looking for a new truck, the above models won’t let you down. They are powerful, versatile, and can help to transport various equipment into the field.
RealAg Radio, Nov 6: Simulated meat, leveraging ag’s power, and more funding for broadband
Is there something large going on in the news this week? Just kidding! Of course we talk a little bit about the U.S. election outcome’s impact on Canadian agricultural trade, but for most of this episode of RealAg Radio, host Shaun Haney, Kelvin Heppner, and Lyndsey Smith talk about other things. On today’s show hear… Read More
Creating a positive experience, employee and employer benefits, and renaming the “review” — a LIVE! with Jennifer Wright
Performance reviews for staff just aren’t talked about enough with regards to farm management. They also don’t have to be a negatives experience — both employee and employer can provide feedback during a performance; they’re not a one-way conversation. Joining us for today’s RealAg LIVE is Jennifer Wright, senior HR advisor with the Canadian Agricultural… Read More
The huge Ontario budget: what’s in it for agriculture
Doug Ford’s provincial government has revealed its next budget, a process that was interrupted for several months by the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a very large budget — $187 billion — with a projected record-breaking deficit $38.5 billion. Budget spending revolves around current and possibly on-going pandemic disruption for several years, and is split into three… Read More
Ignoring a disputed election — This week in the grain markets
Grain markets were able to find some fresh gains for the first week of November, one which was very much overshadowed by the U.S. election. While Friday saw some selling in the grain markets, it was a still a relative positive week, but it was one that history will likely remember for the controversial words… Read More
If you could choose, which decade would you farm in?
There have been some decades that were incredible for farming, and some, not so much. We doubt that anyone would want to go back to the 30s, the 80s, or even the early 2000s — 2002 was a pretty bummer year — but some of us probably wish we could go back to the “good… Read More
What are we Doing in the World to Restore Farmlands to Nature?
Overview
Unfortunately, the US is experiencing a time of constant degradation of land. The problem is that, in most cases, the degradation is deliberate resulting from the action of human beings. Soil erosion is caused by human factors such as cultivation, grazing, and burning. Whereas the current generation is facing many challenges due to the impact of climate change, it is the future generation which has a lot to lose from the same.
Farmers, average Americans, local authorities, and the federal government are in consensus that something must be done in order to address the issue of climate change. At the center of this is the need utilize viable and sustainable practices which are going to restore the farmlands to nature.
This article illuminates the sensitive issue of the degradation of the farmlands and what Americans and the world are doing in order to restore the farmlands to nature.
Sustainable Agriculture
The intensification and expansion of agricultural land has been blamed for the significant environmental change that has been observed in recent years. Farmers and agri-business professionals realize that in order to realize optimal profits, they do not have an option but to embark on large-scale farming. This means that they have to poach for more land, including forested land and any other natural eco-system. The change in land cover (for instance, from a forest to agricultural land), alters the natural habitation of land, interferes with the water supply, and affects the conditions of the soil.
Agriculture has played an important role in sustaining livelihoods. In the US, a lot of young people would rather go to the city, rather than staying in the rural areas in order to farm. It is estimated that the US has 2.6 million farmers. Whereas this is a very small population, there are a lot of jobs which arise from the farming industry and the related industries. Therefore, the US cannot afford to compromise such jobs. There have to be a way of keeping the jobs, and at the same time, restoring the jobs to nature. Africa and Asia has a significant population of farmers. Such farmers are heavily affected by climate change.
Having stated that, the farmlands can, as a matter of fact, be restored to their former status. It is about an ecological restoration to the pre-disturbed state. The ecosystem can be restored in terms of composition, structure, and function. The modern agricultural practices can meet the needs of the current generations without compromising the needs of the future generation. There is a strong possibility of continued production without compromising the quality of the environment.
Planting Trees
Cutting down of tress has an adverse effect on the climate change of a country. When the population cuts down trees, higher levels of carbon are released into the atmosphere. The International Union of the Conservation of Nature has cried foul over the cutting down of trees at the global level. Simply put, forested land is now lost. As far as the food production continues, forested cover is not going to be re-gained easily.
Planting trees has long been used as an effective tool of reclaiming the farmlands. When farmers accept to plant trees in their farms, they will benefit from better climatic conditions. In addition to that, they are going to have a reliable source of timber, fuel, and food. A few types of trees are rare in nature, and provide a medical value to the population. Benefits of planting trees include the following: increased water use, habitat restoration, erosion control, carbon sequestration, bio-energy production, and wood production.
Planting of trees is good for the environment, but it has to be accompanied by discouraging cutting down of trees. If trees are planted, and at the same time, are cut down in massive scale, then it is an act of futility. Even with modern agricultural practices, trees take many years to go. Therefore, planting of trees has to be accompanied by a sustained campaign to discourage cutting down of trees.
Even urban areas are trying to do their part. A Connecticut restaurant company is incorporating modern restaurant design with trees being planted within the restaurant making the restaurant a green initiative.
Combination of Agriculture and Bio-diversity
Most of the Americans hold that it is not possible between agricultural production,. The fact is that it is possible to make a balanced combination between agriculture and biodiversity. The cropping system can be simplified in order to accommodate the needs of the environment. Farmers do not have to see nature as a threat to their economic activities. The two can go hand in hand. It just requires some compromise.
Less Use of Chemicals
In many cases, farmers have to use chemicals in order to realize optimal yields. Whereas this is good for agricultural production, it may have a detrimental effect on the climatic conditions. Pesticides and fertilizers, upon finding their way to the sources of water, encourage geometrical growth of algae. This leads to fish kills, and low oxygen up the streams.
The issue of the use of chemicals in the American farms has a historical perspective. Decades ago, the concern of the farmer was how best to increase the yield of the farm without any concern on the watershed. Today, the farmers are more informed about the complex relationship between the environment and agriculture, and want to be pro-active in the restoration of the environment.
Some farmers place a large quantity of fertilizer in fall, stating that it would be ready for agriculture by the time spring comes. Farmers are avoiding such practices now. Today, farmers are sensitive to the possibility of leaching. Today, fertilizer is placed in a way that it would not leach, thereby protecting the environment and at the same time, reaping the best from agriculture.
Farmers are seeking alternative methods rather than the use of fertilizer year after year. The use of bone meal is an ideal alternative to the use of fertilizers. Bone meal is a byproduct of meat processing factories. It is an excellent source of calcium and phosphorous, and it is not difficult to get. Cottonseed meals can also be used as a fertilizer. However, farmers with very large farms may not find such alternatives viable and sustainable, but they are worth a trial all the same. The farmer can also explore the possibility of natural methods such as the use of manure.
Market Mechanisms
The modern consumer is more informed, and is looking for accountability when making the decision to support business. A consumer is going to ask questions a number of questions concerning the supply value chain. Consumers want to engage with businesses that support sustainable agricultural practices. In addition to that, the consumers are going to shy away from businesses which contribute to the degradation of the environment. When the consumers demand accountability, then the environment is going to be improved.
Businesses should support the initiatives on managing the farmlands, and the restoration thereon. This can be done through various methods, corporate social responsibility for instance. This can be done as a one-time donation, or a long-term program.
Seeking Help and Giving Help
Individual farmers can invite the experts on the decision to be more sensitive to their agricultural practices. The good news is that the help is now more available. As a farmer, all you need to write down the resources that you need in order to create a sustainable ecosystem, and make some phone calls to people who can assist you. Another alternative is to create a formal proposal and apply for funding.
However, as you make your plans and little efforts for restoring farmlands, note that some states are going to have some forms of restrictions on what you can do, much as it is your farm. Therefore, it is critical that you operate within the law in order to avoid problems in the future. Also, bear in mind that some of your projects you might undertake might impact others, in both the positive or negative way. Therefore, consult widely before taking any action. For example, a watershed coordinator can help you assess how your farming practices are going to affect others.
You need to consider in participating in community activities which help in managing the environment. Remember, if you take care of land, then the land is going to take care of you and the future generation. Organizations such as the Green Belt Movement do roll out tree planting opportunities, and play a critical role in mobilizing the community.
Many people think that philanthropy is for the highly successful people, and that, philanthropy is all about money. You can give a lot of money if you are willing and you are able. But otherwise, think about changing the world in small ways. Participate in advocacy and give your time. If you are an expert in land restoration, write a letter to your governor stating what you think about the direction that the environmental policy is taking.
The Importance of Policy
Farmers are not going to manage to restore the farmlands alone; they must be supported by the right policy. For example, activities in agro-forestry are tossed around between different state organs, making it difficult to have a streamlined course of action. Important decisions are going to be made in a streamlined environment where roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
It should be noted that measures that help in managing climate change require a lot of funding. In such a case then, private citizens and local authorities may not afford such funding requirements due to the restriction in capital.
During the formulation of policy, stakeholders must be sure to seek the opinion of the people on the ground. These are the best to contribute to policy because of the first-hand knowledge that they have. If a team is preparing policy on a certain issue, it can, for example, consult the following:
-A local farmer
-A consumer who is located in the neighborhood
-A lecturer in agriculture
-A teacher in agriculture
-A student of agriculture
-People living near a water-catchment area
-People who have been affected by flooding
-Wildlife staff
American policy makers should learn a lesson from India which is done a commendable job in addressing the various challenges involving land degradation, and consequently, climate change. In September, 2019, Prime Minister Narendera Modi stated that the country would raise the quantity of land which is going to be rehabilitated, from 21 million hectares to an impressive 26 million hectares. This ambitious initiative would be carried out between 2019 and 2030.
The Bonn Challenge is a global initiative where global leaders committed themselves to the restoration of 150 million hectares by 2020, and 350 million hectares by the year 2030. Even though such a challenge is not easy to achieve, it gives the countries the necessary impetus. In addition to that, such campaigns are very important in ensuring that there is sensitivity and awareness on the issue of farmlands and the need for their restoration.
The Importance of Measurement
The government has to invest more in measuring the impact of the destruction of farmlands, and how such a phenomenon contributes to better climatic conditions. In particular, there should be measurement of land degradation in a well informed and systematic way. Stakeholders have to invest more in understanding carbon levels and soil health.
Again, such data and information should be portrayed to the average American in a way that he or she can understand. The right strategy in the dissemination of information plays a critical role in ensuring that the population is pro-active and takes part in bring the much needed change. Optimal measurement practices contribute to the making of sound policy.
Conclusion
Americans should make a renewed commitment to the issue of restoring farmlands. This is good for both the present and the future generation. The restoration of farmlands should be a concerted effort between the farmers, the citizens, the local authorities, and the federal government. This is not going to take a short time, and it will require that the Americans are patient in order to observe results. Overall, restoration of the farmlands plays a critical role in managing climate change.