Rural Roots Winter 2019 | Page 3

3 Aphanomyces, Blackleg, Verticillium Wilt and Late Blight. For more info, check out mdlsr.ca/Agri-News. New Pathotype of Clubroot Discovered in Manitoba A new pathotype of clubroot (Pathotype 3A) has been found in southern Manitoba. Provincial experts say it is more difficult to manage than familiar types of clubroot. Manitoba Agriculture states that traditionally rated resistant varieties of canola will not be effective in preventing infection against the new pathotype strain found. Pathotype 3A can overcome some first-generation sources of genetic resistance in commercial canola cultivars. This means that producers need to take the disease more seriously than before and follow the Best Management Practices outlined by the Canola Council of Canada. Producers are also encouraged to have their own soil tested to determine which pathotype is present and to choose canola seed accordingly. For more information on preventing clubroot of canola visit the Canola Council of Canada at mdlsr.ca/Clubroot. Weed Control Program We are pleased to report that all Agricultural staff received effective and positive cooperation from municipal residents and producers during this year’s Weed Control Program. Weed species that were targeted include but are not limited to: Tall Buttercup, Scentless Chamomile, White Cockle, Oxeye Daisy, Orange Hawkweed, Field Scabious and Himalayan Balsam. Orange Hawkweed, Field Scabious and Himalayan Balsam infestations within the municipality are few, and we believe that with persistence and use of Best Management Practices, eradication of these infestations is possible. A total of 140 formal inspections were carried out and numerous other site visits and contacts were made throughout the summer season. Weed Control Partnership Program This season started off sleepy as producers were preoccupied with seeding — and in some extreme cases working to get last season’s crop harvested. Overall, the Weed Control Partnership Program (WCPP) was positively received and actively accessed once the summer progressed to control prohibited noxious and noxious weed species on rangelands, pastures, haylands, fence-lines and other non-crop land areas. Nine producers/landowners partnered with the MD under the WCPP Rebate Component; 19 producers/landowners took advantage of the WCPP Extension Component, and 510 acres were treated for the destruction of legislated species. As a result of the program, approximately $10,000.00 in rebates were issued this season. Provincial Apiculture Program Did you know that Alberta represents 40 percent of Canada’s honeybee population? There are more than 315,000 bee colonies housed in the province, making Alberta the largest beekeeping industry in Canada. Any person keeping honeybees or beekeeping equipment is required to register by law under the provincial apiculture (beekeeping) program within Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. This program focuses on the long- term sustainability and prosperity of the industry. Along with the program, there are two research sites located within Alberta. One is located in Southern Alberta (Lethbridge) and the other in Central Alberta (Edmonton). These research facilities are dedicated to stewarding the continued health of bees and sustainable pollination services in Alberta. Some of their research includes colony management, impact of pesticides, quality of safe honey, bee breeding, queen breeding, over-wintering and chemical treatments for mites and microsporidia.