On Monday July 23, 2012, I spent an enjoyable day in the sunshine at the Ian Morrison Research Station at Carman. The purpose was to find out more about the research into ecological and organic farming systems. Low input systems and organic systems that do not use chemical fertilizers are one way that the water environment can be protected.
Mulches, cover crops, interplanting, scorching, mechanical means to destroy weeds were the order of the day. Hairy vetch is showing good promise for many situations (not all though - depends what weeds you have). Some of the low input studies have shown that some manitoba weeds are now resistant to herbicides - not good news for the conventional systems.
We also learned about grazing systems and how effective they are at controlling weeds, and the sheep were very friendly. And we learned that shelter belts are being used less as other agricultural systems manage soil losses as well, but that this is having an impact on biodiversity.
We were well looked after, being driven around on shaded trailer (much appreciated in the hot sun), and the lunch was excellent.
A pleasant chance from the office...
Selena Randall
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