The Ontario Federation of Agriculture and its members are calling on farmers and allies to contact their government representative over the increase in animal rights activists’ activities and the lack of prosecution of charges. There has been a marked increase in activist activity on farms and roadsides in Ontario over the past few months. At… Read More
Several Ontario producer groups and at least one lawyer are sounding the alarm on animal rights activists getting off scot-free in the province. Livestock producer groups are speaking out after a court decision this week to drop charges against an animal rights activist who recorded her trespassing on a Lucan-area hog farm multiple times in… Read More
Economic health. Physical health. Environmental health. These are all factors we consider when looking at our overall health on the farm, but how often do we take a look at our mental health? We all know that farming is stressful, especially since it involves unpredictable variables such as weather, markets, and family. Farmers across the… Read More
So you’re on track, you have found your groove and have finally carved out the time for an exercise routine. In fact, you rarely miss a workout, but along with that training comes the aching muscles and joints. Now is the perfect time to create a recovery plan. It’s important to take recovery as seriously… Read More
The Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is launching a video series focusing on mental health for farmers, their families and rural communities. The videos, featuring information and advice from farmers and leaders in the agriculture sector, will be posted on twitter via @OMAFRA and the ministry’s website throughout the season. “When we… Read More
Is diet a four-letter word? Really, instead of a “diet” being viewed as only a way and means of reducing body shape and size, it’s all the things we eat and drink — regardless of a goal or outcome. Our diets don’t need to be overtly restrictive and exercise need not be punishment, says dietitian… Read More
Farm Management Canada (FMC) is about to start a national study of the connection between mental health and farm business management, but they need industry help. They’re requesting those in agriculture, business management, or the mental health field to submit expressions of interest to be involved in the study which is planned to start April… Read More
Is changing the way you eat or perhaps trying the whole workout thing a goal of yours for this year? Well, look no further than the FitFarmer podcast with co-hosts Shaun Haney and Gary Chambers, who farms and stays fit throughout the year! On this episode the pair discuss major trends in fitness, and how… Read More
According to Michael Landsberg, when he first went to his family doctor about his depression the doctor said, in effect, “You’re ok, I see you on television.” Many people make the same mistake that the doctor did. That’s because you can’t diagnose mental illness with an Xray or a thermometer. Landsberg, a former sports broadcaster… Read More
Through life you’ll have ups and downs. In my eyes, one thing is for certain — if you have a pet (a dog, preferably), the good days will always out-number the bad. Those “bad days” can be something as simple as not getting what you wanted to accomplish complete, or might be much more complex, like family… Read More
All workplaces require give and take. Communication skills are often needed and seldom taught. A simple thing like the golden rule — treat others as you would have them treat you — can work wonders, but what about the platinum rule? That is, would treating others the way they want to be treated have even… Read More
Many people think illicit drugs are “big city” problems, and that rural areas are somehow more wholesome and immune to issues with addiction and hard drugs. A recent study, however, spells out the very opposite — for a number of reasons, those who live in Canada’s rural areas and cities under 100,000 are actually at… Read More
As the year winds down and many begin to look to the New Year, our Fit Farmer expert, Gary Chambers along with RealAg Radio host, Shaun Haney, decided it’s time to discuss their top 10 gift ideas for those who are looking to get and stay healthy. Although most throw fitness habits out the window… Read More
Rest and refocus are key to going forward with your fitness plan now that harvest is over. With work slowing down a bit, it’s easy to get out of a fitness routine, but not to worry because with a little effort and planning, you’ll be back in the saddle in no time. Fit Farmer co-host… Read More
It’s nice to receive recognition from your peers. It is particularly nice when your peers are also your friends and the recognition occurs in a place of special emotional significance. All these things came together for Elaine Froese during last week’s Agriculture Excellence Conference held at Winnipeg, Man. It was in the ballroom of the… Read More