Surf the net for ag information.

Farmers today have access to a seemingly endless supply of information via the Internet. But there is such a thing as information overload. The challenge is often twofold: first, knowing where to find what you’re looking for and, second, separating the wheat from the chaff.

Ag-based companies and industry associations are often good places to start. But many other websites are goldmines of information about research, programs and services that can help you get a handle on what’s new in the ag industry. Here’s a selection:

Government research

• Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Science and Innovation site has links to current and past research, its 19 research centres, and research programs and services. Visit www.farmforum.ca/AAFC
• The newly formed Alberta Innovates, Bio Solutions Department of the Alberta provincial government links to research from four ag-based organizations that fall under the Bio Solutions umbrella. Visit www.farmforum.ca/biosolutions
• The government of Saskatchewan contributes 2.5 million dollars each year to agricultural research. Visit www.farmforum.ca/SKagresearch
• In Manitoba, the Agri-Food Research and Development Initiative provides funding for innovation in agri-food production and processing in the province. Visit www.farmforum.ca/MBresearch

University and college research

• The University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources site provides a host of links to research both within the University and also through its various industry partners. Visit http:www.farmforum.ca/UofSresearch
• Research Information is available from the University of Guelph through its website or by linking to its various publications on different areas of the industry. Visit www.farmforum.ca/uguelphresearch
• The University of Alberta breaks down its agricultural research by faculty. Visit www.farmforum.ca/UofAresearch

Independent services and expertise

• The Agricultural Institute of Canada’s Canadian Journal of Plant Science shares peer reviewed research findings. Visit www.farmforum.ca/journalresearch
• The Canadian Consulting Agrologists Association site includes a searchable database for agrologists by location and field of expertise. Visit www.farmforum.ca/ccaaresearch
• Many retailers have agronomists on staff, or can help farmers find an agronomist in their area. This listing of Interag independent retailers is a good place to start. Visit www.farmforum.ca/findanagronomist
• The Canadian Weed Science Society is an industry-sponsored organization that links to weed-related information across the country. Visit www.farmforum.ca/weedinfo
• No listing of agricultural research and services would be complete without a link to Environment Canada’s weather site. Visit www.farmforum.ca/envirocanadaweather

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