Wow… what another crazy spring! What we thought was going to be a very late planting turned out to be an early finish. Kudos to the retail people for being able to supply fertilizer and services in such a short period. Hopefully all the farmers are getting some well-deserved rest as well.
Crops are somewhat delayed because of dry weather and cool nights, but with this widespread rain yesterday (1.9” here) they will turn on the jets. Every year is different and this one is no exception.
Save the Date! The Provincial summer meeting will be August 18-20, 2023, hosted by 1st Vice President Phil Oegema west of London. Not all the details have been ironed out but there will be an educational component as well as a local tour! I hope to see everyone there.
Congratulations to Ray Robertson for his recent induction into the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame! I had the distinct privilege in reading his citation and unveiling the picture that will be displayed in the Hall of Fame. There will be a mobile Hall of Fame displayed at the Canadian Outdoor Farm Show this September 12-15. Ray joins 246 other distinguished individuals.
Be sure to take advantage of your local car tours and bus tours. They are always a good way to share ideas and thoughts with fellow farmers. Bruce County Mystery Car Tour, July 11. Grey County Soil Pit Demo at Ken Mitchell’s July 18. Simcoe County Bus Tour July 17-20. Georgian Central Virtual meeting with Dr. Lee Briese, July 27 at 8pm.
TruEV – Tractor Pilot Program Update
For those of you who had applied to trial out and evaluate the electric tractor, there will be a slight delay in the delivery of the tractors. Some challenges have pushed back the arrival of the e-tractors from Turkey for the pilot project, but progress is being made on some other fronts and they remain very optimistic about plans coming together. They hope to have they delivered and demonstrated in August. They have changed the design slightly as you can see in this pic.
Very best to all and stay safe!
Andy van Niekerk, P.Ag. Provincial Director, Georgian Central.
Cell: 705-446-5080