Author: Jennifer Hannan

U.S. Biofuel Policy Impact on Canada: Implications for Canadian Agriculture and Energy

Biofuel production and consumption have fluctuated over the past century, dating back to when Henry Ford’s Model T could run on ethanol. Although biofuels have periodically declined in popularity, the Renewable Fuel Standard in the U.S., implemented in 2007, sparked a renewed phase of building biofuel production facilities. Biofuel production also supports the demand for […]

Boosting Canada’s agricultural productivity through investment and innovation

Canada’s agricultural sector stands at a pivotal moment, as global food demand intensifies, profit margins tighten and climate pressures mount. Ag tech innovation offers a powerful solution, but research alone isn’t enough. We must accelerate commercialization of these technologies and create an investment environment that attracts venture capital. Innovation, boldness and ambition are urgently needed. […]

Agritourism Ontario partners with WSPS to strengthen farm safety

Agritourism Ontario has announced a new partnership with Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS), an Ontario-based health and safety association. The collaboration is rooted in a shared commitment to fostering a safer environment in Ontario’s growing agritourism sector. As a result, WSPS and Agritourism Ontario will work together to raise awareness, share resources, and address […]

Grow community connections, overcome isolation

As farms grow and rural lifestyles continue to change, maintaining a sense of community is an integral part of supporting your mental health. The importance of connection Humans are wired for connection, and farm operators are no exception. Bonnie Taylor, a registered social worker and psychotherapist based in Kitchener, Ont., says humans are wired for connection, […]

Family Farm Transition – Is Fair Always Equal?

We asked Rick Van Beselaere, a partner with the Regina-based law firm Miller Thomson LLP. With more than 30 years of experience in banking and finance, Rick shares his insights on farm succession planning. Does fair always mean equal? Rick: Many people assume that being fair to their children means treating them equally. This often […]

Canadian Crop Outlook 2025: Prices, Yields, and Producer Margins

Over the past six months, grain and oilseed producers have faced a mix of challenges and opportunities. Global supply chain news, shifting U.S. trade policies, and unpredictable weather all played a role. Yet, prices have generally been stronger than expected. Since January’s outlook, crop margins have improved, although for many producers they remain close to […]

Second farm, distant location. Can it be done?

The following fictional case study was created by BDO. Brian and Louise knew from an early age that their children, Isaac and Emma, aspired to be the seventh generation of their family to farm. They also knew the existing operation was not large enough to support three families if both children chose to farm full time. […]

Farm KPIs: Key Performance Indicators for Successful Farm Management

Setting and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) is essential for long-term farm success. After all, you can’t manage what you don’t measure. How do you know if you’re on track if you haven’t defined your goals? Why KPIs Matter in Farm Management Start by defining what success means for you, your farm, your family, and […]

Discover the enhanced FCC Transition Loan

Financing for life’s big events Transition can be complex and looks different depending on your stage in life. If you’re getting started, growing your business or ready to move on, the Transition Loan has the flexibility to offer something for both buyers and sellers.   A win-win for buyer and seller As a seller, you […]

Farming with purpose: Embracing the CEO mindset

The CEO mindset isn’t just about decision-making; it’s about balancing priorities in personal and business life. This is essential for making farms more self-sufficient, says Evan Shout, CPA and CFO of Hebert Grain Ventures (HGV), a 40,000-acre grain and oilseed operation in Moosomin, Sask. With expertise rooted in both innovation and sustainability, Shout brings valuable […]