The work of certified seed growers is challenging. In the magazine’s spring 2025 issue, GrainsWest introduced readers to three successful Alberta seed growing operations. In this episode of The GrainsWest Podcast, Trevor Bacque picks up where that story left off and talks with Larry Penner of Penwest Seeds about the variety registration system and innovation in seed genetics.
To read more about the work of Alberta seed growers, visit https://grainswest.com/
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21:54
Canadian agriculture’s short line manufacturers
In this episode, Trevor Bacque goes inside the Canadian short line equipment
industry, a sector led by enterprising farmers. While they represent a surprising
amount of economic activity, these relatively small, independent manufacturers are
a pivotal part of the farm equipment ecosystem.
For the digital edition of the story, please visit: https://grainswest.com/
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15:25
Malt magic and beautiful beer
In this episode, beer journalist Don Tess talks with Rob McCaig, a 42-year veteran of the beer industry and a technical expert on malt. McCaig has served as head brewer for some of the largest breweries in the world and as the executive director of the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre. He now works as a senior technical services advisor for First Key, a brewing and beverage industry consulting firm. McCaig is also a highly sought-after beer judge who was recently named head judge of the 2024 International Brewing and Cider Awards. He spoke with Don about his time in the industry, what makes a great malt and what makes great beer.
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36:28
Go with the flow: Efficient irrigation in dry times
Irrigated cereals farmer and distiller Lars Hirch and Margo Jarvis Redelback of the Alberta Irrigation Districts Association discuss efficient agricultural water use.
For the digital edition of the story, please visit: https://grainswest.com/
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27:40
Farm succession planning: experience and advice
An Alberta farmer who has recently completed a farm succession plan with his children offers advice and insight on the process.
New Zealand