Agronomists and agri-retailers who attended the Crop Management Forum on November 17 left with new insights into efficient nutrient practices. For many attendees, the CAAR-hosted event also delivered a better understanding of an evolving industry.

“It’s been very interesting and informative,” said Wendy Schatz Leeds, lead agronomist for Sharpe’s Soil Services in Saskatchewan. “The presentation quality is different to what I’ve typically seen – the subjects covered have been very good, and different.”

The event, held at the Royal Oak Inn & Suites in Brandon, Manitoba, featured presentations by experts in the fields of precision agriculture, sediment fingerprinting and nutrient stewardship. Attendees earned continuing education units (CEUs) towards their CCA and CCSC certifications. 

Ward Anticura, field advisor for Enns Brothers, was eager to use the information learned at the forum to better serve his customers. “In the sediment presentation, I found it very interesting that a low amount of sediment is coming off the fields; that much of it is coming from the water channel,” he said. “That was good information that I’m going to take back to my customers.”

The forum also highlighted a program that aims to help agri-retailers improve efficiencies and bottom lines for producers, while focusing on a sustainable and transparent operation that will address consumer concerns. 

Fertilizer Canada’s 4R Nutrient Stewardship program combines detailed agronomic data measurement and specialized application practices with a view to responsible nutrient stewardship and sustainable agriculture.

David Thomas, general manager for Parrish & Heimbecker Ltd., in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, saw value in the traceability that nutrient stewardship provides. Says Thomas: “I think there’s a need from the consumer’s point of view to understand where the products come from, to know that the farmer cares. And farmers do care.”

“I think the 4R Designation will grow in acceptance,” Thomas said. “There is definitely a demand for this knowledge. I think it will be good for all involved.”

Crop Management Forum attendees earned credits towards their 4R Agronomist or 4R Retailer Designations, which will enable them to pass the knowledge about nutrient stewardship on to their customers, and certify 4R Designation to their acres.

More information on the 4R Nutrient Stewardship Program can be found here.

For information about CAAR’s next training event, contact Lisa Beardsley at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.