12 THE CAAR COMMUNICATOR SEEDS 2024 Right now exciting things are on the horizon for the seed sector in the new year, and some of them could positively affect retailers. To help your customers become better prepared, here’s a forecast. Watch for the Results of a Major Soil Health Study Soil health is more important than ever, so much so that a senate committee is going across the country to study it. According to Canadian Senator Robert Black from Ontario—who is spearheading the country’s first national senate soil health study in 40 years—urbanization, pollution, and climate change are among the key factors contributing to the degradation of soils. “In the past, the importance of soil health and carbon sequestration was not as widely recognized as it is today. It’s imperative that the health of Canada’s soils is assessed and managed more comprehensively to ensure long-term sustainability,” Black stated. The discourse on soil health has evolved considerably over the past 40 years, Black said, adding that the discourse is creating more awareness of soil health within the ag community. “Back in the 1980s, the focus was primarily on traditional farming practices like summer fallowing. However, today, we’re witnessing the emergence of new technologies, products, and practices designed The world of seed technology: things to know for 2024 With science changing along with the seasons, we look at the world of seed technology, offering a forecast. By Marc Zienkiewicz, Senior Editor of Seed World Group In 2024, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency will issue new guidance on when plant-derived ingredients need a feed pre-market assessment. Canada’s approach could affect how fast new seed varieties come to market. Eugene Nekrasov/iStock/Getty Images Plus photo
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