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Fertilizer Canada: fertilizer supply for spring seeding secured

Of the possible concerns farmers will have this spring, the availability of fertilizer for spring seeding won’t be one of them. In a survey conducted last week, 90 per cent of Fertilizer Canada member companies that responded have enough product on hand or on the way to get fertilizer to their farmer customers.

“Our members are set to go. COVID-19 plans were quickly established at facilities, in conjunction with being declared an essential service, there was minimal disruption allowing businesses to operate at a normal capacity,” said Garth Whyte, president & CEO of Fertilizer Canada, in a press release. “Fertilizer manufacturers, distributors and agri-retailers are doing everything they can to keep their customers, suppliers and employees healthy and safe. The general view is: so far, so good.”

The industry remains optimistic despite COVID-19-related business concerns, including potential labor shortages, facility shutdowns and supply chain reliability. However, the vast majority of the industry believe this season will be normal, if not above average, in terms of fertilizer demand and crop production.

Ontario’s 4R certification numbers increase

Some good news for Ontario farmers on the nutrient management front: over the winter, the number of 4R-certified facilities in the province almost doubled.

Becoming a 4R-certified agri-retailer ensures that recommendations and applications follow the most up-to-date guidelines, and that science-based best management practices for sustainable on-farm nutrient management are applied. These practices optimize nutrient uptake to increase yields and economic returns while reducing nutrient run-off into watersheds and bodies of water near agricultural operations.

There are currently 16 Southwestern Ontario agri-retail facilities that have completed and passed the 4R Certification audit:

• AGRIS Co-operative (Cottam, Dutton, Stoney Point, Thamesville, Tupperville, Wheatley);
• FS PARTNERS (Ayr, Delhi, Drayton);
• Setteringtons (Cottam); and
• Sylvite Agri Services (Blenheim, Kent Bridge, Mitchell, Norwich, Putnam, Silverhill).

This program is administered by Fertilizer Canada. To learn more about 4R certification or to schedule an audit, visit 4rcertified.ca.