Smart algorithms can optimize and steer climate, irrigation and energy in daily operations of greenhouses. A January 28 webinar delves into how artificial intelligence can reduce dependency on human expertise in controlled environments. 

The Cool Climate and Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) returns with 10 speakers on cutting-edge research from grape and wine industry experts.

Syngenta Canada has announced key additions to the Miravis fungicide lineup.  This is news pertinent to diverse horticultural crops such as potatoes, strawberries and highbush blueberries.

Robert Van Der Geest becomes general manager for Nature Fresh Farms Mexico  leading operations of a 15-acre pepper greenhouse in the central region of the country. Another 15 acres are under construction. 

While the live event is cancelled, the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention is hosting an educational virtual series for growers from January 7 through March 22.  Pre-registration is required.

Starting January 20, applications will be accepted for a cost-share program to improve soil health and reduce nutrient losses in the Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair watersheds.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture is partnering with the University of Guelph-Ridgetown Campus Business Development Centre to offer an online training program for workers new to the agricultural sector. 

More details have been released on testing requirements for temporary foreign workers arriving in Canada. Those from Mexico and Jamaica, as well as some Caribbean, Central American and South American countries, can use tests conducted within 96 hours of departure, instead of 72 hours, until January 14.

In a new twist, some of America’s largest blueberry growers are insisting that there is no injury to the industry when most imports arrive outside the domestic growing season of late April to early September. The coalition went public a week before the U.S. International Trade Commission looks at the case on January 12.