A Message from Growing Alberta

As March arrives, a feeling of renewal begins. Perhaps it’s our farming roots. But the first sighting of a red robin usually turns our thoughts to the outdoors, specifically to our gardens. And just as farmers begin thinking about seeding their crops, the rest of us start itching to sink our spades deep into the dirt. This issue, we’ll help get you started on your dream garden with tips from those who make a living coaxing life out of the ground - Alberta farmers.

In fact, most of Alberta’s success is thanks to the bounty we bring forth from the ground, whether it’s crops or oil and gas. Most recently, the potential of biofuels has Albertans talking. What are they? What will they really mean for the environment? What do farmers and Albertans stand to gain by expanding our biofuel production? We look at this topic that has politicians, environmentalists and the agriculture sector buzzing.

And just like the new spring fashions, everything old is new again, and that includes ancient grains such as spelt, barley and Kamut. They’re gaining popularity and we’ll tell you why. As well, spring brings many celebrations, from Easter to Passover. We’ll help you cook up something different this year with our Spring Feasts -feature - even if you’re just eager to pull out the old barbecue.

Food For Thought has also begun the renewal process - we’re moving to four issues each year and adding more pages and more information on the people and processes that bring agriculture and food to your table. Count on finding Food For Thought in your local grocery store the first week of March, June, September and December. Look for more recipes, nutritional content and more profiles of those who work hard to provide us with safe and nutritious food.

And don’t forget to check out our contest. Send in a reader reply card or enter online at www.growingalberta.com for your chance to win an Alberta Canola Stir-Fry Kit.

Carolyn Stuparyk