U Of C, Parks Canada Investigating Causes Of Algae

It’s nicknamed “rock snot,” and the University of Calgary is working with Parks Canada to learn more about this noxious algae’s origins and cause of growth. Leland Jackson, professor and associate head of grad studies in the department of biological sciences, discovered Didymosphenia geminata, also known as “didymo,” when he was conducting research on land […] Read more




Springtime Means Time For Rhubarb

Rhubarb is one of the first plants to come up in the garden. Keep these recipes handy to have available when it’s ready to pick. MARSHMALLOW RHUBARB DESSERT 3 c. sliced rhubarb 1/2 of a 3-oz. (85-g) pkg. strawberry jelly powder 1/3 c. honey 1/4 c. butter, softened 3/4 c. sugar 1 egg 1/2 tsp. […] Read more



Here’s what ours did to finance a trip to Wales

During October 2009 our youngest two children travelled to Wales for three weeks. They went alone and stayed with relatives while they were there and it was a fabulous experience for them in many ways. What made this trip extra special is that they earned the money for the trip completely on their own. My […] Read more


With Prairie-hardy varieties available now, these are not just for more moderate climates

Hydrangeas, those dramatic flowering shrubs once thought suitable only for more moderate climates, are now a Prairie garden staple. ANNABELLE Hydrangea arborescens Annabelle is an excellent, hardy variety. Its spectacular white drumstick blooms can measure from 10 to 14 inches across and more. Typically, Annabelle grows about three to five feet in height and blooms […] Read more

Get Ready For Spring

First! Allow me to begin with an expression of appreciation. Somehow thank you doesn’t seem nearly adequate, but I say it anyway. Many, many thanks to my phenomenal family of readers. Hundreds of you entered my Singing Gardener draws. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to those who provided prizes. A lot of readers […] Read more


Blaine Lake man receives plaque and ATV

Carl Riben of Blaine Lake was recognized as Canadian Operator of the Year by AGCO at the Canadian Association of Agri Retailers (CAAR) Convention and Trade Show in Regina in February. Riben began his crop-spraying career as an aerial applicator in 1996. The purchase of an agricultural aircraft provided Riben with an opportunity to apply […] Read more

Murals And Music From Mayerthorpe

Windi Scott and her pa r tne r, Lanc e Arn-ell, moved to a ranch in the May-erthorpe, Alberta area in 2007. It’s a long way from Manitoba where Scott grew up, and although she lived in the city she spent as much time as possible on her grandparents’ farm. She loved to ride horses […] Read more