The Maine Mail Magazine Spring 2023

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CANADIAN MAINE-ANJOU ASSOCIATION

Canadian Maine-Anjou

Association

5160 Skyline Way NE Calgary, Alberta Canada T2E 6V1

phone: 403.291.7077

fax: 403.291.0274

email: cmaa@maine-anjou.ca

maine-anjou.ca

CMAA Board of Directors

PRESIDENT Stu Byman

VICE PRESIDENT Josie Pashulka

PAST VICE PRESIDENT Kody Roddick

TREASURER Jordan Retzlaff

DIRECTOR Justin VanDeWoestyne

DIRECTOR Myles Hansen

DIRECTOR Dave Perry

DIRECTOR Ron Gilbert

CMAA Sta

Herd Book & Data Services

Ciara Mattheis

O ce Hours

Tuesday & Wednesday 7am - 4pm

Publications Mail Agreement No. 44000520

Photo By Compass Creative

presidents report

Stu Byman

ello fellow Maine enthusiasts; I hope all is well. As I’m writing this, many of you have started calving, and bull sale season is well upon us. Now is the time, as breeders, to get those herd sire prospects out there to potential bull buyers. The Maine Mail is the perfect place to get bulls and your program out in front of customers. Every Maine Anjou breeder in Canada receives this publication, commercial breeders, along with many in the USA. Never has the future looked so favourable for the Maine Anjou breed and the commercial cattleman. Feedlot packers have really recognized the value of using Maine influence in their programs and their bottom lines. On the subject of the future, now is the time for the breed and breeders to focus and concentrate on where we have been, where we are, and where we want to keep going. Always strive to improve the breed and your herd by strictly culling and always offering your superior product to other seedstock producers. I always say, “don’t try selling something if you wouldn’t buy it yourself.”

As far as CMAA business, just a reminder, we have implemented that PHA and TH testing clean status is mandatory to register and sell bulls. This means you need to get your DNA sent in early so you can have those papers for sales and shows in a timely manner. Also, remember to transfer animals as soon as possible to avoid headaches for the new purchaser and yourself over the 60day fees.

We are coming off a successful fall show season, with Lindsey, Edmonton and Regina all having exceptional shows. Agribition Maine Anjou entry numbers were at a high from years past as we

Hhad quite a few first-time exhibitors. In addition, we had a very rewarding sale with cattle sold being spread across Canada and the USA. The excitement and buzz in the Maine breed is evident. Fellow breeders and older breeders are excited. Many breeders out of the breed are taking note and dabbling with Maine genetics either for the first time or are getting back in it because they see the demand and steam the Maines have. So, if you’re a Maine breeder or looking in on this breed, now is the time to get out and promote that herd of yours and even step out and get some new genetics.

In closing, I believe as breeders, we need to be a team and play as a team when promoting this great breed. If you don’t have something quite right for a customer, suggest another fellow breeder that might have that bull or female. They’ll probably return that favour in the future and avoid them going out of breed just for the convenience of being pointed in the right direction. To keep this breed rolling, we need to work together. All the best calving and best of luck bull marketing.

Team Maine Anjou, Stu Byman

herd book & data services report

Sitting down to write this, I am particularly thankful for our fantastic Membership. We have a strong group of Canadian breeders that continue to produce quality MaineAnjou animals and are always so welcoming

to those wanting to step foot into becoming involved with the breed. We have had several long-term breeders disperse their herds this fall in favour of retirement and we wish them all the best in the years to come and hope they will continue to stop by to visit at industry events as they have been a prevalent part of the Maine-Anjou fraternity for so many years.

This summer, we will be heading east for our Annual General Meeting and look forward to seeing some of our members from eastern Canada in their home area. Please keep an eye on emails and social media as we release more details of the AGM in the very near future.

We remind our members that it is crucial to test any Bulls or Donor Dams with carriers or TH or PHA on their pedigree to complete registrations and ensure eligibility of future offspring. TH/PHA tests are $40 and can be ordered through the association at the same time as SNP parentage and require no additional hair to be pulled on the

animal. Please see excerpt below regarding the policy within the bylaws.

In an effort to ensure commercial viability, the CMAA has decided to adopt a Genetic Defect Policy, regarding TH (Tibia Hemimelia) and PHA (Pulmonary Hypoplasia with Anasarca). Both TH and PHA are known lethal genetic defects that are present in the Maine-Anjou breed.

Any bull born on or after January 1, 2022 must be clean of both defects in order to be eligible for registration and granted a registration paper. This must be proven through a DNA test conducted through the CMAA or proven through parentage on file with the CMAA. Bulls who are proven to be carriers of either defect may still be recorded with the CMAA as a “commercial” animal, and their performance data used.

Females may still be registered regardless of their defect status.

Donor dams must have their defect status recorded with the CMAA, so that their defect status may be disclosed prior to the breeder marketing any frozen genetics from that animal.

Best regards,

Ciara Matthies Director of Herdbook and Data Services

Ciara Mattheis

Photo By Top Stock taken at Rosewood Colony

junior report

What a great fall we had in the Maine Anjou breed and for our juniors out promoting cattle during a terrific fall run of shows.

Congratulations to Taylor Reid on High Point Grand Champion Junior Show Female, Shae Noble on Reserve Champion Junior Show Female, Kylie Berner CMAA Word Essay Scholarship Winner, Riley Pashulka CMAA Video Scholarship Winner. Also thanks to Wilkenridge Stock Farms and Rusylvia Cattle for donating $500 sale credit as a Junior

Fundraiser. THANK You to Johnson Cattle and Grain - Patrick and Connie for purchasing the Junior Fundraiser lot at Agribition.

Our CMAA Calender was a success with all proceeds going to junior promotion. Thank you to all the advertisers in the Calender and if you are needing a copy please contact Ciara at the office.

Juniors keep on letting us know all the shows you attend as 2023 we will crown new High Point females at Agribition thanks for your enthusiasm and work promoting Maine genetics.

Perry Maine-AnjouFarm

Josie Pashulka

Josie Pashulka

Photo By Top Stock

MAINE BULL MAKES A MARK IN THE SHOW RING

MR. RUSYLVIA

WE DELIVER

We Deliver recieves champion banners in Canada and the USA

WHAT ARE ALL THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS WE DELIVER ACHIEVED THIS FALL IN THE SHOW RING?

Grand Champion AOB Bull at Olds Fall Classic

Grand Champion AOB Bull at Lloydminster Stockade Round Up

Grand Champion Maine Anjou Bull at Farmfair International

Grand Champion Maine Anjou Bull at Agribition

Top 4 in Stockade Bull Supreme

Top 10 in Agribition Bull Supreme

Reserve Champion Maine Anjou Bull at National Western Stock Show in Denver

WHAT IS THE GREATEST VALUE THAT WE DELIVER BRINGS TO THE TABLE FOR MAINE-ANJOU PRODUCERS, INCLUDING YOURSELVES?

Prediablity - backed by many generations of predictable genetics. Power in maternal strength and curve bending growth. Performance - testicle size, milking ability, weaning /yearling weights.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS WITH WE DELIVER?

Semen will be offered in Canada, USA and Australia. He will walk the pasture breeding some cows and hopefully go out in fall of 2023 on the show road.

junior scholarship

WINNERS

Essay Scholarship Winner Kylie Berner

I’m Kylie Berner a second-year student at the University of Saskatchewan working towards a Bachelor Degree in Crop Science. I grew up on a progressive commercial cow-calf ranch near Verwood, SK. From a young age I have been actively involved in its operation, while building my own Maine Anjou influenced cattle herd. My passion for agriculture and the livestock industry influences all aspects of my life including many of my extracurricular activities. I am a member of the U of S Beef Team, I have been an active 4-H Beef Club member for 14 years, and am on the Saskatchewan Maine Anjou Association board of directors. I have raised and shown Maine Anjou and Maine Anjou influenced cattle for the past 14 years. I would like to thank the Canadian Maine Anjou Association for supporting Maine Anjou juniors on our future endeavors.

Video Reel Schorlarship Winner Riley Pashulka

Riley Pashulka is from Derwent Alberta where he farms with his family Ken, Josie, Tyson and Taylor Pashulka of Rusylvia Cattle Co. Riley has shown Cattle since he was 8 years old and has his own herd of Angus, Simmental and Maine Anjou Cattle. Showing cattle has always been a passion of Rileys and he’s enjoyed a great junior career showing heifers and steers across western Canada in junior, jackpot and breed shows. He’s passionate about all aspects feeding, training and showing animals to their full potential. Riley also has an interesting in breeding cattle and has been AI cattle for 5 years with great results. He’s enjoyed participating in judging competitions across western Canada, Casper Wyoming and National Western Stock Show in Denver.

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

Peak Veterinary Health

WHAT LARGE ANIMAL SERVICES DOES PEAK VETERINARY HEALTH OFFER?

Peak vet health is a full service large animal clinic offering all clinical services in addition to our advanced reproductive services. We provide conventional embryo collections, Ultrasound guided oocyte pickup, in house in vitro fertilization laboratory, both on farm and in clinic embryo collections and transplants. We also offer sire services including owners use semen collection and breeding soundness evaluations. We have a recipient herd that is available for fall calving with a calf buy back program or pregnant recipient purchase available for spring recipients.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BOTH CONVENTIONAL FLUSHING AND YOUR IVF SERVICES?

Conventional flushing and IVF both have their specific places where they work. IVF has a few advantages over conventional flushing in that we can perform the procedure on pregnant cows up to 100 days, can be performed in older cows and very young heifers. In my opinion one of the largest advantages comes in the semen utilization. In our IVF lab we can utilize 1 straw of high quality semen to fertilize up to 5 donor cows. This can result in

a significant savings cost when compared to a conventional flush which will utilize two straws of semen per donor. Another major advantage of the IVF system is the timeline. We are able to start IVF donors as early as 30 days post calving which allows multiple collections prior to that cow needing to be bred back to stay on her yearly calving interval. This is a big advantage over the conventional flush as the conventional cows need to be a minimum of 50 days post calving prior to collection. In addition IVF donors can be collected every 2 weeks which allows us to build a large embryo bank on individual donors in a very short time span.

Peak Veterinary Health o ers all facets of advanced reproductive services, giving producers the best options to improve genetics within their herd.

“IN MY OPINION ONE OF THE LARGEST ADVANTAGES COMES IN THE SEMEN UTILIZATION. IN OUR IVF LAB WE CAN UTILIZE 1 STRAW OF HIGH QUALITY SEMEN TO FERTILIZE UP TO 5 DONOR COWS.”

Conventional flushing is still a very good option for producers that have an open cow and are not on a tight timeline to have the cow rebred. In vivo derived embryos are still the gold standard for highest conception rates. A fresh transfer of conventional flush embryos will yield the highest conception rate out of any embryo production practice.

WHAT BENEFITS CAN YOUR RECIPIENT HERD PROVIDE TO PRODUCERS INTERESTED IN EMBRYO TRANSFER?

Our recipient herd can offer many benefits to producers whether just getting started with embryo transfer or already having a ET program established in their herd. With our recipients we sell confirmed pregnancies so producers can guarantee that they are getting the genetics they want without having to deal with recipients in their own herd that fail to conceive to the embryo. Purchasing recipients from our herd gives producers peace of mind without

“IN VIVO DERIVED EMBRYOS ARE STILL THE GOLD STANDARD FOR HIGHEST CONCEPTION RATES. A FRESH TRANSFER OF CONVENTIONAL FLUSH EMBRYOS WILL YIELD THE HIGHEST CONCEPTION RATE OUT OF ANY EMBRYO PRODUCTION PRACTICE.”

having to own the animals or go through the work of having to synchronize their own animals. We provide a service that once we have the embryos we supply the pregnancies back.

WHAT STANDARDS AND EXPECTATIONS CAN PRODUCERS EXPECT WITH YOUR DONOR HOUSING FACILITIES?

In our donor housing facility producers can rest easy that their animals will be adequately cared for. Our facilities are always well kept with adequate bedding and shelter to ensure animals are as comfortable as possible. In our opinion nutrition and cow comfort play a large role in embryo production and therefore are forefront in our facility. In terms of health and overall production animals in our facility are looked at daily by one of our 6 veterinarians.

WHY SHOULD PRODUCERS CONSIDER USING PEAK VETERINARY HEALTH FOR ALL THEIR REPRODUCTIVE SERVICES?

Here at Peak we are very well aware of todays constraints on producers within the industry and therefore we strive to help producers make genetic gains within their herd in the most efficient and cost effective manor. Our clinic is able to offer all facets of advanced reproductive services that give producers the best options to improve genetics within their herd. With our mobile lab and in house laboratory we can meet all producers needs both in house and on farm providing even more flexibility. Having an In house IVF laboratory is a significant advantage that allows producers to have more flexibility in collection timing and semen decisions without dealing with shipping oocytes or semen in advance. Currently our IVF lab is operating at well above industry standard embryo development rates due to a high level of attention to detail and industry leading equipment. Producers can be sure that if they utilize Peak Veterinary Health we provide all options that will ensure we are able to produce valuable genetics from their animals.

“OUR CLINIC IS ABLE TO OFFER ALL FACETS OF ADVANCED REPRODUCTIVE SERVICES THAT GIVE PRODUCERS THE BEST OPTIONS TO IMPROVE GENETICS WITHIN THEIR HERD.”

to the family of Bently Lenard Gustafson our condolences

BENTLY LENARD GUSTAFSON 1962-2022

The family wishes to announce that Ben Gustafson, late of Macoun, SK passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Monday, October, 10, 2022 at the age of 60 years.

The life of Bently is celebrated by his wife, Wendy (nee Barnstable); mother, Alice Gustafson; children, son, Benjamin (Jayelle) Gustafson and their children, Farrah and Benaiah; son, Joshua (Stacey) Gustafson and their children, Gideon, Finn, and London; daughter, Rebecca (Josiah) Anderson and their children, Ivy, Abigail, and Zion; brother Terry Gustafson; sister Bona-Jean (Bill) Ashbee; sister-in-law Joanne “Joni” Gustafson; sister-inlaw Sandra (Mick) Merkley; brother-in-law Kim (Karen) Barnstable; sister-in-law Sherilyn (Wade) Peters; uncles and aunts; nieces and nephews and many cousins.

Bently was predeceased by father Lenard Gustafson; brother Jerry Gustafson; father-in-law Raymond Barnstable and mother-in-law Helene Barnstable.

A night of public Viewing/Worship was held on Tuesday, October 18, 2022, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. at the Macoun Evangelical Missionary Church, Macoun, SK and the Celebration of Ben’s Life was held on Wednesday, October 19, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Charlie Bowen presiding. Interment followed at the Macoun Cemetery, after which a time of lunch and reminiscing was held at the church.

If friends so desire, donations may be given to Macoun Evangelical Missionary Church, P.O. Box 65 Macoun SK S0C 1P0 in loving memory of Ben Gustafson.

to the family of Glenn Munro Davidson our condolences

GLENN MUNRO DAVIDSON 1934-2022

Glenn Munro Davidson, born January 2, 1934 at the farm ten miles north of Cabri, SK, three months premature with no doctor in a snow storm. So the 3lb Glenn was wrapped in cotton and laid in Grandpa’s size 8 shoe box and placed in the warming oven of the wood stove until strong enough to survive two proud parents Walter and Bertha, and passed away January 14, 2023.

Glenn was a true farm kid, always had a horse and a herd of cows. He rode the South Saskatchewan River hills as a youngster. Known as a hard worker from a young age, Glenn milked cows and sold cream when still in school and drove the school van his Grade 12 year. After graduation he went to work in the then fledgling oil patch for Mobil Oil and was part of the crew that built the very first oil batteries at Fosterton and Cantuar. And it was his job that brought him a little further south to Gull Lake where he met the love of his life Irene at a local dance and shared their love of dancing for years to come. They were married in February 1955 and moved from oil camps in the summer to town in the winter until they purchased the farm south of the town of Antelope. This became home for the next 51 years. Glenn raised cattle and farmed, with the best part of farming being haying season. But mostly it was the cattle that had his heart, there were several breeds that came and went including a herd of purebred Shorthorn cows that would become the base for an eventual herd of Maine Anjou cattle. It was the big red and white cows that were his passion. He became noted for his polled Maine Anjou cattle and at one point had the largest herd of Fullblood Maine Anjou cattle in Canada. He starting AI’ing in 1969 and imported a Fullblood cow from France in 1973. He was on the board of directors for the Canadian MaineAnjou Association and was a long time participant and volunteer for the Canadian Western Agribition. His love for his cows was passed on to his family especially grandson Jordan who now has his own herd of Maine Anjou cows. Glenn also liked to pass on his wealth of knowledge and was a 4-H Beef leader for many years, first with the Gull Lake Club, then the Antelope Lake Club when Debbie, Doug and Tim were members and lastly as a light horse leader when Dianne was a member of the Foothills 4-H Club.

In 2006 Glenn and Irene “retired”, they actually traded places with Steve and Dianne so the workload would be lighter as he only had to worry about the bulls every day. Then is 2010 they made the move into Gull Lake, Glenn’s body had decided he needed to slow down a little more, all those years of horse wrecks and his farming “accidents” had caught up with him. But it did give him the opportunity to watch hours of curling on TV. And to travel to many of the local rodeos as he was a big fan. He still travelled to the farm most days, but more to check in and visit and make sure things were still getting done!

Glenn is survived by his wife of 67 years Irene (Logan) and his four children: Debbie (Jack Fenwick), Doug (Jo Ann), Tim (Deb), Dianne (Steve Retzlaff), nine grandchildren: Erin Fenwick, Jason (Ashten) Fenwick; Kellie Jo Davidson, Kendal (Ken Pettyjohn) and Sharmon (Ray Becker); Brandon Davidson and Tyler (Tonya) Davidson; Jordan (Montana Gammel) Retzlaff and Travis (Becky Newby) Retzlaff; and seventeen great-grandchildren. Glenn is also survived by his brother Lee (Sharon), brother-in-law Ron Schultz, sister-in-law Linda Logan and many nieces and nephews. A celebration of Glenn’s life will be held at a later date. The family is asking that any donations be made to the Gull Lake Ambulance Service or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

CANADIAN CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION

presidents report

Nathan Phinney

Last year ended on a very difficult note. The Canadian cattle community lost a tremendous leader, mentor, and friend, with the sudden passing of Reg Schellenberg, President of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA).

Reg’s leadership and passion for our industry will be missed around the board table and at industry meetings and events. He cared about issues and worked hard for the betterment of our industry. His goal was to leave a vibrant industry for the generations to come. His legacy and contributions will be felt for many years.

I chatted daily with Reg about CCA priorities and life on our home operations. I learned a lot from Reg and his gentle demeanor and strong character are qualities that I looked up to. I never imagined that this is how I would become CCA President. But I share the same passion as Reg for our cattle industry and it is an honour for me to lead an organization with such a strong and rich history. It’s important to me and our entire board that we move forward on the important work that CCA undertakes on behalf of cattle producers across Canada. We will be a strong voice on the issues that matter the most. Our board members and staff are committed to making positive things happen for our industry.

As we move into 2023, there are bright spots for our industry. We are experiencing high calf prices

and we have a strong trade position with exports of Canadian beef at record levels for the sixth year in a row. The challenge now is having enough beef to meet the demand. Simply put: the world needs more Canadian beef.

Last November saw the announcement of the Indo-Pacific Strategy, which is good news for the Canadian beef industry. It prioritizes trade and agriculture, and includes key recommendations shared by CCA. The investment in Minister-led trade missions will help facilitate long-term trade and investment opportunities, while the opening of an agricultural office in the region will help prevent and resolve non-tariff barriers proactively and quickly.

The Indo-Pacific region holds the greatest potential for market growth and diversification for our industry, with a growing middle class, GDP, and food consumption. About 20 per cent of Canada’s beef exports are destined for the IndoPacific market, with the top five markets being Japan, Mainland China, South Korea, Vietnam, and Hong Kong. Diversifying our trade supports the future of our producers. CCA continues to collaborate with the Government in seeking new market opportunities for Canadian beef in the Indo-Pacific region.

The release of the next federal budget is around the corner and with the Winter Session of Parliament back in session, CCA will keep up advocacy efforts on our key budget recommendations which will help ensure growth and innovation in our sector.

These recommendations include:

FOOT AND MOUTH VACCINE BANK

For the livestock sector, the threat of Foot and

Mouth Disease (FMD) is serious and would have devastating consequences on the Canadian beef industry and our economy. FMD is a highly contagious viral infection of cloven-hoofed animals including cattle, pigs, and sheep. Canada remains FMD-free, but as an industry we cannot be complacent.

An investment by the Government of Canada in a Canadian FMD vaccine bank is a critical component in preventing catastrophic losses to the sector and the broader Canadian economy should FMD occur in our country. The projected annual cost to maintain the vaccine bank is $3.2-4 million including potency and licensing testing. The potential impact of an FMD outbreak in Canada is estimated at $50 to $60 billion. Together, with our provincial counterparts across the country, we continue to call on the federal government to invest in this critical infrastructure.

ECONOMIC RESILIENCE

With cattle farmers and ranchers facing market driven risks and uncertainty to due to extreme weather, tools are needed to help mitigate these risks. We have recommended two actions with significant potential to help foster economic resilience in our sector: providing funding to Livestock Price Insurance (LPI) and making amendments to Livestock Tax Deferral (LTD) provision under the Income Tax Act.

LPI allows cattle producers to reduce market downside for their cattle; helping manage uncertainty and risk. This is especially important for our young cattle producers who don’t have

equity built up to access loans. With lending institutions recognizing this program, it puts young people in a better position to borrow the money they need to maintain and grow their operations. The program can also be enhanced through Government partnership on the cost sharing of premiums. This would result in higher enrollment levels and would establish program equity with other commodities and our American counterparts. Lastly, we are still pushing to have this program be available to more producers across Canada.

We have also seen our fair share of extreme weather in the last number of years. Having the ability to access the LTD provision gives producers in designated regions who sell part of their breeding herd due to extreme weather the ability to defer a portion of those proceeds to the following year. To increase the impact of the provision, CCA recommends that producers be given the ability to self-elect rather than rely on a geographic determination to access this provision. This would help producers making difficult decisions during urgent times of need. Lastly, we are requesting an amendment to the definition of “breeding animals,” cited in the Act, so it includes all classes of cattle and not just the breeding herd.

All the best for a healthy and successful year,

Nathan Phinney CCA President

Photo By Top Stock taken at Deagle Cattle Co.

Submitted By Josie Pashulka

The Alberta board hosted its first in person meeting in several years at the end of November. The new board is as follows:

President- Bryan Zimmer

Secretary- Keltey Whelan

Treasurer- Melanie Barkley

Past President -Kevin Shuckburgh

Vice President- Bob Stenberg

Director-Josie Pashulka

The board was excited to see the show turn out at Farmfair International and will be focusing on that show and possibly some other events in 2023.

NEWS NEWS

Alberta Saskatchewan

Josie Pashulka

As everyone is busy with or getting ready for calving I hope you are all having a good winter so far. After being a part of the excitement and the success of the Maine-Anjou show and sale at Agribition I hope all of you exhibitors and enthusiasts are feeling proud of the strong display of high quality Maine cattle that were in Regina. With one of the biggest shows in recent years, and many new exhibitors attending, the SMAA would like to thank and congratulate all of the breeders on an outstanding show, sale, and jackpot. Once again it seems the barn was busy and a lot of notice was being taken of the breed, so hats off to all of you for contributing to this positivity within the Maine-Anjou breed. We also

Submitted By Myles Hansen

want to acknowledge all of the Maines on the Plains consignors and buyers, the SMAA took on the role of sale management and we are pleased with the support the sale received and thankful to everyone who pitched in to help things run smoothly.

We are looking forward to a new year of cattle shows beginning soon and always excited for so many junior and 4-H members exhibiting and promoting Maine-Anjou cattle, once again a reminder if you have a 4-H champion please contact the SMAA to claim your swag.

Myles Hansen

Ontario

Submitted By Dave Perry

Several Ontario breeders will have Maine bulls available for purebred and commercial beef breeders this spring. Gilcroft Maines have bulls on test in Manitoba and Nova Scotia. Perry Maine Anjou have bulls on test in Ontario and Nova Scotia and there are others breeders who have farm raised bulls . Calving season is well upon us, we are getting a glimpse of what new genetic packages that we will have to work with during our summer show season . We will be hosting the Canadian Maine Anjou 2023 AGM this summer, please plan to attend, we will have some interesting events and sites to visit. The Ontario Maine Anjou association in conjunction with Gilcroft maines will once again have our annual fall sale. Todays Maine Anjou bulls are

genetically designed to produce highly desired top quality calves in commercial beef herds and AAA carcasses from feedlots. Here’s hoping everyone has a successful calving season and bull sale season.

Dave Perry

CANADIAN BEEF IMPROVEMENT NETWORK

Elevating the Importance of Genetics in the Beef Production

Sandy Russell

022 was an extremely busy and exciting year for the Canadian Beef Breeds Council as we worked to focus on our key priorities for the organization and ultimately drive value for our members by advancing the importance of genetics within the Canadian beef industry. We were thrilled to see a large number of our members, industry partners and stakeholders gather for our Annual General Meeting on November 28 at Canadian Western Agribition in Regina where we were able to reflect on the progress that had been made and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead.

At our 2021 Annual General Meeting we outlined four key priority areas for CBBC. Those priorities were:

1. strengthening the financial standing of CBBC long term;

2. advancing membership value and growth;

3. elevating industry engagement; and

4. driving the Canadian Beef Improvement Network (CBIN).

We have worked hard to deliver tangible results in relation to these key priority areas and were pleased to report our achievements in relation to these priorities and acknowledged the work that still lies ahead. Along with the traditional reports, we were able to showcase the progress made on the CBIN initiative and have Dr. Steve Miller, Director of AGBU from Australia provide a thought-provoking presentation reminding us the value of genetics in beef cattle production to a large room of CBBC members and industry stakeholders.

2During the AGM the CBBC members also confirmed their support for the current focus of our leadership on the aforementioned priorities and the work being done to achieve results for the membership by re-electing the Board of Directors for 2023. As a result, we are pleased to report that our 2023 CBBC Board of Directors are as follows:

David Sibbald - Chair

Marlin Leblanc – Co-Vice Chair

Shawn Wilson – Co-Vice Chair

Kevin Blair

Ken Friesen

Amanda Matthews

Graham McLean

Rod McLeod

Hal Nixdorff

Scott Severtson

Dennis Serhienko

Brett Wildman

Throughout the past year these directors have provided invaluable direction and considerable time to achieving the vision of CBBC and its initiatives. I look forward to continuing to work with this diverse group of leaders in the industry to achieve further outcomes for our members and continue to elevate the recognition of the role that genetic advancement plays in the overall success of the Canadian beef industry.

Throughout the past year, the CBIN initiative has been the focus of much of our work and continues to advance rapidly. As we have outlined on several occasions, the following four-step development plan for CBIN remains our overarching goal:

1. BUILD THE DATA FOUNDATION

Build an operational system that will standardize data collection amongst participating Breed Associations;

2. FACILITATE DATA LINKAGES

Develop a cross-sector genetic data hub that will facilitate linkages of genetic data to traditional production metric;.

3. TRANSLATE DATA

Create the analytical resources to assist in the translation of genetic data into informed decisions that allow increased value capture from conception to consumption; and

4. DRIVE ADOPTION

Advance the understanding of the value of genetic data incorporation and resource utilization across the entire beef production system.

With this broad vision in mind, we will be able to provide genetic information and analytical tools that will help capture the full value of genetics across the entire beef production chain.

Those in attendance at our AGM were able to see first-hand the new registry portal that is being developed. The new system was met with very positive feedback, much excitement for what has been accomplished through the collaborative effort and hard work of many and anticipation for the opportunities that the system will provide for our members. With the first stage of development advancing, we are shifting our focus to facilitating the data linkages that will truly capture value across the entire industry. The leadership from within our CBIN Advisory Panel, along with our CBBC Board of Directors continues to drive for success through focused advancements in CBIN. While we know the task ahead is large and there will be bumps in the road along the way, collectively we continue to make strides forward in achieving that broad vision.

Often it feels as though there isn’t much we can control in the beef industry but with the right information and resources there are things within our control that will generate increased value within our individual businesses and at the broader industry level. Genetic selection decisions are one of those things. The importance of genetics in the beef business has often been minimized or even forgotten altogether at times

but CBBC has worked hard recently to shift the conversation and raise the awareness of the value that genetics offers to our industry. While changes and advancements seldom occur overnight, we hope you have started to see some of the fruits of our labour with genetics being discussed around more tables and being part of the solutions for success in the Canadian beef industry. The seedstock sector has a large role to play in driving value in beef production and through the collaborative effort of CBIN we are collectively building the resources to allow the Canadian beef industry to fully capture the value of genetics. The work ahead is substantial but so too are the opportunities. CBBC members, stakeholders and members believe the reward is worth the investment.

Sandy Russell

Canadian Beef Breeds Council, CEO

Photo By Top Stock taken at Deagle Cattle Company Ltd.

douglas bull test report

Submitted by Doug Kerr

The 2022-2023 bull test began with deliveries in early October. In the regular test there are120 bulls and 38 heifers. Breeds represented are Angus, Hereford, Limousin, , Maine-Anjou, Shorthorn, and Simmental. For the younger aged bulls born after April1/2022, they were at the station by Nov.23 with on test weights taken Dec.23 +24. Off test for the young bulls will beApril15+16 2023.

The younger bull group from last year born after April1 2021are back at the test station as of early January There will be 8 or 9 of these bulls in the sale MARCH 25. Breeds represented are MaineAnjou, Simmental and shorthorn.

Getting back to the main group of bulls 84 day weights were taken Jan.21.

• off test weights will be Feb. 18+19

• ultrasound test the week of Feb.27.

• Pictures mid February. Catalogues should be out by end of first week in March.

• Semen testing the week of March 18.

• SALE DAY is MARCH 25/2023.

The sale will be broadcast again this year on DLMS. For more information visit our website. www.manitobabulltest.com Or call station manager Cody Nolan cell# 204-573-4006 test station# 204 763-4696.

Photo By Top Stock taken at Rosewood Colony

business card directory

GILCROFT FARMS FALL SALE

November 19, 2022

Campbellford, ON

SALE TO AVERAGE $2,557 FOR 36 LOTS

4 Fullblood Heifer Calves Gross $9,300 Average $2,325

10 Fullblood Bred Heifers Gross $38,300 Average $3,830

8 Purebred Heifer Calves Gross $11,248 Average $1,406

10 Purebred Bred Heifers Gross $25,050 Average $2,505

HIGH SELLING LOTS

Lot 12 Cornerstone Ellen 1E Sold for $8,000

Lot 10 Cornerstone Ellen 5E Sold for $6,000

Lot 11 Cornerstone Amy 6A Sold for $4,100

*Cattle sold to New Brunswick , Ontario , Saskatchewan , Alberta , Michigan and Texas

MAINTOU MAINE-ANJOU SALE

December 7, 2022

Marsden, SK

HIGH SELLING LOTS

Bred Heifer Sold for $6,100

Open Heifer Sold for $6,000

Bull Calf Sold for $5,000

*Cattle sold into 4 US states, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta

MAINES ON THE PLAINS SALE

November 30, 2022

Canadian Western Agribition

SALE TOTAL $125,950 TO AVERAGE $5,900 (Live Lots) & $2,081 (Frozen Lots)

3 Bull Calves Gross $22,250 Average $7,417

1 Bred Heifer Gross $5,000 Average $5,000

11

12

Heifer Calves Gross $61,250 Average $5,568

Semen Lots Gross $14,900 Average $1,242

4 Embryo Lots Gross $16,050 Average $4,013

2 Flush Lots Gross $6,500 Average $3,250

HIGH SELLING LOTS

Bull Calf Sold for $9,000 to Fahey Cattle Co. Ltd & Cornerstone Land & Cattle

Heifer Calf Sold for $12,750 to Carpathian Land & Livestock

Photo By ShowChampions

FARMFAIR INTERNATIONAL SHOW RESULTS

1. GRAND CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co & the We Deliver Syndicate

2. GRAND CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co

3. RESERVE CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle

4. RESERVE CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Carpathian Land & Livestock

5. GRAND CHAMPION PERCENTAGE MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co

6. CHAMPION PERCENTAGE MAINE-ANJOU HEIFER CALF

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co

7. CHAMPION PERCENTAGE YEARLING MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Shae Noble

8. RESERVE CHAMPION PERCENTAGE YEARLING MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Carpathian Land & Livestock

9. RESERVE CHAMPION PERCENTAGE MAINE-ANJOU HEIFER CALF

Congratulations to Carpathian Land & Livestock

Judge Kasey Phillips Photography Showchampions

SHOW RESULTS SHOW RESULTS

Judge Craig Wilgenbusch

Photography Bella Spur

NATIONAL WESTERN STOCK SHOW

Judge Je Bedwell

Photography Legacy Livestock Imaging

1. GRAND CHAMPION AOB BULL Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co & the We Deliver Syndicate

2. GRAND CHAMPION AOB FEMALE Congratulations to Shae Noble

1. GRAND CHAMPION OPEN MAINE-ANJOU BULL Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co & the We Deliver Syndicate

CANADIAN WESTERN AGRIBITION

Judge Chase & Alana Miller

Photography Showchampions

1. GRAND CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co & the We Deliver Syndicate

2. GRAND CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co

3. RESERVE CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle

4. RESERVE CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Bluesky Maines

5. GRAND CHAMPION PERCENTAGE

MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co

6. RESERVE CHAMPION PERCENTAGE

MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Lucky Springs Farms

7. CHAMPION PERCENTAGE MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Taylor Reid

8. RESERVE CHAMPION PERCENTAGE

MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE

Congratulations to Cliffs Farm

9. CHAMPION PERCENTAGE MAINE-ANJOU HEIFER CALF

Congratulations to Lucky Springs Farms

10. RESERVE CHAMPION PERCENTAGE

MAINE-ANJOU HEIFER CALF

Congratulations to Lucky Springs Farms

11. MAINE ATTRACTION JACKPOT CHAMPION HEIFER CALF

Congratulations to Carpathian Land & Livestock

12. MAINE ATTRACTION JACKPOT RESERVE CHAMPION HEIFER CALF

Congratulations to Lucky Springs Farms

13.RESERVE CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU HEIFER CALF

Congratulations to Carpathian Land & Livestock

14. CHAMPION COMMERCIAL FEMALE

CWA JUNIOR SHOW & CHAMPION BRED & OWNED FEMALE CWA JUNIOR SHOW

Congratulations to Taylor Reid

15.RESERVE CHAMPION COMMERCIAL FEMALE CWA JUNIOR SHOW

Congratulations to Carpathian Land & Livestock

16. RESERVE CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE CWA JUNIOR SHOW

Congratulations to Bluesky Maines

17. CHAMPION PAIR OF PERCENTAGE MAINE-ANJOU BULLS

Congratulations to Lucky Springs Farms

18. CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU FEMALE & CHAMPION MAINE-ANJOU BULL

Congratulations to Rusylvia Cattle Co

TOP GENETICS

“These new genetics mixed in with several proven vintage bloodlines featured in reputable heards across Canada have provided options

Maine Anjou heard from Commercial to Fullblood.”

BULLS & HEIFERS

JOE, STEPHANIE, ABBEY & GARY DOBSON

maine sales

1 7 25 25 30

March

RUSYLVIA CATTLE CO BULL SALE

March 1, 2023

At the Farm Derwent, AB

VANDY CATTLE BULL SALE

March 7, 2023

Online with SCOnline

DOUGLAS BULL TEST

March 25, 2023

Manitoba Bull Test Station & Online with DLMS

CANDIAC CHOICE BULL SALE

March 25, 2023

Candiac, SK

THE MAINE DIFFERENCE BULL SALE

March 30, 2023

At the Farm Veteran, AB

Photo By Top Stock taken at Deagle Cattle Co.

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CANADIAN MAINE-ANJOU ASSOCIATION

Publisher & Creative Director

Compass Creative

Madison Sibbald

mainemagazine@gmail.com

587-581-2625

Upcoming Issue

Fall Issue

Book By September 1

Materials By September 8

Camera Ready September 22

Published October 1

Contributors

We Deliver

Rusylvia Cattel Co

Industry Spotlight

Peak Veterinary Health

CCA Report

Nathan Phinney

CBBC Report

Sandy Russell

Photo By Compass Creative

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for another great sale in 2022! anks to all the buyers, bidders and spectators that helped to make our sale a great success. Also a special thank you to e DeNure Family at Hoards Station Salesbarn as well as DLMS for their online support and the consigners as well. Cattle sold to New Brunswick, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta, Michigan and Texas.