E-Newsletter: July 30, 2021

E-Newsletter 2021 drought-stressed crop dsfsfa grazing can be toxic … Nitrates!

An update from MBP July 30, 2021

mbbeef.ca

By: Ray Bittner, Livestock Predation Lead

With the extreme dryness experienced by many Manitoba farmers in 2021 there is a temptation to cut costs and utilize drought-damaged crops by grazing. While grazing is the cheapest form of harvest, caution should be taken before releasing the cows. Annual crops and certain weeds which have wilted or started drying off above ground can have devastating levels of nitrates in the stem which will be ingested by grazing cows.

lethal because the stomach bacteria don’t grow accustomed to the higher levels of nitrates.

Generally less than 0.5% N03 nitrate is considered safe or usable, but with drought damaged crop levels of 3.0 and greater have been detected this year.

Harvesting as dry hay or silage and strategically feeding in winter time as a small part of the animal’s ration might be the only way to save this valuable feed, and using it in a prudent safe way.

Nitrates in crops cause blood to carry less oxygen and can vary from droopy and weak cows to dead cows. It all depends on the level of nitrates consumed and the total amount of nitrates consumed.

Most years nitrates due to dryness is not a problem but 2021 dryness is indeed causing some of these high levels so you should test your nitrate levels prior to grazing or harvest.

Where the greatest problem arises is with beef cows which are hungry and are allowed access to a crop field.

The crop field may be stunted and the plants small, but it is an absolute all-you-can-eat buffet for the first hours and days. That influx of feed and accordingly nitrates can be

For more information you can find a factsheet at the following location: https://www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/livestock/beef/nitratepoisoning.html

See pages 3-9

DROUGHT INFORMATION

RESOURCES &

For reliable information and resources please visit:

McDonald's Meets Customers in a Suddenly Digital World - QSR Magazine Tightening up the digital safety network on the farm - Manitoba Co-operator

Information for Producers Affected by the Drought Conditions Last updated July 30, 2021 Manitoba Beef Producers has compiled the following information which may be useful to producers facing extreme dryness and drought conditions on their farms and ranches. MBP continues to engage in discussions with the provincial and federal governments about measures needed to assist producers in dealing with these serious challenges.

Resources for Sourcing Feed or Pastures Farmers and producers have several options when it comes to listing available hay and straw, and for buying hay, straw and alternative feeds. By no means is this list exhaustive and we encourage you to share other avenues for listing and buying with Manitoba Beef Producers, so that we can share them with our members.

Manitoba Government Hay Listing Service The Manitoba Hay Listing Service provides an inventory of hay and alternative feed for sale and pasture for rent. If you have hay, alternative feed, or pasture land for sale or rent contact an ARD and MASC Service Centre to have your listing added.

Social Media/Buy and Sell Sites There are a number of social media and buy/sell sites that provide hay, straw and alternative feed sourcing options: Kijiji Manitoba eBrandon Classifieds Manitoba Hay & Feed for Buy/Sell Hay / Feed For Sale in Saskatchewan, Alberta & Manitoba Internet Hay Exchange Other social media avenues including Twitter also feature hay for sale across the province, however that exchange needs to occur on a user to user basis.

MFGA Hay Relief Website Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association has a hay relief page. See https://www.mfga.net/hay-relief

Manitoba Agriculture Resources for Producers Affected by Dry Conditions Manitoba Agriculture’s Livestock page also has several tools and resources for dry conditions. It covers topics such as: early weaning of calves during periods of drought; the economics of creep feeding beef calves on pasture; stretching feed when supplies are tight; alternative feeds for beef cattle; straw as an alternative roughage source for wintering beef cows; and feed testing, among others.

See: https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/livestock/index.html Dry Conditions and Livestock • Harvesting Annual Crops for Greenfeed or Silage • Forages - Considerations & Planning for Dry Conditions on Pasture (Beef & Forage bulletin) • Annual Forages for Greenfeed, Silage & Fall Grazing (Croptalk May 5, 2021) • Annual Crops an Excellent Way to Increase Feeding Flexibility • Managing Nitrate Contaminated Feeds • Rotational Grazing • Improving Forage Establishment • Managing Spring Grazing • Dugout Management and Water Quality • Pasture Watering Systems • Providing Water on Pasture • Spring Grazing • Planned Grazing - Video • Planned Grazing - (Stocktalk, March 18, 2021) • Managing your Pastures and Rangeland during Dry Conditions • Drought Management Strategies (BCRC) • Summer Seeding For Forages (OMAFRA) • Beware of toxic plants in pastures (Canadian Cattlemen. The Beef Magazine Dec 5, 2018) Putting Crops to Alternate Use (MASC) • The current hot and dry conditions are a major challenge for grain and cattle producers in Manitoba.

One option is to convert annual crops to livestock feed. The AgriInsurance program provides flexibility for producers to put their crop to alternate use during the growing season. Alternate use means a change to the use of a crop from what was originally intended when planting in the spring. For example, if a producer indicated on their Seeded Acreage Report that they were growing oats for grain but choose to cut it for greenfeed instead, this would be considered alternate use. If producers are considering putting a crop to alternate use (i.e. silage, greenfeed, grazing) for their own use or someone else's, contact an ARD and MASC Service Centre for more information.

• Alternative Crop Use Notice (Frequently Asked Questions) Farm Management • Farm management resources are available to help in determining the value of straw or a crop harvested as silage or greenfeed. Decision making tools can also assist livestock producers in weighing their options in managing a forage shortfall.

• Cost of Production guides are available for different grain and silage crops.

• The Straw Cost Calculator can help determine the NPK dollar value of the straw as a crop fertilizer.

• The Forage Purchase Calculator provides a method of comparing the pricing for baled forages and piled silage. This calculator takes into account different moistures and adding in the cost of freight to see what feed purchase is more economical after freight is factored in.

• The Managing Low Forage Supplies Calculator estimates the forage needed for the herd based on animal category and weight, and identifies the shortfall. It identifies 8 different potential rations to fill the shortfall on a least cost basis that help decide the economics of buying greenfeed compared to hay, straw, and other alternatives.

Contracts and Leases The resources below provide a starting point for farmers as they develop agreements for use in their businesses. The samples are intended for general information purposes only. Please seek legal advice when entering into agreements.

Sample agreements • Cash Lease Agreement PDF (184 KB) or MS Word (127 KB) • Crop Share Lease Agreement PDF (251 KB) or MS Word (132 KB) • Cow-Calf Share Lease Agreement PDF (223 KB) or MS Word (119 KB) • Custom Cattle Feeding Agreement PDF (208 KB) or MS Word (122 KB) • Custom Pasture Agreement PDF (200 KB) or MS Word (114 KB) • Flexible Cash Lease Agreement PDF (193 KB) or MS Word (135 KB) • Pasture Cash Lease Agreement PDF (179 KB) or MS Word (130 KB)

Water-Related Resources BMP 503 and Water Source Development Cost-shared funding is provided through the Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas beneficial management practice (BMP 503) under the Ag Action Manitoba Program with respect to water source development. Eligible items include: • water source development – constructing new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts; • solar, wind or grid-powered alternative watering systems; • permanent fencing to restrict livestock access to surface water and dugouts; and • permanent pipeline development.

Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1 are eligible. Projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. CST on September 1, 2021. Applications can include retroactive expenses incurred as of April 1. Upon project completion, applicants must submit proof of a valid Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) with their claim (see www.ManitobaEFP.ca for more info).

For more information on how to apply for cost-shared funding related to BMP 503 go to: https://www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/environment/environmental-farm-plan/assurance-bmp.html Groundwater Groundwater Conditions for a Potential Well: Livestock producers can contact the Water Branch for information and advice on their current well and what the expectations might be if constructing a new well to supply their pasture. Email your contact information and the legal land location of the planned well to Expected Groundwater Conditions. Feedback provided may include aquifer depths, potential pumping rate range, and if available the water quality in the area. A listing of Licensed Well Drilling Contractors is also available.

Private Water System Bacteriological Subsidy Program The Province of Manitoba offers private water system owners a once-a year subsidy for bacteria (total coliform and E. coli) analysis of their drinking water through Horizon Lab. If the first sample result indicates the presence of bacteria, homeowners will receive a coupon from the lab for one resample free of charge.

Effective April 1st, 2021, the total price to homeowners for the once-a year subsidized sample is $22.31 (tax included). For information regarding sample bottle pick up, sample submission requirements, and payment options, please contact Horizon Lab directly.

Horizon Lab LTD 4055 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3K 2E8 Phone: 204-488-2035 Fax: 204-488-4772 www.horizonlab.ca Provincial water well fact sheets and educational videos on well testing, well disinfection, and how to reduce well water contamination are available at https://www.manitoba.ca/sd/water/drinking-water/ . If you have any further questions, please contact the Office of Drinking Water: 204-945-5762.

Beef Cattle Research Council Resources Related to Drought Management The Beef Cattle Research Council has two sites with information related to drought conditions. See: http://www.beefresearch.ca/blog/drought2021/ http://www.beefresearch.ca/blog/resources-for-drought-management/ Recurring drought is a natural part of the climate in many areas of Canada and creates a challenge when managing grazing and forage resources. Although droughts are often unpredictable, they are inevitable, meaning they are often at the back of every producer’s mind. Long-term farm and ranch management must include planning for and consideration of how drought will affect the entire system – including plants, livestock and water sources.

Eight tips for drought management ▪ When managing through a drought, consider combining groups of animals to encourage grazing of less desirable plants and grazing pastures with species that are more tolerant of increased grazing pressure. It is important to monitor for toxic or poisonous plants, which are more likely to be grazed during dry years.

▪ Sources of water for grazing animals can quickly become limited or unavailable during drought periods. It is recommended that any pastures that could possibly run out of water be grazed first. In some cases, it may become necessary to use a portable stock water supply in order to continue grazing a forage source where water has become limited.

▪ Producers should consider pumping water from the source to a trough to help extend water supplies, maintain water quality and prevent cattle from getting stuck in watering sites that are drying up.

▪ Stock water quality can deteriorate rapidly. Even if water quantity appears adequate, poor water quality can quickly cause health and production problems and even death. Test stock water sources frequently when animals are grazing.

▪ Extended rest periods and increased recovery times are necessary to protect plants during dry periods.

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Consider planting annual crops, supplementing pastures with alternate feeds, or creep feeding, to help extend grazing resources. Feed testing is an important consideration during dry conditions.

Drought management strategies should be a permanent part of every grazing plan. The benefits of rotational grazing and managing pastures to retain litter (plant residue) are especially evident during drought.

Drought plans should identify the order of groups or classes of livestock to be de-stocked, if necessary, and at what point each group will be moved if the drought persists.

The following are some current drought management resources available for beef producers.

▪ Drought Management Strategies (Beef Cattle Research Council web page) ▪ Drought Management Strategies (Beef Cattle Research Council blog post) ▪ Dealing with Drought: Key Facts for Beef Producers (Beef Cattle Research Council factsheet) ▪ Heat Stress in Beef Cattle (Alberta Farm Animal Care) ▪ Canadian Drought Monitor (Government of Canada web page) ▪ Conserving Pasture Production During Dry Conditions (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs web page) ▪ Fall Pasture Fertility Management After A Dry Summer (Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs article) ▪ What’s In Your Water? Water Quality and the Economics of Pump Systems (Beef Cattle Research Council webinar recording) ▪ Alternative Feeds (Beef Cattle Research Council web page) ▪ Managing Forage in a Dry Year (Canadian Cattlemen Magazine article) ▪ Feed Testing & Analysis for Beef Cattle (Beef Cattle Research Council web page) ▪ How to Manage for Drought with Grazing (Foothills Forage and Grazing Association video) ▪ Stretching Feed Supplies (Beef Cattle Research Council blog post) ▪ Is Creep Feeding an Answer to Your Pasture Woes? (Beef Cattle Research Council blog post)

Livestock Tax Deferral Provision (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Information) The Livestock Tax Deferral provision allows farmers who sell part of their breeding herd due to drought or flooding in prescribed drought or flood regions to defer a portion of sale proceeds to the following year. The initial list of prescribed regions in relation to the 2021 drought has been announced, including 102 of these in Manitoba. See the complete list at: https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/agriculture-and-environment/drought-watch-and-agroclimate/livestock-taxdeferral-provision/2021-list-prescribed-regions How the provision works To defer income, the breeding herd must have been reduced by at least 15%.

• Where the breeding herd has been reduced by at least 15%, but less than 30%, 30% of income from net sales can be deferred.

• Where the breeding herd has been reduced by 30% or more, 90% of income from net sales can be deferred.

In a year in which a region has been prescribed, income from livestock sales are deferred to the next tax year when the income may be at least partially offset by the cost of reacquiring breeding animals, thus reducing the

potential tax burden. In the case of consecutive years of drought or excess moisture and flood conditions, producers may defer sales income to the first year in which the region is no longer prescribed.

For questions related to calculating and/or reporting income deferral for Prescribed Drought/Flood Regions for income tax purposes, please contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or consult the CRA publication T4002 Self-employed Business, Professional, Commission, Farming, and Fishing Income, Chapter 2 Income. The Livestock Tax Deferral information is detailed in Line 9470 – Livestock and animal products revenue.

Miscellaneous Resources Manitoba Agriculture Crop Reports The Crop Report provides information on progress of seeding and crop establishment, crop development, any pest activity including weeds, insects and disease, harvest progress, crop yields and grades, fall field work progress, and status of winter cereal crop seeding and establishment. In addition, it provides information on haying progress and estimated yields, as well as pasture conditions. Go to: https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/seasonal-reports/crop-report-archive/index.html Manitoba Drought Monitor The Manitoba Drought Monitor highlights the various drought management efforts currently underway in Manitoba. This includes monthly Water Availability and Drought Conditions Reports that use drought indicators to classify the level of dryness and to summarize any drought impacts that are occurring.

Canadian Drought Monitor The Canadian Drought Monitor (CDM) is Canada's official source for the monitoring and reporting of drought in Canada. From this page you can access a variety of products and information about current drought conditions across the country. See: https://www.agr.gc.ca/eng/agriculture-and-the-environment/droughtwatch/canadian-drought-monitor/?id=1463575104513 Agroclimate Impact Reporter Program The Agroclimate Impact Reporter (AIR) helps to connect Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) with people in Canada's agricultural community. AAFC relies on its network of AIR volunteers to provide information regarding agroclimate impacts across the country, such as the effects of dry conditions/droughts on production. Manitoba Beef Producers notes that cattle producer input to this network is important.

The AIR network provides valuable and reliable data that are mapped and used in the assessment and development of policies and programs including AgriRecovery and the Livestock Tax Deferral Provision, which can provide assistance to the industry during extreme weather and climate conditions and events.

The AIR survey is open during the last week of the month over the growing season (April to October) and is intended to collect weather and climate impacts on farm operations across Canada over the previous month.

Survey results are made into maps and published on the Drought Watch website the first week of every month during the growing season.

To participate, visit: https://www.agr.gc.ca/eng/agriculture-and-the-environment/drought-watch/agroclimateimpact-reporter/?id=1463575416544

Mental Health Resources For information about the Manitoba Farm and Rural Support Services line go to: https://supportline.ca/ or call 1-866-367-3276 (line operates 24/7).

Klinic Community Health has resources available. See: https://klinic.mb.ca/ FCC also provides resources at the following site: https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/community/wellness.html

Manitoba’s Wildfire Service Manitoba Conservation and Climate Wildfire Service is responsible for the prevention, detection and suppression of wildfires.

To report a Wildfire call 1-800-782-0076 (toll-free).

The Wildfire Service’s website includes valuable information such as: • Fire & Travel Restrictions • Daily Situation Report • Current Fire Update Report • Interactive Map of Current Wildfires • Fire Danger Map For more information go to: https://www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/index.html

PC: Povince of Manitoba

Fire Bulletin #19

(July 29, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that with some improvements in weather conditions in northern Manitoba, there will be a gradual lifting of some fire and travel restrictions.

However, the south and central regions of the province still face high to extreme fire danger levels, therefore current restrictions will continue to apply. These changes to fire and travel restrictions are being implemented, effective Friday, July 30 at 8 a.m.

Outdoor Burning All provincial burning permits remain cancelled provincewide and new permits will not be issued until conditions improve.

Area 4 remains at level 4 fire and travel restrictions, which essentially means the area is closed, and a full travel ban is in effect. Area 4 covers the large area north of the Wanipigow River, east of Lake Winnipeg to the Ontario border, including Atikaki Provincial Park, and north to Poplar River.

Level 4 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Remain in Area 4 • No access permitted. Travel ban in effect.

• No access to cottages.

• Permanent residents must be ready to leave on an hour’s notice.

• Campfires are not permitted.

Level 2 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Remain in Areas 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11

• Provincial burning permits are cancelled.

• Motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited unless under the authority of a travel permit.

• Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds.

• Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

• Wayside parks remain open.

• Landing and launching is restricted to developed shorelines only.

• Industry and outfitters may be restricted in their operations and should contact their local Manitoba Conservation and Climate office for more information.

Level 1 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Remain for Area 15, while Areas 12, 13, 14 and 16 are reduced to level 1 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled.

• Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

• Motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. unless otherwise approved by a travel permit.

Additional Restrictions in Provincial Parks No campfires are permitted and all trails are closed in Grand Beach Provincial Park. The Canoe Landing Campground in Spruce Woods Provincial Park remains closed. In all other provincial parks, outside the restriction areas, campfires will be permitted between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. only.

The Mantario Trail remains closed but Kwasitchewan Trail has been reopened.

Restriction information for provincial parks is available at www.manitobaparks.com.

Fireworks and Sky Lanterns Prohibited in provincial parks at all times.

A Provincial Fireworks Authorization is required to use fireworks or sky lanterns within fire and continued on next page

Fire Bulletin #19 travel restriction areas. Any existing authorizations are cancelled and no authorizations will be issued under the current restrictions.

The Province’s Fire and Travel Restrictions map will be updated to reflect these updated restrictions. Confirm your area’s restrictions before heading outdoors at: www.gov.mb.ca/sd/fire/Restrictions/index.html Many municipalities have already proactively implemented burning restrictions. Check with local municipal offices for more information or view the interactive Current Municipal Burning Restrictions at www.manitoba.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.ht ml. The province does not issue burning permits within or areas bordering any municipality

where municipal burning restrictions are already in place.

Wildfires across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and northwest Ontario will continue to bring smoke into all parts of the province until conditions improve. This will be dependent on wind direction. Air-quality reports are available on the Government of Canada website at https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/mbaq001_e.html.

For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ or follow the Twitter account at https://twitter.com/mbgovnews.

To report a wildfire, call 911 or the T.I.P. line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076.

This week Hamiota Feedlot, working in conjunction with the National Cattle Feeders Association (NCFA), hosted a tour with elected officials from the federal and provincial governments to discuss issues of importance to the cattle feeding sector. Larry Schweitzer and Audrey Kuik-Schweitzer touched upon a range of topics, including but not limited to: rural infrastructure needs; challenges in securing labour; ensuring that Canadian producers are competitive in the global marketplace context; and, the importance of fully leveraging potential trade opportunities for Canadian beef. Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) policy analyst Maureen Cousins also participated in the tour as MBP is a member of the NCFA. Kuik-Schweitzer is Manitoba’s representative to the NCFA on behalf of MBP. MBP extends its thanks to Hamiota Feedlot and the NCFA for arranging the tour and the discussions, as well as to the elected representatives for attending. L-r: Larry Maguire, Member of Parliament for Brandon-Souris; Len Isleifson, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Brandon East; and, Dan Mazier, Member of Parliament for Dauphin-Swan River- Neepawa. Photo provided by Hamiota Feedlot.

BU researchers to survey ticks and mosquitoes for invasive pathogens

www.awpnow.com

Nile encephalitis. However, this study will look for other infectious pathogens transmitted by mosquitoes or ticks that have yet to be reported here.

(July 21, 2021 Brandon University News Release)

What’s in that bite? Researchers at Brandon University are sinking their teeth into research on mosquitoes and ticks thanks to nearly a quarter-million dollars in federal funding over a three-year period.

Drs. Bernadette Ardelli and Bryan Cassone have begun conducting a survey of mosquitoes and ticks across the Canadian Prairies, with an eye towards spotting pathogens in these disease vectors — possibly for the first time.

“We just don’t know everything that might be out there,” said Dr. Ardelli, who is Dean of Science at BU. “It is critical that we open our eyes to existing or future risk — some of what we are screening for can be pretty scary. We believe many of these pathogens are already present in Manitoba, and that human cases may have gone unreported or are misdiagnosed.”

The province already screens for pathogens that are known to cause disease in Manitoba — for example those that cause Lyme disease or West

“In Manitoba there is no active surveillance for several human pathogens capable of being transmitted by our local mosquitoes and ticks.

Many of these are serious public health concerns and found in bordering states and provinces,” said Dr. Cassone. Those include Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia and the California serogroup and Cache Valley viruses.

“Climate change is already increasing the range of infectious diseases, and we must begin preparing for diseases that we haven’t traditionally experienced here,” he added.

“Prevention is our first line of defense, but it requires timely detection. This research will begin to show us where we should focus our efforts.”

The $240,450 in funding comes from the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Infectious Disease and Climate Change Fund.

While the research will benefit everyone, it will be especially helpful for those who are immunocompromised (chemotherapy patients, for example) or those who live in areas where the pathogens are detected.

As the research gets underway, informational events are also planned, to help share knowledge about the risk of infectious diseases as well as recommended disease prevention strategies.

Canada invests $25 million to protect wetlands and grasslands in the Prairies restore carbon stocks by conserving, restoring, and enhancing management of Prairie grasslands and wetlands; and

PC: Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

•

(July 23, 2021 Environment and Climate Change Canada News Release) As the world faces the

twin threats of climate change and rapid biodiversity loss, protecting more nature across Canada supports iconic biodiversity and helps fight climate change by storing carbon and making our communities more resilient to its impacts.

The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, on behalf of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, announced more than $25 million in funding to conserve, restore, and enhance critical wetlands and grasslands in the Prairie provinces: •

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Ducks Unlimited Canada will receive up to $19.28 million over three years for projects to conserve and restore wetland and grassland habitats in the Prairies, including the restoration of croplands to grasslands. These lands will capture and store carbon, while providing a range of other ecological benefits.

Nature Conservancy of Canada will receive up to $4.05 million over three years for projects to retain and

Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation will receive up to $2.4 million over three years for projects to conserve, restore, and enhance management of threatened grasslands and wetlands in order to store carbon while providing a range of other benefits for local communities in the agricultural zone of southwestern

Manitoba, including improving water quality and supporting wildlife habitat.

These initiatives are among fourteen projects to receive funding from the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund in 2021–2022. Collectively, they are projected to conserve up to 30,000 hectares; restore up to 6,000 hectares; and contribute to the enhanced management of up to 18,000 hectares of wetlands, grasslands, and riparian areas.

The announcement supports Canada’s goal to protect 25 percent of lands and 25 percent of oceans by 2025. Embracing the power of nature to support healthier families and more resilient communities is one of the five pillars of Canada’s strengthened climate plan.

Quotes “Western Canadians know that climate change is here. They also know that in order to fight climate change and adapt to its impacts, we must embrace the power of nature. Protecting more wetlands and grasslands across the Prairies will make our communities more resilient, capture and store carbon, and support our iconic biodiversity.”

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Canada invests $25 million to protect wetlands and grasslands in the Prairies – The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Environment and Climate Change “The current extreme weather conditions and fires throughout Canada are one of the impacts of the changing climate. As our wetlands and grasslands are important components of the farming ecosystem, the work done through these Nature Smart Climate Solutions investments, as well as our Agricultural Climate Solutions projects, will sequester carbon and help ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for our land and waterways, as well as for the farmers who rely on them to feed Canadians.”

– The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food “Ducks Unlimited Canada is pleased to partner with Environment and Climate Change Canada to deliver Nature Smart Climate Solutions here on the Prairies and right across the country. For over eighty years, our science-based habitat work has engaged agricultural producers, private landowners, and governments to deliver conservation solutions that help mitigate climate change impacts and deliver a host of other ecological benefits that provide significant economic returns to all Canadians. We look forward to scaling up the benefits of the available programs to more producers and to other landowners, resulting in greater biodiversity on a landscape that will be better able to offset and withstand the impacts of a changing climate.”

landowners, and its landscapes. It will have lasting benefits for wildlife and people alike. The investment comes at an important transition time for our organization, as we recently became a registered charity. These new funds will allow us to perfectly meld our traditional wildlife conservation mandate with climate change mitigation through nature-smart solutions.”

– Stephen Carlyle, Chief Operating Officer of Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corp.

“The Nature Conservancy of Canada is very grateful for the opportunity presented by the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund. These funds will support the protection and restoration of habitat in natural ecosystems across the Prairies. We are pleased to do more to buffer communities from the impacts of climate change and protect Canada’s natural areas for future generations.”

– Kevin Teneycke, Manitoba Region VicePresident, Nature Conservancy of Canada Quick facts •

Nature-based solutions are defined by the World Conservation Union as “actions to protect, sustainably manage, and restore natural or modified ecosystems that address societal challenges.”

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Over the next ten years (2021–2031), the Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund will support projects to restore, enhance, and conserve inland and coastal wetlands, peatlands, grasslands, and forests to capture and store carbon.

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These ecosystems are also critically important habitat for Canada’s wildlife,

– Karla Guyn, Chief Executive Officer, Ducks Unlimited Canada “Our team at the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation is very excited about the new opportunities these funds provide. This is a significant investment in Manitoba, its

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Canada invests $25 million to protect wetlands and grasslands in the Prairies including migratory birds and species at risk.

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The Government of Canada is investing $4 billion over the next ten years (2021–2031) in the Natural Climate Solutions Fund, which supports activities to build a more resilient economy and a healthier, greener future. Activities include: o

2 Billion Trees Commitment, led

by Natural Resources Canada ($3.19 billion);

o

Nature Smart Climate Solutions, led by Environment and Climate Change Canada ($631 million); and

o

Agricultural Climate Solutions, led by Agriculture and AgriFood Canada ($185 million).

The Agricultural Climate Solutions program aims to establish a strong, Canada-wide network of regional collaborations led by farmers and including scientists and other sectoral stakeholders. Together, they will develop and share management practices, and deploy solutions that are tailored to their region, store carbon, and mitigate climate change. This work will also help protect biodiversity, improve water and soil quality, and strengthen farmers’ bottom lines.

Associated links •

Nature Smart Climate Solutions Fund

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Natural Climate Solutions Fund

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2 Billion Trees Commitment

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Canada’s strengthened climate plan

PC: City of Winnipeg

Canada and Manitoba invest $76.6 million in 17 projects to improve municipal transportation infrastructure

(July 26, 2021 Infrastructure Canada News Release)

Investments in local infrastructure by the governments of Canada and Manitoba during this unprecedented time will help stimulate the economy and address the needs of all communities, including rural and remote communities, as they recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Investments to improve roads, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure will create jobs, improve road safety, and ensure long-term sustainable infrastructure while building strong and well-connected communities.

The Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister for Rural Economic Development, and the Honourable Reg Helwer, Minister of Central Services, announced more than $76.6 million in joint federal-provincial funding for 17 projects to improve municipal transportation infrastructure in Manitoba.

The funding will go toward various projects such as road renewals and upgrades, bridge replacements, airport runway rehabilitation, and flood prevention infrastructure. In Thompson, $20 million in federal funding and

$13.3 million in provincial funding will help renew approximately 20 km of deteriorating road infrastructure. Several other projects will see roads upgraded and resurfaced across the province, including in Portage la Prairie, Nelson House, Koostatak, and Rhineland. A bridge in Virden and the bridge between EmersonFranklin and Stuartburn will also be replaced.

The Erickson and Russell-Binscarth airports will receive funding to replace or resurface their runways and aprons. Flood prevention infrastructure projects in Springfield and Gilbert Plains will ensure that the communities remain safe and healthy during major flooding events, and will help them adapt to the effects of climate change.

Providing communities with reliable and sustainable infrastructure is a shared priority for both governments. The Government of Canada is investing over $48.9 million in these 17 projects under the Rural and Northern Communities Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. For projects requiring consultations with Indigenous groups, federal funding is conditional on consultation requirements being met.

The Government of Manitoba is also contributing more than $27.7 million to these projects.

List of projects in which investments are being made: •

Backgrounder: Canada and Manitoba invest over $76.6 million in 17 projects to improve municipal transportation infrastructure

COVID-19 Vaccine Bulletin #110 (July 28, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

Newcomers to Manitoba, immigrants, disenfranchised or homeless individuals are reminded they can get immunized despite not having a Manitoba health card. A vaccination can be administered at a super site, at one of the numerous community-led clinics or at a mobile van, which are all currently operating.

The pre-vaccination process will involve a verbal conversation with clinical staff on site, followed by immunization.

Individuals can use the online vaccine finder at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/finder.ht ml to find a location with available doses.

A complete listing and searchable map of all vaccine sites, including urban Indigenous clinics and pop-up clinics, is available online at https://protectmb.ca/. Eligible individuals can book their appointments at these sites online, or by calling (toll-free) 1-844-626-8222 (1-844MAN-VACC).

Workforce

Additional Information

As the vaccine campaign evolves, the demand on super sites and clinics is changing. Focus will now progressively shift from volume to access and increased community outreach. Part of that shift will involve adjusting the days and hours of operation in super sites across the province, effective Aug. 1. For up-to-date information on locations and hours, visit https://protectmb.ca/.

Until the end of the month, the RBC Convention Centre super site will offer walk-in immunizations every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Pfizer and Moderna vaccine will both be available.

Eligibility All people aged 12 and up are now eligible for their first or second dose. The date of the second appointment must be at least 28 days after the first vaccination. For more information, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/eligibilitycriteria.html#second-dose.

Appointments and Walk-ins Thousands of Moderna and Pfizer appointments are open and available to book as early as today.

Eligible Manitobans must have their first immunization on or before Aug. 2 to be eligible to win scholarships or cash prizes in Manitoba’s first ever ‘Vax to Win Lottery’.

Currently, more than 78 per cent of Manitobans are eligible for the first draw.

To be considered fully immunized, individuals require two doses of vaccine. These can be the same or different brands of vaccine. Individuals who need to update any missing or inaccurate information on their immunization records or apply for an immunization card can use the eform at https://forms.gov.mb.ca/covidimmunization-record-request/ or call 1-844MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222) and follow the prompts.

The province is working with regional health authorities and Indigenous partners to ensure vaccines are available to individuals who have been evacuated due to wildfires and wish to get the vaccine.

More information about the vaccine campaign in Manitoba is available at www.manitoba.ca/vaccine and https://protectmb.ca/.

Fifteen medical clinics and pharmacies are regional hubs for AstraZeneca vaccinations.

All data in this bulletin is current as of July 27 unless noted otherwise.

Applications Being Accepted for Water Source Development for Farms and Ranches (June 8, 2021 Joint News Release) The

governments of Canada and Manitoba are advising that livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions on pasture in Manitoba can apply for funding to support water source development under Ag Action Manitoba.

Funding is provided through the Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas beneficial management practice (BMP) under Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance. Eligible items include: • water source development – constructing new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts; • solar, wind or grid-powered alternative watering systems; • permanent fencing to restrict livestock access to surface water and dugouts; and • permanent pipeline development.

Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance: Beneficial Management Practices provides targeted incentive programs to agricultural producers and select industry service providers to advance the adoption of BMPs. These practices reduce identified environmental risks, improve agroecosystem resilience, build public trust and improve environmental sustainability of farm operations in Manitoba.

Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1 are eligible. Projects will

need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until Sept. 1.

Applications can include retroactive expenses incurred as of April 1. Upon project completion, applicants must submit proof of a valid Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) with their claim (see www.ManitobaEFP.ca for more info).

The Ag Action Manitoba Program is funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership— a five-year (2018-2023), $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow Canada’s agriculture and agri-food and agri-products sector. This includes a $2-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

Producers can contact their local Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development office, call the department toll-free at 1-84-GROWMB-AG (1-844-769-6224) for more information on any of these programs and services, or go to www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture under Quick Links.

FAQ continued on next page

Frequently Asked Questions BMP: Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas (503) Q1. When is the deadline to apply?

A: Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Applications will be accepted continuously up to that date and will be reviewed on a weekly basis. They will be assessed by technical reviewers based on the environmental benefit assessment index, program priorities and project planning.

Q2. Do I have to complete my project this fall?

A: Yes. The project must be completed and claims submitted by November 5, 2021.

Q3. If I have already done a water source development project this spring, am I eligible?

A: Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1, 2021 are eligible. However, projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Q4. What do I need to include with my application?

A: Please answer the questions provided in either the Farmers Application Form or ISP Application Form, and refer to the BMP Specific Questions listed in either the Farmers Guidebook or ISP Guidebook to assist you. Ensure that you explain the proposed project in detail, current practices on the farm, and the environmental benefit of the new practice. Include an aerial map of the pasture with the location of the existing and proposed water sources identified as well as any fencing (existing and proposed).

Q5. Do I need a valid Environmental Farm Plan Statement of Completion?

A: You can submit an application without a valid Statement of Completion, however, if your project is approved, you will be required to provide proof of a valid EFP by November 5, 2021 when you submit your project claim for reimbursement. Environmental Farm Plan workshop dates and locations will be listed at www.ManitobaEFP.ca .

Q6. Are confined livestock operations eligible?

A: No. This BMP is focused on livestock in pasture-based systems.

Q7. Do I have to dig a dugout to a specific size?

A: All dugout work, including new construction or rehabilitation of an existing location, should follow the dugout construction guideline.

Q8. Can I drill a new well in my yard?

A: Drilling a well in the yard is eligible if it is primarily intended for watering livestock on pasture and is the most cost efficient means of doing so. It can be used for supplying water to the yard as well, assuming the pastures are next to the yard. Only the well and pasture components are eligible for funding, not any components used for inyard water.

Q9. Do I need any permits?

A: Applicants must meet all regulatory requirements. This may include:  A Water Rights License is required for all livestock operations extracting more than 25,000 litres of water (25 m3 or 5,499 Imperial gallons) per day. If developing a new water source, a permit must be obtained in advance of starting work.  Approvals from the rural municipality or Crown.  Any other standards or approvals as required by law.

Q10. Can I pump / pipe / haul water from an existing water source into a dugout that has gone dry?

A: Piping or hauling water from any water source (well, dugout or wetland) into a dugout that has run dry is not eligible.

Q11. Do I have to fence my dugout?

A: Dugouts must be fenced to ensure livestock do not have direct access to the water within, which will prevent contamination and protect water quality.

Q12. I just need a water trough or water storage tank. Is this eligible?

A: No - watering system components such as watering bowls, troughs or storage tanks are only eligible as a part of a water source development project.

However, if your project includes development or rehabilitation of a water source (ex: well or dugout) or management of a riparian area (ex: exclusion fencing), watering system components are eligible.

Q13. How deep does a pipeline need to be?

A: Summer pasture pipelines permanently installed underground, and which can be properly winterized before freezing are eligible (ex: installed with a pasture pipeline plow). Above-ground pipelines are ineligible. Projects must be for permanent solutions only.

Q14. Can I apply for a project on a pasture that I rent?

A: Yes. Either the landowner or renter can apply. If the renter applies, they must identify the landowner and provide contact information with their application. For pastures on Crown Land, you must get approval from your local Farm Production Extension Specialist – Crown Lands.

Q15. If I have more questions, who can I contact?

A: Farmers can visit their local ARD/MASC Service Centre or call toll-free 1-844-769-6224.

Environmental Farm Plan Workshops Availability Due to COVID-19, all EFP workshops will be taking place virtually via Online Meetings until further notice.

To register for an EFP workshop, click on the link “Register now!” in the link below for your preferred workshop date. Once registered, you will then receive an email with a link to access the meeting. Workbooks are mailed and you should receive yours approximately 1 week prior to the workshop. You can also visit this link to register: Environmental Farm Plans (EFP) are an essential part of every farm operation. These workshops will guide producers through the EFP workbook to help assess and identify the environmental assets and risks on their farm operations, and develop an action plan to address the identified risks. Workbooks and support material will be provided to those who attend. There is no preparation required for this workshop.

EFPs must be renewed every five years to remain valid. If you are unsure if your EFP is valid, please contact KAP to inquire at (204)6971140.

https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/environme nt/events-and-deadlines/index.html Note: Workshops are currently available through November 2021.

Time to Complete the July Session of the Agroclimate Impact Reporter Help Inform Government of Weather Conditions Affecting Your Farm/Ranch

Have you ever considered how charting the weather conditions on your farm or ranch might have an impact on actions by governments?

Data is a key tool used by governments to examine the effects of factors such as droughts and floods on agriculture, and also to decide whether assistance such as compensation will be offered. Producers can help provide information about such impacts to the federal government via the Agroclimate Impact Reporter (AIR).

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) relies on its network of AIR producer volunteers to provide information regarding agroclimate impacts across the country. The AIR network provides valuable and reliable data that are mapped and used in the assessment and development of policies and programs including AgriRecovery and the Livestock Tax Deferral Provision, which can provide assistance to the industry during extreme weather and climate conditions and events.

The AIR survey is open during the last week of the month over the growing season (April to October) and is intended to collect weather and climate impacts on farm operations across Canada over the previous month. Survey results are made into maps and published on the Drought Watch website the first week of every month during the growing season. Impact maps are also available and cover topics such as: moisture and erosion, crop, hay and pasture quality and staging, feed production and availability, water supply and quality and much more. See: https://www.agr.gc.ca/DWGS/mapselectorselecteurdecartes.jspx?lang=eng&jsEnabled=tru e For reporting related to July conditions, AAFC will be accepting reports until the end of the day on August 2.

When the survey is not open, a report is available for reporting on late-breaking, onetime or interim impacts.

For more information about AIR and how to enrol to complete the surveys go to www.agr.gc.ca/air . All information collected through the surveys is confidential.

The surveys can be found here: English French Subscribe to the survey reminders on the AAFC site at: https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/agricultureand-environment/drought-watch-andagroclimate/agroclimate-impact-reporter

Verified Beef Production Plus Learn online and win!

VBP+ enables beef cattle producers to publicly demonstrate their commitment to responsible stewardship of both cattle and the environment. Getting VBP+ certified verifies the responsible practices on your beef cattle operation to your customers - consumers, retailers, and buyers. There are currently over 1.6 million beef cattle under the management of certified VBP+ operations in Canada.

• VBP+ training is web-based and can take place at your leisure around daily chores.

• Manitoba producers who complete the online training by July 31, 2021 will be entered in a draw for a cattle vaccine cooler valued at $219.

No pre-registration required.

For more information please call Melissa Atchison at (204) 264-0294 or email: verifiedbeefmanitoba@gmail.com • No pre-registration is required. Contact Melissa

Atchison