Feb 25/2022 MBP E-Newsletter

E-Newsletter dsfsfa An update from MBP February 25, 2022

mbbeef.ca

Important Information re: When FederallyRequired Transfer of Care Documents are Needed for Shipping Livestock

The following information is from the Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) website: On February 20, 2020, amendments were made to the Health of Animals Regulations: Part XII: Transport of Animals. While the name of this legislation may not ring a bell, most producers caught word of the reduction in maximum allowed intervals without feed, water, and rest for animals in transport. However, this is far from the whole story.

Since the amendments came into effect on February 20, 2020, any animal left at a slaughter facility or assembly centre (i.e. auction market, assembly yard, or independent holding facility associated with a slaughter establishment) had to be accompanied by a written

transfer of care document. This document ensures that the individual responsible for the care of the animal(s) in question is clearly identified at all times, which in turn defines who is accountable for welfare decisions.

For some producers, the point at which this regulation came into effect is a source of confusion. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) implemented a two year compliance promotion period for the enforcement of the new maximum feed, water, and rest intervals. This meant that until February 20, 2022, CFIA was focusing on education and awareness rather than strict enforcement of the new regulations. However, contrary to what many producers have been told, this does not apply to transfer of care documents. That is, producers are currently required by law to implement this documentation. continued on page 4

Update on Recent MBP Advocacy Activities Topics such as flood and drought management and transportation needs were on the agenda as MBP representatives met virtually this week with Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Doyle Piwniuk and Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson.

This included a discussion of the status of the approvals processes and construction work required to complete the Lake Manitoba and Lake St. Martin outlet channels project. MBP cited the valuable role this project will play in helping to reduce the risk of future flooding for beef producers and others around Lake Manitoba. The importance of continued investments in other built flood-related infrastructure in the province was raised, such as the Shellmouth Dam. The value of natural infrastructure on farms and ranches like small dams, potholes and wetlands was identified by MBP, including the role these can play in terms of adding resiliency during drought or flood events. MBP believes there is a role for governments to play in terms of making investments in natural infrastructure as it can help to lessen the impacts of extreme weather, such as drought or flooding, while providing multiple economic, environmental and social benefits.

MBP commented on the importance of preserving grassland systems used by beef producers as they provide an array of ecological goods and services from water management, to carbon sequestration, to providing habitat for many plant, animal and bird species. MBP has long advocated for financial recognition from governments of these ecosystem services.

MBP raised the importance of continued government investments in the construction and maintenance of the provincial highways and bridges network in the context of beef production. For example, having access to RTAC roads is valuable for hauling heavy loads as

there are no seasonal weight restrictions on these roads.

MBP thanks Ministers Piwniuk and Johnson for the engagement opportunity and looks forward to future discussions with them related to the beef sector’s infrastructure and transportation needs.

MBP representatives also met virtually this week for the annual meeting with both the board of directors and key staff at Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC).

Among the matters discussed included: the timeline for providing feed sample quality verification for potential use by producers for rational formulation; the quality adjustment provided under AgriInsurance during the 2021 drought to help make alternate sources of feed more readily available to livestock producers; the status of implementing various recommendations made in the Forage Insurance Review (e.g. reducing participant burden, starting coverage levels, the potential around creating index-based insurance products, etc.); the value of improved insurance offerings for modern production practices, including the new Polycrop Establishment Insurance; ways to potentially improve Pasture Days insurance; and, the training of MASC staff and overall service delivery.

As well, there was a discussion of Livestock Price Insurance. MBP noted that both the Canadian cattle industry would like to see the program become national in scope, made permanent and for it to have cost-shared premiums between producers and government.

MBP thanks the MASC board of directors and staff for this annual meeting, and for the ongoing engagement it has with the organization throughout the year on key matters such as drought, predation challenges, insurance offerings and more.

Transfer of care documents – cont.

The guidelines for these written documents are quite general. There is no prescriptive format for the document, but instead, CFIA provides a list of required information to be included. The necessary information includes: 1. The names of the transporting company and driver; 2. The receiving company and representative; 3. The condition of the animal(s) on arrival; 4. The date, time, and place of the last feed, water, and rest; 5. The date, time, and place of arrival; 6. Notes regarding animal welfare concerns, dead animals found, and resulting actions; 7. Acknowledgement from the receiver indicating receipt of the animal(s) and acceptance of the responsibility for care.

Producers do not have to provide transfer of care documents to commercial carriers, because responsibility for animal care is already transferred to the transporter upon release of the animals by the producer under the Health of Animals Regulations. As a result, a driver can

refuse to drop off a load due to animal welfare concerns, since they are responsible for the care of the animals at that time. Similarly, receivers should document any welfare concerns on arrival to avoid being held accountable for issues that occurred before they were responsible for the care of the animal(s). Notably, CFIA states that this is an important step, because it helps receivers avoid declining a load and prolonging non-compliant animal transport to avert blame for the welfare issues.

Transfer of care documents should be kept on file for two years. This rule is important to tracking accountability for care in case of a welfare investigation. Read the amendments to the Health of Animals Regulations here.

Luckily, VBP+ provides a template for a transfer of care document that is available to all producers, whether or not they are trained and/or certified in the VBP+ program. This helps producers save time and get their cattle passed on quickly and responsibly! Sample document: http://www.verifiedbeef.ca/files/producerresources/Sample_Records_2021/VBP__Transfer_of_Care_Record_Sept_2021.pdf For additional information on the federal government’s Health of Animals Regulations, visit www.inspection.canada.ca/humane

VERIFIED BEEF

TRANSFER OF CARE

SIMPLE. PRACTICAL. TRUSTED.

www.verifiedbeef.ca

TRANSFER OF CARE DOCUMENT A R R IVA L DAT E : A R R IVA L T I ME : A R R IVA L LO CAT I O N : C O ND ITION O N AR R I VAL :

Transfer of Care: Animals in transit must be under the care of a designated person responsible for their well-being and welfare. No animal(s) can be left at an auction mart, packing plant or other assembly centre without written documentation of transfer of care. It is critical that animals are not left without confirming onsite that someone will be providing and responsible for care.

If livestock manifests are used in your province, these documents often have existing information that can be used to prove transfer of care. If livestock manifests are not used in your province, a simple form with the following information can be used.

To ensure continuity of care, no animal is to be left at any slaughter facility, or assembly centre without written notice that care has been transferred between the transporter and the receiver. This is done to ensure that the individual responsible for caring for the animals can be clearly identified at all times.

L AST FE D DAT E :

T I ME :

LO CAT I O N :

L AST WAT E R E D DAT E :

T I ME :

LO CAT I O N :

L AST R E ST E D DAT E :

T I ME :

LO CAT I O N :

COMMENTS (Number of Animals, Type of Animal, and if there are any Animal Welfare concerns.)

OWNE R / T R AN S PO RT E R : R E C E IVE R :

For reliable information and resources please visit:

Manitoba Provides Health System and COVID-19 Response Update resumption of many services that we know Manitobans have been waiting for.”

(February 24, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release) COVID-19 related demands on

Manitoba’s health system continue to decrease following the pandemic’s fourth wave, enabling Manitoba to prepare for a return to more normal activities and operations including the resumption of many health services that have experienced delays or been postponed over the past two years, Health Minister Audrey Gordon announced.

“Now is the time to prepare for a return to normal,” said Gordon. “This pandemic has taken a significant toll on all Manitobans and together, we can look forward to a co-ordinated and cautious plan to recover from the intense demands that it has had on our health system.”

The plan will see a gradual return of health-care workers who have been redeployed to support the pandemic response, the minister added.

Manitoba’s provincial COVID-19 health incident command developed a phased approach to resuming services, including surgical slates, diagnostic procedures and outpatient or community services that were reduced when health-care workers were redeployed to support care of COVID patients.

“There are currently more than 500 health-care workers across the province who are supporting COVID-related care in an area where they would not usually work,” said David Matear, health system co-lead, Unified Health Sector Incident Command. “As COVID admissions to hospital, including critical care, continue to decrease we will be able to return many of these staff to their usual duties, allowing for the quick

The plan, which will include provincial prioritization by clinical leaders to ensure the most urgent services resume first, will see services resume over the coming months as staff is able to be returned from redeployment to their home facility or unit.

A number of indicators will continue to be monitored closely, including hospitalization rates, COVID-19 ICU admissions and overall capacity, to ensure the system is able to quickly shift resources to support care for any significant increase in COVID-19 demands.

Key COVID-19 indicators in Manitoba show the province’s fourth wave activity has peaked and is on the decline with stable ICU and hospital admissions, noted the minister. Effective March 1, the province is removing proof of vaccination and testing requirements for designated public sector employees, including education, childcare and health-care workers.

“Our province continues to move in the right direction when it comes to COVID-19, which means we can continue to reduce the public health restrictions,” said Dr. Brent Roussin, chief provincial public health officer. “Manitobans have stepped up to get vaccinated and taken steps to keep themselves and their communities healthy, and advances in COVID19 treatment options are giving us yet another tool to combat the most serious effects of the virus for many Manitobans. Public health will continue to closely monitor these key indicators to guide how we deal with COVID in the weeks and months ahead.”

Manitobans are reminded COVID-19 treatment options are available that can help protect against severe illness or hospitalization. continued on page 8

Manitoba Provides Health System and COVID-19 Response Update Treatment must begin within days of having symptoms, so it is important to get tested quickly to access this care. Vaccinated and unvaccinated people, including those with chronic health conditions, who are pregnant or have other risk factors, may be eligible for treatment. A new self-assessment tool and more information about COVID-19 treatment is available at www.manitoba.ca/covid19/treatment/.

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Key Updates •

Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are now available for both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals at provincial testing sites. This provides members of the public with a self-testing option for use at a future point in time when they may become symptomatic. Individuals can receive up to two test kits per visit and test results do not need to be reported, but individuals are required to self-isolate and follow public health orders if they test positive.

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Rapid antigen tests will continue to be used for the majority of people visiting a provincial testing site. Those who are at higher risk of severe illness as well as some groups who have tested positive on a rapid antigen test will still be eligible for PCR testing. Detailed information on updated COVID-19 testing eligibility can be found at: https://gov.mb.ca/covid19/testing/inde x.html.

As previously announced by the province, proof of vaccination will no longer be required in public places as of March 1. However, the Manitoba immunization card and verifier app will continue to be available for businesses and venues that may choose require proof of vaccination after that date. Manitoba’s mask requirements will be removed on March 15.

Essential care partners of patients transferred through the inter-regional transfer protocol are eligible for reimbursement of costs incurred when visiting. For information on eligible costs and to apply for reimbursement, visit https://sharedhealthmb.ca/files/patienttransfer-essential-care-partnerreimbursement.pdf. Verification may require receipts for some costs to be submitted.

For more information about COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/covid19/.

COVID-19: Information re: Testing and Vaccination Processes Information about COVID-19 in Manitoba is updated weekdays at 12:30 p.m. on these DataMB dashboards: •

Case data: https://geoportal.gov.mb.ca/apps/mani toba-covid-19/

COVID-19 vaccination coverage: https://geoportal.gov.mb.ca/apps/mani toba-covid-19-vaccinations-dashboard1/

Vaccine Manitobans who have been infected with COVID-19 are now recommended to wait two to three months after the infection before getting a booster dose. This recommendation follows the latest guidance from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization. Manitobans are advised not to assume that recovery from an infection is sufficient for immunity. Those who prefer to get their booster dose sooner, or if their primary care provider recommends a continued on page 9

Manitoba Provides Health System and COVID-19 Response Update booster sooner, can go ahead and schedule a booster dose appointment.

Eligible individuals can book their appointments online, by calling (toll-free) 1-844-626-8222 (1844-MAN-VACC) or by contacting their local pharmacy or medical clinic directly. Visit www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/vaccine/finder.html for some of the available options.

More Resources •

Vaccine campaign in Manitoba: www.manitoba.ca/vaccine and https://protectmb.ca.

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Data related to COVID-19, variants of concern, outbreaks and some downloadable and historic data: https://geoportal.gov.mb.ca/.

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Up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Manitoba: www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.

Manitoba Association of Watersheds Leads Partnership on AAFC’s On-Farm Climate Action Fund Producer-led groups form coalition; land AAFC’S on- farm climate action projects for Manitoba &Saskatchewan producers February 22, 2022 (Winnipeg, MB) - Manitoba Association of Watersheds (MAW) is pleased to announce that the organization is a successful recipient of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) On Farm Climate Action Fund Project. The MAW-led project, which was supported by 38 organizations throughout the region, will receive up to $40 million over the two-year project to be delivered throughout Manitoba and Saskatchewan around three key farming practices that benefit climate resiliency in agriculture: rotational grazing, nitrogen management, and cover crops.

“The fight against climate change is not only about reducing Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions, but also helping farmers to innovate and adopt more sustainable farming practices,” said the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “We will continue to do what is necessary to protect our environment and provide farmers with the support needed to make their operations more sustainable for future generations. The On-Farm Climate Action Fund builds on the work already underway by our Government to lower greenhouse gas emissions and help improve long-term climate resiliency in the agriculture sector.”

“We are ecstatic to receive this news,” said Lynda Nicol, MAW executive director. “The project partners we are aligned with all have long history of producer-focused project delivery and producer outreach, which are key components of the project proposal’s success.”

Nicol said the AAFC project will be overseen by a steering committee led by MAW, and including Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds (SAW),

Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association (MFGA), Saskatchewan Forage Council (SFC), Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC), and Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP), in addition to representatives from watershed districts in both Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The project partners will be fully engaged in planning, outreach, mentorship, and producer engagement.

“We are taking a grassroots, regional approach to addressing issues related to climate change in agriculture,” said Garry Wasylowski, MAW board chair. “Supporting farmers to implement BMPs related to nitrogen management, rotational grazing, and cover cropping will have a positive impact on Canadian agriculture. We are proud to have the opportunity to deliver this programming in Manitoba and Saskatchewan thanks to AAFC.” Nicol pointed out the front-end work of the MFGA in the organizing of the regional group’s discussions around the proposal opportunity and says the framework and respective group networks, including conservation interests and agriculture groups, are in place to allow the group to move forward quickly under MAW’s leadership.

“This is a project for producers and has been since our very first steps together as a group,” said Nicol. “We are intent on producers seeing the great impacts they can make on their farmlands via this project and are confident in the strength of our delivery partners to move this project forward to communicate, mentor and engage producers efficiently while delivering the on farm climate actions identified by AAFC that are so paramount to this project. We expect more program details will be released in March.”

For more information: Lynda Nicol, MAW Executive Director, 204-570-0164, lynda@manitobawatersheds.org.

Seeking New Members for the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council opportunity for the next generation of leaders to share their personal experiences, perspectives, and innovative ideas on how to tackle issues from across the agriculture and agri-food sector.

During this unique career building opportunity, Youth Council members will learn about how policy and programming is developed at AAFC and expand their professional skillset and network.

Who can apply?

Apply by March 22!

The Canadian Agricultural Youth Council, hosted by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), is recruiting creative and outspoken people who have a passion for food and farming and enjoy working in a team to find solutions and have impact.

The Youth Council meets regularly with Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food as well as department officials to discuss the issues that matter the most to young people in food and farming. Together, Youth Council members look for ways to overcome challenges facing youth and build a vibrant future for food and farming in Canada that reflects the values and aspirations of young people from all walks of life.

First established in 2020, the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council provides an

We welcome youth, ages 18 to 30, from across Canada to apply to the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council by March 22 if they have experience and knowledge of food and/or farming as a result of their upbringing, academic studies, volunteer work, current employment, or other life experiences.

The next cohort of Youth Council members will be made up of 25 diverse youth from across Canada including farmers, students, researchers, teachers, food processors, business owners, scientists, and advocates. Agriculture doesn’t just mean on-farm activities — it also includes food processing, distribution, marketing, retail, restaurants and all the other activities along the value chain.

If you want to learn more about government, expand your professional network, and work together to create positive change in the food and farming sector, please apply by March 22, 2022.

Province Announces New Approaches to Surveying Priority Big Game Populations for 2022

(February 22, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release) As the 2022 Big Game Survey Program

begins, the Manitoba government is taking a modern approach to wildlife population assessments Natural Resources and Northern Development Minister Scott Fielding announced.

“Our government recognizes the importance of scientific data in effective wildlife management,” said Fielding. “Over the next month we will be conducting aerial surveys of selected game hunting areas using modern survey methods to collect more and better wildlife data.”

The Fish and Wildlife Branch collects a variety of information to help manage big game populations in the province. Aerial population surveys is one method, which traditionally has used staff, a helicopter and a stratified random block method to focus on a single big game species in a hunting area.

Owyhee Air Research, experts in technology-led wildlife surveillance, will conduct the first survey project using infrared technology and fixed-wing aircraft to assess populations for a variety of species for Game Hunting Areas (GHA) 30 and portions of GHA 22. Sex and age classification and other wildlife occurrences of interest will also be recorded and georeferenced. This project is funded in part by the Fish and Wildlife Enhancement Fund.

The second survey project is a collaboration with Superwake Ltd. and Ryerson University to survey a portion of GHA 6A. This pilot project will test the use of a fixed-wing drone equipped with infrared and Red-Green-Blue (RGB) sensor cameras, a first for North American wildlife management. Several big game species will be recorded including sex and age classification. A portion of GHA 6A will be surveyed to test the effectiveness of this new technique.

The minister noted traditional survey methods are costly, time-consuming and require a team of staff to execute. With modern technology, we can collect better data in a more efficient manner to support the critical work of wildlife management.

Inaugural Agriculture-focused National Business Case Competition Launches Post-secondary Students Will Explore Careers in Ag sector as They Solve Real-world Business Problems (February 23, 2022 CAHRC News Release) – The

Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council (CAHRC), in partnership with the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) is pleased to announce the launch of the inaugural Growing Our People: National Business Case Competition. This partnership is made possible through the support of the Government of Canada.

Open to post-secondary students from across Canada, this exciting opportunity will introduce participants to the diverse career opportunities available in Canadian agriculture. Of particular interest to students from business, STEM, and agriculture programs, the real-world business problems they address will bring them into direct contact with key agriculture employers.

“We are thrilled to present this experiential learning program to engage post-secondary students in our ever-changing industry,” said Jennifer Wright, Acting Executive Director at CAHRC. “These students, often coming from outside agriculture, are the future of Canada and their new skills and fresh ideas are a tremendous opportunity for agriculture as a whole.”

While the primary agriculture industry is already facing significant labour gaps, CAHRC research indicates that in 2017, 16,500 jobs went unfilled in Canada’s agriculture sector, costing the sector $2.9 billion in lost revenues, or 4.7 per cent of product sales. This same research forecasts the sector’s labour gap will nearly double over the next 10 years, reaching 123,000 people by 2029.

Under-represented groups, such as women, newcomers, Indigenous people, and people with disabilities can play an important role in filling gaps and are encouraged to join the business case competition and bring diversity and innovation to solving agriculture’s unique challenges. Participation in the program will benefit students, educators, and employers alike as they share ideas and expand networks for future career opportunities.

“There really aren’t any skills not presently in demand and this competition will show students how they can contribute in a meaningful way,” added Ms. Wright. “We know that graduates are eager to make their mark on an industry, and what better place than in food – something that binds us all.”

Open for registration until March 4th, students can sign up as teams or as individuals to be placed on a team. The Competition is codesigned with BHER, students, educators, and employer advisory groups with campus-based competitions having already taken place at Fanshawe College (London, ON) and Lakeland College (Vermilion, AB). Winning teams will be announced on March 28th during a virtual event for all students and partners.

For more information and to register visit: https://growing.agriskills.ca/nationalcompetition-home/ About CAHRC: The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) works with industry leaders, governments and educational stakeholders to research, develop and communicate solutions to the challenges in employment and skills development in primary agriculture. For more information visit www.cahrc-ccrha.ca.

Emergency Management Workshops and Other Planning Resources for Livestock Producers A serious animal disease outbreak is recognized as an industry's greatest vulnerability because of the potential impact it could have on the affected industries and livestock sectors. Knowing what to do when a serious animal disease is suspected on your farm is key to limiting the spread and impact of a disease outbreak.

"The First 48 Hours for Producers" is a NEW quick reference tool developed by the Animal Health Emergency Management (AHEM) project that lists the key Communication, Enhanced Biosecurity, and On-farm Investigation actions to take to protect yourself, your animals, and business after being notified by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) that there is a suspicion of a federally regulated disease on your farm. See: (https://bit.ly/3h11VT7) This resource can be used alongside other AHEM producer tools and handbooks found at www.animalhealth.ca/resources to proactively plan, prepare and respond to an animal disease emergency event.

The information is designed to boost preparedness with proactive steps and to provide insight into the knowledge and skills required during a serious animal disease outbreak.

Upcoming webinar dates: March 1, March 22 (English & French) and April 5. Click here to register. All workshops are one hour starting at 10:00 am (Mountain) / 12:00 pm noon (Eastern).

Webinar 2: Resourced and Ready – Exploring Proactive Disease Management Tactics and Tools Explore the concepts and support tools found in the AHEM resources and ask questions about animal health emergency management.

Upcoming webinar dates: March 17 and April 14 (English and French) Click here to register. All workshops are one hour starting at 10:00 am (Mountain) / 12:00 pm noon (Eastern).

Webinar 3: Testing, Testing, 1-2-3 – Scenarios for producer Handbook application

AHEM is offering a new three-part series of engaging virtual webinars geared for livestock producers. In each 60-minute interactive webinar we share vital information, tips, and tools for understanding how to prepare and respond during a serious animal disease emergency.

Participants will be introduced to AHEM’s producer-oriented simulation workshops, which give a practical understanding of how AHEM resources are used as guidance before, during and/or after a serious animal disease outbreak.

Webinar 1: Navigating the Unexpected – Emergency Management 101

Visit www.animalhealth.ca/workshops for more information including webinar dates and registration.

A general overview of emergency management along with producer roles and responsibilities.

Upcoming webinar date: July TBD, 2022.

Registration for this webinar is coming soon.

Manitoba's Plan to Become World Leader in Sustainable Protein Gains Momentum

(February 18, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release) Manitoba’s quest to become a global

leader in the development and production of sustainable protein has gained further momentum through Project Accelerating Sustainable Protein Impact and Results (ASPIRE), an industry-led, concerted and coordinated team effort toward advancing the Manitoba Protein Advantage Strategy , Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson announced.

“This plan represents tremendous opportunity for our province’s industry and economic future,” said Johnson. “Our government appreciates the shared expertise that has led to this pivotal development.”

The release of Project ASPIRE promises to be a key highlight of the third annual Manitoba Protein Summit, a virtual conference slated for Feb. 22 to 23. This major industry conference has attracted more than 650 attendees from around the world, with “Sustainable Protein Food Systems” as this year’s theme.

“The Manitoba Protein Advantage Strategy was released in 2019 to sustainably grow Manitoba’s plant and animal protein industry through innovation and value chain collaboration,” said Johnson. “To date, Manitoba’s protein industry has attracted new investments valued at $753 million, creating 840 jobs and surpassing 50 per cent of the strategy’s $1.5-billion target in new investments through 2025.”

The Manitoba Protein Consortium, an industry committee appointed by cabinet, has transitioned the strategy from a government-

led initiative to an industry-led strategy through the establishment of a strategic advisory body of 18 industry leaders to lead the implementation of Project ASPIRE. “Project ASPIRE is a comprehensive plan focused on realizing the province’s potential to produce protein that is diverse, high-quality, healthy and increasingly sustainable,” said Dickson Gould, chair of the Manitoba Consortium and president of The Progressive Group. “We are very pleased to appoint David Wiens, the chair of Dairy Farmers of Manitoba and Chris Anderson, the chief technology officer at Protein Industries Canada to co-chair the strategic advisory body. Together, we want to accelerate sector leadership to make Manitoba a globally sustainable protein hub for plant, animal and alternative protein development, as well as increase the economic opportunities for our producers and protein manufacturers.”

“We have established roundtables to bring action to key pillars in the strategy, such as workforce, water and wastewater infrastructure and sustainable protein research. Other priority areas will be determined within the next few months,” said David Wiens, chair, Dairy Farmers of Manitoba and co-chair of the strategic advisory body.

“Our Workforce Roundtable will ensure that we have the right skills in Manitoba to sustainably grow our protein industry,” said Ron Koslowsky, chair, Workforce Roundtable and head of the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association of Manitoba.

For more information about Manitoba’s work in protein innovation, visit: www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/protein.

Information for Manitobans As Tax Season Approaches (February 21, 2022 Canada Revenue Agency News Release) The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is

committed to making sure residents of Manitoba get the benefits and credits they are entitled to. Due to the continued challenges of COVID-19, this will be another unique taxfiling season. We are continuously working to improve and adapt our services to meet your tax-filing needs and to provide options for a seamless experience when interacting with us.

This tax-filing season, why not join the 90% of Manitoba residents who filed their 2020 taxes online? When combining online filing with direct deposit, you can receive your tax refund in as little as eight business days. Last year, over 14 million refunds were issued by direct deposit to Canadian taxpayers.

What is the advantage of filing an income tax and benefit return? Last year, Canadians received an average tax refund of $1,895 per income tax and benefit return and an average of $6,690 in Canada child benefit (CCB) payments. In order to receive the benefits and credits you may be entitled to, such as the CCB, GST/HST credit, child disability benefit, Climate action incentive or guaranteed income supplement, you need to file an income tax and benefit return – even if you have no income to report for 2021 or if your income is tax exempt.

We know that everyone has a unique tax-filing situation. As such, we’d like to share tailored information that can help you file your income tax and benefit return.

Let us help you get started Mark your calendar – The deadline for most Canadians to file their income tax and benefit return for their 2021 taxes is April 30, 2022. Because this date is a Saturday, your return will be considered filed on time if the

CRA receives it or it is postmarked on or before May 2, 2022. Similarly, your payment will be considered made on time if it is received by the CRA or processed at a Canadian financial institution on or before May 2, 2022.

Get ready – Visit our Get ready to do your taxes webpage for the latest tax and COVID19 benefit information that you need to file your income tax and benefit return. Last year, it was visited by over one million taxpayers and was our most viewed webpage.

Register for My Account – Over 460,000 Manitoba residents are already registered with My Account. This secure portal lets you update your personal information, such as home address, direct deposit information, marital status, and more. If you are registered for My Account, you can also use digital services such as Auto-fill my return and Express NOA (Notice of Assessment) in certified tax-filing software.

Business owners can also sign up for My Business Account.

As of February 7, 2022, you are required to provide an email address to use My Account.

You will receive an email notification if important information, such as your address or direct deposit information, has been changed on CRA records. These notifications can act as an early warning about potential fraudulent activity.

Learn about your taxes – Questions about the filing of your return? Don’t worry! We have launched a new online tool to help you learn about taxes so you can do them on your own.

Go to Learn about your taxes for more information. continued on page 17

Information for Manitobans As Tax Season Approaches Need help filing your taxes? – If you have a modest income, a simple tax situation, and require assistance, a Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) volunteer may be able to complete and file your tax return for free. Services are currently being offered both in-person and through virtual means such as video-conferencing. To find a clinic, please visit our Free tax clinics web page. CVITP helped over 23,000 Manitoba residents file last year.

COVID-19 benefits T4A information slips – If you received taxable COVID-19 benefits in 2021, such as the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) and Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), you will need to enter the total amount you received on your return. A T4A information slip will be mailed to you by the end of February 2022. T4A information slips from the Government of Canada for COVID-19-related benefits will also be provided online if you’re registered for My Account and have full access.

T4A information slips, including information for COVID-19-related benefits, are also available through the Auto-fill my return service in certified tax filing software.

Targeted interest relief – If you received COVID-related income support benefits in 2020 and owed money to the CRA after filing your 2020 income tax and benefit return, you were not required to pay interest on any outstanding income tax debt for the 2020 tax year until April 30, 2022. This was intended to give you more time and flexibility to pay if you had an amount owing.

To qualify for targeted interest relief, individuals must have had a total taxable income of $75,000 or less in 2020 and received income

support in 2020 through one or more COVID19 measures.

Therefore, if you filed your 2020 return and qualified for interest relief, you have until April 30, 2022, to pay any outstanding income tax debt for the 2020 tax year and avoid future interest charges. This applies to the tax owing for the 2020 tax year only, and not for any previous tax year.

If you cannot pay your balance owing, we can work with you on a payment arrangement.

Updates to benefits and credits from the CRA Support for farmers – Beginning in the 2021 year, the Government of Canada proposes a new refundable tax credit, the Return of Fuel Charge Proceeds to Farmers Tax Credit, as a means to return a portion of the fuel charge proceeds from the federal carbon pollution pricing system directly to farming businesses in provinces that do not currently have a system that meets the federal requirements. These designated provinces are Manitoba, Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan. The credit amount is proportional to the amount of eligible farming expenses attributable to the designated provinces. For 2021, if you’re a farmer in a designated province with eligible farming expenses of $25,000 or more, you can expect to receive a credit of $1.47 per $1,000 in eligible farming expenses increasing to $1.73 in 2022.

Form T2043, Return of Fuel Charge Proceeds to Farmers Tax Credit, would need to be completed in order to calculate the amount of the credit.

Climate action incentive payment – The Government of Canada announced its intention to deliver the Climate action incentive (CAI) as quarterly benefit payments. If you are a resident of Manitoba and you are eligible, you continued on page 18

Information for Manitobans As Tax Season Approaches will automatically receive your CAI payments four times a year, starting in July 2022. To receive your payments, you have to file a tax return even if you have not received income in the year. If you have a spouse or common-law partner, only one of you can get the credit for the family. The credit will be paid to the spouse or common-law partner whose tax return is assessed first. If you currently reside outside of a census metropolitan area (CMA) and expect to continue to reside outside of a CMA on April 1, 2022, fill out Schedule 14, Climate action incentive, as part of your tax return, to get the supplement for residents of small and rural communities as part of your benefit payment.

Northern residents deductions – As a resident of Manitoba, you may live in a prescribed zone and be eligible to claim a residency deduction and a travel deduction. To find out if you live in a prescribed zone, visit Line 25500 - Places located in prescribed zones. The northern residents deductions are available to those who permanently live in one or more prescribed zones for a continuous period of at least six consecutive months, beginning or ending in the tax year. Eligible individuals living in a prescribed northern zone can claim the full amount of these deductions, and those living in a prescribed intermediate zone can claim 50% of these deductions. The residency deduction is based on how many days you lived in a prescribed zone during the tax year. The government has proposed changes to the travel deduction. Under proposed changes, the travel deduction will be expanded and be available to eligible northern residents, including eligible family members, who take a personal trip even if no taxable travel benefit was received for that

trip. For more information, visit Northern Residents Deductions for 2021.

Have additional tax-filing questions?

We are dedicated to providing you with the highest quality service in the most efficient ways possible. Please keep in mind that taxfiling season is our busiest time of the year.

You can find most of the information you need online. We encourage you to find answers to your tax-filing questions through our digital services. For example, you can check out these resources: •

Benefit payment dates – Find out when you will receive your benefit payments.

•

COVID-19 benefits and your taxes View detailed information on how COVID-19 benefits affect your taxes and how to report the amounts on your tax return.

•

Ways to do your taxes – View several ways to do your taxes, including options that are free!

•

Questions and answers about filing your taxes – Find answers to common questions Canadians ask us at tax time.

•

Tax tips and videos – Find information that could help you with your particular tax situation.

•

Charlie the Chatbot – This service can be found on the CRA homepage and many other of our pages on Canada.ca to provide you with quick answers to your tax-filing questions.

AgriRecovery: Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance PROGRAM DESCRIPTION AgriRecovery is a disaster relief framework under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership that provides a coordinated process for federal, provincial and territorial governments to respond rapidly when disasters affecting several producers occur.

The Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance program was developed in consultation with industry to help meet the needs of Manitoba producers experiencing drought conditions.

The program helps livestock producers affected by low moisture conditions in 2021 to maintain their breeding herds.

HOW TO APPLY Review the AgriRecovery Drought Assistance-Farmers Guidebook for detailed information on eligible and ineligible costs, as well as other program requirements.

For your application to be considered complete, you must submit all necessary program documents: Required Documents Application Form Declaration of Eligible Breeding Animals - if first time applying Declaration of Extraordinary Expenses - if have extraordinary expenses - only submit once Self-Haul Declaration - if you hauled the feed Invoices - for each feed and/or transportation purchase Proof of Payment - for each invoice (e.g. cleared cheque, bank statement, credit or debit card receipt) View: Drought 2021 industry webinar presentation to learn more about AgriRecovery: Drought Assistance program eligibility and details.

WHAT IS NEW? (February 2022) Expansion of Eligible Feeds - The list of eligible feeds now includes feed additives and premixes, molasses based products, vitamins, minerals, and oils and fats. The change is retroactive to June 1, 2021. Previous applicants of the program will receive an email or letter in the mail informing them how they can apply for these expenses.

Extraordinary Expenses incurred between June 1, 2021 and March 15, 2022 including hauling water, renting extra pasture and cropland, harvesting extra acres for livestock feed, temporary fencing for supplemental grazing, and transporting feed from distant locations. A one time declaration of extraordinary expenses can be submitted over the life of the program.

View: What are Extraordinary Expenses?

AgriRecovery: Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance View: How do Extraordinary Expenses Increase Payments?

WHO QUALIFIES • Primary producers who owned or leased the eligible animals, located in Manitoba, as of June 1, 2021 and continued to own or lease them to March 15, 2022 or later are eligible.

• Eligible animals include breeding head of beef and dairy cattle, horses raised for Pregnant Mare Urine (PMU), sheep, goats, bison and elk.

• Breeding animals are mature females exposed to breeding (male or artificial insemination) and males used previously for breeding.

• Elk producers must have a Game Farm Production Licence and only elk farmed under that licence are eligible.

AVAILABLE ASSISTANCE Assistance is provided for eligible costs incurred between June 1, 2021 and March 15, 2022 for: • winter-feed costs of eligible breeding animals. Breeding animals are mature females exposed to breeding (male or artificial insemination) and males used previously for breeding.

• feed testing to determine the nutritional value of eligible feeds.

• extraordinary expenses associated with above-normal costs for accessing additional crop or pasture acres, hauling water, harvesting extra acres, or hauling self-produced feed from distant locations.

LIVESTOCK FEED AND EXTRAORDINARY EXPENSES Livestock Feed Eligible Feeds Grazed corn and greenfeed.

Mechanically harvested hay, silage, greenfeed, stover, straw, including those purchased as standing crops or grazed in a swath.

Grain and concentrates (pulses, oilseeds, canola meal, screenings, dried distillers grain, and other feeds as approved by the Program Administrator).

Feed additives and premixes are eligible as concentrates including molasses based products, vitamins, minerals, oils and fats.

Ineligible Feeds High moisture feeds with low nutrient density.

Feeds that based on their name, label, registration, or contents are primarily intended for young stock.

Purchased feed and feed testing are eligible expenses. The feed must be consumed within the overwintering period. Invoices and proof of payment must be submitted for all feed purchases and feed testing claimed.

AgriRecovery: Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance Extraordinary Expenses Extraordinary expenses required to sustain eligible livestock affected by drought are eligible and can include costs not related to feed purchases or transportation of purchased feed.

Eligible Extraordinary Expenses Rental of pasture, forage and/or crop land that is not normally rented for the applicants production of feed for eligible livestock.

Purchase or rental of temporary fencing supplies to provide supplemental grazing for eligible livestock.

Providing drinking water to livestock including water purchases, custom water hauling, water hauling equipment rental, and fuel and hired labour to haul water with the applicant's own equipment.

Harvesting of feed including mowing, raking, baling, collecting bales and silage harvesting, on land that is not typically used by the applicant, including land seeded to annual crops in 2021. The eligible costs include custom-harvesting and fuel and hired labour costs for harvesting with the applicant's own equipment. This activity must only be for producing feed for eligible livestock and cannot exceed the applicant's normal annual feed production.

Transportation of feed produced by the applicant, including custom-hauling and the fuel and hired labour costs for hauling with the applicant's own equipment for trips 40 kilometres or greater one-way. The extraordinary costs are limited to the first 600 kilometres one-way for each trip. Expenses claimed cannot exceed the tonne-km payment rates described in the Transportation of Purchased Feed section of this web page.

How to Calculate Payment for Livestock Feed and Extraordinary Expenses The Program Administrator will make payments to the applicant for purchases and testing of eligible feed and extraordinary expenses made between June 1, 2021 and March 15, 2022.

A producer share will be applied and deducted from the total value of feed purchases, feed testing and extraordinary expenses claimed. Payments are based on the total value of expenses exceeding the producer share up to the maximum per head payment.

Per Head Producer Shares are: $50 per head for beef cattle, dairy cattle, bison, horses (PMU only), and elk $10 per head for sheep and goats Maximum eligible extraordinary expenses that can be claimed are capped on a per head basis.

Maximum Eligible Extraordinary Expenses that can be claimed are: $133.33 per head for beef cattle, dairy cattle, bison, horses (PMU only), and elk $26.66 per head for sheep and goats

AgriRecovery: Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance Total Payments will be equal to 75 percent of the total value of expenses that exceeds the producer share to a maximum per head payment.

Maximum Per Head Payments are: $250 per head for beef cattle, dairy cattle, bison, horses (PMU only), and elk $50 per head for sheep and goats

Total Program Payments are calculated using these three steps: STEP 1: Calculate total eligible expenses

STEP 2: Calculate total eligible expenses net of the producer share

STEP 3: Total program payment is 75% of the Total Eligible Expenses Net of Producer Share

AgriRecovery: Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance TRANSPORTATION OF PURCHASED FEED Feed transportation assistance is provided for the movement of purchased eligible feeds for eligible breeding animals to address feed shortages due to drought conditions.

Payments for feed transportation: Transportation costs for eligible feed purchased and transported between June 1, 2021 and March 15, 2022, for a minimum distance of 40 kilometres up to a maximum loaded distance of 600 kilometres.

Payments for hay, straw, greenfeed, stover and silage are based on the following rates: $0.16 per tonne kilometre for the first 100 kilometres of a haul $0.10 per tonne kilometre for the remainder of a haul for up to an additional 500 kilometres

Payments for grain and concentrates, and high moisture feeds approved by the Program Administrator are based on the following rate: $0.05 per tonne kilometre up to 600 kilometres Payments for each receipt provided by the applicant will be the payment rate multiplied by the distance transported multiplied by the number of tonnes transported, or the amount of the receipt, whichever is less.

Transportation assistance is additional to assistance that may be received for feed assistance.

HOW TO SUBMIT AN APPLICATION The application and declaration forms are available in the "How to Apply" section at the top of the webpage. You can also pick up an application package at any of the ARD/MASC Service Centres, or by calling us at 1-844-769-6224 to have an application package mailed to you.

Application and Declarations For feed purchase, feed testing, feed transportation and livestock transportation claims, multiple applications can be accepted. For extraordinary expenses, only one declaration is accepted over the life of the program.

Invoices and Proof of Payment Feed purchase, feed testing, and feed transportation claims must be supported by invoices and proof of payment submitted at time of application. For custom-hauling feed, proof of purchase is required for both the hauling charges and purchase of the feed transported. For self-hauled feed, proof of purchase for the feed and a self-haul declaration are required.

Applicants are not required to submit invoices or proof of purchase with their one-time declaration of extraordinary expenses, but must maintain these records in the event that they are requested by the Program Administrator as part of the review, verification or audit process.

AgriRecovery: Livestock Feed and Transportation Drought Assistance EMAIL, MAIL OR DROP OFF COMPLETED APPLICATION Your completed application form and supporting documents must be sent to an Authorized Manitoba Agriculture Representative by: Email Mail: Manitoba Agriculture AgriRecovery Drought Assistance 903-401 York Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3C 0P8 Note: If you do not receive an email acknowledging receipt of your application you should contact us immediately by email.

If your application is successful, you will receive a notification letter and cheque in the mail from the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC).

An audit inspection of final work may occur before or after payment is issued.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Support documents and tools to assist you in completing your application.

• Application Check List • Factsheet - AgriRecovery Feed Assistance Payment Calculation • Factsheet - AgriRecovery Feed Transportation Assistance Payment Calculation • Frequently Asked Questions • Quick Reference - How to Apply for Livestock Feed and Transportation Assistance • Quick Reference - How to Calculate Payment per Head on Feed Purchases • Quick Reference - What Qualifies for Livestock Feed and Transportation Assistance APPLICATION DEADLINE Applications will be received on an ongoing basis until April 15, 2022 (11:59 p.m. CST).

WHO TO CONTACT Manitoba Agriculture AgriRecovery Drought Assistance 903-401 York Avenue Winnipeg, MB R3C 0P8 Toll Free: 1-844-769-6224 Email: agriculture@gov.mb.ca

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

SUSTAINABILITY OF CANADIAN AGRICULTURE 2022 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE Farming for Sustainable Food Systems

Photo: E. McGeough

MARCH 16-18, 2022 Wednesday March 16

Keynote Speaker - Dr. David Kanter, New York University Morning panel discussion: Food Systems Redesign

Thursday March 17

Workshop: Holos Model v4 Afternoon panel discussion: Road to Carbon Neutrality Q and A with Researchers

Friday March 18

Afternoon panel discussion: Managing From a Landscape Perspective

Registration for this free event is open!

Come visit us at: www.umanitoba.ca/agricultural-food-sciences/sustainability-canadian-agriculture-2022

New & Noteworthy Polycrop Establishment Insurance Polycrop Establishment Insurance is now available for mixtures of two or more annual crops, other than greenfeed, grown together on the same acreage. Mixes of warm and cool-season grasses, legumes, and brassicas are eligible for coverage. Producers are eligible to claim if the polycrop acreage fails to achieve 75 per cent ground cover. Coverage level selections available in 2022 are $40 or $80 per acre.

Greenfeed Changes Producers now have more flexibility to insure crops intended for greenfeed. Eligibility has been expanded to allow for up to 20 per cent of the seed blend to be made up of crops not listed as eligible for greenfeed insurance. That is, up to 20 per cent of the seed blend can be something other than: oats, barley, mixed grain, wheat, rye, triticale, field peas, sorghum, sudan grass, and millet and the crop can still be insured as greenfeed. Greenfeed is grown for the purpose of being cut, baled, or silaged for livestock feed.

Improved Calling Features MASC clients will benefit from improved communication through a new detailed, informative call system that will provide more options, such as: Quicker access to MASC team members at their assigned service centre.

Ability to leave a voicemail message with their assigned service centre.

Improved phone recordings with options and information on how long they may be on hold.

Outgoing calls from our main lines will now have caller ID indicating the calls are from MASC.

Chat with Us We’ve launched a new client chat feature that allows myMASC users to chat with MASC team members in real time. It’s fast and convenient.

Have questions? Sign in to your myMASC account during regular business hours to connect with your service centre team members.

Higher Potato Coverage for Pre-Harvest (Stage 2UH) Claims Starting in 2022, potatoes appraised and destroyed after June 20 and prior to harvest will be subject to a 10 per cent coverage deductible (down from 15 per cent). The reduced deductible is a better reflection of current potato harvesting costs and offers more effective coverage for potato producers.

Potato varieties that are eligible for coverage are updated yearly, check bit.ly/MASC_Varieties for the latest list.

Higher Hail Coverage The Hail Insurance program has increased coverage levels for 2022. Maximum hail dollar coverage is increasing from $300 per acre to $400 per acre to reflect increases in expected gross revenue for most crops. The 2022 premium rates are the same for most risk areas.

Vegetable Acreage Loss Insurance Update The minimum acreage required to be eligible for Vegetable Acreage Loss Insurance has been reduced to 0.5 acres (down from three acres in 2021).

Fee Changes MASC has increased the late fee for Seeded Acreage and Harvested Production Reports from $100 to $500.

Calendar Photo Contest Here’s your chance to showcase life on the farm! Starting March 1, we’ll be accepting your photo submissions for the 2023 MASC Calendar. Keep your camera (or phone) handy to snap those incredible pictures of life in rural Manitoba. We’re looking for images from all seasons and of all things ag (or rural living) related. Send your images to: info@masc.mb.ca. Get all the contest details and information on submitting your photos at www.masc.mb.ca/calendarphotos. #LivingTheDream February 2022

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Upcoming Deadlines Final Date to Apply for, Change, or Cancel an AgriInsurance Contract The deadline to apply for an AgriInsurance contract and to make changes to or cancel an existing AgriInsurance contract is March 31, 2022. If we do not hear from you by this date, your existing selections (i.e. insured crops, coverage levels, and options) will remain in effect.

Excess Moisture Insurance (EMI) Coverage Rented land must be added to your AgriInsurance contract by March 31 to be eligible for EMI coverage this year. Rented land added after March 31 will be eligible for AgriInsurance coverage for seeded crops and for Hail Insurance, but not for EMI. Land that is purchased on or before June 30 is eligible for EMI, based on proof of purchase provided to MASC. Contact MASC for more details.

Farmland School Tax Rebate (FSTR) Deadline The final day to apply for FSTR for the 2021 tax year is March 31, 2022.

Insure your Crops at Contracted Prices MASC’s Contract Price Option (CPO) gives you higher coverage for locked-in production to reflect market prices. For 2022, MASC continues to offer the CPO on canola, including specialty oil canola, and field peas.

Producers can blend the price from their contracted production with the base AgriInsurance dollar value (weighted by production) to better reflect expected market prices. Production contracts must be submitted to MASC by June 30 to be included in the CPO.

Forage Yield Cushioning A new technique to stabilize yield coverages for forages (to combat declining coverage after disaster years) was introduced in 2021. Yield cushioning stabilizes coverage by reducing the impact of extremely low yields on future coverage.

Silage Corn Individual productivity indexing (IPI) for silage corn was introduced in 2021. IPI calculates probable yields using a producer’s own individual yield history, based on a 10-year moving average with a two-year lag.

AgriInsurance Coverage Total insurance coverage for 2022 is expected to exceed $4.66 billion. This means the average coverage is estimated at $463 per acre, compared to $321 per acre in 2021.

Premiums With dollar values increasing significantly (on average 40 per cent), coverage for most crops is at an all-time high, which means premiums are adjusted as well to reflect these positive changes.

Premium increases will vary depending on the crop, coverage level, and risk area. For example, on average, producers can expect to pay $14.49 an acre compared to $9.16 last year. The cost of premiums is shared by producers (40 per cent), Canada (36 per cent) and Manitoba (24 per cent).

Probable Yield Most crops will experience an increase in probable yield for 2022, as yields are based on a 10-year average. For 2022, data from 2011 to 2020 is used in the calculation. The year dropped (2010) was cool and wet and produced generally below average yields; the year added (2020), produced average to above average yields for most crops.

MASC Contracts Review the AgriInsurance and Hail Insurance contracts at www.masc.mb.ca/contracts.

If you want a printed copy, contact MASC.

Follow us on Twitter @MASC_MB

Visit www.masc.mb.ca for additional updates, program information, and contact information.

February 2022

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