MBP E-Newsletter: May 12/2023

An update from MBP May 12, 2023 mbbeef.ca

Government of Canada Further Increases Interest Relief to Help Producers Manage Financial Challenges

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(May 10, 2023 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) In recognition of the significant financial challenges facing Canadian producers, the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, today confirmed that the interest-free limit of the Advance Payments Program has been increased from $250,000 to $350,000 for the 2023 program year, effective May 8, 2023. This is the portion of advances on which the Government of Canada pays the interest on behalf of producers.

Under the Advance Payments Program, producers have easy access to favorable cash advances of up to $1 million, based on the expected value of their agricultural product. The program can also provide some flexibility by allowing producers to sell their agricultural products based on market conditions rather than the need for cash.

Last year, the Government of Canada increased the

$8,600 over the two years. The further increase means producers have access to additional cash flow and more interest savings to help cover costs until they can sell their products.

By increasing the interest-free limit to $350,000 for 2023, eligible participating producers could save an additional $3,600 in interest costs on average for the year. This change will represent total savings of up to $12.4 million.

The Government of Canada remains committed to ensuring producers have the resources they need to sustain their livelihoods through challenging times. The government will also consult with provincial and territorial counterparts to explore ways to extend help to smaller agricultural producers who demonstrate urgent financial need.

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Interest

relief – continued from page 1

Quotes

“Agricultural producers continue to face significant financial challenges including high input costs and rising interest rates. This new increase in the interest-free portion of Advance Payments Program loans will generate savings for our farmers so they can maintain production to sustain their livelihoods.”

Quick facts

• On June 23, 2022, Minister Bibeau announced an increase to the interestfree portion of the Advance Payments Program from $100,000 to $250,000 for the 2022 and 2023 program years.

• Budget 2023 proposed $13 million in 2023-24 to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to increase the interest-free limit for loans under the Advance Payments Program from $250,000 to $350,000 for the 2023 program year.

• It is estimated that the total government investment resulting from these program changes for both 2022 and 2023 could be around $94.9 million.

• The amendment to the Agricultural Marketing Programs Regulations is not retroactive, meaning the new limit will be applied to existing advances under the 2023 Advance Payments Program as of May 8, 2023, when the regulatory amendment came into force.

• The Advance Payments Program cash advances are calculated based on up to 50% of the anticipated market value of the eligible agricultural products that will be produced or are in storage. The program is delivered through 30 industry-led associations

- The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

Overland flood warning issued for southwestern Manitoba

(May 11, 2023 Province of Manitoba news release) Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre is issuing an overland flood warning for southwestern Manitoba as forecasters continue to monitor a precipitation system starting tomorrow morning that could bring as much as 150 millimetres (mm)of rain to the area tomorrow and May 13.

A significant precipitation system is forecasted to affect most of North Dakota and could move north into the areas west of Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 10, extending north from the Canada-U.S. border to just north of the TransCanada Highway, affecting communities such as Brandon, Griswold, Deloraine, Melita, Boissevain, Souris and Virden. An overland flood warning is being issued for these areas effective early tomorrow morning and ending May 13 at midday.

Some weather forecast models indicate the potential of severe thunderstorms, with the system bringing up to 150 mm of rain. Heavy rain occurring over a short period on saturated

soils could create overland flooding or significant surface run-off in a short period. Water level forecasts will be updated to determine the effects of this precipitation.

The Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization continues to work with all local authorities and emergency management partners to provide guidance and support for response and recovery activities.

Members of the public are also asked to keep away from flooded areas. Up-to-date information on highway conditions, including detours and road closures, is available at www.manitoba511.ca or by calling 511.

Flood mitigation assistance questions can be directed to local municipal authorities. In case of an emergency, residents are advised to contact 911.

For more information about flooding in Manitoba, including forecasts, visit www.manitoba.ca/flooding.

Manitoba Government to Release First Crop Report to Launch 2023 Growing Season

(May 10, 2023 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba government will release its first crop report for the 2023 growing season on May 16, Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson announced.

“The agricultural industry is the backbone of Manitoba’s economy,” said Johnson. “We are pleased to provide regular, accurate updates on growing conditions and potential risks to help producers make informed crop management decisions throughout the growing season.”

Crop reports are released on a weekly basis every growing season and provide ongoing updates on Manitoba growing conditions with a regional focus. The format of the reports reflect feedback from producers and industry to make them concise and easy to interpret.

The reports also provide:

• summaries of weather issues that could affect crop management;

• updates on potential pest issues including weeds, insects and disease, in

addition to resources to help manage these challenges;

• details on smaller acreage crops such as dry beans, sunflower and oats and information on seeding and harvest progress from current and past years;

• information on the progress of seeding, crop establishment, crop development, harvest progress, crop yields and grades, fall field work progress, and the status of winter cereal crop seeding and establishment; and

• information on haying progress and estimated yields as well as pasture conditions.

The weekly reports will be released on Tuesdays by 4 p.m.

For more information on crop reports, to view past reports, or to subscribe to receive crop reports by email, visit www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/seasonal -reports/crop-report-archive/

Manitoba Government Waiving Fees for Private Well, Cistern Water Testing

(May 8, 2023 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba government is providing additional support to flood-impacted private well and cistern owners by fully subsidizing costs associated with testing their water supply to ensure it is safe to drink, Environment and Climate Minister Kevin Klein announced.

“Our government is helping ease some of the financial burden for Manitobans affected by flooding by fully subsidizing water testing costs,” said Klein. “Private well and cistern owners impacted by flooding will not have to pay to test their drinking water over a four-month period.”

The Manitoba government is fully subsidizing eligible tests conducted from today until Aug. 31 for flood-impacted Manitobans. This free water testing for private well and cistern owners is only available at Horizon Lab Ltd. in Winnipeg. For information on sample collection, sample shipping or test results, contact the laboratory directly at 204-488-2035.

“Public health encourages everyone with a private water system that has been affected by flooding to test their water once flood waters recede to ensure their drinking water is safe during a season of elevated risk,” said Dr. Brent Roussin, chief provincial public health officer.

“Preventing the risk of waterborne disease is important and the province wants well and cistern owners to take steps to protect themselves.”

Homeowners who suspect a well or cistern might be compromised by flooding should boil

drinking water before use. Water should be tested for bacteria once floodwaters recede before resuming usual water consumption.

Indicators that a water well may have been affected by flooding include:

• a change in taste, odour or appearance of well water;

• laboratory tests that show bacteria in well water or other wells nearby; and

• water lying around a well head or collecting in a well pit or around other wells nearby.

All Manitobans are reminded to test their private water supply at least once a year and after flooding. A fact sheet about flooding and well-water safety is available at www.gov.mb.ca/asset_library/en/spring_outloo k/wellwater_safety_factsheet.pdf

For general inquiries about the Manitoba government’s existing bacteria testing subsidy program for private well owners, call 204-9455762.

For information on taking water samples, reducing risk of well contamination, treating well water, or shock chlorinating wells, visit www.gov.mb.ca/sd/water/drinking-water/wellvideos/index.html

People with health-related questions about drinking well water can call Health Links-Info Santé at 204-788-8200 in Winnipeg or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257.

Canada launches new research network on sustainable agriculture to support a net-zero economy

(May 10, 2023 Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council News Release) The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) announced a funding opportunity for the creation of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Network on Sustainable Agriculture in a Net-Zero Economy, in support of the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy The new research network will bring together social sciences and humanities researchers to mobilize expertise, technologies and practitioners from all sectors to enhance learning in agriculture, climate change and the environment.

The objective of the new research network will be to support knowledge mobilization and research partnerships on the socio-economic impacts of agriculture policies pertaining to Canada’s net-zero emissions targets. The network will also inform approaches to scale up agricultural practices that support Canada’s environment and climate goals.

The new network builds on the recent announcement of a new partnership between SSHRC and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), in collaboration with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). The NSERC-SSHRC Sustainable agriculture initiative supports research to accelerate the development of transformative alternative practices and technologies and their adoption in the agriculture and agri-food sector. It also aims

to build reliable and consistent measurement tools and performance metrics as Canada moves toward a net-zero economy.

Investment in research is key to the Government of Canada meeting its ambitious climate mitigation targets to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and reach net-zero emissions by 2050. By working directly with the agricultural community, researchers will help drive better outcomes for the agricultural sector and position Canada to seize the economic opportunities of a net-zero future.

Quick facts:

• The Government of Canada commits to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 4045% below 2005 levels by 2030 and to reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.

• Budget 2022 provided NSERC and SSHRC with $100 million in funding for sustainable agriculture research.

• In the agricultural sector, Canada has made commitments to reduce emissions from fertilizer use by 30% below 2020 levels by 2030, and to support the Global Methane Pledge to reduce global methane emissions by 30% below 2020 levels by 2030.

• Budget 2022 included a commitment for immediate action toward climate mitigation and to support the 2030 Emissions

Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy to support farmers as partners in building a clean, prosperous future.

Minister Bibeau concludes AIM4C climate summit, has discussions re: matters such as “Product of USA” labelling requirements

(May 11, 2023 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Honourable MarieClaude Bibeau, yesterday wrapped up a threeday visit to Washington where she participated in the Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM4C) global summit. Minister Bibeau joined Ministerial counterparts and delegates from over 40 countries to discuss the need for greater investment in climate-smart agriculture to address climate change and global hunger.

The Minister highlighted the leadership Canada is taking to reduce the impact of climate change in agriculture through investments in clean technology, best management practices, and research and innovation. She also reinforced the message that agriculture should be a prominent topic at the climate change Conference of Parties (COP) next fall in Dubai.

She also used this forum to announce $2 million for the creation of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Network on Sustainable Agriculture in a Net-Zero Economy, in collaboration with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council as part of the $100 million investment in agricultural research announced in Budget 2022. The network will mobilize Canadian expertise, technologies and practitioners to enhance and accelerate the pathway for agriculture to play a role in a netzero economy.

Minister Bibeau was a speaker at a high-level plenary session about the importance of bringing women into the heart of decisionmaking in agri-food systems. As seen through her different experiences, empowering women leads to more effective climate action and greater economic opportunities.

Minister Bibeau also announced that Canada will join the Agriculture Breakthrough, an initiative launched at COP26 in 2021. The Agricultural Breakthrough focuses on a series of actions to accelerate the transition towards clean technologies in the agricultural sector through enhanced international collaboration, cooperation and coordination.

On the margins of the Summit, the Minister held bilateral meetings with:

• U.S Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack

• Mexico Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, Victor Villalobos

• Spain Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Luis Planas

• Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, Glenn “GT” Thompson, as well as formal and informal meetings with several ministerial counterparts, heads of international organizations and leaders of innovative research and technology companies

During her meeting with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, Minister Bibeau shared priorities on resilient supply chains, and scienceand rules-based international trade. Proposed changes to the voluntary “Product of USA” labelling requirements for meat, poultry and egg products were discussed, with Minister Bibeau noting Canada’s concern that these could restrict trade and disrupt supply chains.

Minister Bibeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to working with the U.S. and Mexico to strengthen trade relationships through science-based decision making, including Canada’s recently announced updated guidance on plant breeding innovations and

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Minister Bibeau concludes AIM4C climate summit, has discussions re: matters such as “Product of USA” labelling requirements

gene-editing. Minister Bibeau also expressed her appreciation for Secretary Vilsack’s support in helping to reopen the U.S. market for Prince Edward Island table stock potatoes. They also discussed a variety of other topics, including Canada’s Clean Fuel Standard and Mexico’s restrictions on some GMO corn imports.

During the Summit, Minister Bibeau visited the USDA Beltsville Agriculture Research Centre to see breakthrough technology developed by Carbon Asset Solutions, which has its Canadian headquarters in Olds, Alberta. The company specializes in advanced soil carbon measurement technology to facilitate the verification and sales of carbon credits in the global market; which could incentivize farmers to introduce more regenerative farming practices to increase resilience, soil fertility, and carbon sequestration while earning revenues from the sale of verified carbon credits. Minister Bibeau highlighted Canada’s investment of up to $458,095 under the Research and Innovation Stream of the Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program to bring Carbon Asset Solutions’ technology to the commercial stage.

The Minister hosted a gathering of approximately 60 U.S agricultural industry representatives to reiterate the value and mutual benefits of the Canada-U.S. trading relationship and to share Canadian perspectives and priorities. She also held meetings with the North American Meat Institute and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, together with the Canadian Cattle Association, on the importance of integration in the Canada-U.S. meat and livestock supply chain.

The visit to Washington reinforced the collaboration with international partners and organizations to support a coordinated action on climate change, food security and world hunger, and accelerate investments to help agriculture be part of the solution while supporting the livelihood of farmers.

Quick facts

• Launched in 2021, Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM4C) is an initiative led by the United States and the United Arab Emirates, with support from more than 40 countries. The goal is to increase investment in climate-smart agriculture and food systems innovation.

• Carbon Asset Solutions Ltd. is a clean technology company with offices in Australia, Canada and the U.S. Its technology, Mobile Inelastic Neutron Scattering (MINS), performs advanced measurements of soil carbon in farm fields, generating maps that can help farmers apply regenerative farming practices with more impact on their soil health, while calculating the value of those practices as a carbon offset.

• The ACT – Research and Innovation Stream supports pre-market innovation including research, development, demonstration and commercialization of agricultural clean technologies.

• As part of the Strengthened Climate Plan and the Emissions Reduction Plan, the Government of Canada has committed over $1.5 billion to accelerate the agricultural sector’s progress on reducing emissions and to remain a global leader in sustainable agriculture. This includes $495.7 million for the Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program.

Canada Announces Extension to Agri-Food Pilot, Facilitating Access To Permanent Residence For Workers and Their Families

(May 8, 2023 Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada News Release) The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of supporting the agri-food sector’s labour market needs and strengthening Canada’s food supply system. One key to success for Canadian farmers and food processors is their ability to recruit and retain a skilled workforce.

The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the extension of the Agri-Food Pilot, which will now run until May 14, 2025. Launched in May 2020, the pilot helps facilitate the transition of experienced workers in agricultural and food industries to permanent residence in Canada.

To support employers and candidates, the Minister also announced the removal of the annual occupational caps, or the limits for how many candidates can apply for a specific occupation under the pilot. Removing these limits will provide an opportunity for more eligible candidates to apply. By the end of the year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) intends to introduce new changes to the pilot in stages, including

• expanding open work permit access to family members of all participants in the Agri-Food Pilot regardless of the participant’s job skill level

• allowing unions to attest to a candidate’s work experience, as an alternative to employer reference letters

• giving applicants residing in Canada the option to either meet the job offer requirement, including the median wage requirement for the job offer, or

the education requirement, including educational credential assessment verification

• accepting work experience gained under an open work permit for vulnerable workers, giving more workers an opportunity to qualify

Together, these changes are a significant step in meeting the longstanding labour market needs of employers in the meat processing, mushroom, greenhouse crop production and livestock-raising industries by helping fill ongoing labour needs with full-time, year-round employees. They also provide wider support to applicants and their family members, reduce barriers and vulnerability for candidates, and expand the pathway to permanent residence for experienced workers in these industries.

The Agri-Food Pilot complements Canada’s existing suite of economic immigration programs, which includes the Atlantic Immigration Program, the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot, the caregivers pilots, the Global Skills Strategy, Express Entry, and the Provincial Nominee Program. It continues to promote the skills and labour required in the agriculture and agri-food sector while also providing an opportunity for these workers to settle in Canada and contribute to our economy.

Quotes

“Our farmers and food processors depend on the steady arrival of foreign workers so that planting, harvesting and food processing activities can take place throughout the year, and they need our continued support to attract and retain these talented workers. Extending the Agri-Food Pilot helps these sectors find the employees they need, so we can be confident

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Canada Announces Extension to Agri-Food Pilot, Facilitating Access To Permanent Residence For Workers and Their Families

that our food security, economy and living standards for Canadians across the country will continue to improve and grow.”

- The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

“Today’s announcement allows us to keep building on the work we have done to ensure our agriculture and agri-food sector can count on the help of skilled workers. The Agri-Food Pilot is a concrete action that expands immigration pathways for experienced workers, and addresses ongoing agricultural labour challenges. It also supports Canada’s commitment in helping our sector reach its full potential.”

- Francis Drouin, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Glengarry–Prescott–Russell

"One of the most significant challenges facing the agriculture sector in Canada is labour and skills shortages. The Canadian Federation of Agriculture is happy to see the Agri-Food Pilot extended to 2025. We need programs that support the long-term needs of the agri-food sector. We are pleased to see some greater flexibility in the program and look forward to working with the government to ensure farm workers have clear and accessible pathways to permanent residence."

“The meat processing sector requires skilled, year-round labour to put Canadian meat products on grocery store shelves. Our members invest in their workforce, and we are therefore very pleased with the measures announced

today, which will help us

retain these valued individuals.”

-

Christopher White, President and CEO, Canadian Meat Council

Quick facts

• The agriculture and agri-food industry is an important contributor to Canada’s economic growth and vitality. In 2021, Canada exported nearly $82.2 billion in agriculture and food products, including raw agricultural materials, fish and seafood, and processed foods.

• Canada is the fifth-largest exporter of agri-food and seafood in the world, exporting to over 200 countries in 2021. In the same year, the agri-food system provided one in nine jobs in Canada and employed 2.1 million people.

• This five-year pilot tests an industry-specific approach by working with agri-food employers and providing a pathway to permanent residence for temporary foreign workers who have worked in the agri-food sector in Canada.

• A total of 2,750 principal applicants can be processed under the pilot annually.

• The occupations and industries eligible under the pilot include:

o meat product manufacturing

▪ retail butchers

▪ industrial butchers

▪ farm supervisors and specialized livestock workers

▪ food processing labourers

o greenhouse, nursery and floriculture production, including mushroom production

▪ farm supervisors and specialized livestock workers

▪ general farm workers

▪ harvesting labourers

o animal production, excluding aquaculture

▪ farm supervisors and specialized livestock workers

▪ general farm workers

Associated links

• Agri-Food Pilot

- Keith Currie, President, Canadian Federation of Agriculture

PrairiesCan Launches Consultation Portal for the Building a Green Prairie Economy Act

Previously released April 21, 2023, re-leased May 5, 2023 – Ottawa, Ontario – PrairiesCan

On December 15, 2022, the Building a Green Prairie Economy Act became law. The Act was the product of the vision and passion of the Honourable Jim Carr, the late Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre who, in everything he did, had the Prairies at heart. At its core, he saw the Act as a new way of doing business – to better focus federal programs on growing regional economies and creating wellpaying jobs across the Prairies.

Cooperation and engagement is at the heart of this legislation. It calls for a framework for clean economic growth that is informed by consultations with provinces, Indigenous and municipal governments, industry, labour representatives and people living throughout the Prairies.

The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan, announced the launch of an online portal. Between now and June 30th, PrairiesCan wants to hear your ideas on the clean economic opportunities for the Prairies, what is needed to advance them, and how to strengthen collaboration with partners to seize the future for the Prairie region in a competitive global economy. The input received will be used to help inform the framework, which must be tabled in Parliament December 2023.

The Building a Green Prairie Economy Act is emblematic of how in the shifting global economy, we need to work together, in partnership, to build a stronger, more sustainable and more secure Canadian economy while ensuring Canadians in all parts of the country are able to adjust successfully to the changes that new opportunities and challenges pose.

Quotes

“Our government understands that to move forward in greening the economy, we all need to be pulling in the same direction, in the best interest of the Prairie provinces. The Prairies are an economic and energy powerhouse making significant contributions to the Canadian economy. Across the Prairies, industries, communities and workers are already making great strides in greening our economy. Input from Canadians that live and work across the Prairies will assist in developing a stronger, more sustainable and inclusive Prairies economy that respects the environment, and leaves no one behind."

–The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister for PrairiesCan

Quick facts

• On December 15, 2022, the late Honourable Jim Carr’s private member’s Bill (C-235) received Royal Assent as the Building a Green Prairie Economy Act

• The Building a Green Prairie Economy Act calls for all levels of government, Indigenous Peoples, industry, and labour organizations to work collaboratively in responding to the unique needs of the Prairies to build a strong and sustainable Prairies economy for everyone.

• Consultations will be open until June 30, 2023.

• The Prairies are a key contributor to Canada’s economy. In 2021, the Prairies generated $543B in nominal gross domestic product, and more than $192B in exports.

• The framework seeks to build on efforts to increase sustainability that are currently happening across the Prairies. Examples include public and private investments in carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, renewable energy, and agriculture technology.

Associated links

• Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)

• Building a Green Prairie Economy Engagement Site

• Building a Green Prairie Economy Act

Manitoba RCMP Monthly Crime Statistics for March 2023

Source: May 9, 2023 RCMP News Release

Calls for Service - March 2022 vs. March 2023:

East District: +8% (5,722 to 6,192)

North District: -4% (6,399 to 6,113)

West District: +3% (3,872 to 4,001)

Overall, the Calls for Service counts increased by 2% (15,993 to 16,306).

Crime against Person -2% (346 to 338)

Drug Enforcement +8% (37 to 40)

North District

Common Police Activities -10% (944 to 851)

Crime against Property -5% (1249 to 1184)

Crime against Person -11% (992 to 881)

Drug Enforcement -4% (54 to 52)

East District

Common Police Activities +4% (689 to 718)

Crime against Property +1% (790 to 796)

Crime against Person +15% (359 to 413)

Drug Enforcement +15% (33 to 38)

Traffic Enforcement Tickets Issued (all districts combined)

+41% increase (2,239 to 3,153)

For a listing of the communities served by each District, please visit: https://www.rcmpgrc.gc.ca/mb/stats/districts-eng.htm

West District

Common Police Activities +14% (459 to 522)

Crime against Property +10% (547 to 602)

The complete statistics can be found here: https://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/mb/stats/indexeng.htm.

Share Your Thoughts: Consultation on Proposed Changes to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability)

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is proposing changes to Part XV (Animal Identification) of the Health of Animals Regulations to improve the livestock identification and traceability system in Canada.

If you own sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, bison or farmed cervids or are involved with livestock production or handling, we encourage you to share your feedback during the 90-day consultation period from March 18, 2023 to June 16, 2023. See:

• Share your thoughts: Consultation on proposed changes to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability)

Background:

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is proposing amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability) to enable a more effective and timely response to disease outbreaks and food safety issues, and improve support for disease surveillance activities.

About the consultation

Over the last decade, industry and government representatives have been working together on the livestock traceability file. Consultations with industry and provinces identified some gaps and opportunities to improve Canada's livestock traceability system. Feedback received set the foundation for proposed regulatory changes. The proposed amendments are expected to strengthen Canada's ability to respond quickly to animal health threats and other emergencies.

What we are looking to change

The regulatory proposal would address the gaps in the current livestock identification and traceability system, including:

• adding goats and cervids as animal species that share diseases with other regulated livestock, and therefore subject to traceability requirements

• shortening the time period allowed to report an event to better support an efficient response to disease outbreaks

• adding a requirement to provide information about the geographical location of sites where animals are located

• requiring the reporting of domestic movements of livestock

Why you should participate

This is an opportunity to share your views to inform changes to the regulations. The input gathered through this consultation will be used to improve the regulations, help Canada build a robust and effective livestock traceability system, and improve the Government of Canada's ability to respond quickly to animal health threats and other emergencies.

Join in: how to participate

• Read the proposed regulations in Canada Gazette Part I which has the full text of the proposed regulations and the regulatory impact analysis statement (RIAS).

• Read the following guides developed to help regulated parties understand the proposed regulatory requirements:

Share Your Thoughts: Consultation on Proposed Changes to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability)

o A guide for livestock producers and owners

o A guide for operators of livestock sites (abattoirs, assembly points, feedlots, etc.)

o A guide for exporters, importers and livestock transporters

o A guide for distributors of approved indicators

• Read the proposed documents to be incorporated by reference:Footnote 1

o Approved animal indicators

o Revoked animal indicators

Stakeholders will have 90 days to provide comments during this consultation

• Learn how to comment on proposed regulations

• Comment on the proposed regulations

Who is the focus of this consultation

The CFIA is seeking comments from:

• livestock producers

• livestock owners

• operators of assembly points, feedlots and community pastures

• operators of veterinary hospitals, fairs, exhibitions and rodeos

• operators of abattoirs, rendering plants and dead stock collection centres

• livestock transporters

• exporters and importers of livestock

All comments are welcome from industry, governments, the public, or other organizations or individuals.

Key topics for discussion

The CFIA is seeking feedback on:

• potential effects on business decisions and activities, such as human and financial resources

• potential effects on industry, market access and consumer confidence

• ways to harmonize and advance Canadian requirements for livestock traceability

• how feasible it is to implement the proposed requirements

Related information

• Livestock identification and traceability

• Health of Animals Regulations

• Health of Animals Act

Follow:

• Facebook

• Twitter

• LinkedIn

Contact us

Animal Health Directorate

Animal Health Programs Division

59 Camelot Drive

Ottawa ON K1A 0Y9

Email: cfia.trace-trace.acia@inspection.gc.ca

Going to Pasture

By: Dr. Tanya Anderson, DVM Gladstone Vet Clinic

Spring has finally come and, while many are still calving or just getting started, other cow/calf producers are winding down calving and will soon be into breeding season if not already. Now is the time to sit back and reflect on how the last year panned out. What went well and what didn’t? Decisions made now as the cows go out to pasture will impact on outcomes at weaning in the fall and calving again next spring.

Calving season is equivalent to the harvest season for grain producers. Poor planning and management will produce poor yields. Numerous studies have shown that the most profitable beef operations have a short calving season (1 ½ to 2 months) and a uniform calf crop. It is critical that cows get bred within the first two cycles (goal –70% cows bred at first cycle). Cows must be cycling at the start of the breeding season and the bulls must be breeding.

The “textbook” gives a benchmark of <10% open cows at preg testing but in reality, well-managed operations should easily achieve <5% opens. If you routinely cull high numbers of open cows in the fall, look at your nutrition/vaccination programs and bull management.

Cattle with high growth and lactation demands require better nutrition.

Replacement heifers, first calf heifers and thin or high milking cows should be placed on the better pastures. These same animals should receive energy supplementation post-calving to ensure that they are on a rising plane of nutrition

(maintaining/gaining weight) and cycling at the start of the breeding season. If you find that the whole herd is coming through the winter in poor condition, assess your

winter-feeding program. Shortcuts to feeding and weight loss over the winter will haunt you next year! The “benchmark” is a BCS of 5, which represents an average, moderately fleshed cow with fat evident over the ribs and alongside the tailhead. In general, cows should calve at BCS 4-6 and then gain slightly to breeding. This past year was a good example of why feed testing should be done. Feed was plentiful and looked quite good, but test results showed inferiority…that showed up as failure of cows to keep in condition.

Mineral supplementation also affects cyclicity, fertility and embryo viability. Deficiencies of selenium, copper, zinc, manganese, cobalt, and iodine have been associated with decreased/ irregular cycling and poorer conception. Vitamin deficiencies (esp. Vit A and E) can also affect fertility and cause weakened immune systems Look at your vitamin and mineral program if you have high numbers of cows with uterine infections post-calving, retained placentas, low levels of cycling or lameness issues

Bull management is also critical to ensure you have a calf crop next spring. Check out the BCRC website for info re: breeding soundness evaluation of bulls. Be sure to check your pastures regularly and ensure the bull that passed the BSE with flying colors is actually breeding the cows! Bull/cow ratios vary depending on pasture size, bull age and fertility. Mature bull ratios vary from 1:30-50. Yearling ratios should be no greater than 1:15-20. Don’t forget that the bull is half the herd – look after him! Ensure the bull is in good shape with no foot or eye problems. Vaccinate against pinkeye and foot rot - do while in the chute for semen evaluation Vibrio vaccination and Trich testing may be necessary in certain situations – check with your veterinarian

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Going to Pasture

Sorting cattle prior to sending to pasture gives you an opportunity to check for those “problem” cows. Record cows with poor feet, bad udders and calving difficulties for culling in the fall. Write down those problem numbers before your memory has faded! Cull or treat cancer eyes but don’t wait until the summer ends. It is amazing how a tiny spot on the eye in the spring can be a full-blown fly-infested mess in the fall with resultant loss in market options, not to mention humane concerns.

Be sure to vaccinate the herd (and don’t forget the bulls!) to prevent reproductive loss. BVD and IBR should be done as a bare minimum with Leptospirosis and Vibrio vaccinations in risk herds/areas. Traditionally, vaccinations were done two to four weeks pre-breeding but recently, vaccination protocols have changed. Depending on individual disease risks and management systems, vaccination can be done in the fall at pregnancy testing or precalving

Calf management is also important at pasture turnout to optimize payouts at

weaning If not already done at birth, castrate and dehorn. Leaving bull calves intact does not lead to more pounds at weaning – weight loss with castration in the fall (or discounts if sold intact) negates any gains from hormones over the summer. Castrated bull calves also cannot breed heifers! Consider implanting - a variety are available and training by company representatives, your vet or techs can be organized if you are new to implants. Implanting provides the most economic return (20lb gain/calf) of any management tool. If cows are on poorer pasture or are a little thinner, consider creep-feeding to maximize gains and conserve cow condition. Lastly, do not forget to vaccinate – a 4-way viral (BVD, IBR, BRSV and PI3) with Clostridial should be the bare minimum Vaccination against other diseases like Hemophilus or the Pasteurellas can be done if a problem in your herd

A little attention to the details now will reap more bred cows and bigger healthier calves this fall!

Did you know that vaccinated cows are more likely to get pregnant, especially in co-mingling situations? Vaccinated cows were less likely to abort? Calves born to vaccinated cows were less likely to be treated before weaning?

Responsible Antimicrobial Usage in Beef Cattle Production

Antimicrobials are used in human and veterinary medicine for the same reasons. Using an antimicrobial to target specific microbial pathogens is an effective way to combat infectious disease, especially when effective vaccines are not available. Sound preventative measures geared at ensuring optimal herd health is the best way to minimize the use of antimicrobials. Practices like low stress handling and weaning protocols, preconditioning, timely vaccination programs, adequate nutrition, and biosecurity measure tailored to your unique operation are the best ways to prevent illness and the need for antimicrobial usage. Consult your veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plans. An accurate diagnosis will help you to use The RIGHT product the RIGHT time in the RIGHT amount.

The attached chart shows common antimicrobials with bovine indications categorized by their importance in human medicine.

**CONSULT A VETERINARIAN ON WHICH PRODUCT TO USE**

Medically Important

Antimicrobial: Antimicrobials considered to be important for the treatment of bacterial infections in humans.

Some drugs are considered more important than others in the treatment of serious bacterial infections, and resistance development against those antimicrobials might have more serious consequences for human health

Categories of Antimicrobials:

Antimicrobials are divided into four categories based on their importance in human medicine. Each category of importance contains antimicrobial drugs of different classes. Classes of drugs are based on their chemical makeup.

• Antimicrobials classified as ‘Very High Importance’ are used to treat very serious human infections.

GREEN: Low importance – if products in this category are indicated for your diagnosis, use one of these products as your first line of defense.

YELLOW: High importance – use these products judiciously, and when you’re unable to use a product in the green category.

RED: Very High Importance –only use these products when absolutely necessary and when products in the green or yellow category aren’t available or indicated

**IF GREEN OR YELLOW ARE INDICATED ON THE LABEL FOR YOUR DIAGNOSIS, USE THESE PRODUCTS FIRST**

• ‘High Importance’ antimicrobials are of intermediate concern in human medicine.

• ‘Medium Importance’ drugs are rarely used to treat serious human health issues. For example, tetracycline used to treat acne is classified as Medium Importance.

• Antimicrobials of ‘Low Importance’, like ionophores, are not used in human medicine to treat bacterial infections

continued on page 18

Responsible Antimicrobial Usage in Beef Cattle Production

Using Antimicrobials Responsibly:

• Have an accurate diagnosis before using antimicrobials

o For example, not all lameness is footrot (a bacterial infection).

o Viruses are not susceptible to antibiotics.

o Antimicrobials that specifically target the pathogen should be selected over broader-spectrum agents and local therapy should be selected over systemic therapy when appropriate.

▪ DON’T USE A SHOTGUN TO KILL A FLY!

• Choose the right product to treat the condition .

o Have a conversation with your veterinarian to help determine whether the health benefit of treatment from a particular antimicrobial drug outweighs the potential risk and burden on resistance

• Follow veterinary and/or label instructions

o Use the proper route of delivery (oral, subcutaneous, intramuscular, or intravenous)

o Deliver the drug in the proper dose

o Administer the drug for the proper number of days

▪ Treatment should not be stopped earlier than veterinary and/or label instructions indicate as reduced symptoms may be confused with a cure.

▪ Provided veterinary and/or label instructions are followed, antimicrobials should be used for the shortest time period required to reliably achieve a cure. This minimizes exposure of other bacterial populations to the antimicrobial.

o If the product label is no longer available, visit the Compendium of Veterinary Products to search for it.

Adapted from https://www.beefresearch.ca/topics/antibiotic -resistance/

Categorization of Antimicrobial Drugs Based on Importance in Human Medicine*

CalfSpan™ Tablets

Sulfamethazine Bolus and other similar products

Bio-Mycin® 200

Kelamycin Intrauterine Suspension

Liquamycin LA-200®

Oxy Tetra-A Oxyvet® 200 LA and other similar products