Cattle Country - February 2024 by ManitobaBeefProducers

PUBLISHED BY MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS

FEBRUARY 2024

Producers are keeping a close eye on their animals as well as the weather because the lack of snowfall through early January could make for a challenging spring. (Photo credit: Steven Manns/MBP)

Research Round-up for 2023: U of M Research Addressing Current Beef Industry Priorities Over the last year, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences (FAFS) scientists have been hard at work to address current beef research priorities identified by Manitoba Beef Producers and the Beef Cattle Research Council. Below is a snapshot of some of this research which includes feed security, environmental sustainability and biodiversity, precision technologies, animal and farmer health/welfare, and food safety. Exploring alternative feeding and grazing strategies Maintaining feed quality of standing forage into the late fall/early winter remains a significant challenge for producers, and UM scientists are addressing the challenge by utilizing intercropping to enhance the value of corn grazing for growing cattle. Corn is high yielding and high in energy but lacks the required protein for optimal growth of growing cattle. Intercropping is a

potential way to tackle this problem, however much is unknown about the agronomic, animal and economic implications of intercropping corn for fall/winter grazing. Through a range of Prairie wide small plot trials, researchers at the UofM are evaluating the potential of this practice and the impact of intercrop forage species, timing and method of seeding of intercrop and fertility. Additionally, a large-scale pasture trial in the fall/ winter of 2023 saw the grazing of replacement heifers on intercropped corn where forage quality/yield, animal performance, feed intake and enteric methane emissions were measured. Key to the potential of any novel grazing strategy is its cost and in collaboration with the University of Alberta, the team will assess the economic implications of intercropped corn for beef cattle on the Prairies.

Intercropping is not restricted to corn and in a new, Canada wide project, the team is investigating annual forages including cereals, legumes, grasses and brassica for spring and fall season grazing of growing cattle. To date, annual crops for fall grazing have been mostly utilized for swath grazing but there is also increased interest in spring grazing of annuals, however, little data exists in this area. More information is needed on spring/fall grazing of standing annual forage crops and suitable mixtures to maximize forage quality and yield. A team of animal, plant, soil and economic researchers will evaluate the impact of a variety of forage mixtures (simple and complex) not only on forage yield and nutritional value but also on animal performance, greenhouse gas emissions, soil health, subsequent crop yields and economic sustainability. page 5 

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CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

Looking Ahead to a New Year th and the 45 MBP AGM dedicated position within the RCMP just for addressing After everyone hopefully enjoyed some good roast beef dinners over the holidays, and settles into a new livestock-related concerns, especially crime. This is year ahead, at Manitoba Beef Producers we are busy preimportant because it is an individual within the RCMP paring for our 45th Annual General Meeting, February who has a knowledge and understanding of the cattle MATTHEW ATKINSON President’s Column 8-9, back in Brandon. We look forward to seeing and industry and their time is solely dedicated to addressing getting a chance to catch up with lots of folks there and issues within the cattle industry, as opposed to being hopefully learn a few things from our diverse line-up of always a big topic, as we are all competing for the same pulled away many different directions in the course of speakers. land available to run our farms and ranches. However, their daily police duties. In general this time of year provides lots of opportu- we know that BRMs available to cattle producers fall The other part of this, working hand in hand with nities for producers to take in some knowledge sessions short compared to those in the crop production world. RCMP, is that other provinces have more extensive use and to think about changes that could be implemented Whether it is the price or effectiveness of these products, of livestock inspection. These inspectors, and the reon their farms and ranches going forward. Whether that forage insurance, pasture insurance and livestock price cords they keep, serve many purposes, of course a major is our AGM, one of the many other conferences or sem- insurance are left wanting in different wants. one of those being a means to potentially help mitigate inars, or just some good reading or watching online on A top of mind issue for producers is livestock pre- the risk of livestock fraud and theft. And, livestock some cold Manitoba evenings, there are many learning dation. We have always seen some negative livestock and inspection can also play a vital role when dealing with opportunities available. wildlife interactions, but the past few years have seen disease trace-outs and general government traceability Our goal as beef producers is always efficiency and these occurrences on the rise. This would suggest that requirements. as we know, that is always a moving target. Everything our predator numbers are high and anecdotally, many I look forward to the MBP AGM and hopefully is constantly changing and we need to change having some good fellowship, combined with I would encourage everybody to do some hard too, to hopefully stay ahead. While we have seen debate and discussion around these and many huge inflation in everything we have to purchase, looking into incentives and programs available in other topics. we have fortunately seen a large uptick in cattle In closing, on behalf of Manitoba Beef their areas. Funding is available for a wide range Producers' prices, and forward contracts would suggest we directors and staff, I would like to will see that for at least a little longer. Hopefully, of things including forage stands, fencing, water extend our sincere sympathy to the family and this allows producers to make some upgrades and systems, equipment and feed efficiency upgrades. friends of the late Larry Schweitzer who passed investments that can increase that efficiency. away in mid-December. A former District 7 diFor anyone thinking of this, there are many ave- believe this to be the case. However, it would be helpful rector, Larry served in various capacities on the board nues available to cost share those projects and save quite to have more extensive predator population surveys to of the Manitoba Cattle Producers Association from a bit of money in doing so. I would encourage everybody confirm this, and it is something for which MBP has 2001 to 2006, including serving as MCPA president in to do some hard looking into incentives and programs advocated. We need a quicker and more efficient way to 2005. He also represented the MCPA at the national available in their areas. Funding is available for a wide assess when livestock are injured or killed by predators level through organizations such as the Canadian range of things including forage stands, fencing, water and a more efficient and targeted response to address Cattlemen’s Association and he represented MBP at systems, equipment and feed efficiency upgrades. these problem predators. the National Cattle Feeders Association, where he went Looking ahead to the 45th AGM I’d like to touch Another big topic is livestock inspection and en- on to be chair of that organization. Larry was very upon some of the bigger things MBP has been working forcement. This issue has been looked at a number of knowledgeable and passionate about the cattle industry, on and what some of the big issues and topics of conver- times in the past, but has come to the forefront in a big particularly the feeding sector. He was committed to sation might be. One matter that is not always front and way again due to some livestock-related crimes here. the advancement of the beef industry even in the face of centre but which is definitely ongoing is the need for cat- Currently, we are the only western province without challenges such as BSE, mCOOL, and adverse weather tle producers to have business risk management (BRM) extensive livestock inspection or livestock enforcement conditions. He loved an engaging discussion, had a great tools available to them in a fair and equitable manner, as services. The enforcement part of this conversation is sense of humour, and loved his family and friends. He compared to available for cash crop production. This is that in each of the other Western provinces, there is certainly will be missed. www.mbsimmental.com

2024 bull sales

President: Donovan Hickson 204-570-1862 Secretary: Sandra Brigden 403-638-7741 sandra.mbsimmental@gmail.com Feb.19th Rendezvous Farms 20th Annual Bull & Female Sale, Ste. Rose du Lac, MB Feb. 21th M&J / Glasman Farms Simmental & Angus 2 Year Bull Sale, Russell, MB Feb. 26th Horner / Downhill / TSN Online Simmental Bull Sale, FarmGateAuctions.ca Feb. 29th JP Cattle Co. Annual Simmental & Angus Bull Sale, McAuley, MB Mar. 3rd Maple Lake Stock Farms Kick Off To Spring Bull Sale, Hartney, MB Mar. 3rd Premium Beef Simmental Bull Sale, Kenton, MB Mar. 4th Canadian Central Simmental & Angus Bull & Female Sale, Neepawa, MB Mar. 5th Bonchuk Farms Annual Bull Sale, Virden, MB Mar. 6th Mar Mac Farms & guests Simmental, Red & Black Angus Bull Sale, Brandon, MB Mar. 8th Rainbow River Simmentals 8th Annual Bull & Female Sale, FarmGateAuctions.ca Mar. 9th 83 South Simmental Bull Sale, FarmGateAuctions.ca Mar. 9th Rancher’s Select 5th Annual Simmental Bull Sale, Neepawa, MB Mar. 11th McIntosh Ranch Online Simmental Bull Sale, FarmGateAuctions.ca Mar. 11th Oakview/Perkin/Triple R Simmental Bull Sale, Darlingford, MB Mar. 12th Prairie Partners Bull & Female Sale, Killarney, MB Mar. 14th Van De Velde Cattle & Delight Simmentals Online Bull Sale, FarmGateAuctions.ca Mar. 14th Northern Light Simmentals Bull Sale, Rossburn, MB Mar. 15th High Bluff Stock Farms Charolais & Simmental Bull Sale, Inglis, MB Mar. 16th McRuer Simmentals & Guests Bull & Heifer Sale, Killarney, MB Mar. 17th Transcon’s Premium Beef Simmental Bull Sale, Neepawa, MB Mar. 22th Sunville Simmentals/Overby Stock Farm 8th Annual Bull Sale, McCreary MB Apr. 6th Lundar Bull Aale, Lundar, MB

DISTRICT 1

ALFRED EPP

DISTRICT 5

STEVEN MANNS

Boissevain-Morton, Brenda-Waskada, Grassland, Cornwallis, Elton, Norfolk-Treherne, Deloraine-Winchester, and Two Borders North Norfolk, Oakland-Wawanesa, Glenboro-South Cypress, and Victoria

DISTRICT 2

NANCY HOWATT SECRETARY

Argyle, Cartwright-Roblin, KillarneyTurtle Mountain, Lorne, Louise, Pembina, and Prairie Lakes

DISTRICT 6 VACANT

Pipestone, Riverdale, Sifton, Souris-Glenwood, Wallace-Woodworth, and Whitehead

DISTRICT 3

DISTRICT 7

Cartier, Dufferin, Grey, MacDonald, Portage la Prairie, Rhineland, Roland, Stanley, Thompson, Montcalm, Morris, and Ritchot

Ellice-Archie, Hamiota, Prairie-View, Riding Mountain West, Rossburn, Russell-Binscarth, and Yellowhead

DISTRICT 4

MATTHEW ATKINSON

ANDRE STEPPLER

BYRON FALK

TYLER FULTON PAST PRESIDENT

DISTRICT 8

Clanwilliam-Erickson, Glenella-Lansdowne, De Salaberry, Emerson-Franklin, Hanover, Harrison-Park, Minto-Odanah, Oakview, La Broquerie, Piney and Stuartburn, Montcalm, North Cypress-Langford, Rosedale, Morris, Ritchot, Springfield, Ste. Anne, Taché, and West Lake-Gladstone R.M. of Piney and Reynolds

Building on Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation’s past 37 years of success, the new Manitoba Habitat Conservancy is committed to being a leader in the delivery of conservation programs in rural Manitoba for generations to come. M BHABITAT. C A

DISTRICT 9

TREVOR SUND

Alexander, Brokenhead, East St. Paul, Lac Du Bonnet, Rockwood, Rosser, St. Andrews, St. Clements, St. Francois Xavier, West St. Paul, Whitemouth, Woodlands, LGD of Pinawa, Reynolds, Springfield, Ste. Anne, and Taché

DISTRICT 13

DISTRICT 14

MARY PAZIUK

Dauphin, Ethelbert, Gilbert Plains, Grandview, Roblin and Mossey River

DISTRICT 10

MIKE DUGUID

MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS Unit 220, 530 Century Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 0Y4

DALE CAZAKOFF

Minitonas-Bowsman, Mountain, and Swan Valley West

COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING LEAD David Hultin

FINANCE

OFFICE ASSISTANT

Armstrong, Bifrost-Riverton, Fisher, and Gimli

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DISTRICT 11

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RESEARCH AND EXTENSION SPECIALIST

GENERAL MANAGER

Ray Bittner

ARVID NOTTVEIT

Coldwell, Grahamdale, St. Laurent, and West Interlake

DISTRICT 12

MARK GOOD TREASURER

Alonsa, Lakeshore, McCreary, and Ste. Rose

Carson Callum

POLICY ANALYST Maureen Cousins

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Jennifer Patryluk

Deb Walger

Melissa Atchison

LIVESTOCK PREDATION PREVENTION PROJECT COORDINATOR CATTLE COUNTRY EDITOR David Hultin

Print Studio One

CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

Reflecting on the Outcomes of the Comprehensive Livestock Predation Prevention Pilot Project in Manitoba Happy New Year all! I hope you have had a good start to the new year in January and are looking forward to what’s ahead! Speaking of what’s ahead, depending on when this hits your mailbox you may be registered or have attended our 45th Annual General Meeting on February 8-9, 2024 at the Victoria Inn in Brandon. As I am writing this, we are still gearing up to host our members in Brandon for it, as it's always such an important industry event. This month I want to focus on the completion of an important project undertaken by Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP). Back in 2020, MBP, working in conjunction with partners on the Livestock Predation Protection Working Group (including the Manitoba Sheep Association) received funding from the Government of Manitoba to conduct a pilot Livestock Predation Prevention Project (LPPP). It was aimed at looking at avenues to help producers prevent or reduce the risk of predation losses on their operations. The project saw 10 different risk mitigation practice (RMP) categories used on farms and ranches across the province, with a total of 114 individual RMPs implemented. The pilot project included a knowledge transfer strategy via the development of informational resources to help increase producers’ understanding of RMPs available to manage the risk of predation. We have posted many of these resources on our website, such as factsheets for RMPs and videos to help extend this knowledge to producers. You can find those resources by visiting https://mbbeef.ca/producers/ and looking for the Livestock Predation Pilot Project link on the lefthand side of the page. The project has been very insightful in terms of various ways to mitigate against on farm predation risks. It has led to some key takeaways and considerations. I will touch on a few of these. The Manitoba government should continue to costshare the Wildlife Damage Compensation for Livestock Predation program with the federal government. Producers experiencing livestock predation losses should be assisted to help assess and implement indi-

CARSON CALLUM

General Manager’s Column

vidual farm risk mitigation practices, examples of which were tested during the project. It is important that governments and NGOs recognize the limitations of predator mitigation. The normal means of mitigating livestock predator losses is to deflect predators away from an individual livestock farm. While this is useful to the individual farm or to specific groups of domestic animals, it cannot be the entire solution for Manitoba as a whole. Some predators will naturally return to wildlife areas. However, a large contingent of predators have been raised on agricultural lands and are habituated to feeding on livestock, as well as the small wild animals and ungulates who are habituated to using agricultural lands for feeding and other purposes. As such, individual farm mitigation projects only transfer the problem to the less protected farms (and potentially over a greater area) and does not necessarily reduce total provincial losses. There is a declining number of trappers in Manitoba. Due to reduced demand for pelts and lower pelt prices, the number of trappers and their activities have SERVICES been dramatically curtailed in Lois McRae & Joyce Gordon the last few years. Increasing RR 1 B ox 5 7 the number of trappers who are B r a n d o n , M a n i t o ba R7A 5Y1 interested in coyote and wolf h : 2 0 4-728-3058 trapping is unlikely as the pelt c : 2 0 4-573-5192 market appears to be in a long f : 2 0 4-727-7744 term to permanent collapse. m a r m a c f a r m s 1 @ gmail.com However, problem predator removals by trapping profesLIVESTOCK INSURANCE sionals whose work is supported specializing in livestock insurance for over 45 years by means other than pelt sales

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are likely to be one of the few solutions to predators who are actively predating livestock. Seeking improvements to the Problem Predator Removal Program will be a key next step priority for MBP to work on. Pulling valuable methods from other jurisdictions (such as those used in British Columbia) will be what we bring forward with different levels of government to see the best action. MBP would like to thank all the producer cooperators who participated in the LPPP and who provided valuable feedback on the various risk mitigation practices tested on their operations. Thanks as well to staff from Manitoba Agriculture, Manitoba Natural Resources and Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation for their assistance throughout the course of project, and to the other LPPWG members for their inputs and insights. Thank you to LPPP project lead Ray Bittner for all his work in delivering the various elements of the project. This collaborative effort was very helpful. MBP and other members of the LPPWG continue to work on the predation file and our organization has also been engaging with the new provincial government, including Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn on this important issue affecting our sector. Until next time, Carson

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CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

New Agricultural Crown Lands Leases and Permits Regulations Now in Effect (January 2, 2024 Province of Manitoba News Release) The Manitoba government’s amendments to the Agricultural Crown Lands (ACL) Leases and Permits Regulation have now come into effect, Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced. “Manitoba producers felt abandoned by the previous government whose changes to Crown land leases hurt their livelihood,” said Kostyshyn. “Our government is committed to supporting producers and making it easier for them to put food on the table for families in Manitoba and around the world. These changes provide more certainty for producers as they make investments in their operations.” The following amendments to the ACL Leases and Permits Regulation have now come into force and include: • forage capacity will be determined when the lease is issued and will remain for the entire length of the agreement;

• a five-year extension on a 15-year lease term is available to leaseholders who complete and implement a forage management plan for at least the last five years of the 15-year lease term; • unlimited transfers of a 15-year forage lease or renewable permit to any eligible lessee for the remainder of the lease term; • legacy leaseholders will be able to nominate the next leaseholder, subject to the Treaty Land Entitlement and consultation assessment; and • in the last year of the lease, outgoing leaseholders that choose to be compensated for improvements must obtain an appraisal from an accredited appraiser indicating the value of the eligible improvements. The appraised value will be posted at the time of allocation and if the lease is reallocated within two years of expiry, the successful bidder must pay the outgoing leaseholder the posted amount. “The Agricultural Crown Lands program improves

forage productivity, expands the livestock industry and aims to advance sustainability,” said Kostyshyn. “These amendments add options for leaseholders while ensuring use of the lands for traditional purposes and exercising of treaty rights.” Manitoba’s agricultural Crown lands are parcels of land leased to producers for agricultural use including grazing, haying or annual cropping. Agricultural Crown lands are important public assets economically, environmentally, and socially. These Crown lands are essential to supporting and growing the livestock industry in Manitoba and provide mitigation and adaptation to climate change. Information regarding the ACL program and these regulatory changes can be found by contacting a local farm production extension specialist or by visiting https://gov.mb.ca/agriculture/land-management/crown-land/.

Wild Burrowing Owls Return to the Manitoba Mixed-Grass Prairies! BY ALEX FROESE AND JESSICA RIACH

burrows to nest, even with presence and access to natural burrows. An artificial nest burrow is made from a large plastic bucket (5 to 15 gallons) and a long section of weeping tile (8-10 ft long). The bucket acts as the nest while the weeping tile acts as the tunnel to access the burrow. These are buried into the ground with the open end of the weeping tile exposed at ground level to allow access, like a ground squirrel or badger burrow. Artificial nest burrows add extra protection from digging predators. They also hold up well with cattle grazing around them.

provide more available nesting options for burrowing owls. It was an exciting year for the Manitoba Burrowing Burrowing owls are a migratory species, arriving in Owl Recovery Program (MBORP). In 2023, we had a Canada in April and May and heading south towards 2022 banded young return to its nest burrow. This owl Mexico in the fall for the winter. Very little is known was successfully raised by a pair that were reintroduced about their migratory path, stop-over locations, and in 2022 by MBORP. If that wasn’t exciting enough, this length of time it takes to arrive at the wintering grounds. banded returnee nested with a wild female owl and sucThis is one of the largest knowledge gaps for burrowing cessfully fledged five young! This is the first time since owls. MBORP and other organizations across Canada the inception of MBORP that we have observed a young are working collectively to ensure burrowing owls burrowing owl return and successfully nest and fledge remain in Canada. young! This year, we were lucky to have Dr. Troy The wild burrowing owl population has inWellicome, Species at Risk biologist with the creased over the last four seasons in southwestern Canadian Wildlife Service install satellite transManitoba. There has also been an increase in mitters on four Manitoba burrowing owls. We are successful wild nests. In 2023, MBORP banded hoping that these owls will provide important data fourteen young from wild nests. In the last four seasons, Many landowners in southwestern Manitoba have regarding migratory movements on their way to their most wild burrowing owls have selected artificial nest allowed MBORP to install these burrows in pastures to wintering sites and provide some insight on where the owls are heading for breeding in subsequent seasons, if they are not returning to Manitoba. MBORP engages community through our education and outreach program. In 2023, we presented and attended 29 school and community events in southern Manitoba, including the Royal Winter Fair in Brandon at the Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) booth. We spent a good part of two days at the fair with our education ambassador burrowing owl, Bindi, in March 2023. We met a lot of people those days and spoke to them about the important role cattle have in maintaining remaining, intact grasslands in Manitoba for species at risk like burrowing owls. Our program connects one-on-one with cattle farmers in spring and summer in southwestern Manitoba to discuss current land management practices and opportunities to improve habitat www.hi-hog.com for burrowing owls through the installation of artificial nest burrows. You will see us once again at the Winter Fair in March 2024 at the MBP booth. All the work we do would not be possible without our project partners, Souris River Watershed District, and the Assiniboine Park Zoo. A huge thank you goes out to the many landowners that we work with every season that allow MBORP staff access to their land to observe burrowing owls and establish new nest sites for returning owls. We also could not do this important work without the financial help of our sponsors, donors, and funders. Thank you to our loyal supporters who donate through Canada Helps. And, a tremendous thank you to Manitoba Beef Producers, TC energy, Brandon Area Community Foundation, The Winnipeg Trimming Chutes Calving Enclosures Squeeze Chutes Foundation, Prairie Originals, Enbridge, and Habitat Stewardship Program.

You will see us once again at the Winter Fair in March 2024 at the MBP booth.

Plan Ahead For Calving Season

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CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

Photo credit: National Centre for Livestock and the Environment, University of Manitoba

U of M Research Addressing Current Beef Industry Priorities  Page 1 In Canada, research suggests that food waste from production/processing and retail equates to 35.5 MMT, of which 11.2 MMT (32%) is avoidable, valued at $49.5 billion dollars annually. It is well-known that cattle have the capacity to upcycle food waste and other processing byproducts, and that they are an important alternative feed source, particularly during periods of drought. Scientists in the FAFS are working on several fronts to improve delivery of low-cost supplements on pasture in both spring and fall grazing scenarios. Researchers are identifying the environmental benefits of using these by-products on greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions as well as land and water use. This work is timely as the federal and provincial governments and commodity groups, including the Canadian Round Table for Sustainable Beef, have set ambitious goals to reduce GHG emissions. UM scientists have also teamed up with researchers in Saskatchewan and Alberta to investigate the environmental impacts of the productivity enhancing technologies used in backgrounded and feedlot cattle. Their work has demonstrated that implants not only improve average daily gain and feed efficiency but also reduce GHG and ammonia emissions, as well as land and water use. Their work will now be expanded to include the environmental impacts of implanting suckling calves. Currently the use of implants in the cow-calf sector is relatively low, and therefore, this is an area which can offer significant opportunity to improve both economic and environmental sustainability for Manitoba producers. Using precession technology to ensure feed security and assess biodiversity in grasslands Prairie grasslands are an important source of feed for cattle. However, climate change and land use practices may serve as a barrier to fully utilizing grasslands. By using field and computer modelling approaches, a FAFS research team is generating land cover and productivity datasets that can be used to understand the interactions among environment, climate, land use, and management practices. The outcomes of this project will advance knowledge on the productivity of grassland systems and their vulnerability to climate and land use change. At the end of the project, researchers hope to propose strategies to improve feed availability for beef production in the prairies. In addition to measuring grassland productivity, researchers at FAFS are using precision technology to assess biodiversity in these landscapes. High-resolution mapping can be used to evaluate land cover change and its impact on ecosystem health. By mapping grassland distribution, researchers can study bird species that depend on grasslands for their survival including Sprague’s Pipit, Chestnut-Collared Longspur and Baird’s Sparrow. The outcomes of this project will assist larger scale decision-making for conservation programs like those of Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). This project will also provide science-based evidence that could encourage the development of new government policies regarding ecosystem management

that protect grasslands and, consequently, species at risk that nest in those areas. Tackling antimicrobial resistance It is surprising to many people to learn that microorganism in the gut of cattle can not only digest feed, but also produce natural product compounds that are key to maintaining a healthy digestive system and have health-promoting functions such as improving the immune system of animals and humans. Researchers at the UM are studying the potential use of these compounds as an alternative to conventional antimicrobials currently used in the industry. This work contributes to the ongoing battle against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a pressing concern that can result in the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens posing threats to the health of both animals and farm staff. Identifying and extracting these compounds will lead to a more fulsome understanding of their function in the body, with the ultimate goal of developing environmentally friendly and sustainable microbial therapeutics to prevent infectious disease. Improving farmer and animal health/welfare Are producer mental health and animal mental health linked? This is one of the many questions FAFS researchers are working to answer as part of a project that explores the connection between farmer well-being, animal health and wellbeing, and environmental health. Using an online anonymous survey, the researchers will assess current farmer stress, anxiety and resilience through questions focused on current practices, occupational and mental health, health of farm animals, as well as perceptions and practices related to wildlife. The data gathered from this research can be used to ensure we fully understand the range of stresses that farmers are facing and further the support and resources that are needed to alleviate this stress. Addressing farmer stress and providing resources may lead to greater impacts to on-farm productivity, sustainability, and even the profitability of livestock operations. For more information on this project and how to participate, please contact Meagan.King@umanitoba.ca UM researchers are collaborating with scientists in Alberta to tackle bovine anaplasmosis, an emerging disease caused by the bacterium Anaplasma marginale. The project investigates the establishment of bovine anaplasmosis in western Canada by testing beef cattle herds from Manitoba, Alberta, and British Columbia to estimate and compare the prevalence of this organism in herds. Using a survey, producers will identify herd and grazing management factors that may be related to anaplasmosis risk. The team will sample ticks and horse flies to detect potential vectors in regions where anaplasmosis has been detected. The team will also use blood samples from cattle to develop a rapid point-of-care diagnostic test that is sensitive enough to detect chronic infections and specific enough to distinguish Anaplasma marginale from other genetically similar bacteria. Rapid, accurate, user-friendly, and cost-effective diagnostic tests will help producers and veterinarians better manage bovine

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anaplasmosis. To participate in this project, please contact Dr. Shaun Dergousoff (shaun.dergousoff@agr.gc.ca) or Dr. Kateryn Rochon (kateryn.rochon@umanitoba.ca). Exploring new frontiers in food safety Food safety is of paramount importance to the public and the food industry. Sanitation programs in meat plants are integral to ensure the safety of food products. When animals enter a meat plant, they bring with them naturally-occurring bacteria. The bacteria get transferred to equipment through contact and some of the bacteria may form biofilms which are clusters of bacteria that are attached to a surface and to each other. They stick to surfaces of equipment making it hard to clean. The standard sanitation process requires a large amount of hot water which may result in the formation of small droplets of water that spread bacteria. The goal of this project is to investigate effective ways of minimizing the spread of bacteria during sanitation and to control biofilm formation in areas that are difficult to clean. Information generated in this work will lead to improved effectiveness of cleaning procedures that will further ensure the safety and quality of Canadian beef. Save the Date – Sustainability of Canadian Agriculture Conference 2024 Please join us at the FREE virtual Sustainability of Canadian Agriculture Conference, March 12-14, 2024. The conference is a virtual opportunity for researchers, students, producers, government, commodity organizations and industry representatives to collectively share ideas and experiences about how to improve agricultural sustainability in Canada. Registration will be opening soon! For more information visit https://umanitoba.ca/ agricultural-food-sciences/sustainability-canadian-agriculture-2024 Please visit the NCLE website for additional information on livestock research, student experiences and other informative resources (https://umanitoba.ca/ national-centre-livestock-environment/). Visit the FAFS outreach website - Manitoba Agriculture and Food Knowledge Exchange (MAKE; (https://umanitoba.ca/agricultural-food-sciences/ make) - for select project highlights on beef production and additional topics in agriculture.

University of Manitoba Beef Research Team featured in this article: Animal Science: Kim Ominski, Emma McGeough, Marcus Cordeiro, Meagan King, Hooman Derakhshani, and Gabriel Dallago

Plant Science: Yvonne Lawley Entomology: Kateryn Rochon Food and Human Nutritional Sciences: Claudia Narvaez

CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

Produced on the Prairies Documentaries Launched at Ag Days Two Manitoba icons are joining forces! Manitoba Ag Days and Great Tastes of Manitoba are excited to announce a partnership that will help bring stories of agricultural innovation and accomplishment to audiences across Canada. In celebration of the 35th anniversary season of Great Tastes of Manitoba, the producers of Manitoba’s most watched cooking show have partnered with Manitoba Ag Days to create a series of documentaries about the community of passionate people who work in Manitoba’s agricultural and agri-food sector. There is no shortage of stories to tell when it comes to the food, beverage, fuel, fibre, equipment, technology and brain trust that the local agriculture and agrifood sector offers to the world. “Produced on the Prairies” premiered at the 2024 Manitoba Ag Days event and will be followed by broadcasts on CTV Winnipeg and The Rural Channel in fall 2024. “In past seasons, we have primarily showcased folks who work in food production - livestock and grain farmers – from across the province. We’ve compiled over sixty stories about farms and agricultural communities and everyone we’ve met has been so welcoming and genuine in their passion for what they do” says Great Tastes of Manitoba’s Senior Producer, Donalee Jones. “Now, to be able to share the stories, not just about the food produced on the prairies, but of all the ways in which

agriculture impacts the life of an average Manitoban, is a very exciting opportunity.” Viewers will get an exclusive behind the scenes look at a world of agriculture that goes well beyond the farm gate. One in twenty jobs in Manitoba is in the agriculture and agri-food sector. Great Tastes of Manitoba is a farm-to-table cooking series hosted by popular Winnipeg media personality, Dez Daniels. In every episode, Dez is joined by a local food expert who shares recipes made with the nutritious and affordable ingredients produced

funding provided by the Government of Canada and Manitoba Agriculture through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership and Manitoba’s farmers and ranchers through their non-profit industry associations: Manitoba Beef Producers, Hello Canola, Manitoba Chicken, Manitoba Crop Alliance, Manitoba Pork, Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers, and Manitoba Turkey Producers. Manitoba Ag Days is Canada’s largest indoor farm show. The 47th annual event took place Jan. 16-18 in Brandon. The three-day exposition included world class speakers, and over 550 exhibitors. During the show, the 540,000 square foot Keystone Centre was transformed into a hub for all things agricultural. “Manitoba Ag Days takes great pride in bringing the ag community together. We strive to create a welcoming environment where farmers can come together to do business, faceto-face, with ag manufacturers, companies and retailers. They can find the latest technology and services to build their businesses.” explained Manitoba Ag Days General Manager, Kristen Phillips. “It is great to see these two organizations that are so passionate about agriculture come together to celebrate all of the people, products, economic development, job opportunities that are Produced on the Prairies,” said Brad Crammond, Co-Chair of the Manitoba Ag Days Board of Directors.

Viewers will get an exclusive behind the scenes look at a world of agriculture that goes well beyond the farm gate. One in twenty jobs in Manitoba is in the agriculture and agri-food sector.

Get in on what other producers already know to be true

by Manitoba’s farmers. In addition to the delicious recipes, viewers will be taken on a behind the scenes journey into the world of agriculture where they will be introduced to farmers and agricultural communities in our province. Great Tastes has been a staple in the hearts and homes of Manitobans since its establishment in 1991. The series is produced by Frank Digital with

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Circle Dot Ranch

Wayne Yule: 204-383-5390 Yearling Limousin and Limo x Angus bulls for sale on farm selected from 45 years of breeding. Visitors welcome.

204-838-2019 / cell 204-851-0809 2-year old and Yearling bulls for sale on farm. Email: diamondtlimo@gmail.com

Maplehurst Farms

Bob: 204-274-2490 Tim: 204-871-0996 Bulls for sale on farm, Douglas Bull Test March 23, and Lundar Bull Sale April 6.

Triple R Limousin

Art 204-856-3440 / 204-685-2628 45 2-year old and Yearling bulls available on farm. Limousin, plus Angus and Limo x Angus. Limo females for sale at farm.

Brad: 204-648-6333 Glen: 204-648-5222 Bulls for sale on farm Email: bradhockridge@gmail.com

L & S Limousin Acres

Cell: 204-851-1449 Home: 204-838-2198 Bulls sell March 23 at Douglas 60th Annual Bull Sale and private treaty on farm.

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CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

StockTalk Q&A Feature Brought to you by Manitoba Agriculture Elizabeth Nernberg Livestock Specialist-Beef Manitoba Agriculture

kristen.bouchardteasdale@gov.mb.ca Question: I understand providing colostrum is important for newborn calves as it contains immunoglobins. What are they and why are they so essential? Answer: Colostrum is most distinguished from whole milk because it contains high concentrations of immunoglobulins (Ig), otherwise known as antibodies. Antibodies are proteins which function to identify and destroy disease-causing pathogens in livestock. Colostrum or “first milk” is produced in the initial secretions of the mammary gland following the birth of offspring. Colostrum is also a vital source of growth factors and nutritional elements such as protein, fat, milk sugar, vitamins, and minerals. Why is Colostrum Important? Transfer of maternal antibodies across the placenta to the fetus does not occur during pregnancy in cattle. For this reason, calves are born with limited resistance to disease. Colostrum is important because it provides calves with passive immunity until their immune systems are developed and able to actively produce antibodies in response to infection or immunization. The main classes of antibodies present within colostrum are IgG, IgM, and IgA. Each antibody differs in structure as well as function. IgG, colostrum’s most predominant antibody, identifies and demolishes pathogens found within the bloodstream as well as other parts of the body. IgM recognizes and destroys bacteria solely entering the blood. IgA acts by fastening to membranes that line various organs, such as the intestine, and prevents pathogens from attaching and causing disease. Research indicates that calves obtaining sufficient levels of antibodies from colostrum are less susceptible to sickness and death caused by common infectious diseases including septicemia, diarrhea, and respiratory illness. Since colostrum is rich in nutrients it is also a superior source of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Calves utilize fat and lactose from colostrum to instigate heat production and maintain a constant body temperature. Vitamins and minerals are also important to initiate metabolism and possibly assist in the development of the digestive system. Non-nutritive components of colostrum, such as growth factors, aid to develop and mature the digestive system.

Factors Influencing the Success of Colostrum Feeding The success of passive transfer of immunity via colostrum to newborn calves is mainly dependent on three factors: quality of colostrum, quantity of colostrum and timing. Colostrum quality is directly linked to its concentration of antibodies. Quality is always greatest the first-milking post-calving. Second or later milkings of colostrum contain significantly lower Ig concentrations because Ig transfer from the bloodstream of the dam into the mammary gland typically stops by the time of calving. For this same reason, cow’s leaking milk pre-partum may have considerably reduced colostrum Ig concentrations. Antibody concentration of colostrum is also a function of breed type and lactation number. Beef cows typically have higher Ig concentrations in colostrum than dairy cows. Additionally, older cows generally produce elevated concentrations of antibodies compared to first-calf heifers since they have been exposed to a greater number of pathogens in their lifetime. A critical mass of 100 to 200 grams of Ig must be ingested and absorbed by the newborn calf to attain passive immunity. Accordingly, calves should consume a minimum of two litres of colostrum within their first hour of life followed by an additional two liters over the next 6 to 12 hours. Timing of colostrum intake is critical because the intestine’s ability to absorb antibodies declines as the calf ages. Intestinal absorption progressively lessens after 12 hours of age and complete gut closure typically results after 24 hours. Natural suckling to accomplish passive transfer of immunity from dam to calf can be relied on in beef cattle unless some condition exists that is likely to decrease the success of this process. If vigorous, active nursing has not started within two to three hours of life, every effort should be made to supplement newborn calves with the best source of colostrum via bottle or tube feeding. Alternative Sources of Colostrum for the Beef Calf It is best to have colostrum on hand from your own herd if possible, since using colostrum from other herds raises biosecurity issues as well as differences in antibody concentrations. If using colostrum from another herd, it is important to know the operation and their health management strategies. Colostrum replacement products are available for purchase if colostrum cannot be collected quickly. Regardless of which product you are feeding, it is important to remember that colostrum replacer must deliver at least 100 grams of IgG for absorption to the newborn calf. Storing Colostrum Colostrum that is not fed within two hours of collection should be refrigerated to control bacterial growth. Refrigeration at 4 Celsius in plastic containers maintains the viability of antibodies and other components of colostrum for up to seven days. For long term preservation, colostrum can be frozen for up to one year with little nutrient loss. The best method for storing colostrum in the freezer is in two litre stackable, plastic containers or freezer bags (be sure to double bag). Thaw colostrum slowly in warm water (38 C) to preserve quality. Rapid thaw can damage and reduce the efficacy of colostral antibodies. Colostrum can also be thawed in a microwave set on low power. Microwave for short periods of time and constantly pour off thawed portions. Never pool together colostrum from different cows. This practice, once believed to minimize the effect of low Ig colostrum and increase volume available to calves, has a negative effect on the acquisition of immunity. It also increases the likelihood of disease transmission to calves because multiple cows are represented in a single feeding. Scan for BCRC’s video on “How to Tube Feed Newborn Calves.”

Share Your Voice In the next issue of Cattle Country, a Manitoba Agriculture forage or livestock specialist will answer a selected question. Send your questions to Elizabeth.Nernberg@gov.mb.ca. StockTalk for Cattle Country is brought to you by Manitoba Agriculture. We encourage you to email your questions to our department’s forage and livestock team. We are here to help make your cattle operation successful. Contact us today. Andrea Bertholet

Killarney

204-851-6087

Andrea.Bertholet@gov.mb.ca

Kristen Bouchard-Teasdale Beausejour 431-337-1688 Kristen.BouchardTeasdale@gov.mb.ca

www.mbbeef.ca

Shawn Cabak

Portage

204-239-3353

Shawn.Cabak@gov.mb.ca

Pam Iwanchysko

Dauphin

204-648-3965

Pamela.Iwanchysko@gov.mb.ca

Cindy Jack

Arborg

204-768-0534

Cindy.Jack@gov.mb.ca

Juanita Kopp

Beausejour 204-825-4302

Juanita.Kopp@gov.mb.ca

Elizabeth Nernberg

Roblin

204-247-0087

Elizabeth.Nernberg@gov.mb.ca

CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

TH 45 45 TH

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CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

A Lot of Optimism at the Start of 2024 As 2024 opens, there is a lot of optimism in the cattle industry. Despite a downturn in the prices in the late fall, the market fundamentals have not changed. The long-term market outlook remains strong. As long as the dreaded Black Swan does not appear or a severe drought happens, the feeder cattle market has the potential to remain very strong for the remainder of the year. I have stressed many times in the past the importance of the feeder cattle backgrounding business in Manitoba. When market numbers in the fall get large and we start to compete with the Alberta and western Saskatchewan feeder calves, cattle feeders from the east, west and south step into the Manitoba market. These feeders purchase Manitoba calves and background them from 80 to 120 days. After that, they take them home to finish, go to grass or sell them. Their participation on the market, combined with the cattle that go directly to the feedlots outside the province, make the Manitoba calf market the highest in western Canada on most classes of calves. The synergies from the custom feeding and backgrounding industry generate a lot of cash flow for the small independent cattle feeders in Manitoba. Some cannot afford to take risks on owning the cattle, and others may not be able to get the financing to cover the purchases at today’s prices. These operators are valuable service providers to the industry. Currently, there is more demand for pen space than there is pen space available. Out-of-province investors prefer to background the cattle, get them processed and introduced to feed before making the long trip to the feedlot. The feedlot gets the benefit of having the cattle in inventory and being able to transport them when pen space opens up, rather than depending on what might be available at the market when they need fresh inventory. Those investors place a lot of trust in the Manitoba industry and the custom feeders that they use. If that trust were ever to be shaken or lost, the consequences would be felt throughout the entire cow-calf industry in Manitoba.

RICK WRIGHT The Bottom Line

At the peak of the fall run, Manitoba could move from having the highest calf market to the lowest in western Canada. It is no secret that many of the banks and lenders are not interested in financing cattle, especially cows, in Manitoba. We are lucky to have Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MSAC) that are farm friendly. We can ill afford to lose any more confidence in the security of their assets in Manitoba. In my view, the time has come to address a very sensitive, but highly important topic facing the Manitoba cattle industry. Most of the producers in Manitoba are unaware that over the past two years there have been thousands of cattle in Manitoba that have disappeared without a trace, and there has been very little done to recover the cattle or the money involved. The missing cattle can be attributed to a host of possibilities from outright theft to fraud. The total dollars involved are huge. I want to make it clear that these thefts and disappearances were farm-to-farm transactions and were not orchestrated by licensed dealers or auction markets. I believe now is the time for the Manitoba Beef Producers and the province to seriously explore a potential expansion of livestock inspection. To be clear, livestock inspection is not brand inspection and it would not require Manitoba cattle producers to brand their cattle! Livestock inspection could tie in with the federal government’s traceability legislation and the Transfer of Care documents that are currently required but are not being enforced. The traceability file is currently in the comment review stage between the first and second publication of proposed amendments

March6

W E I N V I T E Y O U T O T O U R T H E B U L L S A N Y T I M E & J O I N U S AT T H E FA R M S A L E D AY

MAR MAC FARMS

BLAIR, LOIS & MELISSA MCRAE BLAIR 204-729-5439 | LOIS 204-573-5192

2 0 2 4 D

to the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability) in the Canada Gazette. Currently, Livestock Services of Saskatchewan (LSS) has inspectors at all Manitoba auction markets and inspects cattle from and destined to Saskatchewan. They also do some reciprocal work with Livestock Identification Services (LIS) from Alberta. The easy solution would be to hire LSS to do the work on behalf of Manitoba on a fee-forservice contract. LSS has the staff, technology and the infrastructure in place. No start-up costs for Manitoba and no long-term liabilities. Livestock inspection would track livestock movement. I know that it will not stop criminals from attempting to beat the system, but it will make it much harder for them to turn illegally obtained cattle into cash. Manitoba also needs a dedicated RCMP officer to deal with livestock issues. Alberta and Saskatchewan currently have someone in this type of position. This position and the livestock inspection will have to be paid for and yes, the producers will have to chip in. With the cattle prices this high, is it not worth a few dollars per head to help the security of your herd? Manitoba has long been accused of being the dumping ground for stolen cattle from the west. I have argued that point for many years, but until we get on par with the other provinces, our reputation as being the last of the “Wild West” will not gain us any respect in the industry. I recognize that the livestock inspection debate places MBP’s board of directors in a difficult position. At the annual meeting a few years ago, they gained permission by a slim margin of the members present to look into inspection issues. We also know that attendance at the annual meetings represents a very small percentage of the total membership. With their current refundable check-off system, it is obvious to me that they have to carefully consider the issue of livestock inspection. In the event that it becomes an unpopular decision, some members may demand refunds in protest! That could leave MBP financially strapped and unable to continue to represent the cattle producers at the level they have done in the past. I challenge you as a producer to attend the MBP annual meeting in Brandon and make your voice heard, regardless of your opinion. The board needs guidance from the membership. The board members are cattle producers just like you, and the difficult decision will be to do the “right thing” or the “popular thing.” This is a very tough decision that will affect the viability of the Manitoba cattle industry. Until next time, Rick

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Pleasant Dawn Charolais Bull Sale, at the farm, Oak Lake, MB MARCH 19 Diamond W Charolais, Red & Black Angus Bull Sale, JTM Livestock, Minitonas, MB MARCH 21 White Meadow Charolais Online Bull Sale, Pipestone, MB MARCH 26 Prairie Distinction Charolais Bull Sale, Beautiful Plains Ag, Neepawa, MB MARCH 31 Stephen Charolais & Guests Bull Sale, Whitewood (SK) Auction Mart APRIL 4 Hunter Charolais Bull Sale, at the farm, Roblin, MB MARCH 16

VIEW CATALOGUE & VIDEOS ONLINE AT

WWW.MARMACFARMS.NET www.mbbeef.ca

For more information contact: 306.584.7937 Helge By 306.536.4261 124 Shannon Rd, Regina, SK S4S 5B1 charolaisbanner@gmail.com

Catalogues and Videos available online a month prior to the sale at www.bylivestock.com

10 CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

Selling SIMMENTAL & ANGUS

BULL SALE

New Sale Date! Wednesday, February 21, 2024

Quality Bulls and Females

Coming Two Year Old Simmental, Angus & Simm-Angus Bulls

Simmental & Angus Bull Sale

CATTLE CO.

Feb. 29, 2024 | 1:00 PM | McAuley, MB

Glenn & Barry Lowes Eric & Melissa Pateman

McAuley, MB Glen: 204-851-5669 | Barry: 204-851-0342 Eric: 306-434-8567 brookecanart@gmail.com mmwilson87@hotmail.com www.jpcattle.com SALE MANAGED BY T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd. Chris Poley: 306-220-5006

Watch & Bid Online with www. dlms.ca

Miles & Bonnie Glasman Jared & Chelsey Glasman Russell, MB Home: 204.773.3279 Miles’ Cell: 204.773.6275 Jared’s Cell: 204.796.0999 mjsimmentalangus@gmail.com www.mjsimmentalangus.com

Matthew & Leanne Glasman Russell, MB Home: 204.773.3209 Matt’s Cell: 204.773.6055 mlg@glasmanfarms.com www.glasmanfarms.com

find us on: Sale Managed By: T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd. Chris: 306-220-5006

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CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024 11

A Look at Vaccination During Pregnancy DR. TANYA ANDERSON, DVM

due to infrequent vaccination and use of a killed vaccine. Interestingly, the heifer calves, bred heifers and young cows were unaffected. Fortunately death losses This year, the unseasonably warm fall and winter were low as mass vaccination of the cow herd with an has created a health problem in cow-calf herds that some intranasal viral vaccine and injectable bacterial vaccine producers have never experienced - cow pneumonia. stopped the outbreak in 48 hours. This was definitely not Usually cow pneumonia problems are isolated, with what any producer wants to be doing a few days before only a single case. Record review often reveals that the Christmas. animal had pneumonia as a calf or as a heifer during Many years ago another producer experienced an development post-weaning. Chronic lung damage can IBR abortion outbreak after purchasing cattle from two impair normal host defense mechanisms and lead to an other herds at bred cow sales a few months earlier. The increased susceptibility to pneumonia, just as occurs purchased herd that was on a strong MLV vaccination when a person develops multiple bouts of pneumonia program suffered no losses while his own herd had a due to past lung damage. Sometimes liver abscesses 40% abortion outbreak. The other purchased herd had as a result of hardware disease or due to overfeeding been a group of assembled replacement heifers bred on of high-energy feeds leading to rumen acidosis (grain pasture for resale… with no vaccination program. It was overload) erode into the bloodstream resulting in a the source of the IBR… others buying heifers from that bacterial “shower” into the lungs and rapid death. premise at the same sale also had abortions. But why would multiple cows develop And, one final comment. Practice good vaccine handling Many lessons in managing biosecurity risk pneumonia in a short period of time? Isn’t were learned from this scenario. pneumonia supposed to be just a feedlot - reconstitute as you are using, store refrigerated and Work with your veterinarian to develop disease? This year, the unique weather and use syringes dedicated for MLV vaccines. Ensure syringes a cow vaccination program that starts when nutritional challenges in the last few years are cleaned after use with hot water only. Avoid soaps that cow is a calf. Modified live virus (MLV) coupled with increased biosecurity risks and and disinfectants as these will inactivate vaccines. vaccines have the best protection in my lax vaccination programs created an opporexperience but are not without risk. Ensure tunity for pneumonia in the cow herd. Viral protection for cow herds is important, mainly herd. A bacterial pneumonia with an underlying viral that your replacements have received at least two or for protection against abortion and reproductive loss (BRSV) component swept through the group. Older even three MLV viral vaccines prior to entry to the cow but also against respiratory disease. IBR and BVD are cows were the hardest hit as immunity levels had waned herd. This is achieved by vaccinating at two months of age prior to turnout, in the fall at weaning and then pre-breeding as a heifer. After that time, you can safely use a MLV anytime throughout the year regardless of pregnancy status or stage of pregnancy. If you wish to focus on improving pre-weaned calf pneumonia, consider boosting colostral protection by vaccinating pre-calving. The fetal immune system is developed by the second trimester so vaccination in the last trimester can give the unborn calf an immunity “True North Foods is partnered with A&W Canada boost. Viral vaccines can be given at the same time as to supply Canadian grassfed beef for A&W’s grassfed burger program. scour vaccines and vitamin injections. Doing so can eliminate the need for running the cows through the chute post-calving when mud can be a factor and young calves are at foot. Whether you are a specialty producer looking to get Choose products based on the advice of your veteryour product to a specific market or distributor, or if you are producing inarian and boost yearly. Sometimes a MLV vaccine is not a good fit and fortunately there are now efficacious commodity livestock for sale, we can partner with you. From our killed 5-way viral vaccines on the market. I focus on multi-species capabilities to our ability to handle smaller volumes, we challenge studies and research data generated by the pharmaceutical company and contract research agenoffer excellent capabilities for producers in the Canadian Prairies to cies in addition to the performance of the product in my maximize their profitability. practice area. Ensure that you choose a product with a demonstrated duration of immunity for >/= 12 months. Not all vaccines are created equal. And, one final comment. Practice good vaccine We have a state-of-the-art facility to allow us to handling - reconstitute as you are using, store refrigeratreach markets across Canada, the USA, and beyond. We understand ed and use syringes dedicated for MLV vaccines. Ensure syringes are cleaned after use with hot water only. Avoid producer’s needs, their care for their animals, and their honest, soaps and disinfectants as these will inactivate vaccines. straightforward nature. Call us to hear how we can work together to get Proper vaccine handling, well-designed chute facilities, environmental and nutrition management your product to market. in addition to attention to biosecurity risks will help minimize your herd’s infectious disease risks. important causes of reproductive loss/congenital disease and also are part of the BRD (Bovine Respiratory Disease) complex. No herd is isolated. Stray cattle crossing fencelines, community pastures, new bulls arriving and additions from herd dispersals all can be the proverbial Trojan horse and bring in disease. Don’t forget that disease causing bacteria and viruses are present in resident animals in the herd and can cause disease when the body’s natural immune defenses are lowered. Mingling at the water bowl or feed trough easily allows transfer between animals. The damp weather, wide swings in temperatures and never-ending wind this fall and early winter caused two outbreaks in my practice area. A faulty vaccination program was a factor in both. These herds, while having a decent calfhood modified live vaccination program, then had a sporadic vaccination program of the cow

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• FACILITY:

Don’t miss out on upcoming editions of Cattle Country!

www.truenorthfoods.ca | trever.frattinger@truenorthfoods.ca | 306-536-6193 www.mbbeef.ca

Email info@mbbeef.ca or call toll-free 1-800-772-0458 and update your mailing address.

12 CATTLE COUNTRY February 2024

EXCEPTIONAL LIVESTOCK H ealtH Manage M e nt

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Nacho Average Nachos: Carne Asada Nachos BY ANNA BORYS If you search what the top Super Bowl foods are, you’re likely going to find chicken wings and nachos topping the charts and unfortunately, cows don’t have wings. These Carne Asada Nachos will be the hit at your football parties or whatever other big event requiring tasty finger foods that the chicken wings won’t even hold a candle to. What is there not to love about melty cheese atop your favourite restaurant style tortilla chips, dunked in sour cream and salsa? Covered with seasoned ground beef, maybe some tomatoes, onions and jalapenos, and boom. It’s perfection on a platter. But how about switching it up just slightly? Because we don’t need to fix anything that isn’t broken, but nachos are basically just Tex-Mex tacos on tortilla chips, right? One of my other favourite kinds of tacos is carne asada, which uses marinated and grilled steak, topped with freshly chopped white onion, cilantro, queso fresco and a squeeze of lime. There’s so much flavour in this carne asada recipe that the gamut of toppings is hardly

necessary, but I won’t say anything if you decide to load these guys up. In fact, you could just forgo this recipe altogether and just make carne asada tacos by marinating the steak whole, grilling, then slicing thinly to top your soft corn tortillas with ribbons of juicy steak and all the same toppings. But let’s focus on the nachos for now. The recipe calls for feta because I can’t typically find queso fresca at my local grocery store, but I’m not claiming any authenticity with these nachos anyway, so go nuts with whatever kind of white crumbly cheese your heart desires. (But I do strongly recommend the feta!) The only reason I ever attend a Super Bowl party is for the snacks and the halftime show (not a huge football fan I guess!). I recently had someone tell me these were the best nachos they’d ever tasted, so now I’m going to self-title these nachos “The Best Nachos That One Person Tried That One Time.” So, as I sit here with my computer in my lap, full nacho coma, I feel I must top off this article with a cheesy joke we all know and love. What kind of cheese isn’t yours? Nacho cheese. Enjoy!

17th Annual Bull Sale

MARCH 9, 2024

50 RUGGED 2 YEAR OLD

BLACK & RED ANGUS BULLS • AT THE RANCH, ANOLA, MB

“We have purchased bulls from EDIE CREEK for many years. The bulls have worked hard and have all proven that they are easy calvers. We like that the bulls are raised the way we ranch. Our feeding style is low input and the bulls have flourished on it. The Bouws have built a great business that we can trust and we plan to be a customer for a long time.” - M. Rempel, Winnipegosis, MB

Photo credit: Anna Borys

Carne Asada Nachos (4 servings) Marinade: 3 Tbsps ¼ cup 2 Tbsps 2 Tbsps ½ bunch 1 1 tsp 1 tsp ½ tsp ½ tsp

Lime Juice, fresh Orange Juice, no pulp Soy Sauce Canola Oil Cilantro, roughly chopped Jalapeno, rough chopped Garlic, minced Chili Powder Cumin Salt

1 lb

Flank Steak, ¼” cubed

Nachos: 1 bag 3 cups ½ ½ bunch ⅓ cup 1

Tortilla chips Cheddar cheese, shredded Small onion, small dice Cilantro, finely chopped Feta cheese, crumbled Lime, wedged

MARINADE: 1. Add all marinade ingredients to a food processor and blend on high speed until well blended. 2. In a Ziploc sealed bag or container with tight sealing lid, combine cubed steak and marinade until evenly coated. Seal container and refrigerate for a minimum of 8 hours, or overnight, agitating or stirring at least once.

OCC EASY RED 868A SONS AND GRANDSONS SELL

SONS OF OCC GATE KEEPER 678G SELL (Pictured is his sire)

Jonathan: (204) 471-4696 l Stefan:(204) 232-1620 www.EdieCreekAngus.com

www.mbbeef.ca

NACHOS: 1. Set oven to 400°F. 2. Heat a large non-stick or cast-iron pan over medium high heat. Once hot, add marinated meat and marinating juices to pan. (This may be easier in two batches to avoid boiling meat.) Brown meat until cooked, about 4-5 minutes. Remove meat from pan. 3. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper. Add a thin layer of taco chips. Add ½ of the browned meat and ½ of the cheddar cheese until evenly dispersed. Repeat with a second layer of chips, remaining meat and cheddar cheese. 4. Place in pre-heated oven and bake until cheese is golden and bubbly, about 6-8 minutes. 5. Remove nachos from oven, and garnish with diced onion, feta cheese, cilantro and lime wedges. 6. Serve with a side of sour cream, pico de gallo and/or guacamole if desired.