Manitoba Beef Producers E-Newsletter: August 1/2025 by ManitobaBeefProducers

District 6 Director Brian English sent along this photo from the Rivers area. Have a shot you'd like to share with MBP for possible use in the newsletter and/or social channels? Send them to: info@mbbeef.ca

In this edition...

August 1, 2025

New

Feed testing resources

You cannot manage what you don’t measure. Feed testing is critically important to ensure your herd’s nutritional requirements are being met to support production. Feed testing and ration balancing also helps prevent costly overfeeding. Check out this resource from the Beef Cattle Research Council:

https://www.beefresearch.ca/blog/feed-testinga-tool-for-better-returns/

When faced with reduced supplies of good quality hay due drought, many producers seek alternative feeds for their livestock. While these alternative feed sources can offer flexibility, feed testing and advice from a livestock nutritionist is recommended to ensure nutritional requirements of the type of cattle being fed are met. Check out the following resource from the Beef Cattle Research Council for considerations when using alternative feeds:

https://www.beefresearch.ca/topics/alternative -feeds/

Alternative or non-conventional feeds can be an economical means for beef cattle producers to supplement forage and grain inventories.

However, due to variability in the supply, nutrient composition and quality of these feed ingredients, there can be pitfalls if not properly managed. Have a listen to this episode of the Canadian Beef Cattle Podcast for tips on making use of different alternative feeds:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0hsfECxYMsb 0ta0JHwon67?go=1&sp_cid=a2b2ebaa1e65940f def68f683c932de9&utm_source=embed_player _p&utm_medium=desktop&nd=1&dlsi=adc2a2 537f324cf6

New to feed testing and ration balancing? Feed testing and ration balancing are good practice normally but are even more important in times of feed shortages and when making use of alternative feed sources. The following link is your one stop shop for information and instructions on feed testing including how to take and submit a sample, and how to interpret the results:

https://www.beefresearch.ca/tools/feedtesting-analysis-for-beef-cattle/

When considering salvaging crops for feed, beef producers need to consider accessibility, availability, yield, transport costs, potential antinutritional factors or other animal health impacts, and feed quality. The value of crops for livestock feeds calculator was developed to help beef producers work with their neighbors to determine a value for salvaged crops.

https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?s rc=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.beefresearch.ca%2Fc ontent%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F04%2FValue_of _Crop_for_Feed_locked.xlsx&wdOrigin=BROWS ELINK

Governments Canada and Manitoba Announce Drought Support Measures for Manitoba

Livestock Producers

(July 23, 2025 Joint Federal/Provincial Governments News Release) The governments of Canada and Manitoba are announcing support measures to aid Manitoba’s livestock producers affected by drought conditions, federal Agriculture and AgriFood Minister Heath MacDonald and Manitoba Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced.

Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) will provide support measures through its AgriInsurance program, improving cash flow for livestock producers needing to secure additional feed.

“Our livestock producers play a critical role in our food supply and our economy. We need to do everything we can to support them, especially in the face of these dry conditions,” said MacDonald. “These program changes will ensure producers in Manitoba receive claim payouts faster, so they can source other feed options as quickly as possible.”

For claim calculation purposes, MASC will be applying a quality adjustment factor to reduce yield appraisals by 40 per cent for droughtstricken cereal crops (all varieties of wheat, oats, barley, fall rye, triticale and grain corn) that are converted to livestock feed. This quality adjustment was last implemented in 2021 and contributed to over 100,000 acres of grain crops being converted to livestock feed.

Changes for producers with AgriInsurance coverage on forage and pastures include:

1. deferred premium deductions on payments for forage insurance claims made prior to Oct. 1;

2. partial claim payments on forage insurance and pasture days insurance claims, when feasible; and

3. ability for livestock to graze on insured forages after the first cut without impact on claim calculation.

“We recognize that some of Manitoba’s livestock producers are facing challenging conditions with the lack of precipitation in certain regions of the province,” said Kostyshyn. “With pastures drying up and minimal sources of feed for livestock, it is important to give producers the resources they need to maintain their herds. These measures will help to improve cash flow for Manitoba’s livestock producers and provide additional options to access feed.”

MASC will also offer lending clients an opportunity to defer loan payments and will provide guidance on appropriate options to finance feed purchases, if needed, the ministers added.

The AgriInsurance program is a business risk management program for Manitoba farmers to protect against production shortfalls and quality losses caused by natural perils. In the case of extreme weather events that impact production such as drought or excess moisture, the AgriInsurance program provides predictable coverage producers can depend on when planning for the upcoming growing season.

To learn more about the business risk management programs available to producers offered by the Manitoba government, Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation and the Government of Canada, visit www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/farm-

Governments Canada and Manitoba Announce Drought Support Measures for Manitoba

Livestock Producers

management/cost-production/business-riskmanagement.html.

Manitoba has a high level of AgriInsurance participation, with over 90 per cent of annual crop acres and more than 7,400 farms enrolled in the program. AgriInsurance is a federalprovincial-producer cost-shared program. Support for the program is provided by the

governments of Canada and Manitoba under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

For more information, contact an MASC Service Centre at https://masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/contact.html or visit https://masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/index.html

Statement by Prime Minister Carney on CanadaU.S. trade

(August 1, 2025 PMO Statement) “President Trump has announced that the United States will increase its tariffs to 35% on those Canadian exports that are not covered under the Canada-United StatesMexico Agreement, or CUSMA. While the Canadian government is disappointed by this action, we remain committed to CUSMA, which is the world’s second-largest free trade agreement by trading volume.

The U.S. application of CUSMA means that the U.S. average tariff rate on Canadian goods remains one of its lowest for all of its trading partners. Other sectors of our economy – including lumber, steel, aluminum, and automobiles – are, however, heavily impacted by U.S. duties and tariffs. For such sectors, the Canadian government will act to protect Canadian jobs, invest in our industrial competitiveness, buy Canadian, and diversify our export markets.

The United States has justified its most recent trade action on the basis of the cross-border flow of fentanyl, despite the fact that Canada accounts for only 1% of U.S. fentanyl imports and has been working intensively to further reduce these volumes. Canada’s government is making historic investments in border security to arrest drug traffickers, take down transnational

gangs, and end migrant smuggling. These include thousands of new law enforcement and border security officers, aerial surveillance, intelligence and security operations, and the strongest border legislation in our history. We will continue working with the United States to stop the scourge of fentanyl and save lives in both our countries.

While we will continue to negotiate with the United States on our trading relationship, the Canadian government is laser focused on what we can control: building Canada strong. The federal government, provinces, and territories are working together to cut down trade barriers to build one Canadian economy. We are developing a series of major nationbuilding projects with provincial, territorial, and Indigenous partners. Together, these initiatives have the potential to catalyse over half a trillion dollars of new investments in Canada.

Canadians will be our own best customer, creating more well-paying careers at home, as we strengthen and diversify our trading partnerships throughout the world. We can give ourselves more than any foreign government can ever take away by building with Canadian workers and by using Canadian resources to benefit all Canadians.”

CRSB CERTIFICATION

BE RECOGNIZED FOR YOUR PRACTICES

An outcome-based approach to beef sustainability no matter your operation!

Review CRSB Certified program documents

Sustainable Beef Production Standard, Assurance Protocols, Chain of Custody Requirements, Communications, Claims & Labelling Manual at crsbcertified.ca.

Contact a CRSB-approved Certification Body

Choose the one that is right for you.

Complete an on-farm audit

The Certification Body will conduct an on-farm verification against the indicators in the CRSB Standard. Upon successful completion, a certificate is issued.

Congratulations! You are CRSB Certified!

Complete the Qualifying Cattle Requirements

Make the most of your certification by giving your cattle a chance to qualify for CRSB Certified supply Chains. (see reverse)

QUALIFYING CATTLE REQUIREMENTS

Make the most of your certification by giving your cattle a chance to qualify through a CRSB Certified supply chain. Follow these essential steps.

Get and Maintain CRSB Certification through the Certification Body (CB) of your choice.

Consent to sharing information with CCIA for CRSB Certified Chain of Custody purposes. Complete during the certification process through your CB.

What is shared?

•Contact and operation name • Email • Mailing address

•CLTS account ID • Audit type • Certificate number • Certification date

•Certification status change or de-certification date

Submit birth dates to CLTS

for the cattle born and tagged on your operation.

* Animals born on your operation within six months of certification date are eligible.

Submit move-in events

to the CLTS each time eligible cattle move to a new operation.

* Qualifying animals moved-in from another CRSB Certified Operation within six months of CRSB certification date are eligible.

Head Office #180, 6815 – 8th Street NE

Calgary, Alberta

T2E 7H7

Phone: (403) 275-8558

Email: contact@cattle.ca

Australian market opens for Canadian beef

July 29, 2025

Ottawa Office

#1101, 350 Sparks St.

Ottawa, Ontario

K1R 7S8

Phone: (613) 233-9375

Australia has officially opened its market for fresh and frozen Canadian beef This is the first time since 2003 that Canada has had access to this key Indo-Pacific market.

The Canadian Cattle Association is pleased to see Australia, one of the last remaining countries to have maintained bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) restrictions, complete their risk assessment and open their market for Canadian beef.

CCA President Tyler Fulton says, “Canadian beef farmers and ranchers are proud to produce the highest quality and safest beef in the world. As the demand for Canadian beef around the world continues to grow, we look forward to every new market opportunity.”

The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, says “Canada is known around the world for producing top-quality beef and that’s a testament to the hard work of our producers. Strengthening our trade ties with Australia one of our key partners in the Indo-Pacific means more opportunities for Canadian farmers and processors to grow their businesses, create good jobs, and build up our economy. The Government of Canada is absolutely committed to supporting the industry as we open new doors, drive growth, and showcase the best of Canada to the world.”

For further information, contact:

Tina Zakowsky Communications Manager Canadian Cattle Association 403-451-0931 | zakowskyt@cattle.ca

Canadian beef gets access to Australian market once again, boosting global trade ties in the Indo-Pacific

(July 29, 2025 CFIA News Release) The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced the successful re-opening of market access for Canadian beef and beef products to Australia opening the door to a key Indo-Pacific market for the first time since 2003.

Regained access offers not only economic potential for Canadian farmers and processors but also contributes to global food security by providing more international consumers access to premium quality Canadian beef. By opening access to premium markets like Australia, Canadian producers can increase exports, generating new revenue streams that fuel investments, sustain jobs, and support local economies from coast to coast.

Canada holds a negligible risk status for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). which means Canada’s beef production system is recognized internationally as sound, safe and respected.

The Government of Canada remains committed to expanding international market opportunities for the country’s agri-food sector. Working closely with industry stakeholders and trading partners, Canada continues to protect its strong international reputation as a source of safe, high-quality food, helping Canadian products compete and succeed globally.

Quotes

“Canada is known around the world for producing top-quality beef and that’s a testament to the hard work of our producers. Strengthening our trade ties with Australia one of our key partners in the Indo-Pacific means more opportunities for Canadian farmers and processors to grow their businesses, create good jobs, and build up our economy. The Government of Canada is absolutely committed

to supporting the industry as we open new doors, drive growth, and showcase the best of Canada to the world.”

- The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“This regained access to the Australian market is a testament to the cooperation between the CFIA, the Canadian beef industry and our trading partners. CFIA’s commitment to sciencebased decision-making and rigorous inspection standards helps to uphold Canada’s global reputation for excellence in food safety and animal health. This achievement not only reflects the strength of our system and the value of Canada’s high-quality beef internationally but also supports the livelihoods of Canadian workers and families who rely on this industry.”

- Paul MacKinnon, President, Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Quick facts

• In 2024, Canada remained a major global beef exporter, ranking 8th in the world by volume.

• Canada’s global exports of agriculture and agri-food (not including fish and seafood) in 2024 overall was $92.2 billion in 2024, compared to $91.6 billion in 2023.

• Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS) was launched in November 2022 to position Canada to take advantage of growing opportunities in the region by strengthening regional engagement and deepening diplomatic, security,

Canadian beef gets access to Australian market once again, boosting global trade ties in the Indo-Pacific

economic, and sustainable development partnerships.

• A key initiative for Agriculture and AgriFood Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency under the IPS is the Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office (IPAAO) which opened in Manilla, Philippines in February 2024. Its mobile team of technical experts and trade commissioners works to explore and advance trade opportunities around the Indo-Pacific region, strengthen technical and regulatory cooperation, identify new business opportunities for Canadian exporters to diversify their exports and support investment attraction efforts into Canada.

• In 2003, Australia imposed import restrictions on Canadian beef, following the discovery of Canada’s first domestic case of BSE. In 2021, Canada was officially recognized by the World Organisation of Animal Health as having negligible risk status for BSE, underlining the integrity of our animal health and food inspection systems.

Associated links

• Export requirements for meat products to Australia

• Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy

• Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy to support growth and prosperity for the agriculture and agri-food sector

Ministers of Agriculture meet to help strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the sector

(July 18, 2025 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) Ministers of Agriculture met virtually to discuss ways to support a more resilient and competitive agriculture sector and food supply chains that make up Canada’s agri-food landscape. Ministers discussed possible measures to support the hard-working producers and processors across Canada to address the emerging challenges related to international trade and the potential opportunities that could be created by increased interprovincial trade.

Ministers reiterated their commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of business risk management (BRM) programs. Due to the uncertain trade environment and unfavourable climate conditions in parts of the country, Ministers agreed to take the necessary steps to implement a package of enhancements to the AgriStability program. For the 2025 program year only, the compensation rate will be increased from 80% to 90% and the maximum payment limit will be increased from $3 million to $6 million. These changes are meant to help producers manage the risks they face. In addition, for AgriStability, starting in the 2026 program year, provinces and territories will have the option to use a new inventory valuation method for inventories destined to be used on-farm. Ministers agreed to seek the necessary approvals to include feed costs associated with rented pasture as an allowable expense in advance of the 2026 program year, report back on progress at the September annual meeting and to continue a review of AgriStability allowable expenses.

FPT Ministers are working together to increase interprovincial trade of food. Ministers discussed a variety of options, including ways to remove barriers to internal food trade and identify new trade opportunities. Ministers also discussed enhanced client service support from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) for small to medium-sized businesses wishing to market food products across Canada under a federal food licence, increasing slaughter capacity where possible in regions with restricted access to services, and allowing interprovincial trade of low-risk manufactured foods without a federal licence. These ideas will be informed by the 2 ongoing pilots on meat trade and slaughter that are being accelerated. These initiatives aim to support business growth and improve market access, while maintaining Canada’s robust food safety system.

FPT Ministers highlighted the critical importance of joint efforts across governments to maintain, expand and diversify international market access. In support of this work, Ministers discussed the federal Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office and other resources in the region. Ministers also emphasized the importance of engaging with China at the highest level, to improve the overall trade relationship and to remove Chinese tariffs on Canadian agriculture and seafood products. Ministers also underscored the benefits of existing trade agreements and emphasized the importance of considering the impact of tariffs on businesses.

The annual conference of FPT Ministers of Agriculture will take place in-person in Winnipeg, Manitoba September 7 to 9, 2025.

Ministers of Agriculture meet to help strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of the sector

Quotes

“Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our farmers, ranchers and food processors across the country, we’ve earned a reputation for producing the best products in the world. By working together across governments, we can continue to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of our sector, drive economic growth, and help to ensure Canadian products continue to lead on quality, safety, and sustainability.”

- The Honourable Heath MacDonald, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“The province of Manitoba strongly supports our agricultural producers, the backbone of the Manitoba economy. We remain committed to working with other levels of governments, private sector partners and other provinces to deliver programs that support food security, and sustainable practices to ensure the economic viability of farms. We will continue to work tirelessly to advocate for important programs

that help producers manage environmental and market risks in a changing global political environment.”

- The Honourable Ron Kostyshyn, Manitoba Minister of Agriculture

Quick facts

• Canada’s global exports of agriculture and agri-food in 2024 overall was $92.2 billion in 2024, compared to $91.6 billion in 2023.

• In 2024, Canada exported nearly $100.3 billion globally in agri-food, fish and seafood products combined. In 2023, that number was $99.2 billion.

Enhanced FCC Transition Loan terms aim to better support ag and food entrepreneurs

(Source: Farm Credit Canada) Agriculture and agrifood business owners transferring farm or business assets to new owners now have a new option to consider, given recent changes to Farm Credit Canada’s (FCC) Transition Loan. The loan’s new terms come at a very important time. Canada’s agriculture and food system is sitting on more than $50 billion in farm assets expected to be transferred in the next 10 years.

“Transferring the family farm or business can be a stressful thing to manage, but the support of the FCC Transition Loan can help address the financial barriers folks experience,” said The Honourable Heath MacDonald, federal minister of agriculture and agri-food. “It also creates opportunities for people looking to start or expand their operations, making it a real investment in the future of our agricultural sector.”

The enhanced FCC Transition Loan is specifically designed to facilitate the transfer of assets, making it easier for both buyers and sellers. The new terms allow disbursements to the seller over a period that extends to 10 years. The loan is available for farms, agribusiness or food businesses going through changes in ownership, be it within or outside the family.

“One of the most consistent challenges faced by Canadian producers is transitioning their operations to either family or an outside qualified buyer. It is complex, nuanced, and emotional,” said Justine Hendricks, FCC president and CEO. “For our part, we’ve been working hard to build a loan product that makes transition and sale easier for both buyers and sellers. Whether the buyers are new to the sector or not, this product is focused on delivering peace of mind and flexibility to Canadian agriculture and agri-food producers. It’s designed specifically with affordability and success in mind.”

Benefits for the seller:

• Guaranteed full payment of the sale proceeds by FCC

• Customized payment schedule for up to 10 years, and

• Opportunity to support a next generation entrepreneur

Benefits for the buyer:

• No need for upfront capital for a down payment

• Flexibility to choose between improving cash flow or building equity (potential to reduce interest expense and pay off loan sooner), and

• FCC’s AgExpert software is included

“The FCC Transition Loan has been a game changer for our farm,” said Aaron and Amber Hoffus, grain, oilseed and cow-calf producers in Bjorkdale, Sask. “It has helped us to secure land and equipment, with flexible terms and saving interest helped us to continue growing. We’ve had the opportunity to grow and build our family farm for our kids, and hopefully generations to come, and would recommend the FCC Transition Loan to anyone looking to do the same. The enhancements to this particular FCC loan come at a critical time and can help other entrepreneurs like us better manage the realities that come with the transfer of assets.”

Whether a buyer is aiming to maximize cash flow with interest-only payments, or build equity quickly with accelerated principal payments, they can explore options using the Transition Loan calculator here.

The FCC Transition Loan complements FCC’s suite of products and services that support young producers and entrepreneurs, including FCC Advisory Services. For more information visit www.fcc.ca/transitionloan

Fire Bulletin #58

(July 29, 2025 Province of Manitoba media release)

The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that high winds and dry conditions throughout the province are creating a very high fire danger across much of the province today. A mandatory evacuation order is in effect for the community of Cormorant effective at 1 p.m., today. This evacuation will affect approximately 300 residents.

Manitoba Wildfire Service has cancelled all burn permits for the Burn Permit Area, with no new burn permits issued at this time. Land based travel is permitted, unless closed by Parks or other closure orders. Those entering a fire boundary by aircraft will require a travel permit. To view active fire boundary maps, visit www.gov.mb.ca/conservation_fire/FireMaps/fireview/fireview_map.html. To apply for a travel permit, contact a Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures district office and visit www.gov.mb.ca/nrnd/co/index.html to find a location.

Manitoba remains under a provincial state of emergency, under the Emergency Measures Act due to a wildfire season that is now the worst on record in the last 30 years, with more than one million hectares (ha) of area burned in the province. The state of emergency is in effect until Aug. 8 and if necessary, may be extended.

For updates on park closures, visit www.manitobaparks.com.

Fires of note

The Manitoba Wildfire Service continues to respond to 127 active wildfires across the province, a total of 351 wildfires to date, well above the average for this date of 276 total fires.

Fires of note include: East region:

• Fire EA061 remains out of control at approximately 329,855 ha. A closure and mandatory evacuation order is in place for most of Atikaki Provincial Park, and the entire areas of Wallace Lake and South Atikaki provincial parks. While access to Nopiming Provincial Park has reopened, the fire continues to smoulder throughout the park.

West region:

• Fire WE017, located near Sherridon and the city of Flin Flon, is approximately 347,100 ha and is out of control. For the safety of personnel, boaters are asked to avoid waterways being utilized by Manitoba Wildfire Service tankers and aircraft.

• Fire WE025, located near Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (Pukatawagan), is approximately 62,075 ha and is being monitored. The fire is contained around Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (Pukatawagan) but a mandatory evacuation order continues.

• Fire WE028, located 10 kilometres (km) from Bakers Narrows Provincial Park, is approximately 7,190 ha and is out of control.

• Fire WE052, located at Snow Lake, is approximately 28,115 ha and is out of control. A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the town of Snow Lake. Wekusko Falls Provincial Park closure will remain in place until August and a mandatory evacuation order continues for park users. Chisel Lake mine and Lalor mine remain evacuated.

• Fire WE053, located 13 km from Snow Lake, is approximately 7,990 ha and is out of control.

Fire Bulletin #58

• Fire WE085, located about 12 km from Cormorant, is approximately 800 ha and is out of control. A mandatory evacuation order is in place.

North region:

• Fire NO002, located near the town of Lynn Lake, is approximately 84,270 ha and is out of control.

• Fire NO042, located 12 km southwest from the town of Lynn Lake, is approximately 15,090 ha and is out of control. A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the town of Lynn Lake and Marcel Columb First Nation.

• Fire NO005, located near Pimicikamak Cree Nation (Cross Lake), the Incorporated Community of Cross Lake, Jenpeg Generating Station and Whiskey Jack Landing, is approximately 149,560 ha and is out of control.

• Fire NO010, located near Tataskweyak Cree Nation (Split Lake), is approximately 25,225 ha and is out of control. Tataskweyak Cree Nation (Split Lake), under a mandatory evacuation order, is planning a phased return of evacuees to the Nation starting July 30.

• Fire NO026, located four km from the town of Leaf Rapids, is approximately 73,535 ha and is out of control. A mandatory evacuation order is in place for the town of Leaf Rapids.

• Fire NO047, located 25 km from the town of Leaf Rapids, is approximately 15,525 ha and is out of control. A mandatory evacuation remains in place for the town of Leaf Rapids.

• Fire NO061, located 14 km from the city of Thompson, is approximately 18,365 ha and is out of control.

• Fire NO079 located near Kistiganwacheeng (Garden Hill Anisininew Nation), is approximately 37,855 ha and is out of control. A mandatory evacuation remains in place for Kistiganwacheeng (Garden Hill Anisininew Nation) and Island Lake (Stevenson Island).

Information and resources for evacuees

The primary evacuation reception centre in Winnipeg is located on the second level of the RBC Convention Centre at 375 York Ave. Evacuees can attend this location to register with the Canadian Red Cross, and to access supports and services. Evacuees can also call 1 (800) 863-6582.

In response to the need for shelter for wildfire evacuees, Emergency Social Services continues to work with the Canadian Red Cross to operate congregate shelters in Winnipeg at the RBC Convention Centre at 375 York Ave and the Leila Soccer Complex at 770 Leila Ave.

For the safety of both evacuees and frontline and firefighting personnel, the province is reminding Manitobans not to enter areas under a mandatory evacuation until local authorities identify the situation is safe and evacuees are able to return.

The Manitoba Emergency Management Organization recommends evacuees leaving their communities due to wildfire bring their medications, identification, phone chargers, important documents, any needed baby supplies and a change of clothing.

Visit MBReady at https://mbready.manitoba.ca for more information about emergency alerts and safety, as well as resources for evacuees such as:

Fire Bulletin #58

• financial support: https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/eva cuees.html#financial-support

• emergency shelters: https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/eva cuees.html#shelter

• health resources: https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ev acuees.html#health-resources

• insurance: https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ev acuees.html#insurance

• returning home: https://manitoba.ca/wildfire/eva cuees.html#community-re-entry

All Manitobans returning to reopened areas are advised to be prepared to evacuate again with little notice and should prepare an emergency go kit. More information on emergency preparedness, including what to include in an emergency go kit, is available at www.gov.mb.ca/emo/guide/individuals.

For assistance, evacuees can dial Manitoba 211 from anywhere in Manitoba or

email 211mb@findhelp.ca. For more information, visit https://mb.211.ca/get-helpnow/.

General wildfire information

• latest road conditions and closures: www.manitoba511.ca

• burn restrictions for municipalities: www.manitoba.ca/wildfi re/burn_conditions.html

• important Manitoba wildfire information: www.manitoba.ca/wildfire

• emergency preparedness information including what to include in an emergency go kit: www.gov.mb.ca/emo/guide/individu als

• follow the Manitoba government on X (formerly Twitter) at https://twitter.com/mbgov

To report a wildfire, call 911 or the TIP line tollfree at 1-800-782-0076.

Agroclimate Impact Reporter Producer Survey

Now Open for Month of July

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is collecting AIR reports for AIR for the month of July. To learn more about AIR, follow this link

Your response will help accurately represent the impacts of weather in your region. The data collected from this survey will help inform recommendations for Livestock Tax Deferral, and the Canadian Drought Monitor.

To let the Science and Technology Branch of AAFC know what the conditions are like this

month in your area, please respond to one of the links below:

English

French

To view previous Agroclimate Impact maps, follow this link. Or see some of the other resources we produce on the AAFC Weather and Drought home page. Thank you for your participation, and have a great weekend!

CRTC consults to help improve Canada’s public alerting system

(July 15, 2025 CRTC News Release) Today, the CRTC is launching a public consultation to help improve the National Public Alerting System (NPAS).

The NPAS is used by emergency management officials across Canada to warn the public about emergency situations like severe weather events and other potential concerns to public safety.

This system is a shared responsibility between federal, provincial, and territorial governments and agencies. The CRTC plays a supporting role by requiring cellphone, cable and satellite television providers, and radio and television broadcasters to distribute emergency alerts to the public.

Through this consultation, the CRTC is reviewing how public alerts are distributed in Canada. The goal is to help improve the NPAS, including by improving the accessibility of alerts, considering whether alerts should be distributed in languages that reflect local communities, and ensuring that they are available across the country.

The CRTC is accepting comments until October 14, 2025. Interested persons can participate by:

• filling out the online form;

• sharing your views on CRTC Conversations platform;

• writing to the Secretary General, CRTC, Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0N2;

• sending a fax to 819-994-0218; or

• filing a link to a sign language video using the online form.

All comments will form part of the public record and will inform the CRTC’s decision.

This consultation follows a number of recent actions the CRTC has taken to help protect Canadians. To find out more, check out the CRTC’s Consumer Protections Action Plan.

Manitoba Government Strengthens Interprovincial

Ties with New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island

(July 21, 2025 Province of Manitoba News Release)

HUNTSVILLE, Ont., Robinson-Huron Treaty 61

The Manitoba government has signed new economic co-operation agreements with the governments of New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island to break down trade barriers, increase labour mobility and create new opportunities for businesses and workers across Canada, Premier Wab Kinew announced here today.

“These agreements reflect Manitoba’s ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more unified Canadian economy, one where goods, services and workers can move more freely between provinces, while maintaining the highest standards for health and safety,” said Kinew. “By working with partners across the nation, we are unlocking opportunities for people and businesses, building up this country we all love so much.”

Highlights of the memoranda of understanding (MOUs) include:

• a shared commitment to removing internal trade barriers;

• work to ensure credential recognition with other provinces’ licensing and regulatory frameworks; and

• agreement by New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island to allow for directto-consumer alcohol sales from Manitoba producers and a commitment to further discussions to give consumers more choice and creating new markets for producers.

“New Brunswick is committed to working closely with our neighbouring province to create a strong and free Canadian economy and create more opportunities for New Brunswick businesses and products to shine across the country,” said New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt. “This is the third memorandum of understanding we’ve signed with other jurisdictions, and it will further help us to create more opportunity for our businesses to thrive in new markets, both within New Brunswick and across Canada.”

“Saskatchewan is standing strong through the storm that is our current trade challenges,” said Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe “Manitoba and Saskatchewan have been strong trading partners through the New West Partnership Trade Agreement. Together, we are encouraging other jurisdictions to join Canada’s most ambitious domestic trade agreement, and we are building on our economic relationship through further trade collaboration, for example, on direct-to-consumer alcohol sales.”

“The governments of British Columbia and Manitoba share values and a commitment to put our people first,” said British Columbia Premier David Eby. “I’m happy to be able to team up with my good friend Wab Kinew to directly benefit families by growing the economy in both of our provinces.”

“PEI and Manitoba may be different in size and geography, but we share the same goals: a stronger economy, a mobile workforce, and a more efficient approach to interprovincial cooperation,” Prince Edward Island Premier Rob Lantz said.

Manitoba Government Strengthens Interprovincial

Ties with New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island

The MOUs signed with the four provinces will expand opportunities for Manitoban producers and workers while helping strengthen Canada’s economy amid ongoing global uncertainty. The agreements align with Manitoba’s continued

Manitoba

Government

leadership on internal trade and labour mobility including through its Fair Trade in Canada (Internal Trade Mutual Recognition) Act and Labour Mobility Act, said Kinew.

Investing

$115 Million to Improve Provincial Trunk Highway 2

(July 25, 2025 Province of Manitoba News Release) The Manitoba government is investing $115 million to repair and replace structures on Provincial Trunk Highway (PTH) 2, bringing safety and economic benefits to local communities, Premier Wab Kinew and Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor announced here today.

“These upgrades reflect the priorities of our government in ensuring that local producers, grain elevators and community members have safe and efficient roads in their region,” said Kinew. “Some of these roadways have been neglected for a long time and our government recognizes the importance to the community.”

One of the projects includes rehabilitation of 15 kilometres of PTH 5 north of PTH 2 that will eventually lift restrictions and increase allowable axle weights during the spring thaw.

“Poor conditions, including spring road restrictions, have created significant hardship for local agriculture producers. These projects announced today will support the local farming communities and economy,” said Naylor. “By addressing these long-standing infrastructure challenges, we’re not only improving safety and

reliability for drivers, but we are also supporting the economic lifelines of agricultural producers.”

Additional upgrades include grading repairs on PTH 34, where a temporary guardrail and reduced speed limit has been installed to improve safety.

“These local highways are vital routes for our residents and ratepayers, for famers to access their fields and operations, consumers to access our business community and for tourists who come to enjoy some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Manitoba,” said Mayor Charles Radford, Municipality of Glenboro South Cypress. “We are grateful the Manitoba government is helping make our roads safer, while improving two bridges that will encourage increased tourism and economic growth for our area.”

Two bridges will also be replaced near PTH 2 over the Assiniboine River: one at PTH 34, north of Holland and the other bridge at Spruce Woods, which is vital to visitors accessing Spruce Woods Provincial Park, the minister noted. Additional details can be found on an interactive map at www.gov.mb.ca/mti/mipmap/map.html

Manitobans Invited to Share Input on Roadmap to Net-Zero Emissions By 2050

(July 25, 2025 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba government is inviting Manitobans to provide input on the province’s roadmap to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes announced.

“Climate change is a big challenge, but it’s also Manitoba’s opportunity to lead,” said Moyes. “This is a chance for Manitobans to help shape the future, create opportunities in the lowcarbon economy and keep life affordable for all Manitobans.”

The Manitoba government is taking action on climate change through critical projects such as:

• energy – call for Indigenous-owned wind power generation to add more renewable energy to the electricity grid;

• transportation – electric vehicle rebate program and investments in new charging stations;

• efficiency – significant customer incentives to use less energy and save money including installing geothermal heat pumps;

• local action – supporting businesses and non-profit organizations to act on climate change through the Climate Action Fund and saving Lemay Forest by converting it to a provincial park;

• resilience – provide training and funding to communities to develop local climate adaptation and resilience plans;

• protecting nature – supporting the development of a new protected area in the Seal River watershed, creating a Lake Winnipeg stakeholder working group and supporting phase two of the North End Water Pollution Control Centre to protect Lake Winnipeg for generations to come; and

• funding – restoring funding to environmental and climate organizations for advocacy and research.

Consultations on a roadmap to net-zero with Indigenous nations, municipalities, environmental organizations, businesses, industry and Manitobans will take place until the fall. The roadmap will be guided by climate science, traditional knowledge and by Indigenous principles of responsibility and reciprocity, recognizing the importance of respectful relationships with the land, water and future generations, noted the minister.

“Our government is bringing people together to build a cleaner economy and healthier communities for everyone who calls Manitoba home, and we want to hear from Manitobans about the vision for this future,” said Moyes.

For more information on the roadmap to netzero and to share input, visit https://engagemb.ca/roadmap-to-netzero or to provide written submissions, visit ccinfo@gov.mb.ca

Invisible Virtual Fences Could Change Rural Landscape

(Content provided by: Olds College of Agriculture & Technology) Invisible virtual fences are about to supplement, and perhaps transform, the decades-old landscape of barbed wire fences familiar to generations of rural Canadians.

Olds College of Agriculture & Technology is studying solar-powered collars for cattle that not only allow producers to create invisible boundaries for their herds using audible warnings and mild electric shocks, but also to track the movements of individual animals.

devices are solar-powered, GPS-enabled neckbands worn by cattle, linking up to an app producers can run on their computer, tablet or smartphone to map out virtual paddocks, she said.

The devices won’t completely replace physical fences with virtual ones, said Brianna Elliot, a researcher at Olds College’s Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production (TACLP). Perimeter fences will likely remain necessary in some areas for safety, such as along roads, she said.

However, these collars will not only improve pasture utilization in large areas, but also simplify demanding tasks like rotational grazing and locating cattle in rugged terrain, explained Elliot.

“This is going to be the biggest benefit of this technology, particularly given the challenges in finding skilled agricultural labour. I don’t think this is a fit for every operation by any means, but I do think it’s a great tool that can have a pretty substantial impact on a producer’s operation.”

Elliot is studying eShepherd collars made by New Zealand company Gallagher Group. The

“You just draw a paddock on your screen that marks out the area in your pasture you want your cattle to enter. It’ll take about half an hour to communicate that boundary to them and then they are locked in based on the GPS.”

If cattle get too close to a virtual fence line, the collar first gives an audio warning that sounds like a high-pitched whistle, said Elliot. It subsequently delivers up to three mild, harmless jolts, much like a regular electric fence, if an animal tries to cross, she said.

The goal is to teach cattle to stay within the virtual fence. It offers producers a way to manage rotational grazing, keep livestock out of sensitive environmental zones, and track animals in real time, all while cutting down on the time and money spent on traditional fencing.

Rotational grazing requires producers to regularly move portable electric fences, such as polywire, to shift animals between smaller pasture sections or paddocks. It aims to promote the recovery of grazed areas and enhance overall pasture health, including carbon sequestration in soil, said Elliot.

“I’m not saying we’re going to eliminate all labour from tasks like rotational grazing because some observation will still be needed. However,

Invisible Virtual Fences Could Change Rural Landscape

there’s a big difference between physically walking across a field in the rain to move polywire and using an app to move virtual fences from the comfort of your truck on a nearby road.”

She also pointed to the system’s notification features, which inform ranchers if an animal has escaped the virtual paddock, or if it completely stops or it is not moving as much as it should. “This could indicate sickness or death, or a collar being hung up on something.”

The collars primarily communicate via cellular networks for direct collar-to-app data, or through Long Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN) base stations that then use cellular or Wi-Fi to send data, all while relying on GPS to pinpoint animal locations and Wi-Fi for localized app connectivity.

Small solar panels on each eShepherd collar continually recharge an internal, long-life lithium battery during the daytime that provides power at night, improving upon older, batterydependent systems that producers found difficult to maintain and replace.

Elliot is leading two Olds College research projects: an economic analysis of virtual versus polywire fencing with 30 cattle near Nanton, Alta., funded by Alberta’s Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) agency; and a behavioural analysis and usability study with 80 cow-calf pairs near Carstairs.

Her research will also assess the communication performance of the eShepherd collars, including potential integration with satellite service for areas with limited cell service.

Elliot said the eShepherd collars cost about $350 each, along with a monthly subscription fee of $2.50 per device. However, funding is becoming available to make this technology more affordable for producers, with more options expected as new providers enter the Canadian market, she said.

Her research began in 2022 with a pilot study using NoFence collars developed by a Norwegian company. It assessed animal welfare impacts, the learning curve for cattle and the devices’ winter performance, she said.

“My focus here at Olds College is forage and grazing research with technology integration, so this was a natural fit when this technology started coming on the market a few years ago.”

Her efforts expanded in 2024 with funding for 100 eShepherd collars. “They worked really well. All the cattle learned how to react to them within about four days, so they were no longer activating the shock, but just responding appropriately to the audio cues.”

There’s still time to share your voice in the Workforce Pulse. Our 1-minute check-in on what’s happening within the agri-workforce.

The deadline has been extended to Friday, August 1, so if you haven’t yet, now’s the time to jump in. Your input helps deliver real-time industry insights that drive policy, inform strategy, and support smart, proactive workforce solutions across the agri-sector. Take a moment today and create a lasting impact.

Fill out the survey now

The 123rd Northwest Round Up and Exhibition took place in Swan River July 24-27 with 5,000 visitors to the Manitoba Beef Producers exhibit from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and beyond. MBP extends a sincere thanks to Katie and Austen Anderson for the invitation to attend the event and for coordinating the display! (Photo credit: Katie Anderson/Anderson Cattle Co.)

Are you a competitive supplier of weaned calves?

2024 Benchmark Results

The last five years have seen a rapidly shifting landscape with inflated input costs and surging cattle prices. It can be easy to coast, allowing cost structures to rise to the level of cash coming into the operation. But now is the time to set yourself up for the next phase of the cattle cycle. High prices cure high prices; they won't stick around forever.

How are you investing into your business to be more competitive when prices turn? Are you a competitive supplier of weaned calves? Do you know if you are a high or low-cost producer?

Individual benchmarking allows for incremental improvement from year to year. Comparison to a provincial average tells a producer if they are competitive in the marketplace. Comparison to similar management systems allows producers to identify ways they can improve their competitiveness. The Canadian Cow-calf Cost of Production Network (COP Network) was designed to give producers benchmarks that represent a variety of production and management systems, showcasing incremental steps that can be taken to improve competitiveness. The aggregated results give an indication of what to aim for.

What is the COP Network?

The Canadian Cow-calf Cost of Production Network (COP Network) uses standardized data collection which allows for comparison both within and between provinces, and internationally. Since launching in 2021, the COP Network has collected data from over 235 producers contributing to 64 cow-calf benchmark farms that represent various production systems. Each benchmark is based on data from 3-7 producers. Data collection occurs every 5 years with annual indexing of input and output prices, as well as crop and forage yields, in subsequent years. Individual benchmark farm summaries, can be found at: https://canfax.ca/resources/cost-ofproduction/cop-results.html

It should be noted that benchmarks are NOT based on who is the most productive. Benchmarks ARE based on who is the most profitable. Benchmarks come from the Top 3rd not the average.

What costs are you covering?

In 2024, with revenue (+16%) growing faster than total costs (+5%), profitability improved across Canada (Figure 1). All benchmark farms covered short-term (cash) costs, and a vast majority (95%) managed to cover medium-term (cash and depreciation) costs (Table 1). Covering depreciation is critical to long-term survival of an operation as it ensures that assets can be replaced. As machinery and repair costs move higher, producers calculating depreciation based on book value can be caught off-guard as replacement costsmove higher.About59%of farmswere abletocoverlong-term (cash,depreciation, andopportunity)

costs. Covering opportunity costs represents a return to land, labour and capital, giving producers the signal to expand the herd. In comparison, in 2023, 95% of farms covered short-term costs, 91% covered medium-term costs, and about 50% covered long-term costs.

Figure 1. Canada Average Cost in 2024

Source:CanfaxResearchServices,COPNetwork

Overall, average short-term profits were up from $668/cow in 2023 to $919/cow in 2024, medium-term profits up from$465/cow to $675/cow, andlong-termprofits wereup from -$25/cowto $163/cow. (Table 1). While these figures reflect a positive trend in profitability for 2024, there is significant variability betweenoperations.The topthirdbenchmark farms hadshort-,medium-,andlong-term profitsthat were 33%, 58% and 306% higher than the average. Some operations have experienced much higher profitability, while others saw less favorable results.

Table 1. Summary of 2024 Costs and Profitability ($/cow)

revenue including calves, cull cows and bulls, breeding stock, and productivity from opens and death loss

Profit Drivers

The 5% Rule says that profits are driven by:

1. Marketing - output price (revenue)

2. Productivity - pounds produced/sold

3. Input costs - cash, depreciation and opportunity

When the 64 benchmarks are divided into three equally sized groups based on medium-term profit (see Figure 2) it becomes clear that controlling costs is a major profit driver representing the key difference between the groups. Total costs dropped 21% from the low- to medium-profit group and by another 23% from the medium- to high-profit group supporting a significant 223% and 47% increase in medium-term profit, respectively. Meanwhile, the total revenue had modest gains of 7% and 1%, making a smaller contribution. This highlights the critical role that controlling costs plays in maximizing profits, which is something producers have more control over than output prices.

Figure 2. Medium-term profit, total cost and total revenue of low, medium and high profit groups

Controlling Costs

Overall, total production costs per cow have an upward sloping supply curve (Figure 3), with both low-cost and high-cost production systems represented.

In 2024, the average total cost (Table 1) rose to $1,850 per cow, up 5% from 2023. The increase was more pronounced in the East, where costs increased from 2023 by 7%, compared to a 4% increase in the West since 2023. The larger cost hike in the East is primarily due to inflationary pressures offsetting the effects of the 2023 drought in the West, as well as increased demand from Western producers purchasing winter feed from the East in 2023.

Breaking down the total costs, 59% ($1,094) were cash costs, 13% ($244) depreciation, and 28% ($512) were opportunity costs. These are consistent with the previous year, which had 61% cash costs, 11% depreciation, and 28% opportunity costs.

500

AB-5SK-8aMB-2MB-3bSK-8bAB-2MB-3aSK-7AB-1LL_05MB-1BC-3SK-13MT-3MT-5SK-1aAB-11LL_04QC-2AB-3QC-1LL_03SK-1bAB-9MB-4SKAB-1BC-4LL_06QC-7AB-6BC-5BC-1SK-6AB-8BC-6AB-10SK-9QC-4AB-13BC-2SK-3MT-1AB-14ONMB-1AB-4SK-11aSK-11bLL_01QC-6SK-12SK-4AB-12ON-3ON-2SK-10QC-3ON-1MT-4SK-5QC-5MT-2LL_02MT-6BC-7

Source:CanfaxResearchServices,COPNetwork

Continuous Improvement

The difference, when comparing the costs for the top third farms to the bottom two-thirds (Figure 4), has widened ten percentage points from 2021 to 2023 from 20-30% for cash and 38-48% for depreciation costs. This represents the top third making continuous improvements in their operations. This widening gap shows how those who are most competitive cement their position during profitable times.

Total costs for top-performing farms are 24% to 32% lower than those of the bottom tier, driven by consistent double-digit reductions in cash costs, depreciation, and opportunity costs across all years. It is worth noting that the top third group does not focus on just cash costs but is controlling every aspect of their cost structure.

It is important to strategically managecosts inachieving and maintaining profitability.

In contrast, weaned calf prices show only modest variation between top and bottom farms, with differences ranging from 2% to 6%, underscoring the limited influence producershave overmarket prices. As cattle prices have increased in recent years, the total revenue gap has narrowed—from 16% in 2021 to just 4% in 2024 - suggesting that when prices are high, all cow-calf producers benefit. But when the price cycle turns, it should not be forgotten that these top-performing operations not only control costs but also received more revenue. It is never too late, nor too early to start working on developing reputation cattle.

4. Percent Difference Between Top Third and Bottom Two-Third, based on Medium-Term Profits

Preparing for the next phase of the cattle cycle

At the top of the price cycle, producers have an opportunity to strategically set themselves up for the future. Reinvesting profits into operational improvements, genetic advancement, or resource efficiency can serve as a proactive hedge against the cyclical nature of the cattle market.

While the shrinking cattle supply has shifted market leveragetoward cow-calf producers, enhancing profit potential, it has simultaneously increased exposure to market volatility, with large price ranges. Cost control combined with building reputation cattle can buffer operations against price volatility and enhance resilience in subsequent phases of the cattle cycle. Thoughtful planning during this phase is essential to ensure sustainability and competitiveness as the industry transitions into the next cycle.

Key Takeaway’s:

1. Manage your costs

2. Market quality, reputation cattle

3. Reinvest profits

Disclaimer / Copyright Notice: Canfax Research Services (CRS) tries to provide quality information, but we make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information. CRS does not guarantee and accepts no legal liability arising from or connected to, the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of any material contained in our publications. Reproduction and/or electronic transmission of this publication, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without written consent from CRS.

Figure

Hot weather, safe travel: Preventing heat stress in animals

Heat stress and animal transport

Signs of animals overheating

• unsettled or lethargic

• vocalizing

• heavy mouth (or beak) breathing

• breathing fast

• sweating (horses and cattle)

• red, blotchy skin

• dehydrated (skin tent, dry gums, sunken eyes)

Animals cool themselves by

• heat evaporation from:

• lungs, by panting

• skin, by sweating

• seeking shade/shelter

• increasing air ﬂow around their bodies

Pigs and birds cannot sweat!

They are at higher risk of overhheating.

Conditions increasing the risk of overheating

• body size (large)

• body condition (thin, fat)

• age (very young or old)

• lactating (require more ﬂuids)

• pregnant

• full coated (insulated)

Assess each animal carefully!

Humid conditions increase overheating risks

Low humidity High humidity

Sweat evaporates easily because there is room in the air for more water vapor molecules.

Preventing heat stress in animal transport

Sweat builds up and won’t evaporate because the air is already full of water vapor molecules.

• Assess each animal before loading

• Plan route

• Schedule to reduce stopping and wait times

• Coordinate along supply line

• Know what to do when animals are overheating

Care for animals

• Hydrate animals before loading

• Gentle, calm handling

• Increase space for each animal

Monitor often. Take action!

• Communicate concerns to contact at destination

• Stop, unload and provide water, if required

• Re-route, if needed Plan

Maximize ventilation

• Keep trucks moving

• Open vents

• Increase air ﬂow between animals (reduce loading density)

Protect from environmental conditions

• Avoid traveling during the hottest part of the day and in humid conditions

• Provide shade protection when parked for

• driver rest

• waiting to unload

• Keep driving to keep air ﬂowing

• If misting to cool animals, use caution*

* Without good ventilation, misting could create conditions similar to a sauna.

Regions

Peace Region – Alberta & BC

Manitoba

Ontario

Newfoundland When September to November 2025 & Fall 2028

Keep this as a reminder to check Cleanfarms.ca to find the full list of collection events for September to November 2025. Managing these materials by taking them to a Cleanfarms collection event will help you maintain a healthy and safe workplace. For