Ontario Beef - May 2019

MAY 2019

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE BEEF FARMERS OF ONTARIO

Behind the Barn Doors:

What Guelph’s New Beef Research Facilities Will Offer Put Fire Prevention First on Your Farm Managing Ash Content in Hay It Pays to be Sustainable Worms, Worms Go Away: Re-thinking Deworming Strategies A Look Back at BFO’s Annual General Meeting

Canadian Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement Number 0040007029

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

1

Ontario

HEREFORD ASSOCIATION

Ontario

HEREFORDASSOCIATION

contents

COMPLIMENTARY, MEMBER SUPPORTED PUBLICATION M a y 20 1 9

Volume 60, Number 2

10 A Look Back at BFO’s Annual General Meeting 18 Put Fire Prevention First on Your Farm the Barn Doors: What Guelph’s New 22 Behind Beef Research Facilities Will Offer 26 Managing Ash Content in Hay 28 It Pays to be Sustainable Worms Go Away: Re-thinking 34 Worms, Deworming Strategies departments 4 Ahead of the Heard – by Joe Hill, BFO President 6 The Beef Beat – by Katherine Fox, Senior Policy Advisor, BFO 8 Between You, Me and the Fence Post – by Jennifer Kyle, Editor, Ontario Beef 13 Bulletin Board 16 Rural Ramble – by Dan Ferguson, Manager of Producer Relations, BFO 24 Where the Maple Leaf Flies – by Gina Teel, Communications Manager, CCA 26 OMAFRA Update - by Christine O’Reilly, Forage and Grazing Specialist, OMAFRA 30 INSIGHTS – by Mike McMorris, General Manager, AgSights 32 Beef Brief – by Michele McAdoo, Executive Director, Brand & Communications, Canada Beef 34 Vet on Call – by Katharine Found, DVM 36 Market Information – by Jamie Gamble, Market Information Coordinator, BFO 41 Calendar of Events

ON THE COVER After a seemingly endless winter and a cold, wet start to spring, we are finally starting to see some warmer spring temperatures. With warmth comes lots of green, so pasture season will soon be upon us. Now, if we all sweettalk Mother Nature, hopefully she’ll give us a nice stretch of sunny days to dry out the fields so crops can be put in the ground!

Don’t miss out on submitting your photos for our August 2019 issue. Please send your spring inspired photos by July 15th to be considered for the cover.

Digital photos that are at least 300dpi are preferred and can be emailed to info@ontariobeef.com.

42 Spotlight on Food & Farm Care Ontario – b y Bruce Kelly, Program Manager, Farm & Food Care Ontario ONTARIO BEEF • Beef Farmers of Ontario 130 Malcolm Road, Guelph, ON N1K 1B1 • Phone: 519-824-0334 • Toll Free (for Ontario callers only) 1-866-370-BEEF (2333) Fax: 519-824-9101 • info@ontariobeef.com EDITOR Jennifer Kyle CIRCULATION COORDINATOR Bethany Storey ADVERTISING MANAGER Cathy Lasby, Preferred Agri-Marketing Services Guelph, ON Phone: 519-763-8833 • Fax: 519-763-8833 pams@sentex.net DESIGN and LAYOUT Prism Studios Advertising and Design Inc. Guelph, ON PRODUCTION and PRINTING Commercial Print-Craft Limited Woodstock, ON

PROVIDING A FORUM FOR THE ONTARIO BEEF INDUSTRY Ontario Beef is the official publication of the Beef Farmers of Ontario. Contents of this publication may be reproduced only by permission of the Editor and with credit acknowledged.

Opinions expressed herein are those of the author and/or editor and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Beef Farmers of Ontario. Publication of advertisements does not constitute endorsement or approval by Ontario Beef or the Beef Farmers of Ontario of products or services advertised.

Advertising deadlines are January 10, April 15, July 15, September 15 and November 15. The publisher reserves the right to refuse or cancel any advertising, including advertising that is inconsistent with BFO’s Sponsorship Policy, available at www.ontariobeef.com. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material published, however no responsibility can be assumed for advertising not received in clear, type-written form.

C an adi an P u b l i c a t i o n s M a i l P r o d u c t S a l es A g r eem en t Nu m b er 0 0 4 0 0 0 7 0 2 9 POSTMASTER: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Beef Farmers of Ontario, 130 Malcolm Road, Guelph, ON N1K 1B1

A h e a d o f t h e Heard • By Joe Hill, BFO President

info@ontariobeef.com • www.ontariobeef.com

Stepping Up Our Game “T

oday is the first day of the rest of your life”. While this sounds a little cliché, it applies to the Ontario beef industry like never before. If you have been paying any attention at all, you are aware the increase to provincial check-off was supported overwhelmingly by delegates at this year’s AGM. Implementation is in the hands of government to work through their processes, so we’ll keep you up-to-date as we know more. You will also be aware that the primary purposes of the increase are to expand consumer and producer engagement efforts, and most significantly, fund the Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO) and Ontario Cattle Feeders’ Association (OCFA) joint marketing committee. Although we do not expect the increase to take effect until later this year, OCFA has funding committed to the marketing committee to cover a significant portion this year, while BFO will pay the balance and support consumer and producer engagement from reserves so activities can ramp up this year and be moving full-speed ahead once the increase is implemented.

The Ontario beef industry is trying to become market driven. This is significant and will only work if we all get behind it.

Through our market research, we know some consumer segments are willing to pay more for Ontario beef, while some segments want different attributes than others. While we, as an industry, support the development of brands to service the different market segments, as producers, we must make production decisions to supply whichever brand(s) we choose to align with. For some, this will require very few, if any, changes.

For others, this will require a fundamentally different approach to how you run your farm.

While we do everything within our power to build a better future through better marketing, other barriers are being placed in front of us. There is a segment of the public who wishes to see an end to animal agriculture. While the core group may not be large enough on their own to do significant harm, they are well-financed, well-connected, and have proven to be influential. The changes to the livestock transportation regulations are symbolic of this influence, as is the new Canada Food Guide. It is clear those who oppose what we do are being far more strategic than we give them credit for. I believe many are becoming members in political parties, which gives them influence on party policy and campaign platforms, as well as candidate selection and party leadership. It is likely some are employed within government, influencing policies from within, and some

hold elected positions. We need to realize their influence is growing and to meet this, ours must grow as well.

BFO, CCA and other farm organizations across the country are currently wellrespected and have maintained strong enough voices to at least be able to present our message. But I believe our influence is slipping. Politics seems to be a world where science is irrelevant, common sense is non-existent, and the opinion of anyone who stands to gain or lose financially is discounted as though economic prosperity is a bad thing. Action at the grassroots level is our best chance to maintain our way of life.

We, as farmers, need to be more politically involved. If you haven’t already, it is time to join a political party, or at least donate and attend fundraisers and other functions.

We need to be influencing policies long before

they

become

draft

regulations

posted for public comment. The minimal changes to the transportation regulations after the comment period demonstrate the unlikelihood of significant changes being made once initially posted.

We all know the best way to treat a disease is through prevention, but that ship has sailed. It is time for a more aggressive treatment protocol. OB

BFO BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2019 Joe Hill (Feedlot Director) - President Phone: 519-843-3202 • Email: joe@roberthillfarm.ca Rob Lipsett (Background Director) - Vice-President Phone: 519-371-9850 • Email: lipsettrob@yahoo.ca Don Badour (Cow-Calf Director) Phone: 613-762-2161 • Email: don.badour@ripnet.com Jason Reid (Cow-Calf Director) Phone: 807-935-3224 • Email: reidridgefarm@tbaytel.net Craig McLaughlin (Cow-Calf Director) Phone: 613-646-7820 • Email: cmblackhorse@gmail.com Mert Schneider (Feedlot Director) Phone: 519-343-2849 • Email: nschneider@wightman.ca Jack Chaffe (Feedlot Director) Phone: 519-348-4607 • Email: jdchaffe@quadro.net Jason Leblond (Northern Director) Phone: 705-724-1887 • Email: jsacres5@gmail.com Dave Cavanagh (Eastern Director) Phone: 705-740-5212 • Email: homestead_herefords@msn.com Ron Stevenson (Southern Director) Phone: 519-887-6677 • Email: ron@metzgervet.com Dan Darling (Director-At-Large) Phone: 905-375-4019 • Email: dmdarling13@gmail.com Jordan Miller (Director-At-Large) Phone: 289-686-1124 • Email: b.jordan.miller@gmail.com

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O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

BFO STAFF Executive Director Dave Stewart • dave@ontariobeef.com Executive Assistant Cathy Golubienko • cathyg@ontariobeef.com Manager of Policy and Issues Richard Horne • richard@ontariobeef.com Senior Policy Advisor Katherine Fox • k atherine@ontariobeef.com Policy & Research Analyst Michael Campbell • michael@ontariobeef.com Manager of Communications & Marketing LeaAnne Wuermli • leaanne@ontariobeef.com Senior Communications Specialist Jennifer Kyle jennifer@ontariobeef.com Communications Coordinator Bethany Storey • bethany@ontariobeef.com Market Information Coordinator Jamie Gamble • markets@ontariobeef.com

Accountant Amber McIntyre • amber@ontariobeef.com Office Administrator Tammy Purdham • tammy@ontariobeef.com Manager of Producer Relations Dan Ferguson • dan@ontariobeef.com Producer Relations Specialist Jaclyn Horenberg • jaclyn@ontariobeef.com Check-Off Inspector Andy Millar • sunnymeadowscharolais@hotmail.com Provincial Supervisor, Ontario Feeder Cattle and Beef Breeder Co-op Programs Cheryl Russwurm • crfeederfin@wightman.ca Water Quality Specialist Chris Attema • chris@ontariobeef.com

AUGUST 13-15, 2019 BMO CENTRE ON STAMPEDE PARK, CALGARY, AB Visit us at canadianbeefindustryconference.com @CDNBeefConf

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ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

5

The Beef Beat

• B y Katherine Fox, Senior Policy Advisor, BFO katherine@ontariobeef.com • www.ontariobeef.com

A Spring Policy and Issues Update T

he

BFO

to animal transport regulations, which

management plans. We should be getting

policy team

followed consultations on the proposed

confirmation on the regulatory change for

hit the ground

regulatory changes a couple years ago. Of

strategies sometime this spring or summer,

running

after

most concern to BFO is the decrease in

and we’ll keep members updated as we

in

maximum allowable time in transit, which

know more.

February,

may actually degrade welfare outcomes

reviewing

this

for cattle due to the level of stress and

Conservation

and

Parks

also

year’s resolutions and coming up with

risk associated with increased unloading

consultations

this

spring

on

plans of attack for each one. As always,

and loading at livestock rest stations where

reduction, the ethanol content mandate,

responses to resolutions are developed and

animals are co-mingled from different

and the Endangered Species Act. All of BFO’s

shared over the year, and can be found

origins. Government research confirms over

submissions on these issues and regulatory

on BFO’s website. One resolution top-of-

99.9% of cattle transported in Canada arrive

proposals (plus all the others we work on)

mind for a lot of voting delegates this year

at their destination without incident, and

was regarding the OSPCA and its decision

we believe the new regulations could lower

can be found on BFO’s website. One I want

to step away from its animal welfare

that rate. BFO and other beef organizations

investigation and enforcement role. Farm

across the country continue to talk with

& Food Care Ontario’s article in this issue

government about this issue, and research

provides more detail on the current status

is presently underway to better understand

of the OSPCA and the work being done

the relationship between loading, unloading

by OFA, Farm & Food Care Ontario and

and reloading animals and the associated

livestock groups on the agricultural sector’s

animal welfare outcomes.

our

AGM

guiding principles and recommendations

On April 1st, we saw the federal carbon

for Ontario’s new animal protection law,

tax come into effect in provinces where

which the Ministry of the Solicitor General

carbon pricing systems didn’t already

will be drafting this year to replace the

exist. With the provincial cap-and-trade

current OSPCA Act.

program cancelled, this included Ontario.

BFO and other livestock groups have had

This is a friendly reminder that fuel used

Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs)

for farming is exempt from the carbon levy,

with the OSPCA for a number of years,

but the Fuel Charge Exemption Certificate

enabling us to have animal care advisors

for Farmers (Form L402 from CRA) must

involved in many OSPCA calls. I think there’s

first be completed by producers and their

an opportunity with new legislation in the

fuel suppliers. The exemption is currently

works to entrench a lot of the important

not eligible for farm fuel purchased at the

elements of those MOUs with whichever

pump or cardlock facilities.

The

Ministry

of

Environment, had waste

to mention here is the Endangered Species Act. I think any opportunity to talk about the importance and value of pasture and forage production is a good opportunity – agricultural grasslands are extremely valuable to our industry and for the environment (carbon storage, soil health, wildlife habitat, I could go on…) The 10-year review of the Endangered Species Act has been an opportunity for BFO to talk about the valuable role beef producers play in managing grasslands. The beef industry should be seen as an ally, not an obstacle, in preserving habitat for species at risk, and it’s important that we make this distinction with policymakers. With this in mind, BFO recently hosted a meeting with beef and sheep producers and other organizations to discuss funding programs,

other

best management practices, research, and

investigations and enforcement (currently

environmental files on the table this spring,

promotion to the public and government

police services for the interim and perhaps

including some good news with proposed

about the role of agricultural grasslands in

in the longer term, too). New animal

regulatory amendments under the Nutrient

providing habitat for grassland birds. Stay

welfare legislation in Ontario gives us an

Management Act that would remove the

tuned for more to come from BFO on this

opportunity to make some improvements

automatic five-year renewal requirement

topic.

to the system, and the agricultural groups

for nutrient management strategies. This

We’ll be working on these issues and lots

have been busy examining any gaps in the

would be a reduction in red tape for farms

more in the months ahead, so get in touch

current legislation and thinking about what

with nutrient management strategies

with us if you want an update or if you’d

will work best going forward.

that don’t have any changes to their risk

like to share your thoughts.

new agency takes over animal welfare

There

have

been

several

Coming out of BFO’s AGM, another big

profile, and it’s something we’d also like

issue was the just-announced amendments

to see proposed for those with nutrient

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O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

Happy spring everyone – I hope it’s a good one for each of you.

OB

Study Finds Resistance to De-wormers in Ontario Beef Cattle

By Lilian Schaer for Livestock Research Innovation Corporation

G

astrointestinal nematodes, also known as roundworms, are common in beef cattle, mostly spread orally on pasture. In small ruminants like sheep and goats, anthelmintic resistance – resistance to deworming products – is a significant problem, and University of Guelph researchers suspected this might also be a problem in Ontario beef herds.

Dr. Jessica Gordon, veterinarian and Assistant Professor in Ruminant Health Management, headed up a trial to learn more about the issue in Ontario cattle and how widespread it might be.

“Parasitism in cattle doesn’t often cause death the way it does in small ruminants, but it will affect production,” she explains.

“The animals won’t grow as well, won’t breed as well, will be on the thinner side and their calves won’t be as healthy at birth; that’s why we deworm. And when dewormers don’t function properly, we see these problems

come back in.”

Parasites need grass to complete part of their life cycle so in a cold climate like Canada, where fresh grass doesn’t grow yearround, there is at least part of the year where there is no transmission.

Part of Gordon’s research included determining whether those parasites can overwinter in the field and re-emerge the following year, contributing to resistance issues. Mature cows can also carry the parasites in their gut, and excrete the eggs onto pastures in the spring where other animals can pick them up.

In a trial at the Elora Research Station, Gordon followed three groups of cows over two years: those not treated with dewormer, those treated with commonly used pour-on Ivermectin, and those treated with a newer deworming fenbendazole product.

For more information and ideas on deworming strategies, turn to page 34 to check out this month’s Vet on Call article – Worms, Worms, Go Away: Re-thinking Deworming Strategies.

They evaluated every cow’s body condition score, weight and calf performance, including weight while nursing, as well as taking fecal egg counts every month. Gordon found that while the control animals had higher fecal egg count numbers than the dewormed cattle, there was little difference between them when economic performance measures were looked at.

Researchers did find evidence of resistance to Ivermectin, as well as fenbendazole, which was unexpected.

Continued on page 12.

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ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

7

Between You, Me and the Fence Post •

y Jennifer Kyle, Editor, Ontario Beef B info@ontariobeef.com • www.ontariobeef.com

Social Responsibility – Company’s Coming!

W

get bored with sunflowers and lavender fields keeping your manure storage tidy are just a ith winter and move onto animals…the last thing you few things to stay on top of. It’s important behind want is for someone seeking the perfect for everyone, but even more so for those us, farms across #CowSelfie to have a run-in with your herd who live on high-traffic routes. If our urban Ontario are sire! It could still happen, but doing your neighbours drive through the countryside and either preparing due diligence will hopefully make visitors see happy, well-cared for animals and tidy for or in the midst of #Plant19, which will think twice and reduce the likelihood of it farms, they are happy. Let’s keep them that quickly lead into hay and a continuous transpiring. way. Besides, we have so much more pride in stream of fieldwork to take us through to fall.

Spring and summer bring extra tasks to our operations when things look good.

This is, of course, on top of the day-to-day do, and lots of people looking for chores, and the onslaught of yard summer work. Whether your help work and extracurricular activities is family or hired, it’s a good idea that come with spring sunshine. to have a discussion about social Thinking about how we will balance responsibility, what it means and getting everything done on the farm why it’s important to make sure with things like taming flowerbeds, chores are completed properly. If cutting grass, and taxiing kids to you are hiring help, make sure you baseball, volleyball and 4-H is know who you are hiring – take enough to make my head spin…I’m the extra time to meet with them sure many of you can relate. for an interview, and CALL THEIR The point is spring is busy. When REFERENCES. It only takes a few farm life gets busy, sometimes we minutes to pick up the phone. To tend to let things slide or cut a further ensure everyone on the few corners until life becomes less farm is committed, have each hectic. We all do it, but that doesn’t person sign an agreement to treat make it a good practice. We hear and handle animals with respect, a lot about “social responsibility” adhere to the Code of Practice, and typically, in the beef business, report any animal mistreatment our minds go to obvious things like This guy may look photogenic, but hopping the fence to take a selfie with him to you, and ask permission before hormone and antibiotic use. But is not a smart idea. Make sure to post signage around your pastures to remind taking photos or video. You may social responsibility goes far beyond people the pastures are private property and to deter them from hopping the think this seems overzealous, but the obvious and springtime is a fence to explore. the few minutes it takes to read good time to take stock and ensure and sign the agreement will go a long way More people traveling the roads also you are being as socially responsible on your toward confirming you have the right people means more potential visitors of many farm as possible. Why? It may sound strange, in place to ensure your animals and farm are descriptions. Most of us like visitors and are but ensuring you are upholding your best well-cared for. happy to show people around our farms, but management practices not only helps present My intent is not to give you more to it’s important we know when the visitors are a positive industry image to the public, more do, but rather expand your view of social there and who they are. Museums, stores, importantly, it helps protect the safety of responsibility and make you think about the arenas and other places of business don’t your farm operation. practices and procedures you have in place allow visitors when nobody is around, and Let me explain. Warm weather brings to ensure the safety of your farm, family, your farm should be no different. This is people out. A lot of people. There is nothing animals and visitors, and maintain your incredibly important for the safety of the quite like getting out of the busy city for a farm’s biosecurity. To get you started, we visitors, the animals, the equipment, and of quiet scenic drive in the country. Am I right? have pads of Animal Care Code of Conduct course, the biosecurity of your farm. If you With more people traveling the Employee Agreements, visitor log books and haven’t already, it would be a smart idea to countryside taking in the sights, sounds biosecurity signage here at the office that we post signage reminding visitors your farm is and yes, the smells, it’s incredibly important are happy to send out to you for use on your private property with a number to call if they we, as farmers, are putting our best foot farm. Let us know if you would like some. would like to visit. It would be a good idea forward. Ensuring cattle have adequate water Wishing you all a safe and productive to post these around any pasture farms as and pasture/feed at all times, treating any spring season! OB well – it’s only a matter of time before people sick or injured animals immediately, and 8

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

The horn fly menace costs the beef industry upwards of $1 billion per year in lost productivity. A “do-nothing” approach to control can be costly. It’s crucial to get ahead of the horn fly season, so control for the spring begins now. Starting Altosid® IGR in feed supplements 30 days before horn fly emergence and continuing throughout the season means your herd will be protected all summer long.

Do something against horn flies. Add Altosid® IGR to your feed supplement now.

To learn more, visit AltosidIGR.com or talk to your supplement provider.

Altosid® IGR Now available in Canada! ® ®

Always read and follow label directions. Altosid and the cow head design are registered trademarks of Wellmark International. Central Life Sciences with design is a registered trademark of Central Garden & Pet Company. ©2018 Wellmark International.

A Look Back at BFO’s Annual Beef Cattle Check-off Increase Approved with Broad Support from Delegates

I

n February, delegates attending the Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO) 57th Annual General Meeting in Toronto approved an increase ($1.50) to the provincial portion of the beef cattle check-off in Ontario with strong support and a vote of 87 per cent in favour of the increase. BFO has begun the formal process of requesting that the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Commission amend Regulation 54 of the Beef Cattle Marketing Act. Upon approval, combined with the existing mandatory $1.00 per head federal agency levy, total Ontario check-off per head will be increased from $4 to $5.50 per head.

Of the approved increase, $1.25 will be dedicated to support a new joint venture between BFO and the Ontario Cattle Feeders’ Association (OCFA) and the development of a marketing committee focused on increasing market penetration of Ontario-branded beef, both at home and abroad. The committee will provide support and promotion for all Ontario beef brands in regional, domestic and international markets by working with farmers and partners in the processing, retail and foodservice sectors. The remaining $0.25 will be directed to BFO for continued support of producer and consumer engagement activities.

“We thank our membership for recognizing the importance of the increase. While we have a lot of work ahead of us, we believe the more focused efforts and dollars spent on increasing the demand and availability of Ontario beef in the marketplace will begin to improve all of our margins from the cowcalf sector through to the feedlot,” said Joe Hill, BFO President. “As an industry, rather than riding the unpredictable waves of the cattle market, we now have a plan to help change our path and to create more stability in our sector. The increased investment from our membership will benefit many farmers,

The 2019 BFO Board of Directors Standing (L to R): Dave Cavanagh, Cow-Calf Director; Don Badour, Cow-Calf Director; Jason Reid, Cow-Calf Director; Jordan Miller, Director At-Large; Ron Stevenson, Southern Director; Dan Darling, AtLarge Director; Mert Schneider, Feedlot Director Seated (L to R): Jack Chaffe, Feedlot Director; Jason Leblond, Northern Director; Joe Hill, President (Feedlot Director); Craig McLaughlin, CowCalf Director; Rob Lipsett, Vice-President (Background Director)

Thirty-five industry partners and companies supported the event through sponsorship and tradeshow exhibits.

Ron Stevenson of Walton, Ontario was acclaimed as Southern Director on the BFO Board of Directors. He and his family operate a cow-calf and feedlot operation in Huron County. Ron believes branding Ontario beef is key to securing urban consumers and neighbours in North America, and feels industry collaboration is vital to build on the success of programs such as Ontario Corn Fed Beef.

Doug Gray (centre) of Northumberland County was awarded the 2019 Ontario Mapleseed Pasture Award presented by Ray Robertson of the Ontario Forage Council (right) and Steven Hughes of Mapleseed (left).

10

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

General Meeting both existing and beginning, for many years to come.”

The Board of Directors of BFO elected their 2019 president and vice president at the meeting as well. Joe Hill will continue to lead the association in the year ahead as president with Rob Lipsett continuing his role as vice president.

Joining the BFO Board in 2019 are Don Badour, Mert Schneider and Ron Stevenson who will all serve three-year terms. Badour, who will represent the cow-calf sector on the board, resides in Perth, Ontario where he operates a cow-calf operation with his family.

Schneider will serve as feedlot director, and

will replace Tom Wilson who completed three terms on the board. Schneider and his family operate a feedlot and cash crop operation in Palmerston, Ontario. Lastly, Ron Stevenson was acclaimed to the position of southern director, and will replace Cory Van Groningen who completed two terms on the board. Ron and his family live in Walton, Ontario and operate a cow-calf and feedlot operation.

Watch for profiles on each of the new board directors in the August 2019 Ontario Beef.

Returning to the BFO Board is Dave Cavanagh of Ennismore, Ontario who was elected by voting delegates to represent the eastern region of Ontario, and Dan Darling of Continued on page 12.

2019 CARRIED RESOLUTIONS 19-01 - OSPCA AND ANIMAL CARE ENFORCEMENT 19-02 - SUPPLY OF FOOD STREAM VETERINARIANS (LARGE ANIMAL) 19-03 - PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS TO CONDUCT PREGNANCY CHECKING 19-04 - MOBILE SLAUGHTER PILOT 19-05 - TAXES ON ABATTOIRS 19-06 - SRM COSTS 19-07 - FEEDER FINANCE LOAN CAP 19-08 - RMP AND THE CASH ADVANCE PROGRAM

Steve and Amanda Sickle of Sickle Farms in Brant County were The Environmental Stewardship Award recipients for 2019. Amanda Hammel (left) of RBC Royal Bank was on hand to present the award.

19-09 - CATTLE PRODUCTION INSURANCE 19-10 - EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFRASTRUCTURE AND CAPACITY 19-11 - BFO/COUNTY/DISTRICT GOVERNANCE STRUCTURES 19-12 - COUNTY/DISTRICT DIRECTOR TRAINING 19-13 - OMAFRA STAFFING IN NORTHERN ONTARIO 19-14 - CANDIDATE DIRECTOR ATTENDANCE AT AGM 19-15 - SUPPORT FOR ALGONQUIN COLLEGE AGRICULTURE PROGRAM

Over 200 delegates representing all sectors and regions in the province were in attendance to elect directors, committee members and debate important resolutions.

19-16 - EMERGENCY SLAUGHTER PROCESS 19-17 - BEEF ADVOCACY AND EDUCATION 19-18 - KEMPTVILLE OMAFRA OFFICE 19-19 - ACCURACY OF BFO MEMBERSHIP LIST 19-20 - CCIA PRODUCER PINS 19-21 - CLIMATE CHANGE RESEARCH 19-22 - E-COLI TESTING PROTOCOLS IN PROVINCIAL ABATTOIRS Delegates, industry guests and MPPs gathered in advance of the annual banquet for the Past Presidents Reception.

19-23 - PENALTIES FOR DIRTY CATTLE 19-24 - CANADA FOOD GUIDE CONTENT CRITERIA 19-25 - MISUSE OF BEEF INDUSTRY TERMINOLOGY 19-26 - BCMA FEE COLLECTION AMENDMENT

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

11

Continued from page 11. – A

Look Back at BFO’s Annual General Meeting

Castleton, Ontario was elected to the position of at-large. Darling will replace Kim Sytsma who completed one term on the BFO Board.

BFO Board of Directors and staff welcomed over 400 attendees at this year’s AGM, including a number of Members of Provincial Parliament who attended the evening banquet.

BFO was pleased to have the Honourable Ernie Hardeman, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, meet with delegates at the banquet. During Minister Hardeman’s address, he announced changes to the Ontario Feeder Cattle Loan Guarantee Program. The changes will reduce unnecessary and costly credit checks to better align with lender and borrower business practices and expectations.

The revisions will also streamline the transfer of ownership of livestock once a loan is paid off, which will directly benefit beef farmers who are members of the program.

“BFO has been working with the province for quite some time to address guidelines within the Ontario Feeder Cattle Loan Guarantee Program that didn’t align with the business practices of the program co-ops,” said Hill. “The changes will address many of the concerns we’ve outlined with respect to the operation of the program, and we appreciate the Minister’s efforts to reduce regulatory burden for our farmers.”

Continued from page 7. – Study

Another highlight of the AGM this year was the inaugural youth program. Twenty young beef producers were sponsored to attend the AGM – far surpassing the expectations for year one. The program was well-received and the young producer networking session for any AGM attendee under the age of 40 was virtually “standing room only”. After a very successful first year, work has already begun to further develop the young producer portion of the AGM for next year and beyond.

The 2019 Annual Report can be viewed on the BFO website or you can access a hard copy by contacting the office. OB

The inaugural AGM Young Producer Program was incredibly well-supported with 21 young producers attending the AGM as part of the initiative and a full house for the networking session open to any attendees under 40.

Finds Resistance to De-wormers in Ontario Beef Cattle

said. “This is a pilot project in only one herd at the research station, but considering the fact that these cows are dewormed only once in their life, it is surprising to see resistance to both of the products, especially one they hadn’t seen before our trial.”

Pending funding approvals, Gordon is hopeful another de-worming trial, this time involving stocker cattle, will start this coming summer to look for evidence of resistance on commercial farms.

“We went into this thinking we had a resistance problem in Ontario in cattle, but to find resistance to a dewormer we rarely Doug H: 705-487-5840 • C: 705-890-8458 Earl: 705-345-7684 • Cory: 705-826-1033 use was surprising,” Ryan: 705-718-9005 • Erin: briggserin@hotmail.com she said. “It does

“The interesting thing for us was that we saw evidence of resistance to Ivermectin, but we also saw evidence of resistance to fenbendazole, which is the first time this has been identified in cattle in Ontario,” Gordon

ECHO SPRING

CHAROLAIS

Bulls and Females FOR SALE at The Farm

12

Delegates participated in resolution discussions and debates. Resolutions were brought forward by county and district associations and covered a range of issues.

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

suggest that there is likely resistance in the commercial herd as well.”

Once resistance is present in a herd, it’s nearly impossible to get rid of but it can be managed. She advises producers to speak with their vet about testing their herds for parasites and follow up with targeted deworming of particularly vulnerable animals.

This includes first calvers, thinner animals, or yearlings coming off pasture.

The last extensive parasite work done in commercial beef cattle in Ontario prior to Gordon’s project was completed in the 1970s, which means there aren’t currently good measures on what the economic impact of resistance could be on a beef operation.

The project was funded by Beef Farmers of Ontario and the Ontario Farm Innovation Program. OB This article is provided by Livestock Research Innovation Corporation as part of LRIC’s ongoing efforts to report on Canadian livestock research developments and outcomes.

BULL-ETIN BOARD New Products, News Releases and Awards

Traceability at Fairs and Exhibitions CCIA recently sent a letter to all fairs and exhibitions in Canada informing them of proposed legislative changes around livestock traceability that will impact fairs and exhibitions hosting livestock. BFO has received several questions and concerns around the requirements of beef producers, fairs and exhibitions hosting livestock.

CCIA’s recommendations to fairs and exhibitions, which are to obtain a Premises ID number and create a CCIA account, and to consider investing in tag reader technology, are recommendations not requirements designed to help fairs and exhibitions prepare for regulatory implementation. To be clear, what will be required and when has not been finalized.

As a beef producer in Ontario, your only regulated requirement with respect to traceability is to ensure all cattle are tagged with an approved RFID tag prior to transport. However, in the absence of regulations, individual fair boards and agricultural societies may choose to adopt their own rules for livestock taking part in livestock shows. As such, BFO encourages producers to consult with their local fair board/agricultural society around livestock requirements for entry prior to participation in any event/show.

Once new regulations around traceability are released, BFO will communicate those changes to the membership.

Funding under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership can be obtained for project costs associated with the acquisition, installation and upgrading of equipment directly linked to the implementation or improvement of a traceability system. Please call the OSCIA office at 1-800-265-9751 or visit their website www.ontariosoilcrop.org for more information.

Canada Beef Welcomes New President Canada Beef is pleased to welcome Michael Young as the organization’s new President, effective April 23, 2019. Working with the Canada Beef Market Development and Promotion Committee, Young will lead all aspects of Canada Beef’s domestic and international market development and promotion efforts, including: strategic business planning, program development, performance measurement and reporting, and human resource management.

“We are very pleased to have Michael join the Canada Beef team,” says Committee Chair Mike Kennedy. “Michael joins us with broad experience in domestic and global business development, branding and strategic leadership. He has an established track record in the Canadian beef, veal and pork sectors, having most recently worked with Canada Pork International as Vice President, Technical Programs and Marketing Services responsible for domestic and international market development.”

“I am honoured and excited to lead the Canada Beef team. I believe feeding the world safe and nutritious food matters – to Canada and the rest of the world,” says Michael Young, Canada Beef President. “Our industry is facing strong competition both domestically and abroad, and I am looking forward to bringing my

skills and passion to the organization to not only help meet those challenges, but to create new opportunities as well.”

Young has extensive experience over a 35-year career, specializing in beef, veal and pork sales, marketing, product development and product education. His career has given him opportunities to work in over 25 countries, including key Canadian beef export markets such as the United States, Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Mexico, and smaller markets in Southeast Asia and South America.

Next Generation of Leadership at AgSights The AgSights Board of Directors is pleased to announce that, effective May 1, Betty-Jo Almond will assume the role of General Manager of the company. Betty-Jo has been with AgSights for eight years and is intimately familiar with all aspects of the business. The Board unanimously agreed that Betty-Jo is well-suited and skilled for the role as General Manager.

AgSights is also pleased to announce that Jasper Munro will take on the new role of Manager of Research and Innovation. He brings expertise and knowledge to this position as a natural evolution of his career in livestock genetic improvement and research. Betty-Jo and Jasper make a very strong management team and have the resounding support of the Board to lead the company into the future.

This change in leadership follows the decision by Mike McMorris, General Manager at AgSights for the past eleven years, to move on to new challenges. The Board wants to recognize and say thank you for the dedication and contributions Mike has made to the company.

He has built strong industry relationships and partnerships, evolved the information management systems far beyond the beef industry, established sound governance and created a strong corporate culture, in addition to attracting over $5 million in research and development funding. Mike will stay on with the company for several months to ensure a successful transition.

CBIC Future Focused for 2019 Canada’s beef cattle industry will be “Securing Our Future” at the fourth annual Canadian Beef Industry Conference (CBIC). This oneof-a-kind industry event will be held August 13-15th, at the BMO Centre on Stampede Park in Calgary, Alberta.

The CBIC is the first of its kind in Canada to bring together participants from across all regions and sectors of the national value chain. The conference is hosted as a joint collaboration by the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), Canada Beef, the Canadian Beef Breeds Council (CBBC) Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA), and the National Cattle Feeder’s Association (NCFA).

Registration is now open at www.canadianbeefindustryconference. com. Early bird registration is available for $450 (plus GST) until June 15th, after which registration will be $550 (plus GST). For the second year now, day registration will be available on Tuesday for $150 (plus GST) and Wednesday/Thursday for $300 (plus GST).

Continued on page 14.

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

13

Continued from page 13. – Bull-etin

Board

“This year we want to showcase the exciting opportunities in the beef industry. Sometimes we get caught up in the challenges but there are many reasons to be optimistic about our future,” says feedlot owner of Kasko Cattle Company and 2019 CBIC Chair Ryan Kasko. “This conference has attracted many young producers in the past and we want to engage and excite them and the rest of the industry.”

This conference will combine semi-annual and annual meetings of several stakeholder groups, along with learning and networking opportunities to create a one-of-a-kind experience for participants from across all the various regions and sectors of the Canadian beef industry.

The CBIC 2019 program is more dynamic than ever before and will feature an engaging speaker lineup keeping to the theme and focus on future through investment, perception, trade, innovation, communication and knowledge. CBIC is excited to announce Karl Subban as its keynote speaker who will inspire and share his approach to resilience, perseverance, and goal-setting—and how to bring the best out of everyone.

Other program highlights include: • Timothy Caufield the host and co-producer of the hit documentary TV show, A User’s Guide to Cheating Death • Bov-Innovation: Educational presentations for producers and interactive workshops on applicable production innovations; • Networking with stakeholders in all stages of the beef supply chain • Pre-conference farm tour hosted by Alberta Beef Producers; • Post-conference tour field to glass tour hosted by Alberta Barley • Canadian, U.S. and international market outlooks;

• BCRC open house; • Cattlemen’s Young Leaders selections and graduation.

Those interested are encouraged to watch www. canadianbeefindustryconference.com and to follow the CBIC on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for updates.

Deadline Approaching for 2019 TESA Nominations Since 1996, The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) has been awarded annually at the provincial and national levels to recognize cattle producers’ leadership in conservation. Nominees and applicants are selected based on their stewardship practices, accomplishments and goals.

All beef cattle operations in Canada are eligible to apply. Producers can either be nominated by an individual or organization or apply themselves. Both methods are equally encouraged. Nominees and applicants compete for one of five provincial awards based on their province of residence. Past nominees are encouraged to resubmit their application, while previous recipients may not reapply.

The Ontario recipient is announced and awarded a cash prize of $500 sponsored by RBC Royal Bank at the BFO Annual General Meeting in February. The recipient then moves forward to compete at the national level in August of each year.

The national TESA recipient is announced during the Canadian Beef Industry Conference and is awarded a belt buckle and a monetary award to put towards their operation’s future environmental goals.

Applications are due on July 1st, 2019. A simple, easy to complete application form can be found on the BFO website under the link Services/Awards. OB

• Canadian Beef Check-Off Agency, CCA, Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) and Young Cattlemen’s Council board meetings;

THE BULL STOPS HERE

PERFECT FOR YOUR COMMERCIAL OR PUREBRED HERD

Eastern Canadian Galloway Association For additional information, please visit our website: www.easterncanadiangalloway.ca 14

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

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Rural Ramble

• B y Dan Ferguson, Manager of Producer Relations dan@ontariobeef.com • www.ontariobeef.com

A Good Marketing Plan T

he busy spring season is upon us and none of us need reminders of how much work is ahead. Cow-calf producers have worked through March warm winds of promise, followed by April Fools wet weather. Our backgrounders babysit those replacements by grassing, processing, and preparing them for the feeders. And the feeders light up their feedlots to early morning bunk management, ration formulation, pen checks, clean outs, and trying to outguess the marketing options. Various programs focus on attributes for a marketing advantage and have their specific protocols to follow that demand. For our larger commodity producers, an overarching program is influencing the Ontario marketplace. The Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) has run a program through Cargill in Alberta and is now developing a campaign here in the Ontario Cargill retail partnership space.

To that end, we embarked on a mid-March run of the larger feedlots in a focused area of western Ontario. Groups of producers were lined up for Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) training and explanation of the Beef Information Exchange System (BIXS) data management requirements of the new

16

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

CRSB initiative. VBP+ was covered by me, while BIXS was explained by a cowboy from Western Canada, Lee Irvine. As part of our aggressive schedule, we had to find local establishments to eat at. I attempted to give Lee a “Flavour” of the Ontario countryside, so common roadside eateries were our noon and evening destinations. It became apparent that the millennials have all directed their mealtime focus on the fast food chains such as McDonalds, Wendy’s, and Tim’s, as Lee and I were often the youngest patrons in the more traditional diners. Loud conversations, walkers, canes, and very helpful staff made these spots very quaint and personable restaurants.

One notable stop was a main street diner in Dundalk recommended by the helpful feedlot owner we had just worked with. He had warned us to get there by 7 p.m., which we assumed was the closing time. It was great!

Clean and bright with a good menu, and Lee and I had the place all to ourselves. It was 6:45 p.m., so the very nice waitress moved us through the ordering process during her first stop at the table. Always a good sign when staff is so proficient and food is delivered promptly. We felt generous supporting such a nice under-used business. Just as we started our meal, a foursome of seniors entered and I commented to Lee that they would do well to get fed by 7 p.m. Our pattern of elderly eating companions was continuing.

As that group settled into a table, the door opened and another group of similar

aged patrons made their way in, exchanging greetings with the first group. Within 10 minutes, the place was packed with octogenarians of all description. Canes and walkers and folks’ arm-in-arm made their way past our table until we realized we were the only holdouts. The waitress sensed our panic and stopped by the table to warn us we had a couple more minutes. Tuesday is fish ‘n chips night and everybody here knows it starts at 7 p.m. Seniors only. There was even a social convener going table-to-table with a wicker basket and tickets. For a loonie, you could play the lottery and win your fish ‘n chip meal. She canvassed everyone in the place, but all Lee and I received was a judgmental glare. We scarfed down our eats and got the heck out of there. As we left, we met Fred and Mabel at the door who were heading straight for the last available table. Ours.

As we drove to our next feeder meeting, Lee commented on how great it was to see a successful marketing campaign first-hand – Ontario small-town ingenuity at its finest.

I was still thinking about how that dinner tip from the sly feedlot owner was giving him great satisfaction as he watched 7 p.m. roll around that evening, knowing we would be ambushed by the seniors’ fish ‘n chips battalion. Hopefully the marketing campaign CRSB develops can drive business and demand like the Dundalk diner did that Tuesday in mid-March! OB

Stinky Neighbours?

What Happens When People Make Complaints

PASTURE SEEN BETTER DAYS?

By Tim Brook, OMAFRA

W

ith farms, woods, wildlife and fresh air, rural residents cherish the charm and beauty of the countryside. Many people move from cities, seeking peace and a pristine environment in the country.

Most people understand that a rural community includes farmers and that farming is a business. Ontario’s agriculture and food sector employs 760,000 people and contributes more than $35 billion to the province’s economy every year. This means certain activities take place according to a production schedule; and some affect residents living close to farms. In almost all cases, farmers and their rural neighbours get along well together. There are some exceptions however.

For the year of 2015-2016, the ministry received 107 complaints related to farm practices. Of these, 45 (40 per cent) were about odour, while the others were mainly about noise (26 per cent), flies (19 per cent) and municipal by-laws (nine per cent).

Odour complaints are generally related to: • farmers spreading manure on fields • fans ventilating livestock barns • manure piles • mushroom farms

To manage conflict surrounding farm practices, the Ontario government enacted the Farming and Food Production Protection Act (FFPPA). This A Datamars brand act establishes the Normal Farm Extreme Practices Protection Wire Board (NFPPB) to Solar Powered Electric Fence. determine “normal farm practices”. When Give your pasture the break it needs. a person complains about odour or other 800.433.3112 www.speedrite.com S500 Geared nuisance from a Reel particular farming practice, the board has the authority to Each year, through the conflict resolution hear the case and decide whether the practice process, OMAFRA staff resolve the vast is a “normal farm practice”. If it is, the farmer majority of complaints. In 2015-16, only is protected from any legal action regarding twelve of the 107 cases resulted in hearings that practice. before the board. Of these, only two were When people make complaints about farm odour cases involving multiple nuisances such practices, a regional agricultural engineer as noise, dust and flies. Thus, while odours or environmental specialist from OMAFRA’s remain the biggest cause of complaints Environmental Management Branch works about farm practices, OMAFRA staff working with all parties involved to resolve the through the conflict resolution process conflict. The board requires any complaint has proved very effective in dealing with to go through this conflict resolution process them. OB before it comes to a hearing.

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

17

Put Fire Prevention First On Your Farm

By Bruce Kelly, Farm and Food Care Ontario

B

arn, equipment and building fires are

the sector to develop tools and approaches

tips from the fact sheet to consider in your

devastating. The results are often the

that help prevent or lessen the impacts and

barn fire prevention plan.

tragic loss of livestock and equipment, along

risks of hazards before an emergency occurs,”

with financial and emotional impacts that

said Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal Minister of

can be felt for years afterwards.

Agriculture and Agri-Food.

In the wake of a series of barn fires over

“As a former volunteer firefighter, I

past five years, Ontario’s agricultural industry

recognize how important it is for farmers to

came together to evaluate and recommend

have up-to-date information to keep their

fire prevention practices. As a result, Ontario

farms operating safely,” said Ernie Hardeman,

Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural

Ontario’s

Affairs’ (OMAFRA) engineers, commodity

and Rural Affairs. “Through the Canadian

organizations, county fire professionals and

Agricultural Partnership, we are very pleased

insurance representatives developed a new

to provide information to our farmers to help

farm management fact sheet, 10 Ways to

them avoid a tragic fire on their farms and

Reduce the Risk of Barn Fires.

help protect their livestock.”

“Emergency events, like barn fires, can

Minister

Incorporating

of

Agriculture,

the

Food

resource

have significant impacts on farmers and the

recommendations into your farm’s daily

agriculture sector. The Government of Canada

operations and maintenance plans can reduce

is pleased to collaborate with partners in

your risk of fire on your farm. Here are some

18

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

Better Housekeeping Livestock barns are dusty places, with combustible materials like bedding, dried manure and animal dander that accumulate quickly. Regular cleaning can help reduce material buildup and the risk of fire. Keep debris and combustible materials away from electrical and heating equipment and other possible ignition sources. Sweeping, washing equipment and using tools like a leaf blower can help with housekeeping.

Be sure to store obvious flammable materials, like fuel, dry bedding and hay in separate areas, away from livestock and always keep passageways clear. Incorporate cleaning and general housekeeping into

everyday tasks to avoid material build up.

New

emissions

systems

on

tractors

are another important reason barns and buildings should be kept clean and free from combustible materials. When cycling, the high heat regeneration systems cause the

of fire by storing easily combustible hay and bedding away from the use and storage of electrical tools and farm equipment.

Maintain Electrical Systems

exhaust to heat up, increasing the risk of a fire if the tractor is parked near materials that could easily ignite.

regularly

inspected

and

corrosion in penning, equipment, panel boxes,

maintained

by a licensed electrician to ensure proper function and maintain performance. Electrical

Hot Works Safety and Storage

Corrosion plagues livestock barns. Moisture and manure gases are common causes of

Wire connections in the panel box should be

Upgrade Plugs and Receptacles

connection lugs can work loose through thermal cycles and are prone to corrosion and

Equipment breakdowns happen on the

arcing. When making electrical repairs on the

farm. Make sure repairs are done safely and

farm, ensure proper connections are used and

with fire prevention in mind. Look around your

all cover plates and panel covers are replaced

work area for fire hazards and combustible

before circuits are re-energized.

materials that could ignite before conducting

Electrical systems, including panels and

hot works like welding or grinding. Sparks fly

connectors, should be inspected at least every

and loose feed, straw or fuels are a serious

few years by a licensed electrician, or more

fire threat. Use welding mats to catch sparks

frequently if the opportunity arises. Farmers

and always keep an ABC fire extinguisher

can also assess and monitor electrical systems

accessible to the work location.

with thermal FLIR (heat sensing) equipment,

electrical outlets and plugs. Some barns are more prone to corrosion that others, especially areas of a barn where hydrogen sulfide, generated by manure gases, combines with oxygen and corrodes exposed copper connectors. The use of regular plug ends, especially in highly corrosive areas of a barn, is a leading cause of electrical barn fires.

The best defence against the corrosion of electrical equipment are NEMA 4X waterproof and corrosion resistant plugs and receptacles.

NEMA 4X are water tight and are now the standard for food processors and packing plants. These are manufactured with a waterproof seal and are made of corrosion resistant metal blends. Replace old plugs and receptacles with NEMA 4X in equipment like wall fans, flex auger motors and ceiling outlets exposed to high concentrations of manure gases.

Fire Prevention Resources For more farm fire prevention information, visit

www.farmfoodcareon.org/livestock-

emergencies or omafra.gov.on.ca to read the full resource, 10 Ways to Reduce the Risk of Barn Fire.

This article was produced as part of the Farm & Food Care Ontario: Livestock Emergency Preparedness Project and the Reducing the Risk of Barn Fires Advisory Panel (2016). A group of concerned Ontario Farm Commodity Groups, Fire Prevention Officers, Electrical Safety Professionals and Government of Ontario staff. OB storage

available to use free of charge from Farm &

This project was funded in part through

proximity to machinery and tools too. No one

Food Care Ontario. Email info@farmfoodcare.

the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the

plans to store bales close to a work bench

org

Additional

Partnership), a federal-provincial-territorial

or hand tools, but sometimes weather or

information and fire prevention tools may

initiative. The Agricultural Adaptation Council

delivery schedules mean temporary storage

also be available from your insurance provider

assists in the delivery of the Partnership in

accommodations are made. Reduce your risk

and their loss prevention specialist.

Ontario.

Consider

hay

and

bedding

for

more

information.

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

19

Andy Millar, BFO Check-off Inspector, to Retire at the End of May A

t the end of this month, Andy Millar will hang up his inspector hat to make time for new projects on his farm and spend more time with his family as he enters retirement.

Andy joined BFO as check-off inspector in February, 2006. Over the last 13 years, Andy has travelled the province to meet with industry partners and members to ensure compliance under Ontario’s Beef Cattle Marketing Act. Andy’s quiet, thoughtful and thorough approach allowed him to gain respect across our industry in Ontario, and he has greatly improved BFO’s industry

relationships.

Prior to Andy’s role with BFO, he spent over 34 years with the Ontario Provincial Police in which he served across Ontario with increasing responsibility and retired at the rank of Staff Sergeant.

Andy remains very active in Ontario’s beef industry, being involved in Victoria County Beef Farmers, and his local community pasture, as well as running his own farm.

BFO Board and staff wish Andy a lengthy and healthy retirement.

Chris Millar has joined BFO to fill the

role of checkoff inspector and has been working with Andy for several weeks to meet with auction market and processor o w n e r s and BFO members prior to Andy’s official retirement on May 31, 2019. OB

Canadian Agricultural Loans Act Program Offers Financing Option for Perimeter Fences F

encing is an issue in Ontario with much grassland across the province capable of supporting cattle, but unfenced and unable to be used for grazing. The prohibitive outlay cost for fencing has created a roadblock for many producers to bring this land into production.

In lieu of viable ways to finance fencing, grassland in the province will continue to lie un-grazed. At BFO, we have long considered perimeter fencing to be a critical component of expanding the Ontario cow-herd, and have supported the idea of lending programs that provide assistance for this purpose.

For those interested in perimeter fencing some of this unused grassland for grazing, it may be welcome news to learn that the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (CALA) provides a financing option for perimeter fencing that may offer improvements above what could normally be accessed through financial institutions.

20

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

The program, administered through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, is designed to help producers and agricultural co-operatives with financing improvements to farm operations as well as processing, distribution, and marketing of farm products.

This is accomplished through a government guarantee to financial lenders who provide loans registered under the program, enabling less restrictive equity requirements and lower fees and interest than may otherwise be available.

Loans registered under CALA have favourable interest rates; a maximum of the lender’s prime plus one per cent for variable term loans, and the lender’s comparable residential mortgage rate plus one per cent for fixed term loans.

Similarly, fees payable are comparably low; the registration fee is 0.85 per cent of the loan amount, and the administration fee is a maximum of 0.25 per cent of the loan amount

for loans under $250,000 and 0.1 per cent for loans over $250,000. Up to $500,000 is available through the program for expenses that involve the purchase of land or buildings, and a $350,000 limit otherwise.

Beginning farmers receive the most favourable terms, with a lower down payment requirement and the ability to finance up to 90 per cent of the asset being purchased, versus 80 per cent for existing farmers.

In addition to perimeter fencing, other costs eligible under the program include the purchase of breeding cattle, irrigation and reclamation of land, construction of farm structures, and purchase of farmland.

CALA loans are provided through chartered banks and credit unions. We encourage producers with an interest in financing perimeter fencing to contact their preferred financial institution to determine the financing option best suited to their needs. OB

Behind The Barn Doors

What Guelph’s New Beef Research Facilities Will Offer

By Lilian Schaer for Livestock Research Innovation Corporation

C

onstruction on the new beef facilities at the University of Guelph’s research farm near Elora is in full swing. They are part of the institution’s vision to become a leader in beef cattle research in Eastern Canada – and globally – that has also included numerous new staff-hires in recent years.

“We are going to have state-of-theart facilities so we can lead research in sustainability, production, health welfare, and beef quality,” says Prof. Katie Wood from the Department of Animal Biosciences.

“All the outside framework for the buildings is done and the barns are starting to come together and take shape – we are really excited for the things to come.”

The new cow-calf facility will be able to house up to 288 cows and 96 replacement heifers.

June 2018

22

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

The 165,000 square foot building is an H-design with two cow housing areas and a cross-over connecting them to an animal handling area. The bedded-pack barns will have a scrape alley at the front to move manure right through into the new manure handling and storage facilities.

The barns will be equipped with some pretty powerful, state-of-the art equipment to capture data on individual animals.

The automated feeding system reads each animal’s RFID tag and decides whether the cow has permission to eat. It can also track things like how much feed she is consuming, how many meals she consumes per day, or how long each meal takes.

“Historically, we have been feeding pens of animals that are group fed, but we’ll now be able to collect individual feed intake data

July 2018

from each animal in the entire herd; we’re happy to have such a powerful tool in our research,” says Wood. “This will allow us to be more precise and will reduce research costs because we don’t need as many animals to get accurate data.”

There will also be a metabolic area in the barn for very detailed research on feed metabolism. When not being used for metabolic research, those pens will double as calving pens. The barn is being built so these pens can be adaptable to service any future research needs.

The new feedlot barn will have capacity for 288 growing and finishing steers, an increase of about 96 head over the current feedlot facilities. It, too, will allow for collection of feed intake data on individual animals.

September

“A big difference will be that the animals are now under roof, which will result in more controlled environment compared to the original barn where animals were more exposed to elements,” says research station manager Bev Livingston. “When you have the elements added in, that’s one more factor that can affect the research results, from moisture changes in the feed and wet days that affect the bedding area and general cow comfort.

It will be a more standardized environment now, which will result in a greater level of consistency for data collection.”

Livingston explained that, although there were no issues with animal comfort in the old buildings, the new ones were designed with future animal care recommendations in mind with respect to stocking density and space per animal.

“Redundancy is one of the things we do try to build into the facilities so there is always a backup system to ensure research data is not lost and animal care needs are always met, ” says Livingston. “Research depends on everything working well every

2018

day, so there is a full generator backup for power outages, for example, as well as interconnection between our two wells to ensure there is never a shortage of water for livestock.”

The project also includes expansion, renovation and development of pasture for beef cattle grazing research. The land base will increase from the current 160 acres to approximately 400 acres, and will include two pasture handling facilities to enable comprehensive sample collection on pasture.

Improvements will also be made to the pasture itself, such as planting of new grass/ legume mixtures for use in rotational grazing system research.

“We’re very fortunate to be able to renovate the pasture too; it will be a huge benefit for us,” says Wood. “It will let us integrate the ecology side of beef research so we can do more focused work on soil health and carbon sequestration, and integrate that with animal health, and performance aspects from pasture systems.”

October 2018

The research station’s office and laboratory facilities are also undergoing an overhaul, such as new lab space that will let researchers do more processing of samples on-site. According to Wood, not only does this save costs, but the sooner genetic samples can be processed and frozen, the better quality they are.

A new graduate student area and better staff facilities, including updated staff and washroom facilities that aren’t present in the existing barn, along with meeting space are also being added.

“The existing beef facilities have served research well for last four and a half decades and the new facilities will be able to build on that history and provide a new research platform for that same period of time going forward,” says Livingston. “This was designed with an eye towards ongoing research in the beef industry and being able to handle all the different kinds of research that may come along in the future.” OB

April 2019

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

23

Where the Maple Leaf Flies: National Update

CCA Action News

By Gina Teel, CCA Communications Manager • teelg@cattle.ca • www.cattle.ca

CCA Closely Monitoring Uptake of Canadian Beef in Japan Under CPTPP Imports of Canadian beef to Japan have gained in volume and value since the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) was implemented on December 30, 2018. On April 1, 2019 the second round of tariff cuts came into effect lowering the tariff further still.

In April, tariffs were reduced to 26.6 per cent on both Canadian fresh and frozen beef and further cuts will continue over the next several years. The initial tariff cut on December 30 lowered the Japanese beef tariff of 38.5 per cent to 27.5 per cent on Canadian fresh beef and to 26.9 per cent on frozen beef. Tariffs were also reduced for a range of offal products.

The CCA is closely monitoring the uptake of Canadian beef in Japan since December 30.

With several factors at play, it will be at least a year before a clear trend can be established.

Factors to watch include the ups and downs of seasonality and the buying behavior of Japanese importers under CPTPP, who are no longer held back by concerns over triggering a safeguard which would have caused the tariff to increase to 50 per cent. Also, as of late February 2019, Japanese officials were in the advanced steps of recommending eliminating the requirement that imported beef be from cattle under 30 months of age. The CCA anticipates that this development could be approved by mid-2019 thus expanding the ability to export beef to Japan.

24

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

The initial Japanese import statistics for

beef on a bun and dessert before returning to

January 2019 indicated positive volume gains

the House. The CCA thanks Senator Rob Black

in imports of Canadian beef and offal. The

and Member of Parliament Earl Dreeshen for

volume for January 2019 was 3,545 MT, more

helping to kick off the evening program with

than triple the volume of December 2018 at

their remarks.

1,282 MT, and nearly that again compared

In related activities, CCA leadership

with January 2018. The January 2019 volume

and Ottawa staff met with United States

is also higher (57.6%) than the average per

Ambassador to Canada Kelly Craft at the

month shipment in 2018.

U.S. Embassy to discuss common U.S.-Canada

In February, Japanese import statistics

interests in the North American cattle and

show 2,455 MT of Canadian beef and offal

beef sectors. The Young Cattlemen’s Council

went to Japan. With most of Canada’s beef

held a fly-in day and met briefly with Foreign

exports to Japan in the frozen category,

Affairs Minister Chyrstia Freeland among

importers can choose when the product will

other key influencers in the House and

arrive. The difference in data between January

posed for a photo with Prime Minister Justin

and February suggests importers held back

Trudeau.

product until the CPTPP came into force in

At the board meeting on Friday, CCA

January to get the lower tariffs, thus lowering

President David Haywood-Farmer and Vice

the figures for December 2018 and raising

President Bob Lowe were re-elected and will

them in January 2019.

each serve another one-year term: under CCA

The CCA will continue to monitor the volumes over the next several months for

Vintners Association, and the Canadian Meat

CCA 2019 AGM Recap

Council for sponsoring the beverages and

The CCA held an action-packed 2019 annual general meeting in Ottawa. Trade, risk

management,

national

price insurance, labour shortages, animal transportation regulations and the food guide dominated discussions at the committee and board meetings.

The

Beef

Industry

Innovation

and

Sustainability Award (BIISA) was presented to the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef founding council and members during CCA’s annual parliamentary reception in Ottawa.

Attendance at the reception was hindered somewhat by the House of Commons allnight voting marathon session; however, during

breaks

between

voting

up to two one-year terms.

A special thanks to Beer Canada, Canadian

indications of longer-term trends.

business

guidelines elected representatives can serve

several

Senators and Members of Parliament made the short trek to the event at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building to visit and of course to fortify themselves on certified sustainable

beef served at the parliamentary reception.

Budget 2019 Contains Several Points of Interest For Canada’s Beef Industry The recently released federal Budget 2019 contains several points of interest for the Canadian beef industry. Of note is the proposed investment of $199 million over five years for continuation of funding in safeguarding against Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in the Canadian cattle herd. This funding will assist the Canadian Food

Inspection

Agency

(CFIA),

Health

Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to maintain world class inspection programs that help maintain access to international markets for Canadian

cattle and beef products. Funds are earmarked in Budget 2019 to increase the number of detector dogs at Canadian airports to help prevent illegally imported meat products from entering Canada. The commitment of new funding of up to $31 million, announced earlier in March

by Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau, is to increase the number of detector dogs at Canadian airports to help in the effort to clamp down on African Swine Fever.

Funding for the CFIA’s Daily Shift Inspection Presence Program was also renewed. This program provides additional food safety inspection resources at all Canadian meat processing facilities that export meat to the U.S. Other areas of interest to Canadian

The CCA applauds the government

• Tax reforms: The government will continue

for announcing a three-year immigration

farmers and ranchers include:

to develop new proposals to better

pilot to bring in full-time, non-seasonal

• Regulatory reform: Budget 2019 proposes up

accommodate intergenerational transfers of

agricultural workers that will include a

to $67.8 million over five years for Justice

businesses while protecting the integrity

pathway

The

Canada to fund the resources needed to

and fairness of the tax system.

pilot, part of the Food Policy for Canada

implement regulatory reform. Digitization

announcement in Budget 2019, is intended

of export certificates is one example of the

to help the agri-food sector meet its export

type of regulatory reform that is sought.

targets and attract and retain needed labour.

The CCA has long supported regulatory

This is a welcomed development as it aligns

reform across federal departments.

to

permanent

residency.

• Rural community support: The infrastructure support for rural services will be further investigated

to

fully

understand

the

implications however clear funding and direction was given regarding broad band

with industry’s position on augmenting the

• Regulatory harmonization: Inter-provincial

internet, 95 per cent of Canadian homes

Canadian agriculture workforce with foreign

and international regulatory harmonization

and businesses will have access to internet

workers that have a pathway to permanent

is identified as a key area for advancement.

speeds of at least 50/10 Mbps by 2026 and

residency. The CCA will continue to work with

Starting in 2020 the budget proposed $3.1

100 per cent by 2030.

the federal government to ensure a long-term

million for the Treasury Board Secretariat

The CCA has been an active participant in

national strategy is put in place to ensure

to support regulatory cooperation that

the budgeting processes and will continue to

labour supply.

will facilitate both interprovincial and

work with the federal government to further

international trade.

understand and bring forward the voice of Canadian cattle producers. OB

STRUCTURALLY SOUND, CALVING-EASE GENETICS Red Angus Yearling and Two-Year-Old Bulls Available by Private Treaty

Red Vancise Umpire 201B Our Herd Sire

VANCISE CATTLE COMPANY INC.

John Vancise Jr. • 705 351 2442 • johnvancise4@hotmail.com • Stayner, ON

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

25

OMAFRA Update

• By Christine O’Reilly, Forage and Grazing Specialist (OMAFRA) www.omafra.on.ca

Managing Ash Content in Hay I

n 2018, forage a n a l y s i s laboratories in Ontario reported a trend of increasing ash content with each subsequent harvest. While the average ash content from first cut samples from each lab were less than 10 per cent, one lab reported average ash contents of 10.14 per cent, 10.91 per cent and 12.17 per cent for second, third, and fourth cuts, respectively.

These averages represent 849 samples of Ontario hay and haylage.

Ash is a value on the forage analysis often overlooked, but can indicate an issue in the forage harvesting process and can affect how cattle perform on that feed. Understanding what causes elevated ash content enables producers to address production issues and protect the good-quality feed they work hard to grow for their cattle.

What is ash?

In a forage analysis, “ash” represents the minerals in the sample. This term comes from the laboratory method used to measure total mineral content. Complete combustion

26

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

burns away all the other components of the forage sample, leaving only the mineral ashes behind. NIR can estimate ash but is not as accurate as complete combustion.

There are two sources of ash in a forage sample. Minerals present inside the plant, known as internal ash, are an important part of an animals’ diet. Alfalfa contains about eight per cent internal ash, while grasses have about six per cent internal ash content. The other source is external ash, which comes from soil or other dirt contamination of the forage. Ash numbers above 10 per cent in a forage analysis indicate excessive soil contamination in the feed.

Why is soil contamination so bad?

Soil contamination affects preservation, palatability, nutritional density, and antiquality components of forage. Cattle do not want to eat dirt and intakes will decline if they are fed forage with high ash content.

The nutritional density of forage decreases when there is soil contamination: for every one per cent increase in ash content there is a one per cent decrease in total digestible nutrients (TDN). This decrease in TDN has the same effect on nutritional value as delaying

first cut by 4.5 days or delaying second cut by two days (Blank et al, 2001).

Soil contamination can also bring antiquality components with it. Anti-quality components are non-nutritional factors that limit animal production. Soil contamination of forages can act as buffer preventing the pH of a forage falling to a desirable level during preservation. Contamination can also introduce undesirable bacteria such as Clostridia and Listeria. Clostridia are usually associated with hay-crop silage that has a pH of 5.0-5.5. These bacteria produce butyrictype silages, which can smell fishy or putrid and may be slimy and dark green or black in colour. Butyric silages are not fermented efficiently, which results in a low energy, high soluble protein feed with poor palatability characteristics. Intakes of butyric silage are low. Clostridia bacteria in silage can sometimes cause botulism in cattle. Listeria is another example of pathogenic bacteria that can be introduced into silage by soil contamination, and cause listeriosis. Other soil-borne bacteria and fungi species can produce mycotoxins that negatively impact cattle production. External ash can turn what would otherwise be good quality forage into poor quality forage.

How does soil get into forage?

There are many ways soil can be incorporated into forage. Low cutting heights on uneven ground pose a risk of scalping the field and throwing soil into the forage.

Even without scalping, the spinning action of the blades in a disc mower creates a slight vacuum that, below 7.5 cm (3 in.) cutting height, can draw soil particles up with the cut forage.

Any time the crop is moved horizontally across the field, there is a risk for soil contamination. Because they are ground driven, wheel rakes are the worst offenders for increasing the ash content of forage.

Wheel rakes should be adjusted to the point where they have the least amount of contact with the ground that will still turn the wheels. As a guideline, any time a raking or tedding operation raises a dust cloud, regardless of the type of equipment used, it is adding one to two per cent ash to the forage (Undersander, 2016).

Filling bunker silos adds another opportunity for soil to get into the forage.

If the tires on the packing tractor are not clean, this dirt gets mixed into the haylage.

Even with the best management, dirt can find its way into forage: rain can splash soil onto plants or storms may cause lodging. Trying to pick up forage blown flat to the ground results in picking up a lot of dirt with it.

What can I do to reduce soil contamination in my forage?

There are many things producers can do to reduce the external ash content of their forages. Select forage varieties resistant to lodging, and avoid harvesting lodged crops.

This will significantly reduce the amount of soil coming in with the forage. Raise the cutting height to 7.5 cm (3 in.) or higher, which will minimize scalping and provide more stubble to hold windrows up off the ground. Use flat knives on disc mowers rather than angled ones, as these create less of the suction that draws up fine particles of dirt.

Adjust rakes and tedders properly for field and crop conditions, and try to minimize the

amount the crop is moved horizontally across the field. When making haylage in a bunker silo, ensure the tires of the packing tractor and the yard area around the silo are clean and dry to keep dirt out of the silage.

While producers cannot avoid external ash entirely, reducing soil contamination has a positive effect on forage quality. Normal levels of external ash are usually one to two per cent. Laboratory tests cannot distinguish between internal and external ash, but by subtracting eight per cent from the ash value of an alfalfa hay’s test, or six per cent from the ash value of a grass hay, it is easy to see if external ash exceeds two per cent. If it does, some small changes during harvest can help lower ash content in the next cut. OB References Blank, S.C., Orloff, S.B., and Putnam, D.H. 2001.

Sequential stochastic production decisions for a perennial crop: The yield/quality trade-off for alfalfa hay. Journal of Agricultural and Resource Economics.

26(1):195-211.

Undersander, D. 2016. Ash in forage. University of Wisconsin Extension. Available from: https://fyi. extension.wisc.edu/forage/files/2016/04/ash_in_ forage.pdf

ONTARIO ANGUS ASSOCIATION

Julie Townsend, Secretary-Treasurer P.O. Box 311, Fergus, Ontario N1M 3M7 Phone: 519-787-2397 • Fax: 519-787-2306 Email: secretary@ontarioangus.com • www.ontarioangus.com

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

27

It Pays to be Sustainable C anada’s beef cattle producers take great

cattle industry, for the cattle industry. It

pride in their animals, their operations,

involves training, record keeping, and then

the environment, and the product they raise.

an option of a third-party on-farm audit

Now, more than ever, consumers want to

to become VBP+ certified.

know about all aspects of where their food

Training can be offered to

comes from. It is great to have consumers

groups of producers at in-

engaged in the choices they make about

person workshops, or we are

the food they put on the table for their

now hosting free online live

families; however, the answers they find

webinar training. Please watch

to their questions are not always factual.

for the upcoming webinar

The Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+)

dates to be communicated

program helps beef producers tell their

through BFO’s Bull-etin Board

story with transparency and credibility. As

and social media channels.

a food-safety based program that is HACCP

After completing the training

approved, recognized by CFIA and, most

and going through the VBP+

recently, named a certification body for

Producer Manual, producers

the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable

can choose to schedule an

Beef (CRSB), the VBP+ program validates

on-farm

responsible production practices.

fully certified. We ask that

The VBP+ program was developed by the

feedlots

audit have

to a

become among consumers by creating consumer-

minimum three (3) months of records,

and

cow-

calf operations have a minimum six (6) months of records before audit.

doing Audit

an costs

are currently $400 for

cow-calf

$600

for

and

feedlot

operations, and are required once every five

(5)

years

to

remain active in the program.

THE GLEN ISLAY KIND For 50 years we have been supplying bulls all across Ontario, nine other provinces and seven other countries.

Our bulls provide a balance of calving ease, performance, fleshing ability, and eye appeal.

Beef

Canadian Sustainability

Acceleration (CBSA) Pilot is paying beef

No One Ever Regretted Buying Quality.

producers in Western

Visitors Always Welcome

Canada for producing

DON & JEANNETTE CURRIE R R # 1, Nottawa, Ontario L0M 1P0 Phone/Fax: 705-445-1526 Cell: 705-715-2234 • Email: doncurrie@glenislay.com 28

The

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

sustainable beef. The goal of the CBSA is to strengthen trust

facing claims about certified sustainable beef production in Canada (www.cbsapilot. ca). Currently, producers are being paid a per-head premium on cattle that qualify for the program, and are shipped into Cargill’s plant in High River, Alberta. To qualify, cattle must be raised on VBP+ certified farms their whole life (cow-calf, backgrounder, feedlot), enrolled in BIXS (www.bixsco.com), and shipped into Cargill. We are hopeful the Cargill facility in Guelph will be audited in the near future, offering beef producers in Eastern Canada the opportunity to get paid for producing sustainable beef.

For more information on how to get involved in the VBP+ program, please contact: Dan Ferguson dan@ontariobeef.com 905.375.8551 or Jaclyn Horenberg jaclyn@ontariobeef.com 519.608.2429

OB

By Mike McMorris, AgSights General Manager mmcmorris@agsights.com • www.agsights.com

VO LU M E 1 2 • I SSUE 2

Creating the Future

Insights

O

30

ne of my favourite sayings is that “The best way to know the future is to create it.” I spoke recently at the Maritime Beef Conference about the changes that have happened in the past year. Clearly, change in the food industry and beef sector is accelerating around us at many levels, including globally. With things changing so fast around us every day, it takes more and more effort to be involved in creating the future.

Changes at a global level are staggering.

An intergovernmental panel on climate change released a landmark report. It sets a clear timeline with huge negative consequences of inaction. Anything that involves greenhouse gas emissions is under scrutiny; this includes beef production. It also includes the auto sector, which has now reached the tipping point and is fully committed to producing electric cars. General Motors is closing profitable plants to free up capital to move forward with electric vehicles. Volkswagen is set to invest $29 billion in this area. Ford, Dodge, GM and Toyota are all introducing hybrid pickup trucks in 2019 and 2020.

Changes at the food level are broad and deep. The recent EAT Lancet report introduced a “global planetary diet,” one designed to help save the world. In this diet, beef and lamb combined would account for one per cent of our intake. Closer to home, Canada’s new Food Guide was released. The one recommendation generating a lot of attention is that we should eat more plant-based products. This recommendation is based on lowering saturated fat intake and reducing processed foods, which have been linked with colorectal cancer. A follow-up report from Dalhousie University found that, while the new Food Guide has the attention of Canadians, there is little evidence it will actually alter our eating habits. Also concerning is the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity report on consumer perspectives. When asked if Canadian meat is derived from humanely treated animals, 61 per cent of respondents indicated they are not sure! That should be disturbing to every livestock producer in Canada.

Change at the level of the beef sector has perhaps been greater than in any past year. Plant-based beef replacements became mainstream in the past year with President’s Choice offering the “World’s Best Meatless

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

Burger” and Tyson (whose business has been meat) providing a vegan product that looks just like hamburger. The future threat of cellular agriculture grows as the cost to produce “lab meat” continues to plummet. Several legal battles are now underway simply over what to call this product: Meat? Clean? Lab? For the first time, there is a large scale market signal for defined and documented production protocols under the banner of “sustainable” beef. Western beef producers could access up to $20 per head simply for keeping records.

Through the Cargill pilot program, producer interest was noted but a much higher level of participation will be required. To date, beef meeting the definition of “sustainable” is only enough for McDonald’s to use the logo (the mass balance version, which indicates that at least 30 per cent of the product meets the spec) on their Angus burgers. Maritime producers can now also access a premium for VBP+ produced cattle. Ontario producers may soon have this opportunity as well.

Rest assured this is not a flash in the pan.

McDonald’s has made a public commitment that, in the future, ALL of their burgers will come from sustainably produced cattle. I hope producers respond and meet the demand to ensure McDonald’s beef stays Canadian beef! The reality of meeting your customer’s demands continues through changes in antimicrobial use on your farms. Beyond any regulations you may have to adjust to, market signals are clearly emerging. McDonald’s “Scale for Good” initiative will reduce the use of antibiotics in their beef supply chain. This is matched by Costco driving new standards and monitoring requirements for the use of antimicrobial drugs on farms.

Each of the changes mentioned above may impact your farm business. You will have choices to make, sometimes between two new roads and not the status quo. Another saying is, “When you come to a fork in the road, take it,” which means simply hoping all of these changes won’t affect you is not a good plan. With so much change, it is easy to simply believe you have no choice in making your future. In fact, now more than ever, if you don’t actively create your business future, you likely won’t have one at all.

CELEBRATING THE

50TH ANNIVERSARY OF LIMOUSIN CATTLE IN CANADA SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

HOTEL INFORMATION

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1 National Junior Beef Heifer Show • Showmanship 50th Anniversary Banquet, Chelsea Hotel, Toronto ON Churchill Ballroom - Cocktails at 6:00pm, Dinner at 7:00pm SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2 National Junior Beef Heifer Show Conformation Royal Elite Sale SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3 National Limousin Show MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4 Junior Limousin Show

CHELSEA HOTEL - 33 Gerrard Street West, Toronto ON Hotel Rooms have been reserved. When booking mention the Canadian Limousin Association to get your special rate.

CHELSEA PHONE # RESERVATIONS 1-800-CHELSEA (243-5732) Main (416) 595-1975 • Fax (416) 585-4375 Email: estor.info@chelseatoronto.com POST ROYAL TOUR - Points of Interest - TBD LIMO LOUNGE This will be a place for breeders to network and socialize at the Royal in cattle barns.

Please contact the Breeders listed for your Limousin Bulls and Females.

3 RIDGE FARMS Jon Bell 217294 Conc. 3 Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N5 519-378-4006 roundbale14@hotmail.com ALBERTVIEW LIMOUSIN FARMS Jim and Karen Roffey and Family Walter Stothers 5735 Doane Rd., Mount Albert, Ont. L0G 1M0 Contact Jim Roffey: 905-473-2713 BEE ZEE ACRES Mary Anne & Bill Zwambag RR #4, Glencoe, ON N0L 1M0 519-287-3219 CLARK CATTLE CO. David Clark 2280 McCullough Rd. Port Hope, ON L1A 3V7 905-786-2304 clarkcattle1@hotmail.ca

DARLING FARMS 4172 County Rd 25 Castleton, ON K0K 1M0 905-375-4019 dmdarling13@gmail.com GIBSON FARMS Dave and Emily Gibson 2148 Concession 4, RR1, Ripley Ontario N0G2R0 Dave-519-357-6174 Emily 519-440-9907 HAYSTACK ACRES John & Michelle McLean 3114 Walker Road, RR#2 Harrow, ON N0R 1G0 519-738-0453 haystacklimousin@yahoo.ca HILLSIDE FARMS Ray and Stacie Stanton 4250 King Road, King City, ON, L7B 1K4 416-505-0707 rays@londonproperty.ca

KOYLE FARMS LIMOUSIN Dwight & Catherine Koyle 33429 6th Line, RR#3 Iona Station, ON N0L 1P0 519-764-2697 • cdkoyle@gtn.net AFTER HOURS LIMOUSINS Rob & Erin Weppler 117078 Grey Rd. 3 , Tara, ON 519-375-6108 Rob@gbtel.ca LAKESIDE FARM Wayne and Nancy Lawrence 263657 Southgate Rd. 26 RR#4 Durham, ON N0G 1R0 519-369-2806 POSTHAVEN LIMOUSIN John and Ena Post #7396 Sideroad #20, RR #2, Alma, Ontario N0B 1A0 519-846-9320 ejpost@posthavenlimousin.com

Ontario Limousin Association

Mike Geddes, President • Phone: 519-502-8864

RAIL LINE FARMS Paul and Brad MacIntyre 221 Bruce County Rd. 1 RR #3, Lucknow, ON N0G 2H0 519-528-2423 pcmacintyre@hurontel.on.ca NEW LIFE LIMOUSIN 261269 Conc. 18 Hanover, ON N4N 3B8 519-270-5415 New.life.limousin@gmail.com SMART LIMOUSIN Garry and Sheila Smart 137606 Grey Road 12 RR#2, Meaford, ON N4L 1W6 519-538-4877 www.smartlimousin.com TOP MEADOW FARMS RR # 1, Clarksburg, ON N0H 1J0 519-599-6776 WINDY GABLES LIMOUSIN Bryce & Nathan Allen RR #4, Warkworth, ON K0K 3K0 705-924-2583

Check out our Website for LimoNews: www.ontariolimousin.com ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

31

Beef Brief

• By Michele McAdoo, Executive Director, Brand & Communications, Canada Beef

Canada Beef Update

A Comprehensive Response to the Revised Canadian Food Guide

Since the release of the new Canada Food Guide in January 2019, the Canadian beef industry has had a united front for response, with the combined efforts of Canada Beef (the marketing agency of the Canadian beef industry), ThinkBeef (a beef promotion initiative funded by the import levy), and the Public Stakeholder Engagement team (a joint initiative between Canada Beef and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association that responds to industry issues).

ThinkBeef.ca developed and distributed a series of three ads on national TV broadcast (English language only) that ran for 10 weeks, starting the week of the food guide launch.

The ads’ simple infographics were designed to raise the understanding and awareness of beef’s nutritional benefits, as well as the differences between animal and plant proteins. These ads ran on the CBC and CTV news and cable channels, as well as the Corus network during programming such as Property Guys and Love It or List It. Efforts were made to maximize prime time placements.

over 50 interviews on national and local media related to the new food guide using messaging that was positive and consistently aligned. Every interview was approached with the goal of providing positive messaging about the goodness of beef and how it belongs as part of healthy eating and a healthy planet. #BeefBelongs was the overall theme and hashtag phrase used to follow the conversations on the topic. Additionally, food influencers, such as registered dietitian Carol Harrison, joined regional broadcasts in Ontario to discuss healthy eating and balanced diets that incorporate the “beef belongs” message.

32

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

• A Beef Belongs Tool Kit is available at no cost from Canada Beef as a resource for anyone who wants to engage in developing messaging/creative around the topic of the food guide or to prepare for media interviews on the topic. You can order your copy by contacting the Canada Beef Mississauga Office. Also available on-line at ThinkBeef.ca is a resource hub that includes nine Healthy Plate recipes demonstrating how #BeefBelongs and the ThinkBeef Position Papers. These can be found under Resources on the ThinkBeef website (ThinkBeef.ca).

Around the World in 80+ Days Canada Beef extended its reach with social media videos on Facebook and Twitter to highlight the health and sustainability benefits of beef using the hashtag #BeefBelongs for the theme and conversation tracking.

Additional outreach and messaging for the food guide response included: • Two print ads placed in magazines directed to the public and retail and foodservice partners, including one in the March issue of LCBO’s Food and Drink magazine.

During the launch of the food guide, the staff of the Canadian beef industry conducted

the new food guide, and included a registered dietitian and a conservation expert as sponsored guest speakers. The goal was to provide positive information about how beef belongs in a healthy diet and for a healthy planet in order to enable culinary leaders and future chefs to feel confident and positive about including beef in their menus.

• Over February and March, ThinkBeef delivered a series of 16 guest lectures at leading culinary schools (mainly in South Western Ontario/GTA locations).

Topics included beef and the environment and beef and

Canada Beef staff have been incredibly busy in the first few months of 2019. From a world-class tradeshow in Canada to China and Japan, the focus remains on telling the Canadian beef story and gaining value for producers.

Restaurants Canada After many years at the Restaurants Canada event in Toronto, this year the Canadian beef presence was elevated through collaboration with RC 2019 on the creation of the very first Canadian beef pavilion. The pavilion brought beef producers, packers and other strategic partners together to showcase their Canadian beef products, programs and services.

The activation centre provided an area to connect with potential customers, and to work with the skilled staff of the Canadian Beef Centre of Excellence (CBCE) on preparation and sampling of showcased product. Beef producers took advantage of this space and used the CBCE tasting centres to showcase their products. Partners included

Ontario Beef, ThinkBeef and Ontario Corn Fed Beef, among others.

China From December 21, 2018 – January 2, 2019 a Canadian beef promotion at 70 Olé super markets in 26 cities across China reached an incredible number of consumers and industry partners. Over 5,500 customers took part in beef tastings throughout the promotion and over 1.29 million viewers have streamed the online cooking class to-date.

On January 21, Canada Beef partnered with Million Group, one of the biggest distributors in Hong Kong to conduct a Canadian beef training seminar for the buying and sales team of Million and their key clients. The training focused on introducing the Canadian Beef Advantage and introducing four cuts with a cutting and culinary demonstration.

Over 30 people attended the training, which received positive feedback.

Japan The Supermarket Trade Show (the largest supermarket-focused event in Japan) was a great success and ran from February 1315, 2019, in Tokyo Makuhari Messe. The highlights of the show – the first since the new 11 per cent trade tariff reductions took effect – included numerous media interviews and attendance at the booth, 90,000 visitors through the exhibit and valuable meetings with packers and retailers. This was critical timing as the import volume of Canadian beef to Japan has increased fivefold in January, compared to the same period last year, and interest continues to grow. OB

2019 RMP Update A

s announced in the Government of Ontario’s 2019 Ontario Budget on April 11, Ontario’s Risk Management Program (RMP) will continue for 2019. Some program changes have been made to the RMP for livestock and RMP Grains and Oilseeds plans.

Here’s what’s new for 2019: • Coverage levels of 80 per cent, 90 per cent and 100 per cent have been maintained.

A new 95 per cent coverage level has been introduced for the 2019 program year.

Because of the new coverage level option, every customer will need to call Agricorp to select a level that is best for their farm business.

• Given the delay in the launch of the 2019 program, renewal and application deadlines have been extended.

• 2019 forms, premium rates, and enrollment deadlines will be released soon.

In the coming weeks, once premiums become available, Agricorp will send 2019

renewal packages to customers with program details and timelines. Customers will have additional time to renew or apply, so they can make the best decisions for their farm business. Producers can also keep an eye on agricorp.com for updates.

Contact Agricorp by phone: (Mon. to Fri., 7 to 5) 1-888-247-4999 TTY: 1-877-275-1380

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

OB

33

Vet on Call

• By Dr. Katharine Found, DVM

Worms, Worms, Go Away: Re-Thinking Deworming Strategies I

t pays to d e w o r m cattle. Cow-calf producers can see an average of 23 per cent higher weaning rates, and the average daily gain of stockers and cattle in the feedlot is also improved.

By reducing the parasite burden in cattle, the animals are able to have improved feed efficiency and put more feed energy into growth compared to fighting off a lingering infestation.

But what have blanket, routine deworming strategies been costing us as an industry?

Resistance to the most commonly used deworming products has been reported and continues to grow, and that, from a scientific and industry perspective, is troublesome.

34

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

Now is the time to review your deworming strategies and select products targeted for the worm burden your cattle are dealing with, and create management plans to prevent re-infection and resistance development.

To create a targeted and strategic deworming strategy, you must first know your enemy and then find the best way to specifically treat and prevent that enemy based on its lifecycle. Using the same pouron product over and over again, in the spring and/or the fall, may not be the most effective strategy for your farm.

The first step to knowing your enemy is to perform fecal testing on your cattle. Most veterinary clinics will be able to run fecal floats and fecal egg counts right in the clinic, so results can be obtained quickly. Fecal testing should be performed on a random sample of freshly collected feces. The results will tell

you what internal parasites are present and at what level, and will give your veterinarian crucial information to be able to tailor a treatment and prevention strategy specific to your farm.

Roundworms are the most common class of internal parasites found in Canadian beef cattle. Roundworm burdens can cause a variety of signs including decreased weight gains, poor feed efficiency, reduced milk production, diarrhea, failure to thrive and poor reproductive performance.

Roundworm infections are caused by pasture contamination. Adult roundworms live in the gastro-intestinal tract of cattle where they produce eggs, which are passed out in the feces. The life cycle continues into a larval stage, and these larvae migrate into the soil and onto the grass where they are ingested by cattle during grazing, starting the

cycle over again. Because of the lack of soil in feedlots and indoor pens, the larvae stage can’t develop, so roundworm infections are generally not an issue with these groups of animals. Pasture contamination builds up over the course of the grazing season, to maximum levels in the late summer and early fall. But the larvae can survive in the soil over even our harsh Canadian winters, and can be a source of immediate infection upon pasture turnout in the spring.

Strategic treatment and prevention programs for roundworms should include grazing management to prevent over contamination of the pasture throughout the grazing season and using a product to clean cattle up in the fall when they come off pasture.

Avoiding overstocking and over grazing are important. If you consider a typical beef cow might produce 30 kilograms of feces each day, a single cow with an egg count of 10 eggs per gram of feces (considered a low infection rate) would shed approximately 300,000 eggs onto the pasture each day! In some situations, animals may even shed up to 200-300 eggs per gram (epg)! If cattle are overstocked and graze closer to the soil due to over grazing, they are more likely to ingest a higher number of larvae. If possible, avoid grazing the same pastures in the fall of one year and the spring of the next to prevent cows and calves grazing on the most contaminated pastures earliest in the year, and simply contributing to the build up.

The timing of fecal testing is an important part of a strategic deworming program as well. It should be done in the fall, after cattle have come home from pasture, and approximately three to four weeks after they were treated with their fall pour-on product.

Results from this sample will ideally be 0 epg, meaning your deworming strategy was worked and those cows are eligible to go to pasture the following spring. If you have dealt with a significant parasite issue in the past, or suspect resistance is building to your usual deworming product, your veterinarian may suggest collecting fecal samples the day of deworming, as well as after, to be able to see the difference. Anything less than a 90 per cent reduction in fecal egg count will be considered problematic and further investigation will be initiated.

A spring deworming protocol should also

the animal from spitting most of the product be discussed with your veterinarian, to ensure out. And store the products correctly between young calves are not subjected to heavy uses, avoiding freezing and light exposure, parasite burdens early in the grazing season. and replacing the product if it is past the Your veterinarian will request a few random expiry date. fecal samples be collected approximately four There are other internal parasites that can weeks after pasture turn out. This time frame affect cattle, such as lung worms, fluke worms gives cattle a chance to graze and ingest or coccidia. These parasites, if identified, the larvae from a pasture, but not enough may have different treatment approaches time for the larvae to develop into adult and various prevention strategies, but your parasites to lay eggs to re-infest the pasture. veterinarian will be able to guide you with an At this point, your veterinarian will discuss the effective control plan. selection of a product that specifically targets New arrivals on the farm should also be the parasite(s) identified in the fecal, and may fecal tested and dewormed prior to grazing discuss the possibility of only treating select your pastures to prevent the introduction of animals, which is a more prudent and better new parasites, and to ensure they are not going long-term deworming strategy. to be a leading contributor to contamination.

It is estimated that 20 per cent of a herd Strategic deworming is more work. It will contributes to 80 per cent of a farm’s pasture cost money because of the additional fecal contamination, and there may be no benefit testing. It may even require adaptation to to deworming the top 10 per cent of best body current management strategies that are less condition score cattle. All of this information convenient for you and your cattle, such as must be kept in mind when developing a deworming cattle after pasture turn out or strategic deworming protocol to ensure we using products you are unfamiliar with. But the are using medication on those that need it, at benefits to your cattle and your farm’s health the right time, to prevent resistance. because of these changes will be important to Another key factor to prevent anthelmintic everyone’s long-term success. OB resistance developing on your farm is to ensure you are using the correct product, correctly. Read the By label. Dose according to label and most importantly, avoid underdosing. A wellbalanced scale is another important piece of equipment needed on-farm to ensure cattle are treated with the correct amount of product. Apply the product correctly – pour-on products should be spread out across a dry topline, JV 320 Spidel 800B from withers to tail head, and animals should not be exposed to rain or snow for a minimum of 2 hours following application.

WALNUT DRIVE FARMS Oral products should John W. Vancise Home 705-445-0407 • Cell 705-351-2442 be given using tools email: johnvancise4@hotmail.com designed to prevent

Out-Cross Genetics

WALNUT DRIVE FARMS

Polled Hereford Bulls Available Private Treaty

WDF

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

35

Market Information

O

n March 1, 2019, Statistics Canada released the January 1st Cattle Stats Report. The report calculates a total of 395,700 head of fed heifers and steers on Ontario farms as of January 1st of this year. This volume is down 4,000 head from last January, but is the second largest January volume in the last seven years. January 1, 2018 was the largest volume since 2012. Oddly enough, when you break down the volumes by steers and heifers, both categories are 2,000 head below last year on January 1st.

The volume of beef cows on Ontario farms as of January 1st is reported at 242,000 head.

The January 1, 2019 volume is down 1,300 head from January 1, 2017, and just 100 head below 2016. Over the last 10 years, the cow herd has been reduced by 81,200 head or 25.1 percent. Over the last three years, the change in volume has been minimal, with 2017 at 241,900 head, 2018 at 243,300 head and the January 1, 2019 volume at 242,000. The volume of replacement heifers (beef) on Ontario farms as of January 1, 2019 is at 40,900 head. This is down 1,500 head from January 1, 2018 and 300 less than January 1, 2017, however, 2019 volumes are up 2,700 head from January 1, 2014 when the replacement heifer volumes were at the lowest levels in the past 16 years.

36

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

•B y Jamie Gamble, BFO Market Information Coordinator markets@ontariobeef.com • www.ontariobeef.com

The January 1, 2019 Cattle Stats Report calculates the volume of calves under one year old, on Ontario farms, at 426,500 head.

Volumes have declined 12.7 per cent over the last 10 years with only January 1, 2018 seeing a slight increase from the year prior.

The January 1, 2019 volume of calves is the lowest in this data set of 16 years.

The Ontario fed cattle market has been trading on a similar price trend to 2018 in the first quarter of 2019, with prices in April of this year improving where April 2018 saw a decline. In the first quarter of 2019, the market has ranged between $245-$257.50 cwt on a dressed basis. However, due to the larger volumes of ready cattle this first quarter, there has been a total of five weeks where there have not been enough sales reported to establish a market price. Packers were being bought out for two to three weeks at a time, then pulling their bids and sitting back as their inventory was more than sufficient. At time of reporting mid-April, the market is holding fairly steady in the $255-$260 price range, which is up around $13.50 from last year at this time. The current $257.50 average price is $1 stronger than the highest weekly average price in all of 2018. However, prices are still below 2017 and the five-year average. One contributing factor to the fed cattle market’s ability to hold steady to stronger than last year with such a large supply, is the boxed beef cut-out prices in Canada. Both the AAA and the AA cut-out prices are well above 2018 and 2017 along with the five-year average.

The Ontario cull/fed cow market continues

to struggle with larger volumes coming to market. As of March 31, 2019, there have been 31,647 cows sold through auction markets which is up 15.4 per cent from March 31, 2018, and 8.33 per cent more than the same time in 2017. However, looking at the last 10 years, this is the fourth lowest volume in the data set. Weekly average prices in 2019 have been trading anywhere from $1-$14 below last year, with even further discounts when compared to 2017 prices and the fiveyear average. However, mid-April prices were seeing some improvement and are almost steady with prices in 2018, during the same time frame.

As of March 31, 2019, there have been 58,703 stocker and feeder cattle sold through Ontario auction markets, an increase of 21.4 percent from the same time last year, yet Stats Canada reported a 1.8 per cent decline in total volume on Ontario farms, from 2018.

The pricing this year has been trading mostly steady to prices seen in 2018 for the first quarter, but below 2017 prices and the fiveyear average, especially the cattle over 800 pounds. From late March, the cattle under 700 pounds have seen sharp increases in demand and prices while the heavier cattle continue to sell close to last year at the same time. The grass weight cattle have taken off since the last week in March, with prices increasing up to $30 cwt in just a couple of weeks. Prices have also surpassed the average prices, during the same time frame, of both 2017 and 2018, and are heading very close to steady with the five-year average. OB

Continued on page 38.

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

37

Continued from page 37. – Market

38

Info

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

BEEF EXPORTS - CANADA

United States

Mexico

Jan. 1 - Feb. 28

Jan. 1 -Feb. 28

Total

47,661 tonnes

2,509 tonnes

BEEF PRODUCTION - CANADA

Jan. 1 - Apr. 13, 2019 Last Year Same Time

% Change

Fed

281,392 tonnes

250,462 tonnes

+12%

Non-fed

59,153 tonnes

54,777 tonnes

+8%

BEEF IMPORTS - CANADA

Jan. 1 -Apr. 3, 2019

Last Year Same Time % Change

US

29,114 tonnes

33,559 tonnes

Non-NAFTA

13,409 tonnes

20,821 tonnes

-33%

603 tonnes

+173%

57,192 tonnes

-20%

EU-28 (beef/veal total) 1,646 tonnes

Total

45,656 tonnes

-13%

LIVE CATTLE - CANADA IMPORTS

EXPORTS

EXPORTS

Jan. 1 - Feb. 28

Jan. 1 - Mar. 30, 2019

% Change

Slaughter steers & heifers 136,129

+40%

Purebred

639

Non-Purebred

34,346 Feeder steers & heifers

Cows & bulls

75,819

+19%

8,913

+9%

LIVE CATTLE EXPORTS - ONTARIO

Total to US.

Week ending Apr. 6, ‘19 Week ending Mar. 30, ‘19 Year to Date 2,748

2,884

37,627

Steers, Heifers, Cows 2,316

2,486

34,181

398

3,446

Bulls

432

Changes to OBCFPP Licenced Dealers List Now Licensed

No Longer Licensed

Miere Invesco Inc., Granby, Quebec

Gingerich Veal Transport, 1267388 Ontario Inc., Harriston, Ontario

Mr. Simon Bourbonnais, Moose Creek, Ontario

The entire OBCFPP list can be found on the OMAFRA website at http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/food/inspection/fpu/fpu_lists.htm

Hank Dekoning Limited, Port Dover, Ontario

Or For more information: Toll Free: 1-888-466-2372 ext. 64230 Local: (519) 826-4230 E-mail: foodinspection@ontario.ca OB

Country Dealer Mr. Donald Gavin, Lucan, Ontario

Country Dealer Mario Maciocia Et Fils Ltee, La Presentation, Quebec

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

39

CHECK-OFF DEDUCTION REMITTANCE FORM Every cattle seller (including sales by private treaty) is required under Regulation 54 of the Beef Cattle Marketing Act (BCMA) to pay a $3.00 per head Ontario license fee and a $1.00 per head national levy, for a total of a $4.00 per head check-off. Breeding stock, cull dairy cows, and beef calves are included. Exemptions exist only for cattle sold for the production of milk and veal. Fees are payable by the 15th of the month following deduction. Please note: Licenced Livestock Dealers who sell cattle within seven business days of having purchased them may apply for a rebate with proper documentation.

Firm or Individual Producer Reporting

Forward cheque payable to the Beef Farmers of Ontario with this report. Please retain one copy for your files.

HST Registration No: Period Covered by this Report: a) Number of Head Sold:

Finished:

Stocker:

Breeding Stock Females:

Culls:

Breeding Stock Bulls:

Calves:

I declare that this information represents a true and accurate statement of check-off deductions required to be made under Regulation 54 of the BCMA and the Canadian Beef Cattle Research Market Development and Promotion Agency.

b) Total BFO Check-off ($4.00xa)

Date:

c) HST on BFO Check-off (bx13%)

Signature:

d) Total Amount Owing (b+c)

Print Name: Address:

Mail to: Beef Farmers of Ontario 130 Malcolm Road Guelph, Ontario N1K 1B1

HST# R107797128

!

BEEF BUSINESS LEADERS HOLISTIC MANAGEMENT ONTARIO Whole Farm Planning Courses Healthy Land...Healthy Profits Tony & Fran McQuail, Cert. Educators 519-528-2493 www.meetingplaceorganicfarm.ca/holistic Sold ario nt in O

Livestock Watering for All Seasons “Qualifies for Environmental Farm Plan Grants”

Since 1973

GENETICS

Quality Proven Fleckvieh Simmental Breeding Stock

Bulls and Heifers FOR SALE. DNA verified for carcass and feed efficiency.

Ross & Betty Small & Family R.R.#3 Harriston ON N0G 1Z0

Tel: 519-338-2077 • 1-800-461-3504 • Email: doraleegenetics1@sonicwaves.ca See our new website: www.doraleegenetics.com

R.R #5 HOARDS STATION Campbellford, Ontario SALE BARN Dave DeNure 705-653-3660 • Auction Sale Since 1949 • Sale Every Tuesday 12 p.m.

• Three Rings – Beef, Dairy, Pigs • Quinte Cattlemen’s Stocker Sales • Spring and Fall Member of O.L.A.M.A

40

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

Plaunt’s Farm Service

Doug Plaunt • 705-328-5794 • dgplaunt@gmail.com 160 Cricket Hollow Rd. • RR#2 • Little Britain, ON • K0M 2C0

Semen Available!

Bob Wilson 519-855-4990 bob@leachman.com Leachman Cattle Co. in Canada

Calendar of Events May 25 - Ottawa Valley Angus Club Sale, Campbellford June 22 - Farm & Food Care Ontario – Breakfast on the Farm, Jobin Farms Dairy Farm, Tecumseh, Ont. July 17-18 - BFO Summer Advisory Council Meeting, St. Jacobs, Ont. August 13-15 - Canadian Beef Industry Conference, Stampede Park, Calgary, Alta.

September 10-12 - Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, Woodstock, Ont. September 17-21 - International Plowing Match, Verner, Ont. October 11 - Hereford and HerefordInfluence Stocker Sale, Cookstown October 26 - Hereford and HerefordInfluence Stocker Sale, Brussels October 26 - Cream of the Crop Blonde d’Aquitaine Sale, Campbellford

BEEF FARMERS OF ONTARIO PRIVACY STATEMENT

November 1-10 - Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto, Ont. November 1 - Masterfeeds National Junior Beef Heifer Show (Showmanship), Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto November 1 - Limousin 50th Anniversary Banquet, Chelsea Hotel, Toronto November 2 - Masterfeeds National Junior Beef Heifer Show (Conformation), Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto November 2 - Royal Elite Beef Sale, Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto November 3 - National Limousin Show, Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto November 4 - Junior Limousin Show, Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, Toronto.

The Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO) is committed to protecting the privacy and security of producers’ personal information in compliance with the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

Subscribers to Ontario Beef magazine, the official publication of the Beef Farmers of Ontario, do so on a voluntary basis. By subscribing, subscribers are consenting to have their contact information used for the purposes of receiving the magazine and developing an BFO mailing list.

This mailing list will be used for the distribution of the BFO magazine.

The BFO will not sell, trade or otherwise share its Ontario Beef mailing list under any circumstances. A service may be provided whereby items are submitted to the BFO and mailed internally with the magazine but all materials must be approved by and acceptable to the BFO. In rare instances where external, non-commercial organizations, like the provincial or federal government, wish to use the Ontario Beef mailing list to distribute information, the government must provide their mailing materials in a finished format to BFO and/or its mailing house.

BFO will then coordinate the mailing, at the requesting organization’s cost, thus maintaining confidentiality of the list. In cases where the BFO may commission a mailing, the company providing the service is required to sign a mandatory confidentiality agreement.

Subscribers to the Ontario Beef mailing list who wish to have their names removed, should call 519-824-0334 or email bethany@ontariobeef.com. Please allow 15 business days to allow us to update our records accordingly.

BFO’s complete privacy statement, covering areas of information including the electronic update system, Website, membership list and market information can be viewed on its Website at http://www.ontariobeef.com/privacy.asp

Silver Springs Farms

Maple Haven

Quality Belgian Blue Cattle

James & Joan McKinlay R.R. 1, Ravenna, Ontario N0H 2E0 Tel: 519-599-6236 jmckinlay@bmts.com

Bred for Calving Ease Sharon & Joe Daniel BREEDER BULLS FOR SALE Tina & Ben Daniel

Breeders of Quality Cattle Simmental • Red Angus • F1 Crosses

Tel: 519-423-6722 • Cell: 519-421-4393 • RR#5 Ingersoll, ON N5C 3J8

Garry & Sheila Smart

“Industry Accepted since 1978”

137606 Grey Rd. 12, RR # 2, Meaford, Ontario N4L 1W6 Phone: 519-538-4877 Cell: 519-372-7459 smartlimo@bmts.com www.smartlimousin.com

Breeding Stock Available at All Times.

Advertise in

BEEF BUSINESS LEADERS Very reasonable rates! Deadline for August 2019 issue is July 15.

Call 519-763-8833 for information

Sunny Meadows Charolais

North AmericAN LiNcoLN red AssociAtioN Looking for Easy fleshing, Dark red, and a Great temperament? Try a Lincoln Red.

www.lincolnred.org

Selling progressive quality genetics since 1975 ~ polled with French influence.

Tel: 705-887-5142 Fax: 705-887-2341

Andy Millar

109 Bulmer’s Rd. R.R.#2 Fenelon Falls ON K0M 1N0

M ille r Land & L ive st ock

Charolais Bulls, Hay, Straw, Feedlot George & Dianne, Dwayne, Ashley and Cowal Miller

P: 519-760-0892 E: uspecs@roievents.ca FB: UNDERHILL SPECS

RR 1, Jarvis, ON N0A 1J0

Ph (519) 587-2755

Cell (519) 429-5902

Performance live/frozen genetics available!

Commercial Angus

Wright’s

Purebred Red Angus Purebred Black Angus Purebred Hereford

The Seed Family- Greg: 705-648-4274

Greg Wilson 519-590-2348 • Dennis Robinson 519-892-3316

seesonranch@outlook.com 845040 Morrow Rd, New Liskeard Ontario, P0J 1P0

R.R#1, #402144 Hanover, ON N4N 3B8 Tel: 519-369-3658

Carl Wright Cell: 519-369-7489 Ben Wright Cell: 519-374-3335 Laurie Wright Ofc: 519-369-3658

ON TAR IO BEEF • MAY 20 19

41

Spotlight on VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 2

Working Towards New Animal Care Legislation in Ontario

By Bruce Kelly, Program Manager, Farm & Food Care Ontario bruce@farmfoodcare.org • www.farmfoodcare.org

I

n March, the Ontario Society for the

for the Province of Ontario to enact

short- and long-term solutions to the

Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

legislation that permits a private charity

situation. A delegation representing

(OSPCA) announced that it would no

to

without

Ontario livestock agriculture also met

longer enforce animal welfare legislation

government oversight. And although the

with senior policy staff at both the MCSCS

for farm animals after March 31, and

government is appealing this ruling, the

and with OMAFRA in February, and

companion animals after June 30, of 2019.

OSPCA has decided to abdicate its role

regular communication with the coalition

This confirmed rumors that had been

in enforcement.

representing livestock agriculture is

circulating throughout the winter on the future of the OSPCA.

have

policing

powers

Last December, Beef Farmers of

continuing.

Ontario joined seven other livestock

With OSPCA’s abdication of this

Early in January, an Ontario Superior

commodity groups and Farm & Food

role, farm organizations have offered

Court Judge ruled it is unconstitutional

Care Ontario (FFCO) in writing to the

government their support in the event

Ontario Ministry of

that measures are required. It is important

Agriculture,

Food

systems be in place to provide general

and Rural Affairs

assurance to the public that animal

(OMAFRA) and the

welfare concerns can be addressed by an

Ontario Ministry of

authority when circumstances arise, be

Community Safety

they with farm or domestic animals.

and

Correctional

Effective April 1, 2019, livestock

Services (MCSCS)

related calls are directed to local police

to ask for clarity

with OMAFRA serving in an advisory role.

as rumours of the

Farm commodity groups have offered

OSPCA’s

in

commodity-specific advisory services

future enforcement

role

to the regional police agencies and we

began to circulate.

hope that a new, co-operative system can

Through winter

of

the 2019,

Our focus now shifts toward advising

FFCO along with the

government on what a new Animal Care

Ontario Federation

Act should include. Livestock agriculture

of Agriculture, the

is now meeting almost weekly, looking at

Christian Farmers

animal care and enforcement models from

Federation

of

other provinces and states as we work

Ontario, BFO and a

towards a made-in-Ontario solution.

growing coalition of

Government consultations are expected

livestock commodity

to be held later this spring.

members have been meeting

regularly,

discussing 42

O N T A R I O B E E F • M AY 2 0 1 9

develop over time.

both

All of this work, we hope, will result in a new and better model for animal care legislation in Ontario.

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