Beef Business January 2012

Beef Business Beef Business ‘

Saskatchewan’s largest circulated industry magazine Saskatchewan`s Premiere Cattlecattle Industry Publication September 2010cattle industry magazine Saskatchewan’s largest circulated ‘

January 2012 May 2010

In This Issue: 2011 Cattle Market Review pg 13 Beef Supply Situation pg 19 Interview with Minister Bob Bjornerud pg 24

A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Publication Publication Mail Agreement #40011906

Working for Producers

50 Black Bulls & 40 Red Bulls ***Offering will include 30 - 2 Year Old Bulls***

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Bulls are semen tested - Delivered Free - Developed free until April 15 It’s as simple as it gets!!! If you are unable to attend the sale but are interested in a bull(s), contact a Muirhead or Bouchard Livestock representative and we will purchase on your behalf. We will discuss your needs and do our best to find a bull that will fit your program.

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Premise identification protects your investment and your industry through: • • • • • •

Response to natural disaster emergencies like fires, floods, tornadoes, etc.; Tracing of animals to manage an animal disease outbreak; Disease control measures for animal health issues when one or more livestock species is affected; Rapid notification of producers in affected areas of disease threats or control measures; Quick coordination of sites for carcass disposal in the event of an animal disease outbreak; Dispatch of emergency resources to appropriate targeted locations to contain and assist with disease outbreaks; and • The return to business and limiting losses after animal disease outbreak.

It’s quick and easy to get a Premise Identification number, you may:

• Contact the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency with your legal land description (LLD) toll-free at 1-877-909-BEEF (2333), • Email your LLD to info@canadaid.ca, or • Generate it yourself in three clicks after logging your CLTS account: Select My Account, Premises, then Register Premises and fill in the required fields.

Contact your local representative today: NORTH CENTRAL

SOUTH CENTRAL

SOUTHEAST

SOUTHWEST

Brian Anderson Cell: 306-717-2151 Fax: 306-974-1668

Dee Valstar Cell: 306-621-0508 Fax: 877-427-4173

Nick Anderson Cell: 306-741-4409 Fax: 877-381-0721

banderson@canadaid.ca

dvalstar@canadaid.ca

Kevin Smith Cell: 306-209-4307 Fax: 877-370-8559

HEAD OFFICE TOLL-FREE LINE: 877-909-2333

ksmith@canadaid.ca

nanderson@canadaid.ca

www.canadaid.ca

Contents A Proud Saskatchewan Tradition Since 1913

Beef Business

Industry News

A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) Publication

Cover photo courtesy of Helge By, Regina, SK

6

2011 Cost of Production - Sign up Today!

6

Cattlemen`s Young Leaders

6

CWA International Roundtable

8

Beef Code of Practice Renewal Continues

8

Canadian Cattle Identification Agency Releases Auction Market Research Phase Two Results

10

Daily Vehicle Inspection Update

10

Regulatory Cooperation Council

10

Agribition Good for Beef; Beef Good for Agribition

11

CCA Focused on COOL Next Steps

11

Canadian Ranch Roping Association Finals

Advertising Sales - Tracy Cornea Tel: 306-693-9329 Fax: 306-692-4961 email: tracy.cornea@gmail.com Subscriptions - Wilma Switzer Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 email: ssga.admin@sasktel.net

Markets and Trade 13

2011 Cattle Markets - The Year in Review

14

Regina Retail Meat Price Survey

16

Alberta Weekly D1 & D2 Cow Prices

16

Saskatchewan Weekly Average Prices

16

2011 Saskatchewan Heifer and Steer Prices

16

Weekly Canadian Dollar

General Manager: Chad MacPherson Administrative Assistant: Wilma Switzer Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 email: ssga@sasktel.net OR ssga.admin@sasktel.net Website: www.skstockgrowers.com

Subscription Rate: 1 yr $26.50 (GST included) Published 5 times per year Design and Layout - Jackson Designs Candace Schwartz Tel: 306-772-0376 email: cjacksondesigns@gmail.com

Feature 19

The Beef Supply Situation in 2011 and 2012 - “The Cattle Cycle Has Turned”

24

Meet the Minister - An Interview with Bob Bjornerud

28

Where’s the Beef? Active Missing Livestock Files

29

Transporting Livestock

30

Equine Infectious Anemia (Swamp Fever) Outbreak in Saskatchewan

32

Tips on Overwintering Beef Cattle

Science and Production

Association News and Reports 34

2011 Review of Canada’s Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster

36

A Report From the SSGA President

38

A Report From the SSGA General Manager

Stewardship 39

SK PCAP - Can Seeding Native Grass be Economically Feasible?

41

Calendar of Events

41

Advertiser Index

Prairie Conservation Action Plan (PCAP) Manager: Michelle Clark Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-352-0472 Fax: 306-569-8799 email: pcap@sasktel.net SSGA reserves the right to refuse advertising and to edit manuscripts. Contents of Beef Business may be reproduced with written premission obtained from the SSGA Editor or Manager and proper credit given to the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association. Articles submitted may not be the opinion of the Association.

SSGA assumes no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any reader from this publication based on any and all information provided.

Publications Mail Agreement #40011906 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses (covers only) to: Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Box 4752, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4

Contributors

?

Did you know that the SSGA is Saskatchewan's oldest agricultural association? cycle This M a

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Ple as

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e

Barry Belak Reynold Bergen Janice Bruynooghe Jeff Eide Murray Feist Al Foster Jeff Gaye

Charlie Gracey Chad MacPherson Harold Martens Leanne Thompson Wendy Wilkins Grant Zalinko

This magazine is printed on paper that is comprised of 50% recycled paper and 25% post-consumer waste.

It is acid-free, elemental chlorine-free and is FSC certified

JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 5

Industry News Cattlemen’s Young Leaders 2011 Cost of Production Sign Up Today!

Do you know what your unit cost of production (UCOP) is?

Also known as your “break-even price”, your UCOP is one of the most important numbers to know about your cow-calf operation. The Western Beef Development Centre (WBDC) has been working with producers since the late 1990s to determine their cost of production. The analysis is free for any producer who wants to participate. Recruitment for the 2011 study is currently underway. Western Beef’s economist will visit your ranch to work with you to collect the production and financial information required for a COP analysis. Ranch visits will take place between February and April 2012. For more on the program, visit http://www.wbdc.sk.ca/economics_current. html or call Kathy Larson at (306) 930-9354. B

The Cattlemen’s Young Leaders (CYL) Development Program provides industry-specific training and mentorship to assist the beef industry into the future.

This program provides a combination of formal and informal opportunities to learn from existing beef cattle industry leaders and other youth organizations undertaking mentorship opportunities.

Young producers between the ages of 18 and 35 years have a chance to participate in provincial, national and international high level discussions that define the direction and future of the Canadian cattle and beef industry. Providing participants with a chance to explore a potential career choice or rewarding provincial/national producer organization involvement, while gaining essential business connections and learning tools along the way.

Applications for 2012 are now being accepted and will run until February 25, 2012. Application forms are available at www.cattlemensyoungleaders.com. B

CWA International Roundtable The SSGA in conjunction with the Minneapolis and Denver Consulate offices coordinated the annual CWA International Roundtable meeting to discuss international trade and areas of common interest between Canadian and American beef producers. This year representatives from Colorado, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wyoming attended the show. Once again this meeting was a great success with more than twentyfive participants in attendance from all segments of the industry. I would like to thank Melissa Cyr and Pamela SimpsonRose from the Minneapolis and Denver consulate offices for their assistance. B

6

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JANUARY 2012

THE INDUSTRY STANDARD IN CATTLE CHUTES AND HANDLING EQUIPMENT

Whether you run a 100,000 head feedlot or a cow/calf ranch operation, SILENCER / Moly Manufacturing has a livestock squeeze chute for your operation.

“Having ultrasounded at feedlots and ranches throughout North America over the past 20 years, I have found no other hydraulic cattle squeeze that comes close to the SILENCER for being so quiet and easy on the cattle and the operators” Rod Wendorff Windy Ridge Ultrasound

SILENCER CANADA INC. Rod: 403-330-3000 email: rod@cattleultrasound.ca www.silencerchutes.ca

Industry News Beef Code of Practice Renewal Continues The Committee tasked with reviewing and updating Canada’s Code of Practice for Beef had its most recent meeting December 1 - 2 in Calgary. The group continues to work on coming to consensus on the content of the revised Code. Consensus is easier to achieve in some areas than others (think of discussing facilities vs. discussing dehorning). Science, what is practical from an implementation viewpoint and expectations of the public have all changed since the Code was last updated in 1991.

The committee is made up of representatives from British Columbia to Nova Scotia. Included are producers from every stage of production as well as representatives from other stakeholders including veterinarian, research, enforcement, animal welfare, governments, transport, and processing. Even with this wide viewpoint working on the draft there will also be a public comment period later in 2012 where all interested people in Canada can have their say. After the comments are in the committee will work to ensure those of value are incorporated into the final draft. Producers should ensure they read through the draft and provide comments as this step is important in ensuring nothing is missed or taken for granted.

Stay tuned for more on the Code. This document is important for industry as a reference and extension tool. It is also important to have so industry can show interested people how things are done in the Canadian beef cattle industry.

The Code renewal project is funded

by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Agricultural Flexibility Fund. B

8

Canadian Cattle Identification Agency Releases Auction Market Research Phase Two Results The Canadian Cattle Identification Agency is pleased to announce the results of Phase Two of the Ap­plied Research Project evaluating the impact of fully-integrated radio frequency identification (RFID) systems at 13 auction markets and buying stations across Canada.

The Applied Research Project was developed in light of pending regulations for livestock traceability. Funding for the two phases of this project is being made available through the Canadian Integrated Food Safety Initiative (CIFSI), a program delivered under Growing Forward, a federal-provincial-territori­al initiative created to help position Canadian farmers for success.

Phase One of the Applied Research Project in 2010 assessed the ability of existing technology to collect and read RFID tag data at a high level of accuracy. The research showed the design and location of the RFID system must be unique and located in an area that is well integrated within the normal process flow for efficiency.

“Phase Two tested new hardware configurations and focused on the implementation of commercial software for the purposes of aligning RFID hardware with the business process,” says Donna Henuset, Auc­tion Market Research Project Manager. “We explored the feasibility and potential benefits of linking the tag reading software with management software to support the availability of RFID numbers on sales and settlement documentation.

“This phase was all about identifying issues, opportunities, costs and performance of fully automated and

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

integrated RFID systems. The integration presented more challenges and expense than anticipated.”

Key findings from the Phase Two Project Report determined it is unnecessary to integrate the RFID tag recording software with enterprise systems in order to support movement reporting at commingling sites. In addition, the option of integrating RFID tag recording software with enterprise systems was found to be the most expensive, have the greatest manpower requirements and impact on speed of commerce. The findings also indicate high annual operational costs outweigh the benefit of having RFID tag numbers listed on settlement documentation.

Further testing has been conducted at six Canadian auction markets from September to November 2011, evaluating basic functionality software that does not require integration with enterprise systems or data entry by group.

“This software may be a key factor in developing a system that can operate with mini­mal to no involvement from site personnel,” says Henuset.

“Throughout this multi-phase project, more than 535,000 head of cattle have been scanned and re­ported to the Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS). This project has been successful at identifying many challenges for movement reporting at the auction mart and buying stations,” says Rick Wright, Applied Research Project Steering Committee Chair. “This project is one example of the cattle marketing sector and government working together towards a common goal.” B

JANUARY 2012

Annual Annual Bull Bull & & Female Female Sale Sale

Friday, MARCH 2, 2012 1:00 p.m. at Johnstone Auction Mart, Moose Jaw, SK

Guest Consignor 3D Simmentals, Lumsden, SK Sale offering:

Guest Consignor

• • • •

50 Polled Red Simmental Bulls 25 Polled Black Simmental Bulls 15 Fullblood Simmental Bulls 25 Open Purebred Heifers – Red, Black and Fullblood

te

t Laba

nd

32

Barry & Brenda Labatte

Dean & Monica Schwartz Box 510, Lumsden, SK S0G 3C0

Box 72, Gladmar, SK S0C 1A0 Phone: Cell: Fax:

Phone: Cell: Fax:

(306) 969-4820 (306) 815-7900 (306) 969-2270

(306) 731-3850 (306) 591-2760 (306) 731-2549

3d.simmentals@sasktel.net

labatte.simm@sasktel.net

View catalogue at www.labattesimmentals.com JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 9

Industry News Daily Vehicle Inspection Update In the fall of 2011, the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) became aware vehicles with a registered gross vehicle weight greater than 5,000 kg were required to complete a daily trip inspection. At the existing 5,000 kg limit, the daily inspection requirement applied to all truck and livestock trailer combinations. The SSGA worked co-operatively with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure to find a solution. As a result of the quick action taken by Highways and Infrastructure Minister Jim Reiter, only vehicles with a gross weight of greater than 11,794 kg are now required to complete daily vehicle inspections. This enforcement solution supports the New West Partnership Agreement as it continues to work toward harmonizing trucking regulations. B

Regulatory Cooperation Council On December 7th Prime Minister Stephen Harper and US President Barack Obama announced a number of initiatives to streamline border transactions and improve regulatory cooperation between Canada and the US The announcement included commitments to: • implement electronic border-related document transmission and receipt of clearance decisions for food and meat products no later than December 2013; • reduce and eliminate duplicate meat inspections at the border through enhanced meat safety equivalence agreements; • align Canadian and US approaches to the naming of meat cuts;

• align application and review processes for veterinary drug approvals including efforts to establish identical maximum drug residue limits in both countries; • and a number of other initiatives both within agriculture and related to movement of people and transporters across sectors.

When commenting on the recent announcement Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud said “It’s really encouraging to see a commitment like this from the federal government and the United States.”

“Anytime governments can reduce red tape and create solutions that remove trade barriers it benefits Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers and the provincial economy,” added Bjornerud. B

Agribition Good for Beef; Beef Good for Agribition

by Jeff Gaye

The 2011 Canadian Western Agribition produced outstanding results, including some record prices for beef cattle exhibitors.

Agribition sells two million dollars worth of livestock annually with purebred beef accounting for well over half of that.

Besides being the biggest agricultural show in Western Canada, Agribition – with 300 exhibitors and more than 1500 head – is the largest purebred beef cattle show in Canada.

The 2011 show set records for Prospect Steer ($7,000), Prospect Heifer ($6,250) and Replacement Bred Heifer ($2,300). The top price for a Hereford, $46,000, is the best since 1982, and a Red Angus bull calf sold for $67,000. Sale averages for 2011 exceeded the three and five year averages.

10

As good as Agribition is for beef producers, it can be said that beef is a big key to the success of Agribition. “Cattle continue to be the heart and soul of Canadian Western Agribition” says Marty Seymour, Agribition CEO and General Manager. With stock exhibitors coming from six Canadian provinces and five US states, it is clear that a large portion of the show’s gate comes from the cattle industry.

A big draw for livestock producers is the Canadian Western Agribition RBC Beef Supreme Challenge, which features the best of the best from 17 qualifying shows.

Eleven breeds (bulls and females) were represented in the 2011 edition, with animals from five breeds advancing to the Top Ten. Supreme Bull Champion was CSS Sir Gridmaker 2W, owned by Cedarlea Farms of Hodgeville, Saskatchewan, Char-

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Mo Farms and CSS Charolais. He was also Grand Champion Charolais Bull. This was not his first honour at the Challenge – he represented the Charolais breed as a Top Ten RBC Beef Supreme Challenge finalist in 2010.

The female champion was Soo Line Annie K 9165 with her calf Soo Line Annie K 1008, owned by Soo Line Cattle Company of Midale, Saskatchewan. The win was the third jewel in a Triple Crown for this cow/ calf pair – they had already won the First Lady Classic Futurity and Angus Grand Champion Female.

Seymour is pleased with the strength and the importance of beef at Agribition. “The quality of entries and the strength of our sales demonstrate the health of the beef industry,” he says. “We are proud to be a part of that.” B

JANUARY 2012

Industry News CCA Focused on COOL Next Steps The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association’s (CCA) work continues on the country of origin labeling (COOL) file, following the November 18 ruling from the World Trade Organization (WTO) supporting Canada’s position that provisions of COOL discriminate against live cattle and hogs imported into the US from Canada to the detriment of Canadian cattle producers.

requirement to label meat imported into the US with origin to inform consumers.

coordinated with the Canadian pork producers on this objective.

The resolution we are seeking eliminates the need for segregation of imported livestock and meat during US processing.

This resolution would require a surgical amendment only and not a complete repeal of COOL.

The US has until early in 2012 to appeal the WTO ruling on COOL and the CCA is working with industry organizations in the US towards achieving a US decision not to appeal the ruling and to move toward a resolution.

Our approach for a resolution would enable the US to meet its stated objective of providing US consumers with origin information, but in a more meaningful and accurate manner than the current requirements. The resolution would require a legislative amendment by the US Congress.

Another option would be to permit voluntary labeling of beef and pork produced from animals slaughtered in the US while maintaining the mandatory requirement on meat (not livestock) that is imported and not further processed in the US

We were in Washington at the end of November working towards that objective.

The mission was the latest in a long line of excursions the CCA has undertaken to Washington and throughout the US in the past several months in anticipation of the WTO panel report.

Our complaint has always been about the discrimination in the US livestock marketplace that COOL causes and not the

There are different options that could eliminate the COOL discrimination on Canadian livestock in the US One option is that any beef and pork from cattle and hogs slaughtered in the US bear a US origin label, with specific allowance for the voluntary inclusion of additional information on the country of birth and/ or feeding of source animals. We are

We cannot accept an outcome that places a so-called ‘residency requirement’ on Canadian cattle prior to slaughter in the US Since approximately twothirds to three-quarters of our live cattle exports are for immediate slaughter, a residency requirement would do little to improve the situation for Canadian cattle producers.

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Depending on the timeframe to achieve a legislative revision, we may also want to explore whether any transitional regulatory accommodations can be made Canadian the Ranch to ameliorate COOL burden in the Roping Association B interim.

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Canadian Ranch Roping Association Finals The Canadian Ranch Roping Association held their Finals at the Golden Mile Arena Moose Jaw, on September 24 & 25, 2011. Seventy Open Teams and Nineteen Novice Teams from Alberta and Saskatchewan vied for an array of prizes.

Each three person team heads and heels an animal while the third person puts the ropes on the front and hind feet. It is a calm, low stress way of roping cattle for doctoring or branding. Points are given for stockmanship, fancy loops and time.

Open winners of the silver bits sponsored by the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association and the Elford Family were Clayton Millar of Cadillac, SK, Gerry Karchuk and Phil Martindale of Fort McLeod, AB. They had a score of 84 points on 3 head, eight points better then their nearest competitors. Novice winners were Keaton Cox of High River, AB. and Quinn Roberts of Claresholm, AB. with a score of 60 points on 3 head.

Please visit www.canadianranchroping.ca for more information. B

Canadian Ranch Roping Association

Left to right are Kelcy Elford and Karla Hicks from Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association, Clayton Millar, Gerry Karchuk, Phil Martindale.

Photo courtesy of Shauna Schmidt

OUR HERDS ARE CARCASS EVALUATED

... BRAND OF CONSISTENCY & CONFIDENCE 12th Anniversary Sale Sunday, March 4, 2012 At the Ranch, Estevan, SK 100 RED & BLACK SIMMENTAL BULLS TO SELL R PLUS SIMMENTALS

Sales management:

OBI

Rob Holowaychuk (780) 916-2628 Mark Holowaychuk (403) 896-4990 12 | ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Ross LeBlanc & Sons Box 1476 Estevan, SK S4A 2L7 Marlin (306) 634-8031 • cell: (306) 421-2470 Ross (306) 421-1824 • Jason (306) 421-9909 JANUARY 2012

Markets and Trade 2011 Cattle Markets – The Year in Review Grant Zalinko PAg

Provincial Cattle Analyst Higher feeder cattle prices were observed throughout the 2010 fall calf run and prices continued to move higher as the markets resumed activity in January 2011.

By the end of the first month of 2011, the price of 500-600 lb. feeder steers averaged $146.13 per cwt and with the exception of a few weeks in late June and July, this price for this class of cattle remained above $140 per cwt throughout 2011.

As the fall arrived, feeder cattle prices increased once again and the benchmark class of feeder steers (500-600 lb.) traded at or near $155 per cwt throughout the fall calf run. As 2011 comes to an end, it is a fair assessment to state that cattle prices are at or near record highs. As such, it is timely to review some of the factors that resulted in significantly higher prices for all classes of cattle.

United States Beef Exports Record exports of US beef have been very supportive of cattle futures and cash fed cattle prices. The higher prices for fed cattle supported higher feeder cattle prices as cattle feeders competed for smaller feeder cattle supplies. To the end of September, 2.105 billion pounds of beef have been exported from the US This is a 27.3 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2010 and is 8.4 per cent higher than the previous record year, 2003 (CME Group, Daily Livestock Report, December 9, 2011). US beef exports during the fourth quarter of 2011 has slowed from the torrid pace established earlier in the year but remains positive despite the concerns for slowing global economic growth. Two important factors contributed to the increase in US beef exports:

Cattle Inventories The inventory of cattle in North America continues to decline. The Canadian cow herd is well below the peak inventory of 2005 and is likely in the consolidation phase or the early stages of expansion. Canadian beef production is approximately ten per cent lower than 2010 and smaller supplies of calves and feeders have been very supportive of Canadian fed and feeder cattle prices in 2011.

US Dollar Depreciation The ongoing concern over the increasing deficit and debt of the United States has pressured the value of the US currency lower relative to other currencies. As noted in Figure 1, the US dollar index

(a measure of the value of the US dollar against a basket of other currencies) declined during the first eight months of 2011. There is a strong, inverse correlation between the value of the US dollar and the price of commodities. Typically, commodity prices that are derived in US dollars increase as the value of the US dollar declines. In addition, exports become more price competitive as the value of the exporting country’s currency decreases. Increased beef exports and reduced beef imports means that the US is now a net exporter of beef.

Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) in South Korea The FMD outbreak in South Korea required a significant cull of domestic livestock in South Korea to control this disease. Exports of US beef surged during the first half of 2011 to replace smaller domestic supplies of beef and meet growing Asian consumer demand for beef. In addition to South Korea, US beef exports to Japan were significantly higher during the first six months of 2011. These high value markets supported higher continued on pg. 14

In the US, the persistent drought conditions in the Southern Plains have prolonged the liquidation of the US beef cow herd. When the January 1, 2012 US cattle inventory is released, it will confirm the extent of the 2011 beef cow liquidation. The bottom line is that the inventory of beef cows in North America is at its lowest level in many years and the 2012 calf crop will be smaller than 2011.

The supply side of the balance sheet is very favourable for cow-calf producers and should result in continued strong cattle prices moving ahead into 2012.

US Dollar Index (source:www.ino.com)

JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 13

Markets and Trade 2011 Cattle Markets cont. from pg. 13

Regina Retail Meat Price Survey as of December 15, 2011

wholesale beef prices which in turn, supported higher fed and feeder cattle prices.

In conclusion, 2011 will be remembered as the year that profitability returned to Saskatchewan’s beef cattle sector. In late November, all classes of feeder cattle traded $15 to $30 per cwt ahead of one year ago.

Fed cattle traded at record prices in Western Canada at the end of November and early December 2011. Non-fed cow prices continued to increase each week throughout November when the seasonal trend was towards lower prices as producer cull non-productive animals from the breeding herd. The prices for quality bred cows and heifers increased significantly from the lows of recent years and the cautious optimism expressed earlier in 2011 has been upgraded to “We look forward to 2012 and continued strong cattle prices!”B

Sobeys

Safeway

Extra

Walmart

Reg Ground Beef

3.45

3.45

2.85

2.70

Lean Ground Beef

3.75

3.75

4.00

3.00

Cross Rib Roast

5.45

*

2.99

4.88

Rib Roast

6.00

10.71

*

*

Round Roast

5.85

6.00

4.00

5.48

Tenderloin Steak

16.02

*

16.02

*

Ribeye Steak

10.97

10.71

10.19

8.67

Sirloin Steak

5.45

6.70

*

8.48

T-Bone Steak

9.46

11.41

10.13

*

Round Steak

5.70

6.10

4.50

5.36

* Items were not in the display case at time of survey

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JANUARY 2012

Attention: Ranchers and Landowners Do you own native grasslands?

Currently lease native grasslands?

Wanting to downsize your operation?

Or acquire more land?

Now is a good time to chat with us at the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC).

As Canada’s leading non-profit conservation organization with operations in Saskatchewan, NCC protects ecologically significant land for future generations.

NCC offers a program to purchase land, based on appraised fair market value, with an option for you to lease back.

We also have a paid Conservation Easement program that can provide funds for you to purchase more land, to enhance your current operations, or for debt reduction.

The following Saskatchewan Rural Municipalities are eligible: RMs: 7, 8, 9, 19, 33, 38, 39, 40, 49, 51, 63, 64, 65, 69, 70, 71, 72, 79, 93, 94, 95, 100, 101, 102, 103, 109, 110, 111, 131, 132, 133, 134, 160, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 189, 190, 191, 193, 194, 216, 217, 218, 219, 220, 222, 223, 224, 225, 226, 228, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248, 255, 256, 257, 274, 275, 276, 277, 279, 285, 305, 307, 308, 309, 337, 338, 339, 435, 436, 464, 466, 496, 502.

For more information, contact us: Nature Conservancy of Canada Saskatchewan Regional Office Suite 700, 1777 Victoria Avenue Regina, SK S4P 4K5

Toll free: 1.866.622.7275 Email: saskatchewan@natureconservancy.ca

Markets and Trade

LANE REALTY CORP. For the most VALUE & EXPOSURE that you deserve when selling your farm or ranch property, contact one of our Farm & Ranch Specialists today!

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0.9200 0.9000 1 4 7 10 13 16 19 22 25 28 31 34 37 40 43 46 49 52

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(306) 569-3380 569-3380 (306) (306) 735-7811 735-7811 (306) (306) 620-7260 620-7260 (306) (306) 631-0802 631-0802 (306) (306) 270-9050 270-9050 (306) (306) 430-7747 430-7747 (306) (306) 861-1750 861-1750 (306) (306) 795-2644 795-2644 (306) (306) 741-2393 741-2392 (306) 725-7826 725-7826 (306) (306) 858-8000 858-8000 (306) (306) 527-9636 527-9636 (306) (306) 327-7129 327-7129 (306)

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Visit our website at www.lanerealty.com to view current listings and virtual tours

JANUARY 2012

Hill 70 Quantock RancH

“Barn Burnin’ Bull Sale” Sat., Feb. 4, 2012

at the Ranch, lloydminster, aB

1-800-665-7253 We would love to have you here at the sale, but if you think that you just can’t make it on Feb. 4, 2012... no problem. Our “Sight UnSeen” program delivers them to near your door and to your satisfaction.

Most of our bulls are two year olds and lots of darn good yearlings, raised tough and for sure never had their feet trimmed... you can count on it.

If you think Fe b is too early to g ruary bull... that’s OK et your ,b we’ll keep’em a ecause n deliver them in d still April.

60/40 Finance

We’ve got the numbers to satisfy you... from one bull to a pot load!

n and 60% dow 2012.

1, 40% July ve. ro

pp Call us to a

45 Horned Herefords Two’s 105 Red Angus (65 Two’s - 40 Yearlings) 75 Black Angus (50 Two’s - 25 Yearlings) 70 Charolais (30 Two’s - 40 Yearlings) 50 Red & Black Angus X Simmentals

Visit our website...

$ $

Sight Unseen Purchase Program…

JANUARY 2012

Customer AppreCiAtion night FridAy, FebruAry 3, 2012

12 Red Angus X Gelbvieh (Two’s) 100 Registered Red Angus & Commercial Females (Bred & Open)

annually sells 100+ bulls using this program.

Bill Creech... “Bill The Bull Guy”

Supper, Branding & Bull Viewing!

(Yearlings & Fall Born)

Boys, still your best bet if you can’t be with us sale day. we guarantee your satisfaction! together we’ll analyze each and every bull… we want to be sure the “fit is right”.

Wide bodied ,d end quality.. eep bulls... end to . kee bulls on our p pers. See all the ictu early January re library in www.hill70 on our site quantock.c om

www.hill70quantock.com

– Reply Card –

$

Name Address Ph

Fax

# of Cows o Sight Unseen Purchase Plan o DVD of Sale Bulls o Red Angus o Black Angus o Charolais o Horned Hereford o Red Angus X Gelbvieh o Reg. Red Angus Females o Commercial Females (Bred & Open) o Black Angus X Simmental Hybrids o Red Angus X Simmental Hybrids Mail to: Hill 70 Quantock Ranch Box 756, Lloydminster, AB S9V 1C1 info@hill70quantock.com www.hill70quantock.com

Clip & Mail For Your Free Catalogue & DVD

r Free e v i l e d We ern to W e s t n d a c anada past are cost sh a!

M a n i to b

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 17

Supplying Cattlemen with the Quality, Quantity & Selection they demand, and the service they deserve.

18th Annual Bull Sale with Select Open Females

Saturday, March 3, 2012, 1:00pm At the Ranch (heated sales arena)

150 Bulls Sell

& Red Blaze Polled 50 Red Simmental Bulls

20 Select Open Females Herd Bulls Designed By Ranchers For Ranchers

• All bulls born, bred & developed right here at MRL • Large sire groups 1/2 and 3/4 brothers • Penfulls of uniform bulls in every category • The majority of our bu • Sight Unseen Buyer’s Program lls se ll in the (Can’t make it sale day, give us a call. $2000-$5000 price ra ng Almost 25% of our bulls sell SUS. e, and 95% go to Commerci Many repeat customers year after year.) al Cowboys • Semen evaluated and guaranteed • Free Delivery in Western Canada. Cost sharing to the East (Our trailer is most likely going right past your gate.)

• Sound rugged Bulls developed on a high roughage ration (Born, bred and fed to work and stay working) • Extra Age Bulls ready to cover some ground.

Offering 25 fall born long yearlings & January/February born yearlings • Genetically engineered to excel for the commercial cattleman.

Calving ease, performance and packed full of maternal traits.

Affordable Bulls

“THE BULL BUSINESS” IS WHAT WE DO!

35

Black Polled Simmental Bulls

15

Fullblooded Fleck Simmental Bulls

35

Purebred Red Angus Bulls

Supplying Quality Herdbulls for progressive Cattlemen for 40 years!

The value of MRL bulls is 40 years rich in history with commitment to quality, functional, ranch-raised genetics that can only be matched by the longevity of a breeding program. “No Fluff No Puff”. Over 600 mother cows managed the same as our commercial customers’ herds. The 150 bulls on offer rise to the top on the strength of their genetic makeup, backed by our highly regarded cow herd and one of the top herd bull batteries in the business. Calving ease, performance, maternal traits, herd bulls that work in the real world. “Come see for yourself what keeps the commercial cowboys coming back year after year!” Give us a call or email for a full color catalogue.

Lee (306) 928-4820 Cell: 483-8067 Dave (306 928-2249 Cell: 483-8660 Jim (306) 928-4636 Cell: 483-7986 18

Email: mrl@sasktel.net Sale Barn: (306) 928-2011 Fax (306) 928-2027

Catalogue online at www.mrlranch.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Bulls JANUARY 2012 20 Simm/Angus (Red and Black)

Feature The Beef Supply Situation in 2011 and 2012 “The Cattle Cycle Has Turned”

By Charlie Gracey

As the year winds down it is possible to get an accurate picture about the beef supply situation in 2011 and to offer some comments about projected supplies for 2012. In many ways this has been a remarkable year where we have seen quite a dramatic drop in supply coinciding with early but convincing signs of expansion in the national breeding herd.

It is now obvious that the cattle cycle has bottomed out and we are in the early stages of expansion.

2011 Supply – The estimates in this discussion are based on the very valuable “Beef Supply at a Glance” weekly analysis put out by Agriculture Canada.

Steer, heifer, cow and bull marketings inclusive of live slaughter exports and live feeder exports are proceeding at a rate

15%, 20%, 15% and 15%1, respectively, below a year ago. Because carcass weights have not changed significantly since 2010 the declines in tonnage are of the same order. With the sole exception of 2003 when market numbers were severely curtailed by the circumstances surrounding BSE this is, by a wide margin, the sharpest percentage decline in cattle marketings ever recorded since at least 1960 when this sort of detailed record keeping began. The 2011 supply is also the lowest, barring 2003, since 1995.

The chart below shows year to year percentage changes in domestic and total beef supply. The “domestic supply” refers to domestic slaughter and the total supply includes the carcass equivalent of exported slaughter and feeder cattle.

The surprising 15% drop in steer marketings is out of proportion to the 6% decline in the cow herd between 2009 and 2010. This raised a question because steer marketings normally reflect changes in cow herd size one to two years earlier.

A check of the data shows that in 2010, 37.5 steers were marketed per 100 cows in the herd in 2008 and 2009. This is well above the long term average of 35.8 steers per 100 cows. It is apparent that steers were drawn forward in 2010, probably as a result of declining numbers and overcapacity in feedlots. The cattle that were drawn forward in 2010 explains the continuing low rate of steer marketings in 2011. A more normal rate of steer marketings can be expected in 2012.

The sharp decline in cow marketings is not surprising at this stage in the cattle cycle. Heavy cow culling is a hallmark of the cycle and, as prices for weaned calves strengthened considerably in the fall of 2010 and strengthened further and remarkably in 2011; this has encouraged a very sharp reduction in culling rates in a herd that has already been sharply reduced. But reducing the rate of cow culling merely slows down herd contraction. Heifers must be retained in larger numbers than cow cull numbers to cause herd growth. Heifer marketings are down almost 21% so more heifers were retained for breeding. The heifer to steer ratio in the kill remains very high at 64% as many heifers as steers so some further calculations must be done to estimate how rapidly the beef cow herd is growing.

There is no question that the cycle has turned and that some expansion is now occurring. The question is how fast this expansion is occurring.

The long-term average rate of heifer marketings is 24 head per 100 cows but in 2008 to 2010 the rate averaged 27.5 head.

This was clear evidence of continuing herd reduction through 2010. But the sharp 20% decline in heifer marketings in 2011 indicates that decisions were made in the fall of 2010 to begin retaining heifers for herd expansion. Year end projections now suggest that up to 660,000 heifers were retained for breeding in 2011.

This number is estimated as the difference between steer and heifer slaughter in 2011 which appears to be 640,000 head.

But because about 3% of male births are retained for breeding, the heifer numbers should be increased by about 3% to about 660,000. The only uncertainty remaining is the assumption made that the ratio of heifers and steers in the feeder cattle exports was the same as in the domestic slaughter. But this has not been the case continued on pg. 21

1 There is no distinction between cows and bulls in the export mix so I have combined them in the graph showing the decline of both cow and bull disposals.

JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 19

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| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2012

Feature The Beef Supply Situation cont. from pg. 19 for the last three years when 60% of the feeder cattle exports have been heifers.

Thus the practical approach is to suggest a range of heifer retention, the upper limit being 660,000 head already estimated and the lower limit based on a recalculation of the number of heifers exported as feeder cattle. Feeder cattle exports in 2011 have not been large so this recalculation results in an increase of only about 15,000 heifer exports so one can be sure that about 650,000 heifers from the 2011 calf crop were retained for breeding in the fall of 2010 were bred in 2011 and will calve in the spring of 2012.

If up to 660,000 beef heifers were retained in the fall of 2011 how many culled cows will they replace? The way to approximate the rate of beef cow culling is to acknowledge that the dairy cow herd is stable and the culling rate is relatively constant. There are about 985,000 dairy cows and, if a 24%2 culling rate is applied approximately 236,000 dairy culled cows will be culled in 2011. This means that, if the total cow cull in 2011 is it as low as it is now forecast at 632,000 head, about 400,000 beef cows will be culled and replaced with about up to 650,000 beef heifers. That’s an increase of about 250,000 head in a 4.2 million head national cow herd or almost 6%. That, I admit has come as a surprise to me but I cannot find an obvious error in the logic.

Cow slaughter was down sharply in 2002, meaning that producers put the brakes on herd attrition, heifer slaughter, and producers decided to expand output.

Supply projections for 2012 The decision to commence herd expansion does not lead to an immediate supply increase. Indeed the opposite often occurs as potential supply in the form of fed heifers is diverted to breeding and cow culling remains low.

Projected supplies for 2012 are likely to be close to 2011 levels. Steer supply was unexpectedly low in 2011 and this has been explained as the result of

steers pulled forward in 2010 creating the shortfall in 2011. The breeding herd that produced the 2011 supply was 3.5% smaller than the herd that produced the 2011 supply. Because steer marketings were abnormally low in 2011 my projection is that steer supplies will not be reduced further in 2012. If steer marketings return to their long-term normal pattern in 2012 steer marketings will reach 2 million head.

Heifer supplies in 2012 are the greatest unknown because producers face the tough choice between selling weaned heifers for feeding or retaining more of them for herd expansion. Producers who have witnessed calf sales have a better idea about this than I do. Even then decisions on whether the heifers are going to be retained or resold for breeding need not be finalized before early summer.

Cow supply – Cow culling rates will remain low and no increase in cow marketings should be expected in 2012. Beef supplies resulting from herd expansion will begin to become apparent in mid 2013.

Underlying the current strong prices is the fact that beef supplies are currently tight and there has been a strong demand principally from the US market to support their aggressive and very successful export thrust. To the end of September US exports were up 26%, a performance that created a strong demand in the US market. As Canada’s beef herd expands similar export market opportunities beyond NAFTA will become more apparent. Market diversification is important because two or more export bidders

for Canadian beef create the competitive conditions necessary to narrow the basis between Canada and the USA. In 2011 43% of industry production was exported to the USA as either live slaughter or feeder cattle, or as beef. If domestic consumption has remained level with last year Canadians consumed about 975,000 MT but that consumption contained 280,000 MT of imports. So, domestic consumption of domestic production was 695,000 MT or 53% of industry production. Adding the 46% exported to the USA and the 49% consumed in Canada leaves only about 8% of production available for export to other countries, or about 112,000 MT. This underlines the current tight supply situation and, I hope, the importance of market diversification. B

PROTECT YOU R I NVESTM E NT YOUR BRAND IS YOUR ANIMALS’ RETURN ADDRESS For more information about branding and livestock inspection, contact: Brand Registrar: Carol Lenton, Regina, (306) 787-4682

District Livestock Managers: Dave Augustine, Swift Current, (306) 778-8312 Bill McConwell, Moose Jaw, (306) 694-3709 Ron Sabin, North Battleford, (306) 446-7404 Les Tipton, Saskatoon, (306) 933-7660 Robert Solomon, Yorkton, (306) 786-5712 Garth Woods, Moosomin, (306) 435-4582 Barry DeJaeger, Winnipeg, (204) 694-0830

Livestock Investigators: Barry Belak, North Battleford, (306) 446-7571 Jeff Eide, Saskatoon, (306) 933-6781

LIVESTOCK AGRICUL TURE

2 Canfax has estimated that the long-term average rate of dairy cow culling approximates 24%

JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 21

Duane & Susan Tessier Box 52, Gladmar, SK S0C 1A0 Phone: (306) 969-4507 Fax: (306) 969-4504

Specializing in Red & Black Simmentals

Colin, Kyla, Ryder & Dane Tessier Box 86, Gladmar, SK S0C 1A0 Phone: (306) 969-4447 Cell: (306) 869-7914 E-Mail: cktessier@sasktel.net

CONSIGNING 25 RED & BLACK HERD BULL PROSPECTS TO THE ASHWORTH FARM & RANCH BULL SALE SIRES OF THE BULLS CONSIGNED TO THIS SALE Thanks to our 2011 Bull Buyers Casey Claffey / Waverly farms (4) City view farms ltd Dave & Crystal Raymond (3) Downhill Simmentals Gerald & Edith Daoust

CDI PLCC Dr. Phil

Destiny Buckeye

Gerald Boychuck Mccormack Family Ranch Spring Creek Colony Ryan Dunn (2) Melvin Holmes JJL Farms Lts Lazy Y Grain & Cattle (3) Greg Ermel Hartley & Keith Nyhus

OLF Odin

Glen Vandesype

TESS Black Rampage

Leslie Vandesype (2)

ASHWORTH FARM & RANCH & GUESTS 9TH ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE March 5, 2012 • 1:00pm • Lunch@Noon At the farm - 8 miles south of Oungre, 2 1/2 miles east

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| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2012

ASHWORTH FARM & RANCH & GUESTS 9TH ANNUAL BULL & FEMALE SALE March 5, 2012 • 1:00pm • Lunch@Noon At the farm - 8 miles south of Oungre, 2 1/2 miles east

Thanks to our 2011 Bull Buyers Doug Goudy Thackeray Stock Farm Deeg Simmentals BJ Cattle Co. Kevin Teske

KWA 93Y

Red Bull X Rock(Dam of Red Rock)

KWA 72Y

LFE Towa X Hemi

ON OFFER 60 RED, BLACK & FULLBLOOD BULLS

Terry & Loretta Young Calvin Larson Laird & Lance Sjostrand Gerald & Randy Malowany David Urschel B & L Farms Brian Aschenbrenner Waverley Farms Raitan Holdings Kelly Shaver Craig Dayman McKenzie Livestock Barry Mortenson

KWA 18Y

Enticer X Biss Toby

KWA 91Y

Odin X Warden

Tim Wiens Louise Lotten Highway 21 Feeders

All the best in 2012! Hope to see you at the sale! Call for catalogs and more info.

ASHWORTH Farms & Ranch Ltd. Kelly & Janice Ashworth Box 53, Oungre, SK S0C 1Z0 (306) 456-2749

Brian Bouchard Cell: (403) 813-7999

e-mail: jashworth@sasktel.net

Kelly (c) 306-861-2013 • Kyle (c) 306-861-9352 • Owen (c) 306-861-9044 JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 23

Feature Meet the Minister Traceability and premises ID certainly have not gone away nor are they going to.

These are areas we will continue to look at.

BB Many producers will remember 2011 as the year that profitability returned to the livestock industry. What do you see in the future of the livestock industry in Saskatchewan?

The Honourable Bob Bjornerud’s December 19, 2011 year-end interview with Saskatchewan Stock Growers’ General Manager, Chad MacPherson, provides readers with insight into ongoing and future policy issues that directly impact Saskatchewan livestock producers.

BB Mr. Minister I would like to start by congratulating you on the recent election and your reappointment as Agriculture Minister. With a renewed mandate for your government what do you see today as your priorities for the livestock industry heading into the next four years?

Bjornerud I think much of the same. I think we have done some good things for the livestock and grain industry. I think more of the same is what you’re going to see from us. We are going to try to continue removing regulations that impede the growth of the livestock industry. There are a number of things on the forefront. Price insurance is one that is important to everyone and hopefully we can come to some sort of resolution.

24

Bjornerud I don’t want to be overly optimistic yet the feedback we’re getting from producers across North America is that the livestock industry is showing promise even moreso than the grain industry. As we’ve discussed before, demand will be the driving force behind this optimistic outlook. I think numbers are down in the US and numbers certainly have not improved here that much. I think we have room for growth especially here in Saskatchewan, as we have always known we have a lot of land here.

Hopefully the industry comes back faster here than anywhere else. In my opinion, the most promising area of the whole industry is livestock, and not just cattle but bison and sheep as well.

BB This past spring there was a case of non-payment in east central Saskatchewan that cost livestock producers in the neighborhood of $300,000-$400,000. Since that time the SSGA has passed a resolution in favor of forming a Patron’s Assurance Fund in Saskatchewan. Does the Ministry of Agriculture have a position regarding the development of this program?

Bjornerud That non-payment case happened in my home area. We see this happen from time to time as it did in Arcola a number of years ago. I agree with the resolution that the Stock Growers have put forward. Now we have to get together to discuss how we build the fund and manage it. We need to look to Alberta to see how they have done theirs.

Non-payment can put producers under and probably has in the past and I know it was tough for the affected producers in my area.

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

BB Recently the Ministry of Agriculture has commissioned Meyers Norris Penny to conduct a review of beef, feed and forage research and development in Saskatchewan. What is the Ministry hoping to learn from this review and how will the information be implemented to advance the livestock industry in SK? Bjornerud We are putting more dollars into research. We need to ensure that funding is allocated wisely and the research results are beneficial to producers. That is why we have initiated the study. I think research in all areas of agriculture is very important. Producers are benefiting from research done in the past and they will continue to benefit from ongoing research. There are some really good projects going on, but we need to know that we’re getting the best value for our dollars. You can’t just dump in fifteen, sixteen, seventeen million dollars and have no way of looking back and seeing if it panned out. That is partly what we’re doing and the other part of it is physically - is a feedlot the right way to go and where should it be and all these types of things. By doing the study we wanted feedback from the Stock Growers, cattlemen and every part of the industry to see if it is heading the way we want.

Maybe it is, and that is fine. I needed to know and the Ministry needed to know - is this where we are spending the dollars wisely?

BB You mentioned that you have increased funding. Once this gap analysis is completed would you consider increasing research funding further?

Bjornerud Our whole government feels that research is important. The Premier has been on the record saying that on a number of occasions. It is something that we will look at, but again I think we are watching to see what comes of the review. We provide funding according to the projects we can do but we have to monitor them to ensure that the money is being well spent. We are putting the dollars in and seeing what projects we

JANUARY 2012

Feature

can do and go that route. Sometimes we need to go back and see if that worked out and what is working out. We know that they won’t all be successful but I think someone needs to take a good look at.

BB We ran an article in our last magazine about the future of the federal Agri Environment Services Branch (AESB) community pasture program. In our research we learned that a large portion of AESB land reverts back to the province. Does the province have a position on the future of the community pasture program?

Bjornerud We don’t have a specific position. We are getting the same information from the Feds. We’re currently unaware of the number of acres involved, the time frame of the turnover or the ramifications. We are open to discussion and will work with producers to see where we go from here. If they are going to do that we are certainly going to be here to work with industry to see where we go from here.

BB You have been very firm in your position that you want industry to lead traceability in Saskatchewan. What do you see as the provincial government’s role in traceability?

Bjornerud We have been consistent in our position on this. If you remember, the issue we had with the Federal minister was about when he was going to initiate it, which originally was in 2011. It’s still in the works and all the provinces are working on it but I’m still concerned about who will be paying the bill for it. I have yet to get an answer. I need to know that and so do the producers We are told that it will open up markets and that might be right. I am certainly no expert on this, but I am not totally sold on that one yet. The Federal Minister has done a good job of working with markets around the world and we encourage him to keep up that good work. There are questions we need answered before we jump into something again that the producers are going to be paying for. Maybe ten years down the

JANUARY 2012

road we’ll look back and ask why we got into it in the first place. I’m not going to be the guy who forces producers into it.

We need to work together as it may be a very good thing in the long run but we should remain cautious.

BB Several provinces across Canada have implemented biosecurity programs to mitigate risks from foreign animal and production limiting diseases. Does the Ministry of Agriculture have a position regarding the development of a voluntary education and awareness biosecurity program in Saskatchewan?

Bjornerud I think it comes back to the research end of it. The Premier recently announced a million dollars in funding for food security to enable the UofS to launch a Global Institute for Food Security.

That is only one part of it. Education is an integral part as well and is delivered by our specialists through our regional extension offices. We have opened seven new satellite offices in addition to the ten existing offices that we have out there.

BB Does the Ministry of Agriculture have a position on market based ecological goods and service incentive programs?

Bjornerud These programs under the auspices of the Ministry of Environment and we are willing to assist them. We are certainly there to assist in where they go with this. From that perspective, I think if we can help get producers any additional dollars, it’s great. The question is where will the money come from to fund these programs? It really comes down to dollars and cents and how you fund it and to this point we’re not there yet.

BB Could you provide an update on the status of Bill No. 131 The Conservation Easements Amendment Act, 2009 and Bill No. 132 The Wildlife Habitat Protection Amendment Act, 2009?

Bjornerud Once again I’d like to thank the industry, the Stock Growers and the cattle producers and everyone else

who supported us, from the agricultural perspective, when the Wildlife Habitat Protection Act (WHPA) came up in the legislature. This is an ongoing process as the Ministry of Environment (SME) is still working on it through Crown Land Ecological Assessment Tool (CLEAT). My argument is that farmers and ranchers are the best stewards of the land and we need to educate the urban public about this. Farmers are not the villains here by any means. Many producers have had the land for a hundred years and have looked after it very well. I think sometimes the urban public seems to forget that.

From our perspective, educating the public is part of our job as the Ministry of Agriculture.

BB Do you have an estimated timeline?

Bjornerud I hope to see movement on this in the New Year as it’s been in the works for over a year now. Currently the Ministry of Environment is working on categorizing land as to what will be free of encumbrances, what will have conservation easements and what land will have a WHPA designation. I am looking forward to seeing the results.

BB Growing Forward 2 consultations are well underway across Canada. Do you anticipate any significant changes from the current Growing Forward Business Risk Management (BRM) and non BRM programming?

Bjornerud Price insurance is one issue and another is the AgriStability program.

As producers know well, cattle prices dropped after 2003 creating challenges for producers. Many producers could not take advantage of AgriStability as they were deemed ineligible for payments because AgriStability’s reference margins had dropped. I continuously ask the Feds how we can change the program so it’s available when producers need it the most. Their response has been that perhaps it’s time to take another look at the efficacy of AgriStability. It’s been continued on pg. 26

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 25

Feature Meet the Minister cont. from pg. 25 suggested that we could make a really good crop insurance program and have a program for livestock producers as well.

We do ad hoc from time to time but that can’t be relied on long-term. When I first asked the Federal government about the effectiveness of AgriStability there was no response at all. Part of the reason for that is the eastern provinces really like the program and they think it’s working for them just as it is. There are some producers here think that if you’re able to access program payments it’s fine but a lot of producers haven’t been able to. My concern is that the program is not helping all of the people it should all of the time.

I would like to see them think outside of the box at times. There are many things to consider with this program while remembering that we need to remain trade friendly.

Bjornerud From my perspective, Alberta is ahead of everyone as usual, but I think it would be ideal to have a program right across the country with the federal government and the provinces, and that may come. It doesn’t make sense for Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba all having different programs. In Alberta they have the administrative part but there’s really no money going into it. This goes back to what I said previously that perhaps we should look carefully at programming and maybe we could divert money from AgriStability to fund these other programs. Having said that, the producers who are happy with AgriStability the way it is now won’t appreciate my opinion.

But if we don’t start asking to have these programs adapted so they’re useful to more producers we’ll never get them changed.

BB Are there any new programs that you would like to see implemented?

BB At the Federal/Provincial table are you considering cost shared or non cost shared premiums for cattle price insurance?

Bjornerud No, there isn’t. I would like to see improvements made to existing programs. When we brought AgriStability back to Melville it didn’t seem like a big deal at the time but I believe it will be seen as that in the future. The staff are accountable to us right here, not to someone in Winnipeg or Ottawa. We’ve already received feedback regarding telephone response. Producers are saying ‘Hey, you won’t believe this but I got a call back within 30 seconds.’ I think everyone appreciates being called back in a timely manner. We have regional specialists in our offices who understand how AgriStability works and are there to answer questions and help producers.

Improvements don’t have to be expensive they just have to make sense. As I said before, if we could make some changes to the program that are agreeable to the other provinces that would be great BB What is the status of cattle price insurance in Growing Forward 2?

26

Bjornerud There would be a very quiet response to that question as it’s a tough time to sell anything that will cost more money. That’s because right now federally and in some provinces deficits are being run.

Bjornerud I’m most proud of the reduction of the education tax on farm land even though it wasn’t directly under my Ministry. It used to really irritate me that whether you had a good crop or a good calf crop or if prices were high or low, the education tax was always there.

I don’t like to blow our own horn but I think reducing this tax was important.

Bringing AgriStability back to the province was another initiative I think has helped producers. As well, we’ve increased research funding and I can’t stress the importance of that. The Crown Land Sale Program is something else I think will be beneficial once it’s working better with WHPA. I would much rather see producers owning the land than the government.

We’ve also done some ad hoc programs but they’re not long-term.

BB Thank you for your time Mr. Minister.

Do you have any closing comments?

Bjornerud We were new and we were green four years ago and now we’re a bit more seasoned. I enjoy working with producers and will continue to do so for the next four years. My opinion is that things always work better if industry is involved in what you’re doing. B

BB Could you highlight some of the changes that have been made to forage insurance?

Bjornerud There are suggestions being made about possibly improving production insurance. A lot of producers had area yield coverage which didn’t necessarily work. Individual yields had to be there and we’ve made those changes. It’s something we have to look at further as producers are asking us for improvements.

BB Reflecting on your first term as Agriculture Minister. What do you see as the key cattle industry policy initiatives implemented by your government over the past four years?

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JANUARY 2012

RBC Beef Supreme Challenge Finalists Canadian Western Agribiion would like to congratulate all

Grand Champions & Finalists

Female Finalists RBC BEEF SUPREME CHALLENGE CHAMPION FEMALE BLACK ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion SOO LINE ANNIE K Calf: SOO LINE ANNIE K Soo Line Caale Co. Midale, SK Addiional Owner: SSS Angus, Calgary, AB, & Frehlick Farms, Estevan, SK

RED ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion & Farmfair Internaaonal RED BAR-E-L KASSIE P Calf: RED TNF YOUNG KASSIE Y TNF Red Angus, Riviere Qui Barre, AB Addiional Owners: Northline Angus, Doug & Dot Noad, Ardrossan, AB RED ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Manitoba Livestock Expo RED SIX MILE GLORIA W Calf: RED SIX MILE SMOKIN GUN Y Six Mile Ranch Ltd., Fir Mountain, SK

Bull Finalists

SIMMENTAL GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion WHEATLAND LADY W Calf: WHEATLAND BULL Y Wheatland Caale Co., Bienfait, SK BLACK ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Olds Fall Classic DMM MISS ESSENCE T Calf: DMM MISS ESSENCE Y Miller Wilson Angus, Bashaw, AB BLACK ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Farmfair Internaaonal DMM MISS ESSENCE W Calf: DMM BUBBA Y Miller Wilson Angus, Bashaw, AB

BLACK ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Manitoba Livestock Expo SIX MILE REAL BEAUTY U Calf: SIX MILE BEYOND BEAUTY Y Six Mile Ranch Ltd., Fir Mountain, SK Addiional Owner: Timber Creek Lane Farms, IA LIMOUSIN GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion, The Royal Agriculture Winter Fair & Lindsay Central Exhibiion KOYLE TICKLE BRIN W Calf: NNK YOUNG BRIN Koyle Farms Iona, Staaon, ON Addiional Owner: Nordal Limousin, SK & Nostadt Stock Farms, Maidstone, ON

RED ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Olds Fall Classic RED MCRAE'S REBA LEE W Calf: RED MILE HIGH REBA Y Lazy MC Angus, Bassano, AB Addiional Owners: Mile High Land & Caale CHAROLAIS QUALIFIER Saskatoon Fall Fair MVY WYNONA W Calf: MVY WYNONA Y McAvoy Charolais, Arelee, SK Addiional Owner: Dean McAvoy

RBC BEEF SUPREME CHALLENGE CHAMPION BULL CHAROLAIS GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion, Lloydminster Stockade Round-up & Farmfair Internaaonal CSS SIR GRIDMAKER W Cedarlea Farms Hodgeville, SK Addiional Owners: Char-mo Farms, Leduc, AB & CSS Charolais, Paynton, SK

BLACK ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion SOUTHLAND THRILLER X BAR-E-L Angus Steeler, AB Addiional Owner: Southland Black Angus & The Thriller Group RED ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion, Olds Fall Classic & Farmfair Internaaonal RED TER-RON REAL DEAL W Ter-Ron Farms Forestburg, AB Addiional Owners: Keith & Joan Adams & Damar Farms

POLLED HEREFORD GRAND CHAMPION Canadian Western Agribiion TH T UNTAPPED X ET ANL Polled Herefords Steelman, SK Addiional Owners: Haroldson´ Polled Hereford, Meadow Acres Farms, Phantom Creek Polled Herefords, Brooks Farms, Topp Herefords

SUPREME CHAMPION Prince Albert Exhibiion, BLACK ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Lloydminster Stockade Round-up HF HEMI W Double F Caale Co. Parkside, SK Addiional Owners: Nielson Land & Caale Ltd. & Hamilton Farms

SUPREME CHAMPION SIMMENTAL GRAND CHAMPION Interior Provincial Exhibiion Canadian Western Agribiion BELVIN TRES MARIAS CATRIEL & Farmfair Internaaonal Belvin Angus Innisfail, AB WHEATLAND STOUT W Addiional Owner: Tres Marias Ranch Rancier Farms Killam, AB Addiional Owner: Wheatland Simmentals

HEREFORD GRAND CHAMPION Olds Fall Classic FCC U SPRINT X Flewelling Caale Co. Bowden, AB SIMMENTAL GRAND CHAMPION Olds Fall Classic RF TORQUE W Outlaw Caale Co. Hussar, AB Addiional Owner: Sevcik Simmental Ranch BLACK ANGUS GRAND CHAMPION Farmfair Internaaonal & Olds Fall Classic DMM CREED W Miller Wilson Angus Bashaw, AB Addiional Owner: Reich Angus

All inalists listed in no particular order. All show & sale results available at WWW.AGRIBITION.COM

Science and Production Where’s the Beef?

Active Missing Livestock Files December 2011 Area Missing from

Number of head

Animal description

Brand Description

3 cow blk Maple Creek

Assiniboia

6 10

5 6

Assiniboia

14

Saskatoon

20

37

Carlyle Redvers

27

Spiritwood

Spiritwood

RCMP subdivision

Livestock Branch contact

3 calves blk 2 cow blk 8 calves blk

Maple Creek 662-5550

Maple Creek 662-5454

Assiniboia 642-7110

Assiniboia 642-7246

RH

Shaunavon 297-5550

Swift Current 778-8312

LH

Delisle 493-3240

Saskatoon 933-7660

Dec 6/11

Carlyle 453-6707

Moosomin 435-4582

Nov 11/11

Nov/11

LH

LH

1 cow blk 4 calves mx 1 cow red 5 calves red

RH

6 blk cows 8 BBF calves 10 cows & 10 calves reds & tans

Nov 16/11

Nov 22/11

2 Cows blk LH

35 Calves blk Calves

LH

1 blk cow 1 blk calf 1 blk bull

RS

Yorkton 786-4500

Yorkton 786-7512

7

4 cows 3 calves

RH

Spiritwood 883-4210

Spiritwood 883-8380

6

4 red hfs

RH

Spiritwood 883-4210

Spiritwood 883-8380

3

Date Reported

RR

No brands Theodore

Brand Location

Nov 14/11

Nov 16/11

Nov 23/11

Information provided by the Livestock Branch of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture 28

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JANUARY 2012

Science and Production Transporting Livestock

By Jeff Eide, Barry Belak, Livestock Investigators Ministry of Agriculture, Field Services Unit The 2011 fall run means numerous livestock transportation vehicles are on the road. The Ministry would like to remind livestock producers to follow the proper procedures in filling out your Livestock Manifests. For moving livestock within Saskatchewan, a properly completed Livestock Manifest has to be in the possession of the transporter prior to inspection of the livestock and at all times during transportation. A manifest is not required to or from a veterinary clinic or between properties owned or controlled by the owner within 50 kilometers.

Livestock producers can transport livestock out of the Province of Saskatchewan only if they have obtained and have in hand a Livestock Permit.

Livestock Permits are issued by the Ministry after the livestock have been

inspected to verify ownership. Please note that Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers can transport, back to their own operations, purchased livestock from a market on a manifest accompanied by a copy of the purchase invoice.

When selling livestock bearing other brands, you will be required to show proof of ownership. It is recommended that these documents accompany the livestock with the manifest. This will reduce withholds and delays in settlement.

Livestock that are being shipped out of province direct to feedlots, packing plants, ranch to ranch and farm gate sales are required to be inspected prior to leaving Saskatchewan. When requesting livestock inspection services, 24 hours notice is required prior to the livestock being loaded. The fee for the inspection is $1.80/ head.

When transporting livestock, it is also important to ensure that you have proper trailer licensing in place and that the trailer condition is adequate for safe and humane transportation. This is particularly important during periods of extreme cold temperatures. B

Branding is not compulsory in Saskatchewan, however, branding your livestock with a registered brand is an effective means of indicating ownership.

Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377 or your nearest District Livestock Inspection office.

For more information:

SASKATCHEWAN BEEF & FORAGE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW

Your Feedback is Important !

The Beef, Feed and Forage Research and Development Activities in Saskatchewan are being reviewed to identify solutions that better serve our province’s producers.

An on-line survey is coming in January and we want your input. The information you provide will be valuable in helping shape the future of the R&D activities for beef, feed and forage in Saskatchewan.

Help Shape the Future of Saskatchewan’s Beef, Feed and Forage Industries JANUARY 2012

If you have any questions about the review or would like to register to receive an electronic or paper copy of the survey directly from MNP, please contact Stephanie Bell at 306-664-8302 or email stephanie.bell@mnp.ca.

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 29

Science and Production Equine Infectious Anemia (Swamp Fever) Outbreak in Saskatchewan

by Wendy Wilkins, DVM PhD, Disease Surveillance Veterinarian, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture geography and can be found in drier climates as well.

Equine Infectious Anemia, or EIA, is an infectious and potentially fatal viral disease of horses and other members of the equine family. Closely related to the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), this virus affects horses immune systems; however, it has never been reported as posing a threat to human health. There is no vaccination to prevent EIA, and there is no cure. Once infected, horses remain carriers for life The EIA virus is most commonly transmitted by blood. Biting insects, such as deer and horse flies, are largely responsible for spreading the virus. The virus does not multiply in the insect but is passed from one horse to another mechanically on the insect’s mouthparts as it feeds. The bites of these flies are painful, and the animal’s reaction interrupts feeding. The fly attempts to resume feeding immediately, either on the same animal or on another nearby horse, resulting in the transfer of infectious blood. The virus survives for only a short period of time on the mouthparts of insects, and it is less likely to be spread to more distant horses.

Because these insects reproduce in wet areas, outbreaks of EIA have often been associated with pasturing in swampy areas, hence the name Swamp Fever.

However, the disease is not limited by

Another means of blood transmission is the practice of re-using needles and syringes. In the past, this was probably the primary method by which EIA spread from horse to horse. Re-using needles is no longer common practice, so now EIA transmission occurs mainly as a result of biting insects. Other blood contaminated equipment such as dental floats, tattooing equipment and rectal sleeves can also spread the virus. The virus can pass from mare to foal during pregnancy or during nursing. The virus can also be found in semen. For this reason, stud horses are usually required to be tested and shown to be free of EIA.

Horse owners are encouraged to have their horses tested for EIA and to take precautions to protect the health of their horses. Blood samples must be taken from horses by veterinary practitioners who are accredited by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) for EIA testing.

Many veterinary clinics have accredited veterinarians on staff; if you are interested in having your horse tested, contact your local veterinarian for more information If there is any doubt about the danger undetected EIA-carriers pose, consider a recent outbreak of EIA on a farm in Arkansas, USA: of 80 horses residing on the property, a total of 40 horses were EIA-positive and either died or were euthanized. Despite a state law requiring annual testing, these horses were not tested for several years prior to the outbreak. Early detection would have limited the spread of the virus in this herd and saved the lives of numerous animals.

The EIA virus reproduces in white blood cells throughout the body of the horse.

White blood cells, or leukocytes, are cells of the immune system involved in defending the body against infectious disease. Virus particles attach to red blood cells which are then attacked and destroyed by the immune system, causing anemia. Inflammation associated with the viral infection may damage continued on pg. 35 vital organs, such as bone marrow, liver, heart and kidney. Secondary infections (e.g. pneumonia) may occur due to immune suppression.

To protect your horse, the following practices are Horses infected with EIA virus recommended: may die from the direct effects • Test ALL your horses at least once a year. One infected of the virus or from secondary animal puts all your horses at risk. High-risk horses (e.g. infections.

This outbreak of EIA in Saskatchewan, after a number of years of little or no activity, is worrisome. Voluntary testing has decreased significantly over recent years, reducing the potential for detecting carrier animals. Horse owners currently voluntarily test fewer than 1200 of Saskatchewan’s estimated 108,000 horses. In the last few years, approximately half of

• •

• • •

• •

30

the EIA tests conducted in this province have been mandatory testing of horses exported to countries other than the USA.

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horses in areas where EIA has previously been found) should be tested more frequently.

Test horses at the time of purchase.

Keep new horses in isolation for 45 days and observe them for any signs of illness before introducing them into the herd. Daily rectal temperatures will help detect sick horses.

Take measures to control biting flies. Provide adequate drainage to discourage breeding sites for pests.

Use disposable needles and syringes, one per horse, for vaccinations and medication.

Sterilize dental tools and other instruments before using them on other horses.

Farm and stable operators should require a current EIA certificate (sometimes called a Coggins certificate) before allowing new horses onto the premises Horse shows, racetracks, rodeos and other events should

JANUARY 2012

Canada’s On-Farm Food Safety Program for Beef Cattle Producers

Cattle producers in Saskatchewan can qualify for funding provided through Growing Forward, a federal provincial initiative. To be eligible they must: Attend a VBP workshop Have $2500 worth of cattle sales in the previous tax year

Funding is available for 50% of approved equipment cost up to $750 per producer. Eligible equipment includes: head gates and chutes with neck extenders livestock weigh scales record keeping software Please contact our office for a complete list of approved manufacturers prior to purchase.

In an industry with evolving regulations and consumer expectations, VBP is a trusted, recognized process to verify on-farm food safety practices.

...driving consumer confidence To learn more information about VBP in Saskatchewan, call 1-888-675-6177 or visit www.saskvbp.ca

JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 31

Science and Production Tips on Overwintering Beef Cattle

by Janice Bruynooghe, MSc, PAg • Murray Feist, MSc, PAg • Al Foster, PAg Saskatchewan Forage Council Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture Recognizing the ongoing challenge of overwintering beef cattle, the Farm Animal Council of Saskatchewan (FACS) and Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM) decided to act.

The two organizations, with initial support from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, invited leaders from industry, academia, and government to two valuable open discussions regarding inadequate management of overwintered beef cattle.

Participants identified education related to feed quality, in the form of consistent and repetitive messaging, and support of cattle producers as crucial to ensuring adequate overwintering of beef cattle in Saskatchewan.

This article describes feed quality, while the Animal Welfare section of FACS website (www.facs.sk.ca) contains information about Body Condition Scoring, a valuable tool for estimating the amount of energy reserves (body fat) an animal is carrying.

For more information, contact: Dr. Murray Jelinski, WCVM 306.966.7166 Adele M. Buettner, Executive Director FACS 306.249.3227 Feed Testing - Know What You Have!

Anyone whose battled the elements and endured winter on the Prairies understands all too well the challenges that the season can create. Feeding animals through the winter months brings its own set of management considerations. As livestock producers, first and foremost we task ourselves with providing for the needs of our animals.

That includes ensuring feed quantity and quality, regardless of the feed or forage source.

Management strategies and available

32

feed sources are often very different from one operation to the next or even for a particular farm or ranch from one year to the next. Within our industry there has been a move towards more extensive feeding systems including options such as stockpiled grazing, bale grazing, and swathgrazing, to name a few.

These management systems are often implemented for a number of reasons, including reducing costs. However, a key guiding principle remains the need to provide a source of feed or forage which adequately meets the nutritional requirements for the specific type or class of livestock.

Whether talking about a bale of hay or a forage swath in the field, it is absolutely essential to know exactly what you’ve got – both in terms of quantity and quality.

Undoubtedly, the provision of adequate forage and/or feed supply for animals through the winter months, and during the entire year, is critical. As temperatures drop and environmental conditions become less than desirable, beef cattle need to be able to consume enough feed to meet their needs. We can relatively easily measure or estimate tonnes of hay, pounds of forage per acre or kilograms of grain or supplement and match that against the number of animals relying on that feed source. It’s when we begin to assess the quality side of the equation that we may need to challenge our current methods. What we see with the naked eye when we look at a bale of hay or a handful of feed does not tell us enough.

Feed testing is an important component of any feeding program and is the only way to know the true nutritional value of a feed source or forage supply. A feed test can determine how that feed or forage may affect the animals and assist us as managers to balance supplies with animal requirements.

quality we are referring to the amount of energy, fibre, protein, minerals and vitamins that are available. Each of these elements is essential for maintenance and productivity of the beef animal.

The most common measure of energy is Total Digestible Nutrients (TDN). As an example, the average beef cow requires 55 percent TDN during mid-pregnancy, 60 percent during late pregnancy and 65 percent after calving. One misconception when considering winter management of beef animals is that as temperatures drop, a beef cow will simply eat more to meet her energy requirements. In many cases, due to the high fibre content of many low energy forages, a cow can not eat enough to meet her energy needs.

The higher the fibre in the feed source, the longer it takes to digest and consumption becomes limited. It is in this situation that we see animals with lots of feed in front of them yet requirements are not being met. Forages harvested at late stages of maturity and exposed to weathering should be tested for neutral detergent fibre (NDF) levels to assess any potential intake limitations.

Forages contain varying amounts of protein, energy and minerals depending on the stage of growth when harvested, growing environment, harvesting conditions, and variety (i.e. legume, grass or straw). As shown in Table 1, the nutrient content of alfalfa is different from brome grass which is different from barley straw. If we understand the needs of the animal and what is available in the feed or forage, we can develop a management strategy that balances the two. For example, with this knowledge we can add higher quality forage to the diet or supplement with grain or pellets if more energy is required.

Table 1. Average forage feed values

When talking about feed or forage

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JANUARY 2012

Science and Production Table 2. Sampling Procedures

(100% dry matter) Crude Protein (% dry matter)

Forage Alfalfa hay, early Alfalfa hay, late Brome grass hay Barley straw

18 16 10 3

Total Digestible Nutrients (% dry matter) 59 53 55 46

Sample Grains

Silage

Source: Bodycote Testing Group, Adapted from NRC Nutrient Requirements for Dairy Cattle, 1993.

When sampling feeds for testing and nutrient analysis, it is important to take a representative sample from the feed source. Table 2 provides general recommendations for sampling of various feed types. Each type of feed should be analyzed separately. Forage samples should be taken from a number of bales and the more variable each type of hay is, the more samples that should be taken.

A feed probe works best for collecting samples but isn’t necessary. Along with your sample you will need to complete an information form as to the type of sample, type of livestock being fed and the analysis desired.

Hay/Forages

Procedure 1. 3 samples/truck load 2. 10-12 probes per bin 1. Probe 15-20 locations in silo/pit 2. Grab Sample: 5-6/feeding for 3 feedings. Collected samples should be kept refrigerated or frozen in air tight bags.

1. 15-20 locations in stack 2. Greater than 20 bales: sample 10% of number of bales 3. Less than 20 bales: sample all bales.

4. Combine all samples into a final sample volume the size of bread and submit for testing.

Feed testing is an extremely valuable and low-cost management tool for all beef producers. When we know where deficiencies exist, we can be proactive and avoid any potential problems before they develop. By working with one of the many nutritionists, agrologists or veterinarians in your area you can make adjustments to your feeding or grazing program to provide a balanced diet meeting the nutritional requirements of the entire cow herd. The end result will be healthy, productive animals and an

economic bottom line that makes wise use of the feed resources available on your operation. B Compiled by: Janice Bruynooghe, MSc, PAg Murray Feist, MSc, PAg Al Foster, PAg Saskatchewan Forage Council Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

1-877-371-4487 Fax: 306-538-4411 Kennedy Sk. parksidefarmandranch.com Email: parksideservices@sasktel.net

Grain & Silage Bunks

5 Bar Panels

Bale Feeders

Windbreak Panels Parkside Farm & Ranch also offers: Swinging gates, Bale Shredder Bunks, Texas Gates, 30’ HD Calf Shelters, and Feed Box Feeders.

We do custom projects as well, Please feel free to contact us with your ideas!!

JANUARY 2012

Hopper Cones & Steel Bin Floors

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 33

Association News and Reports 2011 Review of Canada’s Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster

by Reynold Bergen

improvement in feed efficiency translates to a 30% decrease in manure production, as well as a 30% reduction in methane production. Moving forward, continued improvements in feed efficiency through research investigating alternative feeding strategies, new feed development, improvements in genetics, and selection tools will all be essential to facilitating the growth and sustainability of the beef industry in a new realm of higher feed prices due to growing global food and fuel demand.

Canada’s Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster brings together Canada’s largest public and industry check-off research funding agencies, Agriculture and AgriFood Canada (AAFC) and the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC). Collaboration and investments under the Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster are focused on advancing research of priority to improve production efficiencies (65% of funding, 23 projects) and consumer confidence and beef demand (35% of funding, 9 projects).

Improved Production Efficiencies (65% of funds) The Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster has directed 18% of its funds to seven feed efficiency research projects. Feed is the single largest variable input cost in both cow-calf and feedlot production.

Feed efficiency of Canadian cattle has made marked progress. Cattle that took 3 to 5 years to finish in the late 1880s now reach the same finished weights in less than 24 months. Feed conversion ratios published in Canadian scientific literature improved by 40% between 1950 and 2001. At current feed prices, that historical rate of improvement in efficiency has been worth $8 million per year. Improving feed efficiency also has measurable environmental benefits; a 20% 34

The Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster has directed 19% of its funds to improve forage and grassland productivity. Because cow-calf production is pasture-based, feed costs are best addressed by both increasing forage productivity and reducing winter confinement feeding costs. In addition to providing wildlife and bird habitat, plant biodiversity, minimizing soil erosion, protecting watersheds, well-managed natural grasslands store more carbon in the soil than cropland or forested vegetation. In the project Reducing the Cost of Swath Grazing Cows by Increasing the Swathed-Crop Yield, Vern Baron (AAFC Lacombe) and collaborators at Alberta Agriculture are comparing different seeding dates and annual crops (eg. corn, barley, triticale) to identify strategies to maximize forage nutrient yield and minimize daily winter feeding costs for the cow herd. Preliminary results from this trial suggest that total winter feeding costs can be reduced by 27-45% by swath grazing corn or triticale compared to a traditional confinement fed control. This has significant implications for Canada’s beef industry, as reducing total winter feeding costs by as little as 1% would save Canada’s cow-calf sector $6 million annually.

The Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster has directed 22% of its funds to seven animal health, welfare and production limiting disease research projects. In the

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study Effect of Ventilation Management Strategies and Stocking Density During Transport on Trailer Microclimate and Calf Welfare, researchers at AAFC Lethbridge and the Universities of Calgary and Saskatchewan are building on previous industry funded research that examined the influence of current beef industry cattle transport practices (loading densities, time, distance and weather conditions in transit) on the risk of harm to newly weaned calves, feeder cattle, fed cattle and market cows. This study, which was the largest of its kind done globally under industry conditions, has found that at least 99.95% of cattle reach their destination with no identifiable problems of any sort. This has proven useful in countering unfounded and sensational activist claims to the contrary.

It has also helped to identify specific cattle populations that may benefit from modified transport practices. As a direct outcome of this research, the Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster project is examining whether modified trailer ventilation practices affect the incidence of respiratory disease in feedlot calves, which is a leading cause of death and treatment costs at feedlots. Reducing the death loss in feeder calves from 2% to 1.5% would save the Canadian beef industry more than $10 million annually in direct savings realized by reduced treatment and feed costs.

Consumer Confidence and Beef Demand (35% of funds)) The Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster has directed 9% of its funds towards food safety research projects. Scientists from Alberta Agriculture, AAFC Lethbridge and private industry (Feedlot Health Management Services) are studying The Impact of Wheat Distillers Grains on the Shedding of E. coli 0157:H7. This research addresses concerns that feeding wheat dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) to feedlot cattle may increase the risk of E. coli O157:H7. Cattle were fed finishing diets containing no DDGS, JANUARY 2012

Association News and Reports 22.5% corn DDGS, or 22.5% wheat DDGS. The research has found that diet did not affect the numbers of E. coli O157:H7 shed in manure, surviving in manure, or found on cattle hides at the end of the feeding period. This is good news for Canadian cattle feeders, given that saving 1 cent per pound due to reduced food safety recalls could save Canada’s beef industry $21 million per year. Notably, this research would likely not have been conducted in the US, where most finishing diets are based on corn rather than barley, and little wheat DDGS is used.

Likewise a 1% improvement in the value of cuts from the hip, chuck, brisket and shank is worth an estimated $39 million per year to Canada’s beef industry. The Beef Quality Audit is still underway, and is collecting information about the frequency of horns, carcass defects such as bruises and locations of injection site lesions.

The Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster has allocated 25% of its funds to four beef quality research projects.

Researchers from AAFC and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association are conducting a National Beef Quality Satisfaction Survey and Carcass Audit (BQU.01.09). The first stage of this project assessed Canadian consumer demographics and satisfaction with retail beef quality. Compared to previous surveys done in 1995 and 2001, the researchers found that consumers’ satisfaction levels have improved on measures of tenderness (76% in 2009 vs.

68% in 2001), juiciness (78% vs. 72%) and flavour (82% vs. 76%). This suggests that the beef industry has been moving in the right direction. This is important in that a 1% improvement in the value of cuts from the loin, rib and sirloin due to increased demand is worth an estimated $27 million per year to Canada’s beef industry.

Technology Transfer and Knowledge Dissemination For industry producers to adopt and profit from the scientific knowledge and technology developed through research, they must be aware of how the research could fit into their operation, and understand how to implement it. As an initial step to this end, the Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster is investing funding to develop and implement a Technology Transfer and Knowledge Dissemination plan. This is intended to encourage and cultivate technology transfer skills among the research community, make pertinent research available in a timely and user-friendly manner, and foster relationships between applied researchers and early research adopters so that the technology will move from the lab and into operations that stand to benefit. This will complement

These Beef Cattle Industry Science Cluster research projects, and others accounting for 7% of funding, will be concluded in 2013.

ongoing BCRC efforts to ensure that industry and policy makers are aware of the value and results of industry funded research, and ultimately help fill the technology transfer functions that were at one time carried out by federal and provincial agriculture departments.

The Beef Research Cluster is funded by the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to advance research and technology transfer supporting the Canadian beef industry’s vision to be recognized as a preferred supplier of healthy, high quality beef, cattle and genetics. B EIA Outbreak cont. from pg. 30

EIA was named a reportable disease in Canada in 1971 when a national control program was put in place. More information on the CFIA’s EIA control program can be found at: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/ anima/disemala/equianem/equianemproge.shtm For more information visit http://www. agriculture.gov.sk.ca/eia B

SSGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS DIRECTORS AT LARGE

THE EXECUTIVE

Harold Martens President/Director at Large Swift Current, SK

Phone: 773-6782

Doug Gillespie 1st Vice President/Director at Large Neville, SK

Phone: 627-3619

Shane Jahnke 2nd Vice President/Director at Large Gouldtown, SK

Calvin Knoss Past President/Director at Large Rockglen, SK Brooks Whitney Finance Chair Maple Creek, SK

JANUARY 2012

Heather S Beierbach, Maple Creek Ryan Beierbach, Whitewood Gerry Duckworth, Courval Helen Finucane, Regina Paul Jefferson, Humboldt ext 272 Roy Rutledge, Assiniboia Robin Wiggins, Fox Valley

ZONE CHAIR DIRECTORS Phone: 784-2899

Phone: 476-2512

Zone 1 - Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 4 - Zone 5 - Zone 6 - Zone 7 - Zone 12 -

Lloyd Thompson, Carnduff Blade Young, Tyvan Kelcy Elford, Caronport Brooks Whitney, Maple Creek Bill Huber, Lipton Brent Griffin, Elbow Keith Day, Lacadena Larry Flaig, Assiniboia

299-4512 532-4809 394-4211 584-2773 682-3139 642-5358 666-2103

AFFILIATE DIRECTORS

Garner Deobald - Charolais Affiliate, Hodgeville 677-2589 Tom Grieve - Cattle Breeders Affiliate, Fillmore 722-3504 Tara Fritz - SImmental Affiliate, Shaunavon 297-3147 Karla Hicks - Angus Affiliate, Mortlach 355-2265 Arron Huber - Shorthorn Affiliate, Lipton 336-2706

APPOINTED DIRECTORS

Dr. Andy Acton- Veterinary Advisor, Ogema 482-3786 245-3310 355-2335 662-4420 336-2684 854-2050 375-2934 266-2070

459-2422

SASKATCHEWAN CCA DIRECTORS Lynn Grant, Val Marie Pat Hayes, Val Marie Jack Hextall, Grenfell Reg Schellenberg, Beechy

298-2268 298-2284 697-3079 859-4905

Listings of email and fax numbers can be found on the SSGA website at www.skstockgrowers.com

Phone: 662-4420

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 35

Association News and Reports A Report From Harold Martens President, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association The management and herd health of the cowherd is very important and I believe producers today are managing their herds to improve the condition of their cows. Cattlemen who work with their local veterinarians to develop proper vaccination protocols for production limiting diseases like BVD, IBR and parasites, are realizing the benefits of improved herd health through heavier calves at weaning time.

The snow is here to stay and producers are settling in for the winter ahead. In the coming months, there are conferences and seminars being held across the province on issues such as cattle production, bull selection and animal nutrition. These meetings are extremely informative and will help producers make decisions about nutritional requirements for pregnant cows and feed rations for calves depending if they are destined for the feedlot or for grass.

In my last report I mentioned that what took five cows to produce in 1977, can be produced by four cows today. How has this happened? There are always impacts on an industry when the markets are depressed the way they have been since BSE. For producers to remain viable, they have been forced to adapt and become innovative. I think this starts with improved genetic selection of cows and with bulls being raised in purebred cattle herds. Commercial cattlemen are demanding bulls with disciplined birth weights ranging from 80 to 100 pounds, while increasing weaning weights. Improved sire selection ultimately improves the genetics of a cowherd, which results in higher quality replacement females and heavier feeder calves. All of this adds up to increased performance and quality in calves in the fall.

36

Implementing an effective trace mineral program into your herd management can result in improved overall herd fertility.

Cows that cycle in a shorter time frame after calving are more likely to breed back quickly, resulting in older calves at weaning time. Minerals can also lower the percentage of open cows, which positively impacts productivity.

Producers need to manage their cowherds to ensure that they are in optimal body condition for calving season. Nutrient intake requirements will vary depending on when calving starts and the size of cows. The only way to truly know the nutritional value of the feed being used is it to have it tested. The past two years have produced an abundant quantity of feed however, with that quantity came poorer quality. Feed testing is a cost effective management tool for producers to improve herd performance and minimize risk from nutritional deficiencies.

Studies show that when grass ripens in the fall, nutrient levels start to drop off. Keeping this in mind, an important decision for producers is when to wean their calves. Due to the loss of nutrients in the feed, sometimes for every pound the calf gains, the cow could be losing an equal or greater amount of weight. This leaves producers with a several options, wean the calf, sell it or supplement with extra feed. Making the correct decision will help cows successfully manage through the winter and be in optimal health to raise their next calf.

| ŠBEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

The most demanding issue in herd management is keeping the calf alive after it is born. Sometimes, despite doing everything right, Mother Nature brings a snowstorm or calves get scours. It’s in these times it would often be easier to stay inside, do nothing and let survival of the fittest work it out. Most producers look after their calves like they would care for their own children. This includes early mornings and late nights to ensure the best result. On average, 86% of cows raise a calf to weaning. This is where there is an opportunity to improve the production of our cowherds. For every percent we can increase our weaning percentage, it results in an extra 10,000 live calves to sell in Saskatchewan. If producers could successfully raise 5% more calves to weaning, this would significantly increase producers bottom line.

Now is the time to talk to vets, feed suppliers, and analyze your bull needs for the coming breeding season. As well, it is time to cull cows that need to go, select replacement heifers for next year and investigate genetics that purebred programs offer so that cattle production is maximized.

I am very proud to represent the Saskatchewan cattle industry because we take pride in our work. We are the stewards of over twenty million acres of grasslands and three million beef cattle in our province. I think we do an excellent job and we should all be proud to be beef producers.

In the coming year, may all of your cows have a live calf and when you sell them, may you be as proud as I was when we sold our calves last year. The door for cattle producers in this province is open and there is a ray of optimism beginning to shine in, so go and give it your best shot. B

JANUARY 2012

R e g I s t e R yo u R P R e m I s e s I D t o D Ay

Protect your future, livelihood and your industry

Contact CCIA with your legal land description today to register your premises.

JANUARY 2012

toll-free at 1-877-909-2333 email info@canadaid.ca www.skstockgrowers.com | ŠBEEF BUSINESS |

37

Association News and Reports A Report From Chad MacPherson General Manager, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Association, Saskatchewan Hereford Association and Saskatchewan Simmental Association for sponsoring the social.

Canadian Western Agribition The 41st Annual Canadian Western Agribition was once again a great success.

The week was packed with meetings and industry receptions. One of this year’s highlights was the 4th Annual Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologist/ SSGA luncheon. This year we were very privileged to have CanFax analyst Brian Perillat as our guest speaker. Brian’s presentation highlighted some of the trends that are taking place in the beef industry. A few points of interest were:

Rangeland Scholarship The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association offers an annual scholarship of $1,000 to a Saskatchewan student pursuing an education in range management. The successful applicant or an immediate family member must be a member of the SSGA. Leadership, community involvement and academics will be considered. The SSGA Rangeland Scholarship was established through donations by members that were matched

by Saskatchewan Environment’s Fish and Wildlife Development Fund and has been in existence since 1995. Applications are being accepted until February 28th, 2012.

For more information visit http:/www.skstockgrowers.com.

VolunSteer The second annual VolunSteer fundraising campaign is wrapping up after another successful year. The premise of this initiative is to solicit livestock producers

to donate the proceeds from the sale of a single animal to the SSGA. In return producers will receive an SSGA annual membership, recognition in Beef Business magazine and at the SSGA Annual Meeting as well a tax receipt. To date this year we have received $5,500 in donations.

SK Beef Industry Conference The 3rd Annual SK Beef Industry Conference is being held January 17th – 20th, 2012 in Saskatoon. There is a broad range of speakers that should appeal to all cattle producers. For a full conference agenda visit www.saskbeefconference. com or to reserve a room please call (306) 242.1440.

The SSGA Semi-Annual Meeting will be held on Friday January 20th at 10 am. I would like to encourage everyone to attend and get involved in the SSGA policy making process.

Until next time I wish everyone a Happy New Year and a prosperous 2012. B

-Canadian beef production is down 9.8% from 2010.

-Canadian beef herd is currently 10% smaller than it was in 2003.

-Canadian beef imports are up 15.6% year to date.

-Western Canadian heifer retention is 8% higher than 2010.

-For every one cent decrease in the Canadian dollar equals a three cent per pound increase in calf prices.

The Commercial Cattle Mixer is a long standing event and without the the generous support of our sponsors this event would not be possible. I would once again like to thank the Canadian Angus Association and Young’s Equipment Ltd for sponsoring the beef on a bun meal.

Thanks also to the Canadian Red Angus Promotion Society, Man-Sask Gelbvieh Association, Saskatchewan Charolais

38

The SSGA recently conducted a survey of Saskatchewan beef producers regarding premises identification. The results of our survey showed that the majority of producers are in support of premises ID in Saskatchewan. However there is a large portion of producers that require additional information to make an informed decision.

For more information review the CCIA advertisement on page 3 or call your local CCIA representative.

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2012

Stewardship Can Seeding Native Grass be Economically Feasible?

Submitted by Leanne Thompson for SK PCAP

The right mix of native grasses can produce permanent cover that will remain productive throughout highly variable grazing and weather conditions for generations. Native grasses also provide excellent habitat for a diversity of wildlife. However, the perception of many land-owners is that the cost of seeding native species may be prohibitive.

The economics of seeding native grass was one of the many topics discussed last year at the Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan’s 2011 Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop in Regina, SK. Richard McBride with Ducks Unlimited Canada provided an overview of considerations for those interested in seeding native species.

McBride’s presentation provided some background information about the native seed industry as well as some comparisons with tame forage species. He pointed out a number of considerations that will affect the bottom line when looking at different forage species. On the positive side, native species are more sustainable over the longterm so less money may be spent on seed in the long-term and once established, native grass stands require very few inputs and can remain productive for decades. By comparison, tame species normally require fertility inputs, and will require more frequent re-seeding.

However, native species can be more expensive to establish in the short term due to the fact that native seed is generally more expensive and is less competitive when compared to tame species. Because of this, an additional year or two may be required to properly establish native species. In addition, cover crops are not recommended when seeding native grasses, so a year of no production is part of the establishment cost when using native species.

Many producers ask “Why is native seed so expensive?” The higher cost of native seed can be attributed to a number of factors: • Often more difficult to produce than tame seed • Relatively low germination, high dormancy • Light, fluffy, chaffy seed • Low seed yields and harvest difficulties (seed shattering) • Specialized equipment often required (seeding and harvest) • Limited number of experienced growers • Poor production year can result in no seed Given these difficulties, are there some ways that producers who are interested in seeding native species can minimize expenses? McBride provided some suggestions regarding ways to manage costs including: • Carefully choose the species you want to use • Find suppliers (always choose the best quality, locally adapted seed) • Get price quotes on all seed species • Build a spreadsheet to calculate the cost/acre for each seed species in your mix

Native grass re-seeded area near Allan, SK. Photo courtesy of Richard McBride, DUC

JANUARY 2012

McBride also provided some insight into the future of native seed prices. He suggested that for the current situation to change, stronger demand will be

necessary. Government programs or other incentives that encourage the seeding of native species may also come into play. A difficulty with this industry is that due to the long-lived nature of these stands, seed for a given area is purchased very infrequently. Another hurdle is that there is currently little interest in native species by plant breeders and so there is a lack of research and work on these species.

One way producers can help improve the situation is to ask seed suppliers about native species. If there is demand for native seed, suppliers will be more likely to carry them. Also, interested producers should speak to their government representatives about restoring forage breeding efforts. Encouraging large scale seed production such as the Ecovar program should also increase the availability of native seed on the market as well as reduce the price of this commodity.

Seeding native species need not break the bank. Having a detailed management plan that includes choosing the best adapted species mix, doing some homework on seed availability and prices, and talking to suppliers can help ensure that the cost of revegetating with native species is minimized.

The Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan is hosting the second Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop on February 8 & 9, 2012 in Saskatoon, SK. This workshop will be an excellent opportunity to learn more about seeding native species and provide networking opportunities with native seed growers and distributors from across the three Prairie provinces. For workshop details and registration form, please visit the SK PCAP website at www.pcap-sk.org. B For more information on Ecovar please visit the DUC website at www.ducks.ca

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 39

DIAMOND M RANCH Annual Bull & Female Sale February 12th, 2012,

at the Ranch, West of Estevan, SK

Selling 45 coming 2 year old Simmental and Simmental/Angus Bulls and Simmental/Red Angus Commercial Open Heifers.

All the bulls come from many generations of red or black genetics. Performance, maternal, and calving ease bulls that are semen tested and guaranteed.

40

Diamond M Ranch Visitors Jordan, Amber, Sasha and Sierra Mantei Welcome!

PO Box 87, Estevan SK S4A 2A2 Ph: (306) 634-2971 Jordan’s cell: (306) 421-1915 email: diamondmranch@sasktel.net Located 1 1/2 mile west of Estevan on Hwy 39

| ŠBEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2012

Calendar of Events January 18-19 January 18-20 January 19 January 20 January 20 January 20 January 28 February 4 February 8-9 February 10 February 11 February 12 February 24 February 27 March 2 March 3 March 4 March 5

January 2012 Cattleman’s Corral Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference SCA Annual General Meeting SSGA Semi-Annual Meeting SLA Annual General Meeting SCFA Annual General Meeting MC Quantock Bull Sale February Hill 70 Quantock Ranch “Barn Burnin Bull Sale” PCAP Native Prairie Restoration Workshop March Advertising Deadline Soderglen Ranch Bull Sale Diamond M Ranch Bull Sale Early Sunset Bull Sale Muirhead Cattle Co. Simmental Bull Sale March Labatte Simmentals Annual Bull & Female Sale McMillen Ranching Production Sale R Plus Simmental Bull Sale Ashworth Farm & Ranch and Guests Bull Sale

SSGA

Lloydminster, SK Saskatoon, SK Saskatoon, SK Saskatoon, SK Saskatoon, SK Saskatoon, SK Lloydminster, SK

Meeting Notice SSGA SEMI-ANNUAL MEETING January 20, 2012 10:00 AM Saskatoon Inn (Manitoba Room), Saskatoon, SK

Lloydminster, SK Saskatoon, SK

1st Call For Resolutions Please Submit resolutions to: the SSGA office

Airdrie, AB Estevan, SK Estevan, SK Shellbrook, SK

Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4

Phone: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 email: ssga@sasktel.net

Moose Jaw, SK Carievale, SK Estevan, SK Regina, SK

For a full SK Beef Industry Conference agenda visit www.saskbeefconference.com

Advertiser Index 43

Grayson & Co.

44

Paysen Livestock

4

Allen Leigh Security & Communications

44

Highline Manufacturing

14

Pfizer Animal Health

48

Arm River Red Angus

43

Hill 70 Quantock Ranch

17

Prairie Habitats

44

Ashworth Simmentals

22-23

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

44

Quality Starts Here/Verified Beef

31

Jackson Designs

45

R Plus Simmentals

12

Abe’s Signs

Beef Improvement Opportunities/Fort Supply

20

John Brown Farms

43

45

Rosetown Flighting Supply

Best Western Plus Inn & Suites

43

Johnstone Auction

Saskatchewan Angus Assoc.

Bill Laidlaw Chartered Accountant Professional Corp.

45

44

43

Kyle Welding & Machine Shop Ltd.

45

Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

21

Canadian Cattle Identification Agency

3

Labatte Simmentals

9

Saskatoon Processing Company

44

Lane Realty Corp.

16, 43

Silencer Canada Inc.

7

Linthicum Herefords

43

Sittler Composting

45

Man-SK Gelbvieh

45

Soderglen

46-47

Masterfeeds

44

Solar West

44

McMillen Ranching Ltd.

18

Southern Trail Trailer Sales

43

Meyers Norris Penny

29

Superior Livestock Auction

44

Muirhead Cattle Co.

2

Terra Grain Fuels

43

Nature Saskatchewan

15, 44

Western Litho

45

Nerbas Bros. Angus

44

Weyburn Inland Terminal

45

New Vision Agro

45

Young’s Equipment

45

Northstar Seed Ltd.

44

Parkside Farm and Ranch

33

Canadian Western Agribition

27

Cargill Animal Nutrition

45

Cattle Care

45

Chartop Charolais

43

Cowtown Livestock Exchange, Inc.

43

Diamond M Ranch

40

Early Sunset Ranch Elanco Animal Health

42 43

Feed Rite

44

Frostfree Nose Pumps

45

GelbviehWorld.com

44

Gibson Livestock

44

JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 41

Zone

7

Annual General Meeting

$20

Elrose Community Hall

starts at 5:00pm (happy hour) and includes roast beef supper and refreshments

Elrose, SK

Guest speakers Harold Martens - SSGA President Grant Zalinko - SMA Cattle Analyst

February 16, 2012 Best Western Plus Inn & Suites

105 George Street West Swift Current, SK S9H 0K4 888-773-8818 (306) 773-4660

“Saskatchewan’s Farm & Ranch Specialists”

BL BILL LAIDLAW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT PROF. CORP.

For all of your buying or selling needs...

Contact one of our Farm & Ranch Specialists today!

To view our properties visit our website at: www.lanerealtycorp.com

Ph: 306-569-3380

BILL LAIDLAW CA.CFP.

Chartered Accountant

Fax: 306-569-3414

604 Government Road S. Weyburn, SK S4H 2B4 Ph: 306.842.5344 Fax: 306.842.5345 Bill@BillLaidlaw.ca

Super Edge™ flighting for grain augers, combines, & seed cleaning plants.

Left and right hand available in all sizes. Helicoid & Sectional

Complete Auger Repairs ROSETOWN FLIGHTING SUPPLY Rosetown, SK

Phone 1-866-882-2243 • Fax 1-306-882-2217 www.flightingsupply.com rfsdealerinfo@sasktel.net EXCELLENT PREPAID FREIGHT RATES - BC $25 AB/MB $19 SK $18 (per order) NO FREIGHT CHARGES: One size 75 feet & over Multiple sizes - 100 feet & over

OVERNIGHT DELIVERY TO MAJOR CENTRES

Chartop Charolais Glen and Lyn Sauder Box 569, Gull Lake, SK S0N 1A0 Ph: (306) 672-3979 Fax: (306) 672-4347 Purebred CHAROLAIS & RED ANGUS Bulls for Sale Commercial Herd * Visitors always welcome

Division of Eli Lillly Canada Inc.

nks .

Your AD could be here!

Contact Tracy Cornea at 306-693-9329

CT

Cowtown Livestock Exchange Inc. Maple Creek, SK

Regular Sales every Tuesday @ 11:00 a.m.

Locally Owned & Operated Call for info on Presort & Other Sales Phone 306-662-2648 Toll Free: 1-800-239-5933

www.cowtownlivestock.com

Linthicum Herefords Bulls and Heifers for Sale

Frank (306) 266-4417

Murray & Jan (306) 266-4377

Glentworth, SK

Roger Meyers Sales Representative Southern Saskatchewan Box 153, Minton, SK Cell: 306-221-1558

www.elanco.ca JANUARY 2012

(306) 567- 4702

Box 688, Davidson, SK S0G

Call (306) 345-2280 or visit www.terragrainfuels.com for more information.

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 43

    

  

 

Your AD could be here!

Contact Tracy Cornea at 306-693-9329

RYAN GIBSON BUS: 306-692-9668 CELL: 306-631-0070 FAX: 306-692-3252 TOLL-FREE: 1-800-667-7176

Deadstock Removal

 

3018 Miners Ave. Saskatoon, SK S7K 4Z8 Phone (306) 934-4887 Toll-free 1-800-803-9714



®

a Tradition of Quality in Animal Nutrition

Programs for the Canadian Cattleman!

Purebred, Commercial, Backgrounding & Feedlot For more information please contact

Janie Jensen – Beef Sales Manager at 306-535-0969 Jerry Glab 306-891-8914 Tony Chandriuk 306-540-8774 306-231-3233 Krystal Nordick Jack Wagman 306-536-1004 Performance Feed, Pellet, and Mineral Programs, Supplements

GRAYSON & COMPANY

BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS 350 Langdon Cres. Moose Jaw Founded 1883

306-693-6176

www.graysonandcompany.com

General Practice

Branch Office in: Central Butte - (306) 796-2025

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Swift Current Reservations: 306-773-8288 Swift Current’s Newest Hotel

Black Angus Bulls

Pick up your copy of your product catalogue at your local dealer.

www.nerbasbroangus.com

Shellmouth, MB CANADA 204-564-2540 All Sales by Private Treaty

Canadian Livestock Auction. Ltd.

Prairie Habitats

RURAL & URBAN LAND ENHANCEMENT

• Shallow Water Line & Underground Cable Installation • Tree Moving • Tree Planting • Zero Drift Spaying • Grass & Legume Seeding • Soil Testing & Fertilizer Blending • Solar/Electric Pumps • Reclamation • Fencing • Consulting 1526 Hochelage St. W. Clint B. Sanborn Moose Jaw, SK S6H 7P9 e-mail: prairiehabitats@sasktel.net

Quality You Can TrustSeed Ltd Northstar Humboldt

Forage Seed Saskatoon Current CornSwift Seed Lawn Seed

Neil McLeod 306-831-9401 44

Tel: 306-693-7803 Cell: 306-631-0529

WIRELESS COW CAM

Makes your calving easier safer and more PROFITABLE! Pricing from $450.00 - $2,275.00

800-947-9186 888-681-4111 877-881-1455 Save 100's of trips to the barn!

Saves 3-5 calves per year!

Stop disturbing them while they calve!

Gives you better quality of life! since 1996

www.CowCam.ca Brandon, MB PH: 1-866-289-8164

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Northstar Seed Ltd “Come Grow With Us”

Forage Seed Corn Seed Lawn Seed Neil McLeod

306-831-9401 JANUARY 2012

All types of commercial and purebred livestock auctions and farm sales.

Wash rack facilities for livestock

www.johnstoneauction.ca

Wayne or Scott Johnstone Box 818, Moose Jaw, SK 306-693-4715 (Bus) 306-693-0541 (Res) Fax 306-691-6650

www.kylewelding.com Box 310, Kyle, SK S0L1T0

Candace Schwartz 306.772.0376 Sasha Veitch 306.716.0924 candace@jacksondesigns.ca www.jacksondesigns.ca

catalogues, ad design, event photography, magazine design & layout, posters and more!

306-375-2271

Over 60 years of service!

Galvanized Water Tanks From 100 to 4100 gal.

Livestock Water Troughs - From 400 to 1250 gal.

Helen Finucane office: 306-775-1443 cell: 306-537-2648 phone: 306-584-2773 Carlyle, SK

CATTLE CARE 1A 1081 Central Ave N • Swift Current, SK S9H 4Z2

888-773-5773 • www.cattlecarevet.com

Johnson Concrete Cattle Waterers

“The Best Name in Cattle Waterers” Waterers and parts in stock

NEW VISION AGRO Box 479 Hague, SK S0K 1X0

Your AD could be here!

PH: (306) 225-2226 FX: (306) 225-2063

email: newvisionagro@sasktel.net www.newvisionagro.com

Contact Tracy Cornea at

Dealer & Distributor For:

306-693-9329

- Jay-Lor Vertical Feed Mixers - Feed-Rite - Cargill Nutrena Feeds - Baler twine, netwrap, silage bunker, covers, plastic wrap, inoculant ®

AARON BOHN Pro-Pellet Division

Compost Turners, Spreaders, Screeners, Baggers

Weyburn Inland Terminal Ltd. Box 698, Weyburn Saskatchewan, Canada S4H 2K8 Sask. Toll Free 1-800-552-8808 Tel: (306) 842-7436 Fax: (306) 842-0303 Cell: (306) 861-1757 email: a.bohn@wit.ca www.wit.ca

JANUARY 2012

Brent Hansen Environmental 204-726-3335, www.globalrepair.ca

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 45

Soderglen Select 2012 Feb. 11th

45 BLACK MAX BULLS

20 CHAROLAIS BULLS

50 RED MAX BULLS

“We purchased several Soderglen sires over the last few years both private treaty and at the sale. The bulls stand up to their data. We have seen less than 1% of the calves actually born and they “get up and grow”. The calves have done well backgrounding and have sold well as feeders and replacements.

The bulls have had good balance and are aggressive breeders and the customer support has been great. We are happy customers and will definitely be back.”

Sean McGrath, Vermilion, AB

“We want to express our appreciation to all of you at Soderglen Ranches for the excellent service you have provided over the past years. Since 2004 we have bought 134 bulls and have improved quality, consistency in our cow herd and weaning weights. The care you take with us as customers and the bulls your provide are second to none! Soderglen’s ranch raised bulls adapt to our rugged climate and ranching conditions in north eastern British Columbia. We enjoy doing business with you and look forward to our future ventures.”

The Gang from Rafter G Land & Cattle Co., Fort St. John, BC

SODERGLEN RANCHES LTD., AIRDRIE, AB PHONE: 403-948-6700 46

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2012

225 BULLS ON OFFER

20 CCM BULLS

45 RED & BLACK ANGUS BULLS

45 RED & BLACK SIMMENTAL BULLS

“We rely on Soderglen bulls to breed our heifers. You can rely on Soderglen’s identification of heifer bulls. We found that the calves come easy, are robust at birth while achieving reasonable growth.”

Stan Church, Calgary, AB

“Having been in the cattle auction business most of my life I find the Soderglen Bull Program to be one of the most respected in the industry. Time and time we see the Soderglen stamp on hundreds of calves that sell through our rings each year bringing market topping prices consistently.”

Blair Vold, Ponoka, AB

"Westwood Land & Cattle Ltd has purchased over 120 bulls in the past ten years as well as a number of commercial females from Soderglen. The cattle, the people, and the program in general are second to no others in the industry.”

Kevin Woods, Moosomin, SK

WWW.SODERGLEN.COM EMAIL:CATTLE@SODERGLEN.COM JANUARY 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 47

(3-WAY INTRANASAL)

NEW INFORCE™ 3.

PROTECTION FOR BABY CALVES WHERE AND WHEN IT’S NEEDED.

BRSV protection has never been this good. This new 3-way intranasal vaccine actually prevents disease caused by BRSV while dramatically reducing IBR disease and almost completely eliminating PI3 shedding. And it’s safe enough to use in all classes of cattle, regardless of age.

Make sure your protection is INFORCE. B

Safety and efficacy studies on file.

INFORCE™ 3 is a trademark of Pfizer Products Inc., Pfizer Canada Inc., licensee.

INF JADP02 0811 E INFO-014

www.plp-cattle.ca