Beef Business January 2023

Carl Block

In 1997, a year before CCIA was formed, a group of producers, consultants and business experts, led by the late Carl Block began to lay the groundwork for an agency that would

blaze the trail to traceability.

Carl, a well-known Saskatchewan cattle producer, was named board chair of the fledgling Canadian Cattle Identification Agency and he was joined by others with a stake in the game. Built by industry for industry – the legacy of CCIA’s earliest pioneers continues today.

To learn more about our proud history and the people who roll up their sleeves for animal health and food safety, visit canadaid.ca.

A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) Publication

General Manager: Chad MacPherson

Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 Email: gm@skstockgrowers.com Website: www.skstockgrowers.com

Managing Editor: Kori Maki-Adair

Tel: 403-680-5239 Email: kmaa@shaw.ca

Agri-business Advertising Sales: Diane Sawatzky Tel: 306-716-4271 Email: sales@skstockgrowers.com

Livestock Advertising Sales: Layne Giofu Tel: 306-690-9543 Email: livestocksales@skstockgrowers.com

Subscriptions

Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 Email: office@skstockgrowers.com Subscription Rate: One year $26.50 (GST included) Published five times per year

Design and Layout: Jackson Designs | Candace Schwartz

Tel: 306-772-0376 Email: candace@jacksondesigns.ca

Prairie Conservation Action Plan (PCAP)

Manager: Carolyn Gaudet 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 edit manuscripts. Contents of Beef Business may be reproduced with written permission obtained from SSGA's General Manager, and with proper credit given to Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association. Articles submitted may not be the opinion of SSGA. 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, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4

Reflections on 30 Years of the Agri-Ed Showcase

Kori Maki-Adair

Since only three percent of Canada’s population have direct ties to the family farm, many Canadians are unfamiliar with modern agriculture practices. As a result, it has become increasingly important for the livestock industry to connect with consumers to share the story behind beef — especially, the dedication and care Saskatchewan producers put into to their livestock.

For three decades, Sherri Grant has done exactly that by working with industry partners to ensure information on beef production reaches school children, educators and parents through the Agri-Ed Showcase at Saskatoon’s Ag Experience, Regina’s Canadian Western Agribition, Yorkton Grain Millers Harvest Showdown, Prince Albert Ag Education Showcase, Ag Adventures in Regina, Agriculture in the City in Saskatoon, Colonial Days in Lloydminster and Discover the Farm in Swift Current.

To celebrate her 30 years as an invaluable industry advocate and communications specialist, Beef Business invited Sherri Grant to reflect on her involvement with the Beef Booth at the Agri-ed Showcase ahead of her retirement this spring.

Public speakers and students often say the best educators are clear, concise and factual, which is why we will first lean on Sherri’s social media account to introduce her.

Twitter allows each user a maximum of 160 characters to setup a profile bio. Sherri Grant’s Twitter bio uses half of that allotment to describe her as a “Rancher, leadership coach and trainer, passionate about ag education and gut health!”

To provide a bit more context about her subject matter interest and expertise, we will add that Sherri was raised on a mixed farm near Edam. She earned a degree in home economics and married her husband Lynn Grant before moving to his home outside Val Marie. Today, the Grants run a cow-calf, backgrounding and yearling operation on 20,000 acres

of native grassland and 6,000 acres of dry land and irrigated land for hay, greenfeed and annual cereal crops.

Beef Business (BB): How and why did you get involved in Agri-Ed?

Sherri Grant (SG): Joan Perrin, then with the Beef Information Centre, asked if I would be willing to help out with food demonstrations and the student education program at Canadian Western Agribition. I was first involved in Agri-Ed in 1992.

BB: What changes have you noticed over the history of the program?

SG: When I began, there was one event in Saskatoon and Agribition in Regina. Originally, there were multiple booths with one focused on food demonstrations with messaging on grading quality and nutrition; while, the Agri-Ed Showcase focused on beef production messaging for children. I was involved for the first few years only; though, the food demonstrations continued as long as Joan was involved in the program.

From around 1992 until 2009, Joan organized two to three speakers to go into classrooms, before the events occurred in each city, to provide a 45-minute presentation called: “From pasture to plate.”

After 2002, a traveling display was built, and the program was expanded to events in Prince Albert, Swift Current, Saskatoon, Yorkton and Regina. However, limited resources meant the pre-event presentations in classrooms were discontinued. The programs presented outside of Regina connect with over 3,000 students, annually.

BB: After 15 years, the program information was launched in a new format. What prompted the change?

SG: In 2008, we recognized that children were not understanding the concept of cattle being ruminants; so, we began work

on transferring the “From pasture to plate” presentation into an informative children’s book Where Beef Comes From to provide children with a resource to take home with them.

The book outlines the birth-to-plate process of beef production through colour photos of cattle and ranchers that make it appealing to all ages. First published in 2010, the book is now available in English and French.

As technology has advanced we have upgraded from question and answer boxes, to tablets with a fun interactive quiz that tests everyone’s knowledge about beef today. It is the rare producer that goes through without missing one of the nutrition questions.

BB: How did the pandemic affect the program’s outreach?

SG: In 2020, when COVID shutdown inperson events, we developed a virtual platform and updated beefeducation. ca, which is a known, quality resource for teachers across Canada to access accurate information that is integrated with curriculum. This online resource has expanded our reach beyond those who can attend an in-person event.

The Canadian Western Agribition program hosts nearly 10,000 students through the week-long event, and has maximized its capacity based on bus limitations. Agribition has increased their

Agri-Ed Program Expert Sherri Grant Val Marie, Saskatchewan

commitment to providing student access to the education component of their event. The Agri-Ed Showcase has occupied many locations over the years — including, a tent; and for many years, the Lower Agri dome; and this year, one of the arenas.

I believe that industry has become increasingly aware of the necessity of finding ways to share Where Food Comes From in every public experience possible.

What are the biggest successes of the program?

SG: I feel the biggest success is how it has addressed the misconceptions of students and teachers about agricultural production practices in Canada. Topics addressed: beef cattle as ruminant that up-cycle low quality forage into highquality protein; nutrient density; the symbiotic relationship of cattle and grasslands; producers as stewards of animal care and welfare; environmental impacts; and the Canadian beef production supply chain. In addition, we share resources and ideas with other commodities and species communicating with children.

All (Agri-Ed Showcase) volunteers complete the Beef Advocacy Canada program, and are provided with a list of commonly-asked questions and resource materials to review before arriving, to ensure they are providing accurate information.

BB: Looking back over three decades, what are your personal highlights?

It is always a highlight when I speak with teachers that have attended one of the events as students and are now excited to share their experiences with their own students.

It is also a joy to speak with curious students that are full of questions; and, it’s a welcome surprise when they return to the booth with their parents to show them all the things they have learned.

On the personal side, highlights include having my daughter-in-law Avery Grant co-write the book Where Beef Comes

From, and more recently, having my grandchildren teaching alongside me as they see the importance of learning and sharing their knowledge of our industry.

BB: Thankfully, preparing for this article involved eating copious amounts of Saskatchewan beef over the years, visiting the Beef Booth at Agribition, reading Sherri’s book Where Beef Comes From, visiting the online resources she produced at beefeducation.ca and even clicking the link to test my beef IQ.

Though it more than quintuples Sherri’s Twitter-bio character count, I offer several key messages — gleaned from the Agri-Ed resources Sherri has crafted and re-crafted over the years — in what marketing specialists call “a 30-second elevator pitch.”

These 466 characters are intended to be used for connecting with consumers, to continue Sherring the story of dedication and care that Saskatchewan producers put into to their livestock:

SK beef producers provide high-quality, animal health care to cattle, which feed on silage, hay, barley, minerals and supplements; and graze on grasslands that are unsuitable for producing food for humans. Grass-fed cattle prevent erosion and maintain soil health with their manure, while converting the feed and grass they eat into nutritious meat naturally-loaded with zinc for growth, iron for energy, protein for muscle-building and vitamin B12 for brain health.

Thank you for creating this legacy for our industry, Sherri Grant.

B

REFERENCES

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association

https://skstockgrowers.com/agri-ed/

Saskatchewan Beef Education https://www.beefeducation.ca/

Keep Your Information Up To Date

The Saskatchewan Premises Identification (PID) system is an integral part of Canada’s traceability system. Having up-todate information allows the industry to accurately prepare for, respond to and recover from animal health emergencies. To update your account information, either login to your account or contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

saskatchewan.ca/livestock

It’s time to expand your feedlot knowledge base!

Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association, Government of Saskatchewan and University of Saskatchewan will be jointly hosting the 25th Western Canada Feedlot Management School at the Saskatoon Inn & Conference Centre from February 7-9, 2023.

This silver anniversary event agenda features guest speakers, virtual tours of Namaka Farms and P Cross Ranch, as well as hands-on demonstrations from experienced cattle feeders and trusted experts on markets, building nutrition

2023 Western Canada Feedlot Management School

programs, animal health, economics and the overall business of cattle feeding.

The Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association website entices potential registrants by introducing the opening speaker as someone that will get attendees thinking about how to motivate and inspire their teams, and bring out the best in everyone at work.

Some highlights of this three-day event include the pros and cons of feeding canola meal, using wheat in feedlot rations, a 2023 market update, building a bio-digester to harness the power of manure, battling with histophilosis,

programming the immune system, the changing landscape of bovine respiratory pathogens, cattle feeding in the carbon economy and incorporating by-products into feedlot rations.

Attendees must register in advance at www.saskcattle.com/events/2023wcfms-registration.html.

To learn more about the event or the block booking rate arrangements at Saskatoon Inn for your stay in the area, please contact Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association’s office by phone 306-969-2666 or email at office@saskcattle.com. B

Your competitive edge in a dynamic industry

To stay competitive and profitable, you are challenged to look at both sides of the equation – the day-to-day costs, trends, and influences on your bottom line, as well as the key operational considerations. Get the most from your livestock operation, with our help.

Scott Dickson, CA, Director of Livestock Services |

Stock Growers Launch 7th Annual Beef Drive on Behalf of Saskatchewan Food Banks

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) has launched its seventh annual Beef Drive for the Food Banks of Saskatchewan. This year’s goal is to surpass last year’s total by collecting more than 12,000 pounds in beef in addition to direct financial donations made by SSGA members.

It’s a tall order, but SSGA is confident the province’s beef producers will come through.

“The food banks rely on the people of Saskatchewan to help out their neighbours, and we’re happy to pitch in and do our bit,” said SSGA President Garner Deobald.

“This is something our members can do to help make sure people have enough good food to eat,” he said. “This is our seventh year donating healthy and nutritious Saskatchewan-grown beef in support of the province’s food banks and people in need.”

Cargill Ltd. is returning as this year’s Beef Drive sponsor. Cargill will match cash donations dollar-for-dollar up to $5,000.00.

“Now in our fifth year as a sponsor, we are grateful again to see the difference our industry can make when we work together to bring wholesome nutritious food to Saskatchewan food banks,” said Shannon Borden, Additives Commercial Leader, Canada, Diamond V.

Michael Kincade, Executive Director, Food Banks of Saskatchewan, commended SSGA on its seventh year of continued support to help feed Saskatchewan residents with food insecurities across the province when he said, “Farmers and ranchers have always stepped up and helped their neighbours and friends in times of need, and in 2022, they donated 11,519 pounds of ground beef which equates to more than $65,000 of beef.”

Communities across Saskatchewan will benefit from their kind donation of fresh meat, a hard to come by commodity in most food banks, Kincade said.

“We send a huge thank you out to Saskatchewan farmers, SSGA, Cargill and the processors for their generosity and commitment to provide an exceptional

source of protein to people who need it the most. Partnerships like this demonstrate the impact that can be achieved when we work together to address hunger in our communities,” he said.

SSGA initiated its first Beef Drive on World Food Day in the fall of 2016 as a way for beef producers to support the 36 food banks in Saskatchewan. Producers or individuals can donate an animal or make a cash donation to help cover the processing costs of the donated animals.

Saskatchewan’s beef producers have contributed generously during the six previous beef drives. To date, SSGA has collected more than 50,000 pounds of ground beef for the Food Banks of Saskatchewan. This amount of meat carries a retail value of almost a quarter million dollars.

For more information or to make a donation to the Beef Drive, please contact SSGA’s office at 306-757-8523 B

Census of Agriculture 2021 – Livestock

Terry Bedard

one-fifth (21 per cent) of cattle and calves in Canada.

The number of beef cattle in the province increased by 54,374 head, or 3.5 per cent, to one million head.

(NOTE: When Statistics Canada talks about the “Beef Herd,” that is equal to the total of beef cows plus beef heifers plus feeder heifers plus steers.)

The number of cattle and calves reported in Saskatchewan increased by 58,034 head from 2016 to 2021, for a total of 2.65 million.

129 farms that reported geese. Close to 10 per cent of the farms that report hens and chickens reported more than $1 million in operating revenue in 2020.

Saskatchewan is home to some of the world’s best livestock. The 2021 Census of Agriculture gave us a look at not only our major categories of livestock, but also some of the lesser-known ones.

Looking at some statistics from the 2021 Census of Agriculture for Canada, you’ll learn:

• For every milk-producing cow in Canada there were four beef cows. In Saskatchewan, the ratio was 39:1.

• Alberta and Saskatchewan top the provinces in livestock sales for beef cattle farms.

• Quebec and Ontario are top for dairy and milk farms.

• Manitoba is top for hog and pig farms.

• British Columbia and Nova Scotia are top for poultry and egg farms.

• Alberta had more feeder beef cattle than all other provinces combined at almost 550,000 head.

The number of cattle and calves reported in Saskatchewan increased by 58,034 head from 2016 to 2021, for a total of 2.65 million. Saskatchewan continues to report the second largest cattle herd in the country, following Alberta. The province accounts for more than

If we look at farms reporting cattle and calves by total operating revenues, the census shows 92.1 per cent of the farms reporting cattle and calves in 2021 reported less than $1 million in annual operating revenue in 2020. For farms reporting beef cows, 92.6 per cent reported less than $1 million in operating revenue.

The number of dairy cows in Saskatchewan was up 2.4 per cent from five years earlier and heifers for dairy herd replacement were also up 2.7 per cent. Over 99 per cent of the farms reporting dairy cows showed more than $1 million in operating revenue for 2020.

Saskatchewan ranked fifth in terms of number of pigs in Canada in 2021. The number decreased seven per cent from 2016 to 962,000 head in 2021.

Fifteen per cent of the farms that reported pigs in 2021 reported operating revenues of more than $41 million in 2020.

The number of broiler, roaster and Cornish birds on Saskatchewan farms increased by 714,231 birds, or 12.2 per cent. The number of laying hens increased by 136,849 birds or 12.6 per cent. The number of turkeys on farms decreased by more than 160,000 birds in the province. There were 221 farms that reported ducks and

The 2016 census of agriculture reported 52,850 head of bison (up 30.8 per cent from 2016); 5,507 head of elk (down 20.2 per cent); 731 head of deer (down 62.9 per cent); 23,467 head of horses and ponies (down 41.2 per cent); 11,842 head of goats (up 3.0 per cent); 106,059 head of sheep (down 8.0 per cent); and 1,281 head of llamas and alpacas (down 53.7 per cent).

The number of Saskatchewan farms reporting honeybees decreased by one to 373 and the number of colonies of honeybees increased by 9.7 per cent to more than 111,000. The volume of other pollinating bees also increased between 2016 and 2021. Eight per cent of farms reporting honeybee colonies reported more than $1 million in operating revenue in 2020.

But, what of livestock not listed on the Census form? Well, it seems Saskatchewan also has 95 yaks in the province, 725 farms contained wild boar as well as some fox, exotic mixed animals, exotic chickens, roosters, pheasants, peacocks, pigeons and doves, guinea fowl, quail and ratites.

Next time... let’s compare beef cattle operations! B

Research Economist Terry Bedard Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

SELENIUM & VITAMINS A, D & E DOSING HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER

One Oral Dose instead of multiple needles

Vitaferst-Care

is a convenient oral supplement designed to address the neonatal nutritional needs of calves, lambs and goat kids.

Draw off cap and oral syringe included with every bottle

To be administered after colostrum to avoid passive immunity impairment.

Vitaferst-Care’s Oral Formulation Includes: Selenium to promote growth Vitamin A to promote neonatal immunity Vitamin D to support growth and metabolism Vitamin E to stimulate the immune system

Vitamin B12 for cell growth and support of the immune system

Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame Announces 2023 Inductees

Reed Andrew

The Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame (SAHF) is proud to announce five exceptional individuals who will be inducted into the Hall later this spring. Making up the list of inductees for 2023 are Bill Huber, Kevin Hursh, Dorothy Long, John McKinnon and Laurie Tollefson.

“The 2023 inductees highlight the depth and commitment people have in improving and promoting Saskatchewan agriculture,” said Reed Andrew, president of the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame.

The inductees will be formally inducted into the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame at a ceremony in Saskatoon on Saturday, April 15, 2023. A brief overview of the recipients’ accomplishments is below:

Bill Huber has represented many agriculture programs across Canada and United States and has worked on many projects to improve agriculture policies, including his work as the president of

the Inland Terminals of Canada. He and his wife Jan have hosted numerous field days on their farm for farmers all over the world.

Kevin Hursh is known as the “trusted voice of agriculture.” As a journalist, Kevin revolutionized agriculture and farm reporting in the province as host of Farmgate with CTV Saskatchewan. Kevin now shares his knowledge through consulting and remains the go-to media and communications person for many agricultural industry organizations.

Dorothy Long uses her background in home economics to advance consumer knowledge by teaching about society’s connection to food and farming. Her passion for agriculture led her to being instrumental in organizing and guiding farm tours for dietitians, journalists and food writers with the goal of connecting rural and urban residents.

John McKinnon started his career as a beef specialist before diving into

academia. With a PhD in Animal Science, much of his beef nutrition research focused on the use of by-products. Throughout his career, his projects continually worked to improve efficiencies or lower production costs. John was also a founding organizer of the Western Canadian Feedlot Management School.

Laurie Tollefson recently retired from the role of director of Canada-Saskatchewan Irrigation and Diversification Centre, and continues to share his experience, knowledge and vision. He is one of the few Canadians to hold the position of vice-president of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage and he was instrumental in bringing the International Conference on Irrigation and Drainage to the province.

Join us to honour the inductees by attending the ceremony on April 15, 2023, at Prairieland Park in Saskatoon. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.sahf.ca

You can visit the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame Gallery on the upper level of the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon.

And the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal Goes to...

Kori Maki-Adair

The request for approval included Her Majesty’s review of the medal’s design and for the medal to be included in the Order of Precedence with other commemorative medals of the Canadian Honours System.

Essentially, the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal is a way for Saskatchewan to honour the late Queen Elizabeth II by awarding the medal to recipients across the region during the Government of Saskatchewan’s Jubilee year commemorations.

be of any age or background, nominees for this prestigious award were required to be Saskatchewan residents that have made a notable contribution to society.

MLA Last Mountain Touchwood Travis Keisig presents Bill Huber with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (Saskatchewan) on December 10, 2022

Celebrating the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Accession to the Throne, which took place on February 6, 2022, the Office of the Governor General of Canada acquired the Queen’s approval in May for a medal that was created to honour the late Queen Elizabeth II for her service to Canada through a heritage award called the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal.

To ensure the medal was presented to worthy individuals within 2022, the Government of Saskatchewan partnered with several organizations across the province to select recipients across the province to ensure a wide distribution of medals.

The partners judged the nominations based on achievement and merit, as well as inclusivity and diversity of their communities. Members of the public were also invited to nominate individuals by sending their suggestions to their MLA or a partner organization within their community by October 22, 2022.

According to the Government of Saskatchewan website, though they could

On December 10th, as the Lieutenant Governor's designate, MLA for Last Mountain-Touchwood Travis Keisig presented the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal to Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Past President Bill Huber for his dedication and continued service to Saskatchewan agriculture. The Medal celebrates Huber's at-the-table involvement with numerous programs and policies that will continue to benefit the livestock value chain, government, domestic and international consumers for years to come.

B

Congratulations, Bill Huber!

REFERENCE

1. Government of Saskatchewan https://www.saskatchewan.ca/ government/heritage-honours-andawards/queen-elizabeth-ii-platinumjubilee-medal#nomination-criteria-andprocess

This circular medal is struck in copper and plated with nickel with a 32 mm diameter, suspended from a blue, red and white.

The blue represents Canada’s three seas. The red and white represent the colours of the National Flag of Canada and Royal Arms of Canada, while the white also represents platinum commemorating the Platinum Jubilee.

The front of the meal features the crowned effigy of Queen Elizabeth II with her Canadian Style and Title. The back of the medal bears the Saskatchewan Shield of Arms with the Queen’s Royal Cypher and dates of the reign at the top, separated by a pair of western red lilies (the provincial flower), and the phrase VIVAT REGINA (“Long live The Queen”) at the base.1

RETAIL MEAT PRICE SURVEY

as of December 28, 2022 ($/lb)

SUPERSTORE SOBEYS CO-OP SAVE-ON-FOODS SAFEWAY

Ground beef - lean $ 5.79 $ 4.99 $ 5.50 $ 7.50 $ 4.99

Cross rib roast $ * $ 7.99 $ 10.46 $ * $ 7.99

Rib roast $ 8.99 $ 14.99 $ 13.22 $ 19.49 $ 14.99

Outside round roast $ 12.99 $ * $ 8.41 $ 10.50 $ *

Inside round roast $ 11.99 $ * $ 9.61 $ 11.00 $ *

Ribeye steak $ 22.99 $ 20.99 $ 14.87 $ 23.05 $ 20.99

Round steak $ 11.99 $ * $ 12.48 $ 9.50 $ *

Sirloin steak $ 15.00 $ 6.99 $ 10.13 $ 13.00 $ 6.99

T-bone steak $ 19.00 $ * $ 15.97 $ 19.05 $ *

Tenderloin $ 32.00 $ * $ 19.39 $ 33.05 $ *

*These items were not in the display case on this date.

Alberta Weekly D1 & D2 Cows 2022 2021 2020 Source: CanFax 165.00 175.00 185.00 195.00 205.00 215.00 225.00 235.00

490.00

Price per tonne

7

4

1

390.00 Wk

440.00 Wk 10 Wk 13 Wk 16 Wk 19 Wk 22 Wk 25 Wk 28 Wk 31 Wk 34 Wk 37 Wk 40 Wk 43 Wk 46 Wk 49 Wk 52

Tool for Evaluating the Economic Value of Feeds Based on Nutrient Value

Beef Cattle Research Council | www.beefresearch.ca

The following calculator was developed by the Alberta Beef, Forage and Grazing Centre. It helps producers to determine the value of feed that they may be considering purchasing compared to the value of standard feeds.

When you don’t know the quality of feed on an operation, maintaining animal health and welfare can become significantly more difficult. Visual assessment of feedstuffs is not accurate enough to access quality and may lead to cows being underfed and losing body condition or wasting money on expensive supplements that aren’t necessary.

Two new decision-making tools, developed by the Alberta Beef, Forage and Grazing Centre, will help you use feed test results to flag potential nutritional problems, and identify the comparative economic value of different feeds based on their quality.

Why feed test?

• Avoid sneaky production problems, such as poor gains or reduced conception caused by mineral or nutrient deficiencies or excesses;

• Prevent or identify potentially devastating problems due to toxicity from mycotoxins, nitrates, sulfates or other minerals or nutrients;

• Develop appropriate rations that meet the nutritional needs of beef cattle;

• Identify nutritional gaps that may require supplementation;

• Economize feeding, and possibly make use of opportunities to include diverse ingredients;

• Accurately price feed for buying or selling.

Collecting feed samples

It is critical to collect a feed sample that is representative of the feed ingredients that you are testing. Any feed type that will be used to feed beef cattle can and should be analysed, including baled forages and straw, by-products, silage, baleage, grain, swath grazing, cover crops and corn.

Feed quality will change as the feeding season progresses. Samples should be taken as close to feeding or selling as possible, while leaving enough time for the results to come back from the lab.

A Tool for Evaluating Feed Test Results

This tool evaluates the ability of a single feed to meet basic nutritional requirements of different classes of cattle in different stages of production under normal circumstances. These results will not apply if cows are in poor condition, if the weather is extremely cold, wet or windy, nor does it account for the extra energy expenditure associated with swath grazing.

It is not intended for use in ration balancing, but rather to alert you to potential issues with individual feed ingredients. It is strongly recommended that the user seek advice from a balanced ration, or become familiarized with ration balancing software like CowBytes.

Step 1: Select Cattle Class — options are Backgrounding Replacements, Mature Cows, and Mature Bulls.

Step 2: Select Average Daily Gain in pounds/day (for Backgrounding), or Stage of Production (for Replacements, Mature Cows, and Mature Bulls).

Step 3: Enter Weight of cattle in pounds — acceptable ranges for Growing and Finishing are between 500 and 1000 pounds; for Replacements are 850 to 1150 pounds; for Mature Cows are between 1100 and 1600 pounds; for Mature Bulls are between 1800 and 2500 pounds; mid-ranges will round down (e.g., 550 rounds down to 500).

Step 4: Enter your own feed test results on a dry matter basis, starting with Dry Matter (DM, %) Select Cattle Class

cattle class”

Average Daily Gain (lbs/day)

cattle class”

Interpretation

Suitability of the feed is indicated by a colour-coded response. Green indicates that the feed is adequate to meet nutritional requirements. Yellow is within +/- 2.50% of TDN requirements, +/- 5.00% of CP requirements and 0.05% below mineral requirements. Red indicates the feed does not meet animal requirements.

The indicator colours are linked to the nutritional requirements of a specific animal type and stage of production. If the animal type or stage of production is altered, the colours of suitability for use can change. For example: nutritional requirements for a cow in late pregnancy are substantially higher than that of a cow in early gestation. A feed that is not adequate for one group may be satisfactory for a different animal type.

Calculations are based upon generally accepted “rules of thumb” derived from CowBytes, the National Research Council’s Nutrient Requirements for Beef Cattle, and Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.

This tool evaluates the ability of a single feed to meet basic nutritional requirements of different classes of cattle in different stages of production under normal circumstances. It is not intended for use in ration balancing, but rather to alert you to potential issues with individual feed ingredients.

Suitability of the feed is indicated by a colour-coded response. Green indicates that the nutrient is adequate to meet nutritional requirements. Yellow is within +/- 2.50% of TDN requirements, +/- 5.00% of CP requirements and 0.05% below mineral requirements. Red indicates the feed does not meet animal requirements.

One of the major benefits of feed testing is preventing costly and devastating problems before they start. Every season is different and some years there is an abundance of high-quality forage. Other years, there is a lack of available feed, or perhaps there is an abundance of low-quality forage, grain or grain by-products available that may look economical but can potentially pose significant risks if a feed analysis has not been performed or understood.

Feed is often bought on weight (e.g., by the tonne or by the bale) with little consideration of the economic value of feed quality. Especially when feed supplies are tight, comparing the economic value of different feed sources on a quality basis will help you stretch your feed dollars further while ensuring animal requirements are met.

The new Reference Feeds tool will help you do just that. Enter your feed test results to get the estimated “economic” value of the feed compared to your choice of reference feeds. The higher

the value, the higher the cumulative content of TDN and CP of the targeted feed, and thus the higher the feed value. The results will tell you which feeds have the best potential from an economic perspective to be used in the final formulation of a ration.

Reference Feeds

Reference Feeds

Target Feeds

Mixed Hay (example)

225 83 % 59 % 11.5 % $3,492.35 Positive $3,267.35

Corn (example) $ 100 50 % 40 % 15 % $5,835.53 Positive $5,735.53 $ % % % $0.00 $0.00

The impact on feed costs is divided into two parts. The first part is the column indicating Negative or Positive. If the Asking Price is lower than the calculated nutrient value, a “Positive” will occur in the first column. If that is the case, then you can consider this feed a good deal based on its nutrient composition. Get hands-on experience with these tools by trying

A Tool for Evaluating Feed Test Results

https://www.beefresearch.ca/tools/feed-testing-analysis-forbeef-cattle/#singleFeedContainer

Reference Feeds

https://www.beefresearch.ca/tools/feed-testing-analysis-forbeef-cattle/#ReferenceFeeds B

Year-End Interview with Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture

Chad MacPherson

crops, livestock and value-added sectors which provides valuable feedback to guide our final negotiations and help inform our program design.

We expect our Sustainable CAP programming to roll out as scheduled on April 1, 2023. Our goal is for a smooth transition between the current CAP programs and the new Sustainable CAP programs. The bottom line is that our farmers, ranchers and agri-businesses will continue to receive the programs and services they need to help them be profitable.

PART TWO: DROUGHT

BB: Drought continues to be a challenge for livestock producers in several regions of the province. Is the province planning to extend any enhancements to existing programs such as Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FWRIP) or consider additional drought assistance?

HDM: In 2021, we worked quickly to launch the Canada Saskatchewan Drought Response Initiative, which paid more than $277 million in supports for livestock producers.

In December 2022, Honourable David Marit, Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture, answered questions posed by Beef Business and Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) regarding the government’s policies, positions and vision for the livestock sector.

PART ONE: PROVINCIAL PRIORITIES

BEEF BUSINESS (BB): What are the Ministry of Agriculture’s priorities for the Saskatchewan livestock industry in 2023?

HONOURABLE DAVID MARIT (HDM): Ministers responsible for agriculture across Canada agreed in principle in July to a multilateral framework agreement for the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership (Sustainable CAP). Details of that agreement are being finalized, and Saskatchewan is also working on negotiating the bilateral agreement between our province and Canada. Sustainable CAP is the next five-year agricultural policy agreement, which will take effect April 1, 2023, replacing the current Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP).

We are currently conducting broad consultations with industry representatives from Saskatchewan’s

As a province, we need to keep the growth plan for 2030 a priority and agriculture is an important part of it.

BB: From your perspective, what are the biggest opportunities and challenges facing Saskatchewan’s livestock industry going into 2023?

HDM: While livestock producers benefited from better moisture conditions in some areas of the province this year, dry conditions are still a significant concern — most acutely in the southwest, which remains extremely dry. The shrinking beef cattle sector is one of the main challenges facing the industry going into 2023, and the decline in cow numbers, increase of heifers going on feed and the number of producers simply leaving the industry will be felt for a long time.

Opportunities do exist for growing the sector. We have large areas of land in this province best suited to livestock production — land which also helps to support biodiversity of the landscape, sequesters large amounts of carbon, and provides habitat for many at-risk species. The Ministry will continue to work with the livestock sector on programming that supports a sustainable and competitive sector, qualities which are both important for growth.

The Ministry of Agriculture staff are always monitoring weather and climatic conditions to ensure policies and programs remain responsive to the needs of the agriculture sector. However, producers’ primary line of defence continues to be our Business Risk Management program — AgriInvest, AgriStability and Crop Insurance. AgriInvest is a self-managed producergovernment savings account designed to help manage small income declines and make investments to manage risk and improve market income.

AgriStability helps protect farmers and ranchers against production loss, increased costs, or market conditions. In the last five program years, Saskatchewan producers have received more than $435 million in benefit payments. Our Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation continues to offer robust Crop Insurance coverage, year after year. I would encourage all producers to take advantage of the forage insurance programs available, particularly the Forage Rainfall Insurance Program (FRIP).

As well, Livestock Price Insurance (LPI) is always a reliable safeguard against potentially declining market prices. Negotiations are ongoing, so we cannot

Honourable David Marit Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture

release any details yet, but we are pleased to continue partnering with the federal government to offer LPI through the 2028 program year.

In 2021, we were able to make improvements to FRWIP to respond quickly to drought conditions. This included enhancements to funding and extending the enhanced funding application deadline to give producers more time to complete projects such as dugouts, wells and pipelines.

Under Sustainable CAP, Saskatchewan is still in the program design phase for FRWIP, and we hope to be able to announce more information about our programming early next year, but I can confirm that FRWIP will remain available for the next five years under Sustainable CAP.

As we monitor conditions in the coming year for drought-like conditions, we will continue to assess possible new programming options or enhancements that can be used to help farmers and ranchers prepare for, and mitigate, the impacts of dry conditions.

BB: Has the province explored offering a long-term, low-interest loan to help livestock producers rebuild their breeding herds?

HDM: The federal Advance Payments Program, under which producers can secure low-interest livestock cash advances, may be a viable option. For more information, please visit: https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/ agricultural-programs-and-services/ advance-payments-program

The Government of Saskatchewan continues to work with the Government of Canada to advocate for a strong Livestock Tax Deferral Provision. As such, I encourage producers to monitor prescribed regions for the federal Livestock Tax Deferral provision by visiting: https://agriculture.canada. ca/en/agriculture-and-environment/ drought-watch-and-agroclimate/ livestock-tax-deferral-provision.

PART THREE: SUSTAINABLE CANADIAN AGRICULTURAL PARTNERSHIP

BB: After consecutive years of drought and the recent spike in inflation, many livestock producers in Saskatchewan are struggling to be profitable. As a result, we are seeing a significant selloff of the breeding herd. Is the Ministry of Agriculture concerned about this trend and do you have a plan to help address the selloff?

HDM: The Ministry is deeply concerned about this trend. As the second largest cow-calf producing province in Canada, the industry is extremely important and meaningful to Saskatchewan. Moving forward and past this trend will be about helping the industry through these challenges and seeking ways to strengthen it. We will be looking at industry input on how the Resilient Agriculture Landscape Program (RALP) and Sustainable CAP programming can address this situation in reducing the burden to livestock producers.

BB: Are there any changes to the Business Risk Management programs for Sustainable CAP that will benefit livestock producers?

HDM: At the Annual Conference of Ministers in July, Ministers reached an agreement to raise the AgriStability compensation rate from 70 per cent to

80 per cent, bringing up to an additional $72 million per year to improve support to producers in times of need. Furthermore, Ministers agreed to continue to work, and consult with industry, on a new AgriStability model that will be faster, simpler and more predictable. This past year, the AgriStability enrolment deadline was also extended from April 30 to June 30, 2022.

BB: Are there any new environmental cross-compliance measures required for producers to participate in Sustainable CAP programs?

HDM: At the Annual Conference of Ministers in July, as part of the negotiation process for Sustainable CAP, Ministers agreed that in order to receive the government Agri-Invest contribution, producers with allowable net sales of at least $1 million will need an agrienvironmental risk assessment by 2025. The parameters of that decision are still in the process of being worked out by Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) partners, but we are intent on ensuring that this change, requested by the federal government, causes minimal burden to producers.

BB: Has there been any movement on cost sharing Livestock Price Insurance premiums?

HDM: Canada and the provinces are currently negotiating the parameters of the Livestock Price Insurance Program.

Regarding subsidized premiums for LPI, we must be mindful of our trade obligations and how changing the program could increase the risk of retaliatory action from other countries. There are key differences between the LPI and Crop Insurance programs, such as how LPI insures price as opposed to production. This means that LPI may be subject to countervailing activities by our trading partners.

I would also like to point out two additional forage insurance programs that provide value to Saskatchewan cattle producers. There is the multi-peril yield loss coverage available on tame hay and greenfeed crop under the Forage Program, as well as the Forage Rainfall Insurance Program — both of which have been successful in assisting producers during dry years. A quick reminder that the annual deadline to apply for, reinstate, cancel, or make changes to your Forage Insurance endorsement is March 31, annually.

BB: What are the province's goals for the new Resilient Agriculture Landscapes Program and how will this program benefit livestock producers?

HDM: The Resilient Agriculture Landscapes Program will offer funding for a set of regionally-specific beneficial management practices, the objective of which is to increase the environmental resiliency of agricultural landscapes by accelerating the adoption of on-farm land use and management practices that maximize provision of multiple ecological goods and services.

Saskatchewan’s approach is to develop practical and efficient beneficial management practices that will achieve outcomes while being practical for producers. These outcomes focus on water quality, soil quality, biodiversity and climate change mitigation.

We are still working with Canada to ensure that our suite of practices under the program will meet the expectations of Saskatchewan producers, and we hope to be able to release details early next year.

BB: Will there be any enhancements to FRWIP such as funding the installation of grid power?

HDM: The Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program is an important program for producers in Saskatchewan and we are planning on its continuation.

On November 24, 2022, the Ministry of Agriculture hosted an engagement event with industry members. At the event, we were able to announce several planned enhancements to the program.

We plan to:

• Increase the program cap for rebates from $50,000 to $75,000. This should help offset some of the increasing costs associated with water development;

• Add power installation as an eligible item; and

• Investigate funding the development of small dams.

These details are still being confirmed and we will announce more complete details in April 2023.

PART FOUR: THE PROCESSING SECTOR

BB: Earlier this year, we released a study titled Opportunities & Challenges for Growing Saskatchewan’s Beef Processing Sector. Is the Government of Saskatchewan supportive of the report findings and next steps?

HDM: In addition to co-funding the Opportunities & Challenges for Growing Saskatchewan’s Beef Processing Sector study, the Ministry supports SSGA and the industry in any steps towards attracting growth to the beef processing sector in Saskatchewan. This type of growth and development fit under the province’s growth plan goal of doubling meat

processing and animal feed value-added revenue to more than $1 billion by 2030.

BB: Harmonization of Specified Risk Material (SRM) policy with United States was identified as a significant opportunity for growing beef processing capacity. Does the government of Saskatchewan have a position on this issue?

HDM: Canada received Negligible Risk Status from the World Organization for Animal Health in May 2021, improving market access for Canadian beef worldwide. Compared to United States, Canada still has additional disposal requirements for Specified Risk Material at an added cost and competitive disadvantage to our industry. The government sees these regulations as a barrier to growing processing capacity and as a disadvantage to our current sector and therefore supports harmonization with the United States SRM policy.

BB: Is the Government of Saskatchewan planning to offer any new incentives to support the construction or expansion of small and large livestock processing facilities?

HDM: The Government of Saskatchewan provides various incentives for new agribusinesses, such as the Saskatchewan Value-Added Agriculture Incentive (SVAI). Projects for this incentive must have $10 million in eligible new capital expenditures for the purpose of undertaking an eligible value-added ag activity. Another program, Saskatchewan Lean Improvements in Manufacturing (SLIM) — for which abattoirs would be eligible — provides funding to agribusinesses for infrastructure projects that improve productivity and efficiency.

PART FIVE: CROWN LANDS

BB: The Ministry of Agriculture has recently been surveying lessee’s about crown lands designated as Critical Habitat under The Species at Risk Act. What are the next steps in this process?

“Twenty-five years ago, we made the decision to produce hay for our forage source, rather than greenfeed. It’s been a great move for us.

Ducks Unlimited Canada’s Forage Program has provided us with financial support toward stand re-establishment while allowing us to continue to operate in the manor we are accustomed to. Committing our land to 10 years in grass is our way of playing some small part in the conservation of nature and wildlife.”

Ducks Unlimited Canada has programs for producers.

Contact your local DUC office or call 1-866-252-3825 to learn more about our Forage, Hay and Grazing Tenders, Conservation Easements, Fencing and Wetland Restoration programs.

Proud to be your conservation partner

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HDM: A letter and survey was sent to agricultural Crown lessees in October of 2022 as part of the Ministry’s Critical Habitat Research Project led by Lands Branch.

Lands Branch analysts provided your organization with an overview of the project at the SSGA Semi-Annual General Meeting in February 2022. The project aims to:

• Provide evidence on how sustainable livestock grazing supports habitat for multiple species at risk; and

• Build trust with Crown land lessees who are managing critical habitat on their lease(s).

The survey results will be reviewed along with field and stakeholder engagement data collected in 2022 to help inform the Ministry’s multi-species approach for protecting critical habitat on agricultural Crown land.

We look forward to receiving lessee feedback as we complete the research project. Information will be shared with Crown land lessees once the project is completed.

BB: What will this mean for impacted lessees?

HDM: Critical habitat designation does not prevent lessees from grazing livestock on agricultural Crown land in Saskatchewan.

Crown land lessees are responsible for managing their lease in accordance with their terms and conditions of their lease agreement. Lessees are required to get prior approval from their land management specialist before constructing or decommissioning improvements on their lease.

This requirement and process is the same for all lessees, regardless of if the lease has critical habitat.

PART SIX: ENVIRONMENT

BB: Agriculture is under growing public scrutiny for methane emissions and overall environmental footprint. What can we do as an industry to address these concerns?

HDM: We grow healthy, safe, environmentally-sustainable food here in Saskatchewan and it is time to promote that. Saskatchewan recently launched the Strong. Sustainable. Saskatchewan. initiative to help tell the story. It is important that industry voices, such as Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association, help contribute to this message by promoting the sustainable production story of the Saskatchewan cattle industry.

As part of this year’s budget, $2 million in new funding was allocated for the Global Institute for Food Security to define, accelerate and communicate the agriculture sector’s contributions to improved environmental outcomes.

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In the livestock sector, improved genetics and better feeding and management practices have made beef production more efficient, and livestock producers also help protect natural habitats for many plant and animal species on Canada’s grasslands.

From 2013-2021, the Ministry, through the Agriculture Development Fund, has invested more than $9.3 million in 47 projects with various environmental themes related to climate change mitigation.

BB: There is currently significant research being done in the area of grassland carbon sequestration. How long will it be before livestock producers will be compensated for the carbon they are sequestering in grasslands?

HDM: A carbon offset market is typically how producers are compensated for changes in management practices that sequester carbon or reduce emissions. One of the core requirements for a management practice or protocol to be accepted into a carbon market is that the sequestration of carbon or a reduction in emissions from changes in producer management practices is verified through peer review science.

In May 2022, the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan awarded a $3.2 million, five-year contract to University of Saskatchewan and University of Alberta to fund research on carbon sequestration in perennial forage and pastures. Additional funding was provided by Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association. The research will examine soil carbon stocks in perennial forage systems across Saskatchewan, and investigate the link between producer management practices and carbon

stores to identify practices that promote carbon sequestration.

This, along with other research, will help build up the scientific knowledge of the linkage between changes in producer management practices and the sequestration of carbon. This will further advance opportunities for the sector to develop grazing and forage protocols that will be acceptable in offset credit markets.

BB: When will the Lake Diefenbaker Irrigation Project feasibility study be finished and publicly available?

The current focus is on the Westside Rehabilitation and Expansion Projects, which could expand irrigation in the province by up to 340,000 acres.

The reports for the Westside Projects preliminary engineering and financial

analysis are currently being finalized. This work takes time as it is a large and complex project that will take a significant amount of resources to plan and construct.

BB: Once the study is finalized, what will the next steps be for the project?

HDM: Once the reports are finalized, there are several key decisions upcoming that will help to continue determining the overall scope of the engineering needed to move forward.

More environmental and field work will be completed with the next phases of planning. This work helps to inform the current level of engineering and help further determine potential routing options.

Also, more engagement with stakeholders and rights holders will be done as more information becomes available through the engineering reports.

BB: Is there anything you would like highlight to our readers to conclude this interview?

HDM: Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry is key to our economy and the Government of Saskatchewan values the work you do. Thank you to SSGA and all the producers whose dedication and hard work makes Saskatchewan a world leader in sustainable production.

I wish everyone a safe and healthy 2023. B

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Can Canola Meal Add Value to Late-Season Grazing?

Jeff Gaye

With canola oil production set to expand in Western Canada, there will be a natural increase in the amount of canola meal available. Can this by-product be used as a protein supplement in livestock production?

A recent study indicates canola meal can be used to prolong the time bred heifers can be kept on pasture and off of full feed. The cattle in the trial showed worthwhile weight gains while on the canola meal supplement — with significant savings over switching to greenfeed.

There are two ways of extracting canola oil from the ripened seeds: cold-pressing, where the canola is squeezed between rollers to separate the oil from the seeds; and hexane extraction, where a solvent (hexane) is used to float the residual oil out of the meal.

Hexane extraction is the more common method, and the more efficient at removing the oil. The hexane is carefully removed and reused. It does not remain in the oil or in the meal.

The feed study used meal from the hexane extraction process. It was conducted by Dwayne Summach, a livestock and feed extension specialist with Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture.

“What inspired this study was all the announcements of additional crushing capacity for Western Canada,” Summach said. “Is there a way that we can be using it to extract more value from it locally, as opposed to having to export it to China, Japan or United States? That was the impetus for the study.”

It’s known that supplementing lowerquality forages with a protein source is beneficial for livestock. “Kick-feeding” is common in United States, where they’ll use cottonseed meal or soybean meal to augment the protein available in lowerquality pastures.

“There are beneficial impacts in terms of their immediate nutrition, but also impacts on the quality of colostrum that the cows produce, improving the calves’ ability to express their genetic potential,”

Summach said. “The calves grow better.”

He wanted to know if there would be a payoff in trying that technique using canola meal. Would the supplement allow cattle to gain weight while staying on the pasture (and off of feed) longer?

The information is especially relevant late in the grazing season when senesced grasses offer lower nutritional value.

The study was conducted in the fall and early winter of 2021 at Circle Y Ranch near Big Beaver, and Cedarlea Farms near Hodgeville, Saskatchewan. At each site, bred heifers were separated into a treated group, which received a canola meal supplement every other day; and a control group, which grazed the pasture without receiving the canola meal.

Michael and Tammy Burgess operate the Circle Y Ranch. Michael says he was excited to participate in the study because he has been using a canola meal and salt supplement off and on for 20 years. continued on page 34

He calls it “Big Muddy Bossy Bloomer.”

“I’m a believer in it. I was using it long before and when the chance came to participate in the study, I jumped at it to validate what I believed already,” he said. “Ranchers are notorious for ‘going by the eyeball,’ but this is validating what I believe. So, I was quite willing to help with the study.”

Circle Y ran the study over 65 days from November 2021 to January 2022. They found that after giving their treated group of 37 heifers 1.11 kilograms of canola meal every other day, those animals gained an average of 0.51 pounds per day. The control group gained only 0.20 pounds.

At Garner and Lori Deobald’s Cedarlea Farms, the treated heifers were fed 1.50 kilograms per head every other day. At the end of their 60-day trial, they saw their 25 treated cattle had gained 1.86 pounds per day each, compared with 1.47 pounds per day each within their control group.

Unlike Burgess, Garner Deobald hadn’t tried supplementing with canola meal before; he went into the trial with no expectations.

“I had checked into it previously just to try it out, I guess. And, this was a good opportunity to do that,” he said.

“Originally, I thought at the amount that we were going to be feeding it out, I didn’t think we would see much of a benefit. But, it sure proved that even in small amounts, it really did improve gain.”

He said the animals took to it right away.

“The heifers really looked forward to seeing us bring it out to the to the field for them. They caught on to it really quickly, so it was something easy that you could do to help supplement them,” he added.

Summach said the pasture blocks at the two ranches were similar. The decision to try the supplement using bred heifers was based on what made the most sense for the participating producers.

But the ranches were not identical, and Burgess started his trial on native grass later than Deobald did on his ranch. Summach said that even taking the variables into account, the results show a benefit to feeding the supplement while the cattle are still out on grass.

“To me, 0.30 to 0.40 pounds a day improvement by feeding the canola meal

is the story. And, that’s telling us that we are getting an improvement in the digestion of all the rest of what they’re eating too,” he said.

The biggest advantage shows up when you add the pasture cost to the cost of the supplement, and compare that to the cost of feeding the animals their full diet. “It basically cost us an extra 46 to 48 cents per head per day to add the canola meal,” Summach said.

Pasture cost for the Circle Y heifers would come to $1.30 per head per day; supplementing takes that up to $1.78. For Cedarlea, it’s $1.75 in pasture cost, and $2.21 with supplementation included.

“Both ranches identified that their alternative feeding cost was going to be $3.60 per head per day,” Summach said. “So even at $2.21, which was the most expensive pasture and protein supplementation, it’s still a $1.39 or $1.40 a day less than what their alternative feeding cost was going to be.”

Deobald said he’s glad for the opportunity to participate in the trial. “It’s good to get a real feel for and an understanding of how to use a product like that. So, this was a good trial and a good program to be involved in,” he said.

Deobald is looking at other ways to take advantage of canola meal as a supplement — perhaps using it on some bulls or introducing it to his cow herd. “We’re always looking at new and innovative ways to improve what we’re doing here on the management side, so this is something that really appeals to me,” he said.

Meanwhile, Burgess is glad to see his long-held beliefs confirmed.

“It sure worked well,” he said. “The heifers that were on the feed side of the study, it was noticeable this year how much better they looked than the other ones. I think it helps get the cows into condition.”

Beef Cattle Research Council | www.beefresearch.ca

With winter in full swing across the Prairies, you may be turning to extended grazing to help keep cattle out on pasture longer. Grazing standing corn has many

cattle with an alternative feed source such as a bale of hay to help them through the transition period.

trampling and wastage. Protect cattle from the elements

also recommended. Since corn is grazed standing, it is recommended to do a feed and mycotoxin test a couple weeks before grazing so that it is a close representation of what the cattle will actually be grazing.

Tips from producers:

1. When using electric fence, rather than drill holes in frozen ground for posts, break the cobs off a corn stalk and slide a length of PVC pipe over top of the stalk, tying the wire to that.

2. Strategically plan paddocks so the herd can graze from the inside of the field outward and use the corn as a natural windbreak.

Have a Plan-B

Even with the best plans in place weather conditions such as too much snow, lack of frost or even too much rain can put an end to corn grazing. Make sure you have an alternative winter feed in case you are forced to pull cows from the corn early.

Thinking about next year?

Plan ahead

Select an early-maturing variety that will match the Corn Heat Units (CHU) rating for your area to increase the chance of a high-yielding, high-quality corn crop.

Planting an early-maturing, silage-type corn variety for use in late-season grazing has great potential since the productivity is very high and the taller plant allows cattle to harvest the stand when the snow gets deep.

Plant for success

Choosing the right variety of corn is very important to ensure cattle don’t experience grain overload or acidosis.

Read 10 Corn Planting Tips, which includes an overview of site and variety selection, seeding equipment, weed control and fertility.

Grazing corn can be seeded with an air seeder, air drill, row planter or conventional hoe drill. From Manitoba to British Columbia, the recommended seeding depth is 1.5-2 inches deep, preferably into moisture, at a soil temperature of at least 10 degrees Celsius. Row spacing of 30 inches is recommended.

LEARN MORE

Beef Cattle Research Council

1. Feed Quality, Testing & Analysis for Beef Cattle

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

2. 10 Corn Planting Tips https://www.beefresearch.ca/blog/ planting-corn-this-spring-for-your-cattleto-graze-later-here-are-10-corn-plantingtips/

3. Corn Grazing Management in Winter Conditions with Dr. Bart Lardner https://youtu.be/ezkj3WM2TvY?t=715

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Federal Minister of Agriculture Answers Hard Line Qs

Chad MacPherson

not just environmentally, but also socially and economically.

assistance or changes to the livestock tax deferral program?

To welcome 2023 with answers to some key questions that livestock operators may need to make informed business decisions this year, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) General Manager Chad MacPherson reached out to his colleagues in the federal government to arrange an interview with the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food (AAFC).

Without further ado, we are pleased to present the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau’s responses.

TOP PRIORITIES

Beef Business (BB): What are your priorities for the Canadian livestock industry going into 2023?

The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau (HMCB): We have seen in recent seasons how extreme weather events affect producers, their livelihoods and their ability to feed a growing world population. A priority is to make them more resilient to climate change and to support them as they adopt increasingly sustainable practices.

Discussions will continue with industry representatives to determine the best ways to improve the sector’s performance,

We have just launched the first stage of developing the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy, with public consultations and the establishment of the advisory committee. We will also soon release the “What we heard” report from the consultations on fertilizer emissions. We ensure opportunities exist for agriculture producers to participate in the federal carbon offset system. For example, the protocol for Livestock Feed Management is being developed, which will credit methane reductions from livestock produced through enteric fermentation. Protocols for Livestock Manure Management and Anaerobic Digestion are also planned for subsequent development.

Not enough has been said about the next Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), which comes into effect in April. With the provinces and territories, we are adding $500 million to bring the envelope to an historic $3.5 billion. There will be another program to reward sustainable agricultural practices (i.e., Resilient Agriculture Landscape Program). We are also improving Business Risk Management (BRM) programs, including raising the AgriStability compensation rate from 70 to 80 per cent.

Finally, we are preparing to open the AAFC office in the Indo-Pacific, which will certainly allow for the development of interesting markets for the industry, and we are working in collaboration with several partners to prevent animal diseases in Canada and respond, should the worst happen.

DROUGHT

BB: Drought continues to be a challenge for livestock producers in several regions of the Prairies. Is AAFC currently considering any additional drought

HMCB: BRM programs are often the first line of support for producers facing disasters and farmers are encouraged to make use of these programs to protect their farming operations. The Livestock Tax Deferral is also there to provide assurance for producers as they make difficult herd management decisions. AAFC works closely with provincial and industry experts throughout the growing season to identify regions for designation.

We are also working to establish Canada Water Agency and implement a strengthened Freshwater Action Plan, including an historic investment to provide funding to protect and restore large lakes and river systems.

BB: Has AAFC explored offering a longterm, low-interest loan to help livestock producers rebuild their breeding herds?

HMCB: The Government of Canada offers loan guarantee programs that may help livestock producers rebuild their breeding herds, such as the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (CALA) program, that guarantees loans issued by financial institutions. Borrowers benefit from advantageous interest rates, lower equity requirements, and flexible repayment terms. Under the CALA program, loan guarantees for land, buildings, agricultural equipment and for breeding purposes are eligible (e.g., breeding stock purchases).

The Advance Payments Program (APP) is another federal loan guarantee program which provides agricultural producers with easy access to low-interest cash advances. The Agricultural Marketing Programs Act only allows APP advances to be issued on agricultural products, including livestock, that are intended to be sold over the repayment period. This means that animals kept on farm for breeding purposes are not eligible, but animals sold as breeding animals may be eligible.

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

PROFITABILITY AND COMPETITIVENESS

BB: After consecutive years of drought and the recent spike in inflation, many livestock producers in Saskatchewan are struggling to be profitable.  As a result, we are seeing a significant selloff of the breeding herd. Is AAFC concerned about this trend, and do you have a plan to help address the selloff?

HMCB: We are supporting farm families to get them through the challenges we face today, and position them for a sustainable future, since we know climate change will continue to pose challenges.

Producers have access to a suite of Business Risk Management programs to help them manage significant risks that threaten the viability of their farms and are beyond their capacity to manage.

We worked with British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario to provide up to $825 million in cost-shared, federal-provincial AgriRecovery funding to help livestock producers cover the extra costs resulting from drought and wildfires.

We also worked with provinces to give producers early access to 75 per cent of their 2021 AgriStability payments, up from 50 per cent.

We made provisions for producers in drought-affected regions in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Ontario, who are forced to sell their livestock due to lack of feed, to defer income tax on those sales until next year.

We supported Prairie Provinces in making immediate changes to the cost-shared AgriInsurance program to make droughtdamaged crops available for feed, to support livestock producers better during this time of need.

We also approved up to $4 million in funding to the Canadian Federation of Agriculture for Hay West 2021 to help transport hay from Eastern Canada to farmers affected by severe drought in Western Canada and parts of Ontario.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

has several resources and tools under Canada’s Drought Watch to help farmers understand the extent, severity and effects of drought and plan for potential future challenges.

SUSTAINABLE CAP

BB: Has there been any movement on cost-sharing Livestock Price Insurance premiums?

HMCB: Livestock Price Insurance (LPI) has been identified by the cattle industry and Western Provinces as an important risk management tool. Governments are working together to continue support for LPI beyond March 31, 2023, similar to the renewal of Business Risk Management programs under the new Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. Work also continues with the provinces to improve the program, ensure its sustainability and increase participation.

ecosystem services approach to support on-farm adoption.

RALP will be administered by provinces and territories to ensure locally-relevant practices and approaches. Specific program design details are being worked on as part of the Sustainable CAP process and will be communicated in the coming months.

For example, this could include practices that can benefit livestock producers such as maintaining and restoring grasslands and wetlands; piloting innovative regenerative agriculture practices; and enhancing riparian and on-farm wildlife area.

PROCESSING

BB: Earlier this year, we released a study titled Opportunities & Challenges for Growing Saskatchewan’s Beef Processing Sector. Is the Government of Canada supportive of the report findings

continued on page 40

offering our best.

offering our best.

BB: What are the federal government’s goals for the new $250 million Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) and how will this program benefit livestock producers?

HMCB: The objective is to enhance the adoption of onfarm land use and management practices that enhance ecosystem services like sequestering carbon, by using a payment for an

LPI is a commodity-specific regional program and government premium subsidy for these types of programs is viewed as a trade risk. Governments share the administrative costs to help ensure that this tool remains available and affordable to livestock producers in Western Canada.

• GRASSFED: “True North Foods is partnered with A&W Canada to supply Canadian grassfed beef for A&W’s grassfed burger program.

•

GRASSFED:

North Foods is partnered with A&W Canada to supply Canadian grassfed beef for A&W’s grassfed burger program.

• SERVICES: Whether you are a specialty producer looking to get your product to a specific market or distributor, or if you are producing commodity livestock for sale, we can partner with you. From our multi-species capabilities to our ability to handle smaller volumes, we offer excellent capabilities for producers in the Canadian Prairies to maximize their profitability.

• FACILITY: We have a state-of-the-art facility to allow us to reach markets across Canada, the USA, and beyond. We understand producer’s needs, their care for their animals, and their honest, straightforward nature. Call us to hear how we can work together to get your product to market.

trever.frattinger@truenorthfoods.ca | 306-536-6193 For all general inquiries call 204-745-3068

“True

• SERVICES: Whether you are a specialty producer looking to get your product to a specific market or distributor, or if you are producing commodity livestock for sale, we can partner with you. From our multi-species capabilities to our ability to handle smaller volumes, we offer excellent capabilities for producers in the Canadian Prairies to maximize their profitability.

Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Interview cont. from pg. 39 and next steps?

HMCB: The discussion paper presents a number of key findings and next steps that would be required prior to further consideration of a federally-inspected processing plant in Saskatchewan. The involvement and support of the provincial government is key to accomplishing the next steps identified .

BB: Harmonization of Specified Risk Material (SRM) policy with United States was identified as a significant opportunity for growing beef processing capacity. Does the Government of Canada have a position on this issue?

HMCB: An industry-government working group was formed and a consultant has been hired to conduct a risk assessment estimating the likelihood and various consequences that may result from potential changes to the requirements

regarding specified risk material for cattle in Canada — in particular, examination of the potential changes of the requirements in Canada being equivalent to the requirements in United States. This proposed risk-analysis report is being prepared for industry to have a clear understanding of these consequences and to inform policy options.

BB: Is the Government of Canada planning to offer any new incentives to support the construction or expansion of small and large livestock processing facilities?

HMCB: Currently, there is no Canadian Agricultural Partnership cost-shared programming with Saskatchewan that supports the construction or expansion of small and large livestock processing facilities.

The Saskatchewan Lean Improvements in Manufacturing (SLIM) under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership provides funding to agri-business for infrastructure projects

that improve productivity and efficiency. However, eligibility is limited to existing facilities that have been in operation for a minimum of two years; and the program is no longer accepting new applications.

The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a new $3.5 billion, fiveyear agricultural policy agreement between the federal, provincial and territorial governments, which comes into effect April 1, 2023. Sustainable CAP will replace the current Canadian Agricultural Partnership and will advance the five priorities agreed to in the Guelph Statement: building sector capacity, growth and competitiveness; climate change and environment; science, research and innovation; market development and trade; and, resiliency and public trust. Programs under the new Sustainable CAP are in development and information will be available following program approvals and launch in early 2023.

ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE

BB: Ranchers play a very important role in maintaining and protecting our remaining grasslands including tho se with species-at-risk critical habitat. If policies are implemented that drive ranchers out of business, the grasslands are at risk of being broken for crop production. This will have an adverse impact on carbon sequestration and environmental protection. What is the Government of Canada going to do to protect ranchers and grasslands?

HMCB: The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program will support carbon sequestration, adaptation and address other environmental co-benefits using an ecological goods and services payment approach to support on-farm adoption. While program details are still being worked out with provinces and territories through the bilateral process, RALP will support producers to conserve and enhance the resiliency of agricultural landscapes by accelerating the adoption

of on-farm land use and management practices, including maintaining and restoring grasslands.

In addition, while provinces and territories have jurisdiction over land-use planning decisions, the Government of Canada is open to collaborate on analysis and exploring other potential solutions with provinces, territories and stakeholders.

The Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, which became law on June 29, 2021, enshrines Canada’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The Act ensures transparency and accountability as the government works to deliver on its targets. Building on the actions in Canada’s strengthened climate plan (2020), and the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change (2016), the 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan (2022) provide a roadmap to how Canada will meet its enhanced Paris Agreement target to reduce emissions by 40 to 45 per cent from 2005 levels by 2030.

TRADE

BB: Many of Canada’s commitments — like fertilizer reduction, carbon taxes and clean fuel standards — will make it much more costly for ranchers and all agricultural producers. Those ranchers and producers are price takers and cannot pass the costs down to customers. How can we continue to ensure that policies support our industry in terms of their ability to compete in global markets?

HMCB: First, I should clarify that we are not talking about a reduction in fertilizer use. We have a voluntary, national target of a 30 per cent reduction in emissions from fertilizer application, and Fertilizer Canada has stated that almost half of this target can be achieved simply by ensuring that 4R best-management practices are more widely applied.

The biggest threat to farmers’ livelihood is climate change. We’ve all seen the impacts of droughts, flooding and other extreme

continued on page 42

Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Interview cont. from pg. 41

climate events on farmers’ operations and bottom line. Our commitments are there to help farmers strive, make them more resilient and help them while they implement best-management practices and adopt clean technologies. We invested $1.5 billion dollars over the last two years and will continue to do so.

Fertilizers have indeed been an essential input for farmers, which is why we need to ensure that our efforts to reduce emissions do not undermine their competitiveness or their vital work, especially at a time when food insecurity has reached unprecedented levels worldwide.

Many farmers are already implementing nutrient management practices to ensure that fertilizer goes to the growing crop, avoiding losses to air and water. It makes sense, both ecologically and economically. They are using the latest tools, such as crop sensors and drones, to help them align fertilizer rates to the needs of their crops.

The goal of the target is to maximize efficiency, optimize fertilizer use, encourage innovation, and to work collaboratively with the agriculture sector, partners and stakeholders in identifying opportunities that will allow us to reach this target successfully while maintaining or increasing yields.

Carbon pollution pricing is an important part of Canada’s plan to transition to a cleaner and more innovative economy that reduces emissions and protects our environment.

The Government of Canada has committed to return all direct proceeds from carbon-pollution pricing collected in provinces where the federal backstop is applied through direct payments to families and support to other affected sectors.

In July 2022, federal, provincial, and territorial ministers of agriculture reached an agreement on the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. This new five-year agreement — that will

take effect on April 1, 2023 — will inject $500 million in new funds, representing a 25 per cent increase in the cost-share programming. Federal-only programming will complement this cost-shared effort bringing the overall Sustainable CAP investment to $3.5 billion.

The consultation process to develop the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy (SAS) will be exploring various policy instruments to help bring together action on priority environment and climate issues in the agriculture sector to guide long-term decision-making. The SAS is meant to take a broader view of agrienvironmental challenges and the policies and programming in place.

The SAS will create connections between environmental programming in agriculture across the federal government to provide more clarity, less overlap, and fill policy gaps while considering farming realities. It will provide directions for action on climate and environment in the agriculture sector to 2050.

BB: What steps has the Government of Canada taken to prepare for a possible Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak? What is the status of a Canadian FMD vaccine bank?

HMCB: Strict measures are currently in place to prevent FMD from entering Canada. For example, travellers entering Canada are required to declare all foods, plants, animals and their products to a Canada Border Services Agency officer; and any person who has been in a country where FMD has been detected should not visit a farm for 14 days after entering Canada.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) does not permit imports of susceptible animals and animal products from countries that are not recognized by Canada as being free of FMD, unless the products have been processed in a manner that destroys the virus. CFIA also monitors the status of FMD worldwide and works with other federal departments, provincial veterinary authorities, and industry to exchange information, monitor risk, and raise awareness while promoting preventative efforts.

Canada is a member of the North American Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine Bank. In addition, CFIA, Dairy Farmers of Canada, Canadian Pork Council, Canadian Cattle Association and Animal Health Canada are members of a working group evaluating the efficacy and feasibility of establishing a Canadian FMD Vaccine Bank.

Cooperation and support amongst all levels of government and the livestock industry is key to the successful control and eradication of a disease that could affect the health of Canada’s livestock population and the economy. Given that animal health emergency management plans enable a swift response in the event of a foreign disease outbreak, Canada has plans in place to control and eradicate FMD. The current strategy is designed to identify all exposed premises, cull exposed and potentially-exposed high-risk animals, and decontaminate the environment to avoid further spread — quickly. In practice, the scope and details of the response and timelines would depend upon how far FMD has spread, the density of livestock in the affected area(s), effective biosecurity measures on the farms, and other factors.

LEARN MORE

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (CALA) program

https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/agriculturalprograms-and-services/canadian-agricultural-loansact-program

Advance Payments Program (APP)

https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/agriculturalprograms-and-services/advance-payments-program

Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/ weather/climatechange/climate-plan/net-zeroemissions-2050/canadian-net-zero-emissionsaccountability-act.html

Canada’s strengthened climate plan

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/ weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-planoverview/healthy-environment-healthy-economy. html

Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/ weather/climatechange/pan-canadian-framework. html

2030 Emissions Reduction Plan

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/environment/ weather/climatechange/climate-plan/climate-planoverview/emissions-reduction-2030.html

Active Missing Livestock Files As of December 15, 2022

Area Missing

From # of Head Animal Description Brand Description Brand Location RCMP Detachment

RM #42 8 Steers

Left Hip

RM #622 1 Cow Right Rib

Livestock Services of Saskatchewan Contact Date Reported

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 North Battleford 306-446-7404

RM #472 2 Heifers Right Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 North Battleford 306-446-7404

October 17

October 20

October 20

RM #163 2 Heifers Right Shoulder Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709 October 20

Manitoba 20 3 Cows 17 Calves

Left or Right Hip Swan River MB Detachment Yorkton 306-786-5712 October 21

RM #275 1 Bull Left Rib Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712 October 31

RM #146 2 Heifers Left Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709 October 31

RM #223 3 1 Cow 2 Calves Left Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709

November 1

RM #163 1 Calf Left Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709 November 1

RM #223 2 Calves Right Rib

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709

RM #138 5 Calves Left Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Swift Current 306-778-8312

RM #34 1 Cow Left Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712

RM #395 4 Cows Left Hip

RM #4 6 2 Cows 4 Calves Right Hip

RM #275 1 Mare Left Hip

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Saskatoon 306-933-7660

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712

RM #501 3 Steers Left Rib Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 North Battleford 306-446-7404

November 1

November 1

November 2

November 3

November 3

November 3

November 7

RM #45 or #131

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709

RM #351 2 Heifers Right Hip

RM #351 1 Bull Left Hip

RM #101 16

November 11

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448

North Battleford 306-446-7404

North Battleford 306-446-7404

November 14

November 15

Cows

Calves Right Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709

RM #408 1 Cow Left Shoulder

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448

North Battleford 306-446-7404

November 16

November 16

RM #187 5 Cows Left Rib Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712 November 18

RM #217 or #218 7 Mixed Horses Not in registry N/A Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712 November 18

RM

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Moose Jaw 306-694-3709

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 North Battleford 306-446-7404

November 18

November 22 RM #496

Left Shoulder Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 North Battleford 306-446-7404

November 23 RM #121

Calves Right Shoulder Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712

North Battleford 306-446-7404

November 25

28

N/A Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 North Battleford 306-446-7404 November 30 RM #331

Right Shoulder Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712

December 1 RM #378

Left rib Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 North Battleford 306-446-7404

2

RM #378

North Battleford 306-446-7404

December 6 RM #408

North Battleford 306-446-7404

RM #378

RM #442

RM #189

RM #408

RM

Heifers Left Rib Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448

North Battleford 306-446-7404

North Battleford 306-446-7404

North Battleford 306-446-7404

Moose Jaw 306-694-3709

North Battleford 306-446-7404

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712

December 6

December 6

December 6

December 6

December 6

December 7

December 13

RM #152

Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448 Yorkton 306-786-5712

December 13 RM #408

Hip Cpl Owen Third 306-537-9448

North Battleford 306-446-7404

December 13

As I write this, the days are shortening to the shortest, and I am always thankful that after that, we have some Christmas goodies, a bunch of fun on New Year’s Eve; and then, wait while the days climb back to a greater number of daylight hours, on the march towards calving season, where we need all the daylight and warmth we can get.

I recently attended the celebration of life for Reg Schellenberg and was reminded of how important our time on this earth is, and how critical it is to be purposeful with our life. Reg will be missed. His send off was a fantastic tribute to the faith, family and relationships he valued most in the life he was given. I trust that each of you can spend the holiday season enjoying time with loved ones and making many good memories.

This submission includes perhaps one of the largest missing livestock files we have ever submitted, and so, to keep onside with this magazine’s editor, my words will be short. The missing livestock file we have submitted for this issue includes active cattle reported missing at the time of print deadline.

There doesn’t seem to be any specific reason for the large missing livestock

'Tis the Season

Chief Executive Officer Jason Pollock Livestock Services of Saskatchewan

file this issue, but I am reminded of how critical it is to apply your brand properly to assist brand inspectors, producers, auction market staff and others to be on the lookout for missing animals — if you find yourself short a few.

As soon as you think you may be missing animals, contact your local Livestock Services of Saskatchewan (LSS) Inspector. They will log it into our system and create a province-wide alert for all LSS Inspectors. You can also contact your local Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) detachment. We will work with the RCMP as required, providing whatever services we can if the situation is determined to be a criminal offence.

This fall, the RCMP in Saskatchewan filled a dedicated Livestock Investigator position to serve the Saskatchewan industry. Corporal Owen Third will be working alongside LSS and the local detachments on these files to reach satisfactory conclusions.

November and December are renewal time at the Brand Registry, which means many of you received brand renewals by mail over the past few weeks. If you haven’t returned your renewal, please do so to stay current and within the legislation. The system is set up to allow some leeway for renewals, but the legislation is clear that it is an offense to apply an unregistered mark to an animal. This includes suspended and/or expired brands that were previously registered, which is an issue that can become tricky when there is a death in the family and a brand is registered to a deceased person.

The legislation allows for transfers and the process is relatively simple, but requires the producer (or estate) to contact LSS to make the appropriate changes. In the coming year, we are making plans to allow renewals online to minimize the flow of paper in your office and in ours. As we make progress on this initiative, we will be reaching out to producers to make

them aware of how to renew online as the new e-tool becomes available.

In the realm of communications and outreach, LSS will be taking part in the upcoming industry consultations with the Ministry of Agriculture on the new regulations portion of legislative review. I touched on this topic in the November 2022 issue and make mention of it here, because within that discussion, I explained LSS’s interest in receiving input on the inspection fee, self-determination and other aspects of the work we do.

These sessions have been postponed to January through March 2023, so please remember to look for notices from the Ministry of Agriculture to find the details on how to participate.

Livestock Services of Saskatchewan is an industry-owned, industry-led organization and our goal is to provide services that enhance and ensure trusted commercial transactions between sellers and buyers as well as protection from those that wish to take advantage of others.

Our inspection team works throughout the year to provide this service to industry, and I would be remiss if I did not recognize the effort each member of our team makes to the overall success of LSS.

I am privileged to work with such an amazing group of individuals. As a producer, I feel confident and secure that I can conduct my business knowing there is an entire network of top-quality folks looking out for any of my animals that may have got mixed up, knowingly or not, into another group offered for sale.

This peace of mind, through branding and inspection, is just one more thing I am thankful for at this time of year.

May you all have a happy, successful and purposeful 2023. B

Chief Executive Officer Jason Pollock Livestock Services of Saskatchewan

A Report from Garner Deobald President, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association

Tracy; son Coy and wife Laura-Lie; daughter Stacey and husband Brett; and all 10 of Reg and Shannon’s grandchildren. Reg, thank you for all the contributions you made to this wonderful world! You will be greatly missed by so many.

As the year draws to a close, while I prepare this report, there are many things to be thankful for — much-improved growing conditions in many parts of the province as well as improved cattle markets are at the top of this list.

President Garner Deobald Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association

December started with the sudden and mournful passing of Beechy rancher and Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) President Reg Schellenberg — such an unexpected and shocking incident.

As I sit here writing this report and ponder Reg’s life, I think of words that define his great and wonderful life.

Dedication: Reg was dedicated first and foremost to his family. Family was the reason he worked hard and faced the many challenges presented by ranching life. Reg was dedicated to the cattle industry. He was always very generous with his time, providing insight and leadership for the betterment of the cattle industry, for all. Reg was dedicated to his faith, living each and every day as a Christian believing and trusting in God’s word.

Honesty: Reg was a man of his word always doing what he said he would do. He was fair and open to listening to everyone’s opinion and point of view. Reg was sincere and straightforward. He was always eager to discuss the issues of the day and to find a solution — no matter what the challenge.

Leadership: Reg not only led by example but provided steady, thoughtful, unselfish and common-sense direction for any and all the organizations he served. Reg served as a zone chair and director on Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association’s (SSGA) board of directors for many years. He was an enthusiastic member and knew there was great value in the organization’s commitment to the well-being of the livestock industry.

Reg went on to serve as a director on CCA’s board, on many CCA committees, and CCA’s executive team. This past March, Reg was elected by his peers to serve as President of Canadian Cattle Association. The considerate, honest man with great integrity was there to serve once again.

On behalf of Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association, I extend our deepest sympathy to Reg’s wife Shannon; son Jesse and wife

While recognizing the positives, we also need to acknowledge the significant challenges we face as ranchers and farmers. Over the past few months, I have received calls from producers that continue to be affected by extreme drought; however, they have very limited options to deal with the situation.

They continue to cope with exhausted grazing options that have resulted from multiple years of an exceptional shortage of moisture as well as very poor hay, feed and greenfeed crops.

Provincially, feed is in better supply compared to last winter. However, it is still unaffordable because of the overall demand for feed-stuffs and the inflated cost of transportation, which leaves the unpleasant option of selling off a percentage or all of the cowherd.

What’s even more unsettling? The sell-off of the cowherd isn’t limited to the drought regions of the province.

Through conversations with ranchers, farmers and stockyard operators in areas that received adequate to above average rainfall, I have also learned they are experiencing a significant selloff of cow numbers.

Lack of profitability and advancing age of our producers are the two main reasons for selloffs, and both reasons are difficult to address. Lack of profitability isn’t a recent development and is somewhat cyclical with insufficient revenue and/or excessive operating costs or overhead.

This gets back to acknowledging the challenges we face with increased costs across the board with an extensive laundry list of contributors, which are outside of our control. Fuel, feed, fertilizer, carbon tax, excessive inflation, interest rates and the list goes on.

I’ve had this conversation with many industry members over the past six months, and it’s easy to mention the numerous Business Risk Management (BRM) programs that are available, but those programs are woefully inadequate. Thankfully, our federal and provincial governments are in the midst of finalizing new and some reworked BRM programs that industry members will be offered to work with over the next five years. Hopefully, these

new programs will prove to be useful when needed.

In the end, profitability will provide sustainability and remedy the demographic conundrum. Currently, the sell-off of cows will accelerate consolidation, and lack of profitability will severely limit the viability of young producers wanting to invest in the industry.

If you have ideas or suggestions for how SSGA can make improvements or advocate for our industry, we’d love to hear from you. It’s that time of year again where we will be holding zone meetings and we encourage everyone to attend. We want to hear your thoughts. We appreciate your participation.

In closing, I want to thank the SSGA Board of Directors, General Manager Chad MacPherson and staff for your continued hard work. I’d also like to thank all SSGA members for your continued support — and if you’re not a member already, please consider joining this great organization by purchasing a membership.

Until next time…

Happy new year!

Wishing you all the best in 2023,

Garner

Garner Deobald

Board Director Profile: Kelly Williamson

Kori Maki-Adair

South of the Divide Conservation Action Program Inc. (SODCAP) Executive Director and Range Agrologist and Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association 2nd Vice President Kelly Williamson is a fourth generation cattle rancher in Pambrun, which is located approximately 60 kilometres south of Swift Current in Southwest Saskatchewan in the Rural Municipality of Whiska Creek No. 106.

He ranches alongside his mother and custom labour, when possible, on the family property that was homesteaded in 1908 near the Whiska Creek in the Old Wives Lake Watershed part of the Missouri River Basin.

According to the Water Security Agency of Saskatchewan, Old Wives Lake Watershed is approximately 16,850 km2 and is bounded to the east by the Moose Jaw River Watershed and to the west by the Swift Current Creek Watershed. Being closed to surface water outflow, with water only exiting through evapotranspiration, groundwater recharge and consumption, the Old Wives Lake Watershed is one of a kind.

Williamson has a solid history of involvement in SSGA’s leadership team as Zone 12 Chair for many years, which is why being elected into the position of 2nd Vice President on SSGA’s board of directors was a natural fit for him.

He says the main advantage of SSGA membership is that it enables producers to communicate issues they want lobbied with provincial and federal government.

When asked what the biggest challenges and concerns facing the livestock industry are, Williamson affirmed without hesitation, “Profitability, competition for resources,” and that “the food industry is politicized.”

His straightforward delivery made it easy for him to answer our question about how he would like SSGA to support the livestock industry today, and moving into the future.

Wearing good-fitting boots and a comfortable belt as SSGA’s 2nd Vice President, Williamson replied, “SSGA is a lobby organization. It should continue to hold the government accountable.”

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Board

Williamson Pambrun, Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association is pleased to have Kelly Williamson on its board of directors in his new role on the executive team. With Kelly’s experience as a rancher, executive director and range agrologist specializing in habitat management for species at risk, he is an excellent resource that is actively supporting SSGA’s continued priority of ensuring an economically sustainable agricultural landscape for the well-being of Saskatchewan today and into the future.

of Directors 2nd Vice President Kelly

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) has partnered once again with Direct Livestock Marketing Services (DLMS) to offer this popular event online.

The online format has the ability to bring everybody together across the province and country,” said SSGA President Garner Deobald. “It’s a live auction with instant bidding that streams live audio and video.”

Deobald also says that, as a non-profit, SSGA must raise funds to operate. When the pandemic presented SSGA with the challenge of keeping the event on the 2021 calendar, the organization had to find a way to do it. With that goal in mind, SSGA General Manager Chad MacPherson connected with DLMS to try their online system.

And, it worked so well in 2021 and 2022,

SSGA decided to continue holding the live auction online.

MacPherson says feedback has been positive for the event. Many bidders have said it’s a fun event and appreciate that participation is voluntary.

“It’s a great way to raise some money for the organization without raising membership fees or charging members for services. It facilitates the advocacy work we do on behalf of our members and the livestock industry,” Deobard added.

Stay tuned for details on this live event that combines the sights and sounds of a live auction experience using event broadcasting technology. To prepare to participate, you can visit DLMS.ca to set up a free user account ahead of the event that is scheduled for the end of March 2023.

As soon as SSGA announces the date for the auction, you will be able to:

• Go to DLMS.ca

• In the left margin, select the BUYER APPROVAL tab which will lead to a list of UPCOMING SALES.

• Click the SIGN UP button to request bidding approval for Riding for the Brand Fundraising Auction

• Once your account has been reviewed by DLMS sales staff, your status will change to APPROVED and you will be ready to bid on the day of the auction.

• On the day of the auction, login to the auction and that's it. You'll be ready to bid.

For more information on setting up an account or the bidding process, please contact the DLMS Sale Team at 780-991-3025.

Reg Schellenberg: Family Man, Person of Faith, Integrity and Leader in Canadian Agriculture

Kori Maki-Adair

Born in Swift Current to Walter and Caroline Schellenberg, Reg was likely first drawn to the rural life at an early age by spending weekends and holidays on his grandparents’ mixed farm near Main Centre, Saskatchewan.

He took jobs at local farms as a labourer at the tender age of 13 to surround himself with what made him happiest, which was out in nature with farm animals and wildlife. By the time he was 16, he had found a job at a vet clinic to further his understanding of quality health, care and training for animals of all sizes with fur, hair or feathers.

After graduating high school, while working within the forage department at a research station, Reg met Shannon — the woman he married, raised three children with, and spent more than 42 years alongside.

In 1990, Reg established a home for his family of five in the hills along Lake Diefenbaker, south of Beechy, Saskatchewan.

Though ranching life is an around the clock and calendar commitment, Reg always made time for his friends, loved ones, specials interests and ag industry initiatives. If you knew him, you understood how diligently he prioritized family while carefully balancing work and hobbies as an avid hunter, marksman, conservationist and athlete.

The Canadian beef industry recognized Reg’s integrity and strong conviction to safeguard the interests of producers by electing him into numerous leadership positions — including, board director with Saskatchewan Stock Growers

Association (SSGA), Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) and Canadian Cattle Association (CCA); member of the CCIA Technical Advisory and Communications Committees; and co-chair of the CCA Animal Health and Care Committee.

Eventually, Reg’s hands-on ranching experience, flawless professional reputation and cowboy diplomacy led to his elected role as CCA President in March 2022.

At the outset of his new role with CCA, as the national voice for the beef industry, Reg announced he would address the issues that concern the livestock industry by remembering his roots and the people he represented. Within weeks, he publicly declared his key priorities for the organization and that he would accomplish them by remembering his roots and the people he represented. Within nine months, industry and government witnessed him achieving most of those industry-minded goals.

How to summarize Reg’s contribution to agriculture?

Reg was dedicated to safeguarding the interests of producers by working together with ag industry and government stakeholders. Like Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s purpose, Reg provided office, virtual and field support to ensure thatfarmers, ranchers and other industry members have access to the research, production and business information, risk management tools and Ministry services. Like Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s objective, Reg supported Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector through

initiatives that promoted innovation and competitiveness.

In CCA’s first media release announcing his presidency, Reg declared his commitment to working with all leaders and stakeholders “to do exactly what is needed to protect and preserve our beef industry for the next generation.”

And, Reg did that.

To conclude this in memoriam, on behalf of SSGA’s board of directors, staff and members, Beef Business would like to quote Jeremy Patzer, Member of Parliament representing Cypress HillsGrasslands, Saskatchewan, at the House of Commons on December 5, 2022.

Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, we lost one of the good ones. Reg Schellenberg was a family man, a person of faith, integrity and a leader in Canadian agriculture. He led not only with his words but also with his actions. He spent many years giving his time on different boards and associations. I know that many of us in Parliament here, have met with Reg over the years, particularly in his most recent capacity as the president of the Canadian Cattle Association.

He could always be counted on for honest, straightforward advice that was forged through his time on the Perrin Ranch, south of Beechy, with his wife Shannon by his side. Their story is one of living the Saskatchewan dream — running a multi-generational, cow-calf operation on the northern shores of the beautiful Lake Diefenbaker.

Reg will be sorely missed. And to Shannon, Jesse, Coy and Stacey, our hearts and prayers are with you as you go through this difficult time of mourning.

As a celebration of Reg's life, readers are invited to make a donation to the Canadian Cattle Foundation, which works in partnership with donors and stakeholders to support sustainability and education initiatives for consumers and the next generation of cattle producers. To learn more or to donate, please visit: www.canadiancattlefoundation.ca.

In Memory

Habitat Agreements Increase Resources for Landowners

Mindy Hockley

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation (SSGF) was created to support landowners and ranchers with grassland and rangeland conservation in mind. We offer a variety of agreement options for landowners to utilize to increase grazing resources and improve existing ones.

Each agreement is tailored to the rancher’s operation based on a ranch evaluation and planning exercises, producer objectives and resources, habitat objectives and circumstances that are present.

We will go over all data collected on the land with the landowner, so they understand the importance of reaching project goals. Our agreements are not tied to title; however, contracts are put into place to ensure project outcomes and compliance.

Time frames for each agreement may vary, but we stress the importance of longer terms so we can better monitor the impacts of changes made. They allow for flexibility and adaptive management decision-making, since ranching is ever-changing.

Communication is key to successful agreements, so we focus on creating a collaborative relationship with the landowners and ranchers with whom we work.

Our habitat management agreements allow us to team up with ranchers to identify existing problems and focus on constructing a plan to solve them. Some of our current agreements focus

on habitat management to control, and hopefully, stop the spread of invasive species such as leafy spurge or common burdock.

Invasive weeds host a variety of issues when they begin to take over grasslands and choke out the native species, which decreases biodiversity within the already depleted grasslands as well as the amount of habitat available for wildlife and some species at risk.

Any disturbance to grasslands, such as road construction or removal of natural resources like sand or gravel, and natural vectors like wildlife movement or spring runoff, can also increase the incidence of invasive plants moving in.

Did you know?

on tame grasses can help to defer grazing on native grasslands until later in the year such as September and October.

Being able to let these native grasslands rest can also increase the amount of grazing available and decrease habitat disturbance to species at risk that call these landscapes home.

Implementing intensive grazing systems may require construction of additional water sources or fencing as well as additional management and maintenance costs.

Natural vectors such as waterways can transport invasive plant species seeds.

Our agreements that focus on invasive weed control can be managed in a variety of ways from chemical control or biological control to targeted grazing. Depending on available resources and the terrain of the land, we can find the best solution for each landowner to implement on their operation.

Other agreements highlight the use of grazing management strategies to achieve native grassland health and wildlife habitat targets. Finding a balance with grazing tame and native grasslands can be key to improving the health of the native grasslands.

Using a more intensive grazing system

We understand that building new or improving existing structures can be costly, so we offer both financial and technical support to ensure success.

We are working to make sure our existing grasslands are healthy and thriving, and working with the ranchers that manage these lands, which we know are key to our success. If you would like to learn more about our programs and services available, please visit our website at www.ssgf.ca

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With Adaptability Comes Wisdom – Great-Horned Owl Populations Increase Across the Prairies

Tara Mulhern Davidson

In ecosystems everywhere, including Saskatchewan’s native prairie grasslands, diverse species must co-exist in the same habitat, including predators, prey, livestock and humans.

What makes some birds, insects or wildlife susceptible to population declines? What makes other species thrive?

Great-horned owls are a well-known bird whose population is on the upswing. Tory Hartley-Cox, a graduate student at University of Regina, recently shared her insight on this phenomenon during a Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Program (SK PCAP) webinar presentation entitled “Great horned owls: a humantolerant species thriving in an altered grassland ecosystem.”

Hartley-Cox says that in Saskatchewan,

prior to 1940, the population of great-horned owls would have been comparatively low, and limited to the transitional edges of grasslands and riparian areas.

The great-horned owl has proven to be very adaptable. Today, they have the largest range in North America of any owl species, occupying habitats as diverse as old growth forests and deserts.

Part of their adaptability is due to their modest habitat requirements.

Hartley-Cox says great-horned owls only have four main habitat requirements — they need perches for hunting, an abundance of easily accessible prey, and an availability of nests.

She says that hunting perches are very

important because great-horned owls are heavier, which makes them less agile than other birds of prey.

“Great-horned owls are sit-and-wait ambush predators,” she said. They rely on their superior eyesight to see their prey and swoop in for a quick kill.

Hartley-Cox also says that great-horned owls do not build their own nests, but steal nests from other birds. They often move into nests built by other raptors like Swainson’s or red-tailed hawks, but have been known to occupy large magpie nests.

The population of great horned owls continues to increase in the prairies, likely due in part to fire suppression, increased tree and shrub cover, and the establishment of structures like power

lines, fence posts and buildings.

Hartley-Cox said that great-horned owls absolutely love old abandoned houses and farmyards. She added that owls use them for shelter, as perches for hunting — and they are often a readily available source of small rodents.

Why are great-horned owl numbers increasing significantly while other raptors are not? Tory says this is due in part to the fact that they are a synanthropic species, meaning they benefit from being associated with humans or human-caused disruptions.

She explains that scientists can learn a lot about which prey species live in an area, based on what is in the owl’s diet.

“Small rodents make up a good percentage of their diet,” said Hartley-Cox, and added that the most common prey species differs between nests. She has found everything from salamanders to gophers, deer mice and even ducks in a nest.

“If they have an abundant source, ready to go, they will stockpile food for their offspring. It’s not uncommon for me to go up to a nest and find two or three prey items for the nestlings,” she said.

A great-horned owl’s need for abundant prey can lead to unintended consequences. “There’s footage of great horned owls taking ferruginous hawk nestlings right out the nest; so, they are a potential risk to species at risk,” said Hartley-Cox.

“We know they take sharp-tail grouse all the time and also kill greater sage grouse,” she said, adding that great-horned owls are fully capable of taking on larger prey, so a larger bird like a sage grouse would be no match for the owl.

Producers may be interested in a number of citizen science opportunities to share owl observations through a survey. Interested people can find a link to the survey at www.royalsaskmuseum.ca or send observations via email to

Great-horned owls have adapted well to humans and often use abandoned farmyards, which provide shelter, hunting perches, and prey as their home base.

Photo courtesy of Tory Hartley-Cox continued on page 60

Great Horned Owl cont. from pg. 59

uofrowlresearch@gmail.com. HartleyCox says uptake in the citizen science program is unprecedented, with more than 570 participants.

“There are plenty of opportunities for landowners to get involved,” she said. As she connects with producers to put nest cameras up or capture owls to install transmitters, she appreciates help and a hands-on approach.

“I encourage landowners to come out and catch the owls with me,” she said. When landowners get their hands on owls or get to see their nestlings on camera, it puts smiles on people’s faces.

Owl Fast Facts

• Great-horned owls weigh three to four pounds, stand up to 25 inches tall, and have a wingspan of four to four-and-a-half feet.

• Great-horned owls do not migrate; instead, they stay in their home habitat year-round.

• The females nest as early as lateFebruary and can lay one to five plain white eggs; although, laying two to three eggs is considered normal. Hartley-Cox says that a

female owl on her nest covered in snow is not an uncommon sight.

• The “horns” or ear tufts are not ears at all. Tory says great-horned owls definitely use them in communication, but we don’t quite understand the nuances of that yet. For example, when a mother owl snuggles her nestlings, her tufts often go down. Owls will put their tufts up when a male and female are displaying courtship behaviour.

• Hartley-Cox describes great-horned owls as “silent and deadly killers.” Their unique feathers help break up turbulent air making their flight seemingly noiseless.

• Great-horned owls care for their young longer than most. Tory says they provide a lot of parental care to their nestlings well beyond the point that most other birds have left their young to fend for themselves.

Tory Hartley-Cox is partway through her project, which she hopes will provide her with a better understanding of habitat use and diet of great-horned owls, and that she will learn about the management implication for prey species, including species at risk.

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To watch the webinar recording, learn more about owls and watch unique data collection methods, scan the code:

Female owls provide support to their nestlings for longer than most bird species Photo courtesy of Tory Hartley-Cox

LEARN MORE

January

January

January

January

February

February 6

FEBRUARY 2023

Hereford Farms Sale Lloydminster, SK

February 7-9 2023 Western Canada Feedlot Management School Saskatoon, SK

February 8 Misty Valley Farms Production Sale Maidstone, SK

February 9 Beef Cattle Research Council: How to Develop a Grazing Game Plan Online

February 9 Bench Angus Sale Shaunavon, SK

February 11 Soderglen Ranches Select Bull Sale Airdrie, AB

February 15 Steppler Farms Bull Sale Miami, MB

February 18 Moose Creek Two-Year-Old Bull Sale Kisbey, SK

February 21 Rawes Ranching Bull Sale Strome, AB

February 23 Chapman Cattle Company Bull Sale Stettler, AB

February

February

March

THE EXECUTIVE

Garner Deobald

President Hodgeville, SK Phone: 306- 677-7777

Jeff Yorga

1st Vice President Flintoft, SK Phone: 306-531-5717

Kelly Williamson

2nd Vice President

Pambrun, SK Phone: 306-582-7774

Chay Anderson Finance Chair

Fir Mountain, SK Phone: 306-640-7087

Kelcy Elford Past President

Caron, SK Phone: 306-690-5305

Find email contact for the Executive Directors at skstockgrowers.com

SSGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DIRECTORS AT LARGE

Chay Anderson, Fir Mountain, SK 306-640-7087

Keith Day, Lacadena, SK 306-375-2934

Gerry Delorme, Assiniboia, SK 306-640-7493

Calvin Gavelin, McCord, SK 306-478-7748

Adrienne Hanson, Langbank, SK 306-421-8538

Joe Gilchrist, Maple Creek, SK 306-662-3986

Kelly Lightfoot, Assiniboia, SK 306-642-8977

Murray Linthicum, Glentwoth, SK 306-266-4377

Miles McNeil, Alameda, SK 306-489-2073

Rob Selke, Morse, SK 306-629-3238

Lee Sexton, Hanley, SK 306-544-2660

Kelly Williamson, Pambrun, SK 306-582-7774

ZONE CHAIR DIRECTORS

Zone 1 - Henry McCarthy, Wawota, SK 306-739-2205

Zone 2 - Karen McKim, Milestone, SK 306-436-4616

Zone 3 - Larry Flaig, Assiniboia, SK 306-266-2070

Zone 4 - Brad Howe, Empress, AB 306-661-0409

Zone 5 - Aaron Huber, Lipton, SK 306-331-0097

Zone 6 - Brent Griffin, Elbow, SK 306-854-2050

Zone 7- Darcy Moen, Kyle, SK 306-962-3944

Zone 12 - Rod Gamble, Pambrun, SK 306-582-2077

AFFILIATE DIRECTORS

Garner Deobald - SK Charolais Affiliate 306-677-2589

Gord Ell - SaskMilk Affiliate 306-535-1922

Kyron Manske - SK Simmental Affiliate 306-267-7530

Marlene Monvoisin - SK Angus Affiliate 306-648-8200

Rob O'Connor - SK Hereford Affiliate 306-550-4890

Ray Rintoul - SK Shorthorn Affiliate 306-917-7805

Gord Schroeder - SK Sheep Affiliate 306-933-5582

Ian Thackeray - Man-Sask Gelbvieh Affiliate 306-861-7687

Jeff Yorga - SK Limousin Affiliate 306-531-5717

APPOINTED DIRECTOR

Dr. Andy Acton - Veterinary Advisor, Ogema, SK 306-459-2422

SASKATCHEWAN CCA DIRECTORS

Ryan Beierbach, Whitewood, SK 306-532-4809

Lynn Grant, Val Marie, SK 306-298-2268

Philip Lynn, Marquis, SK 306-361-9299

Duane Thompson, Kelliher, SK 306-675-4562

January

Allen Leigh 66

Anwender Cattle Company 41

Apollo Machine & Products Ltd. 66

ArcRite Welding 65

Ayrey Hereford Farms 40

Bannerlane Horned Herefords 66

Beef Cattle Research Council 60

Beef Smart Consulting 65

Bench Angus 11

Brett Young 29

Bud Williams 66

Callicrate Banders 34

Canadian Cattle Identification Agency 2

Cargill Animal Nutrition 65

Carzan Land & Livestock 36

Cedarlea Farms 3

Chapman Cattle Company 19

Cows in Control 65

Cowtown Livestock Exchange Inc. 66

Cozy Caps 64

Cramer Ag Cow Pellets 64

Crocus Feeding Solutions 65

D&N Livestock 21

Double Bar D Farms 61

Ducks Unlimited 27

Edie Creek Angus 28

Edward Jones 64

Frostfree Nosepumps 65

GemGuard 65

Great Plains Realty 64

Head for the Hills Shorthorns 64

Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment 14

John Brown Farms 66

Johnstone Auction Mart 66

Kramer Trailer Sales 65

Linthicum Ranch Ltd. 64

M&J Farms 63

Manitou Maine-Anjou 66

Man Sask Gelbvieh Association 65

Maple Creek Seed Supply 66

Maple Lake Stock Farms 8

Masterfeeds 65

Milligan Biofuels 64

Misty Valley Farms 51

MNP 9

Moose Creek Ranch 47

N.M. McMahon CPA 64

New Generation 30

New Vision Agro 66

New-Life Mills 65

Nick's Service Ltd. 37

Nordal Limousin & Angus 35

Norheim Ranching 68 OLS Tubs 4

On Target Shorthorns 41

Palmer Charolais 45

Performance Seed 65

Prairie Diagnostic Services 64

Quick Look Back 66

Ranchland Livestock Supplies 64

Rawes Ranches 58

Reid Angus 49

Remax Yorkton 64

Rock Block 64

Saskatchewan Angus Association 66

Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists 25

Saskatchewan Livestock Finance 18

Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture 7

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation 57

SASKTIP Inc. 59

Sheppard Realty 66

Soderglen Ranches Ltd. 33

Solvet Vitaferst-Care 13

Steppler Farms 17

SweetPro Premium Supplements 67

Target Cattle Concepts 31

True North Foods 39

Union Forage 51

Willow Mills Ltd. 64

Young Dale Angus 66