Cct131209 by Farm Business Communications

THE BEEF MAGAZINE

DECEMBER 2013 $3.00

Publications Mail Agreement Number 40069240

WWW.CANADIANCATTLEMEN.CA

“Canada’s Bulls”

M.C. Quantock Bull Sale SATURDAY JANUARY 25, 2014

Important information on

Page 2-3 Call for your free DVD www.mcquantock.com www.mcquantock.com Catalogue online in January

M.C. Quantock Bull Sale 375 “Canada’s Bulls”

Watch our website for catalogue and DVDs

Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014 12 noon MST Exhibition Grounds, Lloydminster, AB/SK

BULLS

Red Angus Bulls Black Angus Bulls Super Baldie Bulls Black Super Baldie Bulls

Dehorned All cattle in heated facility! Hereford Bulls Free Beef Lunch 11 a.m.

H-2 Bulls Super Guppie Bulls Charolais Bulls

... 10,000 Plus Bulls... 45 Sales... Longevity and Stability... unequaled. Call Mac... 1-800-561-BULL (2855)

Bulls from cows this good...

Saturday, Jan. 25, 2014 12 noon MST Cattlemen are enjoying the good times and reaping the rewards for their perseverance, tenacity and resolve. We all went through 8 or 9 very, very, tough years where you wondered (to yourself) at times if you were doing the right thing by sticking with it. The optimism and ability to think long term, which all cattlemen have "etched in their DNA," carried us all through. I've been at this since the 70's and have never seen a time when all agriculture was prospering. We live in a wonderful "free enterprise" country where if you want it, plan for it, work hard for it, you will achieve it. The best part is, we are all poised for some serious "good times." Cow numbers across all beef producing countries are the lowest in 50 years. The current price levels are where they are with a high Canadian dollar, high feed costs, an economic down turn and a restricted U.S. border. This is real, it's solid and almost nothing can stand in the way of at least a decade of prosperity. The market fundamentals are perfect. Clear thinking hard nosed cattlemen figured out how to “let a cow be a cow” and take advantage of what she can do cheaply.... We’ll all make more this time around because no one will spend as much. Solid, methodical and tenacious, we've used "old school" genetics, sound breeding principles and the "eye of a cowman" to develop eight different bull lines. We've moulded a herd of cattle that are all alike.

Alike in type, alike in pedigree, alike in performance so both you and your customers can sell uniform high end cattle, make as much darn money as possible and enjoy a way of life most people wish they could have. Our only customers are Canada's commercial cowmen large and small. They buy our bulls because they're good quality, all of them, well culled, they’re easy keeping, good looking, durable bulls that sire those “fancy calves the order buyers keep talking about.” Our bulls are older fall and summer born twos (22-26 months when you need them), old enough to be tough and not give trouble. Our bulls can all be left with us till spring, you don’t want new bulls around till you need them, so let us look after them. Our bulls are all delivered absolutely free in Western Canada and cost shared in the East. Our bulls can be purchased sight unseen, in fact about half always are. We help select your bulls and they’re guaranteed to be what you want…”true satisfaction on arrival”. Our customers trust and confidence in us make it all possible. Our bulls are affordable – 75% sell from $1800 to $4200, almost half bring about $3500 and all sell to solid commercial cattlemen. Our bulls are guaranteed like no others…you’ll have a bull to breed your cows no matter what…hard to get better than that! As sale time approaches, you can view all our bulls on video on

Sight Unseen Purchase Plan Buying your bulls is easy... and it’s as close as your phone...



I have spent 35 years working with cattlemen across Canada and together we have developed the most successful Sight Unseen Purchase Plan in the country, so successful in fact that it can sell nearly half our bulls some years. I have done it with sincerity and integrity and the utmost respect for the customers needs and budget. We start by discussing your cows, your breeding program, and what you need to get done. When we are comfortable with each other we can work Mac Creech, D.V.M. together to get you the right cattle at the right price. While a few people sell a few bulls on the internet, I much prefer to visit with our customers, get to know them, and help them select the right bulls. Our comprehensive catalogue and DVD will give you an accurate impression of the bulls. After the sale I’ll personally deliver your bulls, in most cases. You must be completely satisfied on arrival or you are under no obligation to take them You pay for them only when they are delivered and satisfactory.

)

Call me anytime to get started. 1-800-561-2855 Thanks Mac

our website or we’ll send you your very own DVD and catalogue and you can show the neighbors. In fact, it’s probably easier and simpler to buy our bulls than buying bulls locally. You get great service, the best guarantee, lots of selection and your calves will be sired by nationally known bulls. It all helps to get them sold! Our customers like the fact that all our cattle are managed and fed just like most all commercial cattle. This year call me for your bulls. *Free DVD *Free Catalogue *Free Delivery “Great Bulls” Call Today Mac & Pat

Absolutely Absolutely FREE FREE Delivery Delivery

M.C. Quantock Livestock Corp Call Mac...

1-800-561-BULL (2855)

email: mcquantock@hotmail.com www.mcquantock.com Box 10888, Lloydminster, AB. T9V 3B1

CALL FOR YOUR FREE CATALOGUE AND DVD

Contents

Established 1938 ISSN 1196-8923 CATTLEMEN EDITORIAL Editor: Gren Winslow 1666 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H1 (204) 944-5753 Fax (204) 944-5416 E-mail: gren@fbcpublishing.com

CANADIAN CATTLEMEN · DECEMBER 2013 · VOLUME 76, NO. 13

 A LOOK BAC K — 193 8

Field Editor: Debbie Furber Box 1168, Tisdale, SK S0E 1T0 (306) 873-4360 Fax (306) 873-4360 E-mail: debbie.furber@fbcpublishing.com ADVERTISING SALES Deborah Wilson RR 1, Lousana, AB T0M 1K0 (403) 325-1695 Fax (403) 944-5562 E-mail: deb.wilson@fbcpublishing.com HEAD OFFICE 1666 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H1 (204) 944-5765 Fax (204) 944-5562 Advertising Services Co-ordinator: Arlene Bomback (204) 944-5765 Fax (204) 944-5562 E-mail: ads@fbcpublishing.com Publisher: Lynda Tityk E-mail: lynda.tityk@fbcpublishing.com

EARLY RANCHING DAYS IN CANADIAN WEST  A LOOK BAC K — 19 6 6

FEATURES Early ranching days in Canadian west . . . 13 The E. P. Ranch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Douglas Lake Cattle Company Ltd. . .20 Calmness in adversity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Who’s for crossbreeding? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 French Charolais now in Canada. . . . . . . . 26 New custom lot at Brooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Ranch at Crooked Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

French Charolais now in Canada

Dr. Kenneth F. Wells, Canada’s veterinary director general . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Controlled calving — believe it or not . . . 33 Milestone in boxed beef . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

 A LOOK BAC K — 1973

Cargill plant on schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Order buyers say black is fashionable this fall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 5/20, a black day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Verified Beef Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 2013 index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

DEPARTMENTS

Dr. Kenneth F. Wells, Canada’s veterinary director general

Congratulations! To our December survey winner, Gaetan Girouard, Lavigne, Ont. This month’s survey is on page 38. Cover: Steve Cote

C AT T L E M E N · D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3

Comment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Newsmakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Prime Cuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 1 Holistic Ranching . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Research on the Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Straight from the Hip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Vet Advice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 CCA Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 News Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Purely Purebred . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 The Markets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 1 Market Talk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Sales and Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Associate Publisher/Editorial Director: John Morriss E-mail: john.morriss@fbcpublishing.com Production Director: Shawna Gibson E-mail: shawna@fbcpublishing.com Circulation Manager: Heather Anderson E-mail: heather@fbcpublishing.com President: Bob Willcox Glacier FarmMedia Email: bwillcox@farmmedia.com Contents of Cattlemen are copyrighted and may be reproduced only when written permission is obtained from the editor and proper credit is given to Cattlemen. Cattlemen and Canadian Cattlemen are Trade Marks of Farm Business Communications. Cattlemen is published monthly (with the exception of July and 2 issues in January and October) by Farm Business Communications. Head office: Winnipeg, Manitoba. Printed by Transcontinental LGMC. Cattlemen is printed with linseed oil-based inks. Subscription rates in Canada — $36.75 for one year, $55 for 2 years, $79 for 3 years (prices include GST). Manitoba residents add 8% PST. U.S. subscription rate — $35 (U.S. funds). Subscription rate outside Canada and U.S. — $55 per year. Single copies $3. We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. Publications Mail Agreement Number 40069240. Canadian Postmaster: Return undeliverable Canadian addresses (covers only) to: Circulation Dept., PO Box 9800, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3k7. U.S. Postmaster: Send address changes and undeliverable addresses (covers only) to: Circulation Dept., PO Box 9800, Winnipeg, MB R3C 3k7. PRINTED IN CANADA

Circulation inquiries: Call toll-free 1-800-665-1362 or email: subscription@fbcpublishing.com U.S. subscribers call 1-204-944-5766 Member

LIVESTOCK PUBLICATIONS COUNCIL

The editors and journalists who write, contribute and provide opinions to Canadian Cattlemen and Farm Business Communications attempt to provide accurate and useful opinions, information and analysis. However, the editors, journalists, Canadian Cattlemen and Farm Business Communications, cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy of the information contained in this publication and the editors as well as Canadian Cattlemen and Farm Business Communications assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any reader for this publication based on any and all information provided. Our commitment to your privacy: At Farm Business Communications we have a firm commitment to protecting your privacy and security as our customer. Farm Business Communications will only collect personal information if it is required for the proper functioning of our business. As part of our commitment to enhance customer service, we may share this personal information with other strategic business partners. For more information regarding our Customer Information Privacy Policy, write to: Information Protection Officer, Farm Business Communications, 1666 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H1. Occasionally we make our list of subscribers available to other reputable firms whose products and services might be of interest to you. If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please contact us at the address in the preceding paragraph, or call 1-800-665-1362.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

- from the Canadian Angus Associa tion

292140 Wagon Wheel Blvd Rocky View County, AB T4A 0E2 Phone: 1-888-571-3580 www.cdnangus.ca email: cdnangus@cdnangus.ca

Scan to visit our website

 COMMEN T

By Gren Winslow

Looking back A sample of the last 75 years

few older readers may have recognized the Old West sketch on this page, the work of Western illustrator Don Brestler. His first drawing for Canadian Cattlemen appeared in January 1966 and his work ran in the magazine more or less continuously until December of 1972. A later series named Faded Tales ran for about a year until the middle of 1976. His drawings always appeared with a short story to put the drawing in context. This one was called: Breaking the Colt. Don’s work was just one of many little treasures I discovered recently when I set about going through all the back issues of the magazine that we have in our office. I can’t say we have all the back issues, but thanks to a generous donation by the family of Fred Nelson at Warner, Alberta our collection goes back to 1944, plus some material saved from a lone copy of the first 1938 issue. I set myself this task a couple of months ago when it was suggested taking a peek back through the decades might be a nice way to wrap up this, our 75th anniversary year. Unfortunately, with the economics of magazine publishing being what it is, a peek is about all I can offer you in this souvenir issue. I initially selected about 100 stories and photos that I wanted to share with you but then was forced to whittle that number down to the sample you find in the pages before you. We’ve pulled them from past issues so they appear to you as they did when they were first published. There is no manual for this sort of thing. I simply looked for articles that reflected the past of the magazine and the industry it covered. Founding editor Ken Coppock starts us off by looking back from 1938 to the early days of ranching in the West. Recording the history of the industry and the ranchers who influenced that history was an important element in those early issues of the magazine. Out of all the ranch and rancher profiles I looked at from 1944 to 1953 I picked just two featuring the EP Ranch and Douglas Lake Ranching Company to give us the flavour of those times. The magazine was also an important source of news and advice back then. And in 1952 there was no bigger story for the cattle industry than the discovery of foot-and-mouth disease near Regina. Ken Coppock’s editorial starkly spells out the challenges brought on by this discovery and offers some words of advice to the officials of the day. At the end of 1953 the ownership of the magazine changed hands and Frank Jacobs took over as editor. With Frank in charge the focus of the magazine moved a little more toward reporting on advances in produc-

C at t l e m e n · d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

tion brought on by new research. A case in point is the slow swing toward crossbreeding in the national herd. When I first met Frank he told me about a time when he had to take a strong stand in support of crossbreeding in spite of the rancour it caused within the powerful purebred community. That struck me as the point where the industry changed direction so I went in search of that editorial and hope that I found the right one. I also included the magazine’s profile of Dr. Ken Wells because it gave a nice summary of the health issues the industry was facing during the 1950s and ’60s. Columnists have always been an important feature of this magazine. The list is a long one stretching back to associate editor Grant MacEwan, Guy Weadick with the Corral and W.R. Cochrane’s Bunkhouse Philosophy to Frank Jacob’s Tally Book right up to the people you will find in this issue today. I couldn’t run them all, so I settled on the first column by Jake from the Ranch at Crooked Creek. Jake was the irreverent nom de plume of Chris Mills who used the folksy cowhand to poke fun at industry irritants like inconsiderate snowmobilers and foolish politicians who supported wrong-headed policies like the Crow Rate, or the Canadian Wheat Board. The remaining stories mark other times of change in the industry: the invasion of European genetics, the construction of the Cargill plant and the Lakeside feedlot, boxed beef, and the first appearance of the idea that feeding time could encourage daylight calving. I hope you agree with my choices and enjoy taking a look back over the last seven-plus decades. Now it is on to 2014, and with that I want to wish all of you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all of us at Canadian Cattlemen. c

www.canadiancattlemen.ca

Make ZUPREVO your on-arrival antibiotic of choice for cattle at high risk of developing BRD. TM

The longest-lasting on-arrival antibiotic on the market today High and sustained concentrations in the lungs for up to 28 days1

Ask your veterinarian about the Breathe Easy Pledge, and how it can help you further reduce the impact of BRD on your operation.

1. Menge, M., Rose, M., Bohland, C., Zschiesche, E., Kilp, S., Metz, W., Allan, M., Röpke, R., Nürnberger, M. Pharmacokinetics of tildipirosin in bovine plasma, lung tissue, and bronchial fluid (from live, non-anesthetized cattle). J. Vet. Pharmacol. Therap. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2885.2011.01349.x. ZUPREVOTM is a trademark of Intervet International B.V. Used under license. RESFLOR® is a registered trademark of Intervet International B.V. Used under license. Merck Animal Health, operating in Canada as Intervet Canada Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. MERCK is a trademark of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. Copyright © 2013 Intervet International B.V., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. All rights reserved.

 THE INDUST RY

NewsMakers dairyman Elvin Haupstein and stock dog handler, Dale Montgomery of Maple Creek. Beef producer, John MacDonald of Prince Edward Island was inducted into the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame in October. He has served as a director of the Canadian Cattlemen’s John MacDonald Association and Canadian Federation of Agriculture, and served as president/chairman of the P.E.I. Cattlemen’s Association and P.E.I. Federation of Agriculture. He is a current director of Canada Beef and honorary member of the Canadian 4-H Council.

A former president of the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association and Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, rancher Gary Jones will be inducted into the Saskatchewan Agriculture Gary Jones Hall of Fame on August 2, 2014. Gary and his wife Penny continue to assist their three sons in the operation of Jones Ranches at Crane Valley and Wood Mountain. They are well known for their cattle export business. As CCA president he travelled extensively and helped improve relations between the Canadian and American industries. He also served on the first board of Canadian Western Agribition and assisted with the introduction of the rodeo, still a mainstay of the annual livestock show. Joining Jones in the Hall of Fame will be

Geneticist Bob Kemp and rancher Sean McGrath of Vermilion, Alta., sold their performance recording software company

Treat them with ZACTRAN®.

The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair has appointed Peter Hohenadel its director, agriculture and food. A graduate of the University of Guelph, Hohenadel has worked as a farm journalist and advertising agency pracPeter Hohenadel titioner. In his new role he will work with Royal staff and volunteers to ensure the Royal attracts the very best in Canadian livestock and crops as well as developing partnerships and exhibits that tell the story of how food is produced and consumed, from farm to table. Ron Pidskalny is the new executive director of the Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA), replacing the retiring Wayne Digby. Ron is a technology consultant and business analyst experienced in working with multisegmented agricultural organizations such as the CFGA. He’s served on the board of governors of the Agricultural InstiRon Pidskalny tute of Canada and is a past western director of the Canadian Society of Agronomy. He also has a research background in herbicide physiology. Tanner Zinck was recently awarded the 2013 Kamloops Stockmen’s Association $1,000 scholarship. He is studying engineering at the University of Victoria.

“When I ride out to treat calves on pasture, I need a product that works fast and I know will last...because I’m only doing this once.”

Summer pneumonia is a challenge anytime you have calves on grass. Treat them with a product that gets to work right away1 and gives long lasting2 action in a single dose. Treat them with the product that is safe3 to handle, and comes in a plastic bottle that you can toss in your saddlebag.

Creo Episteme to longtime project manager Chris Sanford in early October. The company’s breed record and performance system software supports several million pedigree and performance records for numerous breeds in several countries.

Ask your veterinarian why ZACTRAN is ideal for cattle on your ranch.

1. Giguère S, Huang R, Malinski TJ, Dorr PM, Tessman RK & Somerville BA. Disposition of gamithromycin in plasma, pulmonary epithelial lining fluid, bronchoalveolar cells, and lung tissue in cattle. Am. J. Vet. Res. 72(3): 326-330 (2011). 2. Based on label claims. 3. See ZACTRAN MSDS.

Brianne Harney, Annie Rosia and Caitlyn Best were awarded $2,500 Bill Kehler Memorial Scholarships last month during the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton. The award is made in memory of well-known rodeo announcer Bill Kehler and intended to support students pursuing an education in broadcasting or agriculture. Brianne is Continued on page 12

C at t l e m e n · D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

2792 Zactran CowCalf Ad-CC.indd 1

Client: Merial Project: Zactran Cow/Calf Date: Nov 2013

www.canadiancattlemen.ca 2013-11-04 10:38 AM

Publication: Canadian Cattlemen Size: 4.58” x 5” Bleed: none

Agency: ON Communication Inc Agency Contact: Raellen Seaman Telephone: 519-434-1365 Ext.228

We sell results... that count! “The added milk and udder quality in our cow herd has made us money!” – Miles Kingdon, Cow Boss Quilchena Cattle Co.

380 Bulls...

Bill Creech

“Bill the Bull Guy”

105 Red Angus - Two’s & Yearlings 50 Hereford - Two’s 80 Black Angus - Two’s & Yearlings 80 Charolais - Two’s & Yearlings 45 Red & Black Angus x Simmental 15 Red Angus x Gelbvieh - Two’s 15 Black Simmental - Two’s 100 Commercial Females (bred & open)

NeW for 2014!

We have a dandy set of Black Two year Old Simmental Bulls. Gently developed so they will be around for years... another option in your cross breeding program.

Hill 70 Quantock RancH

... Hereford and Red Angus bulls

Quilchena Cattle Co. calves out 1500 head in the Nicola Valley at Quilchena, BC. Miles says “It was nine years ago we came looking for a program that would improve our cow herd. We were looking for more volume and moderate framed cattle. Your bulls have made our cow herd quiet and improved the maternal qualities plus added pay weight. Trailing our cattle home, we really notice the added width over the top and how the muscle carries down.”

*Additional real testimonials on all breeds of bulls please contact us.

“Barn Burnin’ Bull Sale” $

Reply CaRd

Name__________________________________________

12 noon at the Ranch

Lloydminster, AB/SK

1-800-665-7253 Sight Unseen Purchase Program…

Boys, still your best bet if you can’t be with us sale day. we GuARAnTee YouR SATiSFACTion! Together we’ll analyze each and every bull… we want to be sure the “fit is right”. Annually sells 100+ bulls using this program.

Address ________________________________________ Ph _____________________ Fax___________________ #________ of cows  Sight Unseen Purchase Plan  DVD of Sale Bulls  Red Angus  Black Angus  Charolais  Horned Hereford  Black Simmental Bulls  Red Angus x Gelbvieh  Reg. Red Angus Females  Commercial Females (Bred & Open)  Black Angus x Simmental Hybrids  Red Angus x Simmental Hybrids Mail to: Hill 70 Quantock Ranch Box 756, Lloydminster, AB S9V 1C1 info@hill70quantock.com www.hill70quantock.com

Clip & Mail For Your Free Catalogue & DVD

Sat., Feb. 1, 2014

doing more. using Less.

A series on being ready for the farming challenges ahead

Put more Beans in your tank By Kelly Kravig Marketing Manager, Case IH Combines & Headers

rom preparing the soil to selecting a variety, from precision planting to optimizing inputs, you do everything possible to give each seed its best chance to maximize yield potential. That’s a big investment. And it all has to pay off at harvest time. So Case IH has made a big investment of its own – $60 million to develop and build its new headers. Because beans left in the field are like money left on the table.

Quantifying Bean Harvest Losses Experts agree that harvesting losses of one to two bushels per acre are typical1. Mark Hanna, Iowa State University Extension ag engineer, says average machinery loss of 1.5 bushels of soybeans per acre is normal, and poorly adjusted machines can lose 2.5 bushels or more. Up to 85 or 90 percent of soybean harvest losses tend to occur at the head2. How is an accurate measurement of harvest losses made? Literally, by counting beans. By sampling lost beans from one-foot squares on a harvested field, we can derive accurate estimates of total harvest loss and determine the likely cause of those losses. The rule of thumb is, four beans lost in a square foot add up to a one-bushel-per-acre loss. Typically, there are three principal causes of harvest losses attributed to the header. First are shatter losses, beans that are lost through impact with the reels or the cutterbar. Number two are pods that remain on the stems as they are cut, but are swept under the machine and left behind. And third are down stalks or low pods that are simply too low for the header to cut. The keys to improved header performance are gentler gathering and cutting, more efficient gathering action, and the ability to shave the field closer to the ground. A properly adjusted flex-draper can significantly reduce header losses by more effectively lifting and sweeping the crop across the cutterbar onto the draper belts. When combined with a cutterbar that has been adjusted for the crop and field conditions, the operator can reduce his header loss to as low as 0.5 bushels per acre. The key is carefully assessing the header’s performance, and optimizing the settings to achieve the desired results.

a Big investment in Better Harvests The new draper headers from Case IH are the result of more than $60 million investment in research & development and manufacturing, including the new Combine Header Center of

Excellence in Burlington, Iowa. Built to minimize grain loss and provide the best grain quality while operating at higher speeds, over more acres, these new Case IH heads are backed by intense testing in the lab and on customers’ farms. An important innovation is at the center of the new Case IH 3152 and 3162 draper headers – literally. The exclusive center-mounted knife drive – called CentraCut™ – improves header balance and efficiency because the head is driven symmetrically, from the center, to minimize vibration and improve performance. Typically, large headers have had heavy, complex drives on one or both sides. This design allows much narrower end dividers, reducing crop rundown and improving grain savings. The new 3162 flex draper takes grain savings to a new industry benchmark. Following ground contours closely, it shaves the field to harvest more crop than competitive headers and previous Case IH models:

random CHeCK- soyBean Harvest Losses 3 COMPETITIvE 35-FT. FLEX DRAPER

CASE IH 2162 40-FT.

new Case iH 3262 40-ft.

Left Side

Right Side

Left Center

Right Center

totaL

adding to tHe axiaL-fLow advantage New Case IH headers are easier to set up and maintain, so producers can spend more time harvesting. A combination of heavyduty construction and easy maintenance helps keep them in the field, and out of the shop. Designed specifically to fit Case IH Axial-Flow® combines, these headers are built simple, robust and reliable. They’ve passed through extensive competitive benchmark testing, and they are engineered with the latest advancements in harvesting technology. They help to bring a new level of innovation and productivity to the Axial-Flow combine family. To learn more about Case IH Agronomic DesignSM and how our new header designs put more grain in the tank, visit www.CaseIH.com/AgronomicDesign.

1 “Profitable Soybean Harvesting,” Cooperative Extension Service, Iowa State University PM-573 2 “8 Top Soybean Harvest Tips,” Corn and Soybean Digest, August 1, 2010. 3 Factory Observed Loss Check in 4-ft. square conducted by Case IH engineering, March, 2013, Goias State, Brazil. Soybeans harvested at 12 to 13% moisture. Yield was 55 to 60 bu. per acre. Single season beans.

caseih.com

MaxxumÂŽ series tractors are designed to handle everything from roadside mowing, livestock operations, to row-crop applications. SurroundVision cab with high-visibility roof panel offers outstanding visibility in all directions while optional cab suspension makes the ride feel more like a truck than a tractor. Tier 4A Efficient Power with patented SCR-only solution improves fuel efficiency and reduces maintenance intervals. And now Maxxum tractors offer a CVT option that simplifies operation by automatically selecting the most efficient transmission range for the desired speed or load, eliminating the need for clutching and shifting. See your Case IH dealer or visit us online at www.caseih.com/maxxumcanc1213.

BE READY.

News Makers

studying veterinary medicine at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine.

Continued from page 8

enrolled in the University of Saskatchewan’s Edwards School of Business; Annie is studying Agriculture and Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan and Caitlyn is

Ted Menzies, a former Alberta farmer and member of Parliament, will become the new president and CEO of CropLife Canada on January 1, replacing Lorne Hepworth, a former Saskatchewan agriculture minister. Menzies was first elected to represent the Alberta constituency of Macleod in 2004 and served as the minister of state for finance and parliamentary secretary to the minister

of finance. Previously he was involved in several farm organizations, including the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance, Grain Growers of Canada and Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association. Menzies owned and operated a 5,000-acre farm from 1974-2003. In his new role he will head up the trade association representing the crop chemical manufacturers, developers and distributors. Keith Colwell is the new agriculture minister for Nova Scotia. He also holds the fisheries and aquiculture portfolios. He has owned and operated a manufacturing company for the past 19 years. The web arm of Canadian Cattlemen magazine and the mobile app for Grainews were among the winners at the Canadian Online Publishing Awards last month. CanadianCattlemen.ca earned a silver award for best overall companion website in the Blue (business-to-business, professional association, farm, scholarly) division. Grainews Mobile earned a silver for best smartphone app (Blue division). The app is available in iPhone, Android and BlackBerry versions. CanadianCattlemen.ca was one of five finalists for news coverage. c

Thank you to the sponsors of this year’s Annual Forum. Thank you to all our guests and delegates for another great Forum. Hope to see you next year in Toronto – September 17-19, 2014!

To see more information from the forum, go to www.canadabeef.ca/producer

Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency Ltd.

www.canadabeef.ca

C AT T L E M E N · D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3

www.canadiancattlemen.ca

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A look back — 1938

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A look back — 1947

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We just couldn’t leave well enough alone. 6M SERIES TRACTORS - IT WASN’T EASY IMPROVING PERFECT.

Item/model may not be exactly as shown.

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Answer our survey — and have a go at winning one of our caps

We have a goal to be the best beef cattle magazine in the business. But we need your help. If you could just fill in this survey and return it to me, you would be helping us set the future editorial direction for Canadian Cattlemen. All you have to do is tell me what you like about the magazine, and what you

We’d appreciate it if you could tell us a little about yourself. It makes it easier for us to keep your main interests in focus  I’m ranching or farming Enterprise Total beef cattle Yearlings on feed/pasture Registered cows Fed cattle (sold yearly) Commercial cows Horses Calves on feed/pasture Other livestock

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CCA Reports Prime Cuts

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5 – I always watch for it; let’s see more of it 4 – I regularly read it and like it 3 – I usually read it 2 – There are things I’d rather read 1 – I don’t want it; get rid of it Regular Columns 5 4 3 Newsmakers Letters

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don’t like. There’s also some space for you to tell us what you would like to see in future issues. ClIp And enClose your mAIlIng lABel. each month, we will draw one name from all the surveys sent in and send that person a Cattlemen cap. It could be you!

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 prime cuts

By Steve Kay

COOL overconfidence?

t ain’t over till it’s over. Someone needs to remind Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz of this as he ponders his next public pronouncement on mandatory country-of-origin labelling. Ritz raised eyebrows last month when he confidently predicted that the U.S. Congress, through a new Farm Bill, would repeal COOL. Ritz had come to the North American Meat Association’s annual outlook conference with a delegation that included his provincial counterparts from Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, plus representatives from the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and the Canadian Pork Council. This was the first time the Canadian government had brought its argument against COOL to a U.S. forum. The Canadian and U.S. meat and livestock industries have worked closely in recent years to roll back COOL. So Ritz was speaking to an audience of COOL opponents. Most of his remarks merely reiterated Canada’s position on COOL. But he especially emphasized Canada’s determination to apply, if necessary, more than C$1 billion worth of retaliatory tariffs against U.S. products that enter Canada. He reminded his audience that “as you are aware, the list includes many of the (meat) products marketed by you in this room. “I don’t have to tell you the importance of our Canadian market to your ongoing success,” he added.“With the American cattle herd at all-time lows, mandatory COOL is the last thing you can afford. Last year, Canadian consumers purchased more than $2.2 billion worth of beef and pork products from the U.S. With respect to retaliation, our truth is this. These retaliatory measures, should we be forced to bring them into effect, will hurt producers and consumers on both sides of the border. It’s by no means our preferred course of action or that of anyone in this room, I’m sure,” he said. Playing the “retaliation” card made sense. As Ritz said, coming out early with a comprehensive retaliatory list of U.S. products was “very helpful.” He knew of course that just a week or so earlier, several key members of Congress had referred to the possible retaliation. At the first joint House-Senate panel meeting to negotiate a final version of a new Farm Bill, House Agriculture Committee chair Frank Lucas, R-Okla., said: “Working together, we can prevent the imposition of tariffs on a wide array of products important to many states.” Under congressional protocol, Lucas chairs the Farm Bill talks. This and other expressions by members of the panel led Ritz to express his confidence that the U.S. Congress would legislatively fix COOL through the Farm Bill. But he got a little carried away in the minds of some veteran Washington lobbyists. Ritz on an earlier teleconference with mostly Canadian reporters said Canada is hopeful COOL will be repealed through the Farm Bill. The ground has shifted, the tide has turned, he said. But during later questioning and at the NAMA conference, he said he was “very confident” of repeal. The response at the NAMA conference was, “Oh, I wish he hadn’t said that.” That’s because the U.S. industry knows that COOL’s supporters will fight tooth and nail to keep COOL intact. A remark like Ritz’s might be seized on as an “example” of Canadian arrogance and be used to rally COOL supporters to lobby their members of Congress. If only Ritz had kept his remarks at “hopeful,” lobbyists say. The other issue is that, currently, there is still only a 50-50 chance that Congress will even agree on a new Farm Bill. Should it fail to produce a final bill, the current bill would be extended again and COOL would remain fully in place. c

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A North American view of the meat industry. Steve Kay is publisher and editor of Cattle Buyers Weekly.

NOW’S THE

SMART TIME TO

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VISIT YOUR AUTHORIZED NEW HOLLAND DEALER TODAY AND ASK ABOUT THE YEAR-END CLEARANCE EVENT! www.newholland.com ©2013 CNH America LLC. New Holland is a registered trademark of CNH America LLC. NHCE12138308FT

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 Holistic R a nc hi ng

By Don Campbell

GOAL SETTING

M is a decision-making process. To manage holistically requires a goal. A holistic goal will have three parts, be written and have input and buy-in from all the people involved. Does that mean that goal setting is just for holistic managers? I don’t think so. I believe everyone can benefit from having clear goals. The person who knows what he or she wants can pursue it energetically. No one becomes a great teacher, parent, violinist or rancher by accident. The most effective goals are written and communicated to those close to us who can help us achieve our goals. Everything that we do or accomplish in life begins as an idea in our brain. Everything is created twice, first in our brain and then second in the world. Often it is difficult to think of what our values are. Here is a short exercise that may help you determine your values. My thanks go to Don Green who showed me this exercise. Begin with a clean sheet of paper and make a list of the following values: accomplishment, affection, collaboration, creativity, economic security, exciting life, family happiness, freedom, religion, order, personal growth, trust, pleasure, power, responsibility, self-respect, social service, social recognition, winning and wisdom. Please feel free to delete or add any values you wish. The next step is to create four boxes on the right side of the page beside each value. The end result will look like this: a

1. Accomplishment 2. Affection

Continue in the same manner until all the values are listed. Read each value. Think about how well you are satisfying each value at present. Record your answer in column A. Use a scale of 1 to 5. A 1 means I have low level of satisfaction for that value. A 5 means I have high level of satisfaction for that value. Now move to column B. Ask yourself how would I feel if the level in column A was significantly increased? Record your answer using the 1 to 5 scale. A 1 means I don’t really care. A 5 means I am very pleased. Now move to column C. Ask yourself how would I feel if the level in column A was significantly decreased? Record your answer using the 1 to 5 scale. A 1 means I don’t really care. A 5 means I am very concerned. The next step is to add the numbers in column B and

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C and record the answer in column D. The higher the number in column D the more important that value is to you. Pick the five highest scores. If you have ties or more than five high scores make a judgment call to come up with your five most important personal values. Write these five values on a separate sheet of paper. Now make a judgment call. Give the value that is most important to you a rank of 10. Then rank the next four values relative to the 10. If it is almost as important you may rank it with an 8 or 9. If it is half as important give the value a rank of 5. You can only use each number once. At this point you will have your five most important personal values listed and ranked in importance. Congratulations! Let’s do one more exercise. Think of your life and the different roles you play — son, daughter, spouse, mother or father, rancher, a member of a service club or a church organization. Write down your most important roles. Limit your list to seven roles. Now look ahead. It is your 85th birthday. You are healthy and happy. All your friends and family are present to help you celebrate. There will be a speaker from each of your roles. Think carefully. Write down what you would like each speaker to say. Don’t write what you think they might say but what you would like them to say. You now have your five most important values identified and ranked. You have just written what you would like people to say when you turn 85. Use this information to write a personal goal. How do you want to live in light of your values? How do you need to live so that people will say the things you would like to hear when you are 85? I hope this has been helpful. We live in a wonderful country full of opportunities. Having a clear goal can help us create the future we desire. Some tips to make your goal more effective: 1. Desire your goal. Make it alive and exciting. 2. Visualize yourself achieving your goal. 3. Write your goal down. 4. Use your goal to make decisions. 5. Share your goal with the most important people in your life. I hope you achieve your dreams. I believe it is possible for all of us. Life can be full, rich and rewarding. Happy trails. c Don Campbell ranches with his family at Meadow Lake, Sask., and teaches Holistic Management courses. He can be reached at 306-236-6088 or doncampbell@sasktel.net.

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 researc h o n t h e r eco r d

By Reynold Bergen

Better Housekeeping

ast month’s column discussed a Beef Science Cluster study conducted by Dr. Colin Gill, Xianqin Yang, Madhu Badoni and Mohamed Youssef of AAFC’s Lacombe Research Station. These researchers found that both large and small packing plants can produce dressed beef carcasses with very few E. coli bacteria, even though they use very different food safety interventions and strategies. But E. coli-related recalls still happen occasionally. How does beef get contaminated when the carcasses carry so few E. coli? Two papers published by this research team (Journal of Food Protection 75:144-149 and Food Control 31:166-171) help explain how this can happen. What they did: This research was done in a large packing plant that processed up to 280 cattle per hour, and a small packing plant that processed up to 200 cattle per week. Bacterial counts were made on carcasses leaving the cooler, then on workers’ hands, gloves, conveyor belts, beef trim (for grinding) and primal cuts (e.g. for steaks and roasts) as the beef moved from the chiller through the fabrication line. What they learned: Chilling successfully prevented microbial growth on the carcass sides in the larger plant. In the smaller plant, carcasses actually had 99 per cent fewer viable E. coli after chilling than when they entered the cooler three days earlier. The longer cooling time used by the smaller plant allowed the carcass surface to become drier, which killed more E. coli. Conveyor belts are a potential source of bacterial recontamination. Some conveyor belt parts (e.g. plastic slats on conveyor belt surfaces) are simple to clean routinely. Other parts (e.g. hinges between slats) are very difficult to clean thoroughly. These hard-to-clean parts may act as a hiding spot and breeding ground for microbes. More E. coli were found on conveyor belts at the smaller plant, indicating the larger plant did a better job of routinely cleaning and drying its conveyor belts and other fixed equipment. Beef: Hamburger (ground beef trim) carries a higher risk of bacterial contamination than muscle cuts. A oneinch cube of beef trim has a surface area of six square inches. If this cube is ground through a one-eighthinch die, its exposed surface area increases to more than 30 square inches. At the same time, any bacteria that may have been on the surface of the original cube will be mixed in, and will have a lot more meat surface area to grow and multiply on. This is why it is so important to always cook hamburger to a “well done” end point. Unlike trim, bacteria on the surface of steaks or roasts

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will remain on the surface, so they will be exposed to (and killed by) full heat for as long as the beef is cooked. E. coli numbers were very similar on primal cuts and trim from the smaller plant and primal cuts from the larger plant. However, trim from the larger plant actually had lower E. coli numbers than the primal cuts. This is probably because primal cuts are handled repeatedly as they move down the fabricating line, but trim isn’t. The larger plant may be able to control E. coli levels on primal cuts better if it changes how it manages workers’ gloves. Gloves keep workers’ hands from contacting the meat surface. But cotton or steel-mesh gloves will not prevent bacterial contamination. Bacteria are everywhere in every environment, so workers’ hands can be contaminated in a variety of ways before they put their gloves on and begin work. In fact, office staff had as much E. coli on their hands as the line workers did at the end of their shifts. At the larger plant, line workers wore cotton gloves underneath steel-mesh gloves. Cotton and steelmesh gloves are porous, so they will not prevent bacterial movement from hands to meat. In fact, warm hands and wet cotton gloves may provide a good environment for bacterial growth. Line workers at the smaller plant wore rubber gloves over top of the cotton and steelmesh gloves. This may have helped reduce bacterial movement from gloves to meat. This helped the smaller plant reduce the amount of bacteria reintroduced to the primals as they were repeatedly handled on the fabrication line. What it means: Bacteria are present in both large and small beef plants. But the risk of contaminated beef can be minimized when beef-processing facility management and workers understand and effectively implement known best management practices. Under the second Beef Science Cluster, this research team will help beefprocessing plants identify how to adjust in-plant practices to improve food safety. Visit www.beefresearch.ca for more information about Beef Cattle Research Council activities funded through the National Checkoff. The Beef Research Cluster is funded by the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to advance research and technology transfer supporting the Canadian beef industry’s vision to be recognized as a preferred supplier of healthy, high-quality beef, cattle and genetics. c Reynold Bergen is the science director of the Beef Cattle Research Council.

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 Nutriti o n

By John McKinnon

Feed the Rumen First!

eef producers often have questions on the relative feed value of the different forages, grains and byproduct feeds they have access to. Many of these questions centre on energy and protein content, how much to feed and what type of supplement, if any is required. Understanding relative feed value and the need for specific supplements requires knowledge of feed quality (i.e. forage energy, protein and mineral content) as well as the animal’s nutrient requirements for a given level of production. It is also important to have an understanding of how cattle digest and utilize the nutrients in the feed they consume. It is this latter topic that I would like to address in this column and follow up next month with a focus on feed quality and how modern systems of analysis can help to more accurately formulate diets for the cattle we feed. When discussing your feeding program with your nutritionist, many of you have likely heard the phrase “feed the rumen first.” To understand what is meant by this statement we need to look in more detail at rumen fermentation, a term I will use interchangeably with rumen digestion. The rumen and reticulum, which for the sake of this discussion will be considered together, is basically a large fermentation vat with a tightly controlled environment, particularly in terms of temperature, acidity and anaerobic (i.e. lack of oxygen) status. The contents of the rumen include both a solid feed mat and a fluid phase, both of which are mixed by contractions of the rumen wall. Within this environment, three categories of microbes (bacteria, protozoa and fungi) coexist. While the latter two are important, I will concentrate on the role of the bacteria in rumen digestion. If we look at this group, the first thing we see is that the rumen contains literally billions of bacterial cells, representing many different species, each with a different role in digestion. Broadly, they can be grouped into three categories — fibrolytic, amylolytic and proteolytic bacteria. Fibrolytic bacteria preferentially ferment the fibrous carbohydrates of forages such as cellulose and hemicellulose. Amylolytic bacteria prefer to ferment starch in cereal grains while proteolytic bacteria break down feed protein into smaller constituents, namely peptides, amino acids and ammonia. The relative proportions of these three groups and their contribution to rumen digestion will depend on the nature of the diet (i.e. high forage versus high grain). In most situations, these groups work together to digest the carbohydrate and protein content of the feed consumed by the animal. During this process,

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as chemical bonds within the feed are broken, several important nutrients are released. These include energy, volatile fatty acids and the byproducts of protein breakdown discussed above. The released energy and byproducts of protein breakdown serve to support the growth and reproduction of the rumen bacteria. For example, many rumen bacteria utilize ammonia to synthesize essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine. This ability is not only important for bacterial growth but it is also a very important step in terms of how your cattle meet their protein requirements, a point I will come back to shortly. Another unique feature of this system is the turnover of rumen contents. Undigested feed will eventually pass out of the rumen as the fluid and solid phases of the rumen turn over. As it leaves the rumen, the undigested feed residue will be subjected to digestive processes in the lower gut. Rumen bacteria are part of this turnover process, with cells leaving the rumen with both the fluid and solid phases. In particular, when rumen bacteria reach the abomasum and small intestine, they are subjected to the same digestive processes as undigested feed protein. As a result of rumen fermentation, the bacteria make two important contributions to the nutrition of the animal. First the volatile fatty acids released as a result of carbohydrate fermentation are absorbed across the rumen wall and are used for several metabolic functions, most notably as the primary energy source for the animal. Secondly, when the bacteria pass out of the rumen with the undigested feed and reach the small intestine, they serve as a source of essential amino acids for the animal. In fact, bacterial protein is the primary source of amino acids for cattle. The fact that rumen bacteria can synthesize essential amino acids from basic compounds such as ammonia and that the animal can use these amino acids for productive purposes sets ruminants apart from other classes of domestic livestock. Specifically, it reduces the need for expensive protein supplementation. It is also the reason why we can feed urea to cattle (i.e. urea is a source of ammonia in the rumen). Simply put, maximizing rumen bacteria growth is the most efficient and cost-effective way of meeting the energy and protein needs of your cattle. That’s why we “feed the rumen first!” Now, you may be wondering how this information helps one to formulate diets. I will tackle this question in my next column, but to leave you with a hint, the focus will be on systems for feed analysis and ration formulation that match feed nutrient characteristics to the complex dynamics of rumen fermentation just discussed. c

John McKinnon is a beef cattle nutritionist at the University of Saskatchewan

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BUILDING TRUST IN CANADIAN BEEF

The inside producer view on a VBP audit Manitoba’s Van Damme family is now an audit ambassador Near Baldur, Man. Hilary and Blaine Van Damme run a 300-cow mixed farm. They grow their own feed, background 250 head, finish 50 to 75 head a year and raise their own replacement heifers. All that adds up to exactly the kind of operation Canada’s Verified Beef Production (VBP) program was set up to support. But the path to VBP participation was not direct for the Van Dammes. The first time they looked into the program it seemed like a lot of record-keeping, a lot of rules, all a little daunting in fact. Then in 2012 they took another look. Their province had an incentive program for some handling equipment and it all seemed like a fit. “The second time it was just so simple, it was common sense,” she says. They completed the workshop, then took up the option of a VBP audit. The audit experience

Not many people look forward to an audit. That was certainly true for Hilary and Blaine. “None of us liked the thought of an audit. It’s a scary word and I definitely had some reservations. But our VBP provincial staff was able to field my questions on what would happen, and learning about the process through them made it a whole lot easier. “I was surprised at how easy the farm audit went, how knowledgeable and practical our auditor was about farm operations,”

Beef production is a family effort for the Van Dammes of Baldur, Man. who say VBP can address consumer expectations.

says Hilary. “I liked the audit process. It was quick, it was painless and it was relevant. “It was all common-sense details, and there was no hard-core regulatory safety issues that you might expect when it comes to being audited under a food safety program.” Lessons learned

One of the biggest things the audit did was draw attention to drug withdrawal times. “Now nothing ever gets done on our farm or that our vet does without us asking what is the withdrawal time, and when can this animal be sold? “We also learned about the compendium of veterinary products available on the Internet. That’s a very powerful resource,

very easy to use. We can look up all of the products we ever use on our farm, and have all the information on usage of medications and withdrawals.” Food safety champions

Today Hilary is a strong ambassador for the Verified Beef program, even organizing a course for her local holistic resource management group. “I’d tell any producer just go and do VBP. We care about these animals, we take care of them and we do our best. Verified Beef does nothing more than to give you the paperwork that I am doing this and I am doing it right. “In my opinion that’s where the consumer end of things is going.”

DEVELOPED BY PRODUCERS. DEVELOPED FOR CONSUMERS

One implant. That’s it. You’re done! Avoid the inconvenience and stress of re-implanting. Do it right. Do it once. Merck Animal Health, operating in Canada as Intervet Canada Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. MERCK is a trademark of Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. Copyright © 2011 Intervet International B.V., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. All rights reserved.

For more information, talk to your veterinarian or call our technical service at 1-866-683-7838.

® Registered trademark of Intervet International B.V. Used under license.

REV-XS Canadian Cattlemen QSHere.indd 1

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 straigh t f ro m t h e h i p

By Brenda Schoepp

What I Know for Sure

t has been a busy time. By the time you read this I will have been in 18 countries and visited 168 farms, read more than 60 supporting documents and had nearly 40 meetings with national, Aboriginal and global leaders. As I prepare to write my thesis on The Development of Mentorship Programs for Women in Agriculture, I find myself thinking about Canada and what it is that I know for sure. Perhaps it is our national sense of entitlement that keeps coming to haunt me or the simple fact that we may not appreciate what it is that we have. Our democracy alone is enviable. We can vote and not risk our lives in doing so and we can collectively change the face of our political future. Recently visiting countries of military rule, it is certainly a right and a privilege to be led under our own terms as a nation. This fall I once again met with global leaders and negotiators on issues of trade. I am always struck by how tough the competition is and how creative they are in ensuring access for their trading partners. I often wonder if we are as aggressive as we could be and more importantly as responsive as is necessary to meet the needs of the client. I am gathering that the trade arena is going to get leaner and technology is going to assist this growth. I went through the exercise of tracing a kiwi fruit from the orchard in New Zealand, through the plant and to the ship, through distribution and to a local store in Alberta. (New Zealand exports 2,400 tonnes of kiwi fruit into Canada alone.) This gives the buyer and the producer on the other end a huge degree of comfort. The technology exists to expand trade for Canada. By our standards, there are countries in which the farmers enjoy equitable wealth, such as Australia. The difference is that they seldom have opportunity to employ government assistance. This leads to creative and innovative marketing on the part of the producer but it does have a price. More Australian males die from suicide than from traffic injuries on an annual basis, and the suicide rate among male farmers rivals the highest male suicide rates in the world. (Every five hours an Australian man under the age of 45 commits suicide.) Governments do need to respond to crisis in a way that ensures farmers have access to information, help, resources and financial assistance. Although countries like Australia lead in terms of research investment into the specific sectors, the financial support in crisis is rarely offered — driving many to despair. This is especially true in the livestock sector. Canada’s ability to respond to crisis and the open discussion on physical and mental health and wellness is important to a healthy agricultural population. Sitting on the floor of a hut sharing a simple meal with farmers reminds me of our incredible wealth. It is difficult for men and women to understand the scope of our

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agriculture in terms of size, ownership, transportation, distribution and annual income. The most recent data indicates that the majority of the world’s farms are less than five hectares and farmers earn less than C$10,000 gross a year. Setting out a feast for me takes away from the table for the rest of the month. I carry about 1,000 photos with me in an electronic format so folks can browse them at their leisure. This happened recently in a little hut with a farmer and her daughters. They looked at agricultural pictures of Canada, Europe, South America, Asia etc. but the two photos that caused them to gasp were of a big barrel of apples in New Zealand and a little meat counter in Argentina. All that food! The exploitation of the poor is profound worldwide. As Canadians we have to ask ourselves if we unwillingly do the same by ensuring that our immigrant minimum wage earners are kept separate from our communities and are not allowed the professional advancements we afford ourselves. I visited a food factory where the workers were beaten into submission and locked in on the grounds during working shifts. There would be little chance to integrate with the community in a positive supportive way. I also visited a food factory where the emphasis of the owner was full community integration, child and adult education, cultural adjustment and political rights. The immigrant workers in both will be in our society regardless of treatment. One is empowered to make a lifelong societal contribution while the other is always going to feel defeated. Which one do you want as your neighbour, mayor, church deacon, son-in-law or employee? When we speak of resources, most Canadians picture water and oil, mountains, fields and freedoms. These are indeed precious but the most resounding of our resources is that we are stable enough, wealthy enough and welcoming enough to attract the world’s youth. Short on human resources ourselves, the opportunity to attract youth for all jobs in all sectors and in all faculties is perhaps our greatest asset. I have never been in a place outside of Canada and the U.S. — ever — where the ultimate dream was not to visit, live or be educated in Canada. Through the global lens we are the dream of youth and the promise of tomorrow. And this — I know for sure. c Brenda Schoepp is a Nuffield Scholar who travels extensively exploring agriculture and meeting the people, who feed, clothe and educate our world. A motivating speaker and mentor she works with young entrepreneurs across Canada and is the founder of Women in Search of Excellence. She can be contacted through her website www.brendaschoepp.com. All rights reserved. Brenda Schoepp 2013

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 vet aDv i c e

Bolster Profitability

ast September, at the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) 46th annual conference in Milwaukee, informal discussions over coffee around a table by 20 experienced food animal practitioners generated practical suggestions for veterinarians and clients to improve herd profitability. Nothing new, just a reconfirmation of practices that help the bottom line. Here are a few of the topics discussed as reported to Beef Magazine by Dr. Mark Hilton, clinical professor of beef production medicine at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana. A recent National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) report indicated cows are checked for pregnancy in only 20 per cent of U.S. beef herds each year. However, over 70 per cent of larger herds (those over 200 head), or roughly 60 per cent of the U.S. cow herd, undergo pregnancy checks annually. Unfortunately Canada doesn’t have a monitoring system like NAHMS, despite efforts put forth on several fronts. We can assume Canadian figures are probably similar. Does pregnancy checking pay? It’s tough to argue that it doesn’t. Figures quoted by the group estimating the benefit/costs per 100 cows included: • $750 as the cost of veterinary services and farm/ranch labour; • An open cow eats $300 to $400 worth of winter feed; • If not culled in the spring, open cows will often go back out to pasture and consume $150 worth of grass that should have gone to a cow nursing a calf; • Costs for an open cow range from $450 to $500 and she returns nothing for the year; • It’s assumed she comes in bred next fall, which often is not the case; • Slaughter cows are worth about $1,000; • Handling cows through a chute in the fall is also an opportunity to check body condition, look for bad feet and udders, cancer eye, disposition and cows that calve late; • In a typical herd, five to10 per cent of cows are open, and another one to five per cent are culled for other reasons; • Selling 10 culls before winter represents $5,000 saving in feed costs or about $4,250 return for several hours of work each fall; • Identifying and culling late-calving cows tightens the calving season; • Over time, other production benefits accrue when producers concentrate on the top end of the brood cow herd. The group talked about herd health activities that always reap benefits, things like deworming, lice control and vaccination protocols. Programs should be tailored to individual herds because health management isn’t a dragnet where one formula suits everybody. Producers need to work with their veterinarian to develop programs that marry disease risk and production practices. For example, heat synchronization and planned breeding, replacement heifer development, seed stock production, community grazing situations and herd expansions are activities that need to be factored into herd health choices. The routine use of dewormers and other parasite control drugs are more frequently being used in combinations through the year and the timing of their application becomes particularly important. Veterinarians and producers must take careful

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stock of available vaccines, types and the timing of administration. Many different combinations of effective killed, modified live and vectored vaccines need to be selected with care and appropriately administered during the production cycle. Nearly 30 per cent of producers keep no records. The oft-quoted theory that you can’t manage what you don’t measure still holds true. Performance records are management tools that help make informed decisions and help move producers toward managing rather than reacting. About three-fourths of cow-calf operations work cattle through a chute once or twice a year, which makes collecting good production information difficult. Body condition scoring (BCS) becomes an important tool to help producers get around the fact that “hands on” happens infrequently in commercial herds. While body condition scoring four times a year is optimal, twice a year provides valuable information. It’s important to remember that all measures of production are affected to some extent by the nutritional status of the cow, which BCS is about. Cattlemen should aim for a BCS of 2.5 to 3 (based on the Canadian 5-point scale with 1 extremely thin and 5 obese). Anything beyond a BCS 4 isn’t economically feasible to maintain; anything less than a BCS 2 is indicative of a problem. A BCS 3 indicates a healthy cow on an adequate plane of nutrition for both her and her calf. So what can condition scoring your cows tell you? Dr. John Jaeger, a beef scientist at the Kansas State Ag Research Centre, says it can tell you a lot of things. Take, for instance, a cow’s ability to rebreed after calving. He goes on to explain, “Reproductive performance is greatly impacted by total body energy reserves. If cows are thin at calving, reproductive performance in the subsequent breeding season will suffer, as do yearly profits per cow. To optimize reproductive performance next spring, we may need to consider what winter supplementation strategies are needed.” Going from a BCS 2 to a 2.5 (Canada) gains about 20 days. We get about 10 more going from a 2.5 to a 3 (Canada). In other words, a BCS 3 cow will start cycling about a month earlier than a BCS 2 cow. It’s possible to maintain a 365-day calving interval with cows at a BCS of 2.5 to 3. Anything less, you lose ground. Then there’s calf health. Fifty per cent of fetal growth occurs the last 60 days of pregnancy. Inadequate protein and energy intake by the dam during this period is a primary cause of poor calf health. Talk to an animal health professional about winter nutrition. The lack of protein during the last trimester of pregnancy has been proven to be the primary predisposing factor for weak calves at birth. Cows need to be either maintaining or gaining BCS the last 60 days of pregnancy. In Dr. Jaeger’s words, “If they’re going backward, so are you.” c Dr. Ron Clarke prepares this column on behalf of the Western Canadian Association of Bovine Practitioners. Suggestions for future articles can be sent to Canadian Cattlemen (gren@fbcpublishing.com) or WCABP (info@wcabp.com).

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 CCA repo rts

By Martin Unrau

CETA detailed

n November, the technical summary of the final negotiated outcomes of the Canada-Europe Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) was tabled in the House of Commons. I was among the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) representatives invited by Prime Minister Stephen Harper to view the tabling of this important document in the House. The CCA has invested a tremendous amount of work over the past 4-1/2 years into getting an agreement that is beneficial to Canada’s beef cattle producers. With an agreement in principle for a CETA deal signed, the extensive approvals process to have all EU countries sign on begins. Prime Minister Harper has said he anticipates CETA being enacted before the next federal election in 2015. Judging from the high level of optimism out there among beef producers, I’d say most agree with the prime minister’s timeline. Beef producers are optimistic about this deal and want to know if this is an opportunity they should pursue. CCA staff heard a lot of questions along this line at the fall producer meetings they attended in Alberta and Saskatchewan. The CCA has provided producers and stakeholders with an overview of the production protocols required to export beef to the EU. Now is the time for producers to check out the protocols for themselves and see if they make economic sense for their operation. Country-of-origin labelling (COOL) was another subject that came up a lot at the fall producer meetings. The wide basis between Canada and U.S. prices clearly illustrates the damage this protectionist legislation is doing to Canadian cattle producers. CCA provided producers with a status report of the COOL issue and highlight the strategies the CCA has underway to address COOL at various levels, including at the World Trade Organization, a U.S.-based litigation with a coalition of livestock organizations, and advocacy with key North American allies to have the COOL amendment remedied in the U.S. Farm Bill — which is by far the quickest fix. The Government of Canada is working hard to get the CCA’s message out about COOL as well, with Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Gerry Ritz recently addressing the North American Meat Association’s Outlook Conference in Chicago. Joining Ritz were agriculture ministers from Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, and industry representatives including CCA and the Canadian Pork Council. Minister Ritz reiterated Canada’s position on COOL to the audience of meat executives — most of whom are in a unique position to understand that COOL is bad for business. Like the fall meetings I attended in Warwick, Cochrane

C at t l e m e n · d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

and Leslieville, Alta., there was positive feedback from producers regarding all the files the CCA handles on behalf of beef cattle farmers, ranchers and feeders. I always appreciate producers taking the time to attend these fall meetings at such a busy time of year. I know at my own place it takes a lot of management and co-ordinating of schedules to get the vet in to do the preg checks, make those herd management decisions and make sure the cattle are well taken care of as the snow starts to fly. I also had the opportunity to be invited to the prebudget consultation with Minister of State for Finance Kevin Sorenson to discuss the up-and-coming budget for next year. The ability to provide input at this early stage of the process enables CCA to continue to identify appropriate actions that support our long-term strategic vision for the industry. In the midst of all of this, the latest Beef Value Chain Roundtable was held in Calgary. One of the items on the agenda was the issues management proposal outlined by Canada Beef Inc. and CCA. This proposal, which involves other stakeholders including the Canadian Meat Council, is intended to address a number of issues, including marketing campaigns that try to differentiate their product by making misleading claims that cast a reputational pall over conventional production practices. The proliferation of marketing campaigns that try to make a statement by placing a value judgment, and usually one not based in science, on one production practice over another is another issue CCA heard about from a lot of producers during fall meetings. I am confident the proposed plan will help to ensure that value chain members adhere to food-labelling regulations and science to inform their campaigns. Consumers need to know that all Canadian beef is safe, high quality and delicious no matter the production practices used to raise it. Trade-related issues have demanded a lot of energy from CCA this year but it is important to remember that CCA deals with other issues that benefit beef cattle producers. In November, CCA was approved for AgriMarketing funding under Growing Forward 2 of $717,500 to add modules for biosecurity, animal care, and environmental stewardship to the Verified Beef Production program. Canadian beef producers are good at raising cattle and their use of credible production practices reflect that care. Adding important elements like animal care and environmental stewardship to our industry-led on-farm program provides our sector with the ability to further manage these areas and provide proof of practices if a market requires it. Lastly, as 2013 comes to an end, I would like to extend my warmest wishes for a happy holiday season. c

Martin Unrau is president of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association

www.canadiancattlemen.ca

 TH E IN DUSTRY

NewsRoundup seedstock

Livestock shows get support

The Government of Canada gave an injection to the budgets of two of Canada’s biggest cattle shows last month to boost their reach into foreign markets. The AgriMarketing Program under Growing Forward 2 is investing up to $664,000 over five years in Canadian Western Agribition to improve the operations of its International Business Centre with the hope of attracting even more international buyers. The Regina show is already the largest showcase of Canadian cattle and hosts the second-largest trade show in the country. Exports of cattle in 2012 resulting from business relationships established at Agribition have been estimated at $5 million. Ottawa is also investing $200,000 to establish an International AgBusiness Centre at Northlands in Edmonton to enhance the international presence of Farmfair International. The centre will create a hub for foreign buyers who attend the Edmonton show each year to purchase livestock and cattle genetics. The government is also providing $717,500 to the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) to develop and integrate biosecurity, animal care and environmental stewardship modules into its existing on-farm food safety program, Verified Beef Production. When completed it will offer beef producers an integrated all-in-one on-farm program that can be used to certify cattle and beef for most markets around the world. The AgriMarketing Program is a fiveyear, $341-million initiative under Growing Forward 2.

Forage

Manitoba rolls out new forage insurance package

Members attending Manitoba Beef Producers’ (MBP) round of fall district meetings were among the first to hear details first hand from Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) about the province’s new forage insurance package available for 2014. It was developed by MASC with input

from MBP, Keystone Agricultural Producers and the Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association based on general recommendations of the national forage task team (Canadian Cattlemen, November 2013). According to MBP president Trevor Atchison, some of the features that make the new offering a reliable, bankable risk management tool for producers and a substantial improvement over the former whole-farm-style program are the flexibility in coverage levels, individual coverage rather than a regional approach, differentiated coverage for various forage types and mixes, and a disaster component, all for a much lower premium. Like crop insurance, premiums will be cost shared by producers and governments with producers paying 40 per cent, the Gov-

ernment of Canada covering 36 per cent and the Province of Manitoba putting in 24 per cent. The hay disaster benefit is fully funded by the governments. Funding comes from AgriInsurance, one of the federal-provincial-territorial business risk management programs supported by Growing Forward 2. By offering more options and improved coverage Manitoba officials are hopeful that the new program will improve producer participation and reduce the need for ad hoc assistance in the future. The forage insurance package includes two new programs with several options and benefits. The select hay insurance program covers quality (relative feed value) and producContinued on page 50

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C at t l e m e n · D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3 2792 Zactran Therapeutics-CndCttl.indd 1

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News Roundup Continued from page 49

tion shortfalls on five types of hay: alfalfa, alfalfa-grass, tame grass, sweet clover and coarse hay (native hay and other types of hay for livestock feed). Each hay type

is insured separately and producers may select 70 or 80 per cent coverage of their long-term average yield for each hay type. The individual coverage replaces the former individual productivity index system. Producers who insure alfalfa may enrol in the enhanced quality option that offers a higher relative feed value guarantee. Basic hay insurance is a lower-cost program that doesn’t include a quality guarantee and combines all of a farm’s tame-hay acres into a single production guarantee.

Coverage is based on 80 per cent of the long-term average yield with high and low pricing options. Included at no extra cost within both programs is a forage restoration benefit to reseed established tame hayfields lost to excessive moisture, and a hay disaster benefit to purchase and transport replacement hay, which is triggered by a severe forage crop loss across the province. A harvest flood option for coarse hay to cover losses when producers are unable to harvest hay due to excessive moisture is available for purchase under both programs. The existing forage establishment insurance and pasture insurance products remain available as well. The pasture-days insurance pilot program, currently in its third year, will continue through 2014 to test the concept of insuring against pasture shortfalls during the grazing season based on having to remove cattle or provide supplemental feed sooner than usual.

Records

BIXS testers needed

The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) is offering early access to its new Beef InfoXchange System (BIXS2) tracking software for producers willing to test drive the new program before its official release. This new version is said to be easier to operate with new functions such as the Beef Record Universal Translator (BRUT) that imports data from a range of herd and feedlot management software programs. To test the translating function of the BIXS2 the association is looking for producers not registered on BIXS who use herd management software, as well as current BIXS users who want to switch their data over to the new system. Once they are on BIXS2 some will be asked to add new 2013 calf data to put the system through its paces. For details contact bixs@cattle.ca.

trade

A primer for EU exporters

Anyone thinking about taking a run at the European Union (EU) market with a branded beef product when it opens up in two years will be interested in the rules of the game published last month by the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA). The following is a general overview of

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www.canadiancattlemen.ca

NEWS ROUNDUP

the current production requirements and approval process required to ship beef to the EU. For specific details contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. One of the goals of the CCA is to see some easing of these requirements once the final negotiations on the Canada/EU trade agreement are completed. Cow-calf enrolment procedures

For beef to be eligible for shipment to the EU, it must come from cattle raised without growth promotants such as hormone implants or beta-agonists and from operations enrolled in the EU Growth Enhancing Product (GEP)-free protocol. To start, cow-calf operators and backgrounding/feedlot operators must contact a CFIA-approved veterinarian and request

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an on-farm GEP assessment. The information required is comprehensive and includes organizational structure, roles and responsibilities and chain of command. Further training of key staff may be required. Extensive record-keeping and documentation is required for all aspects of this program. If GEPs are used additional requirements must be met regarding the identity and/or segregation of program animals and all the other cattle on hand, as well as the records to back up these numbers such as the GEP assessment reports and certificates of compliance. Program enrolment and the producer declaration are required annually. The veterinarian must reassess cow-calf operations at least once a year.

Animal eligibility at cow-calf

A cow-calf operation must be able to demonstrate that it has retained full control of the animals up to the time they are enrolled in the program. There can be no change of ownership or lapse in the control of their treatments as they are being raised, and they cannot receive any GEPs. The owner is required to sign a declaration to this effect on the CFIA transfer documents. A separate report is required if an animal’s tag is replaced for any reason, in addition to what you are required to report to the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) or Agri-Tracabilite Quebec (ATQ) database. Continued on page 52

C at t l e m e n · D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

CATTLEX offers a complete Order-Buying service and covers all Manitoba and Eastern Saskatchewan Auction Marts. CATTLEX buys ALL classes of cattle direct from producers. CATTLEX is interested in purchasing large or small consignments of Feeder Cattle, Finished Cattle, Cows and Bulls. For more information and pricing, contact any of the Cattlex buyers: Andy Drake 204-764-2471 or 204-867-0099 Jay Jackson 204-223-4006

Clive Bond 204-483-0229

Gord Ransom 204-534-7630

Ken Drake 204-724-0091

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News Roundup Continued from page 51

Transport

EU-bound animals can only be shipped to another EU registered operation, be it a feedlot or slaughter plant along with an original transfer certificate and a copy of a valid certificate of compliance. Enrolment of feedlot operations

Feedlots are also visited by a CFIA-approved veterinarian to be sure they can be enrolled in the EU GEP-free protocol. Typically the veterinarian will visit a feedlot at enrolment and at least twice during the year to maintain its eligibility. Feedlots that use GEPs on the premises must maintain a manual of procedures that includes information about the type of GEP (implant or feed) and the procedures for their use and timing. They also need a tracking system for GEPs to account for their inventory and usage. Feedlot animal eligibility

Feedlots can only receive cattle from registered birth farms, another registered feedlot (backgrounder) or registered auction market for the cattle to remain eligible. The cattle have to arrive with a completed

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NEWS ROUNDUP

and signed transfer certificate identifying each animal and a copy of a valid certificate of compliance from the farm of origin. At entry each animal’s identity must be confirmed through physical examination, plus the identification information on the transfer document. In some instances ears have to be inspected for evidence of implants. Auction marts

The auction mart also must be approved and enrolled on the EU GEP-free program. EU cattle can’t be commingled with nonprogram cattle. Each lot must be sourced from one approved birth farm or feedlot but once sold the cattle can be commingled with other eligible animals. The cattle need to leave the market with a signed and dated transfer document to gain access to an approved feedlot or EUapproved federally registered slaughter establishment.

MARKETING

Alberta feedlots partner with CAB

A marketing alliance of ﬁve Lethbridgearea feedlots has signed on as a Cana-

dian partner with Certified Angus Beef (CAB). The Allied Marketing Group (AMG), made up of feedlot operators Ryan Kasko, Les Wall, Ed Stronks, Leighton Kolk and Shawn Murray, was established in early 2010. This fall it became the first Certified Angus Beef brand feeding partner in Canada. “We want to be able to make those links with the ranchers, the producers,” says Kasko. “I think being the first one gives us that advantage to make some stronger connections. We have a lot to offer as feedlots to those producers.” Collectively, the group manages 11 feed yards with a one-time capacity of more than 110,000 head. Their new partnership with CAB will help them to better work with producers to deliver premiums and translate the value of carcass data. “We’re really excited about their focus on quality, interest in Angus genetics and the kind of feeding programs they have,” said Larry Corah, vice-president of supply development for CAB. Continued on page 54

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With a seventh consecutive record sales year worldwide and a strong growth year for CAB in Canada, the timing of this feedlot partnership is optimal, Corah said. “One of the things we want to do is create a linkage between CAB and the feedlot industry in Canada.” That’s the model that jump-started production of high-quality Angus beef in the U.S., he adds. “Fifteen years ago, we looked at how to channel high-quality Angus-sired calves from the ranch to the packing house. They all have to go through the feedlot phase, so that’s when we started working more closely with that segment.” AMG joins scores of CAB feeding partners in the U.S. Bruce Mitschke, the group’s facilitator and local beef production professional adds, “One of the reasons for a grid partnership is to look at feeding more high-quality cattle. And that fits right in with CAB.” AMG members hope to improve efficiency on individual lots by gaining insight into when cattle should be marketed. As with all supply chains, success depends on the co-operation between the multiple links. “It’s a three-way partnership between the feeder, the cowcalf producer and CAB as a marketing organization,” says Mitschke. CAB’s relationship with retail and restaurant licensees across Canada can help feedlots and groups like AMG gain a better understanding of consumer wants and needs, Kasko says. “We’re all family operations and we all live on the feedlots we run,” says Stronks. “It shows you how committed we are to what we do and how we do things. We live and breathe this every day.” That connection resonates with consumers who buy the CAB brand, whether at retail or off the menu, says Corah. It is working so well in Canada that production moved up by five million pounds last year, he adds. Sales were also up seven to eight per cent, and growing demand bodes well for market premiums. Cow-calf producers who want to aim for the CAB target, or cattle feeders interested in becoming CAB partners can learn more at www.cabpartners.com.

STAY

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The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a final rule last month to bring the agency’s import regulations for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in line with the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). “This action will bring our BSE import regulations in line with international standards, which call for countries to base their trade policies on the actual risk of animals or products harbouring the disease,” says Dr. John Clifford, APHIS deputy administrator and chief veterinary officer. “Making these changes will further demonstrate to our trading partners our commitment to international standards and sound science, and we are hopeful

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it will help open new markets and remove remaining restrictions on U.S. products.” This will not change other safety measures implemented in the U.S. such as the ruminant-to-ruminant feed ban and BSE surveillance program set up to monitor and safeguard the health of U.S. cattle and the human population. In recognition of these measures, the OIE upgraded the U.S. risk classification for BSE to negligible risk in May 2013. CSA Bus. Card Jan04

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When this rule takes effect, APHIS will base its import policy for a particular country on its risk classification as deter-

mined by OIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s risk evaluation. The rule also allows APHIS to conduct its own assessment when deemed necessary, such as when a country is not yet classified by the OIE for BSE risk and requests that APHIS conduct a risk evaluation for the disease using criteria equivalent to that used by OIE. The rule should become effective in late January or early February. According to Reuters the European

Union welcomed the U.S. move and believes it should bring a welcome reopening of a market closed to its beef since January 1998. Lawmakers and industry groups also welcomed the news, saying it would help the U.S. regain access to markets that have been closed for decades. The rule is seen as a preparatory step to the opening of trade talks between the U.S. and the EU. c

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By Deb Wilson

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PurelyPurebred n The CEO of Canadian Beef Breeds Council (CBBC), Michael Latimer, attended the Hereford, Simmental, Limousin and Angus shows at the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. “I was very impressed with the youth component of the event with over 300 participants in several events,” he said. “As an industry we need to find ways to retain them and not lose them to other industries.” He also attended the 40th edition of Farmfair International in Edmonton along with CBBC president David Bolduc. Both men were impressed with the work Farmfair International had done on its International Buyers Program. CBBC co-sponsored a lunch for the international delegates and made a presentation on the CBBC and Canada’s purebred industry. They also attended an Agriculture Agri-Food Canada

Roundtable for the Russian and Kazak delegates. Latimer also took in the Dexter annual meeting in Josephburg, Alta. The Dexter association is interested in becoming a member of CBBC with an eye toward having an opportunity to share information and marketing strategies with other breeds with lower registration numbers. n The Canadian Hereford Association hosted its National Hereford Show in Toronto at the Royal on Nov. 2 with more than 175 head of cattle showing. The Grand Champion Bull was HF 503W Kingdom 236Y, exhibited by Mission Ridge Herefords, Jay Holmes and Sheila Kirk. The Reserve Grand Champion Bull was MHPH 521X Action 106A, exhibited by Medonte Highlands Polled Herefords and Taboo Polled

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n The Canadian Angus Association on behalf of the Canadian Angus Foundation is excited to announce that the Canadian Angus youth, chosen last spring to compete in the Youth Program at the 2013 PGG Wrightson World Angus Forum, have been awarded Champion and Reserve Champion world titles. Canada sponsored three teams of four individuals each to compete at the prestigious inaugural event in New Zealand. The Canuck team of Jared Hunter, Didsbury, Alta, (captain); Patrick Holland, Montague, P.E.I.; Melissa McRae, Brandon, Man., and Michael Hargrave, Maxwell, Ont., brought home the world champion title along with $10,000 NZ prize money! (See photo below.)

“I am so honoured to have been selected to represent Canada on this prestigious trip and winning it is truly unbelievable!” said Melissa McRae. “I want to thank all the sponsors, organizers and volunteers for making this my best trip ever. Also to congratulate all the other competitors for welcoming us Canadians and for all for their hard work.” The reserve champion world title went

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Herefords. The Grand Champion Female was MHPH 301W Dainty 205Y, exhibited by Medonte Highlands Polled Herefords and the Reserve Grand Champion Female was Grosvenor Henrietta 144U 417Z, exhibited by Grosvenor Farm. For the second year, the Ontario Hereford Association hosted its annual fundraiser, Dream Girls. Gerry Cornish’s name was drawn from the barrel and he selected HIDDEN-VIEW AMBROSIA 204P 10A, entered by Hidden-View Polled Herefords. They received $4,000 for having their heifer selected.

Michael Hargrave (l to r), Patrick Holland, Melissa McRae and Jared Hunter

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to Canada’s Team B-squarED, consisting of captain Erika Easton, Wawota, Sask.; Ty Dietrich, Forestburg, Alta.; Kaitlynn Bolduc, Stavely, Alta.; and Matthew Bates, Cameron, Ont. Bates had the highest individual score for the entire competition. (See photo below.)

pion Female was TLELL 8R TICKLE 22T, exhibited by Richardson Ranch. The sixth annual Hereford Genes Event was held in conjunction with the Hereford show. There were 19 bulls evaluated by over 300 commercial cattlemen in attendance. This year’s Ranchers Choice Champion was FCC 503W LINCOLN 3Z, exhibited by Flewelling Cattle Co. and the Reserve Rancher’s Choice Champion was ZZB 166W RUST ASTER 42Z, exhibited by Fenton Her-

n The Western National Hereford Show held at Farmfair in Edmonton on Nov. 6 saw nearly 80 head on display. The Grand Champion Bull was FCC 503W LINCOLN 3Z, exhibited by Flewelling Cattle Co. and the Reserve Grand Champion Bull was SS-TOPLINE POWERHOUSE 888Z, exhibited by SS Cattle Company Inc. The Grand Champion Female was FCC 20X Royal Flush 3A, exhibited by Flewelling Cattle Co. and the Reserve Grand Cham-

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Continued on page 60

31st Annual

Erika Easton (l to r), Ty Dietrich, Kaitlynn Bolduc and Matthew Bates

Canada’s The Eh Team included captain Sean Enright, Renfrew, Ont.; Stacey Domolewski, Taber, Alta.; Chad Lorenz, Markerville, Alta.; and Breanna Anderson, Swan River, Man. The Eh Team brought home honours for champion team presentation. All team members travelled to Rotorua, North Island, New Zealand, on Oct. 9 for a five-section contest where they were judged on general knowledge, parading (presentation, showmanship and sportsmanship with an Angus animal), stock judging, animal preparation (clip an animal for show) and agri-sports (hands-on team challenge involving day-to-day tasks). Team members also visited Angus studs in the area and participated in an adrenaline tour with the 10 other teams from across the world. The competition was part of the celebration marking the 150th year of Angus in New Zealand. CEO Rob Smith credited the donations and support of the Canadian Angus Foundation’s Building the Legacy Sale, as well as the directors of the Canadian Angus Association and Canadian Angus Foundation for giving these young people the opportunity to shine at the inaugural WAF Youth Program.

eford Ranch Inc. With the number of international visitors who attended the Hereford Genes event, the organizers included an International Select Champion for this year. Their selection was FCC 503W LINCOLN 3Z, exhibited by Flewelling Cattle Co. The event then moved down to the main arena for the Ranch Rodeo draw where ranchers get to select the bull they wish to take back

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Continued from page 59

home. This year’s winner was Ken Guenthner of Consort, Alberta. His choice was ZZB 166W RUST ASTER 42Z, exhibited by Fenton Hereford Ranch Inc. The Fenton family received a cheque for $9,000 in return. n The Canadian Simmental Association and the Garth Sweet Simmental Foundation announced the 2013 recipients of the Dr. Allan A. Dixon and Trevor Vance Memorial Scholarships. Congratulations to the winners: Bethany Harland, Frenchman Butte, Sask.; Victoria McEldon, Millbrook, Ont., and Kathleen Murphy, Lacombe, Alta. Cathryn Thompson of Calahoo, Alta., received the Trevor Vance Memorial Scholarship. n The final round of purebred cattle shows at the Lloydminster Stockade Roundup on Friday, Nov. 1 included Black Angus, Limousin and Red Angus shows, as well as the King of the Ring jackpot show. The Grand Champions returned Friday night to compete in the Coca Cola Supreme where the best animal of the show was crowned. The

Cattleman of the Year Award was presented to David and Darlene Kerr and Harry and Sharon Kerr of Lashburn, Sask. More information and event results are posted on the website at www.lloydexh.com.

tive foreign buyers. This year, Farmfair International welcomed more than 60 international buyers from the United States, United Kingdom, Russia, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Australia, and Colombia.

n On Nov. 8, The Honourable Rona Ambrose, minister of health and member of Parliament for Edmonton — Spruce Grove came to Farmfair to announce a federal government investment of up to $717,500 to develop integrated biosecurity, animal care and environmental stewardship modules to be integrated into the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association’s existing on-farm food safety program, Verified Beef Production (VBP). With this integrated VBP assurance plan operations will require only a single food safety audit to be certified under the program as meeting the highest standards of food safety, biosecurity, animal welfare and environmental care. The government provided another $200,000 to help Northlands enhance Farmfair International’s brand presence and establish an International AgBusiness Centre that caters to the needs of prospec-

n A huge thank you to everyone who came out for the seventh annual Cattlewomen For the Cure Charity Golf Tournament. Thanks to your generous donations and the wonderful sponsors, we were able to have another great year raising over $51,000 for the Arthritis Society. We were also able to donate $1,500 to a local charity chosen by the tournament winners! The support of this event has enabled us to make a difference not only nationally but locally, too. Thanks to everyone who came out and shared the day with us! Don’t forget to check out our website (cattlewomenforthecure.com) for all the latest updates from Cattlewomen for the Cure. n The Canadian Simmental Association (CSA) recently announced the 2013 inductees into the Canadian Simmental Association Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame Award goes to individuals who have contributed to the expansion and growth of the Simmental breed, and are considered leaders in their community and the beef industry. To be considered, producers must be recognized and nominated by their peers. Congratulations go out to Ron and Carla Nolan, Bar 5 Simmental Stock Farms Ltd. from Markdale, Ont.; Barry LaBatte, LaBatte Simmentals from Gladmar, Sask., and Earl Ballard, Saskatoon, Sask. c STAMPEDE

By Gerry Palen

Are you having trouble managing your farm debt? We can help. Mediation may be the solution. The Farm Debt Mediation Service helps farmers overcome financial difficulties by offering financial counselling and mediation services. This free and confidential service helps Canadian farmers get their debt repayment back on track. Financial advisors and qualified mediators help find a mutually acceptable repayment arrangement between farmers and their creditors. For more information on how the Farm Debt Mediation Service can help you: Call: 1-866-452-5556 • Visit: www.agr.gc.ca /fdms

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 Market Su mma ry

By Debbie McMillin

TheMarkets Fed Cattle Tight supplies, strong live cattle futures and increasing seasonal demand have all led to the fed market breaking its spring highs in recent weeks. At the end of the second week of November the average fed steer price was $124.63 per cwt, $2 above the spring high and $10 over the same week in 2012. The wide fed basis of September and October continued into November sitting at -13.87 per cwt at mid-month. Typically the basis is wide at the start of the fall and narrows towards the end of the year. How much it tightens this year will depend on whether small market-ready supplies can trump falling exports in the coming month. Fed slaughter has outpaced last year’s kill in recent weeks although it’s important to remember the XL closure in the fall of 2012. While the slaughter numbers are up recently the total to date for 2013 is still smaller than a year ago. To date steer slaughter is down two per cent

at 1,170,319 head while heifer slaughter is down nine per cent at 660,772. Fed exports have slowed in recent weeks in response to the new country-of-origin rule and to mid-November were down 13 per cent on the year at 306,379 head.

Feeder Cattle Over the past months strength in the feeder market came from a strong cash fed market, increased deferred live cattle futures and decreased cost of gain. Heavier cattle wavered from their peak of $148.50 per cwt set just four weeks ago to trade at $142.33 at the start of November. Although a seasonal decline has been seen in recent weeks the 850-lb. steer price is still almost $12 per cwt above the same week last year. The cash-to-futures basis on 850-weight feeder steers has widened throughout the fall with the expectation of a new COOL rule being implemented plus cautious feedlot buyers who built up red ink earlier in the year. The cur-

 DEB’S OUTLOOK Fed Cattle Heading towards the end of 2013 tight supplies, good holiday beef demand and strong cut-out values continue to drive prices. After the holidays beef demand tends to soften and live cattle exports are expected to remain smaller as some U.S. plants change their purchasing pattern in reaction to new COOL regulations. However, the fundamentals still support a good fed-cattle market as we enter 2014. We expect fewer marketready cattle in North America than we’ve seen in recent years, which will continue to give sellers leverage in a solid market. Feeder Cattle The volume of heavier feeder cattle is small as the bulk of the grass cattle moved early. The demand for calves

remains strong as the fall run is starting to wind down lending strength to this market. Although basis levels will likely remain wider than normal look for higher calf prices heading towards the new year with support from both local and U.S. buyers. Non-fed Cattle Seasonally non-fed cattle trend lower through the fall and pick up towards the end of the year and into the new year. That trend looks to be on track as nonfed lows will likely be made in the next couple weeks if they are not in already. Following that, supplies are pegged to tighten and solid demand in both the Canadian and the U.S. market will put a solid floor under a strengthening market heading into 2014.

rent 850-lb. feeder basis is -29.18 per cwt compared to -13.82 at this time last year. Looking at the calf market in recent weeks volumes have peaked at auction markets as cow-calf producers pulled their calves and sent them to town. As a result calf prices have seen some seasonal pressure, with 550 steers losing over $5 per cwt in the past two weeks to average $163.88 in the second week of November. Last year 550 steers traded for $158.10. A wider basis and weaker Canadian dollar generally favour export buyers and feeder exports were up 93 per cent to the end of October at 235,618 head.

Non-fed cattle D1,2 cow prices are nearing seasonal lows with higher numbers coming to town in the past several weeks. The first week of November D1,2 cows posted an average $72.40 per cwt, which was down $6 over the past two weeks but still $7 per cwt above last year. The remaining cows face a strong demand in both the export and domestic markets. To date cow exports are up 65 per cent at 228,410 head while cow slaughter to date is up seven per cent from a year ago with the total kill of 359,393 head. Slaughter bull prices dropped a bit in recent weeks in response to the higher number of non-fed cattle on offer. At the start of November butcher bull prices were off $2 per cwt to an average $84.05 per cwt. Domestically bull slaughter has been significantly smaller in 2013, just 4,225 head to date, which is 69 per cent fewer than 2012. However, exports have made up for the decrease in local kill. U.S. shipments are running 58 per cent ahead of last year at 60,619 head so far in 2013. c Debbie McMillin is a market analyst who ranches at Hanna, Alta.

More markets 

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M A R K ETS

Break-even Prices on A-Grade Steers

Market Prices

140

190

ALBERTA

130

170

120

160

110

150

100 90 155 145

Steer Calves (500-600 lb.)

180

140 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

ONTARIO

135

130

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

D1,2 Cows

85 75

125

115

105 95 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Canfax weighted average price on A-Grade steers

Break-even price for steers on date sold

2013 2012

2014 2013

November 2013 prices* Alberta Yearling steers (850 lb.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $145.69/cwt Barley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.03/bu. Barley silage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50.38/ton Cost of gain (feed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61.99/cwt Cost of gain (all costs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90.31/cwt Fed steers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122.14/cwt Break-even (April 2014) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123.94/cwt Ontario Yearling steers (850 lb.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $151.99/cwt Corn silage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34.88/ton Grain corn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.11/bu. Cost of gain (feed) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64.72/cwt Cost of gain (all costs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90.16/cwt Fed steers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121.40/cwt Break-even (May 2014) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126.40/cwt *Mid-month to mid-month prices Breakevens East: end wt 1,450, 183 days West end wt 1,325 lb., 125 days

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Ontario

Alberta

2013 2012

Ontario prices based on a 50/50 east/west mix

Market Summary (to November 9) 2013

2012

Total Canadian federally inspected slaughter. . . . . . . . . . . . . 2,246,222,. . . . . . . . 2,308,090 Average steer carcass weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 876 lb.. . . . . . . . . . . . 878 lb. Total U.S. slaughter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28,245,000. . . . . . . . 28,727,000

Trade Summary Exports 2013 2012 Fed cattle to U.S. (to November 2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306,379.. . . . . . . . . . 354,983 Feeder cattle and calves to U.S. (to November 2). . . . . . . . . . . 242,465.. . . . . . . . . . 124,208 Dressed beef to U.S. (to September). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 322.20 mil.lbs.. . . . 365.69 mil.lbs Total dressed beef (to September). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 454.21 mil.lbs.. . . . 495.86 mil.lbs 2013 2012 IMPORTS Slaughter cattle from U.S. (to September) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 *Dressed beef from U.S. (to September) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282.54 mil.lbs. . . . . .259.38 mil.lbs *Dressed beef from Australia (to September) . . . . . . . . . 26.59 mil.lbs. . . . . . 20.50 mil.lbs *Dressed beef from New Zealand (to September) . . . . . 29.44 mil.lbs. . . . . . . 37.67 mil.lbs *Dressed beef from Uruguay (to September) . . . . . . . . . 25.62 mil.lbs. . . . . . . 19.25 mil.lbs Canadian Grades (to November 11, 2013) % of A grades +59% 54-58% AAA 20.5 21.8 AA 27.7 9.2 A 1.9 0.1 Prime 0.2 0.5 Total 50.3 31.6 EAST WEST

Total graded 512,640 1,710,286

Yield â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 53% Total 12.5 54.8 2.6 39.5 0.0 2.0 0.9 1.6 16.0 Total A grade 97.9%

Total ungraded 23,134 162

% carcass basis 80.0% 87.3% Only federally inspected plants

C at t l e m e n Âˇ d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

www.canadiancattlemen.ca

 market ta l k

By Gerald Klassen

Feed Grains Overview

he feed grains complex has been under pressure throughout the fall season due to larger Canadian barley and U.S. corn production. Now that harvest is wrapped up, the fundamental structure is basically set for the crop year. Barley and corn values also affect feeder cattle prices and the overall margin structure for feedlot operators. Corn futures are currently trading near three-year lows and industry is gauging further downside potential. While Alberta and Saskatchewan feedlot operators have experienced a short period of positive margins, the U.S. feedlot industry continues to struggle in red ink given the record-high price of feeder cattle. I’ve received many inquiries from barley producers and feedlot operators regarding the price outlook for feed grains so I thought this would be a good time to discuss the market influences moving forward. The USDA estimated corn yields of 160.4 bushels per acre on their November report resulting in a record crop size of 14 billion bushels, up from 10.8 billion bushels in 2012. We now find the U.S. corn fundamentals quite burdensome as the carry-out for the 2013-14 crop year is projected to reach 1.9 billion bushels, up from the 10-year average of 1.3 billion bushels. The market has been functioning to encourage demand and this market sentiment will continue until spring seeding. U.S. corn has been trading into southern Alberta feedlots displacing feed wheat and could displace barley during the spring period. For 2013-14, the U.S. corn market is factoring 1.4 billion bushels of exports and this is the swing factor. U.S. corn is priced competitively on the world market and export sales are on pace to reach this projection. At the time of writing this article, South American growing conditions are quite favourable but smaller production is anticipated due to lower seeded acreage. There will be less export competition in the latter half of the crop year. Next spring, many analysts are counting on lower U.S. corn acreage largely due to the expanding soybean area. This will make the corn and feed grain markets very sensitive to growing conditions. While stocks have been replenished in 2013-14, trend-type yields will be needed to keep stocks at comfortable levels. Next June and July, we may see the corn market incorporate a risk premium due to the uncertainty in production. The Canadian barley crop is expected to finish near 10 million mt, up from 8.2 million mt last year. Barley producers have been steady sellers and feedlots have no problem sourcing supplies. Current elevator bids in the non-major feeding areas reflect prices on the world market which have been relatively low due to larger production in Ukraine, Russia, and the EU. Australia and Argentina also have larger upcoming crops which will limit any upside in world barley prices. Major importers such as Saudi Arabia

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u.s. corn Supply and demand USDA 10/11

USDA 11/12

USDA 12/13

5-year average

USDA 13/14

Potential 14/15

Acres seeded

88.2

91.9

97.2

90.0

95.3

88.0

Acres harvested

81.4

83.9

87.4

82.2

87.2

80.0

Yield (bu./ac.)

152.8

147.2

123.4

148.4

160.4

158

SUPPLY (million bushels) Opening stocks Aug. 1

1,708

1,128

989

1,424.6

824

1,886

Production

12,447

12,360

10,780

12,159.6

13,987

12,640

Imports

162

48.0

14,182

13,516

11,931

13,632.2

14,836

14,551

Feed-waste-dockage

4,803

4,548

4,333

4,816.4

5,200

Food seed industrial

6,415

5,867

6,044

5,846.4

6,350

6,400

TOTAL SUPPLY USE (million bushels)

Ethanol Domestic demand

5,020

5,011

4,648

4,587.8

4,900

5,050

11.218

10,985

10,377

10,776.8

11,550

11,600

Exports

1,835

1,543

731

1,590.8

1,400

1,000

TOTAL USE

13,053

12,528

11,108

12,367.6

12,950

12,600

TOTAL CARRY-OVER

1,128

989

824

1,264.6

1,886

1,951

Stocks to USE Ratio

8.6%

7.9%

7.4%

10.2%

14.6%

15.5%

and North Africa experienced a year-over-year increase in production lowering their import demand. My price outlook for the barley market is neutral. Cash barley has been trading in the range of $180/mt to $185/ mt delivered to the feedlot in the Lethbridge area. The market will likely stay in the range of $175 to $200 over the winter period. Feedlot inventories in Alberta and Saskatchewan reach seasonal highs in January through April but then start to decline in May. Offshore movement of feed barley will be limited until March. This price structure will keep feeder cattle well supported from a margin perspective. During years of large corn crops, there is usually a small seasonal rally in corn from mid-November to mid-December after harvest selling pressure has subsided. Don’t get overly bearish on the market at this time. All the price negative news has been factored into the market and the bearish traders need to be fed daily for a market to move lower. From March 2014 forward, the market focus will change from burdensome carry-outs to upcoming seeding conditions and production potential for 2014. A smaller South American corn crop and a year-overyear decline in U.S. corn and Canadian barley acres will underpin feed grain values. The feed grains complex will be extremely sensitive to growing conditions in the Northern Hemisphere. c Gerald Klassen analyzes markets in Winnipeg and also maintains an interest in the family feedlot in southern Alberta. He can be reached at gklassen7@hotmail.com.

C at t l e m e n · D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

 2013 ind ex

Title Issue

Page

ANIMAL HEALTH

BVDV surveillance in Saskatchewan......................................................................Jan....................39 Needle-free injections prove out............................................................................Feb.................... 16 Give copper boluses a second look........................................................................Feb....................28 Calfhood vaccinations are going younger............................................................Mar.................... 16 Penile problems in bulls . ...........................................................................................Mar....................42 Some thoughts on BVD and our future................................................................Mar................... 48 Pain, pain, go away......................................................................................................Sept................... 10 Bovine respiratory disease: No simple fix............................................................Sept....................15 Early detection key to BRD cure.............................................................................Sept................... 18 The bacteria-stress connection in BRD...............................................................Sept.................. 20 Health is a shared responsibility on this co-operative pasture...................Sept...................22 Watch for tetanus.......................................................................................................Sept...................28 Wet weather raises concern about leptospirosis in the West.....................Sept...................38 A BSE update.................................................................................................................Oct.....................12 Two newer respiratory pathogens.........................................................................Octll...................34 Rumen magnets prevent hardware disease......................................................OctII...................36 Avoid allergic reactions...............................................................................................Nov...................40

ASSOCIATIONS

ABP faces fiscal cliff.....................................................................................................Jan....................38 Flooding, TB and insurance concerns arise in Manitoba.................................Mar................... 56 Pastures and brand inspection dominate Saskatchewan meeting ..........Mar...................60 Cattle Feeders report on the year..........................................................................Apr....................42 Governance issues settled by BCCA......................................................................Aug....................39 SSGA looks to next 100 years...................................................................................Aug...................40

BREEDING

On the road to genome-enhanced EPDs in Canada........................................Jan......................9 AI advantages in beef cattle....................................................................................JanII................... 10 Rebreeding two-year-olds........................................................................................JanII.................. 20 Improve your herd’s breeding efficiencies...........................................................Mar......................8 Alberta vet takes 21st century technology to the farm..................................Mar....................38 Ottawa beefs up cattle genetics in Ontario.......................................................Oct....................42 Looks can be deceiving . ............................................................................................Nov.................... 10

CALVING

Dealing with prolapse.................................................................................................Jan II.................. 10 Cryptosporidiosis diarrhea detection and treatment....................................JanII....................12 Pre-calving vaccination programs for cows.......................................................JanII................... 16 Milk thieves — friend or foe......................................................................................JanII................... 18 A successful calving season starts with your bull............................................JanII...................22 Recognize your limits at calving.............................................................................JanII...................24 Clean ground beats scours......................................................................................JanII...................28 Drought has eastern producers anxious about 2013 calf crop...................JanII...................28 Into uncharted waters...............................................................................................JanII...................32 There’s no easy answer about when to calve....................................................JanII...................36 Nutrition for cows after calving..............................................................................JanII...................42 Why navel ill gets serious..........................................................................................JanII.................. 48 Calving tips and tales ................................................................................................JanII.................. 50 Winter calving still pays at S-7 Ranch....................................................................Feb.....................12

ECONOMICS

Cashenomics.................................................................................................................Jan.................... 16 More tax deferrals issued by Ottawa....................................................................Jan...................40 Accountable choices...................................................................................................Oct....................26 Revisiting feeder and breeder co-ops...................................................................Nov................... 30 Forage insurance gets a second look.....................................................................Nov....................54 Manitoba rolls out new forage insurance program...........................................Dec....................49

ENVIRONMENT/WELFARE

AFAC unveils five more emergency livestock units in Alberta.......................Jan................... 30 FACS launches Bud Williams Memorial Fund......................................................Jan....................38 Grazing cattle biggest methane emitter............................................................. May ..................22 Beef Life Cycle Assessment pins down GHG levels......................................... May.................. 46 True conservationists.................................................................................................Aug.....................12 Surviving the flood.......................................................................................................Aug....................36 Will Western Canada’s native rangeland survive climate change?............Oct................... 44

EQUIPMENT

Have fencer, will travel................................................................................................ May................... 10 The Haukaas Bale Cart..............................................................................................June.....................11 The evolution of my bale truck...............................................................................Sept...................32 New Holland’s new haying equipment................................................................Sept.................. 46

Feed/FEEDING

A feedlot with a forage foundation.......................................................................June....................12 How fat and heavy do they need to be?.............................................................June................... 27 Mixed farming spirit thrives at Tee Two................................................................Nov....................24 Bunching saves a bundle...........................................................................................Nov....................26

Forage

Crop cocktails and food webs..................................................................................Jan.................... 10 Creating the perfect cocktail mix...........................................................................Jan.....................14 Hayeast: a helping hand.............................................................................................Jan.................... 18 AFIN sets some directions........................................................................................Mar................... 58

C at t l e m e n · d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

Title Issue

Page

Brown root rot lurking in alfalfa fields....................................................................Apr......................8 Alfalfa weevil watch.....................................................................................................Apr.....................12 Smooth haying with levellers...................................................................................Apr.....................14 Tighten up with triticale.............................................................................................Apr....................22 Pickseed and Wolf Trax team up.............................................................................Apr....................34 Counting on forage..................................................................................................... May................... 18 A new sainfoin to ward off bloat............................................................................ May.................. 30 What’s a forage network?........................................................................................June...................42 More hamburger will come from forage-fed beef.............................................Oct...................40 Canadian forages a $5.09-billion industry..........................................................OctII................... 18 Making the most of stockpiled forages...............................................................OctII.................. 20

GRAZING

Valuing pasture yields.................................................................................................Jan....................24 What can go wrong with swath grazing...............................................................Feb......................8 My donkey pasture.......................................................................................................Mar....................24 Use grazing behaviour to manage pastures........................................................Apr.................... 18 Spring fencing — cell design......................................................................................Apr....................32 Controlling Canada thistle in pastures................................................................ May....................14 There’s more to grazing than meets the eye..................................................... May...................26 Spring seeding..............................................................................................................June................... 10 Fencing goes 3D............................................................................................................Oct....................32 Bale grazing — keep it clean......................................................................................Oct....................38 Bale grazing on the escarpment............................................................................OctII.....................8 Bale grazing tips...........................................................................................................OctII................... 10 Pasture monitoring made simple..........................................................................OctII...................24 Keep your phosphorus up to maintain alfalfa yields.......................................OctII...................38 Pasture pipelines dos and don’ts...........................................................................OctII...................32 A custom grazier’s best friends...............................................................................Nov.....................14

History

Packer woes in the ’30s..............................................................................................Aug....................38 The beef muddle..........................................................................................................Sept.....................8 Border battles in 1948.................................................................................................Oct.......................7 Railroad yarns................................................................................................................Nov......................8 Early ranching days in Canadian west...................................................................Dec.....................13 The E. P. Ranch...............................................................................................................Dec.....................19 The Douglas Lake Ranching Company..................................................................Dec................... 20 Calmness in adversity.................................................................................................Dec....................22 Who’s for crossbreeding............................................................................................Dec....................25 French Charolais now in Canada.............................................................................Dec....................26 New custom lot at Brooks.........................................................................................Dec....................28 Ranch at Crooked Creek.............................................................................................Dec....................29 Dr. Kenneth F. Wells: Canada’s veterinary director general............................Dec................... 30 Controlled calving — believe it or not....................................................................Dec....................33 Milestone in boxed beef.............................................................................................Dec....................36 Cargill plant on schedule............................................................................................Dec.................... 37 Order buyers say black is fashionable this fall....................................................Dec....................38 5/20, a black day...........................................................................................................Dec....................39

HOLISTIC RANCHING

The value of a drought plan......................................................................................Jan....................26 Breeding/calving dates...............................................................................................Feb....................34 Planned grazing.............................................................................................................Mar....................28 H.R. convention report................................................................................................Apr....................26 The road to success.................................................................................................... May...................39 Write a will......................................................................................................................June.................. 30 Extending the grazing season..................................................................................Aug....................24 The power of paradigms...........................................................................................Sept....................31 Profit/production.........................................................................................................Oct....................25 Financial planning.........................................................................................................Nov....................36 Goal setting....................................................................................................................Dec....................42

IDENTIFICATION

RFID and auction market software don’t mix well...........................................Jan....................33 Tags may someday keep tabs on your cattle.....................................................Feb....................53 UHF tags back in the limelight.................................................................................Mar.................... 10 BIXS2 expected this fall.............................................................................................Sept....................51 BIO branches out..........................................................................................................Oct....................24 BIXS testers needed....................................................................................................Dec................... 50

MANAGEMENT

Generation gaps or gains...........................................................................................Jan.......................8 Formalize farm partnerships and retire richer....................................................Jan....................28 Ranchers need to consider liability........................................................................Feb....................38 $484-per-head return on grass-fed beef............................................................Mar................... 30 Do we need to worm livestock at turnout?........................................................Apr......................6 More YEP........................................................................................................................ May....................13 Coyote control..............................................................................................................June................... 18 The redneck cattle drive............................................................................................Aug.................... 18 Savory raises some eyebrows.................................................................................Sept...................47 The quest for profitability..........................................................................................Oct....................22 How to abort heifers...................................................................................................Oct....................34 Figuring out sod seeding...........................................................................................OctII....................13 Preventing bloat on fall pastures...........................................................................OctII..................40

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 2013 ind ex

Title Issue

Page

Marketing

From pasture to plate................................................................................................JanII...................44 Biting into the beef market.......................................................................................Feb....................22 Canada Beef introduces producer website.........................................................Feb....................55 Western export patterns shifting.......................................................................... May...................44 Benchmarking Canadian beef quality..................................................................June....................16 Markets zero in on traceability.................................................................................Aug....................28 Capturing cattle at their best..................................................................................Aug....................30 ILC points to emerging markets..............................................................................Aug....................42 Beef innovations 2013................................................................................................Sept...................49 Pain control to be required for dehorning, bull castration.............................Oct....................42 Alberta feedlots partner with CAB.........................................................................Dec....................53

MEAT/PACKERS

XL Beef plant cleared by USDA................................................................................Jan....................39 Four more packers approved to ship beef to China.........................................Feb....................48 JBS makes it official.....................................................................................................Feb....................49 Tenderized meat goes under the microscope....................................................Mar....................62 JBS pleased with Brooks plant.................................................................................Apr....................44 P.E.I. continues to support Atlantic Beef............................................................. May...................45 Norwich Packers...........................................................................................................Aug....................22 Elanco registers new pre-slaughter hide wash..................................................Aug....................42 Lab burger fizzles.........................................................................................................Sept...................53 Getting to a place where price meets value.......................................................Oct..................... 17 Composting SRMs.......................................................................................................Oct....................28 Ranchers Beef plant sold...........................................................................................Nov....................56

Market Talk

Statistics Canada lowers barley crop....................................................................Jan.................... 47 Feeder cattle expect to trend higher in 2013......................................................Feb.....................61 Consumer spending and the cattle market........................................................Mar....................69 Feed grain outlook........................................................................................................Apr....................53 Looking forward on feeder cattle.......................................................................... May...................53 Cattle complex digests USDA forecasts.............................................................June...................49 Barley and corn price outlook..................................................................................Aug....................49 Feeder cattle: longer-term price outlook............................................................Sept...................59 Feed grains continue to grind lower.......................................................................Oct.....................51 Feeder cattle market slowly rising..........................................................................Nov....................63 Feed grains overview...................................................................................................Dec....................63

MISCELLANEOUS

Celebrating 100 years with 4-H Canada..............................................................June...................24 Stampede OH Ranch has calves on the ground...............................................June...................39 Report from the OAC Beef Science Club..............................................................Nov.....................51

NUTRITION

The challenge of feeding cattle during a feed shortage.................................Jan....................32 Water: an undervalued nutrient..............................................................................Feb....................42 Copper deficiency — it is not just a local issue..................................................Mar....................38 Two countries — two different paths!...................................................................Apr....................28 Clean and green — beef production Kiwi style.................................................. May...................24 Feed efficiency and the environment..................................................................June...................26 Corn: the new kid on the block?.............................................................................Aug.....................16 A tough but right decision........................................................................................Sept....................14 Canola meal: the forgotten supplement.............................................................Oct.....................14 Feed grains: what a difference a year makes......................................................Nov..................... 17 Feed the rumen first....................................................................................................Dec....................44

POLICY

CCA supports Growing Forward 2..........................................................................Jan.....................41 Canada, U.S. agree on livestock disease zoning.................................................Feb....................54 Searching for community pastures.......................................................................Mar................... 50 Sustaining beef’s image in a changing world......................................................Apr....................43 Taking COOL to court..................................................................................................Aug....................34 A successful semi-annual.........................................................................................Sept...................44 Sask. boosts caps on livestock guarantees........................................................Sept.................. 50 Fighting for market access........................................................................................Oct....................36 CETA signed....................................................................................................................Nov....................44 EU-Canada trade agreement signed.....................................................................Nov....................52 CETA detailed.................................................................................................................Dec....................48

PRIME CUTS

A battle over beta-agonists......................................................................................Jan....................36 Beef’s uphill battle.......................................................................................................Feb................... 46 Demand trumps supply.............................................................................................Mar....................52 Carabeef fills the hole.................................................................................................Apr................... 40 COOL changes threaten ties................................................................................... May.................. 40 Firing up the grill...........................................................................................................June...................38 Two-plant concerns.....................................................................................................Aug....................33 The Zilmax conundrum.............................................................................................Sept...................42 COOL mess continues................................................................................................Oct....................20 Be thankful for Canfax................................................................................................Nov................... 50 COOL overconfidence?..............................................................................................Dec.....................41

RESEARCH

Revisiting irradiation....................................................................................................Jan....................33

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Title Issue

Page

A painful subject...........................................................................................................Feb....................38 New sainfoin for safer alfalfa grazing.....................................................................Mar....................34 The skinny on market cows......................................................................................Apr....................30 Canada’s beef carcass quality audit..................................................................... May...................32 Mature cereal forage is better than you might think......................................June...................22 Bruising and injection sites......................................................................................June...................33 Hunt is on for alternative growth-promoting products................................June....................41 The Onefour research herd is up for sale..............................................................Aug...................... 8 Anthrax.............................................................................................................................Aug....................26 Sustainable beef..........................................................................................................Sept...................34 Do it early, do it right....................................................................................................Oct.....................16 Parasitic worm genome could help control parasites.....................................Oct....................42 Does low-fat DDGS mean lower performance?...............................................OctII....................16 Debunking the fallacies of feeding wheat to feedlot cattle.........................OctII...................22 More than one way to skin a cow............................................................................Nov....................42 Better housekeeping...................................................................................................Dec....................43

Safety/biosecurity

Lightning kills..................................................................................................................Jun...................... 8 Bring a safety day to your community..................................................................Feb.....................51 Move bales safely.........................................................................................................Aug....................42 Farm safety plans.........................................................................................................Oct.................... 10

SEEDSTOCK

Celebrating the new Hereford..................................................................................Jan.......................7 EPDs: What do they mean?......................................................................................Feb.....................18 Setting the bar high.....................................................................................................Mar....................20 Banking on Limousins.................................................................................................Mar................... 46 Change-up in commercial show for Agribition.................................................June.................. 40 Data wins out at R&R acres......................................................................................Nov.....................18 Livestock shows get support...................................................................................Dec....................49

STRAIGHT FROM THE HIP

The foundation of our industry...............................................................................Jan.................... 37 The personification of food animal........................................................................Feb.................... 47 You are the story...........................................................................................................Mar.................... 37 Dairy is beef....................................................................................................................Apr....................38 The supper solution.................................................................................................... May...................42 Trading places...............................................................................................................June...................36 The precautionary principle......................................................................................Aug.................... 27 Wisdom through the years......................................................................................Sept...................36 Carcass and community............................................................................................Oct....................30 All our wealth................................................................................................................OctII...................30 Grooming a champion................................................................................................Nov....................38 What I know for sure...................................................................................................Dec................... 46

TRADE

Canada won’t test for ractopamine......................................................................Jan....................38 U.S. consumers cool on COOL.................................................................................Jan....................39 Japan sales record small rise................................................................................... May...................43 We’re off to the WTO, again.....................................................................................Sept...................52 A primer for EU exports..............................................................................................Dec................... 50 U.S. to adopt OIE standards for BSE......................................................................Dec....................54

TRANSPORT

Zoning works both ways............................................................................................Mar....................28

Verified Beef production

Teaching responsible use of antibiotics...............................................................Jan....................34 Practical tips for handling antibiotics..................................................................JanII...................39 B.C.’s Dominion Creek Ranch builds on BIXS, VBP.............................................Feb................... 40 New equipment drives beef on-farm progress..................................................Mar....................53 Benefits from VBP build across the beef industry............................................Apr....................39 Grass, genetics and beef quality............................................................................ May...................39 Get the most from pasture and range weed control......................................June................... 37 Meat processor talks broken needles, buckshot in meat...............................Aug....................35 Think inside the truck................................................................................................Sept...................34 Beef biosecurity: keep it simple..............................................................................Oct.................... 37 Respect required for feed ingredients..................................................................OctII...................30 Get more from your vaccines...................................................................................Nov....................49 The inside producer view on a VBP audit.............................................................Dec....................45

VET ADVICE

Taking the bite out of pasture bloat......................................................................Jan....................22 Helping old friends die...............................................................................................JanII.................. 40 Helping old friends die, Part II...................................................................................Feb....................43 Norovirus: a potential concern for the livestock industry.............................Mar....................26 Could it happen here?................................................................................................Apr....................20 Good cows don’t just happen................................................................................. May...................28 Finding the sweet spot..............................................................................................June...................32 Ten years after BSE......................................................................................................Aug....................32 IBR persists....................................................................................................................Sept...................30 Ergot poisoning.............................................................................................................Oct....................39 An industry in transition — animal welfare gets top billing...........................OctII...................36 An imposter among us...............................................................................................Nov....................22 Bolster profitability......................................................................................................Dec.................... 47

C at t l e m e n · d e c e m b e r 2 0 1 3

 GOINGS ON

Sales&Events Events

January

9-11 Ontario Beef Industry Conference, London, Ont. 22-24 Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference, Saskatoon Inn, Saskatoon, Sask.

December 2-4 Alberta Beef Producers Annual General Meeting, Sheraton Cavalier, Calgary, Alta. 4 FACS — Social Media Workshops, Travelodge Hotel, Saskatoon, Sask., facs@sasktel.net or 306-249-3227 9-11 Canada’s Forage and Grassland Association Conference and AGM, Pomeroy Inn, Olds, Alta. 11 Canadian Angus Association — Grand Opening of Angus Central , Balzac, Alta.

February

4-5 Manitoba Beef Producers 35th Annual General Meeting, Victoria Inn, Brandon, Man. 4-7 U.S. Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Tradeshow, Nashville, Tennessee 19-20 Beef Farmers of Ontario Annual Meeting, International Plaza Hotel, Toronto, Ont. 19-21 Alberta Beef Industry Conference, Sheraton Hotel, Red Deer, Alta.

 ADVERT IS E R I N D EX Page Ability Pump and Equipment 55 Advanced Agri Direct 50 Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada 60 Allen Leigh Security & Communications Ltd. 57 Beefbooster 29 Canada Beef 12 Canadian Agri-Blend 52 Canadian Angus Assoc. 5 Canadian Charolais Assoc. OBC Canadian Gelbvieh Assoc. 55 Canadian Hereford Assoc. 15 Canadian Limousin Assoc. 55 Canadian Shorthorn Assoc. 51 Canadian Simmental Assoc. 55 Case-IH 10, 11 52 Cattlex Farms Ltd. Double D Custom Hats 56 General Motors IBC Greener Pastures 53 Hi-Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment 56 Hill 70 Quantock Ranch 9 International Stock Foods 55 Irvine Tack & Trailer 57 John Deere Ag Marketing Center 21 Lakeland Group/Northstar 18 a-p Lazy RC Ranch Ltd. 23 Lazy S Ranch 52 IFC, 3 MC Quantock Livestock Mel Stewart Holdings 56 Merck Animal Health 7, 45 Merial 8, 49, 58 New Holland 24, 25, 40, 41 55 Plain Jans Rawes Ranches Ltd. 59 Salers Association of Canada 55 Saskatchewan Beef Industry 53 Soderglen Ranch 34, 35 The Cattle Range 12 afac.ab.ca Vermeer Corporation 31 Wild West Gallery 57 Scott Wyzykoski 57

June

18-21 Beef Improvement Federation Convention, Lincoln, Nebraska

July

24-26 Canadian Junior Limousin Conference, Saskatoon, Sask. 25-27 2014 Canadian Simmental Association AGM, Elkhorn Resort, Riding Mountain National Park, Man.

Sales January

25 MC Quantock “Canada’s Bulls” Bull Sale — 450 Bulls, Lloydminster Exhibition, Lloydminster, Sask. 25 Lazy S Ranch Bull Power 2014 Sale, at the ranch, Mayerthorpe, Alta., www.lazysranch.ca

3 Lazy RC Ranch Long Yearling Bull Sale, at the ranch, Beechy, Sask. 7 Anchor D Ranch Simmental Bull Sale, at the ranch, Rimbey, Alta. 8 Soderglen Ranches Ltd. 2014 Select Bull Sale, at the ranch, Airdrie, Alta. 18 Rawes Ranches Charolais Bull Sale — 125 bulls, at the ranch, Strome, Alta. 22 Lewis Farms Bull Sale, at the farm, Spruce Grove, Alta.

March

1 Davidson Gelbvieh and Lonesome Dove Ranch 25th Anniversary Bull Sale, Bull Yards, Ponteix, Sask. 4 Belvin Angus Bull Sale, at the farm, Innisfail, Alta. 10 Harvie Ranching Bull Sale — Polled Hereford, Charolais, Simmental, at the ranch, Olds, Alta. 19 Spruceview Angus Bull Sale, at the ranch, Killam, Ata.

April

2 Peak Dot Ranch Spring Bull Sale, at the ranch, Wood Mountain, Sask. 19 Shortgrass Angus Bull and Female Sale, at the ranch, Aneroid, Sask. c  Event listings are a free service to industry.  Sale listings are for our advertisers. Your contact is Deborah Wilson at 403-325-1695 or deb.wilson@fbcpublishing.com

STAMPEDE

By Gerry Palen

February

1 Hill 70 Quantock “Barn Burnin Bull Sale,” at the ranch, Lloydminster, Sask.

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