E-Newsletter dsfsfa An update from MBP July 23, 2021
mbbeef.ca
Manitoba Beef Producers Update re: the Drought Situation, Recent Announcements and Next Steps them for doing so. The Hay Disaster Benefit (HDB) is being triggered early in recognition of the extensive damage already sustained to forages. The HDB will provide an additional $44/tonne (for every tonne below coverage) to insured forage producers to help offset the additional cost of replacement feed and transportation due to the severe shortage of forage throughout Manitoba. MBP believes this should be helpful for the eligible policy holders.
Pictured: Minister of Agriculture & Agri-Food The Honourable MarieClaude Bibeau along with MBP President and District 7 Director Tyler Fulton and District 10 Director Mike Duguid.
Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) wishes to provide an update to its members on the drought situation, recent government announcements and next steps. Among the most urgent priorities facing the sector is sourcing feed for the weeks and months ahead. MBP has been working with the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC), provincial and federal officials and commodity group representatives about how to make damaged crops available as alternative feed and roughage sources for livestock. This included seeking a mechanism under AgriInsurance to encourage crops to be converted to alternate use. MBP had also sought the early triggering of the Hay Disaster Benefit for eligible AgriInsurance policy holders. On July 22 Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister MarieClaude Bibeau and Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Ralph Eichler made an announcement on both these matters and MBP thanks
Additionally, the Ministers announced that MASC will be applying a quality adjustment factor to appraisals on crops that are being put to alternate use under AgriInsurance. Specifically, a 60 per cent adjustment factor to in-field appraisals will be applied on small grain cereal crops (all varieties of wheat, oats, fall rye, barley, and triticale). This is in recognition of the reduction in crop quality due to the drought conditions. MBP believes this change will help encourage more crop producers to consider putting damaged crops to alternate use. MBP continues to encourage beef producers to reach out to crop producers now to explore potential options for alternative feed sources, and vice versa. The federal government has also identified the initial list of prescribed regions whereby producers will be able to utilize the Livestock Tax Deferral Provision if they are being forced to sell down their breeding stock due to drought. MBP believes this is an important development. In the case of Manitoba, 102 prescribed regions (rural municipalities, etc.) have been identified which cover off the southern and central Manitoba. The Canadian cattle industry, including MBP continues to advocate for the livestock tax deferral to cover all classes of cattle, and for it to be made available on a multi-year basis. On July 22 MBP was able to meet with Agriculture and AgriFood Minister Bibeau and to show her firsthand the impact of the drought on a multi-generation Manitoba cattle operation. continued on page 3
For reliable information and resources please visit:
New grazing stewardship program for 6,000 Prairie acres - Alberta Farmer
Express
Extreme weather-induced drought forcing farmers to turn food crops into cattle feed - Financial Post
continued from page 1
Manitoba Beef Producers Update re: the Drought Situation, Recent Announcements and Next Steps This was extremely important as it was an opportunity to speak with her about the effects of the drought on pasture and forage production and on water supplies. As well, there were discussions about the implications of producers being forced to sell part or all of their herds because of the severity of the situation. This included the financial effects on farms and ranches, the implications on productivity in multi-year droughts (damages to pastures and forages) and equally important, the stress facing farm families. We thank Minister Bibeau for visiting this operation, as well as James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman and Derek Johnson, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Interlake-Gimli, as well as departmental officials from both levels of government for visiting the operation and discussing the concerns.
are needed to help them deal with the challenges arising. The exchange of ideas was very helpful and MBP appreciates hearing ideas from producers about what may be beneficial for their operations and the sector as a whole.
The federal and provincial governments are working on the assessment processes in relation to AgriRecovery. MBP is providing feedback as part of this. MBP is identifying areas where additional assistance is going to be required from governments to help producers deal with this very serious situation. MBP is raising various factors with government officials, such as rising production costs, including pasture and forage lease rates, the cost of sourcing other feeds and water, the need for feed and water testing and other variables. Ensuring business risk management tools are more effective for the beef industry is another important area of discussion.
MBP remains committed to advocacy on the behalf of producers and the sector on the drought and other issues affecting Manitoba’s beef industry.
MBP would also like to thank the producers who participated in the virtual meeting with the organization on July 20 to talk about the drought situation and to discuss what types of immediate and long-term tools and resources
MBP recognizes the drought situation is very stressful and encourages producers to continue to provide support to one another. If you or someone you know needs help navigating the situation, there are resources out there that may be beneficial. For information about the Manitoba Farm and Rural Support Services line go to: https://supportline.ca/ or call 1-866-3673276 (line operates 24/7). Klinic Community Health also has resources available. See: https://klinic.mb.ca/ MBP has a number of drought-related resources on its website at www.mbbeef.ca
Scenes from the MBP tour with Minister MarieClaude Bibeau on July 22. Thank you to District 10 Director Mike Duguid and family for hosting the event.
Relief Coming to Manitoba Producers Affected by Severe Drought (July 22, 2021 Joint Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada/Province of Manitoba News Release)
Producers in Manitoba facing severe drought conditions can expect relief with several initiatives announced by federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau and Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Ralph Eichler. “Our government is working around the clock with the provinces to help farm families coping with extreme weather conditions exacerbated by climate change,” said Bibeau. “The support through the Hay Disaster Benefit is one way we are helping Manitoba producers, who are under tremendous stress, to get through this crisis and toward a sustainable future.” The first of the initiatives, available through Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation’s (MASC) Hay Disaster Benefit, will provide an additional $44/tonne (for every tonne below coverage) to insured forage producers to help offset the additional cost of replacement feed and transportation due to the severe shortage of forage throughout the province. The benefit was last triggered in 2019 when over $5 million was paid on close to 1,200 claims. Typically, the determination of payments for this benefit would not be made until January, once the majority of claim and harvested production report data is processed. “We recognize that this has been an extremely difficult year for many producers with the lack of precipitation and extreme heat,” said Eichler. “With pastures drying up and minimal sources of feed for livestock, it’s important to give producers the resources they need to secure feed to maintain their herds. All livestock producers play a critical role in our food supply and provincial economy, we’re proud to support them with early release of this benefit.”
MASC is also applying a quality adjustment factor to appraisals on crops that are being put to alternate use under the AgriInsurance program. A 60 per cent adjustment factor to infield appraisals will be applied on small grain cereal crops (all varieties of wheat, oats, fall rye, barley, and triticale). Reducing the appraisal of claims by 40 per cent reflects the expected reduction in quality resulting from the drought conditions. The full yield appraisal will be used to calculate future coverage, which provides producers who repurpose their crops for livestock feed an added benefit. This reduction will apply retroactively to producers who have already put their cereal crop to an alternate use this year. Under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, AgriInsurance premiums for most programs are shared 40 per cent by participating producers, 36 per cent by the Government of Canada and 24 per cent by the Manitoba government. Administrative expenses are paid 60 per cent by Canada and 40 per cent by Manitoba. Discussions are also underway to expedite the completion of the AgriRecovery Assessment process and the implementation of a Livestock Tax Deferral to assist impacted livestock producers. Quick facts
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Under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, AgriInsurance premiums for most programs are shared 40 per cent by participating producers, 36 per cent by the Government of Canada and 24 per cent by the Manitoba government. Administrative expenses are paid 60 per cent by Canada and 40 per cent by Manitoba.
Associated links
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Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
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Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation
July 22, 2021 The Forks, Winnipeg Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau at the podium announcing short term changes to support producers. MBP will continue to advocate for additional support.
Photo credit: Brady Stadnicki
2021 Livestock Tax Deferral – Initial Prescribed Regions Announced for Manitoba (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Information)
The Livestock Tax Deferral provision allows farmers who sell part of their breeding herd due to drought or flooding in prescribed drought or flood regions to defer a portion of sale proceeds to the following year. The initial list of prescribed regions in relation to the 2021 drought has been announced, including 102 of these in Manitoba. See the complete list below. How the provision works To defer income, the breeding herd must have been reduced by at least 15%. •
Where the breeding herd has been reduced by at least 15%, but less than 30%, 30% of income from net sales can be deferred.
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Where the breeding herd has been reduced by 30% or more, 90% of income from net sales can be deferred.
Manitoba – 2021 Livestock Tax Deferral 1. Alexander 2. Alonsa 3. Argyle 4. Armstrong 5. Bifrost-Riverton 6. Boissevain-Morton 7. Brenda-Waskada 8. Brokenhead 9. Cartier 10. Cartwright-Roblin
In a year in which a region has been prescribed, income from livestock sales are deferred to the next tax year when the income may be at least partially offset by the cost of reacquiring breeding animals, thus reducing the potential tax burden. In the case of consecutive years of drought or excess moisture and flood conditions, producers may defer sales income to the first year in which the region is no longer prescribed. For questions related to calculating and/or reporting income deferral for Prescribed Drought/Flood Regions for income tax purposes, please contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or consult the CRA publication T4002 Self-employed Business, Professional, Commission, Farming, and Fishing Income, Chapter 2 Income. The Livestock Tax Deferral information is detailed in Line 9470 – Livestock and animal products revenue.
11. Clanwilliam-Erickson 12. Coldwell 13. Dauphin 14. De Salaberry 15. Deloraine-Winchester 16. Division No. 1, Unorganized 17. Division No. 17, Unorganized 18. Division No. 18, Unorganized, East Part
19. Division No. 18, Unorganized, West Part 20. Division No. 19, Unorganized 21. Division No. 20, Unorganized, South Part 22. Dufferin 23. Ellice-Archie 24. Elton 25. Emerson-Franklin 26. Ethelbert 27. Fisher
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2021 Livestock Tax Deferral – Initial Prescribed Regions Announced for Manitoba 28. Gilbert Plains
54. Mountain (North)
81. St. Andrews
29. Gimli
55. Mountain (South)
82. St. Clements
30. Glenboro-South Cypress
56. Norfolk-Treherne
83. St. François Xavier 84. St. Laurent
31. Glenella-Lansdowne
57. North CypressLangford
32. Grahamdale
58. North Norfolk
86. Ste. Anne
33. Grandview
59. Oakland-Wawanesa
87. Ste. Rose
34. Grassland
60. Oakview
88. Stuartburn
35. Grey
61. Pembina
89. Swan Valley West
36. Hamiota
62. Piney
90. Taché
37. Hanover
63. Pipestone
91. Thompson
38. Harrison Park
64. Portage la Prairie
92. Two Borders
39. Headingley
65. Prairie Lakes
93. Victoria
40. Hillsburg-Roblin-Shell River
66. Prairie View
94. Wallace-Woodworth
67. Reynolds
95. West Interlake
68. Rhineland
96. West St. Paul
69. Riding Mountain West
97. WestLake-Gladstone
70. Ritchot
98. Whitehead
71. Riverdale
99. Whitemouth
72. Rockwood
100.Winnipeg
41. Killarney - Turtle Mountain 42. La Broquerie 43. Lac du Bonnet 44. Lakeshore 45. Lorne 46. Louise 47. Macdonald 48. McCreary 49. Minitonas-Bowsman 50. Minto-Odanah 51. Montcalm 52. Morris 53. Mossey River
73. Roland 74. Rosedale 75. Rossburn 76. Rosser 77. Russell-Binscarth 78. Sifton 79. Souris-Glenwood 80. Springfield
85. Stanley
101.Woodlands 102.Yellowhead
https://agriculture.canada.ca /en/agriculture-andenvironment/drought-watchand-agroclimate/livestocktax-deferral-provision
News Release CCA is encouraged by Minister Bibeau’s announcement today to help beef farmers and ranchers impacted by severe drought conditions July 22, 2021 Winnipeg, MB - Today the Hon. Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood announced much needed and timely support for farmers and ranchers impacted by the severe drought conditions seen across Canada in British Columbia, the prairie provinces, and parts of Ontario. Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) appreciates the swiftness of the early designation for the livestock tax deferral, which will allow beef producers who are forced to sell a significant amount of their breeding herd due to drought conditions to offset the resulting revenues with the costs to replace the herd. After an initial review, there are missing areas across the provinces and CCA emphasizes that those additional regions need to be added as eligible as soon as possible. As the deferral is not currently multiyear and is not eligible for all classes of cattle, CCA will continue to advocate for subsequent changes for the deferral and work with Minister Bibeau and government officials on this request. “Canadian farmers and ranchers are facing one of the most severe, widespread droughts and one of the largest feed supply shortages that they have experienced in decades. We appreciate Minister Bibeau and the federal government taking the time to visit one of the hardest hit areas of the drought and subsequently taking swift action to support farm families. We will continue to work with the Minister, the provinces and impacted stakeholders to seek further necessary supports for beef farmers and ranchers,” said Reg Schellenberg, Vice-President, CCA. CCA welcomes the additional federal support for AgriInsurance to make drought-damaged crops available for feed to help beef producers immediately. CCA is supportive of crop insurance changes announced jointly by the Federal and Provincial governments. These changes align with our recommendations for incentives to salvage crops into livestock feed and added support for producers to purchase additional feed. Changes include Hay Disaster Benefit (HDB) triggered for 2021 and quality adjustment applied to infield appraisals. Today’s announcement is welcomed by CCA, and we are encouraged that Minister Bibeau will continue working on other programs to support farmers and ranchers with drought conditions. CCA will continue to work closely with Minister Bibeau and the provincial governments through our provincial members on our other recommendations, including AgriRecovery and AgriStability, both federal-provincial initiatives. For further information, contact: Tammy Melesko Communications Manager Canadian Cattlemen’s Association 403-451-0931| meleskot@cattle.ca
The CCA is the national voice for Canada’s beef cattle industry representing 55,000 beef farms and feedlots. Visit www.cattle.ca
Farm group coalition urging producers to know their options with drought-damaged crops alternative feed and roughage sources is critical,” said MBP president Tyler Fulton. “Producers with damaged crops should consider salvaging as much feed as possible.”
(July 22, 2021 Joint Organizational Release)
Ongoing drought conditions across Manitoba have a coalition of farm groups urging producers to know their options when making decisions about their crops. Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) and Manitoba Forage & Grassland Association (MFGA), along with Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP), Manitoba Crop Alliance (MCA), Manitoba Bison Association (MBA) and Manitoba Sheep Association (MSA), are warning that ongoing drought conditions pose a significant challenge to livestock, grain and forage producers. “With drought conditions reported across Manitoba, we recognize the detrimental impacts across the crop and livestock sectors,” said MCA chair Fred Greig. “Producers need to know their options so they can make the best business decision for their operation.” Before making decisions about droughtdamaged crops, the coalition is asking producers to contact Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) about putting crops to alternative use. “Successive droughts in some regions of the province have taxed livestock producers’ ability to secure feed, so being able to source
There are resources to help producers determine the value of a crop harvested as silage or greenfeed. Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development (ARD) provides information regarding the cost of production for grain and silage crops, forage supply management, pricing for baled forages and piled silage and the value of straw as a crop fertilizer. As the challenging growing season continues, the coalition is reminding producers to consider their mental health and the mental health of others. “From a stress perspective during these challenging times, producers should be mindful of their ability to look out for themselves, their neighbours and their community,” said MFGA chair Larry Wegner. “Talking to someone like a neighbour or friend is a great pressure release and opens the door for more conversations that may be necessary, including using mental health resources designed to support producers.” The Manitoba Farm, Rural & Northern Support Services (MFRNSS) provides free, confidential telephone and online counselling to producers. MFRNSS is available 24/7 by calling 1-866-3673276 or visiting www.supportline.ca. The coalition is working with ARD and MASC to identify programs to support producers through this challenging time.
Determining the value of greenfeed or silage The following information has been provided by Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development. Since greenfeed or silage does not have a futures market like cattle or grains and is not bought and sold by commercial traders, determining a fair market value can be difficult. There are a few different ways of determining the value of a crop harvested as silage or greenfeed. If the crop was originally grown for grain the value can be based off the expected grain yield multiplied by current grain prices. Adjustments can be made for harvesting cost (deducted) and the value of the straw (added). Another method that can be used is the cost of production for growing that crop. The Cost of Production section of the Agriculture and Resource Development (ARD) website provides cost of production information for different grain and silage crops. A Straw Calculator can also be found here to help determine the NPK dollar value of the straw as a crop fertilizer. A third way to determine a greenfeed or silage value is to sell it based off of the forage tonnage produced at a pre-determined price. The price can be based off of what similar forages, either greenfeed, silage or hay are selling for.
This method pays the seller for what they produce and the buyer pays for what they receive. The Forage Purchase Calculator on the ARD website provides a method of comparing the pricing for baled forages and piled silage. This calculator takes into account different moistures and adding in the cost of freight to see what feed purchase is more economical after freight is factored in. Livestock producers need to evaluate their forage shortfall and options in deciding how much they should pay. ARD’s Managing Low Forage Supplies calculator estimates the forage needed for the herd based on animal category and weight, and identifies the shortfall. It identifies 8 different potential rations to fill the shortfall on a least cost basis that help decide the economics of buying greenfeed compared to hay, straw, and other alternatives. Since the forage value determined will be different depending on the method used, being flexible and fair will help to ensure the outcome can be a win/win situation for both parties.
Missed the recent CCA Town Hall? A recording is available to watch at your convenience - click the graphic below:
Resources for Sourcing Feed or Pastures Farmers and producers have several options when it comes to listing available hay and straw, and for buying hay, straw and alternative feeds. By no means is this list exhaustive and we encourage you to share other avenues for listing and buying with Manitoba Beef Producers, so that we can share them with our members. Manitoba Government Hay Listing Service The Manitoba Hay Listing Service provides an inventory of hay and alternative feed for sale and pasture for rent. If you have hay, alternative feed, or pasture land for sale or rent contact an ARD and MASC Service Centre to have your listing added.
Manitoba Hay & Feed for Buy/Sell Hay / Feed For Sale in Saskatchewan, Alberta & Manitoba Internet Hay Exchange Other social media avenues including Twitter also feature hay for sale across the province, however that exchange needs to occur on a user to user basis.
Social Media/Buy and Sell Sites There are a number of social media and buy/sell sites that provide hay, straw and alternative feed sourcing options: Kijiji Manitoba eBrandon Classifieds
MFGA Hay Relief Website Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association has a hay relief page. See https://www.mfga.net/hay-relief
Since 1996, The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) has been awarded annually at the provincial and national level to recognize cattle producers’ leadership in conservation. Nominees and applicants are selected based on their stewardship practices, accomplishments and goals. The deadline to receive nominations at the MBP office is December 3, 2021.
FCC supports Western Canadian producers impacted by hot, dry weather pressures on those impacted by unfavourable weather.
(July 20, 2021 FCC News Release) Farm Credit
Canada (FCC) is offering a customer support program to farmers and ranchers across western Canada who are facing production challenges due to adverse growing conditions. Many parts of Western Canada haven’t received any significant rainfall through the spring and summer months. Extreme heat and dry weather have already reduced the potential yield of many crops. The unfavourable weather has also stifled pastures and hay production in many areas. “We are watching the weather situation very closely and are talking to customers daily,” said Michael Hoffort, FCC President and CEO. “We already know that several ranchers are feeling the impact, while grain and oilseed producers are watching their crops deteriorate in the fields,” he said. “If these conditions persist, many operations could face cash flow challenges, so we want our customers to know we’re ready to support them and find solutions.” “Our customers work hard to grow high-quality food for consumers at home and abroad, so they deserve our support when facing circumstances beyond their control,” Hoffort added. FCC will work with customers to come up with solutions for their operations and will consider additional short term credit options, deferral of principal payments and/or other loan payment schedule amendments to reduce financial
“Producers across Western Canada are doing their best during difficult circumstances. Our government is working very closely with FCC, provincial partners and stakeholders to respond as quickly as possible to the drought in Western Canada,” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “During these challenging times, Farm Credit Canada is rolling out their customer support program to help farmers with solutions that address their unique financial challenges.” Customers in Western Canada are encouraged to contact their FCC relationship manager sooner rather than later to allow for the most flexibility in discussing options available to them. Customers can do this by contacting their local office or the FCC Customer Service Centre at 1-888-332-3301. In addition to working with customers to support any financial concerns, FCC also reminds those who may be struggling to seek support for their mental well-being. For a list of mental health resources, visit FCC Wellness. FCC is Canada’s leading agriculture and food lender, with a healthy loan portfolio of more than $41 billion. Our employees are dedicated to the future of Canadian agriculture and food. We provide flexible, competitively priced financing, management software, information and knowledge specifically designed for the agriculture and food industry. As a selfsustaining Crown corporation, we provide an appropriate return to our shareholder, and reinvest our profits back into the industry and communities we serve. For more information, visit fcc.ca.
Low Precipitation and Water Levels Advisory (July 22, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)
Manitoba Infrastructure is advising people of record-low precipitation levels in most Manitoba watersheds has led to well-below normal to record dry soil moisture in some locations. Flows and water levels are below normal to well-below normal in most southern and central Manitoba rivers and lakes with dry conditions forecast to continue until fall of 2021. Provincial water control structures are being operated to mitigate low water level conditions. The Fairford Water Control Structure is being operated to balance the low water level effects at Lake Manitoba and Lake St. Martin, while trying to maintain the minimum desirable flow at the Fairford River.
The Shellmouth Dam is being operated to supplement water for the lower Assiniboine River irrigators and water supply users, while trying to maintain the desirable summer level for the upstream stakeholders for recreational use. In addition, the Portage reservoir is being kept at the desirable level to give sufficient head for water intakes from the reservoir and providing allocated flow to license holders on the diversion.
Fire Bulletin #18 (July 22, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)
The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that thanks to recent rainfall in some areas of the province, there will be a gradual lifting of some fire and travel restrictions. However, some areas of the province still face high to extreme fire danger levels. Outdoor Burning All provincial burning permits remain cancelled provincewide and new permits will not be issued until conditions improve. Area 4 remains at level 4 fire and travel restrictions, which essentially means the area is closed, and a full travel ban is in effect. Area 4 covers the large area north of the Wanipigow River, east of Lake Winnipeg to the Ontario border, including Atikaki Provincial Park, and north to Poplar River. Level 4 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Imposed in Area 4 • No access permitted. Travel ban in effect. • No access to cottages. • Permanent residents must be ready to leave on an hour’s notice. • Campfires are not permitted. Level 2 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Imposed in Areas 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 16 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled. • Motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited unless under the authority of a travel permit. • Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds. • Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. • Wayside parks remain open. • Landing and launching is restricted to developed shorelines only. • Industry and outfitters may be restricted in their operations and should contact their local
Manitoba Conservation and Climate office for more information. Level 1 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Remain for Area 15 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled. • Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. • Motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. unless otherwise approved by a travel permit. The Province’s Fire and Travel Restrictions map will be updated to reflect these updated restrictions. Please confirm your area’s restrictions before heading outdoors. www.gov.mb.ca/sd/fire/Restrictions/ index.html. Many municipalities have already proactively implemented burning restrictions. Check with local municipal offices for more information or view the interactive Current Municipal Burning Restrictions at www.manitoba.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.ht ml. The province does not issue burning permits within or areas bordering any municipality where municipal burning restrictions are already in place. Wildfires across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and northwest Ontario will continue to bring smoke into all parts of the province until conditions improve. This will be dependent on wind direction. Air quality reports are available on the Government of Canada website at: https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/mbaq001_e.html. For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ or follow the Twitter account at https://twitter.com/mbgovnews. To report a wildfire, call 911 or T.I.P line at 1-800-782-0076.
Government of Canada invests $2.6 million to improve alfalfa growth and develop a grassland carbon offset system (July 19, 2021 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada New Release) The Minister of Agriculture and
Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of over $2.6 million to Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA) to support three projects that will assess and improve alfalfa growth using artificial intelligence and will develop a Canadian grassland carbon offset system. Alfalfa is a key forage crop producers rely on to capture and fix carbon, return nutrients to the soil and improve soil health. Minister Bibeau made the announcement at the farm Bergerie Malvibois in Sawyerville, Quebec, one of the key data collection sites for the project. Funding will be allocated as follows: •
Up to $998,185 to develop a tool to improve yield and forage nutritive value from alfalfa fields using artificial intelligence. The tool will identify potential agronomic, climatic and soilrelated factors affecting alfalfa yield. It will also predict potential yield and nutritive value loss through soil nutrient analysis and health diagnostics.
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Up to $996,190 to develop a tool to assess and improve alfalfa’s winter survival rates with artificial intelligence and persistency by combining data and remote imagery with artificial intelligence.
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Up to $621,572 to develop an assurance system for farmers to produce and sell carbon offsets, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
and retention of Canada’s grasslands. Canadian Forage and Grassland Association expects that more than 5,000 hectares of Canadian grasslands will be protected by land conservation agreements, and 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) will be saved through third-party verified carbon offset credits. These projects will help farmers better understand alfalfa growth, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Government of Canada is committed to providing new and innovative means for farmers to improve the yields of their cover crops and building a sustainable agriculture sector. Quotes “Today’s announcement is about projects that will help to develop tools farmers can use to produce and export more, higher-quality alfalfa through artificial intelligence, and to sell carbon offsets.” - The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food “The Canadian Forage and Grassland Association is very excited about this funding from AAFC’s Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program. Alfalfa is an important ingredient that feeds many other agriculture sectors in Canada, and this funding will help provide forage producers with valuable decision-support tools to help alfalfa crops thrive.” - Cedric MacLeod, Executive Director, Canadian Forage & Grassland Association continued on page 17
Government of Canada invests $2.6 million to improve alfalfa growth and develop a grassland carbon offset system Quick facts •
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Funding for the first two projects comes from the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (CASPP). The CASPP supports the Canadian agricultural sector’s participation in the Government of Canada’s growth and policy objectives, by investing in the sector’s design, development and implementation of tools and strategies to respond to and seize opportunities created by these objectives. These projects include a network of 40 agronomists and 225 farms for collecting the data. Funding for the third project comes from the AgriAssurance Program, which funds projects, at the national level, to help industry develop and adopt systems, standards and tools to support health and safety claims about Canadian agricultural and agri-food products.
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Formed in 2010, the CFGA is the national voice for all sectors of the forage and grassland industry. Their main role is to uphold the robust forage industry and realize the potential of the domestic and export forage market.
Associated links •
Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program
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AgriAssurance Program: National Industry Association Component
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Canadian Forage and Grassland Association
Missed the recent MBP Information Session? A recording is available to watch at your convenience - click the graphic below:
COVID-19 Vaccine Bulletin For young people aged 12 to 17 to be fully immunized for their return to school in the fall, they should receive their first vaccine by Tuesday, July 27. This allows for the minimum 28 days between doses and two weeks after the second dose for the best immune response. There are more than 29,000 Pfizer appointments available from now to the end of July. Eligibility All people aged 12 and up are now eligible for their first or second dose. The date of the second appointment must be at least 28 days after the first vaccination. For more information, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/eligibilitycriteria.html#second-dose. Appointments and Walk-Ins There are thousands of Moderna and Pfizer appointments open and available to book as early as today. From July 24 to 29, pop-up clinics will be located at the following campgrounds and provincial parks located in the Prairie Mountain Health region: • July 24 – Sandy Lake and Oak Lake beach; • July 25 – Clear Lake; • July 27 – Rivers Campground; • July 28 – Onanole, Clear Lake and Adam Lake; • July 29 – Lake Metigoshe; and • July 30 – Ninette. Fifteen medical clinics and pharmacies are regional hubs for AstraZeneca vaccinations. Individuals can use the online vaccine finder at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/finder.ht ml to find a location with available doses. A complete listing and searchable map of all vaccine sites, including urban Indigenous clinics
and pop-up clinics, is available online at https://protectmb.ca. Eligible individuals can book their appointments at these sites online, or by calling (toll-free) 1-844-626-8222 (1-844MAN-VACC). Additional Information Eligible Manitobans must have their first immunization on or before Aug. 2 to be eligible to win scholarships or cash prizes in Manitoba’s first ever ‘Vax to Win Lottery’. Currently, nearly 78 per cent of Manitobans are eligible for the first draw. To be considered fully immunized, individuals require two doses of vaccine. These can be the same or different brands of vaccine. Individuals who are fully vaccinated can now request a digital or physical immunization card. For more information, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/immuniza tion-record.html#immunization-cards. Individuals who need to update any missing or inaccurate information on their immunization records or apply for an immunization card can use the e-form at https://forms.gov.mb.ca/covid-immunizationrecord-request/ or call 1-844-MAN-VACC (1844-626-8222) and follow the prompts. Manitobans are reminded to fill out a second consent form for their second dose appointment. To fill out and print the consent forms before your appointment, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/resources .html#forms. More information about the vaccine campaign in Manitoba is available at www.manitoba.ca/vaccine and https://protectmb.ca/. All data in this bulletin is current as of July 21 unless otherwise noted.
Applications Being Accepted for Water Source Development for Farms and Ranches (June 8, 2021 Joint News Release) The
governments of Canada and Manitoba are advising that livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions on pasture in Manitoba can apply for funding to support water source development under Ag Action Manitoba. Funding is provided through the Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas beneficial management practice (BMP) under Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance. Eligible items include: • water source development – constructing new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts; • solar, wind or grid-powered alternative watering systems; • permanent fencing to restrict livestock access to surface water and dugouts; and • permanent pipeline development. Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance: Beneficial Management Practices provides targeted incentive programs to agricultural producers and select industry service providers to advance the adoption of BMPs. These practices reduce identified environmental risks, improve agroecosystem resilience, build public trust and improve environmental sustainability of farm operations in Manitoba. Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1 are eligible. Projects will
need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria. Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until Sept. 1. Applications can include retroactive expenses incurred as of April 1. Upon project completion, applicants must submit proof of a valid Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) with their claim (see www.ManitobaEFP.ca for more info). The Ag Action Manitoba Program is funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership— a five-year (2018-2023), $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow Canada’s agriculture and agri-food and agri-products sector. This includes a $2-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories. Producers can contact their local Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development office, call the department toll-free at 1-84-GROWMB-AG (1-844-769-6224) for more information on any of these programs and services, or go to www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture under Quick Links.
Frequently Asked Questions BMP: Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas (503) Q1. When is the deadline to apply? A: Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Applications will be accepted continuously up to that date and will be reviewed on a weekly basis. They will be assessed by technical reviewers based on the environmental benefit assessment index, program priorities and project planning.
Q2. Do I have to complete my project this fall? A: Yes. The project must be completed and claims submitted by November 5, 2021.
Q3. If I have already done a water source development project this spring, am I eligible? A: Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1, 2021 are eligible. However, projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.
Q4. What do I need to include with my application? A: Please answer the questions provided in either the Farmers Application Form or ISP Application Form, and refer to the BMP Specific Questions listed in either the Farmers Guidebook or ISP Guidebook to assist you. Ensure that you explain the proposed project in detail, current practices on the farm, and the environmental benefit of the new practice. Include an aerial map of the pasture with the location of the existing and proposed water sources identified as well as any fencing (existing and proposed).
Q5. Do I need a valid Environmental Farm Plan Statement of Completion? A: You can submit an application without a valid Statement of Completion, however, if your project is approved, you will be required to provide proof of a valid EFP by November 5, 2021 when you submit your project claim for reimbursement. Environmental Farm Plan workshop dates and locations will be listed at www.ManitobaEFP.ca .
Q6. Are confined livestock operations eligible? A: No. This BMP is focused on livestock in pasture-based systems.
Q7. Do I have to dig a dugout to a specific size? A: All dugout work, including new construction or rehabilitation of an existing location, should follow the dugout construction guideline.
Q8. Can I drill a new well in my yard? A: Drilling a well in the yard is eligible if it is primarily intended for watering livestock on pasture and is the most cost efficient means of doing so. It can be used for supplying water to the yard as well, assuming the pastures are next to the yard. Only the well and pasture components are eligible for funding, not any components used for inyard water.
Q9. Do I need any permits? A: Applicants must meet all regulatory requirements. This may include: A Water Rights License is required for all livestock operations extracting more than 25,000 litres of water (25 m3 or 5,499 Imperial gallons) per day. If developing a new water source, a permit must be obtained in advance of starting work. Approvals from the rural municipality or Crown. Any other standards or approvals as required by law.
Q10. Can I pump / pipe / haul water from an existing water source into a dugout that has gone dry? A: Piping or hauling water from any water source (well, dugout or wetland) into a dugout that has run dry is not eligible.
Q11. Do I have to fence my dugout? A: Dugouts must be fenced to ensure livestock do not have direct access to the water within, which will prevent contamination and protect water quality.
Q12. I just need a water trough or water storage tank. Is this eligible? A: No - watering system components such as watering bowls, troughs or storage tanks are only eligible as a part of a water source development project. However, if your project includes development or rehabilitation of a water source (ex: well or dugout) or management of a riparian area (ex: exclusion fencing), watering system components are eligible.
Q13. How deep does a pipeline need to be? A: Summer pasture pipelines permanently installed underground, and which can be properly winterized before freezing are eligible (ex: installed with a pasture pipeline plow). Above-ground pipelines are ineligible. Projects must be for permanent solutions only.
Q14. Can I apply for a project on a pasture that I rent? A: Yes. Either the landowner or renter can apply. If the renter applies, they must identify the landowner and provide contact information with their application. For pastures on Crown Land, you must get approval from your local Farm Production Extension Specialist – Crown Lands.
Q15. If I have more questions, who can I contact? A: Farmers can visit their local ARD/MASC Service Centre or call toll-free 1-844-769-6224.
Environmental Farm Plan Workshops Update (Source: Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development) Environmental Farm Plans (EFP) are an essential part of every farm operation. These workshops will guide producers through the EFP workbook to help assess and identify the environmental assets and risks on their farm operations, and develop an action plan to address the identified risks. Workbooks and support material will be provided to those who attend. There is no preparation required for this workshop.
EFPs must be renewed every five years to remain valid. If you are unsure if your EFP is valid, please contact KAP to inquire at (204) 697-1140. Due to COVID-19, all EFP workshops will be taking place virtually via Online Meetings until further notice. To register for an EFP workshop, click on the link Register now! for the date of your choice below. Once registered, you will then receive an email with a link to access the meeting. Workbooks are mailed and you should receive yours approximately 1 week prior to the workshop. You can also visit this link to register:
https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/environment/ events-and-deadlines/index.html Upcoming Environmental Farm Plan Workshops
REGISTRATION DATE
TIME LINK
DEADLINE TO REGISTER
STATUS
Aug. 11, 2021
1:30 3:30 PM
Register now!
July 28, 2021
FULL
Aug. 25, 2021
1:30 3:30 PM
Register now!
Aug.11, 2021
OPEN
1:30 Sept. 3:30 8, 2021 PM
Register now!
Aug.25, 2021
OPEN
Verified Beef Production Plus Learn online and win! VBP+ enables beef cattle producers to publicly demonstrate their commitment to responsible stewardship of both cattle and the environment. Getting VBP+ certified verifies the responsible practices on your beef cattle operation to your customers - consumers, retailers, and buyers. There are currently over 1.6 million beef cattle under the management of certified VBP+ operations in Canada. • VBP+ training is web-based and can take place at your leisure around daily chores. • Manitoba producers who complete the online training by July 31, 2021 will be entered in a draw for a cattle vaccine cooler valued at $219.
No pre-registration required. For more information please call Melissa Atchison at (204) 264-0294 or email: verifiedbeefmanitoba@gmail.com • No pre-registration is required. Contact Melissa
Atchison