E-Newsletter dsfsfa An update from MBP May 20, 2022
mbbeef.ca
FLOOD BULLETIN #23
Province Issues High Wind Effect Alert and Risk of Ice Pileup Warning for Major Lakes (May 19, 2022 Province of Manitoba news release) Manitoba
Infrastructure’s Hydrologic Forecast Centre is issuing a high wind effect alert for lakes Winnipeg, Manitoba and Winnipegosis for May 20. Strong, sustained winds from the north forecast for tomorrow will create a risk of ice pileup and cause water levels to rise along shorelines. Wave action could also add to the temporary increase in water levels. Wind speeds are forecast to be highest in the morning and will moderate by the afternoon. However, the risk will persist throughout the day. In the south basin of Lake Winnipeg, there is a high risk for the western shoreline from Winnipeg Beach to Hnausa, and on the eastern shoreline from Grand Marais to Victoria Beach. The remaining southern shorelines in the south basin are at moderate-high risk. There is also a high risk in an area near the Lake Manitoba Narrows and a moderate to high risk for the southern shorelines of Lake Manitoba from St. Laurent to the shoreline near Langruth, and the southern shoreline of Lake Winnipegosis.
A map of the Manitoba lake wind effect forecast for May 20 showing the affected areas is available at: https://gov.mb.ca/mit/floodinfo/floodoutlook/forecast _centre/lakes/wind_alert/2022/manitoba_lakes_May_20_ 2022_WindAlertMap.pdf. Property owners are advised to remain vigilant and take any necessary precautions. A complete list of flood warnings, watches and high water advisories is available in the daily flood reports found at www.gov.mb.ca/mit/floodinfo/index.html.
PLEASE VISIT THE MBP SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS FOR THE LATEST FLOOD BULLETINS OVER THE LONG WEEKEND. Twitter: @ManitobaBeef Facebook: Manitoba Beef Producers
For reliable information and resources please visit:
COVID-19 BULLETIN #579: All Manitobans over 50 now eligible for a second booster dose, update re: access to treatment The following information was announced by the Manitoba government on May 20, 2022. Vaccination Manitoba is expanding eligibility for the second booster dose of COVID-19 vaccine to include: •
individuals aged 50 or older who live in the community (previously aged 70 or older);
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First Nations, Inuit and Métis people aged 30 or older, regardless of where they live (previously aged 50 or older);
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individuals aged 18 to 49 years who are moderately to severely immunocompromised (new); and residents of any age of personal care homes and elderly persons housing congregate living sites.
The province is also shortening the intervals to be eligible for booster doses. The first booster can now be given four months after the person’s primary vaccine series (usually two doses). The second booster dose can now be given four months after the first booster. COVID-19 continues to circulate throughout the province and vaccination is the best protection against serious outcomes. It is not too late for people to receive their primary vaccine series or booster. To date, more than 590,000 first booster doses have been given to eligible people including nearly 80 per cent of those aged 60 and older. Nearly 10,000 people have received their second booster dose to date.
To find a location that offers the COVID-19 vaccine, Manitobans can use the online vaccine finder at www.manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/finder.ht ml or call 1-844-626-8222 (toll-free). Treatment Eligibility for COVID-19 treatment now includes adults who have symptoms that began within the last five to seven days, tested positive with either a rapid antigen or PCR test, and are at higher risk for severe illness because they: •
are not fully vaccinated;
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have not received a booster dose;
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have not been previously infected with COVID-19;
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are an older adult, as risk increases with age;
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have one or more chronic medical conditions;
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are moderately to severely immunocompromised, due to a medical condition or treatment;
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are obese; or
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are pregnant.
Some people who have received all of the vaccine doses they are eligible for may still be eligible for treatment if they are at higher risk for more severe outcomes for other reasons. These criteria are broader than the requirements previously in place and people who may be eligible should speak with their health-care provider to determine which treatment may be right for them. Treatment continued on page 4
COVID-19 BULLETIN #579: All Manitobans over 50 now eligible for a second booster dose, update re: access to treatment criteria for young people under the age of 18 remains unchanged. Paxlovid is an antiviral pill that can be prescribed to treat COVID-19 and is now more broadly available. Beginning today, people can fill their Paxlovid prescription at more than 175 community pharmacies across the province. A list of locations and more information is available at https://gov.mb.ca/covid19/treatment/paxlov id-locations.html. For more information about COVID treatment, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/treatment. Additional Information To date, the Manitoba government has distributed 14.3 million rapid antigen tests. They continue to be available at libraries and retail locations across the province. A list of all
participating retail locations, sorted by regional health authority, is now available at www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/testing/locations.ht ml. Manitoba continues to post weekly COVID-19 epidemiology reports at: www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/surveill ance/covid-19/index.html. •
COVID-19 in Manitoba: www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.
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Vaccine campaign: www.manitoba.ca/vaccine.
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Testing information: www.manitoba.ca/covid19 /testing/index.html.
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Outbreaks: www.gov.mb.ca/covid19/pr s/index.html.
The Disaster Financial Assistance Program and Livestock Losses On May 9, 2022 the Manitoba government announced Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) related to damages to infrastructure, private residences, farms or small businesses due to spring flooding. DFA will also assist with verified livestock losses. The following information has been provided by the provincial government and Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) to help producers as they consider making a claim under the DFA program. •
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DFA will provide assistance to farms that have experienced livestock losses as a result of spring flooding in 2022. To qualify for DFA, your farm must have yearly gross revenues of between $10,000 and $2 million and employ no more than 20 full time workers. It must be an owner-operated business and the owner-operator must be the day-to-day manager. The farm cannot be a hobby farm. In the DFA application form, producers should note the number and types of cattle lost, e.g. calves, fed steers, fed heifers, bulls, etc. Under the DFA program criteria, a veterinary certificate is required to verify that the losses were a direct result of the event. This is non-negotiable. o Note: The cost to obtain the veterinary certificate can be submitted as a DFA eligible cost o For losses that happened some time ago, the producer should contact their veterinarian, explain the situation, and obtain the needed certificate. Manitoba Beef Producers has helped develop a template that vets can use to support the producer’s DFA application and this information is being circulated to them. In the veterinary certificate the cause of loss needs to be attributed to the ‘2022 spring flood’ and the date of loss should be stated. This form is also available on the “DFA for Farm” page on the EMO website under “Step 2: Apply and mandatory documents.” See: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/dfa/farm.html Assistance for livestock losses will be calculated as follows: o Is based on the Wildlife Damage Compensation program for predation losses (MASC). See: https://www.masc.mb.ca/masc.nsf/fact_sheet_679_wildlife_damage_livestock.html o Will provide a price per pound for livestock losses. The price is based on the Canfax value on the date of loss (www.canfax.ca) o Different types of cattle are priced differently on Canfax, so therefore the farm will need to provide details on the type of livestock that were lost as well as the animal’s weight. o For calf losses, the compensation will provide assistance based on a 500 lb. cow. Producers should also examine the DFA eligibility criteria related to infrastructure damage to determine if there are any other losses for which they may be eligible to seek compensation. You have 90 days from the announcement of a DFA program to submit an application form to Manitoba EMO. The application deadline for the spring 2022 DFA program is August 8, 2022. For complete program details and to download the DFA application form, go to: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/dfa/farm.html Frequently asked questions about DFA: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/dfa/faq.html To view a video on how to apply for DFA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0S_STwXlP0 For upcoming program webinars see: https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/pdfs/2022_dfa_webinars_pr.pdf For other inquiries contact Manitoba’s Emergency Measures organization as follows: o Toll Free: 1-888-267-8298 Fax: (204) 945-4929 Email: dfa@gov.mb.ca
Emergency Measures Organization 1525 – 405 Broadway, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3L6 T 204-945-3050 Toll free 1-888-267-8298 F 204-945-4929 www.manitobaemo.ca
Disaster Financial Assistance Virtual Information Webinars Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) will be offering virtual information webinars on the 2022 Spring Flood Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program. Those with flood related impacts to their private residence, farm, small business or nonprofit organization are encouraged to attend an information session to learn more about the application, screening, inspection, evaluation and payment process. Manitoba EMO will offer webinars on the following dates: May 24 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. May 30 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. June 8 from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
The presentation will be approximately 45 minutes with an opportunity for questions and answers at the end of each session. Please note that all webinars have the same information presented. If you would like to attend an information webinar, please email Manitoba EMO at dfa@gov.mb.ca and include in the email your name, municipality and the date you would like to attend. Manitoba EMO will reply with a link to the virtual information webinar. If you have any questions, please contact Manitoba EMO at 204-945-3050 or toll-free at 1-888-267-8298. Our business hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thank you Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization
News Release Cattlemen’s Young Leaders Mentorship Program names its 2022 semi-finalists May 17, 2022 Calgary, AB – The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association’s (CCA) Cattlemen’s Young Leaders (CYL) Mentorship Program is pleased to announce its 24 semi-finalists for the upcoming 2022-2023 program year. The CYL Program welcomes young people ages 18-35 from across Canada involved in all areas of the beef supply chain and seeks to build the next generation of industry leaders through mentorship and various professional and personal development opportunities. After conducting the competition virtually for the past two years, CYL Selections will be making an exciting return to the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, BC on August 16, 2022. At CYL Selections, semi-finalists will compete for one of 16 spots in the upcoming CYL program year by participating in judged roundtable discussions on timely beef industry related topics. “It’s important to have programs like this in our industry to give our young people the tools and resources they need to succeed,” said CCA President, Reg Schellenberg. “Their ideas and optimism on industry challenges and opportunities inspire our work to make sure we’re building a successful way of life for generations to come.” The semi-finalists are selected by a judging panel from submitted written applications. The 2022 semifinalists, in no particular order, are: •
British Columbia: Morgan Kitchen (Vanderhoof), Raelynn Blumhagen (Jaffray)
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Alberta: Austin Ashbacher (Arrowwood), Carling Matejka (Ponoka), Delanie Knull (Crossfield), Gleise Medeiros da Silva (Edmonton), Heath Ferguson (Calgary), Jill Renton (Cayley), Morgan Williams (Gibbons), Nicky Nixdorff (Airdrie), Russell Gallelli (Crossfield), Sarah Golby (Youngstown), Shae Wasyliw (High River)
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Saskatchewan: Brodyn LaBatte (Gladmar), Tyson Ringdal (Outlook)
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Manitoba: James Kinley (Cartwright), Madison Leonard (Winnipeg), Stefan Bouw (Anola)
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Ontario: Brittany Sherry (Douro-Dummer), Clairina Paquette (Alliston), Danika Mayer (Alexandria), Holly McGill (Listowel), Madison Lewis (Meaford)
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Québec: McKenna Richardson (Clarendon)
The CCA is the national voice for Canada’s beef cattle industry representing 60,000 beef farms and feedlots. Visit www.cattle.ca
Following the competition, the 16 CYL finalists are matched with an industry leader in their specific area of interest in the beef industry for a nine-month mentorship opportunity. In addition, they are granted a $2,000 budget to fund their engagement in beef industry events, meeting with their mentor, and learning opportunities throughout the year. The CCA congratulates this year’s semi-finalists and wishes them the best of luck during the final round of competition.
About the CYL Program The CYL Program is a national initiative of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association which provides young people ages 18-35 with industry-specific training and mentorship opportunities. Through networking, travel and mentorship, participants are equipped with the skills they need to further the success of the Canadian beef industry. Since being established in 2010, the program has seen over 150 graduates. For further information, please contact: Michelle McMullen Communications Manager Canadian Cattlemen’s Association 403-451-0931| mcmullenm@cattle.ca www.cattlemensyoungleaders.com
The CCA is the national voice for Canada’s beef cattle industry representing 60,000 beef farms and feedlots. Visit www.cattle.ca
Updated Livestock Transport Regulations and What You Need to Know 2. Record Keeping for Transporters >> Animal Transport Record and Transfer of Care Record are required. 3. Required Feed, Water and Rest Times >> Learn about changes to interval requirements and definitions of travel time.
Changes to the Transport of Animals Regulations (Part XII of the Health of Animals Regulations) came into effect in February of 2020 and are being actively enforced. Before heading out on the highway, it is important to know the rules. There are four major changes in the new regulations focusing on: 1. Categorizing Animals Fit for Transport >> Consult the Transport Decision Tree.
4. Contingency Planning >> A verbal or written plan must cover all predictable natural or manmade scenarios that may delay a trip. Demonstrating compliance requires documenting the steps taken to ensure the welfare of the animals in your care and keeping records of any issues. If in doubt, write it down. A smooth trip with no delays is worth the time and effort. READ THE FULL POST >>
AgriInsurance Seeing Deadline for Soybeans Extended Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) has announced that that the AgriInsurance full coverage seeding deadlines for soybeans are now June 8 in Soybean Area 1 and June 4 in Soybean Areas 2 and 3. In addition, soybean growers in these areas will now be eligible for insurance if planting occurs in the five days following the full coverage seeding deadline; however, coverage will be reduced by 20 per cent. The full coverage seeding deadline for Soybean Area 4 continues to be May 30 with no extended seeding deadline coverage. These changes are permanent and will be part of the AgriInsurance Contract going forward. MASC is not considering seeding deadline extensions for other crops at this time. The final spring seeding deadline for many major crops is June 20. AgriInsurance contract holders who are unable to seed by June 20 due to wet conditions are eligible for Excess Moisture Insurance (EMI).
MEDIA BULLETIN AVAILABLE HERE
Travel Advisory – Gretna Port of Entry – CBSA Service Has Resumed (May 20, 2022 Canada Border Services Agency News Release) CBSA service at the Gretna port of
entry has resumed. Heavy flooding in North Dakota that resulted in highway closures has now receded. Therefore, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has resumed service at Gretna.
The CBSA recognizes border disruptions affect both travellers and industry and would like to thank travellers and commercial partners for their patience. Follow the border wait times for ports of entry on the CBSA’s Web site.
West Perimeter Highway Southbound At Portage Avenue Will Be Temporarily Reduced To A One-Lane Roadway For Construction From May 24 To 27 (May 20, 2022 Province of Manitoba News Release)
on a milled surface and workers are not present.
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure reports traffic will be delayed along the west Perimeter Highway (Provincial Trunk Highway 101) southbound at Portage Avenue with the start of a construction project on May 24 and continuing until approximately May 27, weather permitting.
The southbound lanes of the west Perimeter Highway to the westbound Portage Avenue exit ramp 42B will be closed periodically during the project. A detour will be provided when the ramp is temporarily closed.
Traffic will be reduced to one lane southbound from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and reopened to two lanes when crews are not on site.
The project will involve milling, which is grinding and removing the existing road surface, then resurfacing with new asphalt pavement.
A safety flag crew will be present to direct traffic, as required. The speed limit will be reduced to 60 km/h while workers are present and 80 kilometres per hour (km/h) if travelling
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure will update impacts to traffic through the Manitoba 511 information system at www.manitoba511.ca/en/index.html.
Engaging Canadians on a National Adaptation Strategy to build a climate ready economy and communities (May 16, 2022 Environment and Climate Change Canada News Release) Building a strong and
healthy future for Canadians means building homes, infrastructure, and an economy that are ready for the realities of climate change. To do that, Canada needs a coordinated national response. The Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, launched a public consultation to develop Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy, a whole-of-society blueprint for coordinated action across the country, ensuring communities and Canadians are prepared for the impacts of climate change. The Minister launched the consultations at a virtual adaptation conference attended by over a thousand participants, including provinces, territories, leaders of National Indigenous Organizations, as well as climate adaptation experts, industry representatives, and members of the public. To kick off the public consultations, the Government published a discussion paper that sets out guiding principles as well as goals and objectives for five key areas of focus: Health and Well-being, Natural and Built Infrastructure, Environment, Economy, and Disaster Resilience and Security. Climate-readiness includes measures such as preventing the construction of homes on floodplains, increasing tree coverage in urban forests to reduce the effects of heatwaves, and using data to map and manage the risks of wildfires.
The Strategy will build on a strong foundation of action being taken across the country, such as the federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF), which has received a significant increase in investment, now $3.4 billion, for infrastructure projects to help communities better prepare for climate-related disasters. Canadians, community organizations, and interested stakeholders are all invited to share their opinions by participating on the dynamic online consultation portal at https://letstalkadaptation.ca until July 15, 2022. The Government of Canada has committed to finalizing the National Adaptation Strategy by fall 2022. To further demonstrate leadership on climate change adaptation, Canada will be hosting the seventh edition of the global biennial Adaptation Futures conference, the largest dedicated adaptation event in the world, in October 2023 in Montréal. The Government of Canada will contribute $650,000 to support the conference that is being organized by Ouranos in partnership with the World Adaptation Science Programme. It will attract leading decision-makers, policy-makers, scientists, and practitioners across the globe to share knowledge on adaptation challenges and opportunities. Quick facts •
According to the Canadian Climate Institute, the number and cost of catastrophic weather events in the past decade alone were twice as high as those recorded in the previous decades combined (i.e., 1983 to 2009). The Insurance Bureau of Canada found that severe weather caused $2.1 billion in continued on page 14
Engaging Canadians on a National Adaptation Strategy to build a climate ready economy and communities insured damage in 2021 and said that the “new normal” for insured losses from severe weather events across Canada is $2 billion per year. Uninsured losses are estimated to be double that amount. •
To inform the development of the National Adaptation Strategy, the Government of Canada has been engaging and consulting with provinces and territories, municipal governments, and Indigenous Peoples and organizations.
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The Government of Canada launched five Expert Advisory Tables in fall 2021 to provide advice on transformational goals and objectives of the National Adaptation Strategy within five key systems: Health and Well-being, Natural and Built Infrastructure, Environment, Economy, and Disaster Resilience and Security.
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Planning for the future means planning for ongoing climate change. As the climate continues to change, our actions to prepare and respond to the impacts of these changes must also grow and evolve. The National Adaptation Strategy is being designed
for ongoing evaluation as we make progress and take action. •
Building on significant investments to date, Budget 2022 announced key items to advance federal adaptation efforts, including funding to support Indigenous Climate Leadership and the development of a Canada Green Homes Strategy, which will help to increase the climate resilience of existing buildings. Budget 2022 also announced other investments related to adaptation, such as funding for freshwater and agriculture initiatives, wildfire response, and to enhance federal coordination of emergency responses.
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The Government of Canada is also seeking stories, photos, and videos from Canadians to showcase how individuals and communities are adapting to and preparing for climate change impacts (e.g., installing community gardens, protecting or restoring a wetland, planting trees to prevent erosion, creating gathering areas for emergencies). Submissions will be accepted until July 15, 2022 on the letstalkadaptation.ca website.
Manitoba Hydro advises extreme caution on waterways Unprecedented rainfall increases flows on Manitoba rivers (May 20, 2022 Manitoba Hydro news release)
Manitoba Hydro urges Manitobans to be careful on and around the province’s rivers and lakes – especially near the utility’s generating stations – as unprecedented precipitation this spring has created record-high water flows and high water levels on some lakes. “We all need to be careful of the high flows, increased levels and rapidly changing water levels we’re seeing on our rivers, particularly when near our generating stations on the Winnipeg River,” said Manitoba Hydro President and CEO Jay Grewal. “Please look for and obey all warning signs,” Grewal said. “Property owners and resource users should secure docks and move valuable items like boats to higher ground.” Winnipeg River levels Winnipeg River property owners and resource users will see water levels rise over the next 10to- 15 days by approximately: •
1.2 feet upstream of Eight Foot Falls
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2.1 feet at Nutimik Lake
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1.9 feet at Dorothy Lake
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2.2 feet at Margaret/Eleanor Lake
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2.3 feet at Sylvia Lake
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1 foot upstream of Silver Falls
Flows on the Winnipeg River are high because the Lake of the Woods Control Board (LWCB) was forced to make large increases in outflow from Lake of the Woods and Lac Seul, both of which drain into the Winnipeg River. The LWCB manages the water levels of Lake of the Woods
and Lac Seul, Ont. The Winnipeg River is expected to crest in early June. Lake Winnipeg outflows Record-high flows on the Winnipeg River are also combining with very high flows on the Red and Assiniboine Rivers and other tributaries to drive up levels on Lake Winnipeg. In response, Manitoba Hydro continues to increase outflows at the Jenpeg Generating Station located at the north end of the Lake Winnipeg. “What we’re seeing is unprecedented,” Grewal said. “We’ve gone from drought conditions to record flows in less than one year. On the Winnipeg River alone, record flow conditions are occurring across most of the watersheds in Manitoba, Ontario, and Minnesota following heavy precipitation since the start of April, and there is more rain in the forecast.” Grewal said Manitoba Hydro is steadily increasing outflows at the Jenpeg Generating Station, located where the west channel of the Nelson River flows into Cross Lake (135 kilometres south of Thompson), to manage the level of Lake Winnipeg until it’s back below 715 feet above sea level (ASL). Water levels on the Nelson River downstream of Jenpeg are forecast to steadily increase over the next month. Manitoba Hydro is communicating with communities that may be affected by the increase in water flow from that facility. Lake Winnipeg is currently at 714.9 feet ASL and forecast to peak in the 717 feet ASL range by early July. Last year at this time, the lake level was at 712.8 feet ASL. During the last major flood in Manitoba in 2011, the water level on continued on page 16
Manitoba Hydro advises extreme caution on waterways Unprecedented rainfall increases flows on Manitoba rivers Lake Winnipeg peaked at 716.9 feet ASL around July 7, 2011. Manitoba Hydro’s Lake Winnipeg control structures include a series of deep channels put in place to allow greater flows out of the lake to overcome some of the constrictions at the natural outflow channel at Warren Landing. The added channels allow an extra 50 per cent more outflow in high water periods compared to the period before the regulation of lake outflows in 1976. Manitoba Hydro is licensed by the Province of Manitoba to operate Lake Winnipeg for power production when the lake is between 711 and
715 feet above sea level. When the lake reaches 715 feet, the utility must operate its facilities to maximize the discharge from the lake. One of the primary purposes and benefits of Lake Winnipeg Regulation was the prevention of significant shoreline flooding (as seen in the 1960s and early 70s), as well as improved hydropower production on the Nelson River. For more information, please contact: Bruce Owen – Media Relations Officer 204-794-8270 bowen@hydro.mb.ca
Additional steps to deliver timely passport services for Canadians (May 17, 2022 Employment and Social Development Canada News Release) With pandemic
restrictions easing around the world, interest in travel is growing among Canadians, and demand for new or renewed passports is growing along with it. Service Canada is experiencing increases in passport processing times, and is responding by prioritizing those travelling imminently and ensuring that those with less urgent needs can access the right service channels for them. Service Canada’s ability to serve Canadians swiftly was affected by the unprecedented volume of applications and the obligation to impose in-person capacity limits for both clients and staff to protect the health and safety of those visiting and those working inside Service Canada Centres. Service Canada is pleased to announce the reopening of all passport service counters across the country. Reopening measures were implemented the week of May 9 following a brief trial period. They mark a return to prepandemic in-person service capacity, with a 40% increase in capacity at service counters. Capacity in waiting rooms has also been significantly expanded, and Service Canada has also taken additional measures to simplify and expedite passport processing. A number of measures have been put in place to make it easier for Canadians to access passport services, and to improve and streamline processing to better meet their needs.
Canada Centres, opened additional processing hubs, and created a new workload management and processing technology to increase efficiency, all while meeting health protocols. Service Canada continues to hire and train more employees, and teams at the passport office, processing and call centres are working overtime every day and on weekends to increase processing capacity. This includes opening select Service Canada Centres on Saturdays for passport service. A simplified renewal process now allows applicants to renew an expired passport if it was issued in the last 15 years. The simplified process is also available to those who had their passport lost, stolen or damaged. Applicants do not need to have a guarantor or provide their original documents, such as proof of citizenship or photo identification. They simply need two photos, two references, their completed form and the applicable fees. These changes make renewing a passport easier and faster, while maintaining the highest level of program integrity. Service Canada has also launched eservices.canada.ca/reservation/, an online appointment-booking tool that applicants can access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from their computer, tablet or cellphone to book their appointment online. The tool also directs them to the right location to submit their passport applications. Service Canada recognizes that some circumstances cannot wait for an appointment: •
Service Canada has hired 600 new employees specifically to support the processing of passport applications, opened more dedicated passport intake counters in over 300 Service
Anyone who needs a passport within two business days must visit one of the specialized passport sites (Service Canada Centres – Passport Service) continued on page 18
Additional steps to deliver timely passport services for Canadians offering urgent pick-up service. Proof of travel is required. •
Those travelling within 25 business days can use the walk-in service at one of the 35 specialized passport sites (Service Canada Centres – Passport Service). Appointments are recommended, and proof of travel is required. Please note that wait times at these sites may be long due to the current demand.
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For anyone travelling in more than 25 days (or with no specific travel date), over 300 Service Canada Centres are available to receive passport applications in person. No proof of travel is needed. These applicants also have the option to mail in their applications.
Although processing times are currently longer than prior to the pandemic, 98% of Canadians who apply in-person at a specialized passport office currently receive their passports in less than 10 business days. In March and April 2022, Service Canada received approximately 500,000 applications for passports, and is therefore prioritizing those with more imminent travel. Canadians should make sure they have valid passports well before booking travel. If they do need a passport, or need an existing passport to be renewed, they should apply well before they book their trip to ensure it can be delivered in time. Associated links •
Canadian passports and travel documents - Canada.ca
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Find a Service Canada Office
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Welcome to the eServiceCanada Appointment Booking Tool - E-service Canada.ca
Manitoba RCMP remind off-road vehicle operators to be safe where ORV use is permitted. Always remember to be on the lookout for hazards in the ditch, such as culverts, driveway approaches, and road signs •
No riding: o
On privately owned or leased land without permission
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Within 30 metres of a dwelling that is not yours between midnight and 7:00 am
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Within 30 metres of a playground or area set aside for recreation that is not fully fenced
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In a careless manner
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Without reasonable consideration for other persons and property
(May 13, 2022 Manitoba RCMP News Release)
With the warmer weather upon us, many Manitobans are eager to get outside and enjoy the outdoors which may include riding off-road vehicles (ORVs). The Manitoba RCMP wants to remind operators of the laws of ORVs to ensure a safe ride. Most of the laws around ORVs fall under the Off Road Vehicles Act. For details, please refer to the Act, but here are some general rules to keep in mind when riding an ORV: •
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Anyone under the age of 14 must have direct supervision of a parent or legal guardian who is a minimum of 18 years of age. Youth over the age of 14 can ride without parental supervision, but cannot cross a roadway until they obtain a valid driver's licence. All ORV operators and riders must wear properly fastened safety helmets unless the vehicle is equipped with rollover protection and the occupants are wearing securely fastened seat belts.
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ORVs are not to be operated on roadways, shoulders, medians of divided roadways, or sidewalks
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ORVs are permitted to be in the ditch, provided travel is in the same direction as vehicle traffic, the ORV is to the right of the roadway and the shoulder, and the ORV is being operated in an area
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When conditions are dry, use caution as sparks from an ORV can ignite grass and branches, starting a fire
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Be aware of local bylaws in the area you are riding
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Impaired driving laws apply to ALL motorized vehicles. Only operate an ORV when sober and alert
In 2021, RCMP in Manitoba responded to 8 fatal collisions involving ORVs and 58 collisions where serious injury occurred. Contributing factors in these collisions included speed, no helmet and impaired driving. Knowledge and safety are key, so make sure you are aware of the rules in place in the area where you are riding. Be safe and enjoy the ride!
What Qualifies AgriRecovery Livestock Transportation Drought Assistance Helps livestock producers offset freight expenses associated with moving their eligible breeding herd to alternate feeding locations due to shortages of feed.
Primary Producers
Breeding Animals
• Owned or leased the eligible breeding animals between June 1, 2021 and March 15, 2022 or later
• Mature females exposed to breeding (natural service or artificial insemination)
• Have a minimum of 10 eligible breeding animals (per type of livestock)
• Males used previously for breeding
Eligible Breeding Animals • Beef cattle • Sheep • Goats
• Immature replacement females are not eligible
Eligible Alternate Feeding Locations • Farms, custom feeders and other livestock operations where breeding animals must be relocated to address a shortfall in winter feed capacity
• Movement to a normal wintering site is not eligible
• Locations are not owned, leased or rented by the eligible producers
• Animals cannot be sold or marketed prior to returning to the location of origin when temporary feeding is complete
• Must be capable of housing and providing adequate feed, water and care
• Animals must remain in the new location for at least 30 days
Eligible Distance • Minimum distance of 40 kilometres to a maximum one-way distance of 1,000 kilometres
Contact • 1-844-769-6224
• manitoba.ca/agriculture
Date of Eligible Expenses • Incurred from August 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022
• ARD@gov.mb.ca
How to Apply for Livestock Transportation Drought Assistance Six Steps for Application
STEP 1
Application deadline:
July 30, 2022 for Livestock Transportation Drought Assistance
Application form and program guide Complete the form as instructed, declare that you meet all the program terms and conditions, and that the information you provide is complete and accurate. The terms and conditions are outlined in the AgriRecovery Drought Assistance for Farmers Program Guidebook. You can access the application form and the program guide by: downloading them at manitoba.ca/agriculture
In-person at your nearest Service Centre (see reverse for locations)
STEP 2
Declaration of eligible breeding animals
STEP 3
Self-haul declaration
STEP 4
calling 1-844-769-6224 to have a copy mailed to you
Extraordinary Expense Declaration
• Complete a Declaration with your first application • Declare the number of eligible breeding animals that will be maintained and overwintered
• Contact the program administrator (email: agaction@gov.mb.ca) if the number of eligible animals changes over time.
If you self-haul feed or livestock, complete the self-haul declaration form and provide invoices for feed purchases or accessing feed as outlined in the guidebook.
If you have extraordinary expenses for renting pasture or cropland, temporary fencing, hauling or pumping water, harvesting feed, or transporting self-produced feed, complete the one-time declaration as outlined in the guidebook.
Note: If your application is successful, you will receive a notification letter and cheque in the mail from the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC).
STEP 5
Prepare your application After completing the necessary documents, check the boxes for all declarations on the forms. Ensure that you have included everything needed in your submission:
STEP 6
application form invoices for each feed and/or transportation purchase proof of payment for each invoice (e.g., cleared cheques, bank statement, credit or debit card receipt)
eligible breeding animal declaration (first application only) self-haul declaration (only if you self-hauled feed or livestock) declaration of extraordinary expenses (only one submission allowed)
Submit your application Email documents in step 5 to: agaction@gov.mb.ca
or mail to: Manitoba Agriculture AgriRecovery Drought Assistance 903-401 York Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0P8
Service Centre Contact Information Arborg Box 2000, 317 River Road Arborg MB R0C 0A0 1-833-206-0451 1-833-478-1304 arborg@masc.mb.ca
Headingley 1-5290 Monterey Road Headingley MB R4H 1J9 1-833-206-0465 1-833-478-1307 headingley@masc.mb.ca
Portage la Prairie Unit 400, 50-24th Street NW Portage la Prairie MB R1N 3V7 1-833-206-0470 1-833-478-1312 portagelaprairie@masc.mb.ca
Brandon Unit 100 - 1525 1st Street S Brandon MB R7A 7A1 1-833-206-0455 1-833-478-1305 brandon@masc.mb.ca
Killarney Box 190, 203 South Railway Street Killarney MB R0K 1G0 1-833-206-0466 1-833-478-1309 killarney@masc.mb.ca
Steinbach Unit C – 284 Reimer Avenue Steinbach MB R5G 0R5 1-833-206-0480 1-833-467-1059 steinbach@masc.mb.ca
Dauphin Room 209, 27-2nd Avenue SW Dauphin MB R7N 3E5 1-833-206-0459 1-833-478-1306 dauphin@masc.mb.ca
Morden 536 Stephen Street Morden MB R6M 1T7 1-833-206-0479 1-833-467-1056 morden@masc.mb.ca
Swan River Box 1108, 120-6th Avenue N Swan River MB R0L 1Z0 1-833-206-0476 1-833-478-1315 swanriver@masc.mb.ca
Neepawa Box 1179, 41 Main Street E Neepawa MB R0J 1H0 1-833-206-0469 1-833-478-1310 neepawa@masc.mb.ca