E-Newsletter dsfsfa
Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) is accepting applications until Friday, December 13, 2024 for consideration for the local awarding of The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA).
Since 1996, TESA has recognized producers who go above and beyond standard industry conservation practices and set positive examples for other cattle producers and the general public. As stewards of a vast portion of the Canadian landscape, Canada’s beef cattle producers play a significant role in protecting and enhancing the environment. They continuously strive to improve existing stewardship conservation practices to create a sustainable future – always farming for tomorrow.
At the local level, a producer receives provincial recognition for their outstanding environmental contributions. In Manitoba, this occurs in conjunction with MBP’s annual general meeting in February. All provincial award recipients then move forward to compete for national recognition from the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA). The national TESA recipient is announced during the CCA’s semi-annual meeting held in August in conjunction with the Canadian Beef Industry Conference.
May 3, 2024 mbbeef.ca
Applications for Consideration for The Environmental Stewardship Award Due to MBP by December 13
Each nominee exemplifies significant innovation and attention to a wide range of environmental stewardship aspects in their farm or ranch operation. Such innovations extend beneficially to areas far beyond their land, including water, wildlife and air.
How to Nominate
All beef cattle operations in Canada are eligible to apply for consideration for TESA. Interested producers can either nominate themselves, or be nominated by another individual or an organization. All methods are equally encouraged. More details and the application form can be found at: https://www.cattle.ca/sustainability/tesa
The completed application form, along with all supporting documentation (such as letters of support, photos and/or videos), is to be submitted to Manitoba Beef Producers by email to info@mbbeef.ca no later than Friday, December 13, 2024.
If you have questions, please contact the MBP office at 204-772-4542.
MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS 2024-25 Scholarship Intake
Manitoba Beef Producers is pleased to make available six $1,000 scholarships annually for MBP members or their children attending a university, college, other post-secondary institution or pursuing trades training. Preference will be given to those students pursuing a field of study related to agriculture or to those acquiring a skilled trade or pursuing a career that would be beneficial to the rural economy.
This application process is for students who will be undertaking post-secondary studies or trades training in the 2024 -25 academic year. The deadline to apply is 4:30 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024.
The scholarship criteria are as follows:
Eligibility:
• Must be an active Manitoba beef producer or the child of an active Manitoba beef producer Note: This can also include active beef producers returning to school after a period of time in the workforce.
• Must be pursuing post-secondary studies or trades training in the 2024-25 academic year.
• Post-secondary programs or trades training must be a minimum of one academic year in duration.
Items You Are Required to Submit:
• The completed application form;
• Either a typed 600-word (maximum) essay OR a 5-7 minute maximum video submission discussing the topic “What the beef industry means to my family, my community and Manitoba.” Also, you need to identify in the essay or video the reasons you enjoy being involved in agriculture*;
• A copy of your transcript (either high school, or a recognized college, university or trade school);
• Proof of enrolment in a recognized institution (current transcript, or your acceptance letter, or a letter of intent indicating your intended institution and field of study for 2024-25);
• A list of your community involvement (e.g. 4-H, community clubs, volunteer work, etc.); and,
• The names of two references, including their addresses and telephone numbers.
*Note: Scholarship winners’ essays or video submissions and photos will be published in Manitoba Beef Producers’ newspaper Cattle Country in fall 2024 or posted to MBP’s social media channels and website.
The completed application, all supporting documents, references, required essay or video, etc. must be submitted to MBP no later than 4:30 p.m. Friday, June 21, 2024 to the attention of:
Manitoba Beef Producers Scholarship Committee
220 – 530 Century Street
Winnipeg MB R3H 0Y4
E-mail: info@mbbeef.ca
Fax: (204) 774-3264
For more information, including steps on how to submit your video, please contact Manitoba Beef Producers at 1-800-772-0458 or email info@mbbeef.ca A selection committee will review the submissions Winners will be notified by September 13, 2024.
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MBP 2024-25 Academic Year
SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
PLEASE PRINT
Name: _______________________________________________________________________________
Mailing address: _______________________________________________________________________
Telephone: _____________________________
Date of birth: _____________________________
Email:
Parents’ names if you are under 18: _______________________________________________________
Are you a beef producer? _____________________________
Are you the child of a beef producer? ________ If yes, what is their name(s)? __
Current institute of enrolment: ________________________________________________________
Institute and your intended program of post-secondary study or skilled trades training in 2024-25:
Duration of post-secondary program or skilled trades training: _________ year (s)
Essay or Short Video Submission Requirement: Please submit either a typed 600-word (maximum) essay* OR a 5-7 minute video on the topic “What the beef industry means to my family, my community, and Manitoba.” Also include the reasons you enjoy being involved in agriculture No preference will be given to either option.
*Note: Scholarship winners’ essays or video submissions and photos will be published in Manitoba Beef Producers’ newspaper Cattle Country in fall 2024 or posted to MBP’s social media channels and website.
Please return the following: completed application form; typed essay or video submission; a copy of your transcript; proof of enrolment in a recognized institution or an apprenticeship program (current transcript, letter of acceptance, or a letter of intent to pursue further studies); a list of your community involvement; and, your references no later than 4:30 p.m., Friday, June 21, 2024 to the attention of:
Manitoba Beef Producers Scholarship Committee
220 – 530 Century Street
Winnipeg, MB R3H 0Y4
Email: info@mbbeef.ca Fax (204) 774- 3264
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Wildfire Risk Remains High Despite Recent Rain
(May 3, 2024 Province of Manitoba News Release) The Office of the Fire Commissioner (OFC) is reminding Manitobans to be vigilant as overall conditions remain extremely dry and communities across the province have experienced several human-caused wildfires this season.
Fire departments throughout Manitoba are seeing a notable increase of human-caused wildfires this season, requiring significant resources to protect homes and communities. Wildfires can spread quickly in open areas, often due to windy conditions, as matted grass and dry, dead vegetation can easily ignite.
Despite recent wet conditions, Manitobans are reminded to help reduce the risk of wildfires by avoiding burning on windy days, using burn barrels in dry areas and never leaving a fire unattended.
Additionally, every Manitoban plays a part in reducing the risk of wildfires and removing hazards that put people, pets, wildlife, homes and properties at risk by taking action such as:
• clearing leaves, pine needles and combustible debris from roofs and gutters;
• removing combustible debris or items stored under decks and porches;
• pruning low-hanging tree branches up to a height of two metres;
• disposing properly of smoking materials using a deep, wide, sturdy metal container with a lid, partially filled with sand or water. Never use a plant pot, peat moss or vegetable garden to dispose of smoking materials or ash;
• exercising caution when operating an ATV as sparks from tailpipes can ignite a fire in dry grass areas, staying on developed trails wherever possible and carrying a fire extinguisher; and
• never leaving an outdoor fire unattended, always extinguishing it before leaving the area and exercising caution around forested
For Manitoba Wildfire Service situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links, visit https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ To report a wildfire, call 911 or the TIP line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076.
Manitobans are reminded to check municipal burning restrictions by visiting: https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.html.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has only 6 growing seasons to achieve its 2030 emission reduction targets
(April 30, 2024 Office of the Auditor General Canada News Release) A report released today by Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development Jerry V. DeMarco concludes that Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada had not developed a strategy for how the agriculture sector would contribute to Canada’s 2030 and 2050 greenhouse gas mitigation and sequestration goals, as was first called for in 2020. Between 1990 and 2021, the agriculture sector’s greenhouse gas emissions grew by 39%, mostly driven by an increase in emissions related to crop production.
In 2021, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada launched 3 key programs aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions; however, the department’s delays in funding approvals resulted in recipients missing a growing season. In addition, the department had not yet set or finalized performance targets for 2 of the 3 programs. The department has so far achieved less than 2% of its 2030 overall greenhouse gas reduction target.
“Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s contributions to reduce emissions under these 3 programs are integral to the fight against climate change, which is why setting targets and tracking results are so important,” said Mr. DeMarco.
Without a strategy to provide the agriculture sector with a long-term vision and direction, the department’s path to help achieve Canada’s 2030 and 2050 goals remains unclear.
“Given the current climate crisis and limited results thus far, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will need to ensure that all its expected reductions in greenhouse gas emissions
for 2030 take place in the 6 growing seasons that remain,” said Mr. DeMarco.
The 2024 Reports of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development, Report 5 Agriculture and Climate Change Mitigation Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, is available on the Office of the Auditor General of Canada website.
April 30 response from the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to the OAG’s report:
“There is no doubt we need to do more to help the agriculture sector reduce emissions, and quickly. I would like to thank the Commissioner for the work and research undertaken in preparing the Agriculture and Climate Change Mitigation Report, and I am pleased to share that work is well underway to action the recommendations. Since 2020, the Government of Canada has announced over $1.5 billion in funding to advance climate change mitigation in the sector, including the Agricultural Clean Technology Program, the Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs Program, and the On-Farm Climate Action Fund. We are also preparing work on a Sustainable Agriculture Strategy, which has been developed in partnership with folks from across the agriculture sector, including producers, provincial and territorial representatives, and Indigenous partners, and will set a shared vision to support the sector’s ambition and actions on climate change and sustainability.
Canadian farmers work hard every day to produce the best products in the world and are already making significant efforts to be more sustainable. Being on the front lines of climate change, they have felt the devastating effects first-hand, from droughts to wildfires to floods. It is vitally important that we collectively take action to support their livelihoods and the long-term success and sustainability of the sector.”
– The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
Using Technology During a Disaster
(Government of Canadahttps://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/rsrcs/epwk/tlkt-en.aspx) We rely on technology more and more to keep in touch with our family, friends, and colleagues with a click of a button. But what happens in the event of a major emergency? Suddenly these tools can become vital in helping you and your family deal get in touch and stay informed. So here are some tips on the use of technology in an emergency:
• If possible, use non-voice channels like text messaging, email or social media These use less bandwidth than voice communications and may work even when phone service doesn’t.
• If you must use a phone, keep your conversation brief and convey only vital
information to emergency personnel and/or family. This will also conserve your phone’s battery.
• Unable to complete a call? Wait 10 seconds before redialing to help reduce network congestion. Note, cordless phones rely on electricity and will not work during a power outage. If you have a landline, keep at least one corded phone in your home.
• Keep a charger for your mobile device in your emergency kit. Consider getting a solar-powered, crank, or vehicle phone charger. If you don’t have a cell phone, keep a prepaid phone card in your emergency kit.
• Keep your contacts up to date on your phone, email and other channels. This will make it easier to reach important contacts, such as friends, family, neighbours, child’s school, or insurance agent.
• If you have a smartphone, save your safe meeting location(s) on its mapping application.
• Conserve your smartphone’s battery by reducing the screen’s brightness, placing your phone in airplane mode, and closing apps you are not using. You never know how long a power outage will last!
Remember, in an emergency or to save a life, call 9-1-1 for help. You cannot currently text 9-11.If you are not experiencing an emergency, do not call 9-1-1. If your area offers 3-1-1 service or another information system, call that number for non-emergencies.
Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership
Livestock Predation Prevention Program
Program Description
The Livestock Predation Prevention Program supports adoption of non-lethal, on-farm measures that reduce the risk of livestock predation by wolves, coyotes, bears and other predators. Reducing livestock predation promotes the co-existence of wildlife and livestock in agricultural regions of Manitoba.
Who Qualifies
Livestock producers who have both:
• A paid livestock predation claim under the Manitoba Wildlife Damage Compensation Program in 2021 or later.
• A Manitoba Premises Identification Number.
What Qualifies
Eligible expenses include purchasing equipment, livestock guardian dogs, and constructing predator resistant fencing to deter attacks on livestock by coyotes, wolves, and other predators. The objective of a project must be to deter predation of livestock located on Manitoba farms. More details of eligible expenses can be found in the program guide.
Cost-Share and Funding
Cap
FUNDING STREAMS
Pre-approved Livestock Predation Equipment and Guardian Dogs
Predator Resistant Fence Construction
The Pre-approved Livestock Predation Equipment and Guardian Dog funding stream is a rebate program. It allows eligible applicants to purchase items from a pre-approved list and submit the required documents to receive reimbursement.
Eligible producers can apply for funding to support construction of fencing that deters predators from entering calving and lambing areas, pastures, extended grazing areas, and deadstock compost sites. Producers will receive a funding decision letter indicating the approved budget for eligible projects.
Important Dates
June 14, 2024: Deadline for fence construction applications.
October 31, 2024: Complete fence construction. November 29, 2024: Complete fence inspection.
December 20, 2024: Deadline for submitting claims and proof of payment for equipment and guardian dog purchases and completed fence projects.
Eligible applicants can be reimbursed for up to 75 per cent of total approved eligible expenses, to a maximum of:
• $5,000 for purchases of pre-approved equipment and guardian dogs.
• $10,000 for fence construction projects
These maximums are the total funding available per applicant. Maximums also apply to individual categories of purchases and fence construction projects.
Pre-Approved Equipment & Guardian Dog Rebate Details
Producers submit a rebate claim for purchases from a list of pre-approved equipment and livestock guardian dogs that deter predators from their livestock. No prior approval is required. Claims are processed up to the claim deadline or until funding is exhausted.
Cost Sharing and Funding Cap
Eligible applicants can be reimbursed for up to 75 per cent of total approved eligible expenses, to a maximum of $5,000 for all eligible equipment and livestock guardian dog purchases. Each category of eligible purchase has its own funding cap.
Solar foxlights create an unusual frequency and colour of light to mimic human presence and deter predators from entering a livestock area. They are best used during high-risk periods as their effect can wear off as predators become used to them.
Electronet is a wire netting fence that is electrified and can be used as temporary fence to deter predators from sheep or other small livestock. Netting and ground rods are eligible purchases. One energizer is also eligible when electronet is purchased.
Fladry is a line of brightly coloured flags that can be hung in front of a fence or other barrier to deter predators due to the novelty of the installation. Turbo fladry has the added feature of being electrified and further deterring predators. They are used temporarily in high-risk periods as the effect will wear off. Fladry, turbo fladry, temporary posts and insulators are eligible. One energizer and ground rods are eligible when combined with the purchase of turbo fladry.
Livestock guardian dogs are breeds of dogs that will deter predators from cattle, sheep, and other livestock. Eligible breeds include Akbash, Anatolian Shepherd, Central Asian Shepherd, Great Pyrenees, Kangal, Komondor, Kuvasz, Maremma, Sarplaninac, and Tatra. One spike collar can be claimed per dog.
Based on the 75% government cost-share, the $5,000 total funding cap is reached with total eligible purchases of $6,666.66. The caps for each category are reached with eligible purchases of $1,333.33 for solar fox lights and $4,666.66 each for electronet, fladry/turbo fladry and livestock guardian dogs.
Eligible Expenses
· Purchase cost including shipping and PST
· Purchasing an energizer when electronet or turbo fladry is also purchased. Two energizers are eligible if both electronet and turbo fladry are purchased.
All invoices must be dated on or after April 1, 2024.
Eligible Description CAP Purchase Solar Foxlights Electronet Fladry/Turbo Fladry Livestock Guardian Dogs
$1,000 $3,500 $3,500 $3,500
Fence Construction Project Details
Financial assistance is available for construction of fences that reduce the risk of livestock predation:
Cost Sharing and Funding Cap
Eligible applicants can be reimbursed for up to 75 per cent of total approved eligible expenses, to a maximum of $10,000 for all fence construction. Funding approved for each fence construction project is based on the size, type and purpose of the fence.
Caps Applied to Funding For Fence Projects
Project Type
Predator Resistant Fence
Deadstock Compost Pen
Fence Type
Wire-net fence (e.g. page, welded, fixedknot, or hinge-joint fencing)
· 152 cm (60”) high
· 178 cm (70”) high
Electrified, high tensile, no apron
· 7-wire
· 9-wire
· 11-wire
If an apron is added to prevent burrowing under a fence.
Project Cap (base + additional cost per linear foot of fence)
· $1,000 + $6/linear foot
· $1,000 + $7/linear foot
· $1,000 + $3 per linear foot
· $1,000 + $4 per linear foot
· $1,000 + $5 per linear foot
· $1/linear foot is added
For each of the above fence types, the base funding is $2,000 (instead of $1,000). The per linear foot rates are the same as for Predator Resistance Fence.
Note: Based on 75% government cost share, the $10,000 total funding cap is reached with eligible expenses of $13,333.33 or more. Depending on fence size and type, the approved funding may be less than the $10,000 fence category cap.
Eligible Expenses
· Incremental Personal Labour at $30/hour and Incremental Personal Equipment Use at fixed, program rates. For these two incremental expenses combined, applicants can claim up to a total of $3.00/linear foot for deadstock compost areas, $1.00/linear foot for predator resistant fences or $1.50/linear foot if the predator resistant fence has an apron.
· Subcontracted Services related to custom labour and custom equipment use
· Equipment Rental for completion of the project
· Materials and Supplies such as gates, lumber, wire, and energizer (0.7 joules or more.)
· Provincial Sales Tax (PST).
Further conditions for a fence project:
· Fences are inspected to verify work completed and that they will deter predators.
· Specific ineligible items include barbed wire fences, hard-wired power sourcing, temporary or mobile fences, infrastructure and land preparation inside the fence, and fences around feedlots, feed storage areas, and non-grazed crops.
Fence Inspection
Fences constructed to contain cattle, sheep and other livestock are often ineffective barriers to predators. To be effective, fences must be constructed to deter predators from climbing over, passing through, or burrowing under them. All fence projects are inspected to verify that the work has been completed and the fence will deter predators. See the Program Guide and the Sustainable CAP website for fence
HOW TO APPLY FOR FUNDING
standards as well as guidelines and examples for fence construction.
An inspection of the finished fence can be arranged by calling the Program Information Line at 1-800-811-4411 or emailing agriculture@gov.mb.ca
The applicant will then be contacted by an inspector from their local MASC Service Centre. The completed inspection report will be submitted by MASC on the applicant’s behalf.
The application and claim documents for equipment, guardian dogs, and fence construction can be found on the Manitoba Agriculture website:
· Applicant Information Form to be completed once. It covers both pre-approved equipment and guardian dogs and fence construction
· Rebate Worksheet for pre-approved equipment and guardian dogs
· Application Worksheet for fence construction
Go to www.manitoba.ca/scap/ and click on Resiliency and Public Trust and then on Livestock Predation Prevention to find these forms as well as the Program Guide.
The applicant must attach all invoices and proof of payment, along with the Rebate Worksheet for equipment and guardian dogs and the Claim Worksheet for fence construction projects.
An applicant can submit one Rebate Worksheet and one Fence Claim Worksheet over the life of the program. The documents can be emailed to: agriculture@gov.mb.ca.
