Manitoba Beef Producers Signs Major Funding Commitment with Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba
Three-Year, $105,000 contribution aims to boost agricultural literacy among Manitoba students
(Joint Agriculture in the Classroom – Manitoba / Manitoba Beef Producers news release - July 24, 2024)
Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba (AITC-M) is proud to announce a transformative threeyear funding partnership with Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP), amounting to $105,000. This strategic alliance underscores a shared commitment to ensuring the next generation of voters, consumers, leaders, and innovators are well-informed about our agriculture industry’s opportunities and challenges
Katharine Cherewyk, Executive Director of AITCM, expressed her enthusiasm: “We are incredibly grateful for Manitoba Beef Producers’ unwavering support. Their commitment is a testament to the vital role agricultural education plays in shaping informed and engaged citizens. Together, we are paving the way for students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the agriculture sector, including the beef industry.”
“Our multi-year commitment will ensure schoolaged children across Manitoba have access to accurate, balanced, and science-based resources about the beef sector delivered by Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba in a fun and engaging manner,” said Matthew Atkinson, District 8 Director and President, Manitoba Beef Producers. “There is tremendous value in
connecting farmers and educators to spark conversations and promote hands-on learning opportunities that bring the farm to the classroom.”
The ongoing partnership has already seen remarkable achievements. Notably, MBP’s support was pivotal to the success of the 2023 Amazing Agriculture Adventure: Animals event in Glenlea, Manitoba, where 650 grade 4 and 5 students immersed themselves in the livestock industry’s practical realities. Additionally, MBP’s role as a Foundational Supporter of the Foundations of Manitoba Agriculture virtual hub has provided students with robust learning resources on 18 key agricultural commodities, including beef. Last year, MBP also sponsored Beef Week, an AITC-M social media campaign that culminated in 60 students learning about cows in the classroom – virtually.
The impact extends to the Eat Well: Exploring Canada’s Food Guide initiative, which has benefitted 1,120 students from grades 4 to 6, thanks to MBP’s contributions. These programs illustrate the profound and positive influence that MBP’s backing has had on agricultural education.
For more information on AITC-M's programs and the impact of this partnership, please visit aitc.mb.ca
CCA responds to Federal, Provincial, and Territorial Agriculture Ministers’ meeting results
July 22, 2024
Whitehorse, YT
Last week, the Federal,Provincial and Territorial (FPT) Agricultural Ministers heldtheir annual meeting inWhitehorse,Yukon. At the closeof the meeting, the Ministers released a joint statement which can be read infull here as well as an additional backgrounder for more details.
CCA worked with its provincial members in advance of the FPT meeting to bring forward recommended changes to the AgriStability program. CCA is pleased to see attention given to Business Risk Management (BRM) tools, notably AgriRecovery and AgriStability.
CFIA was also in attendance and gave an updateon Specified Risk Material (SRM).
Tyler Fulton, Vice President of CCA, was on theground in the Yukonfor aMinisterial roundtable discussion with industry representatives. Hosted by the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, the roundtable’s theme was data andgave CCA a platform to speak to both domestic and international advocacy priorities of the industry.
BUSINESS RISK MANAGEMENT
CCA is encouraged by the discussion on BRMprogramming, specifically the receptivity to adjusting the AgriStability cap and making the AgriRecovery framework more responsive, predictable, and timelyfor producers. However, we are disappointed that changes to AgriStability were not announced after this meeting.
Coming out of the FPT meeting, CCA will continue toadvocate for changes to AgriStability including: an increase tothe cap under AgriStability by adjusting it from $3million to $15 million with a regular reviewthat would be in line with FPT policy framework timelines. In addition, CCA continues to advocatefor the expansion of the Alberta pilot on AgriStability to other provinces.
TRADE
CCA was pleased to see the FPT meeting featured discussions on international trade and market diversification through ongoing trade negotiations and existing freetrade agreements. For Canada to maintainits standing as a world-class trading partner, it is vital that CCA takes advantage of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Officein the Indo-Pacific region and leverage agreements such asthe Canada-United States Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
Tyler also emphasized the importance of CUSMA during his speaking opportunities at the preMinisterial events.
SPECIFIED RISK MATERIAL
Industry Update
CCA supports the needfor harmonization with the United States on the issue of specified risk material (SRM) from animal feed. CCA will continue to work with the CFIA and industry towards this objective while maintaining animal health andfood safety. At the sametime, CCA will work to ensure that Canada’s global trade reputation is not affected by this non-tariff trade barrier.
FOREIGN ANIMAL DISEASE
CCA is pleased tosee coordination between FPT governments and industry on animal disease preparedness and the acknowledgment of the significant impacts on farmer mental health. In preparation for potential outbreaks of diseases such as African Swine Fever and Foot-andMouth Disease, it is more important than ever that Canadian producers have access to a vaccine bank toprevent the spread of these diseases.
OTHER
Other relevant topics covered include interprovincial trade, pesticide management and capital gains.While capital gains was not covered in theofficial federal communique, both Alberta’s and Saskatchewan’s Ministers confirmed through social mediathat it was discussed.
As mentioned above, Tyler Fulton represented CCA alongside Jennifer Babcock.They were also joined by JaniceTranberg of the National Cattle Feeders Association.
For further information, contact: Carol Reynolds Communications Manager Canadian Cattle Association 403-451-0931| reynoldsc@cattle.ca
Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture met to advance the resilience and growth of the sector
(July 19, 2024 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) The annual conference of Federal, Provincial and Territorial (FPT) Ministers of Agriculture was held in Whitehorse, Yukon, from July 17 to 19, 2024. FPT Ministers of Agriculture discussed several areas of interest for Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector. The meeting focused on work to advance the resilience and competitiveness of the sector and strengthen the food supply chain. Ministers acknowledged challenges facing many producers in the sector, such as operational costs, labour shortages and potential disruptions. Ministers spoke of the need to continue working across orders of government, and listen to the concerns stakeholders bring forward, to support hardworking Canadian producers and processors.
Following agreement from all major retailers to participate in the industry-led Grocery Sector Code of Conduct, Ministers agreed to provide $1.2 million in short-term funding to support the Grocery Sector Code of Conduct Adjudication Office. Work will advance to bring more fairness, transparency, and predictability to Canada’s grocery supply chain and for consumers.
To help ensure the full suite of business risk management (BRM) programs meet the current and future needs of producers, Ministers expressed the importance of improvements to the AgriRecovery framework and its interaction with BRM programs, notably AgriStability and AgriInsurance. Ministers recognized that BRM programs are the first line of defence for producers and that it is critical that they are working for the entire sector. Ministers agreed to continue to prioritize work to ensure BRM programs, as well as the AgriRecovery framework, are timely, responsive, and
predictable to help producers manage business risks. Ministers committed to improve BRM programs and strengthen the supports available to address recurrent and emerging risks. Ministers also discussed potential adjustments to AgriStability for livestock and agreed to further decide on potential improvements at their next meeting. Ministers agreed to further discussion on livestock price insurance and equivalent programs.
Ministers reviewed and endorsed the FPT Action Plan to address the recommendations by the FPT Working Group on Pesticide Management. The FPT Working Group on Pesticide Management will continue to work directly with Health Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency and ensure meaningful participation to advance the Action Plan. In an effort to enhance transparency, Ministers will receive regular progress reports. This work will support the continued competitiveness of Canadian growers with access to safe, effective and varied pest management tools. Ministers agreed to create an additional working group to explore approaches that meet the needs of producers and protect human and ecosystem health, while using a science and evidence-based approach to regulatory decisions.
Ministers also discussed international trade, market diversification, and building the sector’s ability to grow and compete in global markets. This included supporting Canada’s ongoing trade negotiations with key partners and continuing to promote the benefits of Canada’s existing free trade agreements, particularly the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement. Ministers discussed various export market access issues to support alignment when advocating for the sector, as well as examining
ccontinued on pages 10-12
Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture met to advance the resilience and growth of the sector
opportunities to ensure that imports meet the equivalent standards as those of domestic products to support a level playing field.
Ministers highlighted the importance of continuing to work together to minimize potential labour and supply chain disruptions, demonstrating that the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is a trusted supplier of high-quality products to countries around the world. Continued engagement and cooperation with the United States, as Canada’s largest trading partner, and the mutually beneficial integration of our cross-border supply chains in the agri-food sector, were reinforced. Ministers highlighted the importance of the work to increase exports to the Indo-Pacific region by leveraging Canada's new Indo-Pacific Agriculture and Agri-Food Office and other FPT and industry resource investments in the region.
Ministers agreed to continue their efforts on several priority initiatives related to animal disease preparedness and response and also acknowledged the significant impact animal disease has on farmer mental health.
Discussions included the need for a coordinated, immediate and longer-term response for a potential African swine fever outbreak, next steps to support a Foot-andMouth Disease vaccine bank and accompanying preparedness activities, and the continued actions to respond to the identification of highly pathogenic avian influenza in dairy cattle in the United States. On African swine fever, Ministers noted the significant progress made on readiness to protect the health of animals and the importance of having measures in place, including international zoning arrangements to mitigate any possible risks of trade-related market disruptions. They acknowledged the need for a continuation of strong collaboration
and communication between FPT governments and industry stakeholders on integrated disease prevention, surveillance, and response plans.
Ministers encouraged further progress on interprovincial trade and regulatory items such as working towards the harmonization of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) Specified Risk Material list with the United States. Ministers were also apprised of the progress on the risk assessment for honey bee package imports from the United States. Ministers agreed that efforts be made to accelerate pilot projects for interprovincial trade in meat, in cooperation with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and provinces, while respecting food safety for Canadians, not violating Canadian trade agreements or putting exports at risk. The CFIA Executive Vice-President, who was also in attendance, agreed to accelerate cooperation with provincial and territorial partners.
Throughout the conference, Ministers underscored the importance of working with producers and processors to leverage technology, data, and scientific research and development to increase the productivity, profitability, sustainability, resiliency and competitiveness of the agricultural sector. This included a panel discussion on food production, security and resiliency in a Northern and Indigenous context. Ministers also discussed labour shortages and single-use plastics.
The next Annual FPT Ministers' meeting will be held in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in July 2025.
For more information, please see the Backgrounder: Summary of Items from the 2024 Annual Meeting of Federal, Provincial and Territorial (FPT) Ministers of Agriculture.
Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture met to advance the resilience and growth of the sector
Quotes
“Thanks to the hard work of our farmers, ranchers and processors, Canada produces the best agricultural products in the world. This year’s conference was another great opportunity to highlight the excellent work being done right across the country and discuss some of the most important issues we face, to help ensure that folks working in the sector have the tools they need to manage risk, grow their operations, and earn a good living.”
- The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
“It has been an honour and a pleasure to host this year’s conference of Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture here in Whitehorse. We were able to discuss and strengthen the ongoing collaboration and support of agriculture and agri-food development in the North. Our diverse and growing agricultural sector in the Yukon underscores the importance of these discussions with other jurisdictions.”
- The Honourable John Streicker, Yukon Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources
Quick facts
• Canadian agri-food and seafood exports reached $99.1 billion in 2023, compared to $92.9 billion in 2022.
• The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by Canada's federal, provincial and territorial governments that supports agri-food and agriproducts sectors in Canada. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 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.
Associated links
• Report to agriculture ministers from the FPT Working Group on Pesticides Management
• Emergency Management Framework for Agriculture in Canada
Backgrounder
Summary of Items from the 2024 Annual Meeting of FPT Ministers of Agriculture
Grocery Sector Code of Conduct
Ministers are pleased that all major retailers have now joined the industry-led Grocery Sector Code of Conduct. The Grocery Sector Code of Conduct will be implemented by June 2025.
FPT Pesticide Management Working Group
This working group was formed to improve pesticide management and gain insight into the regulatory decision-making processes on issues such as changes to the registration of lambdacyhalothrin. The Action Plan focuses on: enhancing consultations, increasing the sharing of science and evidence-based information and expertise, and advancing research and knowledge transfer to support the adoption of effective, innovative and diverse pest control products and approaches, including biopesticides and other alternatives.
Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture met to advance the resilience and growth of the sector
Specified risk material (SRM)
Ministers discussed considerations and possible approaches to harmonizing with the United States on the issue of material prohibited from animal feed (currently, SRM) and disposal requirements. They noted the need for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and cattle sector to continue working towards this objective, while ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place to protect animal health and food safety, as well as Canada’s international trade reputation.
Honey bee imports
Ministers discussed the work that is underway on the CFIA risk analysis on the importation of honey bee packages from the United States. Once complete, the risk assessment and a risk management framework outlining the associated expectations for risk mitigation proposals will be consulted with the stakeholders. All risk mitigation proposals submitted to the CFIA will be reviewed to determine if they may significantly reduce the risk posed to Canadian bee health. Currently, the importation of honey bee packages from the United States is not permitted. The import status remains unchanged until all activities associated with the risk analysis are completed.
Interprovincial trade
Ministers raised issues related to administrative burden and highlighted the importance of working collaboratively with stakeholders to address these concerns. Ministers highlighted the progress made on several interprovincial
trade pilots, such as the upcoming publication of a regulatory amendment related to the Lloydminster pilot, advancing work on a plan with Ontario and Quebec for slaughter availability, and exploring opportunities to support provincially regulated meat establishments seeking growth opportunities outside their province within Canada, such as “Ontario Ready to Grow.” Ministers signaled interest in accelerating these efforts and exploring the possibility of additional interprovincial trade pilots. Any efforts in this area must protect Canada’s food system, without compromising Canada’s international trade agreements and market access opportunities.
AgriStability
Alberta is presently running a pilot to explore potential changes to the program to the benefit of livestock producers. The pilot is currently collecting data from producers. The results of the pilot will help to inform any future changes to AgriStability.
Emergency management
Ministers were apprised of efforts underway to renew the 2016 FPT Emergency Management Framework for Agriculture. This renewal will aim to help ensure an integrated and collaborative approach to dealing with emergencies impacting the full value chain. The updated framework stresses the need for enhanced collaboration, improved data sharing, and continued partnership with industry.
Minister MacAulay announces Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge semi-finalists
(July 22, 2024 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada News Release) The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood, announced 13 semi-finalists, under the Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge, who are working to advance economically viable and scalable practices, processes, and technologies designed to reduce enteric methane emissions produced by cattle.
The $12-million Challenge, launched in November 2023 in partnership with Impact Canada, uses a staged approach to move innovators through the process of developing and deploying their solutions in the cow-calf, dairy and feedlot sectors. The first stage of the Challenge attracted 86 applications from innovators across Canada and internationally. The 13 semi-finalists’ entries span a diverse range of areas including feed additives and related technologies; production efficiencies and animal management systems; and pasture and grazing management approaches.
Each semi-finalist will receive up to $153,846 and move on to the prototype development stage of the Challenge. Over the next eight months, semi-finalists will continue to advance their solution and may be eligible to receive additional funding of up to $230,000. From the 13 semi-finalists, a total of up to 10 finalists will be selected in Spring 2026. Each eligible finalist will receive up to $500,000 to assist with testing their solution’s effectiveness in reducing enteric methane emissions. In the final stage of the Challenge, finalists will compete to win one of two grand prizes of up to $1 million, to be announced at the end of 2028.
Note: the semi-finalists are as follows:
• AbacusBio (Edmonton, AB) uses a tool that allows the selection of beef sires
based on their predicted progeny enteric methane footprint.
• Agropur (Saint-Hubert, QC) proposes an innovative, scalable feed strategy for reducing enteric methane emissions on Canadian dairy farms using a dryextrusion linseed-based feed ingredient in dairy cow rations.
• Ample Agriculture (Toronto, ON) uses a new feed additive for ruminants that reduces the fitness of methaneproducing organisms in the rumen, favoring organisms that redirect energy away from methane and towards meat and milk production.
• ArkeaBio (Calgary, AB) is pioneering a vaccine-based approach to dramatically reduce enteric methane production in cattle across all agronomic environments in which the world's 1.2 billion cattle reside.
• Mon Système Fourrager (Montreal, QC) uses a decision support tool designed for forage systems, aimed at assisting producers in adopting strategies to reduce enteric methane emissions.
• Pond Technologies (Markham, ON) uses a feed additive that both reduces methane emissions from cattle and makes more energy from feed available to cattle, leading to faster growth or more milk production.
• Semex (Guelph, ON) proposes to develop a breeding protocol and incentivization strategy for farmers to incorporate selection for low methane genetics in their breeding programs as well as measure, record and verify methane reductions over time.
continued on page 14
Minister MacAulay announces Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge semi-finalists
• Sustainable Bio Security Inc. (Waterdown, ON) uses ozone to decrease methane production through improving the overall health in dairy farms, fostering a sustainable and healthier environment for livestock.
• TerraWave Radar Solutions Inc. (Grande Pointe, MB) uses radio waves to monitor soil quality through evaluating the subsurface features of soil such as organic matter levels, aiding in identifying richer soil areas for optimized grazing.
• Université Laval (Québec, QC) uses biofiltration, which involves passing exhaust air through an organic substrate to oxidize methane into carbon dioxide and water vapour, due to the presence of methanotrophic bacteria.
• WaterPuris (Vaughan, ON) uses textile ECG sensors and oxygenated nanobubble water technology for animal health optimization to reduce livestock methane emissions and increase livestock productivity.
University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, SK) is evaluating the impact of identifying and selecting genetic traits that allow for cattle to eat and digest more fibre while potentially producing less methane.
• University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, SK) is evaluating various products administered via the drinking water system, as a practical method to reduce enteric emissions in beef cattle grazing systems.
For more information about the Challenge, please visit the Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge website
Quick facts
• With over 11 million cattle and calves on 72,275 farms and ranches, Canada is one of the largest exporters of sustainable cattle in the world.
• In 2022, agriculture was responsible for 27% of Canada’s total methane emissions, the majority coming from enteric fermentation produced by beef and dairy cattle.
• Canadian herds are also responsible for preserving approximately 1.5 billion tonnes of carbon in Canadian soil, and protecting over 60 endangered species who live in the wild grasslands where they graze.
• The Challenge builds on the Government of Canada’s actions to reduce methane emissions through Canada’s Methane Strategy, in support of the Global Methane Pledge, 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan, and the Sustainable Agriculture Strategy.
• An independent and voluntary jury, composed of subject matter experts from a diverse range of backgrounds, plays an important role in reviewing solutions and recommending winners at each stage of the Challenge.
• Entries under the Challenge were evaluated against established criteria, including net reduction in enteric methane emissions, innovation, scalability, economic viability, commercialization and/or adoption, environmental co-benefits, and social assessment.
• Projects and final funding are subject to negotiation of a contribution agreement.
Associated links
• 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan
• Agricultural Methane Reduction Challenge
• Faster and Further: Canada’s Methane Strategy (PDF)
Manitoba Fire Bulletin #11: Important reminders about burn permits
(July 24, 2024 Province of Manitoba News Release)
Provincial burning permits are required for outdoor fires set within the burn permit area from April 1 to Nov. 15 annually. Permits can be acquired at provincial district offices. Provincial burn permits issued under the Wildfires Act may be cancelled or restricted at short notice if fire danger conditions require. The province will not issue burning permits for areas where municipalities have already implemented burning restrictions. To check for municipal burning restrictions, visit https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.h tml
For more information on burn permits, contact a local municipality or the local Manitoba Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources office. Burn permit holders are reminded to check weather conditions, have
adequate suppression equipment and ensure proper fuel breaks are in place before burning. Never leave an outdoor fire unattended, always extinguish it before leaving and exercise caution when in or near forested areas.
Manitobans can play a critical role in mitigating wildfire risks around their home and properties by undertaking FireSmart activities. For more information, visit: https://firesmartcanada.ca/.
For ongoing updates on wildfires and burn permits in Manitoba, follow the Manitoba government’s X (formerly known as Twitter) account at https://twitter.com/mbgov. Further details, updates, restrictions and other important wildfire information is available at https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/. To report a wildfire, call 911 or the TIP line (toll-free) at 1-800-7820076.
Manitoba Government Implements Pre-Clearance Program for Heavy Commercial Trucks
(July 24, 2024 Province of Manitoba News Release)
As part of its ongoing work to promote safe, sustainable operations on the provincial highway network, the Manitoba government is implementing an electronic pre-clearance program for heavy commercial trucks, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor announced.
“Safety on Manitoba’s roadways is a priority for our government,” said Naylor. “Implementing a pre-clearance program allows regulators to focus enforcement resources where they are needed, while also promoting a more efficient transportation sector, helping keep goods moving and supporting Manitoba businesses.”
Electronic pre-clearance programs allow heavy commercial trucks to bypass inspection stations
under managed conditions. The criteria used to determine whether a truck receives preclearance and is permitted to bypass an inspection station can include:
• the driver, truck and carrier have the required credentials;
• the truck complies with legal weight limits and does not have any visually apparent vehicle or cargo securement defects; or
• the carrier has a safe operating record and meets performance thresholds.
Being able to remotely monitor trucks for exceeding weight limits or having safety defects improves road safety, noted the minister. Additionally, because trucks are screened while continued on page 16
Manitoba Government Implements Pre-Clearance Program for Heavy Commercial Trucks
travelling at highway speed, the program saves driver time and fuel, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
Manitoba’s electronic pre-clearance program will be implemented in partnership with Drivewyze Inc. Other provinces using the mobile device-based app include Alberta, Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador to provide preclearance services at over 900 sites across Canada and the United States.
Our thanks to Albert Mutcher (and family) of Stephenfield for sharing part of the day with MBP. They will be featured on Fields to Forks later this summer! (Photo credit: David Hultin/ MBP)
Governments Of Canada and Manitoba Supporting Farmers and Producers via EMILI
(July 25, 2024 Joint Federal/Provincial Government News Release) GROSSE ISLE The governments of Canada and Manitoba are providing $2.025 million in financial support to the Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative (EMILI) for Advancing Digital Agriculture Opportunities under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew and federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay announced today at the grand opening of the Innovation Farms Centre.
“Manitoba farmers and producers are a critical part of our province’s economy, and our government is supporting them to feed Manitobans and feed the world,” said Kinew. “EMILI’s work to help drive innovation in Manitoba agriculture is going to help producers lower costs, increase yields and improve sustainability. This is a win for our province’s economy and the environment.”
The funding builds on the launch of EMILI’s Innovation Farms Project, a 5,500-acre full-scale farming operation used to demonstrate and promote new processes and technologies. As a part of the innovation farms project, the 8,500sq.-ft. Innovation Farms Centre officially opened today.
“Farmers are constantly doing their best to adapt to the unique challenges they face, while working hard to feed Canadians and the world,” said MacAulay. “With support under Sustainable CAP, this program will help farmers in Manitoba adopt more digital technologies so they can gain valuable insights into their operations, improve their efficiency, and stay on the cutting edge.”
Innovation Farms Centre is where EMILI and its partners will be able to analyze farm data, test technology solutions and host educational events year-round. The space includes a
workshop space, meeting rooms, offices and control centre where data from over 50 sensors will be displayed.
EMILI is an industry-led non-profit that was created in 2016 with the objective of preparing and empowering Manitoba farmers to leverage digital disruption for success with a specific focus on digital agriculture. EMILI also demonstrates new skills and technologies required by the industry to attract more people to agriculture and address skills gaps in the labor force.
“Digital technology is transforming agriculture and food production, and we want to support Manitoba producers to innovate, adopt new technologies, and grow their businesses,” said Manitoba Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn. “EMILI will play a key role in helping Manitoba agriculture be on the cutting edge, grow the sector, and create more good jobs.”
The vision for EMILI’s innovation farms project is to be a place of collaboration and demonstration, for both experts and the general public, including students and others in the industry.
“EMILI is grateful to the governments of Canada and Manitoba for their investment in innovation farms and their vision for growing Manitoba’s agtech industry because we know that technological advancement leads to new and expanded businesses, new well-paying jobs, and the preservation of existing jobs,” said Jacqueline Keena, managing director, Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative.
“This funding increases our ability to provide farmers, industry, students, and researchers with exposure and access to cutting edge equipment and emerging technologies in a commercial setting, which will drive sustainability, and increase productivity.”
continued on page 18
Governments Of Canada and Manitoba Supporting Farmers and Producers via EMILI
Another way for producers, researchers and agricultural professionals to engage with research in Manitoba is through the Manitoba Diversification Centres. The province’s four centres conduct applied research and demonstrations on crops, technology and best management practices. The 2024 Annual Field Days are learning events taking place over the summer on:
• July 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Prairies East Sustainable Agriculture Initiative near Arborg;
• Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre near Carberry; and
• Aug. 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Parkland Crop Diversification Foundation near Roblin.
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by Canada's federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provinciallyterritorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.
For more information on EMILI, visit https://emilicanada.com/ and for more information on Manitoba’s Diversification Centre tours, visit https://mbdiversificationcentres.ca/.
Manitoba Government Expands Watershed Program
(July 24, 2024 Province of Manitoba News Release)
The Manitoba government is supporting the health of Manitoba’s waterways through new investments in two watersheds and the Assiniboine Delta Aquifer, Environment and Climate Change Minister Tracy Schmidt announced.
“Manitobans want to make sure our beautiful lakes, rivers and streams are protected,” said Schmidt. “Our government is taking action to support the health of watersheds to help improve water quality, protect wildlife and safeguard drinking water.”
The Manitoba government is investing $33,000 to expand the Watershed Districts Program. The rural municipalities of Portage la Prairie and Rockwood will join the West Interlake Watershed District and the Municipality of WestLake-Gladstone will join the Westlake Watershed District. In all, 116 municipalities participate in this voluntary program, which provides supports to protect, restore and manage water resources.
“We are excited to add the WestLake-Gladstone area to our watershed district,” said Tom Anderson, chair, Westlake Watershed District. “We are looking forward to working with all the participants from that area ”
In addition, the Manitoba government is investing $45,000 to support updates to the Assiniboine Delta Aquifer Management Plan.
These efforts are led by the Assiniboine Delta Aquifer Management Advisory Board, which includes representatives from municipalities, industry, Indigenous communities, other local organizations and the federal and provincial governments. The planning process will provide an opportunity for public engagement and include actions and recommendations to support the long-term sustainability of the aquifer.
The Manitoba government is committed to working with local landowners, municipalities, Indigenous communities and key stakeholders through the Watershed Districts Program to find and deliver innovative solutions that work to enhance the sustainability of the province’s landscape, noted the minister. Watershed district projects and programs help mitigate flood and drought impacts, improve land and water management practices, improve water quality, protect drinking water sources and support prosperous rural development.
The Watershed Districts Program also contributes to the Manitoba government’s key commitment to work with experts and scientists to protect Lake Winnipeg and safeguard the health of all waterways, the minister noted.
For more information on aquifer and watershed planning in Manitoba, visit: www.manitoba.ca/sd/water/watershed/index.h tml.
Winnipeg Metropolitan Region Notice of Public Hearing August 8 in Niverville re: Regional Planning By-law: Plan20-50
The Winnipeg Metropolitan Region (WMR) has prepared Plan20-50, a 30-year regional plan for Manitoba’s Capital Region that provides a longterm framework to coordinate land use, servicing, and infrastructure. Plan20-50 sets the blueprint for a resilient, sustainable, and globally competitive region. Plan20-50 considers: community growth and development, infrastructure investment and servicing, regional economic development, watershed and natural asset stewardship, climate resilience, agriculture and resources, and collaboration with Indigenous Nations.
READ PLAN20-50
Find additional details
Once adopted by the WMR Board of Directors,
Public Hearing #2
Date Thursday, August 8, 2024
Time 3:00 pm CDT
Plan20-50 will become a regional planning by-law and apply to the entire region. The region consists of the member municipalities of: City of Winnipeg, City of Selkirk, Town of Stonewall, Town of Niverville, Village of Dunnottar, and Rural Municipalities of Cartier, East St. Paul, Headingley, Macdonald, Ritchot, Rockwood, Rosser, Springfield, St. Andrews, St. Clements, St. François Xavier, Taché, and West St. Paul.
Plan20-50 was given first reading by the WMR Board of Directors on June 13, 2024. As per the legislated adoption process for a regional planning by-law, two public hearings must be held prior to second reading of the proposed by-law. The first public hearing took place July 25 in Winnipeg
Location Niverville Heritage Centre, 100C Heritage Trail, Niverville, MB Virtual Location: https://www.youtube.com/@winnipegmetroregion
Oral Representations:
Any person may make an oral representation on the matter at the hearing in-person or virtually via Zoom. Members of the public wishing to make an in-person oral representation must check-in to confirm their attendance. The in-person check-in desk will open at 2:00 pm CDT on August 8, 2024. Oral representations are limited to ten (10) minutes in length and may be accompanied by a presentation. Presentations accompanying representations MUST be submitted to the WMR by 3:00 pm CDT on August 4, 2024.
Representatives should register prior to the hearing; a Zoom link will be provided with confirmation of registration for virtual representations. Registration for representation can
be made by Web or Phone and closes at 12:00 pm CDT on August 7, 2024.
Written Submissions:
Any person may provide a written submission before or during the hearing. Written submissions must include the name and contact information of the individual making the submission. Submissions can be provided by mail, digitally via Web or Email, or in-person.
Important Note: Oral representations and written submissions must clearly indicate that a representative is in support of or opposition to the proposed by-law or wishes to submit information.
Documents related to Plan20-50 and this hearing can be inspected or copied in-person at the
continued on page 21
Winnipeg
Metropolitan Region Notice of Public Hearing August 8 in Niverville re: Regional Planning By-law: Plan20-50
Mail/Drop-off address between 8:30 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays or via the Web.
Contact, Submission and Registration Information
Web REGISTER
Email plan20-50@wmregion.ca
Phone (204) 989-2048
Mail/In-Person 4-875 St James Ave, Winnipeg, MB, R3G 0V9
Manitoba's Disaster Financial Assistance Modernization –
Public Feedback Is Being Sought
Note: The following information is from the EngageMB website, a place where people can go to provide feedback on matters on which the provincial government is seeking public feedback.
Manitoba EMO is reviewing the provincial Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program. Goals of the review include:
• Facilitating faster payments
• Building longer-term resilience to disasters
• Reducing paperwork and record-keeping requirements
We want to hear about your priorities as we plan for changes to Manitoba’s provincial DFA program. Please complete our survey to provide important feedback. The survey will close August 2, 2024
Go to: https://engagemb.ca/dfaam
Assistance Modernization Survey
Please take the time to complete this survey. The intent of this engagement is to gain an understanding of concerns and priorities for Manitoba’s Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program. Your feedback is valuable to Manitoba's Emergency Management Organization (EMO).
Note: the survey questions touch on topics such as: the impacts of various types of natural disasters on people; the potential creation of a disaster impact reporting tool for citizen use; the Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program deductible; timing of DFA payments; overland flood insurance; and more.
Reminder: Government of Canada Right to Repair Consultation is Underway re: Home Appliances and Consumer Electronics
MBP note: producers are being encouraged to provide comments to this consultation with respect to their experiences with right to repair and farm equipment.
Background
Right to repair is a concept which aims to give consumers greater choice over, and information on, the repair options for certain products they buy. This may include authorized repairs performed by the manufacturer of a product or an authorized repairer; the ability to use an independent repairer without voiding the warranty of a product; or self-repair done by a consumer. Right to repair or repairability policies or approaches can take on many different forms and target different outcomes, including supporting a circular economy.
Budget 2024 announced the Government of Canada's intention to launch consultations to support the development of a repairability policy or approach for home appliances and consumer electronics.
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) is collaborating with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) on this consultation.
Consultation purpose
In Budget 2024, the Government of Canada committed to launch consultations on right to repair for home appliances and consumer electronics with a focus on durability, repairability, and interoperability. This consultation seeks to gather feedback from Canadians to help inform policy direction,
including the policy levers to improve Canadians' ability to repair a range of consumer products.
How to participate
The online feedback period will be open for 90days. We welcome comments from interested parties until September 26, 2024.
To participate:
• Read the consultation document.
• Fill in the survey questionnaire (preferred)
You can also provide comments and feedback by email to isrighttorepairledroitalareparationsi@ised-isde.gc.ca.
What is next
Following the online consultation, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada will hold a number of roundtable discussions with representatives from a range of consumer and industry stakeholders
Additionally, and as part of this consultation, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will hold targeted roundtable discussions focused on interoperability and farm equipment, and the distinct considerations related to this product category of repairability.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or require assistance, please email us: isrighttorepairledroitalareparationsi@ised-isde.gc.ca.
Manitoba Beef & Forage Conference
Working on the Farm with Hands-On Science!
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
William Glesby Centre
11 2nd St NE Portage la Prairie, Manitoba
Registration
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION COST
Register by October 1, 2024
1. Early bird registration - $75
2. Farm registration (2 people from the same farm) - $125
3. Students - $60
REGISTRATION
Register on or after October 2, 2024
$100 per person
No farm registrations accepted after October 1.
REGISTRATION IS NON-REFUNDABLE BUT TRANSFERABLE
Registration includes access to all sessions and lunch catered by Merv’s Pitchfork Fondue.
To register please visit manitoba.ca/agriculture/ livestock/beef-conference.html
Questions about registration? Call: 204-761-3300
Accommodations
Super 8
2668 Saskatchewan Ave, W
204-857-8883
Canad Inns
2401 Saskatchewan Ave, W 204-857-9745
Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham
5100 Crescent Road West 204-400-5083
Wednesday, October 30
8:00 REGISTRATION, COFFEE and BOOTH DISPLAYS
9:00 THEATRE – Dr. Frank Mitloehner, University of California Davis
Climate-Smart Livestock: Separating Science from Scare Tactics
Livestock, in particular cattle, are often branded as major methane (CH4) emitters. This thought-provoking presentation will explore the true impact of CH4 emissions from the beef and dairy sectors on temperature, clarify misunderstandings regarding greenhouse gases related to animal production and uncover the potential role of animal agriculture in fighting climate change.
10:00 THEATRE – Patti Durand, Brightrack Consulting Strategies for Low Stress Handling of Family Succession Planning Conversations
Farm succession is a top source of uncertainty for farm families. How can you lead, guide, and participate in planning discussions, while protecting the family and the business? Join us to find out!
11:00 REFRESHMENT BREAK/VISIT DISPLAYS
11:30 BREAKOUT SESSION
(Choose one of three offered sessions)
B-1 VISUAL ARTS ROOM - Cheryl Waldner, University of Saskatchewan
Investigating Effective Strategies for the Control of Johne’s Disease in Western Canadian Cow-Calf Herds – A Potential Economic Loss for your Herd
Johne’s disease poses significant challenges to the beef cattle industry because of its negative effects on animal health and farm income. Although the diagnostic tools currently available for detecting Johne’s aren’t perfect, testing and culling infected animals is the most effective way to control the disease. Learn more about what you can do to protect your herd and to determine if testing makes financial sense on your operation.
Featuring Dr. Nadine Wohlgemuth, Virden Animal Hospital
B-2 ART GALLERY – Ben Hamm, Manitoba Agriculture
Safeguarding your Profit – Incorporating Business Risk Management Tools as Part of your Everyday Chores
This presentation will cover calculating production risk and understanding the steps you can take to maximize profitability and alleviate risk in volatile times. Ben will focus on the pros and cons of AgriInsurance for forages, Livestock Price Insurance and talk about how AgriStability can fill the gaps.
Featuring Tyler Fulton, Cattle Producer, Birtle, Manitoba and CCA Vice President
B-3 THEATRE – Dr. Stephanie Hansen, Iowa State University
Smart Mineral and Vitamin Nutrition for Stronger Beef Herds
Wondering how trace minerals help keep your cattle productive and healthy? Learn about Stephanie’s research, as it relates to the critical ways micronutrients support growth, health and reproductive success in cattle.
Featuring Dr. Mary-Jane Orr, Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives
12:30 LUNCH AND BOOTH DISPLAYS
1:30 THEATRE – John Hart, Wildlife Biologist, Custom Wildlife Capture and Consulting, LLC
Keeping the Wolf from the Door - Effective Tools and Techniques for Producers to Reduce Wolf Damage
John will share his experience in wolf damage management by addressing wolf biology and behaviour, dispelling misconceptions about wolf predation and explaining various techniques for protecting livestock from wolves.
2:30 REPEAT OF BREAKOUT SESSION
(Choose one of three offered sessions)
3:30 REFRESHMENT
4:00 THEATRE – Dr. John Basarab, University of Alberta Genomic Strategies for Improving Beef Cattle Efficiencies in a Changing Environment
Join Dr. Basarab to learn about genomic tools for commercial beef production. This presentation will highlight current research as well as the benefits and considerations for using genomic tools to boost profitability, reduce the industry’s carbon footprint and help cattle adapt to changing environments.
5:00 CLOSING REMARKS AND ADJOURNMENT
Hear from local producers and industry experts about applying research on the farm. Our breakout sessions feature local producers and their on-farm experience.
Organizing Committee:
Pam Iwanchysko, Elizabeth Nernberg, Cindy Jack, Kristen Bouchard-Teasdale, Shawn Cabak, Andrea Bertholet, Juanita Kopp, Mary-Jane Orr (MBFI) and Melissa Atchison (MBP)
Organized by Manitoba Agriculture in partnership with Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives and Manitoba Beef Producers.