Manitoba Beef Producers 2023 Annual Report

ANNUAL REPORT

2023

INSIDE •

Messages from the President and General Manager

•

MBP Year in Review

•

National Organization Reports

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

TA B L E O F CONTENTS

REPORTS FROM: MANITOBA BEEF & FORAGE INITIATIVES INC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 11 CANADIAN CATTLE ASSOCIATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 12 PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 13

MBP DIRECTORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 2

CANADIAN CATTLE IDENTIFICATION AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 14

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 3

CANADIAN BEEF CHECK-OFF AGENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 15

MESSAGE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 4

NATIONAL CATTLE FEEDERS’ ASSOCIATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .PAGE 16

2023 MBP YEAR IN REVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 5

BEEF CATTLE RESEARCH COUNCIL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 17

FINANCIAL REPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 10

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2023 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PAGE 20

Manitoba Beef Producers Board of Directors 2023 Back row (from left to right): Dale Cazakoff (District 14); Mary Paziuk (District 13); Mike Duguid (District 10); Steven Manns (District 5); Alfred Epp (District 1); Trevor Sund (District 9); Andre Steppler (District 3).

Front row (from left to right): Nancy Howatt (District 2); Arvid Nottveit (District 11); Tyler Fulton (District 7); Matthew Atkinson (District 8); Mark Good (District 12). Missing: Byron Falk (District 4) District 6 was vacant. Please see page 5 for the full list of internal and external committee appointments.

Manitoba Beef Producers acknowledges that we are gathered on ancestral lands, Treaty 1 territory, traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and on the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

Our office in Winnipeg is located on Treaty 1 Territory and the homeland of the Metis Nation. Our work on behalf of our members extends throughout Treaties 2, 3, 4 and 5. We respect the Treaties and agreements that were made on these lands, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and remain committed to working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit and the Métis Nation in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

@ManitobaBeef Manitoba Beef Producers ManitobaBeef www.mbbeef.ca 1-800-772-4542

*Cover photo: courtesy of Julie Winnicky 2

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MESSAGE FROM THE

PRESIDENT

MATTHEW ATKINSON, PRESIDENT Looking back on 2023, it has been an incredibly varied year. It seemed like producers all across western Canada described weather conditions as incredibly localized, with lots of extremes— one neighbour catching every rainstorm and the other neighbour a few miles away was desperate for rain. We’ve seen significant market price increases creating optimism, especially among young producers, which is much needed and a great thing to see. This was evident through some of MBP’s fall district meetings, where everyone commented how nice it was to see some new faces in the crowd and bringing forth great discussion.

This year saw the announcement of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP) programming, making some beneficial management practice (BMP) funding available to producers. There are also a number of different funding support options available to producers looking to make upgrades to their operations through entities like your local watershed districts and others. We will continue to advocate for more BMP funding opportunities or slight changes in direction to best meet the needs of the industry.

One big positive that we saw come into effect January 1, 2024 were some very beneficial changes to the regulation related to the Agricultural Crown Lands Leasing Program.

These relate to matters such as lease lengths, how improvements are valued and more.

I realize these changes don’t include everything that everyone had hoped for, but they are a very big step in the right direction and it took an incredible amount of MBP’s time and effort advocating for these changes with the Minister of Agriculture and with the department staff. Thank you as well to the lease holders association and to the individual producers who provided feedback as the provincial government consulted on the regulatory changes.

We have certainly seen the past year bring a large increase in wildlife interactions with cattle throughout Manitoba. Many folks who had never experienced any predation issues in the past are seeing losses for the first time, along with increased levels of it in other areas. Additionally, there are the frustrations in decreased weight gains, lower herd conception rates and often other damages, such as broken fences and neighbours’ crop damage as a result of the negative interactions. This is an issue that has taken quite a lot of MBP’s time in the past and probably will take even more going forward.

These are just two of the key files on which MBP directors and staff were working during 2023. In this annual report you will see other examples of our advocacy work on provincial and national issues, as well as updates on our research and knowledge transfer activities and the various communications tools we use to reach out not only to our producers, but also to the general public.

All of this would not have been possible without the time and effort put forward by MBP directors and staff. Our staff go above and beyond for our industry, seeing this as far more than just a job. Many of these wins for our industry are a result of their experience, enthusiasm and dedication.

At the board level, we have a fantastic group of producers who have let their names stand and not only work incredibly hard here in Manitoba, but also going forward and really showing great leadership at a national level, on the large number of boards and committees that are tied in with MBP. Manitoba directors have brought great leadership roles both at the provincial and national levels, both in and out of the boardroom.

It is an honour and a pleasure to work with these great board members and to learn from the different perspectives everyone brings to the table.

Finally, I am looking forward to working with our new, incoming directors and having a full board, where every director position is filled. Unfortunately, we have to say goodbye to Nancy Howatt, who is retiring from the board following many years of service.

She has been an outstanding board member and a great pleasure to be around, who has served in many different roles at MBP. She is currently on the executive in the position of Secretary and has done an outstanding job chairing the Communications Committee for a number of years. She also has sat on the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency board on behalf of Manitoba Beef Producers. Her great sense of humour and valuable perspective will be missed.

All the best as we look ahead to 2024, and as always, I certainly appreciate the input I receive from our producer members.

Photo courtesy of Amaglen Limousin.

MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS

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MESSAGE FROM THE

GENERAL MANAGER CARSON CALLUM, MBP GM

Greetings Manitoba’s beef sector! Another year has flown by. In 2023, Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) had a lot on its plate. This Annual Report is a great summary of the various advocacy efforts we did throughout the year, but I will give you a few specific comments from my perspective on some key areas of focus.

For several years, the Agricultural Crown Lands (ACL) Leasing Program and the legislative and regulatory framework around it has been a major file for MBP. The former Progressive Conservative (PC) government undertook program modernization, a process that led to a lot of changes and concerns for lease holders and prospective lease holders. Since I joined MBP in 2019, we have extensively advocated for changes to make the ACL program more affordable and responsive to lease holders’ needs. In the middle of 2023, the PC government announced some regulatory changes that were seen as real positive steps for our industry, helping to address some of the concerns.

The New Democratic government elected in October 2023 plans to let these regulatory changes be implemented in 2024. We look forward to working with Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn and the agriculture department on ACL program policies to get some stability back for producers.

The next major issue MBP has taken steps to address over multiple years is livestock predation. Predation is one of the big stressors for producers raising cattle on the natural landscape. Interactions with wildlife is a naturally occurring part of raising cattle, but reducing losses from predation is a main priority in the sector. Back in 2020, MBP, working in conjunction with partners on the Livestock Predation Protection Working Group (including the Manitoba Sheep Association) received funding from the Government of Manitoba to conduct a pilot Livestock Predation Prevention Project (LPPP). It was aimed at looking at avenues to help producers prevent or reduce the risk of predation losses on their operations. The project saw 10 different risk mitigation practice (RMP) categories used on farms and ranches across the province, with a total of 114 individual RMPs implemented. We are getting information out to producers about these practices to help better mitigate against the risk of losses.

Another key finding from the LPPP is the need for improvements to the Problem Predator Removal Program to ensure it is responsive to producer needs.

With the declining numbers of experienced trappers and a decrease in pelt values, we are seeing expertise in this space dwindle. MBP plans to look at ways we can get better mechanisms in place to ensure the job of problem predator removal is being done in a responsible and efficient manner.

Over the last year, a major issue that has come to MBP’s attention is the rise in livestock-related crimes, such as theft and fraud. These situations create unbelievable stress on producers who are just trying to make an honest living raising cattle. It also impacts Manitoba’s reputation within the industry, as well as to groups like financial institutions involved with industry lending. As a result, MBP’s board and staff are actively investigating avenues to help address this. In other provinces there are dedicated RCMP staff that focus on agriculture-related crimes. As well, livestock inspection services have been seen as a potential way to ensure proper ownership is maintained throughout the value chain. We are in discussions about how both these could be implemented in Manitoba in a way that is cost-effective and government supported.

Another key area of focus for MBP and the larger Canadian cattle sector in 2023 is the importance of a robust traceability system with simple reporting methods for producers. In 2023, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) held a consultation on new reporting criteria for animal movements going forward to allow for swift trace-outs of diseases as they arise. The beef industry was very clear in its response to CFIA that without a simple method for producers to report this animal movement into the proper source, it will be very difficult to comply with the requirements. The beef industry needs financial support to utilize new technologies so as not to increase the administrative burden at the farm level.

In 2023, I was part of a new group of stakeholders from across Canada who came together to look at how to improve the traceability system. I believe there is a lot of benefit here if we as a sector understand the need for simple and swift reporting for animal disease monitoring, but also understand the potential secondary benefits of technology-based movement reporting. These secondary benefits could include things like carcass data being transferred back to the cow/calf producer. It could also be utilized in livestock inspection to help reduce fraudulent activity or theft. I look forward to continuing to work with this group to investigate technologies that could help with this effort and all the side benefits of a robust tracking system. I would encourage producers to begin investigating RFID tag reader options as an important step and to explore whether you might be eligible for funding for such readers through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s Food Safety and Traceability Implementation Support Program.

Another ongoing area of focus for MBP and other national and provincial cattle associations is the need for effective and equitable Business Risk Management (BRM) tools and funding programs. With the new Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership agreement in place, provincial and federal governments have been delivering programs for producers to access. In Manitoba these fell under two main funding streams: Sustainable Agriculture Manitoba (SAM) and the Resilient Agriculture Landscape Program (RALP). MBP will be providing producer feedback about the first year of rollout of these programs and seeking improvements to ensure they are responsive to beef producers’ specific needs. MBP has also been part of many national discussions on the need to have insurance programs for the beef sector that provide similar levels of support to those using annual crop insurance. There is presently a lack of equity in this area.

Before I close, I just want to say how I am so very fortunate to be a part of such a highly dedicated team, including our board of directors and our staff. All of them are really passionate about seeing the industry advance and thrive, and I look forward to working with them every day.

Thanks to my loving family, wife Britni, and sons Cohen and Sullivan, who support my efforts in the beef sector.

Let’s have a great 2024 all. There are lots of positives to point to, and if we work together as a sector, we can address any issue that comes our way.

Carson

MBP STAFF

Maureen Cousins Policy Analyst

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Deb Walger Finance

David Hultin

Communications and Marketing Lead & Editor, Cattle Country

Jennifer Patryluk

Administrative Assistant

Ray Bittner

Livestock Predation Pilot Project Lead

Melissa Atchison

Research and Extension Specialist

2023

YEAR IN REVIEW Executive Committee Matthew Atkinson

Nancy Howatt

Mike Duguid

Tyler Fulton

President

Vice President

Secretary

Past President

Mark Good Treasurer

Animal Health Mike Duguid

Trevor Sund

Chair

Vice-Chair

Dale Cazakoff

Mary Paziuk

AGM/Nominations/Resolutions Andre Steppler

Steven Manns

Chair

Vice-Chair

Dale Cazakoff Byron Falk

Tyler Fulton Nancy Howatt

Communications Nancy Howatt

Andre Steppler

Chair

Vice-Chair

Alfred Epp Steven Manns

Mary Paziuk

Crown Lands Mark Good

Arvid Nottveit

Chair

Vice-Chair

Dale Cazakoff Byron Falk

Tyler Fulton Mary Paziuk

Environment Mike Duguid

Trevor Sund

Chair

Vice-Chair

Dale Cazakoff Alfred Epp Byron Falk

Nancy Howatt Andre Steppler

Finance Mark Good

Mike Duguid

Chair

Vice-Chair

Steven Manns Arvid Nottveit

Mary Paziuk

Governance Arvid Nottveit

Alfred Epp

Chair

Vice-Chair

Andre Steppler

Tyler Fulton

Production Management Tyler Fulton

Arvid Nottveit

Chair

Vice-Chair

Mike Duguid Byron Falk

Mark Good Trevor Sund

Research Trevor Sund

Mark Good

Chair

Vice-Chair

Alfred Epp Nancy Howatt

Steven Manns

Who is MBP? Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) is the exclusive voice of the province’s cattle industry, representing approximately 6,000 producers in the cow-calf, backgrounding and finishing sectors. MBP is a non-profit organization with a producer-elected board of 14 directors representing different geographic areas of the province. Its vision is a vibrant, prosperous, respected, sustainable beef industry in Manitoba.

MBP’s mission is to represent the province’s beef producers through communication, advocacy, research, education, and leadership within the industry, to governments and to the public. These efforts take place to strengthen the sector’s viability, improve prosperity and ensure a sustainable future for the beef industry in Manitoba for the benefit of our beef producers and all Manitobans.

How is MBP’s work funded?

MBP’s activities are funded through the collection of check-off dollars. Two check-offs with a combined total value of $5.50/head are levied at the point of sale on all cattle sold in Manitoba. Of this, a $3/head mandatory, refundable provincial check-off goes toward financing MBP’s activities on behalf of the local beef industry, as well as its membership in organizations such as the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA), the National Cattle Feeders’ Association (NCFA) and others. MBP’s levy is collected under the authority of the Cattle Fee Regulation under The Cattle Producers Association Act, a piece of provincial legislation.

As well, a mandatory non-refundable $2.50/head Canadian Beef Cattle Check-off is collected on all cattle sold in Manitoba and the monies are transferred to the Canadian Beef Check-off Agency. Goals of the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off are to increase sales of domestic and export beef and to find better and more efficient methods of producing beef and beef cattle. This checkoff provides industry funding for the Beef Cattle Research Council for the industry’s national research program, as well as Canada Beef for market development and promotion. Public and Stakeholder Engagement, which operates as a division of the CCA, is also funded through these check-off dollars.

For additional information about MBP’s 2022-23 financials, see page 10.

How are MBP’s activities organized and executed?

MBP’s activities are guided by the board of directors’ broad direction and executed by staff members and MBP’s Executive and Committee members. Full-time staff include general manager Carson Callum, policy analyst Maureen Cousins, communications and marketing lead David Hultin and research and extension specialist Melissa Atchison. Part-time staff are finance person Deb Walger and administrative assistant Jennifer Patryluk. At times MBP employs contract staff for certain initiatives, like special projects.

MBP also has two wholly owned subsidiary corporations – the Manitoba Livestock Cash Advance Program Inc. (MLCA) and Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc. (MBFI). They have their staff and governance structure, but report information to MBP. Both the MLCA and MBFI board of directors have MBP reps on them.

MBP directors sit on internal committees to provide input and help develop positions around specific types of issues or opportunities. Other committees serve an organizational function, helping to arrange meetings or to plan MBP’s participation in events and communications activities that promote the industry.

Strategic direction MBP’s activities focus around key objectives: telling the industry’s story via advocacy and enhanced communications; building the industry with innovation, improved economic competitiveness and profitability; and, serving MBP’s members by developing the organization and its capacity. These strategic objectives dovetail with MBP’s mission to strengthen the viability of Manitoba’s beef sector and to ensure a sustainable future for our province’s beef industry. The following is an overview of some key matters affecting Manitoba’s cattle industry in 2023 and activities undertaken by MBP in support of the sector.

2023 Production Challenges While most Manitoba producers came through winter 2022-23 with adequate feed and water supplies, there were concerns if there would be enough moisture for the 2023 growing season. Indeed, production conditions varied considerably around Manitoba in 2023, with drought conditions creating challenges for some.

Additionally, MBP is represented by directors or staff at several national and provincial organizations and external committees. This affords MBP the opportunity to bring forward Manitoba-specific perspectives on topics such as business risk management programs, traceability, animal care, research, trade, sustainability initiatives and more.

Examples include: • Assiniboine River Basin Initiative: Alfred Epp, Maureen Cousins • Association of Manitoba Community Pastures: Carson Callum • Beef Cattle Research Council: Melissa Atchison, Trevor Sund • Canadian Beef Check-off Agency: Mary Paziuk • Canadian Cattle Identification Agency: Nancy Howatt • Canadian Cattle Association: Tyler Fulton, Mike Duguid, Matthew Atkinson, Arvid Nottveit • Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef: Maureen Cousins, Carson Callum • Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives: Matthew Atkinson until June, Alfred Epp, Steven Manns • Manitoba Forage & Grassland Association: Mike Duguid • Manitoba Livestock Cash Advance: Mark Good, Mike Duguid, Steven Manns, Arvid Nottveit, Mary Paziuk • National Cattle Feeders Association: Audrey Kuik-Schweitzer (followed by Jonathan Vaags), Carson Callum • Verified Beef Production Plus Program: Carson Callum MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS

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MBP reached out to both the federal and provincial agriculture ministers to see if the two levels of government would consider providing AgriRecovery initiatives to help affected producers. Other ideas were broached with governments as well, such as allowing late enrolment in AgriStability, and increasing the interim payment rate under AgriStability from 50% to 75%. Some of these latter options were made available in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan due to serious drought conditions there.

However, no AgriRecovery was announced locally, nor were changes made to AgriStability for Manitoba producers. In August the federal government announced that the Livestock Tax Deferral (LTD) Provision would be available to eligible Manitoba producers in 19 drought-affected rural municipalities. The LTD allows producers forced to sell all or part of their breeding herd due to adverse conditions to defer a portion of their income from sales until the following tax year. MBP subsequently provided feedback to the federal government about other regions of the province missed in this initial eligibility assessment, with the aim of having more regions designated when a revised list would typically be announced.

MBP, along with beef industry stakeholders have again asked for changes to make the LTD more responsive. One concern is that it excludes producers who fall outside of the prescribed regions’ boundaries yet whose operations have been impacted by the effects of extreme weather. Finance Canada is being asked to consider amending the LTD provision in the Income Tax Act to give producers the ability to self-elect rather than rely on a geographic determination. This would make the program timelier and more responsive, helping to address producer concerns about falling outside boundary lines, and recognizing there can be consecutive years of adverse weather conditions affecting an operation. The beef industry has also asked for the definition of ‘breeding animals’ to be amended to include all classes of cattle. Currently the LTD covers only breeding animals, but when dealing with events like droughts, whole herd decisions are required.

Drought has been an ongoing concern in Manitoba for several years. Heading into winter 2024, MBP is closely monitoring the moisture situation and is prepared to advocate with governments for programs to help producers hurt by drought. Recent droughts have led to downsizing of Manitoba’s cattle herd. According to Statistics Canada’s July 2023 Livestock Estimates report, there were 922,300 head on local beef operations compared to 928,900 head in July 2022. This included 710,600 head on cow-calf operations, down 7,400 head year over year. There were 64,000 head on feeding operations, down 6,000 year over year. However, there were 147,700 head on feeder and stocker operations, up 6,800 head over that period.

Risk Management and Beneficial Management Practice Programs MBP continued to advocate for business risk management (BRM) programs and other risk mitigation tools that recognize the unique needs of the beef sector. Such tools must be affordable, equitable, simple to use, trigger in a timely fashion if needed, and there should also be flexibility to address specific sectoral needs.

The beef industry has made several recommendations to make AgriStability more responsive, such as increasing the compensation rate and increasing the payment trigger. Also very important is the need to either remove or significantly increase the existing $3 million payment cap as it discriminates against larger cattle operations, such as feedlots.

The lack of a level playing field related to insurance offerings is an ongoing area of concern for the beef industry. In Manitoba in 2022, only 31% of forage acres were insured, compared to 87% of annual crops, an indication that crop insurance options remained more responsive to the needs of those producers versus forage insurance offerings. In 2023 MBP continued its involvement with the Industry-Government Forage Insurance Task Team. The team is made up of reps from the CCA, provincial cattle groups, crop insurance agencies like Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC), Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, as well as the dairy and forage sectors. It is working to improve the uptake of forage insurance by ensuring pasture and forage program offerings meet producers’ needs.

Throughout 2023 MBP had regular engagement with MASC about other programs and services it delivers. MBP continued to advocate for Livestock Price Insurance (LPI) to be made a permanent program as part of AgriInsurance and for it to have a cost-shared government premium contribution, not unlike that provided for grain and forage production insurance. The aim is to increase producer uptake in LPI and reduce risk. Price risk for livestock producers is more analogous to yield risk for crop producers, and a 6

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move toward cost-shared premiums would provide greater parity across the livestock and crop sectors.

Examples of other topics discussed with MASC in 2023 included: the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program, (both in relation to predation losses, as well as wildlife damage to crops, stored feeds and crops destined for extended grazing); challenges with forage insurance offerings for those located around major lakes; and, whether some previously-closed MASC offices might be reopened to enhance service delivery.

Manitoba cattle producers use the Advance Payment Program (APP), the federal loan guarantee program that provides producers with access to low-cost cash advances required for inputs. Due to impact of inflation, the government increased the limit on interest-free APP loans from $100,000 to $250,000 in Budget 2022 and to $350,000 in Budget 2023. The interest-free portion is set to return to $100,000 unless Budget 2024 indicates a change. MBP supports the CCA’s recommendation that the interest-free limit remain at $350,000. This would help recognize the significant impact that inflation is having on farmers and ranchers’ substantial input costs. It would also help those producers seeking to grow their operations, including providing them with more leverage when negotiating funding arrangements with their financial institutions or other lenders.

The latest iteration of Canada’s agricultural policy framework, the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP) came into effect April 1. MBP had advocated for continued producer access to cost-shared beneficial management practice (BMP) programs under SCAP. Two cost-shared BMP program streams were announced in late April.

Sustainable Agriculture Manitoba (SAM) included 21 BMPs under the cropland management, manure and livestock management, and water management streams. The Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (RALP) included the Watershed Resilience and the Carbon Sequestration and Grassland Resilience streams (agroforestry and grasslands and grazing management BMPs). MBP provided feedback to the provincial government about ways to enhance producers’ ability to access the programs.

Agricultural Crown Lands Advocacy efforts continued related to the Agricultural Crown Lands (ACL) Leasing Program. In September 2022, the provincial government had announced a public survey as part of its exploration of “other policy, program, regulation and service improvements to enhance the productivity and sustainability of agricultural Crown forage lands including mechanisms for leaseholders to invest in productivity and adjustments to the terms and conditions of leases.” In a related vein, in early June 2023 the Manitoba government asked for feedback on proposed amendments to the Agricultural Crown Lands Leases and Permits Regulation focused on matters such as forage lease rents, extending lease terms under certain conditions, and transfer scenarios.

MBP participated in both of these consultations, restating its recommendations on matters such as: extending lease lengths to at least 20 years; addressing concerns of outgoing lessees about recouping the value of their ACL improvements without having to go to arbitration; making adjustments to the lease and permit auction process it more responsive to bidders’ needs; informed access; unit transfers; and, the importance of compliance monitoring and enforcement.

MBP also continued to advance the importance of lease affordability and reiterated its request for a change to the forage lease rental rate formula to recognize the considerable ecosystem services beef producers provide in managing these valuable public lands.

In late July 2023, the province announced a series of amendments to the ACL Leases and Permits Regulation. These took effect January 1, 2024. Examples of changes enacted include: forage capacity will be determined when the lease is issued and will remain for the entire length of the agreement; a five-year extension on a 15-year lease term is available to leaseholders that complete and implement a forage management plan for at least the last five years of the 15-year lease term; unlimited transfers of a 15-year forage lease or renewable permit to any eligible lessee for the remainder of the lease term; legacy leaseholders will be able to nominate the next leaseholder, subject to the Treaty Land Entitlement and consultation assessment; and, changes to the process for valuing improvements that allow for an appraisal process.

MBP thanks former Minister of Agriculture Derek Johnson for the considerable engagement it had with him and his departmental staff on the ACL file throughout his time as minister, and for movement achieved on some key areas of lease holder concern. With the change in government following the October provincial election,

MBP has been engaging with Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn about next steps for the ACL Program, including affordability and other outstanding issues. MBP thanks Minister Kostyshyn for announcing that the province was increasing the temporary rent reduction scheduled for ACL forage leases to 55 per cent from 33 per cent for the 2024 growing season.

Wildlife Matters Predation-related challenges pose a significant concern for Manitoba’s livestock producers who pride themselves on providing quality animal care and husbandry.

MBP continues to advocate for strategies to help reduce the risk of negative wildlife-livestock interactions. MBP co-chairs the Livestock Predation Protection Working Group (LPPWG), which includes representatives from Manitoba Agriculture, MASC, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Manitoba Trappers Association and Manitoba Sheep Association (MSA).

In 2020 MBP received provincial government funding for the three-year pilot Manitoba Livestock Predation Prevention (LPPP) Project. Added funding for this work is coming from MBP and MSA. The three main aspects of the project included: On Farm Predation Risk Assessment; evaluating various Risk Management Practices (RMPs) at the farm level; and, sharing information with producers about RMPs and project findings that allow producers to mitigate against predation losses. MBP hired Ray Bittner as the project lead. The majority of work on this important project was completed in 2023.

Allocation and distribution of RMPs was based on cooperator survey data, MASC historic claims data, geographic location, and the type of predator associated with losses. More than 109 projects were implemented on 46 farms and ranches to test their effectiveness in reducing the risk of negative livestock-predator interactions. These included game cameras, predator resistant pens, deadstock composting pens, solar foxlights, GPS collars, GPS ear tracking tags, fladry wire, ElectroNet, turbo fladry, cow bells, and veterinary assessments.

There were other elements to the project. Field days were held in 2022 at the Ethelbert, Pansy and Mulvihill community pastures to convey information about predation management to producers, including insights from trappers. Project information was also shared with via Cattle Country, MBP’s website, media interviews and other avenues as they arose. A brochure – A Quick Guide to Actions When Livestock Are Attacked by Predators – was developed. RMP factsheets have been developed and posted on MBP’s website. RMP videos were developed as extension tools and are available on YouTube.

A static display of fence options was built at the Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives (MBFI) Brookdale site for educational purposes.

MBP submitted its final project report to the province in December, with a number of observations and recommendations. For example, the importance of maintaining the Wildlife Damage Compensation for Livestock Predation program was identified, as was the need for timely claims processing, and sharing information with eligible claimants about the Problem Predator Removal Program. Ongoing government support is needed for the removal program as instances of negative interactions between wildlife and predators will continue. The importance of a rapid response when issues arise at the farm level has been repeatedly identified with the province. Declining numbers of skilled trapper is a key concern and more analysis is needed about how to address this.

Producers experiencing losses should be helped to assess their predation risks and to implement RMPs, with cost-sharing available for this.

The report also noted the provincial government should establish a cycle for regularly surveying predator populations and their distribution in agro-Manitoba, including fringe areas on non-arable land used by livestock producers. This would help inform strategies relation to wildlife management. Further, analysis is needed as to how much land has been converted from livestock production to alternate uses over the years.

Said loss of habitat can affect the distribution of wildlife, pushing them to land remaining in beef production, including predatory species and the wildlife prey species that would normally constitute their diets. With predators concentrated in certain areas, there is a greater potential for predators to utilize livestock as a food source.

MBP thanks the provincial government for its financial support for the project. Thanks as well to the participating cattle and sheep producers for their insights, and to the members of the LPPWG for their ongoing expertise and involvement in various aspects of the project. Working to address the risks associated with negative wildlife-livestock interactions remains a key priority for MBP. Animal Health and Care MBP is among the groups seeking strategies to address local veterinarian shortages, including training, recruitment and retention initiatives. For example, MBP has advanced the importance of investments in training veterinary students who have a direct interest and first-hand experience in working with animals, who have been raised in a rural environment and who are more likely to pursue careers in the agriculture sector.

Some progress has been achieved on this, with the province financially supporting the addition of more targeted training seats added at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine.

MBP has also been seeking increased financial support for the Veterinary Service Districts (VSDs) which were developed to provide rural areas with access to consistent and affordable veterinary care. Concerns have arisen that government funding to help operate and maintain these valuable clinics has remained static for several years. In June MBP was pleased to see the federal and provincial governments announce a $2

million investment through SCAP to enhance the capacity of VSDs. Monies can be used toward the purchase of large-animal veterinary equipment, which will allow clinics to offer expanded services, and which may support the recruitment and retention of rural veterinarians.

2023

YEAR IN REVIEW

Ensuring Canada’s beef industry is protected in the event of an outbreak of foot and mouth disease (FMD) remains a sectoral priority. An FMD outbreak in Canada would cut off exports for all livestock sectors, with major economic implications. MBP, along with other industry groups have been advocating for government funding for a Canadian FMD vaccine bank. Movement on this was achieved in the 2023 federal budget when it was announced that $57.5 million in funding would be provided over five years, with $5.6 million ongoing, to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to establish an FMD Vaccine Bank for Canada, and to develop FMD response plans. The federal government had said it will seek a cost-sharing arrangement with provinces and territories and MBP will be advocating for the provincial government to provide its share of the funding.

Traceability, Movement Reporting and Livestock Inspection Knowing who an animal belongs to and where it is going is important for a variety of reasons, be it to establish ownership should an animal be lost or stolen, or to facilitate investigative activities in a disease outbreak. After several years of delays, in 2023 the federal government announced consultations on proposed changes to traceability/ movement reporting for the livestock sector. If implemented, key proposed changes would require the reporting of domestic movements of livestock in certain circumstances; shorten the time period allowed to report an event to from 30-60 days to seven days for all species; and, add a requirement to provide info about the geographical location of sites where animals are located, i.e. premises identification number.

MBP participated in the consultations. MBP recognizes the importance of having a robust traceability system, be it to deal with animal disease outbreaks, food safety matters, to help with emergency management during natural disasters, and to gain, maintain or expand market access. However, MBP noted it is essential that traceability requirements are implemented in such a way so as not to create undue financial or administrative burdens on the affected parties, do not slow commerce, and help to support the long-term sustainability of Canada’s agriculture sector. It is critical the stated benefits associated with the proposed regulatory requirements do not outweigh the added costs to the livestock sector.

MBP is also concerned about the ability to effectively implement the regulations within the identified timelines. As has been repeatedly identified by the beef sector, there are gaps and shortcomings around movement reporting technology. MBP is participating in an industry-related group looking at the potential creation of a Transport/Traceability Application for Cattle Operations. Such an app could help beef cattle producers, transporters, marketers and packers to enter, share, report, record and receive data related to movements within the value chain to enable compliance with traceability reporting and record keeping requirements.

Discussions about traceability technology also dovetail with discussions about whether there Manitoba should have mandatory livestock inspection. This matter that has been debated multiple times at MCPA and MBP AGMs, with opinions split on it each time. Inspection is seen as a possible way to reduce livestock thefts, to get lost cattle back to owners, etc., but there is a cost to do it. A potential option could involve an agreement to help expand livestock inspection services in Manitoba via an established third party and analysis is continuing.

Livestock-related crimes are a serious concern in Manitoba. MBP has approached the provincial government about creating a Livestock Investigations Unit aimed at reducing local livestock-related crimes. Such a unit would be staffed by a dedicated RCMP officer with livestock industry knowledge who could assist in investigating sector-specific crimes. Such investigative units already exist in Saskatchewan and Alberta. MBP has also stressed the importance of Manitoba Justice having personnel familiar with agricultural crimes, and how to successfully investigate and prosecute them. MBP believes these approaches could help reduce the number of livestock-related crimes and the challenges they can create for farmers, ranchers, and other value chain members.

Other Advocacy Activities There was a provincial election in Manitoba in 2023. MBP did outreach to candidates on an array of issues including: livestock predation; water challenges; agricultural Crown lands; infrastructure challenges; education property taxes; rural connectivity; labour shortages; crime; business risk management programs; and more. MBP also took part in an electoral forum focusing on issues such as these. With the change in government in October MBP has been establishing relationships with the new Ministers and their staff.

In its outreach to governments and the public, MBP has continued to focus on communicating the positive environmental impact beef production plays related to soil health, carbon sequestration, preserving wetlands, and maintaining biodiversity on grasslands. The sector has a powerful story to tell in this area, and significant headway is being made on this with both government policy makers and the public.

For example, MBP advances the value of beef production as part of the nature-based solutions governments are examining to address climate change associated risks, including more frequent droughts, floods and threats to biodiversity. However, competition for land is growing, with more grassland being converted to other uses. MBP and others continue to identify with governments the threats associated with land conversion and possible strategies to help reduce this. This could include leveling the MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS

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YEAR IN REVIEW

playing field when it comes to disparities in BRM programs in the cattle sector versus other commodities. Financial recognition of the many ecological goods and services the beef industry provides is also needed.

Messaging like this was shared during consultations on the proposed federal Sustainable Agriculture Strategy, the federal Building a Green Prairie Economy Act, the provincial water strategy, and the draft Winnipeg Metro Region 20-50 Plan. It was also shared as part of Environment and Climate Change Canada species at risk consultations for animals such as the Prairie Skink, Western Salamander and the Boboblink. This type of messaging is also regularly advanced in meetings with elected officials and government staff at all levels.

In 2023 there was a continuation of funding through Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) to provide producers with new opportunities and cost-shared funding to create and enhance species at risk (SAR) habitat on their lands. MBP has partnered with Manitoba Habitat Conservancy (MHC) for the delivery of this important initiative.

There are two core elements of this program. One is the implementation of BMPs (such as fencing and watering systems, management of woody, invasive plants, etc.) on pasture lands in southwest Manitoba (“Keep Grazing” project). The second is SAR extension and BMP delivery across Manitoba through range management planning.

As well, MHC in partnership with Manitoba Beef Producers/Conservation Trust, SARPAL, ECCC, and The Weston Family Foundation have supported the Grassland Stewardship Program to provide nature-based approaches to climate change.

Also in 2023, MBP received $400,000 from the Conservation Trust to support projects that help cattle producers conserve grasslands and enhance habitat for threatened and endangered birds.

MBP, in conjunction with groups such as the CCA and the NCFA undertook joint advocacy activities on a number of federal government files affecting the beef sector. Examples of this included: livestock transportation regulations; commercial transporter hours of service requirements; trade matters, such as market access to the United Kingdom; Bill C-282, An Act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act (supply management); Bill C-234, An act to amend the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act; labour shortages; the need for Specified Risk Material (SRM) equivalency with the United States; and more. MBP thanks the CCA and NCFA for their work on these important files and for arranging in-person meetings in Ottawa for MBP reps with federal officials, including Members of Parliament and Senators.

Building sectoral capacity: research and knowledge transfer Among MBP’s strategic objectives are building Manitoba’s cattle industry through innovation, improved economic competitiveness and profitability. MBP strongly supports investments in research, innovation and knowledge transfer. Twenty three cents of every Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off (national check-off/NCO) dollar collected in Manitoba goes towards conducting and promoting research activities re: beef cattle, beef and beef products. A further 6.5 cents of every NCO dollar collected in Manitoba is retained for Manitoba projects that reflect MBP’s research priorities and which align to national priorities.

MBP remains a key partner in Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc. (MBFI), the collaborative beef and forage research and demonstration farm at three sites in the Brandon area. Other partners are Manitoba Agriculture and Ducks Unlimited Canada.

MBP strongly believes the applied research and knowledge transfer activities being undertaken through MBFI can play a critical role in advancing Manitoba’s beef and forage industries, ensuring they are well positioned for future generations of producers.

Core funding for MBFI has been provided through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. As well, MBP provides financial, administrative and governance support to MBFI. Organizationally MBFI’s direction and activities are overseen by an elected board of directors which includes representation from MBP and producers. MBP thanks the core partners and the other generous sponsors and contributors for their ongoing commitment to MBFI’s success. For more details on MBFI’s activities in 2023 see page 11 or visit www.mbfi.ca to learn more.

MBP had a busy year when it came to knowledge transfer and research activities it delivered.

In January, MBP partnered with MBFI and the Manitoba 4H Council to host two calving 8

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workshops where producers learned how to deal with various calving difficulties using Clover the cow, a life-sized calving dystocia model. With coaching from an experienced veterinarian, the workshops were an excellent opportunity for inexperienced individuals to build their confidence, and for experienced producers to share their knowledge and to update and advance their skills.

The 44th MBP AGM featured an AgriStability workshop with Ben Hamm, Farm Management Specialist with Manitoba Agriculture. Great feedback was received and so at the 45th AGM in February MBP will host a forum on data collection and management where producers can share how collect data from their farm and how they use that data to make informed management and marketing decisions.

Our July producer-focused event at Steppler Farms in Miami included a demonstration on carcass ultrasound and evaluation with Jamie Jensen of Jentec. Producers got a live ultrasound demonstration and learned the importance and implications of the technology. A follow-up article in Cattle Country included the ultrasound results.

Together with MBFI, Ducks Unlimited, and participating watersheds, MBP helped organize a summer bus tour series where participants visited several operations highlighting various beneficial management practices. Producers learned about funding streams available from different delivery agencies in Manitoba.

MBP partnered with Manitoba Agriculture and MBFI to organize the inaugural Manitoba Beef & Forage Production Conference held in December in Brandon. It was well received.

MBP has partnered with participating watershed district offices to expand the availability of forage testing equipment and to increase adoption of feed testing and ration balancing. MBP procured forage testing equipment and made a resource package including text and video resources on how to use the equipment, take a sample, submit it to the lab, which test to request, and how to interpret results. The package includes access to ration balancing software, as well as contacts for qualified professionals who can assist in ration formulation.

Under cost-shared Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership initiatives, Manitoba producers can access the RALP and SAM programs. MBP identified that this suite of programs, in addition to various funding available from other streams like GROW can be daunting to navigate, so it developed a document summarizing the different funding programs available to beef producers. It concisely lists all the programs, delivery agencies, cost shares and eligible expenses with links and QR codes making it both online and print friendly. MBP staff have also provided technical assistance with program applications. Staff are developing a resource with tips on how to write a strong application for different funding programs.

MBP compiled a resource to help producers make informed decisions on animal transport. It includes how to identify common ailments that enable producers to implement early culling to minimize the incidence of animals that are compromised for transport, as well as a decision tree.

MBP, along with other industry partners, supported the development of infographics dedicated to the most common cattle ailments for which there are vaccines. The infographics are a tool to identify potential risks, make early and accurate diagnosis, identify vaccine protocols for prevention and, treatment protocols for common diseases.

Articles on bull management and water hemlock were also prepared.

MBP is a partnering in a project at MBFI demonstrating implant use in suckling calves.

This project aims to show the economic and production benefits of implant use in suckling calves, which is currently used by only 20% of Canadian cow calf producers.

Further, the project will follow replacement heifers throughout their life on the farm to track reproductive efficiency compared to replacements who did not receive implants as calves.

MBP is a co-applicant for the University of Manitoba on the following SCAP Research and Innovation Fund applications: • Use of implants in suckling calves to improve profitability and reduce the environmental impact of beef cattle production systems ~Dr. Kim Ominski (ongoing) • Cattle: A natural systems solution to effectively utilize resources and mitigate climate change in Manitoba ~Dr. Kim Ominski (completed)

• Adoption of multiple mitigation strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in beef cattle production systems ~Dr. Kim Ominski (ongoing) MBP is a partner on these National Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC Alliance) proposals: • Upcycling of agri-food industry byproducts to improve nutrient use and resiliency of future food systems: the critical role of livestock in achieving sustainable agriculture ~Dr. Nyachoti, U of M • Net zero farming systems using diversity, integration, and perenniality: A co-design approach ~Dr. Marten Entz, U of M MBP provided letters of support to accompany letters of intent and full proposals for these research projects: • Protocol development for testing water-sourced environmental DNA for evidence of wild pigs; • Identifying diverse native germplasm sources and studying their impact on forage production, drought tolerance, carbon storage, and beneficial insect habitat; • Development of vegetation classification and biomass productivity maps in southwestern Manitoba using cutting-edge drone-mounted sensors; • Predicting carbon sequestration potential using genomic tools and artificial intelligence; • Identifying native forages and forage mixtures to enhance production, carbon storage, and other beneficial functions; • Quantifying the market and non-market value to native species usage in agriculture; • Effects of extreme drought on the composition and function of soil organisms; and • Persistence of foxtail barley in wet meadow rangelands following the removal of intense grazing.

Telling our Story: Communications, Outreach and Sponsorship From new initiatives to participation in longstanding events, MBP offers producers, industry stakeholders and consumers many ways to discover various aspects of beef production.

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of our newspaper Cattle Country, MBP commissioned an in-depth article about the history of the newspaper, utilized a QR code embedded in the eight print editions to deliver digital content, and shared weekly social media posts featuring key moments from our archives. Cattle Country has been a reliable source of local beef industry information for its varied readers, including producers, elected officials, government staff, value chain members and others. The ongoing support of the readers and the advertisers has been integral to its success over two and a half decades.

Collaboration is important when it comes to MBP’s ability to engage with our audiences.

The 4-H Manitoba Virtual Food Session featured Chef Anna Borys and District 2 director Nancy Howatt. Borys shared her culinary knowledge and food safety tips with over 30 children while Howatt spoke about the beef industry and took questions.

The Manitoba Burrowing Owl Recovery Program joined MBP at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair to promote beef and biodiversity. Many of the 8,000+ visitors to MBP’s booth also got to meet Bindi, an adorable burrowing owl and brand ambassador. There were several news articles about this as well.

MBP launched a new interactive display table, wall and floor graphics to encourage visitors of all ages to learn how the beef industry interacts with many parts of the larger ecosystem. The refreshed space debuted at the Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre at the Glenlea Research Station during the Discover the Farm event in September that attracted in excess of 900 attendees to MBP’s space.

MBP also has a long-standing relationship with Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba (AITC-MB) and was a part of two events with them.

In April, MBP partnered with AITC-MB to reconnect students with their food by bringing beef cows into the classroom – virtually. Students from 61 classrooms watched a broadcast of a beef farm tour led by District 6 Director Andre Steppler. Camera crew in tow, Steppler and his family gave the students an up-close-and-personal look at how they care for their environment while providing safe, healthy meat for consumers.

A live question-and-answer session after the tour allowed students to ask Steppler questions directly. The tour was the highlight of Beef Week, a social media campaign hosted by AITC-MB and sponsored by MBP. Agriculture and science came to life via the Amazing Agriculture Adventure 2.0 for grades four and five students in October. More than 300 students visited stations highlighting beef, dairy, chicken, eggs, pork, bees, canola, veterinary services, 4H and watershed districts.

MBP also engaged with students during Moo Mania held in conjunction with MB AG EX in Brandon in October.

MBP took part in a new initiative which benefited Manitoba Harvest. In February, 90+ restaurants across Canada (including 16 in Manitoba) participated in Burger It Forward to relieve food insecurity. This initiative from Canada Beef ‘beefed up’ the protein portion of food bank offerings while supporting locally owned restaurants. Each participating restaurant featured a select burger, from classic to creative. For each burger

purchased, Canada Beef donated the equivalent of one meal to Food Banks Canada, to a maximum of 20,000 meals, while MBP made a $2,000 donation towards Harvest Manitoba.

MBP uses various advertising tools to raise awareness of the sector. Fields to Forks showcases the journey of Canadian food production. MBP was represented by Amaglen Limousin, a fifth-generation family farm operated by Amanda, Clint, Laura and Lillian Seward alongside Ian and Bonnie Hamilton. The commercials aired on CTV Winnipeg, 103.1 Virgin Radio, 99.9 Bounce FM, and associated digital and social media platforms.

During the fall, MBP aired an urban advertising campaign through Winnipeg radio station QX104FM. MBP continued its participation in Great Tastes of Manitoba (GTOM), a cherished TV and digital media cooking show now in its 34th season. Chef Borys curated delicious beef sandwich and noodle recipes.

Videos involving Manitoba beef-producing families accompanied the two MBP GTOM episodes, providing viewers with the farm to table connection. In a first for this series, both families were past recipients of The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA).

The Lowry family of Darlingford is dedicated to raising their cattle using sustainable practices and take immense pride in their farm and community through involvement in the volunteer fire department and local hall. The Hodgins, from Lenore, raise cattle and strive to make a positive impact on the environment by implementing regenerative agriculture practices while connecting with their local grazing club to strengthen ties amongst their neighbours.

Media engagement remains vital to MBP’s advocacy work. In 2023, there were 150+ digital or print stories, TV and radio interviews involving contributions from MBP directors or staff.

Subscribers to our weekly e-newsletter continue to grow, as do the number of followers on social media.

To sign up for the newsletter please contact David Hultin, Communications and Marketing Lead, at dhultin@mbbeef.ca. MBP’s social media handles are available on page 2. Please see page 20 for photo highlights of the year.

Governance MBP regularly reviews its governance structure. The Cattle Producers Association Act states that the Manitoba Cattle Producers Association (operating as MBP) shall have between 12 and 15 directors. The Act was created in the 1980s when Manitoba had considerably more cattle producers than it has now. As per MBP’s administration bylaw, the association currently has 14 districts and directors. At times it has been difficult to fill director positions.

MBP has been considering possible ways to address this, such as potentially reducing the overall number of districts, but allowing for the election of some directors at large.

For example, this could include having between 10 and 12 districts with two to four directors elected via election at the annual general meeting. As well, some provincial cattle associations elect or appoint a youth director to their boards, sometimes with voting privileges.

MBP began canvassing members at its fall district meetings on the idea of having fewer districts and making changes to how directors are elected. There were mixed views.

Some prefer to retain the current number of districts and their existing configurations, as well as the existing director election process, while others are open to further discussion. MBP will continue to examine this matter in 2024 with an eye to potential changes to be debated at the 46th AGM. Serving our members: looking ahead In 2024 MBP will continue to advocate on behalf our members as we work to advance Manitoba’s beef industry. This will include continued work on key files such as business risk management tools, predation, environmental policies, animal care, agricultural Crown lands, water management, livestock-related crime, public trust and more.

MBP thanks our producer members for your ongoing support. Moving the dial on policy issues is not always swift or easy, but your insights and support of our advocacy efforts is sincerely appreciated.

Similarly, MBP appreciates the collaborative efforts between the various industry associations and other value chain members to help the sector respond to various challenges that may arise, such as natural disasters. This level of cooperation has been invaluable. And, MBP thanks elected officials and government staff at all levels for ongoing engagement on issues and opportunities affecting Manitoba’s beef industry.

As always, our organization is stronger when we hear from our members, so please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 1-800-772-0458 or via info@mbbeef.ca. For more information, please visit MBP’s website at www.mbbeef.ca

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The information below is excerpts from MBP’s audited financial statement for the 2022-23 fiscal year as prepared by accounting firm MNP. To get a copy of the complete statement, contact the MBP office.

Non-Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

2022-23 FINANCIAL STATEMENT

As at June 30, 2023

2023

2022

1,536,233 75,596 1,259,980 21,943 2,893,752 204,692 9,326 755,000 25,000 3,887,770

1,486,625 449,882 954,259 15,525 2,906,291 204,692 6,784 522,886 10,000 3,650,653

492,215 261,010 753,225

591,742 128,277 720,019

204,692 2,929,853 3,134,545 3,887,770

204,692 2,725,942 2,930,634 3,650,653

1,561,668 10,494 (28,600) (169,245) 1,374,317

1,678,794 15,140 (30,503) (179,635) 1,483,796

35,000 63,546 84,545 364,538 547,629 1,921,946

31,743 88,741 514,151 (1,545) 633,090 2,116,886

3,358 4,857 276,109 1,273 134,808 20,820 3,248 12,598 62,162 25,937 242,363 13,339 40,976 77,395 200,000 570,612 46,980 6,887 1,743,722

14,627 500 6,816 333,2305 1,873 87,856 10,198 5,615 9,473 62,162 13,552 178,695 12,0430 32,721 71,813 327,250 434,664 63,035 6,410 1,672,533

178,224

444,353

80,687 40,000 (95,000) 25,687 203,911

(61,768) (95,000) (156,768) 287,585

Assets Current Cash and short term investments (Note 3) Accounts receivable Marketable securities (Note 4) Prepaid expenses and deposits Internally restricted cash (Note 5) Capital assets (Note 6) Investments (Note 7) Due from Manitoba Livestock Cash Advances Inc. (Note 8)

Liabilities Current Accounts payable and accruals (Note 9) Deferred contributions (Note 10)

Net Assets Internally restricted (Note 5) Unrestricted

Non-Consolidated Statement of Operations For the year ended June 30, 2023 Revenue Support Fees collected from producers under regulation Contract rebate Dealer commission Fees refunded

Other revenues Annual meeting Interest and sundry Newspaper revenue Project income Verified beef program Total Revenue Expenses Amortization Bad debts (recovery) Board meetings Canadian Cattleman’s Association fees Demonstration farm expenses (Note 11) Directors’ expenses (Note 12) General manager Information technology Insurance Memberships in other organizations Office equipment, supplies and postage Producer communications Professional fees Provincial promotions Rent SARPAL project Salaries and benefits Special projects Telephone

Excess of revenue over expenses before other items Other items

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Unrealized loss on change in fair value of investments Recovery of bad debts Cash contributions to Manitoba Beef and Forage Initiatives Inc. (“MBFI”) (Note 11) Excess of revenue over expenses

REPORT FROM

MANITOBA BEEF & FORAGE INITIATIVES INC. DR. MARY-JANE ORR, MBFI GENERAL MANAGER Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives (MBFI), a not-for-profit research and demonstration farm, has been honored to renew core partnerships and build new collaborations with organizations across Manitoba and Canada over the last year. 2023 marks the first year in a five-year Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP) funding grant through the federal and provincial governments. The ongoing foundational support and partnership from Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP), Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), and Manitoba Agriculture (MB Ag) has set the stage for our success and will guide our growth in supporting beef and forage production in the province.

The 2023 MBFI board of directors was confirmed at our June Annual General Meeting.

It includes: Tracy Gilson (Chair; P.Ag. retired), Kristine Tapley (Vice Chair; P.Ag. DUC, beef producer), Tyler Fewings (Treasurer; P.Ag, beef producer), Laura Plett (beef producer), Steven Manns (MBP, beef producer), and Alfred Epp (MBP, beef producer).

The outcomes MBFI achieves would not be possible without our staff which currently includes Clayton Robins (Forage Research full-time), Owen Kominko (Beef Research fulltime), Ron Kristjansson (Beef Research part-time), and Chantel McRae (Beef & Forage Roundup Podcast Host part-time). We were thrilled to have Owen join us this fall as a recent Lakeland College graduate and looking forward to Josie Pedersen rejoining our team full-time in January 2024 as an Extension Coordinator. We congratulate Josie on the completion of her undergraduate degree in Animal Science from the University of Saskatchewan.

MBFI is deeply appreciative of its dedicated Board of Directors, Partner & Research Advisory Committees, staff, summer students, and collaborators who have contributed their time and worked diligently to fulfill our mission to advance the Manitoba beef and forage industry by engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. In short, our mission is to Engage, Evaluate, and Extend.

Engage MBFI works to engage stakeholders in beef and forage production to build relationships across industry, educational centres, producers, youth, and the public. Highlights from 2023 include rolling out our field trip activities programming, joining the Pan Canadian Smart Farm Network, and collaborating in Living Lab Manitoba led by the Manitoba Association of Watersheds (MAW).

Creating experiential learning opportunities for youth at the Brookdale Farm Learning Centre was led by Josie Pedersen in her summer Extension Coordinator position.

Keeping youth engaged and learning is no small task, but in trialing different stations with children from a Waverly Park Elementary field trip and the Canadian Charolais Youth Association Conference afternoon program we are confident in creating content for all ages and backgrounds. We are excited to continue building resources and welcoming more youth to the farm to learn about connections in how cattle are raised, how wildlife habitat is maintained, and how safe food is produced in Manitoba.

MBFI was thrilled to join the Pan-Canadian Smart Farm Network led by Olds College (Olds, Alberta) this year. Additional members include the Glacier FarmMedia Discovery Farm, Lakeland College, University of Saskatchewan Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence, EMILI Innovation Farms, and Lethbridge College. The network is committed to sharing expertise and data generated across members to lower barriers for farmers and industry to adopt or develop technology solutions. MBFI is keen to learn from member experiences, participate in the collaborative framework, and share our Manitoba beef and forage producer focused perspective.

There were also eight ongoing academic research studies associated with MBFI farm stations over the last year.

Study topics include continued work on strategic herd development, growth promotants in suckling calves, annual forages in diverse mixtures for greenfeed production and grazing, regeneration of saline areas, comparing different forage mixes for sod seeding in a marginal pasture, forage species demonstration plots at both the Brookdale Farm and First Street pasture, biocontrol of leafy spurge, comparing impact of grazing at different utilization and rest periods, and overall benchmarking of soil health, pasture health, and livestock performance.

As a component of a Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership strategic grant, MBFI has created capacity for precision ranching tools in livestock and crop monitoring research equipment. Investment in research tools and new technologies is focused on addressing current gaps in capacity and on creating opportunities beyond current projects to attract researchers and incentivize innovative studies. Virtual fencing is one highlight that we will be excited to showcase at MBFI as the technology becomes commercially available in Canada.

Extend Extension and knowledge transfer programming at MBFI is founded in on-farm research and demonstration studies to promote excellence, efficiency, and sustainability of practices. In 2023, MBFI’s extension calendar was action packed with partner events, field days, workshops, and the inaugural Manitoba Beef & Forage Production Conference.

Over the summer through the Advanced Grazing Systems Farmers for Climate Solutions Farm Resilience Mentorship Program (FaRM), MBFI partnered further with regional watershed districts, MBP, DUC, and MB Ag to host three bus tours featuring the Westman, Interlake and Southeast regions of Manitoba. We are very excited to expand the peer-to-peer grazing mentor program with additional funding secured through MBFI’s SCAP grant. Stay tuned for more learning and sharing opportunities coming to your corner of the province.

MBFI always looks forward to meeting producers through our booth displays at Ag Days, MBP’s AGM, AgSmart (Olds College), Ag Ex, and the MAW conference. It was also fantastic to have the opportunity to provide an update during MBP district meetings in Rosa, Arborg, Oak Lake, Ste Rose, and Neepawa. Thank you to all the producers and industry members that shared your questions and ideas on a wide array of topics. We look forward to continuing the farmer-directed focus in all our work.

Looking forward to 2024, MBFI is eager to share findings, continue building partnerships, and delivering extension programing. Regular episodes of the Beef & Forage Roundup Podcast are released on the first and third Wednesday of the month, so be sure to listen and subscribe to keep up to date with project updates and industry news.

For more information or to start a conversation please email MBFI at information@ mbfi.ca or call at 204-761-3300.

Living Lab Manitoba (LL-MB) led by MAW was announced in fall 2023 under Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Agricultural Climate Solutions program. As one of 14 living labs across Canada, LL-MB is a collaborative approach to agricultural innovation dedicated to combatting climate change. It brings together farmers, scientists, and other sector partners to co-develop, test, and monitor new practices and technologies in a real-life context to accelerate adoption on the farm. The alignment in grassland carbon sequestration and crop/livestock integration activities is a natural fit to leverage onfarm research experience at MBFI with producers and watershed districts across the province. We are thankful for the opportunity to partner with MAW and look forward to participating in the co-development sessions underway in the new year.

Evaluate Evaluation of on-farm innovations and proposed beneficial management practices at MBFI’s farm stations provide a place to see practices in action. In the 2023 field season there were eight Tier I demonstration projects, designed as case studies, and seven Tier II projects designed with randomized treatment replication and/or control treatment.

Westman Advanced Grazing Systems Tour. Photo courtesy of MBFI. M A N I T O B A B E E F P R O D U C E R S 11

REPORT FROM

CANADIAN CATTLE ASSOCIATION NATHAN PHINNEY, CCA PRESIDENT

It’s a privilege to share this update on the key priorities, activities, and outcomes of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) for 2023 with beef producers from Manitoba.

This year has brought many challenges for beef producers across the country – ranging from adverse weather conditions to potential impacts of government policies on our sector to disappointing trade negotiations. I am proud of the work that CCA has undertaken to face these challenges, while working in stride with our provincial associations every step of the way, like the Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP).

This year has been packed with advocacy initiatives and travel opportunities to represent the Canadian beef industry at key events across the country and internationally to share our story. While there has been no shortage of challenges across our key policy files, there are plenty of bright spots that are also important to mention.

Adverse Weather Top of mind this past year has been uncertainty due to adverse weather conditions that plagued farmers and ranchers across Canada. CCA worked closely with provincial associations and governments as well as the federal government to advocate for timely AgriRecovery assessments, which would support producers in these troubling times.

The rollout of the AgriRecovery program targeting cattle producers in British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, by both federal and provincial governments, was long overdue, but welcome news. It will provide much needed support for winter feeding costs, transportation costs relating to moving livestock to feed and water, and re-establishing forage crops damaged by wildfires. CCA, working in stride with our provincial associations, pushed hard for the timely completion of the AgriRecovery assessments and rollout of support.

Advocacy work is ongoing to strengthen business risk management (BRM) programming including improving forage insurance offerings across Canada. CCA chairs an Industry Government Forage Insurance Task Team, where work with governments over the years has improved forage insurance. These programs are timelier and more dependable compared to AgriRecovery.

Adverse weather events have demonstrated the need for more effective tools for producers managing weather-related risks. A key recommendation in our 2024 pre-budget submission is amending the Livestock Tax Deferral provision under the Income Tax Act to give producers the ability to self-select rather than rely on a geographic determination, as well as expanding it to include all classes of cattle.

Animal Health and Care On the animal health and care front, we were also pleased to see Federal Budget Day 2023 bring good news for the Canadian beef industry with an investment of $57.5 million over five years to establish a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine bank and develop emergency response plans. CCA advocated tirelessly over the last number of years for a federally funded FMD vaccine bank and this was an urgent advocacy priority in 2022.

Significant time was dedicated to defending the interests of Canadian beef producers in trade negotiations – particularly when it comes to the UK accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

It is important that the staggering trade imbalance between Canada and the UK, resulting from non-tariff trade barriers, is addressed and resolved during bilateral negotiations. In 2022, we didn’t export any beef to the UK while Canada imported $C33 million in beef from the UK. Through the “Say No to a Bad Deal” campaign, we are urging the Government of Canada to push for the UK to remove its trade barriers before ratifying the CPTPP accession.

We are also monitoring the progress of the proposed amendment to the voluntary “Product of the USA” label. We worked closely with the Government of Canada and industry stakeholders to ensure our consultation submissions were complementary.

Our concern remains that the proposed rule states that any beef product labelled as “Product of the USA” must be derived from cattle that are born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the United States (U.S.). If adopted, exports of Canadian beef and live cattle into the U.S. could be significantly impacted and the integrated nature of our North American supply chain would be threatened.

It has not been all negative news on the trade front. In recent months, we have seen markets such as Japan and Taiwan lift remaining BSE-era restrictions following Canada’s attainment of BSE-negligible risk status by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) in 2021. The decision by Japan and Taiwan to grant full market access to Canadian beef may signal other countries in the Indo-Pacific region to follow suit.

Sharing our sustainability story We are building momentum in sharing the environmental benefits of cattle production in Canada – whether it’s CCA or our young leaders carrying this important message to policymakers here at home or on the international stage. We have a lot to be proud of when it comes to being stewards of our land and caring for our animals. It is critical that we participate in discussions about climate change and livestock systems to showcase our leadership in sustainable beef production and celebrate the innovative practices undertaken by Canadian cattle producers through the Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA). Voices pushing to take beef off the table and cattle off the land are very loud and active at these international meetings. Protectionist countries also have a big presence. If we are not there, vocal and determined, there will be negative impacts felt on our own operations.

This is a quick snapshot of what we’ve accomplished as an organization this past year.

There’s important work ahead of us in 2024 and we are committed to making things happen for our industry.

With the ongoing threat of FMD remaining high, the establishment of this vaccine bank will be critical and help provide our industry with one of the tools needed to regain Canada’s export markets if FMD finds its way here. We are actively working with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency on this important piece of the wide-ranging animal health file.

Foreign Trade The trade file kept the CCA board and staff busy for most of the year with issues that can threaten our ability to export Canadian beef. With exports bringing significant added value to cattle producers, we needed to up our engagement on key issues including Bill C-282: An Act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act (supply management), trade with the United Kingdom (UK), and Product of the USA. Earlier this year, Bill C-282 gained momentum and received all party support. This Bill, which takes supply-managed sectors off the table during trade negotiations, could severely damage our trade relationships and highly constrain Canada’s ability to launch, negotiate and renegotiate the best deals. At the time of writing, the bill is now in the Senate, and our advocacy efforts have ramped up, urging Senators to vote against this bill.

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CYL Grad Brodie Haugan, CRSB and PSE's Jenna Sarich, and CCA's Jessica Radau meet Maarten de Groot, Deputy Permanent Representative of Canada to the Rome Based Agencies.

(L-R) Canadian Cattle Youth Council Past President, Charlene Yungblut, CYLs Addy Bolduc and Brooke Martin, the Beef Cattle Research Council's Sydney Fortier, BFO's Evan Chaffe, CYLs Coleman Nixdorff and Ashley Nicholls, and CCA’s Mitchell Zoratti participated in the 13th Global Agenda for Sustainable Livestock (GASL) Multi-Stakeholder Partnership (MSP) meeting in Thailand.

REPORT FROM

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PROGRAM BOB LOWE, Chair As part of the Connectivity and Beef Demand pillars in the National Beef Strategy The Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) program, jointly delivered by the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) and Canada Beef, delivers national public trust issue management and proactive content on the societal benefits of raising beef cattle in Canada.

Issues Management Working with the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) and Dr. Philip Griebel from the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), the PSE team developed an article for the Canadian Cattlemen magazine about mRNA technology for livestock vaccines.

In response to concerns about biosecurity risks with international travelers returning to events and conferences in Canada, guidelines were updated and provided to conference organizers planning on-farm events, including the Canadian Beef Industry Conference. PSE also wrote several letters for and on behalf of industry stakeholders in response to various concerns about misleading information on the climate impacts of cattle and eating beef in media, podcasts, and educational content.

Beef Industry Advocacy PSE provided Introduction to Media Training in the spring and fall for 20 industry stakeholders, including primary producers, veterinarians, researchers, and academics.

Beef advocacy presentations were also provided for producers attending public facing events, like the Meet a Rancher series at Save-on Foods. The Beef Advocacy Canada program, which equips industry stakeholders for public facing events and outreach, marked 100 graduations this year. PSE hosted a crisis communications tabletop exercise with more than 35 participants from both provincial and national cattle associations.

The exercise helped to build relationships among industry associations, building trust and systems for collaboration to ensure industry preparedness in the future.

PSE has also been developing a Public Advocacy Flipbook for producers. The flipbook is a quick reference on key messages, statistics, and resources for any producer acting as a spokesperson for the industry. It is pocket-sized for easy carrying during events, tours, and interviews. Included in the flipbook are QR codes to tools and resources, like the short documentaries and internal factsheets. These documents focus on a specific topic of public interest, such as animal care, climate change, or food waste, and compile tested messages proven to build trust.

earned media coverage has helped to raise awareness of the game but also amplified the key messages on the benefits of raising beef cattle with the Canadian public.

After the success of Guardians of the Grasslands, campaigns aimed at the public this past year have been focusing on the sustainability benefits of feedlots. On social media, a Canada-wide influencer campaign saw food, mom and lifestyle influencers visit various operations to discover the role of cattle in reducing food waste in Canada. In Manitoba, dietician Nita Sharda visited Calvin Vaags’ feedlot to see cattle consuming spent brewers’ grains and produce discarded for cosmetic reasons. The campaign ran on Instagram from the beginning of October to the end of November, featuring five influencers. PSE’s own Instagram and TikTok channel, Raising Canadian Beef, has seen audience growth in the past year with strong levels of engagement and positive sentiment about how cattle are raised in Canada.

The call to action for all the influencer content was for audiences to watch the trailer for the short documentary, Reduce, Reuse, Ruminate. This film has been shown during exclusive screening events with partners such as the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef. The University of Manitoba and Professor Kim Ominski hosted an on-campus screening with panel discussion in October 2023. More screenings will be held across Canada with media, chefs, and influencers in early 2024 with the film launching publicly next summer.

Finally, PSE projects have received several accolades this year. The Guardians of the Grasslands game is a finalist in two categories of the Best of CAMA awards for the tradeshow exhibit and classroom version. PSE’s social media channel, Raising Canadian Beef, and an op-ed piece for the Future Economy written with CCA are also CAMA finalists. Our third short documentary, Reduce, Reuse, Ruminate, has already been selected for the Ceres Food Film Festival in New York City.

For the 2023-2024 fiscal year, PSE will be operating with a $849,000 budget, of which $212,000 is allocated to Canadian Beef and the remaining $637,000 is administered through CCA.

Partnerships PSE is a member in the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity, which includes access to the annual Public Trust Survey on Canadian agriculture. This year was PSE’s third year of partnering with the Global Meat Alliance, which fosters collaboration and alignment on global issues management and events like the United Nations’ climate change conference, COP. Amie Peck, PSE Manager, continues to chair the Communications Council at the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef, which hosts a Communications Summit each fall.

Consumer Perception Research PSE conducted consumer research in July 2023, as part of the three-year strategy cycle, which informs proactive consumer campaigns, identifying must-win audiences and ensuring key messages are resonating. Results included an increase in the percentage of Canadians that have excellent or very good opinions of beef farmers and ranchers, from 68% to 70%. Participants ranked beef as the healthiest source of animal protein and it also received very high scores for taste. Consumption levels remained steady from 2020 and 28% of Generation Z respondents said they are looking to increase their meat consumption. A full presentation on the findings can be viewed here: https://vimeo.com/864152128/8c41cc0280.

Public Outreach The Guardians of the Grasslands game, based on the award-winning short film, was launched in March of 2023. The Manitoba version of the game was released in the fall with its own wildlife species specific to the province. The game connects players to the societal benefits of grazing cattle on grasslands and is curriculum linked for students in Manitoba in Grades 7 and 10 Science. A shorter version of the game, for public audiences, was exhibited at events like Discover the Farm held at the Farm and Food Discovery Centre south of Winnipeg.

In earned media, CTV News ran a story on the game across Canada, garnering an estimated reach of over 12.4 million. CBC News ran an extensive feature which included broadcast television and radio coverage, with a reach of 15 million, while the print and digital article reach was estimated at 16.2 million. CTV Morning Live covered the game during the Discover the Farm event with MBP General Manager Carson Callum. The M A N I T O B A B E E F P R O D U C E R S 13

REPORT FROM

CANADIAN CATTLE IDENTIFICATION AGENCY ANNE BRUNET, GM

Industry Comes to the CCIA As part of the 2023 Canadian Beef Industry Conference (CBIC), the CCIA was very proud to host over 100 industry guests at its new Calgary offices – the first time the CCIA has opened its door publicly at this location. Guests were treated to a freshly-cooked breakfast before touring our National Distribution Centre, meeting staff and board members, plus getting the opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns regarding their Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS) accounts with our Client Support team. In addition, special presentations were given to delegates on tag application and UHF technology advances. We received unanimously positive feedback from our visitors, and it was a real pleasure to meet with so many new, and familiar, faces.

CCIA to Manage Chain of Custody Verification for CRSB In October we were thrilled to announce that the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) had chosen the CCIA to become the only provider of Chain of Custody (COC) verification for their Certified Sustainable Beef Framework (CSBF) across Canada (excluding Quebec).

Certified producers working to the CRSB guidelines will now be able to manage their commitments to the program through the Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS) database, and as such will be supported by the CCIA as and when they need assistance.

CCIA Milestones in 2023 2023 saw the CCIA celebrate its 25th anniversary, as it continues to support Canada’s world-class traceability system, adds more value-added services to its portfolio, and looks to the future with the proposed changes to traceability regulations. In July the CCIA’s National Distribution Centre passed its first year in service and has so far distributed more than four million RFID tags across Canada. Remember that your tags can be ordered online, direct from CCIA, through our dedicated webstore at https://tags. canadaid.ca/.

Retention Matters 2024 will see the launch of a new nationwide campaign aimed at improving producers' experience with tag retention. While the issue is, fortunately, not widespread, the CCIA believes the time is right, ahead of the proposed new CFIA regulations, to visit this topic, and deliver new and revised resources on how to achieve best tag retention.

Called “Retention Matters”, the initiative launches in January 2024, and will have its own dedicated website which will be updated regularly throughout the year and supported by a dedicated online and print media campaign. To learn more please visit retentionmatters.ca.

The agreement between the CCIA and CRSB provides a single source of verification to Canada’s sustainable beef program, and greatly simplifies the process, making it clearer and easier to navigate for certified producers.

Producers will now be able to see the “CRSB Certified” status of their cattle’s identification indicators as those indicators/cattle move through the supply chain through their CLTS accounts.

Proposed Regulatory Amendments In March the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) published proposed amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability), opening a consultation period which ran until June. The CCIA was active in encouraging members of industry to study the proposals and submit their comments to the CFIA; and in consultation with its own Board, the CCIA submitted its own feedback on those areas where it was felt appropriate to do so. The CFIA has yet to publish a timetable of next steps as it continues to review industry feedback on the proposed changes.

2023 CCIA Board of Director Updates The CCIA held its Annual General Meeting in April, followed by a meeting of the Board of Directors. The CCIA was pleased to announce that the Executive Committee remained unchanged with Lyle Miller (ACFA) as Chairman, Howard Bekkering (ABP), Vice-Chair, Dr. Oliver Schunicht (CVMA), Finance Chair, and Ken Perlich (LMAC) and Ivan Johnson (MBC), members at large.

We were also delighted to welcome new members to the Board, who include Ryder Lee and Matthew Atkinson, both representing the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA), accompanied by Jason Pollock from Saskatchewan Stock Growers. They join Duncan Barnett (BCBA), Matt Bowman (CCA), Sylvain Bourque (QBP), Cam Daniels (CMA), Kim O’Neil (CMA), Don Hargrave (BFO), Nancy Howatt (MBP), Yvonne Mills (CBA), Corlena Patterson (CSF) and David Saretsky (CLDA).

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Your Feedback is Important Board members and staff are always looking for ways to improve our service and support, and we value your feedback. Please contact a director or the CCIA office anytime at 1-877-909-2333 or info@canadaid.ca.

REPORT FROM

CANADIAN BEEF CHECK-OFF AGENCY

JEFF SMITH, CBCA CHAIR In 2022/23, the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off revenue totalled $18,299,587 on cattle marketed, net of the provincial portion of the federal levy.

The import levy on beef cattle, beef and beef products imported into Canada was collected at a rate of $1 per head equivalent, for a total of $1,185,219. These funds, net administration, are allocated to unbranded, generic beef and veal marketing such as nutrition marketing, recipe development and culinary skills education. $812,178 was spent on the administration of the Canadian Beef Check-Off Agency and the Board of Directors, which was under budget by $104,822.

Engaged and Educated Stakeholders The Agency continued to develop annual report cards for 10 provincial associations and I.E. Canada, which focus on year over year revenue comparisons, the allocation of check-off and import levy investments, and a distilled picture of how marketings and imports change throughout the year and across the country. These report cards provide valuable information for associations to assist with budgeting and identifying slippage or collection errors.

Administration The Agency’s budget supported the operations and Board, as well as the Agency’s four strategic objectives: • Sound Governance and Administration • Structured Reporting and Compliance • Educated and Engaged Stakeholders • Strategic Communications and Collaboration Sound Governance and Administration This year, the Agency finalized a five-year review of the governance and operational structure of the Marketing Committee, and most of the work was completed in 2022/23. The review was focused on ensuring that the Agency and Marketing Committee were able to function efficiently in both governance and operation, and deliver the high quality service that stakeholders expect. The review did not identify any major challenges to the governance or operational structure but did identify opportunities to better support the Marketing Committee Members in their role. The Committee has developed a plan to address challenges in onboarding, orientation and ensuring clarity on the roles and responsibilities of the Committee.

The Agency continues to focus on strengthening the skills of Agency Members to prepare for future leadership roles. A set of recruitment resources was developed to ensure that potential and new Members can understand the role, requirements, and responsibilities early on. The tools, along with the commitment from the Agency Members, continue to attract and retain engaged Members.

A full year of administering the pork import levy has proven to be a beneficial partnership for both the pork and beef promotion and research agencies, piggybacking on existing infrastructure and processes that the Agency employs for the beef import levy. Strong connections built through collection management have given way to an increasing compliance rate for both the pork and beef levies.

The Agency’s administrative costs were higher last year when compared to the past few years operating during the COVID-19 pandemic closures and travel restrictions.

To reconnect with stakeholders across the country, Agency representatives began travelling to AGMs, meetings and met in person as a full board at the AGM in August for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic. The Agency is still focusing on efficient administration and will continue to employ remote meeting and work opportunities when it makes sense to do so. The Agency also chose to hold a fall board meeting in Ottawa in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Farm Products Council of Canada (FPCC), building on the robust relationship between the two organizations.

Structured Reporting and Compliance The Agency’s appointed inspectors conducted multiple field and provincial association audits last year. A contract inspection program with Veal Farmers of Ontario (VFO) showed value to both the VFO and the Agency, with an “education first” strategy. Field inspections in Manitoba, British Columbia, Ontario, and Saskatchewan resulted in identifying over $360,000 in unremitted check-off. In addition, three provincial cattle association audits have been completed, where both efficiencies and error corrections were implemented. New staff support and training also took place in both Alberta and Prince Edward Island to help new hires familiarize themselves with processes and requirements of check-off collection and remittance.

Reporting requirements for service providers, especially for provinces who allocate to provincial investment, continue to be a focus for increased efficiencies and reporting content. Stakeholders continue to seek transparent reports from the Agency in these areas, to showcase the results that check-off dollars are generating through innovative projects, programs, and strategies.

Last year was a tremendous year of growth for the Agency’s youth engagement strategy. The Agency worked directly with the Canadian Cattle Youth Council to receive a Youth Member nomination and welcomed Julie Mortenson to the board in August.

Julie continues to be an active and engaged member of the Agency, working closely with her Agency mentor Chad Ross to develop a stronger understanding for the governance of the Agency, regulatory framework, and making informed decisions on behalf of Canada’s beef industry. The Agency’s first scholarship program was also developed as a part of the youth strategy, with the first-ever winner announced at the Agency’s AGM in August 2023. Congratulations to Hannah Nikkel of Pickardville, AB, who submitted a video focusing on her future in the beef industry.

Strategic Communication and Collaboration The Agency continues to be a go-to source for cattle marketing data in Canada. With one of the most accurate sets of data for a number of marketings in the country, the Agency has found opportunities to work with stakeholder groups and larger industry organizations to help create more accurate data sets. This could add value to producers and producer groups who rely on accurate data from these organizations to make business or program decisions.

The Agency’s online communication channels were busy this year, with a 27% increase in website traffic (about half generated through social media) and a 10% increase in readership (open rate) on the Agency’s newsletter and email blasts. Most of the increase can be attributed to the interest in the Agency’s recent ROI study showcasing the 33:1 return on investment for producers, and the launch of the Agency’s first scholarship program.

Our service providers at Canada Beef, the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) and Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) continue to do great work on behalf of the industry. Canada Beef renovated the Canadian Beef Centre of Excellence (CBCE) to meet the changing needs of consumer and partner outreach since the pandemic. BCRC invested into industry-leading research on the relationship between transport rest stops and Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD). The PSE team continued to show strong value in public engagement, with a rallying call to Canadians to “Get Both Sides”, a campaign focused on the environmental benefits of beef production aimed at millennial women.

My first year as Chair has been a pleasure working on behalf of our stakeholders, and I’m looking forward to seeing some of the work we’ve begun in 2022/23 moved forward in my second year. I am confident you will continue to see lots of great things from the Agency, and we will continue to do what is right for the beef and veal industry in Canada.

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REPORT FROM

NATIONAL CATTLE FEEDERS’ ASSOCIATION WILL LOWE, NCFA BOARD CHAIR

In the last year, Canadian cattle feeders encountered significant hurdles, including drought, transportation difficulties, and demands to cut down greenhouse gas emissions. All of these have had substantial economic impacts on producers. NCFA works with government and other stakeholders to deliver pragmatic and timely solutions.

NCFA’s committed directors, members and staff have exerted significant efforts this year. Collaboratively, they have successfully tackled numerous challenges facing the fed cattle industry. Their combined endeavors have not only positioned NCFA as a strong force, but also garnered substantial support from industry stakeholders, fostering a positive impact on the agriculture sector nationwide.

NCFA is governed by an eight-member board that includes seven directors appointed by our provincial member organizations, plus another director representing the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA). Each province also appoints a staff representative to work with the NCFA team to execute our collective decisions and priorities. This year NCFA hired a full-time Vice President of Policy and Government Relations, based in Ottawa. This has given NCFA an effective and ongoing presence in Ottawa.

KEY RESULTS This year the cattle industry faced a number of challenges, but also enjoyed successes.

With our industry partners, NCFA has provided impactful solutions to Canadian cattle feeders. Our concerted efforts have reduced barriers and leveraged opportunities for growth and competitiveness among Canadian fed cattle producers. NCFA action on key issues in 2023 included: • Working tirelessly to get the federal government to establish a Foot & Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine bank and preparedness strategy. Budget 2023 provided $57.5 million over five years with $5.6 million ongoing, to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to establish a FMD vaccine bank for Canada, and to develop FMD response plans. The government is seeking a cost-sharing arrangement with provinces and territories. NCFA is working closely with CFIA to build an effective response plan.

• Continuing to lead the work with the National Working Group on Animal Transport as it relates to electronic logging devices (hours of service) for commercial vehicle drivers. NCFA advocacy efforts triggered a study by the House of Commons Agriculture Committee on the issue. Advocacy efforts will continue in 2024 in partnership with multiple political champions we have secured on this issue.

• Receiving CRSB recognition for NCFA’s Feedlot Animal Care Assessment tool for our beef quality and food safety indicators (in addition to the previous CRSB recognition for our animal health and welfare indicators).

• Securing ongoing improvements to the temporary foreign workers program and permanent residency pathways while advocating for a long-term agriculture labour strategy.

• Successfully advocating the federal government to commit to legislative changes to exempt Canadian farmers from reporting obligations within the Underused Housing Tax. • Ongoing and proactive advocacy on numerous issues including traceability, re-evaluation of Lambda-cyhalothrin, pan-Canadian school food policy, methane-emission reduction technology, trade, etc.

» The House of Commons Trade Committee (trade barriers, C-282) » The House of Commons Finance Committee (pre-budget consultations) • Collaborations with industry organizations on advocacy campaigns including ‘Say No to a Bad Deal’ and ‘Show Your Support for Bill C-234’.

• Numerous policy and regulatory submissions to the federal government on NCFA priorities including trade, transport, labour, traceability, country of origin labelling, climate, feed, antimicrobial resistance, replacement workers and school food policy.

• The annual NCFA Lobby Day in Ottawa meeting with over 35 MPs, Senators and political staff followed by a Board meeting with guests CFIA President Harpreet Kochar and Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay.

• NCFA actively advocated on multiple pieces of legislation including Bill C-282 (protecting supply management at trade table) and Bill C-234 (removing carbon tax from propane and natural gas use on farm).

• Actively engaged through social media to influence government and public opinion – In the past year NCFA gained 136 new X followers and had 65,409 post impressions.

INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT AND COLLABORATION NCFA and its members identify the issues that are of greatest importance to fed cattle producers and ensure we are a lead voice in Ottawa on those priorities. We partner with other national organizations to provide a key perspective to government on issues that cut across the beef value chain or across the entire agriculture sector. Collectively, NCFA provincial members strengthen our national voice through coordinated advocacy efforts in regions across Canada.

NCFA has always believed that industry collaboration—multiple voices speaking with consistent, coherent, and complimentary messaging—strengthens Canada’s beef industry by collectively leveraging government action on our critical concerns and priorities. NCFA has worked with our industry partners on numerous working groups across a wide range of issues including the Government-Industry Working Group on Animal Health Canada, the Government-Industry Working Group on Animal Transport Regulations, the Government-Industry Working Group on FMD Preparedness, and the Animal Protein Roundtable.

The National Cattle Feeders’ Association (NCFA) serves as a unified voice for Canada’s fed cattle producers. Our membership is comprised of provincial beef organizations from Canada’s major cattle feeding regions, each of which contributes funding to NCFA.

GOVERNMENT RELATIONS NCFA continues to stay active on its federal engagement through outreach and connection with Ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), Senators, political staff and government officials. By fostering connections with key decision-makers, NCFA is well positioned to impact policy, regulations and legislation. Federal engagement this year included: • Ongoing meetings with MPs, Senators, political staffers and senior government officials.

• Feedlot tours for MPs and government officials in member provinces.

• Appearances and/or written submissions to: » The House of Commons Agriculture Committee (carbon tax, C-275) » The Senate Agriculture Committee (C-234) » The House of Commons Health Committee (C-293) » The House of Commons Transport Committee (ELDs, labour shortages, supply chain) » The House of Commons Environment Committee (methane emission innovations) 16 2 02 3 R E P O R T T O M E M B E R S

Left to right: Joe Heemskerk, Janice Tranberg (NCFA CEO), James Bekkering, Ag Minister Lawrence MacAulay, Will Lowe (NCFA Chair), Brad Deleeuw, David Houley. Photo courtesy of NCFA.

REPORT FROM

THE BEEF CATTLE RESEARCH COUNCIL CRAIG LEHR, BCRC CHAIR Beef Producer National Check-Off Investments in Research The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) is Canada’s industry-led funding agency for beef, cattle and forage research and extension. The BCRC is directed by a committee of 16 beef producers from across the country including Manitoba representatives Melissa Atchison and Trevor Sund. It is funded primarily through the research allocation of the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off. In 2022/23, the BCRC received on average $0.67 (unaudited) of every $2.50 of the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off collected by the provinces.

This funding was leveraged under the Beef Science Cluster program with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Canadian Agricultural Partnership funding, where industry contributed 28% ($666,494) and AAFC contributed 72% ($1.67 million) in 2022/23.

In addition, the BCRC leveraged the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off for an additional $3.7 million in research funding and $250,000 in-kind from government and industry partners through initiatives outside of the Beef Science Cluster.

Beef Science Cluster IV Cluster III ended March 2023. Cluster IV was announced at the 2023 Calgary Stampede.

Canada’s Beef and Forage AgriScience Cluster under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership – AgriScience Program, totals $21.7 million, with $12.1 million in federal investment and industry contributing $9.6 million primarily through the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off. Funding will be allocated to 23 projects from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2028. All projects are focused on three centralized themes: climate change and environment, economic growth and development, and sector resilience and societal challenges.

Cluster IV project objectives include: • improved diagnostics and vaccines to manage production-limiting diseases in cattle, • development of new forages that have the potential to thrive across Canada, • improvement of food safety technologies in beef processing facilities to reduce the use of water and energy, and • development of practical, science-based resources and economic decision-making tools to support the Canadian beef industry.

Priority Research Projects Underway In addition to projects within the Science Cluster, the BCRC funds research projects aimed at achieving specific goals of high priority in the beef industry. Twelve research projects were awarded a total of $2 million in funding through the 2022/2023 annual call. These projects are exploring: • Improvements to calf health through early-life management of beef and crossbred dairy-beef calves, • Understanding grazing management of native prairie to improve forage and animal productivity, • Using prescribed fire as a tool for pasture rejuvenation, and • The potential to use beef hides as snack food.

Summaries of all projects are available on BeefResearch.ca.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT In light of new transport regulations, Dr. Trevor Alexander and team at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lethbridge Research and Development Centre investigated whether rest stops, and rest stop times impacted the respiratory health of calves. They found that calves given an eight-hour rest during long-haul transport had higher numbers if bovine respiratory disease (BRD)causing bacteria in the respiratory tract compared to calves that had not rested during transport. This adds to the work done in a previous cluster project which suggests rest stops may not mean better welfare and do put young calves at greater risk of BRD infection.

BCRC Proof of Concept Informs Research Investment The BCRC funds short-term projects to inform whether a novel idea has merit or to validate practices or technologies used in other sectors, industries or countries have potential to move the needle in Canadian beef herds. One POC project led by Dr. Jonathan Bennett at the University of Saskatchewan gained insight into selecting alfalfa varieties for pasture rejuvenation, finding that the soil microbial profiles in older compared to newer pasture stands are noticeably different. These soil microbes influence the performance of alfalfa, meaning some varieties are better suited to pasture rejuvenation than others.

CowBytes CowBytes ration-balancing software was developed by Alberta Agriculture and Forestry (AAF) and was available for purchase from AAF until 2020. Because AAF no longer has the capacity to distribute or update CowBytes, the BCRC has assumed the CowBytes trademark and responsibility for the software in 2023. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is an active partner, providing technical support for users and the beef nutrition expertise to lead future upgrades.

The software allows producers to formulate their own feed rations while considering various combinations of feed and by-products at different prices, and in doing so, can find a way to reduce feed costs while still meeting production targets. Ensuring that cattle are being fed a balanced ration can also save producers on feed costs in the long run by preventing over- or under-feeding.

It is available for purchase at www.cowbytes.ca

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REPORT FROM

THE BEEF CATTLE RESEARCH COUNCIL CRAIG LEHR, BCRC CHAIR

BCRC Funds Extension Activities Across Canada New this year, the BCRC has pledged funding to support 14 regional extension events and initiatives across Canada. Some of these activities include: • Cowbytes Training and Nutrition Workshops – Government of Manitoba • Locations, dates and agendas are available at http://bit.ly/45NwOkG • Extensive wintering management including non-traditional feeds workshop – Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture • Training and education events for Atlantic beef producers including Beef Day @ Dal, Feedlot Club, and Beef School – Maritime Beef Council • Who Darted? A Seminar on Remote Drug Delivery Best Practices – Veterinary Agri-Health Services, Airdrie, Alberta • Peer Groups Pilot – University of Saskatchewan

Project Spotlight The use of productivity enhancing technologies like hormone implants is a concern for some domestic and international consumers but removing them could mean bad news for the environment. A study co-led by Dr. Kim Ominski at the University of Manitoba and Dr. Tim McAllister at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lethbridge sought to quantify the environmental impacts of removing these products from

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Cow-Calf Record Keeping Courses The BCRC launched a suite of cow-calf record keeping courses in 2023 designed for beef producers that are working to strengthen their farm record-keeping and analysis skills for profitable decision making. The free courses deliver valuable information to producers’ inbox in digestible bites every few days. Courses currently available include: • Animal Health and Performance Records, • Forage & Grasslands Records and • Records for Tracking Genetic Improvements.

Learn more and sign up at BeefResearch.ca under the Posts & Multimedia tab.

Canadian beef cattle backgrounding and finishing programs and found that productivity enhancing technologies reduce greenhouse gas and ammonia emissions, land requirements and water use compared to cattle in natural production systems.

This data adds to the growing mass of knowledge that can inform consumers about the consequences of their food choices and help cattle producers understand the impacts of using productivity enhancing technologies.

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M A N I T O B A B E E F P R O D U C E R S 19

2023

YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

Home cooks were delighted to learn that Great Tastes of Manitoba returned for a 34th season.

Great Tastes of Manitoba is a farm-to-table cooking series hosted by popular Winnipeg media personality, Dez Daniels. Dez was joined in the kitchen

by MBP’s Chef Anna Borys who demonstrated triple-tested beef recipes. In addition to the tasty recipes, viewers were taken on a captivating journey behind the scenes, where they were introduced to the hardworking Lowry and Hodgins families.

Through personal interviews and on-site visits, the series provides an intimate look at the dedication and passion that goes into every crop and the livestock raised in Manitoba. By showcasing the stories of these local farmers, Great Tastes of Manitoba aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the hardworking individuals who bring food to our tables.

In addition to its regular Saturday airing on CTV Winnipeg, the series can now be streamed on-demand on greattastesmb.ca or on the @ GreatTastesTV YouTube channel. greattastesmb.ca is an excellent resource for home cooks and consumers with over 600 recipes, full episodes, and over 60 unique stories direct from agricultural communities across the province. By following Great Tastes on social media and subscribing to their YouTube channel, viewers can gain exclusive access to behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with local farmers, meal ideas and local product information, and get a closer look at the making of the series.

Great Tastes of Manitoba has been a staple in the hearts and homes of Manitobans since its establishment in 1991. Great Tastes is produced by FRANK Digital in partnership with Manitoba Agriculture through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, and Manitoba’s farmers and ranchers through their non-profit industry associations: Manitoba Beef Producers, Hello Canola, Manitoba Chicken, Manitoba Crop Alliance, Manitoba Pork, Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers, and Manitoba Turkey Producers.

(Photo credit: David Hultin/MBP ) Glen Lowry

2 0 2 02 3 R E P O R T T O M E M B E R S

(Photo credit: FRANK Digital)

Great Tastes of Manitoba has garnered a dedicated following over the years, thanks to its engaging hosts, delicious recipes, and heartwarming local stories.

For those who prefer a digital experience, be sure to follow Great Tastes on Facebook and Instagram, and subscribe to their YouTube channel.

(Photo credit: David Hultin/MBP ) Pam Lowry

(Photo credit: David Hultin/MBP ) Cameron Hodgins

2023

YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

In December MBP met with the Hon. Ron Kostyshyn, Minister of Agriculture and staff from the department, as well as Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation.

Ongoing engagement on topics such as business risk management programs, livestock predation, agricultural Crown lands, livestock-related crimes and more are an important part of MBP’s advocacy activities throughout the year. L-r: Carson Callum, MBP General Manager; District 12 Director Mark Good; District 7 Director Tyler Fulton; District 8 Director and MBP President Matthew Atkinson; MBP Policy Analyst Maureen Cousins; and, the Hon. Ron Kostyshyn.

In April MBP President Matthew Atkinson participated in an event in Dauphin with Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson related to the opening of the intake period for two new programs under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. MBP appreciates the opportunity to meet with federal and provincial ministers and government staff to discuss matters of importance to Manitoba’s beef industry.

M A N I T O B A B E E F P R O D U C E R S 21

2023

YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

Producer knowledge session MBP hosted a producer outreach & knowledge session in July that featured industry updates along with a hands-on ultrasound demonstration and discussion. Results from the session were featured in the September 2023 edition of Cattle Country.

(Photo credit: Mary Paziuk/MBP)

Virtual Food Session MBP was once again thrilled to take part in the 4-H Manitoba Viterra Canada Virtual Food Session that featured Chef Anna Borys and District 2 director Nancy Howatt.

Together the group prepared a beef taco casserole. Anna shared her culinary knowledge and safety tips with 4-H Manitoba members while Nancy spoke about her years in the beef industry and her time on the Manitoba Beef Producers Board of Directors. The evening also featured a Q & A session.

(Photo credit Anna Borys)

(Photo credit David Hultin/MBP)

(Photo credit: Melissa Atchison/MBP)

BurrowingOwls

(Photo credit: David Hultin/MBP)

Discover Ag in the City In March, MBP took part in the first Discover Ag in the City event at The Forks in Winnipeg since the pandemic. This was a great event that saw more than 900 people attend MBP’s booth. District 9 Director Trevor Sund helped staff the booth and took questions about beef production with attendees.

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At our booth at the Royal Winter Fair in Brandon at the end of March, along with a live cow/calf pair we hosted colleagues from the Manitoba Burrowing Owl Rehabilitation Program and their brand ambassador, Bindi. Bindi is a lovely burrowing owl that brought a lot of attention to our booth. This partnership was a terrific way to demonstrate the importance of cattle of the landscape for keeping critical habitat intact for species at risk, like the burrowing owl. We counted approximately 8,000 visitors to the MBP booth over the course of the six-day event in Brandon. The busiest time at the booth was when Bindi was there, along with our cow/calf pair helping to deliver a positive environmental story to those who attended.

Calving Workshop The calving workshops in Eriksdale and at the Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives (MBFI) farm north of Brandon in January featured a local Manitoba veterinarian and simulation cow. The aim was to give producers a sense of how to tackle calving challenges, skills that are essential on the farm.

Each workshop taught participants about calving using Clover, a life-size fibreglass Hereford cow with a life-size rubber calf named Leaf that fits inside and can be removed to simulate different types of calf births — including those that need human intervention.

(Photo credit: Melissa Atchison/MBP)

(Photo credit: Melissa Atchison/MBP)

Discover the Farm The Bruce D. Campbell Farm and Food Discovery Centre was packed with visitors on September 17 as Discover the Farm kicked off the provincial Farm and Food Awareness Week.

Discover the Farm is a fun, free, oneday, educational event that offers families a chance to explore the vibrant and innovative world of local Manitoba agriculture.

Over 900 people visited the MBP booth that featured the Guardians of the Grasslands grazing simulation video game, kimchi meatball samples, and the new permanent display that promotes hands-on understanding of how the beef industry interacts with many parts of the larger ecosystem.

(Photo credit: David Hultin/MBP)

Amazing Ag Adventure Agriculture and science came to life in this interactive, hands-on agriculture experience for Grade 4 and 5 students in October. Over 300 students learnt about Manitoba’s livestock industry by visiting 10 interactive stations highlighting Dairy, Beef, Chicken, Eggs, Pork, Bees, Canola, Veterinary, 4H and Watersheds. Students gained an understanding of how animals are cared for, how animal agriculture plays a role in their daily life and how they could one day be part of an exciting career in Agriculture.

(Photo credit: Harvest Manitoba)

Burger it Forward During the month of February, over 90 restaurants across Canada (including 16 in Manitoba) participated in the Burger It Forward campaign aimed at relieving the growing food insecurity challenge in Canada. As food banks struggle to keep up with demand, this initiative aims to “beef up” the protein portion of food bank offerings while supporting locally owned restaurants.

Each participating restaurant featured a select burger for the campaign, from classic to creative! For each burger purchased, Canada Beef donated the equivalent of one meal to Food Banks Canada, to a maximum of 20,000 meals.

In support of the campaign, Manitoba Beef Producers made a $2,000 donation towards Harvest Manitoba via the Burger it Forward initiative.

(Photo credit: John Gaudes/AITC-MB) MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS 23

2023

YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

(Photo credit: David Hultin/MBP)

Fields to Forks Fields to Forks is a CTV production that showcases the journey of Canadian food production. Amaglen Limousin, operated by Amanda, Clint, Laura and Lillian Seward alongside Ian and Bonnie Hamilton, represented Manitoba Beef Producers in a series of television, radio and digital commercials as a fifth-generation family farm from the Darlingford area.

(Photo credit: Manitoba Farm Writers and Broadcasters Association)

MooMania Moo Mania offers hands-on educational opportunities for grades 3, 4, and 5 students to experience livestock and learn about where food comes from as well as healthy environment practices. Over 300 children participated in the event and visited the MBP station during AG EX in Brandon.

KAP election panel/March election panel In lead up to the October provincial election, the Manitoba Farm Writers and Broadcasters Association hosted a pre-election panel discussion in February 2023 on pressing issues facing the agriculture sector. Manitoba Beef Producers was joined by representatives from Manitoba Pork and Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP).

In July, MBP President Matthew Atkinson took part in a similar panel discussion facilitated by KAP involving the Egg Farmers of Manitoba and Prairie Oat Growers Association.

(Photo credit: MBP)

Beef Week In today’s fast-paced and technology-driven world, many Manitoba students are becoming increasingly disconnected from where their food comes from. This past April, Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) partnered with Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba (AITC-M) to reconnect students with their food by bringing beef cows into the classroom – virtually.

On April 19, students in 61 classrooms watched a broadcast of a beef farm tour led by District 6 Director Andre Steppler. Camera crew in tow, 2 4 2 02 3 R E P O R T T O M E M B E R S

(Photo credit: AITC-MB)

Steppler and his family gave the students an upclose-and-personal look at how they care for their environment while providing safe, healthy meat for Manitoba and the world.

A live question-and-answer session after the tour allowed students to ask Andre questions directly.

The tour was the highlight of Beef Week (April 17-21), a social media campaign hosted by AITC-M and sponsored by MBP. Beef Week challenged Manitoba students and teachers to beef up their knowledge about beef production without leaving the classroom.