Cattle Country - June 2024

The Best Offense Is Defense:

15 Plays To Keep Your Beef Herd Safe

(Beef Cattle Research Council, May 2, 2024) As humankind evolved from a nomadic hunter-gatherer society into agricultural-based settlement populations, there is a reason domesticated bovine played a major role as a farmed species. Cattle are hardy and resilient, defending themselves against many potentially harmful viruses, bacteria and parasitic burdens. That said, as their caregivers, there are scenarios where beef cattle producers can help ease that burden by implementing

Shared grazing leases without confirming disease status or quarantine

Producers can play a proactive role in community grazing situations by ensuring animals with a poor body condition score, or showing signs of possible illness, are not shipped to a community pasture. While there, pasture staff should have a standardized protocol for vaccination, disease identification and treatment while animals are at the community pasture, and they should work closely with a veterinarian when things aren’t looking right.  page 9

Students at Winnipeg's Westwood Collegiate were recently part of a classroom cooking collaboration with Manitoba Beef Producers. Please see story on page 5. (Photo credit: David Hultin/MBP)

There is Value in Livestock Traceability

Of the many files that are on the go at any given time, a fairly significant amount of discussion these days surrounds traceability. A lot of this is motivated by the fact we, as cattle producers, along with many other areas of agriculture, have some changes coming our way. The new traceability requirements from the federal government are likely to come into place within the next three years. The reality of this is going to mean more reporting of animal movements is required.

We have had the opportunity to provide feedback, both as industry groups and individual producers in Canada, and will have more opportunities to provide feedback going forward, and I encourage everybody to voice their concerns. I have been part of these discussions and feedback at a few different points, as chair of Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP), co-chair of the Animal Health and Care Committee at the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) and as one of the CCA’s representatives to the board of the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA). I think it’s fair to say that all the feedback has been fairly similar, in that we do see value in this. However, it needs to be structured in such a way that it does not slow commerce and trade.

as a primary producer, most of us don’t recognize a lot of the value of this day-to-day on our own operations, but we certainly would if we were the ones involved in a disease outbreak. We also reap a lot of the benefits of our traceability system being in place, in that it gives us better trade market access, resulting in higher prices.

Much of the feeding industry does utilize individual identifiers, like CCIA tags, as part of their record

It could also mean getting a more reliable permanent identifier, whether that is a better tag, or a transition to something else, like perhaps a rumen bolus or microchip that results in better retention and makes deliberate removal more difficult, if not impossible. The kicker to all of this is that the primary producer is always going to be the one purchasing tags for the calves and this also requires longer retention periods in a cow herd, making it challenging to recognize that value.

I think we can also agree that our current ear tags still leave a lot to be desired and the increased traceability requirements may be the kick in the backside that is needed to get those individual identifiers to improve.

current struggles we encounter when dealing with trace outs related to situations like bovine tuberculosis and other diseases, and certainly when we get into looking at modelling on how to limit risk in something like a Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak. The challenge is that

keeping and day-to-day management on things like tracking gains, withdrawal times and general herd health. I do think we are moving more in this direction in the primary producer sector, but we still have a long way to go. I think we can also agree that our current ear tags still leave a lot to be desired and the increased traceability requirements may be the kick in the backside that is needed to get those individual identifiers to improve. This means both better technology for a greater reading distance, with something like ultra-high frequency tags.

Currently, it looks like a large portion of cattle movement will still be able to operate under bulk movement reporting. This would mean simply saying something like, “25 calves from one Manitoba premise ID to an auction mart at another premise ID”. However, there are still questions as to who would do that reporting and how it would get done. This can be achieved through good and thorough manifest use. I would encourage everybody to keep an eye out for consultation opportunities and read up on some of the potential changes.

Our biggest piece of feedback is to just keep it simple — easy to understand and easy to comply with, so that everyone, from the producers, to the livestock markets, and feedlots, all clearly understand a simple set of rules. We also want a chance to get up to speed. We are unique in the cattle industry in that we don’t have a continuous year round flow of movement, like hogs or poultry, but rather we have really quiet times of year, followed by a really busy fall run. We need a nice slow rollout of these changes so we can work out the kinks along the way.

BLACK MEADOWS ANGUS

Boissevain-Morton, Brenda-Waskada, Grassland, Deloraine-Winchester, and Two Borders

DISTRIC T 2 MARK SCHRAM

Argyle, Cartwright-Roblin, KillarneyTurtle Mountain, Lorne, Louise, Pembina, and Prairie Lakes

DISTRIC T 3 ANDRE STEPPLER Cartier, Du erin, Grey, MacDonald, Portage la Prairie, Rhineland, Roland, Stanley, Thompson, Montcalm, Morris, and Ritchot

DISTRIC T 4 BYRON FALK De Salaberry, Emerson-Franklin, Hanover, La Broquerie, Piney and Stuartburn, Montcalm, Morris, Ritchot, Spring eld, Ste. Anne, Taché, R.M. of Piney and Reynolds

DISTRIC T 5 STEVEN MANNS Cornwallis, Elton, Norfolk-Treherne, North Norfolk, Oakland-Wawanesa, Glenboro-South Cypress, and Victoria

DISTRIC T 6 BRIAN ENGLISH Pipestone, Riverdale, Sifton, Souris-Glenwood, Wallace-Woodworth, and Whitehead

DISTRIC T 7 T YLER FULTON 2ND VICE-PRESIDENT Ellice-Archie, Hamiota, Prairie-View, Riding Mountain West, Rossburn, Russell-Binscarth, and Yellowhead

DISTRIC T 8 MATTHEW ATKINSON Clanwilliam-Erickson, Glenella-Lansdowne, Harrison-Park, Minto-Odanah, Oakview, North Cypress-Langford, Rosedale, and West Lake-Gladstone

DISTRIC T 9 TREVOR SUND Alexander, Brokenhead, East St. Paul, Lac Du Bonnet, Rockwood, Rosser, St. Andrews, St. Clements, St. Francois Xavier, West St. Paul, Whitemouth, Woodlands, LGD of Pinawa, Reynolds, Spring eld, Ste. Anne, and Taché

DISTRIC T 10

MIKE

DISTRIC

MARY PAZIUK Dauphin, Ethelbert, Gilbert Plains, Grandview, Roblin and Mossey River

HPAI, Summer Producer Outreach Event and MBP Scholarships

Greetings friends,

Nice to see the tap has turned on this spring in many areas of the province. I recognize that still brings challenges to operations, such as muddy corrals and delayed seeding. However, this moisture is needed and better than none at all.

I am sure many of you have seen the news related to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) found in the US dairy sector. This is something our industry leaders are monitoring very closely and it’s important to stay informed and not spread misinformation. There has not been a case found in the beef herd down south, as in most cases the viral load is showing up in the milk, impacting milk production. The beef industry is working closely with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to ensure any messages to primary producers go out when needed. What I will reinforce with you now is the importance of biosecurity measures on your farm. The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) continues to provide biosecurity measures information to beef producers and is providing regular updates to stakeholders and producers. Producers can reference the Beef Cattle Research Council’s website for great biosecurity tips. I

CARSON CALLUM General Manager’s Column

also encourage you all to sign up for MBP’s newsletter, as well as those from the CCA and BCRC to stay up to date on a variety of matters related to our sector, including production information.

It is important to remember that HPAI is not a food safety concern and the risk of transmission to humans remains low. There is also no evidence to suggest that eating thoroughly cooked beef could transmit avian influenza to humans. All evidence to date indicates that thorough cooking will kill the virus. Safe food handling practices, such as handwashing and keeping meat products separate from other food products to avoid cross contamination should be followed.

Looking ahead, I want to give you all the first notice of a great upcoming producer-focused event we are planning for July 10, 2024. MBP will be hosting a

live demo at the Ashern Auction Mart that afternoon, focusing on data management hardware/software that is available to improve efficiencies on your farm. We will also be discussing new traceability requirements and tools that are being developed to help simply this effort, to make it a more effective system for tracing disease outbreaks and to potentially help with ownership confirmation. This ties in well to our overarching livestock inspection discussion that our board is working on. I encourage you to come out to this workshop, not only to take in some valuable information, but also to interact with peers in the industry. A light meal will be served after the workshop. Stay tuned for further information details on our website and social media accounts, and we hope to see you there!

Before I close, I also want to remind folks about the Manitoba Beef Producer scholarship opportunities. The deadline to apply is 4:30 p.m. on Friday, June 21, 2024. There are six $1,000 scholarships available for MBP members or their children attending a university, college, other post-secondary institution or pursuing trades training. Preference will be given to those students pursuing a field of study related to agriculture or to those acquiring a skilled trade or pursuing a career that would be beneficial to the rural economy. Complete details, including the application form can be found on our website.

Cheers to a great summer and a successful growing season!

Governments of Canada and Manitoba Invest in Manitoba’s Livestock Predation Prevention Program

(April 25, 2024 Canada/Manitoba news release)

The governments of Canada and Manitoba are providing financial support to Manitoba’s Livestock Predation Prevention Program, which supports the adoption of proactive on-farm measures to deter predator attacks, federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay and Manitoba Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced.

“Ourhardworkinglivestockproducerscanfacemajor challenges due to predator attacks,” said MacAulay. “This funding will ensure our producers have access to the tools they need to modernize their operations so they can continue to farm alongside rural wildlife while protecting their bottom lines.”

Through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), the governments are providing $500,000 to reduce the risk of livestock predation and promote the coexistence of wildlife and livestock in agricultural regions of Manitoba. The funding supports the purchase of equipment, livestock guardian dogs and constructing predator-resistant fencing.

“Predation-related challenges pose a significant concernforManitoba’slivestockproducers,whonotonly loseanimalsbutexperiencesignificant economic losses as well,”saidKostyshyn.“Producerswillbeabletomakeonfarm management changes that should reduce livestock predationandwillhelpoffset compensation claims under the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program funded by the federal and provincial governments.”

Wildlife predation of livestock is a significant problem for Manitoba producers, with over 2,000 livestock lost each year. The Livestock Predation Prevention Program provides two funding streams for producers:

• Pre-approved Livestock Predation Prevention Equipment and Guardian Dogs will allow eligible applicants to purchase solar foxlights, electronet, fladry and livestock guardian dogs.

• Predator-Resistant Fence Construction will allow eligible applicants to apply for funding to support construction of eligible fencing that deters predators from entering calving and lambing areas, pastures, extended grazing areas and deadstock compost sites.

Livestock producers that had a paid livestock predation claim under the Manitoba Wildlife Damage Compensation Program from 2021 or later are eligible to apply for the Livestock Predation Prevention Program. Eligible applicants can be reimbursed up to 75 per cent of total eligible expenses to a maximum of $5,000 for pre-approved equipment and guardian dogs, and $10,000 for fence construction.

In 2020, Manitoba launched the Livestock Predation Prevention Pilot Project, led by Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) in partnership with Manitoba Agriculture and the Manitoba Sheep Association (MSA). Over 100 projects were completed on 48 farms across the province under this pilot. The Livestock Predation Prevention Program builds on the success of the pilot.

• GRASSFED: “True North Foods is partnered with A&W Canada to supply Canadian grassfed beef for A&W’s grassfed burger program.

• GRASSFED: “True North Foods is partnered with A&W Canada to supply Canadian grassfed beef for A&W’s grassfed burger program.

• GRASSFED: “True North Foods is partnered with A&W Canada to supply

• SERVICES: Whether you are a specialty producer looking to get your product to a speci c market or distributor, or if you are producing commodity livestock for sale, we can partner with you. From our multi-species capabilities to our ability to handle smaller volumes, we o er excellent capabilities for producers in the Canadian Prairies to maximize their pro tability.

• SERVICES: Whether you are a specialty producer looking to get your product to a speci c market or distributor, or if you are producing commodity livestock for sale, we can partner with you. From our multi-species capabilities to our ability to handle smaller volumes, we o er excellent capabilities for producers in the Canadian Prairies to maximize their pro tability.

• SERVICES: Whether you are a specialty producer looking to get your product to a speci c market or distributor, or if you are producing commodity livestock for sale, we can partner with you. From our multi-species capabilities to our ability to handle smaller volumes, we o er excellent capabilities for producers in the Canadian Prairies to maximize their pro tability.

• FACILITY: We have a state-of-the-art facility to allow us to reach markets across Canada, the USA, and beyond. We understand producer’s needs, their care for their animals, and their honest, straightforward nature. Call us to hear how we can work together to get your product to market.

• FACILITY: We have a state-of-the-art facility to allow us to reach markets across Canada, the USA, and beyond. We understand producer’s needs, their care for their animals, and their honest, straightforward nature. Call us to hear how we can work together to get your product to market.

• FACILITY: We have a state-of-the-art facility to allow us to reach markets across Canada, the USA, and beyond. We understand producer’s needs, their care for their animals, and their honest, straightforward nature. Call us to hear how we can work together to get your product to market.

“Manitoba Beef Producers welcomes this valuable commitment to cost-shared funding for practices aimed at reducing the risk of predation and encourages eligible producers to explore the two programs,” said Matthew Atkinson, president, MBP. “MBP appreciates the engagement with the province on the development of strategies to help reduce livestock predation and the negative effects it has on our sector.”

Manitoba’s Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources department will also be increasing funding for the Manitoba Targeted Predator Removal Program by $90,000, for a total funding commitment of $150,000. This funding will allow the program greater flexibility in addressing livestock predation concerns.

“Manitoba’s livestock producers asked for help with predation and our government listened,” said Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Jamie Moses. “In collaboration with the producers and in partnership with the ministry of agriculture, we are addressing their concerns by more than doubling the Targeted Predator Removal Program. Producers will now have the opportunity to be compensated for the preventative management issues that they have been dealing with for a number of years.”

The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially-territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

For information and to apply for the Livestock Predation Prevention Program, visit: www.manitoba.ca/ scap/resiliency/livestock.html.

Some Additional Information About the Program

Intake information: The intake for this program is currently open; funding requests will be accepted from April 15, 2024, to:

• 11:59PM on June 14, 2024, for Predator Resistant Fence Construction

• 11:59PM on December 20, 2024, for PreApproved Livestock Predation Prevention Equipment and Guardian Dogs

Worksheets and supplementary documentation must be received by the dates stated above to be considered for funding. Worksheets and supplementary documentation will not be accepted after the dates stated above.

Eligible Applicants

• Agricultural Crown Land forage lease holders

• Association of Manitoba Community Pastures

• Indigenous primary producers and communities, including First Nations and Métis

• Primary producers

Eligible Expenses

• Eligible expenses vary by funding stream but include:

• Construction of predator resistant fencing

• Purchase of equipment to deter predator attacks

• Purchase of livestock guardian dogs

Reduce, Reuse, Ruminate Release Brings Together Beef Sector, Media and Content Creators to Share Food Loss and Waste Solutions

The short documentary ‘Reduce, Reuse, Ruminate’ publicly premiered on YouTube on April 24th, 2024, also known as “Stop Food Waste Day.” This film is the third in a series of short documentaries from Public and Stakeholder Engagement, a National Check-Off funded program that works to build public trust in the way beef cattle are raised. Each documentary showcases an environmental benefit of raising beef cattle on the Canadian landscape. Past releases include ‘Guardians of the Grasslands’ and ‘Too Close to Home’. Reduce, Reuse, Ruminate highlights the vital role cattle play in diverting food loss and waste from landfills and instead upcycling these items into beef.

In order to amplify the reach of the short documentary prior to its public launch, campus screenings were held at University of Saskatchewan, University of Manitoba, and Dalhousie. As well, exclusive events targeted towards media and content creators (influencers) were held this spring in Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. After the screening, attendees heard from an expert panel including feedlot producers, experts in circular food systems and a sustainability lead from Cavendish Farms, the official sponsor of the event series. Since transforming beer byproducts and French fries into beef are two are of the incredible sustainability stories featured in the short documentary, beef, potatoes, and beer were a natural fit for the menu at each event!

Eastbound Brewing Company was the location of the successful Toronto event, which took place the same week as the Beef Farmers of Ontario annual general meeting. Panelists included seventh generation producer Allison de Vos from Brown Farms in Kawartha Lakes, John MacQuarrie, Director of Sustainability with Cavendish Farms and Tara Lee, Head Chef and owner of Eastbound Brewing Company. The panel was moderated by Perth County producer and Director of Communications for the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, Amanda Brodhagen. Media coverage included DINE magazine, who covered the story online and in their print magazine as well as the most recent issue of Foodism Toronto

The second event was held at Howe Sound Brewing in East Vancouver. Here, university professor and cattle producer Ryan Scorgie moderated a panel that included feedlot owner Andrea van Iterson, Jamie White from Loop Resources, which sources and diverts food from grocery stores to local farms, and again, John McQuarrie from Cavendish. One of the content creators in attendance, Tyler Heppell, showcases potato production on his British Columbia farm across his social channels. You can watch his Instagram Reel from the event by visiting @potatoty and TikTok @heppellspotato.

Calgary was the final leg of the tour of urban centres. The event was held at Last Best Brewing & Distilling, which diverts their spent grains to cattle.

Here, the panel was moderated by Melissa Downing of Alberta Cattle Feeders Association. In addition to the representative from Cavendish, panelists included Ryan Kasko of Kasko Cattle Co., who is featured in the short documentary, as well as Victoria Ross of aGRO Systems, a waste upcycling and livestock feeding service provider. Combined, the events drew nearly 250 attendees and reached hundreds of thousands of Canadians through content creators on social media, print and digital articles as well as a broadcast TV segment with Global News. A recording of the online launch event is available on YouTube, and we encourage you to share the film far and wide now that it has been released publicly!

Cooking in the Classroom at Winnipeg’s Westwood Collegiate

BY: DAVID HULTIN, MBP COMMUNICATIONS AND MARKETING LEAD

Grade 11 students at Winnipeg’s Westwood Collegiate kicked off the May long weekend with a cooking lesson featuring the epitome of comfort food, a beef taco casserole.

The morning included a short presentation about the Manitoba beef industry, but the highlight was Chef Anna Borys – Manitoba Beef Producers’ resident food expert – guiding the thirty-five students from the St. James-Assiniboia School Division through the recipe as they worked together to prepare the meal from scratch.

“I was so impressed to see the students get involved and assign tasks within their groups and work together to not only create a dish but also have their kitchens all spotless again in under an hour,” she said. “Such a fun opportunity!”

The classroom cooking collaboration came about after Foods and Nutrition teacher Andrea Overby and MBP General Manager Carson Callum met at the recent Agriculture in the Classroom Annual General Meeting.

“I think it’s important for the students to see the connection between the farmers and the commodity

group and their lives – the trifecta if you will,” mentioned Overby. “I want them to have a real-life experience with someone directly involved in the industry and I teach this unit because it’s important for the kids to understand the correlation between the food they eat and the people who produce it.”

Teaching basic culinary skills is an important part of the classroom experience, Overby explained, but so is being able to explore different foods and building confidence at home in the kitchen.

One of the students, 16-yearold Max, breezed through the demo and then pulled the piping hot casserole from the oven to show his teacher before enjoying a sample.

“I have always loved cooking. I’ve always been interested

in different meals, diverse cultures, and what they do. I like to make new things. I wouldn’t say I have a favourite dish, but I always enjoy making something I’ve never made before just to get more experience in the kitchen,” he said. “I thought the casserole was super good, not overly complicated, it didn’t take long to make. It looks like a good dish to bring to get-togethers.”

The panel at Eastbound Brewing Company in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo courtesy of Public and Stakeholder Engagement)

CBIC Focuses on Tomorrow’s Beef Industry Leaders

BY: ANGELA LOVELL

This year’s Canadian Beef Industry Conference (CBIC) will focus on the four pillars of the National Beef Strategy – beef demand, competitiveness, productivity and connectivity – and on youth.

“All four pillars of the National Beef Strategy will be represented with industry leading experts offering practical, take-home information for producers,” says Scott Wright, Chair of the conference.

Youth a strong presence at this year’s conference

Beef industry leaders of the future will be represented throughout the conference from the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders program selections and graduation for tomorrow’s producers, to showcasing up and coming beef researchers.

“The grad students posters exhibit is always an opportunity for those young leaders emerging in the industry to be a part of conversations with producers,” Wright says. “It’s a chance for producers to help the students in their journey and influence their future direction, and a chance for the students to show off some of their ideas and innovations.”

This year’s conference introduces a new format for some of the sessions called Ask Me Anything that give producers the chance to ask questions of nutritionists, veterinarians, policy makers, researchers, marketing and succession experts. They will be able to connect with other producers to share their own stories and learn from others.

“This format provides a wide-open dialogue for producers and experts to look at problem solving and creating solutions together,” Wright says.

A full agenda

The agenda is jam packed over the three days, beginning with a pre-conference tour on August

tle rancher and expert on rural communities. McCray is co-founder of rural consulting company SaveYour. Town, and her goal is to deliver practical steps that rural towns and communities can put into action right away to shape their future.

Beef industry organizations will hold their AGMs on the first day of the conference and there will be, of course, updates from beef industry organizations on the beef market and global beef protein outlook. Presentations cover a broad range of topics. Producers will talk about their experiences handling drought, succession, starting an operation from scratch and improving genetics.

This year’s conference introduces a new format for some of the sessions called Ask Me Anything that give producers the chance to ask questions of nutritionists, veterinarians, policy makers, researchers, marketing and succession experts. They will be able to connect with other producers to share their own stories and learn from others.

Ask Me Anything sessions

The conference is being held for the first time in Saskatchewan, at the Prairieland Park in Saskatoon from August 19 to 22.

19 that will give attendees the chance to experience Saskatchewan beef production, and which includes a stop at the University of Saskatchewan’s Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence. The day is topped off with the Social Bull event sponsored by Lammle’s Western Wear.

Opening the conference will be keynote speaker Becky McCray of Oklahoma, a rural entrepreneur, cat-

After a busy day on Wednesday, attendees can relax and enjoy a plated banquet and discover the winners of the 2024 National TESA (The Environmental Stewardship Award), an initiative of the Canadian Cattle Association.

Winding up, attendees can attend the Boot Camp and rotate through various stations to test their skills on simulators such as roping, tagging, vaccinating and much more.

Registration is now open and more information can be found at https://canadianbeefindustryconference.com/ wordpress/2024-event-info/

Manitoba Set to Host Canadian Livestock Auctioneering Championships and Livestock Markets Association of Canada’s Annual Convention

By the time you get to read this, it will be June and many of the cattle will be turned out to pasture. Timely rains in early May in most areas cleaned up the grass, giving the pastures a decent start. The seasonal drop in the cattle volumes at the sales barns makes it hard to quote prices or even give an accurate market report.

The butcher cow market is strong; back in January, I predicted that we would see $1.80 cows in mid-summer. Well, it didn’t take that long. Good quality lean cows broke the $1.80 barrier in May. The western cow market is holding steady to slightly stronger than the American butcher cow trade. The Ontario cull cow market is behind the western trade by about 20 cents per pound, but we must take into consideration that a large percentage of the cow trade in Ontario is cull dairy cows which would bring down the Ontario average. The live cow trade in Manitoba is higher than the railgrade prices being offered by the packers. The live sales are the way to market your cull cows in Manitoba.

In Manitoba, the butcher bull trade is powerful to say the least. Good quality, high yielding exotic bulls are trading well over $2.00 per pound live, with sales topping north of $2.20. I would expect to see both the cow and bull market remain strong throughout the summer. Fed cattle peaked at $432 delivered to Alberta, with lower prices predicted for July and August.

The feeder cattle market has been volatile, with pricing linked to quality. The grass market has found a level and has topped out. Cattle too heavy and fleshy to go to grass are under some pressure unless they are good enough for the Ontario market. Ontario quality steers are bringing a 5 to 12 cent per pound premium. There is still a market for breeding type heifers over 800 pounds; the replacement quality heifers are trading for $2,450 per head and higher.

Sellers of young, top-quality cow-calf pairs are asking up to $4,600 per pair, but there have been very few confirmed sales at that level.

RICK WRIGHT The Bottom Line

This spring’s cattle market has really reinforced the importance of the auction markets and the role they play in “true price discovery.” The commission charged to sell at a well-run, well-promoted, competitive sale with lots of buyers did not cost the seller a penny; it made them money. With the spring market on an upswing, no one, including the local industry experts, had any idea what cattle would be worth until they had them at the sale. Even some of the order buyers who feed cattle themselves took the cattle to auctions or placed them on the electronic platforms, because there was a good chance that prices would be better than selling direct. Producers who used to sell direct to save the selling commission were quoting the prices from the previous sales when trying to sell their cattle. As a cattle buyer paying these record high prices, the importance of accurate weights and appropriate price slides were critical when bidding in the country. If the cattle were sorted properly at the auction, we could bid with confidence in the ring, because we knew what the cattle weighed.

Despite Manitoba’s cow herd continuing to shrink, the total number of cattle marketings through the Manitoba auctions to April 30, was approximately 13% higher than last year.

My advice is not to worry about the selling commission, but rather make sure you manage the shrink and demand a good sort at the market, and your cattle will sell well. Some market operators try to please the producer by being too lenient on the sort to make the packages bigger at the show list sales. Frozen ears, cattle with horns and short fleshly smaller-framed cattle do not belong in the packages with the good cattle. I have

always said that as an order buyer, it is not what you can buy, but rather what you can sell. At today’s prices the tolerance level from the feedlots for second cuts mixed with number ones is very low, unless you can buy them at second cut prices.

The Manitoba Livestock Markets Association will be hosting its annual Cattlemen’s and Farmers Golf tournament in Killarney on August 1. Information and entry forms will be available the last week of June.

In other industry news, Manitoba was awarded the 2025 Canadian Livestock Auctioneering Championships and Livestock Markets Association of Canada’s annual convention. Headquarters will be in Brandon, with the auctioneering competition in Virden at Heartland Livestock Services, May 8 -11, 2025. This event brings livestock marketers, auctioneers, buyers, cattle producers, and feeders, along with service providers from all over Canada. Information and registration will be available on the LMAC website in December of this year.

This year, the event was held in Waterloo, Ontario with 36 auctioneers and over 250 people registered for the convention. Doug Jackson, formerly of Souris, was inducted into the LMAC Memorial Honour for his contributions to the cattle marketing industry. Jack McKennitt, a cattle dealer, auction market operator and former LMAC President, was inducted into the LMAC Hall of Fame. McKennitt operated the Pilot Mound Auction Mart and was a driving force in the livestock marketing industry. He was recognized for his leadership and business ethics, as well as the promotion of the livestock-marketing sector. Only one person is inducted into the Hall of Fame each year from across Canada, and both individuals were nominated by the MLMA.

Until next time, have a great summer, Rick.

Prevention is the Best Defence Against Anthrax

BY: ANGELA LOVELL

Last September, anthrax was confirmed as having caused the death of a cow and was suspected in two additional deaths in the same herd, in the RM of Cote in Saskatchewan.

Anthrax is a fatal soil-borne disease that can affect all mammals, but cattle, sheep and other grazing livestock are particularly susceptible. It causes massive internal haemorrhaging, and the animal dies very quickly and suddenly after being infected, often without having shown any visible disease symptoms, which makes it difficult for producers to identify anthrax as the cause of death.

“An apparently healthy animal suddenly dies, and it is unlikely producers will see the animal sick,” says Dr. Glen Duizer, Animal Health Surveillance Veterinarian with Manitoba’s Animal Health and Welfare Team. “They may think it is blackleg, or bloat, or that the animal consumed a toxic weed, but with those things it will take an animal a day or two to die, and with anthrax it is just hours after consumption. One of the telltale signs of anthrax is large amounts of blood leaking from all orifices (eyes, ears, nose, mouth and anus) of the animal.”

A persistent disease

There has not been a confirmed case of anthrax in Manitoba since 2011, but because the bacterial spores that cause it can live for decades in the soil, there is always the potential for it to be present, so it’s important for livestock producers to understand some of the circumstances that are more likely to cause it to come to the surface and contaminate their cattle.

Anthrax is most common in the grazing season and the spores can often be exposed by changes in soil

moisture such as overland flooding followed by drought, or by soil disturbance from excavation, ditching, etc. Animals are infected by eating contaminated forages or soil and can also be infected through animal-to-animal transmission by large biting flies or reusing contaminated needles.

Although anthrax outbreaks are most common in the grazing season, there have been cases in winter caused by contaminated feed.

“There have been outbreaks in Saskatchewan in winter due to feed contaminated with dirt that had anthrax spores in it, so producers should look out for poor quality hay, or hay that has got a significant amount of dirt contamination,” Duizer says.

Dealing with anthrax

When producers find a dead animal in the pasture, they should call their veterinarian immediately so that they can take blood samples and send them to the provincial laboratory for testing. They may sometimes have a rapid testing kit that gives an indication of if anthrax is present, but a full lab test will still be needed to confirm it.

Producers should cover the carcass with a heavy tarp, weighted or staked down to prevent scavengers, and not try to move it as any damage to it will allow the spores to be released and potentially infect other animals. They need to keep other animals away from the carcass either with temporary electric fencing or some other means until they can be sure of the cause of death.

Prevention is best

Although anthrax can occur anywhere in Manitoba, historically the south-east, south-central and Interlake regions are at higher risk. Livestock producers in highrisk areas should vaccinate their cattle every year about

a month before moving them onto pasture, even if there has not been an outbreak in their area for a long time.

Other preventative measures include avoiding overgrazing or using recently flooded pastures, and avoiding putting cattle in areas where the land has been recently disturbed, for example if a ditch or dugout has been cleaned out.

Carcass disposal

Once a lab test confirms anthrax, the recommended and preferred method of disposal of the carcass is to burn it if the circumstances and the environmental conditions allow for that, for example, if there is no elevated risk of wildfires because of dry conditions. Producers need a special permit to allow them to burn the carcass that their veterinarian and the Chief Veterinary Office of Manitoba will help them to get.

If burning is not possible, then the producer, veterinarian and the provincial government will work together to come up with an alternative solution.

“We work with the producer and the herd veterinarian to come up with the best solution to deal with the case in hand,” Duizer says. “We try to adapt to the circumstances on the ground.”

Anthrax is a federally and provincially reportable disease, so producers and veterinarians are obliged to report any suspected cases to Manitoba’s Chief Veterinary Office that will in turn report it to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Further information about anthrax can be found at: https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/anthrax.html

StockTalk Q&A Feature Brought to you by Manitoba Agriculture

Shawn Cabak Livestock Specialist-Beef, Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation

Shawn.Cabak@gov.mb.ca

Question: When turning my herd out on their summer pasture, what do I need to consider to ensure that their nutritional and mineral needs are being met?

Answer: Trace minerals, along with calcium and phosphorous are required to maintain productivity, health and reproductive efficiency in cattle. The trace minerals copper, manganese, zinc, iodine, cobalt and selenium are all important for livestock. Care must be taken when supplementing minerals as large amounts can potentially cause toxicity.

Trace mineral deficiencies may not noticeably affect growth performance but can drastically affect breeding and reproductive performance. Trace minerals are closely involved with the cow’s ability to cycle and rebreed after calving. If trace minerals are deficient, it will take animals longer to show heat after calving, and fewer animals will catch within the first cycle. Phosphorous requirements increase after calving and is known as the fertility mineral. A deficiency can severely affect reproductive performance and the length of time it takes for a cow to rebreed. It is important to have proper mineral supplements available to animals prior to breeding and during the breeding season. Mineral tubs with covers help prevent weathering and improve the consumption of free choice fed minerals.

In a trace mineral survey conducted across Western Canada between 2014-2019, Dr. Campbell of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine reported blood tests from cows were 24.4-42.9 per cent deficient (less than 0.5 ppm) in copper with 8592 per cent of herds having at least one deficient animal. In 2019, 63 per cent had less than adequate blood copper levels (0.6 ppm). Copper deficiency affects livestock performance, immunity, animal health and reproduction/breeding.

To alleviate copper shortages, ensure adequate mineral is being supplemented in the cattle rations. Force feeding or top-dressing mineral on the feed for three months before calving resulted in six times more cows likely to have adequate copper compared to providing mineral free choice. Cows force fed mineral cycled two times faster and became pregnant five days earlier.

Shortening up a breeding season is profitable in several ways. Calves that gain, on average, 2.5 lbs/day will be approximately 53 lbs. heavier at weaning if born one cycle earlier and 106 lbs. heavier if born two cycles earlier. More calves that are born closer together in a shorter calving interval will be more uniform at weaning, resulting in bigger packages in the sale ring that will bring premium prices.

After feeding the cows all winter for 200 days plus, most producers are anxious in the spring to send the cows to pasture. Most cows, after eating the same feed all winter long, are ready to eat fresh green forage when it first starts to grow. Even though the cows and the farmers are ready for the grass, be sure the grass is ready for the cows.

A cow nursing a young calf has its highest nutritional demands in the first two to three months after calving. The cow has to produce milk, recover from calving, maintain condition and prepare for re-breeding. The energy, protein, vitamin, mineral and dry matter requirements for a cow are at its peak during this period. A 1400 lb. cow requires approximately 35-39 lbs. of dry matter (2.5-2.75 per cent of body weight) averaging 11-12 per cent protein, low to mid 60’s in TDN (Total Digestible Nutrients,

an estimate of energy), vitamins and minerals. On an as-fed basis, this equals 41-46 lbs. of very good quality hay at 15 per cent moisture. Since hay usually isn’t high enough energy, additional silage, greenfeed or grain will help boost the energy level in the diet.

How much fresh grass on pasture needs to be consumed? Since new forage growth in the spring is high in moisture averaging 80-85 per cent a cow would have to consume 175-233 lbs. to meet her nutritional requirements. Chances are consumption will not be adequate if grass growth is minimal. Cows need to be on a rising plane of nutrition entering the breeding season and ideally in a body condition score of three, plus or minus half a point.

There are several factors to consider when turning the cows out onto pasture before the grass is ready. If the animals’ nutritional needs can’t be met, milk production will be lower affecting calf gains. If the cows are losing weight, they may not cycle properly causing them to be bred late or not at all. Early in the spring, slow growing forage’s initial growth is from root reserves. The plants can’t capture the sun’s energy until green leaves are present. Once the leaves get bigger, photosynthesis kicks into high gear speeding up growth and allowing plants to recharge the roots to remain healthy and productive.

There are four principles of grazing management that producers must consider during the grazing season:

• Balance forage demand with forage supply. To be sustainable, forage production should exceed demand resulting in residue carryover most years. In higher rainfall years, this extra forage is the buffer to help make it through dry years. The carrying capacity of a pasture is the number of animals that can be grazed annually without harming it (overgrazing).

• Distribute livestock grazing pressure evenly. A multi-paddock rotational grazing system that increases stocking density will improve forage utilization and grazing uniformity. Rotate cattle before they can re-graze regrowth.

• Minimize grazing events during vulnerable periods. Grazing plants too early in the spring will affect season long production. For every day a pasture is grazed too early, three days can be lost on the back end. Graze after the three-four leaf stage or when plants are at least six inches tall. Avoid grazing wet/flooded ground as hoof action will cause excessive compaction, trampling and damage plants.

• Allow effective rest after grazing. Plants that can rest and recover are healthier and more productive partly due to stronger roots. When forages are growing fast (spring), move the cattle faster and when growth slows down (summer), move the cattle slower.

If dry conditions have reduced forage/pasture production, what can producers do?

• Reduce yearling/stocker numbers or replacement heifers

• Cull cows more aggressively

• Look for additional pasture acres

• Supplement feed/grain on pasture

• Seed annuals for grazing-cover crops or a spring/winter cereal mixture can be grazed four-six weeks after seeding

• Wean early or creep feed calves on pasture

For more information on minerals and pasture management, please visit https:// www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/livestock/index.html or speak with your local Manitoba Agriculture Livestock and Forage Specialist.

Share Your Voice

For the next issue of Cattle Country, a Manitoba Agriculture forage or livestock specialist will answer a selected question. Send your questions to Elizabeth. Nernberg@gov.mb.ca.

The StockTalk Q&A Feature for Cattle Country is brought to you by Manitoba Agriculture. We encourage you to email your questions to our department’s forage and livestock team. We are here to help make your cattle operation successful. Contact us today.

Andrea Bertholet Killarney 204-851-6087 Andrea.Bertholet@gov.mb.ca

Kristen Bouchard-Teasdale Beausejour 431-337-1688 Kristen.BouchardTeasdale@gov.mb.ca

Shawn Cabak Portage 204-239-3353 Shawn.Cabak@gov.mb.ca

Pam Iwanchysko Dauphin 204-648-3965 Pamela.Iwanchysko@gov.mb.ca

Cindy Jack Arborg 204-768-0534 Cindy.Jack@gov.mb.ca

Juanita Kopp Beausejour 204-825-4302 Juanita.Kopp@gov.mb.ca

Elizabeth Nernberg Roblin 204-247-0087 Elizabeth.Nernberg@gov.mb.ca

 Page 1

Keep Your Beef Herd Safe

Remember cattle coming out of community pastures or grazing leases can bring unwanted diseases home like those that cause fetal loss such as bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVD) or infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR), even if they appear healthy. To avoid spreading these to the main herd, it is recommended to manage them separately for 3-4 weeks before rejoining the core group.

2. Wildlife contact

Wildlife contact with herd or feed sources

Identifying key areas on the farm where beef cattle potentially comingle with wildlife is a key factor when considering the risk of transmission of infectious diseases to a herd. For example, when cattle share pastures and water sources with other cloven-hooved animals such as deer and elk, diseases such as tuberculosis can spread between cohorts. Additionally, close contact with wild birds and other wildlife and their droppings should also be limited as much as possible to prevent cross-contamination between species.

3. Shared trailers and equipment

Using your trucks and trailers to haul someone else's cattle without cleaning or disinfecting

Farmers often work together in busy seasons to be more efficient with their time and resources. When agreeing with a neighbor to work together, consider having a conversation about the risk factors associated with possible cross-contamination between farms, and make every effort to minimize those risks.

Some jumping-off points include ensuring both herds have a similar vaccination and health status and thoroughly cleaning the shared equipment between uses.

4. Horse lending

Horses coming and going from neighbouring farms and immediately turning them back out to the herd

When lending a hand to the neighbors we often think about cleaning our trailers and washing our boots, but what about horses? When a horse has spent time in a neighboring herd, there should be adequate time and measures taken to ensure they are not bringing home pathogens on their feet or in their respiratory tracts, so some level of quarantine is recommended.

5. Livestock shows

Animals and people returning from livestock show, bull sales, farms, and auction marts without quarantine or disinfecting clothing

The commingling of people, equipment and animals at 4-H events, local fairs, livestock shows and markets pose a large risk to farming operations. Any animals or equipment returning from these events must be thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and quarantined.

6. Raw colostrum from other farms

Using colostrom from another farm

Cows from within your own herd will have the best antibody profile in their colostrum to protect your calves from the diseases persistent in your environment. Raw colostrum from other farms, especially dairies, may not include all the antibodies to protect against the diseases that threaten your herd.

Worse than that, it could also contain dangerous viruses, bacteria or parasites that are not part of your environment already. Introducing pathogens such as highly pathogenic avian influenza, Johne’s disease,  Cryptosporidium , and scours-causing organisms can cause devastating results. If you have calves that require colostrum but have none from your herd on hand, opt for pasteurized powdered colostrum instead.

7. Custom operators

Custom operators or outsourced trucks, trailers, and equipment without a cleaning/disinfection protocol

Custom workers often travel from farm to farm to provide services. While this is convenient and often time-saving for a producer, it also creates a risk if the contractor is not following biosecurity recommendations. Ensure all contractors are aware of your biosecurity protocols and that they are responsible for complying. This can include spraying tires, boot baths and wearing booties on-farm.

8. Farm visitors

Visitors coming to the farm without changing clothes or disinfecting boots

Off-farm family and friends are often excited to experience the farm, and beef producers are welcoming and enjoy sharing a glimpse into their lifestyle. When offering access to farm visitors, it is equally important to ensure simple steps are taken to protect the animals on the farm. These may include boot washes, clothing changes and hand washing.

9. Orphaned calves

10. Service providers

Service providers such as veterinarians, nutritionists, feed trucks and service vehicles coming on farm without a change of clothes or disinfecting boots

Veterinarians, feed consultants and nutritionists have the best intentions in providing critical advice to help your herd stay healthy and remain profitable. They often travel between farms, so it is crucial they follow biosecurity protocols when entering and leaving the farm.

11. Leased livestock

Commingling custom or leased livestock with your home herd without quarantine

Custom feeding and leased livestock can help bolster income when needed. Animals that do not originate from your herd will need to be quarantined and placed on the same vaccination program as the rest of your herd, in consultation with your veterinarian, before fully integrating into your herd.

12. Purchased stock

Farm purchases like open or bred heifers, bull, or replacement stock without quarantine

Bulls, replacement heifers and any other newly purchased animals will not have the same immunity as your home herd. They must be properly vaccinated and quarantined to ensure they don’t introduce disease to your herd, or vice versa.

13. Borrowed or purchased nurse cows

Borrowing/buying nurse cows without observing quarantine procedures

Nurse cows can pose a significant threat to the health status of your herd by introducing new pathogens to your calves and cows that they could be naive to. When acquiring a nurse cow from another operation, it is key to allow for an adequate amount of time to properly quarantine and evaluate the health of the incoming animal

14. Different livestock species

Commingling of differnt herds or livestock species

Purchasing orphaned calves

The economic consequences of having a dry cow for the season are significant. Because of this, it is tempting to adopt a calf from another operation onto a willing mother cow. However, the risks outweigh the reward.

Orphaned calves will carry all the pathogens they have been exposed to on their farm of origin. These pathogens may not harm the orphan calf, as they will have exposure immunity from their herd of origin. Those same pathogens, however, may be novel to your herd and could have devastating consequences for your cows and calves in the forms of scours outbreaks or reproductive wrecks.

Just because an animal is a different species doesn’t mean it cannot still carry or spread disease to the cow herd. Care must be taken when introducing new species onto the farm, such as small ruminants like sheep and goats, pigs and horses.

15. Fence-line contact and shared water

Fence-line contact and shared water

If your cows are sharing a fence line or a water source with a neighbouring herd, their problems become your problems. Any cattle that are across fences or drinking from the same water source will need to be considered when assessing risk and developing vaccination protocols.

While it is not possible to protect your herd from everything all the

understanding where

breaches are in your

plan can help identify reasonable changes in

and develop

Vet Column: Keep Your Eyes Open for Cancer Eye and Pinkeye in Cattle

According to online reports, cancer eye (squamous cell carcinoma, SCC) in cattle accounts for nearly 12% of all carcass condemnations. Once cancer eye develops, it grows rapidly and will spread - guaranteed. Without early recognition and treatment or culling, a cow can go from top value to bottom price within a few months. Don’t sit on the “unresponsive pinkeyes.”

In my experience, early cancer eye is missed by producers because they are either not looking at the eyes or they think that the cow has a bad case of pinkeye that has not responded to treatment over several months. Check each eye on every cow twice yearly - at pregnancy testing and at calving. Check regardless of what breed you have - even solid-coloured, goggled and, yes, even Angus can get cancer eye.

Cancer eye caught early is easily and economically treatable. And, if you don’t want to treat, that cow still has good market value. SCC is a serious animal welfare concern since it is associated with extreme pain. Only those with early lesions in which the eye is still intact and has vision can be transported for slaughter. Trucking cattle with more advanced disease may net you a fine and buyers will be wary due to high condemnation rates. Procrastination will cost you big time in these cases.

The causes of cancer eye are multifactorial and are similar to those of pinkeye. White-faced cattle with non-pigmented eyelids and conjunctiva are predisposed. Eye irritants like flies and dust, viral infections like IBR and papillomavirus (warts) and weakened immune systems from vitamin and mineral deficiencies may be predisposing these animals to eye disease. Older cow age and worsening ultraviolet radiation are the most likely reasons for the increased number of cancer eye cases in recent years.

So how do you distinguish cancer eye from pinkeye? Remember that pinkeye will usually resolve within three to five weeks whereas cancer eye does not. Pinkeye happens quickly and often involves several animals including young stock. Unlike cancer eye, pinkeye is initially painful - the eye is spasmed shut with excessive blinking and lots of tearing. The eyeball appears cloudy and the white of the eye is red. The eyeball may ulcerate in more severe cases (see pictures).

In contrast, cancer eye develops over time in mature cattle. Four areas of the eye are most commonly affected - the limbus (junction of the coloured and white parts of the eye -at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions), the third eyelid and the upper and lower eyelids. One or both eyes may be affected with one or multiple cancer spots. SCC progresses through four stages - plaques, keratomas, papillomas and eventually carcinoma. It can be hard to differentiate an early plaque from a scrape or skin injury so monitor to see if it resolves. Keratomas look like hard horn-like growths, while papillomas look like warts. The final stage, carcinomas look nodular and cauliflower-like. As they grow they become bloody, ulcerated and foul smelling.

Left untreated, they will eat into the surrounding tissues and involve the entire eyeball, bone socket and surrounding parts of the face. The lymph nodes of the

head (located under the ear and by the jaw) will become enlarged as the cancer begins spreading throughout the body.

Both eyes pictured above need treatment ASAPwaiting until the end of the summer will be too late as these can grow rapidly and quickly start to ulcerate.

The key thing to remember is that pinkeye involves the centre of the eyeball whereas cancer does not. Cancer spots are raised masses whereas pinkeye is just cloudiness. Get in the habit of checking eyes regularly. Take pictures and ask your vet if you are uncertain. Some cancers are “sneaky” and start developing under underneath the eyelids so they aren’t noticed until more advanced. If the eye looks odd or there is any tearing, check it out.

Treatment recommendations depend on the stage of cancer and the value of the cow. Early lesions are removed by cryosurgery (freezing with liquid nitrogen) or local excision. More advanced lesions require removal of the eye. If the cancer has already spread, humane euthanasia is your only option. If cow prices are good and the cow is older, culling at preg test time or post-calving may be the most economical and the most humane option. Don’t lose that option by waiting and hoping the problem will go away. Keep your eyes open!

INSURE your CALVES BEFORE JUNE 13.

Livestock Price Insurance (LPI) is an insurance program that provides price risk management to beef producers when market prices are volatile. Now is the time to purchase your LPI policy and protect your operation from declines in the cattle market.

Get forward price coverage for calves you plan to market between September and February 2025 with the LPI – Calf program.

Coverage options are available to choose from every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3 p.m. - 12 a.m. (CT).

• The last day to purchase LPI – Calf policies is June 13

Visit LPI.ca or phone 1-844-782-5747 for program details.

Grazing Practices Can Increase Bee Abundances – Methods For Maintaining Bee Populations

BY: MICHAEL KILLEWALD AND JASON GIBBS FOR THE NATIONAL CENTRE FOR LIVESTOCK AND THE ENVIRONMENT, UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA

Insect populations across the globe are facing steep declines. Habitat loss by conversion of perennial pasture land to annual crop land, pesticides, and climate change have been identified as major drivers of these declines. This is problematic because insects provide many important roles to the environment, many of which often go unnoticed.

Ecological functions such as pollination, decomposition, and pest regulation in particular help to support agricultural production as they directly increase crop yield and quality. Many insects pollinate crops, and bees are one of the most efficient pollinators because they must collect pollen to feed their young. Many common flowering crops are visited by bees, such as clovers, alfalfa, canola, flax, soybeans, and more.

Although honey bees often are credited with pollination, other pollinators such as native bees are equal contributors and often superior to honey bees. Manitoba has a rich diversity of native bees. Recent research led by Dr. Jason Gibbs at the University of Manitoba has documented nearly 400 different bee species in the province and over 20,000 species have been identified worldwide. These native species face different threats than the non-native honey bee, which are primarily affected by the parasitic varroa mite. There is no doubt that bee populations in Manitoba need our attention, but how can we support them? Can livestock grazing practices be a part of the solution?

What do bees need?

Food, water, and shelter are among the basic requirements for animal survival, and bees are much the same. Pollen, nectar, and a suitable nest are the main requirements for bees. In addition, safety from predators and parasites is important. Land conversion has been the most damaging threat to pollinators, although any action that removes flowers (e.g. herbicides or mowing) can limit bees access to food. Destruction of nests often occurs by tilling or removing trees and shrubs. Most species of bees nest in the ground, but some nest in stems or logs.

Pasture land can support bee populations

Although large scale field crops are not very hospitable to bees, pastures can provide great habitat for bees. Research from Alberta has shown that canola fields with more pastures nearby contained four times more bumble bees and other bees than fields with fewer pastures in the surrounding landscape. Pastures often contain flowers that bloom from spring until fall and bees can use these as a food source. Additionally, pastures often contain a variety of shelter resources that bees can use to build their nests. Forested areas within pastures provide bees with nests both inside small holes in trees and places of undisturbed soil where ground-nesting bees can reside.

Research has shown that increasing the proportion of native, warm-season grasses can increase native bee abundance in pastures. Supplementing pastures with wildflowers may also benefit bees. Bees may be sensitive to the amount and type of grazing. Cows, sheep, and bison will all graze differently, and the extent of their grazing will affect how bees respond. Moderate levels of grazing are likely to be neutral or even beneficial for bees, particularly if flowers are not being removed.

Bee research at the University of Manitoba PhD candidate Michael Killewald, working with Drs. Jason Gibbs and Alejandro Costamagna (University of Manitoba), conducted a multi-year sampling effort in pastures in southwestern Manitoba. The researchers found that many of the flowers identified from pastures are native prairie plants, such as: goldenrods, gumweed, purple prairie clover, blazing star, wild bergamot, and various sunflowers. These plants are attractive to a wide variety of species, including many specialist native bees, which restrict their diet to one or more of these plants.

When Killewald collected bees on these pastures, he found that goldenrod, alfalfa, and sunflowers, all edible to cattle, were the most attractive to bees. Plants such as gumweed and bee balm were also highly attractive to bees, but are generally not consumed by cattle. According to this research, these are all plants that should be supported to conserve bee populations. Gumweed was the single most attractive plant to bees on grazed pastures—likely due to its abundance, as this was one of the most common blooming flowers encountered in the study. Other plants that could be included in pastures that are attractive to bees and are edible as forage include sunflowers and clovers.

Provide a home for bees

Bees are a diverse group of insects, and as such, different species require different nesting locations. Most species of bees tend to nest in the ground, so providing a small patch of sandy soil along a fence line gives a perfect location for bees to call home! A single scoop of sandy soil from a front-end loader placed along a fence line, or another location where it will not be disturbed, could be home to thousands of individual bees within

a few years. Bees also find woodpecker holes or small stems to call home, but we can easily create “bee hotels” to recreate these conditions in managed ecosystems.

Although pollinator-friendly nesting tubes are available for purchase, you likely have all the tools to create your own already! Simply take scrap pieces of wood, old pieces of firewood, or any piece of lumber, and drill holes of a variety of sizes and depths (3/16–½” wide and 2–6” long or 4–10mm wide 5–15 cm long). A variety of sizes is best so do not worry about making them perfect, the bees don’t mind. Place these in a location that is not flooded, and the bees will do the rest. Ideally, they are placed on a pole above the ground. Bees that nest inside these holes include the alfalfa leafcutter bee, a wild pollinator that has been commercially managed for alfalfa production using similar methods described above.

Any effort, regardless of how small, will have a positive impact on increasing bee populations and ensuring the sustainability of both wild Canadian bee species and their associated pollination services.

For more information on bee research at the University of Manitoba and how you can help to enhance bee populations on your farm please contact Dr. Jason Gibbs ( Jason.gibbs@umanitoba.ca) or Michael Killewald (killewam@myumanitoba.ca).

Photo credit: Jason Gibbs

Photo credit: Kelsey Graham

EXCEPTIONAL LIVESTOCK

Healt H Manage M ent

Spice Up Your Life with Pizza Rolls

BY: ANNA BORYS, MBP FOOD EXPERT

Just a quick question before I start: How does your spice cupboard look right now? Is it all organized, labelled, and in alphabetical order? Or are you like the rest of us where there are 15 different Tupperware containers, maybe labelled maybe not, some tiny plastic bags with that ¼ cup of that one spice you needed for that one recipe and then a million glass jars, likely a few duplicates because you weren’t sure if you had the spice you needed while you were at the store, so you bought it anyway? If you’re the latter of the two, then there’s a good chance you have most of these ingredients in your spice drawer and this fresh sausage can be made in less than 15 minutes.

The star of this dish, and the real purpose behind this recipe is the sausage. The sweetness of the maple syrup balances out the spiciness from the chilis, however, it is the fennel that defines this sausage, and it is my favorite flavour in this recipe. This sausage would also be great simmered in a marinara sauce for lasagna or any of your other go-to pasta dishes.

This pizza roll recipe was just a fun excuse to use premade puff pastry. When you don’t want the hassle or have the time to deal with yeast dough, using ready-togo puff pastry is a quick and easy spin on a classic family favourite, pizza! You should be able to find puff pastry in the frozen aisle next to the pie crusts and phyllo dough. I also always feel a little fancy whenever I get to use puff pastry. It doesn’t just have to be used for desserts or

Flaky Pizza Roll with Sweet

and Spicy Italian Beef Sausage

Yields: 2 Pizza Rolls

Sausage Ingredients:

1lb Ground Beef

1 ¼ tsp Salt

1 tsp Garlic Powder

1 tsp Fennel Seed, toasted

¼ tsp Chili Flakes

½ tsp Paprika

1 tsp Oregano, flakes

½ tsp Onion Powder

¼ tsp Black Pepper

⅛ tsp Smoked Paprika

¼ tsp Coriander, ground

1 Tbsp Maple Syrup

¼ tsp Cayenne

Pizza Roll Ups (Toppings optional):

2 sheets Puff Pastry

3 Tbsp Pizza Sauce

3 Tbsp Onion, sauteed

4 Tbsp Green Pepper, diced and sauteed

2 Tbsp Mushrooms, sliced and sauteed

½ Cup Sweet and Spicy Italian Beef Sausage, cooked

1 ½ Cup Mozzarella Cheese, grated

METHODS:

Sausage:

1. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, add all sausage ingredients, and mix on medium low until fully incorporated.

2. Brown sausage in a large pan over medium high heat until cooked through. Strain excess fat and set aside.

Pizza Roll:

1. Lay puff pastry out on a lightly floured surface.

2. Spoon half of the pizza sauce on bottom half of the pastry, leaving about ½" around the edge as room to pinch closed at the end.

3. Layer half of all the toppings on top of the pizza sauce.

4. Create slits in the top half of the pastry to act as vents.

5. Pull pastry closed and seal the edges with a fork.

6. Whisk one egg until no longer streaky to create an egg wash. Lightly brush top of pastry with the egg wash.

7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

8. Lightly salt top of pastry, and place on a parchment lined sheet pan and bake at 375 F for 20 minutes.

special occasions!

Homemade pizza is a fun and interactive dinner to get the whole family involved. We make it at least once a month in our house, so we like to switch up the toppings. I like to treat my toppings as their own recipe. Sautéing the mushrooms with garlic or caramelizing red onions with a little balsamic and thyme will elevate your pizza making game to a new level. Whichever toppings you choose, I recommend cooking the vegetables to bring out the excess water, which can make your dough a bit soggy, causing it to cook unevenly. The same goes for regular pizza crust!

I'll be cooking this recipe on Saturday, September 28 as part of Season 35 of Great Tastes of Manitoba. Enjoy!

Photo credit: Anna Borys