PUBLISHED BY MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS
NOVEMBER 2020
TOGETHER, BUT APART On October 19 Manitoba Beef Producers kicked off district meeting season by successfully hosting the first of ten virtual Zoom meetings that are scheduled to run until November 5. Seen here is MBP General Manager, Carson Callum, in the MBP offices in Winnipeg speaking with producers and industry stakeholders across the province. (Photo credit: David Hultin)
COVID-19 presents challenges and opportunities for the beef industry Michael Young, President of Canada Beef has had a chance to watch the COVID-19 pandemic evolve and has seen its effects on the beef industry at all levels. We asked Young for his thoughts on how the industry has been affected to date, what some of the lingering effects will be post-pandemic, and how the industry is and will adapt for changes ahead. Challenges and solutions As with any crisis there are winners and losers, and sadly, the food service sector is struggling His daughters sell!
to recover from being completely shutdown at the beginning. “The go-back-to-business requirements for these operations, with 50 per cent occupancy, social distancing, and rising food costs has been crippling,” says Young. The packing industry has identified some key weaknesses in its systems and is focusing on how to address them going forward. “I think the rolling plant slow downs and temporary closures we saw demonstrated that the processing of animal proteins is extremely
labour intensive, and the dependence of the human factor working in close proximity has proved to be one of the weakest links,” says Young. “Packing plants in Canada have invested over $50 million to upgrade procedures, protocols and safety conditions so that their staff will be safe and that food can be produced safely.” As packing plants rebuild or upgrade facilities in the future, they will likely be considering these factors and investigating cost effective options for increased automation.
“The challenge in meat processing sector is to maximize throughput based on the operating space available in an efficient, cost effective and safe way. This requires a balance of automation and skilled physical labour”, says Young. “I think that most meat processing plants will be taking a good look at both advanced automation, robotics and flow-efficient layout changes to meet these challenges for the future. Protocols for managing and monitoring staff are also changing, and Canada Beef currently
is developing an app to help do pre-screening of employees working in the food industry. “The app will be available free of charge to food processors, retailer or food service operators who are looking for this kind of technology to automate new protocols and procedures to safeguard the food supply and protect employees from being exposed,” says Young. The employee simply responds to a few questions each morning before coming to work. The app will automatically inform their employer of their condition and if required,
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that they will be staying home. The app is designed to reduce reporting time and the reaction process before the employee comes into the work space. Page 2 POSTMASTER: PLEASE RETURN UNDELIVERABLE COPIES TO: MBP, UNIT 220, 530 CENTURY STREET, WINNIPEG, MB R3H 0Y4 CANADIAN PUBLICATIONS MAIL PRODUCT SALES AGREEMENT NUMBER 40005187 POSTAGE PAID IN WINNIPEG.
BY ANGELA LOVELL
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2
CATTLE COUNTRY November 2020
Mental health is so important, now and always Hope by the time you are reading this, the weather has cooperated to get important fall chores done, and calf prices have held on as the fall run kicks in. These last few months have been challenging for so many reasons which is why my column this month is the importance of mental health. This is a topic that continues to receive significant attention for good reason: mental health is something that remains important before, during, and after a global pandemic. I believe it is a driver to success of all businesses or sectors, and personal lives as well. It is estimated that 62% of Canadian farmers are categorized with mid-stress scores and 14% with high stress. This number is only set increase with the impacts due to this pandemic. MBP helped fund a project, in collaboration with Farm Management Canada and many supporting partners, that was featured in the July 2020 issue of Cattle Country. The study aimed to improve the understanding of the relationship between mental health and farm business management. More specifically, how we can support mental health through farm business management and how supporting farm business management can contribute to positive mental health. The research led to recommendations for supporting farmer mental health and farm business management to ensure agriculture remains a vital contributor to Canada’s economy and public health. MBP will be
encourage anyone who might be struggling to reach out and try to get help. Gone are the days of the “pull yourself up by your boot straps” mentality. We all need help at some point, and there are many avenues to take. One option is the Manitoba Farm Rural & Northern Support Services stress line at 1-866-3673276. This service offers free, confidential and nonjudgmental counselling for anyone who lives on a Manitoba farm, or in a rural or northern community. Another option is The Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba (ADAM) that has established an anxiety support line for anyone seeking support during this challenging time. People are invited to call 204-925-0040. I’d also encourage you to visit our website (https://www.mbbeef.ca/cattle-country/) and seek out the May 2020 issue of Cattle Country for an article on coping with stress and anxiety. I have certainly enjoyed seeing many of you during our virtual district meetings over the past few weeks. Although it cannot be in person our virtual connection is positive for everyone involved. The way we all operate has been impacted by the pandemic, but I can assure you, MBP is working hard on many areas important to the industry. Have a safe and happy fall, Carson
CARSON CALLUM
General Manager’s Column looking at ways to work off these recommendations to support our producers in the province and ensure it is top of mind. Knowing the signs related to mental struggles are important for everyone to be aware of. Some of these warning signs include irritability, hopelessness/ despair, chronic fatigue, decreased productivity, and inability to concentrate. It is important for family and friends to be aware of these signs, so they can suggest loved ones seek help if needed. It is also important for each and everyone of us to know the signs, so we can try to get help for ourselves as well. Mental health should be a top priority as it can impact relationships and farm business. Uncertainty in the beef sector has increased the stress level for producers and their families. The concerns around the pandemic has impacted everyone, including MBP board and staff. We hope that if people do their best to focus on their mental health as well as their physical health, we can get through these challenging times together. I strongly
Industry update with Canada Beef Page 1 Positives and opportunities On the flip side, retail demand has increased, and retail beef sales continue to be strong, up anywhere from 10 to 30 per cent over last year, and with strong prices. In the beginning, the slowdown and plant closures caused public perception to focus on potential food shortages, which prompted panic buying in some areas, and pushed prices up and reduced inventory of many staple food items including meat. Consumers were buying in bulk whenever they could which also drove sales, adds Young. Another positive effect is that the pandemic has pushed the evolution of whole meal replacements, takeout meal kits and home meal (and grocery) delivery and the industry is working hard to figure out how to support it. “This category is evolving fast,” says Young. “We are in the process of developing a support strategy for those distribution channels because we know a lot of food is moving through them and it’s an exciting opportunity to increase our market share. We are working with retailers and food service operators to give them what they need to support the growth in the beef category, but we know that this other category is emerging quickly and we
want to make sure beef is well represented in this channel.” Another area the industry is trying to figure out, says Young is portion cutting to reduce waste, control costs and better serve these new markets with the right size portions for the meal concepts that consumers are looking for. “There is a lot more attention being paid to that because if you’re going to offer an expensive meat item like beef and you intend to widen the assortment, you’ve got to engineer what you’re offering in terms of the weight, thickness and profile of the cut based on how it will be used by the customer,” he says. “We see an opportunity there to provide information about the different cuts, and carcass utilization to increase value optimization. How, as a portion cutter, do you efficiently fabricate four or five popular middle meat primal cuts to deliver four, six and eight-ounce portions to serve the high- end market? How do we fabricate other primal cuts to offer value cuts to target middle and lower price points?’ Consumers love Canadian beef, but the industry has to figure out how to offer a wider range of portion-cut beef and veal items for every budget that will deliver an exceptional eating experience every
time says Young. “That is what it will take to increase market share in this category. Canada Beef is investing in these concepts and we intend to offer training and marketing support to ensure that Canadian beef and veal is well represented in this new space,” he says. How people cook is changing Canada Beef and others in the industry are also responding to changes in the marketplace by taking a look at how people are preparing food at home. “We also see a huge opportunity in the kitchen and patio these days,” says Young. Home bound Canadians with spare time and hungry mouths to feed are purchasing cooking appliances or dusting off the ones that have been sitting idle for years. There is a resurgence of pressure cookers, hot pots, crock pots, fondue, deep fryers, steamers and even sous vide style cooking methods. On the patio, people are upgrading barbecues, and big green eggs and smokers are appearing in backyards, which presents more opportunities for beef and veal. “Canada Beef is reviewing and upgrading our inventory of recipes and cooking methods to ensure we have all the information we know consumers are looking for when it comes to many of these specialty appliances,” he says.
Young also sees the emergence of more plant-based protein alternatives as an opportunity gap that beef can fill, especially in the ground beef category, which is the single largest category for beef volume in retail stores, but has been taken for granted for far too long. “There is a focus on the ground meat category because that’s the easiest category to get into with plant-based alternatives, so we are refocusing our efforts in that space by encouraging new and creative ways to utilize ground beef and veal,” says Young, who adds that although beef ‘owns’ the luxury category in the retail case and on the menu, that luxury comes at a high price compared to the other animal proteins being offered. “We know folks are looking to stretch the food dollar these days and we know that beef can offer a wide range of value cuts at different price points beyond ground beef. Our team is focused on bringing those ideas to the table,” he says. COVID-19 is providing the necessity and opportunity for Canadian beef to capture a larger market share of the protein market, says Young. “It’s becoming a beauty contest of food ingredients out there and we want Canadian beef and veal to win that contest,” he says.
DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 5
DISTRICT 9
DISTRICT 13
R.M. of Albert, Cameron, Whitewater, Edward, Brenda, Winchester, Morton
R.M. of Elton, North Cypress, North Norfolk, Cornwallis, Oakland, South Cypress, Victoria, South Norfolk
R.M. of Woodlands, Rockwood, St. Andrews, Rosser, St. Francis Xavier, Springfield, Tache, Whitemouth, Lac du Bonnet, Brokenhead, St. Clements, LGD of Alexander, Pinawa
R.M. of Shell River, Shellmouth,Hillsburg, Boulton, Grandview, Gilbert Plains, Ethelbert, Mossey River, Dauphin, LGD Park
GORD ADAMS
DISTRICT 2
NANCY HOWATT - SECRETARY
R.M. of Riverside, Strathcona, Argyle, Lorne, Turtle Mountain, Roblin, Louise, Pembina
STEVEN MANNS
DISTRICT 6
MELISSA ATCHINSON
R.M. of Wallace, Woodworth, Daly, Pipestone, Sifton, Whitehead, Glenwood
DIANNE RIDING - PRESIDENT
DISTRICT 10
MIKE DUGUID - 2ND VICE-PRESIDENT
DISTRICT 3
DISTRICT 7
R.M. of Bifrost, Gimli, Fisher, Armstrong
R.M. of Portage la Prairie, Cartier, Grey, MacDonald, Dufferin, Thompson, Roland, Morris, Stanley, Rhineland, Montcalm
R.M. of Russell, Silver Creek, Rossburn, Ellice, Birtle, Shoal Lake, Strathclair, Archie, Miniota, Hamiota, Blanshard
DISTRICT 11
DISTRICT 4
MATTHEW ATKINSON
PETER PENNER - TREASURER
KEVIN DUDDRIDGE
R.M. of Richot, Ste. Anne, Hanover, De Salaberry, La Broquerie, Franklin, Stuartburn, Piney, LGD Reynolds
TYLER FULTON 1ST VICE-PRESIDENT
DISTRICT 8
R.M. of Harrison, Clanwilliam, Rosedale, Glenella, Saskatchewan, Odanah, Minto, Langford, Lansdowne, Westbourne, LGD Park
ROBERT METNER
R.M. of Siglunes, Grahamdale, Eriksdale, Coldwell, St. Laurent
DISTRICT 12
MARK GOOD
R.M. of Lawrence, Ochre River, Ste. Rose, McCreary, Alonsa
MARY PAZIUK
MANITOBA BEEF PRODUCERS Unit 220, 530 Century Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 0Y4
Ph: 1-800-772-0458 PH - (204) 772-4542 FX - (204) 774-3264 info@mbbeef.ca www.mbbeef.ca
GENERAL MANAGER Carson Callum
POLICY ANALYST Maureen Cousins
www.mbbeef.ca
DISTRICT 14 JIM BUCHANAN
R.M. of Minitonas, Swan River, Mountain, The Pas
COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR David Hultin
FINANCE
Deb Walger
OFFICE ASSISTANT Vacant
CATTLE COUNTRY EDITOR David Hultin
DESIGNED BY
Trinda Jocelyn
November 2020 CATTLE COUNTRY
3
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contract to introduce individual productivity indexing for silage corn, and increasing the transportation allowance within the forage insurance dollar value and Hay Disaster Benefit for the Forage Insurance Program; and • working with industry to reduce the impact of disaster years on insurance coverage, reduce participant burden and increase awareness of forage insurance options.
I, along with MBP directors Tyler Fulton and Mike Duguid and our staff appreciated the chance to have a short virtual meeting with Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food to discuss matters affecting Manitoba’s beef industry, including BRM programs, livestock transportation and water management. MBP has also appreciated discusStan Foster sions it has had with Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) and Finally, on behalf of MBP, we would other government officials and Minister like to extend our sincere condolences to Pedersen about insurance programs and the family of the late Stan Foster of Benito. other BRM tools. MBP welcomes a re- Stan served as District 14 director for six cent provincial government announce- years, retiring from the board in February ment about some changes to programs 2018. Stan was a dedicated cattle producer offered through MASC that should prove and an avid horseman, and represented his beneficial to our industry. These include: district members well, bringing forward • a new pilot project to evaluate the po- their questions and concerns. He also had Thurs., Feb 1forage insurButcher Sale 9:00 am; to tential of index-based a great sense of humor and was happy ance products; swap tales with all. He will missed. Until Bred Cow Sale 1:00 pm • changes for the 2021 AgriInsurance next time, take care! Tues., Feb 6 Feeder Sale 9:00 am
NOVEMBER FEBRUARY
I hope you are having a productive fall. Harvest and other usual activities seem to be going along well for most, but there are concerns about the dry conditions we’ve faced in recent weeks and how this will affect wells and dugouts, and pasture and forage conditions going forward. The Manitoba government’s longawaited consultation on proposed changes to the Agricultural Crown Lands (ACL) Leases and Permits Regulation to allow for the first right of renewal for legacy lease holders is now underway. This change is very important to legacy lease holders and we thank the province for bringing this forward. There are also some other proposed amendments related to leases and renewable permits. MBP is strongly encouraging all ACL leaseholders to review and provide feedback on the proposed changes. Throughout the modernization of the ACL program, MBP has repeatedly advocated for the first right of renewal for eligible legacy lease holders, and for continued unit transfers. Visit the Manitoba Regulatory Consultation Portal at https://reg.gov.mb.ca/ home and provide your comments online before November 16. If that doesn’t work for you, contact Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development staff at 204-868-0684 to ask for copies of the consultation documents. Comments can also submitted by the deadline via email: agcrownlands@gov.mb.ca; by fax: 204-867-6578; or by mail to Agriculture Crown Lands, PO Box 1286, Minnedosa, MB, R0J 1E0. MBP will also be submitting comments. MBP continues to advocate with the Manitoba government to revisit the size of the ACL rental rate increase and the speed at which it is being enacted. MBP’s position is that there should be a five-year transition for the rate increase.
DECEMBER MARCH
President's Column
MBP thanks the federal government for making its 60 per cent contribution available under AgriRecovery for this program and recognizes the provincial government for administering it. To be frank, MBP is disappointed the Manitoba government is not contributing its 40 per cent share toward the program. The province had suggested a strategy to fund this contribution which would have had an impact on producers from a number of commodities, including beef. MBP was not comfortable with this approach and asked the province to revisit how it could fund it. Although we disagreed with the province in this area, MBP will continue to advocate with both the provincial and federal governments for effective disaster and BRM programs to help the beef industry weather the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and other risks affecting the sector.
2020 SaleSale Schedule 2018Fall Winter Schedule
DIANNE RIDING
A longer transition would take into account factors such as successive challenging production years which drove up costs for many ACL lease holders around Manitoba, as well as ongoing uncertainty related to the COVID-19 pandemic and its implications for cattle markets going forward, among other concerns facing lease holders. And MBP continues to draw attention to other ACL matters including, but not limited to: ways to address concerns about the new processing for valuing leasehold improvements; the right to informed access whereby those wishing to access ACL would need to notify the lease or permit holder before entering; potential opportunities for lease holders to purchase ACL in a swifter fashion; and, government recognition of the ecosystem services lease holders provide in managing ACL. Since my last report there have been some developments related to the COVID-19 pandemic specifically, and more generally related to business risk management (BRM) programs. First, MBP recognizes the important financial support being made available through AgriRecovery for the recently-announced 2020 Canada-Manitoba Finished Cattle Feed Assistance Program. Manitoba’s cattle sector, like the rest of the Canadian industry has been hit by the effects of the pandemic, including processing disruptions in the early months of the pandemic which backed up cattle through the system and have created added costs for the industry. The program will allocate up to $2.5 million in AgriRecovery disaster relief funding to assist eligible Manitoba producers. Owners of finished cattle have under December 1, 2020 to apply for $1.20/day/animal to “help offset costs to feed animals beyond their expected marketing dates, due to slaughter plant closures and operational reductions resulting from COVID-19 outbreaks, or disease control measures.” For more details go to https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/financial-assistance/cattle-feedassistance.html .
FIND US
ONLINE: www.mbbeef.ca
Facebook.com
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mbbeef.ca
4
CATTLE COUNTRY November 2020
The balance of agriculture and conservation BY CURTIS HULLICK
Field Manager, Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation
Next year will mark 35 years for the Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation (MHHC). Established in 1986 by the Government of Manitoba; MHHC was created to build partnerships and work with landowners, farmers, and ranchers in rural Manitoba. The mandate is simple: “Conserve, restore and enhance fish and wildlife habitat in Manitoba� and with the slogan, “Made in Manitoba�, MHHC has done just that. “Agriculture is the backbone of the economy. MHHC continues to focus on partnerships with landowners to find a balance within the agriculture and conservation relationship�, says Kasie McLaughlin, Habitat Conservation Specialist for MHHC. According to the 2016 Manitoba Census Report, there are approximately 17.6 million acres of farmland in Manitoba. Within that landscape MHHC has approximately 300,000 acres of conservation projects. The history of MHHC includes the Habitat Enhancement Land Use Program (HELP) which started in Shoal Lake area in the late 80s. HELP was a pilot project designed to test new ways to conserve waterfowl habitat cooperatively with farmers and ranchers. Examples of the projects included predator fencing, duck nesting structures and short-term leases for grasslands and wetlands. “HELP tested a variety of conservation activities to see if they could be beneficial and meaningful to landowners and wildlife� said Mclaughlin, “Waterfowl need sloughs, grasslands and other natural areas. The key to conserving those areas is the landowners and the partnerships that we can create and maintain�. HELP paved the way for MHHC to pursue Conservation Agreements. In 1997 the Province of Manitoba passed the Conservation Agreements Act, which enabled conservation groups to pay landowners for areas on their farms, such as sloughs, grasslands and bush that
are not cultivated and enter into a long-term agreement. A Conservation Agreement with MHHC outlines the areas of the farm where wildlife habitat exists, typically the least productive acres and landowners can continue to use the land as they have in the past. Decades later, MHHC continues to use Conservation Agreements to build partnerships with landowners to conserve sloughs and grasslands for wildlife habitat. MHHC recently worked with Don and Wenda Best of Kenton to conserve 375 acres of wetlands and grasslands on their farm. The Best family will continue to graze the pastures and farm their improved land while maintaining
a space for wildlife. “Its just the right thing to do, keeping the sloughs and bush around. You see all these farms with no habitat on them, it creates problems downstream. I like seeing the birds and wildlife on my land, the water helps the cattle immensely,� said Don Best, mixed farmer from Kenton. The Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corporation has incentives for landowners who are willing to conserve grasslands and wetlands. For more information call Kasie McLaughlin, Habitat Conservation Specialist at 204-724-0583.
Photo credit: Manitoba Habitat Heritage Corp.
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COVID-19 presents opportunities to connect with consumers BY ANGELA LOVELL COVID-19 has certainly caused disruptions and hardships for many along all points in the beef supply chain, but it hasn’t been bad news for everyone, particularly those producers who have found a way to sell directly to consumers via online platforms. Trish Tetz and her husband, Greg, launched the Craft Beef Company, an online sales platform for locally produced beef in Three Hills, Alberta during the pandemic, which didn’t seem like the best timing, but ended up working out well for the business. “We launched at an opportune time, where customers were seeking out products straight from the farm, so that worked in our favour,” says Tetz, who was speaking as part of a panel discussion at the recent Canadian Beef Industry Conference. “We recognize that not everyone in the industry had that same opportunity and it’s been tough, but we have been able to step in and offer select farms really fair pricing on some cattle, so we have been able to pass that good fortune on down the supply chain.” Speaking to customers critical Pasta florentine bake (Photo credit: Great Tastes of Manitoba) Craft Beef Company sources beef from a number of local ranches that are hand-picked to supply Opportunities in niche markets and family-run processing facilities to ship interbeef meeting specific criteria that matter most to Going forward, Tetz believes that, while large provincially throughout Western Canada, for their customers. All of its products are individually processing plants continue to be an essential part example, I think that is a really big opportunity that barcoded by farm, giving customers the choice to of the industry, there are opportunities to serve the industry could have,” she says. select what farm they want to purchase from based customers looking for niche products. Consumers are in flux on the values that they have for themselves and on the “There are customers who want to purchase direct Tetz also believes that consumer behaviour values of that farm’s production methods. from the farm and I do think that’s an area that is may well be changed forever because of COVID-19, That’s not to say that COVID-19 has had no both an opportunity and a challenge for the producer especially when it comes to how they interact with the impact on the new business, as it began to affect some because a lot of them are located in rural areas, so the food service industry. of the smaller, provincial packing plants that their logistics and the challenges of getting that product to “We are going to see a lot more home meal company uses to process their beef. While they did the customer is something that the large plants have delivery service and curbside pick-up has become not have any product in the plant while COVID-19 always done for the farmer,” says Tetz. a really common trend from local butcher shops was an issue and were not directly impacted, Tetz said She believes there is a place in the system for both everywhere,” says Tetz. “The industry is in for a they were still affected by backlogs and the inability to large packers and smaller plants with the flexibility to change because how customers want to interact with get cattle processed. It also presented a challenge for serve those niche markets. retailers, processors and farmers is all in flux right them in terms of how they talk to their customers in “I think there’s opportunity here for a provincial now.” light of those impacts. plant regulation to allow inter-provincial trade,” Tetz, who is also an agriculture banker, has “How do you speak to the consumer and assure says Tetz. “Provincial and federal plants do different colleagues with a lot of restaurant clients, and mixed them that your products are safe, and that they haven’t products. A lot of the federal plants are doing prime feelings about what is happening to the food service come into contact with COVID-19, that they don’t cuts and sending it to butcher shops who are packaging industry. “What is happening to the restaurant need to disinfect their packaging when it enters their it up for customers to purchase. Provincial plants are industry right now is terrible, homes and livelihoods home,” says Tetz. “That has become a big consumer often doing quarters, halves and wholes and filling up and many things are being impacted by COVID-19,” communication question.” people’s freezers, the ageing process is different, there she says. Tetz addressed those concerns through blog are just different opportunities for each.” On the other hand, people are discovering their posts, talking about the farms and processors that Because of regulatory limitations, provincial kitchens again and learning to be home chefs. “You are their products come from. “I think the blog posts plants are having a hard time growing, says Tetz, and eating healthy, eating at home, sitting down enjoying resonated with people at a time when they really not being able to do inter-provincial trade is also dinners with your family, and that is a trend that I needed it, so direct to consumer marketing has been limiting the ability of businesses like the Craft Beef hope continues, not just from a consumer purchasing a big strength for us going through COVID-19,” Company to expand. trend but from a family dynamic trend because those says Tetz. “If we could utilize some of these local operators things are so important,” says Tetz.
42 Annual General Meeting FEBRUARY 11, 2021 nd
Watch MBP’s website, social media, E-Newsletter and Cattle Country for more details regarding this virtual event In light of the COVID-19 pandemic (and associated restrictions on gatherings and social distancing requirements), holding general meetings in person has, like other large social events, become very difficult.
www.mbbeef.ca
6
CATTLE COUNTRY November 2020
StockTalk Q&A Feature
brought to you by Manitoba Agriculture Resource Development, Livestock Extension Branch
ELIZABETH NERNBERG
Livstock Specialist, Manitoba Agriculture elizabeth.nernberg@gov.mb.ca
Q: My hay production is below normal this year, but I do have lots of straw. What is the best way to include straw in the ration? Or what alternative feeds should I be looking at? Answer: We often get questions like this in March, when the cows are lactating and the hay pile is running out, but there is still lots of straw on hand. At this point, your options are more limited with the herd requiring a higher plane of nutrition and supplies of different feedstuffs usually lower at this time of year. Planning earlier for the winter feeding period allows you more time and flexibility to better match the quality of your feed to your herd’s needs. In addition, there is likely more feed available, so better purchasing decisions can be made. In order to find the most economical one, comparing costs per pound of nutrient you are supplementing, such as protein or energy, should be completed. Straw is best utilized in cow rations earlier in the season during the mid-gestation stage when the cow’s nutritional requirements are lower. As well, the weather is typically warmer during this time period, so the animal requires less energy for maintenance. In addition, as the fetus grows and develops, the cow has less abdominal space, so her capacity to take in bulky feed is reduced. Straw quality does vary, but on average, cereal straws contain four per cent protein and about 45 per cent TDN. Of the cereal straws, oats are considered the most palatable, followed by barley and then wheat. Pea straw is usually higher in protein and calcium, but can be very dusty and dirty, affecting palatability and potentially resulting in reduced intakes. Soybean and flax straw have little or no value as a feed, due to its extremely high fiber content. Grass straws are considered more palatable than cereal straws, but keep in mind that turf types of tall fescue and perennial ryegrass should be tested for endophytes. Canola straw is lower quality and should be analyzed for sulphur, as it may contain high levels that can cause problems. Additional energy must be provided when
feeding straw-based rations. This can be done with higher quality feeds like cereal silage, or with the use of concentrates like barley, corn and oats, as well as screenings and or pellets. Keep in mind that, with grains, you know what you are getting because they are consistent. With pellets/screenings, the product can vary between loads and could contain unknown ingredients, such as weed seeds, shriveled or cracked grain, fusarium or ergot. Be sure to inquire about ergot levels in pellets and screenings when purchasing them and consider testing for it as high levels can cause health issues and the ergot bodies are not visible in pelleted feed. Supplemental protein is also required for strawbased rations. Such options include alfalfa, alfalfa/ grass hay or silage, peas, canola or soybean meal, dry distillers grain, and commercial protein supplements. A 32 per cent liquid supplement (molasses) can be poured or injected into straw bales, but does not provide sufficient energy and protein on its own in a straw-based ration. However, it can improve the palatability of the straw.
Five Different Cow Straw Ration Examples for Pre-Calving*
5.
6. 7. 8.
10 lbs. Alfalfa Grass Hay 15 lbs. Barley Straw
17 lbs. Barley Straw 48 lbs. Barley Silage
47 lbs. Corn Silage
0.5 lbs. 32% Feedlot Supplement 20.5 lbs. Barley Straw
0.5 lbs. 32% Feedlot Supplement 20.5 lbs. Barley Straw
14 lbs. 20% Pro. Pellets
11 lbs. Barley Grain 1 lbs. 32% Feedlot Supplement
*Based on 1,400 lb. cow. Rations will also need to be balanced with salt, mineral and possibly limestone. For cost estimates and further details, visit 2020 Cost of Production Beef Cow-Calf.
When feeding straw keep the following in mind: 1. Feed test: straw sources (e.g., barley versus wheat straw) differ in nutritional content and digestibility. It is critical to know the nutrient content of all feedstuffs to provide a balanced ration. 2. Maximum intake of straw in a straw grain ration is 1.25 per cent mature body weight, as it is slower to digest than hay. During colder weather, an animal
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nutrition for a beef herd when hay supplies are short. Including straw in the ration is an excellent way to stretch the hay pile and/or other forage resources. Straw, in itself, does not contain adequate levels of nutrients and must be supplemented with energy, protein and mineral/vitamin premixes. We want to hear from you For the next issue of Cattle Country, a Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development forage or livestock specialist will answer a selected question. Send your questions to Tim.Clarke@gov.mb.ca The StockTalk Q&A Feature for Cattle Country is brought to you by Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development. We encourage you to email your questions to our department’s forage and livestock team, who have a combined 120 years of agronomy experience. We are here to help make your cattle operation successful. Contact us today.
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Lois McRae & Joyce Gordon RR 1 Box 57 Br andon, Manitoba R7A 5Y1 h: 204-728-3058 c: 204-573-5192 f: 204-727-7744 mar macfar ms1@gmail.com
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P: 1-888-622-6487 mandi.mbangus@gmail.com
4.
32 lbs. Corn Silage 19 lbs. Barley Straw
MAA AGM
Manitoba Angus Association
3.
will try to eat more than they can digest and could become impacted, and possibly die. So, a 1,400 lb. cow would consume 17.5 lbs. of straw on a dry matter basis or 20 lbs. as fed with straw at 15 per cent moisture. Diets must be balanced for energy, protein, minerals and vitamins. Cattle consume greater amounts of year-old straw as it is generally more palatable than freshly baled straw. Ammoniating straw or other low quality forages: a) increases forage digestibility by 10-15%, b) increases forage intake by 5-10%, c) increases crude protein by 100-150%, and d) prevents spoilage of high moisture forages by killing moulds and fungi, and preventing heating. Grinding/chopping straw and feeding, as a part of a total mixed rations, will increase intakes. A 2:1 mineral (or 3:1) will be needed. Limestone may also be required, if no other forage is fed. Check the nitrate content. There are many alternative ways to provide
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November 2020 CATTLE COUNTRY
7
Producers may see price variability and market uncertainty this fall Just when cattle producers thought the fall calf prices were going to be better than expected, two of the major fundamentals that influence the calf prices changed, and the result was lower prices. The first fundamental was the increase in feed prices. Originally, better than expected yields and the quality of the fall harvest indicated that there would be a feed surplus, and it would cost less to feed a steer this year than last year. All of a sudden, China stepped in and started to purchase large quantities of American corn, soybeans and Canadian barley. This increase in the finishing ration prices will have a major impact on the spring market for cattle coming out of the backgrounding feedlots. The cost of backgrounding will not change much from last year, as there is lots of silage available in the backgrounding regions. With barley projected to be $6 a bushel in January, those feedlots that did not lock in a large percentage of their grain costs for finishing will be looking to pay less for calves. For every 50 cent increase in the cost of a bushel of barley the price of a 750-pound feeder will decrease approximately 10 cents per pound to compensate for the increased feed costs. China is a big importer of Canadian pork, but beef exports to China have failed to meet the potential predicted in the past. China banned beef products from Cargill beef plant in Alberta
due to COVID-19 issues; this resulted in a reduction in the tonnage and dollar value of Canadian beef exports to China. Increased exports are the lifeline of the Canadian beef industry, and until the Canadian government makes peace with China, the Chinese will continue to use nontariff trade barriers to increase trade tensions, negatively impacting many Canadian industries such as the beef industry. The second factor is pen space. The October 1, 2020 Western Canada “on feed report” for cattle in feedlots on a finishing ration reported that there was a 9% larger inventory than last year and a 17% larger inventory than the five-year average. Placements in the third quarter were up 16,000 head over last year. Feeder cattle exports to the USA to date this year are down 46% with imports of American feeder cattle increasing due to a favourable Canadian dollar and lower feeder cattle prices on wet nosed calves in the northern USA. Packers are booking for delivery in 30 days, and the carcass weights are going up, supporting the theory that the backlog of fed cattle is far from over. These cattle are taking up pen space that should have been filled with yearlings or heavy weight spring calves. The fall calf run was at least two weeks behind, as farmers focused on harvest and fall land work. In Manitoba, the three largest weeks for calf volumes come in the latter half of October and
cline and will continue to drop throughout the fall. Canadian packers are focusing on harvesting fed cattle. Cow slaughter in Canada is down 24% from last year, and exports of live cows to the USA are up 4%. Cow prices on the south side of the border are also under pressure, with large volumes of cows on offer and lean trim prices the lowest in the past v12 months. The question is, “Should you keep your cows and feed them until after the New Year?” This used to be a popular and profitable practice a number of years ago, but the demand from the packers has changed. Those “100 day” fat cows are not as popular as they once were. The demand now, is for the leaner cows. The packers are controlling
RICK WRIGHT The Bottom Line the first week of November. By the time you read this those weeks will have passed, and if the market can survive the big supply and any major corrections, the fall prices may hold together. So far the demand from eastern Canada for Manitoba calves has been strong. With larger volumes to choose from the market prices peaked in the first half of October, with even larger volumes ahead the supply and demand ratio should kick in. One of the many unknowns playing havoc with the futures market is the US Presidential election. Trump has been
friendly to American agriculture, while Joe Biden and the Democrats’ position on agriculture is a little less clear. Until the election is over there will be continued volatility in the futures markets. Even if the current Canadian calf prices dropped five to eight cents per pound, they would still be too high to export. On the other hand, the meat market in the USA has been strong, backed by good domestic demand and strong export sales. The USA is Canada’s biggest export market for beef products. Cow prices have started their seasonal de-
2020 Manitoba Beef Producers Resolutions Suggestion Form Because of the change in the format of MBP’s fall 2020 district meetings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MBP’s board of directors is now accepting in writing suggested resolutions for debate at its virtual 42nd Annual General Meeting set for February 2021. If the resolution is deemed to be in order by MBP’s Resolutions Committee it will be considered for debate at the resolutions session. In consultation with the resolution’s author, proposed resolutions may be subject to editing by MBP for clarity and to ensure consistency of formatting across all resolutions. Please note: if the resolution covers off matters on which MBP is already conducting advocacy work, it may be deemed to be redundant and not taken forward for debate so as to ensure there is time to debate resolutions on emerging matters. As well, it is also important that proposed resolutions deal with something that is potentially achievable and clearly state the actions you are asking MBP to consider taking. Please send the proposed resolution in the format below to info@mbbeef.ca to the attention of General Manager Carson Callum and Policy Analyst Maureen Cousins. Or, fax it to 1-204-774-3264 or mail it to 220-530 Century Street, Winnipeg MB R3H 0Y4. For resolutions to be considered in time for their publication in the December nd edition of Cattle Country prior to the 42 AGM, they must be received by MBP no later than Nov. 9.
Whereas
Verified Beef Production Plus Workshops are being delivered by webinar during the evening
Whereas
• Webinars take place in the evenings so producers aren’t taken away from their daily chores. • The interactive webinars are delivered using web based video conferencing software. • Participants can interact during the presentations, hear the presenters, and ask questions or make comments in real time. • Also available via app for iOS and Android.
Webinars will take place on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. • Webinar may be cancelled on a given week due to a lack of registered participants. • Pre-registration is required. • Contact Melissa Atchison at (204) 264-0294 or email: verifiedbeefmanitoba@gmail.com for details.
How to register for webinars or LIVE workshop • To sign up to attend a webinar or the LIVE workshop, please contact Melissa Atchison at (204) 264-0294 or email verifiedbeefmanitoba@gmail.com. • Alternate times and days can be arranged based on producer demand.
more of their long term inventory requirements than in the past. As of the middle of October, neither of the two large western packers were buying up cows to feed and store, which would indicate that the prices have not yet reached the seasonal bottom of the price scale. The other factor to consider is that it is not cheap to feed cows; the consumption is high and the feed conversion is terrible, especially in cold weather. I would suggest that if you have the feed, sell those cull cows and invest in some good bred cows, get your inventory back to predrought levels. The return on your investment should be better than feeding your culls. Until next time, good luck with your marketing and stay safe. Rick
Be it resolved to recommend that Manitoba Beef Producers
Your name: Address: (include MBP District number if known) Phone Number:
Email Address:
www.mbbeef.ca
8
CATTLE COUNTRY November 2020
Cheesy Chili Mac sure to please Chili: 2 tbsp canola oil 1 onion, diced 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced ½ tsp dried oregano 2 tbsp chili powder 1 ½ tsp cumin 2 tsp paprika 4 tbsp tomato paste 1 lb ground beef 1-14oz can diced tomatoes 1 can kidney beans 1 cup beef stock or water Salt and pepper Mac: 1 lb macaroni 2 tbsp butter 2 tbsp flour 1 cup whole milk 5 oz cheddar cheese, grated 3 oz Colby cheese, grated ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp chili powder, or ground cayenne powder ¼ tsp paprika or smoked paprika
Photo credit: Great Tastes of Manitoba
For the chili: Start by browning the ground beef in a non-stick pan. Heat canola oil in large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan. Add onion, garlic, oregano and pinch of salt. Sauté until onion is golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add tomato paste and ground beef and stir until combined. Add tomatoes, kidney beans, and liquid (stock or water). Stir and bring to a boil. Simmer for about 30 minutes – the chili will thicken slightly. For the mac: Start by bringing large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, about 9 minutes.
In a skillet, melt butter and add flour. Stir constantly for 1 minute. Add milk and bring to a simmer. Keep stirring constantly, until the mixture coats the back of a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Add the Colby cheese and 3 oz of the cheddar cheese. Stir until melted. Add chili powder, salt, and paprika. Stir in the cooked pasta until well coated. Then: Turn oven broiler on. Combine the chili and the mac and pour into a large casserole dish (or two smaller ones). Top with the remaining 2 oz of cheddar cheese and the parmesan cheese and broil for 5 minutes, until nice, brown and bubbly. Let it sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.
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November 2020 CATTLE COUNTRY
9
Case study in herd development BY MARY-JANE ORR
General Manager, MBFI
The Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives (MBFI) farm operation that manages the land and provides the livestock for research and demonstration projects is designed for operation costs to be financially independent of grant funding. As a beef cattle cow-calf operation the MBFI farm is faced with the challenge of how to improve profitability of our herd to support long term farm operations. Starting in 2019, a demonstration case study in herd development is underway at MBFI to grow our herd to 150 cow-calf pairs. The Strategic Beef Cattle Herd Development plan centres on a breeding plan, selection and culling criteria, record keeping, and use of genetic tools available to aid decisions to build a herd suited to the land base available. We are working toward the goals of improving our herd fertility and longevity, selecting more efficient low maintenance cows that will produce a calf crop with uniform conformation and weaning weights. Selecting the animal genetics that align with producer goals and available production system is a key component in herd plan development. The MBFI breeding strategy, selection, and culling criteria were developed in consultation with Don Guilford (Clearwater MB)
to showcase hybrid vigor in Black Angus and Polled Hereford for both maternal and terminal development in a foragebased production system. The Angus and Hereford breeds were selected to target moderately framed cows, high fertility and longevity, strong mothering, ease of calving, docile temperament, hardiness, and strong calf performance in weaning weights. MBFI is documenting a number of measurements to track changes in herd performance over time, including % open, % calves born in 1st cycle, % calves born per number of females exposed, % calving assists, average birth weight, average weaning weight, cow age, cow body condition score, average daily gain, soundness scores (udder, teat, and feet), frame score, temperament, bull expected progeny differences (EPDs), and genetic traits (breed composition, heterosis score, trait scores, and leptin genotype). All these data records will help us to make informed decisions in culling cows, retention of replacement heifers, and in bull purchases to reduce production costs and improve our calf crop marketability. The genetic testing provided through Neogen Canada is an exciting area of development to predict performance in commercial crossbred and straightbred cattle. To evaluate the MBFI
herd baseline in the winter of 2019, we pulled tail hairs on 102 breeding females and 4 bulls were submitted for the EnVigour HX ($35 per head) and Tenderness/ Leptin ($15 per head) genetic tests. The EnVigour HX package for breed composition and hybrid vigor score is no longer available. The MBFI cow herd breed composition average was 68% Black Angus, 12% Simmental, 4% Hereford, with trace influence of Limousin, Maine Anjou, Salers, Shorthorn, and Charolais. The average calculated hybrid vigor score was 44% and ranged from 3% to 75%, where higher vigor score is associated with improved performance. The leptin gene is associated with fatness, both marbling and external carcass fat thickness, and test results give three leptin types TT (more fatty carcass), CT (intermediate fatty carcass), and CC (more lean carcass). In an economic analysis of leptin genotyping Eric
DeVuyst (North Dakota State University, NDSU) noted the finished steer or heifer TT type were more profitable when priced on quality valuing marbling. Jay Mitchell (NDSU) evaluated the impact of the leptin genotype on cow-calf performance and observed an increase in average cull age and weaning weight in the TT trait compared to the CC trait. MBFI leptin testing of breeding females indicated 33% TT type,
42% CT type, and 25% CC type. Further analysis is needed to document over time if trends appear indicating TT trait cows maintain higher condition and produce consistently higher weaning weights under MBFI management. Testing of 2020 replacement heifers and purchased bulls will include leptin trait and Igenity Beef Profile, a new Neogen product that provides 16 ma-
ternal, performance, and carcass trait scores based on genomic testing. The Igenity 16 trait profile is proposed as a tool for commercial beef maternal line improvement where EPDs are not available. The provided trait scores will be evaluated over time against observed performance measures. For more information please check our www. mbfi.ca webpage or email information@mbfi.ca.
MHHC pa ys la ndowners to conserve wildlife ha bita t on priva te la nds. For more informa tion ca ll Ca rol Graha m (204) 821-4943 or visit www.mhhc.mb.ca
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10 CATTLE COUNTRY November 2020
Advice on herd health invaluable Canadian Integrated Program for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance (CIPARS) which monitors trends in antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance in selected bacterial organisms from human, animal and food sources across Canada. WeCAHN met in September and discussed health problems encountered in the second quarter of 2020. Treatment failures due to antimicrobial resistance are being reported with a slight increasing frequency in cases of bronchopneumonia caused by Pasteurella multocida. Traditionally this bacteria has been susceptible to a wide variety of antibiotics but recent lab data suggests resistance is developing to the common antibiotics in use in the cowcalf industry - macrolides (Draxxin, Zuprevo, Micotil) and oxytetracycline (OxyLA). Overuse of macrolides in the cow-calf sector will create issues for the prevention and control of respiratory disease in the feedlot sector, be it from Pasteurella, Mannheimia or Histophilus. Use of Draxxin for treatment of navel infections must stop - environmental management, genetics and ensuring colostrum consumption are much more effective for the prevention of all neonatal disease, including pneumonia and navel infection. Seek veterinary advice and have cultures done to determine the cause of the herd health challenges on your farm. Use your veterinarian’s expertise and the lab data to better prevent disease and to effectively treat the condition.
BY DR. TANYA ANDERSON, DVM In 2018, with funding from the Beef Cattle Research Council, the Canadian Cow-Calf Surveillance Network (C3SN) was developed. 175 beef cow-calf operations reflecting the current beef industry were recruited from across Canada. This group provides benchmarking productivity data and information about the economics of production limiting disease in Canadian beef herds. Regional networks, including one for Western Canada are offshoots of the national program. Based on the data generated, future research can be guided by identification of challenges being encountered in the industry. Topics of interest include biosecurity, animal welfare, antibiotic use and herd nutrition. So often, producers ask why research has been done on seemingly irrelevant topics or why no progress has been made on current issues that they themselves are dealing with in their own herds. C3SN and WeCAHN (Western Canadian Animal Health Network) are addressing this concern by screening participating herds and identifying health problems and management challenges that require further research. Networks like these are better able to rapidly detect emerging health problems and thus enable a quicker response to mitigate the negative impacts of changes in disease patterns. Support is also provided by the
I was visiting with a breeder the other day
about their 2020 season. He told me that in his 7 decades of raising Angus cattle and 50 years in the Red Angus breed, he’d never had a better year. They were able to market 170 bulls to commercial breeders, grossing in excess of $800,000. What he was most proud of though was the numerous third generation customers and the relationships built on trust and fair dealings. They sure have a lot to be proud of, I thought to myself. As I turned to leave, I looked back and said, “Thanks for the pep talk Dad.”
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Of particular frustration, a significant proportion of calf losses, stillbirths and abortions did not yield a diagnosis despite lab submission. Too often, a reason for this is failure to submit the correct samples, failure to choose the correct animal or delaying sampling until treatment avenues have been exhausted. An animal with symptoms typical of the problem must be chosen early in the disease course and prior to treatment with any medications, particularly antibiotics. Keep a log of the health challenges that you are experiencing to help you determine trends and thus guide you to seek diagnostic help sooner rather than later. Involve your veterinarian to ensure that any animals you choose to have examined are actually typical of your problem. If cultures are needed, be sure to obtain the necessary samples before ANY antibiotics are administered or it becomes much more difficult for the lab to isolate a diseasecausing organism because drug use suppresses its growth. Remember that a thorough necropsy may be necessary even when the problem seems isolated to one system (such as the lungs). Most diseases involve multiple organ systems
even though symptoms may point at only one system. A comprehensive set of formalin fixed and fresh tissues should be submitted for every necropsy case if the diagnosis is not immediately obvious by gross examination alone. This is particularly important in the diagnosis of abortion and stillbirth cases where a lab diagnosis is frustratingly low at <30% of cases. And remember that many disease issues do not require an antibiotic so don’t reach for the “miracle shot” every time a calf acts abnormal. Many health issues are not infectious but have an underlying nutritional or management problem. Thorough sample collection also helps in the identification of new disease syndromes like Mycoplasma bovis presenting as swollen joints in cows without isolation in the lungs. As Dr. Otto Radostits in vet school used to say….“You will miss more by not looking than by not knowing.” The seemingly relentless onslaught of regulations impacting beef operations should serve as the impetus for us as an industry to look at how we can do things better without relying on the old standbys like pills and shots. C3SN is a good start to helping us reach our goal in a sustainable responsible manner.
TESA applications due to MBP by December 4 Manitoba Beef Producers is accepting applications for Manitoba’s Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) until Friday, December 4, 2020. Since 1996, the Canadian Cattlemen Association’s (CCA) TESA has recognized producers who go above and beyond standard industry conservation practices, setting positive examples for other cattle producers and the general public. At the provincial level, the winning operation receives recognition for its outstanding contributions, which in MBP’s case occurs in conjunction with its annual general meeting in February. All provincial award recipients then move forward to compete at the national level. The national TESA recipient is announced in conjunction with the Canadian Beef Industry Conference and CCA Semi-Annual Meeting in August. Each TESA nominee exemplifies significant innovation and attention to a wide range of environmental stewardship
aspects of their farm operation. Such innovations extend beneficially to areas far beyond their land, including water, wildlife and air. All beef cattle operations in Canada may apply. Producers can either be nominated by an individual or organization, or apply themselves. Nominees and applicants compete for one of the provincial awards based on their province of residence. For more information and to access the application go to http://www.cattle. ca/sustainability/the-environmentalstewardship-award/, or contact MBP for a copy. The form, along with all supporting documentation (such as letters of support, photos and/or videos), is to be submitted to Manitoba Beef Producers c/o 220-530 Century Street, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0Y4 by December 4, 2020. The application is to be emailed to info@mbbeef.ca . If you have questions, please contact the MBP office at 1-800-772-0458.
Box 274, Austin, MB R0H 0C0 President: Tracy Wilcox 204-713-0029 Secretary: Laurelly Beswitherick 204-637-2046 b2@inetlink.ca
CSA AGM & YCSA ShoW es fall sal iss these m t o n o D
July 22-25, 2021
Portage La Prairie, MB
watch our website for up to date information! Nov. 18th Maple Lake Stock Farms Production Sale - Hartney, Manitoba Nov. 20th Pembina Triangle Simmental Assoc. 40th Annual Sale - Cypress River, Manitoba Nov. 30th WLB Livestock Complete Dispersal - Douglas, Manitoba DEC. 3rd Queens of the Heartland Production Sale - McAuley, Manitoba DEC. 8th Keystone Konnection 41st Annual Sale - Brandon, Manitoba DEC. 13th Bonchuk Farms Female Production Sale - Virden, Manitoba DEC. 14th Shades of the Prairies Annual Sale - Brandon, Manitoba DEC. 17th Transcon’s Season Wrap Up Sale - Neepawa, Manitoba DEC. 20th Stewart Cattle Co. Complete Dispersal - Virden, Manitoba DEC. 22nd Northern Light Simmentals & HBH Angus Production Sale - Virden, Manitoba
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November 2020 CATTLE COUNTRY 11
New research examines benefits of “upcycling” food waste into high quality beef protein BY CHRISTINE RAWLUK,
National Centre for Livestock and the Environment, University of Manitoba
A new study at the University of Manitoba will quantify food waste in Canada and identify the role of the beef industry in reducing plant-based byproducts and waste in Canada’s food system. “Our research will identify the extent to which byproducts are utilized, as well as opportunities to divert food waste from landfills and “upcycle” it into high quality livestock protein,” says Kim Ominski, animal scientist and study lead. Ominski’s multi-disciplinary research program focuses on strategies for improving the long term sustainability of beef cattle production systems. The goal is to achieve a smaller environmental footprint of our overall food system in Canada by capitalizing on the ability of cattle and other livestock to make use of these human-inedible products, keeping them in the food system and out of the waste stream. The potential benefits of using these materials as livestock feed can be far reaching – improved food security, reduced land, water, fuel and fertilizer use for food production, as well as lower greenhouse gas emissions. What is involved The first step is to determine the current state of food loss and food waste, as well as the proportion that is currently used by livestock across the supply chain in Canada. Next the team will explore opportunities to reduce and redirect food waste streams from the landfill to livestock feed. This step includes identifying potential barriers to upcycle food waste and byproducts through livestock related to transportation, centralization and regulations. They will also evaluate how feeding these materials to cattle impacts production efficiency and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with food waste through food vs feed comparisons. “By running these different scenarios through our models, we will
COMPETITIVE FEED COSTS TIME TO BOOK YOUR FALL/WINTER GRAIN & PROTEIN NEEDS
be able to show the costs and benefits attributable to these different use pathways,” explains Ominski. “The beef industry can draw on these numbers when communicating with government and society at large about the role cattle play in making our food system more sustainable.” Their report will include best practices to reduce food waste and loss reduction related to crop harvest and post-harvest handling, improved food storage and transportation, and interventions at the retail and consumer stages.
The goal is to achieve a smaller environmental footprint of our overall food system in Canada by capitalizing on the ability of cattle and other livestock to make use of these human-inedible products, keeping them in the food system and out of the waste stream. This study is part of a larger project with the National Centre for Livestock and the Environment that Ominski co-leads with Tim McAllister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada examining the economic and environmental impacts associated with removing productivity-enhancing technologies in the Canadian beef cattle industry. This research is funded by the Beef Cattle Research Council and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada under the Sustainable Beef and Forage Science Cluster with
additional funding from Mitacs. Project team: Co-leads: Kim Ominski, University of Manitoba and Tim McAllister, Agriculture and AgriFood Canada. Co-Investigators: Emma McGeough, Karin Wittenberg, Jared Carlberg, Kebebe Gunte (University of Manitoba), Karen Beauchemin, Roland Kroebel (AAFC - Lethbridge), John McKinnon (University of Saskatchewan), Robin White (Virginia Tech) and Mark Klassen (Canadian Cattlemen’s Association). New University of Manitoba website shares beef research outcomes through podcasts The Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences recently launched the Manitoba Agriculture and Food Knowledge Exchange – MAKE – website (www. makemanitoba.ca). The site profiles current research programs shared as articles and podcast interviews with Faculty scientists and other research collaborators in the community. Two podcasts feature animal scientist Kim Ominski, whose multi-disciplinary research program focuses on strategies for improving the long term sustainability of beef cattle production systems. In “The role of cattle in the environment: More complex than the simple “Cattle = GHG” sound bite” she presents an equation where impacts of GHG as well as benefits such as biodiversity and carbon sequestration are considered. What cattle eat, how they affect the environment, and the research being done to further improve the sustainability of livestock production systems in Canada are covered. In under 9 minutes, learn about the research findings comparing needle-and-syringe with needlefree injection systems to vaccinate cattle in the podcast “Needle-free vaccination systems for cattle proven effective by research”. A third podcast “Canada’s Verified Beef Production Plus Program: Sustainable practices validated by research at its core” is with Betty Green, Manitoba’s VBP+ coordinator. The VBP+ validates sustainable beef production practices that are based on research findings from across the country, including the University of Manitoba. Betty describes the program and shares her own personal story as a Manitoba farmer. Visit http://umanitoba.ca/agricultural-foodsciences/make-podcasts to listen to these and other podcasts. New content added regularly.
TRUCKLOAD LOTS (APPROX. 42 MT)
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BROKEN CORN
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GROUND OAT HULLS
Fortified Nutrition Limited (FNL) has a complete line of beef products to suit you and your cattle’s needs. From high quality palatable premixes, creep feeds and grower-finisher feeds, FNL
(Great for stretching silage)
OAT SCREENINGS
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has products that will maximize your cattle’s performance. Both Gilles and Travis offer on farm consultation with regular service and support to ensure that your herd is performing to it’s maximum potential.
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Call us today at 1-866-626-3933 or call Gilles Chappellaz at 204-805-2094 or Travis Froese at 204-905-1617.
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12 CATTLE COUNTRY November 2020
TRACEABILITY MADE EASY
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Whenever you need help, the new CLTS Resource Centre is your “how to” destination for everything Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS). Here you’ll find comprehensive step-by-step guides to easily navigate your way through the CLTS, on your computer or on your mobile device.
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Canadian Livestock Tracking System (CLTS), captures regulated and volunteer livestock traceability data such as birth dates, move-in and retirement, data essential to a first line of defence in the event of an emergency.
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Tags and tag accessories when you need them, 24/7. All approved beef and breed-specific breed tags, preapproved cervid and goat indicators, management tags, and readers available for purchase.
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