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E-Newsletter dsfsfa An update from MBP July 23, 2021

mbbeef.ca

Manitoba Beef Producers Update re: the Drought Situation, Recent Announcements and Next Steps them for doing so. The Hay Disaster Benefit (HDB) is being triggered early in recognition of the extensive damage already sustained to forages. The HDB will provide an additional $44/tonne (for every tonne below coverage) to insured forage producers to help offset the additional cost of replacement feed and transportation due to the severe shortage of forage throughout Manitoba. MBP believes this should be helpful for the eligible policy holders.

Pictured: Minister of Agriculture & Agri-Food The Honourable MarieClaude Bibeau along with MBP President and District 7 Director Tyler Fulton and District 10 Director Mike Duguid.

Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) wishes to provide an update to its members on the drought situation, recent government announcements and next steps.

Among the most urgent priorities facing the sector is sourcing feed for the weeks and months ahead. MBP has been working with the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC), provincial and federal officials and commodity group representatives about how to make damaged crops available as alternative feed and roughage sources for livestock. This included seeking a mechanism under AgriInsurance to encourage crops to be converted to alternate use. MBP had also sought the early triggering of the Hay Disaster Benefit for eligible AgriInsurance policy holders.

On July 22 Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister MarieClaude Bibeau and Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Ralph Eichler made an announcement on both these matters and MBP thanks

Additionally, the Ministers announced that MASC will be applying a quality adjustment factor to appraisals on crops that are being put to alternate use under AgriInsurance.

Specifically, a 60 per cent adjustment factor to in-field appraisals will be applied on small grain cereal crops (all varieties of wheat, oats, fall rye, barley, and triticale). This is in recognition of the reduction in crop quality due to the drought conditions. MBP believes this change will help encourage more crop producers to consider putting damaged crops to alternate use. MBP continues to encourage beef producers to reach out to crop producers now to explore potential options for alternative feed sources, and vice versa.

The federal government has also identified the initial list of prescribed regions whereby producers will be able to utilize the Livestock Tax Deferral Provision if they are being forced to sell down their breeding stock due to drought.

MBP believes this is an important development. In the case of Manitoba, 102 prescribed regions (rural municipalities, etc.) have been identified which cover off southern and central Manitoba. The Canadian cattle industry, including MBP continues to advocate for the livestock tax deferral to cover all classes of cattle, and for it to be made available on a multi-year basis.

On July 22 MBP was able to meet with Agriculture and AgriFood Minister Bibeau and to show her firsthand the impact of the drought on a multi-generation Manitoba cattle operation.

For reliable information and resources please visit:

New grazing stewardship program for 6,000 Prairie acres - Alberta Farmer

Express

Extreme weather-induced drought forcing farmers to turn food crops into cattle feed - Financial Post

continued from page 1

Manitoba Beef Producers Update re: the Drought Situation, Recent Announcements and Next Steps This was extremely important as it was an opportunity to speak with her about the effects of the drought on pasture and forage production and on water supplies. As well, there were discussions about the implications of producers being forced to sell part or all of their herds because of the severity of the situation. This included the financial effects on farms and ranches, the implications on productivity in multi-year droughts (damages to pastures and forages) and equally important, the stress facing farm families. We thank Minister Bibeau for visiting this operation, as well as James Bezan, Member of Parliament for Selkirk-Interlake-Eastman and Derek Johnson, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Interlake-Gimli, as well as departmental officials from both levels of government for visiting the operation and discussing the concerns.

are needed to help them deal with the challenges arising. The exchange of ideas was very helpful and MBP appreciates hearing ideas from producers about what may be beneficial for their operations and the sector as a whole.

The federal and provincial governments are working on the assessment processes in relation to AgriRecovery. MBP is providing feedback as part of this. MBP is identifying areas where additional assistance is going to be required from governments to help producers deal with this very serious situation. MBP is raising various factors with government officials, such as rising production costs, including pasture and forage lease rates, the cost of sourcing other feeds and water, the need for feed and water testing and other variables. Ensuring business risk management tools are more effective for the beef industry is another important area of discussion.

MBP remains committed to advocacy on the behalf of producers and the sector on the drought and other issues affecting Manitoba’s beef industry.

MBP would also like to thank the producers who participated in the virtual meeting with the organization on July 20 to talk about the drought situation and to discuss what types of immediate and long-term tools and resources

MBP recognizes the drought situation is very stressful and encourages producers to continue to provide support to one another. If you or someone you know needs help navigating the situation, there are resources out there that may be beneficial. For information about the Manitoba Farm and Rural Support Services line go to: https://supportline.ca/ or call 1-866-3673276 (line operates 24/7). Klinic Community Health also has resources available.

See: https://klinic.mb.ca/ MBP has a number of drought-related resources on its website at www.mbbeef.ca

Scenes from the MBP tour with Minister MarieClaude Bibeau on July 22.

Thank you to District 10 Director Mike Duguid and family for hosting the event.

Relief Coming to Manitoba Producers Affected by Severe Drought (July 22, 2021 Joint Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada/Province of Manitoba News Release)

Producers in Manitoba facing severe drought conditions can expect relief with several initiatives announced by federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau and Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Ralph Eichler.

“Our government is working around the clock with the provinces to help farm families coping with extreme weather conditions exacerbated by climate change,” said Bibeau. “The support through the Hay Disaster Benefit is one way we are helping Manitoba producers, who are under tremendous stress, to get through this crisis and toward a sustainable future.”

The first of the initiatives, available through Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation’s (MASC) Hay Disaster Benefit, will provide an additional $44/tonne (for every tonne below coverage) to insured forage producers to help offset the additional cost of replacement feed and transportation due to the severe shortage of forage throughout the province. The benefit was last triggered in 2019 when over $5 million was paid on close to 1,200 claims. Typically, the determination of payments for this benefit would not be made until January, once the majority of claim and harvested production report data is processed.

“We recognize that this has been an extremely difficult year for many producers with the lack of precipitation and extreme heat,” said Eichler.

“With pastures drying up and minimal sources of feed for livestock, it’s important to give producers the resources they need to secure feed to maintain their herds. All livestock producers play a critical role in our food supply and provincial economy, we’re proud to support them with early release of this benefit.”

MASC is also applying a quality adjustment factor to appraisals on crops that are being put to alternate use under the AgriInsurance program. A 60 per cent adjustment factor to infield appraisals will be applied on small grain cereal crops (all varieties of wheat, oats, fall rye, barley, and triticale). Reducing the appraisal of claims by 40 per cent reflects the expected reduction in quality resulting from the drought conditions. The full yield appraisal will be used to calculate future coverage, which provides producers who repurpose their crops for livestock feed an added benefit. This reduction will apply retroactively to producers who have already put their cereal crop to an alternate use this year.

Under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, AgriInsurance premiums for most programs are shared 40 per cent by participating producers, 36 per cent by the Government of Canada and 24 per cent by the Manitoba government.

Administrative expenses are paid 60 per cent by Canada and 40 per cent by Manitoba.

Discussions are also underway to expedite the completion of the AgriRecovery Assessment process and the implementation of a Livestock Tax Deferral to assist impacted livestock producers.

Quick facts

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Under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, AgriInsurance premiums for most programs are shared 40 per cent by participating producers, 36 per cent by the Government of Canada and 24 per cent by the Manitoba government.

Administrative expenses are paid 60 per cent by Canada and 40 per cent by Manitoba.

Associated links

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Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)

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Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation

July 22, 2021 The Forks, Winnipeg Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau at the podium announcing short term changes to support producers. MBP will continue to advocate for additional support.

Photo credit: Brady Stadnicki

2021 Livestock Tax Deferral – Initial Prescribed Regions Announced for Manitoba (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Information)

The Livestock Tax Deferral provision allows farmers who sell part of their breeding herd due to drought or flooding in prescribed drought or flood regions to defer a portion of sale proceeds to the following year. The initial list of prescribed regions in relation to the 2021 drought has been announced, including 102 of these in Manitoba. See the complete list below.

How the provision works To defer income, the breeding herd must have been reduced by at least 15%.

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Where the breeding herd has been reduced by at least 15%, but less than 30%, 30% of income from net sales can be deferred.

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Where the breeding herd has been reduced by 30% or more, 90% of income from net sales can be deferred.

Manitoba – 2021 Livestock Tax Deferral 1. Alexander 2. Alonsa 3. Argyle 4. Armstrong 5. Bifrost-Riverton 6. Boissevain-Morton 7. Brenda-Waskada 8. Brokenhead 9. Cartier 10. Cartwright-Roblin

In a year in which a region has been prescribed, income from livestock sales are deferred to the next tax year when the income may be at least partially offset by the cost of reacquiring breeding animals, thus reducing the potential tax burden. In the case of consecutive years of drought or excess moisture and flood conditions, producers may defer sales income to the first year in which the region is no longer prescribed.

For questions related to calculating and/or reporting income deferral for Prescribed Drought/Flood Regions for income tax purposes, please contact the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or consult the CRA publication T4002 Self-employed Business, Professional, Commission, Farming, and Fishing Income, Chapter 2 Income. The Livestock Tax Deferral information is detailed in Line 9470 – Livestock and animal products revenue.

11. Clanwilliam-Erickson 12. Coldwell 13. Dauphin 14. De Salaberry 15. Deloraine-Winchester 16. Division No. 1, Unorganized 17. Division No. 17, Unorganized 18. Division No. 18, Unorganized, East Part

19. Division No. 18, Unorganized, West Part 20. Division No. 19, Unorganized 21. Division No. 20, Unorganized, South Part 22. Dufferin 23. Ellice-Archie 24. Elton 25. Emerson-Franklin 26. Ethelbert 27. Fisher

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2021 Livestock Tax Deferral – Initial Prescribed Regions Announced for Manitoba 28. Gilbert Plains

54. Mountain (North)

81. St. Andrews

29. Gimli

55. Mountain (South)

82. St. Clements

30. Glenboro-South Cypress

56. Norfolk-Treherne

83. St. François Xavier 84. St. Laurent

31. Glenella-Lansdowne

57. North CypressLangford

32. Grahamdale

58. North Norfolk

86. Ste. Anne

33. Grandview

59. Oakland-Wawanesa

87. Ste. Rose

34. Grassland

60. Oakview

88. Stuartburn

35. Grey

61. Pembina

89. Swan Valley West

36. Hamiota

62. Piney

90. Taché

37. Hanover

63. Pipestone

91. Thompson

38. Harrison Park

64. Portage la Prairie

92. Two Borders

39. Headingley

65. Prairie Lakes

93. Victoria

40. Hillsburg-Roblin-Shell River

66. Prairie View

94. Wallace-Woodworth

67. Reynolds

95. West Interlake

68. Rhineland

96. West St. Paul

69. Riding Mountain West

97. WestLake-Gladstone

70. Ritchot

98. Whitehead

71. Riverdale

99. Whitemouth

72. Rockwood

100.Winnipeg

41. Killarney - Turtle Mountain 42. La Broquerie 43. Lac du Bonnet 44. Lakeshore 45. Lorne 46. Louise 47. Macdonald 48. McCreary 49. Minitonas-Bowsman 50. Minto-Odanah 51. Montcalm 52. Morris 53. Mossey River

73. Roland 74. Rosedale 75. Rossburn 76. Rosser 77. Russell-Binscarth 78. Sifton 79. Souris-Glenwood 80. Springfield

85. Stanley

101.Woodlands 102.Yellowhead

https://agriculture.canada.ca /en/agriculture-andenvironment/drought-watchand-agroclimate/livestocktax-deferral-provision

News Release CCA is encouraged by Minister Bibeau’s announcement today to help beef farmers and ranchers impacted by severe drought conditions July 22, 2021 Winnipeg, MB - Today the Hon. Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood announced much needed and timely support for farmers and ranchers impacted by the severe drought conditions seen across Canada in British Columbia, the prairie provinces, and parts of Ontario.

Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) appreciates the swiftness of the early designation for the livestock tax deferral, which will allow beef producers who are forced to sell a significant amount of their breeding herd due to drought conditions to offset the resulting revenues with the costs to replace the herd. After an initial review, there are missing areas across the provinces and CCA emphasizes that those additional regions need to be added as eligible as soon as possible. As the deferral is not currently multiyear and is not eligible for all classes of cattle, CCA will continue to advocate for subsequent changes for the deferral and work with Minister Bibeau and government officials on this request.

“Canadian farmers and ranchers are facing one of the most severe, widespread droughts and one of the largest feed supply shortages that they have experienced in decades. We appreciate Minister Bibeau and the federal government taking the time to visit one of the hardest hit areas of the drought and subsequently taking swift action to support farm families. We will continue to work with the Minister, the provinces and impacted stakeholders to seek further necessary supports for beef farmers and ranchers,” said Reg Schellenberg, Vice-President, CCA. CCA welcomes the additional federal support for AgriInsurance to make drought-damaged crops available for feed to help beef producers immediately. CCA is supportive of crop insurance changes announced jointly by the Federal and Provincial governments. These changes align with our recommendations for incentives to salvage crops into livestock feed and added support for producers to purchase additional feed. Changes include Hay Disaster Benefit (HDB) triggered for 2021 and quality adjustment applied to infield appraisals.

Today’s announcement is welcomed by CCA, and we are encouraged that Minister Bibeau will continue working on other programs to support farmers and ranchers with drought conditions. CCA will continue to work closely with Minister Bibeau and the provincial governments through our provincial members on our other recommendations, including AgriRecovery and AgriStability, both federal-provincial initiatives.

For further information, contact: Tammy Melesko Communications Manager Canadian Cattlemen’s Association 403-451-0931| meleskot@cattle.ca

The CCA is the national voice for Canada’s beef cattle industry representing 55,000 beef farms and feedlots.

Visit www.cattle.ca

Farm group coalition urging producers to know their options with drought-damaged crops alternative feed and roughage sources is critical,” said MBP president Tyler Fulton.

“Producers with damaged crops should consider salvaging as much feed as possible.”

(July 22, 2021 Joint Organizational Release)

Ongoing drought conditions across Manitoba have a coalition of farm groups urging producers to know their options when making decisions about their crops.

Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) and Manitoba Forage & Grassland Association (MFGA), along with Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP), Manitoba Crop Alliance (MCA), Manitoba Bison Association (MBA) and Manitoba Sheep Association (MSA), are warning that ongoing drought conditions pose a significant challenge to livestock, grain and forage producers.

“With drought conditions reported across Manitoba, we recognize the detrimental impacts across the crop and livestock sectors,” said MCA chair Fred Greig. “Producers need to know their options so they can make the best business decision for their operation.”

Before making decisions about droughtdamaged crops, the coalition is asking producers to contact Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) about putting crops to alternative use.

“Successive droughts in some regions of the province have taxed livestock producers’ ability to secure feed, so being able to source

There are resources to help producers determine the value of a crop harvested as silage or greenfeed. Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development (ARD) provides information regarding the cost of production for grain and silage crops, forage supply management, pricing for baled forages and piled silage and the value of straw as a crop fertilizer.

As the challenging growing season continues, the coalition is reminding producers to consider their mental health and the mental health of others.

“From a stress perspective during these challenging times, producers should be mindful of their ability to look out for themselves, their neighbours and their community,” said MFGA chair Larry Wegner. “Talking to someone like a neighbour or friend is a great pressure release and opens the door for more conversations that may be necessary, including using mental health resources designed to support producers.”

The Manitoba Farm, Rural & Northern Support Services (MFRNSS) provides free, confidential telephone and online counselling to producers.

MFRNSS is available 24/7 by calling 1-866-3673276 or visiting www.supportline.ca.

The coalition is working with ARD and MASC to identify programs to support producers through this challenging time.

Determining the value of greenfeed or silage The following information has been provided by Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development.

Since greenfeed or silage does not have a futures market like cattle or grains and is not bought and sold by commercial traders, determining a fair market value can be difficult.

There are a few different ways of determining the value of a crop harvested as silage or greenfeed. If the crop was originally grown for grain the value can be based off the expected grain yield multiplied by current grain prices.

Adjustments can be made for harvesting cost (deducted) and the value of the straw (added).

Another method that can be used is the cost of production for growing that crop. The Cost of Production section of the Agriculture and Resource Development (ARD) website provides cost of production information for different grain and silage crops. A Straw Calculator can also be found here to help determine the NPK dollar value of the straw as a crop fertilizer. A third way to determine a greenfeed or silage value is to sell it based off of the forage tonnage produced at a pre-determined price. The price can be based off of what similar forages, either greenfeed, silage or hay are selling for.

This method pays the seller for what they produce and the buyer pays for what they receive. The Forage Purchase Calculator on the ARD website provides a method of comparing the pricing for baled forages and piled silage.

This calculator takes into account different moistures and adding in the cost of freight to see what feed purchase is more economical after freight is factored in.

Livestock producers need to evaluate their forage shortfall and options in deciding how much they should pay. ARD’s Managing Low Forage Supplies calculator estimates the forage needed for the herd based on animal category and weight, and identifies the shortfall. It identifies 8 different potential rations to fill the shortfall on a least cost basis that help decide the economics of buying greenfeed compared to hay, straw, and other alternatives.

Since the forage value determined will be different depending on the method used, being flexible and fair will help to ensure the outcome can be a win/win situation for both parties.

Missed the recent CCA Town Hall? A recording is available to watch at your convenience - click the graphic below:

Resources for Sourcing Feed or Pastures Farmers and producers have several options when it comes to listing available hay and straw, and for buying hay, straw and alternative feeds. By no means is this list exhaustive and we encourage you to share other avenues for listing and buying with Manitoba Beef Producers, so that we can share them with our members.

Manitoba Government Hay Listing Service The Manitoba Hay Listing Service provides an inventory of hay and alternative feed for sale and pasture for rent. If you have hay, alternative feed, or pasture land for sale or rent contact an ARD and MASC Service Centre to have your listing added.

Manitoba Hay & Feed for Buy/Sell Hay / Feed For Sale in Saskatchewan, Alberta & Manitoba Internet Hay Exchange Other social media avenues including Twitter also feature hay for sale across the province, however that exchange needs to occur on a user to user basis.

Social Media/Buy and Sell Sites There are a number of social media and buy/sell sites that provide hay, straw and alternative feed sourcing options: Kijiji Manitoba eBrandon Classifieds

MFGA Hay Relief Website Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association has a hay relief page.

See https://www.mfga.net/hay-relief

Since 1996, The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) has been awarded annually at the provincial and national level to recognize cattle producers’ leadership in conservation.

Nominees and applicants are selected based on their stewardship practices, accomplishments and goals.

The deadline to receive nominations at the MBP office is December 3, 2021.

FCC supports Western Canadian producers impacted by hot, dry weather pressures on those impacted by unfavourable weather.

(July 20, 2021 FCC News Release) Farm Credit

Canada (FCC) is offering a customer support program to farmers and ranchers across western Canada who are facing production challenges due to adverse growing conditions.

Many parts of Western Canada haven’t received any significant rainfall through the spring and summer months. Extreme heat and dry weather have already reduced the potential yield of many crops. The unfavourable weather has also stifled pastures and hay production in many areas.

“We are watching the weather situation very closely and are talking to customers daily,” said Michael Hoffort, FCC President and CEO. “We already know that several ranchers are feeling the impact, while grain and oilseed producers are watching their crops deteriorate in the fields,” he said. “If these conditions persist, many operations could face cash flow challenges, so we want our customers to know we’re ready to support them and find solutions.”

“Our customers work hard to grow high-quality food for consumers at home and abroad, so they deserve our support when facing circumstances beyond their control,” Hoffort added.

FCC will work with customers to come up with solutions for their operations and will consider additional short term credit options, deferral of principal payments and/or other loan payment schedule amendments to reduce financial

“Producers across Western Canada are doing their best during difficult circumstances. Our government is working very closely with FCC, provincial partners and stakeholders to respond as quickly as possible to the drought in Western Canada,” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “During these challenging times, Farm Credit Canada is rolling out their customer support program to help farmers with solutions that address their unique financial challenges.”

Customers in Western Canada are encouraged to contact their FCC relationship manager sooner rather than later to allow for the most flexibility in discussing options available to them. Customers can do this by contacting their local office or the FCC Customer Service Centre at 1-888-332-3301.

In addition to working with customers to support any financial concerns, FCC also reminds those who may be struggling to seek support for their mental well-being. For a list of mental health resources, visit FCC Wellness.

FCC is Canada’s leading agriculture and food lender, with a healthy loan portfolio of more than $41 billion. Our employees are dedicated to the future of Canadian agriculture and food.

We provide flexible, competitively priced financing, management software, information and knowledge specifically designed for the agriculture and food industry. As a selfsustaining Crown corporation, we provide an appropriate return to our shareholder, and reinvest our profits back into the industry and communities we serve. For more information, visit fcc.ca.

Low Precipitation and Water Levels Advisory (July 22, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

Manitoba Infrastructure is advising people of record-low precipitation levels in most Manitoba watersheds has led to well-below normal to record dry soil moisture in some locations.

Flows and water levels are below normal to well-below normal in most southern and central Manitoba rivers and lakes with dry conditions forecast to continue until fall of 2021.

Provincial water control structures are being operated to mitigate low water level conditions.

The Fairford Water Control Structure is being operated to balance the low water level effects at Lake Manitoba and Lake St. Martin, while trying to maintain the minimum desirable flow at the Fairford River.

The Shellmouth Dam is being operated to supplement water for the lower Assiniboine River irrigators and water supply users, while trying to maintain the desirable summer level for the upstream stakeholders for recreational use.

In addition, the Portage reservoir is being kept at the desirable level to give sufficient head for water intakes from the reservoir and providing allocated flow to license holders on the diversion.

Fire Bulletin #18 (July 22, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that thanks to recent rainfall in some areas of the province, there will be a gradual lifting of some fire and travel restrictions. However, some areas of the province still face high to extreme fire danger levels.

Outdoor Burning All provincial burning permits remain cancelled provincewide and new permits will not be issued until conditions improve.

Area 4 remains at level 4 fire and travel restrictions, which essentially means the area is closed, and a full travel ban is in effect. Area 4 covers the large area north of the Wanipigow River, east of Lake Winnipeg to the Ontario border, including Atikaki Provincial Park, and north to Poplar River.

Level 4 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Imposed in Area 4 • No access permitted. Travel ban in effect.

• No access to cottages.

• Permanent residents must be ready to leave on an hour’s notice.

• Campfires are not permitted.

Level 2 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Imposed in Areas 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 16 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled.

• Motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited unless under the authority of a travel permit.

• Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds.

• Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

• Wayside parks remain open.

• Landing and launching is restricted to developed shorelines only.

• Industry and outfitters may be restricted in their operations and should contact their local

Manitoba Conservation and Climate office for more information.

Level 1 Fire and Travel Restrictions: Remain for Area 15 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled.

• Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

• Motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. unless otherwise approved by a travel permit.

The Province’s Fire and Travel Restrictions map will be updated to reflect these updated restrictions. Please confirm your area’s restrictions before heading outdoors. www.gov.mb.ca/sd/fire/Restrictions/ index.html.

Many municipalities have already proactively implemented burning restrictions. Check with local municipal offices for more information or view the interactive Current Municipal Burning Restrictions at www.manitoba.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.ht ml. The province does not issue burning permits within or areas bordering any municipality where municipal burning restrictions are already in place.

Wildfires across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and northwest Ontario will continue to bring smoke into all parts of the province until conditions improve. This will be dependent on wind direction. Air quality reports are available on the Government of Canada website at: https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/mbaq001_e.html.

For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ or follow the Twitter account at https://twitter.com/mbgovnews. To report a wildfire, call 911 or T.I.P line at 1-800-782-0076.

Government of Canada invests $2.6 million to improve alfalfa growth and develop a grassland carbon offset system (July 19, 2021 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada New Release) The Minister of Agriculture and

Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of over $2.6 million to Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA) to support three projects that will assess and improve alfalfa growth using artificial intelligence and will develop a Canadian grassland carbon offset system. Alfalfa is a key forage crop producers rely on to capture and fix carbon, return nutrients to the soil and improve soil health.

Minister Bibeau made the announcement at the farm Bergerie Malvibois in Sawyerville, Quebec, one of the key data collection sites for the project.

Funding will be allocated as follows: •

Up to $998,185 to develop a tool to improve yield and forage nutritive value from alfalfa fields using artificial intelligence. The tool will identify potential agronomic, climatic and soilrelated factors affecting alfalfa yield. It will also predict potential yield and nutritive value loss through soil nutrient analysis and health diagnostics.

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Up to $996,190 to develop a tool to assess and improve alfalfa’s winter survival rates with artificial intelligence and persistency by combining data and remote imagery with artificial intelligence.

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Up to $621,572 to develop an assurance system for farmers to produce and sell carbon offsets, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions

and retention of Canada’s grasslands.

Canadian Forage and Grassland Association expects that more than 5,000 hectares of Canadian grasslands will be protected by land conservation agreements, and 10,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) will be saved through third-party verified carbon offset credits.

These projects will help farmers better understand alfalfa growth, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Government of Canada is committed to providing new and innovative means for farmers to improve the yields of their cover crops and building a sustainable agriculture sector.

Quotes “Today’s announcement is about projects that will help to develop tools farmers can use to produce and export more, higher-quality alfalfa through artificial intelligence, and to sell carbon offsets.”

- The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food “The Canadian Forage and Grassland Association is very excited about this funding from AAFC’s Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program. Alfalfa is an important ingredient that feeds many other agriculture sectors in Canada, and this funding will help provide forage producers with valuable decision-support tools to help alfalfa crops thrive.”

- Cedric MacLeod, Executive Director, Canadian Forage & Grassland Association continued on page 17

Government of Canada invests $2.6 million to improve alfalfa growth and develop a grassland carbon offset system Quick facts •

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Funding for the first two projects comes from the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (CASPP). The CASPP supports the Canadian agricultural sector’s participation in the Government of Canada’s growth and policy objectives, by investing in the sector’s design, development and implementation of tools and strategies to respond to and seize opportunities created by these objectives. These projects include a network of 40 agronomists and 225 farms for collecting the data.

Funding for the third project comes from the AgriAssurance Program, which funds projects, at the national level, to help industry develop and adopt systems, standards and tools to support health and safety claims about Canadian agricultural and agri-food products.

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Formed in 2010, the CFGA is the national voice for all sectors of the forage and grassland industry. Their main role is to uphold the robust forage industry and realize the potential of the domestic and export forage market.

Associated links •

Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program

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AgriAssurance Program: National Industry Association Component

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Canadian Forage and Grassland Association

Missed the recent MBP Information Session? A recording is available to watch at your convenience - click the graphic below:

COVID-19 Vaccine Bulletin For young people aged 12 to 17 to be fully immunized for their return to school in the fall, they should receive their first vaccine by Tuesday, July 27. This allows for the minimum 28 days between doses and two weeks after the second dose for the best immune response.

There are more than 29,000 Pfizer appointments available from now to the end of July.

Eligibility All people aged 12 and up are now eligible for their first or second dose. The date of the second appointment must be at least 28 days after the first vaccination. For more information, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/eligibilitycriteria.html#second-dose.

Appointments and Walk-Ins There are thousands of Moderna and Pfizer appointments open and available to book as early as today.

From July 24 to 29, pop-up clinics will be located at the following campgrounds and provincial parks located in the Prairie Mountain Health region: • July 24 – Sandy Lake and Oak Lake beach; • July 25 – Clear Lake; • July 27 – Rivers Campground; • July 28 – Onanole, Clear Lake and Adam Lake; • July 29 – Lake Metigoshe; and • July 30 – Ninette.

Fifteen medical clinics and pharmacies are regional hubs for AstraZeneca vaccinations.

Individuals can use the online vaccine finder at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/finder.ht ml to find a location with available doses.

A complete listing and searchable map of all vaccine sites, including urban Indigenous clinics

and pop-up clinics, is available online at https://protectmb.ca. Eligible individuals can book their appointments at these sites online, or by calling (toll-free) 1-844-626-8222 (1-844MAN-VACC).

Additional Information Eligible Manitobans must have their first immunization on or before Aug. 2 to be eligible to win scholarships or cash prizes in Manitoba’s first ever ‘Vax to Win Lottery’. Currently, nearly 78 per cent of Manitobans are eligible for the first draw.

To be considered fully immunized, individuals require two doses of vaccine. These can be the same or different brands of vaccine. Individuals who are fully vaccinated can now request a digital or physical immunization card. For more information, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/immuniza tion-record.html#immunization-cards.

Individuals who need to update any missing or inaccurate information on their immunization records or apply for an immunization card can use the e-form at https://forms.gov.mb.ca/covid-immunizationrecord-request/ or call 1-844-MAN-VACC (1844-626-8222) and follow the prompts.

Manitobans are reminded to fill out a second consent form for their second dose appointment. To fill out and print the consent forms before your appointment, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/resources .html#forms.

More information about the vaccine campaign in Manitoba is available at www.manitoba.ca/vaccine and https://protectmb.ca/. All data in this bulletin is current as of July 21 unless otherwise noted.

Applications Being Accepted for Water Source Development for Farms and Ranches (June 8, 2021 Joint News Release) The

governments of Canada and Manitoba are advising that livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions on pasture in Manitoba can apply for funding to support water source development under Ag Action Manitoba.

Funding is provided through the Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas beneficial management practice (BMP) under Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance. Eligible items include: • water source development – constructing new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts; • solar, wind or grid-powered alternative watering systems; • permanent fencing to restrict livestock access to surface water and dugouts; and • permanent pipeline development.

Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance: Beneficial Management Practices provides targeted incentive programs to agricultural producers and select industry service providers to advance the adoption of BMPs. These practices reduce identified environmental risks, improve agroecosystem resilience, build public trust and improve environmental sustainability of farm operations in Manitoba.

Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1 are eligible. Projects will

need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until Sept. 1.

Applications can include retroactive expenses incurred as of April 1. Upon project completion, applicants must submit proof of a valid Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) with their claim (see www.ManitobaEFP.ca for more info).

The Ag Action Manitoba Program is funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership— a five-year (2018-2023), $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow Canada’s agriculture and agri-food and agri-products sector. This includes a $2-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.

Producers can contact their local Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development office, call the department toll-free at 1-84-GROWMB-AG (1-844-769-6224) for more information on any of these programs and services, or go to www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture under Quick Links.

Frequently Asked Questions BMP: Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas (503) Q1. When is the deadline to apply?

A: Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Applications will be accepted continuously up to that date and will be reviewed on a weekly basis. They will be assessed by technical reviewers based on the environmental benefit assessment index, program priorities and project planning.

Q2. Do I have to complete my project this fall?

A: Yes. The project must be completed and claims submitted by November 5, 2021.

Q3. If I have already done a water source development project this spring, am I eligible?

A: Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1, 2021 are eligible. However, projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Q4. What do I need to include with my application?

A: Please answer the questions provided in either the Farmers Application Form or ISP Application Form, and refer to the BMP Specific Questions listed in either the Farmers Guidebook or ISP Guidebook to assist you. Ensure that you explain the proposed project in detail, current practices on the farm, and the environmental benefit of the new practice. Include an aerial map of the pasture with the location of the existing and proposed water sources identified as well as any fencing (existing and proposed).

Q5. Do I need a valid Environmental Farm Plan Statement of Completion?

A: You can submit an application without a valid Statement of Completion, however, if your project is approved, you will be required to provide proof of a valid EFP by November 5, 2021 when you submit your project claim for reimbursement. Environmental Farm Plan workshop dates and locations will be listed at www.ManitobaEFP.ca .

Q6. Are confined livestock operations eligible?

A: No. This BMP is focused on livestock in pasture-based systems.

Q7. Do I have to dig a dugout to a specific size?

A: All dugout work, including new construction or rehabilitation of an existing location, should follow the dugout construction guideline.

Q8. Can I drill a new well in my yard?

A: Drilling a well in the yard is eligible if it is primarily intended for watering livestock on pasture and is the most cost efficient means of doing so. It can be used for supplying water to the yard as well, assuming the pastures are next to the yard. Only the well and pasture components are eligible for funding, not any components used for inyard water.

Q9. Do I need any permits?

A: Applicants must meet all regulatory requirements. This may include:  A Water Rights License is required for all livestock operations extracting more than 25,000 litres of water (25 m3 or 5,499 Imperial gallons) per day. If developing a new water source, a permit must be obtained in advance of starting work.  Approvals from the rural municipality or Crown.  Any other standards or approvals as required by law.

Q10. Can I pump / pipe / haul water from an existing water source into a dugout that has gone dry?

A: Piping or hauling water from any water source (well, dugout or wetland) into a dugout that has run dry is not eligible.

Q11. Do I have to fence my dugout?

A: Dugouts must be fenced to ensure livestock do not have direct access to the water within, which will prevent contamination and protect water quality.

Q12. I just need a water trough or water storage tank. Is this eligible?

A: No - watering system components such as watering bowls, troughs or storage tanks are only eligible as a part of a water source development project.

However, if your project includes development or rehabilitation of a water source (ex: well or dugout) or management of a riparian area (ex: exclusion fencing), watering system components are eligible.

Q13. How deep does a pipeline need to be?

A: Summer pasture pipelines permanently installed underground, and which can be properly winterized before freezing are eligible (ex: installed with a pasture pipeline plow). Above-ground pipelines are ineligible. Projects must be for permanent solutions only.

Q14. Can I apply for a project on a pasture that I rent?

A: Yes. Either the landowner or renter can apply. If the renter applies, they must identify the landowner and provide contact information with their application. For pastures on Crown Land, you must get approval from your local Farm Production Extension Specialist – Crown Lands.

Q15. If I have more questions, who can I contact?

A: Farmers can visit their local ARD/MASC Service Centre or call toll-free 1-844-769-6224.

Environmental Farm Plan Workshops Update (Source: Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development) Environmental Farm Plans (EFP) are an essential part of every farm operation. These workshops will guide producers through the EFP workbook to help assess and identify the environmental assets and risks on their farm operations, and develop an action plan to address the identified risks. Workbooks and support material will be provided to those who attend. There is no preparation required for this workshop.

EFPs must be renewed every five years to remain valid. If you are unsure if your EFP is valid, please contact KAP to inquire at (204) 697-1140.

Due to COVID-19, all EFP workshops will be taking place virtually via Online Meetings until further notice.

To register for an EFP workshop, click on the link Register now! for the date of your choice below.

Once registered, you will then receive an email with a link to access the meeting. Workbooks are mailed and you should receive yours approximately 1 week prior to the workshop. You can also visit this link to register:

https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/environment/ events-and-deadlines/index.html Upcoming Environmental Farm Plan Workshops

REGISTRATION DATE

TIME LINK

DEADLINE TO REGISTER

STATUS

Aug. 11, 2021

1:30 3:30 PM

Register now!

July 28, 2021

FULL

Aug. 25, 2021

1:30 3:30 PM

Register now!

Aug.11, 2021

OPEN

1:30 Sept.

3:30 8, 2021 PM

Register now!

Aug.25, 2021

OPEN

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• VBP+ training is web-based and can take place at your leisure around daily chores.

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For more information please call Melissa Atchison at (204) 264-0294 or email: verifiedbeefmanitoba@gmail.com • No pre-registration is required. Contact Melissa

Atchison

E-Newsletter dsfsfa An update from MBP July 16, 2021

mbbeef.ca

Manitoba Beef Producers engaging with government, commodity groups about the drought situation Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) continues to work with the provincial government and Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC), as well as other commodity groups regarding the very serious drought situation and possible measures to help affected livestock producers.

alternative feed sources, and vice versa. MBP also asks that producers who have hay, straw or alternative feed sources available to post them on sites such as the Manitoba Hay Listing Service (gov.mb.ca), local buy and sell sites and social media channels as this would be very valuable.

“Successive droughts have seriously taxed Manitoba’s beef sector. Swift and effective strategies are needed to address the immediate challenges and also to help ensure the industry’s long-term stability,” said MBP president Tyler Fulton. “The provincial government has recognized the importance of preserving the cow herd for the future.

Strong collaborative efforts will be key to helping the sector deal with the significant challenges created by this agricultural disaster.”

MBP continues to speak with government officials at all levels about the types of programs and tools needed to help producers deal with the drought-related challenges.

Possible initiatives under AgriRecovery must be taken into consideration in a timely fashion. A quick declaration of the Livestock Tax Deferral Provision for producers who have to make the difficult decision to sell off some of their breeding stock in order to match herd size to feed availability is also required.

Stable access to feed and water are the key components of beef production, and MBP’s efforts have first focused on these key areas. MBP had requested the reopening of BMP 503: Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas, which provides cost-shared support for water source development projects. This program is now open for producers seeking this type of assistance. Another MBP ask was to provide producers with access to Crown lands for grazing purposes and this too has been provided by the provincial government.

MBP is raising various factors affecting producers with government officials, such as rising production costs, including pasture and forage lease rates and the cost of sourcing other feeds. Ensuring business risk management tools are more effective for the beef industry is another important area of discussion.

As conditions continue to deteriorate, sourcing feed is producers’ top priority. MBP has worked with MASC, provincial officials and commodity group representatives about how to make damaged crops available as alternative feed and roughage sources for livestock. MASC has given producers enrolled in AgriInsurance information about how to put their crops to alternate use during the growing season. MBP is encouraging beef producers to reach out to crop producers now to explore potential options for

“These are challenging and stressful times as producers work diligently to secure the resources needed for their cattle. MBP values the input from its members about the situation and the types of assistance they require. MBP also values the ability to work with government and other agricultural sectors on possible initiatives,” added Fulton.

“The farm community has a long history of helping each other out in times of need, such as natural disasters. And, the support we have received from the public during this time is certainly appreciated.”

For information on resources related to managing in a drought, visit www.mbbeef.ca.

For reliable information and resources please visit:

Study finds significant beef payoff - The Western Producer Labelling law rears its head again, but officials don’t expect its return - Manitoba Co-operator

MASC Alternate Crop Use Information Note: The following information has been provided by Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation.

•

The appraisal determined by the adjustor will be used to finalize the insurance claim and will be included when calculating your future coverage.

For example, if the appraisal is 20 bushels per acre and you elect to cut it for feed, MASC will count these 20 bushels per acre as if it were harvested for grain. The proceeds from alternate use production (i.e. greenfeed or silage sales) are not part of your crop claim calculation. The assessment can also be helpful in determining the value of the crop if it will be used for an alternate use for your operation or to sell.

•

It is up to the producer to decide whether they want to harvest the crop or put it to alternate use. An appraisal must be completed prior to cutting or adequate strips left for appraisal at a later date to ensure a representative yield can be used for a claim calculation.

The current dry conditions are of great concern to many grain and cattle producers in Manitoba.

As the extreme heat and dry conditions persist, crops will continue to deteriorate.

The AgriInsurance program provides flexibility for producers to put their crop to alternate use during the growing season. Alternate use means a change to the use of a crop from what was originally intended when planting in the spring.

For example, if you indicated on your Seeded Acreage Report that you were growing oats for grain but choose to cut it for greenfeed instead, this would be considered alternate use.

If you are considering putting your crop to an alternate use (silage, greenfeed, grazing) for your own use or someone else’s, here’s what you need to know from an insurance perspective.

•

Contact MASC immediately by phone or email. Please have the legal land descriptions and number of acres you plan to put to an alternate use available. It is ideal to have an adjustor appraise your crop prior to putting it to alternate use. However, if timing doesn’t allow for an adjustor to assess your crop prior to putting it to alternate use, producers must leave strips (one 10-foot-wide strip, the full length of the field for every 40 acres) so that the adjustor can accurately assess the crop at a later date.

If you have greenfeed, hay, straw, or pastureland available or are looking to purchase greenfeed, hay, straw, or pastureland, use the Agriculture and Resource Development’s (ARD) online resource to buy or sell - Manitoba Hay Listing Service (gov.mb.ca). For more information on Managing Dry Conditions for Crops and Livestock, visit: https://gov.mb.ca/agriculture/dry.html.

Click here for contact information for the ARD and MASC Service Centres.

Media Statement The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and Provincial Cattle Associations support FPT Ministers’ meeting on drought and wildfire conditions and call for prompt action on relief measures July 15, 2021

Calgary, AB – Beef producers in parts of Ontario, the prairie provinces and British Columbia are facing severe drought conditions. Extreme temperatures and below average rainfall are already creating feed and water supply shortages and have some beef producers struggling to maintain their herd sizes. Active wildfires in B.C. are also significantly impacting the land that cattle producers depend on for grazing and raising their herd.

The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and Provincial Cattle Associations appreciate that Federal-Provincial-Territorial (FPT) Agriculture Ministers will be meeting this afternoon to discuss the critical nature of this severe drought and fire situation. Cattle producers are requesting urgent government action on drought and wildfire relief measures.

Immediate measures that should be taken include: •

Expedite approvals for insured crops to be designated for livestock feed or grazing purposes. Provide preferential treatment or incentives to allow crops to be grazed or converted to feed without penalty.

•

Dedicate additional resources to support quality water access and infrastructure.

•

Initiate drought relief programming under AgriRecovery to assist with extraordinary costs related to feed and water shortages and impacts of wildfires to maintain the national cattle herd.

•

Immediately implement the Livestock Tax Deferral provision for Ontario, the entire prairie provinces and B.C. Extend eligibility to include all classes of cattle.

•

Declare B.C. wildfires eligible for the Disaster Financial Assistance program

The CCA is the national voice for Canada’s beef cattle industry representing 55,000 beef farms and feedlots.

Visit www.cattle.ca

“Without timely and targeted assistance from federal and provincial governments, beef producers will be forced to make difficult management decisions including culling of their herds. It is of critical importance that Canada’s beef cow herd be maintained throughout this disaster event.” Bob Lowe, Canadian Cattlemen’s Association President.

"BC has been hit very hard this year with minimal moisture throughout the spring and 10 days of extreme temperatures in the mid to high 40s, which has created a perfect environment for fires and drought. We are faced with a very bleak outlook for the industry and the province. While we have not yet been declared a State of Emergency, we are in the middle of one of the largest disasters we have ever faced. The need to have financial assistance for this disaster is crucial for us to rebuild and survive this event" Kevin Boon, BC Cattlemen’s Association General Manager.

"We appreciate the Minister's acknowledgment of the urgency of the drought situation.

Our top priority is attempting to maintain the mother cow herd by converting failed crops to suitable feed while that opportunity still exists." Dr. Melanie Wowk, Alberta Beef Producers Chair.

“The drought situation in Saskatchewan is anywhere from critical to extremely dire. We have been working with CCA and all levels of government to address this challenging weather situation. With the expected heat dome coming showing temperatures in the high 30s and no rain in sight, we know the situation will only worsen over the coming weeks. The Saskatchewan government recently announced measures through SCIC and FRWIP, which are a good first step. Additional measures are still needed to get our cattle producers through not only this year, but the next.” Arnold Balicki, Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association Chair.

“Manitoba’s beef sector has been taxed by successive years of dry conditions and droughts which have depleted feed and water resources. The conditions are continuing to deteriorate each day, forcing producers to evaluate their options, such as downsizing or exiting,” said Manitoba Beef Producers president Tyler Fulton. “MBP is also working with the CCA and government officials to identify both near and longer-term strategies to help address this situation. The more swiftly initiatives can be implemented, the better.”

“We are very concerned about the short-term and potential long-term implications of the 2021 drought for the Ontario cow herd and the broader Canadian cattle sector.

Pastures in several regions of Ontario have been decimated by the persistent heat and lack of timely rains. The increased cost of feed as well as the costs associated with re‐ establishing hayfields and pasture next year will add to the hardship for those in affected regions. The scope and severity of the drought in parts of Ontario and across western Canada will have significant consequences for our sector in the absence of government assistance.” Rob Lipsett, Beef Farmers of Ontario President.

The CCA is the national voice for Canada’s beef cattle industry representing 55,000 beef farms and feedlots.

Visit www.cattle.ca

This statement is written collaboratively by Beef Farmers of Ontario, Manitoba Beef Producers, Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association, Alberta Beef Producers, British Columbia Cattlemen’s Association and the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association.

For further information, contact: Jennifer Babcock Canadian Cattlemen’s Association 613-716-3244 | babcockj@cattle.ca Holly Jackson BC Cattlemen’s Association (250) 573-3611 | holly@cattlemen.bc.ca Katelyn Laverdure Alberta Beef Producers 403-451-1176 | katelynl@albertabeef.org Ryder Lee Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association 306-585-2333 | communications@saskbeef.com David Hultin Manitoba Beef Producers 204-772-4542 | dhultin@mbbeef.ca LeaAnne Wurmli Beef Farmers of Ontario 519.824.0334 Ext. 230 |leaanne@ontariobeef.com

The CCA is the national voice for Canada’s beef cattle industry representing 55,000 beef farms and feedlots.

Visit www.cattle.ca

On July 9, Kevin Lamoureux, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg North and Cindy Lamoureux, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Tyndall Park toured the operation of Manitoba Beef Producers District 10 director Mike Duguid and his son Scott.

It was a valuable opportunity to provide the elected officials about various aspects of beef production in Manitoba, including its important environmental role, such as preserving grasslands, providing habitat for different species of animals and plants, and storing carbon.

The damaging effects of the drought on the beef sector were also discussed with them. L-r, Mike Duguid, Kevin Lamoureux, Cindy Lamoureux. MBP thanks the Lamoureuxs for coming out to learn more about Manitoba’s beef industry.

Monday, July 19, 2021 1:00 p.m.

Please join CCA and Provincial Cattle Associations, including MBP, for a virtual town hall event to discuss the drought and wildfire relief being sought for producers in regions currently experiencing extreme conditions. Following live updates, there will be the opportunity for the audience to ask questions.

Register Now: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/ register/9016263755017/WN_acU6FtIfRHCZ5Ji5jHa-Q After registering, you will receive your link to join online or dial-in numbers to phone in.

A recording of the Town Hall will be available following the event for those unable to attend.

Statement by the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau following Federal-Provincial Territorial Ministers Meeting (July 15, 2021 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Statement) “Today, I met my provincial and territorial colleagues virtually to discuss many pressing issues facing the agriculture sector, in the lead-up to our Annual Conference in Guelph, Ontario on September 8th -10th.

I am working very closely with my provincial partners to monitor and respond to the evolving drought situation in the western parts of Ontario, the Prairies and British Columbia. My heart goes out to those farmers and ranchers feeling the impacts of the extreme heat wave and drought conditions. Our Government is ready to assist and we will do what we can to make sure our programs are adequately responding to the crisis, including business risk management programs. I have committed to working closely with provinces to assess the need for activating flexibilities in our programs to respond to these extreme weather events.

In particular, we discussed that provinces affected by the drought could invoke the late participation provision of AgriStability to allow more producers to access the support the program provides.

I also urged Prairie governments to match the federal offer to raise AgriStability compensation rate to 80%, which would benefit distressed farmers now more than ever. This change would mean an added $75 million nationally into the pockets of farmers who need it the most every year.

Our Government is prepared to receive any formal submissions for AgriRecovery from provincial governments, which are needed to trigger the process. AgriRecovery is a 60-40 cost-shared program that provides emergency support in cases of natural disasters. We need all levels of Government working together to contribute their support for farmers in distress. Ministers directed

officials to organize a meeting with droughtaffected provinces soon to discuss AgriRecovery in more detail.

We discussed ongoing consultations for the next Agricultural Policy Framework, set to begin in April of 2023. We are all committed to developing a roadmap to achieving a strong and sustainable agriculture sector, and finding improvements to the business risk management programs.

I was pleased to share, alongside Minister Lamontagne, the work of our Working Group on Retail Fees. The set of findings shared today give all Ministers a solid basis of understanding of why an industry-led proposal to improve transparency, predictability, and respect for the principles of fair dealing would be beneficial for the agri-food sector and all supply chain partners. We are urging industry to continue their constructive dialogue to develop a concrete proposal designed for the Canadian context that will improve fair dealing in retailer relationships with their suppliers. We expect an update before the end of the year.

Protecting Canadian pork producers from the threat of African swine fever remains a major priority for our Government. We recommitted with Ministers to make African swine fever preparedness and response planning a priority, identifying gaps and determining next steps.

I greatly appreciate the strong working relationship I have with my provincial and territorial colleagues, and I look forward to meeting them again in person in Guelph in September.”

MANITOBA AGRICULTURE AND RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

Beef and Forage Technical Bulletin Forages – Considerations and planning for dry conditions on pasture.

As a producer, during dry conditions, you’ll often need to make some tough management decisions related to your short and longterm business success. Pre-planning is very important to be able to make decisions quickly, rather than get to the point where you feel there are no alternatives. When you make a decision about a part of your forage system, consider how this will affect the other parts (e.g. animals, plants, land, people and finances). Never lose sight of the whole picture or the whole operation. Dry conditions are cumulative, so they do not happen overnight. This is why it’s a good idea to plan continuously for your operation. It’s important to have a drought plan and be willing to act on it when necessary.

There is no recipe for everything, but here are some points to consider as you assess your pastures and winter feed supplies: • Do an inventory on paper of your pasture and hay land conditions early in the season and project your yields. Balance this with animal numbers and your desired length of the grazing season.

• Estimate the length of your past grazing seasons and the percentage of shortfall. Be conservative and reasonable.

• 150 animals grazing for 130 days (from May 25 to October 1) is 19,500 Animal Days of Grazing.

• If this coming year, your grazing will be 40 per cent less, you have estimated 11,700 days of grazing this year.

• Balance the new number shortfall by, perhaps, renting extra pasture, selling cull animals, having a later spring turnout, grazing hay fields in the fall or buying extra feed for an earlier start to the winter feeding period.

• It is not profitable to summer feed out of dry conditions. But if you do, take extra precautions in the spring and early summer to allow your forage to grow and produce greater yields, and give pastures a longer rest between grazing’s.

• One day in the spring turned out later will give you three days extra in the fall. If there is no grass left, use that as the sacrifice pasture or have a plan B in place to move the cattle elsewhere. Do not let your animals start losing body condition before the winter feeding period.

• You cannot overgraze perennial pastures in a drought without damaging the long-term forage stand productivity. Overgrazing is a function of time. And if you allow the animals to come back to those same plants, without allowing adequate rest and recovery, the sugar or carbohydrate root reserves will be lost from the re-grazing. You will not enable those plants to survive the winter.

• Well managed and time controlled grazing in dry conditions allows for the longer time a plant needs to recover from grazing, when growth is slowed or stopped because of plant water shortages. If you allow the plant to rest and recover, it will regrow faster when a moisture event does occur.

• Remember, spring and early summer are crucial times for perennial plants to grow. Those plants have survived by using their carbohydrate root reserves, so they need time to go through photosynthesis to accumulate those reserves again and use them for elongation. Animals also need to be kept off pasture longer than normal, and two to three weeks is recommended.

• Do not turn your animals out when the grass turns green.

Monitor the grass for plant stage development. The general rule of thumb is that it’s safe to graze when the majority of grass plants in a stand reach the three or fourleaf stage.

• Fertilizing a vigorous stand of pastures will give you a one to two week earlier start to plant grazing readiness.

• REST is the best kind of rejuvenation for overgrazed pastures. If plants are overgrazed, it is essential for them to have longer rest periods to recover from grazing. Subdividing pastures in paddocks is one way to help.

• Seed annuals for forage shortfalls and consider all of your options. Graze or harvest forage cereals or second cut hay fields.

• Cut your alfalfa at 10 per cent bloom for higher quality.

This way, you can blend it off with poorer quality feeds like straw to supplement your winter feeding rations. This is the best balance of quality and quantity.

Flexible Stocking Rates- matching forage resources and livestock requirements When dry conditions reduce your pasture forage production, you need to adjust your stocking rates. This needs to happen so that your forage grown equals your livestock requirements, without causing overgrazing. You can do this by either reducing your livestock numbers or increasing your forages that are available for grazing.

There are several ways to increase your forage supply, including: • • • •

finding more pasture acres for grazing (renting) improving your forage production through rotational grazing using fertilizer to increase your yields growing annuals for grazing

Annual cereals can be grazed four to six weeks after seeding. A spring cereal (e.g. oats or barley) seeded with a winter cereal (e.g. wheat, fall rye or triticale) can be cut for greenfeed, and the winter cereal will regrow for fall grazing. Annuals can be swath grazed in late summer to fall or corn can be grazed in late fall to early winter. Cover crops or Italian rye grass can also be seeded with cereals for summer and fall grazing. Annuals are more moisture efficient than perennial forages and are a good strategy for managing dry conditions.

If your forage supply can’t be increased, then your stocking rate has to be lowered. The classes of cattle that you can sell will depend on your operation. During the middle of the grazing season, yearling cattle (grassers) are the easiest to reduce or sell, followed by the replacement heifers. In a cow and calf operation, earlier weaning and culling cows sooner is an option. Culling animals is a difficult decision and isn’t taken lightly. The sooner you make adjustments so your livestock requirements match your forage resources, the more flexibility you’ll have to manage your farm through challenging conditions.

Water on Pasture Water on pasture can be one of the most pressing issues for livestock producers during periods of dry weather. Water requirements of cattle, ways to get the water to the livestock and potential water quality issues are all considerations for producers.

Water Requirements of Cattle on Pasture Livestock require water in sufficient quantities and of sufficient quality for optimum health and growth. The total water needs of livestock are met through a combination of the water contained in feed and drinking water obtained separately from feed.

Intake of water depends on several physiological and environmental factors, including: • • • •

size and type of animal physiological state activity level diet

• weather • water quality • ease of access

Typical daily water requirement for range livestock

The adjacent table lists typical consumption requirements for cattle on pasture. All other factors being equal, the primary variable affecting water consumption is temperature. As temperatures increase, so does consumption.

Pasture Watering System Considerations • Consider the use of a portable water supply. For smaller operations, a stock tank on a portable vehicle may be an excellent way to improve livestock distribution across a pasture.

• Fence off your low water supply areas. Pumping water from a remote site will improve water quality and reduce water loss.

• Consider purchasing portable electric fencing and poly pipe for remote watering systems • Regularly monitor your watering equipment to make sure it’s working.

• For more information, visit www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/ livestock/beef/pubs/pasture-watering-systems.pdf.

Type of Livestock Milking Cows Cow-Calf Pairs Dry Cows Calves Growing Cattle (400-800 lbs; 180-360 kg) Finishing (600-1200 lbs; 270-540 kg) Bulls

Winter Imperial Litres per gallons day per day 77 17 50 11 36 8 23 5 23-36 5-8

Summer Imperial Litres per gallons day per day 95 21 68 15 55 12 36 8 36-55 8-12

55

12

86

19

36

8

55

12

Source: The Stockman’s Guide to Range Livestock Watering From Surface Water Sources

Potential Water Quality Issues Livestock, when given high quality water, will drink more, eat more and ultimately gain weight more quickly. Although livestock can tolerate poor water quality better than humans, elevated levels of some salts, blue-green algae and bacteria can result in severe illness and even death.

As summer progresses and temperatures increase, livestock will increase their consumption. As well, water evaporates and without rain to replenish the water source, contaminants can become concentrated. Some of the most common contaminants that decrease intake include: • • • • •

blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) bacteria viruses and parasites sulphates total dissolved solids

• • • • •

nitrates alkalinity taste odour water temperature

For more information, visit www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/livestock/dairy/water-quality-and-quantity-is-critical.html.

For those who are considering digging new dugouts or cleaning out old ones, Aberta Agrciulture and Forestry has an excellent decision making tool available here: Agriculture and Forestry : Decision Making Tools (gov.ab.ca). It will provide you with the necessary information about what to consider for the measurements and capacity of the dugout.

Dugout / Lagoon Volume Calculator Measure length and width at the top of the dugout.

Length must be equal to or greater than the width.

Water depth must be equal to or less than depth of dugout.

Slope is the number of feet in the horizontal (run) direction for each foot in the vertical (rise) direction (eg. run/rise = 4 ft./1 ft.).

By entering the above information, this calculator will give you the capacity of the dugout and its contents in cubic feet, cubic yards, cubic meters, litres, Imperial and U.S. gallons. This is useful in determining the size of dugout necessary, estimating construction costs, and volumes remaining in the dugout.

Top of Form Units : Length of dugout: Width of dugout: Depth of dugout: Water depth (optional) : End Slope (run/rise) : Side Slope (run/rise) : Bottom of Form

Length

h

dt Wi

Depth of Dugout

rise

Water Depth run

The dugout calculator uses the following formula for a prismoid to calculate the volume.

V = (d/6) x (At + Ab + 4 Am) where At = L x W Ab = (L - 2 x ES x d) (W - 2 x SS x d) Am = (L - ES x d)( W - SS x d) definitions V = Volume d = depth of the dugout At = Area of the top of the dugout Ab = Area of the bottom of the dugout Am = Area of the midsection of the dugout SS = slope of the sides of the dugout ES = slope of the ends of the dugout L = Length of the top of the dugout W = Width of the top of the dugout Agriculture and Forestry : Decision Making Tools (www.agric.gov.ab.ca/app19/calc/volume/dugout.jsp) You may want to get your pasture water source tested, as the cost of the test far outweighs the potential risks. Information on how to test and water testing kits are available at one of the ARD and MASC Service Centres listed below.

Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development Livestock Staff List Name Shawn Cabak Tim Clarke Glenn Friesen Pam Iwanchysko Juanita Kopp Elizabeth Nernberg Marnie McCracken

Location Portage la Prairie Arborg Winnipeg Dauphin Beausejour Roblin The Pas

Phone # 204-239-3353 204-768-0534 204-770-7266 204-648-3965 204-825-4302 204-247-0087 204-620-1545

Email Shawn.Cabak@gov.mb.ca Tim.Clarke@gov.mb.ca Glenn.Friesen@gov.mb.ca Pamela.Iwanchysko@gov.mb.ca Juanita.Kopp@gov.mb.ca Elizabeth.Nernberg@gov.mb.ca Marnie.McCracken@gov.mb.ca

ARD and MASC Service Centre Contact Information Arborg 317 River Road Arborg, MB R0C 0A0 Ph: 1-833-206-0451 Fax: 1-833-478-1304 Email: arborg@masc.mb.ca Headingley 1-5290 Monterey Road Headingley, MB R4H 1J9 Ph: 1-833-206-0465 Fax: 1-833-478-1307 Email: headingley@masc.mb.ca Neepawa 41 Main Street E Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 Ph: 1-833-206-0469 Fax: 1-833-478-1310 Email: neepawa@masc.mb.ca Steinbach Unit C – 284 Reimer Avenue Steinbach, MB R5G 0R5 Ph: 1-833-206-0480 Fax: 1-833-467-1059 Email: steinbach@masc.mb.ca

Brandon Unit 100 – 1525 1st Street S Brandon, MB R7A 7A1 Ph: 1-833-206-0455 Fax: 1-833-478-1305 Email: brandon@masc.mb.ca Killarney 203 South Railway Street Killarney, MB R0K 1G0 Ph: 1-833-206-0466 Fax: 1-833-478-1309 Email: killarney@masc.mb.ca Portage la Prairie Unit 200, 50 - 24th Street NW Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3V7 Ph : 1-833-206-0470 Fax : 1-833-478-1312 Email : portage@masc.mb.ca

Swan River 120 – 6th Avenue N Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0 Ph: 1-833-206-0476 Fax: 1-833-478-1315 Email: swanriver@masc.mb.ca Dauphin Room 209, 27-2nd Ave SW Dauphin, MB R7N 3E5 Ph: 1-833-206-0459 Fax: 1-833-478-1306 Email: dauphin@masc.mb.ca Morden 536 Stephen Street Morden, MB R6M 1T7 Ph: 1-833-206-0479 Fax: 1-833-467-1056 Email: morden@masc.mb.ca

Farm Business Management – The Economics of Creep Feeding Creep feeding beef calves on pasture is an option you may want to consider. In the past, the costs of creep feeding, including labour, management and purchasing creep feed, made the process questionable. This scenario has changed. With fall calf prices at the levels they are today, and feed price volatility, the economics of creep feeding are constantly changing, so be sure to figure out what kind of benefit creep feeding would give you before going ahead with it.

The benefits of creep feeding will be the greatest for heifers or poor milk producers. If you consider the mathematics of creep feeding, the situation should pay back the cost of feed and the extra work required. Before you embark on creep feeding, consider all your costs, such as the initial cost and depreciation of the feeder, the cost of keeping the feeder full of grain or pellets, and the time required to monitor the feeder during the typically busy months of August through October.

Pure grain or pellets? Either product can work. Pellets designed for creep feeders are very effective and offer a good balance of energy, protein and fibre. As an added benefit, monensin can be included in the pellet for acidosis and coccidiosis prevention.

Oats are the primary pure grain suggestion, as they have higher fibre levels, so they are less likely to cause acidosis or bloat.

Pure oats can be mixed with a mineral medicated with monensin, and should produce similar results to medicated pellets.

Usually, a creep feeding setting is thought of as a steel feeder with steel creep panels, but other methods can be equally effective. A small pen, with fence posts 16 to 18 inches apart, can allow calves into an area with grain in troughs. The same small pen can also be used to feed high quality dry hay, such as vegetative alfalfa or grass hay, which will add additional economic growth to the calves.

A good nutritional foundation: Creep fed calves are more prepared for the health risks involved in weaning because of the additional fat cover. They are also more familiar with dry feeds and go on to new rations much quicker, causing fewer days with no growth or weight loss. Creep fed calves sold directly at weaning will have a less stressed appearance at auction yards.

They will also likely withstand the rigors of transport and co-mingling better than cohorts that are not creep fed.

One further benefit of creep feeding calves is to give the mother cows a break and possibly extend the grazing season slightly.

Calves on creep will allow the cows to hold their condition better during times of minimal forage resource. The cows will end the summer growing season with more condition and will require less winter feed for maintenance through a Manitoba winter. There are a lot of reasons to consider creep feeding calves. You should do the calculation before you start creep feeding to make sure the economics make sense with the variables on calf pricing and feed input costs. The Manitoba Farm Management Team has a creep feed calculator that can help you make your decision. The calculator can be found at: www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/farm-management/production-economics/pubs/calculator-calfcreepfeed.xlsx

Livestock - Creep feeding to support your calves, cows and pastures Creep feeding calves will help meet their nutritional needs and conserve forage in late summer when forage quality declines, and when your pastures are drier than normal and not as productive. A beef cow’s milk yield peaks about two months after calving. By the third or fourth month, milk alone does not usually meet the calf’s requirements to support its full growth potential. Creep feeding can provide for the hungry calf gap, the shortfall of protein and energy no longer provided soley by milk from the cow. With dry pasture conditions, creep feeding your calves may be a good way to conserve pasture for your cows and help put weight on the calves for weaning.

The optimum energy and protein content of the creep ration will depend on the following factors: • • • •

Type of feeding system – free-choice or limit-fed, by daily hand feeding or by using a limiting agent such as coarse salt Calf weight – lighter calves require a higher protein Frame size – smaller framed calves will tend to over condition on high energy rations Quality and quantity of other available feedstuffs –milk, pasture, supplemental feed for cows

You may decide to purchase a commercial creep ration from a feed company or mix your own using home grown grains and purchased supplements (see the table below). In general, the creep should contain 13 to 16 per cent crude protein (%CP) on a dry matter (DM) basis and 65 to 75 per cent total digestible nutrients (%TDN, DM basis). The higher %CP and %TDN creep rations would be used for light weight calves (less than 400 pounds) and the lower range CP and TDN rations would be used for heavier calves (over 400 pounds).

Helpful Hints: Starting calves on creep can sometimes be difficult. Feeding their dams small amounts of feed on the ground a few days before creep feeding can help get them started. Calves quickly learn to eat new feed with their mothers.

• • • •

Provide fresh feed to appetite. When first starting to creep feed, clean up the leftover feed each day.

To encourage the calves to eat, add some molasses and/or bran.

To prevent grain dust or fines, roll or coarsely grind the grain.

The feeder should be in a sheltered or shady spot where the herd gathers. If the pasture is large, pick more than one creep site.

• Allow four to five inches of bunk space per calf when free-choice feeding and eight to 12 inches bunk space when limitfeeding.

In cases when your pasture is limited because of drought or overstocking, an energy-based creep is recommended. This type of creep is grain-based, and contains 13 to 16 per cent CP, with cracked oats and barley supplemented with pelleted 32 per cent beef supplement or canola meal. This would be most economical when intake is limited to less than 3.5 lb/d and could be limitfed with about 10 to 15 per cent coarse white salt (Alberta Agriculture and Food 2008. Agdex 420/10). The feed conversion of this type of creep would commonly be 8:1 to 10:1 lb creep to lb of calf gain. In this scenario, the creep feed must provide both the energy and protein needs of the calf not fulfilled by the cow and pasture.

Example creep rations for beef calves Ingredient Oats

Ration 1

Ration 2

92

84

8

16

Barley 32% Protein Supplement

Ration 3

Ration 4

42

23

42

53.2

16

Canola meal

Ration 5

Ration 6

Ration 7

23

27

27

53

63

61.6

24.0

10

22

9.1

2:1 Mineral (2 parts Ca: 1 part P)

0.6

Limestone

1.3

1.2

Trace mineral salt

0.4

0.4

Vitamin ADE premix

0.1

0.1

Total %TDN, %CP in 1 lb of creep ration*

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

75, 13

75, 14

78, 15

78, 18

78, 17

80, 14

80, 15

Adapted from Alberta Agriculture and Food 2008. Agdex 420/10.The Beef Cow-Calf Manual, Section 04: Calf Management from Birth to Weaning, pp 91-93., and from Ontario Ministry of Ag, Food and Rural Affairs, Creep Feeding Beef Calves *TDN and CP estimated in 1 lb of creep feed using COWBYTES 5 v5.32 Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development 2011.

With dry pasture conditions, creep feeding your calves may be a good way to conserve pasture for your cows and help put weight on your calves for weaning. The profitability of creep feeding depends on the ration cost, the price received for the calves, and the conversion of creep to additional gain.

If you would like to be added to our information-sharing list, please email or text Juanita Kopp Juanita.Kopp@gov.mb.ca, 204-825-4302). Your input or topic ideas are always welcome.

Filming for Season 32 of Great Tastes of Manitoba wrapped up earlier this week. Pictured on set is host Dez Daniels (left) along with MBP's Tamara Sarkisian, RD. Make sure to watch CTV Winnipeg at 6:30pm on October 23 and December 4 to see what Tamara has cooking! Photo credit: Donalee Jones

Premier Shuffles Cabinet, Names Ralph Eichler as New Agriculture Minister sectors of the province’s economy and community life. An immediate priority will be to develop drought relief support for hard-hit farmers and ranchers.

The premier thanked former ministers Eileen Clarke and Blaine Pedersen for their service to Manitobans as members of cabinet since 2016.

Ministers whose portfolio responsibilities have not changed are: • Kelvin Goertzen – deputy premier, minister of legislative and public affairs;

(Abbreviated version of July 15, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release) Premier Brian Pallister

welcomed two new ministers to Manitoba’s executive.

Dr. Alan Lagimodiere, MLA for Selkirk, enters cabinet as the first minister of Indigenous reconciliation and northern relations.

Lagimodiere, who is Métis and was born and raised in northern Manitoba, has been given a mandate to build on the substantial progress made by developing an agenda for reconciliation in consultation and engagement with First Nation, Métis and Inuit leadership.

Jon Reyes, MLA for Waverley, enters cabinet as minister of economic development and jobs.

Reyes, a former small business owner, veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, and the founder and first president of the Manitoba Filipino Business Council, will help lead efforts to enhance Manitoba’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

In addition to the two new members of executive council, Ralph Eichler, MLA for Lakeside, was sworn in as minister of agriculture and resource development with a mandate to further strengthen growth in these critical

• Heather Stefanson – minister of health and seniors care; • Cameron Friesen – minister of justice and attorney general; • Ron Schuler – minister of infrastructure; • Cliff Cullen – minister of education; • Scott Fielding – minister of finance; • Cathy Cox – minister of sport, culture and heritage, minister responsible for status of women; • Rochelle Squires – minister of families, minister responsible for francophone affairs; • Jeff Wharton – minister of Crown services; • Reg Helwer – minister of central services; • Sarah Guillemard – minister of conservation and climate; • Derek Johnson – minister of municipal relations; • Audrey Gordon – minister of mental health, wellness and recovery; • Wayne Ewasko – minister of advanced education, skills and immigration.

COVID-19 Vaccination Process Update (July 16, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

All July pop-up clinics are now listed online in the map finder at https://protectmb.ca/.

For people who prefer to book an appointment, there are thousands of Moderna appointments open and available to book as early as today.

Thousands of Pfizer appointments are also available to book for later in July.

Vaccine Lottery Eligible Manitobans must have their first immunization on or before Aug. 2 if they wish to be eligible to win scholarships or cash prizes in Manitoba’s first ever ‘Vax to Win Lottery’.

Currently, 77.2 per cent of Manitobans are eligible for the first draw. More information about the lottery is available at https://protectmb.ca/.

Eligibility All people aged 12 and up are now eligible to make their first or second dose appointment.

The date of the second appointment must be at least 28 days after the first vaccination. For more information, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/eligibilitycriteria.html#second-dose.

Individuals can book online at https://protectmb.ca/ or by calling (toll-free) 1844-MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222).

Appointments and Walk-ins Parents, caregivers or other adults who have a booked Pfizer appointment can continue to transfer their appointment to a 12- to 17-yearold youth, through the provincial call centre.

Fifteen medical clinics and pharmacies are regional hubs for AstraZeneca vaccinations.

Individuals can use the online vaccine finder at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/finder.ht ml to find a location with available doses.

A complete listing and searchable map of all vaccine sites, including urban Indigenous clinics and pop-up clinics, is available online at https://protectmb.ca/. Eligible individuals can book their appointments at these sites online, or by calling (toll-free) 1-844-626-8222 (1-844MAN-VACC).

Additional Information To be considered fully immunized, individuals require two doses of vaccine. These can be the same or different brands of vaccine. Individuals who are fully vaccinated can now request a digital or physical immunization card. For more information, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/immuniza tion-record.html#immunization-cards.

Individuals who need to update any missing or inaccurate information on their immunization records or apply for an immunization card can use the e-form at https://forms.gov.mb.ca/covid-immunizationrecord-request/ or call 1-844-MAN-VACC (1844-626-8222) and follow the prompts.

Manitobans are reminded to fill out a second consent form for their second dose appointment. To fill out and print the consent forms before your appointment, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/resources .html#forms.

More information about the vaccine campaign in Manitoba is available at www.manitoba.ca/vaccine and https://protectmb.ca/.

All data in this bulletin is current as of July 15 unless noted otherwise.

Second Phase of Provincial Reopening Path Related to COVID-19 (July 14, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The province will implement the second phase of the ‘4-3-2-One Great Summer’ Reopening Path two weeks early, on July 17, as vaccination rates continue to climb across the province, Premier Brian Pallister and Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer, announced today.

• indoor gatherings at private residences are permitted to a maximum of five people, plus the household members; • indoor gatherings in public spaces are permitted to a maximum of 25 people; • outdoor gatherings on private property increase to a maximum of 25 people;

“Vaccines are the safest and quickest way out of this pandemic. The sooner all eligible Manitobans get fully vaccinated, the sooner we can all get our lives back,” said Pallister. “Thanks to the incredible efforts of Manitoba’s vaccine team and Manitobans’ willingness to roll up their sleeves – not once, but twice – we are able to move forward earlier than anticipated with fewer restrictions on our economy and our communities.”

• public outdoor gatherings increase to a maximum of 150 people;

The second vaccination milestone of at least 75 per cent first dose and 50 per cent second dose for those age 12 and older was reached nearly a month ahead of schedule on July 6. With continued improvement in the overall COVID-19 situation, Manitobans will be able to enjoy more freedoms with expanded indoor and outdoor activities, the premier noted.

- patrons may only sit together indoors if they are from the same household or if all patrons 12 years of age or older are fully immunized (unvaccinated children under 12 may dine with fully vaccinated members of their household in this case);

Under the second phase of the ‘4-3-2 One Great Summer’ Reopening Path, most facilities may now open to 50 per cent capacity, allowing more people to gather indoors and outdoors, shop, dine out, visit cultural and recreational facilities, and more. Fully immunized Manitobans who have received two vaccination doses at least two weeks ago, may enjoy even more benefits under new public health orders.

Specifically, the new public health orders will now allow the following:

• retail businesses increase to 50 per cent capacity or 500 people, whichever is lower; • restaurants, licensed premises and food court capacities expand to 50 per cent capacity: - outdoor maximum table size remains at eight people;

- opening hours extend to midnight; - the requirement to purchase food when ordering alcohol no longer applies; - VLTs may be operate with all other restaurant/bar rules applying (two-metre distance, only households or fully vaccinated people seated together); • personal services (haircuts and styling, nail salons, estheticians and massage) continue at 50 per cent capacity; however, appointments are no longer required; • dance, theatre, and music school capacities increase to 50 per cent capacity to a maximum of 25 perople per group;

Second Phase of Provincial Reopening Path Related to COVID-19 • indoor sporting facilities may host groups up to a maximum of 25 people, interaction between groups and tournaments are not permitted; • day camp capacity increases to groups of 25, joint activities between groups and overnight camps are prohibited; • outdoor recreation including games and practices may take place to maximum group size of 50 people; spectators are permitted and do not count towards this capacity limit; tournaments are not permitted; • gym and fitness centre capacities expand to 50 per cent capacity; masks and increased physical distancing (three metres) are still required; • outdoor weddings and funerals may include up to 150 participants in addition to photographers and officiants; indoor weddings or funerals increase to 25 people in addition to photographers and officiants; • libraries may open to 50 per cent capacity to a maximum of 150 people, whichever is lower; • faith-based and cultural gatherings (pow wows, sun dances) may expand to 50 per cent capacity or 150 people indoors, whichever is lower; masks and physical distancing between households is still required; - if the facility design allows, the capacity limits may be applied to different physical spaces within the venue; - outdoor faith-based and cultural gatherings permitted up to 150 people and drive-in services continue to be permitted without restriction; • the following may now reopen for fully immunized people only, to a maximum capacity

of 50 per cent: movie theatres; bingo halls, VLT lounges and casinos, and museums and galleries; - museums operate under the fully vaccinated requirement when open to the public as a museum, both indoors and out, and if the museum is used as a private venue for another purpose (e.g. wedding), then the appropriate orders apply; - unvaccinated children under 12 may attend/visit these facilities/events (as appropriate) if accompanied by fully vaccinated members of their household; • large-scale, outdoor professional sports or performing arts events may operate with capacities up to 100 per cent after developing an approved event plan in consultation with public health.

In all cases, following the COVID-19 fundamentals, including indoor mask use and physical distancing, is still required to protect the health and well-being of all Manitobans.

The new public health orders will go into effect at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, July 17.

The orders are scheduled to expire at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 7 and will be reassessed at that time in the context of vaccination rates and the province’s overall COVID-19 situation.

“We are close to achieving all of our vaccination milestones ahead of schedule. Now we just need that extra effort by every Manitoban not yet vaccinated to roll up your sleeve and push us across the finish line so we can fully reopen, safely and quickly,” said Pallister.

For more information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/covid19/.

See also the backgrounder.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

CHANGES TO PUBLIC HEALTH ORDERS The following changes come into effect on Saturday, July 17 at 12:01 a.m.

Sector Indoor Gatherings at Private Residences Outdoor Gatherings at Private Residences

Indoor Gatherings in Public Spaces Outdoor Gatherings in Public Spaces Restaurants, licensed premises and food courts

Existing Restrictions as of June 26 Not Permitted

Up to 10 visitors, in addition to those who reside there, are permitted outdoors on private property. Visitors may briefly enter the home for essential reasons.

Up to five people permitted.

Up to 25 people permitted outdoors in public spaces.

Open at 25 per cent capacity for indoors and 50 per cent for outdoor dining; for indoor dining patrons seated together must be from the same household, unless all patrons at the table are fully immunized; for outdoor dining table sizes are limited to eight people.

New Restrictions as of July 17 Up to five visitors, in addition to those who reside there.

Up to 25 people are permitted outdoors on private property.

Up to 25 people permitted.

Up to 150 people permitted outdoors in public spaces.

Open at 50 per cent capacity for indoor and 50 per cent for outdoor dining; for indoor dining patrons seated together must be from the same household unless all patrons at the table are fully immunized; for outdoor dining table sizes are limited to eight people; opening hours are expanded to midnight and the requirement to purchase food when consuming alcohol no longer applies.

Gyms and Fitness Centres

Casinos, Bingo Halls and VLTs

Museums and Galleries

Open at 25 per cent capacity with three metres distance maintained between patrons for both individual and group fitness. Mask use is required.

Closed

Closed

VLTs in licensed establishments may be operated with two metres of physical distancing and all other restaurant/bar rules applying; VLTs in unlicensed establishments will follow the casino rules allowing only vaccinated people.

Open at 50 per cent capacity with three metres distance maintained between patrons for both individual and group fitness. Mask use is required.

Casinos, bingo halls and VLT lounges open to 50 per cent capacity to fully immunized people only.

VLTs in licensed establishments may be operated with two metres of physical distancing and all other restaurant/bar rules applying; VLTs in unlicensed establishments will follow the Casino rules for fully immunized people only.

Open to 50 per cent capacity to fully immunized people only.

Unvaccinated children under 12 may attend if accompanied by fully vaccinated members of their household. Museums operate under the fully vaccinated requirement when open to the public as

a museum, both indoors and out. If the museum is used as a private venue for another purpose (e.g. wedding), then the appropriate orders apply.

Libraries

Closed

Professional sports or performing arts events

Open to 50 per cent for fully vaccinated people only, with a plan approved by public health.

Horse and Auto Racing Movies Theatres and Concert Halls

Closed

Weddings and Funerals

Open to 25 participants for outdoor ceremonies, in addition to photographer and officiants. Indoor weddings and funerals remain limited to 10 people.

Indoor Community, Cultural and Religious Gatherings

Open to 25 per cent capacity to a limit of 25 people, with masks worn at all times.

Open to 50 people. Drivein services continue to be permitted.

Open at 50 per cent capacity on an appointment basis only.

Outdoor Community, Cultural and Religious Gatherings Personal Services

Libraries may open to 50 per cent capacity to a maximum of 150 people.

Open up to 100 per cent for fully vaccinated people, with a plan approved by public health.

Approved at the discretion of the medical officer of health.

Open to 50 per cent capacity to fully immunized people only.

Unvaccinated children under 12 may attend if accompanied by fully vaccinated members of their household.

Open to 150 participants for outdoor ceremonies, in addition to photographer and officiants. Indoor weddings and funerals expand to 25 people, in addition to photographer and officiants.

Open to 50 per cent capacity to a limit of 150 people, with masks worn at all times.

Open to 150 people.

Drive-in services continue to be permitted.

Open at 50 per cent capacity, appointments are no longer required.

Indoor Sports and Recreation

Outdoor Sports and Recreation

Dance, Theatre and Music Schools

Day Camps

Open at 25 per cent capacity to a limit of five people; no tournaments allowed.

Open to 25 people; no tournaments allowed.

Open at 25 per cent capacity to a limit of five people indoors, or 25 people outdoors.

Open to a maximum of 20 participants in groups.

Retail, Markets, Garden Centres and Malls

Open with increased capacity at 25 per cent to a limit of 250 people, no additional restrictions.

Workplaces

Employers are required to allow staff to work from home where possible.

Open 25 per cent capacity to a limit of 25 people with masks worn at all times

Indoor Self-Help Gatherings

Open with 25 people per group; groups may not interact and no tournaments are allowed.

Open to 50 people; no tournaments allowed.

Spectators are permitted without counting towards this capacity limit.

Open at 50 per cent capacity to a limit of 25 people indoors.

Open to a maximum of 25 participants in groups, joint activities between groups and overnight camps are prohibited.

Open with increased capacity at 50 per cent to a limit of 500 people, no additional restrictions. Mall capacity limited to the aggregate capacity of its stores.

No longer required.

Indoor gathering limits apply, permitted up to 25 people.

Fire Bulletin #16 (July 13, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that due to the continued high to extreme fire danger levels across the province, additional fire and travel restrictions are being implemented provincewide, effective Wednesday, July 14, at 8 a.m.

Outdoor Burning • All provincial burning permits are cancelled provincewide and new permits will not be issued until conditions improve.

Level 3 Fire and Travel Restrictions – Imposed in areas 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 and 16 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled.

• All back-country travel is prohibited unless under the authority of a travel permit.

• Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds.

• Campfires are not permitted.

• Access to cottages allowed on designated roads; however, travel permits will be required for remote cottages.

• Industry and outfitters may be restricted in their operations, and should contact their local Manitoba Conservation and Climate office for more information.

Level 2 Fire and Travel Restrictions – Imposed in Areas 9, 10, 11 and 12 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled.

• Motorized backcountry travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited unless under the authority of a travel permit.

• Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds.

• Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

• Wayside parks remain open.

• Landing and launching is restricted to developed shorelines only.

• Industry and outfitters may be restricted in their operations, and should contact their local Manitoba Conservation and Climate office for more information.

Level 1 Fire and Travel Restrictions – Imposed in Area 15 • Provincial burning permits are cancelled.

• Campfires are permitted only between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

• Motorized back-country travel, including ATVs and other off-road vehicles, is prohibited from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. unless otherwise approved by a travel permit.

Additional Campfire Restriction • No campfires allowed in all provincial parks located outside of Fire and Travel Restriction Areas.

Fireworks and Sky Lanterns • Prohibited in provincial parks at all times.

• A Provincial Fireworks Authorization is required to use fireworks or sky lanterns within Fire and Travel Restriction Areas. Any existing authorizations are cancelled and no authorizations will be issued under the current restrictions.

The Province’s Fire and Travel Restrictions map will be updated to reflect these updated restrictions. Confirm area restrictions before

Fire Bulletin #16 heading outdoors at www.gov.mb.ca/sd/fire/Restrictions/index.html Many municipalities have already proactively implemented burning restrictions. Check with local municipal offices for more information or view the interactive Current Municipal Burning Restrictions at www.manitoba.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.ht ml . The province does not issue burning permits within or areas bordering any municipality where municipal burning restrictions are already in place.

Wildfires across Manitoba, Saskatchewan and northwest Ontario will continue to bring smoke into all parts of the province until conditions

improve. This will be dependent on wind direction. Air quality reports are available on the Government of Canada website at: https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/mbaq001_e.html.

For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links, go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ or follow the Twitter account at https://twitter.com/mbgovnews.

To report a wildfire, call 911 or the T.I.P. line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076.

Province Launches Public Engagement on Manitoba Water Strategy (July 13, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba government has launched an online public engagement seeking feedback on the development of a provincial water management strategy, Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Blaine Pedersen announced today.

“Water is a key resource for Manitobans, the environment and the economy, and our government is committed to the careful management of this precious resource,” said Pedersen. “We encourage Manitobans to share their thoughts with us and recognize we must work together to sustainably manage water, while considering the impacts of a changing climate and growing economic and social needs.”

The last provincial water management strategy for Manitoba was completed in 2003. Much has changed over the last 20 years and a new water strategy will ensure effective and sustainable management of our water resources, the minister said, adding the province looks forward to working with all Manitobans in the development of a made-in-Manitoba water strategy.

The province is seeking Manitobans thoughts on the proposed water strategy framework. This

framework highlights the vision statement, guiding principles and key focus areas that will be the foundation for the water strategy.

Engagement will complement the $1 million in funding announced earlier this year to support development and implementation of the water strategy. The fund will be administered by the Enterprise Machine Intelligence and Learning Initiative (EMILI) and the established fund oversight committee will review and approve projects and activities under the fund.

“Manitoba has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a water management strategy to drive economic and environmental prosperity in our province,” said Ray Bouchard, chair of the oversight committee for the fund.

“Over the next year, this fund will support building a roadmap for a long-term water management strategy with identified projects from key economic sectors. Insights from a diversity of stakeholders in Manitoba is an integral part of this process and will be sought through the EngageMB survey as well as engagement sessions planned for the fall.”

To take part in the engagement, visit https://engagemb.ca/. The deadline for feedback is Aug. 13.

Applications Being Accepted for Water Source Development for Farms and Ranches (June 8, 2021 Joint News Release) The

governments of Canada and Manitoba are advising that livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions on pasture in Manitoba can apply for funding to support water source development under Ag Action Manitoba.

Funding is provided through the Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas beneficial management practice (BMP) under Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance. Eligible items include: • water source development – constructing new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts; • solar, wind or grid-powered alternative watering systems; • permanent fencing to restrict livestock access to surface water and dugouts; and • permanent pipeline development.

Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance: Beneficial Management Practices provides targeted incentive programs to agricultural producers and select industry service providers to advance the adoption of BMPs. These practices reduce identified environmental risks, improve agroecosystem resilience, build public trust and improve environmental sustainability of farm operations in Manitoba.

Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1 are eligible. Projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may

require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until Sept. 1.

Applications can include retroactive expenses incurred as of April 1. Upon project completion, applicants must submit proof of a valid Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) with their claim (see www.ManitobaEFP.ca for more info).

The Ag Action Manitoba Program is funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership— a five-year (2018-2023), $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow Canada’s agriculture and agri-food and agri-products sector. This includes a $2-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.

Producers can contact their local Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development office, call the department toll-free at 1-84-GROWMB-AG (1-844-769-6224) for more information on any of these programs and services, or go to www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture under Quick Links.

FAQ for BMP 503 begins on next page.

Frequently Asked Questions BMP: Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas (503) Q1. When is the deadline to apply?

A: Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Applications will be accepted continuously up to that date and will be reviewed on a weekly basis. They will be assessed by technical reviewers based on the environmental benefit assessment index, program priorities and project planning.

Q2. Do I have to complete my project this fall?

A: Yes. The project must be completed and claims submitted by November 5, 2021.

Q3. If I have already done a water source development project this spring, am I eligible?

A: Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1, 2021 are eligible. However, projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Q4. What do I need to include with my application?

A: Please answer the questions provided in either the Farmers Application Form or ISP Application Form, and refer to the BMP Specific Questions listed in either the Farmers Guidebook or ISP Guidebook to assist you. Ensure that you explain the proposed project in detail, current practices on the farm, and the environmental benefit of the new practice. Include an aerial map of the pasture with the location of the existing and proposed water sources identified as well as any fencing (existing and proposed).

Q5. Do I need a valid Environmental Farm Plan Statement of Completion?

A: You can submit an application without a valid Statement of Completion, however, if your project is approved, you will be required to provide proof of a valid EFP by November 5, 2021 when you submit your project claim for reimbursement. Environmental Farm Plan workshop dates and locations will be listed at www.ManitobaEFP.ca .

Q6. Are confined livestock operations eligible?

A: No. This BMP is focused on livestock in pasture-based systems.

Q7. Do I have to dig a dugout to a specific size?

A: All dugout work, including new construction or rehabilitation of an existing location, should follow the dugout construction guideline.

Q8. Can I drill a new well in my yard?

A: Drilling a well in the yard is eligible if it is primarily intended for watering livestock on pasture and is the most cost efficient means of doing so. It can be used for supplying water to the yard as well, assuming the pastures are next to the yard. Only the well and pasture components are eligible for funding, not any components used for inyard water.

Q9. Do I need any permits?

A: Applicants must meet all regulatory requirements. This may include:  A Water Rights License is required for all livestock operations extracting more than 25,000 litres of water (25 m3 or 5,499 Imperial gallons) per day. If developing a new water source, a permit must be obtained in advance of starting work.  Approvals from the rural municipality or Crown.  Any other standards or approvals as required by law.

Q10. Can I pump / pipe / haul water from an existing water source into a dugout that has gone dry?

A: Piping or hauling water from any water source (well, dugout or wetland) into a dugout that has run dry is not eligible.

Q11. Do I have to fence my dugout?

A: Dugouts must be fenced to ensure livestock do not have direct access to the water within, which will prevent contamination and protect water quality.

Q12. I just need a water trough or water storage tank. Is this eligible?

A: No - watering system components such as watering bowls, troughs or storage tanks are only eligible as a part of a water source development project.

However, if your project includes development or rehabilitation of a water source (ex: well or dugout) or management of a riparian area (ex: exclusion fencing), watering system components are eligible.

Q13. How deep does a pipeline need to be?

A: Summer pasture pipelines permanently installed underground, and which can be properly winterized before freezing are eligible (ex: installed with a pasture pipeline plow). Above-ground pipelines are ineligible. Projects must be for permanent solutions only.

Q14. Can I apply for a project on a pasture that I rent?

A: Yes. Either the landowner or renter can apply. If the renter applies, they must identify the landowner and provide contact information with their application. For pastures on Crown Land, you must get approval from your local Farm Production Extension Specialist – Crown Lands.

Q15. If I have more questions, who can I contact?

A: Farmers can visit their local ARD/MASC Service Centre or call toll-free 1-844-769-6224.

Feed Regulatory Modernization Consultation The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has launched a 90-day public consultation from June 12 to September 10, 2021, to gather feedback on the proposed changes to the Feeds Regulations, 1983.

We are seeking feedback from the public, academia, other government departments, and organizations or individuals with an interest in livestock feeds in Canada.

You can participate in this consultation in different ways: •

Read the proposed regulations in Canada Gazette Part I and submit your comments using the online regulatory consultation system

•

Read the proposed documents incorporated by reference

•

Read the fact sheets and guidance documents to better understand the proposed regulations

•

pathogens and disease agents, heightened consumer awareness of food safety, climate change, and increased globalization of trade.

Amendments to the Feeds Regulations are required to establish a feed framework that includes hazard analysis, preventive controls, traceability, increased record-keeping requirements, and licensing. These changes will better align with international regulatory frameworks and best practices. This will enable the CFIA and regulated sectors to better understand and manage risks that livestock feeds pose to animal health, human health and the environment, and will support proactive practices for managing those risks.

The ultimate objective is to develop a modernized risk- and outcome-based regulatory framework for feeds that: •

protects public, animal and plant health, and the environment

•

reduces unnecessary regulatory burden, overlap and redundancy for stakeholders

•

addresses gaps, weaknesses, and inconsistencies

•

better aligns regulatory frameworks with the strategic objectives of the CFIA and the government's priorities related to economic prosperity and border security

•

supports fair and competitive trade in the market

•

allows for innovation and flexibility through outcome-based regulations

Join a webinar

Background Information from the CFIA The proposed amendments to the federal Feeds Regulations, 1983, would be a major update and aim to improve livestock feed and food safety in Canada, reflect international standards and keep up with industry innovation, science and technology.

Feed and livestock production sectors in Canada and abroad have evolved considerably since 1983, operating in an environment influenced by several changing factors such as: nutritional advancements, feed manufacturing and distribution changes, innovation in feed manufacturing technologies, emergence of new

Environmental Farm Plan Workshops Update (Source: Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development) Environmental Farm Plans (EFP) are an essential part of every farm operation. These workshops will guide producers through the EFP workbook to help assess and identify the environmental assets and risks on their farm operations, and develop an action plan to address the identified risks. Workbooks and support material will be provided to those who attend. There is no preparation required for this workshop.

EFPs must be renewed every five years to remain valid. If you are unsure if your EFP is valid, please contact KAP to inquire at (204) 697-1140.

Due to COVID-19, all EFP workshops will be taking place virtually via Online Meetings until further notice.

To register for an EFP workshop, click on the link Register now! for the date of your choice below.

Once registered, you will then receive an email with a link to access the meeting. Workbooks are mailed and you should receive yours approximately 1 week prior to the workshop. You can also visit this link to register:

https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/environment/ events-and-deadlines/index.html Upcoming Environmental Farm Plan Workshops

REGISTRATION DATE

TIME LINK

DEADLINE TO REGISTER

STATUS

Aug. 11, 2021

1:30 3:30 PM

Register now!

July 28, 2021

FULL

Aug. 25, 2021

1:30 3:30 PM

Register now!

Aug.11, 2021

OPEN

1:30 Sept.

3:30 8, 2021 PM

Register now!

Aug.25, 2021

OPEN

Private Water System Bacteriological Subsidy Program The Province of Manitoba offers private water system owners a once-ayear subsidy for bacteria (total coliform and E. coli) analysis of their drinking water through Horizon Lab. If the first sample result indicates the presence of bacteria, homeowners will receive a coupon from the lab for one resample free of charge.

Effective April 1st, 2021, the total price to homeowners for the once-ayear subsidized sample is $22.31 (tax included).

For information regarding sample bottle pick up, sample submission requirements, and payment options, please contact Horizon Lab directly.

Horizon Lab LTD 4055 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, Manitoba R3K 2E8 Phone: 204-488-2035 Fax: 204-488-4772 www.horizonlab.ca Provincial water well fact sheets and educational videos on well testing, well disinfection, and how to reduce well water contamination are available at manitoba.ca/drinkingwater.

If you have any further questions, please contact the Office of Drinking Water: •

Inquiries: 204-945-5762

Thank to those of you who participated in the CRSB’s workshop on June 16thfor the Consultation on the Certified Sustainable Beef Framework. We appreciate your contributions to our conversations on new trends and ways to improve the Framework.

As part of the engagement process in our Framework review, we also launched a survey to gather detailed feedback on the Framework. The survey will take approximately 25 minutes of your time and is available in both official languages. The questions you receive in this survey will be determined by your level of familiarity with the relevant components of the Framework.

Through the survey, we seek to gain your insights on which aspects of the Framework work well and what aspects could be improved. We want to hear your thoughts on any potential gaps in the Framework that could be addressed in the update.

Survey deadline: July 31st, 2021.

English version: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RJYF7ZH Version française: https://fr.surveymonkey.com/r/ZNN3HNL Thank you in advance and we appreciate your feedback. Please contact info@crsb.ca if you have any questions.

Verified Beef Production Plus Learn online and win!

VBP+ enables beef cattle producers to publicly demonstrate their commitment to responsible stewardship of both cattle and the environment. Getting VBP+ certified verifies the responsible practices on your beef cattle operation to your customers - consumers, retailers, and buyers. There are currently over 1.6 million beef cattle under the management of certified VBP+ operations in Canada.

• VBP+ training is web-based and can take place at your leisure around daily chores.

• Manitoba producers who complete the online training by July 31, 2021 will be entered in a draw for a cattle vaccine cooler valued at $219.

No pre-registration required.

For more information please call Melissa Atchison at (204) 264-0294 or email: verifiedbeefmanitoba@gmail.com • No pre-registration is required. Contact Melissa

Atchison

E-Newsletter dsfsfa An update from MBP July 2, 2021

mbbeef.ca

Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba the First Recipient Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program (June 30, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release) The

Manitoba government and the Manitoba 4-H Council have selected Agriculture in the Classroom as the first recipient of the Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program, Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Blaine Pedersen announced.

“We are pleased to honour the fine work of Agriculture in the Classroom as it helps shape young minds and inspire future leaders in the field,” said Pedersen. “This important work helps shape our youth and help develop a better understanding of the important role agriculture plays in all our lives.”

The Manitoba government launched the Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program in 2020, which supports activities to strengthen industry development and leadership in the agriculture and food industry. The program is administered by the Manitoba 4H Council Inc. Agriculture in the Classroom – Manitoba’s (AITC-M) project entitled The Foundations of Manitoba Agriculture Educator Primer will provide education and awareness to enhance public trust in agriculture. In print, and online, the project will introduce the foundations of Manitoba primary agriculture production.

“We are beyond thrilled to be the recipients of this incredible grant,” said Sue Clayton, executive director,

July 2021 Click here for the digital version!

AITC-M. “This new foundational resource will allow us to make major strides in educating teachers about agriculture in Manitoba, and in turn, expand our reach to more students in the coming years. It’s wonderful to reach students with our programs and resources, but when we can educate teachers, the expanse of our reach multiplies to hundreds or even thousands.”

The Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program provides up to $50,000 per year for projects from Manitoba non-profit organizations, governments or academic institutions for innovative provincewide initiatives that increase public awareness about the importance of agriculture to the economy, build public trust for agriculture and processing, or support agriculture skills development and promotion of agriculture and food related career opportunities.

The deadline for the next intake of the Alexander Cherban Agriculture Industry Development Program is July 31. For more information on Alexander Cherban, the program or how to apply, visit www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/industryleadership/acaidf.html or the Manitoba 4-H Council Inc. website at https://4h.mb.ca/alexander-cherban-acaidp/.

Manitoba Beef Producers congratulates AITC-M for being the recipient of this program funding.

MBP is a proud supporter of AITC-M activities.

For reliable information and resources please visit:

FCC Economist Says Farm Debt Under Control, Watch For Higher Interest Rates - PortageOnline.com Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef aims to be part of environmental solution - Canadian Cattlemen

PC: Donalee Jones

MBP is excited to share the story of Brett and Chantel McRae as part of our Season 32 Great Tastes of Manitoba / Before the Plate episodes airing this fall. Our thanks to the family for hosting the television production crew last weekend!

COVID-19 Vaccine: Update on Appointment Booking, Eligibility https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/finder.html to find a location with available doses.

All people aged 12 and up are now eligible to make their first or second-dose appointment. The date of the second appointment must be at least 28 days after the first vaccination. For more information, visit https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/eligibilitycriteria.html#second-dose. Individuals can book online at http://protectmb.ca or by calling (tollfree) 1-844-MAN-VACC (1-844-626-8222).

Appointments and Walk-Ins From June 29 to Sunday, July 4, the Leila super site in Winnipeg will be offering walk-in Pfizer doses for youth aged 12 to 17. Approximately 330 doses will be available daily. In anticipation of significant demand, individuals in line will be given a colourcoded ticket, which will identify a time-slot later in the same day when they will be able to get their vaccine.

Parents, caregivers or other adults who have a booked Pfizer appointment can continue to transfer their appointment to a 12- to 17-year-old youth, through the provincial call centre.

All super sites, except RBC Convention Centre, are now offering walk-in appointments. The number of walk-ins may vary by day and by site, but are approximately 10 per cent of all doses available. It is important to note that a limited number of walk-ins are available on a daily basis. Sites will continue to prioritize first-dose immunizations for walk-ins when possible.

Fifteen medical clinics and pharmacies are regional hubs for AstraZeneca vaccinations.

Individuals can use the online vaccine finder at

A complete listing and searchable map of all vaccine sites, including urban Indigenous clinics and pop-up clinics, is available online at http://protectmb.ca. Eligible individuals can book their appointments at these sites online, or by calling (toll-free) 1-844-626-8222 (1-844-MANVACC).

Additional Information To be considered fully immunized, individuals require two doses of vaccine. These can be the same or different brands of vaccine. Individuals who are fully vaccinated can now request a digital or physical immunization card.

For more information, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/immunizati on-record.html#immunization-cards.

People who received a COVID-19 vaccine outside of Manitoba should complete the e-form at https://forms.gov.mb.ca/covid-immunizationrecord-request/ to update their immunization information. This e-form can also be used to request other updates or corrections to a COVID19 immunization. Individuals may also contact their local public health office for assistance, if needed.

Manitobans are reminded to fill out a second consent form for their second-dose appointment.

To fill out and print the consent forms before your appointment, visit: https://manitoba.ca/covid19/vaccine/resources.h tml#forms.

More information about the vaccine campaign in Manitoba is available at www.manitoba.ca/vaccine and http://protectmb.ca. All data in this bulletin is current as of June 29 unless noted otherwise.

Update on Fire Danger in the Province greatest threat at this time of year, the possibility of human-caused fires is also a concern. The public is asked to be extra careful with any fireworks displays, campfires or any other activity that could start a wildfire.

(June 30, 2021 Province of Manitoba News Release)

The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that due to continued dry conditions and hot weather, the fire danger across south and central regions of Manitoba are approaching high to extreme, while danger levels in the north are moderate and continue to increase as well.

The public is reminded to use extreme caution around fire, especially in wilderness areas over Canada Day and into the weekend. Fireworks and sky lanterns are prohibited in provincial parks and a permit is required to use them anywhere in the Burn Permit Area. Permits can be obtained at any Manitoba Conservation and Climate office. Campfires are only allowed within an approved pit.

The province detected 13 new fires since June 27 and additional lightning starts are anticipated. The majority of the new fire starts were east of Lake Winnipeg. Two new fires are being actioned in the Western Fire Region, northeast of Cedar Lake. In addition, there are multiple wildfires in northwest Ontario with smoke visible from the Whiteshell, Nopiming and Atikaki provincial parks. These fires are not a threat to Manitoba, but continue to be monitored.

Work continues on a large wildfire (EA 044) north of the RM of Grahamdale. Provincial fire crews remain assigned to the area and smoke from this fire may be visible at times from PTH 6. Although lightning-caused fires are the

Many municipalities have already proactively implemented burning restrictions this spring, so be sure to check with local municipal offices for more information or view the interactive Current Municipal Burning Restrictions at www.manitoba.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.ht ml. The province will not issue any burning permits within or areas bordering any municipality where the burning restrictions are already in place.

For areas where ATV/UTV use is allowed, riders are reminded they can play a role in protecting Manitoba’s forests. Anyone using an ATV is asked to stay on developed trails, do not ride or idle in tall grass and avoid dry areas. Ensure the ATV has a working spark arrestor, check areas around the engine and exhaust frequently, and carefully remove and extinguish any debris from these areas. Operators are also reminded to be prepared by carrying a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel and regularly check behind you as you ride to ensure nothing has ignited.

For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ or follow the Twitter account at https://twitter.com/mbgovnews.

To report a wildfire, call 911 or the T.I.P. line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076.

Applications Being Accepted for Water Source Development for Farms and Ranches improve environmental sustainability of farm operations in Manitoba.

Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1 are eligible. Projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

(June 8, 2021 Joint News Release) The

governments of Canada and Manitoba are advising that livestock producers who have been affected by dry conditions on pasture in Manitoba can apply for funding to support water source development under Ag Action Manitoba.

Funding is provided through the Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas beneficial management practice (BMP) under Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance. Eligible items include: • water source development – constructing new or rehabilitating existing wells or dugouts; • solar, wind or grid-powered alternative watering systems; • permanent fencing to restrict livestock access to surface water and dugouts; and • permanent pipeline development.

Ag Action Manitoba – Assurance: Beneficial Management Practices provides targeted incentive programs to agricultural producers and select industry service providers to advance the adoption of BMPs. These practices reduce identified environmental risks, improve agroecosystem resilience, build public trust and

Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis until Sept. 1.

Applications can include retroactive expenses incurred as of April 1. Upon project completion, applicants must submit proof of a valid Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) with their claim (see www.ManitobaEFP.ca for more info).

The Ag Action Manitoba Program is funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership— a five-year (2018-2023), $3-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow Canada’s agriculture and agri-food and agri-products sector. This includes a $2-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.

Producers can contact their local Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development office, call the department toll-free at 1-84-GROWMB-AG (1-844-769-6224) for more information on any of these programs and services, or go to www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture under Quick Links.

Frequently Asked Questions BMP: Managing Livestock Access to Riparian Areas (503) Q1. When is the deadline to apply?

A: Applications must be received no later than 11:59 pm Wednesday, September 1, 2021. Applications will be accepted continuously up to that date and will be reviewed on a weekly basis. They will be assessed by technical reviewers based on the environmental benefit assessment index, program priorities and project planning.

Q2. Do I have to complete my project this fall?

A: Yes. The project must be completed and claims submitted by November 5, 2021.

Q3. If I have already done a water source development project this spring, am I eligible?

A: Any projects for water source development occurring after April 1, 2021 are eligible. However, projects will need to be assessed prior to approval, and may require additional components (e.g. fencing of the dugout, alternative watering systems, etc.) in order to meet the BMP criteria.

Q4. What do I need to include with my application?

A: Please answer the questions provided in either the Farmers Application Form or ISP Application Form, and refer to the BMP Specific Questions listed in either the Farmers Guidebook or ISP Guidebook to assist you. Ensure that you explain the proposed project in detail, current practices on the farm, and the environmental benefit of the new practice. Include an aerial map of the pasture with the location of the existing and proposed water sources identified as well as any fencing (existing and proposed).

Q5. Do I need a valid Environmental Farm Plan Statement of Completion?

A: You can submit an application without a valid Statement of Completion, however, if your project is approved, you will be required to provide proof of a valid EFP by November 5, 2021 when you submit your project claim for reimbursement. Environmental Farm Plan workshop dates and locations will be listed at www.ManitobaEFP.ca .

Q6. Are confined livestock operations eligible?

A: No. This BMP is focused on livestock in pasture-based systems.

Q7. Do I have to dig a dugout to a specific size?

A: All dugout work, including new construction or rehabilitation of an existing location, should follow the dugout construction guideline.

Q8. Can I drill a new well in my yard?

A: Drilling a well in the yard is eligible if it is primarily intended for watering livestock on pasture and is the most cost efficient means of doing so. It can be used for supplying water to the yard as well, assuming the pastures are next to the yard. Only the well and pasture components are eligible for funding, not any components used for inyard water.

Q9. Do I need any permits?

A: Applicants must meet all regulatory requirements. This may include:  A Water Rights License is required for all livestock operations extracting more than 25,000 litres of water (25 m3 or 5,499 Imperial gallons) per day. If developing a new water source, a permit must be obtained in advance of starting work.  Approvals from the rural municipality or Crown.  Any other standards or approvals as required by law.

Q10. Can I pump / pipe / haul water from an existing water source into a dugout that has gone dry?

A: Piping or hauling water from any water source (well, dugout or wetland) into a dugout that has run dry is not eligible.

Q11. Do I have to fence my dugout?

A: Dugouts must be fenced to ensure livestock do not have direct access to the water within, which will prevent contamination and protect water quality.

Q12. I just need a water trough or water storage tank. Is this eligible?

A: No - watering system components such as watering bowls, troughs or storage tanks are only eligible as a part of a water source development project.

However, if your project includes development or rehabilitation of a water source (ex: well or dugout) or management of a riparian area (ex: exclusion fencing), watering system components are eligible.

Q13. How deep does a pipeline need to be?

A: Summer pasture pipelines permanently installed underground, and which can be properly winterized before freezing are eligible (ex: installed with a pasture pipeline plow). Above-ground pipelines are ineligible. Projects must be for permanent solutions only.

Q14. Can I apply for a project on a pasture that I rent?

A: Yes. Either the landowner or renter can apply. If the renter applies, they must identify the landowner and provide contact information with their application. For pastures on Crown Land, you must get approval from your local Farm Production Extension Specialist – Crown Lands.

Q15. If I have more questions, who can I contact?

A: Farmers can visit their local ARD/MASC Service Centre or call toll-free 1-844-769-6224.

Feed Regulatory Modernization Consultation The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has launched a 90-day public consultation from June 12 to September 10, 2021, to gather feedback on the proposed changes to the Feeds Regulations, 1983.

We are seeking feedback from the public, academia, other government departments, and organizations or individuals with an interest in livestock feeds in Canada.

You can participate in this consultation in different ways: •

Read the proposed regulations in Canada Gazette Part I and submit your comments using the online regulatory consultation system

•

Read the proposed documents incorporated by reference

•

Read the fact sheets and guidance documents to better understand the proposed regulations

•

pathogens and disease agents, heightened consumer awareness of food safety, climate change, and increased globalization of trade.

Amendments to the Feeds Regulations are required to establish a feed framework that includes hazard analysis, preventive controls, traceability, increased record-keeping requirements, and licensing. These changes will better align with international regulatory frameworks and best practices. This will enable the CFIA and regulated sectors to better understand and manage risks that livestock feeds pose to animal health, human health and the environment, and will support proactive practices for managing those risks.

The ultimate objective is to develop a modernized risk- and outcome-based regulatory framework for feeds that: •

protects public, animal and plant health, and the environment

•

reduces unnecessary regulatory burden, overlap and redundancy for stakeholders

•

addresses gaps, weaknesses, and inconsistencies

•

better aligns regulatory frameworks with the strategic objectives of the CFIA and the government's priorities related to economic prosperity and border security

•

supports fair and competitive trade in the market

•

allows for innovation and flexibility through outcome-based regulations

Join a webinar

Background Information from the CFIA The proposed amendments to the federal Feeds Regulations, 1983, would be a major update and aim to improve livestock feed and food safety in Canada, reflect international standards and keep up with industry innovation, science and technology.

Feed and livestock production sectors in Canada and abroad have evolved considerably since 1983, operating in an environment influenced by several changing factors such as: nutritional advancements, feed manufacturing and distribution changes, innovation in feed manufacturing technologies, emergence of new

Environmental Farm Plan Workshops Update (Source: Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development) Environmental Farm Plans (EFP) are an essential part of every farm operation. These workshops will guide producers through the EFP workbook to help assess and identify the environmental assets and risks on their farm operations, and develop an action plan to address the identified risks. Workbooks and support material will be provided to those who attend. There is no preparation required for this workshop.

EFPs must be renewed every five years to remain valid. If you are unsure if your EFP is valid, please contact KAP to inquire at (204) 697-1140.

Due to COVID-19, all EFP workshops will be taking place virtually via Online Meetings until further notice.

To register for an EFP workshop, click on the link Register now! for the date of your choice below.

Once registered, you will then receive an email with a link to access the meeting. Workbooks are mailed and you should receive yours approximately 1 week prior to the workshop. You can also visit this link to register:

https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/environment/ events-and-deadlines/index.html Upcoming Environmental Farm Plan Workshops

REGISTRATION DATE

TIME LINK

DEADLINE TO REGISTER

STATUS

1:30 July 14, 3:30 2021 PM

Register now!

June 30, 2021

OPEN

Aug. 11, 2021

1:30 3:30 PM

Register now!

July 28, 2021

OPEN

Aug. 25, 2021

1:30 3:30 PM

Register now!

Aug.11, 2021

OPEN

1:30 Sept.

3:30 8, 2021 PM

Register now!

Aug.25, 2021

OPEN

Verified Beef Production Plus Learn online and win!

VBP+ enables beef cattle producers to publicly demonstrate their commitment to responsible stewardship of both cattle and the environment. Getting VBP+ certified verifies the responsible practices on your beef cattle operation to your customers - consumers, retailers, and buyers. There are currently over 1.6 million beef cattle under the management of certified VBP+ operations in Canada.

• VBP+ training is web-based and can take place at your leisure around daily chores.

• Manitoba producers who complete the online training by July 31, 2021 will be entered in a draw for a cattle vaccine cooler valued at $219.

No pre-registration required.

For more information please call Melissa Atchison at (204) 264-0294 or email: verifiedbeefmanitoba@gmail.com • No pre-registration is required. Contact Melissa

Atchison