Ontario Sheep News June 2020 by Ontario Sheep Farmers

Vol. 39 - Issue 2

June 2020

NEWS

ONTARIOSHEEP MANAGING CASH FLOW IN UNCERTAIN TIMES

OSF/AGM Update Importance of On-Farm Biosecurity and COVID-19 Screening 2020 District Annual General Meetings/Provincial Director Elections P M 4 0 0 3 3 529

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OSN

June 2020

Features 14 Remembering Douglas Kennedy 16 2020 OSF/AGM 22 MSC Update 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 14 16 17 18 21 22 23 24 26 30 32 33 34 35 36 37

Chairman’s report GM Report From the Editors Desk The Ontario Market Report Managing Cash Flow in uncertain Times -OMAFRA When on Farm Service Providers Visit the Farm Discover the Benefits of Growing Cover Crops for Sheep - OMAFRA Remembering Douglas Kennedy 2020 OSF/AGM District AGM and Provincial Directors Elections A view of Sheep Meat Genetics Outside Ontario - OMAFRA Animal Transport Manifest - Transport Regs Reminder Master Shepherd Course Update/Introduction to Small Ruminat Course Update Parasite Management Course Update 2020 OSF Awards and Scholarships Updated Top Ram Genetics List Ontario Market Lamb Calendar Health & Genetic Program Listing Auction Market and Abattoirs District Contacts Small Ruminant Lenders Seminar Classifieds Breeders Directory

COVER PHOTO: William Ringgenberg DESIGN & LAYOUT: Prism Studios Advertising & Design Inc. DEADLINES FOR SUBMITTING TO ONTARIO SHEEP NEWS: March Issue - February 3rd • June Issue - May 4th • September Issue - August 3rd • December Issue - November 2nd ONTARIO SHEEP NEWS is the official publication of Ontario Sheep Farmers. Contents of this publication may be reproduced only by permission of the Editor and with credit acknowledged. Views and opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the viewpoint of the publisher or Ontario Sheep Farmers. Ontario Sheep News is published by Ontario Sheep Farmers and is distributed quarterly to all registered farmer-members. Subscriptions are available by contacting Ontario Sheep Farmers’ office. Subscription rates - $20 +HST (one year); $30 +HST (two year). Cheques should be made payable to Ontario Sheep, 130 Malcolm Rd Guelph, ON N1K 1B1. Editorial and advertising enquiries are welcomed.

ONTARIO SHEEP FARMERS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Provincial Directors Telephone District 1 District 2 District 3 District 4 District 5 District 6 District 7 District 8 District 9 District 10 District 11

Ed Post Jay Lewis Sandi Brock Marusha Kostuk Heather Little John Hemsted Marc Carere Gary Fox Chris Moore Lee Brien Colleen Alloi

(226) 781-0832 (519) 323-7439 (519) 319-1914 (519) 865-6874 (519) 843-1675 (705) 487-2466 (705) 324-2432 (613) 393-5258 (613) 913-4994 (519) 809-5332 (705) 248-3287

ONTARIO SHEEP FARMERS STAFF Jennifer MacTavish

General Manager jmactavish@ontariosheep.org

Jennifer Johanson

Executive Assistant / Bookkeeper jjohanson@ontariosheep.org

Anita O’Brien

On Farm Program Lead aobrien@ontariosheep.org

Tom Lewis

Industry Relations Specialist tlewis@ontariosheep.org

Jan Smith

Administrative Assistant jsmith@ontariosheep.org

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: ONTARIO SHEEP FARMERS 130 Malcolm Road, Guelph, Ontario N1K 1B1 Phone: (519) 836-0043 Fax: (519) 836-2531 E-mail: admin@ontariosheep.org Website: www.ontariosheep.org www.lambrecipes.ca Market Line: (519) 836-0043 Ext. 4 Publications Mail Registration Number: 40033529 ISSN 0844-5303 JUNE 2020 Date of Issue: June 2020 Photo submissions for use in publications (magazine, promotional/ education materials). Photo submissions are welcomed. Include the following information with your submission: name, mailing address, phone number, email address, expressed consent for Ontario Sheep Farmers to use the photo. If there are individuals in the picture, they should be identified and permission to print their picture must be secured either directly (if adults) or (if children) from a parent/guardian). Emailed photos must be a minimum of 300dpi and each photo should be clearly identified with the required information as outlined above. Photos will not be returned, and all submissions become the property of Ontario Sheep Farmers to be used or reproduced at the organization’s discretion. Wherever possible, credit will be given to the photographer if used.

Chairman’s Report

Marc Carere, Chairman

An Update from the Chair

ur world has changed dramatically since the last edition of Ontario Sheep News. I hope that you are all keeping well and staying safe. COVID-19 has forced the Ontario Sheep Farmers to re-structure how it represents and supports its farmers. This means more time spent on teleconference calls and zoom meetings and less time in face-to-face meetings. And, as a board we have increased our meeting frequency from once every 6 weeks to once every 3 weeks. This has enabled us to stay on top of the COVID-19 situation and continue to deal with the day-today issues as they arise. As a board we have also elected to cancel the 2020 OSF Convention this October. Given the circumstances we find ourselves in, we felt that this was the best, safest, course of action. We are currently looking into how to host a virtual Annual General Meeting, which we are planning for the end of October. During this AGM, a presentation of the past year’s events will be given, along the presentation of the audited financial statements. We are currently discussing how best to managed district resolutions at the AGM. Districts, however, continue to be encouraged to submit resolutions to the board throughout the year. To replace the producer education day, we will be organizing a virtual speaker series offered through the fall. Given that the districts may not be able to hold their AGM’s in-person, staff are offering to help set up the meetings via webinar or zoom. Districts 3, 6 and 9 do have elections this year and we have established the means to allow producers in these districts to electronically vote for their provincial directors. Provincial Director nomination process: • Nominations for the position of Provincial Director for these districts must be submitted 2 weeks prior to the district’s annual meeting. • Nominees must be registered as a producer with the OSF and reside in the district

• Nominations must be made in writing by two (2) OSF voting members who reside within the district If you wish to nominate someone, please contact the OSF office (general@ontariosheep.org) for a nomination form. Nominees will be published after the deadline for nominations and they will have the opportunity to refuse the nomination following the publication of all nominees. Provincial Director voting process: If you reside in Districts 3, 6 or 9 and wish to vote: • You must have produced sheep (lamb) or wool in the past 12 months - In the case of a producer who is part of a corporation, the corporation must submit a letter to the OSF identifying who will be representing them and disclose a corporate profile. - In the case of a producer who is a partnership or any other type of business structure that is not a corporation, a letter confirming who will represent the partnership will need to be submitted to the OSF. • Be registered with the OSF 30 days prior to your district’s annual meeting (if you are unsure if you are registered please contact the OSF office). • You must reside in the district where the election is taking place To help facilitate this process, OSF staff will be connecting with registered producers to ensure they have the proper contact email. Voters will receive an email with a link to the ballot as well as a unique, secure authentication credential to receive the electronic ballot. When the vote submits a ballot, the results are encrypted and kept anonymous. Should you have any questions and/or concerns about this process, please feel free to reach out to your Provincial Director or the OSF Executive. OSN

Editorial policy: Ontario Sheep Farmers welcomes and encourages letters to the editor and article suggestions from farmers and industry partners as a means of communicating with the Ontario Sheep Farmers board of directors and other farmers on issues of importance. Letters may be on any sheep industry topic, including Ontario Sheep Farmers’ policies, programs and procedure. Letters may address previous articles or letters to the editor, and the editor may comment on the accuracy of the information in letters. Letters should not exceed 300 words and may be edited for style and grammatical errors. When submitting a letter, please include the name of the author, address, phone number and/or email address (for verification purposes). Printed letters will include the author’s name. Potentially defamatory or libelous material, or personal attacks on individuals will not be permitted. If an author feels that the editor has inappropriately edited or not print a letter, a written request can be submitted to the board of directors for review to determine if there has been a violation of Ontario Sheep News’ editorial policy.

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General Manager’s Report

Jennifer MacTavish, General Manager manager@ontariosheep.org

COVID-19 and Ontario Sheep Farmer Resources

s the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold the OSF remains committed to keeping you updated with as much information and resources as possible to help you navigate your business through these uncertain times. Please be sure to follow us on twitter (@OntarioSheep), Facebook (@OntarioSheep) and subscribe to the Messenger www.ontariosheep.org/the-messenger-newsletter-subscribe. Additionally, our COVID-19 resources page located at www.ontariosheep.org/COVID19 hosts links to previous OSF Covid-19 communications and various resources such as market reports, financial support and programs for producers, and wellness materials. We encourage you to visit this page regularly for up-to-date information. In addition to pulling together resources for our producers, OSF has been in regular communication with the federal and provincial Ministers of Agriculture, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs and Agriculture and AgriFood Canada, updating them on how COVID-19 is impacting the industry and what support it needs. Key to our industry’s ability to navigate through this pandemic, is producer’s having the confidence that they have access to tools to help them mitigate risks. For the sheep sector, the only tools available are the provincial Risk Management Program and the national Business Risk Management suite of programs. Currently though these programs are inadequate given the kind of acute risk that producers are currently facing. It is for this reason that the OSF has joined with other industry groups in Ontario

requesting the cap to be lifted on RMP and through the National Sheep Network to ask for the AgriStability trigger be increased to 85%. The OSF has also engaged Farm Products to re-start the Sheep Industry Advisory Committee to formalize discussions to proactively manage our supply chain risks and solve problems within the sheep sector as they arise. This group will also give some thought to the longer-term challenges and opportunities within the sector. The first meeting will be on June 19th. Through all of this, we are aware that the sheep industry has not been impacted to the same extent that other livestock groups have. Without doubt part of what has buffered the sheep industry from the full impact of COVID-19 is the fact that the industry has a diverse network of processors that supply local butcher and store fronts. They have been working diligently to continue to supply lamb to their customers through this pandemic and we have taken the time to thank them directly. Now more than ever, it has become increasingly imperative to look after your mental wellbeing, and to care for each other. Take a moment and call a friend or family member and ask, “How are you doing?” Make it simple and listen, and If they need to talk - let them. We are all in this together. For additional resources on farmer wellness visit www.ontariosheep.org/Farmer-Wellness. OSN

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From the Editor’s Desk

By Tom Lewis, Ontario Sheep News Editor tlewis@ontariosheep.org

Looking Ahead & Moving Forward

he world has changed in dramatic ways since our last issue of Ontario Sheep News (OSN). The pandemic crisis has created obstacles and hardships felt not only in our own community, but to the province, country, and the world. The OSF team extends our deepest condolences to those who have lost a loved one during this time of difficulty, and for all who are impacted by the virus. This month’s issue of OSN highlights some COVID-19 resources available to producers, which can also be found at https://www.ontariosheep.org/COVID19. This publication also provides details on the cancelation of the 2020 Ontario Sheep Convention & Lamb Banquet due to COVID-19, and the plans to move the OSF AGM online. It also provides further details on the plans to move some of OSF’s professional development courses on-line. The OSF has hosted a number of free lunchtime webinars on a variety of topics, and created a webinar library at www.ontariosheepfarmers/resources. This page will give producers the ability to view materials after the webinar ends. Future events will be posted on the OSF events page at www.onatriosheepfarms.org.events, Twitter and Facebook. Three of the articles in this month’s publications are followups to webinars hosted early in the spring such as Changing Meat Sheep Genetics (page 18), Cash Flow Planning in Uncertain Times (page 8) Discover the Benefits of Growing Cover Crops (page 12). We hope you enjoy reading them and please feel free to review the materials from the previous webinars. We would also like to remind everyone again of the new Federal Animal Transport Regulations (February 20th, 2020) that have taken affect. All transported animals must follow and comply with the new regulations. For

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE WELCOME The OSN welcomes letters to the editor. Please email: tllewis@ontariosheep.org or mail to: Ontario Sheep News, 130 Malcolm Road, Guelph ON NIK 1BI.

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more details on the regulation and how to comply, visit www.ontariosheep.org/Transport. To assist with compliance, OSF has created a Transport Manifest Template (page 21). This template will assist producers and haulers with record keeping and compliance, and is available for download in fillable PDF, and on the OSF website. OSF would like to remind Ontario sheep farmers that we provide weekly market reports which can be viewed at www. ontariosheep.org/market-info and in partnership with the University of Guelph and OMAFRA, we have developed a price and profit predictability tools to help guide decisions and provide information on what prices to expect at auction in Ontario. Pricing predictions for lambs in the 65 to 79 pound and 95 to 109-pound categories are currently available with price predictions for one to four weeks out provided. These great tool and resources can be found at www.ontariosheep.org/market-info and we are encouraging all producers to use these resources as a means to assist in navigate todays markets. We hope you enjoy the articles and advertisements featured in the June issue of OSN. Stay safe and take care of yourself, and each other. OSN

Covid-19 is still a serious threat! Even though some restrictions are being lifted, we can't quit now. Protect yourself and each other. Keep physical distancing Keep washing your hands Wear a mask when physical distancing is not or may not be possible For more information visit https://www.ontariosheep.org/COVID19

The Ontario Market Report

ull market information can be found every week in the Ontario Farmer and online at www.OntarioSheep.org under â&#x20AC;&#x153;Market Informationâ&#x20AC;?. The graphs here show the trends in pricing and volume of the last six months in Ontario. OSN

You can also listen to the weekly information by calling 519-836-0043 and press 6 to go to the market line. Market information for OLEX, the Ontario Stockyards, Brussels and Embrun are recorded every week. You can also find archived weekly summaries on the Market page.

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Managing Cash Flow in Uncertain Times John Molenhuis, Business Analysis and Cost of Production Specialist, OMAFRA

his year has seen downturns in market prices, fluctuating input costs, market disruptions and uncertainty if plants will need to shut down or reduce capacity which can all lead to cash flow issues. In uncertain times, your cash flow should be revisited at least monthly if not more often. Budgeting your cash flow needs on a monthly basis will give you a better picture of when money is flowing out and when you expect money to flow in. Thinking of your cash flow in terms of the next 3-month, 6-month and 12-month intervals can help map out plans in the short to mid-term in order to put strategies in place to manage your cash flow risks and downturns. Managing cash flow is about determining what your cash outflow requirements are and when they occur in the year and finding enough cash inflow to cover those needs when they come due. Figure 1 shows an example cash balance for a sheep operation in an annual lambing system. Cash flow is positive early in the year with sales prior to Easter, and then cash flow dips negative as expenses exceed sales before cash starts to flow in again with sales in the fall. The question that cash flow planning helps answer is ‘What are the low points when cash flow is negative and by how much?’ Knowing this will then lead to the question, ‘Where will the cash come from to cover this low point – operating loans, other enterprises, off-farm sources?’

will be exactly what you projected, especially true this year. What happens when they are significantly different? The cash flow estimates can then start to point you to the areas of greatest risk. Where is your highest expense or cash outflow month? How long after that is money coming in? Do you have enough operating credit to bridge you until then? Can you work with your lender to make loan payments due at the time when cash in the form of sales is coming in? Demonstrating to your lender that you have a good grasp of when money is coming in and out, and how much operating credit you will need, will give them more confidence (read: more willing to extend operating credit). Many financial programs and supports have been announced to help navigate through this time and it can be hard to keep up with them all. Ontario Sheep Farmers is continually updating information and available supports at www.ontariosheep.org/COVID19. In these uncertain times, there are a lot of considerations and things are changing quickly. To improve cash flow, you can ask yourself a number of questions. As you move down your cash outflow list, can it be: Reduced? - Electricity rates have been temporarily reduced, - Wage subsidies are available to reduce labour costs, - Grain prices are lower, this may reduce feed costs, - Fuel prices are lower. Deferred? - Mortgage payments, insurance and WSIB premiums, income and property tax payments, - Non-necessary building and equipment maintenance. Eliminated? - Examine needs versus wants on planned capital purchases this year.

Knowing your cash flow needs starts with developing your base cash flow projection, which should be an annual exercise. Using last year’s results as a starting point can help guide your projections. Once you are comfortable that the estimates are reasonable, shock the estimates with pessimistic changes and see how the cash flow situation changes. It is very unlikely your estimates 8

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On the cash inflow side, can it be: Increased? - Free up operating cash capacity by terming out any purchases made with cash or operating credit to match the asset life. Advanced? - AgriStability interim advance level has been increased from 50% to 75%, - Make a withdrawal from your AgriInvest account.

Created? - Take on some custom work if machinery capacity and time allows, - Creating alliances with processors can reduce market price risk These are highlighting a few considerations; not all of the above will apply to your farm and there are likely others that are not this list. The key is to test different options in your cash flow to see if they resolve cash flow issues, move you past them and onto recovery. Working capital levels can be the early warning sign of cash flow issues. Working capital is calculated by subtracting the current liabilities from the current assets. Current assets are cash or those assets that can be readily converted to cash. This would include crop and market livestock inventories. Current liabilities are those debts that are coming due within the year. The farm’s working capital indicates money available for operating costs and debt commitments for the coming year. The working capital ratio is calculated by dividing the available working capital by the year’s cash expenses (expenses not including depreciation). A higher working capital ratio percentage reduces cash flow risk. Greater than 33% working capital ratio gives you more confidence that you have access

to cash to pay upcoming expenses. The larger the percentage the more resilient the operation is to those factors mentioned at the start that can cause cash flow issues. Table 1 compares the working capital of two farms. They both have the same dollar amount of working capital at $45,000 but Farm 2 is larger and has more cash expenses. Farm 2 with a lower working capital ratio at 23% is at more risk to weather tight cash flows in the coming year. Managing and monitoring your cash flow needs can help you identify issues early and put in place a plan to work through them. Table 1: Case Study Comparison Farm 1

Farm 2

Farm cash expenses (a)

$112,500

$200,000

Current Assets (b)

$120,000

$160,000

Current Liabilities (c)

$75,000

$115,000

Working Capital (d) = (b - c)

$45,000

40%

23%

Working Capital Ratio (e) = (d/a)

A spreadsheet-based cash flowing planning tool has been developed and is available for download at OMAFRA’s 2020 Information Resources for Sheep Producers at ontario.ca/ sheep. OSN

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When On-Farm Service Providers Visit the Farm Importance of On-Farm Biosecurity and COVID-19 Screening

ince agriculture and its’ service industries have been deemed essential by the Ontario government. OSF is asking that you continue to be diligent on having biosecurity measures in place to protect yourself, your family. Part of your biosecurity should now include screening everyone entering your farm for risk of exposure to COVID-19. Deny entry to everyone who: • Has travelled outside of Canada in the past 14 days • Has been exposed to someone who has travelled outside of Canada in the past 14 days • Has been exposed to someone who has tested positive to COVID-19, or is suspected to have COVID-19 • Is showing symptoms associated with COVID-19 (cough, fever, difficulty breathing)

If you are not already doing so, start keeping a visitor log including date, time of visit, person’s name and contact information. For more information on biosecurity, including logbook templates visit www.ontariosheep.org/biosecurity. Many service providers are on-farm a short time while delivering feed, fuel and crop supplies and it’s relatively easy to maintain the recommended social distance of 2 meters (6 feet). Other visits like those with your veterinarian, shearer and pregnancy scanner take longer, and you may be working much more closely with them. Have you thought about how these visits can be completed while ensuring you’ve done everything possible to minimize the risk of exposure to COVID-19 both to yourself and to them? What steps have you /can you put in place to ensure everyone’s health and safety? How will you address the following? Handwashing and bathroom facilities that are separate from the farmhouse. • If you normally provide meals/snacks can you still provide these somewhere other than the farmhouse? • Can the work be done without your assistance? Where assistance is necessary, restrict the number to only those absolutely needed.

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In situations where social distancing (2 metres/6 feet) cannot be maintained (e.g. shearing) consider wearing personal protective equipment such as a face mask (as it would be unreasonable to expect your shearer to do so). Once the job is complete, promptly change the outer layer of clothes and laundering is one recommended procedure to help mitigate the risk of exposure. If you (or anyone on the farm) are self-isolating, let your service providers know so they can re-schedule. OSN

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(MELOPHAGUS OVINUS)

FACT: SHEEP KEDS CAUSE BLOOD LOSS

IN SUFFICIENT VOLUMES TO CAUSE ANEMIA, REDUCED GROWTH RATES IN LAMBS, AND LOWERED PRODUCTION RATES.1

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Discover the Benefits of Cover Crops for Sheep James Byrne, OMAFRA Beef Cattle Specialist

MAFRA has held Grazing Cover Crop workshops at various locations and farms throughout the province for the past number of years. The purpose of these well attended events is to inform and educate producers on the benefits of grazing cover crops. These workshops give producers the opportunity to discuss with the host farmers, OMAFRA specialists and other attendees the merits, risks and costs to grazing cover crops.

can be a great maintenance feed for dry ewes. One of the major benefits to grazing cover crops is the low parasite load which can be used for more vulnerable groups of sheep such as lactating ewes with lambs at side or weaned lambs. Like cattle, sheep are quite tolerant of a wide range of cover crops but there are certain behavioural characteristics of sheep that must be considered when grazing certain types of cover crops, i.e. brassicas, legumes etc.

The popularity of grazing cover crops has increased over the years as sheep and beef producers have recognised cover crops as an ideal source of feed to help reduce the cost of feeding by extending the grazing period or enabling higher animal performance from forages than would be possible from available stored forage. Grazing sheep at pasture longer reduces the amount of stored hay that needs be fed or enables Figure 1: Sheep grazing turnips, picture courtesy of Jillian Craig, OMAFRA. that hay that would have been fed to be retained as a safety net in the event of a late spring. There is also the additional cost savings from reduced bedding requirements, There are numerous cover crops and cover crop mixtures lower labour cost and time saved from managing animals on for producers to choose from. Spring sown winter cereals are stored feed. Where possible, reducing the amount of hay to one of the simplest and easiest type of cover crop to grow. be saved frees up those hay acres to be redirected to another These crops are very digestible, palatable, high yielding, economic purpose. and require little management knowledge to achieve a good crop. In addition, spring sown winter cereals present little The benefits of growing cover crops are well established in the way of animal health issues. Brassicas, (turnips, kale and understood. Cover crops provide significant soil health etc.), such as shown in Figure 1 above, and legumes, (i.e. and crop benefits. The greatest challenge for producers is how clovers,), make excellent cover crops options for grazing to monetise the cost of growing cover crops as the return on but producers should make themselves aware that, unlike investment is often difficult to determine. Grazing provides spring sown winter cereals, these crops do present animal the most efficient and cost-effective means to get a return on health challenges, (i.e. bloat), that must be managed correctly through good grazing practices, (i.e. strip grazing to limit investment without negatively impacting on crop yield. intake, providing access to stored hay as a fiber source, provision of minerals etc.). Warm season grasses, such To maximise the opportunity for grazing cover crops as Sorghum-Sudan, can quickly supply a large volume of livestock and crop producers are encouraged to consider highly digestible forage but the issue of prussic acid must be collaboration for mutual benefit. An OMAFRA grazing cover understood and managed accordingly. crop workshop in 2018 demonstrated how a partnership between a crop producer and a livestock producer has brought mutual benefit to both parties. The workshop In recent years a lot of grazing cover crop research has demonstrated how the livestock producer was able to access focused on the impact of the number of plant species in a feed to help extend the grazing period and how the crop cover crop mix on animal performance. Research by Mullenix producer was able to cover the cost of growing the cover crop, et al, (2012), found that oats sown as a pure stand delivered with no impact on subsequent crop yield. The workshop 9% higher average daily gain when compared to an oats / also demonstrated some of the practical considerations with annual rye grass mixture. This confirmed earlier research by such a collaboration such as the issues around fencing, water Myer et al, (2008), who demonstrated that a two-way mix of provision, prevention of pugging during wet weather, the oats / annual rye grass outperformed a three-way mix of rye / division of costs etc. oats / annual rye grass by 6%. Both research studies showed that as the number of species in a mixture increased, total A lot of research in recent years on grazing cover crops has dry matter (DM) yield increased, and number of grazing days revolved around grazing cattle but sheep are equally, and in available increased. some case better adapted, to this practise. Depending on the stage of production and the type of cover crop grown, cover Although Table 1 on the next page reflects the performance crops can be a source of highly digestible high energy forage of cattle grazing cover crops, the same information can be for ewes in late pregnancy or early lactation, when energy inferred for the likely performance of sheep under similar demand in ewes is at itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest. Alternatively cover crops grazing circumstances. 12

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Table 1: Effect of single crop, 2-way and 3-way cover crop mixes, DM yield, average daily gain in cattle, and number of grazing days. Oats

Oats/ Annual Ryegrass

Rye/Oats/ Annual Ryegrass

Forage Yield, lbs DM per acre

4,016

4,184

4,349

Average Daily Gain (lbs per day)

2.50

2.3

2.16

Grazing Days

109

114

118

Note: Composite table generated from Mullenix et al, (2012), and Myer et al, (2008). The research provided in Table 1 suggests that producers should select cover crops based on their intended use. If the intention is to graze young animals for high performance, producers should select simple cover crop mixtures containing only one or two plant species. If the intention is to extend the grazing period, producers should select cover crop mixtures containing multiple plant species as these mixtures deliver the greater number of grazing days. The overwhelming view of producers who attended a grazing cover crop workshop was that grazing cover crops brought significant benefits by extending the grazing period, reducing the cost of winter feeding and providing an obvious return on investment without any impact on subsequent crop yield. OMAFRA in collaboration with the Beef Farmers of Ontario and Ontario Sheep Farmers are in the process of developing a number of Grazing Cover Crop Workshops for Fall 2020. Further information regarding dates, locations and the registration process will be available in the coming weeks. OSN

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References: Myer, R.O., Blount, A.R., Carter, J.N., Mackowiak, C.L. & Wright D.L. (2008). Influence of pasture planting method and forage blend on annual cool season pasture forage availability for grazing by growing beef cattle. The Professional Animal Scientist 24: 239-246 Mullenix, M.K., Bungenstab, E.J., Lin, J.C., Gamble, B.E. & Muntifering, R.B. (2012). Productivity, quality characteristics, and beef cattle performance from cool-season annual forage mixtures. The Professional Animal Scientist 28: 379-386 Banks, S., 2013. Cover Crops Can Provide Much Needed Forage. OMAFRA Crop Talk, http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/crops/field/news/ croptalk/2013/ct-0613a9.htm Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly, C. 2018. Grazing Your Cover Crop. Ontario Soil and Crop Field Crop Reports, https://www.ontariosoilcrop.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/ V15-2018_CrpAdv_E3_Grazing-Your-Cover-Crops.pdf

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In Memory of Doug Kennedy Two-handed shearer, Doug Kennedy, dies at 80 Written By: Rob Ford from Ontario Farmer Tuesday May 12th 2020 Publication

oug Kennedy’s initiation into sheep shearing came not long after his father’s untimely death, when the teen inherited 125 full-fleeced Suffolk ewes on the family’s Ilderton farm. Picking up his father’s shears, Kennedy went to work. In the process he pioneered his own ambidextrous shearing technique, trading the shears from hand to hand.

courses sponsored by Ontario Sheep and the Canadian Cooperative Wool Growers (CCWG.) Kennedy didn’t teach the students his two-handed shearing techniques – they learned the standard “Bowen Method” from New Zealand. But Kennedy’s demonstration of his ambidextrous technique remained a course highlight.

“The first sheep took two hours,” he would say later. “I didn’t know there was a right way or a wrong way to shear.”

So too, was his sense of humour. When the classroom portion ended and the work began, Kennedy would grin and warn students “that’s when you’ll find out Manual Labour isn’t a Mexican.”

Kennedy would go on to a long career, not just as a wellknown shearer in southwestern Ontario, but as a much-loved teacher, community builder, sportsman, and farmer. Knee replacements and heart-valve surgery slowed him down, but last year he was honoured with Ontario Sheep Farmers’ Long Service Award. His shears were stilled permanently April 9th, when Kennedy died at the age of 80. “Doug had an amazing life,” says fellow shearer Peter Kudelka. For years, the two teamed up to offer shearing

John Douglas Burton Kennedy was born 27th April, 1939. He worked on his parents’ Ilderton farm, pursued a career as an elementary teacher and principal in Middlesex and Oxford Counties, and in 1964 he met and married grade three teacher Shirley Hogg. He is survived by his daughter Victoria and son John. A celebration of life has been tentatively booked at the Thamesford Community Centre for September 19th.

............................................................................................................

Keeping farm safety top of mind Farm safety is everyone’s responsibility and a top priority for the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). To increase the profile of farm safety, OFA’s new campaign is sharing practical hands-on resources, materials and guidelines to keep farm safety top of mind with all generations. OFA encourages farm families to use these online resources to talk about safe farm practices and help keep everyone safe from planting through to harvest. To learn more, follow #FarmSafe on social media or visit ofa.on.ca. OFA: Making farm safety a priority

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Outside of his family, he probably made his most lasting impression on his students, particularly those having a tough time at school or home. “He knew how to capture their interest and get them to want to learn,” Kudelka says. “He kept a lot of kids out of trouble.”

Doug Kennedy, instructing shearing students in 2013: “The demand for shearers is out there. Old guys like me who were shearing large numbers aren’t shearing anymore, or aren’t shearing as many.”

“Guys who he was fairly tough on would come back later in life and say how he helped them.” says son John Kennedy, who was also taught by his father.

“He was a great community-minded fellow,” adds Ilderton farmer Bill Thirwell. Kennedy was a renaissance man, supporting or involved in a range of community activities, including sports, 4-H, church, and Fanshawe Pioneer Village.

Handy with machinery, livestock, and in the kitchen, he was known as an excellent cook and baker, famous for his pies (especially elderberry) and Christmas cake. He was also one of the hardest-throwing fastball pitchers in the region. After settling near Thamesford, Kennedy continued to keep sheep, operated a wool depot for the CCWG, and sheared up to 6,000 sheep in a year. “He just loved to shear. After school and on weekends he would shear,” Thirwell says. “He’s probably the strongest man I ever met,” adds Kudelka, recounting the time Kennedy put a three-inch gash in his hand with the shears, and then asked the shepherdess to stitch the wound. “He just put his hand down and told her to sew it up and just kept going.” As Kennedy used to say, when you’re shearing sheep, “only the clippers bite. I’ve got the scars to prove it.” Despite Kennedy’s size and power, perhaps the most remarkable thing about the Kennedy was his empathy for others. He was a careful listener and a thoughtful conversationalist. When you talked to him, you felt as if you were his sole focus. And you benefited from his wisdom. “He treated everyone as an individual,” Kudelka says. “He really was a pleasure to know.”

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2019-02-14 11:44 AM

2020 ONTARIO SHEEP CONVENTION! Plans Underway For Virtual AGM Due To COVID-19

ue to the Covid-19 situation OSF regrets to inform you that the board has decided to cancel the 2020 Ontario Sheep Convention including the annual Ontario Lamb Banquet.

through their generous sponsorship and support of Ontario Sheep Initiatives.

Plans are underway to be able to have a virtual Annual General Meeting via WebEx. OSF is exploring options for district AGM’s and will be providing updates shortly. Watch for updates in The Messenger, Ontario Sheep News, Twitter, and Facebook.

LEADER AgSights Mapleview Agri Grober Nutrition Ontario Federation of Agriculture Wallenstein Feed Supply Ltd – B&L Farm Services, Sunderland Co-op, Waltersfalls Milling Ltd.

The 2020 Ontario Sheep Farmers Photo Contest and the 2020 Awards & Scholarships nominations are still being accepted. • For details on 2020 Awards and Scholarships visit page 12 • For details on the 2020 OSF Photo Contest visit page the back page.

Thank you to OSF 2020 Sponsors With thanks to the following businesses and organizations who have and continue to support the Ontario Sheep Farmers

ADVOCATE Bayer Animal Health

COLLABORATOR Farm Credit Canada SUPPORTER Metzger Veterinary Services Professional Corporation L&R Shelters Inc If you would like to join this list of businesses and organizations or more information about sponsorship opportunities, contact the Ontario Sheep office at (519) 836-0043 OSN

2020 OSF Sponsors

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2020 District Annual General Meetings For the most up to date information, check The Messenger and the events calendar on the Ontario Sheep website – www.ontrariosheep.org/events. 2020 District Executive Positions OSF district annual meetings will be taking place later this summer and early fall. If you are looking for an opportunity to develop leadership skills or become more involved in the Ontario Sheep industry, consider being part of your district executive. Becoming active at your district level helps you and fellow farmers promote the products you have to offer to producers and consumers; be it breeding stock, lamb, wool or dairy products. Each district executive is comprised of a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary/Treasurer. Elections for these positions take place at each district AGM and the term for each position is for one year. The following positions are explained below. District Chair This position provides leadership to district sheep producers and ensures open two-way communication between districts producers and the OSF board of directors to promote the best interest of the entire sheep industry in Ontario. District Vice Chair This position provides support for the district chair and steps in for the chair when necessary. This person should be a strong committee member and aid wherever it is needed.

Secretary/Treasurer This person can be two positions or combined into one. The secretary is responsible for keeping meeting minutes and district correspondence and is the liaison between the OSF office and the district committee. The treasurer is responsible for keeping the district finances in order. To find out when your District AGM is taking place please see chart below. For additional details please visit https://www.ontariosheep.org/ events or contact your District Secretary which can be found on page 34 of this publication.

District

Date

September 3

September 10

August 26

September 5

August 27

September 8

September 10

September 24

September 14

September 4

11 September 10 Due to the Covid-19 the district executives are exploring options for digital district AGM’s and OSF will be providing updates shortly. Watch for updates in The Messenger, Ontario Sheep News, Twitter, and Facebook. OSN

2020 OSF Provincial Director Elections

lections for provincial directors for the OSF Board of Directors will take place in districts 3,6,9.

1) Contact Jennifer MacTavish at the OSF office by emailing jmactavish@ontariosheep.org or call 519 836 0043

The provincial directors are elected to three-year terms on the OSF board to directors. The role of the provincial director is to promote the best interest of Ontario’s sheep industry and work to fulfill the mission statement of the OSF.

2) Contact your district secretary (listed on page 34 of this issue)

Should you have questions or wish to speak with someone about your candidacy contact either Jennifer MacTavish at the OSF office by emailing jmactavish@ontariosheep.org or call 519 836 0043 or your district secretary listed on page 34 of this issue.

Nominations must be received no later than 15 days prior to the district annual meeting. District annual dates can be found on OSF website under the events page.

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A View of Sheep Meat Genetics Outside Ontario Delma Kennedy, OMAFRA

echnology is changing fast and one challenge is how to keep a broad view of changes that might affect the sheep industry. I recently did a webinar on a view of meat genetics outside Ontario. The objective was to provide an awareness of what is happening in other places with a view to getting sheep producers to start thinking about how we fit in, how we will compete in the future and what our future industry might look like from a genetics point of view. In Ontario, we import more lamb than we produce so it is important to keep an eye on what our competitors are doing.

Imports The Ontario import chart below shows that the main countries sending sheep and lamb to Ontario are New Zealand, Australia and Ireland.

in Ontario is 80 pounds with a 47% dressing percentage, about 4,780,926 kg was processed in Ontario. Assuming everything harvested and imported into Ontario is eaten here, the Ontario industry is supplying about 36% and imports are supplying the rest of the sheep and lamb eaten in Ontario. Australia, New Zealand and Ireland are all actively working on improving efficiency and maintaining or expanding export markets. They also all have active genetic improvement programs to ensure their industries can change and adapt.

Genetics Our biological systems are designed to adapt. All life is made up of cells and those cells have DNA. That DNA is made up 2.9 billion base pairs in a sheep. There are two copies of this in most cells, so almost 6 billion base pairs in each cell. That is a lot of microscopic stuff happening in cells. Genetics changes with every breeding and this is a major opportunity for the system to adapt and change because genetics come together from the ram and the ewe in a different combination every time. In the 1980s and 90s, the Ontario sheep genetic evaluation system was state of the art and was equal to sheep genetics programs in any other country. Our current Canadian system is still an excellent system, but it has only had modest participation and a few traits added to the system in the past 20 years. Other countries have been adding traits and working on genomics to increase their ability to select for traits that are either hard to measure or hard to change.

How are genetic systems in competitor countries different? In 2019, 13,240,528 kg of sheep and lamb was imported into Ontario. Assuming that the average lamb harvested

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Australia, New Zealand and Ireland have invested in improving their genetic evaluation systems by improving the accuracy of their selection tools and finding methods to collect information on hard to measure traits that affect profitability. What does this mean? They have central progeny testing where progeny from different flock sires are measured for standard performance and traits that are difficult to measure on farm. There are two objectives. One is to improve and maintain the genetic linkages between flocks so that evaluations are more accurate between farms. The second objective is to collect data on new traits or hard to measure traits. For example, in 2019 the Australian Genetic Resource Flock selected semen from 150 industry sires to breed 2359 ewes. Over 150 pieces of data are collected on the progeny including traits like conformation, weights, wool traits, condition score, parasite counts, eye muscle and fat depth at different ages. As well as carcass traits like weight,

fat depth, eye muscle size, meat colour and pH and eating quality traits like intramuscular fat and shear force. Australia has been collecting this kind of extensive data using new industry sires each year since 2007. Our competitors are using information on more traits to select industry sires with a view to improving profitability.

Why would we want to measure more traits? Who cares if we measure more traits? Our sheep performance is good. Performance might be good for the current situation but improving genetics is a longer term strategy. One of Australia’s goals is to reduce lamb loss to zero. Although that might not be possible, reducing the mortality rate is possible. It is a lowly heritable trait which means that it is governed by many genes and the environment. Over the last hundred years, we have seen human mortality decrease significantly. It is obvious that most of that change is environmental and advances in medicine. But when I had cancer my oncologist said that if you could choose whatever genetics you want, it could trump environment every time. Everyone has seen those genetic differences where a person smokes, drinks, eats poorly and generally neglects their health but has few health concerns until they are quite old versus the person that exercises, eats well and looks after their health yet struggles with health concerns. Most people are somewhere in the middle and reasonably healthy if they look after themselves reasonably well. Sheep are the same, our competitors are trying to figure out how to select those unusual genetics that stay healthy even when the environment is poor. This kind of selection requires measurement of more traits over a number of years before results are obvious.-

Value chain profitability and consumer focus In December 2017, an education event at a New Zealand Terminal Sire Sheep Progeny test site discussed developments in collecting information on sheep meat eating quality. The series of five talks can be found on youtube. https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=OlB7RwWUckw&list=PLI0sUCZ_8IS DyeluK1xME5VVAuVTqcqV8

This slide from the talk “The Science. What does all this mean for your farm?” by Aimee Charteris and Stuart Ellingham shows how New Zealand is working on more data flow from processors back to stud and commercial producers. At that time, they were trialing technology that could measure intramuscular fat in the processing line. Continued on page 20.

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Continued from page 19 ~ A

VIEW OF SHEEP MEAT GENETICS OUTSIDE ONTARIO

The National Livestock Breeding and Genetics Forum held in Brisbane Australia in February 2018 discussed data platforms, linking genetics to the end consumer, disruptive technology and culture change. Links to the series of 17 sessions can be found at https://www.mla.com.au/researchand-development/ Genetics-andbreeding/livestockbreeding-andgenetics-forum/. In order to prepare their sheep and DIVISION OF GAMBLE & ROGERS LTD. beef industries for the future, this slide from Andrew Skinners TUESDAYS talk â&#x20AC;&#x153;How can an 9:00 A.M. accessible data platform add value Fed Cattle, Bulls & Cows to the Australian THURSDAYS industry?â&#x20AC;? shows 8:00 A.M. how data can Drop Calves, Veal, Pigs, be harnessed Lambs, Goats & Sheep and linked from genetics to the FRIDAYS consumer.

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This type of structure will allow for the future use of machine learning to help find relationships and efficiencies not yet thought of.

Collaboration New technologies require more data collection and validation. Increasingly, databases are being shared with computer technology used to link information. New Zealand, Australia and Ireland are already preparing for big data technology with improved data standards and technology infrastructure. As exporters, they have been focusing on the consumer and developing information databases on many traits that can affect efficiency and the consumer experience. Typically other protein sources are considered to be the biggest competitor to sheep meat rather than the country or region of origin. This leaves the door open for collaboration particularly to share data that can benefit everyone. Ontario and Canada need to be able to offer data resources in order to be part of any collaborations.

Is Ontario prepared for the future? Typically our industry here in Ontario has fit into the niche markets that are difficult for an imported product. The emphasis on local has also had a positive effect on the competitiveness of our local product. However, genetic change is slow but steady. Our competitors are making genetic change, working on harder to measure traits like health and eating quality. We need to ensure we have the breeders and the tools to select for genetics now that will enable us to compete five or ten years from now. In the late 80s, there was a vibrant Ontario breeding stock industry with over 400 producers enrolled in performance recording and a central ram testing program. Currently there are about 30 flocks enrolled in performance testing in Ontario. To compete in the future we will need a common vision or objective for genetic change and producers to make it happen. OSN

Updated Federal Animal Transport Regulations Increase Your Responsibilities! OSF Animal Transport Manifest Document - Assisting Producers with Regulatory Compliance

tarting February 20th, 2020, the Federal Transport Regulations have changed, and everyone involved in the transportation of animals in Canada must comply with the Health of Animals Act. The revised regulation has an impact on every producer and every load of animals to stockyards, market, or farm to farm travel. OSF wishes to remind producers of the new regulations and where to find accurate information on the revised regulations to ensure compliance.

RECORD OF LIVESTOCK MOVEMENT

DESTINATION /PURCHASER /AGENT NAME Address:

Premises ID:

Town:

Province:

Phone #:

Postal Code:

Phone #:

TRANSPORTER COMPANY NAME: Address: Town:

Province:

Trailer Unit or License Plate:

Driver:

Conveyance Last Cleaned Date:

Time:

Location:

OWNER NAME:

Premises ID:

Address: Town:

Province:

Postal Code:

Individual CCIA Tag Numbers Attached ☐Yes

Phone #:

☐ No

ANIMALS LOADED Last access to feed water and rest (FWR) prior to loading

Date:

Loading Date (yyyy/mm/dd):

The new regulations require an “animal manifest of care” to accompany animals being transported, changes to maximum intervals without feed, water, and rest times, adequate space, weather protection and ventilation among other regulatory changes. These amendments go beyond transport journey times to cover the full time an animal is prepared for transit to the time they reach their destination. OSF created an animal transport manifest (found on the opposite page) or available for download at www.ontariosheep.org/ Transport in fillable PDF.

Postal Code:

Tag/Lot/ Pen #

Head Count

Species

Floor area available to animals (m2 /ft2)

All animals have been determined to be fit for transport ☐ Compromised animal(s) description and measures taken:

Gender/ Type

Yes ☐

If applicable, FWR was provided during transport Date: ☐

Animals unloaded for FWR

Time: Loading Time:

☐ AM ☐ PM ☐ AM

CCIA tags

☐ PM

Identifying Mark

Trucking Rate

Estimated Weight (lbs or kgs) Number of compromised animals loaded

Time:

Location:

☐ FWR provided on board

THIS SECTION MUST BE COMPLETED BY THE RECEIVER (auction market / assembly yard / dealer / abattoir) Date Received(yyy/mm/dd):

All animals arrived in good condition

Unloading Time:

☐ Yes

☐AM

☐ PM

# of head received:

☐ No

If no, describe condition of animals upon arrival, including any dead animals, and actions taken to address prior to arrival:

Comments: If Shipper is not the Owner, please include name, full mailing address, premises identification and telephone number of the Shipper(s) here.

Owner Signature

Receiver Signature

Driver Signature

The amended regulations The transfer of care from the transporter to the receiver occurs immediately came into force Feb. 20th, 2020 upon acknowledgement of the shipment and the accompanying documentation by the receiver. and will give time (two years) for Copies Receiver Transporter Owner Inspector the industry to adapt and plan for changes. The Interpretive inspectors fully enforce compliance. However, this only Guidance is published on the CFIA and OSF’s website to applies to the food, water, and rest (FWR) component of the assist with better understanding the regulatory intent and regulations and all other elements of the Act and regulation assist with compliance. apply. The new regulation starts with an educational component (for those out of compliance on a first offense) before

For more resources on the new regulation and how to comply visit www.ontariosheep.org/Transport OSN OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

Master Shepherd’s Course

he Master Shepherd’s Course (MSC) consists of 12 2-day modules including: Business Planning; Flock productivity and reproduction; Ewe flock nutrition; Industry dynamics and governance; Genetics; Infrastructure and feeding systems; Effective flock health management; Lambing and lamb rearing; Predation and pasture management; Lamb feedlots and dairy; and Marketing and wool. More details on key topic areas can be found by visiting www.ontariosheep.org/master-shepherds-course. Module Format Day One – classroom; Day Two – classroom and farm/industry tours. On-line meeting format will be explored for the initial modules if in-person meetings are restricted due to Covid-19. Time Period September 2020 through January 2022 Location Individual modules will be situated to accommodate course participants, speakers, and best fit for the farm/ industry tour component of the module. Cost • entire course - $3,350 • individual modules - $375

Who should apply? • existing sheep farmers who desire to improve the management, productivity and profitability of their flocks. • Apply early as “full-course” spaces will be limited.

Testimonials from Master Shepherd’s Alumni “The farm tours brought the lecture and information to life. You also got to see hacks that you wouldn’t necessarily find in a book or on a website.” ~ Caitlin Harvey “I gained great connections by taking the course and learned a lot in the process. I still find myself referring back to one of the manuals when I’m searching for a specific piece of information.” ~ Shanna Armstrong “If you are sheep farming on a full-time basis, the course will pay for itself in no time.” ~ Jeff DeJong

Application • application for “full course” participation must be received by August 1st, 2020 • applications for individual modules (limited spaces per module) will be accepted on a first-come-first-served basis throughout the duration of the course. • contact the OSF office at 1-519-836-0043 or email: mastershepherd@ontariosheep.org OSN

Introduction to Small Ruminant Production

etting started in small ruminant production? To help facilitate education and knowledge transfer, Ontario Sheep Farmers (OSF) and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) offer an online Introduction to Small Ruminant Production Courses. Each online course covers both sheep (meat, fibre, and dairy) and goat (meat, fibre, and dairy) species, providing an overview of each of the sectors and introductory concepts. These online courses/modules are designed for individuals who are thinking about starting a sheep and/or goat farm and can be viewed at your own pace in the comfort of your home.

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Courses will be starting in July of 2020 and more details can be found by visiting https://www.ontariosheep.org/programs The course fee: $30 per participant and Pre-registration is required. If you are interested in taking the course, please contact OSF staff at 519.836.0043 x 327 or email admin@ontariosheep.org to register and have your name added to the list. Please Note: registered. OSN

last-minute

cancellations

once

OSF Parasite Management Course 2020

ntario Sheep Farmers (OSF) has planned an informative webinar series that focuses on parasite management in Ontario. Parasite management is always a challenging topic for producers and so to this end, our webinar series is be geared toward sheep and goat producers and is developed and presented with Dr. Rex Crawford of Dundas Veterinary Services in Orangeville, ON and by Dr. Amy Gaw of Temiskaming Veterinary Services in New Liskeard, ON on behalf of Ontario Sheep Farmers. Each webinar/module will be approximately 75 minutes long with 50 minutes of presentation time, the rest for Q & A. The modules are held weekly at 8 pm on the same evening of each week.

Proposed Dates and Module Confirmed dates will be posted https://www.ontariosheep.org/Parasite%20Management

• July 21st, Module 1 – Intro, Life Cycle of the Gin, How do GIN Behave, • July 28th, Module 2 – Diagnosing Disease, Using Clinical Signs to Diagnose Parasitism, • August 4th, Module 3 – Dewormers, Reasons why wormers sometime do not work, Anthelmintic Resistance • August 11th, Module 4 – Sustainable Integrated Parasite Management (Overview of the Ontario 5-star plan), Managing Pastures to Manage Parasites • August 18th, Module 5 – Use Anthelmintics Appropriatelywho, when, refugia, Investigating Treatment Failure, Quarantine & Treatment of New Animals • August 25th, Module 6 – Putting it all together Questions. Developing on-farm parasite management plans Time: 8pm sharp start time The course fee: $80 per participant (for the whole course). • Individual courses are not offered separate. • Pre-registration is required. Location: WebEx Format (Link and participant code will be shared with those who have paid registration) For more details call the Ontario Sheep Farmers Office at 519 836 0043 x 327 or email admin@ontariosheep.org OSN

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Seeking Nominations and Applications for 2020 Awards and Scholarships

ach year Ontario Sheep Farmers recognizes the achievements and contributions of members and industry services providers of Ontario’s sheep industry through awards and scholarships. The award winners are announced at the virtual AGM in October 2020. This year, OSF is seeking nominations and applications for five awards and scholarships, including the new Ontario Sheep Farmers Memorial Fund – Industry Leader Award. Read more below about each award and scholarship and consider applying or nominating a deserving sheep farmer or industry representative. Application and nomination forms are available on the OSF website –https://www.ontariosheep.org/awards-scholarships or by contacting the OSF office.

Outstanding Shepherd Award This award goes to an Ontario shepherd who has made significant contributions to the advancement of the Ontario sheep industry. The recipient exemplifies the values of leadership and responsible sheep husbandry. Deadline for nominations: September 14th, 2020.

Long Service Award Awarded in acknowledgement and appreciation of long standing contributions to the Ontario sheep industry, recipients of this award have demonstrated outstanding dedication, leadership, and an innovative spirit. This award is presented to an Ontario shepherd or industry service provider in recognition of their significant contributions to the advancement of the Ontario sheep industry over many years of service. Deadline for nominations: September 14th, 2020.

Mapleseed Pasture Award This award, sponsored in part by OSF, Mapleseed and the Ontario Forage Council, recognizes individual sheep farmers who are doing an outstanding job of pasture management. The Mapleseed Pasture Award is a way of encouraging sheep farmers to implement pasture management strategies to maximize production per acre. The winner of this award receives a cash prize of $500. Deadline for submissions: September 14th, 2020.

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2020 Undergraduate Scholarship This $500 cash scholarship is open to applicants who are enrolled in their first or second year at an accredited university, college or apprenticeship program. Applicants do not have to be enrolled in an agriculture program to be eligible for the award. Applicants must be 21 years of age or younger (as of January 1, 2020).

In addition to completing an application form, applicants will be asked to submit either an essay (of at least 500 words) or two to three-minute video answering the following question: What do you see as your contribution to the Ontario sheep industry in the next 5 years? 10 years? Application deadline: September 14th, 2020. OSN

Applicants must be one of the following: - A registered sheep producer as of April 30th, 2020 - Have a parent/guardian registered as a sheep producer as of April 30th, 2020; or - A member of a 4-H Ontario sheep club. In addition to completing the application form, applicants must also write an article (minimum 500 words) on one of the provided topics. - What strategy or strategies do you think the sheep industry should employ to address public trust? - If you were going to produce sheep, what management style – annual lambing, accelerated lambing or a combination of the two, would you choose and why?

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- Give a detailed description of a biosecurity set up and explain why this is important to the individual sheep farmer and the industry. - What do you feel is the sheep industry’s greatest weakness, and therefore greatest challenge? How would you address that if you could? Application deadline: September 14th, 2020.

Ontario Sheep Farmers Memorial Fund – Industry Leader Award This $500 cash award is open to applicants who are wanting to further their leadership development in Ontario’s sheep industry. This award can be used by the successful applicant to participate in post graduate or industry education opportunities, and leadership courses.

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www.GroberNutrition.com | 1.800.265.7863 | OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

Now Available: Updated Top Ram Genetics Lists By AmĂŠlie St-Pierre, AHT, GenOvis development and users support, CEPOQ

s requested by sheep producers, new, and better suited, lists of top ram genetics are now available. The updated lists will allow producers to identify farms and animals with potentially beneficial genetics for their business. Top ram lists have been used for several years in order to find high quality rams for sale to improve farm profitability. The lists promote farms with rams of high genetic value. However, over the years, the number of animals on these lists increased significantly, especially for prolific breeds, which made them less useful for sheep farmers. Users requested several improvements. In order to better suit the different needs expressed, the CEPOQ genetic team has developed new lists using new software. These lists are now fully automated, which allows updating on a regular basis (new lists are available on Monday morning).

The addition of genotyping and conformation score (sheep conformation service offered only in Quebec) is one of the most requested improvements. This information is only available for rams whose data has been recorded in GenOvis by breeders. Contact the breeder for additional information and/or official genotyping/conformation papers when purchasing rams. Some users also expressed that they would like to have simplified lists to facilitate understanding, while others wanted more information and sorting functionality. To meet all of these needs, the lists are now available in two formats: a simplified version is available in PDF format, while a more complete version is available in Excel format. The PDF format shows essential information including animal id, genetic selection index, percentile rank, genotyping and conformation score (if recorded in GenOvis). The Excel format allows sorting on different traits including genetic index and all EPDs.

Zuidervaart Agri-Import LTD 5259 HWY 8 NOK-1NO Mitchell Ontario E-mail zuid-agri@quadro.net Tel.: 519-393-8290

Ideal Sheep and Goat equipment Custom fabrication available! Visit our website for a complete product list for all your sheep handling needs

www.venostal.ca

Selfclosing feedgate; Lambs canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get through, no loss of silage and hay.

Feeding racks, hanging or attached on a wall 26

OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

Crowding tub and work schute

Maternity fences with wood, mesh wiring and synthetic casing

Turning crate sideways for hoof trimming

Creepfeeder 2.45 mtr + 1.25 mtr with safety hurdle

New lists in PDF format For breeds with low participation numbers in GenOvis, lists may not be available. If the file attached is blank, it means no animal meets the publication criteria.

New lists in Excel format

• Weekly update • Genotype and conformation score now available • Simplified version (PDF format) • Sorting functionality (Excel format) • Only rams identified as reproductive rams (retained for breeding)

Finally, the weekly update is a very nice achievement and greatly appreciated by users. These lists may be modified over the years in order to better meet the users’ needs. The software used offers great flexibility in terms of programming and reporting. Comments and suggestions for improving the lists are always welcome (contact the genetic team). OSN

The genetic team would like to thank the producers who submitted their requests and comments and participated in the development of these new lists. Assistance from the members of the Genetic Committee is greatly appreciated.

The publication criteria were revised to fix issues mainly reported by users: the massive number of rams displayed on the lists and their unavailability on farm. Thus, the new list criteria for top rams without progeny are: • Purebred • Maximum 2 years old • No progeny • 50d and 100d weights recorded in GenOvis • Identified as reproductive ram (retained for breeding) • For genetic indexes that included ultrasound traits: have been scanned • The selected genetic index must be equal to or greater than 90% (Top Rams) or from 50% to 89% (Improver Rams) The Top rams with progeny lists are based on the following criteria: • Purebred • Maximum of 5 years old • Have at least 10 purebred progeny with 50d and 100d records • For genetic indexes that include ultrasound traits: have at least 10 progeny that have been scanned • Selected genetic index must be equal to or greater than 90%

OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

You Can’t Manage What You Don’t Measure Time to Submit Your EweGROW Data

ince October, Ontario Sheep Farmers (OSF) has been talking to producers about the EweGROW program. Designed to help sheep farmers benchmark their production and identify ways to improve their flock’s productivity and profitability, the program allows farmers to enter data for up to 10 key production benchmarks. Farmers are being encouraged to send their data to OSF so that it can be aggregated with data from other farmers to create province wide benchmarks.

Why the sheep industry needs province wide benchmarks Currently, OSF relies on the production data from Statistics Canada to tell the story of what is happening in the industry, and the accuracy of that data is always a source of debate. The absence of accurate data hinders OSF’s ability to do its primary job, to advocate on behalf of sheep farmers.

There is not one issue that the OSF is currently working on that would no benefit from having more accurate production The benefit to you as a farmer is that you can track your statistics from its farmers. Developing a business plan for progress – both on your individual farm as well as against the production insurance Ontario aggregate data – year over year. This data will also • Helping pharmaceutical companies understand their return help farmers monitor the impact of management decisions on investment and help them write business plans for and can help determine if farm business goals are being met. getting animal health products approved, or produced, for use in sheep All data submitted is kept confidential and only used in • Being able to model the impact (potentially positive) of aggregate. grazing sheep in pastures that drain into waterways • Business Risk Management program design In 2018 22 farms provided data to OSF for the EweGROW program. • Predation – how many sheep are in an area versus how many are being lost to predation Total Average • Market development # ewes in flock 12,073 548 (n=22) # ewes exposed to ram

6,724

480 (n=14)

# ewes lambed

8,151

370.5 (n=22)

# lambs born

16,187

735 (n=22)

# lambs weaned

13,950

634 (n=22)

# ewes retained for breeding

1,107

79 (n=14)

# market lambs sold

10,169

726 (n=14)

Kg marketed by farm

501,661

38,589 (n=13)

249

19 (n=13)

# cull animals sold EweGROW Comparison Ontario EweGROW data

Australia 2017

New Zealand 2017

# ewes in flock

12,073

42,000,000

17,798,000

% weaned

124%

92%

127%

501,661

506,239,000

362,000,000

Total kg marketed

OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

How to submit your data OSF has developed worksheets to assist with recording, compiling and assisting with submitting data on 10 key production benchmark areas. You can download the files at www.OntarioSheep. org/EweGROW. A copy of the worksheet is also included in this issue of OSN. Information can be submitted by email, fax or by mail. OSF is requesting that sheep farmers submit their worksheets with data at least once a year. Feedback on the worksheets is also welcomed. OSN

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SUPPLY RETAILER. OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

THE 2020 ONTARIO LAMB MARKET CALENDAR Year

Holiday

Consumption Preferences

Market Processor Needs

Public Auction Market Impact

January

None

Leg of lamb, stews and curries are in favour with the colder weather

Steady demand for heavier lambs/sheep with some Orthodox Christmas demand.

Lower market volumes generally.

February

None

Leg of lamb, stews and curries are in favour with the colder weather

Lower demand.

Lower market volumes and demand generally.

March

None

Easter holiday inventory buildup.

Growth in supply following winter, with Easter demand increase.

Roast lamb is a main festive meal for European (Italian, Portuguese, and Greek) heritages.

Healthy young lambs. (under 60 lbs live weight; ideally milk fed and fat)

Higher market demand in the 2-3 week period before holiday.

Numbers of lambs under 65 lb begin to increase in three weeks before Easter, and peaks during the week before Easter. Numbers of 65-79lb lambs will increase during this time as well.

Hint: check local auction schedules for ‘special’ Easter sale dates!

Traditionally must be processed under Kosher laws.

Healthy finished lambs. (up to 64 lbs live weight; ideally milk fed and fat)

Steady market. A limited influence.

Start of barbeque season which Is more frequently featuring Ontario lamb.

Moderate demand. Processors see an increase in barbequing lamb demand from May to August. This will push some demand from May through late July.

Commonly higher supply and slightly higher but still moderate demand. Later month leads into Ramadan commencement.

Easter Good Friday (Christian) 1 day April 10

A peak sale period in year.

April 8 to April 16

Passover (Jewish) 8 days

May

April 24 to May 23

Ramadan (Islam) 1 month (daylight fasting)

Some celebrations will occur prior to start of Ramadan.

Weaned market lambs (70 – 90 lbs live weight)

A moderate market factor for week leading into Ramadan.

May 24

Eid al-Fitr (Islam) Festival of Fast Breaking

Celebrations occur during the fast break period which will feature lamb products.

Weaned market lambs (70 – 90 lbs live weight) Lower demand for heavy lambs.

A moderate market factor for week leading into end of Ramadan.

Eid ul Adha (Festival of Sacrifice, Eid) (Islam) 1 day

Eid, the festival of sacrifice, is one of the most important observances in the Islamic faith.

Weaned market lambs (70 – 90 lbs live weight); heavier older lambs are also in demand.

High market demand in period leading up to holiday. Peak demand is in week preceding holiday.

(This may be referred to as Qurbani, though this refers to the act of animal processing.)

Lambs should be under a year of age and be unblemished. Blemishes may include open wounds, torn ears or other physical unsoundness. Wethers and lambs with docked tails may not be acceptable to some buyers.

Note: There is a high activity level of private holiday sales sought by families for this important celebration period.

Ending to barbeque season, leads into Eid holiday period.

Lower demand for heavy lambs. Lower consumer demand with end of summer barbeque season and lead-up to Eid.

Lower early demand for light and heavy lambs, will increase in 2-3 week period before Eid.

July 31

A peak sale period in year.

August Muharram (Islamic New Year)

The Islamic New Year is the first day of the Muslim calendar. Mutton is often served as the main course for this holiday meal.

There is no preferred weight for this holiday, although animals should appear healthy.

Steady market. A limited influencer.

August 20

September 19-20

Rosh Hashanah Jewish New Year

Lamb is a tradition or symbol of a new beginning.

Forequarters from weaned market lambs (60 – 109 lbs live weight)

Steady market. A limited influencer.

Thanksgiving (Christian)

Not yet a tradition but lamb is a turkey alternative.

Steady demand with slow year over year consumer demand increase.

Steady market. A limited influencer.

None

Stew/casserole are growing in seasonal popularity.

Lower but steady demand during transition from Thanksgiving into Christmas period.

Lower market volumes and demand.

Chanukah (Festival of Rededication) (Jewish) 8 days

Traditionally must be processed according to Kosher law.

Healthy heavy lambs. (up to 100 lbs live weight)

Usually occurs close to Christian Christmas which leads to high demand.

Christmas Day to New Year (Christian)

Lamb is a feature at Christmas parties (lamb-pops, spiedini, roasts). Leg of lamb, stews and curries are food staples.

Lambs should be freshly weaned (milk fed), 80 lbs, and not older than 3 months of age. Out-of-season breeding is required to produce the favoured type of lamb for this market.

Higher market demand in 2-3 week period preceding holiday.

October 12 November

December 10 – December 18

December 25

A peak sale period in year.

Cull sheep are popular for stew and curry.

This calendar is also available on the OSF website at https://www.ontariosheep.org/religious-ethnic-market-calendar. 30

OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS

Sign up for the Locator – a searchable database for Ontario lamb, mutton, specialty wool, sheep dairy products, breeding stock, and livestock guardian animals.

It’s FREE.

Sign up today To register, visit www.OntarioSheep.org or email admin@ontariosheep.org. PRODUCER/SHEEP OWNER LICENCE FEE REMITTANCE FORM (PRIVATE TREATY SALES)

Ontario’s 3,000 sheep producers are represented by the Ontario Sheep Farmers organization. With a focus on profitability and sustainability, the organization works in the areas of advocacy, industry capacity, research and market development. The organization is funded through a check off (or licence fee) on lamb and sheep marketed in Ontario. Representing the sheep, lamb and wool industries, it was established in 1985 under the Ontario Farm Products Marketing Act. A compulsory check off (licence fee) of $1.80 per head sold or slaughtered in Ontario is payable to the Ontario Sheep Farmers to fund projects and operations supporting the Ontario sheep marketplace. Visit our website (www.OntarioSheep.org) to see your licence fees at work. Auction markets, livestock agents, and processors are to deduct the check off fee from the proceeds payable to a seller, and processors must also assess the licence fee in addition to the slaughter fee. This fee is applicable to each sale or slaughter transaction. Private sales (i.e. a sheep owner to sheep owner sale, sales not done at an auction market, nor to an agent or processor) require licence fee selfassessment and reporting through this remittance form.

Ontario Sheep Farmers 130 Malcolm Road, Guelph, Ontario N1K 1B1 SHEEP/LAMB: FEE IS $1.80 PER HEAD PLUS 13% HST

Producer # __________________

Name:_____________________________________________________________

Address: _________________________________________________________________________________________ City:_____________________________________ Prov.: _______________Postal Code: _______________________ Date of Sale: _______________________________

Date Remitted: _____________________________________

# of sheep/lamb sold: _______________________ Lic. Fees (x $1.80=) $ ________________________________ ___________________________________________ PAY BY PHONE USING VISA OR MASTERCARD 519-836-0043

HST# 107800823

Plus 13% HST

$ _______________________________

TOTAL REMITTED

$ _______________________________

ASSOCIATION DIRECTORY PUREBRED SHEEP BREEDERS OF ONTARIO Joan Finlay, Box 364 Lucknow ON N0G 2H0 • 519-528-2620 • email: psbo.secretary@gmail.com OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

Genetic and Health Program Enrollment Listing If you have questions, concerns, or would like more information about these programs please contact the Ontario Sheep office at (519) 836-0043 or email general@ontariosheep.org.

CURRENT PRODUCERS ENROLLED IN THE GENOVIS PROGRAM (AS OF JUNE 2020) 4S Maple Lane Farm • Kimberly Schneider • (905) 404-7811 5-Star Livestock and Farm Services • Jen & Chris Vervoort • (519) 993-6413 Allinbrook Farms • Neil Allin • (905) 983-5791 Breezy Ridge Farm • Philip & Elizabeth Smith • (905) 478-4280 Brubacher Ovine • Earl Brubacher • (519) 323-4152 Cedar Creek Charollais • Ted & Joanne Skinner • (905) 263-2102 Cedar Grove Farm • Quintin Mc Ewen • (519) 949-4130 Century Lane Farm • Robert & Shirley Graves • (613) 791-2656 Circle R Livestock • Ryan & Romy Schill • (519) 669-4146 Codan Suffolks • Bill & Lynne Duffield • (519) 899-2663 Craigmore Farm • Wayne Kreklewich • (416) 892-0664 Cursio Farms & Arkell Valley • Frank & Ned Cursio • (519) 766-3378 DP Farms • Neil Post • (519) 820-2810 Ewenique Farm • Nathalie Labelle • (613) 290-5405 Fare Vewe Acres • Mark & Betty Bearinger • (519) 323-1760 Jim & Wendy Driscoll • (519) 638-5703 G & L Brien • Gary & Luanne Brien • (519) 674-3846 Gollan Sheep • Tania Gollan • (226) 622-0887 Hawk Hill Farm • Bob Garner and Laurie Maus • (613) 527-1897 Hutchings Farms • Kevin & Sandra Hutchings • (705) 437-4441

J & J Farms • Ross & Clementine Savasi • (705) 652-7477 Kettle Crest Farm • Art & Sandra Alblas • 519-317-9988 Lamb Lady Farm • Shelagh Finn • (647) 932-7102 Maple Hill Farm • Brenna McKeeman & Matthew Francisco • (226) 820-1192 Maple Meadow Farms • Colleen Acres and Dwayne Bazinet • (613) 826-2330 Meadow Brook Family Farm • Steven A. Ernewein • (519) 392-8624 Our Farm CSA • Katie Ward • 613-797-0601 Prolific Acres Sheep Farm • Charlie Renaud • (705) 322-2140 Rising Oak Farm • Laura Gratrix • 705-305-9275 Schuyler Farms Ltd. • Brett Schuyler • (519) 427-9696 Shepherd’s Choice • John & Eadie Steele • (705) 696-1491 Shepherd’s Fold • Bethanee Jensen • (519) 887-9948 Sheperd’s Grove • Harv & Christine Breman • (519) 879-6579 Shillalah Farm • Florence Pullen • (519) 233-7896 Stonehill Sheep • Paul Dick • (519) 794-3732 Todd Sheep Company Inc. • Keith Todd • (519) 528-2650 Tulach Ard Farm • Sean McKenzie • (905) 786-2476 Woodhurst Farm LTD • Tom Wood • 519-281-9829 Wooldrift Farm • Chris Buschbeck & Axel Meister • (519) 538-2844

CURRENT PRODUCERS ENROLLED IN ONTARIO SHEEP HEALTH PROGRAM (AS OF JUNE 2020) Birchgrove Farms • Jason & Kit Koivisto • (705) 782-2276 Circle R Livestock • Ryan & Romy Schill • (519) 669-4146 ITSA Breeze Farm • Tammy Trinkwon • (519) 843-4222

Kettle Crest Farm • Art & Sandra Alblas • (519) 637-0050 Lamb Lady Farm • Shelagh Finn • (647) 932-7102 The Greenhill Farms • Wietze & Leny Raven • (519) 928-2705

FLOCKS WHO HAVE ACHIEVED EITHER “A” OR “MONITORED, LOW RISK” STATUS ON THE MAEDI VISNA PROGRAM (AS OF JUNE 2020) Autumn Ridge Dairy Sheep • Don & Travis Weber • (519) 573-0915 Beitz View Acres • Cory & Jennifer Beitz • (519) 367-2589 Best Boar & Baa Farm • Eric & Elisabeth Bzikot • (519) 848-5694 Brookwater Farms • Harry & Vicki Elsinga • (902) 439-5811 Cedar Creek Charollais • Ted & Joanne Skinner • (905) 263-2102 Century Lane Farm • Robert & Shirley Graves • (613) 831-2656 Cleon M. Martin • (519) 323-3519 Fare Vewe Acres • Mark & Betty Bearinger • (519) 323-1760 Hunterdown Farm • Gerald & Joanne Hunter • (613) 283-7565

Lamb Lady Farm • Shelagh Finn • (647) 932-7102 Mark Martin Dairy Sheep • Mark & Rosena Martin • 519 638 3644 Orchardview Farm • Gordon Walker • (519) 287-5085 Robert Pennie • (705) 859-2671 Rider Ridge Ranch • Jill & Tim DeClark • (519) 644-0766 Shepherd’s Fold • Bethanee Jensen • (519) 887-9948 Stonehill Sheep • Paul Dick • (519) 794-3732 Howard & Denise Wideman • (519) 335-6124

FLOCKS WHO HAVE ACHIEVED “B” STATUS ON THE MAEDI VISNA PROGRAM (AS OF JUNE 2020) Brenda McLean & Martha Kuepfer • (519) 363-3207

Shepherd’s Flock • John Stoltzfus • (519) 773-9569

FLOCKS WHO HAVE ACHIEVED “ENROLLED NEG” STATUS ON THE MAEDI VISNA PROGRAM (AS OF JUNE 2020) Blackies Suffolks • James & Cecile Blackie • (506) 392-6263

Rodney Weber • (519) 291-8801

SHEEP PRODUCERS ON THE SCRAPIE PROGRAM (AS OF JUNE 2020) Century Lane Farm • Robert & Shirley Graves • 1 Certified Codan Suffolks • Lynne & Bill Duffield • 1 Certified DP Farms • Lorraine & Neil Post • 1 Certified Lamb Lady Farm • Shelagh Finn • 1 Certified

Oak Glen Farm • Bridget & Peter Misener • 1 Certified Our Little Flock • Jaime Neeb • 1 Certified WoolDrift Farm • Axel Meister • 1 Certified

For more information visit scrapiecanada.ca/vsfcp/vsfcp-enrolled-producers/.

OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

Auction Markets and Abattoirs ABATTOIRS NAME Abattoir LeFaivre Inc. Afghan Halal Meat Suppliers Agram 2005 Meats Inc. Al Madina Halal Meat Packers Aman’s Abattoir Apple Meadows Premium Beef Bachert Meats Belle Vallee Meats & Abattoir Bentinck Packers Ltd. Beverly Creek Farm *Bilal Farms Inc. Birch Lake Abattoir Bluewater Meat Packers Brian Quinn’s Meats Ltd. Burt Farm Country Meats Caledon Halal Meat Packers Charles Quality Meats Ltd. Cloverbelt Country Meats Co-operative Cole Bros. Meat Processing Country Fresh Packers Country Meadow Meats Creative Meats Desormeaux Slaughter-house & Meats Inc. Dresden Meat Packers Ltd. Elora Road Meats Ewe Dell Family Farm Farmersville Community Abattoir FGO Organic Processing Ltd. Gord’s Abattoir Ltd. Green’s Meat Market & Abattoir Ltd. Grey County Meats Hank De Koning Ltd. Hanson Meats Harriston Packing Company Ltd. Hastings Meat Market Hay’s Custom Cutting Ltd. Highgate Tender Meats Ltd. Highland Packers Ltd. Hilts Butcher Shop Ltd. Hunter’s Dressed Meats J.J. Meat Distributing Inc. Joe Savage & Fils Abattoir Inc. Johnson Meats Julius Meat Packers Inc. Kawartha Meats Ken R. Mogk L & M Meat Distributing Len and Patti Butcher Block Matar Meats McGarroch of Micksburg Custom Butchering Miedema’s Country Meats Miedema’s Meat Market Ltd. Millgrove Packers Ltd. Mr. Beef Inc. Mount Brydges Abattoir Ltd. Newmarket Meat Packers Ltd.

CITY Lefaivre Schomberg Georgetown Brinston Wellington Mount Forest Walton Belle Vallee Hanover Hamilton Clarence Creek Massey Wyoming Yarker Gore Bay Bolton St. Agatha Oxdrift Picton Tilbury Owen Sound Warren Crysler Dresden Mildmay Woodslee Athens Ingersoll Leamington Wingham Maxwell Port Dover Cayuga Harriston Stirling Campbellford Highgate Stoney Creek Norwood Dunnville Schomberg St. Albert Aylmer St. Anns Little Britain Tavistock Gilford Lindsay Osgoode Pembroke Exeter Embro Waterdown Pakenham Mount Brydges Newmarket

PHONE NO (613) 679-4698 (416) 894-1802 (905) 877-6082 (613) 652-1301 (613) 399-2173 (519) 323-3301 (519) 887-9328 (705) 647-7419 (519) 364-3538 (905) 690-8111 (613) 488-2268 (705) 865-3395 (519) 845-9999 (613) 377-6430 (705) 282-0328 (416) 999-9999 (519) 886-7931 (807) 937-6716 (613) 476-6955 (519) 682-2222 (519) 376-5663 (705) 967-2006 (613) 987-2148 (519) 683-2585 (519) 367-2261 (519) 723-4456 (613) 924-0400 (519) 236-7717 (519) 326-2503 (519) 357-2912 (519) 922-2400 (519) 583-0115 (905) 772-5053 (519) 338-3330 (613) 395-0505 (705) 653-3388 (519) 678-3383 (905) 662-8396 (705) 696-2172 (905) 774-5900 (905) 859-1540 (613) 987-2070 (519) 773-9208 (905) 957-7162 (855) 786-9970 (519) 462-2280 (905) 775-6775 (705) 328-2100 (613) 821-7929 (613) 732-7181 (519) 235-4978 (519) 475-4010 (905) 689-6184 (613) 624-5222 (519) 264-1873 (416) 364-2671

ABATTOIRS NAME CITY Northern Meat Packers and Abattoir Ltd. Trout Creek Norwich Packers Ltd. Norwich Ontario Halal Meat Packers Inc. Milton Otonabee Meat Packers Ltd. Peterborough Palmateer’s Abattoir Ltd. Tweed Parkhill Meats Parkhill Peel Sausage Abattoir Drayton Penokean Hills Farms Bruce Mines Rainy River District Regional Abattoir Inc. Emo Ralph Bos Meats Ltd. Strathroy Reiche Meat Products Ltd. Pembroke Rua Meats Ltd. Foxboro Simcoe Street Meat Packers Oakwood St. Helen’s Meat Packers Ltd. Toronto Stayner Meat Packers Ltd. Stayner Taylor’s Custom Meats Roseneath Teals Pure Pork Sausage Waterford The Beefway Kincardine Thunder Bay Meat Processing Co. (1986) Ltd. Murillo Tom Henderson Custom Meat Cutting Chesterville Townsend Butchers Simcoe Vanessa Meats & Deli Vanessa VG Packers Simcoe Walkerton Meat Market Walkerton Wallace Beef Inc. Joyceville Wall’s Pork Shop Oxdrift Wayne’s Meat Products Inc. Hagersville Weiland Meats Ltd. Petrolia Willie’s Meats Ltd. Troy Windcrest Meat Packers Ltd. Port Perry Zehr’s Country Market Dashwood

Aylmer Stockyards Inc. Brussels Livestock Exchange D.H. Hickson Ltd. Denfield Livestock Exchange Inc. Embrun Livestock Exchange Ltd. Hagersville Auction Centre Kawartha Lakes Community Sale Barn Inc. Keady Livestock Market Ltd. Ontario Livestock Exchange Inc. Ontario Stockyards Inc. Renfrew-Pontiac Livestock Ltd. Temiskaming Livestock Exchange Vankleek Hill Livestock Exchange Ltd

AUCTION MARKETS 8933 Walker Road, RR 1 42857 Newry Road, RR 3 2508 County Road 8, RR 5 12952 Sixteen Mile Road, RR 2 1643 Salebarn Road, 97 First Line, RR 6 580 Woodville Road, RR 3 117012 Grey Road 3, RR 4 856 Weber Street N, 3807 Highway 89, 18156 Highway 17, RR 3 883006 Highway 65 E, RR 3 1239 Ridge Road,

PHONE NO (705) 723-5573 (519) 468-3617 (905) 875-0270 (705) 743-8547 (613) 478-3801 (519) 293-3000 (519) 638-3446 (705) 782-4224 (807) 482-3028 (519) 245-1574 (613) 732-3773 (613) 962-7915 (705) 821-3151 (416) 769-1788 (705) 428-3006 (905) 352-2367 (519) 443-8844 (519) 396-2257 (807) 935-2911 (613) 448-3471 (519) 426-6750 (519) 446-3897 (519) 426-2000 (519) 881-0781 (613) 536-6379 (807) 937-4357 (905) 768-3633 (519) 882-1215 (519) 647-3160 (800) 750-2542 (519) 237-3668

Aylmer

(519) 765-2672

Brussels

(519) 887-6461

Campbellford

(705) 653-3660

Denfield

(519) 666-1140

Greely Hagersville

(613) 821-2634 (905) 768-5601

Woodville

(705) 439-4444

Tara

(519) 934-2339

Waterloo Cookstown

(519) 884-2082 (705) 458-4000

Cobden

(613) 646-7335

New Liskeard

(705) 647-5415

Vankleek Hill

(613) 678-3008

* Bilal Farms – Always looking for quality lambs (70 – 80 lbs) and have a year round market. wzazay@hotmail.com or www.bilalfarms.com

OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

District Contacts

District 1

Look for your district news and events in the Messenger or on the website.

Counties of Essex, Kent, Lambton, Middlesex, and Elgin Director Ed Post Chair Lindsay Lackey Vice Chair Fraser Hodgson Secretary/Treasurer Hilary Huisman

District 7

226.781.0832 519.764.2442 519.786.4176 519.630.5016

District 2

Counties of Grey and Bruce Director Chair Vice Chair Secretary Treasurer

Jay Lewis Jake Sloan Jay Lennox Olivier Garceau Petra Aeberhard

519.323.7439 519.363.5564 519.374.4055 519.477.1305 519.374.4055

District 8

519.263.2325 519.949.4130 519.625.8809 519.273.6980 519.284.0533

District 9

District 3

Counties of Huron, Perth, Waterloo and Oxford Director Sandi Brock Chair Quintin McEwen Vice Chair Lorraine Follings Secretary Bonnie DeWeerd Treasurer Rick Zimak

District 4

County of Brant, Regional Norfolk and Niagara Director Chair Secretary Treasurer

Municipalities of Hamilton-Wentworth, HaldimandMarusha Kostuk Chris Kyle Juliet Orazietti Monica Roberts

519.865.6874 519.588.7602 905.380.9095 519.755.7487

District 5

Counties of Wellington and Dufferin and the Regional Municipalities of Halton and Peel Director Heather Little 519.843.1675 Chair Anthony Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Atri 519.928.5709 Vice Chair Mike Swidersky 519.370.8586 Secretary Ryan Schill 519.669.4146 Treasurer Bill McCutcheon 519.928.9626

District 6

County of Simcoe, District Municipality of Muskoka and the District of Parry Sound Director John Hemsted 705.487.2466 Chair Grant Cowan 705.436.2236 Vice Chair Shelagh Finn 647.932.7102

OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

City of Toronto, Regional Municipalities of York and Durham, City of Kawartha Lakes, and Counties of Peterborough and Northumberland Director Marc Carere 705.340.0759 Chair Ken Lamb 905.985.4247 Vice Chair Jeff Dejong 905-376-9969 Secretary/Treasurer Rebecca Parker 705.277.1711

Counties of Lennox and Addington, Hastings, Prince Edward, Frontenac and Leeds Director Gary Fox 613.393.5258 Chair Phil Botden 613.358.2676 Vice Chair Paul Corrigan 613.885.9301 Secretary/Treasurer Linda Huizenga 613.477.2314

Counties of Renfrew and Lanark, and the Township of West Carleton and the City of Kanata in the Regional Municipality of Ottawa-Carleton Director Chris Moore 613.913.4994 Chair Simon Deschamps simcor.contracting@gmail.com Vice Chair Sarah Loten 613.812.0438 Secretary Lyndsey Smith 204.807.5897 Treasurer Katie Ward Chiasson 613.797.0601

District 10

Counties of Russell, Prescott, Glengarry Stormont, Dundas and Grenville, and the Regional Municipality of Ottawa-Carleton, except the Township of West Carleton and the City of Kanata Director Lee Brien 519.809.5332 Chair Ghislain Mayer 613.330.2856 Secretary Vanessa Durand 613.914.5755 Treasurer Brigitte Meunier-Grimes 613.989.5774

District 11

Counties of Kenora, Rainy River, Thunder Bay, Cochrane, Algoma, Sudbury, Temiskaming, Nippising and Manitoulin Director Colleen Alloi 705.248.3287 Chair Jim Johnston 705.647.7160 Vice Chair Mark Lenover 705.563.2966 Secretary/Treasurer Amy Oriet 705.563.9484 OSN

Classifieds

WANT TO PLACE AN AD? Call Ontario Sheep at 519-836-0043 for ad rates.

Orchardview Farm

Texel Sheep • Top Quality Rams & Ewes • Add Carcass to Any Breed • Maedi Visna Tested

East Friesian X Lacaune Dairy Sheep Continuous supply of breeder rams with high milk numbers and resistance to Maedi Visna & Scrapie. New Lacaune strain available. Maedi Visna A Status flock

Mark & Rosena Martin • 519 638 3644 markmartin@mwpol.ca

PDK

SHEARING & CONSULTING Shearing & Tutoring Available Phone (519) 348-4266 Cell (519) 274-2050

e-mail: peter_kudelka@sympatico.ca

PETER KUDELKA Mitchell, ON N0K 1N0

ITEMS

FOR SALE

14 foot metal Smith trailer 1 Row New Idea corn planter Seamen tank Large wool rack For more details call Bill (Codan) Duffield

519-899-2663

Breeding Stock Available Gordon Walker & Family R.R. #2, Glencoe, Ont. N0L 1M0

(519) 287-5085

Premier breeder at the 2008 Royal Texel Show

SLOAN BROTHERS SHEARING JAKE & SAM SLOAN 501 CON 6 RR#2 CHESLEY ON • N0G 1L0 519-363-5564

sloan@bmts.com This space is available at the reasonable rate of $45 per issue. Call or email us for our price list.

MARTINS AGRI & EQUINE SUPPLIES & SERVICES

Sheep and Goat Handling Equipment, Milking Parlours, Penning, Gates, Hay and Grain Feeders, Bale and Feed Carts, Waterers, Full Line of Fencing Supplies, Electric Hoof Trimmers. Enquire about delivery.

DAVE or LIZ 21936, Cherry Hill Road, Thorndale, ON N0M 2P0 519-461-9331 • www.martinsagri.com

PUREBRED BREEDING RAM YRLGS: White Dorper (impressive bulk, rapid gain) and St. Croix (quadruplets, maternal excellence, parasite resistance, height/ length/smaller bone for higher meat yield). Commercial Feeder Lambs: Royal White – ready May 2020, robust, fast gain, large carcasses. All sound, UTD maintenance, excellent conformation, clean genetics | Monte Lake, BC | 250-375-2528 | www.harmonyfarmkennelandlamb.com |

DUFF FARMS RIDEAU YEARLINGS & LAMBS

TOP GENETIC SELECTION • SFIP & EweByte based • Maintaining 3 ram lines HIGH HEALTH STATUS • Closed Flock since 1995 • Maedi Visna Status “A” • National Scrapie Program • Ontario Sheep Health Program GLEN & SHARON DUFF RR#2, Rockw ood, O N, N 0 B 2 K0 519-856-9935 Email: rideausheep@sympatico.ca OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

Classifieds EMKE LIVESTOCK Quality N.C. Cheviot & Charollais Sheep

Breeding age N.C. Cheviot rams for sale Charollais rams available Aug/Sept 2020 Limited packages of crossbred ewe lambs for sale.

Murray Emke & Family

849 25 S.R. Brant RR1 Elmwood, ON, N0G 1S0 Office Manager: Missy Emke-Wright m_wright17@hotmail.com

226-230-1433

www.emkelivestock.webs.com

“QUALITY BREEDS QUALITY”

PUREBRED POLLED DORSET & COMMERCIAL STOCK

CIR

R LIVES T LE

THE

MIL

E S TA

519 669 4146 www.circleRlamb.ca

Strong deep bodied maternal ewes Fast growing lambs High health status flock Meadi Visna A Status Flock Genetic Evaluations (BIO/GenOvis) circle.r.livestock@hotmail.com

Breezy Ridge Rideaus

WANT TO PLACE AN AD? Call Ontario Sheep at 519-836-0043 for ad rates.

Gollan Sheep British Milking Sheep

High Yielding and Prolific Great Mothering Instinct Fast Growing Lambs Breeding Stock Available

Tania Gollan

Gorrie, Ontario 226-622-0887 • gollansheep@gmail.com www.gollansheep.com

BRITISH MILKSHEEP are a modern breed established in England in the 1980s. The breed averages 300% lambing and the lambs grow quickly to produce heavy weight, lean carcasses as currently in vogue. While being excellent dairy sheep, they are also effective meat flock improvers. In commercial flocks, half-breds usually produce 0.5 lamb per ewe more. Their milking ability ensures vigorous growth of the extra lambs. British Milk Sheep can increase the profitability of your flock. Available in Ontario from

E&E Bzikot, RR1 Conn Tel./Fax (519) 848-5694 E-mail: ee.bzikot@sympatico.ca

Wholesale and Retail Meats We buy Lambs & Sheep for Slaughter Contact: LOUIS KONTOS 801 DANFORTH AVE., TORONTO, ONTARIO M4J 1L2

TEL: (416) 469-0733 OR (416) 469-1577 FAX: (416) 462-1564

CEDAR CREEK CHAROLLAIS Rideaus Also Available Lower Your Feed Costs With Exceptional Growth Rates GenOvis Tested & Scanned for Muscle & Fat Depth We Have a Closed Flock, Maedi Visna Tested with “A” Status JOANNE & TED SKINNER 2910 Concession Rd. 7, RR 5 Bowmanville, Ontario, L1C 3K6 Phone: 905-263-2102 Email: charollais@live.ca

Rideau breeders since 1989

WOODEN SHEEP FEEDERS FOR HAY OR GRAIN

Selected for • Prolific • Hardy • Easy Care Sheep

Size: 2ft x 4ft x 8ft

Ongoing Performance TestingPurebred and Commercial breeding stock.

Grade Suffolk Sheep RR #4 Almonte, ON

More Lambs, More Milk, More PROFIT Visit us at rideausheep.com Phil & Liz Smith and Sons, Sutton, ON 905-478-4280

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Joe: 613-620-3258

SHEEP SHEARING Ruco Braat 30+ Years Experience Wool Depot for CCWG Call 705-939-2366 or Email: goldenfleece@nexicom.net

CEDAR CREEK SCANNING Ultrasound Pregnancy Scanning for Sheep, Goats and Alpacas OLIBS Accredited REBECCA PARKER, VET TECH. 858 Hwy 7A East, RR#1, Bethany ON, L0A 1A0 Mobile: (905) 259-1102 E-mail: middlekingdomfarm@gmail.com

Best time to scan is between 45 and 80 days after introduction of ram.

Bergerie

Country Heart

This space is available at the reasonable rate of $45 per issue. Call or email us for our price list.

White Dorper breeders Fullblood and Australian lines Champion Ram and Ewes Daniel and Brigitte Martel

819-621-7059 Facebook Bergerie Country Heart

Red Maple

Homestead Looking to have your wool processed into a nice wool rug? For pricing and options contact us directly!

519.807.2295 @redmaplehomestead RedMapleHomestead www.redmaplehomestead.com redmaplehomestead@gmail.com

Thistlestone Farm TRADITIONAL STYLE DORSETS Featuring Australian, British and recently added ‘NEW’ New Zealand bloodlines. Keith and Mary Lamont 5074 Erin Fourth Line, Acton Ontario L7J 2L8 519-853-1975 • lamont@sentex.net

www.thistlestonefarm.com

• Breeding Stock & F1 Crosses • Closed Flock, Maedi/Visna-Negative • Prolific & High Yielding • Extensive Production Records • Semen and Embryos Approved for Export

Chris Buschbeck & Axel Meister R.R. #3, Markdale, Ontario, Canada N0C 1H0 Telephone (519) 538-2844 Fax (519) 538-1478 Email: wooldrift@bmts.com

• Small Ruminant Flock Health Veterinarians Dr. Haelzle and Dr. Topp. • Pregnancy Ultrasounding. • Ultrasounding aids in managing pregnant animal grouping and increases feed efficiency. • Available tools and protocols for Estrus Synchronization can maximize Ewe reproductive performance.

1010 Industrial Cres. St. Clements ON • N0B 2M0 1-800-663-2941 • linwoodvet@linwoodvet.ca

www.linwoodvet.ca

Purebred Polled Dorset Stock Genovis Tested Australian and New Zealand influence Genetics designed to work in the pasture and the barn Quintin and Rachel McEwen 519-949-4130 info.cedargrovefarm@gmail.com OSN J u n e 2 0 2 0

BREEDER