Beef Business January 2021 by Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association

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Beef Business ‘

Saskatchewan’s largest circulated industry magazine Saskatchewan`s Premiere Cattlecattle Industry Publication Saskatchewan's Premier Cattle Industry Publication January 2021

NUTRITION EDITION A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Publication Publication Mail Agreement #40011906

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Contents

A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) Publication

INDUSTRY NEWS 6

Riding for the Brand Fundraising Auction

Markets Coming out of 2020 in Good Shape

True North Looking for Grass-fed Cull Cows

Cocktail Crops May Improve Water Infiltration

Potential Impacts of Proposed AgriStability Changes

Fresh beefeducation.ca

Western Canada Feedlot Management School

5th Annual Beef Drive is Well Underway

SWF, SSGA Offer $10,000 For Information Leading to Conviction in the Criminal Shooting of Livestock

General Manager: Chad MacPherson Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 Email: ssga@sasktel.net Website: www.skstockgrowers.com Managing Editor: Kori Maki-Adair Tel: 403-680-5239 Email: kmaa@shaw.ca Livestock Advertising Sales: Gordon Stephenson Tel: 403-968-3730 Email: gcastephenson@gmail.com Subscriptions Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 Email: ssga.admin@sasktel.net Subscription Rate: One year $26.50 (GST included) Published five times per year

MARKETS AND TRADE 22

Retail Meat Price Survey

Weekly Market Charts

Email Marketing Still a Winner

Vulnerabilities and Benefits of Mega Scale Agri-Food Processing Facilities FEATURES

2020’s Year-End Interview with the Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture

Calving Cameras Save Time and Money

Namaka Farms Expands to Saskatchewan NUTRITION

Your Top Five Questions about Mineral Labels Answered

Nutritional Analysis of Polycrops

Awareness and Analysis are Winning the Battle Against Mycotoxins

Transitioning to the Feedlot

Eleven Ways to Avoid Feed Waste this Winter SCIENCE AND PRODUCTION

LSS Team Effort 2020-2021

Active Missing Livestock Files ASSOCIATION NEWS, REPORTS AND EVENTS

SSGA President's Report

Director Profile: Jamie-Rae Pittman

Design and Layout: Jackson Designs Candace Schwartz Tel: 306-772-0376 Email: cjacksondesigns@gmail.com Prairie Conservation Action Plan (PCAP) Manager: Carolyn Gaudet Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-352-0472 Fax: 306-569-8799 Email: pcap@sasktel.net SSGA reserves the right to refuse advertising and edit manuscripts. Contents of Beef Business may be reproduced with written permission obtained from SSGA's General Manager, and with proper credit given to Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association. Articles submitted may not be the opinion of SSGA. SSGA assumes no responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any reader from this publication based on any and all information provided. Publications Mail Agreement #40011906 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses (covers only) to: Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4

STEWARDSHIP 76

Barn Swallows Can Be Helpful Neighbours

The Success of Targeted Grazing

Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop

Calendar of Events

Advertiser Index

Business Directory

cycle This M a

Carolyn Gaudet Jeff Gaye Chad MacPherson Kori Maki-Adair Jason Pollock Leanne Thompson Melanie Toppi Logan Williams

Ple as

Contributors Shirley Bartz Craig Belknap Beef Cattle Research Council Canada Beef Dr. Jared Carlsberg Alexis DeCorby Kelcy Elford Fonda Froats Steve Funk

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Cover photo courtesy of Keith Day, Kyle, Saskatchewan

This magazine is printed on paper that is comprised of 50% recycled paper and 25% post-consumer waste. It is acid-free, elemental chlorine-free and is FSC certified

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JANUARY 2021

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INDUSTRY NEWS Riding for the Brand Fundraising Auction Jeff Gaye When SSGA decided to hold its annual general meeting online this fall, it had to cancel the annual fundraising auction that is usually held at the convention. That’s the bad news. The good news is the auction is back. SSGA has partnered with Direct Livestock Marketing Services (DLMS) to offer the popular event online. The bidding will be run in a horse-race auction format. “We’re like any nonprofit, we have to raise funds to be able to operate,” said SSGA president Kelcy Elford. “The auction is great because it’s fun and it’s voluntary— we can raise some money without raising membership fees or charging members for services.”

The list of auction items is growing. So far, there’s an African hunting trip and a northern Saskatchewan fishing trip up for bids.

“After that,” said Elford, “we encourage people to visit the DLMS website at www.DLMS.ca to bid generously and support the activities of our organization.”

“We’re working on getting some livestock handling equipment. There’s going to be all kinds of different, unique things in there,” Elford said. “We’re getting lots of interesting donations. There’ll be something for all producers to bid on.”

SSGA has “weathered the storm of 2020 pretty well,” he said. But fundraising makes its advocacy work possible, and Elford says with 2021 still uncertain, it’s prudent to replenish the coffers.

There have been about 35 sale items donated so far, and the Association is accepting donations until February 1.

“We want to keep up the work we’ve been doing and even expand our efforts on behalf of our members,” he said. B

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JANUARY 2021

RIDING FOR THE BRAND FUNDRAISING AUCTION

www.DLMS.ca February 23-25, 2021

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JANUARY 2021

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INDUSTRY NEWS Markets Coming Out of 2020 in Good Shape Jeff Gaye Beef markets were thrown off kilter by effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, but as 2020 wound down there was a sense it could have been worse. And going into 2021, there are some grounds for optimism. Brian Perillat analyzes beef and cattle markets for CanFax. He says at the beginning of last year, markets looked to be in pretty good shape. “We had a little bit more cattle and meat production coming down the line, but demand looked to be strong in North America and export-wise,” he said. “And we were expecting to start to see prices increase as cattle numbers were supposed to tighten into 2020.” Then came COVID. Shopping habits changed, restaurants closed, and packing plants in Canada and the U.S. had their operations disrupted by outbreaks. There were fewer places for fed cattle to go, creating a bottleneck in the supply chain and an overabundance of fed cattle. “In a matter of just a few weeks we had processed over 150,000 fewer head, that we then had to catch up on,” Perillat said. “We hit some of the lowest prices in almost a decade for fed cattle.” As the backlog made its way through the chain, prices began to recover. By summer, fed animals were selling around $130 per hundredweight—still the lowest prices since 2013. “We simply had more fed cattle coming to market than we had shackle space for,” Perillat said. But retail demand remained high, and with less meat coming out of the packing plants, wholesale and retail prices moved higher. There was some uncertainty about how the impact on the food service sector would affect overall demand, but stores

had trouble keeping the meat case stocked. “Beef demand remained quite good through all of this. But yeah, when supplies tightened, we saw record-high wholesale prices,” Perillat said. “If we look at COVID, we had about 90,000 more head on feed prior to the slowdowns. So we would have had a lot of cattle to work through in the summer of 2020 anyway,” he said. “Throw on 100,000-plus fed cattle that were backed up—that’s why, despite demand staying strong and wholesale beef prices staying near a year ago or higher, cattle prices just suffered.”

And the packing backlog is still not caught up. There will still be a lot of 2020 cattle in the first quarter of 2021. But despite high retail prices, consumer demand appears to be holding strong. If this continues, and the supply chain manages to function smoothly, the outlook for 2021 is positive. The North American herd has been shrinking for the past couple of years. When the backlog is cleared, it will be the packers who are competing for fewer animals. If this scenario plays out, it will have a positive effect on prices.

Feedlots were competing for hook space, and didn’t have any bargaining power with the packers.

“What we need is to get a little bit more competition at the packing level to pay up for cattle or pay up more for cattle. And there’s money in the system for them to pay up more for cattle,” Perillat said.

Where prices in previous years were running around $140 on the low end, they were at $130 for 25 weeks in 2020—again, Perillat said, the lowest prices since 2013.

“And hopefully that can drive cattle prices higher especially as we get further into 2021, barring any more COVID issues with the packing plants.

“Feedlots continued to lose money. Lots of feedlots were losing $200 or $250 a head through a big part of 2020.”

“Demand is good. If export demand stays strong and cattle numbers tighten up into 2021, and that’s kind of our general trend, that should be pretty friendly to prices.”

Prices for calves and feeders have stayed strong, perhaps reflecting some optimism in the feedlot sector as packing capacity returns. Yearling prices through the fall run have held steady with prices from the third quarter of 2019, in the $180 range. Feedlots aren’t yet looking at breaking even, Perillat says, but there’s a more positive outlook. “Feedlots and everybody are sort of optimistic that the demand will improve and we will get through the backlog. But certainly there’s some risk on those cattle,” he said. “Feedlots continue to kind of gamble on the market despite losing money. They’re still paying up for these calves and feeders.”

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Of course it’s not all smooth sailing. The day before our interview, Cargill closed its Guelph, Ontario, packing plant over a COVID-19 outbreak. And currency markets and barley prices could drag cattle prices, too. A high Canadian dollar coupled with barley over $6 per bushel would normally bring calf and feeder prices down. So far, so good, Perillat says. For now. “If the Canadian dollar stays higher and continues to climb, and barley prices stay high or continue to climb, that’ll be concerning for calf prices and feeder prices heading into 2021. We have to watch that,” he said. B

JANUARY 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS True North Foods Looking for Grass-fed Cull Cows A Manitoba packing plant is getting its ducks in a row in anticipation of a high demand for grass-fed beef.

cattle, there’s cattle that are going into the halal market. They’re starting into the kosher market.

More accurately, True North Foods of Carman, Manitoba, is starting to align producers and feedlots with customers. Right now, according to Duane Vaags, True North’s grass-fed program auditor, they are looking for grass-fed cull cows.

“True North Foods is set up to be very well tracked. So if 62 animals come in and they’re meant for the grass-fed beef program, all that meat is tracked with QR codes or bar codes."

“What we’re trying to accomplish is a network of people,” he said. “And that’s right from the gate at True North and all the way up to the ranches to get these cows that qualify as grass-fed into the program for production of grass-fed beef to the marketplace.” True North is paying a 20-cents-perpound premium for qualifying grass-fed animals over the current rail-grade price for cull cows. Vaags said the company hopes to have a contract signed with a buyer, and to be ramping up its production in January or February of 2021.

Vaags said the company wants to expand its network of suppliers. “As this thing ramps up and our numbers increase, the volume could be quite significant. So we’re casting our nets all over western Canada,” he said. Gaining a foothold in the fast food sector has the potential to change the landscape for grass-fed beef. “Until now, I think it’s been mostly producer-driven,” Vaags said. “Now we

But demand, he says, has to be customerdriven. “Now, lots and lots of producers want to produce grass-fed beef. I would say 80 to 90 per cent of the guys that contact me want to know when that grass-fed market for the rest of their animals is going to be there. And I feel bad, I can’t tell them. “It basically ends up being when the marketplace demands it. Then we can build the pipeline.” B

2021

But Vaags thinks the premium for young, grass-fed cattle won’t kick in until highermargin restaurants and retailers start moving the product.

“We do product segregation very, very well,” he said. “One day of the week there’s organic cattle, there’s grass-fed

True North is paying a 20-cents-perpound premium for qualifying grassfed animals over the current rail-grade price for cull cows.

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The market for grass-fed beef is showing a lot of promise. One fast-food retailer has been aggressively advertising its grass-fed offerings, and Vaags says there is potential for their success to influence consumer preference across retail and food-service sectors.

True North has been in operation since 2013. They are a small outfit, currently managed by: processing approximately 120 to 150 animals per day, though they have broadcast by capacity to do more. This, Vaags says, suits them perfectly for differentiated and niche beef products.

have a large retail scale customer that is demanding it. That’s a good sign for the industry in general.”

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JANUARY 2021

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INDUSTRY NEWS Cocktail Crops May Improve Water Infiltration Jeff Gaye It’s too early to draw conclusions, but water infiltration tests on three of four Saskatchewan sites showed that cover crops, or “cocktail crops,” improve soil’s ability to absorb water. The tests were conducted by Matrix Solutions Inc., on fields in Rhein, Wapella, Minton and Watrous. There are several factors that affect infiltration, according to Kelly Ostermann, Matrix’s Principal Environmental Scientist. “Probably the biggest factor that impacts infiltration rate is soil texture,” she said. “So that’s the amount of sand, silt and clay that is in the soil that makes up the soil texture.” Sandy soil will infiltrate water more quickly than a clay soil, for example. Density and compaction of the soil is another factor—the more compact the soil, the less porosity there is among the soil components, the harder it is for water to infiltrate. A variety of factors affect soil density, including compaction. Clay is more compactable than sand, and will again lead to less water infiltration. Organic matter in the soil can also affect the rate of infiltration. “Organic matter tends to improve the porosity. It reduces the bulk density,” Ostermann said. “It has a bunch of different components in it that lend it to improve soil infiltration.” Rapid infiltration helps deliver the water needed to germinate seeds and grow crops, she said. “What happens is if you have a very slow infiltration rate, the water can pool on the soil surface and then it can potentially run off. Or if it pools and then infiltrates, it can actually cause crusting on the soil, which can be problematic for germination and things like that,” Ostermann said. “So the infiltration rate can be quite valuable to understand. And it also affects the amount of soil moisture. So the better 10

your infiltration is, then generally, you’re getting water into the ground for the plants to be able to grow.” Funded by Saskatchewan Water Security Agency, the Matrix study compared fields with cover crops to neighbouring fields with control crops. They did three infiltration tests on the cover crop fields and the control crop fields in each test area. The tests in Minton, Wapella and Watrous showed roughly double the infiltration in the cover-crop fields as in the control-crop fields. The Rhein results were more or less the opposite, with better infiltration in the control crops. “For the sites at Minton, Wapella and Watrous, the average infiltration rate for the control crops is 4.67 centimetres per hour. On the cover crops, it was 11.83,” Ostermann said. “On the Rhein site, the average infiltration rate on the control crop was 7.07 centimetres per hour, whereas on the cover crop it was 1.93.” Although conducting three replicates of the tests might seem significant, Ostermann says it’s not enough data to make a solid conclusion. Each field has a variety of soil textures and densities, so results will vary for cover-crop and control-crop sites depending on how many tests are conducted on different locations in each field. But she is interested in why the Rhein site was consistently the exception. “My thought is that there’s something specific about that site, either in terms of the duration that the cover crop was in place or the cropping system, that I’d want to investigate relative to the other three. That would help me understand why that one is so different,” she said. “I’d be very interested in understanding the history of the cover cropping and to see whether or not they use consistent cover crops, or if they’re changing them

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up based on the crop they’re going to be planting.” This could be a significant variable. Producers may use different cover crops depending on the crop they will be planting in that field, and will rotate their “cocktail” as they rotate their main crop. “I know a lot of people have their own little things that they are using if they’re going to be growing a cereal crop or if it’s a forage like corn, or it might be canola. “But if they’re putting their cocktail crops into different rotations, I’d be curious to ask them why they’ve chosen the plants they’ve chosen, and see if there’s a relationship to the way the soil is acting with respect to infiltration in the different types of cocktail mixes they’re using,” Ostermann said. One of the things she finds interesting is seeing how re-introducing biodiversity to cropland may be improving soil health. For decades, crop farming has been dedicated to establishing and maintaining monocultures, where only the planted crop is encouraged to grow. But indications are that greater plant diversity improves growing conditions and improves the soil. “Is there a relationship between the diversity of the vegetation that’s being grown on that land, and the soil microbiology? Because soils themselves, you have to think of it as an ecosystem no different than the above-ground ecosystem, there are all these organisms that live in the soil that make it rich and healthy,” she said. If you’re only growing one thing on that field all the time, the organisms in that soil after years and years could look very different than if you’re growing a variety of different crops. That difference could show up as different soil characteristics. “It’s a really interesting development in farming,” she said. B

JANUARY 2021

PRoFits Realized FRoM Value added development and production in our herd and the Charolais Charcross cattle have aPRoFits tremendous advantage because PRoFits Realized FRoM Value added PRoFits Realized Realized FRoM FRoM Value Value added added

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JANUARY 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS Potential Impacts of Proposed AgriStability Changes Steve Funk, Director, Ag Risk Management Resources, MNP LLP

1. Potential removal of the Reference Margin Limit (RML) and 2. Potential increase in the government contribution rate from 70 to 80 per cent. It is now up the provinces to decide whether they will accept the proposal. It is a big decision for the provinces as they would have to contribute 40 per cent of any additional monies paid out on these changes from their own budgets. Given the number and scope of farms in the prairie provinces, these changes could have a really significant impact on their budgets. Approval of provinces representing at least two-thirds of AgriStability Reference Margins is required for these changes to be put in place. If accepted, the changes to AgriStability will be applied to the 2020 and future program years. The current Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) framework, of which AgriStability is a part, ends after the 2022 program year. For 2023–2027, there will likely be further changes to the programming. Both proposed changes are positive changes for the cattle industry, and producers and associations should be seeking to encourage the provinces to accept the Federal Minister of Agriculture’s offer. This can be accomplished by communicating with your local Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA, and/ or provincial Minister of Agriculture), and voicing your support for these important program changes. You could even include a copy of this article with your letter or email, as it helps to explain how the changes work and the significant impact they will have on the cattle industry.

Now, let’s examine each part of the proposal and its potential impact on the cattle industry in detail.

trigger benefits. For any given farm, the sensitivity to revenue drops is dependent on the ratio of eligible expenses (e.g., direct input costs like cattle purchases, custom feeding expenses, feed, arm’s length salaries, fuel, electricity, seed, fertilizer, chemical, etc.), to eligible revenue (e.g., cattle sales, crop sales, etc.), in the AgriStability Reference Margin. When the eligible expenses are high relative to eligible revenue, we refer to that as a high-cost structure and when they are low, it is a low-cost structure.

1. Potential removal of the Reference Margin Limit (RML) This program feature was introduced in 2013 and modified slightly in 2018. The calculations are very complex, and it has been a very difficult program feature for producers to understand fully. RML makes the program less predictable, bankable and transparent for some producers, but the truly difficult part to understand is which producers are really affected by it.

RML makes the program less predictable, bankable and transparent for some producers, but the truly difficult part to understand is which producers are really affected by it.

At MNP, we have designed the “Revenue Drops Required to Trigger AgriStability” graph to help illustrate the concept of RML and who is potentially affected (below). The black line with various dots on it represents the revenue drops required by different farms or sectors in order to start triggering AgriStability benefits. Revenue drops can be drops in production, price or a combination of both. We find that many producers have the misconception that a 30 per cent revenue drop is required for any farm to trigger AgriStability benefits; this is false.

For the cattle industry, feedlots generally fit into “Group 1,” whereas cow-calf operations fit into “Group 2” on the cost-structure line immediately below the graph. This means that feedlots will generally require a low revenue drop in the range of about 1.5 to 10 per cent to trigger AgriStability benefits. With the cow-calf producers in “Group 2,” a higher-revenue drop is required to trigger AgriStability benefits, and this group requires constant monitoring as they may or may not have RML applied in any given year.

Our graph shows that some farms require only a 1.5 per cent drop in revenue, whereas others might require a 40 per cent or greater drop in revenue to

R E V E N U E D R O P S R E Q U I R E D T O T R I G G E R A G R I S TA B I L I T Y

60.00%

───●───

50.00%

P E R C E N TA G E D R O P I N R E V E N U E

In late November, at the Federal/ Provincial/Territorial Ag Ministers’ meetings, Federal Minister of Agriculture Marie Claude Bibeau left a very significant proposal on the table for the provinces and territories to consider with respect to the AgriStability program. There were two aspects to the proposal:

48.45%

45.90%

43.35%

40.80%

40.00%

70% Trigger and 70% RML Cap (status quo) 70% Trigger, NO RML

38.25% 35.70%

33.15% 30.60%

30.00%

23.50% 20.00% 15.00%

13.50% 12.00%

10.00%

10.50% 9.00%

7.50% 4.50%

6.00% 0.00%

Low-Cost Structures

3.00% 0.00

0.10

0.20

0.30

0.40

0.50

0.60

0.70

0.80

E L I G I B L E E X P E N S E / E L I G I B L E R E V E N U E R AT I O Group 3

Group 2

Group 1

0.90

1.50% 1.00 High-Cost Structures

continued on page 15 JANUARY 2021

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 13

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JANUARY 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS AgriStability cont. from pg. 13 The black part of the graph with dots on it starts bending up and to the left at a 0.5 eligible expense to eligible revenue ratio; that is the part of the graph that is impacted by RML. A cow-calf operation may require a revenue drop of less than 15 per cent to trigger benefits if they are not impacted by RML; but, they might also require a revenue drop of more than 15 per cent and up to more than 30.6 per cent, if they are impacted by RML. Whether or not a cow-calf operation is impacted by RML can vary significantly for different farms and even for the same farm from year to year. One year, RML might apply, the next year it may not. The key is that constant monitoring is required; adopting an “I’m limited, so I shouldn’t be in the program” strategy is never a good idea for this reason. RML does not impact the feedlot group, so RML removal will not impact them either; but the program has always provided relatively-quick triggering of AgriStability benefits for this group. RML tends to impact the cow-calf sector, so removing it would be positive for that group. The green line on the graph below shows what happens when the RML is removed. For farms that were subject to RML before, and might have required a revenue drop of over 30 per cent to trigger AgriStability benefits, the same revenue drop with no RML would be under 20 per cent. That represents a tremendous improvement and something that should be supported by industry.

12 TH annual

CARLRAMS RANCHING BULL SALE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2021 You Can WatCh / Bid & BuY online

Wit h

dlMS.Ca

CARLRAMS 168B STD RED 291G

Carlrams Ranching Ltd.

Cal & Marilyn raMsay 306 398 7343 or 306 398 2815 CR 110Y LAD 241G

Carl raMsay 306 398 7879

Dalynn raMsay 306 390 7447 FLICEK GENERAL 23G

2. Potential increase in the government contribution rate from 70 to 80 per cent Of the two changes, this one is the crowd pleaser that has something for everyone in the cattle industry, potentially. Once AgriStability benefits are triggered, the government has paid out 70 cents on the dollar, historically. They are now proposing to raise this to 80 cents on the dollar. This represents a 14.3 per cent increase for anyone who ends up triggering AgriStability benefits, and again, is something that deserves industry support.

ranDy FliCek 306 823 7091

LVR 46D GARTH 25G

To summarize: Trigger points have the potential to become much more sensitive for certain producers in the cowcalf sector who were potentially impacted by RML, and government benefits are going to increase by 14.3 per cent for anyone in the cattle industry that ends up triggering an AgriStability payment. The changes proposed to AgriStability are positive changes that deserve the support of industry. Producers are encouraged to indicate support by contacting their local MLAs and/or provincial Minister of Agriculture. If you have any questions relating to this article, please contact steve.funk@mnp.ca. B JANUARY 2021

robin FliCek 306 823 3912

Mike Jahnke 306 629 7311

Matt Jahnke 306 796 7007

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 15

INDUSTRY NEWS Fresh beefeducation.ca Jeff Gaye The cancellation of ag events because of COVID-19 has had a positive spinoff effect: the Saskatchewan Beef Education program has used the opportunity to update its beefeducation.ca website. Beef Education, a project of Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA), has brought the story of beef to the province’s Grade 1 to Grade 8 students. In a normal year, the program reaches out to young people and their teachers at events across the province. “We’ve offered educational opportunities to students throughout the province in conjunction with various events,” said Sherri Grant, who coordinates Beef Education. “At Agribition, it's part of their Family Ag Pavilion, and in Yorkton, it's part of their Harvest Showdown. They do a student program in Saskatoon, Prince Albert, Swift Current and various locations,” Grant said. Typically, in association with Ag in the Classroom or with an exhibition association, Beef Education has offered opportunities for teachers to bring students to understand more about Saskatchewan agriculture, “the bigger concept being where your food comes from,” Grant said. The cancellations of events across Saskatchewan left Grant and the Beef Education program with a decision to make: cancel their programming this year, or deliver it online.

“And then they go back to the classroom. And unless the teacher has a really good understanding of agriculture, she’s not able to answer all the questions. She’s not able to do the follow-up to the extended learning piece, which is a big, big part of how learning occurs.

The cancellations of events across Saskatchewan left Grant and the Beef Education program with a decision to make: cancel their programming this year, or deliver it online. “So we set up a website, we wrote a book, we tried to ask for teachers’ resources that would make it easier for them to teach in an area they were unfamiliar with.” With a bigger emphasis on the online component of the program, it was clear the website needed a makeover. To get an absolute value by turning a negative into a positive, when the COVID pandemic caused widespread event cancellations (like SSGA's participation in Canadian Western Agribition), Saskatchewan Cattlemen's Association Industry Development Fund enabled SSGA to redirect their regular program funding to other initiatives like enhancing beefeducation.ca. Now the site is a fresh, interactive, and up-to-date learning tool.

They already had a website that supplemented the in-person learning.

“It’s way more interesting. It’s way more interactive,” Grant said. “Teachers and kids can go there, they can learn about beef, they can see some of the videos of animals in pastures, and they can hear or read the storybook. There are quizzes, there’s a sequencing activity.”

“Teachers would bring their students, and they would experience the sights, sounds and smells,” Grant said. “The stimuli are overwhelming for the kids. It’s all new. There are so many things.

Of special value to teachers is the site’s Resources section, which allows educators to see what material on the website corresponds to the grade and subject they are teaching.

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

The target audience for the material is students in Grade 1 to Grade 8. While it may be obvious that “city kids” would benefit from learning about where food comes from, Grant says the material is meant for urban and rural students alike. “How many rural kids do you think raise cattle? Not very many,” she said. “This is just as important to rural kids as it is to urban. If I’m a durum grower, I don’t know much about pulses. If I’m a beef producer, I don’t know much about lamb. So this just helps to get the word out across the board.” When you don’t have the opportunity to meet with teachers, parents and students in-person, it can be harder to gauge the impact you’re having. Until live events can return, what does success look like for the Beef Education program and its new website? “I would call it a success if I had people telling me that they found it and it offered value to them, in terms of learning something about the beef industry and learning something about where their food comes from,” Grant said. “It would be a huge success if people were able to evaluate the plethora of marketing that comes their way in terms of their food, and it would be a huge success if they were able to evaluate that with some additional knowledge-based criteria.”B

JANUARY 2021

INDUSTRY NEWS Western Canada Feedlot Management School Leanne Thompson

Coming in February 2021: Virtually everything you need to know about cattle feeding! a Western Canada Feedlot Management School webinar series. Join us online February 9, 16 and 23 to catch virtual tours of commercial feedlots, market updates, nutrition, animal health and other topics of interest to anyone feeding cattle this winter. This event is a partnership between Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association, University of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, and continues to provide cattle feeders a unique learning opportunity where focus is on practical information to improve a feeding operation. Over the years, the format, dates and location may have changed, but this school remains widely-recognized as a must-attend event for those in the cattle feeding industry. Cattle feeder operations of all sizes will find important takeaways from this

JANUARY 2021

yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event. The virtual platform may be different, but has allowed our tours to cover more ground than usual. Each webinar will include a virtual tour of a commercial feedlot ranging from central Alberta to southern Manitoba. Attendees will hear directly from the management team on how these lots use local resources to optimize their feeding operation and where they have invested in infrastructure to improve their returns. Here are just a few things participants will hear, see and learn about on our virtual feedlot tours: incorporation of cull potatoes in cattle rations; a self-loading feed truck in action; how an open-door policy is encouraging the next generation of cattle feeders; and how lots have installed roller-compacted concrete pen flooring to improve pen conditions and cattle performance. Each webinar will also include two presentations from industry experts on topics ranging from nutrition, feeding and

implant programs to animal health and cattle markets. There will be opportunity to interact with our presenters and have your questions on these topics answered. For the complete agenda, visit the Event page on www.saskcattle.com. Be sure to register early and take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn from industry experts and experienced producers. Your cattle feeding business will thank you! B To register, visit www.saskcattle.com or contact the office at (306) 969-2666 or office@saskcattle.com. WCFMS is presented by: Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association; University of Saskatchewan, Department of Animal and Poultry Science; and Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

www.skstockgrowers.com | ÂŠBEEF BUSINESS | 17

INDUSTRY NEWS 5th Annual Beef Drive is Well Underway Jeff Gaye Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association’s annual Beef Drive, which has provided tonnes of nutritious beef to Food Banks of Saskatchewan, is coming through again this fall. People can donate an animal to be processed, or they can donate cash. The meat is processed into one-pound packs of ground beef and distributed among food banks in the province. “Our members’ community spirit really shines in the Beef Drive,” SSGA president Kelcy Elford said. “You can call it charity or philanthropy, but to us, it’s just helping out our neighbours.” The Beef Drive has delivered more than 3,500 lbs of ground beef to Saskatchewan food banks since launching the fifth annual campaign in November, and several more animals are booked for processing early in 2021. Funding is still available to cover processing costs.

“We will keep accepting animals throughout the year as long funding is available to cover the processing,” Elford said. Cargill is matching private cash donations. This is their third year sponsoring the Beef Drive. Saskatchewan Cattlemen's Association donated $10,000 to the Beef Drive last May, helping families in need during the COVID lockdown.

“Our ranchers and farmers not only understand tough times, they also understand that even the best laid plans can go sideways. When the worst happens, they band together to lend a hand to neighbours and friends, just like they have done for communities across the province with this very special donation.” SSGA initiated the Beef Drive on World Food Day in the fall of 2016 as a way for beef producers to support Saskatchewan's 32 food banks. To date, nearly 35,000 pounds of ground beef have been collected for the Food Banks of Saskatchewan, with a retail value of more than $175,000. B

Laurie O’Connor, Executive Director, Food Banks of Saskatchewan, commended SSGA’s continued efforts. “On behalf of our membership I want to express our deep appreciation for this wonderful donation of fresh beef, along with our utmost respect and gratitude for the daily sacrifices made by Saskatchewan’s hard-working producers,” O’Connor said.

For more information, or to make a donation to the Beef Drive, contact SSGA at (306) 757-8523.

HAVE YOU PLANNED YOUR ADVERTISING FOR YOUR UPCOMING BULL SALE? CELEBRATING

Beef Business

e y magazin ion ion industr Publicat Publicat ed cattle Industry Industry circulat Cattle Cattle largest Premier Premiere hewan’s ewan's ewan`s Saskatc Saskatch Saskatch ‘

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Beef Business Saskatchewan's Premier

Cattle Industry Publicat ion September 2018

‘

MaY 2020

A Saskatchewan Stock

IN PUBLISHING

Saskatchewan’s largest circulated industry magazine Saskatchewan`s Premier Cattle Industry Publication Saskatchewan`s Premiere Cattlecattle Industry March 2018

Working for Producer

A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Publication Publication Mail Agreement #40011906

A Saskatchewan Stock

Growers Associatio

Publication Mail Agreement

Working for Producers

#40011906

n Publication

Working for Producer

Call Gordon (403) 968-3730

to advertise in any of our upcoming editions. gcastephenson@gmail.com

March Deadline – February 12th 5 Issues Per Year Going to 10,000 Producers Across Saskatchewan 18

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JANUARY 2021

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INDUSTRY NEWS SWF, SSGA Offer $10,000 For Information Leading to Conviction in the Criminal Shooting of Livestock Saskatchewan is seeing an alarming trend in the criminal shooting of domestic livestock throughout the province. “It’s not uncommon for some animals to be injured in hunting season, but these cases seem to be blatantly criminal in nature versus an accidental shooting,” said Saskatchewan Stock Growers President Kelcy Elford. Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation and Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association have partnered with SaskTip (Turn In Poachers) to provide a cash reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to a conviction of anyone found illegally shooting livestock.

“This type of behavior is condemned by the law-abiding hunting and firearm communities,” said Clark Schultz, Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation President, adding “these people are criminals.” SaskTip Board Chair Lorne Scott welcomes the support and cooperation of SSGA and SWF, stating the importance of “collectively working with livestock producers and law abiding citizens to curtail irresponsible and needless destruction and suffering of domestic animals.”

Receive a cash reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to a conviction of anyone found illegally shooting livestock. If you have information that could assist in the apprehension and prosecution of any individual illegally shooting domestic livestock, call the Turn In Poachers Line, toll-free, at 1-800-667-7561. Tips can remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a cash reward if your information leads to a conviction. B

YOU CAN HELP SOLVE THIS CASE AND EARN CASH REWARDS IF THE INFORMATION YOU PROVIDE LEADS TO THE ARREST OR CONVICTION OF THE INDIVIDUAL(S) INVOLVED. (Calls are not traced or recorded and callers can choose to remain anonymous.)

UNSOLVED CASE

If you have any information regarding this case or other violations: Call the Toll-Free Turn In Poachers & Polluters Line 1-800-667-7561 Call #5555 from a Sasktel Cellphone (no text messages) Report online at www.saskatchewan.ca/tipp

Visit www.sasktip.com for all of the latest cases.

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

On Monday, October 12th, 2020, Regina Conservation Oﬃcers received a TIP Call regarding a calf moose and a White-tailed deer fawn that were found dead in the ditch along Highway #10. The animals were located 4km Northeast of Balgonie on the highway to Fort Qu’Appelle. Oﬃcers investigated and determined the animals were not shot in this de location but just dumped in the ditch. It is believed these animals were abandoned between the evening of October 10th and the morning of October 12th. These animals were left to waste and were not legally tagged. Follow @sasktip

JANUARY 2021

It’s the depth and uniformity in the cowherd that will give you the consistency in your bull’s progeny!

Offering Long Yearling Bulls 74 by Private Treaty, 15 at Calgary Bull Sale March 4th, 12 at Medicine Hat Bull Sale March 17th Offering a big group of coming Yearling Bulls Performance from Conception to Consumption

75 Bred Heifers for sale

Committed to Feed Efficiency Testing Offering one of the Largest RFI Tested groups of Herefords in North America

LBH 8X DURAMAX 4G CE -0.8; BW 4.8; WW 56.4; YW 101.7; M 24.1; MG 52.3; REA .46; MRB .00

LBH 237B BILLY LAD 47G CE -1.5; BW 6.1; WW 64.3; YW 96.6; M 19.4; MG 51.6; REA .34; MRB .13

LBH 2042 SENSATION 147G CE 6.6; BW 3.1; WW 58.3; YW 105.1; M 40.6; MG 69.8; REA .69; MRB -.14

LBH 6103 ADVANCE 154G CE 1.4; BW 5.3; WW 60.3; YW 109.4; M 24.8; MG 55.0; REA .27; MRB .21

LBH 6103 ADVANCE 170G CE 3.8; BW 5.3; WW 63.9; YW 109.9; M 28.6; MG 60.6; REA .22; MRB .28

LBH 028X SENSATION 173G CE 0.7; BW 4.4; WW 59.5; YW 91.9; M 32.8; MG 62.6; REA .61; MRB .14

LBH 40W RIBSTONE 197G CE -2.9; BW 7.0; WW 64.4; YW 105.7; M 41.8; MG 74.0; REA .41; MRB .02

LBH 1123 EXTRA GENETIC 207G CE 2.6; BW 5.2; WW 61.7; YW 92.9; M 30.8; MG 61.7; REA .56; MRB .09

LBH 40W RIBSTONE ET 220G CE 1.9; BW 4.6; WW 50.4; YW 84.6; M 42.3; MG 67.5; REA .38; MRB .28

LBH 237B BILLY LAD 235G CE 1.1; BW 7.1; WW 62.4; YW 90.1; M 18.9; MG 50.1; REA .52; MRB .07

LBH 265Y STANMORE ET 354G CE 5.4; BW 3.1; WW 49.6; YW 82.7; M 36.6; MG 61.4; REA .15; MRB .47

LBH 1123 EXTRA GENETIC 361G CE 2.5; BW 4.2; WW 62.1; YW 91.9; M 30.3; MG 61.4; REA .64; MRB .02

LBH 6103 ADVANCE 366G CE 4.9; BW 4.5; WW 52.6; YW 95.0; M 27.3.; MG 53.6; REA .26; MRB .16

LBH 6103 ADVANCE 372G CE 10.4; BW 2.3; WW 62.6; YW 97.6; M 32.8; MG 64.1; REA .35; MRB .15

LBH 6103 ADVANCE 491G CE 1.9; BW 4.9; WW 59.3; YW 103.2; M 27.6; MG 57.3; REA.27; MRB .11

LBH 6103 ADVANCE 542G CE 4.4; BW 3.9; WW 56.4; YW 104.4; M 24.8; MG 53.0; REA .30; MRB .17

For detailed information please visit our website or give us a call for a catalog

EPDs 12/10/20

Andy & Margaret Schuepbach

Ruth, Michelle and Daniel Phone: (403) 625-4693 Cell: (403) 625-6316 Fax: (403) 625-1500 Box 2044, Claresholm, AB T0L 0T0

(10 miles (16 km) East of Claresholm to sign, then 4 1/2 miles (7.2 km) North)

Email: andy@lilybrookherefords.com

Hans Ulrich

(403): 625-2237

www.lilybrookherefords.com

MARKETS AND TRADE RETAIL MEAT PRICE SURVEY as of December 22, 2020 ($/lb)

SUPERSTORE

SOBEYS

COOP

SAVE ON FOODS

$4.08

$6.30

$4.00

$5.50

$4.60

Cross rib roast

$7.99

$9.51

$6.50

Rib roast

$8.97

$16.12

$11.01

Outside round roast

$8.98

$6.50

$10.01

Inside round roast

$6.98

$5.99

$9.09

$6.82

Rib eye steak

$18.14

$25.00

$15.22

Round steak

$6.98

Sirloin steak

$7.30

$11.11

$10.01

$8.51

T-bone steak

$15.87

$16.12

$9.01

Tenderloin

$22.68

Rib Steak

$13.97

$17.22

Ground beef- lean Ground beef - regular

*these items were not in the display case on this date

MISTY VALLEY FARMS 45th Annual Production Sale OF QUALITY HORNED HEREFORDS

Wednesday, February 10, 2021 1 p.m. MST at the Ranch, Maidstone, SK

Long yearling bull consignments from Lanni Bristow, L-O Herefords and open heifer consignments from Mark Law, Lawview Herefords

• 55 Long Yearling Bulls - Sound and fresh; not pampered or over-fed. • 30 Bred Registered Heifers - Females that will fit into your cow herd. Selected from our replacements and bred to calving ease sires. • 65 Bred Commercial Heifers - Home raised heifers bred to proven calving ease Hereford sires. MVF 3B STANDARD RIB LAD 121G

• 15 Registered & Commercial Heifer Calves

MVF 63B SUPER RIB STD LAD 156G

Ranch-raised cattle bred to be low-maintenance, efficient, sound and long-lasting. Bulls semen tested | Females pregnancy checked | Free delivery to central points in the Prairie provinces with special consideration given to group purchases

Harold Oddan Tel (306) 893-2783 Cell (306) 893-7225

Maurice Oddan Tel (306) 893-2737 Cell (306) 893-7365

Mark Law Tel (204) 743-2049 Cell (204) 526-5818

Lanni Bristow Tel (780) 943-2236 Cell (780) 614-1268

R.R. #1 Maidstone, SK S0M 1M0 | mvf@sasktel.net 20 km North of Maidstone on Highway #21; 6.5 km West on Highway #303; 6 km North on Range Road #3241

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2021

S MaineW Bull Sale the

17TH ANNUAL

MARCH 24, 2021

Selling the Top Cut 2020 Bull Calves

Breeding 250+ Maine-Anjou & MaineTainer Females Shawn, Stacey, Jayse & Kadin (639) 275-7550 Bill & Judi Wilson (403) 560-5265 Locations: Strathmore, AB and Leross, SK - Canada Visit us at www.swcattle.com â&#x20AC;˘ email: swcattleco@yahoo.ca Jayse & Kadin - www.wilsonwaterfowl.com

Breeding quality Maines since 1972

MARKETS AND TRADE

210

2017

200 190

2018

180

2019

170

2020

160

260

2017

250

2018

240

2019

230 220

2020

210

2017

200

2018

190 Wk 1 Wk 4 Wk 7 Wk 10 Wk 13 Wk 16 Wk 19 Wk 22 Wk 25 Wk 28 Wk 31 Wk 34 Wk 37 Wk 40 Wk 43 Wk 46 Wk 49 Wk 52

220

Price per hundred weight

SK Weekly Average Price 500-600 lbs Steers

230

Wk 1 Wk 4 Wk 7 Wk 10 Wk 13 Wk 16 Wk 19 Wk 22 Wk 25 Wk 28 Wk 31 Wk 34 Wk 37 Wk 40 Wk 43 Wk 46 Wk 49 Wk 52

Source: CanFax

2017 2018 2019 2020

CDN $ - US terms

0.78 0.76 2020

0.74

2019

0.72

5 yr avg

0.70 Wk 1 Wk 4 Wk 7 Wk 10 Wk 13 Wk 16 Wk 19 Wk 22 Wk 25 Wk 28 Wk 31 Wk 34 Wk 37 Wk 40 Wk 43 Wk 46 Wk 49 Wk 52

0.68 Wk 1 Wk 4 Wk 7 Wk 10 Wk 13 Wk 16 Wk 19 Wk 22 Wk 25 Wk 28 Wk 31 Wk 34 Wk 37 Wk 40 Wk 43 Wk 46 Wk 49 Wk 52

Price per hundred weight

0.80

190.00 180.00 170.00 160.00 150.00 140.00 130.00 120.00 110.00 100.00

Source: CanFax

Source: Bank of Canada

Lethbridge Barley Price

Alberta Weekly D1 & D2 Cows 310.00

115.00 110.00 105.00 100.00 95.00 90.00 85.00 80.00 75.00 70.00 65.00

2017 2018 2019 2020

Price per tonne

290.00 270.00 250.00

2017

230.00

2018

210.00

2019

190.00

2020

170.00 150.00

Wk 1 Wk 4 Wk 7 Wk 10 Wk 13 Wk 16 Wk 19 Wk 22 Wk 25 Wk 28 Wk 31 Wk 34 Wk 37 Wk 40 Wk 43 Wk 46 Wk 49 Wk 52

Price per hundred weight

2019 2020 Source: CanFax

Weekly Canadian Dollar

AB Fed Steer Prices

Source: CanFax Source: CanFax

Wk 1 Wk 4 Wk 7 Wk 10 Wk 13 Wk 16 Wk 19 Wk 22 Wk 25 Wk 28 Wk 31 Wk 34 Wk 37 Wk 40 Wk 43 Wk 46 Wk 49 Wk 52

Price per hundred weight

SK Weekly Average Price Heifers 500-600 lbs

Source: CanFax

For more information visit www.canfax.ca

| Â©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2021

SON OF BLACK OPS 135F

SON OF EXCLUSIVE 116E

SON OF PROCLAMATION E202

SON OF PATRIOT 32F

SON OF EPIC E152

- Quality Genetics at affordable prices - In-House Bull Warranty Program Available

On Offer are 65 Red + Black Simmental Bulls + 14 Open Replacement

Heifers

SON OF LAUNCH 110E

Sire Groups Include SON OF EXCLUSIVE 116E

KCC1 Exclusive 116E, LRX Black Ops 135F, WS ProclamationE202, NGDB Structure 34D, MAF Patriot 32F, Spring Creek Launch 110E, W/C Bankroll 811D, Black Gold Approval 71E, WS Epic E152, Wheatland Front Runner 896F & Crossroad Red Stone 10F

MARKETS AND TRADE Email Marketing Still a Winner With a dizzying array of social media platforms now in play, some pundits have predicted the end of email marketing programs. However, a closer look at this marketing strategy demonstrates that email has a strong place in delivering the brand message and the recruitment and retention of a loyal customer base. Used strategically, email marketing can leverage brand awareness, generate new customers and solidify customer retention and loyalty. Email marketing is a timeproven platform that holds onto longtime existing customers and effectively extends its reach into new markets. With this in mind, the Make-it-Beef Club (MIB) program was launched in October 2007 to more than 7,000 consumers. Developed as an educational tool, the program was delivered to a dedicated audience accessed through the Heart and Stroke Cookbook’s give-away contest (as featured in Reader’s Digest Magazine). Its goal was to help consumers with meal planning and the preparation of hearthealthy, flavourful beef-centered meals at home, informed by the latest nutritional science. Today, the MIB club has grown to more than 40,000 members. Canada Beef recently conducted a survey of MIB club members to determine how to continue the enthusiasm for the initial MIB initiative, and further engage and increase the MIB audience. The survey netted more than 2,000 survey respondents who shared their thoughts and impressions. Survey Key Insights: •

Members are loyal: significantly, 64 per cent have received the newsletter for one to four years; 19 per cent for more than five years; only 17 per cent of respondents began receiving the newsletter within the last year.

•

Website posting is an effective communication strategy: 40 per cent of respondents found the newsletter through placement on canadabeef. ca; 27 per cent through social media; 17 per cent from print media (recipe booklets).

In addition, a full 80 per cent of respondents subscribe to the newsletter for Canada Beef recipe ideas and recommendations, while 15 per cent engage for contest opportunities. Significantly, 95 per cent of respondents read some or all issues—an indication that newsletter reach is robust and that the readership is highly-engaged. Furthermore, 87 per cent of Make It Beef subscribers refer back to newsletters for cooking inspiration and meal planning, demonstrating significant loyalty to content. Who answered this survey? •

76 per cent of respondents are over the age of 55; only 4 per cent are under 34

•

68 per cent of respondents are female

•

76 per cent of respondents have no children living at home

•

47 per cent of respondents are from Ontario, 18 per cent from Alberta and 14 per cent from British Columbia

Subscribers were also asked if they wished to join an Advisory Panel to aid in the development of consumer marketing programs and resources. Close to 35 per cent of the survey respondents (690) signed on–a robust sample size, and one that will assist Canada Beef in extending its meaningful and relevant approach to proposed consumer marketing efforts.

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This newfound information will be highly effective in the further growth and development of the Make it Beef email marketing efforts, assisting in greater consistency of delivery and furthering the goal of increasing the millennial (age 18 to 35) audience list size. B Want to join the Herd? If you are not already a member of the Make it Beef e-newsletter, sign up here: https://canadabeef.ca/sign-mib-club/

JANUARY 2021

MARKETS AND TRADE Vulnerabilities and Benefits of Mega Scale Agri-Food Processing Facilities Jared Carlberg, Ph.D., Professor of Agribusiness & Agricultural Economics, University of Manitoba is located in the province of Alberta, despite the fact that province has only about 40 per cent of the cattle herd (also the largest proportion in the country), according to numbers published by Statistics Canada. In third place is Ontario, where their 14 per cent of the herd is relatively closely matched by their 17 per cent of federally-inspected slaughter capacity. Number two on the cattle number list is Saskatchewan, with about 20 per cent of the national herd. Jared Carlberg, Professor of Agribusiness and Agricultural Economics at University of Manitoba, recently completed a paper investigating the benefits and vulnerabilities of large-scale food processing facilities. For his paper, he focused upon Canada’s beef processing sector, which is mostly located in western Canada, centered in Alberta in particular. The motivation for Carlberg’s paper was plant slowdowns/shutdowns that have occurred as a result of COVID-19 outbreaks in packing plants going back to early spring of 2020. Carlberg noted several examples of plants that have been affected in western Canada—both of the country’s largest plants (Cargill in High River and JBS in Brooks) were temporarily idled, as was the Harmony Beef plant in Balzac, Alberta. When plants are slowed down or shut down, both consumers and producers are affected. Cattle have fewer places to go and schedules are disrupted, creating difficulties for feeders. Consumers see their food security disrupted, if closures are widespread enough, and prices can increase if supply is threatened. Disruptions are bad for everyone involved. Carlberg noted that about three-quarters of federally-inspected beef processing

But does Saskatchewan’s federallyinspected processing capacity match up with its share of the cattle herd? Not even close. Carlberg’s numbers showed that Saskatchewan’s slaughter capacity is only 0.22 per cent of the national total; even mixing in provincially-inspected facilities the numbers are not much higher. We all know that Saskatchewan is a huge part of Canada’s cattle industry, and that the province’s cow-calf herd is an important part of the farm economy, with animals spread all the way through the province from east to west and north to south. In his paper, Carlberg notes the efficiencies associated with what are called “economies of scale” have a lot to do with why we see fewer, larger packing plants than in the past. Larger plants get to spread costs across more cattle being processed; the same forces have been behind farms themselves getting bigger and bigger in size all the time. The problem is, if there is a disease outbreak at a larger plant and it has to close or slow down, it’s much more disruptive than if the same thing happened at a smaller plant.

smaller, more regional plants. A smaller plant would be less likely to disrupt things on both the consumer and producer side in the event of a closure, but it’s also harder for smaller plants to compete in the national/ international arena where bigger firms are currently operating. Being raised on his family’s mixed cattle farm near Osage, Saskatchewan, Carlberg has often wondered why his home province, where cattle are so plentiful and important to so many farms, doesn’t have more of a presence in the slaughter industry.

"three-quarters of federally-inspected beef processing is located in the province of Alberta, despite the fact that province has only about 40 per cent of the cattle herd" It seems likely that post-COVID, the industry will return to business-as-usual, argues Carlberg. While he advocates for regional plants that potentially would involve greater farmer-ownership, he also notes that there would have to be a lot of political will and capital involved for new packing initiatives to come to fruition in western Canada. Feeders would need to be willing to commit cattle to a new plant, tax incentives and potentially direct subsidies from multiple levels of government would be needed, and it is likely that niche marketing opportunities would have to be found to create premium revenue streams to help offset higher costs. B

Carlberg suggests that one possible model moving forward is to consider

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JANUARY 2021

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FEATURE 2020’s Year-End Interview with the Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture think it’s good. That works together with our whole agri-food exports target of over $20 billion. BB: The irrigation potential is a big part of it.

Honourable David Marit, Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture, made time on December 16th for a telephone interview with Beef Business. Beef Business (BB): Thank you for taking time for this interview. Congratulations on your re-election and reappointment as Minister of Agriculture in October. Honourable David Marit (HDM): Thank you. BB: With a renewed mandate this fall for your government, what do you see today as your priorities for the livestock industry heading into the next four years? HDM: Well, we set out our growth strategy earlier for 2030, and agriculture is obviously a big piece of that, and the livestock sector is very important to us. As the second largest cow-calf producer in Canada, it’s important for us to be engaged with that industry. We really want to see the livestock cash receipts by 2030 hit that $3 billion mark. We are also really hoping to see more meat processing happening here. There are some good companies that do very good business here in the meat processing side. We want to see value-added meat processing bringing revenue up to over a billion dollars, which is a big number, but we 30

HDM: Well, sure. Irrigation is going to play a big role. (Irrigation) is going to increase a lot of different aspects of it. Irrigation supports the growth of diverse, highvalue crops, which increases on-farm profitability, value-added processing opportunities, business attraction and employment. Initial estimates show the investment will result in about a $40 to $80 billion increase in the provincial Gross Domestic Product over the next 50 years. That’s one thing we also want to see an increase in, the finishing of the cattle side—even in the hog production side. We think there’s a lot of opportunity here in Saskatchewan. Because of our land base, our sparsity of population in rural areas really allows for the opportunity for this growth. The other big thing is access to water. I think that’s a key thing. BB: How far do we have to go to get to the $3 billion mark by 2030? HDM: Our latest numbers for livestock cash receipts are from 2019, which were $2.36 billion. BB: What are the Ministry of Agriculture’s priorities for the Saskatchewan livestock industry in 2021? HDM: Really, it’s to continue working forward on our growth plan targets, but also to see how we can do things in light of 2020. We were thrown into a year like we’ve never seen before, and it really did impact the livestock sector as you well know. The western provinces came up with the set-aside program on the beef cattle side because of the plant closures in Alberta and United States, and the impact it had. Along with the federal government, we were helping with the set-aside.

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One thing we have been committed to in the province and through the Ministry is research. We’ll continue to work with our industry stakeholders on research and their priorities around that. I think it’s important for us to keep that engagement going. I think through this whole process of where we’ve been with COVID-19, we’ve been very open to reaching out to our stakeholders and talking about their concerns. We have a good bison industry in this province that had some challenges as well. A lot of their products end up in restaurants, and so we know the restrictions that were put on the restaurant industry must also be having an impact on those producers as well. The thing we’re really looking at is just how big a role agriculture plays here in the province. We know it’s big, but we will continue to see how we can work with the industry stakeholders to see that industry grow. The livestock sector is a big part of our agriculture industry here in the province of Saskatchewan.

"One thing we have been committed to in the province and through the Ministry is research." BB: With the province’s current financial situation, do you anticipate any major changes to the Ministry of Agriculture budget for 2021/2022? HDM: Right now, we’re working through the budget process. I can say we’re going to do everything we can to work with the agriculture industry and make sure it’s still a key economic driver here in the province of Saskatchewan. BB: How is your team overcoming the challenges of engaging producers and farm groups, provincial/territorial/federal governments and global export markets during the pandemic? JANUARY 2021

FEATURE HDM: What I can say, and I hope that my stakeholders can say the same, is that we had a very good, open relationship. Shortly after COVID hit, we made it a priority to reach out to our stakeholders on a weekly basis. We had a very good discussion around challenges and I also heard where they were managing well. I’m really proud of the way industry has come together during the pandemic. We’ve seen true collaboration in our response. The communication between government and industry has never been stronger, and this ultimately helps us to support industry effectively. BB: What about engaging and communicating from province to province, or from the province to the federal government? HDM: Well, we had regular calls with the federal Minister (of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau). We, as the provinces, put an offer to the federal Minister back in the springtime, where if we were going to enhance any programs, that we share the interim costs at 90/10. She rejected that and has since put an offer out of removing the reference margin limit and changing the compensation from 70 to 80; she wanted the costs shared at 60/40. A challenge most of the provinces are going through right now as we work through our process is the fiscal capacity and the cost that will have to their respective budgets. We heard it clear from our stakeholders in the province, especially the livestock folks, that the reference margin limit was a big hindrance to them. I have been engaging with my provincial counterparts, both Manitoba and Alberta, because we’re similar in a lot of the aspects on the agriculture side. Here in western Canada, you know how important agriculture is to our economies, all three of us, and engaging with them on some of the challenges they’re having—the same as what we are having. Obviously, we saw here on the grains and oilseeds side for the year, the crop that came through was one of the biggest ever. We’ve always collaborated quite well, and had some discussions.

"Year to date exports for the province are $13.9 billion, up 33 per cent..." BB: What do you know about how things are managing to progress as far as exports and global markets? HDM: Year to date exports for the province are $13.9 billion, up 33 per cent from the same period as last year. I haven’t heard of any huge concerns from that side of it. I know the Saskatchewan hog industry is still moving a significant number across the border, and processing is catching up. I know there were some challenges that we had in the province, but those numbers are moving ahead as well on the hog side. On the cattle side, we introduced the set-aside program. I think the export side is holding its own. The challenges around a lot of the food side are with the restrictions put on restaurants and sporting events. They have had an impact on the commercial food side; so, that’s had some impact on the industry as well.

future. We continue to evaluate how best to support our livestock producers, but at this time, there has been no decision made regarding proceeding with this initiative. This is a big undertaking involving three acts and 11 sets of regulations. We appreciate the feedback we received earlier this year when we met with industry to discuss possible changes. BB: Though the province passed the new trespass legislation in 2019, the legislation has not yet been formally announced. What challenges are the province encountering in implementing the legislation? HDM: This legislation has generated substantial interest and engagement from the public. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has hindered the consultation process, delaying both government and the app developers working on an online application to connect land owners and land users. We continue to work through the process of developing the app. continued on page 32

BB: Prior to COVID-19, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture announced plans to modernize Saskatchewan’s livestock legislation. Though these plans have been delayed due to the pandemic, could you highlight the province’s goals and priorities for the legislative review? HDM: As a government, our goal is to ensure our legislation reflects the needs of our agriculture industry today and into the

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FEATURE Interview cont. from pg. 31 BB: Has Canadian Food Inspection Agency decided on federal regulations and timing for livestock movement regulations? HDM: We saw what they want to do on what they call Health of Animal Regulations. Really, it’s more or less about livestock identification and traceability. We hope those consultations will happen in the summer of 2021. We’re looking at our plans, and will be reaching out to the stakeholders as well. BB: There has been a lot of recent discussion regarding reforms and enhancements to AgriStability. What is Saskatchewan’s position on the proposed reforms? HDM: The federal government has put a proposal on the table. It’s challenging for us for a number of reasons. We have the largest landmass in all of Canada; with over 40 per cent if the total arable land. The impact of these changes hits the province of Saskatchewan the hardest, on a per capita basis—from the taxpayer side. We’re having that discussion presently and working through the process on our side. We look forward to the follow up discussions at the federal/provincial/ territorial (FPT) table on this. BB: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the provincial government implemented Western Livestock Price Insurance Program premium assistance and partnered with the federal government on the Fed Cattle Set-Aside program. What has uptake been like to date, and has it met governments’ expectations for the programs? HDM: I think we had a pretty good uptake. The one thing that I can say, I’ve really got to commend the livestock industry because we structured an advisory committee to look at the administration of the set-aside program in relation to what cattle could come into it, when they would go out, and that sort of thing. We had the cattle industry, the marketers

and the advisory committee design the program based on what they felt was the right way to do it, but also on what cattle would come in, what time and for how long. We asked the federal government to examine pricing a cap on the premium to a pre-COVID level and then base it on that. We picked that up because it’s not a result of the market, it was a result of COVID that the premiums went through the roof—because there was uncertainty. We asked the federal government to come in on that program with us. They declined because they felt it was a regional program. Well, it’s Manitoba, Alberta and Saskatchewan and some of British Columbia, predominantly. That’s just the four western provinces, but that’s where most of the cattle are, and that’s where most of the calves are grown. The federal government didn’t participate, but we, in the province of Saskatchewan, did; and we paid the 40 per cent of the differential. Now we’re seeing those premiums have come back to a reasonable level again. BB: Has the federal government considered implementing a national livestock price insurance program? HDM: That’s one of the discussions we will have at the FPT table. We think it should be a national program. I know other jurisdictions have shown interest in it. I’ve talked to colleagues across the country. They like the program and wondered if there is an opportunity; so, one of the things I will be raising at the table is if we can make this into a national program. BB: The provincial growth strategy identifies a goal of doubling meat processing and animal feed valueadded revenue by 2020, from $550M to $1B. What opportunities do you see for growth in these areas? HDM: Well, I see quite a few opportunities and I think they revolve around a lot of things. If we can build the feedlot side, if we can start finishing more cattle here, I think you’ll start to see increased processing. I hope there is. We’re going to do what we can to help grow the

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livestock sector because it’s important to us in this province to see if there is more opportunity in that value-added processing side. I think it’s important. One of the challenges we do have is interprovincial trade. Every agriculture minister has raised it at the federal table saying if a provincially-inspected plant in Ontario is good for the people of Ontario, why shouldn’t one be good for the people in Saskatchewan? That discussion is always going on; it’s been going on for years. I’m hoping we can come to some harmonizing on the provincial side with our colleagues across the country. There is a role for federal inspection because that’s mostly where we’re dealing internationally. A lot of meat is provincially-inspected; however, the majority of meat in federally-inspected plants is exported. We’ve been hearing of exciting new investment opportunities in processing and in further processing of meat products. Our value-added unit is available to support growth in this area. They offer path-finding services and can help with new development opportunities. The province has a number of programs available such as the Saskatchewan Value-added Agricultural Incentive, and the Saskatchewan Lean Improvements in Manufacturing program to support the meat processing sectors to attract new investment and facilitate expansion in the industry. Ultimately, the success of the processing sector is driven by the ideas and creativity of industry. We’re here to support their success and development. BB: How does the irrigation expansion announcement fit into the growth strategy? Is there more than what we’ve already covered? HDM: I think there’s a huge opportunity in all aspects of it, for high-value crops as well. Increased irrigation will increase on-farm profitability. These projects will mean future opportunities, as we talked about earlier. Increasing the livestock side is going to be a big part of that as well. What I think it really does is mitigate a lot of the challenges from the livestock

JANUARY 2021

FEATURE side on drought. You look at the southern part of the province and there’s a lot of cattle in the southwest and south-central regions. It’s always been a challenge. I’m from the south part of the province and it always has been a challenge for ranchers down there. Some years, the feed supply is pretty low, so they have to start sourcing it.

grow the feed. We have the people. I think everything is lining up for us to grow this industry and grow this sector. We, as a government, want to see that grow. We will create the right process to make this work for everybody, and I think we’ll get there. We will find the right balance and opportunities for our livestock industry to grow.

Now, if we have huge irrigation acres, that in some cases are not going to be much more than 100 to 150 miles away, they have the potential to get access to some good, high-quality feed. It just makes things a little easier for those guys if they know where they can go and get a consistent supply, so they can increase their herd production. They have the pasture capacity. It’s the feed capacity to carry them through the winter that’s always been challenging for them. So, I think there’s opportunity that fits in well with growing the livestock sector here in the province of Saskatchewan.

BB: From your perspective, what are the biggest opportunities and challenges facing Saskatchewan’s livestock industry going into 2021?

HDM: The challenge around us in the province of Saskatchewan, quite frankly, is always the logistics around transportation and our geographical location. The farmers and ranchers in this province have done a phenomenal job of growing the product in a very healthy, safe and environmentally-friendly manner. I think that has to be recognized. We have to have collaboration—working together to be the best in the world. We grow healthy, safe, environmentally-sustainable food. That’s the message we have to get across to people. Public trust is going to be key continued on page 34

BB: The first new feedlot in Saskatchewan in several years is scheduled to open in 2021. What is the province doing to grow the livestock feeding sector and to streamline the approval process for project proponents? HDM: I totally understand this from my previous world in municipal politics. I have heard it from many people, and I think it’s something we have to work on. I think there’s a huge opportunity. There are parts of this province that really want to see feedlot expansion. They’ll do everything they can to get it. There are other parts (of the province) that are saying we’re having rural residential sprawl and other things that are mpacting expansion. So, we have to work together to find the common goals, but also find the common ground where the sector can grow, and which parts of the province really want it to grow. I think we can do that. I strongly believe we can find that balance to see this industry grow, so we can see a significant feedlot expansion here in the province of Saskatchewan. We have the land base. We have the water. We can

JANUARY 2021

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Interview cont. from pg. 33 in moving forward. We have to continue to tell our story of how we are growing safe, high-quality food for the people of Saskatchewan, Canada and the world. BB: Thank you for this interview. Is there anything else, something we haven’t asked?

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Interested in what Canada Beef is doing? Sign up for the Canada Beef Performs e-newsletter. Delivered monthly directly to your inbox. — Stay up-to-date on export market trends and statistics. — Learn about successful promotions and effective resources. — Find out what’s happening at the meat case and on the menu for Canadian beef. — See how Canada Beef is connecting with consumers through social media, marketing and media programs. — Check out upcoming events at home and around the world.

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JANUARY 2021

FEATURE Calving Cameras Save Time and Money Jeff Gaye Calving time is a test of endurance involving a lot of long hours and hard work. More and more ranchers are finding they can save time and money, and get a bit more sleep, using a remote camera system to monitor their cows. Darby and Sarah Delorme set up a calving camera system, and Darby says it paid for itself in the first year. “It was getting pretty tiring getting up every two hours, driving over there and checking on them,” he said. “We spent a lot of time and money on fuel starting up the truck at 30 below and driving six miles just to see if there’s anything.” “We were calving about 275 purebreds and I would do all the calving by myself. And it’s pretty much all outside, whether it’s minus five or minus 40.” He still checks on the cows every two hours, but now he can do it from home. It not only saves time and mileage, but it’s less disruptive for the mothers-to-be. Kyron and Kelsey Manske, who operate near Coronach, have had the same experience.

“You don’t have to go out quite as often in a night and wake yourself up and get all rustled around just to find that there are no calves,” Kyron said. “When we’re not in and out, making a bunch of noise and walking through the cows, it seems like the cows calve a lot quicker. You’re not disturbing them. So you can just check them silently on the camera and you don’t have to disturb the cow and have her get up and walk around every time you go in. “It definitely helps on heifers, just because heifers are always a little unsure what’s going on the first year.” A camera system is useful if you live near your barn, and even more useful if you have some distance to cover. Like Darby and Kyron, Darrell and Jenn Timm lived a few miles from their barn. They had to add commuting time to their night-time checks, as well as the problem of getting back to sleep after being out. “We were three miles from the barn at one time, so that’s why we got into the cameras. You could have a quick check at night, and it’s just a lot of peace of mind,” Darrell said.

And during the day, he said, having access to your system on your phone means you can keep an eye on the calving barn while you’re getting other work done. He agrees with Kyron that it’s easier on the cows if you’re not going into the barn unnecessarily. “You can just give her a quick check. And if everything’s proceeding the way it should, you can just let her do her thing,” he said. The ranchers all agree that being able to monitor the barn at any time has saved some calves. They are able to see if a calf is under a water bag, for example, and take care of it right away. “I think everybody with cameras can pretty much tell a story about running across the yard in their boots and trying to zip up the coat as you’re running because they’ve seen a water bag that was over a calf’s nose or something like that,” Kyron said. “We’ve definitely done that a couple of times. And we’ve saved calves because if it hadn’t been for the cameras, we probably wouldn’t have gone back to check for half an hour or 45 minutes. We would have found a dead calf.” continued on page 38

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FEATURE

Calving Cameras cont. from pg. 37 And that’s where the payoff is. As Darby said, “If it’s a really good bull calf, that system probably pays for itself three times over.” Some people can buy the cameras and create their own setup, while others prefer a purpose-built system. If you have the time and technical know-how, it can be less expensive to set up your own. A lot also depends on the configuration of your barn, and what the sightlines are like. But a system specifically designed for calving has its advantages, including cameras that can be controlled to turn and zoom as required to give you a good look at what’s going on.

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JANUARY 2021

FEATURE Namaka Farms Expands to Saskatchewan Kori Maki-Adair In The Complete Guide to Running and Growing Your Business, Andrew J. Sherman states that: “Growth causes a variety of changes, all of which present different managerial, legal, and financial challenges . . . the need of the organization to grow must be tempered by the need to understand that meaningful, long-term, profitable growth is a by-product of effective management and planning.” Few business owners understand this concept better than Ed, Bryan and Stuart Thiessen: father and sons, joint business partners, farm and feedlot operators of Namaka Farms Inc., outside Strathmore, Alberta. “My father, Ed Thiessen, began feeding cattle in 1966. He and his brother Rick started Thiessen Farms with 50 head which increased to 42,000 head by 2000, when they separated into two lots. My uncle named his lot Strangmuir Farms, and I went to work with my father at his lot, Namaka Farms,” Stuart Thiessen explained in an interview with Beef Business on December 17, 2020. Instead of turning down new business or raising prices to restrict business growth, Ed, Bryan and Stuart chose to explore the possibilities for expansion around 2007. “Expanding in Alberta wasn’t an option. There are acreages around our property. On top of that, land values are based on investment opportunities, instead

of agricultural values. It’s very difficult to grow here,” Stuart said. “We decided to look in Saskatchewan. We chose the Outlook area given its irrigation, proximity to Saskatoon, topography, slope, ground conditions and access to water.” With their long-range plans underway for their new operation, the Thiessens performed due diligence for the growth process. “We found the right property 15 miles outside Outlook in 2009, and engaged the rural municipality of Rudy to discuss our plans, first thing,” said Stuart. “We made sure our new feedlot is on a geographically-secure site. Ground water doesn’t run around, so we won’t be impacting anything. In terms of location, we’re on a primary grid road, near a main road, which is good for transportation. “We faced a lot of challenges in the five years it took to get municipal approval for the development plan and permit for 36,000 head capacity. We had no problem meeting environmental standards. In 2012, when the Court of Appeal for Saskatchewan gave us the go-ahead, we delayed the build for other reasons. Some of our best, highly-skilled and trained workers (in Alberta) were no longer available to get the operation going in Saskatchewan. Our plans had to change. So, we proceeded with grain farming on nearby land until 2019, when we finally pulled the pin and began the earthwork for the feedlot,” he said.

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“Building a new team with COVID restrictions is difficult, but we intend to have animals on site next June to troubleshoot the new operation. We intend to have five to seven thousand head by fall 2021, and grow five thousand head per year, as the market allows, until we reach capacity.” Recognized for agricultural business innovation, Namaka Farms was awarded a grant through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership in July 2020, to conduct a study with a consortium of researchers led by Veterinary Agri-Health Services in Airdrie. “We always try to understand technology better, and do a lot of internal pen research to use it. We have a software system that enables our own pen trials. Essentially, we take scientific research and test it in feedlots and crop settings to see how and if it actually works. “Right now, we’re working with DVMs Mike Jelinski, Craig Dorin and Elizabeth Homerosky to see if there is a costeffective way to see what’s going on in the biome of feedlots. We are sampling pen environments looking for antibiotic resistance in animals,” Stuart said. “We want to use antimicrobials in a better, more targeted way. We want to find practical solutions. We’re at the beginning of a two-year study. By next summer, we should have a rough idea of the project’s endpoint. The project will be shared with the industry."

JANUARY 2021

When asked about other advancements Namaka Farms intends to implement in their new operation, Stuart said, “We use technology designed to maximize our efficiency. We chase down researchers to understand the latest developments. We take technology to the highest level to help us do our job better. University of Saskatchewan has researched the value of steaming barley before rolling it, so we’ve designed our new mill to do that. Also, with Strathmore being a five and a half hour drive from the new feedlot, we’ve put a lot of effort into applying remote technology that allows us to login anytime to review the mill, bunkhouse, etc.” Thankfully, these three Thiessens are keeping pace with their business expansion into Saskatchewan. When asked for specifics Stuart said, “My brother is the crop guy. I’m the feedlot guy. Dad is semi-retired but interested in both. We love making things happen. We love challenge in life. We love growing things and working with people who like to grow and take on new responsibilities. We enjoy what we do. It’s exciting.” When asked about the future Stuart affirmed, “COVID has delayed our plans and introduced tremendous uncertainty in the market. No one knows what kind of economy we are going to have coming

out of it. At some level, beef is a luxury item. The number of times people eat beef per week has to do with how well they are doing financially. “If there are enough feedlots in Saskatchewan, and overall numbers justify it in Canada, a plant will come. This country is well-positioned to be a growing supplier of beef for the world. Though the carbon tax does not align with growth and has the potential to preclude success, we have good labour, the right environment and high standards, which do encourage development. “In the long run, we chose Saskatchewan for its advantages: reasonably-priced land, an over-supply of grain, a strong provincial spirit of support and good people. Big picture? Everyone sees it’s win-win to support ag.”

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When Beef Business reached out to Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association for a comment, President Chad Ross replied, “We are very pleased to hear that things are progressing for Namaka Farms. Their modern cattle feeding operation is a significant investment which should add to many Saskatchewan-produced products, cattle being one. Saskatchewan has many advantages suited to cattle feeding and we look forward to seeing Namaka Farms succeed in our province.”B

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NUTRITION Your Top Five Questions about Mineral Labels Answered Logan Williams, M.Sc., P.Ag., Ruminant Nutritionist Feeding minerals to cattle is critical; the presence or absence of minerals in a diet can dramatically hinder or enhance your bottom line. Research has proven that herds fed a quality mineral program have tighter calving intervals, faster return to estrus, improved herd health and better response to vaccines. It isn’t just the science that demonstrates this, producers have observed these effects firsthand as well. But many customers we speak with are confused by what’s on the label. This can mean minerals are either fed incorrectly or are treated as an afterthought. In addition, there are many different products on the market which can make it challenging to figure out which one is right for you and your operation. As a nutritionist, these are some of the most frequently asked questions I hear as a nutritionist about minerals and their labels. Why do some labels say I can feed the mineral-free choice, while others say I have to mix it with grain? If you look at the name of the products, you will see that some say “mineral” while others say “premix.” A mineral has been registered, meaning the feed company has submitted an application to Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), and CFIA has deemed it to be nutritionally-sound to offer free choice. As such, if the product is called a mineral, it does not require mixing directions be included on the label. Premixes have not been registered; therefore, they require mixing directions on the label, and the label cannot recommend free-choice feeding, legally. This does not mean premixes are of lower nutritional quality, they simply have not been registered. Nutritionists have several reasons for not registering a premix. For example, a premix may be a custom

Mineral A

Mineral B

Feeding Rate 100 g/day

Feeding Rate 75 g/day

Label Rate

Amount Provided Per Day*

Label Rate

Amount Provided Per Day*

Calcium

16%

16 g

21%

16 g

Copper

3,050 mg/kg

305 mg

3,200 mg/kg

240 mg

Vitamin A

750,000 IU/kg

75,000 IU

1,000,000 IU/kg

75,000 IU

Nutrient

* Multiply label rate by feeding rate Table 1. A comparison of minerals with different feeding rates.

formula developed for a single customer with expected sales not justifying the cost of registration, or the premix may be medicated. The nutrients of this medicated premix are the same as this registered mineral. Why is the medicated version a premix? In Canada, aside from a small handful of specific mineral products medicated with Bovatec, registered minerals may not contain medications. Therefore, two products may be nutritionally-identical; however, if one contains a medication such as Rumensin, it cannot be registered as a mineral while the non-medicated one can. My vet says I need a mineral with 1,000,000 units of vitamin A. What do you have for me? And this product has more copper in it than this other one, so it must provide more copper to my herd, right? Whether it be a mineral or a premix, the label will include a long list of nutrients. Macro minerals such as calcium and phosphorous are reported as a percent of the premix because they are required by animals in larger amounts. Micro minerals such as copper and zinc are reported on the label as milligrams per kilogram (mg per kg), because they are required in more minute levels. Vitamin levels are reported

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as international units per kilogram. You will notice all of these units are rates, not absolute amounts. There is a saying that "cattle eat amounts and not percentages," and this is what that saying is referring to. Without knowing a feeding rate, the levels on the label do not give the full story. Why is this important? To calculate the daily intake of a particular nutrient, you have to multiply the concentration of the nutrient as listed on the label by the feeding rate or expected intake. For example, if the product has 16 per cent calcium, and the feeding rate is 100 grams per day, then each day the mineral is providing 100 g x 16% = 16 g of calcium (Table 1). Depending on feeding rate, a mineral with 750,000 IU/kg vitamin A can provide the same amount as a mineral with 1,000,000 IU/kg vitamin A (Table 1). A product with 3,050 mg/kg copper can actually provide more copper than a product with 3,200 mg/kg copper, if the feeding rate of the second product is lower (Table 1). To compare two products properly, you have to look at both label values of the nutrients and feeding rate. If you are not confident in your math, contact your feed specialist and they will give you a breakdown. They should also be able to give you a summary of how that product matches up with cattle requirements. continued on page 44

JANUARY 2021

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NUTRITION Mineral Labels cont. from pg. 42 My premix label says I need to mix it with potassium chloride. Do I need to buy some? All Canadian feed labels must be prepared according to Canadian Feeds Regulations. Within these regulations is a table outlining the minimum and maximum nutrient levels allowable in animal diets. However, there is an odd thing about the requirements in this table for cattle and horses; they consider nutrients coming from the commercial-feed plus grain, but not forage. As forage makes up the majority of cattle diets in many operations, this can cause some kinks.

The regulations require us to meet a minimum level of nutrients that can be found in adequate (or in some cases, such as potassium, excessive), levels in forages; therefore, we don’t want to provide extra in the premix. A way around that is to add mixing directions on the label. Thankfully, the feed industry is working with CFIA to update these regulations. In the meantime, if you see directions like this on your premix, contact your feed specialist to see if it is necessary. How can I tell if a mineral is chelated? Chelated trace minerals are minerals attached to a small protein to improve bioavailability. It is good practice to feed chelates pre-breeding, pre-calving,

prior to stressful life events or when water quality is poor. It is not always apparent from a label whether a mineral is chelated; it isn’t required to state it, nor is it common practice. Your best bet is to contact your feed specialist for clarification. It is also a good idea to ask which trace minerals are chelated, and what proportion of each is chelated, as both of these can vary. There are a lot of good mineral programs available. While it can sometimes seem as though feed labels are written for the government and not the producer who will be using it, don’t be put off by confusing labels. If you are still uncertain, reach out to your feed specialist. We are here to answer your questions. B

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JANUARY 2021

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NUTRITION Nutritional Analysis of Polycrops Alexis DeCorby, Livestock and Feed Extension Specialist As ranchers explore ways to extend the grazing season and maximize land productivity, polycrops have become increasingly popular. A polycrop refers to multiple forage species grown together, often including a cereal, legume and brassica. These blends range in complexity, sometimes exceeding 10 species. The flexibility of the blend’s mixture and harvest timing results in inconsistencies for a nutritional book value for polycrops, making feed testing extremely important. Research indicates that polycrops can pose potential nutritional challenges, including sulphur and nitrate concentrations and total fat. Nitrates occur when a stress event, such as frost, hail or extreme heat, causes the plant to lose its ability to function properly. As a result, nitrates accumulate in the leaves and stem. In some cases, the plant can recover and nitrates dissipate. If the plant is dying, nitrates will remain. Since polycrops often grow later into the year, a killing frost is a common stress event. Oilseeds and cereals are more likely to accumulate nitrates, relative to grasses and legumes. Less than 0.5 per cent of nitrates on a dry matter basis is considered safe. Taking a representative subsample of the forage, and testing it, gives a baseline for management. Tactics for managing high nitrates include short-term grazing, cross fencing and supplemental feed. Sulphur toxicity often occurs when there is a combination effect between feed and water. Many areas of Saskatchewan have elevated sulphates in the water. The addition of sulphur in the feed can cause serious health effects. On a dry matter basis, the sulphur concentration in a ration should not exceed 0.4 per cent. Plants that commonly accumulate sulphur are canola, mustard and kochia. If the polycrop blend has these forages, a feed test should be done evaluating the sulphur content, in addition to testing the

water. Signs of sulphur toxicity include visual colour changes to hair coats, poor fertility rates, and in extreme cases, polioencephalomalacia (PEM), commonly known as polio. Fat, while a great way to increase the energy content of the diet, can cause complications for ruminants. Excess fat coats the forages and may kill rumen bacteria that would otherwise digest fibre. This leads to reduced digestibility and reduced productivity. Canola and mustard are commonly high in fat with a safe inclusion level being four to five per cent of the diet. In the fall of 2020, samples were taken at four polycrop sites. In comparing the sites, there were notable differences. Firstly, there were several applications. Some producers planned to swath graze, while others made silage. Given differences in the time of maturity at cutting, we would expect nutritional differences. Secondly, there were also polycrop blend differences, which may cause nutritional differences as well. Selected nutrient values are shown in the chart above.

winter through to spring. Each crop had limitations. The Minton and Rhein sites both had high nitrate levels, meaning the crop couldn’t be grazed safely without management and the addition of a supplement. The Rhein site also had elevated sulphur levels and was on the high end for fat. Three of the four sites had suitable energy levels to be fed in the late part of pregnancy (approximately 60 per cent TDN), but intakes may be limited based on the neutral detergent fibre content. Polycrops are a great way to extend the grazing season and to utilize forages to increase protein and energy. Ultimately, their use will depend on the growing conditions and feed test. These crops still need to be managed to ensure that individual animal needs are met, but there is potential to incorporate them into a winter plan, successfully. B For more information on this topic or to speak with a Ministry of Agriculture livestock and feed extension specialist, please contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

Looking at the data from the four sites, there was no simple solution that would meet the animal’s nutritional needs all

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JANUARY 2021

NUTRITION Awareness and Analysis Are Winning the Battle Against Mycotoxins Jeff Gaye If you are in one of the regions that has been experiencing some dry years, you might think you can relax a bit about ergot and other mycotoxins in your feed.

is bad—Manitoba’s bad or Saskatchewan’s bad. It’s unpredictable based on the weather or what people are seeding,” he said.

Not so, says Barry Blakley, Professor of Veterinary Toxicology at University of Saskatchewan.

Ergot is the most common problem, with vomitoxin a distant second with about half as many instances. Other mycotoxins were “a one-off here and there,” Blakley said.

There are several variables that can affect the presence and the concentration of mould-related toxins in a feed supply, he says, and weather is just one of them. In fact, he is seeing a high number of tests coming back with elevated levels of ergot. Of 700 tests in a year, Blakley said the lab has returned more than 100 with ergot levels over 1,000 parts per billion. “It does vary from year to year. Alberta’s bad this year and next year someone else

While most grasses flower for a day or so, rye and triticale can flower over a couple of weeks. Brome grass growing in roadside ditches is another major source, and a serious problem because it contaminates the outer edges of crop fields.

“If you were going to focus on two mycotoxins, ergot mycotoxins and the vomitoxin or that group would be the ones to focus on.”

Keeping ditch grasses cut is an important preventive measure. When moulds contaminate the crops on the edges of fields, it becomes that much harder to assess a feed supply’s level of contamination.

Grass crops are the species affected— peas, pulses and alfalfa are not affected by the toxin-producing moulds. Rye and triticale are among the most susceptible crops, because the mould attacks the grass plant during the flowering stage.

“Because the centre of the field is low and the outside is high, representative sampling is a real challenge on this,” Blakley said. “You can sample all you want and it’s a guideline, it’s a red flag, but you may have underestimated the number.” continued on page 50

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JANUARY 2021

NUTRITION Mycotoxins cont. from pg. 48 Crop rotation, introducing nonsusceptible crops for two or three years after a contamination is found, is effective for eliminating ergot. Another good technique is the nearly-forgotten practice of having a field lie fallow for a season. “If you have ergot in the field, if you grind it in and harrow the field and so forth, it goes into the soil and the bugs in the soil break down the ergot sclerotia and they don’t infest the next year,” Blakley said. “Summer fallowing became almost a thing of the past 10 or 20 years ago, we don’t do it anymore. So the ergot says, ‘Oh lovely. I’m just going to grow every year, and every year it’s going to get a little worse.’” It’s not just crops that are affected. Blakely said the contamination is spreading into native grasslands, causing additional problems. “Obviously, once they get into the native

grasses, you’ve got a real problem because you can’t just say, ‘well, we’re going to rotate the crop this year.’ It’s not going to work. And so it is either you plow up the native pasture or you don’t,” he said. “Some would say, ‘well, we’ll spray it with fungicides.’ And that’s hit-and-miss too, if you’re not spraying at the right time of year. And whenever it rains, you’re going to have a problem with that. So it’s quite a big variable.” The science around testing is still evolving. Blakely said the method of counting sclerotia in a litre of feed is not reliable because some are larger than others, and some produce more toxins than others. Recent research also shows that a weight-based analysis doesn’t show a strong correlation to the amount of toxin in a sample. “We encourage people to do the analytical thing, that’s the actual concentration of the chemicals in there,” Blakley said.

The variation in the less-precise methods can make a big difference in the safety of the feed. In the counting method, a one-litre sample is normally considered contaminated if there are 10 sclerotia. Blakley said five per litre is a better, but still imprecise, standard. Weight comparison is also flawed. “Twenty or 30 years ago we didn’t have all the fancy equipment to do this [analysis]. So you counterweighed it and the standard at Canadian Food Inspection Agency was 0.1 to 0.3 per cent, and that’s a little high,” Blakley said. “Most of the feedlots are trying to stay under 0.04 per cent, so from that point of view it’s an issue. And I can tell you that at 0.3, you’re going to probably have an issue. So the data is a little outdated there, but it’s the best they had at the time.” Early in the new year, Prairie Diagnostic Services (PDS) expects to have an online mycotoxin calculator available on its website. Producers will be able to punch continued on page 52

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JANUARY 2021

NUTRITION Mycotoxins cont. from pg. 50 in numbers from their diagnostic reports and get information on mycotoxin concentrations and how that applies against the standard for different species of livestock. “If you actually send in an analysis and you get a report back, it should say on the bottom of the report, if you require more interpretation you can either call me or you can try this mycotoxins calculator. All you do is punch in your concentrations and what percent of the ration, what you’re feeding it to and it’ll tell you the number,” Blakley said. The advances in feed sample analysis, and the uptake among producers, have led to fewer clinical cases of illness due to mycotoxins. Outbreaks are usually in the winter, when more animals are on feed. And June crops from wet years tend to carry greater risk. But the presence of mould does not necessarily correlate to the presence of toxins. This is especially true of mycotoxins other than ergot. “The best example I can give on that is some years they swath their fields, and it rains. It snows and it melts,” Blakley said. “And by the time they get on the field, it’s rotten as can be. Mould, mould, mould all over the place. We’ve analyzed lots of those and rarely do we find mycotoxins in that.

legs, ears and tails causes them to slough, “which is not good as an animal welfare issue,” he said.

drawback to using the binding agents is that they can also bind to vitamins, depriving the cattle of essential nutrients.

Gangrene is irreversible.

Analyzing feed for mycotoxin contamination is a relatively-recent development in livestock production, and it’s an ever-expanding part of PDS’s workload.

“You don’t have any trouble picking it up either. Their leg sloughs or the hoof sloughs usually. “But early stages of that, when it’s after a few days on this new feed, the animal’s hind end is affected. It looks like they’re walking on their tiptoes, they’re walking on eggshells kind of thing, tiptoeing around,” he said. “It’s a sign that they can have some pain sensation. Still, it hasn’t been totally destroyed yet. If you take them off the ergot feed right now, they’ll make an uneventful recovery. But once the necrosis sets in and the gangrene is there, it’s irreversible.” Blakley describes three ways of dealing with a contaminated feed supply. If it’s grain, you can colour-sort it or densitysegregate to get rid of the ergot particles. This is reasonably successful, but pricey, he says. Diluting the feed can also be successful. And adding binders, based on clay or activated charcoal, can also work. A

“And then we get another sample that looks pretty well free from mould and it’s loaded with mycotoxins. So the correlation between looking at the feed for mould, and the mycotoxins, is really poor.” There are three typical signs of mycotoxin-related illness in cattle. Of these, two—central nervous system agitation and spontaneous abortion—are far more common in United States than in Canada. “But the one with the two forms we do see here is the gangrenous form,” Blakley said. Constriction of the vessels in the

“Ten years ago we didn’t even do it, and about 2015 everything blew up,” Blakley said. Now it represents about 40 per cent of their toxicology workload, “and that includes all the minerals and the vitamins and a whole bunch of other nasty little chemicals and so forth. So it’s a major issue.” The lower frequency of illness is probably a result of more feed testing, he said. “Analyzing your feed for mycotoxins has now become a gold standard, whereas 10 or 20 years ago, no one did it. “The number of sick animals has declined dramatically. We were getting calls every day about how many herds of cattle were affected. Now we get the occasional call, not many. So that’s made a difference from the producers’ point of view,” he said. “It’s one hundred bucks well spent.” B

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JANUARY 2021

NUTRITION Transitioning to the Feedlot Craig Belknap It’s that time of year when spring calves will be weaned and new cattle will be entering stocker and feedlot operations. What you do in the next hours and days will have a tremendous impact on how well those calves perform while in your facilities. Getting them started on the right nutrition program will significantly impact both their health and performance, directly impacting your profitability. Here’s how to help cattle make a smooth transition to their new environment: 1) Try to minimize stress at arrival by creating an optimal environment and allowing cattle to rest prior to processing. During the receiving period, cattle undergo a change in diet and environment; are hauled and commingled; have feed and water withheld; might also be vaccinated; and may be implanted, among other things. All of this causes disturbance in the rumen. The ultimate results of these stressors are: • Severely disrupted rumen bacterial balance • Reduced rumen bacterial populations to only 10-25 per cent of normal • Decreased rumen fermentative ability by 85-90 per cent

New arrivals may eat poorly for the first few days until they become accustomed to their new surroundings, their new pen mates and a new ration. Cattle can also suffer significant weight loss, losing more than half a per cent of bodyweight for every 100 miles of transport. Animals that lose more than seven per cent of bodyweight are at a high-stress level and at higher disease risk; this can also have a negative effect on rumen function. To reduce stress, avoid processing cattle immediately upon arrival. A good rule of thumb is to let calves rest one hour for each hour of time

they spent on the truck, before they are run through a chute for processing. Be sure to keep them comfortable in a pen that protects them from the elements; the pen should also be clean, dry and wellbedded. Have a sufficient supply of fresh water available and located where cattle can easily fit. Don’t start the animals on grain within the first 24 hours, and make long-stem grass hay and palatable feed readily available to get their rumen going again. You should also give cattle about a foot of bunk space per head. A lot of yards will try to process within the first 24 hours. One of the goals at processing is to vaccinate cattle so their acquired immune system can mount an immune response to the vaccine and ultimately build antibodies that help protect them from sickness. This is an effective strategy for most cattle. However, some research suggests producers might be better off with a delayed vaccination program if the animal’s immune system is not ready to mount an effective immune response to the vaccine. This delayed program entails waiting for around 14 days after arrival, as improved health and performance outcomes have been reported in highrisk stocker calves using this strategy. The obvious downside to this program is that there is a 14-day window right after arrival when cattle may have limited protection from a challenge. Nonetheless, if you have high-risk calves, you may want to consult with your veterinarian about this option. 2) Get the rumen functioning and acclimated to a new ration. Consider using a drench product that supports active rumen microbial growth and efficiency Getting cattle acclimated to a new ration is critical. Start them off on long-stem hay to get the rumen going again. The primary goal is to get cattle eating and to

keep them healthy. You’re not trying to maximize gain, but rather you’re trying to ensure consistent intake of a nutrientdense diet. Work with your nutritionist and take cattle up slowly. Depending on their history, background and size, this will dictate how quickly you can take cattle onto feed. Some cattle must go slower, some can go faster, but ultimately, work with your nutritionist to decide. Keep in mind, it’s important to hedge on the side of caution. Be sure to feed cattle twice a day, and keep an eye on those who aren’t coming up to the bunk to eat—they are the higher risk. In order to get rumen function moving in the right direction, start at processing by drenching calves with an immune health support product. Use a product designed to balance rumen microbiota and optimize the rumen environment, naturally. An oral drench is usually a one-time deal and administered when cattle are processed that first day. Drenches are rapidly gaining in popularity, as they are easy to use and relatively inexpensive, adding very little to processing costs. There is incredible value in incorporating a drench. Not only can it provide a way to get vital nutrients that will help jump-start rumen microbes and rumen activity, but it can also provide immune benefits to keep cattle on a higher state of health and drive cattle to the bunk, especially those who are more hesitant. This is where they will get their energy, protein and other essential nutrients. In the end, a robust rumen function translates into healthier, better-performing cattle. 3) Create a ration that allows time for cattle to transition to a new diet and include ingredients that support immune function New arrivals may eat poorly for the first few days until they become accustomed to their new surroundings, their new pen continued on page 56

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2021

NUTRITION Transitioning cont. from pg. 54 mates and a new ration. Abrupt changes in feed such as introducing too much grain too quickly or putting cattle out into lush pastures can disrupt rumen function. Feed good-quality grass and a transition starter ration with products that stimulate rumen function and support active immunity. Including an immune-support product in the ration will help feed microbes in the rumen and restore the

microbial population. This can help with the consistency of feed intake, optimal rumen, and overall health and rumen function. The drench and the immune support product are a one-two punch to the program. A drench is the original dose, then the immune ingredients keep that healthy rumen balanced and functioning for optimal intake and performance moving forward. All incoming cattle will experience stress of some kind. This stress significantly compromises the microbial population

in the rumen, as well as depresses rumen function. Steps taken to lessen stress in newly-received cattle, as well as to help them recuperate, will pay extra in terms of improved health and performance. By minimizing arrival stress, stimulating the microbial population in the rumen through a drench, and feeding a nutrientdense diet containing immune-support ingredients, a smoother transition can be made to get cattle started on the right track. B

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Between now and December 31st, 2021, active Members of SSGA will receive a $1,250 Young’s Equipment Gift Card for Parts and/or Service at any Young’s Equipment location with the purchase of any of the following new units: - Case IH MFD Loader Tractor (60-185 HP) - Case IH RB565 Round Baler - NDE Vertical Mixer - Highline CFR Bale Processor

In addition to that, we will donate $250 per unit sold to Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association to support their formidable cause.

NUTRITION Eleven Ways to Avoid Feed Waste this Winter Beef Cattle Research Council www.BeefResearch.ca Harvesting, storing and delivering a beef herd’s winter rations are the largest expense for most operations. Even small improvements in a winter feed system can result in significant feed cost savings.

Top layer spoiled silage in a bunk. Photo credit: Les Halliday

Whether a winter feed system uses a silage bunk or pit, baled forage or swath grazing, significant feed waste losses can happen. Spoilage, mould, trampling and weather are just a few examples of how losses can occur.

Here are Les’s top tips to reduce silage waste:

• Use balers with knives Les says coarse chopping allows for tighter packing of the forage in the bale resulting in less air and 10 -15 per cent higher density, which means fewer bales to wrap. Chopped grass in baled silage will also undergo a faster, more-efficient fermentation than in regular-baled silage. At feed out, cattle are able to access chopped silage more easily, resulting in higher intake and less waste; however, Les cautions that if bales are too tight, it can hinder cattle from physically eating the forage, and cause them to tire out.

• When wrapping silage bales in rows, ensure bales are consistent in size and shape

In addition to the expense of the feed lost, cow-calf operations can experience significant reproductive losses from spoiled or low-quality feed such as cows failing to rebreed the following breeding season and poor calf performance.

Wrapping bales that are the same size will reduce large air pockets that can form when bales are not consistent. He also strongly suggests, “If you’re going to try to cut your costs anywhere, don’t let it be your plastic.”

If your feed test results have left you scratching your head, visit www.beefresearch.ca/ feedtesting for instructions and a custom web tool that’ll help evaluate your feed test results based on the group of cattle you plan to feed it to.

The plastic wrap around silage bales creates a barrier from oxygen that is critical for good silage production. Without proper coverage, even a tiny hole (such as from rodents or barn cats), can lead to spoilage from mould.

Maintaining a smooth bunk face can reduce additional losses. Photo credit: Les Halliday

Double sealing or oxygen barrier plastic have shown positive results to reduce spoilage in bunks.

• Maintain a smooth silage bunk face to reduce secondary spoilage

An uneven bunk face, caused by feed removal, can result in a significant amount of air (oxygen) infiltration, which wakes up the microbes that begin to use up nutrients (sugars, silage acids, and proteins), which leads to the production of carbon dioxide, ammonia and other gases. This can also lead to the growth of moulds, yeasts and certain pathogenic bacteria. How to Reduce Waste in Dry Hay According to Duane McCartney, a retired forage-beef systems research scientist in Lacombe, Alberta, limiting waste in dry hay also starts in the field.

• If storing chopped silage in a Feed testing can be the first step toward using stored feed efficiently. Once a plan is in place based on the feed test results, optimizing the consumption of the feed by limiting spoilage and wastage is a logical next step. How to Limit Silage Waste “Reducing waste in silage starts in the field,” says Les Halliday, Ph.D., Beef Specialist at Prince Edward Island Department of Agriculture and Land.

bunker system, packing density and a tight air seal is key Les says higher packing density can be accomplished using a silage compaction roller which can increase packing density by as much as an additional two pounds of dry matter per cubic foot.

• Double seal bunks or use oxygen barriers

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Silage compaction roller can increase bunkpacking density. Photo credit: Les Halliday

continued on page 60 JANUARY 2021

MONDAY, MARCH 8TH, 2021 • 1:00 PM CST • AT THE RANCH • OUNGRE, SK h

18t

Offering 90 Red & Black Purebred Simmental & Percentage Bulls

Your source for Proven and Progressive Genetics

KWA 63H: Interstate X Active Duty

KWA 54H: Steel X Red Rock

KWA 163H: Mountain X 132Y

KWA 9H: Roosevelt X Western

KWA 154H: Roosevelt X Red Eye

KWA 228H: Steel X Riddler

KWA 151H: Statement X Red Rock

KWA 179H: One of a Kind X Capone

KWA 87H: Vegas X Odyssey

These quality bulls along with others will sell March 2021

Farm & Ranch Ltd.

The Ashwort hs

PO Box 53 • Oungre, SK • S0C 1Z0 Kelly: 306 861-2013 • Kyle: 306 861-9352 jashworth@sasktel.net •

@ashworthfarmandranch

NUTRITION Feed Waste cont. from pg. 58

â&#x20AC;˘ When cutting hay, set your mower on the widest setting

Whether it is chopped silage or round bales rolled onto snow, feed losses can range from 23-26 per cent. Duane suggests a portable feed bunk can be a better option to reduce wasted feed.

This will enable shorter drying time, lower respiration losses, higher sugar content and more-digestible energy. It also improves fermentation and reduces the likelihood of rain damage.

swaths for the cattle may also need to be addressed. To open up areas in times of heavy snow, a tractor may be driven down the swath or a blade used to move snow off the swath. It is also important to provide adequate shelter, either through natural shelter or portable windbreaks, to prevent cattle from bedding down in the feed. Regardless of the style of winter feeding, continually working to reduce feed waste and minimize the loss of nutrients protects your farmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s large investment in stored forage. B Learn More:

â&#x20AC;˘ Swath grazingÂ can be an effective

method of feeding cattle; however, it requires planning to minimize feed waste.Â

â&#x20AC;˘ When storing bales, arrange them to allow sufficient air flow

Where the bales touch, moisture can accumulate which can lead to spoilage losses. Duane also suggests that bales are stored in a well-drained area.

â&#x20AC;˘ Assess any leftover hay and

straw bales that may need to be rearranged to ensure there is adequate air space around all the bales

Duane suggests cattle be fenced into a small section that can be cleaned up, ideally within three days. Not fencing off sections for swath grazing can result in an unbalanced diet and risk of acidosis. The accessibility of the

Calculating feed waste example www.beefresearch.ca/resources/ recordkeeping/level-two.cfm#waste Stored Forages www.beefresearch.ca/research-topic.cfm/ stored-forages-87 Extended Grazing www.beefresearch.ca/research-topic.cfm/ extended-grazing-45

CALVING EQUIPMENT

Otherwise the summer rain will creep into the bales and spoilage will result.

â&#x20AC;˘ When feeding forages in round

bale feeders, ensure each cow has enough space at the feeder to reduce competition and minimize trampled feed Duane says he has observed the least waste in tapered-cone style, round bale feeders.

â&#x20AC;˘ Avoid feeding stored forages

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| ÂŠBEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2021

27th Annual Bull Sale

Saturday, March 6, 2021 - 1:00 pm

At the Ranch, Carievale, SK (heated sales arena)

180 Bulls Sell Herd Bulls Designed by Ranchers for Ranchers

Red & Red Blaze Simmental Bulls

50 20

Polled Yearlings Coming Two Year Olds

• All bulls born, bred & developed right here at MRL • Large sire groups 1/2 and 3/4 brothers Penfulls of uniform bulls in every category • Sight Unseen Buyer’s Program (Can’t make it sale day, give us a call. Almost 25% of our bulls sell SUS. Quality in Quanity and 95% go to Many repeat customers year after year.) Commercial Cowb oys. • Semen evaluated and guaranteed • Free Delivery in Western Canada. Cost sharing to the East Black & Black Blaze 50 Polled Yearlings (Our trailer is most likely going right past your gate.) Polled Simmental Bulls 20 Coming Two Year Olds • Sound rugged Bulls developed on a high roughage ration (Born, bred and fed to work and stay working) • Extra age bulls ready to cover some ground. Offering 50 May/June coming Two Year Olds and January/February born yearlings. • Genetically engineered to excel for the commercial cattleman. Calving ease, performance and packed full of maternal traits.

• Affordable Bulls •

“THE BULL BUSINESS” IS WHAT WE DO! Supplying Quality Herdbulls to progressive Cattlemen for over 40 years! For over 40 years we have been committed to and focused on providing herd bulls that will excel for commercial cowboys. Over the years we have listened to our customers to provide herd bulls that work in today’s industry under real world ranching conditions. Our breeding program isn’t influenced by the showring or the flavour of the month but rather genetics that work for everyday cattlemen who make their living in the cow business. Herd bulls that will sire calves with moderate birth weights, explosive growth, structural soundness with eye appeal and packed full of maternal power. Extra age bulls Jan/Feb born yearlings and check out the large group of May/June coming two year olds for 2021. Sound, rugged herd bulls that will cover some ground. No fluff, no puff. The top 180 bulls from our highly regarded cowherd of almost 800 mother cows and the most elite herd bulls in the business. Come see for yourself what keeps the commercial cowboys coming back year after year. Give us a call, text or email for a full color catalogue and bull video.

Plan to come view the offering on farm before sale day!

Red & Black Angus Bulls

30 15

Polled Yearlings Coming Two Year Olds

Red & Black Simmental & Angus Bulls April/May Coming Two Year Olds

SCIENCE AND PRODUCTION LSS Team Effort 2020-2021 Jason Pollock, Chief Executive Officer, Livestock Services of Saskatchewan A look back at a team effort and a look forward at whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to come Another fall run is behind us, in an unparalleled year in history: 2020. Throughout time, certain numbers have become synonymous with certain things, both good and bad, i.e., one, seven, 13, 99, 666, etc. As I reflect on the past year, I wonder what the number 2020 will come to represent in the annals of history. Throughout the course of 2020, many Livestock Services of Saskatchewan (LSS) protocol adjustments were put in place to ensure there was no disruption to the flow of commerce. Especially during the busiest time of the livestock industry, these past few months, as hundreds of thousands of animals were marketed. Our inspection team was present and able to fulfil their role throughout the past year

despite all the various changes and alterations to businesses across the province. I want to thank them for their dedicated service to the industry over the past year, and for the many accommodations they made to carry out their duties. As a producer, I rely on their service to provide me with confidence that I am using a secure commercial system that has appropriate checks and balances to protect me as a seller. As the fall sale statistics continue to roll in, the number of marketed cattle appears to be in a slight decline. We still have a quarter to go in our fiscal year, so fall price fluctuations and weather events may have only served to delay sales to the winter months, which may bring those numbers back up to annual averages. We are hopeful some of the larger

agriculture-based initiatives, directed towards increasing capacity in the feeding sector, serve to boost the annual number averages back up and reverse the downward pressure. Saskatchewan remains an ideal location to produce some of the best beef on the planet, sustainably. Missing cattle numbers and other ownership anomalies throughout the fall were typical of past years. I thank the inspectors for their diligence in getting the vast majority of these instances resolved, satisfactorily. In certain cases, there was a need to involve the RCMP. I would like to thank the RCMP for their continued and renewed efforts in supporting the livestock industry in Saskatchewan in 2020. We have seen a new level of involvement and effort continued on page 64

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SCIENCE AND PRODUCTION LSS Team Effort cont. from pg. 62 from them in the livestock files, which has led to certain cases proceeding to court. This assistance is a critical part of the overall value to industry that legislation, inspection, withholds and data management functions play in protecting the commercial transactions of our producers and dealers. Many transactions cross provincial borders, so we are thankful for our good relationships with Livestock Identification Services and the RCMP in Alberta for their assistance too. As most producers agree, the paper manifest and associated paper permit, which allow out-of-province travel for livestock, are critical components to the overall system that enables LSS to carry out its mandate. A manifest is required for movement distances (by road), greater than 50kms, and anytime animals are transported for sale purposes regardless

of distance. LSS provides these manifests for producers’ benefit; they can be obtained from your local LSS inspector. As we continue to move into a future where better tools are available for managing data and movement, LSS will be a part of the overall progression towards digital options. Many components of the paper-based system need to be converted over time to allow for full-digital replacement of paper, which is considered a future goal for the industry. There is general agreement the volume of data required to meet future regulatory requirements will necessitate a digital solution. Of course, this will be a progression and take considerable time. LSS continues to prepare itself for the transition. Over the course of 2021, we will be rolling out our producer portal that provides access to a variety of digital information and assistance to producers. Some

features of the portal will be ready and accessible day-one, while others will be available when industry and government legislation allows and is ready for it. This concept is not new; the functionality has existed for some time. In 2021, the portal will enable producers to access their data and manage their information securely, in a modern digital framework. As we learn and grow together through this process, we will be able to introduce further enhancements and efficiencies. We will also be equipping our inspectors to assist in providing information to interested producers. Look for information and updates on how to participate in the coming year through our website lssc.ca and Beef Business Magazine. We look forward to supporting producers to begin this transition in 2021. B

150 Two-Year-Old Bulls Available Today! Private Pr ivate Treaty Sale February 2021 500+ Yearling Bulls on Test

Office (406) 584-7520 • Lee (406) 584-7546

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| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

JANUARY 2021

Diamond M Ranch

10th Annual Bull & Female Sale

February 14, 2021 At the Ranch, West of Estevan, SK

Plus!

17 Purebred Bred Heifers & 16 Sim/Angus Bred Heifers Right from the Heart of the Herd!

Diamond M Ranch

Jordan, Amber, Sasha, Sierra & Wyatt Mantei PO Box 87, Estevan, SK S4A 2A2 Ph: (306) 634-2971 Jordan’s cell: (306) 421-1915 email: diamondmranch@sasktel.net

Located 1 1/2 miles west of Estevan on Hwy 39

• 40 coming Two Year Old Simmental and Simmental/Angus Bulls • All the bulls come from many generations of red or black genetics • Performance and calving ease bulls • Semen tested and guaranteed Sale Managed By

306-933-4200 info@tbarc.com www.tbarc.com View the catalogue online www.Buyagro.com

“Mature Bulls Designed for Today’s Cattlemen”

SCIENCE AND PRODUCTION Active Missing Livestock Files December 2020

Area missing from

Number Animal of head description

Mendham

Senlac

Brand description

Brand location

RCMP subdivision

Livestock Date reported Branch contact

Cows

Right rib

Leader

Swift Current 403-878-6694

Oct 24

Cows

Left rib

Unity

North Battleford 306-446-7404

Dec 03

Senlac

Calves

Left rib

Unity

North Battleford 306-446-7404

Dec 03

Jansen

Heifers

Right rib

Watrous

North Battleford 306-446-7404

Dec 12

Whitewood

Cows

Left hip

Broadview

Moosomin 306-435-4582

Nov 19

Whitewood

Calves

Left hip

Broadview

Moosomin 306-435-4582

Nov 19

Information provided by Livestock Services of Saskatchewan

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JANUARY 2021

ASSOCIATION NEWS AND REPORTS A Report From Kelcy Elford President, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association happenings of the beef industry, and the sound of old friends catching up is invaluable.

With 2020 behind us, and a new year upon us, we’ve seen how resilient our industry is, and we know we’re the ones to keep it that way. A fresh year and perspective are just what we need. In agriculture, when times get tough, we work harder. Persistence wins the day. Without question, since last March, our province, country and world have changed at an alarming speed. COVID has affected our industry, operations and families causing psychological and financial strain, and wide-spread market uncertainty. One of the things Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) members, and everyone for that matter, look forward to the most to get through the tough times is the chance to get together, reconnect, make new connections, maybe even break bread and share laughter. In 2020, that was noticeably absent. I want to touch on this in a few sentences, even though it could fill this magazine. Getting together is important, whether it’s Frontier Days—the break before haying, when brandings have wrapped up; SSGA’s Annual General Meeting—the break after calving is over; or an annual trip to Canadian Western Agribition—the break before the routine of winter sets in. The immeasurable value of getting together to swap ideas, get up-to-date on the

Through last year’s conversations and meetings, I noticed the tone was different; it was tense, tentative. It wasn’t just the floods in the north end of the province, the awful dry summer in the central portion and in the south, or the fact that feed was short and water was going bad. The fact that people needed people, but we couldn’t be there for one another inperson as much, weighed on us. If any of these things resonate with you, please call up that friend you’ve been thinking about. Get in your pickup and head out for an afternoon and park beside them for a chat. Remember: We’re all in it together. We had a busy fall run, with lots of (you guessed it), phone calls and Zoom meetings. We also voted and the Saskatchewan Party won a majority government. With that in mind, I would like to congratulate the Honourable Scott Moe on his re-election as Premier; the Honourable David Marit on his reappointment as Minister of Agriculture., and the Honourable Warren Kaeding on his appointment as Minister of Environment. I must say I like their plan for a strong province, which states: “We are facing the pandemic . . . will reopen the economy . . . build and recover together.” I agree with them; we are well-positioned to do all of these things. Some key projects we look forward to working closely on in 2021 include:

1. The renewal of our Species at

Risk Partnership on Agricultural Lands (SARPAL) funding for another three years; originally, Environment and Climate Change Canada awarded us $2.58 million to lead a voluntary, producer-driven project to conserve habitat for species at risk in Saskatchewan, but that grant ended in March 2020;

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

2. The renewal of our strategic plan,

which continues to link our vision to our mission, determine our objectives, tools and tactics, and guide our operations and priorities for the next three to five years; as well as

3. Making recommendations to

Minister Marit’s team on enhancement of the Western Livestock Price Insurance Program (WLPIP), with Chay Anderson taking on the task of representing SSGA on the committee. This program is a much-needed mechanism that can, at very least, cover income for the year. When 2003 rolled around, I would have liked to have had it available. And more recently when the market dipped, later in October and into November, having those 30-extracents insured made a difference.

In terms of business risk management programs, negotiations to enhance the AgriStability program are ongoing within the Ministry of Agriculture. Presently, Minister Marit is leading negotiations for Saskatchewan with an offer already on the table from the federal government. We all know the current program has been ineffective on the livestock side, but let me assure you, Minister Marit is doing all he possibly can to get a deal for Saskatchewan livestock producers that can work. Thankfully, for the most part, steer and bred heifer prices haven’t been too far off 2019’s prices. In other news, our charitable foundation and land trust, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation (SSGF), which we launched last January at our Semi-Annual General Meeting in Saskatoon, is really starting to come together. With Ray McDougald at the helm and the rest of the board working alongside him, the governance piece is not far from being completed and the working initiatives are not far behind. It took us several years continued on page 70

JANUARY 2021

ASSOCIATION NEWS AND REPORTS President 's Report cont. from pg. 68 to develop the foundation, and we’re very pleased to have it up and running. Its goals to conserve agricultural lands, advance education, relieve poverty and assist victims of disaster will support our industry and ensure agricultural land conservation for years to come. We also launched our annual Beef Drive to support Saskatchewan’s 32 food banks in November 2020, and so far, it’s been

another huge success. In the midst of the COVID pandemic, supporting our food banks is as important as ever. It’s the fifth year running that our members have donated Saskatchewan-grown beef in support of the provincial food banks and people in need. We set a goal to surpass 2019’s total by collecting more than 10,000 pounds in beef in addition to direct financial donations made by our members. Once again, Cargill Animal Nutrition and

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Health jumped on board as the Beef Drive sponsor, agreeing to match private cash donations up to $5,000. Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association also stepped up to support the effort by donating $10,000 last May, helping the food banks during the COVID lockdown. At the time of print, we calculated our Beef Drives to have rounded up nearly 35,000 pounds of ground beef for the Food Banks of Saskatchewan—a retail value of $175,000. The generosity of our industry is amazing to watch. Thank you one and all. Though we didn’t have our in-person Annual General Meeting in 2020, we are aiming for something a little different at our Semi-Annual Annual General Meeting on February 25, 2021—our most important fundraiser for the year. We’re holding a timed online auction with Direct Livestock Marketing Systems (DLMS) in conjunction with our meeting using a virtual platform (i.e., a live, interactive video conference). I think everyone will be impressed with this year’s donations, which are starting to roll in. If you can donate or bid, do it. In fact, I encourage both. On top of that, on-farm beef sales have been up this past year. Did you know, SSGA has a list of people selling their second-to-none beef products to consumers? Contact SSGA by telephone at (306) 757-8523 or by email at ssga@ sasktel.net to enter your operation onto the list or to get a copy and share it.

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Though the holiday season will be over when these notes make it to print, I hope everyone found the time to appreciate their blessings, focus on what is truly important, and is ready for a great 2021. B Remember: We’re all in it together.

Kelcy

Lazar Equipment Ltd. 520-9th Street West, Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan S9X 1Y4 https://lazarequipment.com/ 306-236-5222 © 2021 CNH Industrial America LLC. All rights reserved. New Holland is a trademark registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates.

JANUARY 2021

Change it Up... With a

Shorthorn 1st Annual

On Target Shorthorn Bull & Female Sale

March 6-8, 2021

DLMS Farm Gate Timed Auction

Yearling Bulls | Open Females | Genetics

Anwender Cattle Company Gary, Kim and Sadie Anwender Radville, SK (306)815-7878 (306)869-7038 gks.acc@outlook.com anwendercattlecompany.com Mosside Shorthorns Dr. Grayson Ross Jeff Ross Brandon, MB (204)851-2293 (204)573-2281 mossideshorthorns@gmail.com

Sales Management

Head For The Hills Shorthorns Dr. Christine Ewert-Hill Dr. Clarke Hill Redvers, SK (306)452-7867 christine.ewert@gmail.com

Darnell Fornwald (403)795-8030 Shay Martindale (780)812-4581 firstclasscattlemarketing.com farmgatetimedauctions.ca

JANUARY 2021

www.skstockgrowers.com | ÂŠBEEF BUSINESS | 71

ASSOCIATION NEWS AND REPORTS Director Profile: Jamie-Rae Pittman Kori Maki-Adair and Jensen, Jamie-Rae and Kayne run a mixed operation consisting of commercial cow-calf and grain production. Their cow herd is predominantly Red Angus base, using a combination of Charolais and Red Angus sires.

Cattle and grain producer, marketing pro and youth leader Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association would like to introduce Jamie-Rae Pittman as one our newest board directors and chair for Zone 7. Jamie-Rae, husband Kayne, son Trigg and daughters Joss and Wynn Pittman live west of Kyle, Saskatchewan, amidst a mixture of tame and native grass and farmlands with cereal and pulse crops. Before Saskatchewan’s call, Jamie-Rae grew up in central Alberta on a purebred Angus operation. Her husband Kayne grew up in Kyle on a mixed commercial cow-calf and grain operation.

In addition to their cattle and grain farm, Jamie-Rae has been involved in the marketing business for the past 14 years. She owns and operates Pittman Print Media from her home office where she works with agri-businesses and producers across North America to develop branding and print marketing products. Not fans of afternoon naps, she and her husband recently opened Southwest Ag & Auto Supply, which offers parts and supplies to meet ag and auto needs either in-store or by overnight shipping from their location on Railway Avenue in Kyle.

Jamie-Rae’s approach to life, family and business is simple. She says, “Agriculture is a lifelong-learning experience; we’re grateful to have many opportunities to connect with a diverse group of producers and agri-businesses, all who continue to contribute to our understanding and perspective.” “I’ve had the opportunity to be a mentor for the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association Young Leaders program a number of years ago. Additionally, I have been involved as a mentor through the Saskatchewan Angus Association’s mentorship program. Over the years, I have also been involved in initiating and serving a number of youth livestock programs, as well as a 4-H leader. I am very fortunate to have been able to work with youth in agriculture in many different capacities over the years. continued on page 74

Winter Welfare

When asked to describe the history of her family’s operation, she said, “We are fortunate to have extended families that are involved in the purebred business across many breeds, as well as in the commercial sector. We both enjoy working alongside our extended families when we are able, and experiencing many sides of the beef industry.” On a day-to-day basis, they work with Kayne’s parents Doug and Carol Pittman, and his brother Chad Pittman. Jamie-Rae and Kayne’s children Trigg, Joss and Wynn are very involved in their operation and keen livestock enthusiasts. Together with their own children, as well as Doug and Carol, Chad and nephews Haaken

Proper nutrition is critical to maintain the welfare of your herd. The age of cattle, stage of production, body condition and weather affect the nutrient requirements of beef cattle. Ensure your cattle have access to feed and water to support animal health at this important time of the year. If you have questions, call our Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377. saskatchewan.ca/livestock

JANUARY 2021

ASSOCIATION NEWS AND REPORTS when a community invests in their youth, it creates a domino effect that reaps unlimited benefits.”

Director Profile cont. from pg. 72 It has been the most impactful part of my involvement in the beef industry.” As a member, and now a board director, Jamie-Rae feels SSGA provides the opportunity to connect with producers across the province, and a way to serve the industry. “The industry faces many challenges; though, the challenge I feel the most equipped to contribute solutions towards is developing youth in the industry,” she says. “I would like to see SSGA develop a platform to engage youth and develop them. The commercial sector of the industry lacks leadership in the area of youth development. I see this as a critical issue. Commercial cow-calf producers are the bread and butter of the industry. Developing youth and retaining that talent is absolutely essential if we want to strengthen the industry right now, and in the future. In my experience,

SSGA warmly welcomes Jamie-Rae Pittman to its board of directors and

SSGA Meeting Notice

looks forward to achieving many more milestones with the help of her innovative ideas, endless energy and support for the livestock industry today, and moving into the future. B

Registration is now open! Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association’s Semi-Annual VIRTUAL Meeting February 25, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. Special feature: Riding for the Brand Fundraising Auction February 23-25, 2021

Please submit meeting resolutions by February 22

Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 | 306-757-8523 | ssga@sasktel.net Please donate sale items by February 1, to support SSGA’s most important fundraiser of the year. After February 1, please visit www.DLMS.ca to view the sale items and place your bids.

Visit www.skstockgrowers.com to register for this live, interactive video conference

14th Annual

Sun Country Shorthorn Sale

March 9th, 2021 - 1: 00 PM Johnstone Auction Mart, Moose Jaw, SK

In the past 13 years, we have sold herd bulls to purebred breeders in 7 provinces and 12 states, but we are most proud to have had over 90% of our bulls sell to commercial producers across Canada and the US. This sale offers thick made, easy fleshing breeding stock for the beef industry. A sampling of the type of bulls that will be offered: **ALSO SELLING A SELECT GROUP OF REPLACEMENT HEIFERS

HORSESHOE CREEK FARMS LTD. Grant & Chris Alexander Weyburn, SK 306-861-5504 horseshoecreek@sasktel.net www.horseshoecreekfarms.com

ROCKING L CATTLE CO.

Hector & Dylan Lamontagne Wawota, SK 306-739-2598 hj.lamontagne@sasktel.net www.rockinglcattleco.com

DIAMOND CREEK CATTLE CO. Rylan Knupp Weyburn, SK 306-861-1422 rylanknupp@gmail.com

Sale will be broadcast live at www.dvauction.com 74

JANUARY 2021

STEWARDSHIP Barn Swallows Can Be Useful Neighbours Shirley Bartz, Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan One of the harbingers of spring in Saskatchewan is the sight of a gracefully swooping bird with a gunmetal-blue back, a rust-coloured throat and belly, and a forked tail. Its song and calls range from melodic twitters to mechanical chatter, and its hunt for food is as entertaining as any circus acrobatics show. Barn swallows are usually admired for their agile flight as they hunt to feed their young and will take any insect they can scoop up. Although they prefer to optimize their foraging efforts by catching large-bodied insects, they will take anything from mosquitoes to dragonflies. Barn swallows have been observed feeding their nestlings 400 times in one day. Though an exact count will vary by location, a single hunting barn swallow will collect hundreds to thousands of insects per day. It’s no wonder that most people are happy to have these natural pest control units living in their yard. Saskatchewan is home to seven species of swallows that migrate into the province from overwintering grounds throughout Central and South America. They nest in trees, cliffs, culverts, under bridges or in old barns, and raise their young in tree cavities, excavated burrows, or nests constructed of grass and mouthfuls of mud, carefully molded into a cup or gourd-shaped enclosure.

wood. Their conspicuous mud nests do not stick to metal or vinyl siding as well as they stick to wood and concrete. Removing or replacing older wooden buildings with metal or plastic building materials has made it harder for barn swallows to find suitable places to build their nests. As a result of this downward trend in barn swallow numbers, the Canadian government followed the recommendation of the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), and listed barn swallows as a Threatened Species in the Species at Risk Act (SARA), in 2017. Under SARA, the destruction of this migratory bird’s nest is automatically prohibited on all lands.

Threats to barn swallows and many other migratory birds are likely to come from habitat changes and pesticide use along their migratory flyway, and at

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Of all swallows in the world, including these seven species, barn swallows are the most widely distributed, with breeding populations in North America, Europe and Asia. Where many species of wild animals are disadvantaged or excluded by human presence, barn swallows have become particularly good at living with us. A worldwide decline in insects across the last three decades has been followed by a population decline of barn swallows and other aerial insect-eaters, including nighthawks and bats. Another factor in their decline is barn swallows’ need for

If you need to remove barn swallow nests from your property, it must be done before the nest is in use or after they have migrated. Removing all remnant evidence of mud will help dissuade these birds from nesting in the same location as a previous season. In Saskatchewan, barn swallows arrive and begin refurbishing their nests around May 1st. The nests are in use until the young fledge at the end of August. It may be possible to see a pair of swallows raise their fledglings and lay a second successful nest within one breeding season.

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JANUARY 2021

STEWARDSHIP their overwintering grounds. That said, safeguarding barn swallows’ ability to increase their population is well within our control. In our province, conversion from native grassland to cultivated row crops, and the application of neonicotinoids and other pesticides are the greatest threat to barn swallows. Agricultural activities that break the grassland root structures; alter the soil chemistry and its community of microorganisms; drain wetlands or require pesticide application will harm insect communities and destroy important foraging habitat. Despite their ability to make a home in almost any landscape, barn swallows need huge numbers of insects. Like other species of predators, barn swallows hunt most successfully where prey numbers are dense; namely where many different habitats come together. The heterogeneous mosaic of wetland grassland shrubs in the variety of soils found in our prairies produces an incredibly diverse insect prey source.

Maintenance of this heterogeneous landscape is something cattle do best. Grazing cattle can leave patchilydistributed vegetation, wallows and puddles in shallow wetlands, and lots of dung that spreads seeds and attracts insects. The creation of approved dugouts and water troughs increases aquatic habitat for insects and attracts aerial hunters like barn swallows, bats and nighthawks. Moving forward into an uncertain future, it can feel really good to make small changes to help save another species. Barn swallows live in our backyards and raise young, literally, on our doorsteps. As ranchers and producers, you can all feel proud to be maintaining the grasslands, wetlands and an old barn here and there to help this delightful swallow keep its place in our prairie landscape. Useful methods exist to encourage barn swallows to nest where they will be most easily tolerated as well as techniques

to prevent them from nesting where they would not be welcome. Below are instructions for how and where to put up a ledge for barn swallows to nest in an area where they are welcome. Canadian Wildlife Federation: https://cwf-fcf.org/en/resources/DIY/ habitat-projects/map-your-backyard/putup-nesting-shelves.html Ontario Nature Resources, with schematics for building: https://files.ontario.ca/ creatingbarsnestinghabitatenfinal17mar 09_0.pdf Notice of Error: In Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan’s article in the November 2020 edition of Beef Business, entitled: “Grazing in Native Prairies: Past Form, Present Function and Future Potential,” there are two errors that we’d like to clarify: continued on page 78

LV Farms

Bulls selling anytime off farm and at Canada’s Red, White & Black Bull Sale, March 20, 2021

FARMS

Hereford Yearlings •

Performance Bulls

Hereford 2s •

Calving Ease Bulls

Dayle & Dixie Martinson Logan, Brianna, Korbin & Jace Martinson

Red & Black Angus Yearlings •

Heifer Specialists

Logan 306-458-7170 • Midale, SK

JANUARY 2021

STEWARDSHIP Barn Swallows cont. from pg. 77 1) Although producers graze livestock in a way that suits their individual operation and ensures the long-term health and productivity of the land, often areas of non-native grasses are grazed earlier in the spring when they are typically most productive. Native pastures are known to be great for fall grazing due to their ability to retain nutrients, once cured, at a greater level than many non-native grass species. Most perennial grass species thrive under sustainable grazing plans that incorporate both the timing and length of grazing season, all of which is influenced by seasonal precipitation. 2) No former federal Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) or Saskatchewan Pasture Program pastures have been sold by the province, but are instead leased to grazing co-operatives or patron groups. The management of the lands is generally left up to the individual co-operative groups, as long as they stay within the terms and conditions of their

lease agreements. Annual reports from the grazing co-operatives are reviewed by the Land Management Specialist for the district to identify potential concerns regarding the stocking rate on the leased Crown lands. B Literature Cited 1. Dewey, T., Roth, C., Kirschbaum , K., 2002. Barn Swallow, Hrundo rustica. University of Michigan, Museum of Zoology. https://animaldiversity.org/ accounts/Hirundo_rustica/ 2. Brown, M. B. and C. R. Brown (2020). Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), version 1.0. In Birds of the World (P. G. Rodewald, Editor). Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Ithaca, NY, USA. https://doi.org/10.2173/bow. barswa.01 3. Schifferli, L. and Naef-Daenzer, B. Feeding and reproductive ecology of breeding barn swallows. Swiss Ornithological Institute, https://www. vogelwarte.ch/en/projects/ecological-

research/terminated-projects/feedingand-reproductive-ecology-of-breedingbarn-swallows 4. Hallmann, C. A., Sorg, M., Jongejans, E., Henk, S., Hofland, N., Schwan, H., Kroon, H. 2017. More than 75 per cent decline over 27 years in total flying insect biomass in protected areas. PLoS One, 12, e0185809. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. pone.0185809 5. Bradford C. Lister and Andres Garcia (2018). Climate-driven declines in arthropod abundance restructure a rainforest food web. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 115 (44) E10397-E10406; https://doi.org/10.1073/ pnas.1722477115 6. Sánchez-Bayo, F., & Wyckhuys, K. A. G. (2019). Worldwide decline of the entomofauna: A review of its drivers. Biological Conservation, 232, 8–27. https:// doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2019.01.020

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STEWARDSHIP The Success of Targeted Grazing Melanie Toppi Targeted grazing has become an increasingly popular tool for managing invasive weeds over large landscapes, or in areas where other management practices may not be feasible. Additionally, using small ruminants does not harm the micro-climate below the surface, which is where all the work happens. Targeted grazing takes a combination of the power of grazing and how it influences vegetation communities, along with animal husbandry to manage invasive weeds, effectively—eliminating unwanted vegetation and making room for desirable species. It’s a practice that requires knowledge of vegetation and landscape dynamics, and of course, animal husbandry and behaviour. Targeted grazing refocuses outputs from livestock production to landscape enhancement and land regeneration. The outputs of the animal (i.e., meat, fiber, milk), become a by-product. Over the last few years, South of the Divide Conservation Action Program, SODCAP Inc., in partnership with Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA), has been working with producers on weed management to enhance native prairie habitat for species at-risk. In an ongoing project near Eastend, Saskatchewan, SODCAP has been working with Sexton Grazing and Consulting for three years, using goats to target graze an infestation of leafy spurge (Euphorbia escula). Preliminary results are showing positive outcomes on the project. Field assessments indicate the spurge plants are weakening—they are shorter and stem density has decreased. Lee Sexton of Sexton Grazing and Consulting indicates, “There has been a decrease in spurge and plants are less robust.”

for management of leafy spurge, it’s best to use the twice-over method, whereby the target weed is grazed twice during a grazing season. The first pass is done quickly, and grazing is focused on nipping off the tops and the flowers to prevent seed set, which causes the plant to defend itself by growing faster and thicker. Once this takes place, the second pass is done. This time, the goats and sheep are left to graze the area longer, so an over-grazing effect occurs to weaken the plants. Using targeted grazing for management and control of leafy spurge works best as part of an integrated approach. On the ranch, more than 45,000 beetles have also been released in various areas to help with control, and chemical is used in areas of high traffic or near the boundaries of the ranch. Targeted grazing is not just about vegetation management; a lot that goes into each project. The relationship between landowner and grazier must be one of trust. Communication is key. A grazier needs to be able to communicate with the landowner how targeted grazing works, how the job will be done and how

the animals will be managed. At the start of the Eastend project, the landowner had concerns about the goats roaming and the guard dogs bothering the cattle or the ranch dogs. As well, there were some concerns that vegetation other than leafy spurge would be grazed, which could mean less forage for the ranch’s cattle. So far, the landowner’s concerns have not come to pass. Amidst this project, the ranch, grazier and SODCAP have been building strong relationships that are enabling them to overcome any challenges they face. What’s more, SSGA’s partnership with SODCAP is enhancing habitats for species at-risk by managing leafy spurge infestations over large landscapes. Also, Sexton Grazing and Consulting is proving to have a successful targeted grazing program, built on their extensive knowledge of the relationship between landscape and grazing, and incorporating the needs of species at-risk into their program. Bottom line: This project’s purpose and goals are being reached and successfully communicated because of the bonds formed and alliances created. B

More than 300 goats and 30 sheep are involved in this project, which are managed by a shepherd and herding dogs to ensure spurge is targeted. Each day, the shepherd and dogs take the goats and sheep from a corral to different patches of spurge. When using targeted grazing

JANUARY 2021

STEWARDSHIP Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop Carolyn Gaudet Saskatchewan Prairie Conservation Action Plan is looking forward to hosting the 8th Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop, February 1-5, 2021. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, for the first time ever, we will be hosting this workshop as a virtual event. While there will be some limitations with the hands-on exercises, we are excited to be able to offer this opportunity to more participants from a wider geographic range than ever before.

to shift and evolve as does land use and development. Many experts and researchers from across the prairies and northern United States will be sharing their collective experiences and knowledge.

Attendees, including scientists, researchers, technical staff, ranchers, communicators and naturalists, will participate in sessions that address rangeland resilience, planning and tools for restoration, restorations from a soils perspective, invasive weed strategies, industry practices, and urban landscaping using native seed. Prairie restoration and reclamation practices continue

The event also includes a poster session, tradeshow as well as discussion and networking opportunities. For more information, please visit: https:// www.pcap-sk.org/upcoming-events/ nprrw2021 or contact Carolyn at pcap@sasktel.net. B

Reach 10,000 producers while social distancing:

Beef Business ad booking deadline for March is February 12, 2021.

Contact our advertising department today! (306) 757-8523 | ssgacommunications@sasktel.net

NORTHERN LIVESTOCK SALES

northernlivestocksales.ca

SIRES REPRESENTED MAR INNOVATION IMAGE 1843 JPM WOODROW 3D EXAR MONUMENTAL BUBS SOUTHERN CHARM EXAR RESISTOL

Proudly serving the livestock industry of Saskatchewan and Alberta LLOYDMINSTER

Sales on Mondays & Thursdays | Office 306-825-8831 Wayne “Woody” Woodman 306-821-6310 Kyle Soderberg 306-883-7374 Kody Smith 306-823-7442 Brian Romanowicz 780-207-0290 Jim Pulyk 780-787-0646

PRINCE ALBERT

Sales on Mondays | Office 306-763-8463 Glen Smith 306-960-4732 Boyd Stuart 306-841-7998 Frederick Bodnarus 306-227-9505

Jean Paul & Marlene Monvoisin Hwy 43 west of Gravelbourg, SK JP 306-648-7935 Marlene 306-648-8200 View and bid online on dlms

Jpmfarms.com JANUARY 2021

MEADOW LAKE

Sales on Wednesdays | Office 306-236-3411 Blair Brooks 306-240-9883 Brody Brooks 306-240-6504 Brent Brooks 306-240-5340

LIVESTOCK MARKETING THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

CALENDAR JANUARY 2021 January 11-22

Ranch Management Forum

ONLINE

January 27-28

SK Beef Industry Conference

ONLINE

January 28

Brost Land & Cattle Bull Sale

Irvine, AB

January 30

MC Quantock Bull Sale

Lloydminster, SK

FEBRUARY February 1-5

Native Prairie Restoration/Reclamation Workshop

ONLINE

February 3

Moose Creek Red Angus Two-Year-Old Bull Sale

Kisbey, SK

February 5

XTC Ranches Bull Sale

Eastend, SK

February 6

Hill 70 Quantock Bull Sale

Lloydminster, SK

February 9, 16 & 23

Western Canada Feedlot Management School

ONLINE

February 10

Greater Sage Grouse Webinar

ONLINE

February 10

Misty Valley Farms Bull Sale

Maidstone, SK

February 11

Carlrams Ranching Bull Sale

Cut Knife, SK

February 12

Beef Business Advertising Deadline for March 2021

February 14

Diamond M Bull Sale

Estevan, SK

February 16

Draft Picks Bull Sale

Red Deer, AB

February 16

Rawes Ranch Bull Sale

Strome, AB

February 18

Nordal Limousin & Angus Bull Sale

Saskatoon, SK

February 20

Little Poplar Grove Hereford Bull Sale

Forestburg, AB

February 22

J. Yorga Farms Annual Bull Sale

Flintoft, SK

February 22-25

Riding for the Brand Fundraising Auction

ONLINE

February 25

Bull Rush Bull Sale

Rimbey, AB

February 28

M&J Farms Online Bull Sale

ONLINE

MARCH March 2

Double Bar D Farms Bull Sale

Grenfell, SK

March 5

Davidson Gelbvieh & Lonesome Dove Ranch Bull Sale

Pontiex, SK

March 6

McMillen Ranching Ltd. Bull Sale

Carievale, SK

March 6-8

On Target Shorthorn Bull & Female Sale

ONLINE

March 7

R-Plus Bull Sale

Estevan, SK

March 8

Ashworth Farm & Ranch Bull Sale

Oungre, SK

March 8

Palmer Charolais Bull Sale

Bladworth, SK

March 9

Sun Country Shorthorn Bull Sale

Moose Jaw, SK

March 10

Sunny Valley Simmentals

Hanley, SK

March 12

Arda Farms Bull Sale

Acme, AB

March 12

Braun Ranch Bull Sale

Simmie, SK

March 12

Standard Hill Bull Sale

Maidstone, SK

March 13

Edie Creek Bull Sale

Ashern, MB

March 14

Early Sunset Ranch Bull Sale

Edam, SK

March 17

JPM Farms Bull Sale

Parkbeg, SK

March 17

Meadow Acres Bull Sale

Lampman, SK

March 20

Canada’s Red, White & Black Bull Sale

Moose Jaw, SK

March 24

SW Cattle Maine Bull Sale

Strathmore, AB

APRIL April 3 82

Burnett Angus Bull Sale

Swift Current, SK JANUARY 2021

ADVERTISER INDEX Adair Sales & Marketing Company Inc Allen Leigh Anwender Apollo Machine & Products Ltd. ArcRite Welding Arda Farms Ashworth Farm & Ranch Ayrey Herefords Barr Olney Beef Smart Braun Ranch Brost Land & Cattle Bud Williams Burnett Angus Canada Beef Carlrams Ranching Cattle Range Canadian Cattle Identification Agency Chapman Cattle Cows in Control Cowtown Livestock Exchange Inc. D&R Prairie Supplies Davidson Gelbvieh Diamond M Ranch DLMS Double Bar D Farms Draft Picks Bull Sale Ducks Unlimited Early Sunset Ranch Eaton Charolais Edie Creek Angus Edward Jones FeedMax Frostfree Nosepumps GemGuard Grassland Trailer

DIRECTORS AT LARGE

Phone:306- 690-5209

Garner Deobald 1st Vice President Hodgeville, SK

Phone: 306-677-2589

Jeff Yorga 2nd Vice President Flintoft, SK

Phone: 306-531-5717

Kim Simpson Finance Chair Assiniboia, SK Bill Huber Past President Lipton, SK

HMS Hi-Cliffe Hanson's Custom Fencing Head for the Hills Shorthorns Hi Hog Farm & Ranch Equipment Hill 70 Quantock John Brown Farms Johnstone Auction Mart Jones Farm Supplies JPM Farms J. Yorga Farms Kelln Solar Kramer Trailer Sales LV Farms Lane Realty Lazar Equip Lilybrook Herefords Linthicum Ranch Ltd. Little Poplar Grove M&J Farms Manitou Maine-Anjou Man-Sask Gelbvieh Association Masterfeeds MC Quantock McMillen Ranching Meadow Acres Simmental Milligan Biofuels Misty Valley Herefords MNP Moose Creek Red Angus N.M. McMahon New Generation New Vision Agro New-life Mills Nordal Limousin & Angus Norheim Ranching Northern Livestock Sales

34 85 84 60 INSERT 86 85 85 81 27 85 85 77 80 70 21 86 50 48 86 86 6, 85 INSERT 61 25 84 22 12 75 84 78 86 85 55 88 81

OLS Tubs Palmer Charolais Performance Seed Performer - Goldridge Prairie Dog Feeders Quick Look Back R-Plus Simmentals Rawes Ranches Red, White, Black Bull Sale Rio Nutrition Rock Block Saskatchewan Angus Association Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture SaskTip Inc. Sheppard Realty Simply Ag Solutions SK Livestock Finance Smeaton Fence Supplies Standard Hill Steppler Farms Stout Brothers Simmentals Sun Country Bull Sale Sunny Valley Simmentals Sweetpro Premium Supplements Target Cattle Concepts Timm Cattle Union Forage Western Canada Feedlot Management School Willow Mills Ltd. Wilson Maines XTC Herefords Young Dale Angus Young's Equipment

19 45 4,85 49 84 37 53 11 39 34 84 86 72 20 86 84 76 84 29 INSERT 67 74 43 47,84 41 52 INSERT 17 84 23 2 86 57

SSGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

THE EXECUTIVE Kelcy Elford President Caron, SK

44 38,84 71 86 85 51 59 38 86 84 35 19 86 63 36 15 31 14 79 85 86 66 3 65 56 73 9 87 69 64 62 84 86 85 85 85

Chay Anderson, Fir Mountain, SK Keith Day, Lacadena, SK Glen Elford, Avonlea, SK Calvin Gavelin, McCord, SK Joe Gilchrist, Maple Creek, SK Aaron Huber, Lipton, SK Murray Linthicum, Glentwoth, SK Miles McNeil, Alameda, SK Rutledge, Assiniboia, SK Rob Selke, Morse, SK Lee Sexton, Hanley, SK

ZONE CHAIR DIRECTORS Phone: 306-375-7939

Phone: 306-336-2684

JANUARY 2021

Zone 1 - Henry McCarthy, Wawota, SK Zone 2 - Karen McKim, Milestone, SK Zone 3 - Kim Simpson, Assiniboia, SK Zone 4 - Brad Howe, Empress, AB Zone 5 - Bill Huber, Lipton, SK Zone 6 - Brent Griffin, Elbow, SK Zone 7 Co-chair - Laura Culligan, Kyle, SK Zone 7 Co-chair - Jamie-Rae Pittman, Kyle, SK Zone 12 - Rod Gamble, Pambrun, SK

306-640-7087 306-375-2934 306-436-7121 306-478-2558 306-662-3986 306-336-2684 306-266-4377 306-489-2073 306-642-5358 306-629-3238 306-544-2660

AFFILIATE DIRECTORS

Ross Davidson - Man-Sask Gelbvieh, Pontiex, SK Garner Deobald - Charolais Affiliate, Hodgeville, SK John Hylkema - SaskMilk Affiliate, Hague, SK Tara Fritz - Simmental Affiliate, Shaunavon, SK Ian Leaman - Shorthorn Affiliate, Chaplin, SK Marlene Monvoisin - SK Angus, Gravelbourg, SK Ben Rempel - SK Goat Breeders, Waldheim, SK Gordon Schroeder - SK Sheep Dev. Board, SK Marlene Monvoisin - Angus, Gravelbourg, SK Jeff Yorga - Limousin Affiliate, Flintoft, SK

APPOINTED DIRECTOR 306-739-2205 306-436-7731 306-375-7939 306-661-0409 306-336-2684 306-854-2050 403-793-9825 780-977-2516 306-582-2077

Dr. Andy Acton- Veterinary Advisor, Ogema, SK

SASKATCHEWAN CCA DIRECTORS Ryan Beierbach, Whitewood, SK Lynn Grant, Val Marie, SK Pat Hayes, Val Marie, SK Reg Schellenberg, Beechy, SK Duane Thompson, Kelliher, SK

306-625-3513 306-677-2589 604-798-6450 306-297-3147 306-631-3694 306-648-8200 306-321-7338 306-933-5582 306-648-3634 306-531-5717

306-459-2422

306-532-4809 306-298-2268 306-298-2284 306-859-4905 306-675-4562

Find email and fax contacts at www.skstockgrowers.com

PROTECT YOU AND YOUR TRACTOR WITH

THE ROCK BLOCK The Rock Block is an aftermarket bolt-on kit to reduce rocks and debris from hitting your tractor cab and breaking windows. An affordable solution to reduce damage and down time

JOHN HORTER | HORTER REPAIR 225 Main St South | Bristol, SD 57219 605-216-4852 | horterfarm@nvc.net

THEROCKBLOCK.NET

BeefSmart C O N S U LT I N G I N C .

• Forage & Feed Analysis • Ration Formulation • Mineral & Supplement Formulation

• Forage and Pasture Systems • Herd Trace Mineral Status Assessments

Increasing efficiencies and improving profitability of cow-calf, backgrounding, feedlot, bison and sheep producers through nutrition consulting in the prairies. Connect with us today.

Balanced by BeefSmart

Find us on facebook

Unit 108 4002 Arthur Rose Ave, Saskatoon

GROWING WITH YOU

Rations, supplements & minerals Call Bruce at 306-229-0302 Locally sourced grains & commodities Call Wes at 306-229-5206 www.willowmills.com

beefsmart.ca • 306-229-0675 • info@beefsmart.ca

COWCAM

Wireless & IP Systems Makes your calving €easier, safer & more profitable! • Smartphone compatible • Save more calves • Stop disturbing them and check more frequently Allen Leigh

Smeaton Fence Supplies Ltd. Box 222, Smeaton, SK Canada S0J 2J0 Phone or Fax (306) 426-2305

Security & Communications Ltd.

Cam

545 Assiniboine Ave, Brandon, MB I TF: 1.866.289.8164 T: 204.728.8878 I info@allenleigh.ca

www.precisioncam.ca Trusted Quality,

Trusted Support,

PRAIRIE DOG FEEDERS LLC

Trusted Service!

TOM JENSEN, President

SUPPLIER OF AG FENCING & GAUCHO CATTLEMAN HIGH STRENGTH REVERSE TWIST BARBED WIRE

www.edwardjones.com

Fastest, easiest, most economical way to control prairie dogs! Feeder distributes bait from 4-wheeler! www.prairiedogfeeders.com Feeder can be used to control Richardson's Ground Squirrels!

Know your goals so you can choose your investments. Tyler Knibbs

Financial Advisor .

461 King Street Unit 3 Estevan, SK S4A 1K6 306-634-4870 www.edwardjones.com

Call Austin at 303-621-5967

Member – Canadian Investor Protection Fund

HEAD FOR THE HILLS SHORTHORNS

Working to create opportunities for farmers in Saskatchewan Habitat Protection & Enhancement Phone: 306-955-5477 / 1-866-298-7222 www.simplyag.ca

Consigning to On Target sale March 6-8, 2021 Cattle also for sale by private treaty Dr. Christine Ewert Hill | Dr. Clarke Hill christine.ewert@gmail.com (306) 452-7867 (C) • (306) 452-3803 (H) Box 31, Redvers, SK S0C 2H0

JANUARY 2021

All types of commercial and purebred livestock auctions and farm sales. Wash rack facilities for livestock

www.johnstoneauction.ca

Wayne or Scott Johnstone Box 818, Moose Jaw, SK 306-693-4715 (Bus) Fax 306-691-6650

JOHN SMORODEN

(250) 417-5412 info@quicklookback.com 1075 - 26th Ave. South Cranbrook, B.C. V1C 6Y7 www.quicklookback.com

CAMERA SYSTEMS FOR FARM & RANCH

MANAGE RISK We’ll help you get the best return for your livestock.

Phone 403-775-7534 www.cowsincontrol.com

LIVESTOCK EQUIPMENT JONES FARM SUPPLIES ROY JONES

Black Diamond, AB P: 403.873.6200

PRECISION QUALITY EQUIPMENT • Strong Water Troughs • Cattle Oilers - 5 Models • Solar / Wind Systems • Strong Feed Bunks • Feeding Equipment • Livestock Handling • Strong Stock Waterers Systems Joey 306-421-6950 hansonenvironmentalrentalltd@gmail.com

www.jonesfarmsupplies.com

We Move Water • Remote Livestock Watering • DeWatering • Irrigation • Winter Watering Solutions www.kellnsolar.com 1-888-731-8882

JANUARY 2021

We have your hauling needs covered. Check out our website to see what we have in stock or call 1-306-445-5000 and we can discuss your trailer needs. Custom orders available!

LIVESTOCK , CAR HAULERS AND FLAT DECKS

Financing & Leasing

GOOSENECK, BUMPER PULLS

aVaiLaBLe

15’, 20', 25' LENGTHS

kramertrailersales.com

Animal Nutrition Programs designed to achieve optimum health, results & profits – delivered with service beyond the competition.

“Masterfeeds is the only brand we trust. It just works.” MASTERFEEDS CUSTOMER SASKATCHEWAN:

Humboldt / 1-800-747-9186 Regina / 1-877-929-8696 Saskatoon Premix / 1-888-681-4111 Swift Current / 1-877-773-3001

NEW VISION AGRO Box 479 Hague, SK S0K 1X0

BEEF & BISON FEED AVAILABLE IN: COMPLETE FEED PELLETS SUPPLEMENTS MASH FEEDS

CALL TOLL FREE 1-866-FEEDMAX (333-3629)

PH: (306) 225-2226 FX: (306) 225-2063

email: newvisionagro@sasktel.net www.newvisionagro.com

Dealer & Distributor For: - Jay-Lor Vertical Feed Mixers - Masterfeeds - Cargill Rite Now Minerals - Baler twine, netwrap, silage bunker, covers, plastic wrap, Grain Bags

Check with us before you buy!

• ROLLER MILLS ~ Electric or PTO models ~ 10 sizes available ~ Increase the nutrition value of your feed! ~ Manufactured in Saskatoon • SILAGE COVERS & GRAIN BAGS We regroove roller mill rolls - most brands

2502 Millar Ave, Saskatoon 306-242-9884 or 877-255-0187 apm@sasktel.net www.apollomachineandproducts.com

Helen Finucane

We have new books:

phone: 306-584-2773 cell: 306-537-2648 Carlyle, SK

Smile and Mean it: the Bud & Eunice Williams Story Stockdogs: Partners and Friends

Machine & Products Ltd.

Farm & Ranch Real Estate. It’s what we do. 3287 Quance Street, Regina, SK OFFICE 306.352.1866 CELL 306.530.8035

Visit www.stockmanship.com or call 417-719-4910 for more information.

sheppardrealty.ca

Linthicum Ranch Ltd. Open replacement and bred heifers for sale. Black/black baldy heifers. Murray & Jan Linthicum (306) 266-4377

Glentworth, SK

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Associa�on, Advoca�ng for Independent Ca�le Producers in Saskatchewan for 107 Years.

CT Contact: Man-Sask Gelbvieh President Joe Barnett at 403-465-2805

Cowtown Livestock Exchange Inc. Maple Creek, SK

Regular Sales every Tuesday @ 10:00 a.m. Locally Owned & Operated Call for info on Presort & Other Sales Phone 306-662-2648 Toll Free: 1-800-239-5933

www.cowtownlivestock.com

JANUARY 2021

ducks.ca/saskatchewan

Ducks Unlimited Canada has a Forage Program to meet your needs Forage crops not only provide sustainable grazing sources for livestock, they’re part of sound land management, diversifying crop rotations, preventing erosion and retaining nutrients.

Z Forage Conversion Program Thinking of converting your fields to forage this year? Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) will pay $35/acre to seed eligible land to pasture or hay.

Z Marginal Areas Program DUC agronomists will work with you to find areas on your land that are growing poor crops due to excessive moisture or salinity, and work with you to seed those areas to forage. DUC will also provide financial compensation of $125/acre on those forage lands. The remaining cultivated acres remain farmed to maximize your crop yield and profit on the most viable cultivated acres of your field.

Some conditions apply. For more information, contact DUC at 1-866-252-3825 or email du_regina@ducks.ca

WORK IT WEIGH IT WRAP IT FEED IT

BALE IT

MIX IT

SPREAD IT

NEED IT!! Your Livestock Equipment Specialists

306.955.1350 WWW.NORHEIMRANCHING.COM