Beef Business September 2012

Beef Business Beef Business ‘

Saskatchewan’s largest circulated industry magazine Saskatchewan`s Premiere Cattlecattle Industry Publication September 2010cattle industry magazine Saskatchewan’s largest circulated ‘

September 2012 May 2010

A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Publication Publication Mail Agreement #40011906

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Contents

Beef Business

Cover photo courtesy of Wanda Knoss, Rockglen, SK

A Proud Saskatchewan Tradition Since 1913

A Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) Publication General Manager: Chad MacPherson Administrative Assistant: Wilma Switzer Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 email: ssga@sasktel.net OR ssga.admin@sasktel.net Website: www.skstockgrowers.com

Industry News 6

Saskatchewan’s New Chief Veterinary Officer

6

SSGA Granted $50K to Study and Promote Traceability

7

2011 Calf Crop Production Costs

8

Where is the Beef Code of Practice?

13

Deadline Nearing for Traceability Rebate

Subscriptions - Wilma Switzer Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-757-8523 Fax: 306-569-8799 email: ssga.admin@sasktel.net

Markets and Trade 14

Progression in Market Access

15

Retail Meat Price Survey

Subscription Rate: 1 yr $26.50 (GST included) Published 5 times per year

Feature 16

US Loses WTO Appeal on Country of Origin Labeling

18

The Opportunity is Now

19

Farm Plates - What They Allow You to Transport

20

Inspecting the Brand Inspection

22

Diamond J Cattle Company Wins Saskatchewan TESA Award

Advertising Sales - Tracy Cornea Tel: 306-693-9329 Fax: 306-692-4961 email: tracy.cornea@gmail.com Design and Layout - Jackson Designs Candace Schwartz Tel: 306-772-0376 email: cjacksondesigns@gmail.com

Science and Production 24

Finding Stray Animals With Your Herd

25

Where’s the Beef? Active Missing Livestock Files

Prairie Conservation Action Plan (PCAP) Manager: Michelle Clark Box 4752, Evraz Place, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 Tel: 306-352-0472 Fax: 306-569-8799 email: pcap@sasktel.net

2012 Annual General Meeting 29

2012 AGM Resolutions

31

A Report From the SSGA President

Association News and Reports Stewardship 33

SK PCAP - The Importance of Prairie Landowners to Loggerhead Shrikes

34

Calendar of Events

35

Advertiser Index

SSGA reserves the right to refuse advertising and to edit manuscripts. Contents of Beef Business may be reproduced with written permission obtained from the SSGA Manager and proper credit given to the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association. Articles submitted may not be the opinion of the Association.

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, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4

Contributors

?

Did you know that the SSGA is Saskatchewan's oldest agricultural association? cycle This M a

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Ple as

Re

Harold Martens Leanne Thompson Cam Wilk

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Jeff Gaye Paul Hammerton Kathy Larson Lori Loree

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

SEPTEMBER 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 5

Industry News Saskatchewan’s New Chief Veterinary Officer The Ministry of Agriculture is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Betty Althouse as Saskatchewan’s new Chief Veterinary Officer.

Betty has a wealth of experience and knowledge in livestock production and health, gained from her farming experience and veterinary background.

A graduate of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, she began her veterinary career at Animal Management Services in Humboldt working in a mixed practice where she quickly developed an interest in swine and dairy herd health.

Betty’s interest in hog production led her to establish a 50 sow farrow to finish

straw-based hog barn in 1990. Since 1999, Betty has worked for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) in various roles, from veterinarian in charge at the Lilydale poultry slaughter facility to the veterinary disease control specialist and industry liaison. Most recently, Betty worked on the CFIA’s disease control activities in Saskatchewan.

Betty is happy to continue her work with livestock producers and veterinarians in Saskatchewan to improve the health and welfare of the animals in our province. B Betty can be reached by phone at (306) 787-5547 or by email at betty.althouse@ gov.sk.ca.

SSGA Granted $50K to Study and Promote Traceability The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association has received $50,000 from the provincial government’s Voluntary Traceability Project fund.

Half of the amount is earmarked for a study on tag retention, and the other half to promote awareness of the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency’s Premises ID Registry.

The tag retention study is part of a larger project involving governments and the cattle industry. Under the three-year project the seven Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags currently in use will be compared for retention and readability. The data collected will form a baseline for any future studies, as well as providing the basis for recommended improvements.

6

The overall project involves 5,600 cattle in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. This includes 2,600 cows and calf-yearlings in ranch herds, and 3,000 bulls on Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Community Pasture sites.

The study was initiated in early 2011, and the final report is expected to be released

by March 2014.

Meanwhile, the SSGA will participate in a project “to increase awareness and value of the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency’s (CCIA) Premises ID Registry,” according to the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture.

traceability program that also includes animal ID and movement tracking, the CCIA says that Premises ID will enable a timely response to assist producers in case of an animal health or food safety issue.

Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture Lyle Stewart, announcing the funding, said that “producers have identified tag retention as one of the problems with implementing traceability at the farm level.”

“We’re very pleased with these programs,” said SSGA President Harold Martens.

“Our members are happy to help move traceability efforts forward. The whole industry will benefit from this.”B

The Premises ID Registry assigns a randomly-generated identification number to a specific location, such as a home quarter. As part of a comprehensive

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

Industry News 2011 Calf Crop Production Costs

by Kathy Larson, MSc, AAg

During good price times thinking about costs and break-even points can get pushed to the wayside. However, it is always important to know your cost of production. As the adage goes, you cannot manage what you do not measure, which is why the Western Beef Development Centre works with Saskatchewan cow-calf producers to calculate their cost of production and then shares the results with the industry.

For the 2011 calf crop, thirty operations participated in the study. Data was collected from February through May 2012 and results were released at Western Beef’s Field Day held on June 26th. The average herd size for 2011 was 305 cows.

The average cost of production was $625 per cow. With 88 percent of cows weaning a calf and an average weaning weight of 549 lb, resulting in a break-even price of $1.31 per lb of weaned calf. The strong calf prices last fall resulted in an average net return of $122 per cow for the 2011 study participants. Bear in mind that every study participant retained at least a portion of their 2011 calf crop with one-third of the study participants retaining 100% of their 2011 weaned calves so the income used to calculate net return is based on actual sales and estimated values for any retained calves.

The 2011 study’s average net returns are some of the best from the last decade of WBDC Cost of Production study results.

Figure 1 shows the average value of production (value of weaned calves on a per cow basis) and the average total costs for the eight years of studies that WBDC has conducted. Only in 2001, 2005 and 2011 did the bar representing value of production extend above the line representing total costs; which means only in three of eight years studied has the average producer in the study generated a positive net return. A positive return is needed to cover the principal portion of loan payments and to return equity to the business.

SEPTEMBER 2012

SK Cow-Calf Annual Value of Production and Total Costs, 2001-2011 study years.*

* The study was not conducted for the 2006, 2007 and 2009 calf crop years.

WBDC 2011 Cow-Calf Cost of Production Average Results $/Cow

$/lb

Weaned Calf Revenue

$747

$1.57

Direct Costs

$392

$0.82

Yardage

$205

$0.43

Interest, Freight & Marketing

$28

$0.06

Total Costs

$625

$1.31

Net Profit (Loss)

$122

$0.26

WBDC 2011 Top 25% (Low-Cost) Cow-Calf Study Participants Top 25%

Remaining Producers

Difference +/-

$491

$664

-$173

508

243

+266

163

165

-2

Direct Costs

$357

$404

-$47

Yardage

$120

$229

-$109

Total Costs Herd Size (# of cows) Winter Feeding Days

WBDC 2011 Cow-Calf Cost of Production Study Participant Profile Average herd size

305 cows

Avg. weaning weight

549 lb

Weaning percentage

88%

Avg. age at weaning

229 days

Producers with off-farm employment

60%

Average age

43 years

Father-son/daughter partnership

27%

Use AgExpert for accounting

53%

Own a bale processor

57%

Feed silage to cows

29%

Feed grain to cows

58%

April calvers

52%

Retained 100% of 2011 calves

33%

Retained only replacements

27%

One thing about reporting averages is that they disguise the variability across the producers in the study. WBDC also reports average costs for the Top 25% low-cost producers to show how the top producers in the study fared. The lowcost producers in the WBDC study had an average herd size of 508 cows and average total costs of $490 per cow. While it is typically the operations with 300+ cows that make it into Western Beef’s Top 25%, having a lot of cows does not guarantee a producer will be low-cost.

There have been operations with less than 300 cows in the Top 25% and there have been operations with more than 300 cows that do not qualify for the Top 25%. Lowcost producers tend to have lower winter feeding days, lower interest on debt, lower machinery and building investment and larger herd sizes. However, low-cost producers do not cut corners on pasture, bulls or herd health as spending less on these can often lead to reduced herd productivity which in turn increases costs.

Efforts to be low-cost should never be at the expense of quality beef production.

For the first time since 2002, the study results have also been reported by herd size. Operations with less than 150 cows had an average total cost of $744 per cow (equals $1.35/lb break-even for a 550 lb calf ). While operations with 450 or more cows had an average total cost of $525 per cow ($1.09/lb break-even on 550 lb calf ). The $219 per cow difference between the smallest and largest herd ranges is partly explained by lower direct costs (18%) but mostly explained by lower yardage costs (78%). Yardage costs – fuel, repairs, utilities, paid and unpaid labour, depreciation, taxes and insurance – tend to be fixed which means the total cost changes very little, or not at all, as herd size increases. So a producer can spread the total yardage costs over more cows resulting in lower per cow costs.

Direct costs include winter feed, mineral, pasture, herd health and breeding stock continued on page 9

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 7

Industry News Where is the Beef Code of Practice?

The Code of Practice for beef cattle has been going through a renewal process for about two years now. This formal renewal is in addition to internal work at the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and the Alberta Beef Producers. The Canadian cattle industry has had a Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of beef cattle since 1991. But the Code has not been updated since then. The Code is being updated in order to ensure the latest science is considered and to take into account all the changes which have occurred since 1991.

This update is taking place using the National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC) process for updating or writing new Codes. Along with beef cattle, seven other species are updating or writing their Codes; the dairy cattle Code was updated in 2009. The NFACC process helps to keep all of Canada’s Codes similar in several ways. The most important is in ensuring the people involved represent all the stakeholders in the industry. For the beef code this includes producers of different stages of production and from different parts of Canada, veterinarians, researchers, transporters, processors, animal welfare enforcement, animal welfare advocacy, provincial and federal governments.

Retail and food service also are very interested in the process but do not have a representative on the committee.

As with the 1991 Code the new document will cover areas of cattle production that could have implications for cattle welfare.

From choosing bulls (appropriate to the cows or heifers they will be breeding) up to and including end of life decisions. The new Code stops at the farm gate whereas the old document went into auction market and transport scenarios. Codes for those areas of the value chain are expected to be discussed at a later date.

Later this year the beef Code draft will be ready for public comment. This 60 day period will allow anyone to comment on the contents of the Code and read the

8

Science Report that informed the Code drafting. The inclusion of a Science Report is a key step in the NFACC process to ensure current science relating to priority welfare issues is considered. After the public comment period the committee will consider the comments and make any final adjustments before the completed Code is released in the spring of 2013.

The finished Code, as with the current Code, will be used several ways. It is a reference tool for new and experienced producers; it is an extension tool used by industry to discuss production practices that impact cattle welfare; it is used by enforcement agencies as the industry expected standard. As well, it has potential to be used as the basis of an assessment program if customers are looking for that from their producers. This has not happened yet on a general level

but some value chains do have welfare components for their producers to satisfy in order to be in their branded programs.

The Code contents can also be used to show interested consumers and other customers how cattle are raised in Canada.

Stay tuned for the upcoming public comment period. It is very important that as many producers as possible read through the draft and let the committee know of any concerns. Go to www.nfacc. ca/codes-of-practice for more information about the Code process. B Funding for the Codes of Practice is provided

by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Agricultural Flexibility Fund (Addressing Domestic and International Market Expectations Relative to Farm Animal Welfare), as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan.

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SEPTEMBER 2012

Industry News Prod. Costs cont. from pg. 7 depreciation. Per cow direct costs tend to stay constant as herd size increases. Direct costs may decrease somewhat if a large producer can negotiate a lower price due to larger volumes of product (feed, mineral, vaccines) being purchased or perhaps negotiate a lower pasture rent because the landowner sees value in getting to deal with less patrons. While herd expansion is a way to reduce per cow costs, it may not always be an option due to limits in access to land, labour and capital.

Western Beef recognizes there are over 7,300 beef operations in Saskatchewan and based on the number of beef cows in the province, the average herd size is about 150 cows. Our study looked at 30 operations with an average herd size of 305 cows.

While the study’s numbers are from actual operations across the province, the small sample size and wide variation (herd sizes from 50 to 1,000 cows) across study participants means the study average may not be reflective of the average producer in the province. Producers and industry can use our numbers for a starting point in discussions, but we strongly encourage producers to calculate their own cost of production using their operations production and financial details.

To learn more about Western Beef’s cost of production study contact Kathy Larson at klarson.wbdc@pami.ca. B

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SEPTEMBER 2012

Industry News Deadline Nearing for Traceability Rebate The application deadline for the Saskatchewan Voluntary Livestock Traceability Rebate is January 31, 2013.

The rebate program was announced in 2009, and is intended to help the livestock industry acquire and adopt Radio Frequency Identification (RFID ) technology.

Through the program, the provincial Ministry of Agriculture will rebate up to 70% of eligible costs to a maximum of $50,000 per facility for producers, feedlots, backgrounders, veterinary clinics, meat processors, assembly yards, privately managed community pastures, fairs and exhibitions. Auction marts are eligible for 70% rebates to a maximum of $100,000.

Eligible sectors are cattle, bison, sheep, goats, hogs, and cervids.

SEPTEMBER 2012

The Voluntary Livestock Traceability Rebate is aimed at assisting with the purchase or lease of hand held and panel RFID readers. Other allowable expenses within the $50,000 per facility cap ($100,000 for auction marts) are training, software, installation, ultra-rugged computers with an IP 67 rating, and facility modifications relating to the use of RFID readers.

The rebate program is part of a larger traceability strategy. The traceability initiative also includes “awareness and education through information and workshops; development of pilot projects at auction marts and/or feedlots; and financial support for the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency to establish a presence in Saskatchewan to assist producers and to create awareness of traceability initiatives in the province,”

according to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture.

Federal funding for traceability activities is also available, through Agriculture Canada’s Livestock Auction Traceability Initiative (LATI).

Complete information on the Saskatchewan Voluntary Livestock Traceability Rebate, and a link to the federal LATI program, can be found at the Ministry of Agriculture website, www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Traceability.

The Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association website, wwww.stockgrowers. com also has a link to this page, as well as information about other funding programs and upcoming deadlines. B

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 13

Markets and Trade Progression in Market Access

by Lori Loree

The last few months have seen good news headlines for the beef industry. When you read, “full market access to the United Arab Emirates (UAE)” and “accepted to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations,” it feels like the industry is moving in the right direction. In early August the UAE fully re-opened its doors to Canada beef.

“The UAE is the first country in the Gulf Cooperation Council region to resume full access to our high-quality beef and this is a significant milestone for Canadian beef producers”, said Federal Agricultural Minister Gerry Ritz in a press release. “We are hopeful that the UAE’s decision will encourage other countries in this region to grant full access to Canadian beef”.

The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) says all markets are important, even though some may be small. It creates opportunity to get products into those countries that don’t sell here at home – adding value to the carcass that would otherwise be rendered.

Joining the TPP negotiations will also advance the Canadian beef industry.

Canada was the 11th country to be included in the negotiations earlier this summer.

“The TPP negotiations are complementary to the bilateral free trade negotiations recently launched between Canada and Japan,” noted Martin Unrau. CCA President in a press release. “Regardless of whether or when Japan is eventually admitted to the TPP, Canadian beef is well positioned to gain new access to the important Japanese market,” he said.

The CCA wants all TPP countries to eliminate import tariffs on live cattle, genetics, beef and beef products. This includes eliminating Japan’s 38.5 per cent tariff and the 20 per cent currently

“Supplementary to that is the notion that having beef allowed into those smaller markets creates some competition,” says Rob McNabb, General Manager Operations, CCA. The opening of the UAE borders brings the tally up to nearly 70 countries that have either fully or partially given access to Canadian beef since 2003. The UAE is Canada’s 19th largest beef market and was worth more than $1 million in 2011. The UAE is considered what could be called a boutique market and is similar to areas like Peru and Kazakhstan.

“We feel there are benefits to having these doors open to Canadian beef,” says Rob Meijer, President of Canada Beef Inc (CBI).

“There is a potential of $3 to $3.5 million.

We have to look at this combination and say this continues to add value in a meaningful way to our industry.”

14

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

in Vietnam for beef. With the elimination of the Japanese tariff, Canadian beef exports to that market could quadruple to approximately $275 million per year.

For CBI, the remaining months of 2012 will focus on availability of supply. The organization will look at creating new ways to tackle a market and add value to the beef product. The European Union (EU) market is also of great importance this year.

“The EU is somewhere that has moved from the back burner to the front of the stove. It’s not boiling and hot with opportunity yet,“ says Meijer. “But the temperature is starting to rise and we’ve got a lot of people interested in that market.” B

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SEPTEMBER 2012

Markets and Trade

RETAIL MEAT PRICE SURVEY as of August 15, 2012

CUTS Ground beef/regular Ground beef/lean Roast/cross rib Roast/rib Roast/outside round Steak/tenderloin Steak/ribeye Steak/sirloin Steak/T-bone Steak/round

EXTRA FOODS

SAFEWAY

SOBEYS

WALMART

3.12 3.57 * * * * * 6.75 11.00 6.02

3.79 4.00 * * 6.30 * 14.00 8.30 13.50 6.40

3.74 3.69 4.44 9.70 6.14 18.09 12.54 8.54 10.98 6.00

3.58 4.04 * * * 19.00 * 9.87 11.97 5.87

* These items were not in the display case at these stores on this date.

SEPTEMBER 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ŠBEEF BUSINESS | 15

Feature US Loses WTO Appeal On Country of Origin Labeling

by Jeff Gaye

A World Trade Organization ruling which favoured Canada’s position on Country Of Origin Labeling in the US has been upheld on appeal.

Country Of Origin Labeling legislation, known as COOL, was enacted in the United States in 2008, ostensibly to help consumers make informed decisions on food purchases. It mandates that meat sold in the US has to be labeled to show where it came from. Canada requested WTO consultations with the US as soon as COOL came into effect, claiming that the new regulations would discriminate against Canadian livestock.

Canada argued that excessive paperwork required for imported livestock made it much easier for meat processing companies and feedlots to deal exclusively with American hogs and cattle.

especially since most of the information gathered never reaches the consumer.

The decision is welcome news for the Canadian beef industry. Prices paid in the US for Canadian cattle have been about $90 a head lower than for US animals, and feeder cattle exports dropped by 49 per cent between 2008 and 2009. This adds up to $400 million in lost revenue for the industry, according to the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association.

said in a statement that the original WTO decision was the right one and that the appeal had “wasted seven months,” potentially straining relations between American and Canadian producers.

The United States may have as long as fifteen months to amend its legislation to comply with the ruling.

Support for COOL had been lukewarm in the States. Consumer groups and some farmers favoured it, but there was also strong opposition within the industry.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

After two rounds of consultations failed to reach a resolution, Canada asked the WTO to convene a panel to rule on the issue. In the meantime, US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack sent a letter to industry requesting that COOL provisions be applied more strictly than the legislation mandated.

B

The WTO panel eventually found that the COOL legislation discriminated against imported livestock, and that it failed to meet its stated objective of consumer information. The panel also found that Vilsack’s letter constituted an unreasonable administration of the COOL regulations.

Based on these findings, the panel concluded that through the COOL measures, the US had failed to live up to its WTO trade obligations. This triggered the US appeal.

On June 29, the WTO Appellate Body announced its finding that the administrative burden placed on producers and importers does in fact constitute discriminatory practice,

16

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Feature The Opportunity is Now

For Canada’s livestock Producers, the Time is Right to Make the Most of a Hot Market

by Paul Hammerton, BSC, CAFA, Farm Management Consultant with MNP

After nearly a decade of depressed returns and market flux, livestock producers across Canada are breathing a sigh of relief as better prices, improving profits and historically low interest rates are helping to restore faith in the industry.

While the atmosphere appears to be overwhelmingly one of what can perhaps best be described as rampant optimism, too many producers will still hesitate to take advantage of opportunities as they emerge in the hope of profiting more, later. As attractive as holding back and growing your herd size may be, it could be in many producers better interests not to hold out. Instead, take advantage of better prices now, so that you can move on other opportunities that current market conditions present before they disappear Why now?

In addition to high market prices and unprecedented low interest rates—in some instances three to four percent or better, fixed for five to 10 years—there is another good reason for producers to take advantage of strong markets today: namely that others won’t.

Canada’s cattle industry is still trying to bounce back from the effects of BSE, the resulting border closures and years of oversupply and depressed prices, some of which even predates the BSE outbreak in May 2003. In the last two years or so, prices have finally begun to rise. It makes sense then, that after eight years or more of operating in survival mode, many producers will consider ramping up their production—retaining heifer calves for breeding, so that in the next 18 to 30 months they can go to market with a herd size that is, in some cases, almost double in terms of market production. This is good news in the short term; today’s prices are even higher because so many heifer calves are being kept off the market Unfortunately, the other result of this is that in the next 18 months to two and a half years, the market is likely going 18

to have a significantly higher supply of cattle—a reality which could then start to depress prices. It is after all, a cycle that the industry has seen before and it repeats over and over.

of how your operation functions today will let you know what areas need the most attention and how you can make adjustments in order to better pursue your objectives and maximize your potential

The message here is not about whether or not to increase your herd size. Rather, it is about taking the time to make an educated decision and then do what you can today to profit from the current situation, so that you can reap the benefits now, which should in turn help enable you to meet the longer term objectives that you have for your operation

Having addressed a short-term strategy, your longer-term approach will answer a different question: “What does the market today mean for my future? What opportunities does it give me?” In the past few years, many ranchers have had to cut back or sell off assets because they were struggling financially. Some got out of cattle altogether to focus on farmland and growing crops. By taking proper advantage of today’s booming market, you can put yourself in the position of being able to pursue whatever objectives you have for your operation without some of those financial constraints. An advisor can help you put together a customized approach that maximizes your earnings and leverages them to fuel your long-term strategy

Short and longer term strategies For many producers, today’s market offers a real opportunity to sit down and decide what the long term objectives are. To determine what your next steps should be, ask yourself where your operation is headed. Do you want to get bigger now that you’re making better profits? Are you big enough, but want to become more efficient? Or, do you want to exit either by selling near the peak of the market, or by transition to the next generation?

Whatever your answer, working with your advisors will help you to set up a strategy that takes advantage of today’s prices and works towards the longer-term goals you have set for your operation. In other words, make the money today and think strategically for tomorrow Your short-term strategy will answer one question: “What’s the best thing to do for my operation in order to make the most of the current market?” A good way to answer this question is to do an objective, in-depth analysis of your operation’s strengths and weaknesses. It should help you to assess your current situation under four major headings: operations, marketing, financial and people. Ask yourself what’s working and what needs improvement. Having the full picture

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While it is always tempting to hold out and wait for perfect conditions, now may be the right time to be objective and to seize the opportunities as they arise.

Doing so will offer you, as a producer, the luxury of choosing what you want for your operation. No market holds forever, so speak with an advisor or consultant today and ensure that you are making hay while the sun is shining. B Paul Hammerton, BSC, CAFA is a Farm Management Consultant with MNP based in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. To find out what our team can do for your operation, contact Paul at 306.770.3666 or paul. hammerton@mnp.ca.

SEPTEMBER 2012

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Feature Farm Plates – What They Allow You to Transport Most of us are aware that farmclass licence plates come with lower registration fees and insurance premiums.

But did you know certain uses and restrictions come with the plate?

“It’s important to follow the rules for farm plate usage to make sure you’re within the legal guidelines. This will potentially save you a traffic fine, protect your insurance coverage and help to keep farm plate premiums low,” said Jennifer Peslari, Manager of Vehicle Registration and Permit Services for SGI. One of the main advantages of having farm plates is what it allows a farmer to transport in addition to products they produce on their farm. A farm-plated truck can also be used to transport recreational vehicles, household items, and any commodity used on the registered owner’s farm.

Primary farm products of another farm can be transported with or without compensation when using a two-axle truck (with or without a trailer) with a registered gross vehicle weight of 14,600 kg or less, or without compensation when using a three-axle truck (with or without a trailer) with a registered gross vehicle weight of no more than 22,500 kg.

Power units are not eligible to transport primary farm products for another farm regardless of the registered gross vehicle weight. To legally transport products for another farm with a truck over 22,500 kg or a power unit regardless of the gross weight, a farmer needs to obtain a commercial class licence plate for the vehicle, or an out-of-class permit. Permits are issued over the phone by the SGI Permit Office at 1-800-667-7575.

John Williamson General Manager Ph: 306.478.2229 Fax: 306.478.2443

2012 Sale Dates Sept 7th All Class Featuring Yearlings Oct 5th Special Yearling Sale Oct 12th All Class with Calves & Yearlings Oct 19th Canadian Angus Rancher Endorsed Calf Sale (green Tag) Oct 26th Red Angus, Hereford & Charolais Calf Sale Nov 2nd Angus Calf Sale Nov 9th All Breeds Calf Sale Nov 16th All Class Sale Dec 7th 1:00 p.m. 23rd Annual Select Bred Heifer, Open Replacements & Long Yearling Bulls Dec 14th All Class Sale with Bred Cows & Heifers

In the tradition of bringing buyers and sellers together You can watch all of our sales on real time internet - DVAuction.com - we will still take your bids on the phone.

We will still fax the sale catalogue and all sale information.

Any questions please call or email mankotastockmens@sasktel.net 20

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Trailers, except for camper, boat and cabin trailers, can be farm plated. Semi trailers, bumper-hitch trailers over 4,600 kg (including the load) and gooseneck trailers must be registered if they are pulled behind a farm-plated truck.

“If you don’t already have farm plates and think you qualify, or want to know more details about uses and restrictions, visit your motor licence issuer or go to www. sgi.sk.ca.” said Peslari. B

PO Box 248 Mankota, SK S0H 2W0

2012 Selling Fees Calves Yearlings Cows Bulls < 1,000 lbs Bulls > 1,000 lbs Internet Fees

$13.00 $14.00 $14.00 $14.00 $23.00 $2.00

There is NO extra feed charge.

Regular sales start at Noon Yearlings and calves are sold with a pencil shrink and put on feed immediately after weighing.

www.mankotastockmens.com SEPTEMBER 2012

Feature Inspecting the Brand Inspection

by Lori Loree

Times could be changing when it comes to brand inspection in Saskatchewan. The Saskatchewan government and Minister of Agriculture Lyle Stewart have created an advisory committee to look at just who should operate the system; currently this is government jurisdiction.

In Alberta and British Columbia, this task is run by the industry. The newly created committee has had one conference call at the time of publication. It’s made up of two representatives each from the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association and the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association. There is also one member from the Saskatchewan Horse Federation and the Livestock Marketers of Saskatchewan. Rounding out the group are two members-at-large.

“They will study the current brand inspection methodology in Saskatchewan

and take a look at Alberta and BC and possibly some other jurisdictions,” says Stewart. “They will consult with industry and hopefully recommend some options by early 2013.”

“We can’t justify subsidizing it forever. The industry is well on its way to being back on its feet and it’s going to have to start paying its own way,” says Stewart.

He adds there may be some advantages to a Western Canadian approach to brand inspection that would be more unified and uniform across the Prairie Provinces.

Right now, the brand inspection in Saskatchewan is the most expensive in Western Canada and “it’s not going to get any cheaper.”

In Saskatchewan, the rate is $2 per head.

Livestock Identification Services Ltd. in Alberta charges $1 per head (that rate is

going up to $1.25 in the future). In BC, the cost is $6.50 each for up to four head. It’s $1.60 per head after that amount.

“We are not looking at saving any money for the government,” says Stewart. “ We are trying to find a cheaper, better and more effective way to deliver brand inspection for the industry. They are the ones paying full cost right now.”

Research and stakeholder consultations will take place over the coming months and will most likely bring about some sort of change.

“We will have changes. I just don’t see this as being a core function of government,” says Stewart when asked if the status quo could be an option. “It’s something better managed by industry but if industry decides that they absolutely don’t want to do it, then I won’t push that hard.”B

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Feature Diamond J Cattle Company Wins Saskatchewan TESA Award

by Jeff Gaye

The Diamond J Cattle Company of Makwa, Saskatchewan, has won The Environmental Stewardship Award for 2012.

From the ten days a year when the stock is watered directly from the river, “you don’t see a lot of damage,” Terry says.

The Adamsons have fenced off their dugouts for much the same reasons. The cattle are watered from troughs which are supplied from the dugouts or the rivers by solar-powered pumps.

The Award is presented by the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association in cooperation with Ducks Unlimited and RBC Royal Bank.

Diamond J is owned by the Adamson family – Dale and Shelly Adamson and Terry and Penny Adamson – and has been in the family for three generations, spanning about 65 years. Over the past dozen years, the Adamsons have implemented environmental practices that have improved the quality of their land, the health of their herd, and the productivity of their enterprise.

Makwa is in the RM of Loon Lake, northwest of the Battlefords. The region is characterized by forests, meadowlands, and plenty of water. In addition to the running water – creeks, rivers, and underground aquifers – there are abundant wetlands, sloughs, ponds, and dugouts as well as lakes both large and small.

The northwest also has a high concentration of livestock, particularly cattle. This makes it especially important to balance an operation’s needs with what the land can provide over the long term.

It also means that producers have to think about what they are sending downstream, either literally through the waterways or figuratively through the generations.

This has prompted the Adamsons to look at different ways of doing things.

They want to raise cattle while improving rather than depleting the land’s capacity, ensuring a productive operation into the future.

One example is that rather than growing feed, says Terry Adamson, they buy feed while concentrating on improving their grass.

22

Terry, Penny, Shelly and Dale Adamson

“It’s a different kind of work,” he says.

“The majority of people are busy putting up hay, sitting on a tractor. We chose to buy our feed and expand our cattle herd.”

Instead of working from a tractor, Terry says they spent more of their time on horseback tending their stock.

The Adamsons’ operation has 500 head on almost 5000 acres, 2900 acres of which is deeded. Horsehead Creek and Loon River flow through the land, ultimately feeding Loon Lake. The lake, in turn, supports the Town of Loon Lake, Makwa Lake Provincial Park, and other homes and recreational users.

The protection of riparian areas is a priority for the Adamsons, who have put up miles of exclusion fence to keep their animals from water sources. The cattle have access to the riverbanks only ten days out of a year, which has made a dramatic difference.

“One mistake we made is not taking pictures,” Terry says. “Some places, like where there’s a bend in the river, it was trampled down flat – it was just dirt down to the water’s edge,” he says. “Now the grasses and willows are growing along the rivers.” Keeping the cows out of the stream protects the water from direct pollution, while the riverbank vegetation serves as a natural filter between the pastures and the water.

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Fencing is a key to the Diamond J success story. According to Terry, “every time you put up a fence, you improve your grass.” In addition to the exclusion fences protecting the water sources, the Adamsons use many more miles of crossfencing. The idea is to graze the cattle on fresh grass, and to allow manure to accumulate, improving the topsoil for the next growth. Given the sandy nature of the area’s subsoil, it is crucial to replenish the topsoil. Too small an enclosure will result in manure piles, but if a pasture is too large, the manure will be too sparse to improve the soil significantly.

Terry says they want a pasture grazed down flat, and well-tramped with a good manure layer. Then the cattle are moved to another pasture. The cycle is repeated every three to five days, and he says moving the animals that often is not difficult.

“If you come on the fifth day, they’re waiting for you,” he says. From there it’s a simple matter of riding among them to where you want them to go, and they’re only too happy to follow.

Fellow producers, on the other hand, are not always keen to follow the Adamsons’ path. While many ranchers have been interested in adopting some or all of their ways (Terry, in turn, credits Don Campbell and B-C Ranch for many of his techniques), Terry says there are some ranchers who remain committed to traditional practices.

“People don’t think it will work, or people are scared to change,” he says. But as far as Diamond J is concerned, “we wish

SEPTEMBER 2012

Feature

And, with the sandy soil, dugouts on some parts of the farm haven’t been able to hold water. This may mean investing in more pipe to take water to those areas that are farther from a source. “We’ve got around ninety pastures,” Terry says, “and it’s a challenge to have water everywhere.”

Despite the challenges, the Adamsons are happy to spend more of their time raising cattle instead of growing feed. By managing their pastures and buying feed, they don’t have to buy chemicals, sprays and machinery. In fact, they sold their machinery to buy more cattle. And while an efficient operation doesn’t necessarily translate into less work, it does allow them to do what they consider is more productive work.

“We’re always busy,” Terry says. “If we’re not moving water, we’re fencing.”

Diamond J also keeps its cattle out of their property’s wooded areas, preserving those spaces for wildlife habitat; For those who would like to adopt some or all of Diamond J’s techniques, Terry says the biggest investment is the fencing.

Programs like the Environmental Farm Plan, he says, may cover some of the cost.

And if you sell your haying machinery, you can reinvest that money into fencing or into stock.

Through TESA the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and RBC Royal Bank recognize excellence in environmental stewardship in the ranching industry. Diamond J Cattle Company is the eighteenth recipient of the Saskatchewan TESA award since its inception in 1995. B

Since 1995 the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) has been proudly recognizing beef cattle producers for excellence in range stewardship.

The Environmental Stewardship Award is presented annually by the SSGA and partners to recognize and acknowledge Saskatchewan ranchers for implementing innovative and environmentally sustainable management practices.

To nominate a fellow producer complete the nomination form available at www.skstockgrowers.com/tesa and submit it to the SSGA office.

Deadline for nominations is September 30th, 2012.

SEPTEMBER 2012

Award

Water is one such challenge, which is ironic for an operation that has had to deal with flooding over the past few years. With the stock not having free access to the waterline, there always has to be someone on hand to make sure the pumps are working. (Dale and Shelly’s son had to take a week away from his job to watch over the pumps while the family attended the recent Canadian Cattlemen’s Association conference in Calgary.)

Terry says they also keep busy moving their animals. By working on horseback they end up travelling less distance than they would in a vehicle, spending far less on fuel.

ENVIRONMETAL STEWARDSHIP

“In a sense, we’re working with nature instead of against it,” he says. But he acknowledges that there are challenges to be overcome for those starting down a more holistic, sustainable path.

The hardest adjustment has been calving in May and into June. Having to regularly move the newborn calves from pasture to pasture along with the rest of the herd presents some difficulties, Terry says.

And when you calve later, you have to market differently “because we don’t have big heavy cows in the fall.” The benefits are reduced costs for straw, labour, and manure hauling, and more resources available for the health of the herd.

The

we had started twenty years ago. We’re already seeing the benefit.”

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Science and Production Finding Stray Animals With Your Herd

by Cam Wilk, P. Ag. Livestock Branch, Saskatchewan Agriculture With the summer grazing season winding up many of you will be busy moving animals into the marketing system or preparing for winter feeding. It is very common to find stray animals mixed in with your own animals.

Should a stray animal or animals be found, provisions on how to deal with the stray are contained in The Stray Animals Act and Regulations. The procedures are also summarized by Saskatchewan Municipal Affairs in a publication entitled Stray Animals Guide. Your Rural Municipality (RM) has a significant role in assisting you with dealing with any stray animal.

If the owner of the stray is known, you must immediately notify the owner of the discovery and restraint of the stray. The owner of the stray has 12 hours within which to pay the finder the restraining fees and get his/her strays released. The fees are prescribed in the regulations and cannot be altered.

If the owner and finder cannot agree on the fees to be paid regarding the restraint, or if the owner fails to pay the agreed to amount or fails to remove the stray from the finder’s premises after paying the fees, the finder is required to notify the administrator of the RM of the restraint.

The RM administrator shall immediately provide the owner with particulars of the restraint.

If the owner is unknown, the finder must also notify the RM administrator and either the district livestock inspector or the RCMP of the restraint, the location of the stray, and the date and time of the commencement of the restraint.

The Rural Municipality administrator must advertise the restraint of the stray in one issue of the local newspaper circulating in the municipality or for two consecutive days on any radio or television broadcasting station in the municipality between 7 am and 10 pm.

24

The finder, during the period of restraint, is required to provide the stray with wholesome sustenance and shelter normally provided to such animals, along with veterinary care, if necessary.

The owner of a stray is liable for any fees payable respecting his or her stray animal and such fees or compensation are payable to the RM. This, however, does not include damages caused by a stray.

The exception is when the owner and the finder agree to an amount and the owner pays within 12 hours of notice.

If any fees are not paid or the owner is unknown, the RM is responsible to pay the fees to the finder, pound keeper or other persons, and the municipality may sue the owner of the stray for recovery of any amounts paid.

When all fees and any other penalties are paid, the RM administrator shall, by notice to the finder or pound keeper, authorize the release of the stray.

If the owner remains unknown and the RM has waited seven days after impoundment, the administrator shall give notice to the pound keeper to deliver the stray to the nearest auction market.

proceeds. Immediately after the sale, the auction market shall forward to the RM administrator any remaining proceeds of the sale.

The Act and Regulations also provide additional procedures when dealing with valueless strays, dangerous strays and open and closed herd laws. B For more information, see the Stray Animals Guide on the Saskatchewan Municipal Affairs website at www. municipal.gov.sk.ca/Administration/ Guides/Stray-Animals-Word.

PROTECT YOU R I NVESTM E NT YOUR BRAND IS YOUR ANIMALS’ RETURN ADDRESS For more information about branding and livestock inspection, contact: Brand Registrar: Carol Lenton, Regina, (306) 787-4682 District Livestock Managers: Dave Augustine, Swift Current, (306) 778-8312 Bill McConwell, Moose Jaw, (306) 694-3709 Ron Sabin, North Battleford, (306) 446-7404

The auction market shall sell the stray by public auction to the highest bidder and deduct any sales commission fees, yardage, veterinary costs or other expenses from the

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Les Tipton, Saskatoon, (306) 933-7660 Robert Solomon, Yorkton, (306) 786-5712 Garth Woods, Moosomin, (306) 435-4582 Barry DeJaeger, Winnipeg, (204) 694-0830

LIVESTOCK AGRICUL TURE

SEPTEMBER 2012

Science and Production Where’s the Beef?

Active Missing Livestock Files September 2012 Report missing livestock immediately to your nearest RCMP detachment, your nearest Livestock Inspector’s office and your RM Administrator.

Area Missing from

Stoughton

Tribune

Fairlight

Number of head

Animal description

14

Cows Blk

1

Bull Blk

1

Bull Red

6

4 blk/BBF cows with calves 2 Heifers Red

Brand Description

Brand Location

RCMP subdivision

LR

Carlyle 453-6707

LH

Livestock Branch contact

Date Reported

Moosomin 435-4582

July 12

Weyburn 435-3361

Moosomin 435-4582

July 12

Moosomin 946-3316

Moosomin 435-4582

July 12

LH LR

Information provided by the Livestock branch of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

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www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 25

99th Convention & AnnuAl GenerAl MeetinG May 27 - 29, 2012 Cypress Resort Inn, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Thank You to Our Tradeshow Exhibitors Boehringer Ingelheim (Canada) Ltd. Canada Beef Inc. Canadian Animal Health Coalition Canadian Cattle Identification Agency Canadian Cattlemen, FBC Publishing Canadian/Saskatchewan Angus Association Foothills Livestock Co-op Fort Supply Technologies/BioBeef Hoop Beef Systems Masterfeeds Merit-Trax Technologies Pfizer Animal Health Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corp/AgriStability Saskatchewan Charolais Association Saskatchewan Verified Beef Production Spring Creek Premium Beef Western Beef Development Centre Young’s Equipment

Mr. Chad MacPherson, General Manager Box 4752, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 P: 306.757.8523 F: 306.569.8799 e: ssga@sasktel.net

www.skstockgrowers.com 26 | ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

Thank You t o our Sponsors Platinum Plus

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Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

Gibson Livestock Jameson, Gilroy, and B & L Livestock Platinum Nelson Motors & Equipment Canadian Cattlemen, FBC Publishing Porter & McLean Livestock Management Crescent Point Energy Saskatchewan Bison Association Pfizer Animal Health TD Canada Trust Credit Unions of Southwest Saskatchewan VIDO Western Producer Western Litho Printers

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Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Certified Angus Beef Edge Realty Farm Credit Canada Golden West Radio Merck Animal Health MNP Winquist Ventures

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Ducks Unlimited Canada Feedlot Health Management Services Ltd. Heartland Livestock Services JayDee AgTech Labatt Breweries Mankota Stockmen’s Weigh Co Paysen Livestock Equipment Saskatchewan Simmental Association Saskatchewan Watershed Authority Saskatoon Livestock Sales Saskatoon Processing SaskEnergy SaskTel SIGA - Living Sky Casino Southern Trail Trailer Sales The Hartford Vetoquinol Canada Weyburn Inland Terminal

Profiting through Productivity SEPTEMBER 2012

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 27

2012 Annual General Meeting Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Serving the Saskatchewan Cattle Industry Since 1913

2012 Annual General Meeting Tuesday, May 29, 2012 Cypress Resort Inn, Cypress Hills, Saskatchewan Resolution #1 WHEREAS cattle theft and related fraud is an ongoing concern and threat to the Saskatchewan cattle industry; and WHEREAS there is currently no dedicated livestock theft investigation unit in Saskatchewan.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA work with the SARM and the SCA to lobby the Government of Saskatchewan and the RCMP to actively pursue the creation of a dedicated livestock theft investigator position for the province of Saskatchewan through existing RCMP per capita levies paid by Rural Municipalities.

Carried Resolution #2 WHEREAS the ability to grow feed on southwest irrigation projects is a valuable part of livestock producers long-term viability.

BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA meet with the provincial and federal governments to discuss the importance of irrigation land in the southwest.

Carried Resolution #3 WHEREAS the federal Code of Practices is being reviewed and the SSGA have many concerns to do with increased restrictions that may challenge the cattle industry competitiveness.

BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA work together with the federal Department of

SEPTEMBER 2012

Agriculture and the CCA to ensure that a balanced approach is applied to the Code of Practice.

Carried Resolution #4 WHEREAS the federal government has been discussing ending operations of the community pastures branch; and WHEREAS many cattle producers are patrons of the community pasture program.

BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA lobby on behalf of producers to see that any changes in management of the PFRA pasture system be passed on to provincial or patron management.

Carried

Resolution #5 WHEREAS revenue from oil and gas surface rights and stumpage fees currently going to the Saskatchewan Pastures Program Revolving Fund.

agricultural land use and current land users should be given the first chance to purchase or lease. All necessary precautions should be taken to ensure the land is maintained at an acceptable standard for wildlife habitat and environmental sustainability.

Carried Resolution #7 WHEREAS the Barn Swallow has been added, by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC), to the threatened species list.

BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA lobby the federal government to remove the Barn Swallow from the threatened list.

Carried Resolution #8 BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA lobby the government of Saskatchewan to work with the CCIA on a process to share information on animal identification to support livestock theft or fraud investigations.

Carried

BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA lobby the Provincial Government to keep the status quo.

Defeated Resolution #6 BE IT RESOLVED that the SSGA support the federal government to have an orderly, fair and equitable transfer of AESB pastures to the province of Saskatchewan for the purpose of private ownership or lease. Priority should be given to

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SEPTEMBER 2012

Association News and Reports A Report From Harold Martens President, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association

People who choose to be agricultural/ livestock producers have always had to deal with what Mother Nature throws our way; drought being only of the issues.

The current drought in Texas, which began in 2010, is affecting eleven other states, according to US Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack. The changes in the marketplace will always reflect that since the state of Texas has more cattle than all of Canada. The impact of the drought has resulted in a large decrease in grain yield projections. This has resulted in soaring grain commodity prices and higher cost of gains for cattle feeders. As I look at the prices of feeder cattle in the southern part of the US, I see that they are in the $1.35 range for 635 lb. steers; the same steers in the northern part of the US are 10 cents higher. The sell-off of cattle is on everyone’s mind as well as the further impact of this drought. The midterm beef cattle numbers in the US are showing another 3% drop and over 50% of the beef cattle herd is in the drought areas. The cattle that would normally be moving off pastures in September moved onto pastures in July. We have been very fortunate that the rain has continued to fall in Saskatchewan, some places too much, but a drought is much more difficult to deal with. Will the continued drought in the US have an impact on cattle prices here? There are those who are saying that the prices in Canada may be the same as last year and that would be good. In the future when the US drought ends and the rebuilding starts there will be a price surge and we need to prepare ourselves to take advantage of that.

SEPTEMBER 2012

The Minister of Agriculture asked me, as your President, to sit on a committee to advise him on the role the province should take in the movement of the PFRA pastures into the control and ownership of the patrons. We need to understand that most of the land (1.7 million acres) that we are talking about was given to the Federal government in the 1930s and 40s to be held in trust until they would give it back to the province. As in every case where we have been accustomed to the way these pastures were handled and changes occur, there will be a great deal of uncertainty experienced by the patrons and the employees. With every opportunity that comes along like this there are risks and we shouldn’t minimize them. Some of those opportunities/risks are in financing along with questions that need to be answered such as; How do we manage the employees? How do we run the bull program? How do we set up a governance structure? Who will do the fencing? Who will look after the bulls in the winter? How can I take a risk with the other patrons without knowing their ability to run a business? How will I be able to sell my shares? and Will others be willing to buy in?

My role on the committee is to see that the patrons are going to be able to buy some of these assets and that they will not be placed in a position where they will need to carry a debt load that will cripple their capacity to have positive returns from their cattle business. My second goal is to enable the patrons to see some of the benefit of capital gains on portions of this land so that they can improve their net worth. We need to keep in mind that the agricultural land values in Saskatchewan are the lowest in Canada and the US. There is a need to understand the direct relationship between land that is for sale and the available funds that come either from cash you have, assets you can borrow against or/and that you can get a lender to borrow from. We also need to understand that there will be other privately held, grazing pasture land for sale and we cannot minimize the importance of this if it dries up the capital from lenders for

those sales. The Ministry of Agriculture is beginning discussions with the pasture patrons telling them about what options are available and how they need to begin to organize for the future.

I don’t want to tell you whether this is good for you or bad for you, but if we sit “idling our attitude engines” and think that this will not happen we are sorely mistaken. This is like a pregnancy, when the time is ready it will be delivered whether we are ready or not. The best that you can do is prepare yourselves for what is coming and take the greatest advantage of this opportunity. I want to also say to you if any of you want to have some advice to help facilitate this do not hesitate to ask.

The provincial Minister of Agriculture Lyle Stewart has asked the SSGA to select two of our Board members to sit on a brand inspection advisory committee.

Our representatives will be our General Manager, Chad MacPherson and I. Mark Elford, President of the Saskatchewan Cattleman’s Association (SCA), and I will be co-chairing the committee. There will be one additional representative from the SCA, Livestock Marketers of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Horse Federation and two members at large.

It seems like “status quo” doesn’t exist in the cattle business today, change is inevitable so how we adapt to it will set the pattern for the future. It is our goal at the SSGA to keep up with the events as they come along and to keep you informed about what is happening. There will be more information given out by the Minister of Agriculture in the months ahead and it is our role to influence him as much as we can. We have been told that when we have a concern that his door is open and we will take advantage of that. We will work to have the cattle industry in the forefront of the Ministry activities as much as possible. If you have any questions do not hesitate to call me, or another Board member or our office at any time. B

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Stewardship The Importance of Prairie Landowners to Loggerhead Shrikes Submitted by Leanne Thompson for SK PCAP

The Loggerhead Shrike is an interesting bird that, although it’s classified as a songbird, hunts for its lunch much more like a hawk! Also known as the “butcher bird”, the Loggerhead Shrike eats insects, rodents, reptiles, amphibians and even small birds. Loggerheads often impale its prey on barbed wire or thorns as a way of storing excess food, displaying hunting prowess to females, or to aid in eating large prey as they lack the strong talons typical of larger birds of prey such as hawks.

The Prairie Loggerhead Shrike population has been declining since the 1960s and its range has contracted. In Saskatchewan, where most of Canada’s Prairie Loggerhead Shrikes breed, the greatest declines are in the southeastern corner of the province and the Aspen Parkland region.

The following Best Management Practices (BMPs) have been developed by Nature Saskatchewan as actions that landowners can take to aid in the protection of the Loggerhead Shrike: • Maintain grassland pastures at least one quarter-section in size, preferably in close proximity to other grasslands.

• Plant trees and shrubs in areas where they already exist such as upgrading shelterbelts or in abandoned farmsteads.

• Restrict livestock access to woody vegetation, i.e. shelterbelts, during the spring when these plants are susceptible to damage, as livestock tend to destroy woody vegetation by rubbing.

• Prevent bird access to grain (clean up spilled grain and store grain in bird and rodent proof bins), and adjust feeding times to the afternoon when invasive species like European Starlings and sparrows are less active.

• Use prescribed burning to manage woody vegetation and provide variable vegetation structure.

• Moderate grazing intensities, durations and frequencies between May and October to create a mosaic of shorter and taller grasses within a pasture.

For more information on the Loggerhead Shrike or the Shrubs for Shrikes Program, please visit the Nature Saskatchewan website www.naturesask.ca.

• Plant woody vegetation at least 200m from busy roads. B

Rural landowners play a key role in conserving prairie habitat and maintaining healthy grassland ecosystems. Sound management practices help ensure a healthy grassland ecosystem that will benefit both the landowner and wildlife such as the Loggerhead Shrike which may utilize the area as habitat.

Nature Saskatchewan has been operating the Shrubs for Shrikes (SFS) program since 2003 to help protect Loggerhead Shrike habitat from destruction and cultivation, monitor population changes and increase awareness of the Shrike. SFS aims to work with rural landowners who are interested in conserving habitat that Loggerhead Shrikes select such as shelterbelts, farmyards, and abandoned farmsteads for nesting and pastures and surrounding areas for hunting. Due to the location of its habitat, success in conserving Loggerhead Shrikes relies, in part, on the interest of landowners and their informed actions.

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| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Photo courtesy of Chet Neufeld

SEPTEMBER 2012

Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association Box 4752, Regina, SK S4P 3Y4 P: 306.757.8523 F: 306.569.8799 E: ssga@sasktel.net

d e t

n a W S S G A

VolunStEERS

Security knowing that the SSGA is watching out for your business.

Supporting primary producers for nearly 100 years.

Guiding the livestock industry in the past, present and future.

Advocating for an economically viable and independent cattle industry.

What’s a VolunSteer?

An SSGA member who contributes to our new fundraising campaign by donating the proceeds of the sale of an animal.

Why become a VolunSteer?

To help the SSGA increase our financial resources to better serve our members as an advocate to protect, promote and educate on behalf of our industry.

Participating in the SSGA’s VolunSteer program is a hassle-free way to invest in the future of the beef industry - the SSGA is inexpensive insurance for your business.

What’s in it for you?

Help the SSGA increase our financial resources to better serve our members as an advocate for your industry.

• Receive a tax receipt for your donation.

• Free one-year SSGA membership ($105 value).* • VolunSteers will also be recognized in Beef Business magazine and at the SSGA Annual Meeting.* *Contribution must be at least $500 value to receive these benefits.

Help the SSGA fight for your industry!

SEPTEMBER 2012

For more information call: (306) 757 - 8523

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 33

Calendar of Events SEPTEMBER September 27-29

North Dakota Stockmen’s Association’s Convention

Fargo, ND

September 28-30

SK SPCA Conference and AGM

Saskatoon, SK

October 10

Advertising deadline for November magazine

October 27

Edam Fall Fair and Commercial Cattle Show & Sale

Edam, SK

October 30

FACS Media Training

Saskatoon, SK

November 1-3

Stockade Roundup

Lloydminster, SK

November 7-10

Saskatoon Fall Fair

Saskatoon, SK

November 13-14

CanFax Cattle Market Forum

Calgary, AB

November 19-24

Canadian Western Agribition

Regina, SK

November 23

Commercial Cattle Mixer

Regina, SK

November 27-29

South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association Annual Convention and Tradeshow

Huron, SD

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER December 5

FACS Advocates for Agriculture Workshop

Saskatoon, SK

December 5-6

FACS AGM

Saskatoon, SK

December 10

Advertising deadline for January magazine

December 12-13

Foraging into the Future

Swift Current, SK

JANUARY 2013 January 23-25

SK Beef Industry Conference

February 7-8

Manitoba Beef Producers AGM

June 9-11

SSGA 100th AGM

Saskatoon, SK

FEBRUARY 2013 Brandon, MB

JUNE 2013 Moose Jaw, SK

SSGA BOARD OF DIRECTORS DIRECTORS AT LARGE

THE EXECUTIVE

Harold Martens President/Director at Large Swift Current, SK

Phone: 773-6782

Doug Gillespie 1st Vice President/Director at Large Neville, SK Phone: 627-3619 Shane Jahnke 2nd Vice President/Director at Large Gouldtown, SK

Calvin Knoss Past President/Director at Large Rockglen, SK Brooks Whitney Finance Chair Maple Creek, SK

34

Grant Alexander, Weyburn Ryan Beierbach, Whitewood Gerry Duckworth, Courval Helen Finucane, Regina Gerald Schultz, Success Roy Rutledge, Assiniboia Robin Wiggins, Fox Valley

ZONE CHAIR DIRECTORS Phone: 784-2899

Phone: 476-2512

Zone 1 - Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 4 - Zone 5 - Zone 6 - Zone 7 - Zone 12 -

Lloyd Thompson, Carnduff Ken MacDonald, Indian Head Kelcy Elford, Caronport Brooks Whitney, Maple Creek Bill Huber, Lipton Brent Griffin, Elbow Keith Day, Lacadena Larry Flaig, Assiniboia

Phone: 662-4420

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

456-2500 532-4809 394-4211 584-2773 773-6860 642-5358 666-2103

AFFILIATE DIRECTORS

Garner Deobald - Charolais Affiliate, Hodgeville 677-2589 Tom Grieve - Cattle Breeders Affiliate, Fillmore 722-3504 Tara Fritz - SImmental Affiliate, Shaunavon 297-3147 Clint Smith - Angus Affiliate, Mankota 478-2470 Arron Huber - Shorthorn Affiliate, Lipton 336-2706

APPOINTED DIRECTORS

Dr. Andy Acton- Veterinary Advisor, Ogema 486-2146 695-2157 355-2335 662-4420 336-2684 854-2050 375-2934 266-2070

459-2422

SASKATCHEWAN CCA DIRECTORS Lynn Grant, Val Marie Brent Griffin, Elbow Pat Hayes, Val Marie Reg Schellenberg, Beechy Kevin Woods, Moosomin

298-2268 854-2050 298-2284 859-4905 435-2102

Listings of email and fax numbers can be found on the SSGA website at www.skstockgrowers.com

SEPTEMBER 2012

Advertiser Index

Abe’s Signs

36

Allen Leigh Security & Communications

37

Arm River Red Angus

36

Assiniboia Livestock

25

Beef Improvement Opportunities/Fort Supply

10,11

New Vision Agro

38

Norheim Ranching

36

Northstar Seed Ltd.

38

Paysen Livestock

Saskatoon Processing Company

37

Sittler Composting

38

28

Six Mile Ranch

12

Pfizer Animal Health

17, 19,40

Solar West

8

Southern Trail Trailer Sales

36

Rosetown Flighting Supply

36

Superior Livestock Auction

37

Saskatchewan Angus Assoc.

30, 37

Target Cattle Concepts

9

Terra Grain Fuels

36

Western Beef Development Centre

34

Western Litho

38

Weyburn Inland Terminal

38

Young’s Equipment

38

Best Western Plus Inn & Suites

36

Bill Laidlaw Chartered Accountant Professional Corp.

36

Boehringer Ingelheim

3

Burnett Angus

37

Canadian Western Agribition

2

CanFax Cattle Market Forum

16

Cattle Care

38

Chartop Charolais

36

Cowtown Livestock Exchange, Inc.

36

Elanco Animal Health

36

Feed Rite

37

Frostfree Nose Pumps

38

GelbviehWorld.com

37

Gibson Livestock

37

Grayson & Co.

36

Highline Manufacturing

21

ITS Global

12

Jackson Designs

37

John Brown Farms

38

Main Office (306) 382-8088

Johnstone Auction

38

Kyle Welding & Machine Shop Ltd.

38

Selling all classes of cattle

Lane Realty Corp.

9,37

Linthicum Herefords

36

Man-SK Gelbvieh

38

Manitou Maine-Anjou

37

Mankota Stockmen’s Weigh Co.

20

Masterfeeds

36

Merit-Trax Technologies

13

Nerbas Bros. Inc.

37

SEPTEMBER 2012

SGI (Saskatchewan Government Insurance)

14

Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

24

Saskatchewan Verified Beef

39

Saskatoon Livestock Sales Ltd.

35

Regular Sales

Monday, Tuesday, & Wednesday www.saskatoonlivestocksales.com

Feeder Cattle * Slaughter Cattle * Cows * Bulls

Mike Fleury - Manager - (306) 222-9526 Harvey Welter - Sales Rep - (306) 227-8684 Alvin Busby - Sales Rep - (306) 221-0905 Bob Blacklock - Sales Rep - (306) 221-8943 Special Sales - Bred Cow & Heifer Sales - Purebred Bull & Female Sales

Be sure to select Saskatoon Livestock Sales for all your cattle marketing needs!

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 35

historic reesor ranch Cowboy Comfort with Atmosphere and Western Hospitality! www.reesorranch.com 306-662-3498 Cypress Hills, Canada

Quality Grain Bags & Net Wrap Self Unloading Hay Trailers

350 Langdon Cres. Moose Jaw Founded 1883

306-693-6176

www.graysonandcompany.com

General Practice

Regina Mill – 1-877-440-2727 Saskatoon Mill – 1-800667-4757

Gallagher Fencing Supplies

GRAYSON & COMPANY

BARRISTERS AND SOLICITORS

Janie Jensen – 1-306-535-0969 Jerry Glab – 1-306-891-8914 Jack Wagman – 1-306-536-1004 Jim Zeng – 1-306-220-2829 SteveWarwryk – 1-306-291-4629



Gates & Panels



Steel Fence



Hay Feeders



Bunk Feeders

Branch Office in: Central Butte - (306) 796-2025

Best Western Plus Inn & Suites

105 George Street West Swift Current, SK S9H 0K4 888-773-8818 (306) 773-4660

Your AD could be here!

Contact Tracy Cornea at 306-693-9329

BL BILL LAIDLAW CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT PROF. CORP.

BILL LAIDLAW CA.CFP.

Chartered Accountant

604 Government Road S. Weyburn, SK S4H 2B4 Ph: 306.842.5344 Fax: 306.842.5345 Bill@BillLaidlaw.ca

Super Edge™ flighting for grain augers, combines, & seed cleaning plants.

Left and right hand available in all sizes. Helicoid & Sectional

Complete Auger Repairs ROSETOWN FLIGHTING SUPPLY Rosetown, SK

Phone 1-866-882-2243 • Fax 1-306-882-2217 www.flightingsupply.com rfsdealerinfo@sasktel.net EXCELLENT PREPAID FREIGHT RATES - BC $25 AB/MB $19 SK $18 (per order) NO FREIGHT CHARGES: One size 75 feet & over Multiple sizes - 100 feet & over

OVERNIGHT DELIVERY TO MAJOR CENTRES

Chartop Charolais Glen and Lyn Sauder Box 569, Gull Lake, SK S0N 1A0 Ph: (306) 672-3979 Fax: (306) 672-4347 Purebred CHAROLAIS & RED ANGUS Bulls for Sale Commercial Herd * Visitors always welcome

nks .

Your AD could be here!

Contact Tracy Cornea at 306-693-9329

CT

Cowtown Livestock Exchange Inc. Maple Creek, SK

Regular Sales every Tuesday @ 11:00 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

Linthicum Ranch Division of Eli Lillly Canada Inc.

Open replacement and Bred Heifers for sale, Heifert Black & Baldy Heiferts for sale.

Also, commercial Heifert Bulls Murray & Jan Frank (306) 266-4377 (306) 266-4417

Glentworth, SK

Abel Lopez Sales Representative Northern Saskatchewan Cell: 306-280-0240

www.elanco.ca 36

(306) 567- 4702

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Box 688, Davidson, SK S0G

Call (306) 345-2280 or visit www.terragrainfuels.com for more information.

MAY 2012

“Saskatchewan’s Farm & Ranch Specialists”

For all of your buying or selling needs...

Contact one of our Farm & Ranch Specialists today!

To view our properties visit our website at: www.lanerealtycorp.com

Ph: 306-569-3380

Fax: 306-569-3414

Candace Schwartz 306.772.0376 Candace Schwartz Sasha Veitch 306.716.0924 S. Saskatchewan 306.772.0376 candace@jacksondesigns.ca www.jacksondesigns.ca candace@jacksondesigns.ca

RYAN GIBSON BUS: 306-692-9668 CELL: 306-631-0070 FAX: 306-692-3252 TOLL-FREE: 1-800-667-7176

Deadstock Removal 3018 Miners Ave. Saskatoon, SK S7K 4Z8 Phone (306) 934-4887 Toll-free 1-800-803-9714

catalogues, ad design, event photography, magazine design & layout, posters and more!

Sasha Veitch

N. Saskatchewan 306.716.0924

www.jacksondesigns.ca

www.facebook.com/JacksonDesignsSK

Catalogues, ad design, event photography, family & newborn portraits, lifestyle photography, posters, brochures, magazine/publication layout and so much more!

Your AD could be here!

Contact Tracy Cornea at 306-693-9329

Black Angus Bulls

Pick up your copy of your product catalogue at your local dealer.

www.nerbasbroangus.com

Shellmouth, MB CANADA 204-564-2540 All Sales by Private Treaty

Canadian Livestock Auction. Ltd.

Bryce Burnett

Box 86, Swift Current, SK S9H 3V5

Cowboy Poetry Pictures & Poems Tarentaise & Angus Cattle

1-800-929-COWS (2097)

WIRELESS COW CAM

Quality You Can Trust Humboldt Saskatoon Swift Current

Makes your calving easier safer and more PROFITABLE! Pricing from $450.00 - $2,575.00

800-947-9186 888-681-4111 877-881-1455 Save 100's of trips to the barn!

Saves 3-5 calves per year!

Stop disturbing them while they calve!

Gives you better quality of life! since 1996

www.CowCam.ca Brandon, MB PH: 1-866-289-8164

MAY 2012

Maine-Anjou Bulls (since 1970)

We sell the real Maine-Anjou bulls!

No half cross yuppy bulls.

This is the ultimate breed in crossing with any other breed for great cows & feedlot cattle.

Gary Graham, Marsden Sk. (306) 823-3432 grahamgs@sasktel.net www.manitoumaineanjou.ca

www.skstockgrowers.com | ©BEEF BUSINESS | 37

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) 306-693-0541 (Res) Fax 306-691-6650

www.kylewelding.com Box 310, Kyle, SK S0L1T0

Forage Seed Corn Seed Neil McLeod 306-831-9401

306-375-2271

Over 60 years of service!

Galvanized Water Tanks From 100 to 4100 gal.

Livestock Water Troughs - From 400 to 1250 gal.

Helen Finucane office: 306-775-1443 cell: 306-537-2648 phone: 306-584-2773 Carlyle, SK Celebrating 40 years in Canada!

CATTLE CARE 1A 1081 Central Ave N • Swift Current, SK S9H 4Z2

888-773-5773 • www.cattlecarevet.com

For Upcoming Gelbvieh Sales and Breeders in your area contact:

“The Best Name in Cattle Waterers”

Cynthia Wirgau Secretary (204) 278-3255 maplegrove@xplornet.com

Waterers and parts in stock

www.gelbvieh.ca

Johnson Concrete Cattle Waterers

NEW VISION AGRO Box 479 Hague, SK S0K 1X0

Your AD could be here!

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

Contact Tracy Cornea at

Dealer & Distributor For:

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

- Jay-Lor Vertical Feed Mixers - Feed-Rite - Cargill Rite Now Minerals - Baler twine, netwrap, silage bunker, covers, plastic wrap, Grain Bags

306-693-9329

Check with us before you buy! ®

AARON BOHN Pro-Pellet Division

Compost Turners, Spreaders, Screeners, Baggers

Weyburn Inland Terminal Ltd. Box 698, Weyburn Saskatchewan, Canada S4H 2K8 Sask. Toll Free 1-800-552-8808 Tel: (306) 842-7436 Fax: (306) 842-0303 Cell: (306) 861-1757 email: a.bohn@wit.ca www.wit.ca

38

| ©BEEF BUSINESS | www.skstockgrowers.com

Brent Hansen Environmental 204-726-3335, www.globalrepair.ca

MAY 2012

Canada’s On-Farm Food Safety Program for Beef Cattle Producers

Cattle producers in Saskatchewan can qualify for funding provided through Growing Forward, a federal provincial initiative. To be eligible they must: Attend a VBP workshop Have $2500 worth of cattle sales in the previous tax year Funding is available for 50% of approved equipment cost up to $750 per producer. Eligible equipment includes:

head gates and chutes with neck extenders livestock weigh scales record keeping software Please contact our office for a complete list of approved manufacturers prior to purchase.

Please Note: Applications for the current funding will be accepted until January 15th, 2013.

...driving consumer confidence To learn more information about VBP in Saskatchewan, call 1-888-675-6177 or visit www.saskvbp.ca

(3-WAY INTRANASAL)

NEW INFORCE™ 3.

PROTECTION WHERE AND WHEN IT’S NEEDED.

BRSV protection has never been this good. This new 3-way intranasal vaccine actually prevents disease caused by BRSV while dramatically reducing IBR disease and almost completely eliminating PI3 shedding. And it’s safe enough to use in all classes of cattle, regardless of age.

Make sure your protection is INFORCE.

Safety and efficacy studies on file.

INFORCE™ 3 is a trademark of Pfizer Products Inc., Pfizer Canada Inc., licensee.

INF JADP04a 0212 E INFO-014

www.plp-cattle.ca