Northern Horizon April 26, 2024

Ant Pheromones May Help Protect Hikers and Campers from Ticks

By Jeff Hodson, Simon Fraser University

If people are outside enjoying the spring sunshine, ticks probably are too.

New research from Simon Fraser University suggests the use of ant pheromones as a topical repellant, or as an environmental barrier, may help protect hikers and campers from the harmful bites of black-legged ticks, which can carry Lyme disease.

“Ticks like a lot of the places and a lot of the times of year that we also like to be outside enjoying the weather,” says lead author Claire Gooding, a member of the SFU Gries Lab.

“There’s quite a big risk of tick encounters in the summer, outdoor sports season. People often encounter them on the sides of trails.”

A paper published this year in Royal Society Open Science looked at predators (ants, spiders or beetles) that black-legged ticks might avoid and what adaptations they might have to avoid them.

“We decided to look at ants because they are social insects and use a huge range of pheromones to communicate with one another,” says Gooding.

“They’re chemically noisy. And for something that perceives the world chemically, they’re easy to predict where they’ll be, based on these pheromones.”

Ticks transmit more diseases that any other arthropods and their natural ranges may be expanding due to climate change, which increases the need for management strategies as well as new repellents.

The study found that ticks avoided surfaces where ants had been, even if those ants were removed.

“They could see that there were ants and basically go, ‘I’m not going to go there, because there may be ants there, or there may be ants there again soon in the future.’”

rom there, ooding and the team identified the specific chemical pheromones as well as the two ant glands that produced them. They then worked with a synthetic chemist and an analytical chemist to recreate a synthetic version of those pheromones.

They found that ticks avoided the synthetic pheromone too.

The team, which works with industrial sponsors to further discoveries into the applied world, has a patent application on the repellant chemicals.

It is hoping to bring them to market, either as a topical repellent (like mosquito repellent), or as an environmental repellent that could be used with a physical barrier, like woodchips, to deter ticks from entering an area or a hiking trail.

Dan PRZYBYLSKI Heather ANDERSON

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Claire Gooding

Saturday,May 4&Sunday, May5,2024

LewisHawkesEventCentre &DrysdaleArena, EvergreenPark,GrandePrairie,AB

GrandePrairie4-HMultiClub

Equine,Lamb &Goat,Sewing/Textiles,Lego,Canine, Rabbit, Archery,JuniorLeadership,SmallPet,Poultry andCleaverKids.

ShowTimestobeprovidedat alaterdate

Contact KellyBoyd780-876-0189

Monday,May13,2024

EastCounty4-HAchievementDay

DrysdaleCenter,EvergreenPark,GrandePrairie,AB

Bezanson4-HMultiClub,KleskunMulti4-HClub

Show: 10:00a.m. •Supper:5:30p.m.• Sale:7:00p.m.

OnOffer:39 Steers

Wednesday,June5,2024

Savanna4-HMulti-ClubBeefShow &Sale

SavannaRec-Plex,Savanna,AB

Show: 12:00Noon •Sale:7:00p.m.

OnOffer: 22Steers

Contact:AdamFitzpatrick780-864-1235

Friday, June 7&Saturday,June8,2024

SpiritDays4-HAchievementDays

MacLeanArena,SpiritRiver,AB

Eaglesham4-HBeefClub,East-West Woking4-HClub

Show: (Fri &Sat):1:00p.m. •Sale(Sat):7:00p.m.

OnOffer: 12MarketSteers

Contact: ChanleyJassman780-864-8322

Saturday,June8,2024

SteakBites &Boots4-HClubAchievementDay

Contact CharmaineLaValley780-832-7426

TaraBullen780-832-1556

FridayMay24,2024

CoyoteAcres4-HAchievementDayShow&Sale

HighPrairieAgSocietyArena

Show: 3:00p.m.,SuppertoFollow •Saleat6:00pm

OnOffer: 8MarketSteersand 6MarketHogs

Contact: LeighBlackhurst780-536-6735

Monday, May27,2024

DawsonCreekFairBeefBarn,DawsonCreek,BC

Beef,Horse,Sheep,SmallEngine,OutdoorLiving, Cloverbuds

Show: 10:00a.m.Sale:6:00p.m.

OnOffer: MarketSteersandMarketLambs

Contact: Shellie Wolfe(250)784-4628

JennGauthier(250)219-9217

Saturday,June 8& Sunday,June9,2024

SaddleChamps4-HClubAchievementDays

SunsetPrairieRecreationGrounds,SunsetPrairie,BC

BerwynMulti-Coveralls4-HClubAchievementDayShow &Sale

PioneerMuseum,LacCardinalGrounds,Grimshaw,AB

Beef,Sheep,Arts &Crafts,Cleavers

Show: 2:00p.m. |Sale:7:00p.m.

OnOffer: 9MarketSteersand 2MarketSheep

Contact: PaulFranz780-618-5983

Monday,May27,2024

WestCounty4-HAchievementDay

EdBrown &EdHotteAgComplex,Beaverlodge,AB

Beaverlodge4-HBeefClub,GrandePrairie4-HMulti-Club

Show: 12:00Noon •Supper:5:30p.m. •Sale:7:00p.m.

Contact: Renee780-832-8029 |JanetPratt780-831-7895

Saturday,June1

EastPeace4-HInter-ClubShow

SmithArena,Smith,AB

KinusoLakeside4-HClub,MirrorLanding4-HClub

Show: 1:00p.m. •Supper:5:00p.m.•Sale:7:00p.m.

Contact: LiamMason780-524-8589

Monday, June3,2024

Montagneuse4-HAchievementDayShow& Sale

DaveShawMemorialArena,HinesCreek,AB

Montagneuse4-HMultiClub

Show: 12:30p.m. •Sale:7:00p.m.

OnOffer: 24MarketSteersand 4MarketGoats

Contact DainaCalder780-772-1259

ShowStartsat10:00a.m.BothDays

ContactAmandaStafford250-262-9624

Monday,June10,2024

TeepeeCreekAgEventsCentre, TeepeeCreek,AB

Lakeview4-HMulti-Club,GrandePrairie4-HMulti-Club

BeefandMarketSheep

Show: 2:00p.m. •Supper6:00p.m. •Sale7:00p.m.

Contact: PamBadger780-882-1497

JamesJohnson709-649-7708

Saturday,July6,2024

Groundbirch4-Hmulti-ClubAchievementDay

DawsonCreekFairBeefBarn,DawsonCreek,BC

Beef,Sheep,Dogs,SmallEngines,LeatherCrafts,Cloverbuds

Show: 9:00a.m. •Sale:6:00p.m.

Contact: ChantelOdden250-219-1823

Saturday,July6&Sunday,July7,2024

NorthPeaceDistrict4-HAchievementDays

NorthPeaceRegionalPark,RosePrairie,BC

Green Valley4-HClub,Lakeshore 4-HClub,Prespatou

Community4-HClub,SilverWillow4-HClub, Wonowon4-HClub

Beef,Sheep,Swine,Dogs,Alpacas,SmallEngines

Show: (Sat &Sun):9:00a.m. •Sale(Sun):5:00p.m.

OnOffer: 38Beef,14MarketLambs,10MarketHogs

Contact: AngelaBriltz250-261-0659

Friday, August23& Saturday,August24,2024

Monday,June3,2024

Valleyview&District4-HAchievementDay

HollingsworthArena, Valleyview,AB

Show: 12:00Noon •Supper:5:30p.m. •Sale:7:00p.m.

Contact: ChelsieDillabough780-402-9578

Fairview4-HMultiClubAchievementDays

Fairview &DistrictRidingArena(FormerlyJ.HawkerPavilion), Fairview,AB Show &SaleTimestobeprovidedat alaterdate.

JackieCuthbertson780-837-4833

Alberta Pork Export Markets

Alberta Agri-News

Alberta is a major pork exporting jurisdiction and the pork sector is a sound contributor to the provincial economy,” says Ann Boyda, provincial livestock market analyst with the Alberta government. “In 2022, the sector contributed $11.2 billion in gross domestic product and employed approximately 69,000 Albertans.”

In 2023, Alberta slaughtered 2.727 million hogs in federally inspected facilities, 1.784 million of Alberta origin. Alberta produced 2.169 million market hogs, with an estimated 82 per cent processed in Alberta, 11 per cent processed in British Columbia, and six per cent in Manitoba. Alberta has an estimated 13 per cent of the hog processing capacity in Canada.

Over the last decade, live hog exports have declined from the peak of 714,727 head in 2016 to the low of 473,640 head in 2023.

A suggests that the first uarter of may see larger market hog exports. Expansion in sow slaughter in Western Canada may see fewer cull sow exports. USDA has projected feeder exports will increase slightly in 2024, especially out of Western Canada.

Alberta exported 105,840 tonnes of pork product valued at $354.2 million in 2023. This volume was

down 26.5 per cent from the prior year and the export value declined by 34.4 per cent.

The greatest share of pork (28.3 per cent) was chilled or fresh pork, followed by frozen swine cuts (19.4 per cent), bone in fresh or chilled hams (18.9 per cent) and fresh or chilled pork bellies (16.1 per cent).

Fresh or chilled bone-in pork shoulders comprised seven per cent of the total export volume. Frozen edible offal, frozen bone in hams and shoulders, and fresh or chilled edible offal comprised 5. per cent, . per cent and 1.4 per cent of export volume, respectively.

Alberta’s top export market remains the United States, with 43,474 tonnes of pork product valued at $140.5 million, representing 39.7 per cent of the market share.

Japan is Alberta’s second largest market, representing 28.7 per cent of the total export value at $101.6 million and 18,930 tonnes of pork. Mexico represents Alberta’s third major market for pork at $48.6 million or 20,089 tonnes.

Alberta also shipped 10,712 tonnes of pork to China, valued at $22.3 million, and 6,947 tonnes of pork to the Philippines, valued at $18.5 million.

In terms of export volume, fresh or chilled bone-in hams represent the largest export category with 63.2

per cent destined for Mexico and 36.8 per cent destined for the U.S.

Approximately 54.6 per cent of fresh or chilled pork was destined for U.S. and 41.4 per cent to Japan. Japan was also the major market for fresh or chilled bone in pork shoulder (83.4 per cent).

“Alberta’s swine sector performance has faced challenges, but there are recent signs of Alberta’s hog margins improving,” says Boyda.

“Except for June through October, producers experienced nearly seven months of financial losses in . osses did extend into the first two months of but have finally rebounded in March.”

At a March 28 webinar hosted by National Pork Board, Brett Stuart of Global AgriTrends said the U.S. hog sector reported financial losses for of the past months.

The China hog sector, plagued with disease issues, weak demand and oversupply, faced 23 of the past 30 months with producer losses.

The uropean nion also witnessed significant li uidation in its hog sector due to rising costs and environmental policies and is projected by USDA to continue to decline through . i uidation in markets provides export demand opportunities for Alberta pork, but Alberta must compete with U.S. and Brazil. U.S. has increased its pork exports by 17 per cent from a year ago.

“Alberta will also need to navigate climate and environmental policies such as California’s Proposition 12 regarding re uirements for hog farrowing operations and the resulting impacts of compliance on production costs,” says Boyda.

“In addition, protectionist regulations such as the proposed Product of USA labeling rule could inhibit trade, even if voluntary. The upcoming U.S. election may also introduce more uncertainty with respect to trade policies.”

ne final factor influencing global hog markets is African Swine Fever. The outbreaks continue in 52 countries. Five new European countries were added to this list in 2023.

Canada has ASF zoning arrangements with U.S., EU, Singapore, Vietnam and Hong Kong. Agreements with Japan and United Kingdom are being worked on and ongoing discussions are underway with Colombia, South Korea, Chile, Mexico, Philippines and Peru.

“Zoning agreements are imperative to market access should an incidence occur in Canada. The Canadian and Alberta industry and governments continue efforts for preparedness, rec ognizing that effectiveness of zoning and biosecurity measures are paramount to attaining agreements, as is demonstrated controls should an outbreak occur in wild boar,” says Boyda.

Figure 1. Alberta Live Hog Exports (Source: Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation)

Figure 2. 2023 Alberta Pork Exports by Category (Source: Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation)

NRCB launches feedlot cattle numbers check

Natural Resources Conservation Board

The Natural Resources Conservation Board has initiated a program to verify that the permitted livestock population of feedlots is within allotted numbers.

The program is a response to evidence provided by complainants that indicates some operators in Lethbridge County may exceed the livestock numbers in their permits.

Since reviewing that evidence, the NRCB has received more complaints about overpopulation in feedlots involving other counties.

As a result, it is requesting randomly selected feedlot operators to provide information regarding their current livestock numbers. This will ensure confined feeding operations are compliant with their permitted livestock numbers.

The program focuses on feedlots that have an NRCB permit, as those permits are clear on the type and number of livestock allowed at an operation.

Business performance of Alberta’s cow-calf producers

Alberta Agri-News

Anew government program can provide participating producers with cost of production analysis and benchmark reports based on actual farm records, according to government senior livestock economist Ian Ryan.

The report presents a multi-year summary of the economic, productive and financial performance of Alberta cow calf producers. articipants received a customized business analysis of their operations for comparison.

“ enchmarking allows comparisons of C cost of production based on production practices and marketing strategies and can help drive efficiency and financial performance,” says yan.

“The information helps improve decisions about what, when and how much of a commodity to sell. The benchmarking process has two key time perspectives. The first is historical analysis, involving comparisons over time.

“The second is a within-the-year comparison, focusing on how operations performed, responded to, or weathered the challenges they faced.”

The program is free, and individual participant information remains confidential. The report presents the aggregated results of participating cow-calf producers. This consists of a series of tables and figures with average historic provincial data showing the sales, production costs, and selected production and financial indicators for the past five years.

“The value of the cost of production analysis is not in the figures themselves, but in gaining a better understanding of the farm business in order to pinpoint areas for improvement,” says yan. “ rofitability can vary widely from year to year, but keeping thorough records of costs and returns can help control profitability.

“ ach year is different and dependent on the relationships between yield, price and costs, as well as the producers’ financial situation. roactive cost management makes businesses better able to weather periods of fluctuation.”

The benchmarks in this report summarize all sources of income and expenses related to cow-calf enterprises and cover all activities related to producing and raising calves until weaning in a given fiscal year.

The economic performance indicators are presented in the form of dollars per unit of production dollars per pound weaned and dollars per cow wintered . hysical performance indicators are presented based on breeding and feeding information, as well as conception, calving, weaning and calf crop rates and pounds weaned per cow.

The financial performance indicators provide a snapshot of the sector’s li uidity ability to meet financial obligations as they come due , solvency ability to meet long term financial obligations and profitability the returns generated by the cow calf business .

PRESTVILLE FARMS LTD.

Box181,Rycroft,AB |53012TWP774 &Hwy2 (780)402-8910 |nick@prestville.com| www.prestville.com

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N EW PROJE CT AIM STOE VA LUAT ET R EJ UVEN AT ED EGRADEDFOR AG EPASTURESAN

By Nadia Mori, PAg, PRFA Coordinator

Fire is ahot topicinthe PeaceRegion.Whileoutof control wildfirescanhave devastatingeffec t, strategicallyused prescribedfirecanbeanimportanttool to increasepasture and forageproductivit yinareaswithunhealthybrush encroachment, to remove hazardousfuelbuildupasa preventativemeasuretoseverewildfires, and to reignite culturalburningpracticesinsuppor tofI ndigenous foodsovereignt y. Concernsaroundprescribedfireoften includethepotentiallossofsoilcarbon.The PeaceR iver Forage Association(PRFA) ofBChas receivedfunding from Agricultureand Agri-Food Canada’s AgriScience ProgramundertheSustainable CanadianAgricultural Partnership, the Beef Cattle Research Council(BCRC) and theBC HydroAgricultural Compensation Fund to assess above andbelowgroundnutrientc yclingfollowing prescribedfire.

Thelossofmanagedfire onthelandscapehasbeen detrimental to pasture andrangelandhealthduetobrush encroachmentandlackofnaturaldisturbance,leading tounderutilizedgrazinglands.Atthesametime, wildfire riskhasincreaseddue to climate change(particularly increased temperature anddrought).Prescribedfireis amanagementtoolthathasthepotential to remove hazardousfuelbuild-upand reducewildfirerisk ,aswell asimprovethehealthandfunctioningofdegraded pastures.

In thisnewlyfundedprojec t, thePRFAwillimplement aprescribedfireplanon fourpasturesinthe Peace RegionofBritish Columbia. We willevaluate howforage productionandnutrition responds to prescribedfire

and grazingpractices,alongwithsoilchemicaland microbialproperties.Wewillpayparticular attention to thesoilcarbonandwhathappens to carbonstocks and cycling followingaprescribedfire. Eachproject sitewillimplementapre -approvedprescribedfire plan to followallsteps forsafeandlawfulburning. Treatmentswillincludeburningand grazing,resulting in four comparisons:unburned/ungrazed, unburned/ grazed,burned/ungrazed,andburned/grazed.Datawill be collec tedpre -fire,immediatelypost-fire,and over subsequentyears.Notonlywillthis researchprovide important informationtoproducersseekingpasture rejuvenationthroughprescribedfire, butitwillalso generate data to understandtheimpac tofprescribed fireonsoilcarbon.Thisinformationwillbeessentialfor ranchers to makeinformeddecisionsandpotentially improvetheadoptionandapprovalprocesswhenit comes to prescribedfire.

Throughthis research, we hope to suppor tranchersand landownerswhowish to includeprescribedfireaspart oftheirpasturemanagementtool kit. As soilcarbon becomesmoreent winedinanydecision-makingprocess, we need to have thenecessar yinformation relevant to our region to suppor tbothproducersandlegislatorsin informedactions. Overall,theprojec tseeks to improve forageand grasslandproductivit y, by usingprescribed fire to improvethemanagementandproductivit yof pastures,tooptimizepastureutilization,and to reduce wildfirerisks. ThePRFAisexcited to embark onthis3-year projec tand we look forwardtosharingupdatesasthe projec tmoves forward.

Leverkus Distributionofthe 4researchprojectsitesacrosstheBC PeaceRegion.

ANorthernFireWoRxcrewmember,implementing aprescribedfireinanareawithincreasing brush growth.Photo credit:DrSonja Leverkus Aerialshotof aprescribedfire implementationbyNorthernFireWoRx.

Photocredit:DR Sonja Leverkus

DailyGrainPrices -April19,2024

CANOLA-#1Peace Region

Spot

May 2024

June2024

July2024

$13.37 (+ $0.02 )$13.53 (+ $0.02 )$13.52 (+$0.02)

$13.44 (+ $0.02 )$13.52 (+ $0.02 )$13.54 (+$0.02)

$13.65 (+ $0.01 )$13.74 (+ $0.01 )$13.78 (+$0.01)

$13.65(+ $0.01 )$13.74 (+ $0.01 )$13.81 (+$0.01)

August2024 notavailablenot availablenot available

September2024

October2024

$13.38 (+$0.03 )$13.62 (+ $0.02 )$13.72 (+$0.03)

$13.39 (+$0.03 )$13.63 (+ $0.03 )$13.74 (+$0.03)

WHEAT-#1CPSR -11.5% Peace Region

Spot

May2024

June2024

July2024

NorthernAlberta SouthernAlberta

$7.88 (+$0.09 )$7.93 (+ $0.09 )$8.06 (+$0.08)

$7.85 (+ $0.09 )$7.90 (+ $0.08 )$8.04 (+$0.08)

$7.77 (+ $0.09 )$7.80 (+ $0.09 )$7.96 (+$0.09)

$7.74 (+$0.09 )$7.77 (+ $0.09 )$7.93 (+ $0.09)

August2024 not availablenot availablenot available

September2024 not availablenot availablenotavailable

October2024 notavailablenot availablenot available

WHEAT-#1C WAD-13.0% Peace Region NorthernAlberta SouthernAlberta

Spot not availablenot available$10.76 (-$0.01)

May 2024 not availablenot available$10.72 (-$0.01)

June2024not availablenot available$10.10 (-$0.00)

July2024 not availablenot available$9.99 (-$0.00)

August2024 not availablenot available$9.85 (-$0.01)

September2024 not availablenot available$9.85 (-$0.01)

WHEAT-#1C WRS -13.5% Peace Region

Spot

May2024

June2024

July2024

NorthernAlberta

SouthernAlberta

$8.60 (+$0.11 )$8.75 (+ $0.11 )$8.83 (+$0.12)

$8.61 (+ $0.11 )$8.71 (+ $0.11 )$8.78 (+$0.12)

$8.53(+ $0.10 )$8.63 (+ $0.11 )$8.68 (+$0.11)

$8.51(+$0.11 )$8.60 (+ $0.11 )$8.64 (+ $0.11)

August2024 not availablenot availablenot available

September2024

$7.88(+$0.10 )$8.03 (+ $0.11 )$8.13 (+$0.11)

YELLOWPEAS -#2Peace Region

NorthernAlberta SouthernAlberta

Spot $12.40 ($0.00 )$12.74 ($0.00 )$12.12 ($0.00)

May 2024

June2024

July2024

August2024

September2024

$11.20 ($0.00 )$11.44 ($0.00 )$11.15 ($0.00)

$10.96 ($0.00 )$11.17 ($0.00 )$10.97 ($0.00)

$11.01 ($0.00 )$11.20 ($0.00 )$11.04 ($0.00 )

$10.61 ($0.00 )$10.72 ($0.00 )$10.66 ($0.00)

$10.34 ($0.00 )$10.47 ($10.00 )$10.42 ($0.00)

Cattle Directory ANGUS

Fourth Creek Angus Ranch

Ryan Lacey, Spirit River, AB

Ryan 780-864-7753 / Office: 780-517-3507

Gomack Red Angus

Mountain Side Angus Bulls for Sale by Private Treaty

John & Judy Mayer, Beaverlodge, AB

780-831-8497

TheFriesenFamily|GrandePrairie,AB

Braydon Gough & Scott Gough

Whitelaw, AB

780-274-0099 / 780-618-4747

GRA-TAN Farm

Nicklason Stock Farm

Brad Nicklason, Deadwood, AB

780-836-5197

Grant & Tanya Chittick, Mayerthorpe, AB

780-284-0684

Crystal Chittick, Mayerthorpe, AB

780-204-2005

Chad780-831-9106|Anna780-831-8338 800747

Binks Angus Farm

Evan Binks, Grande Prairie, AB 780-518-2020

Brandl Cattle Co.

Byron & Gwen Brandl, Jarvie, AB 780-954-2599

Broken Stick Ranch

Black Angus for Sale off the Farm

Tom & Amber Ditner, Baldonnel, BC

250-794-7105

Heart Valley Angus

Nat Tschetter & Chris Tschetter

Wanham, AB

780-978-6407 / 780-978-6406

HORIZONREDANGUS

RED&BLACKANGUSBULLS FORSALEOFFTHEFARMBYPRIVATETREATY

PhilipDriedger

LaCrete,AB(780)926-5896

PurebredAngusGenetics

(TheProfitableKind)

Box159,Cleardale,ABT0H3Y0

Pete(cell):780-835-8291

www.northwaycattle.ca

Excel Ranches

Ron & Barb Miller, Cody & Amy Miller Westlock, AB 780-349-0644

Kjos Black Angus

Marty & Miriam Kjos, Fort St. John, BC

250-787-0970

Lakeroad Black Angus

Jim & Donna Rowe, Worsley, AB

J 780-835-0455 / D 780-835-9588

Lazy B Livestock

Trevor Binks & Melanie Klassen

Grande Prairie, AB

780-539-7128 / 780-518-0630

Silent K Stock Farms

Delano & Megan Kjos, Tomslake BC D 250-467-9450 / M 403-804-1107

SADLIERCATTLECO. ToddSadlier Hwy64,HinesCreek,AB (780)772-3978

Kevin&BarbaraQuist

Phone:780.876.4649

Jonomn Hereford Ranch

Norm & Joanne Parrent, Clyde, AB

Norm 780-307-6586 / Mike 780-307-3385

M.C. Quantock

Dry Creek Ranch

Seth Harmon, Cecil Lake, BC 250-793-1858

JayDawn Farms

Jason & Nikki McQuaig, Sexsmith, AB 780-933-5530

Landaker Charolais Farm

Alan & Shelley Landaker, Brownvale, AB 780-618-3928

Mac & Pat Creech, lloydminster, AB

800-561-2855

Reber's Polled Herefords

Serena & Kasey Reber, Woking, AB

780-518-2643

Richardson Ranch

Tlell Polled Herefords

Don & Les Richardson, Tlell, BC 250-566-5114 / 250-557-4348

TheSchweitzers

Roy&Erika (780)402.5617 schweitzerre@gpnet.ca Beaverlodge,AB

LazyS Charolais

Pro-Char Charolais

Whiskey Jack Black Herefords & Simmentals

Tamara & Darcy Kuriga, Whitelaw, AB

780-834-7108 / 780-835-8090

SchweitzerRanch Troy&Kristina (780)814.3598•troy1@telusplanet.net DawsonCreek,BC 787690

David & Kristina Prokuda, Glenevis, AB 780-932-1654

Rosebud Creek Charolais

Dan & Holly Schleppe, Dawson Creek, BC 250-219-5698 / 250-786-5698

Chittick Family Hereford Ranch

Raymond & Mona Chittick Mayerthorpe, AB 780-305-3925

Eureka Hereford Farms

Tom Basnett, Eureka River, AB 780-834-8170

Friesen Farms

Chad & Anna Friesen, Grande Prairie, AB Chad (780) 831-9106/Anna (780) 831-8338

Gold Stock Hereford Farms

Steve, Ashley & Brad White, Beaverlodge, AB

780-518-0064 / 780-354-3190

Gurtler Polled Herefords

Garry & Ethan Gurtler, North Star, AB

Garry 780-836-0117 / 780-836-2125

Ethan 780-836-0552

Dry Creek Ranch

Gordon & Carla Harmon, Cecil Lake, BC

250-793-2384

Excel Ranches

Ron & Barb Miller, Cody & Amy Miller

Westlock, AB

780-349-0644

Hillview Farms

Raymond & Corine Verbeek, Sturgeon County, AB 780-982-2176 / 780-939-2173

Hillview Farms

Raymond & Corine Verbeek

Sturgeon County, AB 780-982-2176/780-939-2173

Lakeroad Black Angus

Jim & Donna Rowe, Worsley, AB

J 780-835-0455 / D 780-835-9588

Pinnacle View Limousin

Rob & Cheryl Swaan, Quesnel, BC

Erin & Eric Kishkan, Quesnel, BC 250-747-2618

ShadowCreekRedPolls

•WearestillCanada’s#1RedPollBreeder

•Maternaltraitswithlightbirthweights

•Registeredstockforsaleonfarm

Dean&MarshaAnderson–FortStJohn,BC (250)827-3293•marshascows@hotmail.com www.shadowcreek.farm 778275

GRUNDKEFAMILY SALERS

FORSALEATTHEFARM

ALBERTABEACH,ALBERTA

(780)924-2464-(780)982-2472 59253785287

North 42 Cattle Company

Heath Barnfield, Sexsmith, AB 780-897-3339

Crooked Post Shorthorns

Kirk Seaborn, Rocky Mountain House, AB 403-322-0142 / 403-729-2267

Janell Shorthorns

Melanie Barkley & Michelle Duncan Stettler, AB 403-740-4958

Poplar Creek Farm

Sean & Michelle Thompson, Cremona, AB 403-681-8316

Sharom Shorthorns

Tom & Shari Barto, Thorhild, AB 780-307-4043 / 780-398-2093

Starbright Shorthorns

Rena Nelson, Bonnyville, AB 780-201-2785

Yearling &Two-Year-Old ShorthornBulls forSale offtheFarm byPrivateTreaty

TAMARACKSHORTHORNS

AlvinJohnson|Brownvale,AB

Cell:(780)618-9044|ajohnson_1959@icloud.com

Trieber Farms

Fred & Naomi Trieber, Beaverlodge, AB F 780-831-1346 /N 780-814-0052

KIN-KIN Cattle Co.

Gary & Faye Chittick, Mayerthorpe, AB 780-786-4500

KMR Simmentals

Kent & Robin Malcomson, Grovedale, AB 587-298-5404

Kruger Farms

Albrecht Farms

Steve, Tammy & Ryan Albrecht, Spirit River, AB R 780-933-5448 / S 780-832-0883

Blazin" J Simmentals

Darcy & Caitlyn Lind, Sunset House, AB D 780-536-5203 / C 780-552-4934

Clearwater Simmentals

Chad Smith, Olds, AB 403-586-4714

Crystal Springs Ranch

Eckbert & Crystal Weitzel

Georg & Sarah Weitzel

Charlie Lake, BC 250-263-8237

Ryan & Chelsea Kruger, Sundre, AB 403-586-0125

KSL Simmentals

Keegan Scorgie & Brad Smith Beaverlodge, AB

K 780-518-6572 / B 780-202-0254

Lakeroad Black Angus

Jim & Donna Rowe, Worsley, AB

J 780-835-0455 / D 780-835-9588

Lakeroad Simmentals

Sarah Hayward & Kody Rowe, Worsley, AB 780-835-8841

M.C. Quantock

Mac & Pat Creech, Lloydminster, AB 800-561-2855

Gardner Livestock Olds, AB

Tracy Gardner 403-586-0378

Tyson Gardner 403-586-1598

GB Farms

Garrett Biggelaar, Lacombe, AB 403-877-7661

GRA-TAN Farm

Grant & Tanya Chittick, Mayerthorpe, AB 780-284-0684

Crystal Chittick, Mayerthorpe, AB 780-204-2005

Hodges Simmentals

Roy & Scot Hodges, Beaverlodge, AB 780-512-4669

SimmentalCattle QuarterHorse

Norbert&JaniceLuken 780-835-3165

Email:njluken6@gmail.com

Polar Farms

Joe & Lindsay Loomis, PRRD, BC 250-784-5150

Rachido Ranch

Randy & Donna Chittick, Mayerthorpe, AB 780-674-1986

PEACECOUNTRYSIMMENTALS

Box154,CecilLake,BCV0C1G0 www.peacecountrysimmentals.com

BULLSFORSALEOFFTHEFARM

J&MFarms

JERRY&GEMGIESBRECHT

250.262.7867 778903

Rosefield Simmentals

James & Martha Wiebe, Prespatou, BC 250-630-2621

Sadlier Cattle Co.

Todd Sadlier, Hines Creek, AB

780-772-3978

Short Grass Farms

Kurtis & Chelsie Dillabough, DeBolt, AB 780-402-9578

Southpaw Cattle Company

Ron & Tammy Daley, Carstairs, AB

Brandon & Shallaine Sharpe, Carstairs, AB 403-519-3401

Swantewitt & Sage Simmentals

Yellowhead County, AB

Gerd 780-712-2096

Jordan 780-712-3600

Whiskey Jack Black Herefords & Simmentals

Tamara & Darcy Kuriga, Whitelaw, AB 780-834-7108 / 780-835-8090

Red&Black Purebred Simmental Seedstock

WillowCreekSimmentals|CrookedCreek,AB Mike&MariKlassen|(780)832-7343 Colby&TiffanyKlassen|(780)832-6714 willowcreeksimmentals@gmail.com 787286

Willowdale Simmentals

Dale & Judy Smith & Family, Valleyview, AB

780-558-9337 / 780-524-2790

Wolfe Farms

Tony Wolfe, Valleyview, AB 780-524-9322

Wolfe Lake Farms Inc.

Olin and Sarah Rosvold, La Glace, AB

Tarril and Kare Rosvold, La Glace, AB 780-518-1997

Wolfes Fleckvieh

Shane & Shannon Wolfe, Sundre, AB 403-556-0729

Olds Auction Market

Olds, AB

Office 403-556-3655

Tyler 403-507-1782 / Patrick 403-559-7202

Thorsby Stockyards Inc.

Thorsby, AB

Office 780-789-3915

Chance 403-358-0456 / Jeff 780-203-4953

Viking Livestock Market

Cliff Grinde, Viking, AB

780-336-2209

VJV Livestock Marketing Group

Office, Dawson Creek, BC 250-782-3766

Office, Beaverlodge, AB 780-354-2423

Office, Westlock, AB 780-349-3153

Office, Ponoka, AB 403-783-5561

Office, Rimbey, AB 403-843-2439

Wembley Livestock Exchange

Glen Mayer & Nolan Mayer, Wembley, AB

G 780-897-9570 / N 780-518-0709

FEEDER ASSOCIATIONS

AUCTION FACILITIES/ LIVESTOCK EXCHANGES

B.C. Livestock Producers Co-operative

Cordy Cox, Kamloops, BC

250-573-3939

Innisfail Auction Market

Danny, Mark & Duane Daines, Innisfail, AB 403-227-3166

Jennings Martin Direct Buying

La Glace, AB

Jennings Martin 780-933-1023

Ron Kramer 250-793-2713

North Central Livestock Exchange

Garth Rogers, Clyde, AB 780-348-5893

Barrhead Feeder Association Ltd.

Admin - Ann Gerhardt, Barrhead, AB

780-674-2456

Fort Feeder's Co-op Association

Admin - Cathy Axley, Two Hills, AB

780-290-0293

Grande Prairie Feeders' Association Ltd.

Admin - Dawn Hollins, Grande Prairie, AB

780-538-1263

North Peace Feeder Association Ltd.

Admin - Donna Haakenson, Berwyn, AB

780-338-2270

Prairie River Feeders Co-op Ltd.

Admin - Tammy Roberts, High Prairie, AB

780-523-4887

Westlock Feeders Association Ltd.

Admin - Megan Keith, Westlock, AB

780-348-5850

$410.00$465.00$405.00$452.00$410.00$460.00$410.00$452.00$400.00$457.00$429.00$452.50$412.00$445.00$420.00$474.00$410.00$450.00 500-599 $395.00$445.00$395.00$440.00$394.00$425.00$398.00$440.00$392.00$440.00$400.00$444.00$381.00$407.50$400.00$437.00$390.00$443.00 600-699 $380.00$410.00$380.00$403.00$380.00$395.00$385.00$407.00$382.00$402.00$380.00$409.00$368.00$402.00$375.00$430.00$375.00$418.50 700-799 $335.00$355.00$335.00$352.00$332.00$356.00$340.00$357.00$335.00$358.00$335.00$382.00$347.00$384.00$330.00$386.00$340.00$379.50 800 -899 $310.00$335.00$320.00$332.00$328.00$338.00$320.00$333.00$310.00$332.00$307.00$343.50$277.00$318.00$300.00$344.50$310.00$341.00 900-999 $282.00$303.00$290.00$302.00$295.00$309.00$295.00$304.00$295.00$305.00$287.00$308.00$246.00$285.00$280.00$319.00$295.00$315.00 1000+ $260.00$285.00$270.00$293.00$260.00$275.00$260.00$271.00$270.00$287.00n/an/an/an/a$275.00$289.50$260.00$276.50 Bid Range

600-699$325.00$353.00$322.00$352.00$329.00$352.00 $335.00 $349.00 $334.00$349.00 $323.00$367.00$318.00$354.00$325.00$375.00$310.00$363.00 700-799$305.00$340.00$310.00$335.00$303.00$335.00 $300.00 $329.00 $300.00$325.00 $311.00$332.00$309.00$338.00$290.00$324.50$300.00$337.00 800-899$275.00$295.00$288.00$300.00$245.00$272.00 $280.00$291.00 $258.00$296.00 $280.00$306.00$275.00$309.00$275.00$306.50$270.00$308.00 900-999$252.00$275.00$235.00$258.00$230.00$256.00 $245.00 $271.00 $234.00$263.00 $260.00$285.00$250.00$271.00$250.00$290.00$255.00$278.50 1000+$235.00$250.00$220.00$245.00$220.00$235.00 $240.00 $245.00 $225.00$246.00 $225.00$245.00n/an/a$225.00$260.00$250.00$276.50

D1-D2 Cows D1-D2 Cows D1-D2 Cows D1-D2 Cows D1-D2 Cows

$140.00$165.00$120.00$156.00$125.00$147.00$155.00$171.00$120.00$147.00$155.00$166.00$160.00$175.00$160.00$169.00$165.00$179.00 Heiferettes HeiferettesHeiferettes HeiferettesHeiferettes Heiferettes Heiferettes Heiferettes Heiferettes $195.00$235.00$182.00$225.00$180.00$212.00$190.00$233.00$190.00$233.00$187.00$243.00$187.00$230.00$190.00$237.00$190.00$230.00 BolognaBullsBolognaBullsBolognaBullsBolognaBullsBolognaBullsBolognaBullsBolognaBullsBolognaBullsBolognaBulls $170.00$189.00$172.00$186.00$152.00$172.00$170.00$188.00$175.00$188.00$170.00$197.00$180.00$207.00$175.00$197.00$185.00$210.00 FeederBulls FeederBulls FeederBulls FeederBulls FeederBulls FeederBulls FeederBulls FeederBulls FeederBulls n/an/an/an/an/av/an/an/an/an/a$175.00$240.00$169.00$222.50$185.00$245.00$190.00$225.00

SPECIALEVENTLIVE AUCTION|SPECIALEVENTLIVE AUCTION

LIVESMALLANIMAL&HORSESALE

SATURDAY,MAY4,2024|11:00A.M. (SmallAnimalsStartat11 | Horsesto Follow)

VOLD,JONES& VOLD AUCTIONCO. LTD., BEAVERLODGE,AB

Pleasecallaheadtobook yoursmallanimals andhorsesintothesale.

Allanimalsshouldbe

intheyard by 9:00a.m. ofsaleday

VJVBEAVERLODGE

Township Road720&Range Road104

Beaverlodge,Ab (780)354-2423 Fax(780)354-2420

vjvbeaverlodge@gpnet.ca

LIVE AUCTION

FORTHEESTATEOFGEDWILLIS

SATURDAY,JUNE8TH,2024|10:00A.M.

VOLD,JONES& VOLD AUCTIONCO. LTD., BEAVERLODGE,AB

VEHICLES,SKIDSTEERS,TRAILERS, TRACTORS, FARMEQUIPMENT, PORTABLE PANELS&GATES

ROUNDBALER&HAYINGEQUIP

LAWN&GARDENPOWEREQUIP MISCELLANEOUSITEMS

ACCEPTINGCONSIGNMENTITEMS INTHE VJVBEAVERLODGE YARD

UNTILFRIDAY,JUNE7TH

Willonlybeacceptingbiggeritemsthatcanbeplacedonpallets. Nosmallerlooseitemswillbeaccepted. Callaheadtoarrangedrop-offs 80824926apr24

VJVBEAVERLODGE

Township Road720&Range Road104

Beaverlodge,Ab (780)354-2423Fax(780)354-2420

vjvbeaverlodge@gpnet.ca

LIVESMALLANIMALSALE

SATURDAY,JUNE1,2024|11:00A.M.

AcceptingSmallAnimalsofallKinds

Chickens,Geese,Rabbits,Sheep,Goats,Llamas,Alpacas, Pigs,RabbitsPleasecallaheadtobook yoursmallanimalsand horsesintothesale.Allanimalsshouldbe intheyard by 9:00a.m.ofsaleday

UNRESERVEDLIVECONSIGNMENT AUCTION

SATURDAY,JUNE1,2024|10:00A.M.

Contact your VJVFieldmantodaytoconsignitemstothissale.

Acceptingconsignmentitemsinthe VJVDawsonCreek Yarduntil Friday, May31st.

Willonlybeacceptingbiggeritemsthatcanbeplacedonpallets.Nosmallerlooseitemswillbeaccepted. Callaheadtoarrangedrop-offs

(250)782-37

210Vers220hp@1900rpm. 710/70R38rear60065R28frt Deluxe cabQSB6.7Cummins, 5HydHi Flow42GPM3pthitch,12LEDCab lites, FrontFendersSoftRidebucket grappletines FEL,Wt28,375#,375 litersfuel, ONLY106 hrs

New $408,000 Demo $275,000

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MSRP $264,900 $196,900

2022msrp $995,650DT620cashtrade$895,000 VersatileDT620Demo22hrs$795,000 Tractor620hp@2100rpm665hp@1900rpm 16x4P/S,PTO,Ledlites36”6500Series TracksJakeBrake,DeluxeCableatherseat, rearcameraWgt64,000lbsBlackFrame

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and manure.They

BID

300-399$400.00$500.00$420.00$505.00

400-499$400.00$505.00$380.00$500.00

500-599$375.00$460.00$400.00$480.00

600-699$360.00$423.00$350.00$425.00

700-799$325.00$385.00$320.00$390.00

800-899$310.00$357.00$300.00$347.00

900-999$280.00$318.00$280.00$315.00

1,000 +N/AN/AN/AN/A

FEEDERHEIFERS

BID LOWHIGH LOWHIGH

300-399$350.00$420.00$350.00$420.00

400-499$350.00$421.00$350.00$443.00

500-599$325.00$388.00$330.00$412.00

600-699$310.00$384.00$315.00$370.00

700-799$285.00$338.00$300.00$341.00

800-899$265.00$312.00$270.00$326.00

900-999$240.00$287.00$230.00$295.00

1,000 +N/AN/AN/AN/A

SLAUGHTER CATTLE

D1-D2 COWSD1-D2 COWS

$168.00$188.00$165.00$187.00

D3 COWSD3 COWS

$150.00$165.00$150.00$170.00

SLAUGHTER BULLS SLAUGHTER BULLS

$150.00$205.00$160.00$205.00

REPLACEMENT CATTLE

FEEDER COWSFEEDER COWS

BID LOWHIGH LOWHIGH

300-399$375.00$495.00$350.00$465.00

400-499$375.00$490.00$350.00$473.25

500-599$350.00$477.00$330.00$468.00

600-699$335.00$424.00$330.00$417.00

700-799$310.25$390.00$300.00$390.00

800-899$300.00$348.00$300.00$341.00

900-999$280.00$320.00$280.00$321.25

1,000 +$250.00$290.25$270.00$295.00

FEEDERHEIFERS

BID LOWHIGH LOWHIGH

300-399$320.00$480.00$300.00$417.50

400-499$320.00$456.25$300.00$440.00

500-599$300.00$420.00$320.00$417.00

600-699$290.00$382.50$290.00$389.00

700-799$275.00$331.50$289.75$340.00

800-899$270.00$308.75$270.00$321.50

900-999$240.00$285.00$250.00$295.00

1,000 +$225.00$275.00$240.00$280.00

SLAUGHTER CATTLE

D1-D2 COWSD1-D2 COWS

$170.00$192.00$160.00$185.00

D4 COWSD4 COWS

$150.00$169.00$135.00$159.00

SLAUGHTER BULLS

SLAUGHTER BULLS

$160.00$206.50$150.00$197.00

REPLACEMENT CATTLE

FEEDER COWSFEEDER COWS

$175.00$195.00$170.00$198.00 DATE

N/AN/AN/AN/A

Alberta Ministryof Agricultureand Forestry- April19,2024 https://open.alberta.ca/publications/3479685

IMPORTANCEOFMAINTAINING COW WEIGHTAFTERCALVING

With asmallercow herd inbothCanadaandtheUnitedStates,thedemand for lvesinthefallof2024willbehigh. Reducingthenumberofopencowscould ve financialbenefits.

Breedingseasonstartsapproximately81daysaftercalving.Atthispoint intime, ws arejustpastpeaklactation(56days post calving)andare notatmaximum edintake (96dayspostcalving). Twoyearoldfirst calfheifersare gettingtheir permanentteethwhichreducestheirabilitytoconsume feed.Ifthe rationisnot ovidingenoughnutrients,especiallyenergyandprotein,lactatinganimalswill lose weight andbodycondition.

hemid1960’s, research completedattheUniversityofAlbertabyDr. Berg and .McElroy foundthat maintaining orhaving aslight improvementincow weight (9pounds)between calvingandthebreedingseasonimprovedpregnancy rates 20%comparedtocowsthatlost24pounds.Itwouldbedifficulttovisually tectlessthan100poundsof weight gainorloss.

Ifthecow hasonecycleprior to bullturnout,thefirst serviceconception rate increases by 20%.Thisisdirectly relatedtocow conditionprior to calvingand post calvingnutrition.Thin cowsat calvingtakelongertocycle.Ina study by Bellows andShort,theyfoundthat only46%ofthin cowswere cycling60days post calving.Thenumberincreased to 66% at thetimethebulls were turned in.Incontrast,91%ofcowsingoodconditionatcalving were cycling60days post calvingand100% by thetimethebullsareturnedin.Withshorterbreeding seasons,someofthethincowsmight notbecyclingbythetimethatthebulls arepulled.

Itisdifficulttoget thin cows to gain weight after calving.It canbeachievedif higherqualityforageandlargeramountsofgrain(8 to 10poundsofbarley or oats)isfedpriortobullturnout.

Breedingsuccessdependsonmanyfactors.Nutritionneedstobepartofa year round feedingmanagementprogram.Itisespeciallyimportant to getcowsin good conditionprior to calvingandpreventweightlosspostcalving.

Formoreinformationonaftercalving feedingprograms, contactBarry at 403-741-6032 or bjyaremcio@gmail.com. Withindependent

Providingsoundindependent beef nutritionandmanagement consulting servicestocattleproducersandtheindustry.

86-105lbs

Sheep-1,310 Head

BeaverHillAuction Service- Tofield-April8,2024

Light FeederKids

0-60lbs$250.00 to $310.00

DoelingKids

45-69lbs$310.00 to $390.00

70+lbs

$310.00 to $370.00

BucklingKids

45-69lbs$320.00 to $415.00

70+lbs $310.00 to $385.00

WetherKids

45-69lbs $320.00 to $385.00

70+lbs $310.00 to $390.00

Adults

MatureNannies $260.00 to $320.00

Mature Bucks $260.00 to $405.00

Ewe/Lamb Family noneonoffer

Sheep

We chargethelowestcommissionsintheprovince,offerver yconvenientSaturday/Sundaydrop-offs, andcanarrangetruckingtomatchyourneeds. Callustodayandlet’ssellyoursheep,goatsandswine!

2012JOHN

2018 JOHN DEERE6130M

2014

2008

2018 JOHN DEERE450M

Bighorn sheep, domestic sheep or goats should not mix

Alberta Agri-News

Asenior wildlife biologist with the Alberta government warns against the comingling of Bighorn sheep with domestic livestock.

“Domestic sheep and goats can commonly carry a bacterium called Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (M. ovi) that can cause pneumonia and large-scale population die offs of ighorn sheep following close contact with an infected animal,” says Anne Hubbs.

Signs of the disease in Bighorns include coughing, nasal discharge, weight loss and in many cases death. Unlike their wild counterparts, many domestic animals carrying M. ovi show no visible signs of the disease.

“There are no vaccines or treatments for wild sheep or mountain goats who are also susceptible to the disease, so maintaining physical separation from domestic sheep and goats is very important,” says Hubbs.

Domestic sheep and goat grazing on Crown lands near Bighorn sheep ranges is already prohibited or strongly discouraged. Alberta Environment and Protected Areas has identified a isease urveillance one that extends 5 kilometres east from these ranges, where concentrated efforts are underway to understand M. ovi in both wild and domestic sheep and goat species.

In collaboration with Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, it has also initiated a voluntary testing and fencing program for domestic sheep and goat producers in these areas. Funding is available from the government through a grant to cover producers’ costs related to these activities.

Albertans are asked to help protect Bighorn sheep by:

• not taking M. ovi positive domestic sheep or goats on public lands in the isease urveillance one

• testing domestic sheep and goats for M. ovi. Note that M. ovi is not a reportable or notifiable disease in Alberta and is not a public health concern. Testing is managed through the producer’s veterinarian of choice.

• using no-contact fencing or other measures to prevent close contact with Bighorn sheep

• testing hunter-harvested Bighorn sheep for M. ovi

• reporting sightings of Bighorn sheep near domestic sheep or goats, or sick Bighorn sheep, by calling an Alberta Environment and Protected Areas biologist at

• helping increase awareness of M. ovi

For questions about the testing and fencing program for domestic sheep and goat producers, contact a veterinarian.

Simpson Centre launches program to increase adoption of digital technologies

By Dana Fenech, School of Public Policy, University of Calgary

The Alberta government has bestowed a $1.2 million grant to the Simpson Centre for Food and Agricultural Policy at the University of Calgary. It marks the genesis of the Alberta Digitalization Agriculture program.

The program began in October 2023 and concludes in June 2026.

“This is an exciting program that will help producers and policy makers develop ideas that will increase

the adoption of agricultural digital technologies. This program will support the competitiveness and innovation of Alberta’s agriculture industry,” said Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson.

The program aspires to unravel the challenges and opportunities in the digitalization of agriculture and develop policy recommendations to foster data management and enhance transparency in the agri-food space.

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It focuses on leveraging advancements in robotics, artificial intelligence and smart devices. The program also addresses five challenges: awareness of available technologies; return on investment for tech adoption; data literacy for producers; structural capacities; and policy prioritization.

“Connecting UCalgary’s expertise in machine learning, robotics and smart devices to agricultural industries will be mutually beneficial to all stakeholders,” says president Ed McCauley. “We are grateful that the province has acknowledged the potential of digitalization to help make agricultural production more efficient, cost effective

and sustainable.”

HAYINGEQUIPMENT

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The program aims to reduce uncertainty on the return on investment for digital farming operations, ensure cost savings and train producers. Reductions in the carbon and water footprint in agricultural production are also envisioned.

Research outcomes focus on three audiences: producers, policymakers and the value chain. Producers seek awareness and a clear return on investment, policymakers desire insights for effective policy making, and the value chain wants a narrative on sustainability and job creation.

Over the grant period, academic publications, reports and policy briefs will be accompanied by online communications, surveys, interviews, living labs, a policy database, a systems dynamic model, webinars, roundtables, and educational programs.

The outreach strategy includes an online survey, living labs to test farming practices, and co-ordination of webinars and roundtables. In-person meetings at the provincial and federal level are planned.

“Canadian agriculture has the double potential to reduce its environmental impact and increase its production,” says Guillaume Lhermie, director of the Simpson Centre.

“On this journey, it is clear that optimized use of technologies will be critical. With this program, we will encourage behavioural shifts, from the producers needing more information on ag tech, all the way to policymakers with the power to incentivize their adoption and build infrastructural capacities.”

University of Calgary President Ed McCauley with Agriculture Minister RJ Sigurdson and School of Public Policy director Martha Hall Findlay. Adrian Shellard photos, for UCalgary

PRICE$110,995

(Since1943)

2023CHRYSLER PACIFICA AWDTouring3.6LEng,9-Spd, TheaterGroup,Red,stki758605

2022RAM1500CLASSICSPORT4x4,CrewCab,ShortBox 5.7LEng,8-SpdTrans,R/Brds,T/Cover, Black,stks162590

2023RAM1500LONGHORN4x4,CrewCab,ShortBox,V-8Hemi Engine,8-SpdAuto,BucketSeats,Black,stks288741

2024RAMD2500BIGHORN4x4,CrewCab,ShortBoxDiesel Eng,6-SpdTrans,RearAirSusp,White,stks743831

2024RAMD3500LONGHORN

2023RAMD2500LARAMIE4x4,CrewCab,ShortBox, DieselEngine,6-SpdAuto,RearAirSusp,stks284921

Two-year-old & yearling

registered Angus bulls for sale. Semen tested/ready to work. Call Darren 780-8144993.

Good selection of TwoYear-Old Hereford bulls for sale. Call for pricing. Visitors welcome. 780-8318338.

Good selection of yearling Hereford/Angus cross replacement heifers for sale. Call for pricing. Call 780831-8338.

Red & Black Registered Polled Hereford Bulls. Semen-Tested. VetInspected. Vaccinated. Free Delivery. 780-836-2125 or 780-836-0117.

Bred heifers for sale. Black/Angus-Hereford cross bred back to Black/Angus bull. Calving early April. 250-772-5407.

Crossbred Commercial Bulls for Sale. SemenTested. Vet-Inspected. Vaccinated. Free Delivery. 780-836-2125 or 780-8360117.

Horses for sale. Quarter Horses and Draft Cross horses. Call Keith 780-9712350.

Calf tipping table. Asking $600. Call/Text 250-2194139.

Looking for a Jersey cow to milk by hand. Call 780-6852169.

Windbreak panels for sale with 2-7/8-inch pipe and 1.5-inch thick slabs. Delivery available. Call 403-894-7633. Two & Three-Year-Old Texas Longhorn bull for sale. Excellent horn genetics. Call Ken at 780518-1669.

For Sale: Fancy medium sized doghouse. $475 OBO. 250-789-3778.

2004 Chev Cavalier Z-type, 123,000 kms, runs good. Alberta registered, $2900. 250-786-0409.

Selling one-year-old polled Red Angus bulls crossed with Jersey, $900 OBO. Call 780-933-1108.

11-Year-Old Blue Roan. 8Years cutting and roping in community pasture. Asking $12,000 OBO. Call 780834-6570.

5-Year-Old Paint Gelding for sale. 1-Year roping in community pasture. Asking $6000

1981 Chevy Cheyenne 1ton. Rebuilt 454, cab rebuilt 5-years ago. Leather headliner/bucketseats/console. $25,000 OBO. 780-296-5010.

1983 Ford 6.9-Litre diesel 4WD, Fixer-upper or for parts truck 90,000 km, $1000 OBO 250-789-3778.

1990 GMC sidestep shortbox, $2000. 1969 Volkswagon dunebuggy, $1500, both need work. 780-864-1250.

SRI HOMES (FSJ,BC) 16ft, 20ft, 22ft Single-Wides now on Sale. Email salesfsj@pineridgemodular.c Sales(Warren Martin) 250262-2847.

SRI HOMES (FSJ,BC) accepting orders for 24ft and 32ft Double-Wides. Email salesfsj@pineridgemodular.c Sales(Warren Martin) 250262-2847.

Built right sheds. Building quality shelters. Call John 780-835-1908 for your quote today.

PHEASANTS PEACOCKS &BANTAMS FORSALE

•IndiaBluePeacocksBreeders&Yearlings

2013 GMC Sierra 4x4. 4.8L engine, Sgl/Cab, 8ft box, good-condition. Transmission issues. $2000 OBO. 780-402-0569.

2017 Ford F150 Platinum truck, 68,000 kms. Original owner. Excellent condition, $47,000. 780-864-0422.

Custom built livestock shelters, windbreak panels and rig mats built to order. Delivery options. 780-5187469.

•WhiteCrestedBlackPolishBantams 80392815mar24

Looking for a 2005-07 Chev/GMC Crew Cab 1/2Ton truck. Lower Kilometres. Good condition. Call 780-285-4694.

Call(780)831-9366 or(780)532-0758

Buying Antiques: Coins, toys, advertising, tools & more. Will buy bulk. Call/text 780-832-8216.

Looking for John Deere 535 Mower Conditioner (discbine) for parts or #635/735/835/C35/S350, 250-759-4797.

Looking for John Deere 535

Appliances for sale: Dishwasher, microwave, refrigerator, stove, clothes dryer and much more. Call 780-359-2268.

Ears to Hear, your local hearing aid provider, serving Athabasca and outlying areas. High Prairie Clinic, 1st Wednesday of every month at the Golden Age Club 10am-1pm. Athabasca Clinic, 3rd Tuesday of every month at the United Church 10am-1pm. Hearing tests, hearing aid cleaning and home visits. 780-228-5965, 587-746-0540. Call for info.

Full Grizzly Bear mount for sale/trade for guns. Made record book. Call for details 250-615-1583.

Looking for bottle and cans for Christmas money. In Dawson Creek area. Call 250-789-3778.

13' Steel table. Folds for railings, asking $1200 OBO. Call 780-296-5010.

1500 lbs. hydraulic motorcycle jack, asking $150 OBO. Call 780-2965010.

DeWalt DWE7485 8-1/4”

Table Saw. Still in box. $550 OBO. 250-789-3778.

200-amp Lincoln Pipeline welder. Low hours, $5000 OBO. Also 300' welding cable, $1000. 780-296-5010.

Looking for a moveable modular/home/house/cabin to buy. Call 778-838-1055.

Looking to rent cattle pasture in the South Peace Region of BC/AB. Call/text Chet 250-219-8200.

AUCTION -AlbertaNorthAuctionService.......................36

AUCTION -CLHbid.com...............................................1,39

AUCTION -EastmanAuctioneering.................................37

AUCTION -PremierAuctions...........................................39

AUCTION -RhythmAuctionsLtd.....................................37

AUCTION -RitchieBrosAuctioneers...............................35

AUCTION -WeaverAuctions..............................................7

1 Bedroom suite in small mobile home in Pouce Coupe. $650/month (includes utilities). Call 250786-0409.

Quarter section for sale. All cultivated. 2miles West Cecil Lake Store. Call for details 250-261-1943.

23ft Jayco Kit Companion 5th Wheel. Good condition. Everything works. $5500 OBO. 250-263-1901. Will build rustic furniture to order. Indoor/Outdoor birdhouses, chicken coops & rabbit hutches, etc. 250789-3778.

Mower Conditioner (discbine) for parts or #635/735/835/C35/S350, 250-759-4797. Oat

27ft Starcraft 5th Wheel. Used very little. Excellent condition. $28,000. Call John 250-261-4586 or 250785-5465.

4-HAchievementDays........................................................4

AlbertaFarmer’s MarketDirectory.......................Classifieds

AuroraSteel &Trim............................................................12

B.C.RecyclingProgram......................................................2

OrestBorko..........................................................Classifieds

ButlerFarmEquipment.....................................................30

CassityEquipmentSalesLtd............................................23

D.CramerEnterprises..........................................Classifieds

DaveRossEquipment.......................................1,20,21,31

DawsonCo-operative........................................................14

FlamanSales.....................................................................28

ForaSeed(ToddSadlier).....................................................7

RobertFord..........................................................Classifieds

Foster’sAgri-World. .29,40

Foster’sSeed &Feed........................................................10

Fresh Water TreatmentSystems.......................................12

GoodonIndustries...............................................................6

GovernmentofAlberta. .5

JenningsMartinDirectLivestockSales. 23

Keddie’s Tack &Wester nWear............................................1

Attention cert/organic farmers. 100+ acres to rent, currently in mixed hay/grasses. Call for details 780-568-3495.

Clean

Keddie’sTrailers..................................................................1

KubotaCountry...........................................................29,40

LewisCattleOilers.............................................................13

Norther nHeating &Fireplace..............................................2

PeaceCountryBeef &ForageAssn................................8,9

PeaceCountryPlus...........................................................38

PeaceCountrySeed(PeterLundgard)................................7

PensonAngus......................................................Classifieds

PrairieCoastequipment...........................................6,26,27

PrestvilleFarms...................................................................7

PrimetimeHunting &Fishing.............................................38

RossChrysler..............................................................21,31

SchulzAngus.....................................................................13

SmokyRiverRedAngus....................................................12

StahlStructures.................................................................23

TeepeeCreekStampedeAnnouncement..........................24

EVERY FARMER COUNTS

ThorsbyStockyardsInc.....................................................23

VJVLivestockMarketingGroup............................18,19,25

Webb’s Machinery...............................................................3

WembleyLivestockExchange...........................................22

WestcanFeed &Seeds..................................11,Classifieds

YaremcioAgConsulting(B.Y.O.B.)....................................24

heavy seed oats for sale. Can deliver, Call 250782-0220.

Oats for sale, milling and feed grade, good bushel weight. Call 780-781-4457.

Mixed hay delivered to you. For more information, call Nick 780-500-6540 or John 780-500-6517.

Round and square straw bales for sale. Located 12 kms Northeast of Manning, Alberta. 780-781-4457.

AAC Certified Brandon seed wheat for sale. Can deliver. Call 250-782-0220.

Looking for a 40' winged packer bar or 40' packer harrow bar. Call 780-9269412.

33ft Flex-Coil packers set $4000. 403-601-6895.

New Holland 849 round baler for sale. Auto wrap. Field ready. Call for details 780-538-9115.

New Holland BR780 round baler for sale. Auto wrap. Field ready. Call for details 780-538-9115.

2001 JD 1820 60ft air drill, SS, w/1900 Air cart. Excellent shape. 780-4020569.

2011 NH BR7090 round baler. Wide pick up, shedded. 1800 count, $40,000. Call/text 250-2194139.

Looking for a New Idea 5212 discbine. In working condition or not. Call Keith 780-971-2350.

New Holland 116 hydra swing haybine for sale, asking $6500. Call 250-2194139.

Flexi-Coil 67 100ft wheel boom sprayer, c/w 850gal tank, windscreens, chemical mixer, much more. 780-5180635.

John Deere 9450 40' hoe drill, c/w factory transport, small seed attachment. 780380-9676 or 780-933-6363.

Looking for a Kverneland 12-bottom plow. Contact 780-864-0422.

Looking for a Case 1070 tractor for parts. Call Jacob 780-926-6087.

For Sale: 3020 John Deere tractor. Asking $5000 OBO. Call 250-789-3778.

Kubota 8560 tractor w/cab, bale forks, bucket. Low hours. Well taken care of, $62,500. 250-615-1583.

Looking for a Versatile 875 tractor for parts. Call 780247-0004.

Wanted: Starter to fit a Cockshutt 40 or 50 with Buda gas engine. Call 780835-0601.

ALBERTA’SFARMERS MARKETS APRIL/MAY/JUNE2024

BayTree|BayTreeGeneralStoreOutdoorRink

1)IsthetractorfittedwithanapprovedROPS?

2)Areguardsfittedtoequipmentwherethereisa riskoflimbs,hairorclothingbeingcaught(e.g. PTO,auger,unguardedbeltsandpulleys)?

3)Arechildrenandadultspreventedfromriding ontractors/towedimplements?

4)Dovehicles,suchasquadbikes,carry loadsinaccordancewiththemanufacturer’s recommendedlimits?

5)Areoperatorsofvehiclesfamiliarwiththe manufacturer’sinstructions?

6)Ishearingprotectionwornwhenusingnoisy equipment?

7)Isthereregularinspectionandmaintenanceof equipment,e.g.allguardsinplace?

8)Wheninflatingtires,areprecautionstakento preventinjuryfromatireblowout?

9)Whenmovingequipmentdoyouwatchfor powerlinesandmaintainsafedistances?

10)Arethetractorbrakesfunctioningcorrectly?

11)Isthetractoronlyeverstartedfromthe operator’sseat?

Tuesdays | 11:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. |June 4,11,18,25,28 | Contact:780-353-3771 |CheckusoutonFacebook

Beaverlodge| BeaverlodgeAgComplex (1400 –5th Ave)

Tuesday | 4:00p.m. to 7:30p.m. |Apr 16,23,30 |May 7,14,21,28 |June 4,11,18,25

Wednesday | 11:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. |Apr 17,24 |May 1,8,15,22,29 |June 5,12,19,26 |Contact:(780)518-6562orhaightd@telus.net

Beaverlodge - SouthPeaceCentennial

Thursday | 4:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. |NuVista EnergyCentre (1024 –4th Avenue)

SpecialMarkets:May 11| 10:00a.m. to 4:00p.m. |Mother’sDay FlowersMarket

June 2| 11:00a.m. to 4:00p.m.| SPCent Museum(Hwy 43)| June 7| 10:00a.m. to 4:00p.m.| ArtWalkMarket,DowntownBeaverlodg

Contact:(403)608-8269orspcfarmersmarket@gmail.com

Berwyn | BerwynAgBuilding(5001 –51stSt)

Sunday| 1:00p.m.to4:00p.m. |Apr 14 |May 5 |June 9 |Contact:(780)625-4190,780-625-7248or farmersmarketberwyn@gmail.com

Enilda | Women’sInstituteHall(FirstAve,Lot808)

Saturday | 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. |May 4 |June 1 |Contact:(780)523-4211orenildafarmersmarket2021@gmail.com

Fairview | Fairview LegionHall(10315 –110thSt)

SpecialMarkets:May 8 | 3:30p.m. to 6:30p.m. |June 12 | 3:30p.m. to 6:30p.m. |Contact:fairviewabfarmersmarket@gmail.com

GrandePrairie | BigRedBarn(10032 –101stAve)

Friday| 4:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. |Apr 12,19,26 |May 3,10,17,24,31 |June 7,14,21,28

Saturday | 10:00a.m. to 3:00p.m. |Apr13,20,27 |May 4,11,18,25 |June 1,8,15,22,29

HighLevel| HighLevelSportsComplex (10101 –105thAve) |Contact:highlevelfarmersmarket@gmail.com

HighPrairie – Marigold |4724 –53rdAvenue

Wednesday | 12:30p.m. to 5:30p.m. |Apr 24 |May 8,22 |June 5, 19 |Contact:(780)523-4588

Kinuso | KinusoAgHall(55Centre Street)

Saturday | 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. |May 18 |June 1,15,29 |Contact:(780)805-4905orkinusoag@gmail.com

La Crete | JubileePark(9102 -100thStreet)

Wednesday | 3:00p.m. to 6:00p.m. |June 19,26 |Contact:(780)928-4447orlacretefarmersmarket@gmail.com

Manning | RoyalCanadianLegion(115 –3rd AveSW)

Friday | 10:00a.m. to 1:00p.m. |May 10,24 |June 7,14,21,28 |Contact:(780)247-4989org58stahl@hotmail.com

PeaceRiver | Holtby Holdings Ltd.(8002B –102ndAve)

Saturdays | 10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. |Apr 20 |June 15,29 |SpecialMarkets:May 11,25 |10:00a.m. to 2:00p.m. |LocationTBD

Contact:PRFMarket1991@gmail.com

Rycroft | RycroftAgCentre (5010 –49thAve

Thursday | 3:00p.m. to 6:00p.m. |June 20,27 |SpecialMarkets:May 11 | 12:00p.m. to 4:00p.m. |June15| 12:00p.m. to 4:00p.m.

Contact:(780)831-8792or rycroftfarmersmarket@gmail.com

Sexsmith | SexsmithCurlingRink(9913 –99thSt)

Tuesday| 4:00p.m. to 7:00p.m. |June 11,18,25 |SpecialMarkets:Jun1 | 10:00a.m.

REAL ESTATE SERVICESLTD.

Grimshaw,AB

Unreserved PublicRealEstateAuction

REAL ESTATE SERVICESLTD.

GrandePrairie,AB ·Jun11

Unreserved PublicRealEstateAuction

Thissmallpieceofresidential realestate comeswith acozy bungalowandislocatednearbothGrimshawand Peace River,AB.Thehomesitson atotalof4.7±acresandincludes 3bedroomsand 1bathroom,with well waterprovidedonthe property.Thelandissituated at theintersectionofHighway 2 andHighway15with adriveway justoffthe road.Thislandis being auctionedbyRitchieBros.onbehalfofCrystalDupuis.

Propertymaybeviewedbyappointment

IvanAbelar

RitchieBros. TerritoryManager 1-587-873-0898·iabelar@ritchiebros.co

June11,2024 om

MultipleCommercial Parcels:3 Empty Lotsw/Asphalt Surface;2 Lotsw/CommercialStructures ·Lot1:2,076±Sq. Ft.Commercialbuildingw/ReceptionArea, 6Private Offices, Washroom, Lunchroom, 2StorageRooms,and ForcedAir Heating·Lot2:1,488±Sq.Ft.Shopw/3Bays,12-Ft.Overhead Auto Doors(3),NewBendpak Hoist,Washroom,Storage Room,MezzanineOffice, &Lunchroom ·ZonedCommercial District

Propertymaybeviewedbyappointment

IvanAbelar

RitchieBros. TerritoryManager 1-587-873-0898 ·iabelar@ritchiebros tment com

How to rebound from high open rates

High cattle open rates were recorded across Western Canada last year. A report from the Western Canadian Animal Health Network said open rates were all over the map, from two to three per cent up to more than 40 per cent in the third quarter of 2023. Averages were a bit higher at 10 to 12 percent versus eight to 10 percent in 2022.

Experts agree it’s a multi-year, multi-factor problem. Drought, early snow and other adverse weather conditions resulted in poor forage quality and compromised water quality in many regions. The results manifested in lower calving distribution rates.

“Herds with cows that have good body condition have an open rate of about five to eight per cent, and I’ve been hearing stories about herds with poorer body conditions that are as high as 50 per cent,” says Barry Yaremcio, a Camrose, Alta.-based consulting nutritionist.

Dr. Jason McGillivray says that in the Kamloops, B.C., area, problems started in winter 2021-22 when there was lower feed quality followed by a dry spring.

“During the pregnancy checks of the fall of 2021, we noticed that more cows were going to be calving later, and the following year, more of those cows were calving later still.”

In that area, November 2023 brought a big snowstorm that disrupted ranchers’ extended grazing programs, which normally would go into January.

“In some of the herds, they had to feed earlier with lower quality hay, and those cows were in poor body condition,” he says.

The multiple punches of later calving and an early winter, followed by drought, increased open rates.

In his area, McGillivray said another contributing factor in some herds was wolf predation through the breeding and grazing season, which put cows under tremendous stress.

In Brooks, Taber and Lethbridge, Alta., Dr. Blake Balog says data from his practice indicated that, on average, open rates were about 12 per cent for cows and 14 per cent for heifers.

Formoreinformation,pleasecallAlbertaNorthAuctions Terr yThiessen:780-876-2379

TERMS: Paymentinfullondayofsalebycashorbankable cheque.Itemsaresoldasis,whereis. Bonded Licence#212664

SALESUBJECTTOADDITIONSANDDELETIONS

EMAIL:albertanorthauctions@gmail.com

WEBSITE:abnorthauctions.com

TIMEDONLINEAUCTION

FORGLORIABIRNIE-BROWNEOFBEZANSON,AB

SaleStartsat12NoononMonday, May6,2024

SaleEndsat12NoononThursday,May9,2024

Directions:1/2kmSouthoftheintersectionofHwy43andHwy733

Itemscanbeviewedfrom9:00a.m.to5:00p.m. Friday,May 3andSaturday,May 4orbyappointment

“In that mix, we had some pretty high highs and pretty low lows,” he says, adding that shorter breeding seasons had up to 90 per cent bred and, on the other end, some groups went to 20 per cent open.

“The trend in calving distributions is flatter and flatter,” he says. “Cows may have had good reproductive momentum for a while, but when they go more and more into that second and third cycle, eventually, they just fall off the map.”

In the southeast area of Manitoba, Dr. Kurtis Swirsky says his clients have experienced similar situations, with some chronically affected herds that run higher open rates and some with lower rates. In 2023, there was an anomaly.

“This past May was one of the hottest on record and the flies were a big contributing factor to having cows being run down, less likely to cycle and then to get pregnant when they were bred,” Swirsky says. Generally, producers who pay close attention to body condition and cows have healthier, more resilient cows with excellent pregnancy rates. Sometimes bulls are infertile or injured, but mostly it’s about the health of the cows, he says.

According to Yaremcio, extreme heat can also affect bulls’ sperm motility.

“One of the big things this year compared to previous years was that there was a lot of grass, but the energy density was lower,” Swirsky says, adding that supplementing cattle on pasture before turning out the bulls is an option.

Keeping a close eye on body condition scores and improving nutrition and water quality are among the best ways to decrease open rates in cows.

Both Swirsky and McGillivray say cows should have good body condition before going out on grass, even if it costs more in feed.

“The benefits are great. Not only will the cows be more likely to get pregnant, they’ll milk better and have heavier calves,” Swirsky says.

“If you turn your cows out thin, you are relying on Mother Nature to supply enough good quality forage to get cows to rebound condition to start cycling and breed,” McGillivray says.

“With the last couple of late, cool, dry springs, there has not been enough good forage or time to accomplish this at a desirable first cycle conception rate or overall pregnancy rate.”

Multiple studies have shown earlier bred cows produce calves that are born earlier, are more uniform and healthier and command better prices. The cows themselves are healthier, more productive and live longer.

In fact, the BCRC has a video and a calving distribution calculator to help producers determine optimal strategies.

The industry target is a minimum of 60 percent of females calving within the first cycle. Yaremcio says some of his clients aim for 75 percent or more.

For practical purposes, producers need to balance any increase in revenue with the cost of achieving that outcome. Some of those costs could be:

• Pre-partum nutrition management to reach desired body condition score

• Increased risk of open cows

• Time, labour and facility if estrus synchronization or artificial insemination are used

• Cost of implementing any of these options will vary by operation.

Balog says careful genetic selection of cattle to match changing environmental conditions, managing stocking densities and better managing grass will help alleviate problems.

“I’m worried that if producers see good calf prices, they’re going to want to retain more animals to cash in on the other side, but we may not have grass to accomplish that,” he says, adding that his more successful clients have aggressive culling strategies to weed out later calving cows and improve herd quality.

Early weaning and better nutritional supplementation for cows also shows up in improved results.

“In the last few years, improving water quality with structures has been important, too, along with better grazing strategies.”

Body condition management during winter and techniques like stubble grazing and cover crops would also increase feeding options and reduce open rates.

In British Columbia, where McGillivray practices, the feed options are limited to hay, which is costly, and when it went from $200 to $380 a tonne, some producers limited feeding to save costs.

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“Paying $380 a tonne for hay is better than having 20 percent open cows,” he says.

Yaremcio also says it is difficult to recognize changes in condition when working with cattle every day so having a second set of eyes can help evaluate body condition.

Hands-on body condition scoring is even more accurate, especially for evaluating the cows’ fat stores, and the BCRC has resources to help beef producers with that.

Reprinted with permission from the Beef Cattle Research Council

Certi ed seed costs uctuate, mostly upward

Alberta Agri-News

Farmers select seeds based on uality, yield potential, new varieties, field conditions, crop rotation, cost implications, market dynamics and environmental conditions, says Azam Nikzad, market analyst and researcher with the Alberta government.

That’s a lot of variables.

“Producers aim to optimize their choices by maximizing productivity and reducing production risk.”

There are trends in certified seed prices and factors that contribute to their cost, with the expectation that these seeds will yield better and increase revenue. ver the past decade in Alberta, certified No. wheat seed showed a general upward price trend until 2022, with an average annual increase of two percent. Certified No. barley seed had an average annual increase of . per cent.

The price of wheat seed began to decrease in 2023. Barley seed prices started to decrease in 2024.

Herbicide tolerant Roundup Ready canola seed saw a consistent upward price trend, averaging 4.6 per cent annually over the past decade. Liberty Link canola seed showed a similar trend until 2022, averaging a 3.4 per cent annual increase.

Liberty Link canola seed prices decreased slightly in 2023 but the price of Roundup Ready and Liberty Link canola both increased in February by 2.8 per cent and 2.5 per cent, respectively, compared to January.

Factors that contributed to rising seed prices in recent years include production related challenges in 2021 due to dry conditions along with a pronounced increase in commodity cereal grain and canola prices in 2021 and 2022.

“ roduction of certified seed is a meticulous and resource intensive process, which significantly impacts price,” says Nikzad.

“It takes several years for plant breeders to develop new seed varieties with enhanced traits such as higher yield, drought tolerance, early flowering and maturity, resistance to lodging and disease, insect tolerance and weed control.

“From breeding new seed varieties to rigorous inspections and compliance

testing, each stage contributes to the overall expense of producing high-quality seeds for farmers’ benefit.”

Labour and other costs are incurred at each stage of development, but there are additional expenses as well. These include licensing fees for intellectual property rights and considerations related to the length, cost and reliability of the regulatory process.

While IPRs encourage innovation, they also contribute to higher seed prices. In the context of Roundup Ready and Liberty Link canola seed, both the modified traits they carry and the methods used to create them are typically patented, driving up the cost of these seeds.

Additionally, the limited supply resulting from specific biotech traits influences pricing.

“The advantage of using certified seed often justifies the higher upfront cost,” says Nikzad. “Reduced risk of contaminants, better quality, maintenance of varietal purity, and traceability are examples of a few positive benefits for producers.

“It also grants farmers access to new genetics and premium markets, enhances input efficiency, and allows effective weed control without harming the crop. ood processors may also benefit from utilizing grains and oilseeds grown from certified seed. t might mean higher uality and more consistent ingredients for premium products marketed to consumers.”