Growing Forward

Transcription

Growing Forward
08
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
VOLUME 6
Growing Forward
Simple, more effective, tailored to
your needs - a special feature
pages 9-16
storing and drying flax
page 4
Saskatchewan beef industry conference
protecting stored forages
PAGE 23
PAGE 17
Minister’s Message
T
his past summer of storms has had a tremendous impact on our agriculture industry. The excess
moisture this year not only affected crop land, but also the quality and quantity of feed and pasture in
some areas.
To help livestock and forage producers in this difficult situation, I announced the Saskatchewan Feed and
Forage Program (SFFP) at the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities Midterm Convention on
Nov. 9. This program is intended to support livestock and forage producers who are facing challenges due to
excess moisture.
The SFFP will provide financial support to producers who have to transport additional feed to their livestock or have to transport
livestock to alternative locations for feeding or grazing due to excess moisture. Payments will be based on the amount of feed or
number of animals transported, and the distance hauled.
In addition, the SFFP will provide $30 per eligible acre to producers who will have to reseed hay/forage and/or pasture land that
has been damaged by excess moisture.
Producers who own beef and dairy cattle, bison, elk, horses, sheep, goats, deer, reindeer, caribou, llamas and alpacas are all eligible
to apply. The SFFP is retroactive to June 1, 2010, and will run to Aug. 1, 2011. See page 22 for details.
While this will not solve all the problems with excess moisture, I hope this support will help our livestock producers deal with the
unprecedented rain we received this summer.
For more information or to complete an application form, contact a local Ministry of Agriculture or Crop Insurance office, visit
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca, or call the SFFP toll-free line at 1-877-874-5365. Applications are also available at local RM offices.
Sincerely,
Bob Bjornerud
Say Yes 2 Agriculture: 2011 SYA
Conference
by Daphne Cruise, PAg
Regional Crops Specialist, Moose Jaw
Agriculture Knowledge Centre
T
he Saskatchewan Young Ag-Entrepreneurs (SYA) promote the
exchange of ideas and foster collaboration between young and
future farmers and ag-entrepreneurs of Canada. The organization
includes producers, agriculture professionals and entrepreneurs, and
provides education and development opportunities that will help
young people in agriculture shape the future of the industry in
Saskatchewan. Formed in 2006, the SYA continues to grow in
membership and corporate structure each year.
The SYA hosts an annual conference in conjunction with their
annual general meeting featuring a combination of workshops and
speakers. Yes to Agriculture will be held on January 27 and 28, 2011
in Saskatoon.
The conference includes topics such as marketing and futures, farm
diversification, corporate and traditional farms, farming in today’s
changing climate and a presentation from the 2010 Saskatchewan
Outstanding Young Farmers, plus much more.
For more information
• Call Gwenda at the SYA office: 1-306-874-2025.
STORY SNAPSHOTS
22
6
5
18
2011 Crop Production Show
Bull Selection Workshops
B R E E DI NG FOR PRO
Regional Pulse Workshops
Bull Selection Workshops
Agriculture Student Scholarship
YORKTON – February 4, 2011
Heartland Livestock
TABLE OF CONTENTS
12:00 – 12:30
12:30 – 12:35
AGENDA
Registration, trade show booths
croPS
12:35 – 1:00
1:00 – 2:00
Research
2:00 – 3:00
3:00 – 3:15
SPIRITWOO
Spiritwood
Welcome
There’s Jingle in Genes – Understanding what
4 Igenity c
Lee Sinclair, Merial
EPDs and Other Genetic Mysteries
Sean McGrath, PAg, Creo Episteme Ltd.
8
Serving Your Sire - Bull Nutrition
Dr. John McKinnon, Professor and Beef Industry Resea
Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.
Special feature
- Growing
Break,
Trade Forward
Show Booths
9
Concurrent Sessions (participants divided into 3 groups of 20)
08
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
3:15 – 4:00
Livestock
What’s Hiding Under the Hide - Live Animal Ultrasound
Teresa Binetruy, Beef Unit Manager, University
17 of Saska
Dr. John McKinnon, Professor and Beef Industry Resea
Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.
VOLUME 6
4:00– 4:45
4:45 – 5:30
5:30 – 5:35
Growing Forward
Simple, more effective, tailored to
your needs - a special feature
pages 9-16
STORING AND DRYING FLAX
PAGE 4
SASKATCHEWAN BEEF INDUSTRY CONFERENCE
PROTECTING STORED FORAGES
PAGE 17
PAGE 23
Cover: Mark Hoimyr at his operation near
Gladmar, SK is a participant of the FBDI Program.
For more information about the Growing Forward
suite of programs, see page 9 of this issue.
5:35 – 7:30
The ABCs of What’s Between His Knees - Breeding So
Dr. Chad Paetsch – Animal Health Clinic, Humboldt
20
Dr. Larry Potter – Spiritwood Vet Clinic
programs and services
Ribs, Nuts and Butts - Physical Characteristics of a Goo
Garner Deobald, Hodgeville SK, 2009 Canadian Weste
events calendar
Thank you and Sponsor Recognition
24
Steak Supper and Trade Show
Call the Agriculture Knowl
to Pre-Registe
1-866-457-2377, Registra
AGRICU
LIVESTOCK
AGRIVIEW is published by the Communications Branch of Saskatchewan Agriculture for Saskatchewan farmers and farm
and food organizations. For more information, call 306-787-5160 or e-mail [email protected].
To view this publication online, visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/programs-services.
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
3
CROPS
Storage and drying tips for flax
Since flax is an oilseed crop, use care to prevent dryer fires.
by Venkata Vakulabharanam, MSc., PAg
Provincial Specialist, Oilseed Crops
Crops Branch
Due to high oil content, even dry flax is prone to heating. For
successful long-term storage, targeting eight to nine per cent seed
moisture will reduce chances of heating
and spoilage.
D
ue to the long and wet 2010 crop season,
some flax producers had to harvest flax at
high seed moisture.
Stored flax should be routinely monitored to
ensure there are no hot spots developing. A hot
spot in stored flax can spread quickly - possibly
throughout the entire bin.
Flax is generally considered “dry” at 10 per cent
grain moisture content, “tough” at 10.1 to 13.5
per cent moisture and “damp” if over 13.5 per
cent moisture. Aeration can reduce the moisture
content in flax under the right conditions. In late
fall, a grain dryer may be more effective in
bringing the moisture content down to a storable
level.
In addition to storage considerations, the
following precautions will help minimize Triffid
contamination in your flax.
•Properly clean the swather and combine
after use.
The following considerations will help avoid
problems during flax drying and storage.
•Store flax crop in a clean bin. Vacuum the bin prior to loading and after unloading to remove every flax seed.
The airflow is much slower for flax, so the drying
time will be greater compared with other crops.
If using aeration and natural air to condition flax,
sampling of resulting product is critical. Monitor
the changes in moisture and temperature in the
bin by sampling the bottom, middle and top of
bin separately.
•Clean transportation vehicles used to move flax from the field to the farm, and the farm to the elevator. If possible, cover vehicles with a tarp.
Bethune Flax - A popular choice in Saskatchewan.
Maximum allowable air temperature for flax seed drying is 45 C for
planting seed, 80 C for commercial seed and 80 to 100 C for feed.
•After harvest, have 2010 flax crop tested at one
of the approved laboratories.
For more information
• Visit the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s website at
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca and click on Production | Crops – Storage.
Flax seed closer to the bin bottom (aeration) will probably be dryer
than grain at the top of the bin. To facilitate drying flax evenly in the
bin, move flax from the bin bottom to the top.
RETHINKING THE AGRONOMICS OF MALT BARLEY PRODUCTION
by Kim Stonehouse, M.Sc. AAg
Regional Crop Specialist, Tisdale
Regional Services Branch
M
alting barley was the focus of several Agriculture and Agri-Food
Canada (AAFC) field experiments between 2005 and 2008. Dr.
John O’Donovan of the Lacombe Research Centre led the research that
was conducted at eight sites in Western Canada. These trials examined
the effects of agronomic practices on malting barley yield, seed
uniformity and malt quality factors.
The experiments looked at two varieties (AC Metcalfe and CDC
Copeland), seeding rates, nitrogen fertility and seeding date. Results of
these experiments varied somewhat from site-to-site and from year-toyear. Despite this variability, there were some interesting conclusions.
Of the varieties, CDC Copeland was found to yield on average
6.5 per cent higher and had 4.8 per cent lower protein content than AC
Metcalfe. AC Metcalfe also had lower kernel weights, but had a slightly
greater plumpness and higher levels of malt extract.
When researchers increased seeding rates, they generally found that
days to maturity, protein content and kernel weight variability were
reduced. However, increasing seeding rates also decreased kernel weight
and plumpness. In most cases, they found that yield was optimized at
300 seeds/m2 and yield reductions sometimes occurred at seeding rates
beyond this.
4
For both varieties it was not surprising to find that increasing nitrogen
fertility increased yield, kernel weight, protein content, days to
maturity and lodging. At the same time increasing fertility tended to
decrease plant density, plumpness and malt extract levels. These results
demonstrate that balancing nitrogen fertility to optimize each of these
factors is still as important as ever. A note of interest here was that these
researchers found that the increase in protein content, with increasing
nitrogen, was greater in AC Metcalfe than CDC Copeland.
Seeding dates varied with site and year but, in most cases, the
researchers found that seeding in late April to mid-May increased yields
and kernel weight while lowering protein as compared to seeding in
late May to early June.
Because of this research, several AgriARM sites and one Provincial
Council of Agriculture Development and Diversification (ADD) board
applied and received funding from the Agricultural Demonstration of
Practices and Technologies (ADOPT) program to demonstrate the
agronomic principles for optimizing malt barley production. These
demonstrations were featured at various field days throughout
Saskatchewan. The ADOPT program is administered by Saskatchewan
Agriculture.
For more information
• Contact Kim Stonehouse at (306) 878-8807, or e-mail
[email protected].
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
CROPS
Don’t miss the 2011 Western Canadian
Crop Production Show by John Ippolito, PAg
Regional Crop Specialist, Kindersley
Regional Services Branch
T
he Western Canadian Crop Production show is one of the more
important events for cereal, pulse and oilseed producers in Western
Canada.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture uses the Crop Production
Show as a venue to interact with large numbers of producers and
launch new publications and guides for the upcoming cropping season.
While at the Western Canadian Crop Production Show, be sure to stop
at the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture booth to get the latest
information on crop production practices, and talk with our regional
and provincial specialists.
For more information
• Visit the Western Canadian Crop Production Show and the Crop
Production Week’s joint website at www.cropweek.com.
This year’s show will be held from January 10 to 13 at Saskatoon
Prairieland Park.
The show provides crop producers the opportunity to meet with
exhibitors who focus on crop production, farm business management
and crop marketing. The exhibitors include a wide variety with
technology, services or products for crop producers.
Last year’s show had attendance of over 16,000 with more than
95 per cent of these visitors being directly involved in grain
production.
Crop Production Week is held in collaboration with the Western
Canadian Crop Production Show, and includes a number of industry
association meetings and events to keep producers informed about
their crops and events in those industries.
Available in January – the 2011 Guide to Crop Protection
by Clark Brenzil, PAg
Provincial Specialist, Weed Control
Crops Branch
T
By rotating herbicides, the risk of developing widespread resistance over a field drops. The illustration below gives a relative
ranking of risk of resistance developing from repeated use. The top of the triangle indicates groups that may develop resistance quickly. Those at the bottom of the triangle have demonstrated a low risk of resistance developing over long-term use. Be
aware that low risk does not mean no risk, since weeds have developed resistance to herbicides in these groups as well.
he Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture will introduce The 2011
Guide to Crop Protection at the Crop Production Show in Saskatoon
from January
10 to 13, 2011.
Herbicide Resistance Development Risk Based on Number of Applications
2011 G U I DE TO
CROP PROTECTION
weeds, plant diseases, insects
AGRICULTURE
Visit the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture booth to pick up
your copy.
2010 GUIDE TO CROP PROTECTION
Accent, Adrenalin*, Altitude FX*, Assert,
Broadband*, Everest, Express Pro, Frontline*,
Imazethapyr, Metsulfuron, Muster, Odyssey,
Option, Pinnacle, Prism, PrePass*, Simplicity,
Solo, Spectrum*, Stellar*, Thifensulfuron /
tribenuron, Tribenuron, Triton C and K, Unity*,
Velocity M3*
Remember, The 2011 Guide to Crop Protection now has a “key page”
that
gives a description of the information provided in each product
GROUP
9
(Grass & Broadleaf control)
CleanStart*,
pageEclipse*,
andGlyphosate,
how that information can be used. GROUP 3 (Grass & Broadleaf control)
PrePass*, Rustler*
Edge, Fortress*, Trifluralin
GROUP 8 (Grass & Broadleaf control)
Avadex, Avenge, Eptam, Fortress*
GROUP 4 (Broadleaf Control)
2,4-D, 2,4-DB, Adrenalin*, Altitude FX*,
Attain, bromoxynil / 2.4-D ester*, bromoxynil
/ MCPA ester*, Curtail M, dicamba, dicamba /
mecoprop / MCPA, dichlorprop / 2,4D, Dyvel,
Dyvel DSp, Eclipse*, Express Pack*, Frontline*,
Lontrel, MCPA, MCPB / MCPA, mecoprop,
Prestige, Pulsar, Rustler*, Shotgun*, Spectrum*,
Stellar*, Triton C and K, Trophy, and mixes
containing these active ingredients
Foliar Fungicides
Seed Treatments
Axial, Broadband*, Clethodim,
Clodinafop, Equinox, Fenoxaprop,
Fusion, Poast Ultra, Quizalofop,
Signal D*, Tralkoxydim, Venture
An electronic version of The 2011 Guide to Crop Protection will also
GROUP
be available
in6 January onGROUP
the5 Ministry’s website at
(Broadleaf Control)
(Grass & Broadleaf control)
Basagran, bromoxynil,
Atrazine,
Laddok*,to
Primextra
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca
|
Guide
Crop Protection.
bromoxynil / 2.4-D ester*,
Magnum*, Sencor, Shotgun*,
GROUP 7 (Grass &
Broadleaf control)
Linuron
bromoxynil / MCPA ester*,
Infinity*, Laddok*, Unity*,
Velocity M3 (27)*
Simazine, Velpar
Look
for the spring update at the same location in May.
* Some products contain more than one active ingredient and therefore may appear in more than one group.
SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
For more information
3085 Albert Street Regina, Saskatchewan CANADA S4S 0B1
• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377
Printed January 2010 40M ISBN
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca
088656-59953
0164
regarding the contents
of The 2011 Guide to Crop
Protection.
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
This publication is only a guide.
Always refer to the product label for
application details and precautions.
Insect Control
Liberty (10), Amitrole (11), Authority (14), Blazer (14),
Chateau (14)*, Reflex (14), Dual II Magnum (15),
Frontier (15), Kerb (15), Primextra Magnum* (15),
Casoron (20), Gramoxone (22), Reglone (22),
Infinity (27), Velocity M3 (27)*
Weed Control
CROPS
The 2011 Guide to Crop Protection will also be available at local farm
chemical retail outlets or the Ministry of Agriculture’s regional offices
following the show and throughout the growing season.
Along with the usual updated uses for existing chemicals, there are
several new herbicides and fungicides listed in the guide. The
expansion of new generic products continues from last year, so
several more product pages will now be listed under their active
Rotation of Herbicides
ingredient
(i.e. tribenuron,GROUP
flucarbazone,
imazamethabenz).
OTHER
GROUPS
1 (Grass Control)
GROUP 2 (Grass & Broadleaf control)
Introduction
HERBICIDE ROTATION - 2010
Resistance to a pesticide group will reduce the effectiveness of pesticides in that group over time. Rotation of herbicides and
other pesticides is an important measure to delay the onset of resistance to any one pesticide group or mode-of-action.
5
CROPS
Plant disease surveys confirm disease
issues in 2010
by Faye Dokken-Bouchard, MSc., PAg
Provincial Specialist, Plant Disease
Crops Branch
W
eather challenges in
2010 resulted in an
increase of crop disease that
will influence seed quality
and crop rotation options in
2011.
In 2010, the Ministry of Agriculture again teamed up with Agriculture
and Agri-Food Canada, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation, the
Crop Development Centre and volunteer agronomists throughout
Saskatchewan to conduct provincial plant disease surveys. These
surveys capture the prevalence (per cent of crops surveyed with disease
symptoms) of diseases in cereals,
Table 1. Prevalence of plant diseases in peas and canola in 2010 (per cent of crops surveyed
pulses, and canola. Preliminary
that showed at least trace levels of corresponding disease symptoms)
results of the cereal disease
Pea Diseases: Ascochyta
Lentil Diseases:anthracnose(AN),
surveys indicate an increase in
Region
pisi(AP), mycosphaerella
ascochyta blight(AB), stemphylium
(number of crops
blight(MB), Septoria
Canola Diseases
incidence of fusarium head
blight(SB), botrytis grey mould(GM),
surveyed)
pisi(SP), sclerotinia white
sclerotinia white mould(WM)
blight and leaf spotting diseases
P = pea
mould(WM)
L = lentil
Ascochyta
in 2010. Table 1 outlines some of
C = canola
Complex
SP
WM
AN
AB
SB
GM
WM
Blackleg
Sclerotinia
the pulse and canola disease
AP
MB
Northwest
0
100
0
50
61
92
survey results. More detailed
(13 P, 38 C)
Northeast
information of the disease
0
100
0
67
48
90
(3 P, 52 C)
surveys will be available later this
West-central
9
100
0
27
56
31
88
56
69
57
94
(11 P, 16 L, 35 C)
winter.
Plant pathogens responsible
for these diseases are now
over-wintering in crop
residue, seed and surviving
East-central
0
100
0
82
host plants. When predicting
(11 P, 104 C)
Southwest
your crop disease risk for the
44
98
85
10
46
(41 P, 13 L, 10 C)
2011 season, keep the disease
Southeast
17
100
33
0
(6 P, 21 C)
triangle in mind (host +
Total Surveyed
0
99
47
27
52
pathogen + environment =
(85 P, 29 L, 260 C)
disease). Crop rotation will
determine potential hosts;
past disease incidence will largely determine the pathogens present;
and, as always, environment will have the biggest effect on disease
in 2011.
50
91
While survey data reveals
regional and provincial plant
62
95
disease trends, remember that
24
83
41
59
54
92
each field is unique. Test seed for
disease, plan crop rotations with
current trends and past disease incidence in mind, implement
integrated pest management measures and scout crops regularly to
recognize the significance of plant diseases on your farm.
15
77
23
46
70
80
For more information
• Contact Faye Dokken-Bouchard at (306) 787-4671.
Regional Pulse Workshops
by Dale Risula, PAg
Provincial Specialist, Specialty Crops
Crops Branch
for pulse crops. There will be industry representatives at each meeting
to present and answer questions from producers.
S
askatchewan Agriculture and the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers are
planning the annual series of regional pulse workshops across
Saskatchewan.
The workshops will be held in five locations across the province,
introducing the latest information on varieties, markets and agronomy
Monday, Jan. 31, 2011
Outlook Civic Centre
520 Semple Street
Outlook
For more information
• Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
Tuesday, Feb. 1, 2011
Kindersley Inn
601-11th Ave East
Kindersley
Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011
Cosmo Senior Citizens’ Centre
235 - 3rd Ave NE
Moose Jaw
6
Register early in order to save yourself a spot at one of the five
locations. Each session may vary slightly in order to reflect the
common interests of the area. The meetings are scheduled to start at
8:30 a.m. each day and wrap up in the afternoon. You can pre-register
by calling the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2011
Living Sky Casino
1401 N. Service Road E.
Swift Current
Friday, Feb. 4, 2011
McKenna Auditorium
317-3rd Street North East
Weyburn
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
CROPS
Choosing the best Christmas tree
by Glen Sweetman, PAg
Provincial Specialist, Nursery and Greenhouse Crops
Crops Branch
trees are sensitive to freezing and will likely experience excessive
needle drop.
One solution to this problem is to ask where the trees were grown
and select Saskatchewan-grown trees. Another solution is to visit a
Christmas tree farm and pick your own.
T
he experience of having a real Christmas
tree is hard to beat. Saskatchewan
Christmas tree growers work hard to help
you experience it.
Premature dropping of green needles, known
as needle drop, is the main cause for
consumer unhappiness with live trees. A
little information can greatly reduce this
problem.
To check the freshness of the tree, lift it
upright and drop it on its trunk. Some
needle drop is expected, although if there
are a lot of green needles it might be best to
pick another tree.
Even though the trees have been cut, they are still
living and need water to remain fresh. The needle
drop from dry trees is typically caused by long
unprotected transportation, desiccating the tree, or
lack of home-owner care.
When preparing the tree for your home, cut two to
three centimetres off the base of the trunk, place it
in a tree stand with a water reservoir and water as
needed.
The tree will use more water during the first three
days, so avoid letting the water in the reservoir fall
below the bottom of the trunk. Maintain the
reservoir from the time the tree enters the home
until you dispose of it. Needles only live two to six years, then turn
Always check your tree for freshness.
brown and fall off. Therefore, it is natural for
The estimated 2009 harvest in Saskatchewan was
trees to have some brown needles. To remove these dead needles,
approximately 12,000 trees. Approximately 65,000 new trees were
shake the tree before it enters the home.
planted this spring.
Christmas trees grown in warmer, moister climates and then shipped
to the Prairies often have not fully shut down. Consequently, these
For more information
• Visit the Saskatchewan Christmas Tree Growers Association
website at www.prairiechristmastrees.com.
Recent successes in the fruit processing industry
by Forrest Scharf, BA, BSA, AAg
Provincial Specialist, Fruit Crops
Crops Branch
S
askatchewan processed food products are diverse and delectable.
Consumers who embrace locally grown foods are aware of this,
and the demand for high-quality local foods has helped
entrepreneurs to develop innovative and competitive products.
Strong local demand provides a launch pad for processors to
experiment, improve capacity, and expand their reach into larger
markets.
Marketing to non-local consumers who have little to no familiarity
with unique food products, such as Saskatchewan-grown fruit, can be
a daunting task. This was recently highlighted by Saskatchewanbased fruit processor Sandra Purdy, owner of Prairie Berries, when she
faced the Dragons on the CBC television program the Dragons’ Den.
Purdy’s Prairie Berries also received funding to hire a recent university
graduate through the Agri-Value Marketing Internship Program
which was delivered by Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership
with funding from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture.
Consumer demand is always partially dependent upon a value
proposition, and Saskatchewan fruit products supply that value
through superior flavour, high levels of health-promoting
compounds, and adherence to high levels of food safety standards.
Other Saskatchewan food processors have also been recognized
recently for their superiority. These include Cypress Hills Vineyard
and Winery at Maple Creek, and Living Sky Winery at Perdue. These
companies brought home a total of five medals from eight entries at
the 2010 Canadian Wine Awards. As well, Prairie Sun Orchard Inc of
Vanscoy was among finalists for the New Saskatchewan Product
Award in the 2010 Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce
Achievement in Business Excellence (ABEX) competition.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Purdy was successful in obtaining a partnership agreement with
Dragon Arlene Dickinson, but it wasn’t an easy sell. Purdy had
recruited Allison Ozog, a graduate student in the Food Sciences
Department of the University of Saskatchewan, to highlight the
“superfruit” health promoting aspects of saskatoon berries, and also
provided the Dragons with juice samples.
During the program, Dickinson drew parallels between the successes
seen in the cranberry and pomegranate industries, and offered the
power of her marketing team to enhance the market potential of
saskatoons. Some observers suggested that the exposure obtained
through the Dragons’ Den was equivalent to a high-profile marketing
campaign, given the program’s average weekly audience of 1.5
million Canadians.
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
• View the Dragons’ Den segment about Prairie Berries at
www.cbc.ca/video then select Dragons’ Den; or
• Visit the Prairie Berries website at www.prairieberries.com; the
Cypress Hills Vineyard and Winery website at
www.cypresshillswinery.com, and the Living Sky Winery website
at www.livingskywinery.com; or
• For an online directory of Saskatchewan processed food products,
visit the Saskatchewan Food processors Association website at
www.sfpa.sk.ca/directory.
7
RESEARCH
Producing higher value flax straw
A
study by Biolin Research and funded by the Saskatchewan
Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) has found that a double bar
sickle mower was the most effective method to put long intact flax
straw on the ground in a thin layer. This resulted in better retting of
the straw, producing a higher value final fibre product at a relatively
low cost.
The key to producing flax straw for high-end industrial and textile
applications is to spread long, intact pieces of straw in a thin, even
layer across the field to ensure quick, consistent partial rotting to
release the fibre (retting).
In trials near Redvers, Laird and Hepburn, the researchers looked at
land rollers, wheeled vehicles, weighted sleds and rotary and sickle
mowers to determine which did the best job of spreading the straw
thinly and
evenly.
Did you know?
The sickle
In 2010:
mower
•The Ministry of Agriculture provided $5.7 million
and land
rollers
for 44 ADF research projects.
were the
most
effective.
The sickle mower produced the best quality straw at a cost of $3.90
per acre while a single pass of a land roller cost $3.37 per acre.
However, the study showed that it took two to three passes by a land
roller to achieve acceptable results. On this basis, it is estimated that a
sickle mower could save a producer as much as $6.21 per acre over the
total cost of using a land roller.
A double-bar sickle mower produces high-quality flax straw at the
cost of $3.90 per acre.
Saskatchewan is a world leader in production of oilseed flax. Better
utilization of flax straw for fibre could greatly improve the economics
of flax production. By increasing quality and consistency of flax fibre,
Saskatchewan producers could move from the low-end ($200 to $600
per tonne) market to the medium- and high-end ($800 to $5,000 per
tonne) markets for their flax fibre.
Are you
Business SAVI?
In 2010, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture provided $5.7
million for 44 ADF research projects.
Farm Business Development Initiative
The Farm Business Development Initiative can help your
The Saskatchewan
Agri-Value
Initiative
(SAVI)
farm. Funding is available
for training and
professional
services that
work toward
profitsfor
for business
your
can provide
funding
up increasing
to $50,000
operation.
development and business assessment tools.
Sickle mowers were once common
for harvesting forage on the
Canadian Prairies, but with changes
in forage harvesting techniques they
are seldom used for this purpose
anymore. The one used in this flax
study was a double bar sickle mower
manufactured by Rowse Hydraulic
Rakes Co. Inc. of Nebraska.
Contact your
Regional Farm Business Management Specialist
for more information.
Contact your
Regional FarmPHONE
Business
Management
LOCATION
NUMBER
Specialist
for more(306)
information:
North
Battleford
446-7964
Prince Albert
North Battleford Tisdale
(306) 446-7964
Prince Albert
Tisdale
Kindersley
Outlook
FBDIadqtrpage.indd 1
8
Kindersley
(306) 953-2363
Outlook
Watrous
(306) 878-8842
Yorkton
(306)
463-5513
Swift
Current
Weyburn
(306) 867-5575
Moose Jaw
(306) 953-2363
Watrous
(306)
878-8842 (306) 946-3220
(306) 463-5513
Yorkton
(306) 786-1531
(306) 867-5575
(306)
946-3220
Swift Current (306) 778-8218
(306) 786-1531
Weyburn
(306)
778-8218 (306) 848-2857
(306) 848-2857
Moose Jaw
1-866-457-2377
1-866-457-2377
2/17/2010 2:26:14 PM
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
Growing Forward
– A Special Feature
A
griview is pleased to bring readers a
special eight-page feature on non-Business
Risk Management programs and services
available in Saskatchewan under the Growing
Forward framework.
What’s Growing Forward?
Growing Forward is a commitment to Canada’s
agriculture sector that’s focused on achieving
results.
The new Growing Forward agreement was
signed in July 2008. The agreement reflects
input from across the agriculture sector
and delivers programs that are simple, more
effective and tailored to local needs. All
Growing Forward programs are cost-shared by
the federal and Saskatchewan governments on
a 60/40 basis.
Since 2008 the Saskatchewan Ministry of
Agriculture has worked with the federal
government to build eight carefully crafted
non-Business Risk Management programs
for our producers.
These programs aim to:
• Help farmers and others involved
in the agriculture industry to make
changes that increase their innovation,
competitiveness and profitability;
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
What’s Inside?
Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure
Program (FRWIP)
10
FARM BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE (FBDI) 11
TRACEABILITY
12
BIOSECURITY
13
ENVIRONMENTAL FARM PLANNING
13
FOOD SAFETY
14
SASKATCHEWAN AGRI-VALUE INITIATIVE (SAVI)
15
Agricultural Demonstration of Practices
and Technologies (ADOPT)
16
•
Meet consumer demands for
food safety and environmental
performance; and
•
Manage risk proactively.
9
WATER INFRASTRUCTURE
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
Growing with water
S
askatchewan is helping
producers and communities
to better manage their water resources.
Through the development of secure
water sources, Saskatchewan
Agriculture’s provincewide Farm and
Ranch Water Infrastructure Program
(FRWIP) is designed to expand the
livestock industry, encourage economic
growth in rural locales and soften the
effects of future droughts.
Since the program’s inception last year,
3,301 applications for funding have
been received from across
Saskatchewan. To date, more than 1,500
wells, 1,600 dugouts and 40 community
wells have been created.
“The application was straightforward
and simple,” said Jim Angus,
administrator with the Rural
Municipality of Harris. The RM
submitted its application to build a
community well early this summer, and
the well is now in operation.
“Location-wise, we had a big area that
wasn’t served,” said Angus. The RM of
Harris has two other municipal wells
that were in operation before the new
well was developed.
“The application was
straightforward and
simple.”
- Jim Angus, RM administrator.
Angus estimated the total cost at
$105,000. Under FRWIP, the provincial
government contributed two-thirds of
the cost.
Cattle producers Sandi and Michael
Gray have also taken advantage of
government funding for water
infrastructure. The well on their ranch
near Perdue was created years ago, and
in the summer of 2009 they applied for
funding to replace it.
“It was very simple,” said Sandi of the
whole funding process. “The company
that drilled the well was able to fax our
paid receipts for the work directly to the
provincial government.”
The well cost $34,000, and the Grays
received $15,000 from the Province.
10
A well being dug near Old Wives Lake.
Before the new well was installed, the Grays
hauled water from municipal wells. Having
on-site access to water has improved
operations on the Grays’ farm. The well
provides water for spraying and for their
cattle.
The program will supply up to two-thirds
of the cost for community wells and a
maximum of one-half of the eligible costs
to develop on-farm water supplies.
For more information on FRWIP call the
toll-free line at 1-877-874-5365.
Eligible on-farm water systems can receive
a maximum of $60,000 in
funding, and eligible
candidates include
farmers, ranchers and
FRWIP to date:
Indian Bands. Community
Has received over 3,300 applications with
well projects, open to
total project costs exceeding $42 million.
Rural Municipalities and
Indian Bands, may receive
a maximum of $150,000.
Did you know?
FARM BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
Investing in learning
and planning
T
here can be many tasks to juggle on a mixed-farm operation, but Mark and Laura
Hoimyr are improving their business skills by implementing lessons from Stephen
Covey’s book The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. This is just one of the
lessons they learned after attending the Ranching for Profit School.
The Hoimyrs, grain and cattle producers near Gladmar, took the course as part of
the Farm Business Development Initiative (FBDI), a federal/provincial cost-shared
program under Growing Forward. The program helps farmers develop business plans
and improve their business skills in nine different areas including: business
strategies; marketing strategies; production economics; human resources; financial
management; environmental strategies; succession planning; business
structure; and risk assessment.
“It was really, really good,” said Mark of his experience with FBDI.
The Hoimyrs entered the program to increase their business
education and improve the overall operation of their farm. “It’s
always good to get a little help managing one’s time,” said Mark.
“We’ve just been going into the process of incorporation,” he
added. Farm incorporation is a part of succession planning
and an area the Hoimyrs were working on through FBDI.
“It’s a tool to transfer equity from my father to myself as
tax-effectively as possible,” said Mark as to the financial
benefit of incorporation. In the future should the Hoimyrs
sell their farm, or pass it on to their children, incorporation
will allow the farm to change hands
more easily.
Taking Stock
Before training or consulting can take place, participating farmers
must go through a process called Taking Stock. This free-of-charge
service is delivered by Saskatchewan Agriculture and is intended to
measure how effective current practices are, and identify areas in
need of improvement.
“To get started, it’s a pretty healthy multiple-choice quiz,” Mark
said of the Taking Stock process. Meetings with a Regional Farm
Business Management Specialist from Saskatchewan Agriculture
served to further explore and identify areas where FBDI would
most benefit the Hoimyrs. This led them to attend the Ranching
for Profit school and use consulting services to help develop their
business plan.
The FBDI program offers up to $4,000 to qualified applicants to
access educational resources or hire private sector consultants. A
minimum of 25 per cent of total costs must be paid by the
producer.
For more information, please contact the Regional Farm Business
Management Specialist at a local Ministry Regional Office or call
the Agriculture Knowledge Centre toll-free at 1-866-457-2377.
Taking Stock seminars Winter 2010-2011
by Mike Pylypchuk, BSA, PAg
Provincial Business Management Specialist
Regional Services Branch
THE NINE PROGRESSIVE
FARM BUSINESS
MANAGEMENT
PRACTICES:
Business strategy (Strategic Planning)
The Ministry will hold Taking Stock workshops throughout the province this winter. The half-day workshops will help producers
to self-identify the progressive farm business management practices presently being used in their businesses and to assess those
practices that are not presently part of their business management approach.
Marketing
The seminar is free of charge. It is part of the Farm Business Development Initiative under the Growing Forward program which
is sponsored by the federal and provincial governments. Producers may qualify to receive cost-shared funding of up to $4,000 to
help pay the costs of training and consulting services.
Financial management
Production economics
Human resources
Succession planning
Business structure
Producers who would like to attend or organize a Taking Stock workshop, or who would like to sign up for the Stay Connected
newsletter, are asked to contact Regional Farm Business Management Specialists at the Ministry’s nearest local regional office.
Environmental strategy
Risk Assessment
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Phone Mike Pylypchuk at (306) 787-5963.
11
TRACEABILTY
PRODUCTION
Growing
Growing Forward
Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
Keeping track of the herd
O
n Oct. 27, 2009, a $6.8-million Saskatchewan Voluntary
Livestock Traceability Rebate program was announced by
Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud.
Funding under the program can be streamed in four different
directions. It can help auction marts, producers, backgrounders,
veterinary clinics, processors, assembly yards, auction marts,
private community pastures, fairs and exhibitors introduce Radio
Frequency Identification (RFID) to track their animals. It has also
been used to pay for industry initiative projects; help fund the
Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) in Saskatchewan;
and fund pilot projects to test and demonstrate this tracing
technology.
He explained the RFID system has reduced the amount of data
entry required when putting cattle through the feedlot, and it has
reduced their margin of error when tracing animals.
“It has made us way more
efficient, I’m quite happy with it.”
- General Manager Rick Maddess.
The Rolling Hills feedlot near Rockglen was one of the first to
demonstrate the benefits that come with improved traceability.
The field day demonstrated how the technology works in a real
feedlot setting.
“It has made us way more
efficient,” General Manager Rick
Maddess said. “I’m quite happy
with it.”
Rebate funding is available for RFID readers, software, training,
ultra-rugged computers and facility modifications needed to
undertake traceability activities. Under the rebate program,
government covers 70 per cent
of costs to a maximum rebate of
$50,000. Auction marts are
Under the rebate program:
eligible for a maximum
• Government covers 70 per cent of costs to a
$100,000 rebate.
Did you know?
maximum rebate of $50,000.
Maddess added that roughly
Individuals and organizations
• Auction marts are eligible for a maximum $10,000 was spent on the project.
must ensure the reader they
The money went to purchase
purchase is compatible with the
$100,000 rebate.
tracing software and hardware,
ear tags issued by the CCIA.
including one handheld RFID
reader. Maddess said he might consider investing in a panel reader For more information on the Saskatchewan Voluntary Livestock
for Rolling Hills because they are generally less labour-intensive
Traceability Program, call 1-877-874-5365.
than the handheld option.
12
BIOSECURITY/FARM PLANNING
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
Reducing disease with
biosecurity
E
ffective biosecurity protocols will benefit Saskatchewan by
reducing the threat of disease in Saskatchewan livestock and
poultry.
These resources will focus on increasing awareness of the factors
contributing to the spread of disease and the measures that can be
taken to reduce the risk.
The Ministry of Agriculture is currently working with provincial
livestock stakeholders to develop biosecurity programs that meet the
needs of the industry and the public. Diseases can impact human
health, agricultural production, environmental health and market
access.
Last winter, the Ministry held several biosecurity educational sessions
in North Battleford, Prince Albert, Saskatoon, Yorkton, Swift Current
and Weyburn. The Ministry will continue to work with veterinarians
and other infectious disease experts to implement practical
programming for Saskatchewan ranchers and farmers.
Through the introduction of barriers separating disease-causing
agents like bacteria and viruses from susceptible species, biosecurity
measures protect agriculture in Saskatchewan. With new biosecurity
programs, producers will learn best management practices, and gain
the skills to assess and control risks of disease to their flocks and
herds.
For more information, contact Saskatchewan Agriculture’s Animal
Health Program Officer Kathryn Ross at (306) 787-5142.
Biosecurity resources will be provided for producers to accurately
assess the risk of disease introduction on their farms. The Ministry
will work actively with producers and their veterinarians to support
initiatives that will lessen the risk of catastrophic disease
introduction.
Funding for the environment
W
hile Saskatchewan farmers are excellent stewards of the land,
a little ingenuity can go a long way to make farming more
environmentally friendly.
This program had a significant impact on the way Shawn and
Heather Sten raise their cattle, north of Canwood. “I did a bunch of
fencing and cross-fencing for bale grazing,” said Shawn.
Windbreaks, a dugout and paddocks were also constructed.
The federal and provincial governments provide funding to
producers to reduce the
The paddocks have allowed for
environmental impact of farming
improved grazing of the land, and a
through the Environmental Farm
natural method to spread manure.
Did you know?
Planning (EFP), Group Planning and
The Stens also introduced a system
To date:
Farm Stewardship Program (FSP), and
of watering holes separate from the
• Approximately 11,000 producers in Saskatchewan
the adoption of Beneficial
dugout to water their cattle, which
have completed an EFP. Nearly 6,000 projects have
Management Practices (BMP).
keeps the dugout water
been approved to implement a BMP.
contaminant-free. The funding
Funding is available for initiatives like
covered half of the Stens’ total costs
the relocation of livestock facilities
for the upgrades. A maximum of
away from stream banks and lake shores and the improvement of
$50,000 in funding is available for producers with eligible projects.
water systems, and watering site management to protect high-risk,
marginal soils.
To date, approximately 11,000 producers in Saskatchewan have
completed an EFP. Nearly 6,000 projects have been approved to
The first step in the funding process is to complete an EFP, which
implement a BMP that will ease the environmental impact on their
identifies the most-pressing environmental risks on a farm, and to
operations and communities.
create a plan to control these risks.
Funding for Group Planning projects is also available. Under such
From there, the Provincial Council of Agriculture and
an arrangement, a group of area producers can receive funding for
Diversification Boards for Saskatchewan (PCAB) must approve the
an environmental project to benefit, not only their farm operation,
plan. PCAB is an independent third-party group that has been
but also the entire area.
contracted to administer the funding program. Once approval is
received, the producer may access funds to implement a BMP.
For more information visit the PCAB website
at www.saskpcab.com.
13
FOOD SAFETY
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
Maintaining a safe food
supply
W
hen consumers grab their knives and forks for dinner, they
can take comfort in knowing that crop and livestock
producers are helping to keep their food safe. On-Farm Food
Safety (OFFS) Programs set out the standards of safety and
cleanliness for producers to follow on their farm.
Starting in 2010, the federal and provincial governments teamed
together to provide funding to help provincial commodity groups
with promoting and implementing OFFS systems in
Saskatchewan. Sectors that have developed, or are in the process
of developing, a nationally recognized OFFS system are eligible to
receive funding.
Each commodity group is responsible for delivery of their OFFS
program, including any educational and promotional activities,
and/or producer directed funding. Commodity groups
participating in the 2010-2011 program include the Verified Beef
Production Working Group, Saskatchewan Sheep Development
Board, Dairy Farmers of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Vegetable
Growers Association, Saskatchewan Greenhouse Growers
Association, Saskatchewan Fruit Growers Association and the
Saskatchewan Herb and Spice Association.
The program is meant to target small to medium-size processors
who are not nationally certified and cannot export their products
to the United States. Eligible applicants to the program may
receive up to 50 per cent of the total costs to a maximum of
$30,400.
Did you know?
Verified Beef Production program staff
have provided training at 40 workshops
to over 900 producers.
For more information, contact Gary Coghill at (306) 787-8537, or
Sandra Stanger at (306) 787-6425 with the Saskatchewan Ministry
of Agriculture.
The majority of funding in Saskatchewan is currently being used
on education programs and funding for producers to implement
specific on-farm food safety steps. Producers are not required to
be members of the associated commodity group to access OFFS
programming. Producers should contact the commodity group to
learn more about OFFS programs for their sector.
Shelly Popowich, poultry analyst with the Chicken Farmers of
Saskatchewan, said her group received funding in 2009-2010 that
assisted in implementation efforts at the farm level that meet the
standards set by their Safe, Safer, Safest OFFS system for chickens.
Beef producers have also been beneficiaries of the program. Since
April 2010, 276 producers have received funding for specific
on-farm food safety equipment. Funding is also available for first
certification audits. Verified Beef Production program staff have
provided training at 40 workshops to over 900 producers and
have undertaken other promotional efforts.
After products have left the farm, a separate program has been
developed to implement food safety standards in food processing.
The Saskatchewan Post-Farm Food Safety Program provides
funding to facilitate the adoption of Vendor Recognition (VR),
Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) or the
International Organization for Standardization 22000 (ISO
22000). This program can be accessed by non-federally registered
food processors in Saskatchewan for implementation efforts.
The Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre Inc. (Food
Centre) has been at the forefront to develop a VR program as a
small-scale alternative to HACCP.
VR allows smaller-scale processors to communicate with the Food
Centre and have industry-specific food safety benchmarks in place
at their operations without going to the expense of HACCP or ISO
22000. Processors that implement these benchmarks receive
certification from the Food Centre that their operation is safe –
a crucial factor in dealing with retailers and the food service
industry.
14
Swabbing is one step in a HACCP food safety system.
AGRI-VALUE
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
Are you business SAVI?
T
he Ministry of Agriculture can provide assistance to develop a new value-added product, get a product to the customer,
improve operations, and improve employees’ business skills. The Saskatchewan Agri-Value Initiative, known better as SAVI,
provides business development assistance as well as up to $50,000 towards agriculture value-added projects.
SAVI provides funding for four component areas. Each component requires the applicant to provide 50 per cent of the total cost
of the project.
Assistance is available in the following areas:
Product/Prototype Development
The Product and Prototype component of SAVI supports activities necessary to move a
product idea from the concept stage all the way through to having a product ready to test
on the market. Successful applicants under this component have accessed funding to
develop new products, assess shelf-life stability and unique nutritional properties of
products, as well as determine new processes required to modify existing products to meet
customer expectations. Several of the applicants under the Product and Prototype
Development have used the unique services the Food Centre and POS Pilot Plant have
to offer.
Marketing Opportunities
Marketing Opportunities are designed to support incremental marketing of new products
or existing products entering a new market. For example, a product in the idea stage can
use funding to research the potential customer base and market size of the product. The
program also supports activities used to determine product pricing, distribution, and
placement, as well as options for packaging and labelling. Successful applicants in the
Marketing Opportunities component have leveraged the funding program to develop
promotional materials, attend trade shows to showcase their products to new customers,
and develop a branding strategy.
Systems Improvements
This component provides funding for businesses to hire a professional to assess the
adoption of innovation, new or improved technologies and systems that can increase
profitability and growth. As an example, if “going green” is a priority and a business
has considered a number of efficiency options, this component supports further
research and assessment into what the best option and implementation process is for
the business.
Training
SAVI provides up to $5,000 funding to help companies improve their employees’ business
skills. This includes both management and technical training that is beneficial to the
business. SAVI will cover the cost of tuition and books for training courses. To date, the most
popular training among agri-businesses has been for courses to learn new processing
techniques and develop improved food safety practices.
For information on SAVI, contact a Saskatchewan Agriculture Regional Farm Business Management Specialist. They will be able to
provide more information regarding the SAVI program as well as provide application support and path finding services. SAVI
applications are accepted year-round.
15
PRACTICES AND TECHNOLOGY
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Simple, More Effective, Tailored
to Your Needs
New Technology: Up for
ADOPTion
T
he Agricultural Demonstration of Practices and Technologies
(ADOPT) program gives producers an opportunity to see
practical demonstrations of new technology at the local level.
ADOPT gives funding to Saskatchewan-based producer groups to
help evaluate and demonstrate new agricultural practices and
technologies at the local level. Then the results of successful
trials can be embraced by farming operations in the region.
With eight projects approved for funding, the Saskatchewan
Forage Council (SFC) is one of the most prolific users of the
ADOPT program. Janice Bruynooghe, SFC executive director, said
their projects include demonstrations on the establishment of
alfalfa in existing grass stands, the effect of bale-grazing on
pasture and hay yields, and the use of stockpile perennial forages.
When putting a project in motion, Bruynooghe said ideas are
developed with regional forage specialists from the Saskatchewan
Ministry of Agriculture and local producers. Innovative producers
serve as hosts for demonstrations and field days. “The key is
finding these great producers to work with,” she said.
The SFC attempts to locate their projects throughout the
province so the greatest number of producers can be served.
Communications materials are also distributed by the SFC to
provide further information for those who cannot attend a
field day.
“They’re all supposed to be demonstration projects,” said Jeff
Braidek, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture program manager.
The program is not intended to research and develop technology,
but instead to demonstrate proven practices and technologies to
producers.
Since ADOPT started in July 2009, $761,312 in funding has been
approved for 108 different projects. There are two deadlines each
year, with the first on June 15 and the second on Dec. 15.
Funding is provided on a competitive basis, and is allocated
based on a project’s local relevance, producer involvement,
potential impact and probability of adoption, the project
promotion plan, and the ability of the applicant to complete
the project.
Each producer group may receive a maximum of $10,000 per
project, to a grand total of $50,000 per year.
For more information or to apply, contact Saskatchewan
Agriculture by e-mail at [email protected].
There are two ADOPT application deadlines
each year, with the first on June 15 and the
second on Dec. 15.
Producers discuss options for stockpiling perennial forage during an ADOPT project field
day held near Ituna for the Saskatchewan Forage Council. For more information on
Growing Forward Programs, visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
16
LIVESTOCK
New regulations let dairy producers
control their own industry
by James Kettel
Manager, Trade and Industry
Policy Branch
O
n October 1, 2010, the Ministry of Agriculture completed its
review of Saskatchewan’s dairy industry legislation and regulations
with the repeal of The Milk Control Act, 1992, and the establishment of
the Saskatchewan Milk Marketing Board (SMMB) as Saskatchewan’s
supply management milk marketing agency.
Consultations began in March 2009, and included face-to-face
meetings, mail-outs, an Agriview article and public comment via the
Ministry website. In early September 2009, the Dairy Farmers of
Saskatchewan received a mandate to develop a proposal for the
establishment of a producer marketing board under The Agri-Food Act,
2004.
During the week of October. 26, 2009, dairy producers voted
overwhelmingly in favour of establishing a marketing plan under The
Agri-Food Act. In order to facilitate the transition, the implementation
of the new agency’s regulations was staged.
In the first stage, preliminary regulations were adopted on April 21,
2010, providing the new agency with the authority to undertake
administrative and logistical actions (hiring staff, renting office space,
entering into agreements with federal agencies, etc.). The full
regulations establishing the new agency with all the powers it required
to take over from the Milk Control Board were enacted on October 1,
2010.
At that time, The Milk Control Act, 1992 and four sets of regulations
under The Animal Products Act (The Dairy Producers Regulations, 1995;
The Dairy Manufacturing Plant Regulations; The Milk Transporter
Regulations; and The Dairy Product Grading Regulations) were repealed.
The Ministry will also bring forward one further set of dairy regulations
which will set compositional standards for consumer milk and milk
products within the province. For example, the regulations will require
that two per cent milk actually contains two per cent butterfat.
These changes are another example of this government’s efforts to have
producers control their own industries. It is expected that the SMMB
will work cooperatively with the processor and the Agri-Food Council
to further promote and develop Saskatchewan’s dairy industry.
For more information
• Contact Corey Ruud, general manager, Agri-Food Council, at
(306) 787-5978; or
• Visit the Ministry’s website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca under
About Agriculture | Programs and Services | Agri-Food Council |
Marketing Boards | Saskatchewan Milk Marketing Board.
Improving Animal Welfare in Saskatchewan
by Dr. LeeAnn Forsythe
Disease Surveillance Veterinarian
Livestock Branch
M
ore consumers are becoming concerned about the physical and
psychological well-being of domestic livestock. Consequently,
animal welfare complaints from the public continue to increase,
along with the expectation that all cases will be responded to in a
timely manner and resolved to eliminate animal neglect and abuse.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture believes the welfare of
animals is a priority. This is why the Ministry is proposing to amend
The Animal Protection Act by increasing fines and penalties to ensure
that the welfare of animals is taken seriously. The Ministry is also
working closely with the Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) investigative services to ensure that
complaints of animal neglect and/or abuse are investigated and
resolved.
The SSPCA strives to respond to all complaints from the public in a
timely and professional manner. It is dedicated to ensuring the
humane treatment of animals and taking action to resolve animal
welfare cases. The SSPCA enforces The Animal Protection Act, decides
on the appropriate action in each case and determines if charges will
be laid. The Ministry’s proposed increase in The Animal Protection Act
penalties and fines will raise the profile of animal welfare and the
seriousness of not providing adequate care to animals.
The SSPCA is working hard to continually improve animal welfare in
Saskatchewan. With ongoing assistance from the Ministry, the
livestock industry, veterinarians, RCMP, Farm Animal Council of
Saskatchewan and the public, the SSPCA is continuing to look out
for the well-being of animals in our province.
For more information
• Contact the Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of Cruelty
to Animals at (306) 382-7722; or
• Visit www.sspca.ca.
Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference Opportunities 2011
January 19 to 22, 2011, Saskatoon Inn and Convention Centre, Saskatoon, SK.
T
he Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference is an event that brings
together Saskatchewan beef cattle producers, industry
representatives, researchers, agriculture specialists and members of
livestock associations and organizations in a collective forum.
The event leads off with the Saskatchewan Beef and Forage
Symposium providing updates on new research and technology in
beef and forage production.
The balance of the conference includes annual general meetings,
directors’ meetings and workshops for various Saskatchewan livestock
associations and agencies.
Contact the Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference organizers at
(306) 384-6044 or www.saskbeefconference.com for additional
information, registration details, tradeshow and sponsorship
opportunities.
17
LIVESTOCK
Selecting beef cattle for carcass
quality with ultrasound
by John McKinnon, Ph.D.
Saskatchewan Beef Industry Chair
University of Saskatchewan
Ultrasound ribeye area is a measure of carcass muscling. The larger the
ribeye area, the greater the lean meat yield.
The use of ultrasound allows producers to measure lean meat yield
and estimate marbling score in live animals. These are the same
carcass traits measured by the grader at slaughter. These
measurements, when taken by an experienced technician, are
repeatable, accurate and most importantly, moderately heritable.
When used within a balanced breeding program, ultrasound can be
used to target genetic improvement in your herd for carcass traits of
economic importance.
T
oday’s beef industry is focused on producing a carcass that meets
both domestic and international quality standards for safety,
wholesomeness and eating quality.
Two of the most important carcass traits influencing the Canadian
and American beef grading systems are lean meat yield and marbling
score. Lean meat yield refers to the amount of edible meat in the
carcass. This is measured in three categories: Canada 1, which is 59
per cent lean or greater; Canada 2, which is 54 to 58 per cent lean; or
Canada 3 which is less than 54 per cent lean meat. Marbling score,
rated as A, AA, AAA or Prime, is the amount of fat within the muscle
and is related to eating quality, particularly juiciness and flavour.
For more information
• Contact your local Regional Livestock Specialist.
In the past selecting cattle for carcass quality was difficult, but it has
become routine for purebred breeders to use ultrasound to measure
live animal carcass traits. These live measurements are taken at the
same location on the animal’s body (between 12th and 13th ribs), as
where the grader measures the carcass. Measurements include
ultrasound backfat thickness, ribeye area, lean meat yield and
marbling score.
Ultrasound backfat is a measure of the amount of fat covering the
carcass and is inversely related to lean meat yield. A yearling bull with
excessive backfat, relative to pen-mates, while likely an easy keeper,
might not be desirable for a program aimed at selecting for lean yield.
Ultrasound has made carcass quality testing quick and easy.
To pre-register for the Breeding for
Profit bull selection workshops,
the Agriculture Knowledge
B R E E DI NG FOR call
PROFIT
Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
Workshops
B R E E DIBull
NGSelection
FOR PROFIT
Registration is $40.
Bull Selection Workshops
YORKTON – February 4, 2011
SPIRITWOOD – February 11, 2011
SPIRITWOOD – February 11, 2011
Heartland Spiritwood
Livestock
Spiritwood Stockyards
Stockyards
YORKTON – February 4, 2011
Heartland Livestock
AGENDA
AGENDA
12:00 – 12:30
Registration, trade show booths
12:30 – 12:35
Welcome
12:35 – 1:00
There’s Jingle in Genes – Understanding what Igenity can do for you
Lee Sinclair, Merial
1:00 – 2:00
12:00 – 12:30
Registration, trade show booths
12:30 – 12:35
Welcome
12:35 – 1:00
There’s Jingle in Genes – Understanding what Igenity can do for you
Lee Sinclair, Merial
EPDs and Other Genetic Mysteries
Sean McGrath, PAg, Creo Episteme Ltd.
2:00 – 3:00
Serving Your Sire - Bull Nutrition
Dr. John McKinnon, Professor and Beef Industry Research Chair, College of Agriculture and
Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.
3:00 – 3:15
Break, Trade Show Booths
1:00 – 2:00
EPDs and Other Genetic Mysteries
Sean McGrath, PAg, Creo Episteme Ltd.
Concurrent Sessions (participants divided into 3 groups of 20)
Serving Your Sire - Bull Nutrition
Dr. John McKinnon, Professor and Beef Industry Research Chair, College of Agriculture and
Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.
3:15 – 4:00
What’s Hiding Under the Hide - Live Animal Ultrasound Demo
Teresa Binetruy, Beef Unit Manager, University of Saskatchewan and
Dr. John McKinnon, Professor and Beef Industry Research Chair, College of Agriculture and
Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.
4:00– 4:45
The ABCs of What’s Between His Knees - Breeding Soundness Evaluation
Dr. Chad Paetsch – Animal Health Clinic, Humboldt
Dr. Larry Potter – Spiritwood Vet Clinic
4:45 – 5:30
Ribs, Nuts and Butts - Physical Characteristics of a Good Bull
Garner Deobald, Hodgeville SK, 2009 Canadian Western Agribition Bull Pen Alley Judge
5:30 – 5:35
Thank you and Sponsor Recognition
5:35 – 7:30
Steak Supper and Trade Show
2:00 – 3:00
3:00 – 3:15
Break, Trade Show Booths
Concurrent Sessions (participants divided into 3 groups of 20)
3:15 – 4:00
What’s Hiding Under the Hide - Live Animal Ultrasound Demo
Teresa Binetruy, Beef Unit Manager, University of Saskatchewan and
Dr. John McKinnon, Professor and Beef Industry Research Chair, College of Agriculture and
Knowledge
Centre
Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan.
Call the Agriculture
to Pre-Register
The ABCs of What’s Between His Knees - Breeding Soundness Evaluation
4:00– 4:45
Dr. Chad Paetsch – Animal Health Clinic, Humboldt
1-866-457-2377, Registration
is $40
Dr. Larry Potter – Spiritwood Vet Clinic
AGRICULTURE
L I V4:45
E S –T O5:30
CK
18
Ribs, Nuts and Butts - Physical Characteristics of a Good Bull
Garner Deobald, Hodgeville SK, 2009 Canadian Western Agribition Bull Pen Alley Judge
5:30 – 5:35
Thank you and Sponsor Recognition
5:35 – 7:30
Steak Supper and Trade Show
Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre
to Pre-Register
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
LIVESTOCK
Interested in improving your herd?
by Colby Elford, BSc, AAg
Intern Agrologist, Moose Jaw
Regional Services Branch
and
by Jenifer Heyden M.Sc.
Regional Livestock Specialist, North Battleford
Regional Services Branch
T
he best way to improve a
herd’s genetics is through sire
selection. Reproductive efficiency,
calving ease, weaning weight and
feed efficiency are a few of the
economically important traits
producers want from their bull.
Sire selection has a long-term
impact on calving ease, maternal
ability, growth and carcass merit.
There are a number of tools we
can use in sire selection, one of
which is the Expected Progeny
Difference (EPD) value.
stock and can be very useful in comparing two animals within the
same breed. The more calves a bull has sired, the more data that is
available on that bull and the more accurate his EPDs become. A
producer can use EPDs to select a sire that will increase, decrease or
maintain a certain genetic trait in their herd. These types of decisions
should always be based on specific herd improvement goals, not
simply on an EPD value alone.
Expected Progeny Differences can be an incredibly useful tool for herd
improvement but it does have limitations. EPDs cannot be used to
compare animals from different breeds nor can they predict specific
outcomes. Just because a sire has a
weaning weight EPD of + 45, it does
not mean that an additional 45
pounds will be added to the weaning
weight of all calves from this sire.
What this EPD actually means is that
the calves from this bull, compared
to a bull within the same breed that
has a weaning weight EPD of + 40,
are expected to be an average of five
pounds heavier 205 days after birth.
Bull selection criteria should be based
on defined herd improvement goals.
These goals will determine the EPDs
that are of greatest genetic
Expected Progeny Difference is a
importance to your herd. EPDs
EPDs can be a useful tool for herd improvement.
measure of the expected
should be used in addition to other
performance of an animal’s
selection criteria, such as reproductive and structural soundness.
progeny. This value is calculated by the breeder using a standard
formula and is available for a variety of traits, including both growth
For more information
and carcass traits. EPDs are an effective tool for evaluating breeding
• Contact your local Regional Livestock Specialist.
Genetic Tools for Cattle Producers: Multi-Sire Parentage Testing
by Chelsey Carruthers, M.Sc., AAg
Regional Livestock Specialist, Watrous
Regional Services Branch
and
by Jenifer Heyden M.Sc.
Regional Livestock Specialist, North Battleford
Regional Services Branch
calves, but still have costs associated with them. Are they worth
keeping if they’re not performing adequately?
Producers can also determine which sires are producing calves with
desirable traits, allowing them to choose which bulls to cull and which
to continue using. Generating on-farm or within-herd Expected
Progeny Difference values for bulls in a multi-sire breeding situation is
a promising tool for the future to add value to your bottom line.
For more information
• Contact your local Regional Livestock Specialist.
A
re you a commercial cattleman using multiple sires for breeding
your cow herd? Do you know which one of those bulls performs
the best? Is there a simple way to determine the number of calves sired
by each bull? Huge improvements in genetic selection tools have been
made over the past decade, with more and more companies offering a
variety of testing options and tools. One of these genetic tools is multisire parentage testing.
Multi-sire parentage testing is for cow-calf producers using multiple
bulls in one breeding group. The mother’s DNA is not required for
testing. DNA samples from the calves and bulls can be submitted in a
variety of forms, depending on the company doing the testing. These
include ear-punch, tail-hair and blood samples.
Testing is done to determine the percentage of calves sired by each
bull. This helps to distinguish the service capacity of each bull,
including those “free-loader bulls” – bulls that are not siring many
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
Hair in Igenity® cards.
19
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PRODUCTION
Provincial Land Available for Lease
The Ministry of Agriculture invites applications to lease the agricultural Crown lands listed herein.
REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
An applicant must meet the requirements of the Agricultural Crown Land
Lease Policy which include, but are not limited to:
- be at least 18 years of age;
- actively manage and operate a farm or ranch unit;
- be a Canadian Citizen or landed immigrant;
- have a resource base that is not greater than 200 per cent of the
municipal average;
- have legal access to the land or written agreements for crossing adjoining
lands;
- have existing accounts with the Ministry of Agriculture in an acceptable
status.
1. Completed application forms must be received by the appropriate Land
Agrologist at the addresses provided in the following pages by 5 p.m.,
Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2010.
2. Application forms are available from the Regional Offices of the Ministry
of Agriculture.
3. Late application forms will be rejected; incomplete applications may be
rejected.
4. Improvements such as summerfallow, fencing, and dugouts, must be
purchased by the successful applicant.
5. Lands offered for lease may have development restrictions.
6. Additional information can be obtained from the Regional Offices of
the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Municipality offices or online at
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
7. The Ministry of Agriculture is not responsible for errors or omissions in
the advertisement and reserves the right to withdraw lands from the
lease allocation process at any time.
Land is allocated only to qualified applicants.
Contact information for the Land Agrologists
CONTACT
Nadia Mori
Brent McInnis
Patty Robertshaw
Karen Smith
Lyndon Hicks
Tim Feist
David Shortt
Tracey Charabin
PHONE
(306) 878-8812
(306) 778-8295
(306) 778-8293
(306) 878-8881
(306) 878-8820
(306) 862-1789
(306) 446-7463
(306) 446-7685
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
NADIA MORI
BOX 1480, 1105 99TH ST
TISDALE SK S0E 1T0
(306) 878-8812
RM
Land Desc
190
Acres
Codes
AUM
Est Rent
[NE-11-19-24-2 422
SE-11-19-24-2
SW-11-19-24-2]
G, A
131
$515
221
NW-28-24-25-2 108
G
38
$150
276
NW-29-31-10-2 56
C, A
N/A
$600
280
NE-27-28-22-2
G, A
9
$40
40
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
KAREN SMITH
BOX 1480, 1105 99TH ST
TISDALE SK S0E 1T0
(306) 878-8881
RM
274
335
335
Land Desc
Acres
NW-21-30-06-2 160
SW-10-35-08-2 161
[NE-20-37-07-2 480
SE-29-37-07-2
SW-29-37-07-2]
Codes
C,H
G, A
G
AUM
19
79
204
Est Rent
$900
$300
$800
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
LYNDON HICKS
BOX 1480, 1105 99TH ST
TISDALE SK S0E 1T0
(306) 878-8820
20
RM
Land Desc
Acres
331
333
NE-13-34-33-1 38
NE-35-36-02-2 160
Codes
H
G
AUM
18
10
Est Rent
E-MAIL ADDRESS
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
PATTY ROBERTSHAW
BOX 5000, 350 CHEADLE ST W
SWIFT CURRENT SK S9H 4G3
(306) 778-8293
RM
168
Land Desc
Acres
Codes
AUM
Est Rent
[NE-19-21-18-3 43
H,I,PL 61
$230
NW-19-21-18-3]
Miry Creek Irrigation Project - Plot 7 Plot limit
may be waived if no acceptable applicants
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
BRENT MCINNIS
BOX 5000, 350 CHEADLE ST W
SWIFT CURRENT SK S9H 4G3
(306) 778-8295
RM
Land Desc
Acres
Codes
AUM
Est Rent
163
NE-35-18-01-3 60
F,G,W N/A
LSDs 15 & 16
$150
224
NE-16-23-04-3 40
H, I
N/A
$200
Grainland Irrigation Project - Plot 9.
Plot limit may be waived if no acceptable applicants.
224
NE-16-23-04-3 40
H,I
N/A
$200
Grainland Irrigation Project - Plot 11. Plot limit
may be waived if no acceptable applicants.
Improvements $500.
224
SW-17-23-04-3 40
H,I
N/A
$200
Grainland Irrigation Project - Plot 29. Plot limit
may be waived if no acceptable applicants.
224
NW-16-23-04-3 40
HI
N/A
$200
Grainland Irrigation Project - Plot 7.
Plot limit may be waived if no acceptable applicants.
$100
$300
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PRODUCTION
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
TIM FEIST
BOX 1480, 1105 99TH ST
TISDALE SK S0E 1T0
(306) 862-1789
RM
Land Desc
400
Acres
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
TRACEY CHARABIN
1192 - 102ND STREET
NORTH BATTLEFORD SK S9A 1E9
(306) 446-7685
Codes
AUM
NE-14-42-23-2 131
C
50
$1,100
430
NE-21-43-22-2 80
G
76
$300
430
SW-19-45A-22-2 30
H
45
$200
430
SW-8-44-23-2 160
G
90
$400
430
SE-11-44-24-2 111
C
11
$700
430
SW-11-44-24-2 80
C
N/A
$900
456
SE-20-46-11-2 160
C, A
16
$1,100
456
NW-28-46-11-2 160
C, A
16
$600
459
SE-8-49-21-2
40
C, PL
N/A
$600
459
SE-9-49-21-2
80
H, PL
100
$400
459
SW-9-49-21-2
80
H, PL
45
$250
459
NE-17-49-21-2 40
H, PL
60
$240
459
NE-18-49-21-2 80
H, PL
115
$500
459
SE-18-49-21-2 80
H, PL
100
$500
486
SW-4-51-09-2
G
25
$100
486
SW-11-51-09-2 118
C
10
$1,300
486
NW-19-52-11-2 160
H
60
$250
486
NW-19-53-11-2 160
C
15
$900
486
NW-21-51-12-2 55
H, A
6
$60
486
[NE-23-52-10-2 129
SW-23-52-10-2]
G
49
$250
486
SW-26-53-10-2 160
C
N/A
$2,600
* [ Denotes land is to be leased as a unit.]
486
[NE-28-53-11-2 271
NW-28-53-11-2
SW-28-53-11-2]
C
21
$3,000
AUM - Animal Unit Month.
Describes the desired carrying capacity of the grazing land.
491
NE-29-51-25-2 40
H, PL
60
$300
491
NE-31-51-25-2 40
H, PL
50
Cheal Lake Project - Plot 21
$200
491
NE-31-51-25-2 39
H, PL
93
Cheal Lake Project - Plot 22
$700
491
NE-31-51-25-2 40
H, PL
70
Cheal Lake Project - Plot 19
$250
491
NE-31-51-25-2 40
H, PL
71
Cheal Lake Project - Plot 20
$300.00
72
Est Rent
RM
Land Desc
Acres
Codes
AUM
Est Rent
346
SE-27-35-11-3 120
C,H
LSDs 1 & 8; E ½ LSD 2 & 7.
N/A
$700
346
SW-27-35-11-3 100
C,H
2
W ½ LSDs 3&6; E ½ LSD 4 & LSD 5.
$800
For Information about the land in the following RMs, contact:
DAVID SHORTT
1192 - 102ND STREET
NORTH BATTLEFORD SK S9A 1E9
(306) 446-7463
RM
Land Desc
434
NW-18-43-07-3 101
G,F,W,H 16
42 acres old hay stand.
N½ LSD 11; LSD 13 & 14.
$300
435
[NE-24-43-08-3 120
G,F,W 76
SE-24-43-08-3]
N½ LSD 8; E½ LSD 10; LSD 9 & 16.
$800
Acres
Codes
AUM
Est Rent
CODES:
A - Access Limitations, B - Buildings,
C - Cultivation, CE - Conservation Easement,
FW - Farm Woodlot,
F - Fencing, G - Grazing, GS - Grain Storage, H - Hay,
I - Irrigation, LA - Living Accomodation,
LF - Livestock Facilities,
O - Other, OP - Outfitting Prohibited, PL - Project Limitations,
P - Power, W - Water, Y - Yardsite.
PL - Project Limitations
“An applicant must have less than the pre-determined
maximum area or number of plots allowed per individual in
special project areas. Where an applicant surrenders a plot, or
area, shall be allocated to the next highest scorer, until all
of the plots are allocated.”
Lease Rental Reminder
T
o avoid interest being added to your rental, payment needs to be received by the date provided on your
statement. All lease rentals up to 2010 should be paid prior to December 31, 2010.
Please contact Mary Jane Marcia at (306) 787-8678 or Kathy Jones at (306) 787-5195 of Saskatchewan
Agriculture’s Lands Branch with any questions or concerns regarding your lease rental.
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
21
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PRODUCTION
Support for livestock producers affected
by flooding
L
ivestock and forage producers will now have financial help
dealing with excess moisture due to a new program announced
by Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud at the Saskatchewan
Association of Rural Municipalities mid-term convention in
Saskatoon.
Applications must be submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture’s
Financial Programs branch by Sept. 30, 2011. Application forms are
available on the Ministry of Agriculture’s website and at Ministry of
Agriculture Regional Offices, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Offices
and local RM offices.
The Saskatchewan Feed and Forage Program will help producers who
are short of feed for their livestock or need to reseed hay/forage or
pasture land due to excess moisture.
For more information
• Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca; or
• Call toll-free 1-877-874-5365.
The purpose of the program is to provide transportation funding
assistance to Saskatchewan producers who are short of pasture and/or
feed due to excess moisture; and financial assistance to Saskatchewan
producers who reseed hay, forage and pasture land that has been
damaged due to excess moisture.
To be eligible for the transportation component, producers must
have owned, leased, custom fed or custom grazed the eligible animals
during the period June 1, 2010 to Aug. 1, 2011 and must be the
individual or entity responsible for the expenses related to the
transportation of the eligible feed or animals.
To be eligible for the reseeding component, producers must have
owned or leased the eligible hay, forage and pasture land during the
period June 1, 2010 to Aug. 1, 2011.
Visions of canola crops dancing in your head?
Apply for the 2010-11 Saskatchewan Agriculture Student Scholarship
S
askatchewan Agriculture is proud to provide students an opportunity to
If you love agriculture as much as we do, pick up a pen or grab a video
further their studies and careers in the agriculture industry.
camera and get into the action.
The Saskatchewan Agriculture
Student Scholarship will award
10 scholarships worth $1,000
each to Grade 12 students that
are starting agriculture-related
post-secondary studies in 2011.
All you have to do is write a
500-word essay or submit a
three-minute video.
For full details
• Visit
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/
2010-11_Scholarship; or
• Send an e-mail to
[email protected];
or
• Visit one of our 10 Regional Offices
around the province.
SGI to host Farm Licence plate review MEETINGS
O
ver the next several weeks, Saskatchewan Government Insurance will be hosting public
meetings, asking for input on the farm-class licence plate program. December meetings
will be held in Maidstone, Melfort, Milestone and Swift Current. If you cannot make a
meeting, you may fill out an online survey, or you can call toll-free 1-888-751-1816.
For more information or to complete the survey, visit SGI’s website at www.sgi.sk.ca.
22
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PRODUCTION
One deadline - two AgriStability
requirements
A
s we near year-end, the focus for many of us is to try and wrap
up those outstanding items, creating a fresh start in the New
Year. The AgriStability program follows a similar process as Dec. 31 is
an important deadline for producers who want to wrap up their
requirements for one program year and ensure they are eligible for
the next program year.
To be eligible for benefits from the 2009 AgriStability program,
participants need to have all program forms submitted by Dec. 31,
2010. For sole proprietorships, that means the AgriStability
Harmonized Form for Individuals must be completed and submitted
to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) in Winnipeg. For corporations
and co-operatives the Corporations/Co-operatives/Other Entities
form needs to be completed and submitted to the Saskatchewan
Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC). Please keep in mind, the
original deadline to submit these forms has passed (Sept. 30) and a
penalty of $500 per month will be applied to any benefits received
for the late filing of these forms.
While some are focusing on wrapping up the requirements for the
2009 AgriStability program, others will be ensuring they can
participate in the 2010 program. Dec. 31 is the last date to submit
your program fees as part of the eligibility requirements for the 2010
program year. The original deadline to submit these fees has passed
(April 30 or 30 days from the date on the producer’s Enrolment Fee/
Notice), meaning a 20 per cent penalty will be added. Producers can
see the amount they need to submit by reviewing their Enrolment
Fee/Notice.
Support is available to help producers meet this important deadline.
AgriStability Advisors are located throughout the province and can
be reached through any of the 21 SCIC customer service offices. If a
producer needs to access a form or requires a guide for completing
the form, they can be found online at www.saskcropinsurance.com.
For more information
• Contact an SCIC customer service office;
• Call the AgriStability call centre at 1-866-270-8450; or
• Visit www.saskcropinsurance.com.
Protecting stored forage over winter
W
hen food is scarce over winter months, wildlife will go in
search of alternative food sources. Producers’ stacked forage is a
likely target and usually susceptible to the likes of deer and elk.
When initial evidence of wildlife damage is apparent on stacked
forage, producers should contact the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance
Corporation (SCIC). Producers should be aware that damage may
increase with cold weather or heavy snow.
The Wildlife Damage Compensation Program claims for losses to
stacked forage are handled differently than a claim for crop losses in
the field. Compensation will be paid based on a reference to starting
inventory. This means damages occurring prior to the initial
inspection may not be paid. For this reason, it is important to contact
SCIC as soon as wildlife damage is noticed.
During the initial inspection, an adjuster will visit and determine the
beginning forage inventory. The estimated weight, amount and
location of the product will be documented along with the amount
used for feed purposes. By comparing the amount of product
damaged by wildlife and fed to livestock, an adjuster will be able to
provide a more accurate assessment of losses.
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011
An adjuster may make recommendations of preventative measures
following the initial inspection. Based on the recommendation, SCIC
may offer funding for fencing around feed yards or temporary fencing
to protect feed sources. If appropriate, SCIC may also recommend the
use of lure crops, intercept feeding or other preventative measures.
On subsequent visits, an adjuster will update the file to include the
current inventory, amount fed, amount of damages and the total loss.
A final inspection and total loss calculation is only completed when
all damages have stopped.
Again, producers should report initial damages immediately after they
occur. Please do not wait until late winter or spring to report damage;
compensation may not be provided as it may be too late to employ
prevention measures and there is no reference to compare inventory.
For more information on program details or to file a claim
• Contact your local customer service office; or
• Call 1-888-935-0000; or
• Visit www.saskcropinsurance.com.
23
EVENTS CALENDAR
DATE
EVENT
LOCATION
PHONE
INTERNET
Dec. 1
Farm Financial and Estate Planning
Workshop
Ponteix
306-778-8216
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Dec. 2
Farm Financial and Estate Planning
Workshop
Swift Current
306-778-8216
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Dec. 2
Prairie Oat Growers Association (POGA)
Annual Conference
Yorkton
306-774-2775
Dec. 7-8
SIPA/ICDC Annual Conference
Saskatoon
306-867-5523 www.irrigationsaskatchewan.com/ICDC/icdc_index..htm
Dec. 8 - 9
Farm Animal Council of Saskatchewan (FACS)
Annual General Meeting
Saskatoon
306-249-3227
www.facs.sk.ca
Dec. 8 - 9
Foraging Into the Future 6: "The Business
Side of Ranching"
Swift Current
306-778-8294
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Jan. 5 - 7
Western Canadian Wheat Growers
Association Annual Convention
Vancouver
306-586-5866
www.wheatgrowers.ca
Jan. 8 - 15
Crop Production Week
Saskatoon
306-933-0138
www.cropweek.com
Jan. 10 - 13
Western Canadian Crop Production Show
Saskatoon
1-888-931-9333
www.cropweek.com
Jan. 20 - 23
Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference
Saskatoon
306-384-6044
www.saskbeefconference.com
Jan. 27 - 28
Saskatchewan Young Ag Entrepreneurs (SYA)
Conference
Saskatoon
306-874-2025
www.saskyoungag.ca
Jan. 31
Regional Pulse Workshop
Outlook
1-866-457-2377
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Feb. 1
Regional Pulse Workshop
Kindersley
1-866-457-2377
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Feb. 2
Regional Pulse Workshop
Swift Current
1-866-457-2377
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Feb. 3
Regional Pulse Workshop
Moose Jaw
1-866-457-2377
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Feb. 4
Regional Pulse Workshop
Weyburn
1-866-457-2377
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Options to Retain Heifers
and Build your Cow Herd
by Tom Glab
Acting Manager, Livestock Financing Programs
Financial Programs Branch
T
he Livestock Loan Guarantee Program provides Saskatchewan
producers with an option to retain heifers to expand their cow herd
while still maintaining cash flow.
The LLG Program provides options for producers to finance replacement
heifers over a six-year period. This allows producers to get an advance on
their 2010 calves while being able to retain their best heifers for long-term
herd building.
Details of a feeder advance through a feeder association are:
• Access of up to $100,000 for a first-year member.
• Competitive interest rate, with an option for a partial interest rebate
through the Advance Payment Program.
• Assurance deposit of five per cent.
• Feeder advance repayment within 12 months or retain bred heifers
through a breeder advance.
Once producers have selected heifers to retain and breed, the bred heifers
can be re-financed through a breeder advance taken out through the
association, with the following details:
• Access of up to $100,000 for a first year member.
• Breeder advance to be repaid in five equal payments of 20 per cent
of the original principal amount advanced plus interest.
• Competitive interest rates and an assurance fund deposit of
10 per cent.
Producers are able to finance the expansion of their cow herds while still
being able to access funding for operating expenses. Many producers
have utilized these options to “build from within” and retain their best
breeding females.
For more information
• Contact the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, Financial Programs
Branch at (306) 787-5275.
24
Agriculture Plastics
Collection: Grain Bags and
Bale Twine
by Daphne Cruise, PAg
Regional Crops Specialist, Moose Jaw
Regional Service Branch
T
here is another option when it comes to disposal of grain bags and
bale twine. The Moose Jaw River Watershed Stewards recently received
funding from the EcoAction Community Fund to run a pilot project to
collect and recycle grain bags and bale twine. This project builds off the pilot
project previously held in March 2010, where 25 Saskatchewan producers
delivered approximately 60,000
pounds of agriculture plastic for
recycling.
Consolidation depots are
currently set up in the RMs of
Caledonia and Moose Jaw.
Producers are asked to set up an
appointment to drop off their
grain bags and bale twine. The
Moose Jaw River Watershed
A grain bag roller can allow for efficient transport.
Stewards also has a grain bag
roller available to make transport of the plastic easier and more efficient.
Grain bags and bale twine will be accepted until March 2012.
The Moose Jaw River Watershed Stewards promote environmental beneficial
management practices to conserve and protect the water resources of
Moose Jaw.
For more information
• Call Tammy Myers at the Moose Jaw River Watershed Stewards,
(306) 691-3399.
DECEMBER 2010-JANUARY 2011