Saskatchewan Land Tender Sale page 10

12
MARCH 2010
VOLUME 5
Saskatchewan
Land Tender Sale page 10
wheat midge forecast
page 4
water pumping program
agristability update
PAGE 8
PAGE 15
Minister’s Message
S
askatchewan is a leader in agriculture, and research is vital to ensuring our continued success.
This January, I announced 44 research projects that will receive funding from the provincial
government’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF). This includes $3.2 million for crop-related
projects and $2.5 million for livestock and forage-related projects. This research funding will help
move our industry forward and benefit producers at the farm gate in the future.
Crop-related research projects receiving funding this year include studies into the control of clubroot
disease in canola, improving camelina seed quality and disease resistance, developing new flax
varieties better adapted to northern climates, enhancing the nutritional value of pulses, and market
development for new and existing varieties of six-row malting barley.
Livestock and forage projects receiving funding this year include developing new livestock feeds from the by-products of
processed grains, pulses and oilseeds, benchmarking cost of production and performance measures for bison producers,
control of postweaning syndrome in newly weaned piglets, and a comprehensive study of winter bale grazing bred cows.
Our ADF research funding has helped these projects leverage nearly $5 million to date of additional third-party research
funding. Much of this funding comes from industry groups and stakeholders. Our government appreciates this support
and is pleased to partner with the industry on these important research initiatives.
Farmers and ranchers continue to be a priority for our government. All of our agricultural programming, including
research, is focused on providing long-term benefits for Saskatchewan producers, and that will continue in the future.
Sincerely,
Bob Bjornerud
FARM SAFETY
Agricultural Safety Week in Saskatchewan
A
training. The third year will emphasize the assessment,
improvement and further development of safety systems.
The week will be jointly proclaimed by Saskatchewan’s
Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud and Advanced Education,
Employment and
Labour Minister
Rob Norris.
Agricultural Safety Week coincides with the Canadian
Agricultural Safety Week, delivered by the Canadian Federation
of Agriculture and the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association,
with the support of Farm Credit Canada and Agriculture and
Agri-Food Canada.
This year’s theme
is Plan, the first
of a three-year
program entitled
Plan · Farm ·
Safety.
The week in Saskatchewan is supported by the Saskatchewan
Alliance for Safety and Health in Agriculture (SASHA); the
Farmers with Disabilities Program of the Saskatchewan Abilities
Council; the Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in
Agriculture; the Farm Safety Program of Saskatchewan Advanced
Education, Employment and Labour; and Saskatchewan
Agriculture.
gricultural Safety Week in Saskatchewan will be observed this
year from March 14-20.
Activities in 2010
will feature safety
walkabouts and
safety planning.
The second year
will focus on
implementation
of the plan at the farm level, as well as documentation and
For more information
• Visit the websites www.casa-acsa.ca or www.cfa-fca.ca; or
• Visit the Farm Safety Program of Saskatchewan Advanced
Education, Employment and Labour at
www.labour.gov.sk.ca/farmsafety.
STORY SNAPSHOTS
12
7
5
9
Grain bag disposal pilot program
Predation risk management
New haskap cultivars
Spring weed control of winter annuals
TABLE OF CONTENTS
croPS
4
irrigation
8
Livestock
management
9
10
12
MARCH 2010
VOLUME 5
Saskatchewan Land
Tender Sale page 10
Research
REGIONAL SERVICES
programs and services
WHEAT MIDGE FORECAST
13
14
PAGE 4
WATER PUMPING PROGRAM
AGRISTABILITY UPDATE
12
PAGE 8
PAGE 15
Cover: Grain being stored for the winter at Red
events calendar
16
Land Farms just outside of Fort Qu’Appelle, SK.
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.
MARCH 2010
3
CROPS
Saskatchewan 2010 Wheat Midge
Forecast
by Scott Hartley, PAg
Provincial Specialist, Insect and Vertebrate Pests
Crops Branch
T
he 2010 Saskatchewan wheat midge risk map indicates the risk to
wheat crops is low for southern regions in Saskatchewan, but high
in some areas in the north.
Midge populations, and resultant risk from this insect pest, were
highest along a corridor north of the North Saskatchewan River
extending from northwest of Saskatoon through the North Battleford
area toward Lloydminster. Another highly infested area was identified
in Rural Municipality #460, southeast of Prince Albert. A moderately
high risk area was also noted around Wynyard (RMs 307 and 308).
Other moderate risk areas exist, primarily in northern parts of the Dark
Brown and the Black soil zones.
For more information, and for updates throughout the 2010 growing
season:
• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; or
• Visit the Ministry of Agriculture website at
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca. Scroll to the bottom of the page and,
under Shortcuts, click on the Maps Section; then click on the icon
called Wheat Midge Forecast Map.
Wheat Midge Forecast 2010
Midge / m 2
The survey and map provide a general picture of existing densities and
the potential for infestation in 2010; however, climatic conditions
– mainly temperature and moisture – will ultimately determine the
extent and timing of midge emergence during the growing season.
No infestation
< 600
600 <= 1200
1200 <= 1800
> 1800
622
588
561
555
501
499
472
471
The 2010 map is based on about 420 samples and, therefore, should be
considered an estimate of risk on a regional basis only. Actual midge
populations can vary in individual fields. The distribution pattern
shown in the 2010 forecast map is based on viable, unparasitized
cocoons found in samples collected in the 2009 fall soil survey.
442
411
382
440
410
352
142
349
350
Kindersley
231
232
406
379 378
260
230
171
319
290
376
372
110
288
287
168
167
138
108
79
78
107
77
49
19
256
166
137
Swift
Current
136
106
76
46
18
17
345
284
255
225
224
135
105
75
45
252
223
222
193
164
134
104
74
163
133
103
73
191
162
132
102
72
44
12
339
338
337
366
336
276
277
279
247
248
216
187
158
186
157
156
131
130
129
128
127
101
100
99
98
97
71
70
40
11
10
67
69
68
126
96
66
39
38
37
36
9
8
7
6
331
301
303
304
275
274
273
271
244
241
Yorkton 243
215
214
213
185
184
183
155
159
333
334
305
245
246
217
218
Regina
335
307
308
309
189
160
Moose
Jaw
42
43
367
219
190
161
397
220
221
395
398
250
251
394
426
368
280
281
253
427
369
310
312
282
254
194
165
313
283
341
428
399
370
340
343 342
314
315
286 285
226
229
109
316
257
228
139
111
317
400
371
456
457
Melfort
429
430
402 401
373
344
346
347
318
259
169
141
51
403
404
405
377
486
487
458
459
460
431
435 434
Saskatoon
351
261
436
409
322 321 320
292
North
437
Battleford
380
381
461
464
Prince
Albert
463
438
439
466
467
490
491
493
494
496
469
468
520
488
497
470
In past years, producers in areas with a potentially high risk of a wheat
midge outbreak could plant a non-susceptible crop or apply insecticide.
In 2010, producers have the option of planting midge-tolerant wheat.
Two midge-tolerant wheat varieties will be available in the upcoming
crop year.
521
498
502
Lloydminster
154
125
153
124
95
94
123
93
63
65
64
35
34
33
4
3
Estevan
5
211
181
152
151
122 121
92
91
61
32
2
31
1
Wheat Midge-Tolerant Varieties Available for 2010
by Blaine Recksiedler, MSc., PAg
Provincial Specialist, Cereal Crops
Crops Branch
T
wo new wheat varieties that are tolerant to wheat midge will be
available for commercial production in the upcoming crop year.
Goodeve VB and Unity VB are both Canada Western Red Spring
varieties.
The source of tolerance is a single, highly effective gene called Sm1.
Wheat varieties with this gene show significantly less damage from
feeding by midge larvae, and consistently grade better under midge
infestations.
Single-gene tolerance has a history of becoming ineffective over time as
insect populations change; therefore, varietal blends, in an interspersed
refuge system, will be used to preserve the technology. The refuge
system, using a varietal blend of 90 per cent tolerant and 10 per cent
susceptible, will help prevent the buildup of a virulent midge
population.
The following is a brief summary of the agronomic traits of the new
varieties.
• Goodeve VB is an awnless variety with good adaptation to areas
where Fusarium Head Blight is not a major limitation in wheat
production. It has high grain yield, excellent lodging resistance, very
early maturity and good resistance to shattering and pre-harvest
sprouting. Test weight and protein are similar to AC Barrie. It is
susceptible to common bunt and has a very poor rating for Fusarium
Head Blight. The 10-per cent refuge variety is AC Intrepid.
• Unity VB is an awned variety and also has good adaptation to areas
where Fusarium Head Blight is not a major limitation in wheat
production. It has high grain yield, very good resistance to leaf rust
and bunt, good resistance to stem rust, good sprouting resistance
and maturity equal to AC Barrie. The straw strength is similar to
McKenzie, which is weaker than AC Barrie. The disease rating for
both loose smut and Fusarium Head Blight is poor. The 10-per-cent
refuge variety is Waskada.
For more information on agronomic characteristics as compared to AC
Barrie, see the Varieties of Grain Crops 2010 on the Saskatchewan
Agriculture website www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
For more information on the risk of wheat midge in your area, see the
Wheat Midge Forecast Map on the Saskatchewan Agriculture website.
4
MARCH 2010
CROPS
Soil test, don’t guess
by Patrick Mooleki, PhD, PAg
Soil/Nutrient Management Specialist
Agriculture Knowledge Centre
and
Ken Panchuk, PAg
Provincial Specialist, Soils
Crops Branch
S
oil testing provides a measurement of nutrients available in the soil
and helps determine the appropriate levels of each nutrient to be
added as fertilizer to correct a deficiency.
shipping, and services provided. Provide the lab with all relevant
information—such as cropping history, depth of subsoil moisture and
cropping intentions—that will help them interpret the results properly
and provide the best recommendations. Measure subsoil moisture to
enable adjustments to crop inputs if necessary.
Soil sampling and testing fits the 4R concept (right source, right rate,
right time and right placement) of best management practices for
fertilizers by ensuring that the right nutrients and right rates are
determined and applied.
For more information
• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
Take samples from a number of random locations in the field and bulk
them to provide a composite sample for analysis. This will provide an
average soil test value for the field. Benchmark sampling can also be used
where a small area considered to represent the field is sampled. Dividing
the field into management zones is particularly effective in rolling and
hummocky landscapes and where management practices or soil
characteristics differ.
Contact your soil test lab to understand their sampling protocol and
recommendation philosophy. Determine whether these are consistent
with your nutrient management objectives. Obtain information from
any soil laboratory on proper sampling procedures, handling and
Soil testing allows producers to know the right amount of nutrients to apply to
their crops.
Pulse Seed Quality and Disease Testing important
by Faye Dokken, MSc., AAg
Provincial Specialist, Plant Disease
Crops Branch
U
sing the best quality seed is important to get crops off to a good
start. Seed testing laboratories provide seed health reports that can
be used to determine the quality of your seed source which, along with
information on growing conditions, crop rotation and disease records,
will aid in seeding and integrated pest management decisions.
Seed Quality in 2009
According to preliminary results from a provincial survey of seed testing
labs (Robin Morrall, University of Saskatchewan), seed-borne pulse
disease levels were low in 2009. Peas averaged 3.4 per cent seed-borne
Ascochyta with 17 per cent disease-free samples. Lentils averaged 0.3 per
cent Ascochyta and 0.6 per cent Botrytis or Sclerotinia with over half of the
samples disease-free. Remember, it is not recommended to grow lentils
more than once every three years in a rotation, regardless of seed quality.
Seed analyst Shanna Stolhandske-Dale, PAg reports similar results with
fairly clean pulse samples received from most areas. However, higher
levels of Ascochyta pisi were detected on peas from some southern
regions, which corresponds to pea disease survey observations.
Interpreting Seed Testing Results
Provincial averages can disguise individual seed-borne infections, and
seed health reports should be considered for each field. Seed-borne
disease thresholds will help you determine whether to use the seed and
when to consider seed treatment. To interpret seed testing results, consult
your seed analyst, agronomist, or Ministry of Agriculture Regional Crop
Specialist.
For more information
• Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca and search “seed-borne diseases” or;
• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
Agriculture Plastics Recycling Pilot Project Coming to
saskatchewan
by Daphne Cruise, PAg
Regional Crops Specialist
Regional Services Branch
producers to bring used grain bags and baler twine to be recycled. The shop
grounds will be open from 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. on both days. Direction
signs will be posted along highway 39.
For more information
I
n the last few years, grain bags have become a cost-effective method for
producers to store grain in the field; however, the question of what to do
with the bags when a producer is done with them still remains. The Moose
Jaw River Watershed Stewards and Upper Qu’Appelle River and Wascana
Creek Watershed recently received funding from Environment Canada’s
EcoAction Community Fund and the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority
for an agriculture plastics recycling pilot project. As a result, the
organizations are holding an Agriculture Plastics Round-Up on March
11 and 12, 2010 at the RM of Caledonia shop (# 99) near Milestone, for
MARCH 2010
• Contact Tammy Myers with the Moose Jaw River Watershed Stewards
at 306-691-3399.
5
CROPS
Controlled release urea in nitrogen
fertilizer management
Agrotain is a urease inhibitor which prevents urea hydrolysis for up to
two weeks. This allows surface broadcast urea the opportunity to be
moved into the soil by rainfall during this period. ESN is a polymercoated urea. The coating slows down the absorption of water and
diffusion of urea into the soil solution.
Thereby it physically delays the
hydrolysis of urea to ammonia. ESN
provides varying options for managing
nitrogen in forages, winter cereals and
spring seeded crops.
by Patrick Mooleki, PhD, PAg
Soil/Nutrient Management Specialist
Agriculture Knowledge Centre
C
ontrolling the release of
nitrogen in urea (46-0-0) is an
excellent way to minimize
nitrogen losses and to protect seed
if urea is placed in the seed-row at
seeding.
With the need for a one-pass seeding
Urea is one of the two major
system, fertilizer placement becomes
nitrogen fertilizers used by
important. There is a limit to the
producers in Saskatchewan, the
amount of urea that can be placed with
other being anhydrous ammonia
the seed, so controlled release urea is
(82-0-0). When urea is applied to
finding another use. Studies in
the soil, it dissolves in soil water
Saskatchewan show that Agrotain
and then it is hydrolysed by
coated urea and ESN may allow higher
urease (soil enzyme) to ammonia,
nitrogen rates with the seed (Figure 1).
which forms ammonium in
Producers are advised to follow product
reaction with water. Subsequently, Figure 1. Wheat emergence at Scott 2003 and 2004 and at Swift Current 2004 with
recommendations for their crops and
seed-placed polymer and Agrotain coated urea, untreated urea and side-banded
ammonium is converted to nitrate untreated urea. Source: Brandt et al. 2009.
situations.
nitrogen by certain bacteria. If this
process takes place near the soil surface, ammonia may be lost to the
Use of controlled release urea products fit the 4R concept of best
atmosphere (volatilization). Under wet conditions, nitrate nitrogen
management practices for fertilizers by allowing the producer the
may be leached or converted to nitrous oxide and nitrogen gas
flexibility of applying the right nutrient source, at the right rate, in the
(denitrification) and lost to the atmosphere. The objective in fertilizer
right place and at the right time.
management is to keep the nitrogen protected from loss or in a stable
For more information
form (ammonium). The two most common products in Saskatchewan
• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
that help keep the nitrogen protected are Agrotain and ESN
(Environmentally Smart Nitrogen).
Banding Phosphorus on Older, Established Alfalfa Stands
by Gary Kruger, PAg
Irrigation Agrologist
Irrigation Branch
For older established stands of alfalfa, Dr. Malhi’s research indicated
yields of alfalfa increased by 21 to 37 per cent at moderate rates of
P2O5 fertilization. This increased yield was achieved by banding P
with a low disturbance or single disk type implement, as compared to
broadcast of the equivalent rate of P. Use of a disk or coulter to apply
the fertilizer in a band in a
perennial forage stand is
essential to minimize injury to
the plants.
A
pplying nutrients is one
option for increasing forage
crop productivity. Better crop
nutrition produces a healthier,
more robust forage plant which
produces higher yields, persists
longer in the plant stand, provides
more nutritious forage and feeds
more cattle per unit area.
Forages are traditionally fertilized
by broadcast application of
phosphorus (P) with a spin
spreader. Phosphorus as a nutrient
is held tightly by the soil so risk of
erosion loss of P in forage stands
is low.
Coulter-type disc drill used by Dr. Malhi to band P below the soil surface in established
Research conducted by Dr. S.
alfalfa stands.
Malhi at Lacombe, Alberta
demonstrated the value from P investment on perennial forages can
be improved by banding. Phosphorus is absorbed by the plant by
diffusion, meaning the P moves from a zone of high concentration
(the fertilizer band) to a zone of low concentration (inside the plant
root). Placing phosphorus in a band increases the efficiency of P
uptake by alfalfa which yields more for a given rate of P.
6
Perennial crops add complexity
to the crop management
decision-making process. Forage
growers seek to maximize
current production while
maintaining the proportion of
legume in their stands and
minimizing the decline in
productivity of the perennial
forage with age. Dr. Malhi’s
research shows that banding P
accomplishes this goal with
greater efficiency than
broadcast P for older,
established stands of alfalfa.
For more information
• Contact Gary Kruger, Irrigation Agrologist, Irrigation Branch,
Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture at (306) 867-5524.
MARCH 2010
CROPS
Early Spring Weed Control Important
to Maximizing Yield Potential
by Clark Brenzil, PAg
Provincial Specialist, Weed Control
Crops Branch
This concept applies to all pre-seed herbicides. The other advantage to
early application is better control of tough winter annual weeds such
as narrow-leaved hawk’s-beard.
Based on this research, producers will be well served by controlling
winter annual weeds and dandelions early.
T
he unusual fall of 2009 did not allow most farmers a chance to
complete much fall weed control, so it will be up to spring burnoff
treatments to control winter annual weeds and early emerging
perennials. It will be important to control these weeds early in the
spring in order to retain the crop’s full yield potential. Weeds growing
in the field prior to crop seeding will deplete valuable resources that
would otherwise be available for the crop, resulting in yield losses.
For more information
• Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
Research by the University of Saskatchewan, Agriculture and Agri-Food
Canada and E.I. duPont Canada showed that for later-seeded crops,
early glyphosate applications to control winter annual weeds resulted
in higher yields compared to applications that were delayed until just
prior to seeding. Producers should complete their burnoff applications
as soon as possible in the spring to receive the greatest yield benefit.
In tests, as expected, wheat that was seeded in late May yielded
significantly less than wheat seeded in early May when glyphosate was
applied just prior to seeding. When the glyphosate application was
made in early May for both early- and late-May seeding dates, there
was no yield penalty for late seeding. This suggests that the timing of
preseed weed control may be more important to yield than the timing
of seeding.
Winter annual and early perennial weed control in early spring give a yield benefit over
waiting until seeding.
Methods for controlling Richardson ground squirrel
populations
by Shannon Chant, PAg
Regional Crop Specialist
Regional Services Branch
and
by Scott Hartley, PAg
Provincial Specialist, Insect and Vertebrate Pests
Crops Branch
animals. The bait stations should be moved every two to three days.
All bait stations need to be removed by July. By this time, RGS will be
eating more preferred green-plant growth and effectiveness may drop
below 30 per cent. Extending the amount of time the station is in the
field can also cause unacceptable risk of accidental poisoning.
For more information
• Refer to the fact sheet entitled Control of Richardson’s Ground
Squirrels available on the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
R
ichardson ground squirrels (RGS) are a large problem in
southwestern Saskatchewan.
The best time to control RGS is in the spring when they emerge and
are looking for food. Usually, they begin to appear in early March,
but, in mild winters can appear even earlier.
The first to surface from hibernation are the adult RGS males. The
adult females generally emerge 10 to 14 days later. Females are more
susceptible to the placed baits and especially if pregnant, are the more
effective target.
Control options include strychnine in ready-to-use baits and liquid
concentrates, Rozol and Phostoxin. Phostoxin can only be bought
and applied by applicators with certification to apply fumigants.
Baits prepared with two-per-cent liquid-strychnine concentrate can
only be placed directly in the RGS hole and cannot be used in bait
stations. After baiting, the holes need to be covered.
Rozol-treated grain and ready-to-use strychnine baits are registered for
use in burrows or above-ground bait stations. The station must be
tamper proof and well secured to avoid poisoning of non-target
MARCH 2010
Spring is the optimum time to control Richardson ground squirrels.
7
IRRIGATION
Irrigation crop varieties for 2010
by Gerry Gross, PAg
Senior Irrigation Agrologist
Irrigation Branch
T
he Canada-Saskatchewan Irrigation Diversification Centre (CSIDC)
at Outlook provides ongoing variety testing of field crops to ensure
Saskatchewan irrigators know which varieties are the most suitable for
their farms.
place all varieties on a level “irrigation” playing field to allow irrigators
to make the choice of varieties best-suited to their particular needs.
Variety information is available for canola, flax, spring wheat, barley,
field pea, dry bean, fababeans, oilseed sunflowers, annual forages,
alfalfa, timothy and potatoes in the 2010 CSIDC publication entitled
Crop Varieties for Irrigation.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
• Visit the CSIDC website at www.irrigationsaskatchewan.com to read
the 2010 Crop Varieties for Irrigation;
High yielding varieties are in the highest demand, however, other
factors such as days to maturity and lodging resistance are of equal
importance.
• Phone CSIDC, (306) 867-5400, to obtain a hard copy of the
publication; or
Variety development is proceeding rapidly in many field crops as seed
companies aggressively compete for market share. CSIDC attempts to
• Phone the Irrigation Branch of Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture
at (306) 867-5500.
irrigated organic crops
in rotations
Water Pumping Equipment
Rental Program transferred
to the Ministry of Agriculture
by Sarah Sommerfeld, PAg
Irrigation Agrologist
Irrigation Branch
I
n 2009, there were about 230 acres of organic little potatoes
commercially grown under irrigation in the South Saskatchewan River
Irrigation District. Demand for the potatoes is increasing steadily.
This demand has created a need to develop a sustainable rotation which
is profitable for the producer not only in the year of potato production,
but also in years when potatoes are not being grown.
The organic production system begins with an alfalfa crop. Irrigators are
being encouraged to grow alfalfa organically for a minimum of three
years prior to the production of a potato crop. Following potatoes, the
irrigator has the option to grow other crops organically.
To date, the organic rotation used has been three years of organically
produced alfalfa followed by one year of organically produced potatoes,
followed by an organically produced cereal crop. The questions that arise
from this rotation are:
1) What crops are the most profitable to grow in the years
following potatoes? and;
2) How many years of annual crops can be grown sustainably
before re-establishing the alfalfa crop?
In this rotation, the alfalfa crop serves as the primary nitrogen source and
as a weed-control method for the subsequent potato crop. In order to
maximize potato yield, the alfalfa crop needs to be grown and removed
by methods that enhance nitrogen production and mineralization. In
2009, potato growers identified that nitrogen mineralization did not
occur early enough to meet the nutrient needs of the potato during early
tuber development.
Timing of termination of the forage stand also determines the amount of
nitrogen that will be available to the following crop. If the underlying
purpose of growing alfalfa in the rotation is to produce nitrogen, then the
optimal time to terminate the stand needs to be determined.
by Randy Holmlund, C.Tech
Pumping Coordinator, Outlook
Irrigation Branch
A
s of January 1, 2010, the Ministry of Agriculture assumed
responsibility for the Water Pumping Equipment Rental Program,
previously administered by the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority.
This program allows farmers, ranchers, municipalities, industrial and
commercial customers to rent power take off (PTO) pumps and
six-inch aluminum pipe to move large quantities of water in order to,
for example, fill a dugout. This is a popular program with producers,
particularly in dry years when the equipment usage can be very high
in drought-affected areas.
The equipment rental rates remain the same for 2010 and the
program will continue in much the same way as it has in the past. The
daily rate for one pump and up to 1.6 km (one mile) of pipe is $475
plus $56 for each additional pump and $237 for each additional 1.6
km (one mile) of pipe, or portion thereof. Additional charges apply
for extended possession.
The program is being run by the Ministry of Agriculture’s Irrigation
Branch in Outlook and the Regional Services Offices located
in Outlook, Weyburn, Swift Current, North Battleford, Tisdale and
Yorkton. Once farmers have sent in their application/agreement form
and rental and damage deposit cheques to the pumping coordinator,
they will be able to access equipment from each of these locations
during business hours.
For more information
• Contact Randy Holmlund, pumping coordinator, (306) 867-5500; or
• Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
Further demonstration and evaluation of these rotational considerations
will be initiated in 2010.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
• Phone Sarah Sommerfeld, Irrigation Agrologist, Irrigation Branch,
Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, Outlook, (306) 867-5521.
Trailer with six-inch aluminum pipe.
8
MARCH 2010
LIVESTOCK
Manage Mortalities to Reduce
Predation Risk
by Teddi MacMillan
Provincial Livestock Engineer
Livestock Branch
C
alving and lambing season is underway for many producers.
Birthing losses, vulnerable young animals and winter stresses can
lead to increased mortalities at this is the time of year. Deal with any
carcasses as soon as possible – the longer they sit the more likely they
will freeze to the ground or attract scavengers.
One of the best ways to manage the growing predation problem is to
properly manage dead stock by taking measures to prevent scavenger
access. Scavengers will look for the easiest meal – if they have access
to a pile of carcasses, they will feed on it until it runs out. Drawing
predators into your yard will place your herd at risk once the carcasses
are consumed.
If you are using a rendering service to manage your dead stock, cool
temperatures will prevent the carcasses from decomposing, allowing
for less frequent pick-up. Store carcasses in a way that prevents
scavenging prior to pick-up. An un-insulated shed is ideal, but a
secure fence or bale enclosure will also work. The pick-up location
should be accessible during spring thaw.
Many producers use burial as a means to manage their deads. Digging
a burial pit in frozen ground is difficult. Most producers using winter
burial will have prepared their pit in the fall. The pit must be in a
location which does not place surface or groundwater resources at risk.
Ensure the site is well marked so that it is visible in the snow to
prevent accidentally driving or falling into the pit. A temporary cover
will keep scavengers out and prevent snow from filling the pit.
Smaller carcasses may be
disposed of in a burial vessel.
Placing carcasses into this
buried scavenger-proof
container allows them to
decompose naturally.
Alternatively, producers can
also store carcasses until the
ground thaws in the spring.
Constructing some type of enclosure is key to preventing access by
scavengers and nuisance to neighbours. Timely burial or composting
in the spring will minimize odour and nuisance.
For more information or technical assistance with selecting a suitable
option for disposal, contact Agricultural Operations, Livestock Branch
at (306) 787-4680.
Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference deemed a success
by Bryan Doig, PAg
Provincial Feeds Specialist
Livestock Development
T
he Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference held in Saskatoon January
20 to 23, 2010, was extremely successful. On average, 240 individuals
attended this conference each day. This marked the first time that
Saskatchewan’s beef cattle producers, industry representatives,
government representatives, researchers, agriculture specialists and
members of livestock associations and organizations met in a collective
forum.
Day one was hosted by the Saskatchewan Beef and Forage Symposium.
Eighteen speakers provided updates on beef and forage research. Duane
Thompson, from Tea Two Cattle Company, Kelliher, SK, received the
2010 Producer Extension Award for his interest and leadership in beef
cattle extension.
Day two provided a venue with leading keynote speakers and an
industry/producer panel discussing factors influencing the cattle industry
today and projections to 2020.
Days three and four provided a setting for the annual and semi-annual
meetings of the newly-formed Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association,
Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association, Saskatchewan Stock Growers
Association and the majority of the cattle breed associations and related
livestock organizations.
In addition to the meetings, a trade show with 42 exhibits provided
conference registrants with a good cross-section of new and exciting
products and services available to the cattle industry.
Planning is already underway for next year’s Saskatchewan Beef Industry
Conference.
Ministry of Agriculture congratulates beef industry award recipients
Many beef industry members were honoured at the Saskatchewan Beef
Industry Conference.
Murray McGillivray, a rancher from Radville, was the first recipient of this
honour.
Saskatchewan Livestock Association Honour Scrolls, which recognize
excellence in livestock production, were presented to:
The Brad Wildeman Youth Mentorship Foundation, inspired by the vision
of Brad Wildeman to provide young leaders with opportunities to expand
their knowledge, skills and practice of leadership in agriculture, was also
introduced at the conference.
• Neil and Marilyn Jahnke of Gouldtown
• Wayne and Dorothy Johnstone of Moose Jaw
• Larry and Dawne Toner of Kelfield
• The late Craig Andrew of Qu’Appelle
A new Saskatchewan Beef Industry Hall of Fame Award was jointly
introduced by the Saskatchewan Cattle Feeders Association (SCFA) and
Pound-Maker Agventures. The award recognizes an individual who has
dedicated his life to promoting and building the beef industry.
MARCH 2010
Mr. Wildeman accepted a $3,000 cheque on behalf of the new Foundation,
donated jointly by the SCFA, Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association and
Pound-Maker Agventures. As the Foundation grows, this unique award is
designed to have lasting benefits for the entire cattle industry as young
leaders in agriculture are formed.
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture congratulates all award
recipients and thanks them for their vital contributions to the growth of
Saskatchewan’s livestock industry.
9
MANAGEMENT
Land for Sale by Tender
COMPLETED TENDERS AND FIVE PER CENT DEPOSIT MUST BE RECEIVED AT THE APPROPRIATE REGIONAL OFFICE
OF THE SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, AS LISTED BELOW, BY 12:00 NOON, MARCH 12, 2010.
Conditions of Tender
1. Tenders must clearly indicate the land that is being bid on and
the amount being bid. Tender forms are available for this purpose.
Tenders must be enclosed in a sealed envelope and mailed or
delivered to the appropriate Regional office as shown below. The
envelope should be clearly marked “Land Tender”.
2. Tender bidders are responsible for meeting any requirements of
Part VI of The Saskatchewan Farm Security Act.
3. A certified cheque, money order or bank draft, payable to the
Ministry of Agriculture for five per cent of the total tender, must
accompany the tender. Tenders submitted without certified funds
will not be considered.
4. In addition to the highest bid for any individual parcel, the Ministry
of Agriculture will consider bids that provide the highest aggregate
price for any combination of parcels.
5. The Ministry of Agriculture reserves the right to reject any bid.
Where the highest bid is rejected, the bidder may be provided with
an opportunity to meet the listed estimated market value.
6. An agreement for sale and transfer will be prepared in the name
of the successful bidder. The spouse of the successful bidder can
be added to the agreement for sale and transfer upon receipt of a
written request.
7. The successful bidder has 30 days from the effective date of the
agreement for sale to provide the balance in cash and to complete
the purchase. The deposit will be forfeited if the successful bidder
does not finalize the agreement for sale.
8. All fees to register the title with Information Services Corporation
are the responsibility of the purchaser and are in addition to the bid
price.
9. All lands, together with any fixtures and improvements are sold
“as is”. The bidder is solely responsible to determine the value and
condition of land being sold, value and condition of improvements,
land quality, land use, environmental condition and any other
information pertaining to tendered land.
10. The Ministry of Agriculture may withhold or withdraw any land
from sale at any time prior to the delivery of a signed agreement for
sale.
12. Where land is not sold, a short-term permit on the land may be
offered to the highest bidder at Crown rental plus GST and a $40
permit fee. If the permit is refused, the Ministry may offer it to others
on a declining bid basis.
CODES:
A - Access Limitation, B - Buildings, C - Cultivation,
F - Fencing, G - Grazing, GS - Grain Storage, H - Hay,
I - Irrigation, LA - Living Accomodation,
LF - Livestock Facilities, LZ - Local Zoning, P - Power,
S - CP/Survey Correction,
T - Timber Included In Valuation,
W - Water, Y - Yardsite.
* Denotes “to be sold as a unit”
R.M.Land Description Acres CodesEst Mkt
VALERIE TOWNSEND-FRASER (306) 848-2378
7
NW-11-03-15-2
161
F,W
$28,800
32 SW-22-04-34-1
160
C
$69,200
Oil leases available for assignment.
40 NW-4-05-24-2
160
C
40 SW-9-05-24-2
160
C
40 NW-29-05-24-2
160
H
40 NW-18-06-24-2
160
H,C
63 SW-3-09-02-2
159
C,F,GS
64 W1/2 16-09-04-2 292
F,H
Oil leases available for assignment.
222
246
246
247
250
276
277
277
277
280
NADIA MORI (306) 878-8812
E1/2-22-21-28-2
320
C,G,F,W
NE-34-27-12-2
160
C
SE-34-27-12-2
160
C
N1/2-32-27-13-2
311
C
SE-10-27-23-2
160
C,G
SW-23-28-11-2
157
C,G
NW-28-29-13-2
160
C
NE-29-29-13-2
160
C
NE-21-30-14-2
160
C
N1/2-16-29-22-2
320
C
BRENT MCINNIS (306) 778-8295
76 NE-6-09-10-3
155
F,G,W
194 NE-26-21-07-3
158
F,G,H,W
$47,800
$54,200
$30,700
$30,700
$45,800
$76,500
$91,300
$48,900
$44,600
$64,000
$47,500
$43,900
$45,500
$54,700
$48,200
$74,800
$40,000
$30,000
DEAN CORTUS
301 SE-28-33-31-1
145
304 NE-19-31-06-2
161
304 SW-19-31-06-2
157
304 SW-18-33-06-2
158
304 SW-21-33-06-2
80
W 1/2 of quarter
(306)878-8880
C
G,F,W
H
C
C
$42,600
$44,600
$22,700
$52,000
$24,700
305 SW-3-32-07-2
158
305 S1/2-13-31-07-2
161
LSDs 13,14,15 & 16
H
H
$51,300
$21,200
331 NE-20-34-30-1
156
H
331 SE-12-34-32-1
160
C
334 SW-2-37-05-2
155
H
334 SW-25-35-06-2
152
C
10 ac yardsite not included
$26,000
$56,000
$38,900
$51,200
334
334
334
334
SE-20-36-06-2
SW-22-36-06-2
E1/2-9-36-06-2
[NW-17-36-06-2
SW-20-36-06-2]
160
160
320
320
G
H
H
H,G
$30,200
$44,000
$84,600
$50,700
334 E1/2-29-35-06-2
395 SE-7-40-10-2
317
160
H
G
$64,000
$39,600
Land listed in a shaded box may
have potential for commercial or
recreational use.
10
MARCH 2010
MANAGEMENT
Agriculture demonstration projects
receive funding
Addresses to mail or deliver tenders
R.M.Land Description Acres CodesEst Mkt
373
398
428
430
459
459
488
488
488
488
488
488
520
520
TIM FEIST (306) 862-1789
SE-13-37-02-3
10
H,G
SE-32-42-16-2
159
H,G
SW-5-43-16-2
159
C
SW-11-44-24-2
80
C
NE-7-49-21-2
160
H
SE-7-49-21-2
160
H
SE-4-52-16-2
140
C
NW-15-52-16-2
160
C
SW-3-53-16-2
160
H
SE-18-54-16-2
160
H
SW-1-53-18-2
160
G
NW-3-53-18-2
159
H
NE-8-53-23-2
160
H
NW-18-53-23-2
156
H
285
TIM SCHULTZ (306) 446-7466
NW-2-29-09-3
96
F,G,H
$36,600
North of WM1 canal. Purchaser agrees to save harmless
the Province from any future seepage/salinization claims from
WM1 canal.
467 NE-22-46-15-3
555 NW-15-55-08-3
160
160
$80,000
$41,700
$56,000
$25,300
$31,900
$28,400
$53,500
$72,800
$49,000
$56,300
$27,800
$61,100
$52,000
$50,500
G,F,A
G,A
$33,000
$31,600
RYAN WOLOSHYN (306) 446-7681
292 NE-25-28-29-3
99
C
$25,000
For land in the NORTH EAST REGION, for RMs 222, 246, 247,
250, 276, 277, 280, 301, 304, 305, 331, 334, 395, 398, 428, 430,
459, 488 and 520, mail or deliver tenders to:
TISDALE REGIONAL OFFICE
SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
BOX 1480, 1105 - 99TH ST., TISDALE SK S0E 1T0
For land in the NORTH WEST REGION, for RMs 285, 292, 317,
346, 405. 467, 555 and 561, mail or deliver tenders to:
NORTH BATTLEFORD REGIONAL OFFICE
SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
1192 - 102nd ST., NORTH BATTLEFORD SK S9A 1E9
For land in the SOUTH REGION, for RMs 76 and 194, mail or
deliver tenders to:
SWIFT CURRENT REGIONAL OFFICE
SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
BOX 5000, 350 CHEADLE ST. W.
SWIFT CURRENT SK S9H 4G3
For RMs 7, 32, 40, 63 and 64, mail or deliver tenders to:
WEYBURN REGIONAL OFFICE
SASKATCHEWAN MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
BOX 2003, 110 SOURIS AVE., CITY CENTRE MALL
WEYBURN SK S4H 2Z9
TRACEY CHARABIN (306) 446-7685
317 NE-36-33-14-3
120
F,G,H
$29,900
561 NW-20-57-21-3
140
F,G
$61,600
Excludes 20 acres subdivision in NW corner of quarter.
DAVID SHORTT (306) 446-7463
346 NE-20-35-10-3
160
H,C
$45,900
Public opening of tender bids on lands will be held at
1:30 p.m., March 12, 2010, at the above locations.
Additional tender forms and eligibility criteria may be
obtained from Regional Offices of the Saskatchewan
Ministry of Agriculture,
Rural Municipality offices, or online at
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
TENDER TO PURCHASE PROVINCIAL LAND
Name in full (no initials)_____________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
Complete mailing address, including postal code.
______________________________
Phone
Tender
I hereby submit a tender on the following land:
RM #
Tender quarter section or advertised unit
_______
_______
_______
_______
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________ _____________________________________ $
$
$
$
Tender
___________
___________
___________
___________
Deposit
Enclosed is a certified cheque, money order or bank draft for $___________________ representing a deposit of
five per cent (5%) of my total tender.
My G.S.T. Registration Number is __________________________________
(Individuals who do not have a G.S.T. Registration Number will be required to pay G.S.T. on the purchase.)
I hereby submit the above tender to purchase provincial land, subject to the conditions listed in the tender ad,
which I have read and understood.
_________________________________
_________________________________________
Date
Signature
MARCH 2010
11
RESEARCH
Two new Haskap cultivars released
H
askap, or blue honeysuckle, is a flavourful fruit high in antioxidants
and vitamins, frost-tolerant and winter-hardy, ripens early, has few
pests and has potential to be mechanically harvested.
It almost sounds as if the fruit was tailor-made for a climate just like
Saskatchewan’s.
That’s because it was.
Dr. Bob Bors of the University of
Saskatchewan (U of S) recently completed a
project to improve haskap breeding and
production, funded by the Agriculture
Development Fund (ADF) of the
Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture.
During Dr. Bors’ recent sabbatical, he traveled all across Canada to find
haskap growing in the wild. He collected nearly 700 native Canadian
haskap clones to augment his collection and to add diversity to his
breeding stock. The U of S Fruit Program now has one of the world’s best
collections of haskap stock.
With assistance from an ADF grant awarded in
2008, Dr. Bors will use the plants and seeds he
collected on his sabbatical to continue crossing
and testing haskap until at least 2011. With a
strong breeding program and diverse genetics in
the breeding stock, there are sure to be even
better cultivars released in the future.
The Agriculture Development Fund provides
funding to help institutions, companies and
After handling thousands of seedlings and
industry organizations carry out research,
making multiple crosses of different haskap
development and value-added activities in the
cultivars from Russia, Japan and the Kuril
agriculture and agri-food sector. The results
Islands, Dr. Bors was able to successfully
produce new knowledge, information and
release two new registered haskap cultivars Thanks to Dr. Bors’ efforts, the U of S Fruit Program now has one of choices in technologies, techniques and varieties
the world’s best collections of haskap genetics.
– named Tundra and Borealis to the
for farmers, ranchers, processors and input
market.
suppliers, to improve the competitiveness of Saskatchewan’s agriculture
sector.
Tundra is well suited to commercial production, with fruit that are firm
enough for mechanized harvesting, but nice to eat. Borealis has larger
In 2010, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture provided $5.7 million
and tastier fruit than Tundra, but not as firm, so it is better suited to a
for 44 ADF research projects.
U-pick operation or home gardens.
For more INFORMATION
• Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at
If you decide you’d like to try growing haskap, you need to know a few
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca under the heading “Research”; or
things about the crop. Haskap requires cross-pollination to produce fruit.
Two different cultivars that are not directly related but have similar
flowering times are required before haskap will produce fruit. Borealis and • Visit the University of Saskatchewan’s fruit website at
www.fruit.usask.ca.
Tundra are too closely related to pollinate each other, so another, nottoo-closely-related cultivar is required. Dr. Bors says that a new, superior
pollinator will likely be released to propagators by the end of 2010.
Saskatchewan Forage Council demonstrates stockpile
grazing
by Andre Bonneau, BSA, PAg
Forage Management Specialist
Agriculture Knowledge Centre
I
n mid-2009, the Saskatchewan Forage Council applied for and
received funding through the Agricultural Demonstration of Practices
and Technologies (ADOPT) program to perform demonstration projects.
One of those projects demonstrates stockpiling perennials for winter
feeding.
The premise of the project was to demonstrate how winter feeding costs
can be reduced by encouraging livestock to harvest their own feed. The
cost of winter feeding tends to be dominated by cutting, baling and
moving forage rather than the forage itself.
To stockpile forage for fall or winter pasture, Saskatchewan producers
have commonly left late summer growth standing, neither grazing nor
haying the field. However, exposure to the elements gradually reduces
the quality of standing stockpiled forage over the winter, while alfalfa
tends to lose its leaves very soon after the first killing frost. By
swathing the alfalfa/grass mixture, we can potentially preserve both the
quality of available forage and potentially increase total forage
utilization.
Three sites in the province were selected: Lanigan (Western Beef
Development Centre), Biggar and Ituna. At each site, a grass-legume
forage mix was stockpiled using both the standing stockpiled method
and by swathing. Over the winter the forage will be tested for quality
loss and waste will be assessed. Animal performance will also be
12
evaluated. Once changes in yield and quality have been determined,
we can evaluate whether the cost of cutting and baling would have
been recovered.
The Lanigan site was grazed in early fall of 2009, while the Biggar site
was grazed in January, 2010. The Ituna site will be grazed in late winter
or early spring. A full report will be available later in 2010.
The ADOPT program accelerates the transfer of knowledge to
Saskatchewan producers and ranchers. The program, funded under the
Science and Innovation section of the federal-provincial Growing
Forward Agreement, provides funding to help producer groups evaluate
and demonstrate new agricultural practices and technologies at the
local level. The results of successful trials can then be adopted by
farming operations in the region. For more information
• Contact the Moose Jaw Regional Office at 1-866 457-2377; or
• Contact the Saskatchewan Forage Council at (306) 966-2148.
Swath grazed grass-alfalfa blend near Biggar, SK.
MARCH 2010
REGIONAL SERVICES
Meet the Yorkton Regional Office
by Joe Novak
Manager, Eastern Region
Regional Services Branch
T
he Ministry of Agriculture has made significant improvements in services to producers. The Ministry offers 10 Regional
Offices for producers to phone or visit in person. Located in the A.G. Kuziak Building at 38-5th Avenue North, the
Yorkton Regional Office is staffed with a Crops, Farm Business Management, Forage and Livestock specialist.
Zane Lewchuk, Regional Crops specialist, has a B.Sc. in agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan with a major in
plant science. He has a farming background and has worked with Saskatchewan Agriculture as a crops specialist since
1979, bringing a wealth of personal and professional experience to the job. He has an extensive background in crop
production and development, new crop expansion, organic farming systems, precision farming systems (that use global
positioning satellites) and the use of geographic information system software for analysis.
Don Surminsky, Regional Farm Business Management specialist, has a B.Sc. in agriculture from the University of Manitoba
and has worked for Saskatchewan Agriculture since 1978. Before his role as a Regional Farm Business Management
specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture, he worked as a renewal specialist in Kindersley and
Yorkton and as a credit advisor with the Farm Credit Corporation in Winnipeg and Prince
Edward Island. Don brings a wealth of experience in farm business management, business
development and succession planning.
Zane Lewchuk
Regional Crop Specialist
(306) 786-1508
Todd Jorgenson, Regional Forage specialist, has a B.Sc. in agriculture specializing in plant
ecology from the University of Saskatchewan. He has worked with Saskatchewan Agriculture
in a forage and range capacity since 1989 in Canora, Lloydminster, North Battleford and
Yorkton. Prior to the Ministry of Agriculture, he worked with the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation
Administration as a range management biologist. He has experience in land use planning,
restoring native areas due to oil and gas development and alternate land uses such as
ecotourism. Todd also specializes in grazing management and assessment of forested areas of
the province.
Naomi Paley, Regional Livestock specialist, has a B.Sc. in agriculture with a major in animal
science from the University of Saskatchewan. Since joining Saskatchewan Agriculture in
1999, Naomi worked in the Watrous and Kelvington offices, before becoming a livestock
specialist in 2000. Naomi provides information on production, nutrition and management
to new and existing producers. In addition, she is involved in
regional and provincial initiatives to attract investment and
new beef producers to the province.
Don Surminsky
Regional Farm Business
Management Specialist
(306) 786-1507 Todd Jorgenson
Regional Forage Specialist
(306) 786-5859
Margaret Rae, Regional Services representative, provides office
management and administrative support to the regional
specialists. She has been working for Saskatchewan
Agriculture and the farming community since 1974.
Joan Kozushka, administrative support, provides
administrative assistance to the regional specialists. Joan
previously worked in the banking industry before joining the
Ministry of Agriculture.
For more information
• Contact the Yorkton Regional Office at (306) 786-1531; or
• Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
Naomi Paley
Regional Livestock Specialist
(306) 786-1686
Margaret Rae
Regional Service Representative
(306) 786-1531
Joan Kozushka
Administration Support
(306) 786-1503
ON THE WEB
S
askatchewan Agriculture is constantly updating the wealth of information
it makes available to Saskatchewan residents. You can download the
most current version of any document posted on our website. You can also
call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377 to request a hard
copy of many items. Below is a list of the latest documents posted, as well as
the most frequently visited pages, on Saskatchewan Agriculture’s website at
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
Wheat Midge Forecast Map - The wheat midge forecast map, which indicates
populations of this insect pest in Saskatchewan, is now available.
Visit: Production | Crops-Insects.
Grasshopper Forecast Map - The annual grasshopper forecast map, indicating
areas of high populations, is now available.
Visit: Production | Crops-Insects.
Crop Planning Guides - Provides information that can help estimate the income
and cost of production for different crops on summerfallow and stubble in the
MARCH 2010
various soil zones in the province. Visit: Management | Financial Planning.
(New Crop Planning Guide, Specialty Crops - revised January 25).
Guide to Crop Protection - Provides information on the use of herbicides,
fungicides and insecticides for control of weeds, plant diseases and insects.
Visit: Production | Crops-Overview.
Varieties Of Grain Crops - Provides information on the relative yields for the
different growing regions in the province and production information on the crops,
including a list of seed distributors.
Visit: Production | Crops-Seeding.
Saskatchewan Voluntary Livestock Traceability Rebate Forms - Forms for
general applicants and auction marts are available for both rebate applications and/
or facility modification claims.
Visit: Programs and Services | Growing Forward | Non BRM Programming |
Voluntary Livestock Traceability Rebate.
13
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PRODUCTION
Growing Forward
Do you have an
Environmental Strategy?
by Ralph Howes, PAg
Production Economics Specialist, Moose Jaw
Regional Services Branch
An Environmental Strategy will:
• Incorporate beneficial management stewardship practices to improve
and maintain the land, water, air, woodlot and wildlife resource bases;
• Meet regulatory and industry environmental standards;
T
he Farm Business Development Initiative (FBDI), part of the Growing
Forward federal/provincial bi-lateral agreement, includes nine
progressive farm business management practices. This article continues a
nine part series and focuses on Environmental Strategy.
Why should you be concerned?
A farm business shares the landscape, soil resource, surface water and air
with the local community. In most cases the farmer may live in the
community. Stewardship of the natural resources creates an advantage for
both the farm and the community.
Assessing your farm’s Environmental Strategy can help:
• Maintain and improve the land, water, air, woodlands and wildlife
resource bases;
• Determine if there are any compliance issues with regulations that
affect agriculture;
• Assess the impact risk of farming practices on the environment; and
• Create business opportunities.
• Manage the impact risk of farming practices on the environment; and
• Maximize business opportunities through environmental stewardship
activities.
Need help?
In addition to help provided through Saskatchewan Agriculture’s network
of regional offices, you may wish to contact the following program
administrators for environmental programs or assistance:
Environmental Farm Plan Program and Farm Stewardship
Program - delivered by the Provincial Council of Agriculture and
Diversification Boards (PCAB). Visit the PCAB website at
www.saskpcab.com; or call toll free 1-866-298-7222.
Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program - administered by
the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture. Details and application forms are
available by calling 1-877-874-5365, or visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
For more information
• Contact a Regional Farm Business Management specialist in your area; or
• Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; or
• Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
Knowing Your FRWIP Details and Deadlines
by Garth Lipinski
Manager, Grants and Rebates Program
Financial Programs Branch
T
he expanded Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP),
established under Growing Forward, is available to farmers, ranchers, Rural
Municipalities (RMs) and Indian Bands across Saskatchewan. Funding is
available for projects to develop secure water supplies for agricultural purposes.
On-Farm Projects
Eligible Applicants:
• Individual farmers, ranchers and Indian Bands in the Province of
Saskatchewan whose primary source of income is farming or ranching
and is the legal occupier of a minimum of 75 acres of land
• Intensive agricultural operations on less than 75 acres of land may also
be eligible
Eligible Projects - water for non-potable use:
• Small-diameter and large-diameter on-farm wells
• Shallow buried pasture pipelines
• Deep buried pasture pipelines
• Deep buried pipelines that connect to an established municipal water
source
• Dugouts
Funding Available
• Fifty per cent of eligible costs to a maximum of $60,000 per applicant
Community Well Projects
Eligible Applicants
• Rural Municipalities and Indian Bands in Saskatchewan
Eligible Projects
• Community wells and tank loading facilities for non-potable water use
Funding Available
• Two-thirds of eligible costs to a maximum of $150,000 per RM or Indian
Band
Timelines
• Approved projects have 18 months from date of approval to complete their
project.
• Paid receipts must be submitted to the Ministry of Agriculture within 24
months of project approval to be eligible for funding.
Applicants to the 2008 targeted FRWIP who have not yet completed their
projects are reminded that the deadline for project completion is October 31,
2010. Given the strain on construction resources, to ensure your project can
be completed and eligible for funding, it is recommended that project
planning and arrangements for construction resources be undertaken as soon
as possible.
Applicants are encouraged to complete and submit a FRWIP claim form along
with invoices, proof of payment and any required permits or approvals as soon
as their project is complete.
For more information
• Contact the FRWIP toll free line at 1-877-874-5365; or
• Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/FRWIP_2009.
14
MARCH 2010
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
PRODUCTION
Crop Insurance package key to making
insurance selections
roducers currently enrolled in the Crop Insurance program will soon
receive their insurance packages in the mail. The Saskatchewan Crop
Insurance Corporation (SCIC) encourages producers to carefully review
the contents of the package as it contains crucial information on the
2010 Crop Insurance program.
P
Land Change and Acres Seeded form: This form records all land, either
rented or owned, on a producer’s contract. Producers can add or delete
land using this form. This form is also used to report all fall rye and
winter wheat acres as well as all fall-seeded biennial or perennial crops,
including forage, alfalfa seed, caraway, Timothy hay and sweetclover.
Crop Insurance has become increasingly complex as the program evolved
to meet the needs of producers. While the underlying purpose to Crop
Insurance has remained consistent – offering solutions to manage risks –
program features and details have changed through the years.
CropConnect
For this reason, SCIC encourages producers to schedule an appointment
with their local customer service office. A representative will take the
time to answer questions and explain what each program feature and
option can mean to individual operations. Can’t make it in to an office?
SCIC is accessible by phone, fax and e-mail.
SCIC would also like to remind producers that the deadline to apply,
reinstate, cancel or make changes to 2010 Crop Insurance contracts is
March 31.
What’s in the Crop Insurance package?
Your Complete Guide to Understanding Crop Insurance: This reference guide
contains comprehensive details about individual Crop Insurance
programs. Learn what changes have been made to the programs, insured
prices per crops, program deadlines, producer obligations, instructions on
form completion, crop specific terms and conditions and more.
Producers have the ability to complete the majority of insurance
selections online via CropConnect, a secure online portal. CropConnect
allows online completion of endorsements, coverage and premium
calculations, demographic changes and more. Producers who enrolled in
the Paperless Option will receive an insurance package that only contains
the reference guide and the land change form, as this information cannot
be completed yet via CropConnect.
SCIC is here to answer all of the questions or concerns producers have
about Crop Insurance. Our staff are approachable and knowledgeable
with the time to sit down and discuss different program aspects with you.
For more information
• Contact the nearest customer service office;
• Call 1-888-935-0000; or
• Visit www.saskcropinsurance.com.
Endorsement forms: Endorsement forms show a producer’s insurance
selections in 2009. The forms are used to add or delete crops, as well as
change details for 2010 – including coverage levels and price options – on
a contract. Because a Crop Insurance contract is continuous, last year’s
selections will remain in effect unless changes are made or the contract is
cancelled by March 31, 2010.
Coverage Detail forms: The coverage detail form indicates yield coverage,
dollar coverage per acre and premium per acre at different coverage
levels: 50, 60, 70 or 80 per cent.
SCIC issues 2010 AgriStability Enrolment/Fee Notices
A
griStability participants will soon find their 2010 Enrolment/Fee
Notices in the mailbox.
In January 2010, the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC)
began administering the AgriStability program. SCIC is working to
connect you with local, knowledgeable staff, creating opportunity for
more direct access to your AgriStability information. As a participant,
you would have received SCIC’s initial mailing containing program
forms and the handbook, outlining the provincial delivery of
AgriStability. The next important document you can expect is the
Enrolment/Fee Notice which is used to generate your fees for the
program year.
The Enrolment/Fee Notice provides detailed information related to your
participation in the AgriStability program. It outlines the program fees
related to your participation, and any deadlines associated with your
application. You must be issued an Enrolment/Fee Notice for each
program year you participate in. If you are a new participant or were not
an active participant in the 2008 program year, you are required to
complete the new participant package to obtain an Enrolment/Fee
Notice.
As an added convenience, participants will now have numerous ways to
pay their program fees, as outlined on their Enrolment/Fee Notice.
You can submit your payment:
• via Internet or telephone banking
• by mail to SCIC
• at your local financial institution
• at your local SCIC customer service office
The Enrolment/Fee Notice deadline is April 30, 2010. If you participate
in AgriStability, and have not received your 2010 Enrolment/Fee Notice,
contact SCIC AgriStability call centre at 1-866-270-8450. Agriculture and
Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) issued the 2009 Enrolment/Fee Notices. For
inquiries on the 2009 notice or 2008 or previous years, participants
should contact AAFC directly at 1-866-367-8506.
SCIC is committed to working with producers in the province to deliver
direct and timely service in the AgriStability and Crop Insurance
programs.
For more information
• Call toll-free 1-866-270-8450;
• E-mail [email protected];
• Online at www.saskcropinsurance.com; or
• Visit a local SCIC customer service office.
MARCH 2010
15
EVENTS CALENDAR
DATE
EVENT
LOCATION
PHONE
INTERNET
Mar. 2
Crop Opportunity and Scott Research Update
North Battleford
306-466-7964
www.warc.ca
Mar. 2
Crop Agronomy Information Day
Watrous
306-946-3216
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 2
Forages on Your Farm - Back to the Basics
Delisle, Elbow
306-867-5559
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 4
Canola Production Seminar
Yorkton
306-786-1508
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 4
Forages on Your Farm - Back to the Basics
Aberdeen
306-867-5559
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 4
Grain Market and Production Update
Melfort
306-878-8807
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 5
Achieving the Bison Industry's Vision Seminar
North Battleford
306-585-6304
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 9
Farm Succession Planning Workshop
Cupar
306-946-3214
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 9
Crop Talk 2010
Prince Albert
306-953-2362
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 9
Horse Seminar
North Battleford
306-446-7961
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
306-946-3214
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
306-691-3399
www.mjriver.ca
1-877-452-2272
www.casa-acsa.ca/english
Succession Plan: Part II
Cupar
BiotechFarmWeek
in Saskatchewan
Mar. 10
Mar. 11 - 12
Agriculture Plastic Round-Up - Grain Bags
and Baler Twine
Mar. 14 - 20
Canadian Agricultural Safety Week
Mar. 17
West Central Ag Outlook 2010
Kindersley
306-463-2624
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 18
Farm Energy Efficiencies Workshop
North Battleford
306-446-7964
www.warc.ca
Mar. 18
2010 Grain Growers' Symposium
Rosetown
306-882-4236
www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Mar. 31
Crop Insurance Deadline to apply, reinstate,
cancel or make changes to 2010 Crop
Insurance contract
1-888-935-0000
www.saskcropinsurance.com
Mar. 31
AgriStability Deadline for 2009 Interim
Payment Applications
1-866-270-8450
www.saskcropinsurance.com
Apr. 8
Redvers Ag Ex and Bull Congress
Redvers
306-452-7771
www.redverseagex.ca
Apr. 14 - 15
Western Canadian Livestock Expo
Saskatoon
1-888-931-9333
www.saskatoonex.com
Milestone
Forage, Feed Grain and
Custom Service Listing
Provides Electronic
Marketplace for Ag Industry
by Andre Bonneau, BSA, PAg
Forage Management Specialist
Agriculture Knowledge Centre
T
he Forage, Feed Grain and Custom Service Listing is a free service available to
anyone in the agriculture industry. It provides an opportunity for buyers, sellers and
service providers to connect in an electronic marketplace.
Through the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture website, clients can enter
information about the products or services they wish to make available. Clients
without internet access can call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre for a copy of
listings or to enter information into the listing service.
Products and services are categorized by type and location and are automatically
deleted after a client-selected time period. Clients can advertise services such as
seeding, spraying, custom grazing, custom feeding and other custom services as well
as products like feed grains and forages.
An interactive map panel helps clients select a service and specific Rural Municipality
in the province. Clients can also search outside of the province using the map or links
to services in Alberta, Manitoba, North Dakota and Montana.
2010 Century Family
Farm Award Deadline
Nears
I
nformation Services Corporation (ISC) is currently accepting applications for the 2010 Century Family Farm Awards. The application deadline for this year’s program is March 15.
The award pays tribute to families who have farmed the same land continuously for 100 years or more and is based on the following criteria:
• Members of the same family have farmed or ranched on the land
for 100 years or more.
•
The applicant must live in Saskatchewan and continue to operate
the farm or ranch.
•
The applicant and/or quarter section of land has never received a
Century Family Farm Award before.
No documentation is required, as all historic research is conducted on
applicants’ behalf, free of charge. To apply, simply fill out and submit
the application form by March 15.
For more information and to get an application form, please visit
www.isc.ca/cffa, call 1-866-275-4721 or email [email protected].
To make the service complete, producers looking for products and services can also
advertise what they’re looking for.
The Forage, Feed Grain and Custom Services Listing is a cost-effective way to buy and
sell agricultural products and services.
For more information
•
•
16
Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1 866 457-2377 or;
Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/feedforage.
MARCH 2010