The 2030 Canadian Beef Goals Panel from the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Pentiction, B.C. Brenna Grant is third from left.

2030 Canadian Beef Goals highlight carbon emissions

Unpacking the carbon emission goals, the ongoing research and what it all means for Canada’s beef producers

On a stage with the lights dimmed, Brenna Grant sits with several other industry professionals, looking out on a room full of people. From all over the country, they’ve met in Penticton, B.C., to discuss the future of their industry at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference. One of those possible futures is encompassed in the […] Read more

Each time anthrax hits the news, the veterinary community goes through a list of questions.

Anthrax: A maverick killer for livestock that never grows old

Vet Advice with Dr. Ron Clarke

Ancient Greece and Rome were well acquainted with anthrax many famous scholars from those times mentioned it in their writings. Today we continue to write about anthrax, partially because the soil-borne pathogen continues to surface as a livestock killer, mostly in small outbreaks, but makes remarkable news when discussed in the context of biological warfare […] Read more



Recent research from the University of Alberta finds that adaptive multi-paddock (AMP) grazing can speed the carbon cycle.

What does the On-Farm Climate Action Fund mean for rotational grazing?

The federal government has slated money to support rotational grazing. But what costs are covered and how can producers access funding and support?

For the past 70-plus years, forage scientists and grazing extension specialists have been promoting different forms of rotational grazing to cattle producers in various parts of the world. It all started with Andre Marcel Voisin (Jan 7, 1903 – Dec 21, 1964) a French biochemist and farmer and author of Rational Intensive Grazing. On his […] Read more


Grazing over-mature forages cuts feeding and corral-cleaning costs and retains nitrogen on the land.

Grazing over-mature forages

Fall grazing has many benefits, but make sure the cow and calf’s nutritional needs are being met

Grazing mature cattle on mature forages and crop aftermath late into fall are options that reduce overall feeding costs. Kaliel and Kotowich (2002) reported that 60 per cent of production costs in a cow-calf operation are associated with winter feeding. Extending the grazing season reduces costs but there are limitations on what can be done.  […] Read more

Nate Horner, shown here speaking Oct. 4, 2022 at Southland Trailers at Lethbridge, was named Oct. 21 as Alberta’s minister of agriculture and irrigation. (Alberta government video screengrab via YouTube)

Alberta reorganizes ag portfolio for returning minister

Horner to handle agriculture and irrigation file

Both Alberta and Quebec have re-upped with their incumbent agriculture ministers in cabinet shuffles this week — but incoming Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s shuffle will also streamline that province’s ag portfolio. Chosen by Alberta’s governing United Conservatives (UCP) on Oct. 6 to replace outgoing premier Jason Kenney, Smith on Friday announced Kenney’s incumbent minister of […] Read more


Rebuilding or replacing forage stands

Rebuilding or replacing forage stands

By evaluating current and past management practices, you can avoid repeat mistakes

Before attempting to rejuvenate or replace pasture, we must evaluate the pasture or hay field that is in poor condition. Start by determining the plant species that are present and the number of plants per square foot. Collect information from 10 different locations within the pasture to get a good overview of populations. Also, record […] Read more

The invasion of noxious weeds on rangelands can have a substantial impact on a pasture’s grazing capacity.

Turning weeds into feed

A variety of noxious weeds have been deemed as safe alternative forages for cattle

A noxious weed is an invasive non-native species that may reduce the yield of existing crops and forages if not controlled through herbicide application or by other means. Many weed species can be consumed by cattle and provide nutritive value during drought-induced feed shortages, while at the same time reducing herbicide use. Kochia (Bassia scoparia) […] Read more


Shipping records are key to protecting food safety and meeting animal care standards.

Preparing to ship cattle safely during the fall run

Using the VBP+ Shipping Record to maintain food safety, animal care and public trust

The fall run is not just a busy time of year for auction marts. For cow-calf and feedlot producers, fall is a mad dash of buying and selling. At times like this, it becomes hard to remember some key points related to food safety and animal care that become relevant when shipping calves or other […] Read more

Electric fence allows producers to manage their land and cattle at the same time, says Garth Hein.

Electric fencing tips for fall and winter grazing

Industry reps share the ins and outs of using electric fence effectively and safely

Every year, winter grazing becomes more common as it is often considered more sustainable and can cut feed costs. In addition, producers may graze farmland after harvest for the same reason. However, these things can be tough to manage without electric fence, and when it comes to electric fence, producers need to know how to […] Read more