Back then, when Wikipedia was considered the biggest online culprit of dubious information passing itself off as credible, my classmates and I received plenty of training on how to identify trusted online sources. Our critical thinking skills were fostered, and a healthy skepticism was encouraged as we searched through documents and accounts both digital and analogue.

In a few short years, however, social media dethroned Wikipedia as the greatest source of online misinformation, and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that this coincided with the public’s digital literacy largely going out the window.

The rampant misinformation recently spread via social media regarding the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s amendments to its traceability regulations is a perfect example of how bad this has become.

In early January, posts claiming that the amendments were already in effect, “snuck” in by CFIA as part of “total government control” over the beef industry, went viral, along with inaccurate claims as to what the amendments entailed. The resulting outrage led to national and provincial beef organizations releasing statements on the issue, informing producers that CFIA had not yet published these regulations, which had been developed in consultation with industry officials.

In fact, the regulations were not finalized and were not expected to be published until the spring. CFIA has since announced that publication is on hold, allowing for more time to consider producers’ concerns about the changes.

What alarmed me about this situation was how easily the false claims could be dispelled if you took the time to do a little digging on the issue, whether it be through CFIA releases, articles from credible media organizations, or a call to your industry representatives or elected officials to ask questions and express your concerns.

Furthermore, given that these regulations were drafted in 2023 and followed by a standard comment period, I can’t help but wonder about the true motives of those who initially spread these falsehoods.

Legitimate concerns about the proposed traceability changes aside, perhaps there wouldn’t have been such an uproar had more people made an effort to learn all they could about the issue before sharing social media posts full of unsubstantiated claims written by those with little credibility on the subject.

With our current digital landscape, this outcome is not surprising.

Our attention spans are remarkably shorter; if we can’t find what we’re looking for in a 30-second video clip or a brief AI summary (which are notoriously inaccurate), we abandon our search. As a print journalist who loves thoughtful analysis and longer narrative pieces, I’m dismayed to continually hear about how no one wants to read anything longer than a couple paragraphs.

When we only pay attention to headlines and quick hits, we lose the detail and nuance of an issue — and we lose the ability to critically engage with it and contribute meaningfully to the conversation.

Online misinformation thrives when we abandon our critical thinking skills. It festers when we let our digital literacy decay, and it creates chaos when we blindly trust social media posts and don’t ask ourselves, “Who benefits from me taking this claim at face value?”

As we put together this issue of Canadian Cattlemen, featuring a look back at the BSE crisis and its dramatic impact on the Canadian beef industry, I shudder to think of the additional mayhem that could have resulted had that crisis occurred against the backdrop of today’s levels of digital misinformation.

And I worry about the future consequences that may face our industry if we continue to believe everything we read on the internet and let ourselves be taken on a rage-bait ride.

Remembering Gren Winslow

The entire Canadian Cattlemen team was saddened to learn of the passing of former editor Gren Winslow in December.

Winslow was at the helm of this magazine for 32 years, an iconic editor who was a trusted voice in the Canadian beef industry during tumultuous decades that saw great change. Under his leadership, Canadian Cattlemen became the top beef publication in the country, and I will always be grateful to have had the privilege of working with him as his last field editor.

On behalf of the Canadian Cattlemen team, our deepest condolences go out to Winslow’s loved ones and former colleagues. c

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The low afternoon sun is breaking through the opalescent clouds, casting its light across the fresh, fluffy snow blanketing the native prairie. The scene outside my window evokes the sparkly winter days of my childhood, when the beginning of this season was nothing short of wondrous, and the most arduous thing about winter was the time it took to put on your snowsuit before recess.

In moments like this, I almost (but not quite) forget the months of darkness and cold on the horizon. I feel the pull of nature to slow down and savour winter’s frosty beauty while reflecting on the past year and dreaming of the year ahead and all its shining possibilities.

The depths of a Canadian winter always struck me as an odd time to reinvent yourself with drastic New Year’s resolutions. At a time when all of nature whispers, “Slow down, celebrate and rest up for what’s to come,” the notion of “new year, new me” — or a “winter arc” or whatever they’re calling it on TikTok this week — is jarring.

Instead, winter invites gentle introspection. It’s a time for looking honestly at what’s working and what isn’t, and for thoughtfully planning and setting intentions for the months ahead.

I haven’t always seen winter this way. In the last couple of years, I’ve learned to embrace the natural rhythms of each season, but winter has been the most challenging for me. This is not surprising, as I am firmly a springtime person. I feel the most like myself in spring, lit up by new leaves, colourful blossoms and the light, hopeful energy of the world coming back to life.

Winter, on the other hand, feels constricting. The elements dictate so much of what we can do, and I often become frustrated by the lack of ease in everything from transportation to merely getting dressed to step outside.

More importantly, I struggle to slow down, and despite what our packed holiday-season calendars suggest, winter asks us to pump the brakes. Not an easy feat when our lives are so busy and demand so much from us. Most of us — especially those with cattle to feed — can’t drop everything to go into a type of hibernation, as tempting as it may sound at times.

But I’ve tried my best to slow down, and now I see the value in tuning into the season’s rhythms, even if I can only pause for a short while. For me, this can look like a cosy winter’s evening of journaling and reflection, where I review the lessons of the past year and ask myself, “What did I take from this experience? How did that shift my perspective? Where do I still get stuck, and how might I approach that differently in the future?”

This issue is filled with stories that may inspire your own reflection and intention-setting practice. Our cover story by Lee Hart explores how Plateau Cattle Company of Nanton, Alta., implemented several changes to their operation over the last few years related to calving and calf management. The myriad benefits they’ve seen in terms of overall calf performance shows that evaluating your current management practices and being open to trying new methods can have positive outcomes beyond what you originally hoped.

On the topic of being open to new ideas, associate editor Melissa Jeffers-Bezan explores a brand new way of looking at milk fever. Her article features the work of University of Alberta researcher Burim Ametaj, who has spent years studying this issue. Based on what he has discovered, Ametaj has proposed that we’ve been looking at the cause and treatment of milk fever all wrong.

And contributor Billi J. Miller concludes her Pivotal Case Studies series with a look at Murdoch v. Murdoch, a landmark Canadian case that highlighted just how damaging and unfair “the way it’s always been done” can be, eventually paving the way for major changes to how women’s contributions to agriculture are thought of and protected by law.

For some of our readers, the quiet reflection portion of winter is already past, and they’re in the early days of calving. Others have a bit longer before their calving season begins, the true start of their year.

Whatever your January looks like, I hope you are able to take some time to look back on 2025 and use those lessons to chart an intentional path forward that is aligned with the operation and life that you want to build.

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Condolences to the family and friends of Greg Paranich, who came into this world in 1958 and passed away on July 12, 2025, in Red Deer, Alta. Paranich developed a lifelong passion for horses while growing up on the farm, and was well-known in Alberta and Saskatchewan for his horsemanship. He also had a knack for imparting advice in a way that was encouraging and generous rather than condescending, perhaps learned from his childhood on the farm helping younger kids halter-break foals or get ready for 4-H.

In the ag world, Paranich was most recently known for his work as an agricultural field specialist with Alberta’s Grey Wooded Forage Association. He was also a long-time member of the Red Deer County ALUS Program partnership advisory committee and collaborated with Cows and Fish. Together, they created riparian field schools, where they discussed grazing these areas to manage invasive species and dead growth, while still protecting the streambank, nesting birds and other flora and fauna. Paranich was only too happy to chat with producers about topics such as range management, cattle and, of, course, horses. As one of his colleagues noted, he would “always arrive with a smile, a laugh and a story to share that would give you reason to consider a question in more detail or with a bit more curiosity.”

Paranich had a lot of “try.” This was apparent when he was a child on the farm and it carried him through all his life. His obituary states that he raised his children to “try and try again, with the understanding that success was more about getting back in the saddle after you’ve been bucked off; and that a trophy is nice, but a chance taken has its own unfading shine.” It was still there even as he dealt with illness in the last stage of his life. His obituary notes that “he took care to sow seeds of comfort and joy that would provide long after he was gone.” He is survived by Faye, his wife and best friend of 42 years, and their much-loved children, Colin and Harper.

Those wishing to honour Paranich’s memory are asked to donate to the Red Deer Hospice Society, at www.reddeerhospice.com.

 Condolences to Ed Williams’s loved ones

Edmund “Ed” Williams passed away peacefully at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon on the afternoon of Monday, September 8, 2025, surrounded by members of his loving family. Williams was born in Outlook, Sask., on July 24, 1952, to Edmund and Elizabeth Williams, who farmed near Macrorie, Sask. He attended school at Titchfield, Macrorie and Outlook, but spent most of his time working alongside his father, who helped him develop his strong work ethic and general agricultural know-how. In 1973, his deep love of farming inspired him to buy his own home quarter from Carl Samuelson, and he spent the following years continuing to work the land with his dad and uncle, Marty Williams, while working for the CNR in the summers. In 1979, he met Alorie (née Bowles), whom he married in a beautiful outdoor ceremony in his parents’ yard on July 26, 1980, after which he welcomed her two sons, Len and Corey, as his stepsons.

On January 9, 1984, Williams became the proud father of Aaron, who was born at the Lucky Lake hospital. Williams became increasingly interested in raising purebred Charolais cattle during those years, and was on the board of directors for the Saskatchewan Charolais Association and was a parent advisor for the Canadian Charolais Youth Association. Aaron began working closely alongside his father at a young age. Williams instilled in him a great love of farming, and he shared with his son his vast knowledge of the profession.

Williams became a proud grandfather multiple times between 2010 and 2015, and he loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Williams was consistently active in his community; in addition to the many hours he devoted to the Charolais association and youth association, for example, he served as a councillor in the Rural Municipality of Coteau and on the Macrorie Co-op board.

In 2012, Williams surprised his family by deciding to spend the winter in Yuma, Arizona, where he returned yearly to pursue his newly found passion for driving his Jeep through the challenging terrain of the rocky Arizona desert. He also very much enjoyed organizing curling bonspiels, having introduced the northern sport to the desert community. At the time of his passing, he was eagerly looking forward to returning to the desert this fall to join his “Jeepin’” friends for their winter adventures.

Williams was known to all as a warm, generous, community-minded person. He particularly enjoyed visiting family, friends and neighbours. He is much loved as a husband, father/stepfather and grandfather and he will be sorely missed. As a farmer, he was creative, hard-working and well-organized, and he brought these skills to everything he did, whether he was working with his family at his side, raising purebred cattle, being involved with the Charolais association or organizing breakfasts and curling bonspiels at the trailer park in Arizona.

Williams is survived by his wife, Alorie; his son, Aaron (Aynsley); his stepsons, Len (Sue) and Corey (Angela); his grandchildren, Sawyer, Sterling, Sahen, Sloan, Reza, Ali, Vanya, Zefyre and Cassian; as well as his sister, Audrey; and his brother, Bruce (Karen); and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, Eddie and Betty Williams; his uncle, Marty Williams; his aunt, Dorothy Evoy (Arthur); and his brother-in-law, Glen Wing.

Donations can be made to the Macrorie Curling Club, Box 204, Macrorie, Sask., S0L 2E0, or via e-transfer to macroriecurlingclub@gmail.com, or to the Village of Macrorie for the community hall.

 New hire at Canadian Speckle Park Association

Raised in the beef and dairy industries, Herrema has been involved in showing and supporting breed organizations for nearly 20 years. She is also the owner of a growing livestock photography business, working with both individual breeders and national shows across Canada and the U.S. Herrema is passionate about supporting breeders and looks forward to helping promote Speckle Park cattle with professionalism, creativity and enthusiasm.

 4-H Canada announces scholarship recipients

4-H Canada is excited to announce the recipients of the John Deere Canada 4-H Scholarship.

This scholarship supports 4-H members as they pursue post-secondary goals, helping them gain the skills and experience to make a lasting effect in their communities.

The 2025 recipients include:

• Allison Morse, Quebec

• Brooklyn Piasta, Manitoba

• Christine Adams, New Brunswick

• Gabrielle Naddy, Prince Edward Island

• Hannah King, Nova Scotia

• Jackson Corner, Ontario

• Zoe Tjepkema, Ontario

• Kate Hadwin, Alberta

• Kierra Hawreluik, Saskatchewan

• Makenna Sumner, Manitoba

• Max Burris, Alberta

• Mercedes Trefenanko, Alberta

• Sophie Jolevet, British Columbia

Congratulations from Canadian Cattlemen to all of this year’s winners!

Cowboy Medicine

This spring I had the chance to sit down with Dr. Paul Christianson at the recent Alberta Beef Industry Conference and have a visit with him about his book, Cowboy Medicine. In it we learn about his 50 years of rich history as a large animal veterinarian in central B.C. and the stories only he can tell. Anybody in the cow business will laugh along with Christianson as they read some of his stories, knowing full well these things could have happened on their operation. This book is a great read because it reminds us that truth can be much stranger than fiction. I highly recommend reading this book this winter in front of crackling fire with a big cup of coffee, it will be that much better. Check it out on Amazon or Café Books, www.cafebooks.ca, which is on main street in Canmore, Alta.

Brian Good Memorial Scholarship

The Canadian Angus Association reminds readers not to miss out on applying for the Brian Good Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship offers $3,000 for first place and $2,000 for second place. For more information go to www.cdnangus.ca/foundation/scholarships-bursaries-and-awards.

Semex tour

Back in September a group of representatives from Semex Brasil had the opportunity to tour and check out Canada’s beef industry. Stops included the Semex head office in Guelph, Ont., and many seedstock producers and feedlots across Canada. Part of this tour included a day of learning in which Kajal Latimer, Canadian Angus Association’s director of science and technology, brought insights into Canadian Angus, genomic research, genetic evaluation and commercial herd management. Craig Scott, general manager of the Canadian Charolais Association, shared the history of Charolais, the development of herds in the country and other matters of utmost importance.

It was a day full of knowledge about genetics, herds and international best practices!

 Animal Health Canada appoints executive director

Animal Health Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Cassidy Klima as its new executive director. Klima brings more than 15 years of leadership experience in livestock health, food safety and One Health innovation to this national role.

Klima has built her career at the intersection of research, industry and policy, most recently serving as assistant professor at Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension and previously as technical director of the Beef Cattle Research Council under the Canadian Cattle Association. She has worked extensively with governments, producers and regulatory agencies to address emerging threats, strengthen biosecurity and support science-based trade policy.

She holds a PhD in veterinary microbiology from the University of Saskatchewan, a master’s of science in microbiology and a bachelor’s of science in biological sciences from the University of Lethbridge.

“Animal Health Canada plays a critical role in uniting industry and government to protect animal health and food security,” says Klima. “I am honoured to join Animal Health Canada and look forward to building trust, advancing national priorities and positioning the organization as a leader in One Health collaboration.”

“Dr. Cassidy Klima’s leadership, vision and values align with Animal Health Canada’s mission to safeguard animal health and support Canada’s agricultural resilience,” says Dr. Leigh Rosengren, Animal Health Canada industry co-chair. “Her proven track record of collaboration and innovation makes her the right choice to guide Animal Health Canada into the future.”

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Between now and then, and with his full support, the association will conduct a national search for its next general manager.

“Bruce’s dedication as a staff person since 2007, and prior to that as a director, has strengthened our registry systems, enhanced genetic services and helped build strong relationships across Canada and the throughout the global beef industry,” said association president Randy Noble.

“The board wishes to express its deepest gratitude to Bruce for his tireless efforts and continued commitment to the CSA during this transition period.”

Canadian Simmental Association Convention a success

The 2025 Canadian Simmental Association National Convention took place July 24-27 at Weyburn, Sask., hosted by the Saskatchewan Simmental Association.

During its annual general meeting, the association showed its appreciation to retiring director Shane Williams for his commitment and dedication to the breed and board of directors.

Newly elected to the board of directors was Blair Williamson of Lambton Shores, Ont. Randy Noble of Lloydminster, Sask., was elected as president, Barclay Smith of Cherhill, Alta., was elected first vice-president and Ben Farrant of Lousana, Alta., was elected second vice-president. Continuing directors are Jennie Mutch, Vernon, P.E.I.; Kyle Lewis, Spruce Grove, Alta.; Blair McIntosh, Maymont, Sask.; Neil Carson, Rossburn, Man.; Scott Matthews, Cookshire-Eaton, Que.; and Leanna Mitchell, Barriere, B.C.

A highlight of the event was the Friends of Canadian Simmental Foundation Auction, which was a tremendous success, raising $130,935 to support the foundation’s programming. The feature lot was a bred heifer donated by Ashworth Farm and Ranch Ltd. of Oungre, Sask., which raised $52,740.

The foundation also presented the Young Canadian Simmental Association with a $15,000 donation from the auction proceeds for ongoing youth activities.

Cattle feeders donate to the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation

The Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation would like to thank the Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association for an incredible donation of $232,270 to the Bringing Hearts Home campaign, helping to bring cardiac care closer to home.

Canadian Junior Limousin Association show results

The Canadian Junior Limousin Association’s annual show, Limousin Impact 2025, was held in August in Swift Current, Sask. The confirmation show was judged by Aaron Birch and Joe Barnett.

• Grand Champion Female: RPY Paynes Lilah 9L with calf EMF/HR Naomi 503N at side, exhibited by Madisyn Robertson, Neepawa, Man.

• Reserve Champion Female: GHR Polled Kalypso with calf GHR Nascar at side, exhibited by Cole Bodell, Sherwood Park, Alta.

• Champion Overall Showmanship: Haley Debenham, Kennedy, Sask.

• Reserve Champion Overall Showmanship: Emily Lawrence, Durham, Ont.

• First – Junior Aggregate: Rachel Black, Goderich, Ont.

• Second – Junior Aggregate: Emily Lawrence, Durham, Ont.

• First – Intermediate Aggregate: Lillian Seward, Darlingford, Man.

• Second – Intermediate Aggregate: Haley Debenham, Kennedy, Sask.

• First – Senior Aggregate: Laura Seward, Darlingford, Man.

• Second – Senior Aggregate: Madisyn Robertson, Neepawa, Man.

2025 Canadian Junior Limousin Herd Building Incentive winners announced

The Canadian Junior Limousin Association is excited to announce the winners of the second CJLA Herd Building Incentive Program. The goal of the program is to provide juniors with funds to purchase Limousin animals and genetics. The program is open to all junior members and recent alumni up to the age of 25. Applicants were asked to create a video explaining their experience with the Limousin breed in terms of the past, present and future.

• First Place Alumni: Kira Axley, Czar, Alta.

• Second Place Alumni: Nolan McLarty, West Lorne, Ont.

• First Place Senior: Emma Qually, Rose Valley, Sask.

• First Place Intermediate: Wyatt Gibbons, Roblin, Ont.

• First Place Peewee: Addison Lawrence, Durham, Ont.

Canadian Junior Limousin Association board of directors

The Canadian Junior Limousin Association is excited to announce its 2025-26 board of directors. The board is made up of Jocelyn Kennedy, Leah Post, Laura Seward, Emma Qually, Carson Zwambag, Shannon Gibson, Carly Arnold, Megan Conners and Cedar Hayne.

The association would like to say thank you to outgoing board member Taylor Annett for her years of service and dedication on our board.

Canadian Limousin Association board of directors

The Canadian Limousin Association has elected its 2025-26 board of directors. The new board includes president Chad Homer, Crysler, Ont.; vice-president Dave Lawrence, Durham, Ont.; treasurer Michael Machan, Renfrew, Ont.; past-president Ashton Hewson, Unity, Sask.; Wyatt Dyck, Swift Current, Sask.; Terry Hepper, Zehr, Sask.; Travis Hunter, Kenton, Man.; and Tyler Stewart, Stettler, Alta.

2025 Canadian Junior Angus Stockman of the Year

Austin Potts of Bonshaw, P.E.I., is a fourth-generation Angus enthusiast whose passion for the breed runs deep on both sides of his family. His Angus journey began in 2015 when his grandparents, Temple and Gail Stewart, gifted him his first purebred heifer. Today, Potts plays an active role in both his family’s commercial operation, Argyle Hill Cattle Company, and in expanding the Angus influence within their herd.

A dedicated 4-H member since age nine, Potts has shown cattle at events across the Maritimes and nationally, including the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and the P.E.I. Easter Beef Show. He’s earned recognition as P.E.I.’s Top 4-H Beef Member in 2023 and 2024 and placed in the top five at the EastGen Atlantic Showcase three years running.

Potts recently graduated from Bluefield High School and will attend Dalhousie University this fall, pursuing a degree in farm business management.

2025 Outstanding Young Angus Breeder

Raised on his family’s Redrich Farms in Forestburg, Alta., Ty Dietrich was never just a bystander in the family seedstock operation. As a young boy, he eagerly took part in selecting the herd’s first purebred Red Angus females alongside his parents, Bill and Tracy. Alongside his siblings, he has been instrumental in shaping the herd’s genetics and brand.

Dietrich’s leadership and influence within the operation have helped Redrich Farms reach new heights. Since launching their own independent annual bull and female sales, the farm has seen consistent growth in volume, average and gross each year. Dietrich’s keen eye for cattle, tireless work ethic and forward-thinking approach have been central to this success.

Beyond the farm gate, Dietrich pursued training in marketing, graphic design and photography after high school. He worked under one of Canada’s leading livestock photographers before purchasing the business in his early 20s, now operating as AgPlus Design & Photography.

Canadian Angus Association finds new home in Airdrie

The Canadian Angus Association has officially secured a new permanent home for Angus Central in Airdrie, Alta.

The new Airdrie property will maintain approximately the same amount of functional office space as the current Angus Central facility, while minimizing unused square footage. The building is designed to support the everyday needs of association staff and operations without compromising service to members.

The new Angus Central will continue to showcase significant historical artifacts and maintain a focus on documenting and celebrating the legacy of the Angus breed in Canada.

The association will take possession of the new property in December 2025, with a planned move and full operational transition set for spring 2026. More information will be shared with members as the transition progresses.

Canadian Speckle Park Association board of directors

The Canadian Speckle Park Association held its annual general meeting in Nova Scotia this summer. The 2025-26 board of directors includes president Peter Watson, Branchton, Ont.; vice-president Craig Brown, Wetaskiwin, Alta.; member-at-large Ashley Anderson, Didsbury, Alta.; finance chair Carla Ducherer, Neilburg, Sask.; Dan Brundige, Bonnyville, Alta.; Makenzie Olson, Tisdale, Sask.; and Travis Beuishuizen, Ripley, Ont.

Manitoba Youth Beef Round-Up results

The 18th-annual Manitoba Youth Beef Round-Up was held in August in Neepawa, Man., with a record number of enthusiastic junior cattle producers and the largest number of cattle exhibited to date. More than 109 youth between the ages of six and 25 gathered for an educational and fun weekend.

The three-day event included workshops on judging, showmanship, grooming, marketing, photography and leadership. In addition to confirmation and showmanship, exhibitors competed in team grooming, team judging, a cooking competition and an ag challenge consisting of different beef production-related skills.

The Supreme Champion Female was MRK Brave 311L, a Simmental two-year-old exhibited by Bexley McIntosh of Eriksdale, Man.

RDAR partners with beef associations to deliver advances in heifer selection

RDAR, a leader in results-driven agricultural research in Canada, has announced an investment of $741,960 in Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership funding to expand a project for developing genomic tools for use by cattle producers. The Canadian Angus Association leads this project in collaboration with the Canadian Hereford Association and the Canadian Charolais Association.

The initial project recruited 21 commercial Angus and Hereford producers (representing 10,000 head of cattle) as part of a four-year initiative to support commercial beef producers in making informed decisions about replacement heifers. These cattle were genotyped and followed across the beef production chain, linking performance at cow-calf operations, feedlots and packing plants with the Canadian Angus Association’s genomic evaluations for highly accurate genomic predictions for growth traits, carcass quality traits and female reproduction traits.

Thanks to the program’s early success and high demand, the project is now expanding to include the Canadian Charolais Association and the hiring of staff dedicated to assisting producers in adopting these new tools.

The post Purely Purebred: Outstanding Young Angus Breeder, Junior Limousin Herd Building Incentive winners and more appeared first on Canadian Cattlemen.

According to Gerard Roney, founder and managing director of Advantage Feeders in Australia, controlled creep feeding is a good way to develop a calf’s rumen, allowing for better uptake of energy and protein at an earlier age.

“We have a lot of control on how (the rumen) operates, and this is the most important thing we’ve got on our livestock farms,” Roney explained at the 2025 Ag in Motion farm show near Langham, Sask., as part of a learning session presented by Huber Ag Equipment.

Roney discussed how producers can help control the length of the papillae on the rumen wall, which pulls volatile fatty acids out of the rumen to be used as energy. Feeding starch lengthens the papillae, and the longer the papillae, the more energy the rumen can extract.

“It’s helpful to start at the beginning of the calf’s life,” said Roney, sharing an image of the undeveloped rumen wall of a six-week-old calf, which was smooth and without long papillae.

He compared this to the developed rumen wall of a calf of the same age, which had a greater surface area to allow for more energy uptake.

“The difference is this rumen had grain from the (start), so it’s really showing us we can get that rumen developed where they can eat pasture and digest it really quickly.”

While unrestricted creep feeding can lead to unnecessary feed expenses, he said, the idea behind controlled creep feeding is to allow for rumen development as early as possible before moderating for better feed conversion.

“What controlled creep feeding is, is providing that feed ad lib until that rumen starts to get going roughly that 100 days of age, so we feed them as much as we can early on,” said Roney.

“Once that intake starts going more than two pounds a day, for instance, we start using the feeding system to restrict intake.”

At this point in the calf’s life, pastures are usually providing more of the energy and protein they require.

“We’re just giving them a small supplementation, keeping that papillae long and getting really good growth rates.”

As an example, Roney compared an unrestricted creep feeding situation — where calves consumed 370 kilograms of creep feed per head prior to weaning — to a controlled creep feeding situation that reduced intake to about 120 kg per head.

“If feed is $0.40 per kg, it’s a $100 per calf saving,” he said.

“The younger we feed animals, the higher the feed conversion, so that’s really the best time to supplement an animal.”

Getting the most from pastures

Controlled creep feeding can also be used as a method for maximizing your grazing land, Roney told the audience, in addition to supplementing to maintain growth rates.

He explained how feeding small amounts of feed throughout the day impacts the pH levels in the rumen — and in turn production — compared to feeding a large amount once a day.

“The component of the rumen that can really make a difference for our costs side of things is getting the rumen fluid pH to remain constant,” he said.

If the pH level in the rumen is between six and seven, the rumen microbes responsible for digesting forage are more efficient.

“But if the rumen becomes more acidic and the pH is dropping, all of a sudden we’re running into acidosis issues,” said Roney.

This can happen when animals are fed too much at once, as “those microbe populations explode, they start digesting more of the feed, creating more volatile fatty acids. So their production goes up a lot, and those acids drop that rumen pH into an area that’s really problematic,” he said.

When this happens, the animal will feel unwell and won’t consume much feed for a while, meaning they’re not getting as much nutrition as they could out of their grazing source.

“It takes about anywhere between half a day and a day to for that rumen pH to rise again. Our microbes really aren’t performing until that rises, so that’s a lost opportunity,” said Roney.

The idea, then, is to supplement animals in small amounts throughout the day so they get the nutrients they need without negatively impacting rumen pH levels.

Roney has been involved with several feed trials comparing little-and-often feeding to once-a-day feeding and has found that by creep feeding 0.5 per cent of the feeder calf’s body weight as pasture supplementation, “we’re achieving really good conversions of three to one of our feed, and a lot of that is because we get better pasture digestion,” he said.

“We can feed 45 per cent less feed and get the same growth results, just through treating the microbe problem.”

Managing excess protein

A third component of controlled creep feeding — using it to manage excess protein in pastures — is one that Roney has seen great value in using.

“I think it probably is the one of the biggest applications to increase our profits, and it’s the least commonly one done,” he noted.

While production requirements for protein are generally about 14 to 16 per cent, high-performing pastures can have up to 30 per cent protein content.

“What it’s really doing is causing the liver to work overtime with that pasture imbalance, so it can really restrict our growth rate opportunity by 20 per cent,” said Roney.

“When you have that high-protein pasture coming into the rumen, microbes are fermenting it, and through that fermentation process creates a lot of ammonia,” he continued. “The liver has to work overtime to convert that ammonia into urea, and it gets urinated out, so that whole process is very energy intensive.”

Extra ammonia can be managed by creep feeding small amounts of grain, he explained.

“That grain is converted into volatile fatty acids that combines with that ammonia, and that’s what grows microbes…. Those microbes can just flush out of the rumen naturally into the next stomach and get metabolized. So … we’re not having those production losses from the excess ammonia.”

To illustrate this concept in action, Roney referenced a feed trial conducted in New Zealand, with two groups of 60 steers weighing between 800 and 900 pounds on pasture. The control group steers were fed about four lb. of hay per head each day in addition to grazing pasture. The second group received the same amount of hay on pasture and was also fed 2.2 lb. of barley per head each day.

On average, the control group steers consumed nine kg of forage per head per day and gained one kg per day — a feed conversion ratio of 11 to one.

Steers in the second group, however, only consumed about six kg of forage per head per day but gained 1.5 kg per day for a six-to-one feed conversion ratio.

“Despite them eating a lot less than the control group overall, they grew 50 per cent faster at 1.5 kg a day. So that little bit of supplementation didn’t just make them grow faster, it actually reduced pasture intake,” said Roney.

“We’re getting increased growth rates, pasture is going further (and we are) increasing our stock numbers because we can carry more on limited pasture.”

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Born on June 22, 1946, to James and Mary Johnston, he is survived by his brother David (Sue) Johnston and family, as well as his stepchildren Shane and Richelle and their families. He was predeceased by his parents and sister, Dorothy.

Many of you will know Johnston from the Rancher’s Choice Bull Sale held along with Bill Dillabaugh, Kim Robertson and David Johnston in Medicine Hat, Alta., every spring for many years. Many from the Angus fraternity (myself included) ended up at the sale and mixer the night before partaking of much Angus fellowship. Both Dennis and David had a keen eye for cattle, and many of the great Angus cattle came from their ranch. I did own some of their cows at our place, and they did have a little scrap in them, but that’s what made them good mothers. There were no coyotes getting any of their calves.

A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Donations in Johnston’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.

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The conference included a breeder tour to Dwayann Simmentals, providing attendees with valuable insights into genetics and herd management. Participants also had the unique opportunity to tour the University of Guelph’s on-campus abattoir and observe a meat tenderness demonstration.

A standout moment of the conference was the visit to the Elora Beef Research Station. This state-of-the-art facility left a lasting impression on attendees, offering an in-depth look at cutting-edge research and innovation within the Canadian beef sector.

The Young Canadian Simmental Association thanks all attendees, speakers and sponsors who helped make the event a memorable and impactful experience.

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Anderson was known for his uncanny ability to identify business opportunities, creating companies and building value across many industries including concrete, construction equipment rentals and sales, oil and gas exploration, propane services, computers, aviation, auto parts supply and cattle ranching.

He was also known and appreciated for his largess with charitable giving. Anderson’s love of cattle ranching ultimately resulted in the donation by him and his daughter, Wynne, of their 19,000-acre Angus-cross cow-calf operation to the faculty of veterinary medicine to create W.A. Ranches at the University of Calgary to support research, teaching and youth education, along with their previous endowment of the Anderson Chisholm chair in animal care and welfare. His love of ranching and cars led to the creation and support of online programming at Olds College, allowing young men and women to continue working on their family farms while earning an undergraduate degree. Support for Olds College also included student scholarships and the donation of his collection of 104 classic cars, many of which he had restored himself, which were auctioned to support the college’s legacy programs. Anderson donated land from the family’s original ranch to create Anderson Park at Gull Lake, Alta., and provide free lake access for families.

Anderson will be missed by many including his children and their spouses, John and Beth Anderson, Wynne and Bob Chisholm, Judy Anderson and Jeff Anderson; his grandchildren, Leah Anderson (Jeff) Epperle, Erica Anderson and Jamie Chisholm (Kelsey); his sister, Jean Toole and her children — Larry (Betti-Rae), Debbie (Burk), Nancy (Dan) and Glen (Diane); his niece Eileen (Brian) Savitsky and nephew George Charles Luck; and his good friends Lorne and Barb Armstrong.

Anderson was predeceased by his parents Charles and Jennie (nee Corbett) Anderson, his sister, Audrey Luck, her husband, George and their son Michael Luck, his brother-in-law, Bill Toole, his first wife, Lila, who was the mother of his children, and his last wife, Wendy.

Anderson directed that no public funeral be held. His ashes will be spread, privately by family, on the land that he loved. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Anderson’s honor to the Calgary Humane Society or the Cochrane and Area Humane Society.

The post Condolences to Jack Anderson’s loved ones on his passing appeared first on Canadian Cattlemen.

The 2025 Canadian Champion Auctioneer was Casey Lawes from Provost Livestock of Provost, Alta. The Reserve Champion was Tyler Slawinski from Gladstone Auction of Gladstone, Man.

Rob Bergevin from Foothills Auctioneers Inc. of Stavely, Alta., was the first runnerup, Kirk Goldsmith from VJV Marketing Group of Ponoka, Alta., was the second runner-up and John Baier from Heartland Livestock Services of Swift Current, Sask., was the third runner-up.

There were two inductees to the LMAC Memorial Honour Roll. The first was Jim Blackshaw of Virden, Man., the first non-auctioneer, market owner or order buyer to be inducted. Blackshaw was an employee of the Virden Auction Market and Heartland Livestock for more than 40 years. His work ethic, dependability and customer service set standards for auction market employees.

The second inductee was Larry Schweitzer from Hamiota Feedlot Ltd. at Chumah, Man. Schweitzer was a leader in the livestock industry, serving as president of the Manitoba Cattle Producers Association, as it was then known, and the National Cattle Feeder’s Association. He sat on many committees and boards and was the driving force behind the construction of the Hamiota Feedlot.

The post Livestock Markets Association of Canada National Convention and Auctioneering Championship appeared first on Canadian Cattlemen.

According to Gerard Roney, founder and managing director of Advantage Feeders in Australia, controlled creep feeding is a good way to develop a calf’s rumen, allowing for better uptake of energy and protein at an earlier age.

“We have a lot of control on how (the rumen) operates, and this is the most important thing we’ve got on our livestock farms,” Roney said at the Ag in Motion 2025 farm show near Langham, Sask., as part of a learning session presented by Huber Ag Equipment.

Follow all of our Ag in Motion coverage at the Western Producer.

Roney discussed how producers can help control the length of the papillae on the rumen wall, which pulls volatile fatty acids out of the rumen to be used as energy. Feeding starch lengthens the papillae, and the longer the papillae, the more energy the rumen can extract.

“It’s helpful to start at the beginning of the calf’s life,” said Roney, sharing an image of the undeveloped rumen wall of a six-week-old calf, which was smooth and without long papillae.

“All our calves are born with the sterile environment, so they don’t have any microbes in their gut to start with.”

He compared this to an image of the developed rumen wall of a calf of the same age, which had a greater surface area to allow for more energy uptake.

“The difference is this rumen had grain from the (start), so it’s really showing us we can get that rumen developed where they can eat pasture and digest it really quickly.”

While unrestricted creep feeding can lead to unnecessary feed expenses, he said, the idea behind controlled creep feeding is to allow for rumen development as early as possible before moderating for better feed conversion.

“What controlled creep feeding is, is providing that feed ad lib until that rumen starts to get going roughly that 100 days of age, so we feed them as much as we can early on,” said Roney.

“Once that intake starts going more than two pounds a day, for instance, we start using the feeding system to restrict intake.”

At this point in the calf’s life, pastures are usually providing more of the energy and protein they require.

“We’re just giving them a small supplementation, keeping that papillae long and getting really good growth rates.”

As an example, Roney compared an unrestricted creep feeding situation — where calves consumed 370 kilograms of creep feed per head prior to weaning — to a controlled creep feeding situation that reduced intake to about 120 kg per head.

“If feed is $0.40 per kg, it’s a $100 per calf saving,” he said.

“The younger we feed animals, the higher the feed conversion, so that’s really the best time to supplement an animal.”

Watch for more livestock-related coverage from Ag in Motion 2025 in Glacier FarmMedia publications in the coming weeks.

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