When establishing a new forage stand that will ideally be productive for five or 10 years, producers want to set themselves up for a good outcome. Using high-quality perennial or annual forage seed that is certified — or tested for purity, germination and viability — is a good place to start. “There is a certain […] Read more
Benefits to farmers of testing forage seed
The benefits of testing forage seed can be long-lasting
Focus on innovation puts Browarny family at leading edge of livestock photography
Nothing catches a beef producer’s attention like a compelling image of the near-perfect bull or female
Perhaps livestock photography is not the first occupation people think of in the beef sector. However, professional images create an opportunity to build relationships, add value and promote livestock on the farm level and far beyond. The Browarny name is synonymous with livestock photography. For decades, Walt Browarny, Allan’s father, was well known for his […] Read more
Truth or bear: Reducing grizzly confrontations on the ranch
As grizzly bear numbers stabilize and perhaps increase, what can ranchers in Alberta and B.C. do to stay safe?
Cattle producers are no strangers to working through conflict and managing difficult relationships but imagine if your adversary is a 350-pound grizzly bear that has decided to help itself to one of your cows. For beef producers living and ranching in bear country, managing carnivore conflicts is a reality and can evoke a lot of […] Read more
Cow patty critters: Understanding dung insects in your pasture
A comprehensive new guidebook provides insight into a valuable ecosystem
Cow patty critters is a guidebook for farmers and ranchers to understand cattle dung insects and their benefits.
Taking care of business and children: Accessing child care for ranch families
Regular daycare is not always feasible for producers, but these parents have found options that work for them
Most agree that growing up on a farm or ranch contributes to a wonderful childhood. The practical life lessons that children gain from being raised around livestock can provide a sense of responsibility, respect for risk, a solid work ethic, and an appreciation for where food comes from and the circle of life. However, the […] Read more
Embryo evolution: Transplant technology fuels a career for Roger Davis
Dr. Roger Davis reflects on what he’s learned after decades as a leader in the embryo transfer and export business
Canadian beef cattle genetics have improved over decades as trends, production methods and market access channels evolve. Dr. Roger Davis, one of the founders of Davis-Rairdan Embryo Transplants, an elite embryo export business, is synonymous with the advancement and movement of beef cattle genetics. Throughout Davis’s notable career, he has been actively involved in spearheading […] Read more
Don Campbell on lifelong learning and personal growth
This long-time rancher and educator reflects on how holistic management has helped him make better decisions
Meadow Lake rancher Don Campbell has long been a holistic management advocate and a catalyst for change. Campbell and his wife Bev are household names within the global holistic management community, but Campbell also garnered a mainstream audience of beef and forage producers as a long-time contributor to Canadian Cattlemen. Campbell’s career as a rancher and […] Read more
Mentorship, leadership and inclusivity go hand-in-hand
Passion for both agriculture and working with Indigenous communities has fuelled Julia Flinton’s career
For Julia Flinton of Williams Lake, B.C., agriculture is part of her heritage and her daily life. Flinton has accomplished a lot, including obtaining an ag business degree while on a hockey scholarship at the University of Saskatchewan, followed by spending several years as a firefighter. Today, Flinton works as a food systems program manager […] Read more
Risky Business — Feeder simulation program teaches youth ups and downs of the cattle market
During the simulation, participants ‘bought’ feeders, figured out the feeding costs and logistics and sold them into the spring grasser market
Farm simulator games are popular but recently, young members of the Nomads 4-H Club near Kyle, Sask., had the opportunity to try a realistic cattle version when they joined a simulated feeder pilot project. Buying and selling feeder calves on a large scale can be a challenge, with many factors affecting profit. To address the […] Read more
Talking and teamwork ease farm transition
Building a solid foundation helped one family keep their footing when the unexpected happened
Shifting a farm or ranch from one generation to the next is a popular topic at farm events, in the local coffee shop and even in country music ballads. While there are many ideas on how to work toward succession, it takes a willing attitude, some give and take, and a lot of communication. Have […] Read more
Canadian Cattlemen Presents: Depth of Field
