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


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

“I want to work in agriculture — that is definitely my passion — and I want to work in tandem with First Nations. It’s a topic that’s very near and dear to my heart.” – Julia Flinton, third-generation beef producer.

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


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


Dave Pratt, past owner of Ranch Management Consultants, teaches a Ranching for Profit workshop at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference in Penticton, B.C.

Ranching for Profit challenges paradigms

This business management course draws repeat customers from the ranching community

In 2014, Brett McRae was looking for mentorship as he worked to grow his ranch, located near Brandon, Man. He was picked as a mentee for the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders Mentorship Program and told his mentor what he was looking to do with his ranch and how he wanted to expand and change. His […] Read more

An acceptable implant placement location. While a common recommendation is to place the implant in the middle third of the backside of the ear, RFID and management tags are frequently in the way in this location.

Five steps to good gains on grass and grains

Know the fundamentals of growth-promoting implants to find the right fit for your cattle

There’s a reason why the practice of implanting feedlot cattle is almost ubiquitous in Canada — it works. Growth-promoting implants substantially improve cattle feed efficiency and muscle deposition. Their economic effects are hugely positive, with savings ranging from $40 to $100 per head. There is even a case for using them as a tool to […] Read more


Parasite control in the feedlot

Parasite control in the feedlot

Strategic deworming methods to maximize product efficacy and cattle productivity

If there was a tool available for Canadian cattle feeders to improve both weight gain and disease resistance, what would it be worth to implement? What if that tool was as simple as deworming cattle on arrival?  As simple as deworming is, not every feedyard opts to do it. Whether the perception is that feedlot […] Read more

A no-trespassing sign on pastureland in northwestern Saskatchewan, taken in February 2022. Note the snowmobile tracks and cut wire.

No trespass: High stakes

This is the second in a multi-part series. Read the first story here. It started out much like any other winter day, as Phil hauled in wood to heat his home. But then he heard the rumble of snowmobiles. He could tell they were on his land, even though it was posted with “No-Trespassing” signs. […] Read more