
Features

Ontario feedlots counting on marketing, genetics and young farmers
Ontario’s feedlot sector is currently facing a number of threats, but some positive signals from a younger generation and producer-led marketing initiatives hold the promise of a more robust future. “A lack of slaughter capacity is limiting growth,” said Jack Chaffe. “We’re maxed out with so many new barns built and so many cattle on […] Read more

Preventing anthrax in cattle
In dry years, livestock graze closer to the ground and may come in contact with spores
With the fall 2018 anthrax outbreak in northern B.C., now is an ideal time to review prevention strategies. In 2006 we learned lots about the disease and how to control it with the big outbreak in Western Canada. Cattle are very susceptible, along with a long list of other species including bison and horses. It […] Read more

Carbon offset projects may provide financial opportunities
There are two types of carbon market structures
Opportunities are emerging for beef producers to benefit from carbon dioxide emission offset markets at both the cow-calf and feeder levels. Agricultural emission offset projects are attractive to companies required to purchase emission offsets and those voluntarily making a positive environmental impact. The added benefits of these projects, a result of sustainable production practices, are […] Read more

Restoring depleted soils with cattle
Adding grazing back into the equation increases soil organic matter, doubles forage production
Michael Thiele’s mission today is to acquaint more farmers and ranchers with a holistic view of agriculture. Thiele grew up on a farm west of Dauphin, Man., just north of Riding Mountain National Park. His father had a small grain farm and a few cows. “We were busy trying to farm and make a living […] Read more

Invasive wild pigs a growing threat to agriculture
The rapid spread of wild pig populations across Canada could have serious implications for agriculture. Ryan Brook, associate professor at the University of Saskatchewan’s Indigenous Land Management Institute and Department of Animal and Poultry Science, warns that the expansion of this invasive species can lead to destructive consequences for livestock and crop production, as well […] Read more

Water is our most important nutrient
From the Ground Up with Steve Kenyon
Is it just me or has anyone else noticed the increased flooding around the globe? Am I the only one who notices the increasing number of droughts? My local area, according to government data, has had seven droughts in the last 11 years. We also had people kayaking in the grocery store parking lot a […] Read more

Management key when evaluating forage production
What should you consider when evaluating the performance of grazing systems and forage production? According to Sean McGrath, management is the factor least often measured in the forage industry, but doing so can keep you accountable for your management decisions and positively impact performance. McGrath, who ranches with his family at Vermilion, Alta., discussed this […] Read more

Seeding tips for perennial forages
Managing plant residue from the previous year is important
Traditional annuals and cocktail cover crop mixtures can make great forage for cattle on a temporary basis, but over the long haul a good stand of perennial pasture may be the best choice, according to Lorne Klein, range management extension specialist, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture at Weyburn. As a resource for producers who want to […] Read more

Tapping into animal behaviour while processing calves
Cattle handlers must be willing to learn from experience and the knowledge of others
With calving season coming to a close for many producers, it is time to plan an efficient and safe branding and processing day for the calves. It is important that cows and calves are handled calmly and with as little stress as possible to reduce negative impacts on their health and productivity, plus make the […] Read more

Negotiating a workable pasture rental agreement
A variety of factors can make pasture rental rates difficult to calculate
There are many considerations when renting or leasing pasture for cattle. What is the fair and proper way to decide on a payment method? Should there be other considerations such as a drought clause included in case of a dry year? What about fencing and insurance costs? Who should be responsible for the care and […] Read more