As beef producers spend time on the land this summer, they may see signs of unwelcome visitors. I’m not talking about trespassers, at least not the human kind. I’m talking about the growing population of wild pigs. Piper Whelan, our field editor, has interviewed Saskatchewan researcher Ryan Brook on the pigs’ spread and what it means for cattle producers.

Many producers are also thinking about grazing and fencing this time of year. Heather Smith-Thomas has practical electric fencing tips from producers practicing rotational grazing, and Whelan has a short piece in the News Roundup section on using risers for electric fences. Columnist Steve Kenyon shares his ideas on deciding how intensely to graze. Readers can also find information on preventing anthrax infections from Dr. Roy Lewis and tips for managing foot rot in Dr. Ron Clarke’s Vet Advice column.

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Comment: What does Kenney’s ‘Summer of Repeal’ mean for carbon offset markets?

June is not too early to be thinking about feed for the fall, especially given the dry conditions in the west and soggy fields in the east. John McKinnon goes through the feeding value of feed grains, including corn, in his nutrition column this month. And Jerry Klassen gives us his outlook on barley prices in Market Talk.

Jack Chaffe, an Ontario feedlot owner, spoke to writer Lois Harris on the risks and opportunities he sees in his industry. Chaffe sees some benefits to new technology and new marketing, but, of course, challenges remain.

Piper Whelan also has an interesting feature on carbon offset markets that may benefit feedlots and beef producers. People in Alberta’s feedlot industry have worked with environmental firms to develop protocols so they can sell carbon credits, and work is underway on a Canadian protocol to preserve grassland as well. And if you’re wondering how Alberta Premier Jason Kenney’s promise to repeal carbon tax will affect those carbon offset markets, I dive into that in my Comment.

That’s just a few of the stories we have lined up for you this month. As always, feedback is welcome. Shoot me an email at [email protected] or find me on Twitter @LtoG.