tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42055842440272640792011-04-21T17:17:38.622-05:00Welcome to the Online Edition of Cattle Country!Karennoreply@blogger.comBlogger1361100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-69722281543587282792009-03-13T05:00:00.003-05:002009-04-01T10:31:47.777-05:00

by Karen EmilsonFlooded-out Interlake and Westlake cow-calf producers were the recipients of good news last week when it was announced that a per head payment is now available for producers in need under the AgriRecovery program.Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister, Gerry Ritz made the announcement along with Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Inidiatives Minister, Rosann Wowchuk on March, 5 in

Karennoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-41263464706238609532009-03-13T04:55:00.000-05:002009-03-25T16:29:01.866-05:00

by Karen EmilsonIf we can learn anything from this issue’s front page announcement, it is that good planning and persistence pays off.Every month the MCPA holds a Board Meeting where all the Directors are brought together to discuss the issues of the day, bring forward concerns from their areas and plan a course of action. Board meetings are extremely thought-provoking and informative if you have

Karennoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-72943925459791654742009-03-13T04:45:00.000-05:002009-03-25T16:44:30.806-05:00

by Joe BouchardLast month I promised that I would write a shorter column but since there is so much going on that you need to know, Karen wouldn’t let me - so this is her fault.So, it’s time for a cup of coffee and our monthly chat.First, I’d like to talk about the headlines.DISASTER AIDNo program is perfect but the newest announcement for AgriRecovery payments and tax deferrals on income will go

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-73949619621807369712009-03-13T04:35:00.000-05:002009-03-25T16:49:10.605-05:00

by Ray ArmbrusterI am writing this to update producers about the TB situation here in Manitoba, but this is also a message to government.Producers in and around the Riding Mountain Eradication Area (RMEA) call me, angry and frustrated that after all this time they are still being required to test their cattle. From their perspective, they have been doing so continually, with no end in sight, for

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-61744722442667338962009-03-13T04:34:00.000-05:002009-04-01T10:14:46.465-05:00

by Karen EmilsonKeystone Processors is up and running, and while their facility isn’t fully operational, the company seems to be off to a solid start.Company President and General Manager, Kelly Penner, recently toured MCPA Directors through the facility which is housed in the former Maple Leaf pork plant on Marion St., in Winnipeg.The facility was undergoing extensive renovations at the time.

Karennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-89947589634635637412009-03-13T04:25:00.002-05:002009-04-01T10:24:25.620-05:00

by Karen EmilsonTaking care of people is what Val Bell does best, but by the end of February, her days of taking care of cattle producers are over.Val is moving on and beginning a whole new life in Fitzgerald, Georgia with a new husband and a new home.Val was hired to work for the MCPA by General Manager Keith Robertson in July 2003 after she returned to the province to care for her ailing

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-81439567905028838192009-03-13T04:20:00.001-05:002009-04-01T10:27:11.402-05:00

by Claire De'AtheUnfortunately, on more than one occasion we’ve met them.On our farm, the banging of cattle against the aluminum sides of the trailer makes us cringe. Then the whoosh of air brakes, more clattering, as the cattle liner backs up to our loading chute. My husband Doug and I have looked at one another disparagingly and rolled our eyes: the unspoken words, “another live one,” hang

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-14047013424899026622009-03-13T04:15:00.001-05:002009-04-01T10:29:33.517-05:00

by Matthew WrightAbout a year and a half ago, 18 year-old Mark Van de Kerchhove saw a need in the growing realm of web marketing and made that link to an industry he knows well - bull sales.The son of purebred Charolais breeders in Pilot Mound, Van De Kerckhove, used the skills he gained while studying at Assiniboine Community College in Brandon to create his own web site, Bull-Trader.Launched in

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-16805305674552498342009-03-13T04:10:00.002-05:002009-04-02T08:08:03.417-05:00

by Deb McMillinThe Statistics Canada report of Canadian cattle inventories report recently pegged the total cattle and calves inventory to be lower once again, with a total of 13.18 million cattle and calves on January 1, 2009 - 5.1% lower that the January 1, 2008 total.This comes as no surprise as the number of cows marketed for slaughter was large in 2008. The total cattle and calves inventory

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-7068616029541166022009-03-13T04:10:00.000-05:002009-04-01T10:30:39.733-05:00

Testing will continue after Anaplasmosis was discovered in two Manitoba cow herds.Twenty-six animals tested positive and were ordered destroyed from a 418 head commerical and purebred herd situated in the eastern part of the province. Following testing of herds neighbouring the pasture where the disease was discovered, another 33 animals tested positive in one herd and the investigation

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-49480071019261945822009-03-13T04:05:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:14:43.099-05:00

By Jerry NelsonThe economy is in the news a bit nowadays, which is about like saying that the sun tends to rise in the east. Every day brings yet another boatload of bad economic news. The weight of it presses down on us and makes us want to huddle in the basement like children hiding from a summer thunderstorm.It’s been said that the only difference between a recession and a depression is our

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-91489895321369100912009-03-13T04:00:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:17:36.902-05:00

No question about it: The 2006 United Nations report Livestock’s Long Shadow put a new jolt into animal-rights and other anti-meat campaigns.The report’s claim that 18 percent of global greenhouse gases are caused by animal agriculture has become a rallying cry for activists whose fondest wish is to weld the animal rights and environmental movements into one giant behemoth to remake the way we

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-33397364810523684312009-03-13T03:55:00.001-05:002009-04-02T08:23:49.780-05:00

by Karen EmilsonLast winter, Brian Sterling attended a National Cattlemen’s meeting in the U.S. At the next MCPA Board meeting, he delivered an impressive, half hour power point presentation on what he learned. I’ve been looking forward to interviewing him ever since. It is the dead of winter and about as cold as it can get. The sun is bright but there is a bite to the wind that makes it

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-79019700774858236542009-03-13T03:50:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:26:17.471-05:00

by Fred SharpeBeef producers in Manitoba are proud to help feed the world. We have the land area, the water, and the expertise to produce healthy and healthful product that we are happy to provide to our residents and for export beyond our borders.Much of our land is rolling hills and we live in the “pothole” country so we have many acres that are unfit for grain production, yet still can produce

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-38727150887731664502009-03-13T03:45:00.002-05:002009-04-02T09:47:33.384-05:00

by Rick Wright“Enough is Enough Already!”Just when we thought we had seen it all in this business, something that defies all reason and common sense comes to the surface.The National Farmers Union of Canada’s reported support of R-Calf has betrayed the Canadian cattle industry. And while the NFU has worked overtime to deny any alliance with R-Calf (regardless of their official stance) the damage

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-59542558200118789772009-03-13T03:40:00.001-05:002009-04-02T08:32:58.947-05:00

Renewable wind power aeration revives rural pond water quality for livestock, eliminating the high cost of water hauling or electric aerationRanchers and rural landowners often rely on ponds or dugouts to supply their livestock or farm animals with fresh drinking water. While these bodies of water can be a valuable natural resource, too often they become stagnant, algae-filled financial

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-49504555298031743942009-03-13T03:35:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:34:57.666-05:00

Here are the Resolutions debated at the 2008 Annual General Meeting:1. Reaffirm MCPA Policy Number 2007.04 (Improving Problem Predator Removal Program)Be It Resolved that the MCPA reaffirm policy number 2007.04 (Resolution 9 from the 2007 AGM) regarding improvements to the provincial problem predator removal program.MCPA Policy Number 2007.04: Improving Problem Predator Removal ProgramWhereas the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-81506415623435912872009-03-13T03:30:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:41:02.329-05:00

Submitted by the Canadian Cattlemen's AssociationAt home, the National Farmers’ Union of Canada (NFU) claims to be interested in advancing the interests of Canadian cattle producers. Abroad - they conspire with one of the most negative groups ever known to the Canadian cattle industry – R-CALF.NFU shares a lot in common with R-CALF – putting it bluntly, both fringe groups prey on the emotions of

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-21289452975087741822009-03-13T03:25:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:43:49.565-05:00

R-CALF PRESS RELEASEFebruary 17, 2009 Billings, Mont. – Just days ago, R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard participated in a two-day conference hosted by the Western Organization of Resource Councils (WORC) that included representatives of the U.S., Canada and Mexico in discussions of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the negative ramifications the trade agreement has wrought on

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-63287071749037395122009-03-13T03:20:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:45:44.987-05:00

Manitoba Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives, Crown Lands Stakeholders Consultation Committee has begun the process of initiating a survey of private pasture rentals in Manitoba, which will form the basis of determining the rental rate on Crown lands for the triennial period of 2010 – 2012. To provide a bit of history, effective January 1, 2000, the method for calculating rentals on

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-11989802778808929642009-03-13T03:15:00.000-05:002009-04-02T08:48:32.787-05:00

by Karen EmilsonThere is life after farming.That is the message Brandon’s Mike Waddell wants to get out to struggling cattle producers - especially those who have sold their cows or those who are considering selling the family farm.Mike was 21 years old when his dad, Ken, sold the last of their purebred Shorthorn herd. He remembers the year prior to that, standing in the yard on a hot, dry, windy

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-52346075059967768822009-03-13T03:10:00.000-05:002009-04-02T09:31:01.727-05:00

The MCPA’s newest Director is Brad McDonald who decided to let his name stand at last fall’s District 3 fall meeting. Marcel Gousseau, who sat on the Board for a term, decided not to run again because he felt he didn’t have enough time to devote to the position.Brad attended the MCPA’s Annual General Meeting and was welcomed to his first Board meeting in early January.Brad and his wife Janey own

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-6443846678874899632009-03-13T03:00:00.000-05:002009-04-02T09:34:27.694-05:00

I am an optimistby Allan PrestonThe vice president of Keystone Agricultural Producers told me, with a smile on his face, that I was “too damned optimistic,” that the livestock sector—pigs and cattle—are in the tank, and that I need to be realistic about our industries.Well, maybe he’s right. But I will remain optimistic about the livestock sector, the cattle industry in particular, and about the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-43012272775706545052009-03-13T02:55:00.001-05:002009-04-02T09:38:09.078-05:00

by Brenda Schoeppn the feeder cattle market centers around the projected loss of inventory in the Canadian beef herd. Analysts are calling for the disappearance of nearly 1M head of beef cows in 2008. The Stats Canada report which will be released June 1, 2009 will put all the speculation to rest, but in the interim, cattle are being bought based on a projected inventory shortage and on the

Karennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-19824009846555561422009-03-13T02:50:00.001-05:002009-04-02T09:41:53.598-05:00

by Matthew WrightThe federal government took a step in the right direction as far as cattle producers are concerned with the creation of a new trade secretariat to expand foreign markets to Canadian beef products. The industry was severely crippled after the BSE outbreak in 2003 and has yet to fully recover the many lucrative markets it lost at that time.“This is a concrete step to improve

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-47422024315364886332009-03-13T02:50:00.000-05:002009-04-02T09:39:45.216-05:00

There’s little doubt that interest in food safety is front and centre in all parts of Canada’s agricultural industry, and that all players are realizing that Canada’s reputation for food safety is a critical part of successful marketing domestically and globally. In the beef industry one sign of that is a renewed interest in the Verified Beef Production (VBP) program. The program is attracting

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-87551444856186554052009-03-13T02:45:00.001-05:002009-04-02T09:45:55.818-05:00

by Martin UnrauIt is mid-March and it looks like spring will be here soon. It has been a long, cold winter and the cattle have consumed a lot of feed.The producers in the Southwest, Westlake and Interlake have had feed shortages this winter and it is good to finally see the provincial and federal governments come to the aid of those living in RMs that were declared disaster areas last fall. The

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-11292715391690830372009-02-12T05:00:00.000-06:002009-02-12T11:50:04.551-06:00

by Karen EmilsonConfusion over U.S. Mandatory Country of Origin labeling (M-COOL) continues as cattle producers and packers on both sides of the border wait to see how Barack Obama’s administration plans to deal with the proposed M-COOL legislation.On January 20, 2009, the newly inaugurated President Obama put all pending rules brought forward by the Bush Administration on hold. Included in that

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-465386310530220822009-02-12T04:55:00.003-06:002009-02-12T11:59:33.215-06:00

Who are ALMA and LISA and what do they mean to us?by Allan PrestonPay attention now – there will be a quiz at the end of this article. You will be asked to spell out the full meaning of the following acronyms – ALMA, LISA, TTT, IGAC, NAFTS, CCIA, FAHS, GF, CEC, CAHC and maybe a few more that come to mind as I write this article.I’m going to spend a bit of time talking about what has happened in

Karennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-64684485783423937792009-02-12T04:50:00.001-06:002009-02-12T12:03:55.525-06:00

by Matthew WrightThe Manitoba Cattle Producers Association is extremely pleased that the federal government has taken concrete steps to improve foreign market access for Canadian cattle producers.For years the cattle industry has pressured officials at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Members of Parliament about the importance of creating a separate entity­—with the appropriate credentials—to

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-15967834629956504262009-02-12T04:50:00.000-06:002009-02-12T12:01:09.540-06:00

by Matthew WrightIndustry leaders from the Manitoba Cattle Producers Association met with senior representatives of the Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) to discuss the next step in the on-going effort to develop a province-wide environmental goods and services program for agriculture in Manitoba.The focus of the meeting was the MCPA’s newly released proposal: Environmental & Rural

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-33965074142150384672009-02-12T04:45:00.001-06:002009-02-12T12:08:52.738-06:00

by Joe BouchardGrab a cup of coffee and get yourself comfortable. I know what I’ve written here is long and may look like a strenuous read, but our industry is at a crossroads and has been for quite some time. Regardless of who you are, your age and where you “fit” in the industry, the decisions we make today will shape the future of our industry tomorrow.Got that coffee yet? Okay, here we go.We

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-29066765728957827782009-02-12T04:40:00.000-06:002009-02-12T12:10:58.125-06:00

It's Time to Send a Messageby Brian SterlingAs I chugged along in my old 1070 Case to feed the cows this morning, I passed by brush covered in hoar frost and sloughs alive with sparrows as a snowy owl sat high up surveying the landscape.The cold snap has let up a bit and everything was quite pretty—even serene. Two moose were happily eating the corn cobs that are supposed to be fodder for the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-70123450313870460362009-02-12T04:35:00.000-06:002009-02-12T12:13:23.861-06:00

by Shane SadorskiIn my previous article, I wrote about how folks in the cattle industry have for a very long time provided our society and planet with a wide range of environmental benefits just by deciding to be cattle producers. I wrote about how we as a society have for too long undervalued the environmental contributions you make to the public good (largely at your cost) by choosing to run

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-23958117741038342009-02-12T04:30:00.000-06:002009-02-12T12:15:21.008-06:00

Finding the time to learn more about rotational grazing and pasture management may be difficult for many cattle producers right now, but in the end, it may be the only thing keeping you from hanging up the towel in the cattle business. The Sustainable Grazing Mentorship Program pair’s producers who are looking for advice or expert knowledge on production aspects with local, experienced and

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-19588564102454361672009-02-12T04:25:00.000-06:002009-02-12T12:17:04.501-06:00

by Matthew WrightThe Manitoba Cattle Producers Association issued letters to Manitoba’s 14 Members of Parliament, seeking action on a number of pressing issues facing the province’s nearly 10,000 cattle producing families.The Association’s letter outlined three main areas that cattle producers need immediate action on in order to avert the possible loss of thousands of family farms in Manitoba.A

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-50632130059549930822009-02-12T04:20:00.001-06:002009-02-12T12:18:40.848-06:00

The Manitoba Cattle Producers Association (MCPA) is pleased that the Canadian government has listened and acted on recommendations from the cattle industry about the importance of increasing markets for Canadian livestock products..The recent announcement made by Federal Agriculture Minister, Gerry Ritz, that an agreement in principle was made with officials from Hong Kong. The expansion of beef

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-51498648871113245052009-02-12T04:15:00.002-06:002009-02-12T12:23:27.950-06:00

by Ray BittnerIn January 2008, six Manitoba cow-calf producers delivered 327 calves and yearlings to feedlots in Iowa to be fed to finish in the Tri County Steer Carcass Futurity program of Iowa State University. The cattle gain and numerous economic and management factors were tracked from before they crossed the border to the day of harvest. This project was sponsored by the Manitoba Managing

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-38093476577692587582009-02-12T04:15:00.001-06:002009-02-12T12:21:05.270-06:00

The Value of a Marketing Relationshipby Brenda SchoeppThe term “dumping” has been used by livestock producers for years in reference to selling their calves and feeders. In a heartbeat, the years production is loaded up and “dumped” into a nearby market. The seller has not given the buyer or the representative of the cattle any support in finding value in the livestock. A marketing

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-50803277458504396772009-02-12T04:10:00.000-06:002009-02-12T12:25:37.903-06:00

Carter Ferguson, a 16 year old from Carroll; Emily Hickson, a 16 year old from Brandon and Shania Jack a 12 year old from Portage La Prairie were the 2008 recipients of the Grant Moffat Herdbuilder Award. This is the second year three youth have been awarded up to $2,000 towards the purchase of a heifer selected from a Manitoba purebred association sale.Grant Moffat, Holmsyde Charolais, Forrest,

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-11098316023728042132008-12-04T05:00:00.000-06:002008-12-04T14:38:45.027-06:00

by Karen EmilsonIf you are feeling that our industry has been abandoned by the federal government then take heart - you’re not the only one.And if you are concerned how things will shape up south of the border when U.S. President-elect, Barack Obama, takes office you have good reason to be.Tony Saretsky, vice president of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association spoke frankly in a recent interview

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-39350421790051869492008-12-04T04:55:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:38:54.288-06:00

by Karen EmilsonThe difference between drought and flood is painfully obvious, but what isn’t so straightforward is why cattle producers in drought stricken areas can defer income, but those in flooded zones can not.Afterall, a feed shortage causes hardship regardless of the weather conditions that caused it. With that in mind, Selkirk-Interlake MP, James Bezan, began working to get the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-79905305636450078422008-12-04T04:50:00.000-06:002008-12-09T15:44:03.786-06:00

by Karen EmilsonCattle producers in the flooded Interlake and Westlake Regions will soon have access to a Targeted Advance Payment (TAP) on their 2008 AgriStability payment. The TAP is meant to assist producers who need to purchase feed for their animals this winter.This recent announcement made by the provincial government has Directors with the MCPA concerned that these payments aren’t the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-52172690258753729632008-12-04T04:45:00.000-06:002008-12-09T17:17:55.897-06:00

Targeted Advance won't work for usLynne HenryI have read about the Targeted Advance Payment, and have looked into the possibility of a payout. I called the local ag office in Ste. Rose and was given a toll free number to call. This payout is an advance payout if you are going to be eligible for an AgriStability payment. The press release put out by the provincial government states, “Approximately

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-26377621608919061642008-12-04T04:40:00.001-06:002008-12-15T08:17:57.295-06:00

by Martin UnrauWe are now in December and 2008 is almost over. This year will certainly go down in the books as a turbulent one for cattle producers. Just when we thought things couldn’t get any worse, they did. Many producers found themselves short of feed this year because of either flood or drought, COOL took an unfavourable turn and then the worldwide financial crisis sent our industry into

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-23834986630080795232008-12-04T04:35:00.000-06:002008-12-09T17:24:13.835-06:00

by Shane SadorskiFolks in the cattle business have always had an unspoken appreciation for the many environmental benefits that come from their responsible stewardship of the land. Cattle producers have long provided good things like wetland preservation, soil conservation, water and nutrient management, and animal and plant biodiversity on the prairie landscape by their decision just to be

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-13990791571440939212008-12-04T04:30:00.000-06:002008-12-09T17:27:26.701-06:00

We're Dying out here. Does anyone care?by Karen EmilsonMy uncle Wayne was the classic Type-A personality. Driven, enthusiastic, hard-working and funny as hell. He and my aunt Pat were married 45 years and built a family business that made them quite wealthy. At 66, uncle Wayne was set to retire and was ready to do all the things he’d looked forward to. Suddenly, he became sick and died. I flew

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-65243799681943679892008-12-04T04:25:00.000-06:002008-12-09T17:29:36.703-06:00

by Deb McMillinFall Fed Cattle Basis WidensThe current negative moves in the North American fed market and the currency changes have widened the basis levels significantly when compared to earlier in 2008 and in 2007. A stronger Canada to US basis seemed to be the trend through the start of 2008 as there was a tight supply of market ready fed cattle and few outside factors pulling the market.

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-6872648802430830142008-12-04T04:15:00.001-06:002008-12-15T08:09:14.398-06:00

Humourby Jerry NelsonThe other day my wife and I were on an important grocery-hunting mission when we bumped into a friend. We had chatted for a few minutes when our friend commented, “You two always seem so happy whenever I see you.”At that particular moment my apparent happiness was due to the fact that I had just spotted a sign proclaiming that my favorite brand of beer was on sale. But still,

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-91733151085309606492008-12-04T04:10:00.000-06:002008-12-09T17:38:54.192-06:00

Canadian beef takes centre stage on a new reality television show that pits culinary students against one another to create plated dishes from ingredients contained in mystery food baskets.Pressure Cooker is shot on location at Niagara College’s Culinary Institute in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario and each episode features a series of cooking round using Canadian foodstuffs.The Beef Information

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-53401881296339025112008-12-04T04:05:00.000-06:002008-12-09T17:42:29.752-06:00

Edmonton, Alta. -- Alberta’s livestock industry is investing $2 million to spearhead the next generation of research into the health benefits of natural trans fats.The funding, awarded through a grant from the Alberta Livestock Industry Development Fund (ALIDF), will support a multi-pronged, five-year natural trans fat research program led by the Alberta Institute for Human Nutrition, University

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-30187172222968564572008-12-04T04:00:00.000-06:002008-12-09T17:44:37.203-06:00

The Re-opening of foreign markets to Canada’s export-dependent livestock industry could take a major step forward if the federal government adopts the road map for agricultural market access developed by the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) and seven industry partners. The strategy focuses on enhancing Canada’s market access negotiating capabilities to restore and secure

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-4904118224172167382008-12-04T03:50:00.001-06:002008-12-09T17:48:16.210-06:00

If you could speak to the Federal Agriculture Minister about the state of Manitoba’s cattle industry,what exactly would you say?“I’m very concerned about the livestock industry - both hogs and beef. I think we are to the point that we are going to hit the wall.As cattle producers we attend conferences and workshops to learn how to be more efficient, but at the same time, cattle prices keep

Karennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-5059769764167676272008-12-04T03:45:00.000-06:002008-12-09T18:02:44.846-06:00

Maurice Boisvert was growing tired of seeing his calves born into freezing cold water, which would routinely flood his corrals during periods of high spring runoff. The Notre Dame de Lourdes area farmer knew that the health of his cows, which might be standing in the water for several days, was also being effected and that the manure-laden runoff was causing problems downstream.His neighbour,

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-78868251242836964122008-12-04T03:40:00.000-06:002008-12-15T08:08:07.206-06:00

CARSTAIRS, Alberta - This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Salers breed in Canada with the Alberta Salers Association. Celebratory events were held November 6th and 7th at Farmfair International 2008 in Edmonton. This prestigious event attracted present and past Salers breeders, supporters and friends from across Canada.Salers cattle were originally imported into Canada in 1973 from south

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-61181251159566962032008-12-04T03:30:00.000-06:002008-12-15T08:12:51.512-06:00

Press ReleaseUp to $670,000 in disaster financial assistance will be made available for infrastructure and private property damage caused by heavy rains throughout the Interlake and Westlake from Aug. 20 to Sept. 2, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Steve Ashton, minister responsible for emergency measures, announced in November.“Working with local governments, this government has determined

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-88346288359923676862008-12-04T03:25:00.001-06:002008-12-15T08:16:38.974-06:00

by Rick WrightAs December 2008 draws to a close, cattle producers from all across Canada look to the future with more unknowns than ever before. Even the strongest optimists in the cow calf business are questioning why they are staying in the business after 55 months of depressed cattle prices and increased input costs.The major obstacle preventing the cattle market from taking off is the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-47944586596785988092008-11-13T07:59:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:48:17.343-06:00

“Stubborn will” at the grassroots is holding the Canadian cattle industry together right now. But how much longer can cash-strapped ranchers hold on?by Karen EmilsonThese are tough times in the cattle industry and right now producers don’t know which way to turn.Herd dispersals and cows going to slaughter are at an all-time high and calves moving through the auction marts are at unusually low

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-29665259658451007162008-11-13T07:55:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:49:10.994-06:00

By Martin UnrauIt is the first week in November and most of the cows on the cattle ranches are still out on grass and we still haven’t had much snow. The weather this fall has been great.The federal elections in Canada and the U.S. are finally over. Agriculture wasn’t mentioned very often in our election and this was extremely disappointing. In fact, western Canada almost seemed to be part of

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-25055517210351648022008-11-13T07:50:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:49:33.326-06:00

Feeling unappreciated?Staff and volunteers at the Manitoba Farm and Rural Stress Line think that you are and that’s why they held a “Farmer Appreciation Day” in conjunction with Fraser Auction’s fall sale at Brandon in late October. More than 2,500 farmers came out to enjoy a free outdoor barbeque during the auction. The event featured displays on health and wellness. A variety of information

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-39528020196760965432008-11-13T07:45:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:49:55.321-06:00

Cattlemen can speak for themselvesby Matthew WrightHistorically, one doesn’t even have to look outside the boundaries of Manitoba to see that many organizations attempting to represent a variety of differing interests ultimately render themselves ineffective. The failures of the Manitoba Farm Bureau and the Manitoba Federation of Agriculture are but two examples of this. The rise of individual

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-11151730334343198672008-11-13T07:40:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:50:21.293-06:00

by Sheila MowatEarlier this year, the MCPA was invited by Parks Canada to observe the TB testing process on elk in the lab at Riding Mountain National Park.Directors Ray Armbruster, Kim Crandall and myself attended. Kim Jones, the communication officer with Parks Canada, met us at the gate and showed us to the lab and gave us a quick tour of the building.Here is the process for the removal and

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-90496641041050293902008-11-13T07:35:00.004-06:002008-11-17T06:50:33.445-06:00

Even the Diehards can change how they voteby Karen EmilsonI grew up in Southern Ontario, the firstborn daughter of a Hamilton city bus driver. Dad was a Union man and because of that he always voted NDP. If it hadn’t been for his unionized job, I would have grown up poor.After I got married and told everyone that Mark and I would be moving out to the family ranch 35 miles from the nearest small

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-40787552059509422982008-11-13T07:30:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:50:44.212-06:00

by Matthew WrightIn mid-October, Ryder Lee attended a few of the MCPA District Meetings.Lee is the Manager of Federal and Provincial Relations with the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA).He says the sway of Canadian cattlemen lies in their ability to direct sound policy through their provincial associations, and it’s that direction that guides the national association it its dealings on

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-68763688309659029562008-11-13T07:25:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:50:53.624-06:00

As the world watches to see how President-elect Barack Obama and a democratically reinforced Congress in January face a global economic crisis and ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the meat industry is also watching to see how industry-specific issues will be addressed.Meat industry insiders told Meatingplace.com there are plenty of concerns about a long list of issues, including: renewable

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-3676793604846756892008-11-13T07:20:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:51:04.517-06:00

Cody Easterday estimates that some 25 percent of the cattle at his 30,000-head feedlot come from Canada, with maybe a few cattle from Mexico in the pens.But weeks after the government began requiring producers to label beef with the country the animals came from, Easterday estimates he’s already getting lower prices for that foreign beef — as much as $30 per head.It’s just one reason he’s suing

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-81408471108722812412008-11-13T07:15:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:51:15.587-06:00

by Karli Flinta-MurphySome producers in the north Interlake and Westlake areas have not made a single bale of hay all summer. Others are culling harder this fall than they ever have before because they are leery of the fact they may not have enough feed for their herds come spring. If producers were lucky enough to get some hay put up, the quality is terrible. And when producers are saying this

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-23958253225228553472008-11-13T07:10:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:51:26.900-06:00

District 2 - Greg Johnson“Our meeting went well. I am wondering if we can post the MCPA presentation on the website so that it can be looked at online?Also, I had one producer say that we need to get the government to instead of just changing the program names, leave the program names the same, and change the programs.”District 7 - Ray Armbruster“I was pleased with our meeting. We had a good

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-1986994116259390272008-11-13T07:05:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:51:37.077-06:00

Whose water is it anyway?by Brian SterlingHere we are with another round of District meetings over and again. These meetings highlight one of the strengths of the MCPA - they provide a forum for producers to express their views and an opportunity to vote for someone to represent the producers of each area.Most times, these meetings reveal some local concerns and this year was no exception. Some

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-82153102281931121882008-11-13T07:00:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:51:49.052-06:00

by Deb McMillinAs the fall calf run got underway price pressure was definitely evident. Concerns about COOL, high feed costs in comparison to other years and economic uncertainty seemed some of factors leading feeder prices in the wrong direction. From the end of August to Mid- October the Western Canadian 550 lb feeder steer price went from 106.00/cwt to 97.65/cwt. In the past few weeks the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-41907247267592665672008-11-13T06:55:00.003-06:002008-11-17T06:52:10.649-06:00

by Matthew WrightA scientist at the University of Manitoba is being recognized for a significant accomplishment involving the measuring of belches billowing from bovines.Dr. Ermias Kebreab, an Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair at the University of Manitoba’s Department of Animal Science, has been collecting and analyzing gases emitting from cows by placing them, one at a time, into a

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-60107895220096088772008-11-13T06:55:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:52:00.442-06:00

If you could speak to the Federal Agriculture Minister about the state of Manitoba’s cattle industry, what exactly would you say?“I am deeply concerned for the future of the cattle industry, Mr. Ritz, and for the future of our young people in agriculture.We are nearing retirement and our children want to be fifth generation farmers. We want to see our children remain in the cattle business but it

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-87438226323117502192008-11-13T06:31:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:52:20.957-06:00

by Lotte ElsgaardIn the five long years of recovery efforts since world markets closed to Canadian beef, the Canadian industry today is facing some of its toughest challenges.From record-high cattle numbers and a self-sufficiency processing capacity in 2006, we have gone to where today we are shipping a million-plus head of live cattle annually to the US, our processors are operating at under

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-26882697873013050522008-11-13T06:00:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:52:30.321-06:00

A Beef Information Centre (BIC) consumer promotion initiative launched in the summer of 2007 has resulted in some excellent feedback.The Make it Beef program aims at motivating people to purchase fresh beef for making meals at home. The program consists of a quarterly recipe booklet included in subscribers’ Reader’s Digest magazine, a merchandising program with a key food retailer and a monthly

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-61135262132329097822008-11-13T05:55:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:52:40.945-06:00

District 111 - Permanent Crop Residue Freight Assistance ProgramWhereas crop residue burning causes pollution and damages both the environment and human health,Be It Resolved that MCPA advise the provincial government to mandate a yearly freight assistance program for crop residue and encourage crop producers not to burn their stubble.2 - Deferred Livestock PaymentsBe It Resolved that MCPA

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-64324484729361936262008-11-13T05:50:00.002-06:002008-11-17T06:52:56.986-06:00

by Rick WrightWhat a roller coaster ride the fall calf run has been! Lots of ups and downs, twists and turns. Prices have been very unpredictable and demand has been very selective. Order-Buyers are sticking tight to orders and there has been no speculation buying at all this year. Usually the last week in October and the first week in November are the largest marketing volumes of the fall

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-53372167667650689722008-11-13T05:45:00.001-06:002008-11-17T06:53:09.575-06:00

This is what readers had to say about last month’s “Don’t Shoot the Messenger”by Karen Emilson“I stopped vaccinating because I’ve been selling my cattle through the auction marts and not seeing the return. If the market reports from Manitoba Agriculture start getting more accurate and there is a premium paid for all of this extra work we’ve been doing, then I’ll start doing it again.”“I’m tired

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-24570545586286886502008-10-06T08:00:00.004-05:002008-10-17T08:33:20.994-05:00

by Karen EmilsonLast fall, cattle producers were warned by the Federal and Provincial governments that the days of ad hoc programs were over. The message came through loud and clear that the only way producers would receive financial help in the future would be through the Growing Forward program.Now government has followed through on that promise by refusing to negotiate cash payments for

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-62749576994243462322008-10-06T07:55:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:42:56.455-05:00

by Karen EmilsonThe MCPA Board of Directors passed a motion at its September board meeting to withdraw its membership from the Keystone Agriculture Producers (KAP).The decision came after debating the idea at two earlier board meetings. Deciding the debate needed to be put to rest, a motion was brought forward by District 1 Director, Brian Sterling and seconded by District 11 Director, Art

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-57770353775969538102008-10-06T07:50:00.002-05:002008-10-17T08:43:25.173-05:00

by Martin UnrauJust like every fall, now is the time for all cow-calf producers to think about and make the toughest decision of the year - what do we do with our calves?Do we retain ownership of our young calves by keeping and feeding them or putting them in a custom feedlot? Should we feed and finish our yearlings or do we simply sell everything off now?The cow-calf guy isn’t the only one who

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-88382115630560103412008-10-06T07:45:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:43:38.247-05:00

by Shane SadorskiIt’s October, and that means mandatory Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) is now in effect in the U.S. for the beef supply chain. Packers, processors, and retailers in the U.S. now have a 6 month grace period to adjust their business operations while the USDA conducts an ‘education campaign’ to bring industry players into line with the new rules.As expected, the immediate impact

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-91985609470201276162008-10-06T07:40:00.002-05:002008-10-17T08:43:50.670-05:00

OPINIONby Brian SterlingIt would be easy to think that the recent passing of Bill 17 concerns only the hog industry - afterall, it is a permanent ban on the building or expansion of hog facilities. Nothing here of concern to the cattle industry—or is there?In fact, the cattle industry should be very concerned. The unfettered enthusiasm shown by our government to embrace, and then to enforce

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-13428348835032560312008-10-06T07:35:00.002-05:002008-10-17T08:44:02.201-05:00

Manitoba Government Press ReleaseThree regional moratoriums on hog industry expansion will soon be made permanent to protect water and the environment after the formal passage of Bill 17, Conservation Minister Stan Struthers announced in late September.The bill received third and final reading today, the last step before receiving royal assent.“This bill ensures the old practice of unsustainable

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-60992146705544846872008-10-06T07:30:00.002-05:002008-10-17T09:00:42.400-05:00

The future of the Verified Beef Program was looking quite bleak after federal budget cuts threatened to shut down the three year-old program.But thanks to the lobbying efforts of provincial coordinators the program is back on track—at least until the end of the year.“One bright spot in all the difficulties cattle producers are facing right now is that we have an MP here in Manitoba who is

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-83359698024044864732008-10-06T07:25:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:44:24.868-05:00

Do you hate the idea of filling out your AgriStability form? Do you worry that you are not doing it correctly? Is your accountant making more money on the program than you are?MCPA Finance Chairman, Art Jonasson, and his wife Jackie have a cow-calf operation at Vogar. Normally they send all their AgriStability information to their accountant for filing. But after attending two of the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-71485963719296533632008-10-06T07:20:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:44:36.787-05:00

Ray Armbruster, chairman of the MCPA’s Animal Health committee is focused on trying to get the TB Task Force back on track.“The group has not met since February. We need to have updates and a review of last year’s management plan,” he said. “We need a review and to develop a new strategic management plan to move forward.”At press time, a meeting was scheduled for October 8 which will bring the

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-83930708092469035462008-10-06T07:15:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:44:48.418-05:00

In a year of sky-high costs, cattle producers know every cent counts when it comes time to market calves. How can you maximize the price your calves bring at sale time? University of Nebraska Extension beef specialist says the key is in reviewing the basics and paying attention to details.He says, “Producers should aim to do all they can to improve the income on their calves.”Rush’s first

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-67464497290810584332008-10-06T07:10:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:44:59.392-05:00

by Melissa SpringerBecause of the Manitoba climate this year, feed shortages for beef producers are imminent throughout the province. I have prepared a brief list of tips to help you stretch your feed resources:• Cull, cull, cull. Healthy, fleshy, age verified cull cows are still capturing a higher price at auction marts. This is your chance to improve your herd genetics. If she’s open or you’ve

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-70547054508943446942008-10-06T07:05:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:45:10.419-05:00

Meeting the most basic nutrient require­ments needed for survival should be the goal when feeding cattle following a disaster. Knowing these nutrient requirements and the types of routine and alternative feedstuffs that can meet them is impor­tant. Two scenarios are most likely during and/or following a disaster:1) feed/hay will need to be hauled to stranded cattle; or2) feed/hay will need to be

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-70485068268779490552008-10-06T07:00:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:45:21.868-05:00

Feed costs, labour costs, fuel costs and machinery costs have contributed to the increase in cow costs. Mineral cost, especially phosphorus costs have increased substantially this year. Mineral costs are not major compared to other costs such as harvested feed costs, but as producers strive to remain competitive in a climate where costs continue to go up, they will need to push the pencil on

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-26281936011594238572008-10-06T06:55:00.003-05:002008-10-17T09:27:57.834-05:00

DEMOCRATIC You have two cows.Your neighbor has none.You feel guilty for being successful.Barbara Streisand sings for you. REPUBLICANISM You have two cows.Your neighbor has none.So what? SOCIALIST You have two cows.The government takes one and gives it to your neighbor.You form a cooperative to tell him how to manage his cow. COMMUNIST You have two cows.The government seizes both and provides you

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-68597714973805052442008-10-06T06:50:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:45:45.975-05:00

by Karen EmilsonThis is the third year that Janice Lawrence and I have worked the MCPA display together during “The Amazing Ag Adventure.”It’s a fun, interesting and exhausting three days as early and middle years school children from the urban areas, cycle through one after another and we deliver a 10 minute presentation.Every year there are a few students and/or teachers who are memorable,

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-40256868046697385632008-10-06T06:45:00.004-05:002008-10-17T08:47:06.934-05:00

by Karen EmilsonThe sun is just coming up as I turn off Hwy. #1 at MacGregor. I have driven to the Unrau farm before, but came east from Carberry with my good friend, Claire De’Athe, along the back roads, so nothing looks familiar.That was four years ago, oddly also on September 26th. I’d asked Claire, an MCPA Director at the time, to introduce me to a few progressive cattle producers in her area

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-65514393692098019832008-10-06T06:40:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:47:20.514-05:00

by Jerry NelsonWe Americans are in the midst of yet another election cycle. This whole election experience can be replicated whenever you want by simply standing behind a full manure spreader and hollering, “OK, let ‘er rip!”Like many of you, I am disgusted by the increasing levels of gunk we have to endure during each election season.Much of this disgust stems from a proverb that seems to have

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-76044876725711424172008-10-06T06:35:00.006-05:002008-10-17T08:52:00.198-05:00

Are you tired of being a price taker?by Karen EmilsonTimes are a changin’ and if you are in the cow-calf business you might want to listen to what Harold Unrau has to say.Harold and his brother Norm run a feedlot in southern Manitoba. They like to buy 500 wt calves straight off the cow, and background them to 800-850 lbs.The problem is they are sick and tired of having to pay less for the calves

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-25427260007896711662008-10-06T06:35:00.005-05:002008-10-17T08:48:20.316-05:00

by Reynold Bergen and Shanyn SilinksiThere are several factors to consider when deciding whether or not to ship cull cows to market or slaughter, regardless of when they are culled.What can it cost you? Although D1/D2 cows were selling for $0.45/lb. in Alberta (when this was written), thin, weak, lame or sick cows were selling for $0.03 to $0.09/lb. This equates to $36 to $108 for a 1,200 lb

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-66388271865457464102008-10-06T06:35:00.003-05:002008-10-17T08:47:32.966-05:00

by Debbie McMillinExports of live cattle to the U.S. in 2008 have varied. Overall exports are larger than the same time in 2007, however that includes an increase in the number of feeder cattle exported and a decrease in the number of fed cattle heading south. In addition, slaughter cows, butcher bulls and breeding stock have all been added back into the mix again in 2008.Feeder cattle exports

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-54706055033761659432008-10-06T06:32:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:48:36.750-05:00

by Matthew WrightFor over 100 years, Canada’s top agriculture scientists have been developing some of the most advanced research on agricultural practices at the Brandon Research Centre (BRC). Today that still holds true at the almost 3,300 acre complex that straddles the boundaries of Manitoba’s self described Wheat City.Shannon Scott and Hushton Block are the two scientists who run the Beef and

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-79785661661351809672008-10-06T06:30:00.001-05:002008-10-17T08:48:52.515-05:00

by Dr. Allan PrestonIs it plagiarism if you copy your own material?When working up this month’s column, I was reviewing a September 2006 piece on bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and by George, it was pretty good! Much of the information is quite applicable today, and much of it bears repeating.So here goes with an October 2008 update on what has changed, what is new and different, what still is

Karennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4205584244027264079.post-4947611968530311702008-10-06T06:25:00.003-05:002008-10-17T08:56:56.307-05:00

This is a great year to “Keep it Real, and Keep it Rural!” What a fitting theme of the 22nd Annual Manitoba Farm Women’s Conference. This year’s event will be held at the Brandon Victoria Inn, November 2, 3 & 4th and the organizing committee has been working hard to ensure that it will be another success.This year’s program looks promising as many of the speakers and workshops presenters will

Karennoreply@blogger.com0