Harvest timing of legumes | PAGE 6

Improving livestock watering systems | PAGE 7

Premises Identification | PAGE 14

2015 Agriculture Student Scholarship winner Morgan Heidecker

PAGE 8

JULY/AUGUST 2015 | VOLUME 11 | ISSUE 4

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Welcome to the summer issue of Agriview. A few weeks ago, the government launched the Premises Identification (PID) program, one of the three basic pillars of Canada’s livestock traceability system. While the program is voluntary, all livestock and poultry producers are encouraged to register their locations with the system. An article in this issue explains how quick and easy it is to register, and gives more information on PID’s benefits to producers, industry and government.

Agriculture continues to be an industry with a bright future, and in this issue we profile four young people whose intelligence, passion and commitment to hard work will make them future leaders in the industry. This is the sixth year that Saskatchewan Agriculture has offered the Agriculture Student Scholarship to young people pursuing a post-secondary education in an agriculture-related field. Applicants submit videos or essays in which they talk about their passion for agriculture and winners are selected on the basis of their enthusiasm and ability to tell the story of agriculture.

This year, Morgan Heidecker of Middle Lake won the Grand Prize Scholarship and Shelby Evans of Kenaston, Alyxandria Harland of Lloydminster and Cassandra Maurer of Grenfell won the three runner-up scholarships. I want to congratulate them and wish them success in their education.

Agriculture and its related industries account for approximately 50,000 jobs in this province, and more are being created every year. Employers are having difficulty finding qualified people to fill all these positions. One of the ways Saskatchewan agriculture has dealt with this is to bring in foreign farm workers. Included in this issue is an article on a recent mission to Mexico to find people interested in working on Saskatchewan farms. The mission was a joint effort of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Economy. It showed the value of working together toward a common goal.

Agriculture is important to Saskatchewan. It creates good jobs and prosperity here at home, and contributes to the prosperity of our trade partners. I want to thank all Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers for the work they do feeding Canada and the world.

Minister’s Message

Lyle Stewart

Have your say on the future of farmland ownership.

Participate online at Saskatchewan.ca/farmland

1-866-457-2377

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Harvest timing of legumes | PAGE 6

Improving livestock watering systems | PAGE 7

Premises Identification | PAGE 14

2015 Agriculture Student Scholarship winner Morgan Heidecker

PAGE 8

JULY/AUGUST 2015 | VOLUME 11 | ISSUE 4

AGRIVIEW is published by the Communications Branch of Saskatchewan Agriculture for Saskatchewan farmers, ranchers and farm and food organizations. For more information, call 306-787-5160 or email agriview@gov.sk.ca. To view this publication online, visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/programs-services.

Cover: Morgan Heidecker, winner of this year’s Agriculture Student Scholarship at her farm near Middle Lake, SK. For more information on the Agriculture Student Scholarship program, turn to page 8.

Table of Contents

CROPSCanada’s soil classification system – the International Year of Soils series 4

Sclerotinia: not just for canola but pulse crops too 4

Monitoring for wheat midge 5

Using pre-harvest treatments wisely 5

Long-time crop reporters honoured 6

Harvest timing of forage legumes for seed 6

Saskatchewan’s Dwarf Sour Cherries – simply the best 7

LIVESTOCKImproving livestock watering systems with FRWIP 7

AGRICULTURE SCHOLARSHIP Saskatchewan Agriculture Student Scholarship – Winner 8

Saskatchewan Agriculture Student Scholarship – Runners-up 9

PROGRAMS & SERVICESRisk management for your farm 10

RESEARCHEvaluation of a geothermal system for swine production 11

LIVESTOCKAvoiding foot rot in cattle 12

Small poultry flock biosecurity 12

Take care when transporting livestock during hot weather 13

Saskatchewan Pasture Tour 2015 13

Premises Identification: it’s new, it’s easy to use and it protects industry and the producer 14

Domestic swine and wild boar traceability requirements 14

More reasons to feed test 15

Mission to Mexico to find agricultural workers 15

EVENTS CALENDARCalendar 16

PROGRAMS & SERVICES4-H in Canada gets a new look! 16

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Canada’s soil classification system – the International Year of Soils series

Classifying soils in Canada began in 1914 when the first soil survey was conducted in Ontario. Since then, knowledge and concepts of soil taxonomy have expanded to what is in use today. For example, in the late 1990s the Cryosolic (frozen soils of the north) and Vertisolic (clay soils that swell and shrink with wet-dry cycles) soil orders were added to the Canadian system of soil classification.

Soil classification involves grouping soils into logical units at different scales based on the properties of the soils. It permits naming and ordering of information about specific soils and serves as the basis for constructing soil maps. The information is used in optimizing soil use and management in agriculture and the natural resource industry. Knowing the types and relative proportions of different soils in an area enables better decisions on most suitable cropping system, input allocations and soil management practices. This is particularly important as the producers strive to optimize food, feed, fibre and fuel production for the growing population, while continuing to improve soil health and minimizing the risk to the environment.

For example, Saskatchewan’s main soil type in the agricultural region is the Chernozemic order. These soils were formed under several

millennium of grassland and shrubby vegetation after the glaciers retreated. This soil has a characteristic dark-coloured topsoil (A horizon), rich in soil organic matter. The colour of the topsoil ranges from brown to black, and is related to the major soil zones of Saskatchewan: i.e. Brown soil zone in the southwest (with the lowest organic matter), then the Dark Brown, the Black soil zone (with the highest levels of soil organic matter usually exceeding five per cent). The dark grey Chernozem soils in the northern part of the grainbelt were influenced by more dominant shrub and forest cover, and transition into soils of the Luvisolic order (grey Luvisols that were developed under boreal forest vegetation). Saskatchewan soils are very fertile and productive when wisely managed, thus guaranteeing a food production system for the world’s future.

More information on the Canadian Soil Classification system can be found online at: sis.agr.gc.ca/cansis/publications/manuals. Also, the University of Saskatchewan is featuring one ‘Soil’ per month as a part of their International Year of Soils

activities. The soil of the month can be found at: agbio.usask.ca/departments/soil-science/international-year-of-soils.php.

CROPS

Ken Panchuk, PAgProvincial Specialist, SoilsCrops and Irrigation Branch

Dr. Jeff Schoenau, PAgProfessor, University of Saskatchewan Soil Science and Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture Strategic Research Chair

This Dark Brown Chernozemic soil shows a dark topsoil (A horizon) rich in soil organic matter.

In pulse crops, the most opportune time to apply fungicide is early flowering. Upon completion of flowering and closure of the crop canopy, fungicides will be unable to reach the parts of the plant most heavily affected by disease, rendering the product ineffective. Fungicides are made to protect the plant, not cure disease. If a fungicide is “systemic” it means the chemical can move into the immediate cell structure of the plant. Unlike some herbicides and insecticides, systemic fungicides are not carried through vascular tissue to reach all plant parts; therefore, their effectiveness is based on contact with the immediate zone of concern. Spraying fungicides after their intended time of application will not benefit the crop or the pocket book.

Sclerotinia stem and pod rot/white mould in lentil.

Some plant pathogens are fussy eaters that will only cause disease on one crop species. Others, like Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, affect many different crops including canola, mustard, sunflower, borage, hemp, flax, soybean and various pulses. With Saskatchewan’s relatively dry climate, we have not traditionally seen widespread infection; however, due to increased moisture, thick crop canopies and a build-up of the pathogen, sclerotinia white mould has been an increasingly troublesome disease issue across the wide range of susceptible crops grown here.

A crop canopy is a humid, windless microclimate highly suitable for disease development. The sclerotinia disease cycle usually begins with flower petal infection. Spores infect flower petals, which are easier to penetrate than other plant parts. The fungus then uses the flower’s nutrients to grow strong enough to infect other tissues after petals drop. In pulse crops, infection can also happen when the fungus directly grows from the sclerotia in the soil into the plant. Infection of the plant stem adversely affects nutrient and moisture flow. This results in premature death of the plant or reduced yields. Eventually, sclerotia will form on or inside the plant and drop into the soil before or during harvest, ready to cause disease in the future. Rotation away from susceptible crops is required to completely avoid infection, but an integrated pest management approach will allow maintenance of diversity, including sclerotinia-susceptible crops, non-hosts, and potentially even tolerant varieties in the rotation.

Sclerotinia: not just for canola but pulse crops too

Refer to the factsheet, Sclerotinia Infection in Field Crops, on the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca; orContact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

FOR MORE INFO

Faye Dokken-Bouchard, PAgProvincial Specialist, Plant DiseaseCrops and Irrigation Branch

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The 2015 Wheat Midge Forecast identified very high populations of wheat midge, particularly in southeastern Saskatchewan and extending north into the east-central region of the province. Last year’s above-average moisture conditions have favoured wheat midge, resulting in several localized areas of high populations of this insect pest in some regions of the province.

Early to mid-July is normally the peak period for wheat midge emergence in Saskatchewan. However, both temperature and precipitation play key roles in the wheat midge life cycle. A critical amount of accumulated heat units are required for the adult midge flies to complete development and emerge from the soil. Wet soils have a cooling effect and will generally result in the wheat midge flies emerging later than expected. Low precipitation (less than 22 mm prior to the end of May) can delay and extend the period of midge emergence.

To determine midge populations and, if necessary, timing of an insecticide application, growers are urged to monitor conventional wheat fields when they are susceptible to wheat midge egg-laying—when the wheat head becomes visible as the boot splits until mid-flowering. Regular field scouting on multiple nights in succession is important to understand wheat midge population changes in a particular field. Temperature and wind conditions significantly influence egg-laying by the adult female midge. High temperatures and high winds tend to reduce egg-laying.

Glyphosate is commonly used as a pre-harvest treatment but it needs to be used appropriately. Glyphosate is clearly labeled for pre-harvest weed control in many crops, including wheat, barley and oats. It is not a desiccant.

The glyphosate label specifically requires the crop to be at the hard-dough stage (30 per cent moisture) for pre-harvest weed control. At that point, the seed has reached physiological maturity and peak dry matter yield.

Glyphosate applied too early can accumulate in the seed, causing shrinkage, yield loss and potential marketing issues due to maximum residue limits (MRLs) that importing countries set to ensure grain is safe for consumption. In addition to the harvest losses, early application of glyphosate degrades the dough-mixing properties in wheat. Glyphosate in the seed can reduce germination and cause seedlings to have growth defects.

Glyphosate is a systemic herbicide that translocates through plants including the roots of perennial weeds. Plant dry-down in annual and

Monitoring for wheat midge

Using pre-harvest treatments wisely

perennial plants takes one to two weeks. Unlike glyphosate, true crop desiccants like Aim in cereals (Reglone and Heat in other crops) are contact herbicides and will help the crop dry down more quickly. However, they do not control the roots of perennial weeds.

Similar to glyphosate, desiccants like Aim must be applied at the hard-dough stage (30 per cent moisture). Hard-dough stage is when a thumbnail impression is left on the seed after pressing on it.

Even if it has been sprayed at the proper time, glyphosate will still be on the seed coat and can affect germination tests. Therefore, to prevent unwanted germination and emergence issues, glyphosate should never be applied pre-harvest to crops intended for seed.

In summary, do not take unnecessary risks with pre-harvest treatments. Always use the right product for the right use at the right time on the right crop. Check with grain buyers to see if pre-harvest treatments are allowed. Some buyers, especially of malt barley and milling oats, do not accept crops that have had a pre-harvest treatment with glyphosate. When selecting pre-harvest treatments, pulse growers should consult with grain buyers in order to avoid marketing restrictions resulting from varying MRLs in international grain markets. Plan which fields will be used for seed next year and ensure they are not sprayed. Get the timing right by taking a walk through the field checking kernels for the appropriate stage for application prior to spraying.

CROPS

Monitoring for wheat midge should be done in the evening as temperatures cool. For conventional wheat varieties, an insecticide application is recommended when the crop is heading and adult midge density is one midge per four to five wheat heads. To maintain optimum grade, insecticide should be used when the adult midge population reaches one per eight to 10 wheat heads. A late insecticide application should be avoided, as it is not cost-effective and will have a negative impact on wheat midge parasites that are still active.

Refer to The Guide to Crop Protection on the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Guide_to_Crop_Protection; orVisit the SaskPulse website at www.saskpulse.com.

FOR MORE INFO

Mitchell Japp, MSc, PAgProvincial Specialist, Cereal CropsCrops and Irrigation Branch

Brent Flaten, PAgIntegrated Pest Management SpecialistRegional Services Branch

Field that has been sprayed pre-harvest.

Adult wheat midge.

Contact Scott Hartley, Provincial Specialist, Insect and Vertebrate Pests, at 306-787-4669 or scott.hartley@gov.sk.ca.

FOR MORE INFO

Scott Hartley, PAgProvincial Specialist, Insect and Vertebrate PestsCrops and Irrigation Branch

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Bittner, R.M. of Abernethy, No. 186; David Measner, R.M. of Sarnia, No. 221; Garry Dennis, R.M. of Perdue, No. 346; Kay Berry, R.M. of Battle River, No. 438; Daniel Ruest, R.M. of Wise Creek, No. 77; Chad Andrews, R.M. of Pittville, No. 169 and George Gonos, R.M. of Enniskillen, No. 3.

30-year crop reporters:Derald and Irene Ahner, R.M. of Big Stick, No. 141; Allan Aitken, R.M. of Eyebrow, No. 193; Darcy Kentel, R.M. of Churchbridge, No. 211; Marion Kelly, R.M. of Round Valley, No. 410; Lambert Wourms, R.M. of

Frenchman Butte, No. 501.

35-year crop reporters:David Thompson, RM of Kellross, No. 247; and Bernard Cey, RM of Reford, No. 379.

Saskatchewan Agriculture is always looking for crop reporters and would welcome anyone willing to participate. The Crop Report can now be submitted online, which assists with busy schedules during the farming season.

A number of forage legume crops are grown for seed in Saskatchewan and each one has its own specific recommendation for harvest timing and method. Determining the correct stage to harvest these legume crops can be more difficult than many cereal or oilseed crops because forage legumes will continue to flower and fill seed until the first killing frost.

Most legume seed stands can be swathed when a large proportion of the seed heads are dark brown to black. The swaths should be left seven to 10 days to dry before combining, as the seed will continue to ripen in the swath. The specific recommendations for three of the most widely grown legume crops in the province are provided below. Harvest stages provided below would apply to any location in the province. The dates provided are typical for northeastern Saskatchewan.

AlfalfaHarvest in late fall when most of the pods are brown or black in colour. After pollination, alfalfa seeds take about five to six weeks to mature. Harvest can begin six weeks after bees have been removed or the alfalfa has finished blooming. Usually this is late September to early October. Straight-cutting after desiccation is the most common method of harvest.

Long-time crop reporters honoured

Harvest timing of forage legumes for seed

Saskatchewan Agriculture has a group of dedicated and valued crop reporters who report every week during the busy farming months on the activities and progress of the agricultural community. The Crop Report is published weekly, and is used by many people in the agricultural industry.

On March 24, 2015, at the provincial legislature, 18 crop reporters and their spouses were recognized for contributing to the Crop Report for 25, 30 and 35 years. The day included a tour of the Legislative Building, lunch with the Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Alanna Koch, and the presentation of appreciation gifts. Saskatchewan’s Minister of Agriculture, Lyle Stewart, introduced the crop reporters to the members of the Legislative Assembly and expressed his appreciation for their dedicated service. Congratulations and thanks to all crop reporters!

25-year crop reporters: Larry and Shannon Berreth, R.M. of Piapot, No. 110; Clarence Finkas, R.M. of Silverwood, No. 123; Les Wyatt, R.M. of Kingsley, No. 124; Bryan

CROPS

Red CloverSwathing can begin when 75 per cent of the seed heads have turned brown to dark brown. For straight-cutting, desiccate when 90 per cent of the pods have turned dark brown. Straight-cutting after desiccation in late September is the preferred method of harvest.

Sweet CloverSwath when 60 per cent of the pods are white, grey or brown. Generally, this is about late August to early September. Swathing is the recommended method of harvest. Straight-cutting is not recommended because seed maturity is variable and seed shatters easily.

The time of harvest of legume forage seed crops will vary slightly from year to year based on the growing conditions. The dates will also vary with the location in the province. Careful consideration of timing of seed harvest will help ensure that the maximum amount of seed is harvested from these forage crops.

Daphne Cruise, PAgCropping Management SpecialistRegional Services Branch

Allan Foster, PAgRegional Forage Specialist, TisdaleRegional Services Branch

Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.FOR MORE INFO

Contact a Regional Forage Specialist at a nearby Saskatchewan Agriculture Regional Office; orVisit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca and search for “Efficient forage seed harvesting”.

FOR MORE INFO

March 24, 2015 Crop Report Luncheon Front row (L to R): Kerry Obleman and Clarence Finkas, Derald and Irene Ahner, David Thompson, Gilbert and Daniel Ruest.

Second row: Sharon and David Measner, Garry and Ruby Dennis, Laurie and Darcy Kentel, Sharon Berreth.

3rd row: Les and Sharon Wyatt, Sherry and Allan Aitken, Lillian and Lambert Wourms, Larry Berreth.

Back row: Lyle Stewart, Agriculture Minister, Alanna Koch, Deputy Minister of Agriculture, Shawn Jaques, President and CEO Sask Crop Insurance Inc., Terri Kentel-Weinheimer, Vice President Sask Crop Insurance Inc., Daphne Cruise, Saskatchewan Agriculture.

Unable to attend: Chad Andrews, Kay Berry, Bryan Bittner, George Gonos, Marion Kelly and Bernard Cey.

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Improved livestock watering projects that have been approved for cost-shared funding through FRWIP include:

• Fencing an existing dugout and installing a solar watering system;

• Installing a wet well and nose pump or other water appliance as an alternative to direct watering;

• Developing a shallow- or deep-water pipeline to transport water to a more sustainable area or an area with unreliable or no water; and

• Developing a new well or dugout with a sustainable livestock watering appliance.

The Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program is funded under Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

The report identified when best to harvest fruit, characterized each cultivar and provided insight on how best to use different varieties in processed products. There are quality differences among the U of S dwarf sour cherries, and growers have created specialized products from these varieties.

The report is available through the Ministry’s online search tool at: www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/ADF/search.

Forrest Scharf, PAgProvincial Specialist, Fruit CropsCrops and Irrigation Branch

Saskatchewan sour cherries have many unique attributes that make them desirable for many cooking applications.

Improving livestock watering systems with FRWIP

Saskatchewan’s Dwarf Sour Cherries – simply the best

CROPS | LIVESTOCK

When you hear about the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP), often the first thing that comes to mind is the fact that the program provides funding to producers for new agricultural water development projects such as wells and dugouts. Did you know that FRWIP also provides funding to improve livestock watering systems?

The most common type of FRWIP applications for improving livestock watering systems include preventing livestock from directly accessing surface water such as creeks, rivers, dugouts, lakes and wetlands. Restricting livestock’s access to surface water promotes the sustainability of the water source by reducing direct contamination and encouraging the growth of bank vegetation, which will prevent erosion by stabilizing the bank and provide a buffer for contaminants. It can also improve herd and pasture health.

A variety of livestock watering options are available. When considering the best watering systems for your operation, consider your location (topography, distance to and availability of power/water sources), operational needs (number of livestock, type of grazing system used, need for portability) and costs.

When consumers consider purchasing University of Saskatchewan dwarf sour cherries, they often ask, “Why should I pay more for dwarf sour cherries than other types of sour cherry?” To provide an acceptable answer, growers sought scientific facts to bolster anecdotal responses.

Now, thanks to an Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) report entitled Variety Variations in New and Existing U of S Sour Cherries, solid facts support the response: “Because they are better.”

In common parlance the term “cherry” refers to sweet cherries (Prunus avium) that are consumed fresh, are dark red fleshed, large sized, have sugar content ranging between 13 and 18 per cent and have low acid content (0.47 per cent). Cherries used for pie filling are referred to as sour cherries (Prunus cerasus). The “pie cherries” are typically smaller than sweet cherries, have similar sugar content (13 to 16 per cent), are yellow fleshed, but have higher acid content (roughly 1.32 per cent total acidity). However, there are two distinct types of sour cherry, “amarelle” and “morello”. Amarelle cherries are the yellow fleshed “pie filling” variety with bright red skin. Morello cherries have deep red flesh and skin that is a much darker red hue.

University of Saskatchewan dwarf sour cherries are morello, have similar “pie cherry” acid content (averaging 1.3 per cent total acidity), but have significantly higher sugar content (from 16 to 23 per cent). They also contain a very striking quintessential cherry flavour not found in amarelle cherries. The shrubs are considered to be “dwarf” because they don’t grow more than 3.6 metres (12 feet) above ground. The cherries themselves are quite large, averaging between three to five grams (0.1 to 0.18 ounces), and are packed with compounds that help maintain optimum health.

Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agr.gov.sk.ca/GF2-FRWIP or call 1-877-874-5365.

FOR MORE INFO

Contact Forrest Scharf, Provincial Specialist, Fruit Crops, at 306-787-4666 or forrest.scharf@gov.sk.ca.

FOR MORE INFO

Francine BruleManager, Grant and Rebate ProgramsFinancial Programs Branch

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Morgan Heidecker(Middle Lake) – AG Scholarship Winner

Morgan Heidecker wants to become a young leader in the agricultural industry because it is a timeless industry with global possibilities.

“Agriculture is such a vital industry, of course I want to be a part of its future! Agriculture is essential to our world’s survival and to questions about sustainability,” Morgan said. “So what do I think is important to our planet and something that I enjoy? Definitely, a career in agriculture!”

Agriculture is the first true industry the world ever knew; it fueled the very first human civilizations and ultimately led to the expansion of trade across the globe. With that said, the modern agriculture Morgan is interested in varies wildly from the agricultural practices of even a few decades ago.

At the root of this constant progression in Saskatchewan has been world-leading scientific research, attentive environmental stewardship, and the world-renowned prairie work ethic that has spurred so many of Saskatchewan’s agricultural innovations.

Morgan’s video submission (www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEGIpmRCfH8) won her the Grand Prize Scholarship because she embodies the new, technologically focused wave of agricultural professionals who will be needed to feed the growing global populace.

“Agricultural technologies are always advancing. I’m particularly excited to see the new technologies that are already being produced to assist famers with precision, efficiency and profitability.” Morgan said. “These advancements will help us continue raising the best crops and livestock.”

As the pressures of a growing global populace mount, there is an increasing need for biotechnological research and creative business strategies to ensure the continued success of modern agriculture.

This is changing the public’s perception of agriculture.

“I want to be part of the agricultural industry as it continues to become even more prominent on the world stage. I want to help find new solutions to challenges like growing the food the world needs,” Morgan said. “That’s why I can’t wait to further my career in agriculture.”

Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba notes that employment opportunities in agri-food are anticipated to increase 15 per cent across all regions. That is to say, there will be even more opportunity for career advancement than there already is!

Morgan said that she couldn’t help but agree wholeheartedly with David Hansen, CEO and President of Canterra Seeds, when he said, “I love being a part of an industry that’s feeding the world.”

After all, “What are populations around the world going to eat tomorrow?” Morgan asked. “That is the type of question that I want to help answer. And although no one knows the answer yet, I do believe those working in the ag industry, including myself, will be the ones to figure it out; whether we’re embracing the current technologies or searching for new advancements.”

Undoubtedly this is true. Throughout history, agriculture has served as the staple of societies. In present times, this remains unchanged. In fact, if anything, it is truer than ever.

“But apart from the science, numbers and history of agriculture, I am pursuing a career in agriculture simply because I enjoy it! I am already involved in the industry directly, both on our farm and through our cattle operation. I own four cows and plan on expanding each year,” Morgan said. “I hope to explore many areas of agriculture, and later on, possibly even own my own farm. Agriculture is something I find not only crucial to our populations’ life and sustainability, but I find that makes me feel as though I’m a part of something that’s making a difference.”

In the fall, Morgan will be pursuing her dream of a career in an industry with global possibilities by attending the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources.

Agriculture’s future leaders: the winners of the 2015 Agriculture Student Scholarship

Agriculture Scholarship

Visit the thinkAG webpage at www.saskatchewan.ca/thinkAG.FOR MORE INFO

In 2009, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture launched the Agriculture Student Scholarship. In 2015, the program awarded four scholarships, totaling $10,000, to students who thinkAG and show it by talking about their passion for Saskatchewan’s world-class agricultural industry. The Grand Prize Scholarship is valued at $4,000, and three runner-up scholarships are valued at $2,000.

This year, Morgan Heidecker of Middle Lake was awarded the Grand Prize Scholarship. Shelby Evans (Kenaston), Alyxandria Harland (Lloydminster), and Cassandra Maurer (Grenfell) won the three runner-up scholarships. These are the stories of their passion and dreams for their futures in Saskatchewan’s agricultural industry.

Morgan embodies the new, technologically focused wave of agricultural professionals.

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Agriculture Scholarship

Saskatchewan Agriculture Student Scholarship – Runners-up

Shelby Evans has a dream job that she is already proudly working towards. She wants to manage the family farm and purebred cattle business:

“We have about 175 purebred Charlois cow-calf pairs, 125 commercial pairs and about 2,500 acres of grain land,” Shelby said.

Since she was little, Shelby has been helping out on the farm. She has been particularly involved in the livestock production side of her family’s operation. Shelby has been fortunate enough to attend Canadian Western Agribition for the past 17 years, participate in multiple 4-H shows, junior and summer shows across Western Canada.

Someday, Shelby would like to take a few head down to the Denver National Stock Show. Luckily, last summer, Shelby got a taste of what a

future raising cattle for livestock shows might hold when she halter-broke 10 of her family’s cattle—the first step in preparing them for the show ring.

This experience led her to apply for and ultimately win one of the three 2015 runner-up scholarships. With the scholarship, Shelby will continue to pursue her dream of managing her parents’ farm. She wants to continue her parents’ example of keeping safety a primary goal while providing food for the world and sustaining the environment.

To provide for the global food supply and still be a steward of sustainability is not easy work. That is why Shelby advocates the inherent value found in the hard work that is required of agribusiness professionals, especially in a family farm setting.

“I think there is really a lot of value in running a farm as a family, and then experiencing the success that you earn as a family too,” Shelby said. “My parents, two sisters, grandparents and even my uncle would all step in to make sure the day’s work was completed.”

In the fall, Shelby will be pursuing her dream of becoming an independent agribusiness professional by attending the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources.

Shelby Evans(Kenaston)

The United Nations estimates that, by 2050, there will be 9.6 billion people on the planet. The global middle class is expected to increase from about two billion people today, to 4.9 billion people by 2030.

This will drastically increase demand for food production. In response, farming technologies of all types must continue to improve at the rapid rate they currently are in Saskatchewan:

“This means everything from combine capacity, to human workforce power, to yields in the fields,” AG Scholarship runner-up Cassandra Maurer said. “Technology continues to advance at a very fast rate, and it is essential to keep learning how these new technologies

work in order to stay strong in the agricultural industry.”

It is vital that producers stay on the cutting-edge of technology to remain competitive and profitable in agriculture. The agricultural industry is home to Cassandra, and to her dream jobs, precisely because she loves adapting to the dynamic, fast-paced, science-based and technology-driven nature of the industry.

“Agriculture today is huge! It’s a dynamic industry and continues to employ more people every year. These jobs are not only in food production, but also in technological fields like engineering, mechanics, agronomy, mining for inputs, and more conventional fields like finance, accounting, marketing, government, law and many other professions,” Cassandra said.

Seventeen-year-old Cassandra is already very future-focused. She wants to work with the new technologies that will be needed for agricultural advancement in the upcoming years, but also wants to be a producer now, for today’s market and population.

Additionally, Cassandra says that putting in a day’s work to her means seeding a crop with a seventy-five-foot drill, and the payoff is that many hungry mouths will receive nourishing food. Undoubtedly, agriculture is the field for her because she loves it.

“I love the way of life agriculture provides. Agriculture is all about protecting and preserving the environment, not only just for the Earth’s well-being, but also for people to live off of it and for future generations to do the same.” Cassandra said. “I would be more than happy to raise another generation, my kids, in the same environment, as stewards of sustainability.”

In the fall, Cassandra will be pursuing her dream of becoming a leader in the dynamic, technologically driven agricultural industry by attending Parkland College and studying to become an Agriculture Machinery Technician.

Cassandra Maurer (Grenfell)

AG Scholarship runner-up Alyxandria Harland has a dream as big as the Saskatchewan sky.

“I feel a deep compassion for animals and am always concerned for that anxious or unhealthy animal. Plus, I want to improve the quality of life animals experience, so being a veterinarian is absolutely my dream job,” Alyxandria said. “Although I have a passion for animals, I am very much a people person too. Thankfully, veterinary medicine allows me to connect with the animals and the ranchers that take care of those animals.”

Alyxandria was awarded one of the 2015 Runner-Up Scholarships to help her pursue her dream as a veterinarian to help animals live fuller and healthier lives. Growing up on a family farm near Lloydminster, Alyxandria has had many opportunities to cultivate her love for animals and her ability to nurse them back to health.

“Feeding instructions, vaccine schedules, herd health, preventative measures and proper administration of drugs are just some of the information that I would be responsible for relaying to ranchers,” Alyxandria said. “These experiences can be very distressing to an animal owner, and, as a veterinarian, I must remain calm, supportive and sympathetic to the animal and to its caretaker.”

In the fall, Alyxandria will be pursuing her dream to become a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine by attending the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources.

Alyxandria Harland (Lloydminster)

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Today’s farmers are more productive than ever. They are using new technology, better farm practices and intensive management. This approach is producing great results on Saskatchewan farms; however, the capital and operating investment to achieve high returns has increased. To meet the evolving risk needs of Saskatchewan farm businesses, the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) has adapted and expanded its risk protection profile. Offering a suite of risk protection programs, SCIC has effective and affordable risk protection options designed to meet the needs of today’s farming operations.

From the beginningSCIC has provided risk protection for Saskatchewan producers for more than 54 years. Initially starting in 1961 with crop insurance coverage on three crops—wheat, barley and oats—the programming offered to producers has expanded to the point where producers can access coverage for all the crops they grow on their farm. The risk doesn’t end when the growing season is over. Factors outside the producer’s control, such as rising input costs and/or falling commodity prices, can be mitigated through other programs offered by SCIC. AgriStability and the Western Livestock Price Insurance Program (WLPIP) are options for protecting the financial foundation of the farming operation, as these programs give producers an avenue to secure a specific level of support for their livestock production or whole farm income.

How much risk protection does my farm need?Each farming operation is unique in its size and its production capabilities and practices, and needs a plan tailored to its unique circumstances. SCIC has worked to make its risk management programs relevant, adaptable and flexible to meet the different needs of each farm business. For example, crop insurance coverage reflects the production experienced on each farm. Producers’ historical crop yields are a factor in the coverage they can receive. The claim history on the farm plays another role in the premium charged for the coverage. When combined with a range of coverage and pricing choices, each producer can build an insurance package that provides effective risk protection to meet the needs of each farming operation.

AgriStability is another option for producers looking to protect the financial foundation of their farms. The AgriStability Program compares the farm’s financial success for the current year to its historical financial profile. If the current year’s financial results fall 30 per cent or more compared to the historical profile, a benefit is triggered. The structure of the program creates individual coverage for each farm, as the risk protection provided is directly related to the financial profile of the farm.

The most recent addition to SCIC’s group of risk management programs is the WLPIP. This new feature is specific to cattle and hog producers and provides a way to protect this livestock against a drop in market prices. While rising feed grain prices, the value of the Canadian dollar and the futures market are major influences on the price producers receive for their cattle, they are beyond the control of the producer. The WLPIP provides a way to protect

Risk management for your farm

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

against those factors. Producers can purchase a future market price for their livestock and, if the actual market price is lower during the time frame selected, they receive payments offsetting the price loss.

All of SCIC’s risk management programs provide different types of risk protection. They are designed to work together and can provide an effective level of protection should something unforeseen happen with the farm.

There are 21 local Crop Insurance offices across the province with experts at each office who can meet one-on-one to discuss a farming operation’s current risk protection and the options available to enhance or adjust coverage through the suite of risk management programs. Producers are encouraged to review their current levels of risk protection and determine if they have the correct level of coverage for their operations.

What about wildlife?The fourth risk management program in SCIC’s suite of programs is the Wildlife Damage Compensation Program. Producers who experience crop, forage or livestock damage from wildlife can access compensation and support through SCIC. All Saskatchewan producers can access the programming, as there is no fee to participate. Along with providing support when damage occurs, SCIC’s programming can also help prevent wildlife damage through a number of options and strategies. SCIC encourages producers to contact their local SCIC office as soon as they notice wildlife damage. The sooner SCIC can evaluate the situation, the better it will be for accessing compensation or preventative measures. Contact your local Crop Insurance office should you need support for wildlife damage on your farm.

Eliminate the paperworkFinding enough time in the day to get everything done on the farm can be difficult. SCIC understands the workload and the evolving way producers conduct their business. To help balance the workload, SCIC has created online options for conducting risk management business. With CropConnect, everything from selecting insurance, to completing the seeded acreage report, to filing a post-harvest claim can be done online. Producers enrolled in the AgriStability Program can use the online tool, AgConnect. Along with viewing their historical AgriStability information, producers can complete and submit their annual program forms electronically. Everything related to the Western Livestock Price Insurance Program—from reviewing the coverage and premium options to purchasing a policy—can be done online. To start using any of the online options, contact your local Crop Insurance and staff can help you access any of the web-based applications.

Risk management is an important consideration for today’s farmer and rancher. The options continue to grow and SCIC continues to enhance and adapt its programs and services to meet client needs. To discuss the risk protection opportunities for your farm, contact your local Crop Insurance office.

Crop insurance, AgriStability and the Western Livestock Price Insurance Program are funded under Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

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RESEARCH

Additionally, the average air room temperature during the summer was cooler in the geothermal room, but not cold enough to create an advantage in feed efficiency or pig performance.

Moreover, there were significant reductions in methane and carbon dioxide emissions during the summer and the winter in the geothermal room.

Hog feed efficiency and hog performance were neither beneficially, nor adversely, affected by the presence of the geothermal system.

Quite simply, the geothermal system is better than conventional power systems in the winter months. It reduces costs and greenhouse gas emissions with no adverse effects except start-up costs, which can be overcome through long-term use of the system.

However, in the summer months, the geothermal system is not better for producers’ bottom lines. It does provide a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, but at the cost of higher energy expenses.

With these conclusions, and the data generated from the barn trials, the research team developed computer software to estimate the reduction in total energy costs, and greenhouse gas emissions, that a geothermal system can provide a hog production facility.

The software also estimates the financial returns a geothermal system will provide a specific hog production facility; regardless of size, or of particular heating requirements. This data paints a vivid picture of what benefits a geothermal system will provide a producer who implements such a system into his or her own swine production facility.

Saskatchewan is an agricultural innovator that provides feed, fuel and food to the world. One of the toughest challenges facing the global community is the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This ADF project stands testament to the fact that the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is proud to support scientific research that creates agricultural solutions to global problems.

Producers interested in accessing the computer software developed in this project are invited to contact Dr. Bernardo Predicala with the Prairie Swine Centre at bernardo.predicala@usask.ca.

In 2015, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada committed to $10.7 million in new funding for 72 ADF research projects through Growing Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative.

Evaluation of a geothermal system for swine production

A survey of 28 hog farms in Saskatchewan showed that heating and ventilation costs are responsible for almost 80 per cent of energy used in many different types of hog barns.

Additionally, current estimates of energy costs in swine operations range from about $7 to $12 per pig sold. This figure has steadily increased over recent years, and is now the third largest variable cost in hog production behind feed and labour.

Considering these mounting challenges, a study was undertaken to test the possibility of implementing a geothermal energy system in a swine production facility.

A geothermal energy system uses the thermal mass of the Earth to heat a building during winter and to cool down that building during summer. It is highly reliable, offers year-round availability (without any need for storage requirements), is not subject to price jumps in oil or gas; and, of course, produces less greenhouse gas emissions than conventional power systems.

Subsequently, Dr. Bernardo Predicala, a research scientist with Prairie Swine Centre Inc., worked with his research team to design and place a geothermal energy system in a hog production facility. The geothermal system is made up of a heat pump and 550 metres of 1.9 centimetre (in diameter) polyethylene pipes. This network of pipes is buried in 2.6-to-three-metre trenches in the ground encircling the barn (Figure 1).

The energy system is connected to the barn room where the pigs are raised. This room is 7.3 x 19.8 metres in size and in this experiment it held 120 pigs.

Beside this room, there is another room. This second room operates on a conventional, 22 kWh gas-fired, forced-air heater. This is the “Control” room of the project. It was built to have its results compared with the “Treatment” room of this project; the “Treatment” room being the room powered by the geothermal energy system (Figure 2).

By comparing the outputs of these two rooms; the benefits, and potentially the detriments, of the Treatment room (the room powered by geothermal energy) can be observed.

The measurements taken from both rooms included: energy use, room environmental conditions, greenhouse gas concentrations, feed efficiency, and pig performance. These results were observed in both rooms over four cycles in the winter and three cycles in the summer.

Ultimately, the study concluded that the geothermal system showed about a 36 per cent reduction in energy consumption for heating and ventilation during the winter (when compared to the Control room). However, during the summer, it actually had 1475 kWh higher energy consumption than the Control room.

Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture research reports page at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/ADF. Search and enter the report number #20110211 into the search function.

FOR MORE INFO

Figure 2. The heat pump inside the pig production room, called the ‘Treatment’ room.

Figure 1. Digging of trenches outside the pig barn to bury the network of polyethylene pipes; the ‘ground loop’ of the geothermal system.

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Avoiding foot rot in cattle

Small poultry flock biosecurity

LIVESTOCK

Check cattle on pasture regularly, since most animals respond well to treatment with oxytetracycline or procain penicillin and recover in a few days if caught early. If possible, affected animals should be kept in dry areas until healed. Infections that do not respond to initial treatments need to be evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible.

waterfowl along all the major migratory bird flyways, and has made its way into several commercial poultry flocks in the United States, as well as in British Columbia and Ontario. While this virus poses little risk to human health, the mortality rate in domestic birds is very high; the majority of infected chickens or turkeys rapidly become sick and die.

To reduce the chance of AI being introduced into your flock, take measures to prevent contact between domestic poultry and wild birds or their feces. Keep the birds fenced off from wild bird access. Wear dedicated clean boots when working with your poultry. Keep feed and water where it cannot be accessed by wild birds. Regularly clean and disinfect facilities and equipment and wash your hands using soap or hand sanitizer, both before and after working with poultry.

AI is a reportable disease in Canada. If you experience high mortality or see unusual clinical symptoms in your birds—such as lethargy, swollen combs and wattles, or gasping—it is wise to get a

confirmed diagnosis. Contact your local veterinarian or Prairie Diagnostic Services in Saskatoon (306-966-7316) to arrange for testing.

Foot rot is one of the most common causes of lameness in cattle, and the bacteria Fusobacterium necrophorum is considered to be the major cause. It is present in the rumen and feces of normal cattle and has been shown to survive in the soil for up to 10 months. A number of other types of bacteria found in the manure and the environment have also been found to cause foot rot.

Infection occurs when bacteria enter through a break in the skin of the foot. Things like stones, plant stubble, wire, nails and glass in the cattle’s environment can injure the skin between the hoof claws. Exposure to manure-laden mud or rough ground may also contribute to the problem. High temperatures and excess moisture or humidity can cause the skin between the claws to chap or crack, allowing the bacteria to invade. The incidence of foot rot varies with weather, season and pen or pasture condition.

Sudden onset of lameness is usually the first sign of foot rot. Closer examination of the foot reveals a foul odour, broken skin (ulcers) between the claws and a symmetrical swelling of the foot. There are many other causes of a sudden onset of lameness, but most generally involve only one claw of the foot, have asymmetrical swelling and do not involve the soft tissues between the claws.

To help prevent foot rot, keep the environment as clean and dry as possible, and footing abrasion-free. Wet environments soften the skin and make it more prone to damage, so it is important to minimize the time cattle must spend standing in wet areas. Mineral supplementation on pasture is important for hoof health, as cattle that are deficient in zinc, selenium and copper seem to have an increased incidence of disease.

Many people in Saskatchewan keep small poultry flocks for producing table eggs, growing out broilers for butchering each summer, or just as a hobby. Poultry can provide a source of local food, education for children in animal care and economics, and pleasure in the birds themselves.

Like their larger, commercial counterparts, small flocks must also be protected from disease. Biosecurity is disease control and prevention by preventing disease from coming into a flock, controlling the spread of disease within a flock and stopping spread of disease out from the flock to other poultry. General husbandry conditions, such as clean facilities, protection from the weather, balanced diets appropriate for the age and type of poultry and access to clean water, all contribute to disease prevention. Chicks may be vaccinated to prevent some diseases before purchase. New introductions to the flock should be kept separate for a few weeks.

This year, there is an increased risk from avian influenza (AI) carried by wild waterfowl; there have been many cases of H5N2 in domestic poultry reported across North America this spring. It has been detected in wild

Dr. Wendy Wilkins, DVM, PhDDisease Surveillance VeterinarianLivestock Branch

Dr. Betty Althouse, D.V.M.Chief Veterinary OfficerLivestock Branch

Contact Dr. Wendy Wilkins, Disease Surveillance Veterinarian, at 306-798-0253 or wendy.wilkins@gov.sk.ca;Contact a regional livestock specialist at a nearby Saskatchewan Agriculture Regional Office; Contact a local veterinarian; orVisit the Beef Cattle Research Council website at www.beefresearch.ca/blog/lameness-video.

FOR MORE INFO

Visit the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website at www.inspection.gc.ca and search under “bird-health-basics”.

FOR MORE INFO

Wet environments soften the foot skin and make it more prone to damage.

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Saskatchewan Pasture Tour 2015

Take care when transporting livestock during hot weather

grazing, sheep grazing for weed and brush control, grazing high percentage alfalfa and pasture rejuvenation techniques. There is plenty to see and learn at the innovative, working ranches we are visiting.

Lunch will be provided, along with snacks and drinks during the day. The event will wrap up with supper in Earl Grey, after which the bus will return to Regina.

The tour and the information presented will cover a wide range of topics. Producers will have the opportunity to learn from other producers and to network with forage specialists and researchers. The cost is $80 per person, which includes all meals and transportation. Registration is limited to 50 producers. Please register early to book your spot.

When transporting livestock in the summer, the following steps must be taken:

• Determine the heat index prior to transporting livestock. Check weather service forecasts for your route. Cancel trips during hot weather.

• Transport during the cooler parts of the day.

• Reduce the number of animals loaded.

• Avoid stopping, but if you do, park the livestock trailer in the shade.

• Plan shorter trips.

• Ensure livestock are well-hydrated before shipping.

• Ensure plenty of ventilation and airflow.

• Handle animals quietly and calmly when loading, hauling and unloading.

During hot and humid weather, all those involved in the transportation of animals or arranging their transport must take steps to protect animals from heat stress. The majority of transporters understand the effect of heat stress on animals and are committed to protecting the animals in their care. Canadian Livestock Transportation certification is a requirement for many transporters and offers training in handling livestock during transport. In circumstances where animals are not appropriately cared for, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency can take a number of enforcement actions under the federal Humane Transportation Regulations, including monetary penalties and prosecution.

Following these precautions will ensure transported livestock arrive at their destinations safely and in good health.

This year, the Saskatchewan Pasture Tour will take place Thursday, August 6, in the Earl Grey area north of Regina. The tour will begin at 9 a.m. in Earl Grey, where participants will board a chartered bus at the Earl Grey town hall. As an option, participants may board the bus in Regina at 8 a.m. at the north side of the Northgate Mall. The bus will return to Regina in the early evening.

Tour stops during the day will feature native and tame pasture management systems, corn production for winter grazing, hay field rejuvenation with commercial fertilizer, over-seeding into perennials, feedlot manure on pasture, water delivery systems, bale grazing management, bale grazing benefits, stockpiled pasture for late-fall

Animals must be protected during transportation to prevent exposure to extreme weather conditions. Livestock have a lower tolerance to heat and humidity than humans, and often have limited means to cool themselves.

Heat and humidity are two factors to consider when transporting livestock in the summer. Livestock are less able to cool themselves when the humidity is high. The more humidity or moisture in the air, the less evaporation can occur to cool the animal. When the air temperature increases, cooling becomes even more important. The combination of high temperature and humidity is especially detrimental for pigs. Pigs should be wetted with a coarse spray and allowed to cool by evaporation. Trucks should be kept moving to provide air flow and pigs unloaded promptly.

Cattle, sheep and swine all have different heat indices. The chart below is the Heat Index Chart for cattle.

LIVESTOCK

by Dr. LeeAnn Forsythe, DVMDisease Surveillance Veterinarian,Livestock Branch

Lorne Klein, PAgRegional Forage SpecialistRegional Services Branch, Weyburn

Dr. LeeAnn Forsythe, Disease Surveillance Veterinarian, at 306-787-6069 or leeann.forsythe@gov.sk.ca.

FOR MORE INFO

Contact Lorne Klein, Regional Forage Specialist, Weyburn at 306-848-2382, lorne.klein@gov.sk.ca, orLeanna Rousell, Executive Director, Saskatchewan Forage Council at 306-329-3116, office@saskforage.ca.

FOR MORE INFO

With Prolonged Exposure and/or Physical Activity

Extreme DangerHeat stroke or sunstroke

highly likely

DangerSunstroke, muscle cramps, and/

or heat exhaustion likely

Extreme CautionSunstroke, muscle cramps, and/

or heat exhaustion possible

CautionFatigue possible

Relative Humidity (%) 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100

Air

Tem

per

atur

e (°

F)

110 136

108 130 137

106 124 130 137

104 119 124 131 137

102 114 119 124 130 137

100 109 114 118 124 129 136

98 105 109 113 117 124 129 134

96 101 104 108 112 116 121 126 132

94 97 100 102 106 110 114 119 124 129 136

92 94 96 99 101 105 108 112 116 121 126 131

90 91 93 95 97 100 103 106 109 113 117 122 127 132

88 88 89 91 93 95 98 100 103 106 110 113 117 121

86 85 87 88 89 91 93 95 97 100 102 105 108 112

84 83 84 85 86 88 89 90 92 94 96 98 100 103

82 81 82 83 84 84 85 86 88 89 90 91 93 95

80 80 80 81 81 82 82 83 84 84 85 86 86 87

Heat Index(Apparent Temperature)

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FERAL WILD BOAR CONTROL PROGRAMEscaped and feral wild boar continue to be a concern for Saskatchewan farmers, ranchers and rural property owners. Boar producers are responsible for maintaining adequate fences to contain their animals.

Anyone who spots a wild boar running at large should report the sighting and the specific location to a local Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) office.

The Feral Wild Boar Control Program, which is administered by SCIC, helps landowners and rural municipalities remove wild boar by helping to coordinate qualified hunters and trappers who will investigate the sighting and take appropriate action.

Premises Identification: it’s new, it’s easy to use and it protects industry and the producer

Domestic swine and wild boar traceability requirements

LIVESTOCK

a premises, and it is completely confidential; producers can be sure that their information will only be used in the event of emergency.

There are numerous advantages to enrolling in PID. It will allow industry to quickly respond to and contain disease threats. Once populated, the database will significantly increase the speed with which veterinarians can track potential threats. PID will also provide producers with an early warning in the event of a nearby disease threat. It can also be used to provide producers with advance warning of natural threats like floods and waterway contamination.

PID in Saskatchewan is a voluntary program, although the federal government is advocating for mandatory PID registration by 2016. While it is voluntary, the Saskatchewan government and the livestock industry strongly encourage participation. PID will complement the industry’s desire to use electronic manifests as a means to report animal movement, which will be made mandatory in the near future. Using online means to report movements can save the producer both time and money.

information on these requirements, contact PigTrace Canada (pigtrace.ca/) or the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (www.inspection.gc.ca/).

To be able to report movement, producers need a Premises Identification (PID) number. These can be obtained from Saskatchewan Agriculture at http://premisesid.saskatchewan.ca or by registering with Sask Pork. For information on obtaining approved ear tags or slap tattoo numbers or reporting movements, contact PigTrace Canada or Sask Pork.

Animal identification, premises identification and movement reporting are the three pillars of traceability. A fully functioning traceability system has the ability to dramatically reduce the impact of an animal health emergency on the livestock industry.

The Saskatchewan Premises Identification (PID) system was launched in June and will become an integral part of Canada’s traceability system. Premises identification is one of three pillars of a full traceability system. The other two pillars are animal identification and animal movement reporting.

The PID database links livestock and poultry to geographic locations for the purpose of planning and responding to animal health issues and emergency response. The database will facilitate the rapid notification of producers in the event of disease threats and other natural disasters, and helps dispatch emergency resources to appropriate locations during an emergency. With an effective PID system in place, Saskatchewan livestock producers will be better able to maintain market access for livestock and meat.

It is quick and easy to enrol in PID. Producers can register online at http://premisesid.saskatchewan.ca or call 306-798-PIDS (7437) for help in filling out the form. There are no fees or costs associated with registering

Since July 1, 2014, federal regulation has required domestic swine producers to report animal movements to Pigtrace Canada. As of July 1, 2015, these regulations also make it mandatory to report the movement of farmed wild boar to Pigtrace. Movement must be reported if the animal is slaughtered off-farm, regardless of the size of the production unit or whether the meat is intended for sale or for use by the producer.

Pigs or wild boar that are moved between farms do not need to be identified unless they are sows or boars but movement documentation must accompany animals. Reporting is not required for movement between barns on the same property.

Animals going to slaughter, including culled breeding stock, require a herd mark shoulder-slap tattoo or an approved ear tag before the pigs leave the farm. This number must be reported by both the shipper and receiver.

There are also specific requirements for farm-to-farm movements of breeding stock, pigs and wild boar transported for export or to fairs or exhibitions, artificial insemination centres, auction marts and any other destination. For

Roy WhiteAssistant DirectorLivestock Branch

Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca; Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; orCall the PID database administrator at 306-798-PIDS (7437).

FOR MORE INFO

Visit the PigTrace Canada website at pigtrace.ca/; or Contact SaskPork at 306-244-7752 or www.saskpork.com.

FOR MORE INFO

Sherri Dobbs, PAgProvincial Livestock Development SpecialistLivestock Branch

Paul Marceniak, PAgLivestock Development SpecialistLivestock Branch

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Feed testing is a simple and cost-effective method for livestock producers to manage their production costs. Current studies on cost of production show that 60 to 75 per cent of livestock expenses are directly attributed to feed. Feed analysis is not only affordable, but also allows for more accurate formulation of rations and targeted animal performance. Reducing feed waste and balancing efficient rations can be achieved through feed testing.

In recent years, the prevalence of moulds and mycotoxins produced by ergot and fusarium has been increasing in Western Canada. Sometimes, these infected crops and their byproducts are used as feed for livestock. Researchers have collected data from these livestock feeds in recent years, and have proven that visual confirmation is not a reliable method for determining extent of toxicity. Fortunately, new analytical technologies

Earlier this year, a group of Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers was part of a delegation that travelled to Mexico to find experienced workers for the provincial agricultural sector. The initiative, led by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Economy, was aimed at helping Saskatchewan agricultural producers who are experiencing unprecedented temporary labour shortages.

The Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Economy, with the support of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan, worked with producer organizations across the province to identify employers who were willing to travel to Mexico City on the labour recruitment mission. Immigration Services officials from the Ministry of Economy helped 24 agricultural producers obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment in advance of the mission. Employment and Social Development Canada and Citizenship and Immigration Canada also assisted producers in order to minimize any barriers to the recruitment and immigration process.

The Ministry of Economy worked with the Mexican Secretariat of Labour and Social Welfare (STPS) to shortlist approximately 125 candidates with

More reasons to feed test

Mission to Mexico to find agricultural workers

LIVESTOCK

are available to test and monitor these feed sources for both human and livestock safety.

Livestock producers are strongly encouraged to incorporate feed (and water) testing regimens into their operations. Knowing the quality of the feed before using it in a ration allows the producer to take control of the feed program and plan accordingly. Recent advancements in feed testing have afforded testing laboratories the ability to provide a service which is both cost-effective and accurate.

Much like equipment maintenance in preparation for seeding or a monthly oil change in a vehicle, feed testing for quality and mycotoxin safety should no longer be considered an option but rather a staple in the business of feeding any livestock. When tests results can be provided at such a low cost, the value back to a livestock operation is incalculable.

qualifications matching job descriptions provided by the employers. More than 100 of those candidates travelled to Mexico City for interviews with the 24 prospective employers, and more than 50 people were offered jobs. The STPS has facilitated the recruitment of more than 45,000 workers for Canada’s agricultural sector since 2011.

The Mexico mission is an example of how immigration programming can work to support the labour needs of on-farm primary producers. The most valuable asset of this initiative was the ability to provide the producers with accurate information, particularly related to eligibility and timing, that allowed them to make the best decisions for their particular situations.

Meetings between Immigration Services Branch and STPS in Mexico City were very encouraging, with a strong likelihood of continued co-operation. The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to supporting long-term growth, enhancing competitiveness and ensuring the sustainability of the provincial agricultural sector, specifically by addressing labour issues affecting agricultural producers in Saskatchewan.

Another labour market mission is planned for the future, and the Ministry of Economy, Immigration Services Branch, is hoping to increase the participation of primary agricultural producers.

Contact a regional livestock specialist at a nearby Saskatchewan Agriculture Regional Office; orContact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

FOR MORE INFO

HAY HARVEST CHALLENGETake the Saskatchewan Hay Harvest Challenge and WIN!The nutrient content of forages is highly variable. Growing and harvesting good quality forage is the first step in meeting livestock nutrient requirements. Plant maturity at the time of cutting is the greatest factor in determining forage quality.

Matching the nutrients supplied in the forage with the nutrients required by the animal is only possible if the nutrient content of the forage is known. Knowing the nutrient content of a forage supply can help manage the winter feeding period. Not only does feed testing prevent overfeeding, it more importantly prevents under-feeding of nutrients. Matching nutrients provided to livestock requirements optimizes productivity and maximizes the opportunity for profit.

TAKE THE CHALLENGE!Submit your forage samples for feed testing. Fill in the entry form in the official contest field record book and provide a copy of the forage analysis. All entries are eligible to win. Prizes include a $1,000 voucher for purchase of store merchandise from a Saskatchewan Peavey Mart location or one of four $250 vouchers from Central Testing Laboratories.

Contest deadline: January 15, 2016

For more information or to obtain your official field record book, contact a Regional Forage Specialist at a nearby Saskatchewan Agriculture Regional Office or call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

Murray Feist, MSc, PAgRuminant Nutrition SpecialistRegional Services Branch, Moose Jaw

Bob Wiens Senior Livestock Policy AnalystLivestock Branch

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Since 1952, the 4-H clover has represented 4-H in Canada. The clover logo was adopted when the organization’s name changed from The Boys and Girls Club to 4-H. Aligning the 4-H brand nationwide has been a discussion amongst provincial 4-H organizations for many years. Across the country, 4-H staff, volunteers and supporters were passionate about addressing the need to build a clear, cohesive brand identity for the 4-H movement in Canada. Following an extensive national consultation, the decision was made to refresh the clover logo.

Strengthening and aligning the 4-H brand across Canada was announced as one of 4-H Canada’s four strategic priorities in May 2014. At that time, a Logo Task Force Committee was created to provide recommendations on re-energizing 4-H’s visual identity. Key considerations for the committee included honouring 4-H’s core values, respecting the heritage of the organization and evolving the logo to engage our youth audience.

In November 2014, the committee brought a new clover design to the Canadian 4-H Council Board of Directors. Following an extensive

Events calendar

4-H in Canada gets a new look!

consultation process with provincial organizations and other stakeholders, the board approved the new logo in February 2015.

The new 4-H Canada clover was launched at the 2015 4-H Canada annual general meeting on June 11 in Fredericton. This was a historic moment for 4-H in Canada as strengthening the 4-H brand across the country will help us more clearly articulate our role as Canadian leaders in positive youth development.

Refreshing the clover logo is part of a Canada-wide 4-H initiative to better reflect the vibrancy and energy of our organization for generations to come but, more importantly, it will support us in maintaining relevance with today’s youth. This will help build the organization’s profile and clarify to stakeholders and the public that we are one, united movement. Through our commitment to brand alignment across the country, we anticipate significant potential for growth of the 4-H program nationwide.

The logo embraces our heritage while re-energizing the look and feel in a way that is still unmistakably recognizable as 4-H.

EVENTS | PROGRAMS AND SERVICES

Date Event Location Phone Internet

July 5, 2015 Deadline to report seeded greenfeed acres. Saskatchewan 1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com

July 9, 2015 Canada-Saskatchewan Irrigation Diversification Centre (CSIDC) Annual Irrigation Field Day and Trade Show

Outlook, SK 306-867-5507 www.agriculture@gov.sk.ca

July 17, 2015 Deadline to register for the Agricultural Operator Program Parkland College Yorkton, SK

www.parklandcollege.ca

July 28 - 30, 2015 Crop Diagnostic School Melfort Research Farm Melfort, SK

1-866-457-2377 www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca

August 6, 2015 Saskatchewan Pasture Tour Earl Grey, SK 306-969-2666 www.saskforage.ca

August 10, 2015 Deadline to participate in farmland ownership consultations

Saskatchewan 1-866-457-2377 www.saskatchewan.ca/farmland

August 25, 2015 Deadline to select winterkill coverage for fall rye and winter wheat

Saskatchewan 1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com

Visit 4-h-canada.ca/brand.FOR MORE INFO

Cera YoungsonMarketing and Communications Coordinator4-H Saskatchewan

DITCH MOWING AND HAY SALVAGE PROGRAM STARTS IN JUNEby Saskatchewan Highways and Infrastructure

The Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure reminds producers that hay is available for salvage at no cost in provincial highway ditches. Hay will need to be cut at a uniform height in the ditches and bales must be placed no less than eight metres away from the shoulder of the highway.

DATESJune 7 to July 15: Mowing includes a four-metre shoulder cut adjacent to the road on all highways within the Gateway Corridor Network; the National Highway System is included in this category. Some highway intersections may receive a full ditch cut to ensure good sightlines.

July 8: Prior to this date, a landowner or lessee nearest to a highway ditch has the first option to cut or bale hay. After this date, anyone may cut and bale hay or grass in a highway ditch without getting the permission of the adjacent landowner, provided salvage operations have not begun.

July 15 to October 15: Ministry contractors will begin mowing the entire width of ditches along all four-lane highways, while all other highways will get a four-metre cut adjacent to the highway shoulder. Some additional mowing may occur.

16 AGRIVIEW | JULY/AUGUST 2015

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