Alberta is marking the 75th anniversary of its Rat Control Program, a long-standing initiative aimed at preventing the establishment of rat populations in the province. The program, which began in 1950, was designed to address the risks associated with rats, including property damage and the potential spread of disease. Alberta remains one of the few…
Canadian beef producers are celebrating a major trade breakthrough as Australia lifts its long-standing ban on fresh and frozen beef imports from Canada. This marks the first time since 2003 that Canadian beef will be available in the Australian market. Australia was one of the last countries to maintain restrictions related to bovine spongiform encephalopathy…
As of July 29, 2025, multiple counties and municipal districts (MDs) across Alberta have declared agricultural states of emergency due to severe drought — leading to insect pest infestations, and poor crop and pasture conditions. Counties and MDs that have declared a state of agricultural disaster include: We will continue to update as we receive…
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released its latest cattle on feed report, revealing a slight decline in feedlot inventory. As of July 1, cattle and calves being raised for slaughter in feedlots with a capacity of 1,000 head or more totaled 11.1 million — down 2 per cent…
Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Farm Credit Canada (FCC) to support the development of Root, a generative AI assistant designed to provide agricultural information and guidance to Canadian producers. Root is a free tool developed by FCC to help users access agricultural knowledge and support. The…
Producers in Alberta are being urged to take note of several fast-approaching deadlines related to AgriStability and Hail Insurance programs administered by Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC). These programs are vital tools for managing risk and protecting farm income. AgriStability The AgriStability program, which provides income support when producers experience large margin declines, has two…
Canada’s agriculture ministers have agreed to a significant upgrade to the AgriStability program, aimed at helping farmers better manage the growing risks tied to climate challenges and global trade uncertainty. During a virtual meeting last week, federal, provincial, and territorial ministers committed to a one-year enhancement of the program for 2025. The compensation rate will…
The Canadian Beef Breeds Council (CBBC) has appointed Macy Liebreich as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective immediately. Liebreich joined CBBC last fall and has been working closely with Sandy Russell to ensure a smooth transition in leadership. Shawn Wilson, CBBC Chair, notes Russell’s leadership since 2021 and the benefits her guidance has brought…
The Alberta government has announced a one-time grant of $3.2 million to twelve applied research associations. This funding aims to upgrade essential equipment, facilities, and infrastructure, enhancing the province’s agricultural research and competitiveness. The grant will enable applied research associations to extend the life of their facilities, address health and safety issues, and improve the…
The federal government, alongside the Saskatchewan government has announced new measures by the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) to support producers facing this year’s challenging dry conditions. SCIC will implement the double low yield appraisal process, encouraging acres of low-yielding eligible crops to be diverted for grazing, baling, or silage to make additional feed available….
The Canadian Wheat Research Coalition (CWRC) has announced an investment of $19.9 million over the next three years in a core breeding agreement (CBA) with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). This funding aims to develop field-ready wheat varieties, ensuring Prairie farmers have continued access to high quality wheat genetics. The new agreement is intended to…
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has announced an increase in the maximum compensation values for cattle under its animal compensation regulations. This amendment to the Compensation for Destroyed Animals and Things Regulations (CDATR) is set to provide financial support to cattle producers affected by reportable diseases. Effectively June 20, cattle producers can now receive…