A new report from the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) provides a comprehensive look at management practices and performance trends across Canadian cow-calf operations. The Canadian Cow-Calf Adoption Rates and Performance Levels Report is based on multiple survey sources and academic studies. It was developed for BCRC by Canfax Research Services. It tracks adoption trends…
The RDAR 2025 Impact Report highlights how producer-led research is advancing Alberta’s agriculture industry — including major gains for the beef cattle sector. Here are five takeaways for cattle producers. 1. Genomics are reshaping Alberta beef. More than 12,000 cattle from 54 herds have been genotyped through RDAR-funded research led by Dr. John Basarab at…
RDAR has expanded its OFCAF rotational grazing program to include virtual fencing — a GPS-based technology helping Alberta producers manage pastures, save labour, and improve sustainability with up to $75,000 in funding support. The new funding stream is designed to help cattle producers adopt “invisible fence” systems that use GPS-enabled collars and base stations to…
As stress management becomes a bigger focus in beef production, new tools like FerAppease® are getting attention. The product—developed by Fera Diagnostics & Biologicals—claims to mimic calming pheromones that help cattle handle stressful events like weaning or transport. But does the data support the claims? Here are four things to know: 1. It’s based on natural “appeasing”…
A new Cow / Calf Cost of Production (COP) Network report, Build, Brand and Market Your Calf Crop: A Path to Reputation Cattle, shows that investing in quality and consistency continues to pay off for Alberta cow-calf producers—especially when markets tighten. The report found that when calf prices were high, revenue differences between top and lower-performing herds were…
Managing replacement heifers is always a challenge — but today’s record-high cattle prices make the decision even more complicated. Cow-calf producers are weighing whether to retain calves for herd development or capture a premium by selling them. Either way, opportunity costs play a major role. Rather than offering advice one way or the other, the…
The Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) is advancing identification and tracking technologies through its latest research project: The Smart Bolus System as a potential alternative to traditional livestock identification and reporting methods. Livestock traceability is a cornerstone of animal health, food safety and supply chain integrity in Canada. Smart bolus systems—similar in size and weight to…
Good-quality water is one of the most critical – and often overlooked – factors in beef herd productivity. Research shows insufficient access can reduce performance faster and more dramatically than any other nutrient deficiency. A newly updated Economics of Water Systems Calculator from the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) is designed to help producers evaluate the…
This is the second article in a series related to bovine tuberculosis investigations. In the first, we described what to expect during an investigation and how testing works up to the point of culture. In this one, we’ll explore some specific nuances that can evolve during the process, including recent modifications to the trace-in period…
Canadian cattle herds are currently free of the Asian Longhorned Tick (ALHT) and the parasite it can carry, Theileria orientalis ikeda. But with the tick spreading across more than 20 U.S. states, experts say it’s only a matter of time before it could reach Canada. Producers should be aware, watchful and prepared, says Karin Schmid, Beef…
As many producers across Alberta can attest this haying season, challenging weather can complicate decisions on everything from when to cut to how best to manage moisture and storage. Whether you’ve faced heavy rain in the southwest, dry conditions in the northwest, or anything in between, the good news is there are tried-and-true strategies to…
Producers needed for one-on-one interviews – just a handful more participants required. Do you have insights on veterinary care in your area? The University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine is looking for a few more cattle producers to take part in a research study about veterinary service access across Alberta. Led by Dr. John…