News

The Western Canadian fed market has worked higher since the beginning of the year gaining $31/cwt or close to $500/head. Last week, the Canfax average fed steer and heifer price closed around $328/cwt live, up $3.50/cwt from the previous week. From a supply perspective, seasonally yearling numbers are declining while fed calves are still a…

The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) is calling for grassroots action against including beef in the Mercosur trade negotiations.   Canada is currently in trade discussions with Mercosur, a South American trade bloc that includes Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Bolivia.  These negotiations could include expanded access for beef imports into Canada, which has prompted discussion across the Canadian cattle sector.   CCA is raising…

After extensive producer engagement and input from provincial beef organizations, the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) does not support proceeding with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) currently proposed amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Regulations (Identification and Traceability). The CCA supports livestock traceability as a core pillar of disease preparedness, market access and confidence in…

A new pilot program aimed at strengthening rural veterinary services in Alberta will help connect veterinary students with livestock practices across the province. Funded through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, the Veterinary Student Recruitment and Retention Pilot Grant Program will invest $250,000 over two years to encourage veterinary students to gain hands-on experience in rural communities…

The University of Calgary’s Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU) has launched a new telepathology service and expanded diagnostic testing options, offering Alberta livestock producers enhanced veterinary-supported disease investigation and surveillance. “This is a very positive development for our industry here in Alberta,” says Karin Schmid, Beef Production and Extension Lead with Alberta Beef Prodcuers. “Having more…

Last week, the Canfax average fed steer and heifer price closed on either side of $320/cwt live, holding at record high levels. Buying interest was noted from all Western Canadian packers but competition on the cash market was limited. Light trade was reported with dressed sales ranging from $523.50–536.50/cwt FOB the feedlot. In some instances,…

Farmers and ranchers encouraged to share input University of Guelph researchers, in collaboration with the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing (CCAW), have launched their third national survey of farmer and rancher mental health. The last two surveys were conducted during turbulent times, and they look to gauge changes in producer mental wellbeing during the current…