The Canadian Simmental Association (CSA) is beginning its search for a new leader as it prepares to bid a grateful farewell to long-time General Manager Bruce Holmquist. After 19 years of service, Holmquist has informed the Board of his intent to conclude his responsibilities as CSA General Manager when his current contract ends in March…
The University of Calgary’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine has officially opened its Diagnostic Services Unit (DSU), now offering a full range of veterinary diagnostic services for Alberta’s livestock sector. The DSU provides affordable, in-province testing supported by the Government of Alberta, with services including pathology, cytology, bacteriology, serology, parasitology, PCR, and telepathology. Diagnostic capacity is…
The Government of Alberta is gathering input on the potential inclusion of agricultural plastics in a provincial regulatory framework. The initiative, led by Alberta Environment and Protected Areas alongside Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, seeks feedback on: Since 2019, Alberta Agriculture and irrigation has funded the Alberta Ag-Plastic. Recycle It! pilot program for grain bags and…
Cattle producers in drought-impacted parts of Alberta will qualify for Livestock Tax Deferral in 2025, the federal agriculture minister has announced. The federal government has released the initial list of regions eligible for the deferral. The deferral allows producers in prescribed areas to defer a portion of their income from sales until the next tax year…
Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) has increased the low yield allowance threshold for the 2025 crop year. This change means that when appraised crop yields fall below a set level, the appraisal can be reduced to zero. Thea djustment allows producers to use crops with low yield potential for livestock feed instead of harvesting them…
Updated: This post now includes a leadership perspective from ABP Chair Doug Roxburgh (recorded August 13, 2025), sharing insight into the Board’s decision via RealAgriculture. Also included are key factors behind the withdrawal (added August 13, 2025), offering deeper strategic context for Alberta producers. Following extensive deliberation and strategic review, the Alberta Beef Producers (ABP)…
In response to severe drought conditions affecting parts of Alberta, the provincial government is rolling out emergency support measures to help livestock producers manage feed shortages and grazing challenges. The Department of Forestry and Parks announced that grazing disposition holders with available capacity can now host cattle from other producers for the remainder of the…
The Government of Alberta is consulting with fuel sellers and purchases on a proposal to shift the provincial fuel tax exemption from marked fuel to clear fuel. The consultation period runs from August 1-31, 2025, and stakeholders can submit their feedback through an online survey. Marked fuel — diesel or gasoline dyed to distinguish it…
Cleanfarms has officially announced the final winners of the 2024-2025 Great Twine Round-Up, a province-wide initiative recognizing Alberta farmers and 4-H clubs for their efforts in collecting and recycling used agricultural baler twine. Over the seven-month campaign, which concluded on May 31, the contest drew entries from participants across Alberta. An estimated 16,500 kilograms of…
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…