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…
Western Canadian and U.S. prices have been moving in opposite directions as of late. Weighted average fed prices closed $1.00–$2.00/cwt lower in Western Canada last week. Very light dressed sales were reported from $505.00–$508.00/cwt delivered. Competition on the cash market was limited, with one major packer not bidding. Cattle that traded were scheduled for delivery…
The Canadian Cattle Association is calling on the Government of Canada to terminate the Canada–UK Continuity Agreement. Despite commitments made under the agreement, the UK continues to block Canadian beef exports while its own beef exports to Canada have surged. CCA says it’s time to “stand up for Canadian beef producers” and pursue truly reciprocal…
The Calgary Stampede launched the third year of its OH Ranch Branded Beef Youth Ambassador Program, with a Steer Selection Day, Oct. 18, at the historic OH Ranch. The event welcomed 12 young agriculture enthusiasts who were selected to participate out of 52 applicants, based on criteria that centred on establishing they have a place…
New deal with JBS Canada opens doors for Canada beef and Alberta beef in 41 stores nationwide. Alberta beef is hitting Mexico’s retail market through a new agreement between JBS Canada and Costco Mexico, marking a major expansion for Canadian beef in a market long dominated by U.S. suppliers. At a ribbon-cutting event this week…
Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson has received a new mandate from Premier Danielle Smith — and at the heart of it is a clear directive to put “Alberta Agriculture First.” The Premier’s early October mandate letter tasks Sigurdson with introducing new legislation to reduce red tape, strengthen the competitiveness of Alberta producers, and…
Alberta 4-H has introduced a new program for members who want to expand their knowledge of the beef industry. Exploring the Alberta & Canadian Beef Industry will give participants a comprehensive look at the many facets of beef production in the province and across the country. From animal care and stewardship practices to supply chains, marketing,…
The University of Calgary has officially opened its Veterinary Learning Commons at the Spy Hill campus, a $68.5-million provincial investment designed to tackle Alberta’s shortage of livestock and rural veterinarians. The new 70,000-sq.-ft. facility allows the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine (UCVM) to double annual Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) enrolment from 50 to 100 students….
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…