Preparing for another dry growing season

Summer is fast approaching and areas in the province have yet to see the levels of moisture that are needed through the growing season.

Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is hearing from concerned producers as we move into a second dry summer that may further limit feed resources and access to quality water.

“We need to arm government with as much information as we can to guide program development that offers support to producers when they need it most.”

Dr. Melanie Wowk, Chair, ABP

As the situation evolves, ABP is reminding producers dealing with moisture extremes to notify their municipalities.

“We need to arm government with as much information as we can to guide program development that offers support to producers when they need it most,” says Dr. Melanie Wowk, Chair, ABP. “The more proactive we can be as an industry, the easier it is to identify which areas are struggling and what they need.”

Contact your municipal office

If you don’t already have a contact for someone in your region, go to the Government of Alberta’s Municipal Officials Search, select your local authority in the drop-down menu, and hit ‘search.’ This will provide you with the name, title, and contact information for your local representatives.

Last year, ABP focused on maintaining our cow herd through the drought, but that may not be an option this year if feed isn’t available.

Tools and resources are available as you make decisions on your operation.

• Body Condition Scoring
• Drought Management Strategies
• Agricultural Moisture Situation Updates

The deadline for AgriStability has been extended to June 30 giving farmers and ranchers more time to sign up for the program. Producers are encouraged to review the program to see if AgriStability works on their operation.

Check in with ABP Daily as more information is available: www.abpdaily.com/drought