The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) has published a new webpage dedicated to the relationship between beef cattle and the carbon cycle. “This page was developed for beef producers who are interested in gaining a better understanding of carbon dynamics and what they can do on their operations to increase carbon sequestration and reduce emissions,”…
With the historic heat wave hovering over Alberta in past weeks many of us have been longing for rain to cool things off and revive crops. But heavy rains can increase the risk of a manure release. A release of manure from a confined feeding operation (CFO) is a serious issue that needs to be…
Alberta direct cattle sales saw moderate volume trade last week with weighted average prices closing $2.28 and $3.14/cwt lower than the previous week for steers and heifers respectively. Dressed prices were generally $3-4/cwt lower than the previous week’s rail average in a full $258-263/cwt delivered trade range. Light live trade was reported comparable with rail…
With severe drought conditions affecting livestock operations across the prairies, beef producers are urging government action on drought relief. Perspectives – Conditions across the province – Insurance and alternate feed options – Contact your local municipality – Additional resources Perspectives “The lack of moisture and extremely high environmental temperatures in our area are quickly decimating…
By Ian Cook, Grassland Conservation Manager, Birds Canada The Prairies, with their rich biodiversity, are one of the most important ecosystems for birds in North America. This article is the second installment in a three-part series exploring the connections between the Canadian Prairies, prairie producers, and birds. Prairie plants and animals evolved alongside free-roaming bison…
Inspiring Youth, Building Community and Next Generation in Agriculture For many past generations of youth who grew up in rural Alberta, farm and ranch chores were part of the daily morning and evening routine before and after school. For a growing number of rural schools today, students are now doing chores when they get to school. At Altario, a…
The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) and its industry partners have announced the completion of a five-year strategy to support Canada’s National Beef Strategy. The Five-Year Canadian Beef Research & Technology Transfer Strategy identifies key outcomes with research and extension priorities for six program areas: Feed efficiency and utilization Forage and grassland productivity Environmental sustainability…
By Bruce Derksen, Freelance writer Veterinarians who look after cattle are shifting priorities to emphasize disease prevention over treatment, says Gordon Atkins of the University of Calgary’s veterinary school. The change is occurring as greater focus falls on reducing antibiotics in livestock production. Overall management, nutrition practices and the need to gain a better understanding of the…
Some American ranchers are ‘making a lot of noise’ but odds of a return to COOL law seem slim By Jennifer Blair, Alberta Farmer Express Mandatory country-of-origin labelling (COOL) is gone, but there’s a new effort by American beef producers wanting to bring it back. “It’s still hugely on our radar,” said Alberta Beef Producers…
Canfax fed steer and heifer prices closed last week around $157.50/cwt, $5/cwt lower than the previous week. Dressed sales were reported from $260.50-264.50/cwt FOB the lot. All three Western Canadian packers procured cattle last week. In some instances, packers were limiting the amount of cash cattle they were buying from each producer. Most of the…
The following is a preview of a two-part series by the Beef Cattle Research Council. It was originally published in 2019, but remains relevant today. Fear of bloat costs more money than actual cases of bloat do Respect it, but don’t fear it. That’s the message from cattle producers and beef specialists alike who through…
Producers often prefer to cut alfalfa or alfalfa-grass hay as the crop reaches its peak volume, but that could result in a need for additional supplementation at feeding time. If you’re fortunate enough to have a hay crop to harvest, you might be curious how the heat can affect crop maturity, as well as the…