Ranchers Have No Beef with New Antibiotic Restrictions

MORE MAJOR PONOKA FLOODS IN FUNDRAISER ALBERTA’S MAKING A FUTURE » PAGE 2 DIFFERENCE » PAGE 28

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VOLUME 11, NUMBER 9 APRIL 28, 2014 Ranchers have no beef with new antibiotic restrictions Health Canada pushing to end of routine use of antibiotics important in human medicine because of resistance threat

BY ALEXIS KIENLEN AF STAFF

ealth Canada’s move to end the use of “medically H important” antibiotics as growth promotants won’t hurt livestock production, say an Alber- ta producer and industry experts. “There won’t be as much restriction as we first thought,” said Camrose rancher and Cana- dian Cattle Association president Dave Solverson. “(But) there will be a little more consultation with veterinarians on the use of antibiotics.” The North American livestock industry has been a heavy user of a class of antibiotics called antimicrobials, notably ionophores and tetracycline. The former is not used in human medicine and is exempt from the new rules, but tetracycline is a key drug used to treat pneumonia, other respiratory tract infections, and other conditions. It is feared — although the science is not definitive — that using human medicinal drugs for raising livestock is hastening the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Solverson has used tetracycline to treat sick cattle, but not as a growth promotant. “We don’t use it mixed in with feed or anything,” he said. “Very few producers do.”

SEE ANTIMICROBIAL  page 6 New limits on antimicrobials won’t be too restrictive, says Alberta rancher and CCA president Dave Solverson. PHOTO: COURTESY OF DAVE SOLVERSON, KATHY BROEN Avadex® is a registered trademark used under license byAvadex® Gowan Company, L.L.C. PMRA Reg. No. is 25112. Always read and follow label directions. 12002 09.12 Un-sow your

Wild For more information call: Cory Bourdeaud’hui 1.204.390.2340 Javan Davis 1.306.590.8600 Jim Vancha 1.306.951.7008 Gowan 1.800.883.1844 Oats www.gowanco.com 2 news » inside this week APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

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Nuffield scholar Cattle producers’ Grain producers’ brenda schoepp returns home questions answered questions answered Women in agriculture bank on change 4 Alberta agronomist visits farms in nine countries 28 Daniel Bezte Extreme weather patterns FAO returns happening more often 15 to its roots International family farm COOL fallout, overconditioned Carry-out and prices, fusarium Roy Lewis conference in cattle and hormones resistance and feeding the Hands-on synchronization Quebec City 22 in beef 10 world 17 programs have benefits 13 Models cause for Get ready for a lot more less hail, major floods, says but less Alberta meteorologist U of A professor says the weather event that caused last year’s rain, too devastating floods will occur every five years in future lberta has the dubious distinction of having — low-pressure systems that the most — and biggest By Alexis Kienlen strengthen in height in accor- A af staff / edmonton — hail in the world. “We’re very dance with the thermal wind famous for that,” said Univer- relationship. sity of Alberta meteorologist lbertans can expect “The significance of this is Gerhard Reuter. major floods as often as that the flow goes in a circle And you can blame it on the A every five years thanks and stays stationary over a Rocky Mountains, which affect to climate change, according point,” said Reuter. airflows to create ‘hail alley’ — a to Gerhard Reuter, a meteo- To get them moving you corridor stretching from Rocky rologist and professor at the need wind, and that’s where Mountain House to Red Deer. University of Alberta. climate change comes in, he In winter, air heats up as The last three big Alberta said. In the last few years, the westerly winds sweep up the floods were in 2013, 2005, wind shear — the way wind face of the Rockies, and that and 1996, and followed in the speed varies with height — creates chinooks as air falls and wake of “giant rainstorms,” has been reduced, with winds flows over the southwest por- which Reuter classifies as at higher altitudes becoming tion of the province. However, rain events of more than 200 weaker. in summer, the air also sucks millimetres. In the last 50 That means intense storms up moisture as it warms. But years, these giant rainstorms that linger over one area and it does not mix with colder air, happened every seven years pummel it with heavy rain creating a warm layer called a on average, typically in June will be more common, said ‘cap’ or ‘lid.’ because of “cold-core lows” Reuter. As winds push through this The silver lining in these layer, hail is formed. dark storm clouds is that flood Reuter estimates, on aver- prediction models are now age, hail falls in some part of “I was tearing out my able to track weather patterns the province for 45 days every about a week before a major summer. hair in frustration. weather event occurs. But that number may drop Unfortunately, Reuter said, because climate change seems They were about to these warning signs weren’t to be resulting in weaker winds, have a major flooding, heeded last year. he said. “I expressed my frustra- However, dry spells could be and the radio stations tion about the case last year Gerhard Reuter more frequent in some areas. were discussing the in High River and Calgary “ T h i n g s m i g h t b e c o m e because I knew it would able to the public, including “I sent emails to my friends patchy,” said Reuter. “One highs and whether it rain,” he said. maps or charts that explain in Calgary telling them to pack patch could get too much rain, would be plus 24 or “I was tearing out my hair the amount of precipitation their stuff and move stuff out of and another spot could get too in frustration. They were in a given week, he said. their basements,” said Reuter. little.” plus 23.” about to have major flooding, “Then let the people or the “Some people got two hours’ But climate models suggest and the radio stations were farmers decide what they can notice and they had to leave. there’s likely to be more of the Gerhard discussing the highs and make out of it,” he said. It was a disaster that was com- latter. Reuter whether it would be plus 24 That would have made a pletely human made because meteorologist and “People don’t predict more professor at the or plus 23.” major difference for many of they were not prepared.” precipitation, but if the sur- University of Alberta The time has come to make last year’s flood victims, he face gets warmer, there may be this sort of weather data avail- added. [email protected] more evaporation, so the soil may become drier,” he said. Classroom Agriculture Program needs volunteers

“This year in Calgary we had industry in any way please get agriculture — deliver hour-long tent is encouraged,” says Dar- Classroom Agriculture a record number of schools reg- involved, your help is necessary.” classroom presentations to more old Niwa, a UFA manager and Program release ister for the CAP program,” says CAP is one of the only in-school than 20,000 Alberta students CAP volunteer. “The presenta- Karen Spelay, the program’s gen- programs that help children learn annually. Presentations include tions went terrific and we both he Classroom Agriculture eral manager. “Over 260 classes about the food they eat, where it storytelling, hands-on props, and (the students and myself) got Program (CAP) is looking are registered to receive the pro- comes from, and the importance fun activities. CAP provides train- a lot out of the sessions.” T for volunteers from April to gram in Calgary alone. Without of agriculture in this province. ing, ideas, resources, and guid- For more information or to June to deliver in-class presenta- volunteers we cannot deliver Volunteers — farmers, ranch- ance to all volunteers. register as a volunteer, go to tions to Calgary and area Grade the program to students. If you ers, industry officials, and indi- “The prep work was not exces- www.classroomagriculture. 4 students. are employed in the agriculture viduals who have a passion for sive and lots of latitude in con- com. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 3 COOL not going away any time soon Supporters will move quickly to replace if it is struck down

Photos: Shannon VanRaes

have joined forces to create a Exactly what retaliation will By Shannon VanRaes COOL defence fund. Many rural entail is up for debate, with staff / Washington, D.C. and faith-based organizations some speculating that prod- also actively support country- ucts such as imported maple ven if Canada wins its battle of-origin labelling. syrup will be front and cen- against country-of-origin tre. Others claim that some E labelling at the World Trade Compromise businesses have already been Organization (WTO) this summer, Peterson said there are also informed that products they Canadian livestock producers those who would like to see export will be impacted, but could still lose the war. a legislative resolution to the no official confirmation has Congressman Collin Peter- issues surrounding COOL, been received. son, the ranking member of the rather than one dictated by “We’re all being used as U.S. house committee on agri- the courts or through the WTO pawns in this, and it’s just a culture, told reporters here last — although he is unsure what game for a lot of these folks week there are groups in the shape that might take. and individuals in power,” U.S. that support COOL regu- “I don’t know what compro- Tentinger said. lations and want to see them mise there could be that would All players are still touting maintained. settle this or satisfy people, of negotiation as the preferred “If it gets struck down com- what could actually pass. I don’t route to settling the trade pletely, the people who want know how anything could pass dispute, but few are talking ‘born, raised and slaughtered’ in a stand-alone bill,” Peterson directly. will try to put a bill in to put it said, noting it took two years “We prefer not to go through back into effect. I mean, they’re to pass the Agricultural Act of U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Bill Tentinger of the Iowa Pork that (WTO) route, because at not going to give up,” said 2014, better known as the U.S. Vilsack speaks to reporters in Producers speaks to the Manitoba the end of that route — should Peterson, whose Minnesota Farm Bill. Proposed amend- Washington, D.C. Pork Council in Winnipeg. Canada and Mexico win, and district begins at the Canadian ments to that bill attempted we’re quite confident that we border and stretches almost as to alter COOL regulations, but tunity, at the end of the day it’s same letter, so we want to be will win — that means we can far south as the Iowa state line. were not passed. always nice to see that maybe really careful, but again we’re retaliate,” said Jamshed Mer- A m e r i c a n o r g a n i z a t i o n s “I think at this point we wait common sense does prevail... it very hopeful and I would chant, Canada’s consulate gen- such as the U.S. Cattleman’s to see what the WTO does, and gives us a lot of hope and opti- say moderately confident,” eral in Minneapolis. Association, National Farmers then there will probably be an mism,” said Rick Bergmann, a Bergmann said. “We don’t want to do that Union, American Sheep Indus- attempt to have some kind of a vice-chairman on the council. But politics south of the bor- because it’s in nobody’s inter- try Association and the Con- legislative response,” he said. der mean that a positive ruling est to retaliate, so we would sumer Federation of America U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Not optimistic for Canada at the WTO won’t really like to work together.” Tom Vilsack had little to say to Not everyone is optimistic. necessarily resolve the issue, But for many Canadian hog questions about COOL during Bill Tentinger of the Iowa according to Tentinger. producers, the damage may a meeting of agricultural jour- Pork Producers doesn’t believe “In a textbook that sounds already be done, Bergmann “You know our view is nalists in the American capital the court will find in the Cana- great. In my mind, knowing said. earlier this month. dians’ favour, however much how slow Washington, D.C. “The last five years have been Congress has directed “You know our view is Con- he wishes it would. works, how long do we have very, very difficult and one of gress has directed us to put a “I’m extremely concerned to put up with this? And are the reasons has been COOL,” us to put a labelling labelling requirement together, about it, because of the retali- they going to be able to move he said. “I could show you an requirement together, which we did. The WTO has ation issue and I guess as a fast enough? Look how long it awful lot of empty facilities... instructed us to be more spe- producer from Iowa, I’m also took them to pass a Farm Bill,” because of the COOL effect which we did. The WTO cific about the labels that extremely concerned about he said. on farms.” has instructed us to be we provide, which we have,” Mexico’s retaliation, because Agriculture Minister Gerry Estimates put the cost of he said. we send it a lot of what it calls Ritz has promised that Canada C o o L t o Canadian farm- more specific about the Back at home, some are tak- pork leg,” he said. will take retaliatory action ers at $500 million annually, labels that we provide, ing solace in the news that a But even if the Appeal Court against the United States if it although in the U.S. that num- U.S. Appeals Court “vacated” ruling isn’t in Canada’s favour, doesn’t comply with a World ber has been disputed. In any which we have.” a previous ruling in early April, stakeholders in Manitoba are Trade Organization ruling. event, the situation isn’t likely again opening the door for an generally confident that the “Our government remains to be resolved quickly. injunction against COOL filed World Trade Organization will steadfast in taking whatever “I don’t know that either side Tom Vilsack by a coalition of Canadian live- rule against COOL regulations steps may be necessary, includ- is going to give up,” said Peter- stock organizations, including this summer. ing retaliation, to achieve a son. the Canadian Pork Council. “You know, confident and fair resolution,” he said in an “I believe this is a new oppor- cocky both start with the emailed statement. [email protected] 4 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

EDITOR Glenn Cheater Phone: 780-919-2320 Email: [email protected] twitter: @glenncheater Reporters Alexis Kienlen, Edmonton 780-668-3121 Email: [email protected] Jennifer Blair, Red Deer 403-613-7573 Finding the news that Email: [email protected] PRODUCTION director Shawna Gibson matters on your farm Email: [email protected] Director of Sales & Circulation A century ago, a lone journalist had a huge impact on Prairie Lynda Tityk Email: [email protected] agriculture — and she has a lesson for us today CIRCULATION manager back then. But if they had, Hind would think she’d love it. And she’d definitely Heather Anderson Email: [email protected] By glenn cheater have won every time. be taking and sharing pics of crops and Editor One summer in 1924, she reportedly livestock (she was a noted authority in national ADVERTISING SALES travelled 10,240 kilometres in 37 days, that area, too), as well as relentlessly tex- James Shaw Phone: 416-231-1812 Fax: 416-233-4858 . Cora Hind was one of the greatest making 30 to 50 stops per day to check ting, emailing, phoning, and visiting pro- Email: [email protected] farm reporters ever, with a unique crops. Every few miles, Hind would stop ducers. When it came to what stories to talent that earned her the gratitude her car and wade — uninvited — into the cover, she would have said, ‘If you want ADVERTISING sales E of farmers across the Prairies, not to men- middle of the field, counting the num- to know what information farmers are Crystal McPeak Phone: 403-646-6211 or 403-360-3210 tion worldwide fame. ber of kernels of each head she plucked, looking for, ask them.’ Email: [email protected] Her appointment as agricultural edi- chewing them to judge their fullness, and In this edition, we did exactly that. tor of the Winnipeg Free Press in 1901 got inspecting stems and leaves for disease. Kevin Bender, Andrew Goodrich, Trish classified ADVERTISING SALES everyone talking because women news Farmers forgave her trespasses because Henderson, Sarah Leach, Jason Lenz, and Sharon Komoski Phone: 1-888-413-3325 Fax: 204-944-5562 reporters were almost unheard of back her reports put power in their hands Paul Wipf had great questions, and hope- Email: [email protected] then. But they kept talking about her when negotiating a price for their crop at fully they — and you — find the answers because of her uncanny ability to forecast the elevators controlled by the heartless interesting, too. ADVERTISING Co-ordinator the size of the Prairie wheat crop. wheat barons. It’s something we’ll do again from time Arlene Bomback Phone: 204-944-5765 Fax: 204-944-5562 People soon learned that if Hind had I’ve been thinking about Hind as I’ve to time. But asking you what you want us Email: [email protected] an estimate completely at odds to the tried to imagine ways to make this paper to cover needs to happen continually. one from the Chicago Board of Trade, more valuable to you, and to all of your On the front of this paper, it states: ‘Your PUBLISHER it was the American experts who would fellow producers. Specifically, more arti- provincial farm and ranch paper.’ The size Lynda Tityk Email: [email protected] end up red faced. In 1905, she predicted cles that help with your decision-making of the print is a bit small for my liking, but an 85-million-bushel crop (the official and better inform you of what’s happen- the intent of those words is bang on. Associate PUBLISHER/ count was 84,506,857). She did even bet- ing in Alberta’s farm community. Living up to that pledge isn’t easy — editorial director ter in 1907, predicting 71,250,000 bushels But it’s a huge province, and the com- we’re a small crew, after all. But hopefully John Morriss Email: [email protected] of wheat would be harvested in Western plexity and diversity of its agriculture is we’ve got a few thousand farmer friends Canada. The final tally was 70,922,584 — immense. What would E. Cora Hind do if who are willing to point us in the right president meaning she was accurate to within one- she were alive today? direction. Bob Willcox half of one per cent. It’s a bit hard to picture a woman born Glacier FarmMedia Don’t know if they had ‘guess how a century and a half ago being on Twitter [email protected] [email protected] twitter: @glenncheater 204-944-5751 many jelly beans in the jar’ fundraisers (although @corahind is available), but I

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The view from here The grain market

Saving seed should be needs a dose of a right, not a privilege ‘good cholesterol’ hy should there be a The first people to come law giving us a privi- to Canada came with small More regulation is not the solution to W lege now when for bags of seed to grow and improving grain transportation thousands of years this was a to share with other farm- right that no one questioned? ers — and have since given That is downgrading that right Canada one of its biggest and the first step to taking it industries. The world knows the amount a company can pay for grain away. that Canada is a source of BY JOHN DEPAPE isn’t the answer. This may increase the Will the next omnibus bill safe, top-quality agricultural nominal price at times like this, but it won’t grant us the privilege to eat products. Now is not the ust as there is both good cholesterol and stop buyers from pulling their bids and not breakfast and the one after time — nor will it ever be bad cholesterol, there are both good and buying at all. In other words, it won’t solve that grant the privilege to the time — for governments J bad regulations. the problem. breath? to restrict the farmers from The CWB single desk was an example of The solution is to empower farmers to Bill C-18 (the Agricultural doing their best to maintain a bad regulation — it clogged the arteries respond to the market more effectively. A Growth Act) uses the word this reputation and increase of western Canadian grain commerce by great deal of wheat has been sold on forward “privilege” (Section 5.3 in the industry. burdening farmers with high costs and no contracts, both before and after harvest, tak- the amendments to the Do not put the agriculture evidence of premium prices. ing advantage of prices and delivery oppor- Plant Breeders Rights Act) industry at risk, but keep it Markets are efficient and effective when tunities when they present themselves. The for farmers to save and clean free to grow. Making com- they are open for participants to react freely next step is to empower farmers to avoid their own seed. Privilege is plicated laws will only put to market signals. But “open” doesn’t mean lousy basis levels, opting to earn “storage the wrong word to use as a the whole industry at risk “unregulated.” The futures markets are the premiums” available through the carrying privilege is easily revoked. and tie up the court system. most efficient and effective marketplace that charges in the futures markets. A “right,” however, is not so Bill C-18 should be we know of and yet are highly regulated, Better farm pricing behaviour won’t get easily taken away. We do not amended to give farmers the giving structure, confidence and efficiency. more rail cars, but it will help improve see the grain developers get- “inalienable right” to keep, This kind of “good cholesterol” is what we the basis. What would basis do if farmers ting any “privileges.” They clean, store, use and sell need in western Canadian grain markets. deferred sales (to earn “storage premiums”)? are to be given “rights.” their own seed. However, I am concerned with ideas that Ian McCreary suggested single-desk control It should be the right of If the seed developers suggest the return of “bad cholesterol.” of deliveries — forcing farmers to hold grain all Canadians to grow, keep, want to restrict the seed The current problem in western Canadian off the market — as a solution. The differ- store, clean, sell and trade that they have developed, grain markets stems from the railroads not ence is that when farmers react to market their own seed. that is up to them. But leave fulfilling promises. Early in the year, they signals, they get paid to hold grain off the For many years now the heritage seeds alone and let set 10,000 cars/week as their “plan” — their market — plus the basis improves. With reg- large seed companies have the farmers choose which way of telling the grain trade what shipping ulated control of deliveries, they just wait. been trying to control all of seeds they want to use. capacity they should expect. the world’s seed, the ones Based on data from Quorum Corp. (the they have developed and Dale and Donna Pope grain monitor), grain companies’ rail car common seed. This is very Pope Family Organic Farm & orders are in line with, if not below, the wrong. Supplies, Ryley railroads’ original plan. However, unloads With the right approach, farmers at our four export ports are much lower at 5,909 per week. Add shipments to domestic can avoid lousy basis levels and and U.S. destinations and the railroads are get paid to store — just one of the still well below their plan. This lower-than- expected capacity means contracts with benefits that comes with an open farmers and export customers can’t be ful- market. Fixing the system will filled on schedule. Although some are saying we wouldn’t have this problem if the CWB single desk take more than blame was still operating, it’s clear that the CWB could not conjure up more rail cars than the would suggest the federal There is no question that railroads have provided. We need good cholesterol government could save “the market,” when it works As expected, the lack of movement has The solutions to fix the market include incen- I about $3 million just by properly, is the best vehicle pressed elevator prices lower. tives, accountability and information. reading Laura Rance’s article for progress. But the market The railroads need to commit to a mini- in the April 14 edition of Alber- also consists of companies Bad math mum capacity — never again should we hear ta Farmer (‘Fair Rail for Grain like Enron, Nortel, Lehman Ex-CWB director Ian McCreary told a trans- that the railroads can’t ship to our demands Farmers Act — much ado about Brothers, and many others of portation conference in Saskatoon that “(C) because they released locomotives. not much’). a similar ilk, as well as indi- ompanies are making an extra $100 a tonne” How about this — if the railroads don’t I would further suggest viduals like Earl Jones and handling grain this year, adding “under the meet a set minimum capacity, the revenue that one sentence of that Bernie Madoff. This know- former wheat board’s single desk… they cap is lowered? And if there is demand over article should be high- ledge, you’d think, would (farmers) would be billions of dollars richer.” the minimum capacity, and they meet it, lighted for members of this encourage a consideration of Richard Gray of the University of Saskatch- the revenue cap is increased. Incentives government to consider — other modes of doing busi- ewan has used similar bad math. work. “finding someone to blame ness. But I can’t see that kind They assume that the grain being delivered Farmers need to be empowered to employ and punish isn’t the same of innovative thinking by the to elevators or shipped offshore is at current marketing tools and techniques to get more as finding a solution!” present group because, in prices. But it’s not. The vast majority of the from the market. With the right approach, This government is great their opinion, they make no grain being handled was bought and sold farmers can avoid lousy basis levels and get at finding blame and pun- mistakes and other ideas are months ago — when the spread between paid to store — just one of the benefits that ishing, but totally absent not worth consideration, an country points and the port was more “nor- comes with an open market. on finding solutions. The example being the proposed mal.” Basis is an open-market signal used And last, data such as export sales com- hardest part about finding a (Un)Fair Elections Act. to slow deliveries in times like these. When mitments, rail capacity commitments and solution to the grain trans- There will be a federal elec- that didn’t work, grain companies simply readily available price data will improve portation problem would tion in a little over a year and stopped buying. How can you logically use competition and marketing choices. If these probably be admitting I hope folks will remember today’s prices to estimate a company’s prof- market signals had been available, steps that mistakes have been when they vote. its (or a farmer’s costs) when they aren’t could have been taken to mitigate the evolv- made because this govern- actively buying (or selling) at those prices? ing problems. ment “just knows” and the Horst Schreiber There may be companies that are in a Collection and publication of this informa- answer to everything is Grain farmer position to buy wheat from farmers at tion will need to be regulated. Call it good privatization. Ohaton today’s prices or sell at the current port cholesterol. prices but the amounts are limited. Liberal Agriculture Critic Ralph Goodale John DePape is president of Farmers Advanced has suggested a “cap on basis.” Regulating Risk Management Co. in Winnipeg 6 OFF THE FRONT APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

ANTIMICROBIAL  from page 1

The new Health Canada order, to be phased in over three years, will still allow a veterinarian to prescribe drugs used in human medicine for treatment of sick animals. Solverson said he and his brother Ken have only used tetracycline when necessary at Woodwind Ranch, an 800- head cow-calf operation and small feedlot. “We’ve always been very careful for drug withdrawal, but we’ll have to step up the documenta- tion of which animals are treated “I think it will help at any stage of their life,” he said. consumer confidence, “Other than that, I don’t believe the products we use are on any because consumers did of these lists.” have concerns about The Solversons will still be able to use Rumensin, a feed growth promotants supplement made by Elanco and we’ve all seen that, according to the company, reduces a cow’s feed require- reports from the medical ments by five to 10 per cent while maintaining body weight. community highly But because the additive is an critical of agriculture’s ionophore, “there are no concerns about resistance for human use of these products.” health,” said Solverson. JEAN SZKOTNICKI Poultry PRESIDENT OF THE CANADIAN When it comes to poultry, anti- ANIMAL HEALTH INSTITUTE biotics aren’t used as growth promotants, said Steve Leech, national program manager with the Chicken Farmers of Canada. sumer confidence in the prod- “There are antibiotics used in ucts our producers are produc- poultry feed in Canada, but there The livestock industry was keen to respond to consumer concerns, said Jean Szkotnicki, Canadian Animal Health ing, and we do have high-quality, are some differences between Institute president. SUPPLIED PHOTO safe products.” producers and between prov- Cattle producers also “want to inces,” he said. the stakeholders, but the only and nutritious feed,” he said. “To While control, production, dis- make sure that there is not resis- “Antibiotics can and are used place there will be reduced rely on drugs or to have a claim tribution, and use of veterinary tance developing to those drugs for reasons of prevention and use is at the hatchery level,” from a drug to do the same thing drugs in Canada is governed by because of the way they’re used therapy and can be adminis- said Leech. is probably not true. To measure the provinces, the new directive in cattle,” said Reynold Bergen, tered through the feed. The deci- it is very, very difficult.” (which covers about 140 veteri- science director with the Beef sion to use them is between the Swine Category One antibiotics, nary products) could hasten a Research Centre. veterinarian, the feed mill, and The swine sector has been which are used in human medi- shift in attitudes. Health Canada “The important thing to note the producer.” reducing “mass medication” cine, are not fed to swine on a is following in the footsteps of here is that not all antimicrobi- Most of the antibiotics used in for decades, said Pete Pawluk, regular basis nor used as growth the U.S. Food and Drug Admin- als are the same,” said Bergen. chicken feed in this country are a swine veterinarian with Swine promotants, he said. istration, which was ridiculed by “Some are important in human so-called Category Four antibiot- Health Centre in Lethbridge. However, all other categories of many last year when it issued a medicine and some of them ics, which are not used for human “Improved farming practices, antibiotics can still be added to “voluntary ban” on this type of aren’t.” health. As of May 15, chicken management, health and biose- feed and more veterinary over- antibiotic use. However, virtually The beef industry’s current use producers won’t be able to use curity have reduced the need for sight of their use would be a good all large feed manufacturers are of growth promotants has little Category One antibiotics for pre- antibiotics,” Pawluk said. “We’re thing, said Pawluk. reported to have adhered to it. effect on antibiotic resistance, ventive use. The ban is specifi- in the process of benchmarking “Right now, a farmer could The Canadian Animal Health he added, citing research by the cally directed at Cetiofur, which these in southern Alberta and walk into a store and buy a pal- Institute, which helped Health Canadian Integrated Program is used at the hatchery level for we’ll know more by the end of let of antibiotics, without any Canada develop the directive, is for Antimicrobial Resistance broiler chicks. Another Category the year. This is the first step in questions asked,” he said. “We firmly behind the move. Surveillance. One drug used in hatcheries is reducing antibiotics.” can certainly do better and we’re “We’ve all seen reports from the “There are very low levels of Betrol, but it is rarely used in Pawluk supports the Health working on it.” medical community highly criti- resistance in cattle,” he said. “Not poultry production. The directive Canada directive and questions Pig producers are increasingly cal of agriculture’s use of these only that, it’s not increasing and will be monitored and enforced whether claims made about questioning both the wisdom of products,” said Jean Szkotnicki, there’s no multi-drug resistance through the on-farm food safety growth promotant are even true. using antibiotics and whether president of the Guelph-based either.” program audit. “Nothing promotes growth bet- they provide a benefit that justi- institute. “There will be impacts on all ter than good health, clean water fies their cost, he said. “This is about ensuring con- [email protected]

SPRAYING OFF LABEL COSTS YIELD

® ® Spraying herbicide on Genuity Roundup Ready canola, ALWAYS FOLLOW GRAIN MARKETING AND ALL OTHER STEWARDSHIP AND PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Details of these requirements can be found in the Trait Stewardship above recommended rates or outside the application window, Responsibilities Notice to Farmers printed in this publication. Monsanto and Vine Design® is a registered trademark of Monsanto Technology LLC, Monsanto Canada Inc. licensee. ©2013 can cost you 3 bushels per acre or more in yield. Monsanto Canada Inc. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 7 Abuse of temporary foreign worker program could spell trouble for farmers Alberta’s labour shortage has made hiring temporary foreign workers more attractive for farmers — but visas are harder to get

recoup (high worker wages) where we just barely got the those are gone, they’re gone, BY JENNIFER BLAIR from the marketplace, that’s visas done before they ran out,” and then you have to look at AF STAFF not a viable option.” “It’s a little bit stressful said Pohl. other routes.” Because of the labour short- “The visas are becoming in Last year, the federal govern- roducers may have a age, hiring foreign help has through the winter higher demand. There’s more ment moved the application harder time getting for- “increased substantially over when you’re trying to and more people wanting process online, delaying the pro- P eign worker visas fol- the past decade” in the prov- workers.” gram start date until February. lowing recent allegations that ince. About 4,000 Alberta pro- get this all lined up and That’s made it doubly impor- “When it opened it up, those McDonald’s is abusing Cana- ducers turned to the temporary not knowing for sure if tant to ensure the paperwork is visas were gone in 24 hours,” he da’s temporary foreign worker foreign worker program in the in order. said. “That’s how many people program. past year, said Dooley. you’re going to… have One student had her visa were applying.” “It’s getting more difficult “It does indicate that these rejected twice because of errors Pohl sees more and more (to hire foreign labour),” said companies are becoming more that help.” in her application — and each farmers in his area looking for Al Dooley, agriculture labour and more reliant on foreign application takes between six to summer students from abroad recruiter with Alberta Agricul- workers.” eight weeks to process, he said. to help out during the busy sea- ture and Rural Development. CURTIS POHL “The visas were gone before son, and he suspects demand “We’ve seen, from the pro- Hiring students she was able to (reapply),” will continue to grow. gram’s point of view, some bad Wetaskiwin grain and cattle said Pohl. “It’s a little bit stressful through news stories, and those sorts of farmer Curtis Pohl typically Because they don’t require a the winter when you’re trying things give the program a bit of hires a foreign student each labour market opinion, these to get this all lined up and not a black eye. It makes it harder summer through a visa program But demand for such visas has permits are in high demand. knowing for sure if you’re going for everybody else.” that allows students or young skyrocketed in the eight years “There’s only around 4,500 to… have that help.” And the process is a lengthy professionals to work up to a he’s been using the program. work and travel permits (issued one to begin with. year in Canada. “We ran into trouble last year annually),” said Pohl. “Once [email protected] Trim: 8.125” Right now, producers must advertise for Canadian workers for at least 14 days. After that, producers can apply for a labour market opinion, which confirms that producers have tried — and failed — to hire a Canadian. It can take two to three months to obtain a labour market opinion, and so producers should continue to search for local candidates, said Dooley. “They are making it a little SELECT YOUR CROP more difficult… so you probably should keep your advertising until you get your labour market opinion approved.” But even running an ad for months often proves futile, said Martine Varekamp-Bos, an immigration consultant who operates Immigration Care in Lacombe. FIELD PEAS “Many farmers get very few SOYBEAN Canadian responses to their CORN CANOLA ads” because of Alberta’s tight CEREALS labour market, she said. Dooley agrees. “As an employer, you’re a bit ® cursed because employees have quite a bit of choice — employ- Fungicide ers can’t compete with the oil- patch,” he said. Acapela “In much of agriculture, • Powerful & innovative disease protection • Best-in-class movement

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ALMA RELEASE

n humans, the nutrients you ingest are directly correlated I to your performance and overall health. The same applies to animals. Currently, the dairy industry relies on the expertise of dairy cow nutritionists who formulate diets for cows using an established protein model. Unfortunately, this model consistently under- predicts milk protein yield at low protein intake. The Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency (ALMA) and Alberta Milk have partnered with Dr. Lorraine Doepel, associate professor at the University of Calgary faculty of veterinary medicine, to revise the protein model. The aim is to reduce protein intake of dairy cows while Study may allow dairy nutritionists to formulate diets with lower protein content without compromising milk production. PHOTO: THINKSTOCK maximizing milk protein yield through improved protein efficiency of use. “Current feed formulation models use a fixed efficiency factor for converting dietary protein into milk protein, regardless of the amount of protein that the cow consumes,” said Doepel. “We have previously Hit us with your shown that efficiency decreases as the cow consumes more protein, and this means that we underesti- mate milk protein yield at low protein intake and overestimate yield at high intakes. Our long-term goal is to develop a dynamic model that BEST SHOT! utilizes variable efficiency factors.” “Feed is one of the top expenses for all livestock sectors.”

GORDON COVE

Feed formulation programs consider energy and protein as separate entities, but their effects on milk protein yield are highly interrelated. The efficiency of protein capture in milk protein is stimulated by increases in energy intake, and milk and lactose yields are affected by protein supply. The mechanisms for these cross- responses to energy or protein supply are unknown and there is a need for a better understanding of the mechanisms driving milk protein synthesis. Doepel’s research will help dairy nutritionists understand the interrelationships between dietary energy and protein. This new knowledge will be combined with results from other studies to update feed formulation models, allowing dairy nutritionists to for- We love your photos. You love our calendar. mulate diets with lower protein This year’s calendar theme is We Are Farmers. Show us what being a farmer means to you. content without compromising Pick up your camera, get out there and start shooting. Maybe you have something special in milk production. your photo archives? “Feed is one of the top expenses for all livestock sectors, so when The best photo will take home $500 and the other 17 selected for print will receive $50*. research finds a way to reduce feed costs without negatively affecting the animals, ALMA is on board,” TO LEARN MORE, GET SOME HELPFUL TIPS AND TO said ALMA president and CEO Gor- don Cove. “As well, increasing the ENTER OUR CONTEST, VISIT WWW.CWB.CA/CALENDAR knowledge base of dairy nutritionists will also help build capacity in *Submission deadline is May 16, 2014. the industry.” For more information on this project, email Doepel at ldoepel@ ucalgary.ca. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 9 Don’t cut corners on irrigation savings Reducing water pressure when the corner arm isn’t needed can cut energy costs by 30 per cent or more

rolling and level terrain, turbine Alberta Agriculture and centrifugal pump, and loca- and Rural Development tion of the pressure sensor. release “Energy savings were 30 per cent on level land and 40 per roducers with corner arm cent on rolling terrain if the centre pivot irrigation pressure sensor was located on P systems can reduce their the corner arm,” says Papworth. energy consumption by 30 to 40 Pressure sensors, typically per cent if a variable frequen- located near the motor and cy drive (VFD) is added to the connected with a wire, provided motor used to power the water very low energy savings. A wire- pump, according to an Agricul- less system was used to connect tural Technology Centre study. pressure sensors located on the “Corner arms on centre piv- corner arm. ots swing out to water corners “Modern pivots use low- and are preferred by producers pressure nozzles so keeping the because the entire quarter sec- pressure low at the corner arm tion field can be farmed,” says saves the most energy,” says Lawrence Papworth, a pro- Papworth. “There was no differ- ject engineer with the centre, ence in energy savings between located in Lethbridge. turbine and centrifugal pumps. “The water flow for the pivot These energy savings result in varies from 700 to 1,200 gallons reduced costs of $2,200 per year per minute (gpm) because the on level land and $2,800 per flow to the corner arm shuts off year on rolling terrain based on when not needed. Motor and applying 12 inches of water per pumps are sized to deliver the year and a power cost of $0.16 1,200 gpm and when the flow is per kWh.” Reducing water pressure when the corner arm isn’t needed slashes energy costs. PHOTo: thinkstock reduced the extra water pressure is wasted. A VFD slows the motor down to match the pressure and flow required by the system. This results in energy savings when the water flow to the corner arm is reduced or shut off.” The study, conducted in 2012, looked at several variables to determine the energy savings of the system. The variables were Let your flag leaf fly. BriefS

Cereal Staging Guide available Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development release / A new resource is available to help growers and agronomists with staging. “Accurate crop staging is essential for products like in-crop urea ammonium nitrate, foliar fungicides, and plant growth regula- tors,” said Sheri Stryd- horst, agronomy research scientist with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development in Barrhead. “Over the 2013 growing season, we found that staging is certainly not an easy thing to do.” The Cereal Staging Guide is designed to walk growers through staging a cereal crop. “It contains photos of what your crop looks like at various critical stages Stand up for healthy yields with Quilt ®. By applying Quilt fungicide at the ﬂ ag-leaf stage, for applying these products,” said Strydhorst. you protect your cereal crop from leaf diseases that reduce your yield and quality. Cereal “There are detailed photos crops treated with Quilt are protected against rusts, tan spot, powdery mildew and Septoria. of growth stages 33-34, Registered on all wheat, barley and oats, Quilt safeguards your investment and your proﬁ tability. 37-39, 47-49, and growth stage 55. These are some common growth stages for applying these products — however, growers should ensure applications are made according to growth stages described on the manufacturer’s product label.” The booklet shows cereal stages from a field, individual plant, tiller sepa- rated and main stem view. Visit SyngentaFarm.ca or contact our Customer Resource Centre at 1-87-SYNGENTA (1-877-964-3682). To get a copy of the Cereal Always read and follow label directions. Quilt®, the Alliance Frame, the Purpose Icon and the Syngenta logo are registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. Staging Guide, call Kelly at © 2014 Syngenta. 780-674-8268.

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Anaplasmosis no longer reportable Lamb substitution suspected

As of April 1, 2014, anaplasmosis is no longer a federally reportable disease and is now listed as Britain’s Foods Standards Agency (FSA) said it will begin a new round of tests on lamb takeaway an immediately notifiable disease. This means that only laboratories will be required to report meals from restaurants across the U.K. after the consumer watchdog found evidence of cheaper suspected or confirmed cases to the CFIA, which will no longer respond to anaplasmosis cases substitutes such as beef and chicken. An FSA review of local authority sampling data from July to detected on farms and it will no longer conduct surveillance for anaplasmosis to verify Canada’s December 2013 found that 43 out of 145 samples of lamb takeaway meals contained meat other status for the disease. Cattle producers in Alberta will work with their herd veterinarian to deal than lamb. Other meat species identified included chicken and turkey. No samples were found to with cases of anaplasmosis. For more information, visit www.agric.gov.ab.ca and search for contain horsemeat, it said. A scandal broke around Europe in January last year when traces of “anaplasmosis status change.” horse were found in frozen burgers sold in Irish and British supermarkets.

Three questions from Alberta cattle producers What’s the fallout from COOL and overconditioned cattle, and are hormones in beef a cause for concern?

Editor’s note: We asked a sampling of producers what Hormone lowdown Nor is there any evidence to was on their mind as they wre heading into the growing Olds-area cattle producer support charges that added hormones in beef have caused girls season, and then reporters Alexis Kienlen and Jennifer Sarah Leach asks, “How do hormone levels in implanted to enter puberty earlier, he said. Blair went looking for answers. cattle stack up against other “Researchers haven’t found foods, and do those hormones any association between have an effect on the people implants and any problems in COOLing prices herd will begin to rebound consuming them?” humans,” said Bergen, adding Lethbridge-area stockman slowly in 2015, but COOL will hormone levels in implanted Andrew Goodrich asks, “Given have widespread consequences cattle and those that don’t the strong cattle prices and for Canada’s cattle herd. &W launched its “Better receive them are “really, ongoing exports to the United Some cattle producers aren’t Beef” campaign in Sep- really similar.” States, is country-of-origin being hit as hard by limited A tember, and says con- “Open cows and bulls… labelling (COOL) hitting cattle export options because of their sumers have been eating it up are going to be higher than producers as hard as we’ve proximity to the border — but and sales have greatly increased. an implanted steer, and an been told it is?” U.S. packers will continue to But beef from cattle raised implanted steer will be higher choose American cattle when Andrew Goodrich without added hormones than an unimplanted steer or ith Canadian cattle given the option. isn’t actually better, because heifer. But the numbers are all prices north of $2 a “The reason we continue Still, Creelman wishes he was implanted beef isn’t actually pretty close.” W pound and exports to to see exports to the U.S. is seeing cattle on the heavier side bad, says Beef Cattle Research Other foods and beverages the U.S. sitting at over 30 per cent because those U.S. packers are this year. Council science director Reyn- have much higher levels of more than the same time last dependent on Canadian cattle “Mostly in our practice, we’re old Bergen. hormones. year, the doom-and-gloom pre- to operate,” she said. “(But) U.S. kind of seeing the opposite right “Growth promotants are a “If you drink one can of beer, dictions surrounding country- packers cannot afford to pay now with decreased nutrition really, really good way to get you’ll get 7-1/2 times as much of-origin labelling don’t seem as much for Canadian cattle towards the end of this feeding more efficient production from estrogen as you would from to hold much weight. when they have additional costs period, just because feed sup- the beef side, but they’re a really, one serving of beef from an But producers are being hit by incurred on them… As long plies have been so tight,” he said. really bad way for humans to implanted steer.” COOL harder than they think, as COOL is in place, Canadian “It’s not broad spectrum, but get hormone supplements,” A 75-gram serving of raw peas said Brenna Grant, research cattle will be discounted com- there are isolated cases of pro- said Bergen. has 250 times the estrogen of manager at Canfax. pared to U.S. counterparts.” ducers getting so low on feed Producers have been using implanted beef, and the levels “If COOL were not there, — Jennifer Blair that their cows are definitely los- hormones since the mid-1950s, in raw cabbage are an astonish- Canadian cattle prices would be ing some condition and they’re mainly to encourage faster ing 1,500 times higher. higher yet,” she said. Overconditioned cows just hoping for green grass lean growth. “And humans are produc- “Yes, we have high prices. Yes, Cochrane cattle producer Trish right now.” “If you can produce the same ing this stuff every day,” said producers are finally back in the Henderson says cows on the People have been inquiring pound of beef with less feed, it’s Bergen. “The average adult black. But that doesn’t mean family ranch, LLB Angus, are about range cubes, feed pellets, economically more efficient, male produces 50,000 times COOL is not having the same fatter this spring because they and any other additional feed but it’s also environmentally as much estrogen every day as level of impact.” were fed more during the cold sources, he said. and ethically more responsible,” you would get from one serv- The Canadian cattle industry is winter. She asks, “I’m wonder- In general, animals should he said. ing of beef. You’d have to eat experiencing a “historically wide ing what effect that has on have a body condition score of Implants have been exten- 2-1/2 million hamburgers a day basis” right now, and when the calving and calves.” 3.5 out of five during calving. sively studied and have no side- to get as much estrogen as the per-head prices are this high, During peak lactation, the ani- effects for cattle, said Bergen. average adult woman produces the impact on producers is “very verconditioned cows mals will lose some condition. “These growth promotants in a day. significant.” present some challeng- Another issue this calving and all the other products we’re “If you’re trying to cheat in the The Alberta-to-Nebraska cash- O es, said Cody Creelman, season was finding ground that using… are not just cooked up Olympics, implanted beef isn’t to-cash basis averaged -$27.50/ a veterinarian with Veterinary wasn’t covered under snow. by some mad chemist in a bath- the way to do it.” cwt in March, which added up to Agri-Health Services in Airdrie. “They would push out areas tub,” he said. — Jennifer Blair a $357.50-per-head discount for If a first-calf heifer is over- with their tractors, just so they Canadian producers. This is the weight when she calves, the fat could have a nice level field so widest since May 2005. deposition affects her udder they can manage their cows,” he “The basis right now is wider permanently, and she will have said. “But you can only do that than it was during BSE,” said a decrease in milk production for a certain area, so it really Grant. “There is money being left over her entire lifespan because condensed the calving ground on the table because of COOL.” overweight cows also have prob- for sure. Even now there are Despite strong price signals lems pushing milk out. And they snowdrifts in calving pens, and to expand their herds, many can have trouble calving if there the winter has made it a logistical producers are holding off this is too much fat around the pelvis. nightmare. But it’s getting better year. That’s related to COOL, (This can also result in fat pro- every day.” Grant said. lapses out of the vagina.) Producers are also more wor- “We’ve got price signals to “There’s also the possibility ried about scours because of expand, but if we have lower that calves could even be bigger snow and some are expecting prices than U.S. counterparts, in general from a lot of excess scours that are worse than usual. the U.S. industry is more likely nutrition, but usually that’s more “We’re not seeing that yet, to expand before the Canadian in extreme cases, as opposed but it’s definitely a concern,” industry.” to a little on the chubby side,” said Creelman. Grant expects the national said Creelman. — Alexis Kienlen Sarah Leach ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 11 Highly contagious IBR on the rise in cow herds Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis causes abortions and leads to massive losses in a naive cow herd

significant losses that can be By Peg Strankman caused from these diseases,” af contributor she said. The vaccines available for ooner or later folks say, IBR are quite effective, added everything old is new Byers. There are also combi- S again. In the case of infec- nation vaccines that protect tious bovine rhinotracheitis cows against IBR, as well as (IBR), that is not what a cattle diseases such as BVD, with producer wants to hear. just one vaccination. Modi- “We are seeing IBR raising its fied live virus vaccines may head again in cow herds,” says cause abortions if adminis- Dr. Cec Ruschkowski of Oyen tered to improperly primed Veterinary Clinic. pregnant cows so producers The disease is often viewed as a are advised to consult their feedlot problem associated with vet on vaccine choice and stressed calves. While it certainly timing. A properly vaccinated causes illness in calves, second- cow will pass, via colostrum, ary infections such as bacterial some protection to their calf pneumonia can be treated with that lasts six to eight weeks. antibiotics. But when IBR shows After that, the calf needs to be up in a naive cow herd, it causes vaccinated. significant economic loss in the Ruschkowski promotes a current year and possibly in herd health program as an years to come. important part of an overall The IBR virus causes abortions biosecurity plan for a live- in cow herds with no immunity, stock operation. and losses up to 60 per cent have Producers should find out been reported, said Les Byers, what bugs are going around manager of veterinary services and get on a vaccination pro- for beef cattle and beef genomics There are combination vaccines that protect cows against IBR, as well as diseases such as BVD, gram, she said. They should with Zoetis. And a cow that has with just one vaccination. also keep a separate set of aborted an IBR-infected fetus boots and coveralls to use will usually not rebreed in the many years by vaccination pro- Complacency Ruschkowski said she’s had when helping out neighbours. same year. grams and closed herds, said And some producers have become conversations with young pro- IBR is not a reportable or “IBR caused by the bovine her- Ruschkowski. complacent. ducers who question the need notifiable disease in Alberta pesvirus-1 can stay latent until However, cattle are moving “Unfortunately some producers to have their kids vaccinated and vets maintain client con- stress reactivates it and the car- more often and producers are have backed off on their vaccina- against certain childhood fidentiality. However, there is rier begins to shed the virus,” bringing in cow-calf pairs for tions,” said Ruschkowski. “Some diseases, and take the same a veterinary practice surveil- said Byers. “The virus is highly summer grazing. As well, many thought it was a way to save a view when it comes to herd lance network so they can contagious, spread primarily producers buy replacement heif- couple of bucks during BSE times. health programs. gather information and dis- through nasal secretions.” ers where formerly they raised Some are questioning the need “These producers have no cover when a disease such as It was being controlled for their own. and effectiveness of vaccines.” first-hand experience with the IBR is increasing.

New co-ordinator for Verified Beef Production program hannon Argent of Cremona “Our operation was VBP reg- is the new provincial co- istered in 2012, meaning a third- S ordinator for the national party on-farm validation audit was Verified Beef Production (VBP) completed to review practices con- program in Alberta. Argent will be forming with the program. We feel managing education and on-farm there is a need to keep up with new audit services for cow-calf and developments for beef custom- feedlot producers participating ers and the interesting additions Please join us on a 16 day agricultural tour to Australia’s national beef exposition. in the national beef on-farm food coming.” Beef Australia is one of the world’s great beef cattle events and is held just once safety program. The Verified Beef Production Formerly an animal health tech- program defines industry-sanc- every three years in Rockhampton, Queensland, Australia. nician, Argent has also worked in tioned practices relating to on- both the genetics and communi- farm food safety and soon in other Departing Canada April 30th to May 16th 2015 cation sectors. She, along with her areas. The trademarked program family, own a cow-calf operation is owned by the Canadian Cattle- 5 nights Rockhampton - 5 nights Cairns - 4 nights Sydney northwest of Calgary. The program men’s Association, and defines is in the midst of adding modules low-cost standard practices for For more tour information please visit Beef Australia webpage: for biosecurity, animal care, and cow-calf, backgrounding and http://www.leadertours.ca/beefweek2015/ environmental stewardship. feedlot operations. Practices and “There are interesting changes expected outcomes are outlined in coming and VBP is important to the VBP Producer Manual, avail- Space is limited please register your interest by contacting: the beef industry,” said Argent. able at www.verifiedbeef.org. Lawrence Rowley Phone: 403-270-7044 Email: [email protected] Website: www.leadertours.ca

“There are interesting changes coming and VBP is important to the beef industry.”

Shannon Argen 12 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Upswing in cattle business offers chance to reinvest in the ranch Business specialist says now is a good time to make investments in productive assets, herd health, and yourself

Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development release “Improving working ow that the cattle business capital, and investing in seems to be on the upswing, productive assets, herd N cow-calf producers should consider investments to boost their health, and yourself bottom line, says an Alberta Agri- culture and Rural Development can all bring excellent farm financial specialist. returns.” “Improving working capital, and investing in productive assets, herd health, and yourself can all bring Rick Dehod excellent returns,” said Rick Dehod. “Herd health is an important part of the ongoing operations. Some- times, when funds were tight, a vaccination protocol may not have new equipment, is the best use been followed as this expense was of capital. perhaps thought of as not critical. • Lowering the age of your cow Not following a herd health pro- herd by retaining some heifers tocol often leads to poor financial and culling some older less pro- performance due to disease and ductive cows. lack of creature comfort. This just • Locking in positive margins compounds cash flow problems through the Cattle Price Insur- and, ultimately, the viability of ance Program. the operation.” “Choosing an insured price pro- Improvements to working capital vides a ‘floor’ price that acts as should also be considered, he said. protection against the market This includes bringing accounts being lower than the insured price payable current or to within 15 to 30 for the month that the insurance days, paying down small loans, and is purchased for,” he said. “If the bringing any operating loan down market goes above the insured to within its margin limit. price, producers can still take An acceptable current ratio — advantage of the upside and sell current assets divided by current calves for that higher price.” liabilities — should be greater than Improving the profitability of a beef herd goes beyond buying more cows. PHOTo: thinkstock Last, but not least, Dehod rec- two, he said. ommends investing in yourself. Dehold also advises putting some positive and (you) will have funds ment and a projection of project it can afford more debt and ulti- “Strong business management money away for lean periods and to invest or reduce your financial income and expenses for 2014 is mately more risk.” skills will enhance your decision- doing month-by-month cash flow commitments. By comparing your also a smart move, he said. Investing in productive assets making skills, and help give you projections. projections to actual, you can make “A lender wants to know the is another strategy Dehod recom- the competitive edge,” he said. “By doing a cash flow projection, those adjustments to continue to financial health of the farm busi- mends. Among the items to con- “You are a professional and all you can plot out your sales and your manage a positive margin.” ness. They will look at a few key sider are: professionals embrace lifelong feed requirements. You can see the Talking to your lender and pre- ratios to see if an operation is in • Whether investment in depreci- learning to stay at the top of their months when your margins are paring a year-end net worth state- good financial shape and whether ating assets, such as pickups and game.”

THE th THE TRADITION 57 STAVELY Pig virus drives U.S. CONTINUES EDITION PRO RODEO pork production down MAY 8-9-10th 2014 Hog prices could jump eight per cent due to the disease’s effect

ALL PERFORMANCES of pre-weaned piglets in the START AT 7:30 By Meredith Davis December-February pig crop, reuters lowering the pigs-per-litter rate STEAK SUPPER by 5.5 per cent to 9.53. THURS - FRI & SAT 5 TO 7 PM .S. pork production is USDA sees slaughter-ready likely to decline about hog prices increasing by eight U two per cent this year per cent to range between $73 due to the spread of porcine epi- and $79 per cwt in the third demic diarrhea virus, or PEDv, quarter. Tight supply of pigs the U.S. Department of Agricul- will lower slaughter num- ture said in its monthly livestock bers and reduce pork produc- outlook report. tion but heavier-weight hogs Live hog prices were expected are expected to partially off- to increase as a result of the pig set the pork product decline, PROUDLY PRESENTING: virus, the report said. USDA said. COWGIRLIN’ UP... As of March 1 the U.S. hog herd USDA also expects fourth- was at 57.048 million head, 3.7 quarter hog prices to increase WITH NIKI FLUNDRA per cent lower than a year ago by 12 per cent to range between LIBERTY HORSE ENTERTAINER with losses largely attributed to $67 to $73 per cwt and sees AND PROFESSIONAL TRICK RIDER PEDv, USDA said. heavier-weight hogs again off- PEDv was first confirmed in setting the expected declines in the United States in May 2013. slaughter numbers. The pig virus has since spread U.S. pork exports will likely Featuring Vold to hog farms in 30 U.S. states decrease while pork imports www.michelekingphotography.com and industry analysts estimate will increase due to reduced Rodeo Stock six million to seven million pigs domestic pork production, the CFR Announcer Visit: http://stavelyprorodeo.com/ have died in the U.S. due to report said. LES McINTYRE the virus. U.S. pork exports in 2014 were Phone: Kim Cochlan 403-549-2107 The pig virus is also present seen at 4.85 billion lbs., down 2.8 SCOTT & Bo BYRNE Email: [email protected] on hog farms in four Canadian per cent from the previous year. - Bullﬁ ghters provinces and several areas in While pork imports were seen at Mexico, USDA said. about 915 million pounds, up PEDv caused significant losses 4.1 per cent from 2013. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 13 Hands-on synchronization programs have many beneﬁ ts BEEF 911  Some suggestions for running a successful AI program for beef cattle

are lutalyse and estrumate but ficial insemination protocols for Acetate) that keeps the heifers If in doubt about any of the BY ROY LEWIS, DVM there are also several generic handling thawing and placing the from cycling. This is fed for 14 details, ask questions. Ideally it is products licensed. Estrumate semen. Keep the area clean and days and then removed. The heif- best if men do the handling of the e have come a long way is two cc whereas lutalyse is use a good absorbent towel to ers come into heat but it is not prostaglandin, as there is a huge from the synchroniza- five cc. A very common mistake clean the vulvar area. a fertile heat, so they are given a safety factor for women because W tion programs of one arises from changing products, As with any breeding program, shot of prostaglandins to com- — as the label clearly states — this shot of prostaglandins, observa- but not changing the dosage — cattle must be cycling and in good plete the synchronization and product should not be handled by tion, and breeding according to with underdosing or overdos- nutrition with an adequate body the heifers are then bred accord- women of child-bearing age. heat. ing the result. Both mistakes condition score (2.5 to 3.5), and ing to detected heat. The major- If you implement a synchroni- Prostaglandins are still a very (especially the underdosing) can have a sound mineral program. ity will be in heat over about a zation program, you can cut down useful tool in combination with greatly mess with any synchro- Cows should be 60 days from three-day window. on bull power and can utilize the other drugs and intravaginal nization program. So follow the calving so their uterus has fully All synchronization programs best genetics in the industry. devices containing progester- label closely. involuted (contracted down) require a strict adherence to It all can work well and a desir- one. Many of you will have seen and they are ready to rebreed. detail and timing. There are able conception rate achieved as the numerous protocols put out Pregnancy rates Cattle on a rising plane of nutri- many different protocols out long as all the steps are followed for synchronization — Ameri- We always hear about the high tion (so they are gaining weight) there, so work with your veteri- in order of sequence and at the can Breeders Service has a very and low pregnancy rates, but a will also have a better conception narian to determine which ones proper times. May the conception nice summary in one of its cata- good average on a timed AI pro- rate. The demands of a calf suck- they have had the best success rate be high this spring! logues. The only problem with so gram is 50 per cent. The time ing milk on the cow needs to be with. Another good reference will many choices is it might become frames are critical, so don’t syn- replaced by good-quality feed in be your semen sales rep as they Roy Lewis is a Westlock, Alberta- confusing and if protocols are chronize more than you can pos- the cow’s diet otherwise cycling usually have experience with AI based veterinarian specializing in changed, or times are not strictly sibly AI in three hours. Semen will not happen. and often work with local veteri- large-animal practice. He is also a adhered to, disastrous concep- must be placed at the ideal time For heifers you can use a pro- narians to implement synchroni- part-time technical services vet for tion rates follow. and, of course, follow all the arti- gram using MGA (Megesterol zation programs. Merck Animal Health. In my experience, the best protocol (for a number of reasons) is the CO-Synch plus Intra- vaginal progesterone-releasing device (CIDRs). The program’s chart is available for download at www.albertafarmexpress.ca/ WINTER files/2014/04/synchronization- protocols-2011-beefcow-beef- heifer.pdf. If you choose to use BLUES the program, get the flow sheets laminated and put up on the fridge or someplace else so it can easily be followed. With this program, there is a slight difference in the time period after the prostaglandin shot — six hours out shorter for heifers — so please note that before proceeding. GREEN Keep in mind this program is really good for allowing full synchronization so all cattle are bred PASTURES at the same time. Some producers do AI a few if they come into heat early but the rest are AIed at once. There is no need for heat detection. Cattle are run through the chute a total of three times in including when they are AIed over a 10-day period, so your handling setup must be decent. Good facilities reduce labour and decrease stress on the cattle, which helps improve conception rates. As with handling of any of the medicines, keep them from freezing or getting too hot. Since shots are intramuscular, it’s very important to use at least a 1.5-inch needle and give the injections in the neck where you can get into the muscle. Because the dosages of both the GNRH and prostaglandin are smaller, it is critical to get them all into a site where they will be absorbed quickly. Fer- tagyl, Fertiline Cystorelin and Extra bedding, non-stop checking. Full attention, Factrel are the GNRH products regardless of frostbite. And no rest until all heads are used and efficacy is good on all. As far as the prostaglandins are accounted for. An unforgiving winter was the ultimate concerned, the two oldest ones test. But you persevered. And so did your herd. Now, ice is thawing, creek water is running, and greener pastures FARMING await. Here’s to a worry-free grazing season. IS ENOUGH OF UFA has everything you need to prepare your herd and A GAMBLE... pastures. Visit us in-store or online at UFA.com/Beef.

37757_Grazing Print Ad_AFE 8.125x10.indd 1 2014-04-02 3:05 PM 14 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA USDA U.S. Appeals Court reconsiders considers its own COOL ruling mandatory In a surprising twist, a full panel of district judges will hear arguments again May 19 reports of including the Canadian Cattle- COOL-related lawsuit, also filed Little to no benefit BY DAVE BEDARD men’s Association (CCA) and last July in District Court. The North American Meat deadly pig AGCANADA.COM Canadian Pork Council — and The July suit and request for Association (NAMA), hailed the the defendants, led by the U.S. a preliminary injunction stem court’s decision as “a positive U . S . A p p e a l s C o u r t Department of Agriculture, to from USDA’s revised COOL development.” virus which last month reject- refile their briefs by April 18 rule, which was set last May “Constitutional cases are A ed North American meat and “supplemental briefs” by and tightens the previous COOL notoriously difficult, but we and livestock industry groups’ April 21 on the specific case law rule’s labelling requirements. have a strong case and with outbreaks plea to halt U.S. mandatory being reconsidered. The issue to be considered this action the Appeals Court country-of-origin labelling “This is particularly signifi- en banc on May 19 is whether, is signalling that it is taking our (COOL) on meat has scrapped cant as the rehearing was ini- under the U.S. Constitution’s argument very seriously,” said BY TOM POLANSEK AND its own ruling and will rehear tiated by the Appellate Court First Amendment (freedom NAMA CEO Barry Carpenter. MEREDITH DAVIS the case in May. itself and the case will be heard of speech), companies can be “We remain hopeful that CHICAGO / REUTERS The U.S. Court of Appeals for by all the judges on the court,” compelled to provide man- consideration of the case by the the District of Columbia cir- the CCA said in a statement. datory disclosure of “purely full court will lead to an injunc- he United States is con- cuit announced April 4 it has factual and uncontroversial” tion against the protectionistic sidering rules that would vacated the March 28 ruling by Earlier decision information, such as COOL and costly country-of-origin T require outbreaks of a a panel of its judges and will The March 28 judgment being demands on mandatory meat labelling rule that is hurting deadly pig virus to be reported rehear the case en banc — that vacated had upheld a previ- labels, if the government livestock producers and meat to the government in an effort to is, with its full court of district ous U.S. District Court decision requires it for reasons other companies while offering improve tracking of the disease, judges — on May 19. rejecting the AMI-led plaintiffs’ than preventing deception. little benefit to consumers,” which has already spread to 30 The full court has ordered the request last July for a preliminary The full court will review rel- AMI general counsel Mark states, an industry group said on plaintiffs — led by the Ameri- injunction against COOL, pend- evant case law as it applies to Dopp said in a separate state- Monday. can Meat Institute (AMI) and ing the outcome of the groups’ this issue. ment. Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDv) has killed millions of baby pigs since it was first detected in the United States a year ago. PEDv has crimped hog supplies in the United States and sent prices to record highs. It remains unclear how the virus entered the country, and farm-

ers have struggled to find ways

to contain it.

------The U.S. Department of Agri- culture (USDA) has discussed GETTING OUR PIECE OF the option of mandatory reporting with the American Associa- tion of Swine Veterinarians, said Tom Burkgren, executive direc-

tor of the association. ------PEDv, which is nearly always Global Markets fatal in piglets, has been difficult to track in part because veterinarians are not required to alert BEEF 2014: INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK CONGRESS government officials of its pres- ence. USDA is “currently evaluating additional options for address- ing this virus,” a spokeswoman said in an email without elabo- rating. The veterinarians’ association has been publishing weekly data on outbreaks, based on voluntary reports, since PEDv was first discovered in the United States. The virus does not affect humans. Burkgren said it may be too late for mandatory reporting to have significant benefits to the livestock industry. “You’ve got a very widely distributed disease,” he said. “At this point in the outbreak, I think we’d have to see some really good reasons to start reporting it.” Further discussions with the USDA are expected later this Beef 2014: International Livestock Conference week, Burkgren said, adding that the government had not This year’s conference will focus on the opportunities of marketing the whole carcass. yet given details on how man- With the trends that are taking shape today, there are many opportunities for the future. Hear an update datory reports could potentially on the economy – local and globally, the market opportunities of the whole carcass locally and globally be used. Mandatory reporting is already – and what you can do to enhance this opportunity and why it is important to you. used for viruses such as African swine fever and foot-and-mouth ILC Beef 2014: Wednesday July 09, 2014 disease. The USDA can quaran- Register at www.ilccalgary.com Deerfoot Inn & Casino, 1000, 11500-35 Street SE, tine animals with African swine Calgary, Alberta fever and restrict the movement of infected animals.

Buy and Sell anything you need through the

Cattle photo courtesy of Canada Beef Inc. 1-800-665-1362 ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 15

LOW WATER HINDERS GERMAN SHIPPING U.S. WHEAT STABLE

Low water levels after dry weather continue to prevent cargo vessels from sailing fully loaded U.S. wheat futures fell last Tuesday after forecasts for favourable weather and confirmation that the on the Rhine and Danube rivers in Germany, increasing transport costs for freight owners, U.S. crop was unharmed by cold weather the previous week. The U.S. Department of Agriculture, in a traders said Apr. 22. Low water is hindering shipping on the Rhine from Duisburg and Cologne to weekly report, kept its good-to-excellent rating for the U.S. wheat crop unchanged at 34 per cent. The Germany’s border with Switzerland, traders said. Water levels have been low on the river since the move surprised some analysts who had expected a slight decline due to dryness the previous week. beginning of April. The entire German section of the Danube River has been too shallow for vessels The USDA said six per cent of the corn crop was planted as of Apr. 20, below the average of 14 per cent to sail fully loaded since late March, traders said. The Rhine and Danube are important shipping and the nine per cent expected by analysts. The first estimate on soybean plantings is expected routes for commodities such as grains, minerals and coal. this week.

Extreme weather patterns happening more often Research suggests human-induced warming may dial up extreme weather’s severity

as a bit of a surprise, the study BY DANIEL BEZTE also concluded this extreme jet stream pattern could not form or much of this past win- if it were not for the influence ter and early spring the of human-caused warming; F jet stream over North “there is a traceable anthro- America was stuck in a very pogenic warming footprint in resilient pattern, with a ridge the enormous intensity of the of high pressure over the West anomalous ridge during the Coast and a deep trough of winter of 2013-14.” low pressure over the east- The study found that while ern half of the continent. The ridges of high pressure and West Coast ridge brought mild troughs of low pressure (dipole weather to those regions, with pattern) like we saw this winter many areas of Alaska record- have often occurred in the past, ing their fifth-warmest winter the intensity of these features on record. Farther south, the has been increasing since the persistent ridge kept most of year 2000. While there are defi- the winter rains away from nitely natural factors that help California. This resulted in to intensify these patterns, the up to 98 per cent of California researchers found when they being in a state of drought. In ran their weather models with fact, the winter period from and without including human- November to January ended caused global warming, the up being the worst winter models could not reproduce drought on record for that the type of event we saw this state. Over central and eastern winter unless global warming regions the persistent trough was included. They concluded of low pressure, or polar vor- the dipole “is projected to tex, brought well-below-aver- intensify, which implies that age temperatures, with the the periodic and inevitable area around the Great Lakes droughts California will experi- and west into Manitoba con- ence will exhibit more severity. sistently showing some of the The inference from this study coldest temperature anoma- is that the abnormal intensity This issue’s map shows the precipitation across the Prairies during the 30-day period ending on April lies on the planet this winter. of the winter ridge is traceable 16. Luckily for Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the eastern half of Alberta, precipitation to end the to human-induced warm- winter has been very light, with large areas seeing less than 60 per cent of average. The western half ing but, more importantly, its of Alberta, roughly from a line going from Whitecourt to Red Deer to Lethbridge has been wet, with development is potentially amounts ranging from near average to the east of this line to upwards of 200 per cent just west of I am beginning to think predictable.” Calgary. The authors of the study we may be seeing this also point out that while this particular pattern had a high see it’s difficult to follow or pre- We see the overall pattern rap- This does little to help make jump in our general pressure ridge over the west dict where individual particles idly change; it jumps around us feel better as we struggle global weather patterns and low pressure to the east, go (day-to-day weather); if for a short period into a chaotic through a cool start to spring, the opposite pattern has just you step back and look at the pattern before settling down and some of you are probably starting now. as much likelihood to occur whole blender you can see a into a new pattern. hoping the weather pattern and will likely be of the same general pattern to the overall A few years ago I theorized switches and we get a nice intensity. flow (climate). our atmosphere is going to big ridge of high pressure over Now, it is not disputed by undergo something very simi- the summer, but let me leave The blender analogy anyone that humans, through lar to that of a blender chang- you with this. Imagine what Now, I know there are some of our actions, are creating con- ing speeds, but I figured it was a summer would be like if we you out there who are thinking ditions that are increasing the still a decade or two away. I am saw temperatures that were 8 that this is just another global amount of energy remaining beginning to think we may be to 12 C above average. So far New research recently warming story that helps to in our atmosphere. The big seeing this jump in our gen- our warm summers have only published in Geophysical cover the pro-global warming question right now is, where eral global weather patterns been 2 to 4 C above average. Research Letters entitled people’s butts. If it’s warm, it’s is all of this energy going? Is it starting now. As the research Under an extreme pattern we “Probable causes of the global warming; now if it is a only heating the air, oceans or pointed out, the weather mod- could easily see temperatures abnormal ridge accompany- cold pattern, it is once again ground, or, more likely all three els show these anomalies in our much warmer. Do you want ing the 2013-14 California global warming! at the same time? The key point weather patterns increasing to go through a summer with drought: ENSO precursor and Here is how I look at this: in is that the amount of energy in not only in intensity but also little rain and daytime highs in anthropogenic warming foot- the past I have used an anal- the system is increasing. duration and occurrence. So, the upper 30s and overnight print” (Wang et al. 2014, doi: ogy of a blender filled up and Now let’s go back to the while everyone wants to think lows in the mid-20s? Sounds 10.1002/2014GL059748) indi- set at a constant speed to rep- blender analogy. What hap- global warming means only kind of nice until you have to cates this jet stream pattern resent the current state of the pens to the material in the warmer weather for everyone, live it… and the likelihood of was the most extreme pattern atmosphere. If you watch the blender when we increase the as usual, Mother Nature is seeing this happen seems to ever recorded. While this came material in the blender you will power or speed (add energy)? making it much more difficult. be growing. 16 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

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AFSC spring price endorsement option Alberta Agriculture market specialist Neil Blue reminds that one option for protecting the price of new-crop canola is the AFSC spring price endorsement (SPE). For example, the 2014 canola spring price under the SPE is $9.75/bushel. ”A payout under the SPE would be triggered if the fall price drops by more than 10 per cent (i.e. 97-1/2 cents/bushel) from this spring price. If the calculated fall price is below $8.77-1/2 cents /bushel, there will be a payout under the SPE.” For more information, visit www.agric.gov.ab.ca and search for “spring price endorsement.”

What’s on your mind? is a registered trademark used under license from Monsanto Company. Company. Monsanto from license under used trademark registered a is Questions from Alberta Farmer readers ® brand products are provided subject to the terms and conditions conditions and terms the to subject provided are products brand ® Carry-out and wheat prices, fusarium resistance, and feeding a hungry PHL. 2014 © Limited. Hi-Bred Pioneer to licensed marks service and Trademarks Roundup Ready Roundup SM TM, ®, of purchase which are part of the labeling and purchase documents. purchase and labeling the of part are which purchase of DuPont. of trademark registered a is Logo Oval DuPont The world were on these producers’ minds Pioneer

Editor’s note: We asked a sampling of producers what was on their mind as they were heading into the growing season, and then reporters Alexis Kienlen and Jennifer Blair went looking for answers.

Bin buster “The transportation issue hurt Bentley-area grain producer our movement and in part, it cre- Jason Lenz asks, “How will the ated this surplus, but in the big large carry-over affect new-crop scheme of things, it boils down to wheat prices?” world demand.” T:15.58” Once there is strong grain move- t’s the world market that sets ment to port, cash bids for Cana- wheat prices — what Alberta dian growers will go up as long as I farmers have to worry about world demand is strong, he said. is basis. “My thought is that we’ve gotten AgCanada estimates total ending through that, and it is eventually stocks for all grains will be 22.8 mil- going to repair,” he said. “So the lion tonnes at the end of the crop terrible basis levels we saw this year on July 31. That raises the winter will be a thing of the past.” spectre that grain bins will still be Anderson is not alone in his full at harvest and the wide basis view. If sales and rail movement the domestic situation,” he said. why it’s been so hard to find genetic seen this winter will continue. are strong, the carry-over number — Alexis Kienlen resistance to it.” But that’s too gloomy an outlook, will drop dramatically from July Fusarium creates poisonous said market analyst Errol Anderson. 31 to early fall, said Derek Squair, GMOs the answer? microtoxins on grain seeds — a “My feeling is that the rail trans- president of Agri-Trend Marketing. Grain farmer Kevin Bender, “severe problem for marketabil- portation problem that we had At the upper limit of 11,000 rail who also farms in the Bentley ity” in cereals, such as wheat and this winter will be alleviated,” said cars a week, stocks will drop by one area, asks, “When can we expect barley, grown for human consump- Anderson, president of ProMarket million tonnes weekly, although fusarium resistance in wheat? tion. Communications in Calgary. Squair said something in the 8,000- And can we get it through con- And while plant breeders have car range is more likely. ventional breeding, or is biotech made some headway on develop- So would a flood of Canadian necessary?” ing fusarium resistance in wheat, wheat onto world markets depress the disease still crops up in hot, prices? No, says Anderson. We’re a ad news for cereal growers — humid weather conditions, like distant sixth in the list of top wheat- true resistance to fusarium those in southern Alberta. It comes producing nations, and Anderson B head blight probably isn’t down to “nature versus nurture,” notes that what happens to wheat possible, and no amount of biotech said Spaner. production in Europe, China, the is going to change that. “The relationship between nature U.S., and Russia this year will have “(Fusarium) very much ties into versus nurture in fusarium is very the biggest impact on prices. climate and the weather,” said low,” he said. “Even if we have a “We’re going to respond more to Dean Spaner, a plant breeder at Bentley-area producer, Jason Lenz the global market than we will to the University of Alberta. “That’s see QUESTIONS } page 18

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QUESTIONS  from page 17 “With fusarium especially, we can’t really rely totally on genet- perfectly resistant plant, you’re ics. We have to rely on stan- “It’s just not going to be a BRIEFS still going to get the disease (in dard practices of agronomy.” the right weather conditions).” — Jennifer Blair matter of producing more. Selecting for resistance can also It’s going to be a matter of Deadline extended be a problem because microtoxin Feeding the world levels and resistance to fusarium Paul Wipf of Viking Colony producing better and more for world are “not entirely correlated.” wonders if farmers can feed conservation “You might have a plant that nine billion people by 2050, efficiently.” looks clean and have more fusar- and asks, “Will we be able to agriculture ium damage than a plant that rise to that occasion?” conference looks like it has a lot of fusarium.” But GMOs are not the answer, t’s possible, but it’s not just WCCA RELEASE / Organiz- said Spaner. about the farmers,” says Van- CHRISTOPHE ers of the 6th World Con- “Whenever any company says I couver futurist and consultant PELLETIER ference on Conservation it needs a GMO solution, it’s not Christophe Pelletier. Agriculture (WCCA) have really telling the truth,” he said. In fact, we could do it without extended the early registra- Resistance to herbicides or producing more food. tion deadline to May 1. pathogens is controlled by a “Some people say that about 30 WCCA will take place single gene. Fusarium resis- to 40 per cent of food is wasted,” June 22-25 in Winnipeg, tance or yield, on the other he said. “You can do the math. “It’s just not going to be a mat- And while farmers who are Manitoba. This conference hand, are “controlled by many, Today we feed six billion people ter of producing more. It’s going less productive will need to raise promotes the sharing of many genes.” and one billion are underfed. If to be a matter of producing bet- their game and match the out- knowledge about sustain- “There are very few traits that you add in the third that’s miss- ter and more efficiently.” put of top producers, consum- able agriculture with the are controlled by one gene in ing, we can feed nine billion peo- Precision agriculture, with its ers in well-off countries need to intent of catalyzing change plants or animals.” ple today.” focus on putting inputs where change, too. in practices and policies Cereal breeders have found The key will be improving stor- they are needed, is a big step in “It’s kind of crazy that in the throughout the world. markers for a gene with some age and transportation infrastruc- the right direction, he said. western world, people eat twice Each day of the event fea- resistance to fusarium and can ture. Farmers all around the world as many calories as they should tures one of the following breed lines that have that marker. “I’ve heard that China was wast- need to work together to improve and twice as much protein as keynote speakers: But there’s no guarantee the ing the same volume of wheat yields, said Pelletier. they should and then they’re sur- • David Montgomery is the progeny will be resistant. that Canada exports. And it’s just “There are differences in yields prised that they’re twice as big as author of Dirt: The Ero- “We can use tools of modern because its infrastructure is not between farmers. Even in the they should be,” he said. “We’re sion of Civilizations. He biotechnology… and still the in order.” same region, you have a farmer going to have to talk about diet, sees no-till farming as trait or expression of resistance When it comes to production, who is going to have a great yield not just in volumes, but the “the hope for a new agri- is controlled about 80 per cent by it’s more about the how rather and one who is going to have one impact on the environment.” cultural revolution that the weather,” said Spaner. than the how much, said Pelletier. that’s not so great. Why?” — Alexis Kienlen might help us avoid the fate of previous civilizations.” • Howard G. Buffett operates a 1,500-acre family farm in central Illinois and oversees three foundation-operated research farms comprised of 14,100 acres. Buffett has Be the first to meet Alberta’s travelled to 130 countries and documented the challenges of preserving biodiversity and providing resources for the 2014 EXPORT growing global population. • Dwayne Beck man- ages the Dakota Lakes CHAMPIONS Research Farm, a unique co-operative arrange- ment between South Dakota State University and agricultural producers. Through the research farm’s programs, producers can profitably adopt conservation practices. Optional tours extend the scope of the conference The Alberta Export Awards are the province’s most prestigious awards, paying tribute with a one-day tour in to the success and innovative approaches of export companies in Alberta. Canada and a 3.5-day tour in the United States. These tours showcase farms that May 23, 2014 11:00am to 2:00pm The Westin Edmonton have used agricultural con- JOIN US! | | servation systems for 20 or more years. For more information visit wcca6.org or call 765- 494-9555.

Extending across industries and including both rural and urban representation, the awards are a celebration of the contributions exporters have made to both the provincial and national economy. With over 400 delegates—many of whom hold executive leadership roles—the Alberta Export Awards provide a premier networking opportunity for attendees. Attending this event will allow you and your business to connect with leading and emerging industry decision makers within the Alberta export sector.

AWARD CATEGORIES INCLUDE: Exporter of the Year • Emerging Exporter • Business Studies Student Award • Technology and Media • Services Explorer Manufacturing: Oil & Gas • Agriculture and Consumer Products • Leadership Award • Manufacturing: Other

PRESENTED BY PREMIER SPONSORS AWARD SPONSORS SUPPORTING SPONSOR

Businessman and farmer Howard Buffett is among the keynote speakers at the Follow updates on Twitter at @cme_mec, @jwnevents or use the hashtag #ABExport international conference to be held in Winnipeg June 22-25.

VISIT ALBERTAEXPORTAWARDS.CA TO BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY! ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 19 Water management beats precision fertilizing on irrigated land Higher organic matter gives crops a big nitrogen boost and so it’s better to focus on water management, study finds

see the current Growing Forward of the manual. “You have to get By Helen McMenamin program included funding for everything right to produce a high- af contributor / lethbridge more efficient irrigation systems. quality crop.” Last year, Alberta Agriculture Watching crops for signs of mois- t seems fertilizer prescriptions published a new irrigation man- ture stress and hand checking soil matched to the needs of vari- agement manual that focuses on moisture levels is time consuming I ous areas of a field doesn’t give running low-pressure systems for and can result in irrigating after much of a return under irrigation. optimum yield of any crop and effi- plants have lost yield potential. The That’s the conclusion of an cient use of water. AIMM model gives an irrigator real- Alberta Agriculture and Rural The manual is based on the time information on the moisture Development study of responses Alberta Irrigation Management available to a crop and the rate it’s to applying fertilizer according to model (AIMM), an online system being depleted. the needs of the field’s soil zones. that accounts for actual weather During early stages of crop The project included dryland and — along with the soil type of each growth, running the pivot fast irrigated fields with varying slopes, field and the crop and its develop- keeps water application rate below knolls and depressions that were ment stage — to show how much the infiltration rate, which prevents soil tested separately. Prescription of the soil moisture is being used run-off — which both wastes water maps were developed and used to by the crop. and causes soil erosion. But hav- apply fertilizer at rates tailored to “Irrigation application timing ing it run over the field a few times each zone. and amounts, fertilizers, disease builds up water reserves for later in Under irrigation, yields from the risk, fungicide application, (and) the season when the crop’s peak Under irrigation, yields from the soil zones didn’t change when the soil zones didn’t change when the harvest decisions are a complex water demands exceed the capac- fertilizer was adjusted to precisely match the perceived needs of each T:8.125” fertilizer was adjusted to precisely process,” says Alan Efetha, author ity of the system. area. PHoto: thinkstock match the perceived needs of each area. “Water drives yields with irrigation as much as on dryland,” says Doon Pauly, a provincial soil fer- tility research scientist. “One site caught several big dumps of rain that left water pooled in the low spots. And even though those areas stayed very wet, perhaps as much as 60 per cent of the field did not yield as well as it should have, due to underirrigation. “We generally assume applied nutrients are the main drivers of yield, but from our work, I think you’d be hard pressed to pay a consultant’s fee for a prescription map for variable-rate fertilization. Man- agement of irrigation seems to be a much more important yield driver.” Estimating the amount of nutrients an area needs for maximum yield is difficult because of the high levels of organic matter that have built up in irrigated soils, said Pauly. At last winter’s Irrigated Crop Pro- duction Update, scientists reported nitrogen releases from organic material are about 100 pounds per acre a year on irrigated land. A simi- Beware of leaf disease. lar amount is stored in new organic matter and can be used by follow- Unchecked, leaf disease can reduce cereal ing crops. Heavy tillage to bury crop crop yields by up to 40%. residues, a common practice in the past, exposed organic matter and Folicur® EW delivers exceptional leaf disease T:10” so it more quickly broke down into nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide control, including rust, tan spot and septoria that were lost into the atmosphere. leaf blotch. Additionally, its wide window Probably only 40 to 60 pounds of of application also provides outstanding organic nitrogen remained in the suppression of fusarium. soil with those practices. It’s also less with low-residue crops in the rotation. Folicur EW – the most trusted disease “With such a high level of nutri- protection you can get. ent cycling in the soil, modifying nutrient levels has only very small incremental effect on crop yields Visit BayerCropScience.ca/ItPaystoSpray in most fields,” said Pauly. “I’d say to see how Folicur EW is performing in apply a blanket rate of major nutri- your area. ents across the whole field and pay more attention to water management unless you’re already doing a fantastic job of irrigation management.”

Low-pressure pivots Low-pressure pivots have made a world of difference to irrigation Qualified Growers Save 15% off management, especially com- Folicur EW*. Ask your retailer for details. pared to wheel-move systems. One farmer weighing the value of investment in a low-pressure system compared his irrigation costs to those of his neighbour and found his pumping costs were double and his yield was about half BayerCropScience.ca/Folicur or 1 888-283-6847 or contact your Bayer CropScience representative. Always read and follow label directions. Folicur® is a registered trademark of the Bayer Group. Bayer CropScience is a member of CropLife Canada. as much. That was bad enough, but *With participating BayerValue product puchases over $20,000. then add on the system’s limita- C-50-04/14-10181841-E tions, the time involved in moving his system and he was very glad to

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403 261 7161 403 261 7152 20 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Alberta Agriculture releases 2014 edition of CropChoice$ The software has 40 dryland and irrigated crops scenarios, and can calculate probabilities for achieving margins

have on their operation, such as key thing to note is that the wrong ALBERTA AGRICULTURE AND adjusting crop mix, purchasing option can be costly.” RURAL DEVELOPMENT RELEASE crop insurance, and renegotiat- CropChoice$ is a crop budgeting and risk management The software can also help pro- ing land rental agreements. It also ducers firm up which crops to he 2014 edition of Crop- provides probabilities for achiev- software program that’s updated every year with recent grow, he said. Choice$ planning tool is now ing margins for different cropping crop insurance information from AFSC... “If you are still uncertain, the T out. “CropChoice$ is a crop plans and scenarios. software provides the additional budgeting and risk management “Typically, with traditional bud- information that can help you with software program that’s updated gets you use a single estimate of those selections,” said Wood. “It every year with recent crop insur- yield and price, which only gives JASON WOOD has up to 40 dryland and irrigated ance information from AFSC (Agri- you a simple average,” said Wood. crops depending on your location. cultural Financial Services Corpo- “But CropChoice$ recognizes that Each scenario handles up to 32 ration) and projected crop costs,” future crop yields and prices can- fields and you can run up to eight said Jason Wood, crops economist not be precisely known. Based on scenarios that directly compare with Alberta Agriculture and Rural this it takes the revenue calculation There is a lot of value to produc- taking into account your own per- and contrast the risks and returns Development. “It allows farmers to one step further to include your own ers in being able to build different sonal risk preferences,” he said. “A of each crop plan. Then, based calculate expected margins and the price and yield expectations. It does cropping scenarios, he said. bonus of creating a primary crop on the results, you can choose likelihood of achieving those results this by allowing you to enter high, “The initial value comes from plan is that it helps you to know a crop plan that works for your for various crop plans.” low, and most likely price and yield being able to narrow down your what your second-best option is, operation.” Producers can use the software values. The program then calculates cropping options to find the mix and this helps with contingency For more information, go to to adjust individual crop costs and the likelihood of achieving every of crops that gives you the highest planning. Once you are in the field www.agric.gov.ab.ca and type evaluate the effects that different possible profit outcome based on possible profitability while main- you may not have time to evalu- ‘cropchoice$’ in the search box or risk management strategies will price and yield expectations.” taining agronomic stability and ate last-minute options, and the call 310-FARM (3276). Grain companies invest in new and upgraded facilities

WINNIPEG / REUTERS / STAFF

argill Ltd., Canada’s third- largest grain handler, will C increase storage and rail car capacity at Morris, Man., the latest in a series of expansions by Canadian grain companies. The move, announced April 9, comes as the country’s grain han- dlers and railways have struggled to move a record-large harvest to port, causing a massive backlog. Cargill said it would add 20,000 tonnes of grain storage space for a total of 30,000 tonnes and equip the site to allow 100 rail cars to load grain, nearly double the current number. The expansion is expected to start within the next month and be complete in time for the 2015 harvest. Cargill did not disclose the cost. In the last year, Cargill has also announced expansions for its grain-handling sites at Viking, Alta., and Rosetown, Sask. Cargill’s rivals are also boosting capacity. Viterra, owned by Glencore Xstrata PLC, said last week it would build a new grain elevator You have come to trust Meridian for the best SmoothWall hopper bins in the industry… Now you can trust at Kindersley, Sask., while CWB our expanding line of Storage and Handling products. All Meridian’s products are built with our continued has started work on the first two commitment to the highest quality and innovation. Check out Meridian’s full line of Storage and Handling of its network of elevators near Portage la Prairie, Man., and near WWW.MERIDIANMFG.COM products at . Colonsay, Sask. The facilities will feature 33,900 tonnes and 42,000 SMOOTHWALL • GALVANIZED • AUGERS • CONVEYORS • SEED TENDERS • ARCHWALL • FUEL TANKS tonnes of storage and are scheduled to be open in time for the 2015 harvest, CWB said. Richardson International Ltd. last year said it would spend $40 million to expand its western Canadian grain-handling and crop input centres, and received approval from Port Metro Van- © 2014 Meridian Manufacturing Inc. Registered Trademarks Used Under License. couver to expand its grain terminal there. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 21 As population soars, so does demand for trees and shrubs Nursery stock is being shipped in from as far away as Minnesota to meet the demand for trees and shrubs

that have proven successful in this While it was a good fit for Brown By Tony Kryzanowski growing zone. That includes paper and his family, he said it’s not af contributor birch, hawthorn, ash, Siberian larch, for everyone. ornamental crabapple, hybrid pop- “It’s like anything to do with lberta’s population is boom- lar, aspen, cherry, mayday, and agriculture,” he said. “There’s high ing, and so is demand for lilac — all common varieties seen risk and high rewards if you’re in A landscaping materials such throughout the province. They also the right spot at the right time. as trees and shrubs. grow conifers, especially spruce, We spend a lot of time forecasting “There’s a phenomenal amount pine and larch varieties. where we think market trends are of growth available in the industry Planning is key as different tree going to go.” right now,” said Cody Brown, gen- varieties reach marketability at Funding is available under eral manager at Tree to Tree Nurser- different times, said Brown. For Growing Forward 2 for producers ies in Gleichen. example, it takes about 10 years for wanting to investigate this busi- “Alberta producers cannot grow a coniferous tree to achieve 10 feet in ness opportunity, noted Bozic. The enough material to meet market height, whereas trees such as birch, program covers 50 to 75 per cent demand… the only thing that will ash, and elm reach a salable height of some non-capital costs related slow you down right now is the price in as little as four years. to researching and planning a new point you want to sell your product “You should start marketing the business venture. Under the busi- at.” The province has about 4,000 first day that you plant a tree,” he ness skills development portion of hectares dedicated to tree nursery said. “The old saying that if you build the program, successful applicants businesses, and the sector gener- it, they will come just isn’t true when are eligible for reimbursement for ates an estimated $77 million in it comes to producing nursery stock. 75 per cent of the costs of approved sales annually. But nursery stock is I would say that the majority of my training courses. being shipped in from as far away time as general manager is spent on More information is available at Soaring demand for trees and shrubs has Tree to Tree Nurseries general Trim: 8.125” as Minnesota. marketing and customer relations.” www.landscape-alberta.com. manager Cody Brown (and son Miles) smiling. PhotoS: Tony Kryzanowski Given the demand, the government would like more Alberta farmers to take a serious look at this business opportunity as a supplement to existing operations or something that could develop into a full-time business, said Toso Bozic, agrofor- ester with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. “Opportunities in this business are numerous as cities and towns grow in population and the demand for landscaping trees in new hous- ing developments and on acreages increases,” said Bozic. “One of the steady needs for trees is on boule- vards, streets and in city parks and playgrounds.” And it looks like demand will continue to rise. The province has added a million new residents since 2000 and the provincial government estimates there will be another 2.2 million Albertans by 2041. The aging population is also working in favour of new entrants to this industry. “Lots of operators are getting on in age and are going to retire,” said Arnold Heuver, a former Alberta nursery manager who is now a consultant in the sector. “However, it takes a gutsy, aggres- sive, solid business-minded person

to succeed in this business because Trim: 10” it is very much a front-end-loaded investment with little return for the first five years for a startup.” In addition to patience, potential investors must be very knowledge- able about growing a variety of tree species, said Bozic. Brown learned the nursery business while working with his father and grandfather on a nursery near Rimbey in the mid-1980s. Drawn by a desire to work outdoors and have time for travel in winter, he came back to it after earning a degree in environmental studies. He established his nursery in 2003 and sold READY TO KICK SOME GRASS? his first trees in 2005. The company sells both decidu- ous and coniferous trees with some You don’t get to be a top grower by being so on grassy weeds. Farming’s toughest operators count native to the province and others on DuPont™ Assure® II herbicide to bring the muscle and protect their high-value oilseeds and pulses. Assure® II pulverizes foxtail barley and beats the living chlorophyll out of green and yellow ™ foxtail, volunteer cereals and many others. Need extra muscle on grasses? Add Assure® II to Liberty® DuPont ® in LibertyLink® canola or to glyphosate in Roundup Ready® canola. Assure II Assure® II herbicide. Add some muscle to your weed control. uestions? Ask your retailer, call 1-800-667-3925 or visit AssureII.DuPont.ca

As with all crop protection products, read and follow label instructions carefully.

Alberta has about 4,000 hectares The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont™, The miracles of science and Assure® II are registered trademarks or trademarks of E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company. E. I. du Pont Canada Company is a licensee. All other products mentioned are registered trademarks or trademarks of their respective companies. Member of CropLife Canada. of trees and shrubs but more are ©Copyright 2014 E. I. du Pont Canada Company. All rights reserved. needed.

OGILVY PUB: AD #: DUPAS-TATTOO-15014-JRa OPERATOR Print Production Contact: FORMAT: Junior Page_Newspaper FILE: 01-38748-DUPAS-TATTOO-15014-JR-NWS.pdf KB Kathie Hintsa TRIM: 8.125" x 10" CLIENT: DUPONT WEST PASS RedWorks Delivery/Technical Support: (416) 945-2388 JOB #: P.DUP.DUPCWW.14031.K.011 FINAL 22 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA Family farms key to fighting hunger and maintaining community An international conference hears that family farms of all sizes face challenges

BY NICOLAS MESLY AF CONTRIBUTOR / QUEBEC CITY

“ e live in a paradoxical world where we can W send men on the moon while we find normal that one billion people, mostly farmers, suffer from hunger. This problem won’t be solved by market forces and international trade but by providing them with the tools to feed themselves.” That was the message from Ibrahima Coulibaly, FAO special ambassador for Africa, at a meeting here in early April, one of five regional dialogues to mark the FAO’s 2014 International Year of Family Farming (IYFF). Coulibaly joined participants from 35 organizations from Canada, the U.S. and Mexico at a meeting held in the same Chateau Frontenac hotel where the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) was formed almost 70 years ago. Participants called on governments to play a role in protecting family farms. “For 30 years, most of the gov- Lester Pearson, later a Nobel Peace Prize winner and prime minister, speaking at the formation meeting of the FAO at the Chateau Frontenac hotel in ernments have disengaged them- Quebec City. The IYFF meeting was held in the same hotel. PHOTO: NATIONAL FILM BOARD selves from the agriculture sector. It is time to reconsider the role of ments have realized that the agricultural and fisheries produc- In the U.S., while the number of in an extremely concentrated the state and involve civil society to capital- and technology-intensive tion value. large farms is increasing, so is the business environment,” said Mar- support family farms,” said Auxtin North American production model, “We are targeting the women who number of small ones. cel Groleau, president of UPA- Ortiz Etxeberria, co-ordinator for which has reduced the number of play a key role in the Mexican fam- “Thousands of young people Développement international, Latin America and the Caribbean farmers and emptied rural areas, ily farming and try to retain young from New York and Boston are which helped organize this forum. at the World Rural Forum (WRF). may not be apppropriate for the people who move massively from establishing themselves in agri- Participants agreed that passion The WRF was the instigator, with rest of the world. rural areas,” Martinez Real said. culture,” said Russel Bocock, a for farm work is a key ingredient the support of the government of “Brazil has created two ministries Canadian producer and member to interest young people in farm- the Philippines, of the IYFF. It of agriculture, one to respond to The next generation of the Deep Root Organic Coop- ing, coupled with better educa- emerged from the 2008 financial the development of agriculture by The conference heard that while erative, who sells his fruit and veg- tion, public extension services, crisis which saw food riots spread supporting small farmers and pro- agriculture is on a larger scale in etables to Whole Foods, the large access to information through in more than 40 countries due to viding quality food for urban poor, the U.S. and Canada, there are still U.S. natural food grocery chain. high-speed Internet, good roads, soaring prices of commodities such and the other directed to support challenges for family farms. The “Producers’ collective bargain- social services and crop insurance as rice, wheat and corn. big agribusiness and international aging farm population — average ing is key to support family farms programs. markets.” of 58 years in the U.S. and 55 years Defining a family farm in Canada — means a challenge for “It is hard to define what is family Targeting women establishing the next generation. farming in North America, where Mexico has succeeded with devel- “Wherever you are, farming has at two extremes you have peasants opment of commercial agriculture to be profitable. My son would IYFF conference who cultivate a few acres to grow in the northern part of the coun- never have taken over the family food for their own consumption, try, said Miguel Angel Martinez farm should it not have been for recommendations to the world’s grain trader Goliath, Real, director general of Mexico’s the 15 ethanol plants in our area,” Cargill, which is family owned,” agriculture, livestock, rural devel- said Doug Sombke, a fourth-gen- 1) To encourage the establishment of new generations in agri- said Jean-Michel Sourisseau, from opment, fishing and nutrition eration farmer and president of culture. the Centre de Coopération Interna- secretariat. the South Dakota Farmers Union. 2) Financing should be made more available for young farmers tionale en Recherche Agronomique “But our current biggest chal- The number of farms in Canada to buy expensive agriculture land or to find ways to rent on pour le Développement (CIRAD) lenge is to upgrade millions of mar- and the U.S. declined more than a long-term basis. Public policies should protect these lands based in Paris, France. ginal farmers from self-consump- 10 per cent in the last two cen- from being bought by multinationals or investment funds. Sourisseau proposed a defini- tion agriculture to a transition and suses. In Quebec alone, there are 3) To ensure a decent farm income by adopting more fair trade tion of family farming by measur- consolidated model,” he said. now fewer than 30,000 farms. rules. ing whether the work is provided by Under a five-year plan, the newly “How many farms will we 4) To ensure access to education, training and technology. part or the whole family, relatives or elected Mexican government have in 10 years?” asked Max- 5) Policies and food prices should also recognize the multi- strictly employees, land ownership intends to beef up its programs ime Laplante, secretary general functionality of agriculture. Family farmers are not only status, the source of capital and to support the 5.4 million small of Union Paysanne, who blames producing food or energy, they are embedded culturally and whether production is for family farmers who occupy 52 per cent the high cost of supply manage- economically in their community and they should be reward- use or local or export sale. of the national area and account ment quotas for discouraging new ed for being the stewards of the environment. Sourisseau said many govern- for 28 per cent of Mexico’s raw operations.

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BCS.10184469.ProlineAd.T6.indd BCS.10184469.ProlineAd.T6 4-16-2014 2:24 PM Alberta Farmer CALMCL-DMX7993 Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black Insertion Date: April28 Lynn Skinner Bayer Crop Science 100% None SPEC ORIGINALLY GENERATED: Oli PAGE: 1 10184469 10.25” x 15.5” SAFETY: None TRIM: 10.25” x 15.5” Bleed: None Helvetica Neue LT Std (75 Bold, 65 Medium, 85 Heavy; OpenType)

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403 261 7161 403 261 7152 24 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

DINNER’S ON

Young colts and a mare dine on a round bale, west of High River, Alta. With the recent snows and cold, pastures are late coming into grass, and producers are still feeding hay. PHOTO: WENDY DUDLEY

BY ELZIO BARRETO Managing your farm made easy HONG KONG / REUTERS Two senior executives of Chi- na’s biggest pork producer WH Group Ltd. received a combined $600-million pay- Spray Field SW2 out for helping the Chinese Due March 6, 2014 company seal last year’s record $4.9-billion takeover of ✔ Spray Field SW2 U.S.-based Smithfield Foods 100% Complete Inc., an unusually high incen- Assigned to John tive for an acquisition. Done March 3, 2014 The bonus, disclosed in a Used 2,000 L Insecticide public filing, is equivalent to Used Sprayer for 2 hrs Spray Field SW2 just over 12 per cent of the 50% Complete amount WH Group paid for Assigned to John Smithfield, a purchase that Due March 6, 2014 was key to turning it into the world’s largest pork company. “This is very unusual — normally you would incen- tivize management for over- Plan Assign Track all long-term performance Easily schedule jobs Let your team know Manage your farm in and activities, share what, where and when detail, from your desk- and not simply for executing across your operation. jobs are scheduled. top or smartphone. a transaction — which is part of their job,” said David Webb, a Hong Kong-based corporate governance advo- FarmDock is an easy to use mobile app that allows you to plan, cate. assign and track activities on your farm. It's simple to set up, The rewards were disclosed in the IPO prospectus. simple to use and can be quickly customized to fit your operation. Stock-based payments are often used to retain top Built with input from real farmers, FarmDock tracks and reports key talent and reward senior information across one farm operation or several. Smartphone and employees for executing desktop versions allow sharing of information with everyone, on the go. Spray Field SW2 large and complicated merg- 0% Complete, > ers or purchases. Reports and reviews of activity are available in real time. Assigned to Joe Due Sept 26 , 2014 The filing shows that It's your farm at a glance, or a task in detail. FarmDock keeps WH Group issued its chief information organized, accessible and ready for reporting. Transfer Barley to Bin 2 executive and an executive 0% Complete > You're in charge, customize it to fit your way of doing things. Assigned to John in charge of its mergers and Due Sept 26 , 2014 acquisitions a combined Ready for more? Start tracking your farm operation in 818.7 million shares worth ✔ Fertilize Field SE3 one minute with our FREE 6 MONTH FARMDOCK TRIAL! 100% Complete, > $597 million. Assigned to Frank Wan Long, the company’s Visit farmdock.com for more details, Done Sept 26 , 2014 73-year-old chief executive or scan the code to download the app. ✔ Service Sprayer 3432 and chairman who is also 100% Complete, > known as China’s “Chief Assigned to David Butcher,” was issued 573.1 Done Sept 25, 2014 million new ordinary shares in October 2013, the filing shows. Yang Zhijun, an executive director in charge of investment, mergers and acquisi- Ag tools from tions and financing for WH Available for iPhone and Android Mobile Phones. Group, was issued another 245.6 million ordinary shares. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 25 High-tech U.S. farm machines harvest big data, reap privacy worries

Farmers want to know if companies will make money with the data Controlling who owns and accesses big farm data is a growing concern harvested from their machines, and whether they will be compensated among farmers. PHOTO: THINKSTOCK

low industry heavyweights such “Now is the time to step in and products used as well as GPS loca- Climate Corporation chief execu- BY KARL PLUME as Monsanto and DuPont Pioneer make sure that some of the con- tion information, can be used and tive officer David Friedberg. MOLINE, ILL., / REUTERS — which together control nearly cerns we have get answered,” said disclosed by the company “for But for a commodities trader or three-quarters of the U.S. corn Mary Kay Thatcher, a senior direc- any purpose.” investment bank, a broad pool of teps away from a replica of seed market. tor at the AFBF. real-time data about how many the revolutionary 1837 steel “Virtually every company says it Focus on farmers acres of soybeans U.S. farmers S plow at tractor company will never share, sell or use the data Who really owns the data? For now, the core value of farm planted or whether corn yields John Deere’s headquarters sits in a market-distorting way — but Companies like Monsanto, data collected lies in precision in Iowa were above expectations a combine as big as a tank and we would rather verify than trust,” DuPont Pioneer and tractor giant planting, farm management could be a gold mine. packed with computer wizardry farmer Brian Marshall of the AFBF John Deere maintain that data and maintenance services sold Already, feedback from crop that harvests huge volumes of told the U.S. House Committee on produced on the farm by a farmer to farmers. tours organized to inspect the valuable data as it gathers crops. Small Business in February. belongs to that farmer. But big agricultural companies harvests are keenly watched and The original “plow that broke The data would be a gold mine But property guidelines sur- see big profits ahead. can move markets. the plains” enabled American to traders in commodity markets rounding data, which can be cop- John Deere has said precision And the concern is that a com- farms to grow massive swathes and could influence farmland ied, aggregated and transmitted at services and its “intelligent solu- pany might be enticed to venture of wheat and corn with its light- values. lightning speed, are not as simple tions group” would be a major beyond agronomic services, ness and durability. The modern While there are no documented as that. piece of doubling its size from a given that a public company machines are using data to take instances so far of data being mis- John Deere’s enterprise pri- $25-billion company in 2010 to a must put its shareholders — and another giant step in efficiency used, lengthy contracts packed vacy statement, tucked away on $50-billion company by 2018. therefore profits — first. and output. with open-ended language and its website at http://www.deere. Monsanto underscored its Farmers are keen to know if But as big agricultural compa- differing from one supplier to the com/wps/dcom/privacy_and_ devotion to farm data analytics they would get a share too. nies pour money into data storage next are fuelling mistrust. data/privacy_and_data_us.page, when it bought weather data- “I want to know if my data and analytics tools that aim to turn Privacy and security concerns shows that the company can col- mining company the Climate Cor- is going towards market intel- micro detail on crops and furrow- surrounding data gathering lect data on Deere equipment or poration in October, describing it ligence or if it’s strictly being by-furrow weather into more grain are not confined to agriculture. any devices connected to it such as its “entry ticket into a $20-bil- used for agronomic reasons. for less pain, concerns are growing Ford chief executive officer Alan as an iPad, unless the farmer lion market opportunity.” If it’s market intelligence, I’d about how the data might be used Mulally has called for U.S. legis- opts out. The companies insist their like to be compensated for it,” and how secure such a gold mine lation and guidelines to protect The list of the company’s uses goals are simply to help farmers said Mark Kenney, a 34-year- for traders is. drivers’ privacy as more vehicles for that information includes and point out it is not worth their old corn and soybean farmer in Now, at an unprecedented are connected to the Internet. customer service and marketing, while to sow distrust. Nevada, Iowa. meeting April 10, the national While only around 14 per cent but also “analytics.” And data “It’s really important that we “I’m not going to take them at independent farmers’ group the of farmers use this kind of preci- gathered by its machines can be earn the trust of the farmer. Doing their word. I’d like to see some American Farm Bureau Federa- sion agriculture technology at the retained by Deere indefinitely. anything that’s malicious or that sort of legal protections. I don’t tion (AFBF) will try to hammer moment, its popularity is expected DuPont Pioneer says anony- is low integrity is certainly not a want my data going somewhere out guidelines with Deere and fel- to soar over the coming years. mized data, including yield and good way to run a business,” said it’s not supposed to go.”

ExampleLead by

Use Multiple Modes of Action Optimize weed control on your farm. Use multiple modes of action in your pre-seed burndown by tank mixing two or more herbicide groups.

Download the WEED ID APP Visit www.rrwms.ca Go to iTunes today or visit weedidapp.ca

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Tank mixtures: The applicable labeling for each product must be in the possession of the user at the time of application. Follow applicable use instructions, including application rates, precautions and restrictions of each product used in the tank mixture. Monsanto has not tested all tank mix product formulations for compatibility or performance other than specifically listed by brand name. Always predetermine the compatibility of tank mixtures by mixing small proportional quantities in advance. Monsanto and Vine Design® and Roundup Ready® are registered trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC, Monsanto Canada, Inc. licensee. © 2014 Monsanto Canada Inc. 26 NEWS » Markets APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

Good start for EU wheat CWB buys Prairie West Wheat crops in the European Union’s top four producing countries have survived a dry CWB, the former Canadian Wheat Board, said that it has agreed to buy Prairie West start to the spring, but more rain was needed in coming weeks, traders and analysts said Terminal Ltd., a farmer-owned grain-handling company in Saskatchewan. CWB, which Apr. 17. French analyst Strategie Grains forecast the EU’s 2014 soft wheat crop will rise already owns 10 per cent of Prairie West, would pay $2,109.23 per share, or more than two per cent or 2.1 million tonnes on the year to 137.2 million tonnes. France’s harvest $43.2 million subject to approvals that include a vote by Prairie West shareholders. will be 36.71 million tonnes, hardly changed on last year’s 36.75 million tonnes, Strategie Prairie West owns five grain-handling facilities in Saskatchewan. The deal adds to Grains forecast. In Germany a slightly smaller crop is expected. British wheat production CWB’s small but growing network of grain-handling sites. CWB has started building

dry start dry is expected to rise sharply following an increase in planted area. grain elevators at Colonsay, Sask., and near Portage la Prairie, Man., after last year

} buying Mission Terminal Inc. from Upper Lakes Group.

Canola supplies still large, but more acres expected U.S. winter wheat crop ratings are deteriorating

By Phil Franz-Warkentin

CE Futures Canada canola contracts were stronger during the I week ended April 17, but ran into resistance to the upside. Arguments can be made on either side of the market, but it will take outside influences to keep canola moving higher. A rally in the Chicago soy complex provided the catalyst for the move up in canola, although the gains in the Cana- dian market were much more subdued as the fundamentals remain relatively bearish. Canola remains underpriced compared to soybeans, but the reasons it remains relatively cheap are slow in going away. While grain movement is starting to show some improvement across the Prairies, canola supplies remain very large. Farmer selling was said to be coming forward as cash prices edged upward, especially as new-crop pricing opportunities were starting to look a little more favourable. While the carry-out will likely be record large, canola still remains one of the most profitable cropping options in Western Canada and another big crop is likely in 2014. Statistics Canada releases its first official acreage projection of the year on April 24, with the general consensus calling for at least a million more acres of canola from the 19.9 million seeded last year. The situation is different in soybeans, which climbed to their highest levels in eight months during the week. The old-crop supply situation is getting so tight in the U.S. that the country has been importing Brazilian soybeans to meet its domestic demand. New- crop contracts were also up on the week, but remain at an inverse to the front months. One bearish factor overhanging soybeans these days is Chinese demand, or lack thereof. The country is a big buyer of soybeans, from both the U.S. and ©thinkstoCK South America, but has defaulted on On top of the lack of moisture, tem- and soybean markets, and actually purchases recently as the prices climb. peratures dropped below freezing on a ended the week with small losses after couple of nights during the week, dam- chopping around within a narrow Wheat stronger aging some recently emerged fields. range. The attention in corn now is on For three-times- All three U.S. wheat contracts posted Aside from U.S. production prob- U.S. planting conditions. While cool daily market reports large gains during the week, as drought lems, tensions in Ukraine could also and wet conditions have pushed back concerns in the southern Plains and cut into spring wheat plantings there spring field work across much of the from Resource News uncertainty over unrest in Ukraine and limit grain movement from Midwest, the weather forecasts were provided support. the region. turning drier. U.S. growers can also International, visit “ICE Weekly winter wheat crop ratings However, the global wheat supply sit- make short work of seeding the corn deteriorated once again in the U.S., uation remains more than sufficient to crop, given the proper conditions. Futures Canada updates” and should see further downgrades meet demand for the time being, which going forward. Nearly all of Kansas, the may limit the upside potential in the Phil Franz-Warkentin writes for Commodity at albertafarmexpress.ca. country’s largest wheat producer, was wheat market. News Service Canada, a Winnipeg company reported to be in some state of drought, Corn was hard pressed to move specializing in grain and commodity market according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. higher with the neighbouring wheat reporting. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 27 Desperate for credit, China U.S. corn, soy stocks importers default to tighten, USDA says Corn stocks-to-use ratio for 2013-14 falls below 10 per cent

on soy cargoes to the weather forecast,” said ments from South America” By Ros Krasny Brian Basting of Advance during the second half of the washington / reuters Trading. marketing year. Defaults are at their highest level since Some analysts said the “One can really ques- rojected U.S. corn and report suggested U.S. corn tion whether U.S. ports can 2004 as lenders tighten their controls soybean ending stocks plantings would increase handle 65 million bushels on credit P for 2013-14 continue to from the 91.7 million acres of imports. We’re an export shrink, providing little buffer forecast by USDA last week, country, not an import against any problems with as farmers sense bigger country,” said Karl Setzer sell the oilseed at a loss, as a this year’s crops, the U.S. profits. of MaxYield Co-op. “I think By Naveen Thukral way to liquidate their stocks and Agricultural Department said “Guys like planting corn, USDA is just toying with stuff and Niu Shuping plow cash into more profitable April 9. and now they can make to make this (soybean bal- singapore/beijing / reuters businesses. Other highlights of the money planting corn. So ance sheet) work.” Crushers are losing 500-600 monthly report were a one- the reality is, we’re going to Brazil’s soybean crop was hinese importers have yuan ($81-$97) for process- million-tonne cut to Brazil’s plant more corn. I think you hit by warm temperatures defaulted on at least ing a tonne of soybeans, com- soybean crop, increases to can easily add to the corn and limited rainfall in the C 500,000 tonnes of U.S. pared with a 600-yuan profit in both U.S. and global wheat number another two million south through mid-Feb- and Brazilian soybean cargoes the fourth quarter of last year stockpiles, and a jump in to four million acres planted, ruary, USDA said in mak- worth around $300 million, the during peak consumption and global corn production. and substantially change the ing a second straight cut to biggest in a decade, as buyers when some shipments were Citing export demand, look of the U.S. harvest,” the crop. struggle to get credit amid loss- delayed. USDA lowered U.S. corn end- said Mike North of First es in processing beans. China imported 15.35 million ing stocks, or carry-out, by 75 Capitol Ag. China wheat imports down Three companies in the tonnes of the oilseed in the first million bushels to 1.331 bil- On the cusp of harvest U.S. eastern province of Shandong quarter, up 33.5 per cent on a lion, below the trade guess of Bare-bones soybean stocks 2013-14 wheat carry-out was had defaulted on payments year earlier, according to offi- 1.403 billion. Barley and oat Even after a record crop in raised by 25 million bushels for shipments as they were cial customs data issued on stocks were also trimmed. 2013, the United States will to 583 million, in line with unable to open letters of credit April 10. The stocks-to-use ratio end the season with a bare- forecasts. Stocks increases with banks, trade sources said “Crushers are making big for U.S. corn in 2013-14 will bones 135 million bushels of were projected for most April 10. losses while downstream prod- be 9.9 per cent, the USDA soybeans on hand, down 10 wheat classes although soft A string of defaults on loans, uct meal is not selling very well,” said, down from 10.9 per million on the month. red winter was lower. bonds and shadow banking said an official at a body, which cent forecast in March and “They still really haven’t Expected global wheat products in recent weeks has oversees soybean imports under 13.7 per cent as recently as convincingly solved the bean stocks rose unexpectedly highlighted rising credit risks the Commerce Ministry. “If you December. stocks. I think it is going to by almost three million in China, partly fuelled by signs crush beans in China today you In general, the lower the continue to support the tonnes, to 186.7 million, on the economy is slowing. lose $80-$100 a tonne,” said a ratio, the higher the poten- front of the market,” said lower imports. Commodity firms, along with Singapore-based senior execu- tial for prices to climb. The Art Liming, futures specialist, Chinese wheat imports semiconductor and software tive with a global trading com- season average farm price Citigroup. were cut by 1.5 million companies, are among the pany that has processing facili- for U.S. corn was raised by Projected soybean exports tonnes, to seven million, with most at risk of credit defaults, ties in China. 10 cents per bushel, to $4.60. were hiked by 50 million Australia and Canada bearing a Reuters analysis of more “This is really discouraging “It sets the stage for us for bushels, but imports were the brunt of the smaller pur- than 2,600 Chinese companies people from buying beans and moving into the growing sea- raised by 30 million to a chases. Kazakhstan is picking showed. we expect the real impact will be son. Now, I think the market record 65 million. USDA up extra demand from Russia Up against the cooling econ- felt in the third quarter.” this week will be more linked cited “prospective large ship- and Iran, USDA said. omy and signs that authorities Demand for soymeal has been will not step in every time a hit by outbreaks of bird flu, cut- loan goes bad, Chinese banks ting appetite by as much as 20 are becoming more hard nosed to 30 per cent in the February- and selective about whom they March period, analysts said. Pig lend to. farmers have also reduced pur- “There are five to six (pan- chases as they trim herds due amax) cargoes which are unable to oversupplied pork markets. to be unloaded at ports because buyers cannot open LCs (letters of credit) and there are no LCs for an additional five to six cargoes floating on the sea,” one Trait Stewardship Beijing-based source said. Each Responsibilities Notice panamax cargo is for 50,000 to to Farmers 60,000 tonnes. Defaults by buyers in China, Monsanto Company is a member of which imports 60 per cent of Excellence Through Stewardship® (ETS). Monsanto products are the soybeans traded in the commercialized in accordance with ETS world, would likely cap a rally Product Launch Stewardship Guidance, in global prices as they coin- and in compliance with Monsanto’s Policy cide with bumper supplies from for Commercialization of Biotechnology- Brazil and Argentina hitting Derived Plant Products in Commodity Crops. This product has been approved the market. for import into key export markets with “The reality is that the world functioning regulatory systems. Any crop is reliant on Chinese imports of or material produced from this product can soybeans to maintain this price only be exported to, or used, processed strength,” said Luke Mathews, or sold in countries where all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. It commodities strategist at Com- is a violation of national and international monwealth Bank of Australia law to move material containing biotech in Sydney. traits across boundaries into nations where Independent Unbiased Grain “It is putting a question import is not permitted. Growers should talk mark on the sustainability of to their grain handler or product purchaser to confirm their buying position for this these prices.” product. Excellence Through Stewardship® Marketing Advice (trusted by The default on 500,000 tonnes is a registered trademark of Excellence of soybeans is the biggest since Through Stewardship. 2004, when buyers walked away from an estimated 30 contracts, ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE your friends & neighbours) LABEL DIRECTIONS. Roundup Ready® resulting in a loss of close to crops contain genes that confer tolerance $700 million, traders said. to glyphosate, the active ingredient in Industry sources said some of Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides. ® Since 2002 the companies defaulting have Roundup brand agricultural herbicides been using soybean imports will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. Genuity and Design®, Genuity®, Independent, unbiased grain to secure cheap financing, Monsanto and Vine Design®, Roundup with interest rates on letters Ready® and Roundup® are trademarks Ag-Chieve.com marketing advice since 2002! of credit as low as two per cent of Monsanto Technology LLC, Monsanto and allowing delayed payment Canada, Inc. licensee. of several months. 1.888.274.3138 I www.ag-chieve.ca I [email protected] Having imported large Sign-up Online & Get Two Months Extra Service For Free! amounts, some of them even 28 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

Community news and events from across the province Nuffield scholarship takes what’s agronomist around the world up Send agriculture-related meeting and event announcements to: By Jennifer Blair af staff / sylvan lake [email protected]

t’s the fulfillment of two life- April 29: Young Farm Worker long dreams at once. Safety Day, Olds College, Olds. I “It was always a personal Contact: Kathleen Raines goal of mine to travel and to learn 403-346-8101 about agriculture,” said Calgary- area agronomist Daryl Chubb April 29: Alternative Power, of his experience as a Nuffield Athabasca Agri-Plex, Athabasca. Scholar. “Being able to do both Contact: Trent or Roxanne simultaneously was a win-win.” 780-675-2273 Chubb was one of three successful Canadian applicants for a $15,000 April 30: Getting Into Farmers’ travel bursary that funds a mini- Markets, Millarville. Contact: mum of 10 weeks of global travel. Delores Serafin 780-427-4611 His trip started on March 1 in Aus- May 1-2: AAEA Visions 2014 tralia, where he attended a conference with 60 other Nuffield Scholars Conference, iHotel, Red Deer. from around the world. From there, Contact: Lukas 780-422-4241 it was off to South Africa, Kenya, May 7: Water Well Workshops, Russia, Poland, Czech Republic, Valleyview. (Also May 13, Germany, and Washington, D.C. Balmoral and June 5, Flagstaff before ending his trip in Nebraska. Everywhere he saw more simi- County.) Contact: Melissa larities than differences. 780-422-1791 “Although producers are very Daryl Chubb inspects some white maize in South Africa. Photos: Courtesy Daryl Chubb May 12: 4-H Beef Show & Sale, different in various parts of the Wetaskiwin Agricultural Society world, we are very similar at the Chubb has another four-week Grounds, Wetaskiwin. Contact: end of the day,” said Chubb. “We tour and is planning research face the same challenges, such as trials based on some of the Arlene Grapentine 780-352-2780 qualified labour, climate, prices, learnings he’s picked up so far. May 19-20: Stettler District and government policy. It doesn’t “I want to focus on soil nutri- 4-H Beef Show & Sale, Stettler matter where you go.” tion and being able to extract Agricultural Ground, Stettler. He met producers “right from more out of the investment Contact: Darla Rairdan subsistence farmers in South in the fertilizer we apply on a 403-742-6288 Africa all the way to 20,000-hec- yearly basis,” he said. “How tare farmers in Poland.” we’re going to do that, I don’t “The highlight was being able In Kenya, a farmer works her small A traditional Masai tribesman tends know yet.” to meet so many different people plot of land by hand. his cattle herd in Kenya. For now, he’s just glad to be and being able to visit companies back home with his wife after and people you would never have “We visited a subsistence can farmers was eye-opening, seven weeks away. Thirteen Alberta a chance to otherwise.” operation in the projects of Cape he said. “Being away from home was In South Africa, the group Town, where they were growing “They don’t have a lot of space, challenging, but hey, I missed toured a “very progressive” grain, small gardens on very poor soil but they’re happy. They find a most of the winter too.” youth win $1,000 beef, and swine operation — and trying to feed themselves.” plot of land anywhere they can… saw the other end of spectrum. The different lifestyle of Afri- and do what they can to survive.” [email protected] scholarships

4-H Canada release

hirteen young Albertans are Ponoka fundraising auction among the 100 4-H youth T given a $1,000 scholarship by the Chrysler Foundation. The “100 scholarships for 100 making a difference years of 4-H in Canada” means the foundation is giving $100,000 to rganizers of the 13th annual countries, has very low administra- mark the organization’s centenary. Canadian Foodgrains Bank tive costs, with 97 cents out of every Nearly 200 4-H youth from O (CFGB) Fundraising Auction donated dollar going directly into on- across Canada applied for the Ram in Ponoka were expecting another the-ground projects, he added. Canada scholarships by submit- banner event last week. Wendy and John Taekema, who ting 500-word essays and refer- “We’re hoping for 60 to 70 animals also help organize the auction, got ence letters. to be donated,” said Arnie Tenbrinke, to see some of those projects after “4-H Canada is very fortunate one of the event’s organizers. “This travelling (at their own expense) to that the Chrysler Foundation year we’re also stepping things up a Rwanda and Kenya in 2012. understands the importance of bit by offering a free lunch.” “John and I wanted to go to Africa building strong, young leaders,” The lunch, Tenbrinke is quick to to see first hand how things were said 4-H CEO Shannon Ben- point out, was donated, as was every- done there,” said Wendy Taekema. ner. “We are very proud of our thing at the April 22 event, held at the “It’s amazing what they can do with reputation as a leading positive Vold, Jones and Vold Auction Com- the resources they have.” youth development organization pany facility. Along with the donated In Kenya, the couple saw a food- in Canada.” dairy and beef cattle — ranging from for-work project to create a type of The Alberta award winners are: heifers to cull cows — individuals dugout called a water pan, which col- Cassidy Barnert, Paulina Chi- and companies donate hay, semen, lects rainwater during the infrequent acchia, Kaitlyn Davediuk, MacK- tickets to sporting events, and many rains in the parched country. enzie Henn, Erik Herde, Michelle other items. Every penny raised goes “What’s really good is that the pro- Hoover, Kayla Marie Giles, Lee to CFGB. jects are chosen by the community Morey, Brianna Rochelle Layden, “We usually raise about $60,000 to — because the residents know what Bailey Shandro, Samantha $70,000,” said Tenbrinke. “And the they need,” she said. Stretch, Cathryn Thompson, and government matches what we raise A story about their trip can be Rylan Harney. John Taekema got to see a CFGB work-for-food four to one, so that’s what gets me found by going to www.foodgrains The scholarships are for post- program first hand in Kenya. really excited.” bank.ca and typing ‘Taekema’ in the secondary education beginning Photo: Courtesy CFGB CFGB, which operates in nearly 50 search box. in September. 4-H has more than 24,000 members and 7,500 volunteer leaders. ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 29

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adveRtising Rates & infoRmation RegulaR Classified display Classified • Minimum charge — $15.00 per week for first 25 • Advertising copy deviating in any way from the words or less and an additional 60 cents per word for regular classified style will be considered display AD ORDER FORM every word over 25. Additional bolding 75 cents per and charged at the display rate of $34.30 per MAiL TO: Alberta Farmer Express, Box 9800, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3K7 FAx TO: 403-341-0615 PhOnE in: Toll-Free in Canada 1-800-665-1362 OR (403) 341-0442 in Alberta word. GST is extra. $2.50 billing charge is added column inch ($2.45 per agate line). to billed ads only. • Minimum charge $34.30 per week. • Terms: Payment due upon receipt of invoice. • Illustrations and logos are allowed with full • 10% discount for prepaid ads. If phoning in your border. NAME______PHONE_#______ad you must pay with VISA or MasterCard to qualify for • Advertising rates are flat with no discount for discount. frequency of insertion or volume of space used. ADDRESS______TOWN______• Ask about our Priority Placement • Terms: Payment due upon receipt of invoice. • Prepayment Bonus: Prepay for 3 weeks and get a • Price quoted does not include GST. bonus of 2 weeks; bonus weeks run consecutively PROVINCE______POSTAL_CODE______and cannot be used separately from original ad; All classified ads are non-commissionable. additions and changes accepted only during first 3 weeks. Even if you do not want your name & address to appear in your ad, we need the information for our files. • If you wish to have replies sent to a confidential box number, please add $5.00 per week to your total. advertising deadline Count eight words for your address. Example: Ad XXXX, PLEASE_PRINT_YOUR_AD_BELOW______Alberta Farmer Express , Box 9800, Winnipeg, R3C 3K7. 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Buyers are advised to request Phone 403-341-0442 in Winnipeg shipment C.O.D. when ordering from an unknown FAX 403-341-0615 advertiser, thus minimizing the chance of fraud and ______Mailing Address: eliminating the necessity of a refund where the goods Box 9800, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3K7 have already been sold. ______At Farm Business Communications we have a firm commitment AGREEMENT to protecting your privacy and security as our customer. Farm • The publisher reserves the right to refuse any or all Business Communications will only collect personal information if advertising for any reason stated or unstated. it is required for the proper functioning of our business. 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It is also agreed that in 1666 Dublin Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3H 0H1. the event of an error appearing in the published Occasionally we make our list of subscribers available to other Minimum charge $15.00 per week advertisement, the Alberta Farmer Express accepts reputable firms whose products and services might be of interest to you. no liability beyond the amount paid for that If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please contact us at the portion of the advertisement in which the error address in the preceding paragraph, or call (204)-954-1456. appears or affects. Claims for adjustment are limited The editors and journalists who write, contribute and provide opinions ❏ VISA ❏ MASTERCARD Add $2.50 if being billed / Minus 10% if prepaying ______to errors appearing in the first insertion only. to Alberta Farmer Express and Farm Business Communications attempt • While every endeavor will be made to forward box to provide accurate and useful opinions, information and analysis. However, the editors, journalists and Alberta Farmer Express and Farm Add 5% GST ______number replies as soon as possible, we accept no Card_No.___/__/__/__/____/__/__/__/____/__/__/__/____/__/__/__/____ Expiry_Date___/__/_____/__/ liability in respect to loss or damage alleged to a rise Business Communications, cannot and do not guarantee the accuracy through either failure or delay in forwarding such of the information contained in this publication and the editors as well replies, however caused, whether by negligence or as Alberta Farmer Express and Farm Business Communication assume no Signature______otherwise. responsibility for any actions or decisions taken by any reader for this TOTAL ______publication based on any and all information provided. 30 APRIL 28, 2014 • ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA

FARM MACHINERY FARM MACHINERY FARM MACHINERY BUILDINGS BUILDINGS Parts & Accessories Tillage & Seeding – Tillage Tractors – Various

1982 JD 3140, 148 loader bucket w/3-PTH, sale #514292-CD, 18.4x34 rubber, $14,000. Phone REINVENTING (780)675-4784.

THE WHEEL Degelman 10 ft. Snow Pusher Blade JD 2950 complete with ldr. with 3 pth hitch JD 7200 FWA, 740 ldr. with 3 pth hitch JD 4240 complete with ldr. JD 4020 c/w ldr. & new motor JD 2550, FWA NEW WOBBLE BOXES for JD, IH, MacDon CASE IH 485 ldr. with 3 pth hitch 40’ X 60’ X 16’ headers. Made in Europe, factory quality. Get JD 7700, 740 ldr. RIGID FRAME it direct from Western Canada’s sole distributor JD 7800, 740 ldr. with 3 pth hitch starting at $1,095. 1-800-667-4515. STEEL www.combineworld.com ST 250 Steiger, tires new 20.8 x 38 BUILDING 2012 CAT 272D Skidsteer, 800 Hrs Clamp on Duals, 20.8x38-18.4x38 Spraying EquipmEnt patent pending 158, 148, 265, 725, 740, 280, JD ldr. $28,418 Reduce Plugging with Open-Rim Gauge FINANCE, TRADES WELCOME FARM MACHINERY When you go with Wheels by Ridgeland Manufacturing 780-696-3527, BRETON, AB Sprayers Sales & Distribution by: steel you get the right deals! 2013 Rogator RG1300 Big Tractor Parts, thunderstrucksales.com Pioneer One Steel Buildings 855.752.5525 Geared For Call toll free 1 (877) 525-2004 or see us online at www.pioneeronesteel.com Inc. FARM MACHINERY The Future BUSINESS SERVICES Combines Tillage & Seeding – Various CARBIDE DRILL POINTS & openers for air drills. STEIGER TRACTOR SPECIALIST BUSINESS SERVICES COMBINES VW Manufacturing Ltd Dunmore (Medicine Hat) Crop Consulting 410-hrs, 132-ft recirculating aluminum boom, Raven (403)528-3350 US: Loren Hawks Chester, Montana RED OR GREEN Combines - Various Viper Pro, 7 section autoboom shutoff, autoboom (406)460-3810 www.vwmfg.com height control, Smarttrax steering, 800 & 380 series 1. 10-25% savings on new replacement FARM CHEMICAL SEED COMPLAINTS tires, 2-yr warranty. $348,000 (204)824-2290 [email protected] TracTors parts for your Steiger drive train. We also specialize in: Crop Insurance appeals; Chemical drift; Residual herbicide; Custom operator 2. We rebuild axles, transmissions issues; Equipment malfunction; Yield comparisons, and dropboxes with ONE YEAR Plus Private Investigations of any nature. With our assistance the majority of our clients have received WARRANTY. compensation previously denied. Back-Track Investigations investigates, documents your loss and JD 9400, 9420, 9520, 8970 9280 12 speed with 80% rubber 3. 50% savings on used parts. assists in settling your claim. JD 9860, 9760, 9750, 9650, 9600 4720 JD Sprayer w/ boom track autosteer, Licensed Agrologist on Staff. JD 9430, 9530, 9630 4700 90 ft very clean For more information Case STX 375, 425, 430, 450, 480, 4955 JD low hrs, 3 pth, very clean Please call 1-866-882-4779 500, 530 1-800-982-1769 COMBINE WORLD located 20 min. E of S680 JD combine low hrs CIH 8010-2388, 2188 combine www.bigtractorparts.com Saskatoon, SK on Hwy. #16. 1 year warranty on 936 Versatile FARM MACHINERY all new, used, and rebuilt parts. Canada’s largest CIH 435Q, 535Q, 450Q, 550Q, 600Q inventory of late model combines & swathers. pto avail. FARM MACHINERY 1-800-667-4515 www.combineworld.com GOOD SELECTION OF HAYING & HARVESTING JD 4710, 4720, 4730, 4830, 4920, JD & CASE SP SPRAYERS Machinery Miscellaneous 4930 SP sprayers Baling Equipment AND 4WD TRACTORS Combine ACCessories JD 9770 & 9870 w/CM & duals 1999 CAT 460 1,400 sep. hrs, rake up $71,000; CIH 3185, 3230, 3330, 4430, 4420 Road King ground loadstock trailer, 8 x 42.5-ft, will haul 25 cows, $9,000; 2013 Highline 651 Bale Pro, 2013 Kuhn LSB 1290 square baler sprayers Bale count 14000 bales. Auto lube & hydraulic bale FARM MACHINERY chain oor, twine cutter, big tires, $17,000. eject. Always parked indoors $80,000 OBO. “LIKE MANY BEFORE, WE’LL HAVE YOU SAYING Call:(403)665-2341, Craigmyle, AB. (204)299-0977 [email protected] Combine – Accessories THERE’S NO DEAL LIKE A KEN DEAL” ACREAGE EQUIPMENT: CULTIVATORS, DISCS, RECONDITIONED COMBINE HEADERS. RIGID & • Phone: (403)526-9644 • Cell: (403)504-4929 Plows, Blades, Post pounders, Haying Equipment, WANTED: JD 7810 c/w FEL & 3-PTH; sp or PTO ex, most makes & sizes; also header transports. Etc. (780)892-3092, Wabamun, Ab. bale wagon; JD or IHC end wheel drills. Small Ed Lorenz, (306)344-4811 or Website: • Email: [email protected] square baler. (403)394-4401 www.straightcutheaders.com Paradise Hill, SK. BOURGAULT 38-FT VIBRA CHISEL, 8-in spac- ings & 11-in shovels w/MTD harrows, w/walking axles all around. $12,500. Phone (780)848-2529.

QUONSET NEW, 35X52X18; JD 2420 DSL, 25-ft & 16-ft hay; JD 7410 FWA, w/loader; MF 860 p/u & 20-ft straight cut; Ford 5000 w/loader; Vac, sewer tank & pump; Rotex SR7 power parachute for parts; Chev tandem gravel box & hoist; C7 tree farmer skidder; Bison head squeeze (complete); 2004 Rumblebee shortbox; 24-ft dual axle cattle trailer gooseneck, like new. Cyclone PTO Fert spreader; Skid mount Cummins motor w/transmission; D343 CAT motor for parts; Bantam C366 w/471 Track hoe for parts; 21-ft Carter Hart PU/reel; MH 13-ft 26 run seed drill w/fert, like new; 1-tonne truck hoist; Ford 6-ft, 3-PT angle blade for 40-HP & bigger tractor; (306)236-8023. Prairie-Wide Display Classiﬁ eds SVEN GRAIN ROLLER ON transport, PTO, 24-in rolls, 13-ft discharge auger, magnets, like new, rolled 7000-Bu. Always shedded, $8000 OBO. (403)333-6410, (403)646-5641.

Hit our readers where it counts… in the classi¤ eds. Place your ad in the Alberta Farmer Express classifed MORE OPTIONS TO section. 1-800-665-1362. SAVE YOU MONEY RON SAUER Buy one province, buy two MACHINERY LTD. (403) 540-7691 [email protected] provinces or buy all three. 846 Ford Versatile Designation 6, 4WD Tractor 1990, newer 18.4 x 38 dualled tires,12 speed manual, 4 hyds., 6036 hrs., looks & runs good ...... $30,000 555 JD Crawler Loader, 250 hrs. on rebuilt engine, good Great rates whatever condition ...... $20,000 51’ Degelman Landroller, only done 3,000 acres, as new...... $40,000 Degelman Dozer Frame MF 4000 Series 4WD .$1,000 B 275 IHC Diesel Tractor, 3 pth, pto, runs good ...... $4,250 you choose 31’ Flexicoil B Chisel Plow, 3 bar harrows, excellent condition ...... $12,500 Flexicoil 6 Run Seed Treater ...... $1,000 134’ Flexicoil S68XL Sprayer, 2007, suspended boom, auto rate, joystick, rinse tank, triple quick jets, auto boom height, electric end nozzle & foam marker ...... $39,500 100’ 65XL Flexicoil Sprayer, complete with windguards, elec. end nozzles single tips, auto rate ...... $12,500 30’ 8230 CIH PT Swather, PU reel, nice shape, .$10,000 25’ 8225 CIH PT Swather, PU reel, nice shape .... $9,500 25’ 1200 Hesston PT Swather, bat reel, good .... $5,500 10 Wheel MATR (Italy) Trailer Type V-Hayrake, hyd. fold, as new ...... $5,000 14 Wheel Enorossi V-Hayrake extra contour wheels, as new ...... $11,500 8 x 1000 Sakundiak Auger, new 30 HP Koehler engine, Hawes mover, gear box clutch, spout ...... CNT $9,000 8 x 1200 Sakundiak Auger, 25 HP Koehler engine, Hawes mover, clutch, nice condition, ...... CNT $10,000 7 x 1200 Sakundiak Auger, 18 HP Koehler engine, looks and runs good, ...... CNT $3,500 8 x 1400 Sakundiak Auger, 25 HP Robin engine, Hawes mover, clutch, spout, excellent condition, ...... CNT $10,000 8 x 1400 Sakundiak Auger, 27 HP Koehler engine, E-Kay mover, belt tightener, power steering,SOLD light Contact Sharon package, as new, ...... $12,500 New E-Kay 7” Bin Sweep ...... **In Stock** $1,785 New E-Kay 7”, 8”, 9” Bin Sweeps available...... Call 8” Wheat Heart Transfer Auger, hydraulic drive .. $1,500 Email: [email protected] New Holland Trimbal EZ Guide 500 GPS, auto steer & mapping ...... $4,000 New Outback S3, guidance & mapping ...... $3,000 18.4 x 30, tractor tire & tube ...... $500 New Outback MAX & STX guidance & mapping ...In Stock New Outback E-Drive, TC’s ...... In Stock New Outback E-Drive X, c/w free E turns ...... In Stock New Outback S-Lite guidance ...... **In Stock** $900 New Outback VSI Swather Steering Kit ...... In Stock New Outback E-Drive Hyd. kit, JD 40 series ...... $1,000 Used Outback E-Drive Hyd. kits ...... $500

**NuVision (Spray Air) & Meridian-Sakundiak Augers, Outback GPS Systems, EK Auger Movers, Belt Tighteners, Bin Sweeps & Crop Dividers, Kohler, Robin Subaru, Generac Engines, Headsight Harvesting Solutions, Greentronics Sprayer Boom Auto Height, Kello-Bilt Discs** ALBERTAFARMEXPRESS.CA • APRIL 28, 2014 31

FARM MACHINERY LIVESTOCK ORGANIC SEED/FEED/GRAIN TIRES Machinery Wanted Cattle Various Organic – Grains Grain Wanted

WANTED: NH BALE WAGONS & retrievers, any TOP QUALITY POLLED HEREFORDS & Red An- condition. Farm Equipment Finding Service, P.O. gus Bulls for Sale. 2-yr olds & weanlings, Thick Box 1363, Polson, MT 59860. (406)883-2118 easy calvers. Cutbank Cattle Co. Mick Kubinec, BUYING: Three Hills (403)442-2564 HEATED & GREEN HEAT & AIR CONDITIONING Bioriginal Food & Science Corp., based in Saskatoon, is actively buying CANOLA Organic Flax from the 2013 crop year. • Competitive Prices If interested, please send an 8lb sample* to The Icynene Insulation the following address: • Prompt Movement System® Attn: Sandy Jolicoeur • Spring Thrashed New 30.5L-32 16 ply, $1,995; 20.8-38 12 ply • Sprayed foam insulation Bioriginal Food & Science Corp. $765; 18.4-38 12 ply; $789; 24.5-32 14 ply, Buy and Sell 102 Melville Street “ON FARM PICK UP” $1,495; 14.9-24 12 ply, $486; 16.9-28 12 ply • Ideal for shops, barns or homes Saskatoon, Saskatchewan 1-877-250-5252 $558, 18.4-26 10 ply, $890. Factory direct. More anything you S7J 0R1 sizes available new and used. 1-800-667-4515. • Healthier, Quieter, More Stretch your advertising dollars! Place an ad in the www.combineworld.com Energy Efficient® need through the *Please state the Variety & Quantity for Sale classi§ eds. Our friendly staff is waiting for your call. 1-800-665-1362. For more information, please contact Sandy at: 306-975-9251 1-800-665-1362 306-975-1166 [email protected] Stretch your www.penta.ca ADVERTISING DOLLAR! 1-800-587-4711 LIVESTOCK CANOLA WANTED Sheep For Sale REAL ESTATE Buying Tough, Heated, Green, 1-800-665-1362 LIVESTOCK PLAN TO ATTEND THE 8th Annual Pound Maker Commercial Buildings Ram Sale, 110 yearling rams sell by auction, Thurs- Canola, Freight Options, LIVESTOCK day May 22, 2014 at Ford Macleod Alberta. Suffolk, ATTENTION: YOU MAY BE looking for a new ad- Dorset, Hampshire, Rambouillet, North Country venture! Check out propertyguys.com or Prompt Payment Cattle – Angus Cheviot and Coloured. For details call Warren Phone:(403)782-5696. Bonded and Insured TRAILERS (403)625-6519 or check our website poundmaker- Trailers Miscellaneous RED & BLACK ANGUS yearling heifer bulls, rams.com SEED / FEED / GRAIN $1800. Ed & Blaine Davidson, Lougheed AB. Ph: CALL 1-866-388-6284 (780)384-2354, (780)888-2123, cell:(780)888-7585. Specialty 50 FLAT-DECK SEMI-TRAILERS, 7 heavy low- SEED/FEED MISCELLANEOUS www.milliganbiofuels.com beds, 8 gravel trailers, pictures, prices, www.trailer- REG YEARLING RED & Black Angus bulls, various Feed Grain guy.ca Saskatoon/Aberdeen. Phone (306)222-2413 BWs, born Jan-Feb, quiet, semen tested & delivered, $2,500. Also Unregistered yearling Red An- livestock equipment BUYING ALL TYPES OF feed grain. Also have gus heifer bulls, born Apr, light BW, quiet & semen market for light offgrade or heated, picked up on the We know that farming is enough of a gamble so if you tested, $1,800. Darrell & Lorraine Davidson farm. Eisses Grain Marketing 1-888-882-7803, La- want to sell it fast place your ad in the Alberta Farmer (780)888-1374 or (780)888-1087 Lougheed, AB. combe. FARMING Express classi§ eds. It’s a Sure Thing. Call our toll-free number today. We have friendly staff ready to help. LIVESTOCK Want to buy NEW… FEED GRAIN WANTED! ALSO buying; Light, 1-800-665-1362. tough, or offgrade grains. “On Farm Pickup” West- IS ENOUGH OF Cattle – Red Angus can Feed & Grain 1-877-250-5252 but need to sell TRAVEL 41 REGISTERED RED ANGUS BULLS SEED/FEED/GRAIN A GAMBLE... Quiet, Easy Calving, Low to Moderate OLD first? Grain Wanted Birth Weights, Good Growth, E.P.D’s available Guaranteed Breeders (Vet Checked & Semen List your BUYING HEATED/DAMAGED PEAS, FLAX & Tested). Excellent Bulls for Heifers or Cows. used product GRAIN “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain AGRICULTURAL TOURS Cleveley Cattle Company (780)689-2754. 1-877-250-5252 for FREE on BUYING SPRING THRASHED CANOLA & GRAIN Hungary/Romania ~ June 2014 LIVESTOCK Lakeland Buy “On Farm Pickup” Westcan Feed & Grain NWT/Yukon/Alaska ~ July 2014 Cattle – Charolais 1-877-250-5252 & Sell! Mid-West USA ~ October 2014 BOW VALLEY TRADING LTD. Charolais Bulls Advertise in the Australia/New Zealand ~ Jan 2015 2 Yr. olds, B.W., W.W., Y.W., $3,500-$4,000 Visit us for Great Deals and to list WE BUY DAMAGED GRAIN Alberta Farmer Kenya/Tanzania ~ Feb 2015 Ph. (403)325-4695 your used AG products today Express Classifieds, South Africa/Zambia ~ Feb 2015 LIVESTOCK BuyAndSellAG.ca it’s a Sure Thing! South America ~ Feb 2015 Cattle – Hereford Wheat, *Portion of tours may be Tax Deductible Barley, Oats, HEREFORD BULLS, YEARLINGS AND two year Peas, etc. Select Holidays olds, dehorned, and polled, excellent quality, low 1-800-661-4326 birth weights suitable for heifers, catalogue online Green or Heated Canola/Flax at couleecrest.ca Coulee Crest Herefords, Bowden, 1-800-665-1362 www.selectholidays.com AB. (403)227-2259 or (403)588-6160. 1-866-443-7444 1-877-641-2798

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