BRAZEAU COUNTY

AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARD MEETING

December 19, 2016

AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARD AGENDA

DATE: Monday, December 19, 2016 TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. PLACE: County Administration Building, EOC Meeting Room

Call to Order

Present

1. Addition to and Adoption of the Agenda (Pages 1 – 2)

2. Adoption of the minutes of the ASB Meeting of November 21, 2016 (Pages 3 – 8)

3. Delegation – Doreen Neilley, Bill 6 OHS: Education, training and certification consultation working group member update

4. Public Input – 11:00 a.m.

5. Old Business

a) Agricultural Excellence Recognition Awards Policy and Form (Pages 9 – 12)

b) 2016 and 2017 Budget Update (Pages 13 – 14)

c) Emergent Resolution – Agricultural Disaster Policy (Pages 15 ‐ 52)

6. Agriculture Reports for November 2016

a) Agricultural Fieldman’s Report

b) Assistant Agricultural Fieldman’s Report

c) Member’s Report

7. New Business

a) 2017 Meeting Dates (Page 53)

b) 2017 Provincial Agricultural Service Board Conference & Resolutions (Pages 54 – 79) 1 c) Agroforestry & Woodlot Extension Society Proposal – Cynthia Waste Treatment Facility Planting and Food Forest – Ecobuffer (Pages 80 – 85)

8. Correspondence/Items for Information

a) Farm Safety (Page 86)

b) Letter to Minister of Agriculture and Forestry regarding State of Agricultural Disaster and Proposed Assistance (Pages 87 ‐ 88)

9. Adjournment

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MINUTES OF THE AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARD OF , HELD IN THE COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, EOC ROOM ON WEDNESDAY, 2016 11 21

CALL TO ORDER T. McGinn calls the meeting to order at 9:58 a.m.

PRESENT R. Ennis, Chairman M. Thompson, Vice‐Chairperson D. Movald, Member at Large L. Chambers, Director of Community Services T. London, Recording Secretary T. McGinn, Acting Agricultural Fieldman B. Guyon, Reeve A. Heinrich, Councillor A. Goddard, Member at Large S. Wheale, Member at Large

INTRODUCTIONS Introductions Round table introductions.

NOMINATIONS FOR CHAIR & VICE‐CHAIR Nominations for Chairperson

T. McGinn called for Chairperson nominations. A. Heinrich nominated M. Thompson as Chairperson. M. Thompson accepted nomination. M. Thompson nominated R. Ennis as Chairperson. R. Ennis accepted nomination. T. McGinn made three calls for nominations.

126/16 Moved by B. Guyon to cease nominations. CARRIED UNANIMOULSY

Voting took place by secret ballot. T. McGinn tallied ballots.

127/16 Moved by M. Thompson to appoint R. Ennis as Chairperson. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

R. Ennis assumed Chairperson duties at 10:02 a.m.

Nominations for Vice‐Chairperson

R. Ennis called for Vice‐Chairperson nominations. A. Goddard nominated D. Movald as Vice‐Chairperson. D. Movald accepted nomination.

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D. Movald nominated M. Thompson as Vice‐Chairperson. M. Thompson accepted nomination. R. Ennis made three calls for nominations.

128/16 Moved by A. Heinrich that nominations cease. CARRIED UNAMINOUSLY

Voting took place by secret ballot. T. McGinn tallied ballots.

129/16 Moved by A. Goddard to appoint M. Thompson as Vice‐Chairperson. CARRIED UNAMINOUSLY

130/16 Moved by M. Thompson to destroy ballots for Chairperson and Vice‐Chairperson. CARRIED UNAMINOUSLY

ADDITIONS TO AND ADOPTION OF AGENDA Additions to and Adoption of the Agenda

1. Move nominations from #3 to #1. 5. c) WCFA Hemp Plot e) Video on Bill 6 Update

131/16 Moved by D. Movald to accept additions to the agenda as presented. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

ADOPTION OF MINUTES Adoption of Minutes

132/16 Moved by B. Guyon to adopt the minutes of October 19, 2016 as presented. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

PUBLIC INPUT Public Input – 11:00 a.m. None.

OLD BUSINESS Old Business

Agricultural Excellence Recognition Awards Policy and Form The board reviewed the policy, then proposed wording changes section‐by‐section, and the adjustment of submission, and selection deadlines.

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133/16 Moved by A. Goddard to accept policy AG‐30 with discussed changes, and to present policy Council for final approval. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Enhanced Weed Control Service

L. Chambers commented that due to limited staff resources administration was not able to update the program for the board’s consideration. New Agricultural Fieldman starts December 12, 2016.

134/16 Moved by B. Guyon for administration to research informational/educational workshop opportunities and the costs associated to offering them to residents to become certified pesticide applicators as part of the Enhanced Weed Control Service proposal. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Hemp Production in Brazeau County Update

135/16 Moved by M. Thompson to accept update as information. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

2016 and 2017 Budget Update

136/16 Moved by M. Thompson to direct administration to provide line totals on ASB revenue and expenses for 2017 budget. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Bill 6 Delegate Update

ASB watched a youtube video prepared by S. Wheale called “Bill 6 One Year Later”.

137/16 Moved by B. Guyon that administration do research on the average subsidy to an Alberta farmer in comparison to the Canadian national and foreign governments’ subsidy average (USA, Europe). CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

R. Ennis called for a short break at 12:00 pm, meeting resumed at 12:07 pm.

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AGRICULTURE REPORTS Agriculture Reports November 2016 Acting Agricultural Fieldman’s Report

T. McGinn presented the Acting Agricultural Fieldman’s Report verbally.

138/16 Moved by B. Guyon that administration develop an emergent resolution regarding the agricultural disaster in Brazeau County to be presented at the next ASB meeting. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

139/16 Moved by M. Thompson to accept verbal T. McGinn’s Acting Agricultural Fieldman report as presented.

CARRIED UNANIMOULSY

140/16 Moved by A. Heinrich for administration to consult other Agricultural Fieldman in the province, and local producers and then write a letter to the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry about disaster solutions such as: delayed payments, advocacy for delaying in filling grain contracts, acreage payments, and freight assistance to support Brazeau County producers affected by the Agricultural Disaster. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

MEMBER’S REPORT Member’s Reports November 2016

Member‐at‐large S. Wheale attended:  Northwest Regional ASB Conference

Councillor M. Thompson attended:  AAMDC Conference

Member‐at‐large A. Goddard attended:  Northwest Regional ASB Conference – gave highlights from various presentations.

Member‐at‐large D. Movald reported on:  Farming activities, and getting his applicators license.  ALUS program

Councillor A. Heinrich attended:  AAMDC Conference

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Chairperson R. Ennis reported on:  Northwest Regional ASB Conference  ALUS  thistle stem‐gall fly

141/16 Moved by A. Heinrich to accept member reports as submitted. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

NEW BUSINESS New Business 2016 and 2017 Meeting Dates

142/16 Moved by B. Guyon to move the next ASB meeting from December 21, 2016 to December 19, 2016. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

ASB Orientation Manual

T. McGinn explained that the manual has not been updated for 2016, and the only change is ASB Legislative & Environmental funding component.

143/16 Moved by D. Movald to receive manual as presented. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

2016 Policy and Bursary Applications

144/16 Moved by A. Heinrich to award the bursaries to Brody K. Hines and Aidan Cloke in the amount of $500 each. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Agricultural Disaster Declaration

145/16 Moved by M. Thompson to receive letter for information. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

The Seed Newsletter

L. Chambers presented a verbal report on potential efficiency of amalgamating the Brazeau County News and The Seed newsletter. The annual cost savings is an estimated $10,000/yr. Another benefit includes reduced administrative time to prepare a separate publication. T. McGinn also made note of potential grant funds

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to subsidize The Seed newsletter costs, administration will make application and notify the board.

146/16 Moved by A. Goddard to receive administrations verbal report for information. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

Environmental Farm Plan Workshop

147/16 Moved by A. Goddard to accept poster for information. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

CORRESPONDENCE ITEMS CORRESPONDENCE/ITEMS FOR INFORMATION

The board reviewed letters sent to Breton Elementary School about Farm Safety Centre program, and the letter to Midpoint Farms about Brazeau County farming crisis. Then the board reviewed additional agenda items for information on bovine tuberculosis.

148/16 Moved by A. Heinrich to accept the four items as information. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

NEXT MEETING The next regular ASB Meeting is scheduled for December 19, 2016 in the County Administration Building, EOC Room.

ADJOURNMENT 149/16 Moved by M. Thompson that the regular Agricultural Service Board Meeting of November 21, 2016 adjourn at 1:31 p.m. CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

______A.S.B. Chairperson ______Agriculture Fieldman

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Policy Name

Agricultural Recognition Awards

Policy Number

AG ‐ 30

Policy Statement

The Agricultural Recognition Awards program honors individuals or farm units for their efforts within the agriculture industry for the development and sustainability of rural life in Brazeau County.

Policy

1. The criteria for the selection of recipients will be based upon: a. Must be resident(s) of Brazeau County. b. Must be nominated by your peers, not including family, by last ASB meeting of the current year. c. Must be eligible in at least one of the following categories: i. Hay Crop of the Year ii. Cereal Crop of the Year iii. Canola Crop of the Year iv. Specialty Crop of the Year Innovative Crop Producer v. Innovative Equipment Award vi. Sustainable Crop Producer vii. Outstanding Livestock Operation viii. Diversification Farmer of the Year ix. Young Farmer of the Year x. Garden/Landscape/Yard Award xi. Lifetime Achievement Award xii. Farmers Helping Farmers Award d. The nomination form must be signed and fully completed by nominator. The information of the contact person for the nomination should be provided in case further information is required. 2. Only one recipient per category may be awarded each year. 3. Each recipient will receive the award only once every five years.

Chief Administrative Officer:______Approved by Council: ______Revision Dates: (Y/M/D) ______Reviewed:______AG 30‐ Agricultural Recognition Awards Page 1 of9 2

4. The Agricultural Recognition Awards will be presented at an appropriate event. 5. Recipient will be selected by the Agricultural Service Board who will be the selection committee, by the last ASB meeting of the current year. (For the current ASB schedule please refer to www.brazeau.ab.ca or call 780‐542‐7777).

Chief Administrative Officer:______Approved by Council: ______Revision Dates: (Y/M/D) ______Reviewed:______AG 30‐ Agricultural Recognition Awards Page 2 10of 2 Agricultural Services Agricultural Recognition Awards

I hereby nominate the following individual or farm unit for recognition:

Name: ______Surname First Name

Address: ______

Phone Number(s):______

Land Location: ______

Nominated by (all contact information is required):

Name: ______Surname First Name

Address: ______

Phone Number(s):______

Evaluation: Please attach support documentation for each category(ies) that you are nominating (i.e. letter of support, pictures, forage samples).

Please select the category(ies) that you are nominating for and list the name of the crop/machine:

Hay Crop of the Year ______Cereal crop of the Year ______Canola crop of the Year ______Specialty crop of the year ______Innovative Crop Producer Innovative Equipment______Sustainable Crop Producer Outstanding Livestock Operation Diversification Farmer of the Year Young Farmer of the Year Garden/Landscape/Yard Award

The personal information provided will be used to process the Agricultural Recognition Award with Brazeau County and is collected under the authority of Section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) Act. The information collected on this form will only be used for the provision of the program you have applied for. If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information, please contact the Brazeau County FOIP Roxanne Carriere at (780) 542‐7777, Box 77 – 7401 Twp Rd 494, , Alberta, T7A 1R1

Agricultural Recognition Awards Application 1 | Page 11 Agricultural Services Agricultural Recognition Awards

Lifetime Achievement Award Farmers Helping Farmers Award

Please return completed application form to:

Agricultural Fieldman Brazeau County Box 77, 7401 Twp Rd 494 Drayton Valley, AB T7A 1R1

Phone: 780‐542‐7777 Fax: 780‐542‐7770

Deadline to apply: The last ASB meeting date of the current year.

Awards will be presented at an appropriate recognition event.

For current ASB meeting schedule please refer to www.brazeau.ab.ca.

The personal information provided will be used to process the Agricultural Recognition Award with Brazeau County and is collected under the authority of Section 33(c) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy (FOIP) Act. The information collected on this form will only be used for the provision of the program you have applied for. If you have any questions about the collection and use of this information, please contact the Brazeau County FOIP Roxanne Carriere at (780) 542‐7777, Box 77 – 7401 Twp Rd 494, Drayton Valley, Alberta, T7A 1R1

Agricultural Recognition Application 2 | Page

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Emergent Resolution ‐ Agricultural Disaster Policy

Whereas: Natural disasters do occur, leaving many Albertans in tragic situations. The farming community is no different. This year with losses of cereal, oilseed, forage, pasture crops and buildings due to wind, flooding and excess moisture our Alberta agriculture community in complete shambles.

Whereas: When a natural disaster with excess moisture occurs it results in wet fields that cannot be accessed to harvest crops or forage crops and the completion of fall work for spring seeding.

Whereas: Crop insurance provided by AFSC does cover short falls in crop production it does not cover the extreme situation of total crop loss to weather conditions.

Whereas: Other natural disaster occurrences have had disaster relief funding from the provincial and the federal government.

Whereas: Alberta’s Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan (revised May 2016) explains the mediation procedures, but it does not address recovery or cover the discussion of recovery

Whereas: AgriStability is a framework that will allow governments to respond to disasters by providing rapid assistance thereby filling gaps not covered in existing programs.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT ALBERTA’S AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARD REQUEST that Alberta Agriculture and Forestry recommend advocacy for the creation of an agricultural disaster policy that will allocate funding from provincial and federal governments to be accessed by municipalities in the event of an agricultural disaster.

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Sources

Alberta Agriculture drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan

AFSC‐AgriStability

Definition from Alberta Agriculture drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan ‐ page 20

EXCESS MOISTURE

Moisture in excess of normal on agricultural lands from precipitation or flooding that delays or prevents access to fields causing late or no planting, soil fertility issues, management of weeds, diseases, or insects, stored grain or pesticide herbicide containers.

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Alberta’s Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan

The ADEMRMP is a pro-active, effective, and risk management approach to mitigating the effects of drought and excess moisture on Alberta’s agricultural areas.

17 . Acronyms used in this Report AAFC Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada AAMD&C Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties ACIS AgroClimatic Information Service ADMC Alberta Drought Management Committee ADEMRMP Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan ADRMP Agriculture Drought Risk Management Plan AEP Alberta Environment and Parks AF Alberta Agriculture and Forestry AFSC Agriculture Financial Services Corporation AH Alberta Health BMP Beneficial Management Practices DEMAG Drought and Excess Moisture Advisory Group EFP Environmental Farm Plan AEP Alberta Environment and Parks GDP Gross Domestic Product GIS Geographic Information System NRT near real time RTW Ropin’ the Web

Acknowledgements Drought and Excess Moisture Advisory Group

Thanks also to the many others who helped in reviewing the information.

Revised May 2016

18 Executive Summary

Extreme weather events create challenging Building on past experiences, the ADRMP was decision-making situations for the agriculture updated in 2010 and focused on planning and industry. The effect of weather extremes can preparedness measures; further developing the be seen during all seasons, particularly during risk management approach. the growing season. Within the Province of Alberta, extremely dry and extremely wet As the agricultural industry experienced excess conditions can exist concurrently during the moisture events, the need to plan for these same season. extreme events resulted in another update. This version of the plan, the Agriculture Drought and Although extremely dry or drought conditions Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan can begin slowly and subtly, experience has (ADEMRMP), continues to provide a framework proven that the impact can be as significant as for a coordinated, pro-active approach to other more dramatic disasters. Reduced crop, reduce the short and long-term effects of forage, hay productivity and lack of livestock drought and excess moisture on Alberta farmers water are examples of impacts. and ranchers. It will guide government agencies in assisting producers to more effectively Excess moisture conditions can result from both reduce the impacts before, during and after an dramatic flooding and extreme, intense adverse event, and will help the agricultural precipitation conditions which can damage industry to be more prepared and less agricultural crops, prevent seeding, and carry vulnerable to moisture extremes. away top soil, as well as damaging infrastructure and property. The intent is to continue with the three strategies of preparedness, monitoring and In the past, reactive measures and emergency reporting, and response. Throughout the responses were costly and often provided only implementation of ADEMRMP strategies, short-term solutions. In contrast, the current awareness of, and alignment with, the other pro-active risk management approach prepares policy frameworks of government will promote for and mitigates short term and long-term the adaptability of the ADEMRMP. impacts; as well as, long term vulnerability to extreme weather events. Farmers and ranchers manage operations in an increasingly uncertain world. ADEMRMP tools The Agriculture Drought Risk Management Plan help agricultural producers make informed (ADRMP), implemented in 2001-2002, was built business decisions. upon the province’s experiences with drought and government responses, beginning with the mid-1930’s Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Act.

19 Risk management strategies described in this document are available not only for farmers and producers, but also for government. The idea behind this approach to moisture extremes is to expect the events and plan around them, rather than regard them as crises requiring ad hoc measures.

Risk management not only reduces the impact of drought on producers in the short and long term, it is also more fiscally responsible and a better fit under global trade rules that can penalize agriculture programs. Risk is a shared responsibility.

20 Table of Contents

Acronyms used in this Report ...... 1 Acknowledgements ...... 1

Executive Summary ...... i

Table of Contents ...... ii

Why the updated ADEMRMP? ...... 1 What Can We Expect in the Future? ...... 2 Drought ...... 3 Excess Moisture ...... 3

The Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan ...... 4 Vision ...... 4 Goals ...... 4 Partner Agencies ...... 4 The Drought and Excess Moisture Advisory Group ...... 4 Risk Management Actions ...... 5 Moisture Conditions ...... 5

Risk Management Actions ...... 6 Preparedness ...... 6 Agricultural Moisture Monitoring and Reporting ...... 8 Response ...... 12

Action Plan ...... 14 Actions During Normal or Near Normal Conditions...... 15 Actions During Exceptional or Notable Conditions ...... 16 Actions During Extreme Conditions ...... 18

Appendices ...... 20 Appendix 1: Definitions ...... 20 Appendix 2: Government Resources ...... 22 Appendix 3: Science Based Drought Indices ...... 27 Appendix 4: Agricultural Drought Program History in Alberta ...... 29 Appendix 5: Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan ...... 30

21 Why the updated ADEMRMP?

The Government of Alberta released the Agriculture Drought Risk Management Plan (ADRMP) in 2001. Its Drought Action Plan promoted a consolidated and science-based approach to managing the effects of drought in Alberta. Since that time, not only has the science improved, but our understanding of climate change, the limitation of our water resource, changing agricultural practice, and our learning from the ADRMP have prompted the reissuing of the plan.

The ADRMP was re-issued in 2010 and changes focused on preparedness, monitoring and reporting, and response strategies.

Now the excess moisture theme has been incorporated because risk management and preparedness strategies are similar for both moisture extremes, resulting in the Agriculture Drought and Moisture Risk Management Plan (ADEMRMP).

The 2016 ADEMRMP key strategies continue to address preparedness, monitoring and reporting, and response for moisture extremes or extreme weather events; moisture conditions that deviate significantly from the long term normal.

The Plan acknowledges that moisture extremes are a recurring phenomenon in Alberta and that these events may increase in frequency. The ADEMRMP is government’s management plan for working together with agricultural producers to plan for, mitigate the effects of, and adapt to moisture condition extremes. The responsibility for risks associated with moisture extremes is shared.

22 What Can We Expect in the Future? Planning for drought and excess moisture is a dynamic process that evolves through trial and error. As we continue to learn about the regional and continental scale of weather and climate dynamics and its effect on the water and energy cycle over the province, the ADEMRMP will adapt. Planning for drought and excess moisture can be linked to planning for climate change because increased risk of moisture extremes for Alberta producers seems likely as climate changes.

Continued improvement of the ADEMRMP is intended through regular review by DEMAG member agencies, AF and AFSC.

Drought and Excess Moisture, like climate change, are not problems to be solved; rather, they are risks that must be managed.

23 Drought There is no definitive definition of drought. For the purposes of this plan, Drought is defined Research in the early 1980s uncovered more as an extended period of below-normal than 150 published definitions of drought, precipitation resulting in decreased soil and definitions that reflect differences in regions, needs, and disciplinary approaches. subsoil moisture levels and diminished surface water supplies affecting crop growth, livestock The huge range in the perception of drought water or irrigation water. depends on the individual's experiences and the climatic region where they live. Some people may have a ‘feeling’ that they are experiencing Excess Moisture drought after just a few weeks of no rain; Similar to drought, repercussions of excess whereas others may consider drought to occur moisture can also have a negative impact on only when paddocks are denuded of grass. agricultural production, and managing this risk is now included in the ADEMRP. Drought is commonly considered to be a deficiency of moisture when compared to some Repercussions of excess moisture may include: normal or expected amount over an extended - Damaged (decreased) agricultural period of time. production: crops, livestock, range / pasture - Erosion Some repercussions of drought include: - Waterlogging - Decreased agricultural production: crops, - Multi-sector effects resulting in: livestock, range / pasture o Decreased employment - Decreased water supplies: wells, dugouts, o Net farm losses streams, lakes, wetlands o Decreased GDP - Increased fire - Inability to access saturated land - Increased pests, such as grasshoppers - Seeds washed away - Long-lasting effects: soil erosion - Plants drowned out or washed away - Multi-sector effects resulting in: - Re-management of reservoir systems to o Decreased employment attenuate early-season flood risk can reduce o Net farm losses water supplies available for irrigation later in o Decreased GDP the growing season These repercussions may be complicated by overgrazing and tillage practices. For the purposes of this plan, Excess Moisture is Dry periods can also result in water shortages for defined as excess rains or sudden melting of licensed water users and can affect municipal and industrial water supplies and impact on lake, snow or river or lake floods, resulting in water river, reservoir and groundwater levels. Water covering land that is normally dry land. allocation and water shortage is managed under the Water Act.

24 The Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan

Vision The Drought and Excess Moisture The Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Advisory Group Risk Management Plan (ADEMRMP) is a pro- In an effort to draw on the best possible active and fiscally responsible approach to external advice for government to address the mitigating the effects of drought and excess short and long-term implications of drought, moisture on Alberta’s agricultural areas. and to oversee the implementation of the ADEMRMP, the standing multi-stakeholder Goals Alberta Drought and Excess Moisture Advisory  The drought and excess moisture risk Group (DEMAG) was formed. management planning and actions of government are: The DEMAG is co-chaired by AF and AAMD&C o communicated to the agricultural and reports to the Deputy Minister of AF. Its industry, membership is comprised from a cross-section o coordinated and effective, of industry stakeholders including; AF, o consistent over time, and amongst AAMD&C, AFSC, AEP, AAFC, and the livestock, departments, and crop, and irrigated crop sectors. o moisture situation monitoring and reporting is effective and timely, thereby The mandate of the DEMAG is to provide supporting planning and action. consistent and consolidated advice and  Alberta's agricultural producers have access recommendations to complement government to and use the knowledge and tools actions on drought and excessive moisture provided to manage risk associated with related issues affecting the agricultural moisture extremes like periodic drought and producers in Alberta and to advise and provide excess moisture; and are therefore more recommendations to government on long-term prepared and less vulnerable to those strategies for mitigating the effects of drought extremes. and excessive moisture. The DEMAG will do this by facilitating two-way communication that is Partner Agencies effective, timely, respectful and clear, and by AF working with industry organizations to identify AFSC how to best assist producers in preparing for AAMD&C and coping with drought and excessive AEP moisture, and develop these discoveries into AAFC recommendations. Crop Sector Livestock Sector Irrigation Sector

25 Risk Management Actions Moisture Conditions The ADEMRMP is supported by three The three levels of moisture or approaches to risk management actions that are hyrdometeorological conditions that are in turn linked to the three levels of moisture addressed in the risk management action plan conditions: and that are used throughout the reporting mechanisms of the ADEMRMP are: Preparedness Drought or excess moisture preparedness Normal or Near Normal Conditions focuses on year-round efforts, especially during - Precipitation amounts and soil moisture near normal conditions, to increase the level of reserves are near normal resilience of the agricultural community and - Crops and pastures are not showing government to mitigate the effect of the moisture stress extreme moisture event. - Temperature regime is near normal - Normal releases from reservoirs Monitoring and Reporting Agricultural moisture monitoring and reporting Exceptional / Notable Conditions includes ongoing monitoring, evaluation and - The province or a portion of the province is reporting on soil moisture conditions, operating under the potential for drought or precipitation amounts, and temperature potential excess moisture conditions regimes in the agricultural areas of Alberta. - Precipitation amounts and soil moisture reserves are either low to very low or high Response to very high Response involves taking appropriate action - Crops and pastures are beginning to show during and immediately following a drought or moisture stress excess moisture event to reduce negative - Declining stream flows and water shortages impacts on producers. beginning to emerge or moisture levels are in excess of normal and effects are noticed - Temperature regime may be higher or lower than normal

When drought or excess moisture occurs, farm Extreme Conditions - The province or a portion of the province is managers are impacted not only by the extreme suffering drought or excess moisture moisture conditions, but by other aspects of the - Precipitation amounts and soil moisture weather, the global economy, and the political will of reserves are extremely low or high various leaders responding to the moisture conditions - Crops and pastures are suffering moisture stress with significant yield reductions making this a complex issue. expected to occur - Severe water supply (reservoirs, streams, irrigation) deficits that affect agricultural production. - Water surplus is obvious and affecting crops and access - Temperature regime may be extremely high

26 or low Risk Management Actions

Preparedness In order to be prepared when extreme moisture The following describes preparedness actions conditions occur, farm managers make the that may be undertaken. In addition to decision to use, or not to use, a number of implementing some of these actions, insurance mitigation tools as best fits their risk programs can serve as the first line of defense management plan. against agricultural production losses due to drought or excess moisture.

Action Agent Goal: Actions before, during, and after drought or excess moisture are coordinated and effective. Participate in AFSC insurance and risk management programs. Producers Continue to provide AFSC insurance and risk management programs. AFSC Continue to review the suite of risk management products. AFSC Assess risk/impact of drought/excess moisture to individual operation. Producers Determine and develop mitigation strategy/modified practices/innovation for Producers addressing the assessed risks. Develop secure water supply infrastructure to improve water supply security. Municipalities and individual water users Improve agricultural industry water conveyance efficiencies. Irrigation Districts, Municipalities, and individual water users Develop and use risk assessments for use in water development planning, Producers such as Long Term Water Management Plans and Environmental Farm Plans. Goal: Producers are able to manage periodic drought and excess moisture conditions; are prepared and less vulnerable to significant departures from normal. (continued on page 7) Provide relevant and accessible drought and excess moisture preparedness Alberta and federal and management information through: government agencies Ropin’ the Web, Alberta Environment and Parks - Water, and other websites; newspapers, including AgriNews; television and radio; and seminars and school programs. Package existing information on drought management and water conservation to target specific agriculture sectors under various drought conditions. Promote water conservation to irrigation districts and private irrigators. Encourage the development of secure long-term water supplies.

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Action Agent Goal: Producers are able to manage periodic drought and excess moisture conditions; are prepared and less vulnerable to significant departures from normal. (Continued from page 6) Form partnerships with the agricultural community, seed plants, and others to Alberta and federal promote water conservation and drought management. government agencies Package existing information on excess moisture management to target specific agriculture sectors under various excess moisture conditions. Select appropriate crop types and varieties, herbicides/pesticides/fertilizers, Individual producers make appropriate decisions about timing of planting/harvest, infrastructure Agricultural industry choices like type of machinery and buildings. organizations Provide technical and financial assistance to secure water supplies or increase AF water use efficiency through various programs, including the Growing Forward 2 Water Management Programs. Although parameters of highest importance are yield and quality, testing of AF new cereal plants materials includes the assessment of genetic traits that reflect tolerance to drought, pests, flooding, disease, and water use efficiency. Goal: Government planning and preparedness for drought and excess moisture is consistent. The DEMAG communicates and coordinates preparedness information, where Alberta Government possible, including timely meetings and correspondence. and Industry partners Increase access to alternate water supply infrastructure, such as truck fill Municipalities stations. Ongoing monitoring, evaluation and reporting of precipitation and soil moisture conditions.  AgroClimatic Information Service AF  Alberta River Basins – Maps and Data Summaries AEP Farm Flooding Preparedness Information is maintained by AF: AF  Farm Flooding Preparedness  Flood Information, Flood information is maintained by the Federal Government: Government of Canada Floods – What to do? Water management infrastructure is operated to mitigate both drought and AF, AEP, and flood risk. Irrigation Districts Infrastructure development in floodways is appropriate. Municipalities

28 Agricultural Moisture Monitoring and Reporting This area of focus includes ongoing monitoring, Agro Climatic Information Service (ACIS) web evaluation and reporting on soil moisture site provides near real time meterological data conditions, precipitation amounts and patterns, from more than 387meteorological stations snowfall accumulations and air temperature across the province and weekly maps provide regimes in the agricultural areas of Alberta. up-to-date information.

The moisture situation updates use a combination of scientific drought indices to objectively and accurately determine drought severity, extent and duration. Combining indices provides a more accurate assessment of drought severity. AF will collect, analyze and distribute up-to-date information, publish regular reports and update maps and data on the ACIS web site. The combined information will help define development of any extreme conditions in order to guide appropriate and informed responses by government agencies and the agricultural community to existing situations. The moisture situation updates (available to the public) includes precipitation received and frequency of occurrence, soil moisture conditions, snow pack conditions, and temperature trends and regimes; and moisture situation updates are forwarded to the Minister and rural MLAs.

In addition to the moisture situation updates, Monitoring includes routine measurement of other reports may include the following: meteorological and agricultural parameters - Regional crop condition reports useful in developing adequate drought - AEP Surface Water Reports indicators. Many of these measurements are - Interpretation of impact, based on field collected in near real time and are quality information from municipality field staff for controlled. The quality controlled parameters the affected areas concerning the following are used to run weather analysis, soil water resources: balance, and drought indices models that are o surface water, dugout and reservoir interpreted to determine the start, intensity, supplies extent, and ending of drought or excess o feed supply moisture conditions. Some of these parameters o crop and pasture condition are also used to produce weather based o wildfire risk insurance products. The weather analysis and o grasshopper levels drought indices are summarized into regular moisture situation updates. In addition, AF’s Alberta's weather monitoring capabilities are

29 being continually improved by the expansion of system. AF’s Near Real Time (NRT) standard weather station network across the agricultural regions The following strategies describe actions in of the province. AF has also developed a state support of drought and excess moisture of the art data quality assurance and quality monitoring and reporting. control program and weather data delivery

Action Agent Goal: Timely, Accurate Agricultural Moisture Monitoring. Maintain and improve AF’s AgMet network and provide quality controlled weather AF and estimates of soil moisture to users in a form the can be readily used.

As of January 1, 2015, the following list of weather and soil parameters were being AF measured at AF weather stations:  222 stations with precipitation, temperature, humidity,  169 stations with 2 meter wind speed  147 stations have 10m wind direction and speed  34 stations have soil moisture and temperature (5,20,50 and 100 cm)  87 stations have solar radiation  13 stations have snow depth AF also makes use of data from about 165 hourly NRT reporting stations located inside and outside of the agricultural area, as well as in the neighboring provinces. Data is available in near real time on the ACIS web site.

Additionally:  AEP operates and maintains approximately 90 permanent near real time AEP Meteorological Stations, as well as numerous hydrometric stations and snow survey sites.

Water is stored in various reservoirs for licensed uses. Volumes available are AEP regularly reported to stakeholders to help them make decisions. Other available resources include Advisories and Warnings, Maps and Data Summaries, Forecaster’s Comments, and the Water Supply Outlook See: Alberta River Basins website

30

Action Agent Goal: Moisture Situation Updates for the Agricultural Region of Alberta

Moisture Situation Updates for the Agricultural Region of Alberta describe current AF soil moisture and precipitation conditions. The updates include maps of recent precipitation patterns, snow pack accumulations, temperature regimes, soil moisture conditions and drought indices that all help to define the severity and extent of adverse moisture conditions across the province. Under normal conditions, the updates are generally produced regularly from May 1 to August 31, with monthly updates during the winter. As conditions become notably above or below normal, updates become more frequent and more detailed.

Moisture Situation Updates and related maps are sent to the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry and his rural caucus colleagues, as well as key AF and AFSC staff. These regular Moisture Situation Updates are also posted to Ropin’ the Web.

Each week, or when conditions change significantly, more than 40 new maps will be published to the ACIS web site allowing users to track conditions between moisture situation updates. The ACIS on online station viewer allows even finer resolution, allowing users to see what’s happening at any one of more than 380 stations in Alberta with data usually only a few hours old.

Indices – Maps are created using science-based drought indices to determine the AF level, extent, and duration of drought. Each index provides an objective, consistent approach to assessing the level of drought. AF evaluates a variety of indices and then model and upgrade selected indices to suit Alberta's climatic conditions and meet its information needs. Using a combination of indices provides more accurate assessments of the level of drought. See Appendix 3 for more information on drought indices.

Severity maps – show the extent and severity of current conditions based on the values of several indices. These maps are produced year round, and are based on state-of-the-art drought science that is supported by a high quality meteorological network. Goal: Timely Release of Quality Controlled Spring Soil Moisture (SSM) and Precipitation Data to AFSC Provide soil moisture and precipitation data to AFSC to facilitate timely payments AFSC under AFSC’s weather based insurance products. This information is used to make payments that are generated part way through a growing season and shortly after the growing season.

31 Action Agent Goal: The maps and data are available to help farmers with short and long-term planning and decision-making throughout the year. AgroClimatic Information Service (ACIS) is an interactive web tool that helps AF website producers, farm consultants, and researchers create maps, obtain historical and Ropin’ the Web near real time weather data, climate summaries and a wide range of maps that depict historical and current precipitation patterns, snow pack accumulations, soil moisture conditions and trends, temperature regimes and drought indices. The weather data and maps help farmers understand their climatic regimes and put current conditions, into perspective, thus helping them with long-term planning and decision-making.

Users can also view and obtain historical and near real time weather data from over 380 meteorological stations. The maps and data help farmers with their long- term planning and decision-making throughout the growing season. Additionally AF quality controls data for AFSC precipitation-based insurance products.

AF’s current meteorological program, with increased station density and the addition of measurements like solar radiation, together with new data processing systems, have led to enhanced model accuracy and reporting products and services providing the necessary support for superior drought and excess moisture preparedness and response decisions.

Goal: AFSC Monitoring and Reporting AFSC utilizes its network of field office staff, and numbers of pre harvest claims to AFSC assess drought severity. This information is used to deploy resources to affected areas and determine if there is a need for expedited processes to provide timely service to clients.

Goal: Alberta Environment and Parks Monitoring and Reporting Near real-time reporting of water supply conditions are available to the public AEP through Alberta Environment and Parks’s website. Maps and Data Summaries and Water Supply Outlooks and Forecasts are provided online. Hydrometric, meteorological, snow conditions, and reservoir and lake level data are continually updated.

AEP provides an Alberta Rivers: Data and Advisories Mobile Application to obtain the latest information about Alberta's rivers, including flood advisories and comments issued by Alberta's River Forecast Centre.

32 Response The Response Toolbox provides possible actions to more severe moisture conditions. The DEMAG works respond to drought and excess moisture conditions with representatives from adversely-affected and can help identify meet local needs; from municipalities to identify support options for mitigation during the early stages of soil moisture recommendation to Ministers. stress to financial stabilization during and following

Action Agent Goal: Producers are aware of government response. The DEMAG member agencies provide information on existing programs and DEMAG government policy to affected producers. Changes to water distribution or allocation in response to water shortage will Municipalities be communicated by the agency responsible for that water supply. AEP Irrigation Districts Goal: Provide information on business risk management programs. Federal and provincial business risk management programs are available AFSC through AFSC; including Insurance and AgriStability, and are managed to respond to exceptional conditions in a timely manner. Goal: Provide timely, relevant information to affected farmers/producers. Sources of information are developed and provided, such as:  A list of resources for farm crisis, mental health and financial and debt AF counseling agencies AHS  Livestock owners may access the Hay, Straw and Pasture Listings AFSC AAFC (including standing annual crops) for available feed  Emergency Water Supply Options During Drought Goal: Provide access to information on available feed supplies. Livestock owners may access the Hay, Straw and Pasture Listings (including AF standing annual crops) for available feed. Goal: Deliver the AF Water Pumping Program. AF Water Pumping Program is available to producers for replenishing dugout AF levels and may be used during periods of excess moisture in agricultural areas. Goal: Deliver the AEP Pumping Program. Emergency water pumping equipment is available as part of the provincial flood AEP response. Information available through Alberta Emergency Management AEMA Agency (AEMA) Assistance and Recovery Support. Goal: Recommend tax deferral from sale of breeding stock. AF and AAFC monitor hay and pasture yields, and soil moisture and AF precipitation in drought-affected areas or areas of excess moisture and, if AFSC required, Alberta (AF and AFSC) will recommend areas to be included in tax AAFC deferral designated areas to AAFC. DEMAG

33 Action Agent Goal: Implement a drought or excess moisture recovery loan program. During Extreme Conditions, the DEMAG works with municipal representatives DEMAG to determine if a government loan program should be recommended for the Municipalities affected area. This program would loan money to eligible farmers at a reduced AFSC interest rate to help them recover after a drought or excess moisture event and has been administered by AFSC Lending. Goal: Implement other programs as appropriate. The DEMAG will consider a variety of response options and recommend DEMAG possible responses to the appropriate Ministers.

Options that have been considered in the past include:  initial assessment for tax deferral on breeding stock  drought disaster loans  grazing on unallocated public land  grazing/haying Ducks Unlimited acreage  municipal roadside grazing/haying  feed/livestock freight assistance  emergency water hauling  reduced rates for dugout water pumping  grasshopper control options.

34 Action Plan

Taking all of the strategies and actions In fact, the suite of maps that we use to described by Preparedness, Monitoring and determine the current “conditions” with respect Reporting, and Response, the Action Plan to soil moisture varies with time of year and the describes how these strategies can be applied type of water shortage (acute or chronic) for on a scenario basis as described by the three crop, livestock, farm water supplies, etc. moisture levels:  Normal or Near Normal Conditions From a scientific perspective, the maps help  Exceptional / Notable Conditions describe how the current conditions developed,  Extreme Conditions. and the severity and extent of the “condition”. The final assessment of the “Condition” is These three levels are determined by the ultimately a decision driven by many different current levels of soil moisture and recent factors including maps, social, economic and precipitation and temperature trends. political considerations.

There is no single map, or any simple and When each of the levels of moisture conditions consistent way (using maps alone) to determine is identified through monitoring, the Action Plan Normal or Near Normal Conditions, Exceptional identifies the possible actions of the DEMAG / Notable Conditions, and Extreme Conditions. and partner agencies.

35 Actions During Normal or Near Normal Conditions  Normal precipitation / weather patterns / hydrologic conditions

Described by: Frequency of condition occurrence moderately low drier than this, on average, less than once in 3 years near normal on average, this occurs 1 in 3 years moderately high wetter than this, on average, less than once in 3 years

Reporting Frequency: May 1 to August 31: regularly, with maps available through ACIS September 1 to April 30: regularly, with maps available through ACIS

Preparedness Actions Monitoring/Reporting Response Actions Actions Producers have access to technical DEMAG member agencies DEMAG member agencies expertise and financial assistance to monitor and assess drought- work on policy issues as assist with switching from drought- related provincial weather data. required. prone water supplies to more secure water supplies. DEMAG member agencies provide reports to the DEMAG and DEMAG member agencies provide stakeholders about current access to up-to-date information for conditions. producers in the agriculture sector on the actions needed to prepare to Maps describing Alberta's deal with the variability in soil weather, climate and related moisture on an on-going basis. agriculture features can be accessed with AgroClimatic Producers have tools to evaluate Information Service (ACIS). water supplies and water use needs. Moisture situation updates for the Producers are encouraged to agricultural region of Alberta participate in risk posted on Ropin’ the Web, with management/insurance programs highlights of the update and maps offered by AFSC. sent to the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development and his The DEMAG coordinates an rural caucus colleagues. independent evaluation of activities during the previous drought and Excess moisture events and recommends changes to improve the ADEMRMP.

36 Actions During Exceptional or Notable Conditions  The province or a portion of the province is operating under the potential for drought or excess moisture conditions.  Lower or higher than normal precipitation and soil moisture levels.

Described by: Frequency of condition occurrence low drier than this, on average, less than once in 6-years very low drier than this, on average, less than once in 12-years high wetter than this, on average, less than once in 6-years very high wetter than this, on average, less than once in 12-years

Reporting Frequency: May 1 to August 31: regularly, with weekly maps available through ACIS September 1 to April 30: regularly, with weekly maps available through ACIS

Preparedness Actions Monitoring/Reporting Response Actions Actions The DEMAG will advise the Increased monitoring and The DEMAG works with Ministers of the partner reporting described for normal municipal representatives to agencies of the critical soil conditions. identify appropriate options for moisture conditions, and action in the affected areas. provide reports on DEMAG member agencies preparedness, policies and monitor and assess soil Information flow is through, but currently available programs moisture-related weather data not limited to, media and through the report to Ministers from across the province, but internet. of partner agencies. with increased focus on the areas facing low moisture DEMAG member agencies conditions. provide preparedness material specific to affected areas DEMAG member agencies (geographic, soil, and climate provide reports to the Ministers zones), through a variety of of the partner agencies, DEMAG media. and other stakeholders about current conditions biweekly AF will prepare communications from May 1 to August 31 and for producers, affected monthly from September 1 to municipalities and other April 30. stakeholders on the soil moisture conditions. Moisture Situation Updates for the agricultural region of Alberta The DEMAG, with municipal posted on Ropin’ the Web, and input, will identify possible sent to the Minister of actions suited to the needs of Agriculture and Forestry and his

37 the affected areas. rural caucus colleagues.

Producers can access information through the internet at Ropin’ the Web, by calling the Ag-Info Centre, listening to Call of the Land, and through other media.

Producers have access to the AF Water Pumping Program to top- up dwindling dugouts or to remove excess moisture.

38 Actions During Extreme Conditions  The province or a portion of the province is suffering drought; according to the indices.  Severe soil moisture shortages and precipitation deficits.  Severe moisture surplus and flooding  Preparedness Actions no longer apply, Reporting and Response Actions are required.

Described by: Frequency of condition occurrence Extremely low drier than this, on average, less than once in 25-years Extremely high wetter than this, on average, less than once in 25-years

Reporting Frequency: May 1 to August 31: frequently, with weekly maps available through ACIS September 1 to April 30: regularly, with weekly maps available through ACIS

Monitoring/Reporting Actions Response Actions

DEMAG member agencies monitor and assess AF prepares AgriNews submissions and Call of soil moisture-related weather data from across the Land radio spots to inform the agricultural the province, adding impact analysis for drought- community of decision-making options during affected areas and information from field the situation. reports. Provide timely information on risk management Moisture Situation Updates for the agricultural programs at extension meetings. region of Alberta are sent to the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry and rural caucus Attend industry led meetings to provide risk colleagues, and posted on Ropin’ the Web. management information.

DEMAG member agencies provide additional Livestock owners can access a hay listing on updates to the MLAs, Ministers of the partner Ropin the Web for some available feed sources. agencies, the DEMAG, and to other stakeholders about current conditions. Municipalities and partner agencies assess available feed and water supplies and make DEMAG member agencies prepare information available to affected producers. communications for producers, affected municipalities and others on the drought Producers have access to information and situation and drought-related activities. programs that will help to reduce the impact of extreme conditions. The DEMAG recommends possible drought response options to the appropriate Minister. Deliver AF’s water pumping program.

Communicate/share current conditions and Emergency water pumping equipment is possible options to the Alberta Association of available as part of the provincial flood Municipal Districts and Counties, and to other response. affected provinces.

39 AFSC’s claim processes are reviewed and adjusted during drought conditions to provide timely responses to producers without unduly increasing program risk.

Provide timely precipitation and soil moisture, as well as anecdotal, information as recommendations to AAFC for municipal designation for the federal tax deferral benefit.

Work with DEMAG member agencies to explore options such as:  access to public pasture  access to Ducks Unlimited acreage  roadside grazing/haying opportunities  water pumping priorities.

To assist in facing the effects of moisture extremes, information should include Mental Health Line at 1-877-303-2642.

40 Appendices

Appendix 1: Definitions ADAPTATION requires extraordinary response and recovery Adaptation is the adjustment in natural or human measures is a disaster. systems in response to actual or expected effects of climate change and variability, which DROUGHT moderates harm or exploits beneficial For the purposes of this plan, “Drought” is opportunities. defined as an extended period of below-normal precipitation resulting in decreased soil and ADAPTIVE CAPACITY subsoil moisture levels and diminished surface The ability of a system to adjust to climate water supplies affecting crop growth, livestock change (including climate variability and water and irrigation water. – depleted water extremes) to moderate potential damages, to resources for agricultural needs take advantage of opportunities, or to cope with the consequences, is adaptive capacity. DROUGHT INDEX Numerical scales used to describe the severity of AGROCLIMATIC INFORMATION SERVICE drought. Indices combine one or more The AgroClimatic Information Service (ACIS) is an meteorological or hydrological variables into a interactive tool that can help the DEMAG, single value that can be easily understood and producers, farm consultants, and researchers presented in a map or table. The resulting values create maps that help with long-term planning are typically related to a normal or average and decision-making throughout the year. condition and describe the current condition, relative to normal or average condition. Indices CLIMATE used by the ADEMRMP range from simple Climate is the meteorological condition in a given percentile based indices for precipitation, region over a long period of time. It is also temperature and snow packs to more complex defined in statistical terms as the mean and/or indices based on soil water modeling exercises variability of relevant variables over a period of such as standardized precipitation index. time ranging from months to thousands or millions of years. EXCESS MOISTURE Moisture in excess of normal on agricultural lands CLIMATE CHANGE from precipitation or flooding that delays or Climate change refers to a change in the state of prevents access to fields causing late or no the climate that can be identified (e.g. by using planting, soil fertility issues, management of statistical tests) by changes in the mean and/or weeds, diseases, or insects, stored grain or the variability of its properties, and that persists pesticide herbicide containers. for an extended period, typically decades or longer.

DISASTER An event that exceeds the ability of the local community to cope with the harmful effects and

41 NEAR REAL TIME MONITORING STATION Near-Real-Time (NRT) is a relative term and in the context of the ADEMRMP and the current weather station technology used in Alberta, it refers to data that is less than 24-hours old. Most of the stations used in ADEMRMP reporting structure report hourly with observations available on ACIS that are typically no more than 2 hours old.

MITIGATION (CLIMATE CHANGE) In the context of climate change, mitigation is an anthropogenic intervention to reduce the sources or enhance the sinks of greenhouse gases.

PREPAREDNESS Preparedness is the state of having been made ready or prepared for use or action.

VULNERABILITY Vulnerability to climate change is the degree to which a system is susceptible to, or unable to cope with, adverse effects of climate change, including climate variability and extremes.

WEATHER Weather is the state of the atmosphere at a given time and place with regard to temperature, air pressure, humidity, wind, cloudiness and precipitation. The term “weather” is used mostly for conditions over short periods of time

42 Appendix 2: Government Resources A number of government agencies participate in agricultural production and planning. This site drought and excess moisture risk management allows users to view current and historic weather activities either directly or indirectly. This appendix and climate conditions, to see how current summarizes the resources and activities of these conditions differ from normal, to see where and agencies for reference purposes. how weather and climate conditions and events are impacting the sector, to view short-term forecasting Government of Canada products, and to learn about ways to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of weather and climate on Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) – Science agricultural operations. and Technology Branch Part of AAFC’s mandate is to enhance the sector’s Canadian Drought Monitor - monthly map products resiliency, foster new areas of opportunity, and of the extent and intensity of drought across support sector competitiveness. Specifically on Canada. Maps are posted on the Drought Watch water, soil and climate, AAFC’s mandate includes web site and are also contributed to North investing in agricultural research to support the American Drought Monitoring. This activity also discovery of science and innovation, and helping the includes development of drought indices; sector adjust to climate change and to better Agroclimate Impact Reporter (AIR), - an online tool address water and soil conservation and for the monitoring and reporting the on-the-ground development issues. Ongoing activities related to impacts of weather and climate from a network of drought management include: volunteers. The information and resultant map  providing information on management and products are posted online. adaptation practices related to climate extremes and the sustainability of agricultural land and The Emergency Water Supply Options During water resources; Drought website offers some temporary options  expanding the suite of geospatial and earth- that have been used and recommended by livestock observed data, products, tools and capabilities; producers to supply water to livestock during  maintaining and improving the AAFC Drought drought periods. Watch website, www.agr.gc.ca/drought ;  monitoring and reporting the impacts of Government of Canada – Get Prepared weather and climate conditions and events on Floods are the most frequent natural hazard in agriculture; and Canada. They can occur at any time of the year and  providing technical support to determine the are most often caused by heavy rainfall, rapid areas eligible for the livestock tax deferral melting of a thick snow pack, ice jams, or more provision. rarely, the failure of a natural or man-made dam. Floods – What to do? AAFC Drought Watch The Drought Watch web site provides timely Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) – information and tools on weather and climate Growing Forward 2 relevant to the agricultural sector in Canada. The AAFC’s Growing Forward 2 integrates programs and impacts of weather and climatic variability and tools to address extreme conditions more extreme events such as droughts and floods can be effectively than in the past. The Business Risk very significant and are valuable information for Management suite includes four programs; two of which are delivered by AFSC in Alberta.

43 Government of Alberta AgriInvest is a savings account for producers, supported by governments, which provides Alberta Agriculture and Forestry coverage for small income declines and allows for investments that help mitigate risks or improve Environmental Stewardship Branch (ESB) market income. ESB advances sustainable agriculture systems for AgriRecovery is a framework that will allow the benefit of the environment, the agriculture governments to respond to disasters by providing industry and Albertans. Sustainable systems are rapid assistance, filling gaps not covered in existing advanced through policy, science, innovation and programs. information systems, and extension. ESB leads the monitoring and much of the reporting actions AgriStability, delivered by AFSC in Alberta, provides within the ADEMRMP and the activities related to support when a producer experiences larger farm drought management, include: margin declines. The program covers declines of  Operate and maintain a state of the art more than 15 percent in a producer's average meteorological network across the agricultural margin from previous years. areas of the province;  Collect and quality control weather data from all AgriInsurance is an existing program, also delivered available near real time weather stations in the by AFSC in Alberta, that includes insurance against province; production losses for specified perils (weather,  Maintain and enhance soil moisture, drought pests, disease) and is being expanded to include indices and weather analysis models; more commodities.  Drought reporting (analyzing and interpreting

weather and climate conditions; and mapping Environment Canada drought severity and extent and its impact on Environment Canada supports provincial initiatives crops); and for managing water supplies and resolving existing  Deliver weather data, Ag Climate related and potential problems associated with droughts. products and maps online through the To this end, the department will: AgroClimatic Information Service (ACIS).  provide raw data from its network of weather

monitoring stations; Other ESB activities include the development and  encourage water demand management promotion of beneficial management practices approaches and conservation technology with a including delivery of the Stewardship Programs view to extending the use of limited supplies; within Growing Forward 2, as well as climate change  undertake, support and promote research into mitigation and adaptation strategies. improving understanding of drought;  encourage the development and dissemination of water conservation technologies and practices to promote the best use of current supplies; and  encourage an integrated approach to planning and managing the augmentation and allocation of water supplies.

44 Growing Forward 2 Programs Term Water Management Plans; and The Government of Alberta manages Growing  delivery of Growing Forward 2 On-Farm Water Forward 2 programs through Agriculture and Management Program, Irrigation Efficiency Forestry. Growing Forward 2 allocates funds for Program, and the Regional Water Supply producers and processors focused on research and (Strategic) Program. innovation, competitiveness and market development, and adaptability and Industry Environmental Stewardship Branch (ESB) capacity. Activities include:  assisting in delivery of AEP led Agricultural GF2 programs that may be relevant to drought and Watershed Enhancement Program. excess moisture preparedness and management include: Policy, Strategy and Intergovernmental Affairs  On-Farm Water Management, Branch  On-Farm Stewardship, The Branch’s role in coordinating the ADEMRMP  Irrigation Efficiency, from the policy perspective activities include:  Agricultural Watershed Enhancement, and  managing the Ropin’ the Web Internet pages on  Regional Water Supply. “Preparing for drought”;  supporting delivery of the Growing Forward 2 Irrigation and Farm Water Branch (IFWB) Water Management Program; and IFWB provides technical water management  coordinating other Growing Forward 2 assistance, including water conservation measures, Programming. to agricultural producers. Extension and Communications Services Division The Branch has taken a leadership role in The Division takes a leadership role in coordinating coordinating the DEMAG activities and coordinating extension and communications activities including: policy recommendations related to drought and  providing drought preparedness and excess moisture. management information through the Ag-Info Centre, AF website, AgriNews and Call of the This Branch also develops programs, services, Land radio show; and information and regulations that lead to the  providing a team of resource agents and environmentally sustainable expansion of the specialists in field crops, forages, beef, new agricultural industry in Alberta. Activities include: ventures, irrigated special crops and business  providing technical water management management as a first stop for Ministry and assistance, including water conservation agricultural production and program measures, to agricultural producers; information.  amending the Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan;  quantifying water requirements of irrigated crops in southern Alberta;  delivering the AF Water Pumping Program  providing technical assistance on farm water management;  assist producers with the development of Long-

45 Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC)  AgriRecovery - a framework that will allow Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) is governments to respond to disasters by a provincial crown corporation that administers the providing rapid assistance, filling gaps not crop insurance and AgriStability programs in covered in existing programs. www.agr.gc.ca Alberta, as well as providing loans to farmers, agribusiness, and small business. In 2009, AFSC also AFSC also offers low-interest loans through the introduced the Cattle Price Insurance Program Disaster Assistance Loan - Crop Loss Option (CPIP). program. This program assists producers who have suffered an agricultural disaster resulting from AFSC has provided Alberta farmers with hail severe crop losses over several years. insurance for over 70 years, and has grown into a diverse Corporation with several core businesses: Alberta Environment and Parks crop insurance, farm loans, commercial loans and Alberta Environment and Parks is involved in farm income disaster assistance. preserving and enhancing Alberta’s environment and in the wise management of our natural AgriInsurance is a voluntary program that provides resources. Activities include: protection against yield and quality risk for crop  providing Monthly Water Supply Forecasts producers. including Mountain Snow Conditions and Water Supply Outlook; AFSC notes that even with a variety of programs  providing raw data from its network of weather available, not all losses may be covered; therefore, monitoring stations; producers must have their own plans in place to  administering the Water Act (e.g., use of water deal with some of their drought-induced income by irrigation districts would be regulated when loss. It is to the producer’s advantage to plan ahead water supply is low or reservoirs are down); to reduce risks and thereby decrease losses from  issuing weather advisories and warnings; and drought. Crop producers can protect from  providing water quality protection and significant losses by participating in insurance enforcement; programs. Livestock producers who grow their own  a mobile application for Alberta Rivers: Data and feed can also insure these feed crops. Advisories providing the latest information about Alberta's rivers, including flood advisories This agency administers the following programs in and comments issued by Alberta's River partnership with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada: Forecast Centre.  AgriStability is a margin-based program that  with support of ESB, lead delivery of Agricultural addresses declines of more than 15 percent in a Watershed Enhancement Program. producer’s average margin from past years. AgriStability provides protection for those larger Alberta Municipal Affairs – Alberta losses that were previously covered under CAIS. Emergency Management Agency (AEMA)  AgriInsurance includes existing crop insurance,  production insurance and other products During Provincial emergencies resources may be currently offered and will expand to include available at AEMA. other commodities. With the exception of some minor crops, most crops are eligible for insurance including hay and pasture crops

46 Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties (AAMD&C) AAMD&C has representatives on the DEMAG who:  Co-Chair DEMAG  provide municipal and regional perspective; and  provide input to DEMAG decision making and action plans.

Municipalities – Agricultural Service Boards (ASBs) and Ag Fieldman Municipalities provide programs for weed, disease and pest control, and soil and water conservation. Activities include:  providing input to the federal and Alberta governments on local conditions and needs;  conducting pest monitoring programs; and  working with AF to provide information to producers for dealing with drought.

July 22 2011 County of Barrhead edmontonjournal.com

47 Appendix 3: Science Based Drought Indices Based on scientific reasoning, drought indices reporting the current conditions of these help us define the onset, severity and extent of elements, AF uses a percentile index, expressed drought across the regions of the province and as a “frequency of occurrence” measure, to rank help to guide the ADEMRMP strategies. current conditions against those that have occurred in the past. This allows comparable Drought is a complex phenomenon that is mapping products across all major elements difficult to define and is often politically that are easy to put into context and easy to sensitive. A strict scientific definition of drought understand. For example, growing season remains elusive and is complicated by the fact precipitation percentiles are tracked by ranking that droughts (water shortages) are often use- the precipitation accumulation during similar specific, with impacts varying from location to periods, dating back from 1961 to present. The location. For example, following a dry year, low current accumulation is compared to the ranked snow pack accumulations and below average values, yielding the frequency of occurrence. spring runoff can have severe and adverse The percentile points are then put into effects on reservoir supplies, lake levels and on arbitrary, but intuitive classification fields that farm water supplies, yet crop yields may be describe the current state as drier, near to or adequate if timely rainfall occurs and wetter than the long term normal, together temperatures remain moderate. Conversely, a with the frequency of occurrence as listed period of hot and dry weather in the middle of a below: “normal period” during the critical stages of Category Description crop development may produce acute and driest drier than this, on average, less severe water stresses resulting in serious yield than once in 50-years losses, which can prompt proclamations of extremely low drier than this, on average, less drought. Unfortunately no single index has yet than once in 25-years been identified that adequately quantifies very low drier than this, on average, less drought. In fact, most jurisdictions adopt than once in 12-years multiple and blended drought indicators and low drier than this, on average, less produce maps that attempt to reflect the than once in 6-years general severity, extent and location of the moderately drier than this, on average, less drought-stricken areas. AF has developed and low than once in 3-years tested several drought indicators and continues near normal on average, this occurs at least to evaluate their effectiveness relative to once in 3-years current and past conditions. This work is moderately wetter than this, on average, ongoing and additional suitable drought indices high less than once in 3-years will continue to be adopted and tested with the high wetter than this, on average, cooperation of DEMAG member agencies. less than once in 6-years very high wetter than this, on average, Currently, agriculture drought severity maps less than once in 12-years and interpretations presented in the reports are extremely wetter than this, on average, based on a combination of several drought high less than once in25-years indices. These rely on characterizing wettest wetter than this, on average, precipitation (snowfall and rain), soil moisture less than once in 50-years and temperature anomalies. In addition to

48 Similarly, soil moisture conditions, snow pack accumulations and temperature regimes are classified according to this scheme, with appropriate descriptions following each category.

49 Appendix 4: Agricultural Drought Program History in Alberta

Although southern Alberta is more likely to be The severe drought during the 1980s resulted in affected by drought, other areas of the province an era of ad hoc programs for farmers. Programs experience drought as well. The two most put into place in the 1980s, 1990s, and early significant droughts occurred from 1929 to 1937 2000s covered crop yield loss, livestock feed, (the Dirty Thirties), and from 1983 to 1988. water shortages, conservation planning, financial Scientists say the 1980’s drought was more counseling and interest-free loans. severe than the Dirty Thirties, but the impacts In 1990, the Drought Working Committee, made were less due to improved soil conservation up of representatives from Agriculture Financial methods, better economic times and Services Corporation (AFSC) and Alberta government assistance programs in place. The Agriculture and Forestry (AF), convened. The current ADEMRMP formalizes the efforts to committee assessed the impact of the multi-year continue to improve drought preparedness and drought in southeastern Alberta and developed response. Other droughts have occurred since the Southeastern Alberta Disaster Assistance the 1980s, including droughts in southern and Program. northeastern Alberta in the 1990s, across the entire province in 2001 and 2002, in the Peace Continuing drought in the mid-1990s prompted Region in 2008, and in the Central and Northern requests by industry for an improved safety net Regions in 2009. package and a long-term plan to deal with drought. As a result, the Drought Working In the mid-1930s, the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Committee formed the Drought Plan Act was put in place by the federal government Development Team. The team, called the to assist in land reclamation, soil conservation Alberta Drought Management Committee and water management strategies. Early (ADMC), had representation from AF, Alberta programs included construction of water Environment and Parks (EP) and Agriculture and sources, expansion of irrigation districts and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), and Association of shelterbelt plantings. More recently, the Alberta Municipal District and Counties Permanent Cover Program was implemented to (AAMD&C) and its efforts resulted in this revised encourage farmers to seed drought-prone land ADEMRMP. to forage. On behalf of Canada Revenue Agency, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Dry conditions that affected Alberta producers in currently administers the federal Tax Deferral 2009, and that could threaten production in the Program for farmers who are forced to sell 2010 season, have resulted in a shift in the breeding stock due to drought. membership and focus of the committee, and the evolution of the ADMC into the Alberta Drought Advisory Group (DAG). Significant changes are the inclusion of industry representation and a revised mandate.

Early in 2011, the DAG evolved to include excess moisture and became the Drought and Excess Moisture Advisory Group (DEMAG).

50 Appendix 5: Agriculture Drought and Excess Moisture Risk Management Plan

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry

Alberta Drought and Excess Moisture Advisory Group (DEMAG)

AF AFSC EP AAFC AAMD&C Industry Representatives

Livestock, Crop, Irrigation

ADEMRMP Vision The ADEMRMP is a pro-active, effective, fiscally responsible approach to mitigating the effects of drought and excess moisture on Alberta’s agricultural areas.

ADEMRMP Goals

The drought and excess moisture risk management planning and actions of government are:  communicated to the agricultural industry,  coordinated and effective,  consistent over time, and amongst departments, and  moisture situation monitoring and reporting is effective and timely, thereby supporting planning and action.

Alberta's agricultural producers have access to and use the knowledge required to manage periodic drought with its natural variability in soil moisture conditions; and are therefore more prepared and less vulnerable to drought.

ADEMRMP evaluation and improvement is ongoing, with new activities being added as they are developed.

Approaches/Action Areas - Risk management is a shared responsibility. - Preparedness: year-round efforts, especially during times of no moisture extremes, to increase the level of readiness of the agricultural community and government to respond to the next drought or Excess moisture event. - Reporting: ongoing monitoring, evaluation and reporting on soil moisture conditions and precipitation amounts in the agricultural areas of Alberta. - Response: taking appropriate action during and immediately following a drought or excess moisture event to reduce impacts on producers. 51

County of Warner June 14, 2011

52 AGRICULTURAL SERVICES BOARD ‐ MEETING SCHEDULE EOC ROOM 7401 – TWP Road 494 From 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Rate Payer Concerns heard at 11:00 am

January 18, 2017 July 19, 2017 February 15, 2017 August 16, 2017 March 15, 2017 September 20, 2017 April 19, 2017 October 18, 2017 May 17, 2017 November 15, 2017 June 21, 2017 December 20, 2017

Per Diem Rates:

Up to Four Hours = $170.00 From Four to Eight Hours = $271.00

Conference Rates = $349.00 per day Mileage Rate ‐ $0.54

53 2017 Provincial Agricultural Service Board Conference

“Under the Alberta Sky: People, Partnerships, Progress”

Day 1 Tuesday, January 24th, 2017

4:00 – 9:00 pm Conference Registration

4:00 – 7:00 pm Under the Northwest Sky Tradeshow

7:00 – 7:30 pm Welcome Reception

7:30 – 8:00 pm Keynote speaker – Bill Wilson, CEO, The Rural Channel Join us for an evening with Bill Wilson, The Rural Channel CEO who hosts one of the longest running agriculture based programs airing on TV today - Prairie Farm Report.

8:00 – 10:00 pm Under the Northwest Sky Tradeshow & Wine and Cheese Reception

1 54

2017 Provincial Agricultural Service Board Conference

“Under the Alberta Sky: People, Partnerships, Progress”

Day 2 Wednesday, January 25th, 2017 6:00 am Workout with Olympian Adam Kreek! Join Adam for a fun and invigorating early morning fitness session. All abilities welcome and encouraged to attend! Most importantly, this session is all inclusive: all age, all body shapes, all fitness levels are welcome. If the only people who show up are the three exercise freaks training for their next seven marathons, Adam will sweep the halls knocking on room doors… That’s a joke. Bring your runners and join in!

7:00 – 8:15 am Breakfast

7:00 – 5:00 pm Registration Desk Open

8:30 – 8:50 am Welcome from Conference Chairman, Bill Lee National Anthem AAMD&C President City of AAAF President

8:50 – 9:50 am Lessons in Leadership: It’s the strength to continue that counts- Adam Kreek

9:50 – 10:20 am Refreshment Break and Industry Trade Show in Foyer

10:20 – 12:00 pm 2016 Report Card and Resolutions Session 1

12:00 – 1:15 pm Lunch and Industry Trade Show open in Foyer

1:15 – 2:15 pm Humor for the Heart of Agriculture - Damian Mason 2:15 – 3:00 pm Safe Food for Canadians Act Update – TBA 3:00 – 3:30 pm Refreshment Break and Industry Trade Show in Foyer 3:30 – 4:30 pm Local Food Isn’t the Solution - Kevin Kossowan 4:30 – 5:30 pm Industry Trade Show in Foyer

2 55

2017 Provincial Agricultural Service Board Conference

“Under the Alberta Sky: People, Partnerships, Progress”

Day 3 Thursday, January 26th, 2017 7:00 – 8:15 am Breakfast 7:00 – 5:00 pm Registration Desk Open

8:25 – 8:30 am Opening Remarks 8:30 – 9:15 am People, Partnerships, Progress Panel 9:15 – 9:30 am Agriculture for Life Presentation

9:30 -10:00 am Refreshment Break and Industry Trade Show open in Foyer 10:00 – 11:00 am Popular Culture versus Science: A Battle We Must Win! - Timothy Caulfield 11:00 -12:00 noon Global Macro-trends and the Future of Agriculture in Alberta - John Knapp 12:00 – 1:15pm Lunch and Industry Trade Show in Foyer

1:15 – 2:15pm Inspiring Workplaces -The Way Work OUGHT to be! - Michael Kerr 2:15 – 3:15pm Rethinking Carnivores - Kevin Van Tighem 3:15 – 3:30 pm Fortis Alberta Presentation 3:30 – 3:50pm Refreshment Break, last chance for Industry Trade Show in Foyer

3:50 – 4:30 pm Resolutions Session 2

6:00 -7:00 pm Cocktails 7:00 – 10:00 pm Banquet and Awards

3 56

2017 Provincial Agricultural Service Board Conference

“Under the Alberta Sky: People, Partnerships, Progress”

Entertainment - Dueling Pianos

4 57

Day 4 Friday, January 27th, 2017

7:15 – 8:30 am Breakfast

8:30 – 8:45 am Provincial Act Updates - Doug Macaulay, Agricultural Service Board Manager

8:45 – 9:00am Conference Summary

9:00 – 10:30 am Ministerial Forum

10:30 am Closing Remarks

Safe Travels Home!

5 58

VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ON ALBERTA PROVINCIAL HIGHWAYS

WHEREAS: The lack of noxious and prohibited noxious weed control is affecting neighboring landowners, as invasive plants are spreading into their fields;

WHEREAS: Spot spraying vegetation is costlier than blanket spraying vegetation control;

WHEREAS: Landowners adjacent to provincial highways (both two digit and three digit) are faced with increased costs to their vegetation control programs as a result of lack of control along the highways;

WHEREAS: Invasive plants cause significant changes to ecosystems resulting in economic harm to our agricultural and recreational industries. Highway corridors facilitate the spread of invasive plants not just locally, but internationally as well which impacts our neighbors;

WHEREAS: The most cost‐effective strategy against invasive species is preventing them from establishing rather than relying on a municipality to identify an infestation and react by issuing a notice. Allowing undesirable plants to grow increases the risk to human health (poisonous plants) and public safety by reducing visibility along road shoulders where wildlife are crossing or grazing;

WHEREAS: Alberta Transportation in the past had the option of signing Service Agreements with each municipality to do invasive plant control, but that option is no longer available in some districts due to some of the highway maintenance contracts;

WHEREAS: With 31,000 kilometers of highway in the province the land base in which it is responsible for weed control within its right‐of‐way's is regulated by the Weed Control Act which requires attention and sufficient funds to be able to abide by its own legislation.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL SERVICES BOARDS REQUEST: The Government of Alberta delivers a more effective maintenance program for vegetation management (weed control and mowing) along the primary and secondary highways in the province.

59

FURTHER THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL SERVICES BOARDS REQUEST: The Government of Alberta deliver a more effective vegetation management plan on all primary and secondary highways to control noxious weeds, prohibited noxious weeds and any unsafe vegetation on the full right of way. This plan should include but not be limited to a herbicide application in order to control all legislated weeds and mowing of the full right of way.

FURTHER THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL SERVICES BOARDS REQUEST: Alberta Transportation gives the option in all districts of the province to enter into Service Agreements with municipalities for weed control.

SPONSORED BY: County of Stettler No. 6

MOVED BY: ______

SECONDED BY: ______

CARRIED: ______

DEFEATED: ______

STATUS: Provincial

DEPARTMENT: Alberta Transportation Alberta Environment and Parks Alberta Agriculture and Forestry

60 Background Information

Issue and Impacts: Adjacent landowners are frustrated with the weeds in the Provincial Right‐of‐Ways because the weeds are propagating onto their lands causing financial burden and the overgrowth is impacting the safety of travelling motorists and migratory wildlife along Alberta highways.

Expense: Landowners in the County of Stettler are spending large sums of money on weed control, but are also seeing their results diminish because of a lack of responsibility by the Province, regarding the Alberta Weed Act. The Alberta Weed Act was introduced in 1907 to ensure landowners practice good husbandry and stewardship of our lands. As fellow landowners, the Province, by not proactively controlling weeds is insinuating we should wait until a weed notice is issued (as referred to in the response by Alberta Transportation) before conducting any weed control. We have noticed the amount of time taken to respond to a weed infestation has increased ‐ leading to larger infestations. It impacts our ratepayers/landowners and the county, as both must increase their budgets for weed control.

Potential transfer of weeds provincially, nationally and internationally: The weed issue in our county has local, provincial, national, and possibly international impacts as hay, grain, and other commodities are transported via our highway network daily. Any vehicle that stops on the side of the highway could potentially transfer weed seeds anywhere. The impact is two‐fold: an increased weed control budget (whether it’s spraying, or mowing, or hand removal) and dockage to grains and forages sold into the market place. The added increased costs affects the overall net profits at the farm level.

Safety: In addition to not controlling weeds in highway ditches, the Province has reduced its mowing program along our highway ditches. Mowing, also a method of controlling weeds, used to be conducted twice per year along our highways – along the shoulder, and every four to five years as prescribed from shoulder to fence‐line.

This year we were initially informed that the province did not budget for any ditch mowing in Stettler County. After raising concerns to Alberta Transportation we were informed we would get one mow this season, of only one pass along the shoulder of the highway. Not only does this impact control of the weeds along our highways, we have a grave concern for the safety of the public travelling these highways. The visibility of wildlife crossing the highways is hindered by the tall weeds and grass. We have received several letters, calls and visits from county residents who have noticed increased wildlife and bird strikes along our two and three digit highways. They are worried for their own safety as well as the safety of local wildlife impacted by motorist’s inability

61 to spot wildlife and have proper warning time in which to react to wildlife crossing. Furthermore, this has a financial impact from the aspect of automobile insurance rates and premiums.

Province ignoring its own Act: The best control of weeds comes from prevention, not reaction.

The Province is not abiding by its own legislation intended to control the spread of noxious and prohibited noxious weeds. By not controlling the ditches, municipalities are put in the uncomfortable position of having to issue weed notice to the Province. We cannot expect landowners to control weeds on their land while the Province ignores weeds in their right‐of‐ ways. In the past Alberta Transportation had the option of signing Service Agreements with each municipality to do invasive plant control, but that option is no longer available in some districts (including Stettler County) as a result of the highway maintenance contracts in those areas.

History & Legislation Alberta highway shoulders were mowed twice per season. Approximately every four years, a manager would prescribe additional shoulder to fence‐line mowing. In 2015 Alberta Transportation stopped mowing along all highways in what we believe was a cost‐saving measure. Alberta Transportation proactive weed control plans changed in 2014. Again, what we believe was due to budget cutbacks, Alberta Transportation stopped spraying weeds proactively, and would only spray if we issued a weed notice.

The Alberta Weed Control Act was proclaimed in Province of Alberta in 1907. It is reviewed and proclaimed every four or six years. It was last reviewed and proclaimed on October 1, 2011.

The Alberta Weed Control Act aims to regulate noxious weeds, prohibited noxious weeds, and weed seeds through various control measures, such as inspection and enforcement, together with provisions for recovery of expenses in cases of non‐compliance. Additionally, it mandates the licensing of seed cleaning plants and mechanisms. An excerpt is included:

Part 1: Noxious weeds — control 2 A person shall control a noxious weed that is on land the person owns or occupies. Prohibited noxious weeds — destroy 3 A person shall destroy a prohibited noxious weed that is on land the person owns or occupies.

Spread of weeds prohibited 4(1) Subject to the regulations, a person shall not use or move any thing that, if used or moved, might spread a noxious weed or

62 prohibited noxious weed.

Other Stakeholders Alberta Invasive Plants Council ‐ This group of individuals and organizations work hard to educate, the public on invasive species (plants, and organisms) not only in our province, but also those that can potentially be introduced in our province. This group tries very hard to stop the spread of invasive species.

Association of Alberta Agricultural Fieldmen ‐ This is a group of about 155 members from across the province, these men and women work hard every day to try and reduce or eradicate the invasive species in their respective Counties or MD’s. We are bound by the Alberta Weed Act in our own jurisdiction to both keep Right of Ways clean, but also educate and enforce weed concerns to local producers.

Agricultural Services Board ‐ There are 70 municipalities that have an Agricultural Services Board, this board and its members create and uphold strategic plans that include proactive measures to reduce invasive populations in their jurisdiction. We work hard every year to improve our stewardship on the lands around us.

Alberta Transportation ‐ Alberta Transportation has a very high invested interest as they are in control of the highways, these roads must be kept safe for all travelers. Letting unwanted vegetation stay on the shoulders of the roads, growing tall allows for very unsafe driving conditions, as wildlife can emerge with little notice, as well as, travelers when stopping o the sides of the roads can unknowingly transfer invasive species.

Alberta Agriculture and Forestry – The Alberta Weed Act is an act that has been around since 1907. This is an act that was created by Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. If the expectation is to educate and enforce this act upon the public, they must abide themselves.

Stettler County Local Ratepayers adjacent to the highways ‐ Having neighboring lands with our provincial highways, local ratepayers spend more time, and money on their fence‐lines, and highway right of ways controlling weeds and unwanted vegetation.

CP and CN rail lines ‐ The rail lines cross over provincial highways all over the province, when the two cross, there is a chance of transferring weeds further on, even out of province.

63

Insurance Industry ‐ We have received several letters, calls and visits from county residents who have noticed increased wildlife and bird strikes along our two and three digit highways. They are worried for their own safety as well as the safety of local wildlife impacted by motorist’s inability to spot wildlife and have proper warning time in which to react to wildlife crossing. This has a financial impact from the aspect of automobile insurance rates and premiums.

Past Advocacy Efforts Provincial Agricultural Services Board Conference 2006: Resolution #10 ‐ Weed Control Along Primary and Secondary Highways

A resolution was passed that requested “the Provincial Government allocate sufficient funds to control the weeds and undesirable vegetation along their primary and secondary highways within the Province”.

At that time Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation indicated that they placed a “high priority on weed control within all highway rights‐of‐way”. The department also stated that in 1999 a process was initiated “to involve the Fieldmen more directly in the weed control programs by allowing them, in urgent situations, to order work directly from highway maintenance contractors or to undertake weed control using their own forces. This process has been quite successful on a provincial basis”.

2008: Resolution #15 ‐ Weed Control of Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation Roadways

Agricultural Services Boards across Alberta are/were interested in providing weed control in their municipality, the local Agricultural Services Boards are willing and ready to help control the highways, in the most effective, and efficient way possible. Weed Control within all highway right‐of‐ways is a priority for government. The department has contractual obligations to have weed control work done by the highway maintenance contractors. Staff from Alberta Infrastructure and Transportation (INFTRA) and Alberta Agriculture and Food work closely with Agricultural Fieldmen and highway maintenance contractors to determine the weed spraying and mowing requirements along each roadway within their jurisdiction. Also, Agricultural Fieldmen identify problematic locations that need special attention and ensure they are addressed

2010: Resolution #4 ‐ Alberta Transportation Roadside Weed Control

64 A resolution was passed that requested “Alberta Transportation review their current weed control program to ensure the effectiveness of the program and give consideration to an increase in the current width of ditch that is sprayed as well as implementing a monitoring and assessment program to ensure that severe populations are dealt with proactively not reactively.”

Alberta Transportations (AT) response indicated that it was working with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development to increase the effectiveness of its weed control program and the knowledge of the field staff. It also indicated that is establishing standards for a province‐wide integrated invasive species management program. The information gathered by the maintenance contract inspectors and other Alberta Transportation staff will be incorporated into Alberta's Pest Surveillance System as well as Alberta Transportation's internal tracking systems, which will allow effective herbicide application and rotation.

2016: Resolution # 1 PROACTIVE VEGETATION MANAGEMENT ON ALBERTA PROVINCIAL HIGHWAYS We asked: Therefore it be resolved, that The Government of Alberta restores funding levels to Alberta Transportation for summer maintenance programs for vegetation management (weed control and mowing). And further therefore it be resolved that we ask for the option to control YOUR highways, at a manageable level, and cost effective manner. There is no consistency in regards to how weed control work is done. Individual highway maintenance contractors have their own way of dealing with weed control and mowing.

In addition, we asked for additional funds through a resolution in 2015: Resolution #4 Additional Funding for Municipalities dealing with Prohibited Noxious Weeds that come from Outside the Province of Alberta Therefore be it resolved that Alberta's Agricultural Service Boards request That Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development supply additional funding up to $75,000 per year for each municipality with an Agricultural Service Board that is affected by the constant flow of prohibited noxious weeds coming into their municipality from outside the province of Alberta.

Further Therefore be it resolved that Alberta's Agricultural Service Boards request That Funding for this program be in addition to the current ASB Grant Program Funding.

This was asked of by which is battling noxious and prohibited noxious weeds within your province on your behalf. The response was: Agriculture & Forestry has been collaborating with Cardston County in exploring the possibility of an intensified survey and control program to eradicate the prohibited noxious weed, spotted knapweed. Heavy infestations occur within the County, some in sensitive areas like water course ways.

65 Agriculture & Forestry is supporting the County in developing protocols for their eradication program efforts, yet earlier in 2016, an email was sent out by the Honourable Carlier, stating that funds have run out, the spray crews to deal with the issue were outside of . How is this possible? The email states:

“AAAF Members,

It has been brought to my attention, that as of yesterday, the 2016 Agriculture & Forestry budget has absolutely zero dollars for chemical weed control in the Southwest. The areas affected will be Crowsnest Pass, MD of Pincher Creek and parts of the MD of Willow Creek. As we approach the peak of our spray season, chemical spraying has stalled completely in this area of the Calgary Forest Area, Green Zone. In speaking with staff from the Blairmore Ranger Station, I have been informed that presently there are only two staff dedicated/responsible for the area mentioned above. These two staff have been reduced to hand pulling only. It comes at a time when I believe we finally have most players at the table with a vested interest in managing invasive species (this includes CPR, TransCanada Pipeline, Department of Transportation, Alberta Environment, most Utility Companies and the majority of the residents within our Municipality). I find this, “to say the least”, very frustrating. I am beginning to wonder if each of the aforementioned, take turns testing the system.

Our Agriculture & Environmental Services Department has already begun preparing weed notices for areas of concern, it does make you wonder how a Ministry that administers the Act, will not supply the necessary funding to comply to their Act.

I believe we all understand the devastation this decision will have on what we have accomplished to date. This will definitely have a geographical impact. I call upon every one of us to express concern to the Minister of Agriculture & Forestry or Erica Samis, Director of Forest Health & Adaptation, over this decision to end chemical vegetation control due to lack of appropriate funding within the Calgary Forest Area, Green Zone.

Honourable Oneil Carlier,

Minister of Agriculture and Forestry”

In summary, we are asking for Government collaboration and positive partnership in moving forward to clean up Alberta Highways for the benefit of landowners who live along these highways and the safety of all who travel them.

66 RESOLUTION 2 ENSURING COMPETITION FOR SEED AND CROP PROTECTION PRODUCTS

WHEREAS: Global Agribusiness Bayer has offered to purchase another Global Agribusiness, Monsanto;

WHEREAS: A compilation of agriculture statistics indicates that in 2010, 46% of Canola grown in Canada was Liberty Link (Bayer) 47% was Roundup Ready (Monsanto), 6% was Clearfield (BASF). Based on those statistics, seed and the related pesticides sales on approximately 93% of Canola grown in Canada could conceivably belong to a merged Bayer/Monsanto company;

WHEREAS: Competition encourages research, more choices on seed and crop protection products and lower prices, which is better for primary producers as well as consumers;

WHEREAS: Section 90.1 (1) (a) of the Competition Act states: If, on application by the Commissioner, the Tribunal finds that an agreement or arrangement — whether existing or proposed — between persons two or more of whom are competitors prevents or lessens, or is likely to prevent or lessen, competition substantially in a market, the Tribunal may make an order

(a) prohibiting any person — whether or not a party to the agreement or arrangement — from doing anything under the agreement or arrangement.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT ALBERTA’S AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARDS REQUEST THAT Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada and the Administrative Tribunals Support Service of Canada work cooperatively to ensure a merger between Bayer and Monsanto is either prevented, or allowed only in a manner which assures competition of agricultural seeds and crop protection products remains.

SPONSORED BY: Municipal District of Smoky River No.130

MOVED BY:

SECONDED BY:

CARRIED:

DEFEATED:

STATUS: Provincial and Federal _

DEPARTMENT: Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, Agriculture and Agri‐Food Canada and the Administrative Tribunals Support Service of Canada

67 Background Information:

Estimated acreage and percentage of HT and conventional canola in Canada - updated December 3, 2010 Source: Provincial databases, seed company information, surveys and .

Roundup Ready Liberty Clearfield (not (transgenic; (transgenic; transgenic; herbicide herbicide herbicide Total Acres Total tolerant) tolerant) tolerant) Conventional Harvested Production Year (000) (000 tonnes) % of acr e s 1995 13,200 6,436 0 0 0 100 1996 8,800 5,056 1 3 6 90 1997 12,000 6,266 4 8 14 74 1998 13,500 7,588 23 12 16 49 1999 13,700 8,798 35 18 18 29 2000 11,995 7,086 40 15 25 20 2001 9,601 5,062 45 16 20 19 2002 7,060 3,577 43 21 20 16 2003 11,600 6,669 48 22 19 12 2004 12,200 7,728 45 30 18 7 2005 12,980 9,660 45 34 14 7 2006 12,946 9,100 44 40 11 5 2007 15,511 9,529 47 41 11 2 2008 16,048 12,643 45 41 13 1 2009 15,755 12,417 51 40 7 1 2010 16,097 11,866 47 46 6 1 * Numbers may be slightly off due to rounding.

68 Saskatchewan Agriculture statistic taken from the June 14, 2013 Western Producer Article “Are Clearfield canola’s struggles over?”

“Other estimates are lower than that. Saskatchewan Agriculture says the Clearfield system captured 2.4 percent of the 6.86 million insured canola acres in that province in 2012, followed by Roundup Ready at 42.4 percent and LibertyLink at 55 percent.”

Current Status of Herbicide Tolerance

From: The International Service for the Acquisition of Agri‐Biotech Applications http://isaaa.org/resources/publications/pocketk/10/default.asp

From 1996 to 2014, HT crops consistently occupied the largest planting area of biotech crops. In 2014 alone, HT crops occupied 102.6 million hectares or 57% of the 181.5 million hectares of biotech crops planted globally. The most common are the glyphosate and glufosinate tolerant varieties.

From: Genetically Engineered Crops in the United States USDA report #162 February 2014 http://www.ers.usda.gov/media/1282246/err162.pdf

Three crops (corn, cotton, and soybeans) make up the bulk of the acres planted to GE crops. U.S. farmers planted about 169 million acres of these GE crops in 2013, or about half of total land used to grow crops. Herbicide‐tolerant (HT) crops have traits that allow them to tolerate more effective herbicides, such as glyphosate, helping adopters control pervasive weeds more effectively. U.S. farmers used HT soybeans on 93 percent of all planted soybean acres in 2013. (page 5)

HT corn accounted for 85 percent of corn acreage in 2013, and HT cotton constituted 82 percent of cotton acreage. Farmers planted insect‐resistant (Bt) cotton to control pests such as tobacco budworm, cotton bollworm, and pink boll‐worm on 75 percent of U.S. acreage in 2013. Bt corn—which controls the European corn borer, the corn rootworm, and the corn earworm—was planted on 76 percent of corn acres in 2013. The adoption of Bt crops increases yields by mitigating yield losses from insects. However, empirical evidence regarding the effect of HT crops on yields is mixed. Generally, stacked seeds (seeds with more than one GE trait) tend to have higher yields than conventional seeds or than seeds with only one GE trait. GE corn with stacked traits grew from 1 percent of corn acres in 2000 to 71 percent in 2013. Stacked seed varieties also accounted for 67 percent of cotton acres in 2013. (page 6)

On a global scale, approximately 420 million acres of GE crops were planted in 28 countries in 2012 (International Service for the Acquisition of Agri‐biotech Applications, 2012). U.S. acreage accounted for approximately 41 percent of acres planted with GE seed, Brazil accounted for 21 percent, Argentina for 14 percent, Canada for 7 percent, India for 6 percent, and China, Paraguay, South Africa, and Pakistan each for roughly 2 percent. (page 9)

Roundup Ready Soybeans

Today, over 60% of soybean acres in Eastern Canada are planted using the Roundup Ready system.

Source: Monsanto.ca http://www.monsanto.ca/products/Pages/RoundupReadySoybeans.aspx

69 Page credit: Volume 10 Frontiers of Economics and Globalization Genetically Modified Food and Global Warfare Editors: Colin A. Carter, Giancarlo Moschini and Ian Sheldon

70 Bayer clinches Monsanto with raised US$66 billion bid

Regulatory sell-off expected for some canola, soybean assets

By greg-roumeliotis, Ludwig Burger Published: September 14, 2016

New York/Frankfurt | Reuters — German drugs and crop chemicals company Bayer has won over U.S. seeds firm Monsanto with an improved takeover offer of US$66 billion including debt, ending months of wrangling after increasing its bid for a third time.

The $128 a share deal announced on Wednesday, up from Bayer’s previous offer of $127.50 a share, is the biggest of the year so far and the largest cash bid on record (all figures US$).

The transaction will create a company commanding more than a quarter of the combined world market for seeds and pesticides in a fast-consolidating farm supplies industry.

However, competition authorities are likely to scrutinise the tie-up closely, and some of Bayer’s own shareholders have been critical of a takeover plan which they say is too expensive and risks neglecting the company’s pharmaceutical business.

“Bayer’s competitors are merging, so not doing this deal would mean having a competitive disadvantage,” said Markus Manns, a fund manager at Union Investment, one of Bayer’s top 12 investors, according to ThomsonReuters data.

He said few people had expected a deal to be agreed at less than $130 a share, but that there were regulatory risks and the acquisition would also leave Bayer with less scope to invest in healthcare, where rivals are consolidating too.

The transaction includes a break fee of $2 billion that Bayer will pay to Monsanto should it fail to get regulatory clearance. Bayer expects the deal to close by the end of 2017.

The details confirm what a source close to the matter told Reuters earlier.

71 At 2:30 p.m. GT, Bayer shares were up 2.4 per cent at 95.52 euros (C$141.07). Monsanto’s were up 0.7 per cent at $106.80 (C$140.60).

Baader Helevea Equity Research analyst Jacob Thrane, who has a “sell” rating on Bayer shares, said the German company was paying 16.1 times Monsanto’s forecast core earnings for 2017, more than the 15.5 times ChemChina agreed to pay for Swiss crop chemicals firm Syngenta.

He also said there was uncertainty over what the combined company would look like as regulators might demand asset sales.

Some analysts said the deal could face a rough ride from U.S. politicians opposed to a key supplier of U.S. agriculture falling into foreign hands and from farmers concerned a reduction in competition could lead to higher prices.

Bayer said it needed approval from antitrust authorities in 30 jurisdictions, but its initial feedback from both regulators and politicians was encouraging.

The German firm said it expected the deal to boost core earnings per share in the first full year following completion, and by a double-digit percentage in the third year. It is targeting $1.2 billion in annual cost synergies and $300 million in sales synergies after three years.

One-stop shop

Bayer’s move to combine its crop chemicals business, the world’s second largest after Syngenta, with Monsanto’s industry leading seeds business, is the latest in a series of major tie-ups in the agrochemicals sector.

The German company is aiming to create a one-stop shop for seeds, crop chemicals and computer-aided services to farmers.

That was also the idea behind Monsanto’s swoop on Syngenta last year, which the Swiss company fended off, only to agree later to a takeover by China’s state-owned ChemChina.

Elsewhere, U.S. chemicals giants Dow Chemical and DuPont plan to merge and later spin off their respective seeds and crop chemicals operations into a major agribusiness.

72 “The combined business will be ideally suited to cater to the requirements of farmers… because we have equal and meaningful strength in both crop protection, seeds and traits, and digital and analytical tools,” Bayer CEO Werner Baumann said on a call with analysts.

The deal will be the largest ever involving a German buyer, beating Daimler’s tie-up with Chrysler in 1998, which valued the U.S. carmaker at more than $40 billion. It will also be the largest all-cash transaction on record, ahead of brewer InBev’s $60.4 billion offer for Anheuser- Busch in 2008.

Bayer said it was offering a 44 per cent premium to Monsanto’s share price on May 9, the day before it made its first written proposal.

It plans to raise $19 billion to help fund the deal by issuing convertible bonds and new shares to its existing shareholders.

It also said BofA Merrill Lynch, Credit Suisse , Goldman Sachs, HSBC and JP Morgan had committed to providing $57 billion of bridge financing and that it was targeting an investment grade credit rating after completion of the deal.

Bayer and Monsanto were in talks about a possible tie-up as early as March, which culminated in Bayer’s initial $122 per-share proposal in May.

Antitrust experts have said regulators will likely demand the sale of some soybeans, cotton and canola seed assets as a condition for approving the deal.

The two companies said their merged agriculture business would have its global seeds and traits and North American commercial headquarters in Monsanto’s U.S. home base of St. Louis. The merged global crop protection and overall crop science headquarters would be in Monheim, Germany, while the combined company’s “digital farming” activities would be based in San Francisco.

The two companies said they would also keep “an important presence” in Durham, North Carolina — the current home base for Bayer CropScience in the U.S. — and in “many other locations throughout the U.S. and around the world.”

Bayer CropScience’s Canadian operations are based in Calgary, with seed breeding operations in Saskatoon, seed processing at and formulation and distribution facilities in Regina.

73 Monsanto’s Canadian business, meanwhile, is based in Winnipeg, with production facilities at Lethbridge and Cranbrook, B.C., research farms at Edmonton, Saskatoon and Yorkton, Sask., research facilities at Guelph, London, Ont. and Oakville, Man., a seed breeding operation at Carman, Man. and a corn and soy distribution centre at Tillsonburg, Ont.

Both Monsanto and Bayer CropScience also maintain Canadian regulatory offices in Ottawa and operation centres for Eastern Canada at Guelph.

— Reporting for Reuters by Greg Roumeliotis in New York and Ludwig Burger in Frankfurt; additional reporting by Arno Schuetze and Christoph Steitz. Includes files from AGCanada.com Network staff. Bayer Monsanto Merger Serious Concern for Canola Farmers

JOINT STATEMENT- Alberta Canola Producers Commission

Bayer Monsanto Merger Serious Concern for Canola Farmers

The proposed merger between Bayer and Monsanto has the potential to significantly reduce competition and stifle innovation for canola farmers.

Winnipeg, Manitoba – September 19, 2016 The recent announcement of a merger agreement between Bayer and Monsanto is a cause of serious concern to Canada’s canola farmers. The merger would combine two leading players in Canada’s agriculture industry, significantly reducing competition and consolidating market share in the canola seed, trait and crop protection business.

Canola is an extremely important crop to the long-term economic and environmental sustainability of 43,000 Canadian grain farms. Canola farmers are especially concerned about the effect of the merger on the offerings that will be available to them in the future. A reduction in competition could potentially increase crop input prices, curtail product choice and diminish the incentive for future innovation in canola seed and chemistry.

The Competition Act and its enforcement agency, the Competition Bureau, have established review procedures for determining the impact that proposed corporate mergers

74 will have on competition in a sector of the economy. The regulator has the power to impose actions, conditions or require divestitures in a merger agreement to ensure competition is not substantially lessened.

Associations representing canola farmers at provincial and national levels, call for a timely and rigorous review by the regulator of the merger’s impact on competition in the canola sector in general, and more specifically at the farm gate. The associations will work with the regulator to ensure canola farmers’ concerns are voiced and that the impact of the merger on canola farmers is fully understood.

Contacts:

 Canadian Canola Growers Association: Kelly Green, Director of Communications (204) 789-8821  Alberta Canola Producers Commission: Megan Madden, Communications Coordinator (780) 686-8807  SaskCanola: Ellen Grueter, Communications Manager (306) 380-4016  Manitoba Canola Growers Association: Bill Ross, Executive Manager (204) 982- 2120  Ontario Canola Growers Association: Carrie James, General Manager (519) 986- 3519

75 RESOLUTION 3 INCORPORATING AGRICULTURE AND AGRI‐FOOD EDUCATION IN THE CLASSROOM

WHEREAS: Alberta Education is currently reviewing the Alberta school curriculum;

WHEREAS: Education about agriculture is limited within the current school curriculum;

WHEREAS: The Classroom Agricultural Program is only able to spend one hour with grade 4 students;

WHEREAS: Consumer interest of how agriculture production is achieved, and food is produced is increasing;

WHEREAS: Less than 2% of the population have a direct role in primary agriculture production, people have a less direct experience with growing their own food or participating in the agriculture industry;

WHEREAS: The availability of incorrect or incomplete information on the agriculture and agri‐food industry is increasing;

WHEREAS: Consumer purchases can be influenced by the amount and quality of agriculture and agri‐food awareness and education they have received.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT ALBERTA’S AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARDS REQUEST that the Minister of Education, during the pending review of the Alberta School Curriculum, include agriculture and agri‐food and its importance to Canadians as part of the new curriculum at elementary, junior high and high school levels.

FURTHER THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT ALBERTA’S AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARDS REQUEST that Alberta Education and Alberta Agriculture and Forestry increase the amount of time spent in the school curriculum to discuss food and agriculture.

FURTHER THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT ALBERTA’S AGRICULTURAL SERVICE BOARDS REQUEST that Alberta Education and Alberta Agriculture and Forestry create a panel of Agricultural and Nutrition experts to create the curriculum that will be taught in Alberta classrooms.

SPONSORED BY:

MOVED BY: ______

SECONDED BY: ______

CARRIED: ______

76 DEFEATED: ______

STATUS: ______

DEPARTMENT: Alberta Education and Alberta Agriculture and Forestry

Background Information: Everyone needs to eat. The agriculture and agri‐food industries in Canada ensure that Canadians have safe and healthy food to eat, but there is skepticism from many Canadians about their food due to inaccurate or incomplete information they receive. Canada’s farmers comprise 2% of our currently population which means that there is a large rural/urban split between those who produce food and those that consume that food. People no longer have that direct connection to the farm to be able to understand how the food they eat is produced and rely on what they are taught in school and other outlets.

Education about agriculture and its’ importance is currently limited within the current Alberta school curriculum. In some instances, the only agriculture education kids receive is a one hour presentation from the Classroom Agriculture Program (CAP) when they are in grade four. Don George, the CAP General Manager, said: “Last year we had over 21,000 grade 4 students registered for CAP, while that is a large number, it represents less than half of all grade 4’s in the province. One of our biggest hurdles to increasing that number is available volunteers. At CAP we are always looking for ways to increase our student registration.” Agriculture in the Classroom and Green Certificate are two other programs available through schools. Agriculture in the Classroom is another voluntary program that was developed for grade 2‐5 students to connect students to people who grow food. Farmers, ranchers and individuals that support them visit classroom and share their personal agriculture story through this program. Green Certificate is an optional high school course, developed by Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, that students can take to learn about agriculture and develop skills to help them work in the agriculture industry. These programs are all voluntary and therefore do not have the ability to reach all students to help them understand the importance of agriculture and the agri‐food industry. A formal agricultural component needs to be integrated into the Alberta school curriculum to help it reach all students at all stages of learning.

Alberta Education is currently reviewing their current school curriculum. This is an opportunity to include additional time in the curriculum to help children, their teachers and parents understand how food is produced and that agriculture produces safe and healthy food for them to eat. Some of the things they should be taught include the science behind Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and its’ advantages, facts about protein production and organic versus conventional agriculture and the nutrition of each process. They should also be taught the importance of preserving good agricultural land for food production and that much of Canada’s agricultural lands are disappearing rapidly.

The curriculum should also include the economic importance of the agriculture and agri‐food industries to Canada. In 2014, Canada exported $52 billion in agri‐food exports and it is estimated that 1 in 8 jobs are directly linked to agriculture and agri‐food. The demand for agriculture and agri‐food exports will continue to increase over time and the world will need 70% more food by 2050. Additional information about Alberta’s agriculture and agri‐food exports is attached.

77 From http://www.albertacanada.com/business/industries/agrifood‐about‐the‐industry.aspx

About the industry

Industry fast facts

 Nationally, Alberta represented almost 20% ($9.7 billion) of Canadian total agri‐food exports of $52.0 billion in 2014, and was the third largest exporter of agri‐food products after Saskatchewan and Ontario.

 Alberta's manufacturing industries employed 144,500 persons in 2014. The largest segment was made up of food and beverage manufacturing workers at 25,500 or 17.6% of the total.

 Preliminary estimates for 2014 indicate that Alberta’s food and beverage processing industries represented the second largest manufacturing sector in the province accounting for 17.3% or $13.7 billion of total manufactured goods ($79.4 billion). Petroleum and coal product manufacturing industries ranked first at 28.5% or $22.6 billion. Chemical manufacturing industries ranked third at 16.3% or $13.0 billion. Alberta is the third largest food and beverage producing province (13.0%) in Canada.

 Alberta’s food and beverage products have high standards and a global reputation for safety and quality.

 63.0% of Alberta’s food and beverage manufacturing industries in 2014 was concentrated in two segments: meat product manufacturing and grain and oilseed milling.

Alberta Food Manufacturing

In 2014, 55.2% of food manufacturing sales was concentrated in the meat product manufacturing segment.

78

Alberta Agri‐food exports

In 2014, Alberta agri‐food exports set another record at $9.7 billion, up 11.6% from 2013. Strong livestock prices, the low Canadian dollar and generally larger export quantities contributed to the increase. Gains in exports were reported for both primary commodities (animals and crops) and value added processed products. Exports of primary commodities rose 8.2% to $5.5 billion, representing 56.4% of Alberta’s total agri‐food exports. Value added exports increased 16.3% to $4.2 billion, and accounted for 43.6% of the total.

79

AGROFORESTRY & WOODLOT EXTENSION SOCIETY 17507 Fort Road NW Edmonton, AB T5Y 6H3 www.awes-ab.ca [email protected]

Re: Agroforestry Planting Project on Cynthia Waste Treatment Facility Grounds

The following is a proposal of the Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society (AWES) for ecobuffer- based planting in the spring of 2017 on the Cynthia Waste Treatment Facility Grounds. This proposal is based on the conversations during the site assessment; it is tentative and can be further developed after receipt.

Planting Design The main goal of this proposed planting is to provide pollinator habitat that requires little maintenance and does not interfere with the operations of the treatment facility. This goal is achieved by planting 15 species of shrubs and a mixture of forbs on the treatment facility grounds, mainly on the south side of the facility. Species have been selected because they are native to the region, are relatively small in stature and will not block sunlight from entering the facility, and have flowers with diverse bloom periods, shapes, sizes, and colours.

Most species will be planted in small clumps (3-5 individuals per clump), and at a high density (1-2m between individuals). Clumps of wet-loving species (e.g. willow, alder, dwarf birch, red-osier dogwood) will be planted near to the edge of the pond on the grounds. In addition to this, 270 saskatoons will be planted around the property boundary. Space will be left for pathways throughout the planting.

Site preparation and maintenance plans will be developed through consultations with the Treatment Facility Manager. Seedlings can be planted directly into the lawn grass, but if organic mulch (e.g. wood chips or straw) is available, spreading it around the planted seedlings would improve their survival. Mowing and/or weeding 2-3 times in the first year of establishment may also improve survival rates.

80 Table 1: Cumulative site planting plan and costs. Note that seedling costs are based on 2016 prices, and may be subject to change.

Item Unit Cost Units Cost Development - Labour $ 500.00 3.5 $ 1,750.00 Planting - Labour $ 0.75 630 $ 472.50 Seedlings n/a 630 $ 1,858.70 Shipping $ 350.00 1 $ 350.00 Sub-Total $ 4,431.20 GST $ 221.56 Total $ 4,652.76

Table 2: Breakdown seedlings for planting project.

Item Common name Quantity Unit cost Cost Alnus incana ssp. Tenuifolia River alder 20 $ 0.98 $ 19.60 Amelanchier alnifolia Saskatoon 270 $ 3.69 $ 996.30 Betula pumila Dwarf birch 20 $ 0.98 $ 19.60 Cornus stolonifera Red osier dogwood 20 $ 2.29 $ 45.80 Prunus virginiana Chokecherry 20 $ 1.05 $ 21.00 Ribes ssp. (hudsonianum, Currant/gooseberry 20 $ 4.00 $ 80.00 oxyacanthoides, or cultivar) Rosa ssp. (acicularis or woodsii) Rose 20 $ 1.05 $ 21.00 Rubus idaeus Wild raspberry 20 $ 2.29 $ 45.80 Salix spp. (bebiana, discolor, etc.) Willow 20 $ 2.00 $ 40.00 Sambucus racemosa Red elderberry 20 $ 4.00 $ 80.00 Shepherdia canadensis Canada buffaloberry 20 $ 1.05 $ 21.00 Symphoricarpos albus Snowberry 20 $ 3.50 $ 70.00 Viburnum opulus or edule Highbush or low- 20 $ 0.89 $ 17.80 bush cranberry Vaccinium myrtilloides Common blueberry 20 $ 1.05 $ 21.00 Forb mix 80 $ 4.00 $ 320.00

Proposed Services The following is a list of services AWES can provide required for the planting project:  Planning site planting  Consulting with county staff on site preparation methods.  Ordering and storage of seedlings  Planting of seedlings  Performing a field assessment in the late growing season, and reporting progress of tree establishment and growth.

81 Proposed Timeline in 2017  December: o Ordering of seedlings  Late May - mid June: Planting  Late May 2017: Survival assessment

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Jeff Renton, M.Sc. Project Manager

AWES Agroforestry & Woodlot Extension Society

Phone: 780 643-6732 Cell: 780 700-8704 Email: [email protected]

82

AGROFORESTRY & WOODLOT EXTENSION SOCIETY 17507 Fort Road NW Edmonton, AB T5Y 6H3 www.awes-ab.ca [email protected]

Re: Food Forest-Ecobuffer Planting Project on Cynthia Area

The following is a proposal of the Agroforestry and Woodlot Extension Society (AWES) for ecobuffer- food forest planting in the spring of 2017 in the Cynthia area. This proposal is a guide and cost estimate for a potential planting in the area based on the conversations during the site assessment and subsequently with county staff. The design and size of the planting is very flexible.

Planting Design

Table 1: Cumulative site planting plan and costs. Note that seedling costs are based on 2016 prices, and may be subject to change.

Item Quantity Unit Unit Cost Cost Fruit tree 7 Container pot $ 60.00 $ 420.00 Fruit producing shrub 53 Container pot $ 9.00 $ 477.00 Nitrogen fixing shrub 60 Seedling $ 1.69 $ 101.40

Plan development 3 Day $ 500.00 $ 1,500.00

Sub-Total $ 2,498.40 GST $ 124.92 Total $ 2,623.32

83

Figure 1: Design of a potential 450m^2 food forest 15 meters SE H R SI LEGEND SE H P SI Fruit trees SE H CP SI Apple: A SE H CP SI Plum: P SE H CP SI Cherry: CH SI A CP SE Fruit producing shrubs SI C CP SE Haskap: H SI C CP SE Currant: C SI C CP SE Gooseberry: G SI C CP SE Raspberry: R SE C CH SI Cherry plum: CP SE C S SI Saskatoon: S SE C S SI Nitrogen fixing/fruit producing shrubs SE C S SI Silver buffaloberry: SI SE P S SI Seabuckthorn: SE SI G S SE

30meters SI G S SE Note that different cultivars of the same species SI G S SE should be planted close together to facilitate SI G S SE North ^ SI G A SE SE G H SI Within row spacing: 1 meter SE G H SI Between row spacing: 5 meters SE G H SI SE CH H SI Assumptions SE RH SI No large machinery required for harvesting SI RH SE Flat slope, open area, consistent soil moisture and texture SI RH SE No integration of livestock SI RH SE SI RP SE SI RC SE

Proposed Services The following is a list of services AWES can provide required for the planting project:  Planning site planting  Consulting with county staff on site preparation methods.  Ordering and storage of seedlings  Planting of seedlings  Performing a field assessment in the late growing season, and reporting progress of tree establishment and growth.

Proposed Timeline in 2017  December: o Ordering of seedlings  Late May - mid June: Planting  Late May 2017: Survival assessment

84 If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

Jeff Renton, M.Sc. Project Manager

AWES Agroforestry & Woodlot Extension Society

Phone: 780 643-6732 Cell: 780 700-8704 Email: [email protected]

85 Tara McGinn

From: Laura Nelson Sent: December-01-16 11:34 AM To: Tara McGinn Subject: please advise ASB chair Rick Ennis

Tara:

In late October our office received a cc’d letter that your ASB Chairman, Rick Ennis had sent to Breton Elementary School. Rick encouraged the school to find time for our in school farm safety program to be delivered to their students.

We reached out to the school after receiving the letter. Delivery of our Safety Smarts presentations are scheduled to be delivered at Breton school on January 23 and 24, 2017.

Would you please pass this along to Rick so your ASB is aware that their encouragement bore fruit.

Thanks

Laura Nelson Executive Director Farm Safety Centre

403 752‐4585 ‐ office 403 360‐3991 ‐ cell

1 86 Brazeau County 7401 – Twp Rd 494, P.O. Box 77, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A‐1R1 PHONE: (780) 542‐7777 ‐ FAX: (780) 542‐7770 www.brazeau.ab.ca

November 29, 2016

Honorable Oneil Carlier Office of the Minister Agriculture and Forestry 229 Legislature Building 10800 ‐ 97 Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2B6

RE: State of Agricultural Disaster and Proposed Assistance

Dear Minister Carlier:

Agricultural producers in Brazeau County have been enduring excessive moisture throughout the growing season, rain and snow during the harvest, and now cooler temperatures with snow covered swaths. These conditions have left our agricultural producers with many acres of unharvested, covered crops, and field conditions that are too wet to hold up harvest equipment.

The number of acres unharvested and the extent of the damage within the County prompted Brazeau County to declare a state of agricultural disaster on November 2, 2016.

In an effort to help mitigate negative economic impacts that this natural disaster is inflicting on our agricultural producers in the County, Brazeau County Agricultural Services Board (ASB) is requesting that the Minister review the proposed assistance options in the attached appendix of this letter. The board also recommends the implementation of any or all options.

Sincerely,

Rick Ennis Chairman, Agricultural Service Board

RE/tl

Cc: Honorable Danielle Larivee, Minister of Municipal Affairs Mr. Brian Jean, Honorable Leader of the Official Opposition Mr. Mark Smith, MLA, Drayton Valley, Devon Mr. Al Kemmere, President, Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties (AAMDC) Brazeau County Council Brazeau County ASB 1 of 2 | Pages 87

Brazeau County 7401 – Twp Rd 494, P.O. Box 77, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A‐1R1 PHONE: (780) 542‐7777 ‐ FAX: (780) 542‐7770 www.brazeau.ab.ca

Appendix

Option 1: Recommend deferring Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) crop insurance premiums due date to eliminate associated interest charges.

Option 2: Recommend advocating the grain companies to defer existing cereal grain and oilseed contract due dates, and make further contract transfer provisions.

Option 3: Recommend payment enhancement through AgriRecovery ‘Excess Moisture program’.

Option 4: Recommend that the AFSC advance payments of 25% of the producers coverage on a per‐acre basis for unharvested acres in excess of 20% of the total insured acres, be increased to 50% or more of the producers coverage on a per – acre basis for all unharvested acres.

Option 5: Recommend per acre acreage payment program for producers who do not carry insurance to offset crop input cost and lost income due to unharvested acres.

Option 6: Recommend advocacy for the creation of an agricultural disaster policy that will allocate funding from provincial and federal governments to be accessed by municipalities in the event of an agricultural disaster.

Brazeau County ASB 2 of 2 | Pages 88