07

VOLUME 5

pOst harVEst wEEd cOntrOL pagE 4

MULti-spEciEs graZing pagE 11

sEptEMbEr 2009

what’s yOUr bUsinEss stratEgy pagE 19

Crop Insurance changes help Livestock Producers page 21

Minister’s Message

On July 9 and 10, I met with my counterparts from across the country at the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Agriculture Ministers meeting.

A broad range of subjects were discussed, including drought, AgriStability, the challenges in the cattle and hog sector, and international market access issues.

One of the key topics discussed was traceability. Some provinces are currently implementing various traceability programs. The federal government and all other provincial ministers committed to move forward and implement a national mandatory traceability system for

livestock and poultry by 2011.

I did not agree with this initiative.

I question the actual benefits of a mandatory traceability program for cattle producers at the farm gate at this time. My main concern is the added cost to producers, especially given the difficult market conditions over the past number of years. While the premise of traceability is valid, the 2011 timeline is tight and the costs to producers are yet to be determined.

We will continue to work with the Saskatchewan cattle industry on traceability on a voluntary basis. Since forming government, I have maintained that we will not go in any policy direction without the support of industry.

Our voluntary traceability programming will include awareness and education through information and workshops; development of pilot projects at auction marts and feedlots; financial support for equipment and software such as tag readers; and financial support for the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency to provide data entry services to producers.

If federal legislation is passed to implement a national mandatory traceability program, we will work with industry to ensure Saskatchewan producers are able to comply with this legislation. However, until then we will continue to work with industry on voluntary traceability programming.

Sincerely,

Bob Bjornerud

stOry snapshOts

4

AGRIVIEW is published by the Communications Branch of Saskatchewan Agriculture for Saskatchewan farmers and farm and food organizations. For more information, call 306-787-5160 or e-mail agriview@gov.sk.ca. to view this publication online, visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/programs-services.

Fall soil testing

Fall seeding camelina

tabLE OF cOntEnts

9

13

23

Radio frequency evaluation

07

VOLUME 5

POST HARVEST WEED CONTROL PAGE 4

MULTI-SPECIES GRAZING PAGE 11

SEPTEMBER 2009

WHAT’S YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGY PAGE 19

Crop Insurance changes help Livestock Producers page 21

New exhibit at the Saskatchewan Science Centre

Livestock10

Cover: The Orthner farm near Raymore

prepares for harvest.

croPs4

17reGioNAL services

irriGAtioN15

September 2009 3

ProGrAms ANd services19

eveNts cALeNdAr24

16reseArch

mArkets ANd trAde18

4 September 2009

crOps

After Harvest, It’s Time to Control Weeds

by Brent Flaten, PAg, CCAIntegrated Pest Management SpecialistRegional Services

by Patrick Mooleki, PhD, PAgSoil/Nutrient Management SpecialistAgriculture Knowledge Centre

and

Ken Panchuk, PAg, Provincial Soils Specialist Crops Branch

Frost, snow, high winds and generally slow growing conditions this spring made pre-seed perennial and winter annual weed control

difficult. Given the right conditions, fall herbicide applications on these weeds can give better control than springtime applications so consider post-harvest weed control as an option.

Planning ahead is essential to good crop rotation management. Perennial weeds need to be controlled prior to seeding less-competitive crops or in mixed forage stands where perennial weed control options are very limited or non-existent. Fall is one of the best times to do this.

To ensure you get the best possible post-harvest weed control, the herbicide needs to be applied to actively growing weeds that have sufficient re-growth to absorb the maximum amount of herbicide. Evaluate conditions carefully prior to any post-harvest herbicide application. A post-harvest glyphosate application also provides an opportunity to control perennial seedlings that have germinated over the summer before they overwinter and become tougher to kill.

Canada thistle

Research shows that a post-harvest glyphosate application may only control 65 per cent of Canada thistle, but that can be increased to 82 per cent if there is re-growth (i.e. three to four new leaves).

Dandelion

Generally, a post-harvest application gives better and longer-lasting control than a pre-seed application (see graph). Similar results were found with fall- versus spring-applied Prepass or glyphosate at 0.5 l/ac + Express. Research at the University of Saskatchewan found that September applications sometimes gave better control than October applications, by which time the plants have become dormant.

Foxtail Barley

Post-harvest herbicide applications usually give better control than pre-harvest or pre-seed applications. Like Canada thistle, the foxtail barley has to show re-growth and be actively growing for the herbicide to work best. Big clumps of foxtail barley are harder to control than small plants, and will require higher rates of glyphosate.

Terminating forage stands

For maximum control of hard-to-kill alfalfa, the post-harvest herbicide application may be followed up with spring burn-off and in-crop suppression if needed. Use 540 to 720 grams active per acre of glyphosate (1.5 to 2 litres per acre if using 360 grams/litre concentration). If you are seeding to cereals the following spring, add one-half to one litre per acre of 2,4-D to the glyphosate to boost control.

Remember to always refer to product labels for application details and precautions.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; or

• Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca for the telephone number of your local Regional Crop Specialist.

Percentage of dandelion control assessed during summer after treatment

Source: University of Saskatchewan

Soil testing estimates the amount of nutrients available in the soil and helps producers determine what nutrients, if any, need to be added as

fertilizer. The best time to soil test is in the fall.

Nitrogen is the most limiting soil nutrient in Saskatchewan. Its availability to plants is affected by many factors, including soil moisture and temperature. These factors affect its mineralization from organic forms to the nitrate form. As well, urea and anhydrous ammonia (the two most commonly used forms of nitrogen fertilizer in Saskatchewan) undergo changes when applied to the soil, resulting in the formation of nitrates. Nitrate nitrogen is susceptible to leaching, denitrification and immobilization losses. As soil temperatures drop, gassing off (volatilization) of nitrogen applied as urea or anhydrous ammonia is minimized.

Fall soil sampling provides enough time to sample the fields, order the required fertilizer and fall-band nitrogen before the soil freezes.

Although time of soil sampling for phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients is less critical, fall soil testing allows the producer to consider all nutrients for crop planning. Soil nutrient levels remain relatively unchanged during the winter months.

For accurate results, ensure that you:

• contact the soil test lab for proper sampling procedures and shipping instructions;

• provide the lab with cropping history and intentions;

• measure subsoil moisture in each field near freeze up to assist in crop planning, setting target yields, and adjusting soil test recommendations; and

• measure subsoil moisture again in spring for final adjustments to crop inputs.

It is a good idea to call the lab to understand their sampling procedure and recommendation philosophy to determine if they are consistent with your nutrient management objectives.

Know what nutrients you have in the soil by soil testing. Don’t guess!

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

FaLL sOiL tEsting an ExcELLEnt sOiL nUtriEnt ManagEMEnt practicE

crOps

Clubroot Declared a Pestby Faye Dokken, MSc., AAgProvincial Specialist, Plant Disease Crops Branch

The topic of diseases and pests are an old story for producers, but every once in a while, a new pest adds an unexpected twist.

Clubroot is a crop disease that Saskatchewan producers should be aware of. This disease causes wilting, stunting, yellowing, premature ripening and patches of low yields of cruciferous crops in some areas of Canada and around the world. Clubroot is an increasing threat in canola growing areas of Western Canada.

What is clubroot?

Clubroot is a soil-borne disease that affects the roots of cruciferous field and vegetable crops. It is a concern to producers due to resting spores that can survive in the soil for many years. There are no economical or practical control methods available in field crops, such as canola.

Has clubroot been found in Saskatchewan?

Confirmation of clubroot requires observation of symptoms in a susceptible crop and detection of the pathogen’s DNA in a plant or soil sample. Although clubroot symptoms have not been observed in Saskatchewan, clubroot DNA was detected in a soil sample from one west-central Saskatchewan field, which did not exhibit symptoms of disease. Measures will be taken to prevent trace levels of clubroot from developing into a disease issue. Additional soil samples will be collected for clubroot analysis during the 2009 canola survey.

In some areas of Alberta, clubroot disease has become a significant problem for canola growers.

How can I tell if my canola crops have clubroot?

Disease scouting will help gauge the health of your crops. It is important to investigate the cause of any suspicious symptoms. There are several diseases and stresses that can make plants look sick and the only way to know if it might be clubroot is to check the roots for galls.

Be aware of the disease situation on your land by scouting diligently for clubroot. Follow a W-shaped pattern starting at the field entrances (where contaminated soil is most likely to be introduced). If clubroot is suspected, contact the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture‘s Agriculture Knowledge Centre (1-866-457-2377) or your local Regional Services Office.

How does clubroot spread?

Clubroot spreads through movement of soil contaminated with resting spores. Cleaning equipment, particularly originating from known infested areas in Alberta, will help prevent movement of this disease to and within Saskatchewan. If you purchase equipment with soil attached, ask the seller about the equipment history and have it cleaned before it leaves the purchase site. If you are approached by an individual or company who wishes to access your land, ask them if they have a policy to prevent clubroot spread.

Is clubroot considered a pest in Saskatchewan?

Due to the risks associated with the disease, in June 2009, clubroot was declared a pest in Saskatchewan under The Pest Control Act. This action was taken in order to further strengthen clubroot prevention and surveillance in the province.

What will this mean for producers?

Under The Pest Control Act, people who own, occupy or control land are now required to take steps to destroy, control and prevent the spread of clubroot.

Steps include:

• Practising a good crop rotation to reduce the viability of existing resting spores over time and limit further increase of clubroot spores in the field. Susceptible crops should be planted no more than once every four years;

• Destroying clubroot or an infested susceptible crop; or

• Limiting movement of clubroot resting spores by cleaning equipment from infested areas. This may involve removing crop debris and soil, washing of equipment with a power washer and misting with a one-to two-per-cent bleach solution.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn

• Visit www.clubroot.ca or www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Production and click Crops-Disease (see Clubroot FAQ’s and Clubroot Management Plan); or

• Contact Faye Dokken at (306)-787-4671 or e-mail faye.dokken@gov.sk.ca.

For more information on pest legislation:

• Visit www.publications.gov.sk.ca/details.cfm?p=804.

Premature ripening caused by clubroot on canola in Alberta, 2008.

Clubroot galls on canola at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Saskatoon Research Centre containment facility, 2009.

September 2009 5

6 September 2009

crOps

Forage Termination

FaLL is thE bEst tiME tO FErtiLiZE FOragE sEEd crOps

by Andre Bonneau, BSA, PAg Forage Management SpecialistAgriculture Knowledge Centre

and

Brent Flaten, BSA, PAg Integrated Pest Management Specialist Agriculture Knowledge Centre

Time of termination

The best time to terminate perennial forages is when they are actively growing and the food reserves in the root are at their lowest point, because the plant is usually progressing from vegetative to seed production. Applying herbicides too early provides poor translocation into the roots. Once seed-set is initiated, the forage enters dormancy which also reduces translocation of herbicides into the root system. One way around this is to harvest the forage, then allow sufficient regrowth to lower root reserves and allow active plant growth.

Termination methods

The most common methods to terminate a perennial forage stand are the use of either herbicide or tillage or a combination of both.

Herbicide should be applied when the forage is actively growing at the proper stage and at the proper rate. Stressed plants do not absorb and translocate the chemical effectively enough to get a good kill. When a lower rate is used the plants may only be injured, making any herbicide re-application less effective.

Tillage should be aggressive enough to kill the plants’ roots. Rhizomatous (underground roots) plants, such as smooth brome, may be more difficult to kill as root segments that are cut from tillage operations can start new shoots.

Follow-up

Once the stand is effectively terminated consider whether the root matter has an opportunity to decompose. Warm and moist conditions

speed the decomposition process while cool and dry conditions slow the process down.

The decomposition level is an important consideration when choosing small seeded crops, because there may be germination and establishment problems if root material is still abundant. In this case, larger seeded crops such as cereals may be more easily established.

Depending on the situation and the type of forage being terminated, sequential herbicide applications and/or tillage operations over several years may be required.

Plan ahead

Terminating a forage stand is a matter of using the proper tools at the right time and under the right conditions. Planning ahead can take a lot of the uncertainty out of rotating from a perennial to an annual crop.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn • Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; or call

your Regional Crop or Forage Specialist.

Oats seeded into a successfully terminated alfalfa stand near Debden.

Many species of perennial grasses and legumes are grown in Saskatchewan for seed production. These are important

diversification and rotation crops, particularly in the northeast.

Plants need 13 or more essential nutrient elements from the soil for growth, but the key nutrient for grass-seed production in Saskatchewan is nitrogen, and the key nutrients for legume production are phosphorous and sulphur.

Nitrogen increases grass-seed yield by promoting the growth of tillers and by stimulating growth of seed heads. The magnitude of seed-yield response to nitrogen depends on climatic conditions and forage species. The form of nitrogen fertilizer can have an impact on efficacy of application. All forms of nitrogen fertilizer are most effective when applied prior to rain, allowing prompt movement of nitrogen into the soil before losses can occur. Research has indicated that fall-applied nitrogen is more efficient than spring-applied nitrogen. The yield response per unit of nitrogen applied relies on available moisture.

Legume response to phosphorous fertilizer varies with the amount of phosphorous present in the soil. Significant increases in seed yield can occur on soils low in phosphorous. Soil testing is necessary to determine appropriate application levels of phosphorous on perennial legume seed crops. Sulphur is an essential nutrient for nitrogen fixing bacteria in legume crops, and sulphur affects both yield and quality of seed in legumes. On sulphur-deficient soils, increases in seed yields result from relatively small annual additions of sulphate-sulphur.

In summary, fertility management is a key aspect successful forage-seed production. Forage-seed crops require a balanced supply of all nutrients to produce optimal yields. Of particular importance is nitrogen in grasses, and phosphorous and sulphur in legumes. Soil testing is an essential tool that will help manage fertility in grass-seed crops in an efficient manner.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Phone Michel Tremblay, Provincial Forage Specialist, Crops Branch,

Saskatchewan Agriculture, (306) 787-7712; or

• See the 2008 Forage Crop Production Guide on the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Forage-Crop-Production-Guide; or

• Phone the Agriculture Knowledge Centre, toll free, at 1-866-457-2377.

by Michel Tremblay, PAgProvincial Forage SpecialistCrops Branch

crOps

Swath grazing perennials

tO cUt Or nOt tO cUt? that is thE QUEstiOn

Why swath stockpiled perennials?

Are you resting and stockpiling the second growth of a perennial forage stand for fall and winter grazing?

If the stand is tall enough to cut, you may want to consider swathing the crop after a killing frost rather than let it stand into November and December. Swathing the crop locks in forage quality by preventing maturation of the plant and leaf shattering. Swathing also bunches the feed into a windrow making it easier to find in the snow.

Suitable forage crops

Almost all perennial forage crops can be used for swath grazing. All of the perennial legumes such as alfalfa as well as the grasses commonly used for hay production are suitable. Two exceptions are timothy and orchard grass. These grasses store their carbohydrate reserves at the base

of the plant. Trampling or snow packing can reduce the insulation value of the snow causing damage to the roots, and disrupt carbohydrate reserves thereby reducing the plant’s chance of winter survival.

Timing is important

Ideally, the forage crop should be laid in the swath at a stage of reasonable quality. The stage should also coincide with dormancy to reduce the chance of regrowth. At any rate, swathing should be just

prior to, or soon after, the first heavy frost.

Grazing management

To ensure optimum utilization, limit access to swaths with temporary electric fencing. Many forage plants need an open canopy in the spring to begin growth. Alfalfa, for example, has difficulty growing through trash. For this reason, it’s important to ensure the majority of the windrow is grazed to allow growth the following spring.

Avoid grazing when the soil is wet to prevent crown damage. As well, high traffic can reduce snow pack and the insulating ability of the snow. Extreme cold

temperatures can damage alfalfa crowns and cause winter kill.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Phone the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377 or your

local Regional Office.

by Andre Bonneau, BSA, PAgForage Management SpecialistAgriculture Knowledge Centre

and

Lorne Klein, BSA, PAgRegional Forage SpecialistWeyburn Regional Office

Alfalfa crop in June.

The question is often asked, “Can I graze or cut my hay stands and pastures in the fall?”

The answer is: “It depends.”

Fall grazing or cutting of perennial forage stands will affect next year’s production potential as it influences plant energy reserves, the ability to capture snow and the winter-kill potential.

Most hay and pasture species have a critical period during which they should not be cut or grazed. This period is typically six weeks prior to a killing frost. During this time, forage species such as alfalfa are actively putting energy into the crown and roots of the plant. These energy stores are necessary to survive the winter (plant maintenance) and to initiate new growth in the spring. If a plant is grazed during this critical period, it will mobilize those reserves to initiate regrowth and decrease the energy status of the plant going into winter. Thus, to maximize the energy status of the plant, it should not be harvested during this critical period, which typically starts around August 15.

Removing forage production from a stand also decreases its ability to capture snow. Snow provides the plant with insulation, which not only prevents winterkill, but also provides much-needed moisture for the stand in the spring. Winterkill is often the result of freeze/thaw cycles and ice sheeting. By decreasing the snow layer, there is greater potential for the crown to be exposed and damaged by freeze/thaw cycles and ice-sheeting.

Forages can be harvested after a killing frost as this will not influence the energy status of the plant. However, you should keep in mind that by decreasing the stubble height of the stand, you will decrease snow capture and increase the risk of winterkill.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact Charlotte Ward, Regional Forage Specialist, at

(306) 867-5559;

• Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; or

• Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.

by Charlotte Ward, PAgRegional Forage SpecialistRegional Services Branch

Most hay and pasture species should not be cut or grazed six weeks before a killing frost.

September 2009 7

September 2009

crOps

8

Disease Issues With Cereal Heads

grain stOragE ManagEMEnt

Producers spend a lot of money, time and effort to obtain high quality crops that meet customers’ needs and ensure profitability.

One segment of the production process that is often forgotten is crop storage.

There is a temptation to take a break once the crop is in the bin, thinking the big job is over but, it’s not over until the grain is delivered to the customer.

The quality of the crop cannot be improved in the bin, but it can be preserved. Molds, fungi and insects can reduce the crop’s quality in storage. Producers can help to preserve the quality of grain prior to marketing by putting the crop into the bin clean, and by weatherproofing the storage structures.

The quality of the crop can deteriorate if the grain is exposed to moisture and heat, which can significantly affect the length of time

that quality can be maintained before marketing. A dry, cool product can be preserved for a longer period and provide more time to market the crop.

Dry grain continues to respire after harvest and will produce moisture that can condense and provide an environment in which mold and insects can develop. Condensation can also occur as the outside temperatures decrease. Aeration fans can limit the risks of moisture condensation by cooling the grain and removing excess moisture.

It is important to regularly monitor the crop while it’s in storage to ensure that insect infestation or mold development is prevented from

discounting the value of the crop.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn

Modern grain storage with aeration system.

by Grant McLean, PAgCropping Management SpecialistAgriculture Knowledge Centre

• Contact Grant McLean, Cropping Management Specialist, Agriculture Knowledge Centre, toll free at 1-866-457-2377;

• Visit Saskatchewan Agriculture’s website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca and, in the left-hand column, click on Production, then Crops–Storage, then Grain Storage; or

• Visit the Canadian Grain Commission website at www.grainscanada.gc.ca and, at the right-hand side of the page, click on grain drying.

A combination of cool, damp weather and uneven flowering over the last two seasons may set the stage for a number of cereal head

diseases issues this harvest. The following are a few examples of common cereal head disease issues that may be noticed this harvest.

Smuts and Bunts

Loose smut was reported in several areas of the province during cereal flowering this summer. Loose smut is caused by different species of Ustilago, depending on the host (barley, oat or wheat). Infection occurs during flowering but does not affect the seed’s appearance or quality at harvest. Rather, the Ustilago mycelium remains dormant in the seed until it is planted, when it attacks the growing point of the seedling. Ustilago is detected by seed testing laboratories, and systemic seed treatments will control it.

Covered and false loose smuts of barley, oats and related grasses are also caused by Ustilago species, whereas common bunt or stinking smut is caused by Tilletia laevis and T. tritici. Bunt affects wheat, rye, triticale and other grasses, and replaces developing kernels with spore-filled bunt balls. These spores are a source of infection in contaminated seed, but may be controlled with a seed treatment. Smut-resistant varieties are available.

Fusarium

Species of Fusarium can cause damage and discolouration to grain through disease infection or saprophytic growth. The cushion-like fruiting bodies associated with fusarium head blight (FHB) on cereals appear as an intense red or orange discolouration that can be scraped or rubbed off the affected seed. In barley, FHB causes a darker discolouration of spikelets and kernels. In wheat and rye, FHB causes tombstone or scabby kernels, which may lower grades. If heads were infected by F. graminearum or F. culmorum, seeds may also be

contaminated with vomitoxins, making grain undesirable for certain end-uses.

Ergot

Record-breaking ergot levels appeared in many areas of the province last year, meaning that there will be an elevated risk of an outbreak for a couple of years to come, especially if the conditions prove favourable again. It is a particularly important disease of rye. Infected heads can be identified by the presence of dark purplish sclerotia protruding from the spike in place of normal kernels.

Sclerotia are visible in grain and can usually be removed through commercial cleaning.

Other Discolourations

Sooty moulds appear as a speckled grey, black or dark green growth on the heads. They are most likely to develop if rain has fallen during the final stages of crop maturation, or when harvest is delayed into the fall when humidity levels are higher. Sooty mould is not considered a true crop disease, as the fungi that cause it cannot infect healthy tissue. Instead, sooty moulds are the result of secondary, saprophytic fungi that colonize dead or dying plant tissues under moist conditions.

An example of a common cereal seed discolouration is black point (smudge), usually caused by Alternaria alternata, Cochliobolus sativus or Pyrenophora tritici-repentis, the latter of which also causes red smudge on wheat kernels and tan spot on wheat leaves. Saprophytic fungi such as Aspergillus and Penicillium can cause dark discolourations and other seed quality issues during storage. Spoilage can be prevented by keeping grain dry and cool during storage, and aerating the bin to equalize grain temperature and reduce moisture migration.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at

www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca and look for the publications Ergot of Cereals and Grasses, Fusarium Head Blight, Sooty Moulds of Cereals at Harvest, Black Point and Smudge of Wheat, and Guidelines for Seed-Borne Diseases of Cereal Crops.

by Faye Dokken, MSc., AAgProvincial Specialist, Plant Disease Crops Branch

2009 Tree Orchard Observations and Cold-Climate Management

crOps

FaLL sEEding caMELina

by Forrest ScharfProvincial Fruit SpecialistCrops Branch

by Venkata Vakulabharanam, MSc., PAgProvincial Oilseed Crops Specialist Crops Branch

A new oilseed crop, camelina, has gained attention in the last couple of years due to markets opening up for its oil and meal. In Februray

2009, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allowed an interim exception for the limited use of camelina meal as a feed ingredient in feedlot beef cattle and growing swine rations. The FDA has also expressed no objection to feeding broiler chickens camelina meal up to 10 per cent of their final diet.

One of the advantages to camelina is its non-shattering pods which allow for direct harvesting, even under dry conditions. Camelina is also resistant to canola pests like blackleg, alternaria pod spot and flea beetles.

One disadvantage to camelina is that currently there are no herbicides registered for weed control. Camelina seeding also needs more attention due to its small seed size. The good news is that innovative growers are gaining experience in seeding methods.

Camelina is well adapted to Saskatchewan’s weather conditions with an added advantage of drought resistance, making it suitable for warm and dry regions of the province. It is a predominantly self-pollinated crop and is early maturing.

Camelina seeds can germinate at temperatures as low as 1 C and young plants show resistance to late spring frosts down to -10 C. This cold tolerance facilitates fall seeding and early spring seeding.

Research on fall seeding was conducted in Saskatchewan near Scott during 2007-08 and near Indian Head and Swift Current during 2008-09.

Research plots near Indian Head were seeded in weekly intervals during October, 2008 and also this spring. One experienced grower at Qu’Appelle, has also been successfuly fall seeding camelina for several years.

Early fall-seeded camelina usually germinates in the fall and seedlings survive the harsh winter. These plants have a head start in spring and will complete flowering by mid-July. So far, research results look promising for fall seeding of camelina; however, it may not be suitable for all regions and for all farms. Further investigation is still needed.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact Venkata Vakulabharanam, Provincial Oilseed Crops Specialist

at (306) 787-4668, or;

• e-mail Venkata.Vakulabharanam@gov.sk.ca or;

• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

The 2008/09 winter was harsh, and temperatures this spring and summer remained well below normal. These conditions provided an

opportunity for the fruit tree industry to critique cold-climate orchard management theories.

Orchard tissue damage in 2009 was less likely to occur at medium to high elevations and in orchards surrounded by open shelterbelts with good airflow. Cold air is denser and heavier than warm air and therefore flows to low elevation areas. In addition, cold air can

become trapped in areas where tree densities are high or where natural barriers prevent movement. Barriers or dense tree stands need to be opened to allow air flow to minimize damage from cold air.

Low-lying areas (especially in heavy soils) also typically retain or pool moisture, so trees planted in lower areas will not acclimate for winter as early as trees planted at higher elevations. Turning off the irrigation earlier and applying less nitrogen fertilizer towards the end of summer will ensure better acclimation of lower-elevation trees.

Trees that had high crop yields or above-normal vigour in the previous season, or that displayed symptoms of weakness in the current season, were the ones most likely to suffer severe damage. High fruit production depletes the nutrient reserves in the bark and buds that are necessary for winter survival. Highly vigorous plants direct their energy to vegetative growth, and often do not acclimate to winter conditions early enough to withstand freezing. Pruning and thinning the trees, and applying less fertilizer (see the paragraph above), will discourage highly vigorous vegetative growth or high fruit yield. Pruning also helps diseased or weakened plants, because disease can be removed so that it doesn’t spread, and weak limbs can be taken out so that the plant’s energy gets directed toward healthy tissues.

There are a number of other management practices that will help improve sustainable orchard productivity. Painting trees will prevent sunscald; removing infested debris from orchard floors will interrupt disease and insect life cycles. Installing vertebrate pest traps, applying poisons, employing integrated pest management strategies, providing habitat for bumblebees and other wild bees, and spraying plants with pesticides and (when required) growth regulators will all help an orchard survive the cold Saskatchewan winter.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact Forrest Scharf, Provincial Fruit Specialist, Crops Branch, at

(306) 787-4666 or email forrest.scharf@gov.sk.ca.

A bumblebee pollinating cherry blossoms in cool spring weather, too cold for honey bees.

Different camelina growth stages based on planting date (photos taken July 6, 2009). Camelina crop seeded October 8, 2008 (left), camelina crop seeded May 6, 2009 (middle) and camelina crop seeded May 20, 2009 (right).

September 2009 9

LiVEstOcK

10 September 2009

Water Quality and Beef Cattle Nutritionby Bob Klemmer MAgr, PAg Regional Livestock SpecialistRegional Services Branch

Water is undeniably the most important nutrient in the diet of beef cattle. The beef animal can lose up to 90 per cent of its

body fat and more than 50 per cent of it muscle protein but will be in imminent danger of dying if it loses even 10 per cent of its water. In fact, from a nutritional standpoint, water is the largest single component of any beef cattle ration and yet we do not often consider the quality of the water we feed. We know that cereal straw is low in available energy and deal with it accordingly. We also know that alfalfa often has high levels of protein and calcium and consider those when balancing the ration but do not consider the minerals and other components of the water we feed.

A wintering 1,200 lb. beef cow in mid pregnancy on a mild day may eat 25 -35 lb. of dry feed in a day and she will drink as much as 80 lb.

(eight gallons) of water. Hardness, commonly from calcium carbonate, which isn’t usually considered toxicologically or nutritionally, can have significant effects on the daily ration. Even relatively low calcium levels in water contribute as much as 50 per cent of the calcium requirement of a mature 1,200 lb. wintering beef cow. In addition to contributing required nutrients, the calcium contribution from very hard water may become high enough to significantly impact absorption of other dietary minerals when cattle are also given feeds high in calcium, such as legumes.

Some of the other water components that contribute to nutrient requirements and can also affect absorption of other nutrients and animal health include nitrates, sulphates, iron, magnesium, selenium and molybdenum to mention a few. These minerals can affect a beef cow’s nutrient requirements and body stores to such an extent that productivity (weight gain, fetal status, fertility, disease status, and general health) and therefore profitability may be compromised.

Feeds like forages, grains and supplements each have their own intrinsic nutritional value in a beef cattle ration. Knowing this, we test these feeds for nutrient content (e.g. energy, protein, calcium, phosphorus) and then feed them in a ration that matches the cow, feeder, or bull’s nutrient requirements. By testing your water for quality and taking the quality of your water into consideration (CowBytes ration balancing software can use water quality information), you will then be able to identify and correct nutrient imbalances in your cows’ complete diet to ensure optimum productivity and health.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact your local Regional Livestock Specialist; or

• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.Water is the largest single component of any beef cattle ration.

by Andre Bonneau, BSA, PAgForage Management Specialist Agriculture Knowledge Centre

Economics of Pasture Fertility

What does it cost to add nitrogen fertilizer to pasture? The answer is based on the price of nitrogen and the crop’s response. Moister regions of the province tend to get better response to nitrogen than drier areas but we can expect 20 and 40 fold benefit in yield for every unit of actual nitrogen added. If actual nitrogen is priced at $0.50 per lb. ($1.10/kg), the additional yield would cost between $25 and $50 per ton ($27 to $55 per tonne). Some years, $25 to $50 per ton for extra grass pasture is a good deal, but over the long run it may not be economical.

Organic matter

Winter feeding on pasture is an excellent way to add organic matter. The key is to import the feed from another location. The benefit revolves around adding nutrients that weren’t there before. Whether it’s feed waste or manure, the organic matter will contribute to the pasture’s nutrient cycle.

Some producers use a bale shredder or roll out the bales while others practice bale grazing on pasture. Either way, feed access is controlled to limit intakes and reduce feed waste

Animal Distribution

An important consideration in feeding on pasture is animal distribution. Feeding on an extensive portion of the pasture will encourage

manure and feed waste distribution over a large part of the pasture while reducing nutrient concentration.

On-going projects

The Western Beef Development Centre in Lanigan has been investigating nutrient cycling on pasture using bale grazing. They’ve compared traditional feedlot manure application to bale grazing and have found seven per cent of the nitrogen in feed lot manure is retained while over 35 per cent of the nitrogen is retained in the bale grazing system.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377;

• Contact the Western Beef Development Centre; or

• Contact your local Saskatchewan Agriculture Regional Office.

FErtiLiZing pastUrEs with Organic MattEr

Winter feeding on pasture is an excellent way to add organic matter to the soil.

LiVEstOcK

September 2009 11

hOt OFF thE prEss

Historically, cattle and sheep producers stick to their own pastures. Emerging research, however, sheds new light on grazing these

species together. Sheep and cattle co-exist very well, and there are benefits to grazing them together.

Saskatchewan Agriculture and the Saskatchewan Sheep Development Board held a seminar on multi-species grazing on June 3 and 4 in Moose Jaw. It focused on the benefits of grazing cattle and sheep together, and covered topics such as predator behavior and nutritional considerations. One of the highlights of the seminar was the presentation by Dr. Dean Anderson of the Jornada Experimental Range in New Mexico on how small ruminants such as sheep can be bonded to cattle to form a multi-species formation called a flerd, a combination of flock and herd.

Seminar participants were told how adding sheep to an existing cattle herd can have economic benefits and can help maintain or improve pasture and range health.

Sheep and cattle complement each other as they have different diets, tastes and tolerances. Also, sheep are more selective in their grazing. Cattle tend to graze more on grass, while sheep prefer broad-leafed plants (forbs) and will readily consume weeds, such as leafy spurge, which are not palatable to cattle. Combining these grazing habits allows for better competition among the plant community.

These benefits can be realized by simply grazing the two species in the same field without even forming a flerd. Dr. Anderson’s research in New Mexico found that bonding the animals together in a flerd helped to protect against predators and provided a number of benefits in management/husbandry, fencing requirements and landscape ecology above and beyond the benefits of grazing management.

Predation is a big problem for sheep producers which requires a multi-faceted solution. Bonding sheep to cattle can be part of the solution, as the sheep will run to the cattle when threatened by predators. A group of sheep surrounded by a perimeter of full-grown cattle will discourage predators. A decrease in predation losses has been observed when managing a flerd.

As well as grazing management and protection from predators, a flerd can help with fencing and general management. Since the sheep will not stray far from the cattle with which they have been bonded, the fencing requirements for a flerd are the same as for a cattle herd.

Participants traveled to Rouleau where they inspected the 800 ewes and 90 cattle that comprise Len Larsen’s flerd. Larsen can attest to the benefits of a flerd, including fewer coyote kills, heavier lamb weaning weights and reduced fencing costs.

Organizers are considering staging additional sessions on multi-species grazing, a management tool that seems to offer a variety of benefits with few negative implications.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact Jessica Podhordeski, Livestock Specialist, Livestock Branch,

Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, at (306) 933-5099 or e-mail jessica.podhordeski@gov.sk.ca.

Saskatchewan Agriculture is constantly updating the wealth of information it makes available to Saskatchewan residents. You can

download the most current version of any document posted on our website. You can also call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377 to request a hard copy of many items. Below is a list of the latest documents posted, as well as the most frequently visited pages on our website, www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.

Bertha Armyworm Map (right) - The cumulative moth count map is now available. Visit: Production | Crops - Insects.

On-line Calculators - A list of calculators created in excel spreadsheets and provided to assist producers in planning for the future. Visit: Management | Financial Planning.

Common Questions - If you need information on insects or crop diseases that surface during the growing season, a quick way to access this information is through our Common Questions page.

On our website we have dedicated a page to topics relating to the time of year and the problems that producers may encounter during the different seasons. At the top of this page we highlight several documents that relate to the current season. At the bottom of this page are shortcuts to a page for each of the seasons with articles and fact sheets on a variety of crop and livestock related topics.

To access this page just click on the Common Questions link in the left hand menu on our home page.

Multi-Species Grazing: Profitable for Your Land; Profitable for You

by Jessica Podhordeski, AAgLivestock SpecialistLivestock Branch

!P

!P

!P

!P

!.

!.

!P

!P

!.

!P

!P

!P

394

588

51

488

17

111

561

486

49

520

555

496

622

4319 4 3

45

9 678 5

494

395

2

344

290

44

501

110

261

228

279

499

1

347

42

71

257

40

259

73

426

498

464

230

438

168

276

333335 334

456

165

493

11

226

331

166

231

409

497

229

171

939596 94

79

979899

6577 66786376 67 646875 74

33

70 69

169

18

3646 3437 3539 38

10

92

463

61

154

12

459

91

466

138 137 127

411

435

461

32

260

158

308

72

471

183

440

126

194

336

502

472

211

254

366

142

377

224

285

487

221

190

442

219

271282

255

403

128

283

247

189157

431

345

218

312

191184

376

167

185

164

400

430

215

315

429

101

250

352

248

314

367

31

309

213

243

274275 273

245 244

214

284 277

246

341

141

351

381

337

109

320

139

319

338

318

346

123

317

108

124

107 106 105 104

316

125131 129130

223

136

457

428

100

436

133135

458

193

103

427

343

163 160

253

161

256

401410

287288

467

280

370

339

281

340

398

368371

310

397

216

369

491

241

437

222

382

217

468

251

155

134

404

439

399

434

405

232

156

186

151

286

303

379

304305307 301

373

406

349

252

153

372

460

292

187181

350

380

152

470

102

469

132

322

490

220

402

162

342

378

121122

321313

521

225

159Regina

Tisdale

Yorkton

Estevan

Moose Jaw

Saskatoon

Kindersley

Meadow Lake

Lloydminster

Swift Current

Prince Albert

North Battleford

Prepared by: Geomatics Services Date: August 4, 2009

Data Source: Insect Monitoring Program, Crops Branch

© 2009 Government of Saskatchewan

Bertha ArmywormCumulative Moth Counts

July 29, 2009

0 - 300

600 - 900

900 - 12001200 - 15001500 +

300 - 600

Premise Identification

Having a communications plan is critical during an animal disease outbreak or natural disaster. Registering your premises with the

Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) in advance of any emergency is an important component of that plan.

Premise Identification is the linking of a specific land location to a particular species of animal raised on that location. Premises can include home quarters, pastures, veterinary clinics, auction marts and many other locations.

Premise Identification can prove to be beneficial in the event of an emergency like ice storms, floods, tornadoes and animal disease. In the event of an emergency, the premise identification registry can identify which species of animals may be on a specific premise. Actions to protect these animals from the effect of the emergency can then be designed and put into action.

A fully functioning animal traceability system has three central components. These components are often referred to as the three pillars of traceability. These three pillars are: animal identification, premise identification and animal movement. Different pillars of traceability have different roles to play in terms of providing the possible benefits of traceability.

Operating a traceability system can:

• assist in the management of an emergency such as an animal disease outbreak or natural emergency by being able to contain and resolve them faster

• assist in herd management; and

• improve market access.

If Premise Identification is in place in advance of a crisis it will help to address the emergency more quickly and more effectively. The benefit is that the emergency will end sooner and affect fewer animals in fewer locations. This should result in lower cost to individual producers and the industry. In the event of an animal disease, market access may be maintained or regained sooner than it would have been without Premise Identification.

Saskatchewan is assisting the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) in registering Saskatchewan premises. Producers

who age verify their calves this fall may want to consider registering their premises at the same time. Saskatchewan remains committed to a voluntary, industry-led traceability system.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn oR to REGIStER youR pREmISES:• Contact the CCIA at 1-877-909-BEEF (2333);

• or visit www.clia.livestockid.ca/CLTS/public/splash.do.

Age verifying your 2009 calves will ensure they are eligible for ALL markets. Registering your premise will assist in managing an animal health emergency.

Both can be done on CCIA’s website: www.clia.livestockid.ca

Age Verification and Premise Identification

For more information or for assistance with data entry, call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre toll-free at 1-866-457-2377 or call CCIA at

1-877-909-BEEF

by Paul MarciniakBusiness ConsultantLivestock Branch

Saskatchewan is assisting the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency in registering premises.

LiVEstOcK

12 September 2009

Competitive Analysis of Saskatchewan’s Cattle Industry

by Grant Zalinko, PAgProvincial Cattle AnalystLivestock Branch

radiO FrEQUEncy idEntiFicatiOn EVaLUatiOns bEgin

As part of Saskatchewan Agriculture’s overall traceability initiative, the Ministry through the Saskatchewan Pastures Program has been

working together with cattle producers and community pasture patrons to demonstrate and evaluate Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) readers, scale head set-up and the transfer of information from the reader/scale to a computer in a community pasture situation. The test site is the Beacon Hill Community Pasture in the northwest region of the province.

Radio frequency identification is an industry initiated and established trace back system designed for the containment and eradication of animal disease. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) requires all cattle to be tagged prior to leaving their farm of origin, including those going to community pasture, exhibition site, test station or veterinary clinic (unless going to an approved tagging site). As of January 1, 2010 ALL cattle MUST be tagged with a CCIA approved RFID tag.

Given the current requirements of the CCIA and the advancements in the traceability of livestock in the Canadian beef industry, these initiatives will provide insights into animal retention of RFID ear tags, the costs associated with the equipment and software and the future for recording information on animal weights and medical history that will be helpful for the community pastures (patrons and staff) and the livestock industry. The demonstration site allows for the opportunity for RFID tags and readers to be tested under live field conditions in a community pasture environment. The Saskatchewan Pastures Program and the staff are given the opportunity to work with traceability equipment and observe challenges that would need to be addressed as traceability is implemented by the cattle industry. Patrons of the pasture and cattle producers will benefit from the project

through demonstration days that give an opportunity to observe benefits and challenges that occur in a pasture situation. The project also provides an evaluation of tag retention within the pastures and individual identification of animals which could allow for electronic transmission of medical treatments to patrons.

The Saskatchewan Pastures Program is committed to providing a variety of services, including research in the agricultural field. Pasture managers and regional staff work with various users to ensure economic and environmental sustainability is maintained. Saskatchewan Agriculture continues to work with its patrons and the livestock industry to promote animal and herd health through advancements in the industry.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact Jenifer Heyden, Regional Livestock Specialist in North

Battleford at 306-446-7961 or jenifer.heyden@gov.sk.ca.

The development of a long-term livestock strategy for Saskatchewan’s livestock sector is in response to several years of economic challenges

faced by producers. As background for this strategy, Saskatchewan Agriculture contracted the services of Informa Economics Inc. to complete an analysis of the competitiveness of the cattle and hog sectors.

Informa Economics Inc. used an analytical process of research, inter-jurisdictional analysis and industry interviews to develop a set of conclusions and observations that would form the basis of discussion between industry and government for a “made-in-Saskatchewan” livestock strategy.

Some of the cattle highlights of the Informa Economics Inc. study released in June 2009 include:

Saskatchewan’s beef cattle producers are characterized by excellent management skills and environmental stewardship.

Saskatchewan is a major supplier of cattle in the North American beef industry. With the second largest cow herd in Canada and the ninth largest cow herd in combined United States (U.S.) and Canada, beef cattle producers in this province are an important part of the continental beef supply chain.

Saskatchewan has a significant, competitively priced land base that supports grazing, forage and feed grain production. On average, compared to other beef cattle producing jurisdictions, our province has competitively priced feed inputs, which positions Saskatchewan as a low-cost beef cattle producing jurisdiction.

The cattle feeding and processing sectors of the province’s cattle industry are not as well-developed as other jurisdictions such as Alberta and the U.S. Midwest. Forage and feed grain production may support further development of the cattle feeding industry particularly for the backgrounding sector. Saskatchewan is an important supplier of feeder cattle to regions that currently have excess bunk capacity in several key cattle finishing jurisdictions with local slaughter capacity.

Saskatchewan is a business-friendly jurisdiction and recent changes that have been announced in the budget to address the issue of the education portion of property tax will assist in improving the competitive position of this province for beef cattle production.

The complete Informa Economics Inc. study is available on the Ministry of Agriculture’s website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca and click on About Agriculture | Statistics | Livestock.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock Branch at

(306) 787-4678.

by Jenifer Heyden M.Sc. Regional Livestock SpecialistRegional Services Branch

Calves on pasture tagged with RFID tags.

LiVEstOcK

September 2009 13

14 September 2009

LiVEstOcK

Demand for bison meat beginning to outpace supply

Saskatchewan is home to the second-largest bison herd in Canada, after Alberta. The herd, which is now estimated at 100,000 head,

has been growing on average by seven per cent per year since 2001. Slaughter and live exports have increased by 17 per cent per year during the same time period.

According to Mark Silzer, president of both the Saskatchewan and Canadian Bison associations (SBA and CBA), “The biggest challenge facing the bison industry now is growing the herd to keep up with the increasing demand for bison meat.”

“The bison industry has survived the consequences of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) by developing loyal markets at a time when consumers are focusing on healthy eating,” CBA executive director Terry Kremeniuk said.

The Saskatchewan industry has grown thanks to the efforts of marketers, value chains and dedicated producers. The main markets for bison meat are Europe and the United States.

The increased consumer demand is reflected in prices paid for finished animals, which has doubled in the last five years. In Canada in 2008, under 30-month (UTM) Grade A bison bull carcass prices were the highest in recent history, averaging approximately $2.23/lb. over the year, an increase of approximately $0.30/lb. from 2007. Prices remain strong in 2009, ranging from $2.40 to $2.80/lb. for Grade A bison bulls UTM.

Bison calf prices also continue to strengthen. Since 2005/06, bull calf prices have increased by approximately 50 per cent, and the price for heifer calves has more than doubled over the past three years. According to Silzer, “calf prices in the $1.40 to $1.50/lb. range are necessary for the cow/calf producer to show positive returns. Prices

began approaching that level by the end of 2008 and into the spring of 2009.”

According to the SBA and CBA, producers’ 2008 gross returns averaged $1,100 to $1,400 per animal slaughtered, with net margin of $50 to $250 per head. The wide variation is due to differences in size of operations, genetics, sex of the animals, nutrition, expertise in production and marketing, condition of animal being placed on feed and weight and grade of carcass.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at

www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca; or

• Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.

by Sherri Dobbs, PAgProvincial Livestock Development SpecialistLivestock Branch

Photo: Canadian Bison Association

September 2009 15

Irrigation Certification

An article in the May 2009 issue of Agriview examined the various steps that producers must

take when developing an irrigation project in Saskatchewan. The following article will expand on the certification aspect of the irrigation development process.

Before developing any new irrigation projects, producers must obtain an Irrigation Certificate from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture. This provision is stipulated in The Irrigation Act, 1996. The certificate confirms that the land to be developed and the water source to be utilized are suitable for irrigation.

The Environmental Unit of the Ministry’s Irrigation Branch is responsible for recommending the issuance of Irrigation Certificates by the Ministry.

In order for a parcel of land to be considered suitable for irrigation, it must meet several soil and landscape criteria. The reason is that irrigation on unsuitable soils can lead to soil degradation and reduced crop yields.

Various factors affecting the suitability of land for irrigation include: soil texture; salinity; sodium concentration; geological uniformity; water infiltration rates; the depth to water table; topography; and drainage.

The Environmental Unit conducts a soil-water compatibility investigation. This involves a background review of the land and an on-site soils investigation. The background review examines any pertinent material such as air photos, soil survey data, water quality data, and underground utilities.

On-site, the Environmental Unit studies the salinity of fields with an instrument called a dual EM38. This is used in combination with a Differential Global Positioning System to develop detailed salinity maps for two depths, 0.75 metre (m) and 1.5 m, and also a topographical map for the piece of land being investigated. The salinity maps provide valuable information as they can identify any hidden salinity that may exist at various depths in the soil profile.

Irrigating saline soils that have poor drainage or a high-water table can lead to salt accumulation in the root zone and cause reduced crop yields. However, if there is good internal drainage then irrigation can actually help leach some of the salts out of the profile.

There are a number of factors that affect the suitability of a piece of land for irrigation. The Environmental Unit works to ensure that all these factors have been considered so that a producer’s investment in an irrigation project is a sound and sustainable one.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact irrigation agrologists Garth Weiterman or Kelly Farden,

Environmental Unit, Irrigation Branch, (306) 867-5500; or

• Visit the joint website of the Irrigation Crop Diversification Corporation and the Saskatchewan Irrigation Projects Association at www.irrigationsaskatchewan.com;

• Visit Saskatchewan Agriculture’s website www.agr.gov.sk.ca and click on Production; or

• To find the May 2009 Agriview story entitled “Overview of the Irrigation Development Process,” visit www.agr.gov.sk.ca , type Agriview into the search engine, select the issue of May 2009, and go to page 10.

by Kelly Farden, PAgIrrigation AgrologistIrrigation Branch

EM38 sensors drag across the soil to detect electrical conductivity.

Example of a salinity map for a quarter-section.

irrigatiOn

A 12-year Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada study suggests that organic treatments require half the energy of conventional

methods, but they produce two-thirds the yields.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research scientist Robert Zentner and his team conducted a study to learn more about the energy use and cost effectiveness of alternative cropping strategies for the Dark Brown soil zone in Saskatchewan.

The study, which received funding from the Ministry’s Agriculture Development Fund, examined the energy efficiency and economic

merits of three input treatments. The first was a high input treatment, which included tillage and full recommended rates of pesticides and fertilizers. The second was a reduced input treatment, which used conservation tillage and integrated management practices. The third was an organic input treatment, using organic management methods.

The researchers found that high input and reduced input treatments required the most total non-renewable energy. The organic input treatment had the lowest energy requirement, at 51 per cent of the

other input treatments. Most of the energy savings resulted from the exclusion of inorganic fertilizers and pesticides.

“When trying to reduce the energy consumed in agriculture, this research shows that organic production methods can be effective at reducing energy inputs; however, yields of the organic treatment were lower,” Mitchell Japp, program manager with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Research Branch said.

The organic treatments produced nearly nine units of energy output in grain and forage for every one unit of energy input, in comparison to the other

treatments which were at a 7:1 ratio.

While organic production methods are effective at reducing energy inputs, there are options for conventional producers to reduce energy consumption as well. The researchers also evaluated three different, six-year long crop rotations applied to the three input level treatments. They found that energy efficiency, the energy produced per unit of energy input, improved for all three treatments when perennial forages were included in the rotation.

To obtain the final report, Economics and Energy Use Efficiency of Alternative Cropping Strategies for the Dark Brown Soil Zone of Saskatchewan, phone

Agriculture Research Branch at 306-787-5929 or download it from the Ministry’s website.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn • Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at

www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Research or;

• Contact Dr. Robert Zentner, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada at 306-778-7265.

Researchers Examine Alternative Cropping Strategies: Energy Efficiency

16 September 2009

rEsEarch

There are many options for producers to reduce energy consumption.

The Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) provides funding to help institutions, companies and industry organizations carry out research, development and value-added activities in the agriculture and agri-food sector. The results produce new knowledge, information and choices in technologies, techniques and varieties for farmers, ranchers, processors and input suppliers.

In 2009, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture provided $12.6 million for 48 ADF research projects.

All ADF 2008-09 approved projects are listed and described on Saskatchewan Agriculture’s website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca under “Research”.

For details about ADF applications, contact the Agriculture Research Branch in Regina at 306-787-6566.

September 2009 17

The Swift Current Regional office is one of 10 Ministry offices that provide access to production and business services for farmers, ranchers and industry. This office located on the main floor of the E.I.

Wood Building at 350 Cheadle Street West, employs a team of experts in the crops, forages, livestock and farm business management areas.

Trevor Lennox, the Regional Forage Specialist obtained a MAg. in Range Management from the University of Alberta, and a B.Sc. in Agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan. His previous experience includes working as a Regional Rangeland Agrologist in Swift Current, and as an Extension Agrologist in Shaunavon, as well as working as a Range Technician with the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA.)

Jim Graham, the Regional Livestock Specialist, has worked with Saskatchewan Agriculture since 1977. He first worked as an Agriculture Representative in Assiniboia and Moose Jaw and since 1990 he has been the Regional Livestock Specialist in Swift Current. He holds a BSc. in Agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan, with a major in Animal Science.

Shannon Chant, the Regional Crops Specialist, grew up on a grain farm southwest of Regina and has a BSc. and MSc. in Plant Sciences from the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan. Since joining the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture in 2006, she has worked in various regions in western Saskatchewan.

Donna Sagin, the newest member of the Swift Current office, is the Regional Farm Business Management Specialist. She grew up on an equine ranch in Manitoba and received a BSc. in Agribusiness from the University of Manitoba in 2001. She has worked previously in research and sales and marketing. For the past six years she has been the General Manager of the Swift Current Agriculture and Exhibition Association.

In addition to the four specialists, producers are encouraged to contact the office by phone or in person. Vicki Reimer is the Regional Services Representative. Vicki worked with Saskatchewan Crop Insurance for the past 19 years before joining the Ministry of Agriculture.

Julie Wagner is the Administrative Support person. Julie has worked in government for more than 20 years, with Agricultural Credit Corporation of Saskatchewan, Health, Legal Aid, and Environment.

The Swift Current office also has other services like Saskatchewan Crop Insurance, Lands Branch, Pastures Program and Financial Programs Branch.

Contact the Swift Current Regional Office today!

Meet the Swift Current Regional Officeby Bill HenleyManager, Western Region Regional Services Branch

rEgiOnaL sErVicEs

Trevor Lennox, MAg Regional Forage Specialist(306) 778-8294

Jim Graham, PAg Regional Livestock Specialist (306) 778-8289

Shannon Chant, MSc Regional Crops Specialist(306) 778-8291

Donna Sagin, Bsc AgFarm Business Management Specialist(306) 778-8216

Vicki Reimer Office Administrator(306) 778-8285

Julie WagnerAdmin Support(306) 778-8218

18 September 2009

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is undertaking a review of Saskatchewan’s dairy industry legislation and regulations to make

them up-to-date and consistent with current practices.

The dairy sector in Saskatchewan and Canada, along with the chicken, turkey, commercial eggs and hatching eggs sectors operate under a system known as supply management. Under supply management, imports are restricted allowing supply to be managed through production limits referred to as production quota. Supply is managed to ensure that the prices producers receive will result in a profitable return on production. National agencies allocate production quota to provinces, where it is distributed to producers through a provincial agency.

The provincial dairy agency in Saskatchewan is the Milk Control Board, which is established under The Milk Control Act, 1992. The last time this Act underwent a major review was in 1992. Since then, there have been significant changes to the operations of the Milk Control Board and the structure of the industry. In addition to The Milk Control Act,

this regulatory review will look at The Milk Control Regulations and four sets of regulations established under The Animal Products Act.

As part of a government-wide regulatory modernization effort, the Ministry of Agriculture is seeking input from all stakeholders. The Ministry has held several meetings and discussions with the major stakeholders in the industry, including the Dairy Farmers of Saskatchewan, the province’s dairy processor and the Milk Control Board. A discussion document has been developed that summarizes the legislation and regulations being reviewed and identifies major policy issues for consideration. Discussion documents were sent to all dairy farmers and several secondary stakeholders including retailers, wholesalers, etc.

The discussion document, as well as links to the legislation and regulations under review, can be found on the Ministry of Agriculture’s website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca under Programs and Services | Dairy Industry Legislation and Regulatory Review. All comments can be addressed to Dairy Industry Consultations, 2009 at the following e-mail address dairyconsultation2009@gov.sk.ca or mailed to #302, 3085 Albert St, Regina SK, S4S 0B1.

The closing date for submissions is September 18, 2009. Once all responses are received, a summary of the comments will be posted on the Ministry of Agriculture website.

Update on the Milk Control Act, 1992by James KettelManager, Trade, Competitiveness and Agri-Food Development UnitPolicy Branch

Canada and the European Union (EU) began negotiations towards a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement on March 6, 2009, in

Prague, Czech Republic. If the negotiations are successful, Canada will have improved access to the EU, the world’s largest market in terms of buying power. The EU represents 27 member-states and nearly 500 million consumers. Although Canada has highly-developed cultural and historical ties with Europe, our trading relationship is under-developed (see chart). In 2008, Saskatchewan exports to the U.S., a market of just over 300 million consumers, were valued at nearly $19 billion. By comparison, Saskatchewan’s total exports to the EU were valued at less than $2 billion.

Currently, Saskatchewan exports large volumes of products such as flaxseed, mustard seed, canaryseed, pulses, durum and non-durum wheat to the EU (see table below for more details).

Total Saskatchewan agriculture and food exports to the EU in 2008 were valued at $865 million. Imports, consisting of wines and other alcoholic beverages were valued at $12 million. The EU market also holds significant export potential for Saskatchewan hog, cattle, bison and canola producers, if the current barriers to trade are resolved.

These barriers include very high tariffs on pork, beef and cereal grains – all products that are of strategic interest to Saskatchewan farmers. Additionally, the EU has many non-tariff barriers in place that are sometimes disguised as food safety measures.

For example, the EU has banned imports of beef from animals given growth hormones. Although a World Trade Organization (WTO)

panel ruled in the late 1990s that the ban was unjustified, as it was not based on science, the beef hormone ban remains in place. Negotiations continue on improved access to the EU for hormone-free beef.

Similarly, in 2006, the EU moratorium on the approval of genetically modified (GM) crops was determined by a WTO Panel to be illegal. While it has taken some time to deal with the various restrictions, the door for Saskatchewan exports of GM canola into the EU seems to be reopening.

These are just a few examples of the types of barriers that will need to be addressed in order for Saskatchewan farmers to see meaningful gains in the EU market.

Industry participants will also be watching these talks closely. This was evidenced by the strong turnout of producer groups at a Consultative Forum hosted by the Ministry on June 26, 2009. A recent study showed that with the removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers to trade, EU exports to Canada could increase by 24 per cent by 2014, while Canadian exports to the EU could increase by as much as 21 per cent. Clearly, there is optimism that these negotiations will lead to the development of a stronger and more viable market for Saskatchewan’s high-quality food and agriculture exports.

It’s important to note that the negotiation process has received strong support from Premier Wall and other provincial premiers, which was expressed through the Council of the Federation. Provincial support is an integral part of this process, demonstrating to the EU the province’s commitment to the negotiation process and outcomes. As well, the federal government announced that provinces and territories will be directly involved in the Canada-EU negotiations when areas under provincial/territorial jurisdiction are being discussed. Consequently, this provides an unprecedented opportunity for provincial and territorial governments to have a greater say in the negotiation outcomes.

canada-EU cOMprEhEnsiVE EcOnOMic and tradE agrEEMEntby Sid FriesenTrade AnalystPolicy Branch

mAJor ProdUcts eXPorted to eU

Product 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Flaxseed 110.2 109.4 114.6 141.8 257.2

Durum Wheat 208.0 169.4 177.2 225.0 190.2

Nondurum Wheat 112.5 61.2 76.8 124.0 157.5

Lentils 54.6 74.2 50.8 59.0 99.5

Mustard Seeds 18.2 18.0 16.2 30.6 56.7

Canary Seed 12.9 13.5 17.1 25.3 31.8

Peas 35.0 43.1 60.0 22.4 21.2

Chickpeas 8.2 8.9 17.8 16.6 12.5

Farm Business Development Initiative

MarKEts and tradE

September 2009 19

As part of the Growing Forward program, the Farm Business Development Initiative (FBDI) is now up, running and fully

operational. Producers are filling out the application forms, completing the Taking Stock booklet and going through the nine progressive farm business management practices. This article begins a series of articles that will delve deeper into each of the nine progressive farm business management practices that the program is built upon. The first farm business management practice to be reviewed is the Business Strategy.

Business Strategy

Business strategy planning is the first step down the road of successful farm management. As a farmer or rancher, having a set of goals provides the power to steer farm business activities in the same direction as hopes and intentions. Farm managers need to have a clear view of the future to create a business that is in line withtheir strategic goals. Here are some steps that can help in this planning process:

Know where you have been

The successes and failures of the past provide valuable knowledge to help plan the future. Many of us are not aware of the things we do right simply because we do not consistently evaluate past activities.

Know where you are

Good things have been done in the past to get the business where it is today. Knowing what strengths the business has will help to build on and shape the way moving forward.

Know where you want to be – your business goals!

Take the time to look forward. Figure out what the business goal is. Is it to expand the business, change the focus, increase value-added activities, or make more money?

Know how to get there

Having an understanding of how the business is going to achieve its goals is as important as having the goal in the first place. Figure out what is known or can be seen, evaluate whether it is likely to be a success, start on the path towards this goal, build in flexibility, and re-evaluate as information about the path to the business goal becomes clear.

Know how to tell when you do get there

It is entirely possible to pass business goals without knowing they have been achieved. Each goal must have at least one clear objective so that it can be recognized when and if it is a success. A business goal to improve efficiency is a good target, but without a defined objective such as reducing the number of labour hours per acre farmed from one hour per acre to half an hour per acre, there is no way to show how the goal was achieved. Look back only to ensure there are benchmarks and be aware of the businesses strengths and weaknesses. Otherwise, focus on those activities that take the business from where it is, towards the end that is in mind.

Business Strategy, sometimes referred to as strategic planning, is the building block for many other farm management practices. Implementing this farm management practice will lead to a farm or ranch business that has a vision and purpose. It should include a formal written business strategy that is reviewed annually. All members of the management team agree to the short and long-term goals for the farm business and those goals align with family goals. The farm’s day-to-day actions are directed by the agreed upon goals.

The next article in our Farm Business Development Initiative series will feature marketing. Stay Tuned!

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact your local Regional Farm Business Management Specialist.

What’s Your Business Strategy?by Ken EvansFarm Business Management SpecialistWeyburn Regional Office

• Business strategy (Strategic Planning)

• Marketing

• Production economics

• Human resources

• Financial management

• Succession planning

• Business structure

• Environmental strategy

• Risk Assessment

THE NINE PROGRESSIVE FARM BUSINESS MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

WHO’S YOUR REGIONAL FARM BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST?

Swift Current

Donna Sagin

(306) 778-8218

Moose Jaw

Ralph Howes

1-866-457-2377

Watrous

Brenda Stefanson

(306) 946-3220 

Tisdale

Leroy Bader

(306) 878-8842

Kindersley

Shankar Das

(306) 463-5513

North Battleford

Morley Ayars

(306) 446-7964

Weyburn

Lyle Ballard

(306) 848-2857

Outlook

Richard Wharton

(306) 867-5575

Prince Albert

Cyril Laforge

(306) 953-2363

Yorkton

Don Surminsky

(306) 786-1531

Farm Business Development Initiative

prOdUctiOnprOgraMs and sErVicEs

Growing Forward

20 September 2009

Following the tremendous uptake of the Farm and Ranch Water

Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) in 2008 targeted at the drought region in Southwest Saskatchewan, the program was expanded on March 18, 2009. The province-wide FRWIP is a four-year, $52.8 million program established under Growing Forward. The expanded program is available to farmers, ranchers, First Nations Bands and Rural Municipalities (RMs) to assist with the development of sustainable non-potable water supplies for agricultural purposes. Eligible projects include: on-farm wells, shallow buried pasture pipelines, deep buried pipelines, dugouts and community wells.

Individual producers and First Nations Bands can apply for on-farm projects and are eligible for funding for up to one-half of eligible costs to a maximum grant of $60,000 per applicant over the life of the program. Eligible costs include: groundwater exploration, well drilling and construction, screening, pumps, pipeline installation

and storage tanks (minimum 1,000 gal.). To be eligible, applicants must own or control a minimum of 75 acres (intensive operations on less than 75 acres maybe eligible) and earn a significant portion of income from farming or ranching.

Rural Municipalities and First Nations Bands that develop community well projects will be eligible for up to two-thirds of eligible costs to a maximum grant of $150,000 per RM or Indian Band. Eligible costs include groundwater exploration, well drilling and construction, screening, pumps, power installation, water storage tanks (minimum 1,000 gal.), loading facilities/equipment, access roads and consultant fees.

Projects must be completed within 18 months of receiving approval. Applicants have 24 months from date of approval to submit final claim.

Applicants to the 2008 Targeted FRWIP are reminded that they have until November 1, 2009 to complete their projects and November 30, 2009 to submit all claims.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn • Visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/FRWIP_2009; or

• Call the toll-free line at 1-877-874-5365.

One of the components of the Saskatchewan Agri-Value Initiative (SAVI) is to assist in developing a prototype, product or process for

adding value to an agriculture product. The prototype or first version of a product is a major step in proving market competitiveness. If you have a product or prototype that you want to develop, where do you start?

Here are some helpful hints to consider:

1. Produce a first version of the prototype or product

If you need assistance in developing your product or process you may want to consider using Saskatchewan research facilities such as the Saskatchewan Food Centre, Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC), POS Pilot Plant, Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute (PAMI), University of Saskatchewan, Bio-Processing Centre, Saskatchewan Food Processors Association, and the Feeds Innovation Institute.

2. Benchmark your product against other competitors in the marketplace

Assesses competitor costs, product concepts, strengths and weaknesses of alternative designs and competitor design trade-offs by obtaining, stripping down and analysing competitors’ products.

3. Identify all operational requirements for manufacturing that product

What are all the parts or ingredients required in manufacturing your product? Are they readily available? Are there substitutes? Can you do it alone or does it take other businesses/organizations to make it happen?

4. Identify all potential safety and environmental issues that could hinder the development or marketability

Environmental impact and consumer safety should be a priority when developing your product. This includes product, by-product and technology issues.

5. Identifying specific processing steps and equipment needed to produce the product

Do you have the equipment to make the product? If not, who does? When and how often is the equipment/service available? What are the costs?

6. Assess all alternative manufacturing systems

Is this the best way to make the product? What are all of your options? Who can do it?

7. Estimate of costs for pilot scale

Include all the ingredients, parts, services, packaging and any other costs that it will take to make your product ready for store shelves.

8. Evaluate all options for packaging and labelling your product

Is it best to have a plastic, paper or cloth wrap? Fitted or loose fitting? What is most attractive to consumers? What is the easiest for shipping? Do you have all the requirements on the label? Do you need a nutritional label? Bar code?

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Call your Regional Farm Business Management Specialist to see how

the SAVI program can help you or visit the Ministry’s website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.

by Rachel Kraynick, PAgAgri-Business Information SpecialistRegional Services Branch

FarM and ranch watEr inFrastrUctUrE prOgraMby Garth LipinskiManager, Grants and Rebates ProgramFinancial Programs Branch

All FRWIP claims must be submitted by November 30, 2009.

Saskatchewan Agri-Value Initiative: Where to start?

prOdUctiOnprOgraMs and sErVicEs

Growing Forward

September 2009 21

Attention producers: it’s time to remove all bait stations used for control of gophers. At this time of year, all bait stations

should be removed immediately. Gophers have already found more attractive green growth for food, thus making rodenticides less effective. In addition, gophers are less active above ground as they enter a hibernation phase in their life cycle.

Consequently, bait remaining in above-ground bait stations presents the risk of unacceptable environmental damage. Bait stations in the field for an extended period of time increases the potential for accidental exposure to non-target animals both wild and domestic including deer, antelope, birds, livestock and even pets.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the misuse of toxic baits could jeopardize the availability of rodenticides in the future.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn • Contact Richard Wilkins, Provincial Pesticide Regulatory

Specialist, Ministry of Agriculture at (306) 787-5207; or

• Scott Hartley, Provincial Insect and Vertebrate Pest Specialist, Ministry of Agriculture at (306) 787-4669.

With difficult growing conditions and potential feed shortages across the province, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance has acted

in order to assist livestock producers.

In June, Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud announced five province-wide measures to help address the drought situation. These included extending the deadline for greenfeed crops, enabling producers to seed and insure any greenfeed crop, accepting an increased number of claims without inspections, increasing the low-yield threshold, and enabling producers to spray out or till crops for summerfallow coverage next year. The Crop Insurance program also enables producers to graze forage or annual crops or cut it for feed.

Saskatchewan Crop Insurance is proactive in developing initiatives and adjusting policies in order to meet the needs of its customers. The corporation recognizes there is potential for a large number of forage claims this year. Customer service offices have monitored the hay season and contacted tame hay and greenfeed customers to speed up the claim filing process. But if producers find a shortage in their production, they should contact their local customer service office and register a post-harvest claim.

Initiatives were designed with producers in mind, providing further options to livestock producers looking for feed. Increasing the number of claims without inspections also increases the speed at which a producer will receive payment, so additional feed may be purchased if necessary.

Forage producers have until September 30 to register yield-loss claims, or request an extension on unharvested acres. Forage claims

submitted between October 1 and November 15, without an approved extension, will be subject to a 25 per cent reduction in their claim. Claims will not be accepted after November 15.

Anytime a customer perceives a shortage in their production, they are advised to contact their local customer service office. Producers will be informed if they are eligible for a claim without an inspection. If not, adjusters will count bales and estimate weight and, in some cases, verify weight.

Each forage class (tame hay, greenfeed or sweetclover) acts as a unit with production combined. This means tame hay production is offset by other tame hay production but not greenfeed production.

Whether or not a claim was registered, producers must declare their forage production by September 30. This information is used to update your individual coverage used in calculating claims. If this information is not reported, your yield will be set to your production guarantee, reducing future coverage.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact your local customer service office;

• Call 1-888-935-0000; or

• Visit www.saskcropinsurance.com.

Crop Insurance addressing program to help livestock producers

tiME tO rEMOVE bait statiOns

498

344376

502

395

394

366

426

456

486

367

397

427

457

487

368369370

371372

373

398399400401402403

404405

406409

410411

377378379

380381382

428429

430431

458459460

461

488

490491

520521

463

434435436437438

439440442

464466467468

469

470

471472

501

561

622

588

555

493494496

497

499

159142

151

152

153

154155

156157158

160161162

163164165166

167168

181183

211

241

271

301

331

184185186187

189190191

193194

213214215216217218

219

220221222223224225

226228

243

273

303

333

244245246247248

250251252253

254

255256

257

274275276

277279280281

282283284285286

287288

304305

169171

229230

231232

259260261

290292

334335

336

307

337

308309310312313

314315316

317318319320321322

338339340

341342343345

346347349350

351352

135136

12345

678910111243

454446

171819

51

111

49

110

35363738394042

656667

686970717273

7475767778

79

9596

979899100101102103104105106107108

109

125126127128129130131

132133

134

137

138139141

3132

3334

616364

91929394

121122123

124

Prince Albert

Melfort

Yorkton

Estevan

Moose Jaw

Kindersley

North Battleford

Regina

Swift Current

Lloydminster

Saskatoon

Wheat Midge Forecast 2009

No infestation

600 <= 1200

< 600

1200 <= 1800

> 1800

Midge / m2

prOdUctiOnprOgraMs and sErVicEs

Bait remaining above ground can cause environmental damage.

22 September 2009

The second Cross Border Livestock Health Conference (CBLHC) which was organized in collaboration with the Pacific Northwest Economic

Region (PNWER) was held in conjunction with the PNWER 19th Annual Summit in Boise, Idaho from July 13-14, 2009.

The conference objectives were to provide opportunities for representatives to enhance relationships and build networks between state and provincial jurisdictions. It was an opportunity to exchange information on animal health issues and concerns, develop a common understanding of disease policies, discuss emergency responses to emerging and foreign animal disease and advance Canadian and American animal health interests.

An important component of the conference was the informal open discussion and information sharing that occurred at the end of each session. This productive dialogue enhanced understanding of the issues and concerns and ultimately led to the development of the following action items for the group to address.

1. Electronic Import/Export Documentation

Work with officials from the Canadian and U.S. governments to encourage the acceptance of electronic documentation and endorsement for the import/export of live animals and products within and between the two countries. Washington Dairy Producers will take the lead on this issue.

2. Livestock Transportation Standards and Harmonization

Investigate and report progress on harmonization of livestock trucker training programs in Canada and the U.S. Investigate proposed and instituted changes to livestock transportation in Canada and the U.S.

and obtain the OIE report/direction regarding livestock transportation in Canada and the U.S. The National Farmed Animal Council – Canadian Animal Health coalition will take the lead.

3. Market Access for Small Ruminants

Urge the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to expedite the rule making process to restore access for Canadian sheep and goats, and work with the federal officials from Canada and the United States to achieve this goal. Canadian and U.S. sheep and goat industry and the USDA will lead.

4. Future of the Cross Border Livestock Health Conference

The next conference is to be held in conjunction with the PNWER 20th

Annual Summit in Calgary, Alberta July 16-20, 2009.

The conference facilitated interaction and communication between American and Canadian elected officials, government and industry. The ability to network and build strategic relationships was of priority to attendees.

More than 50 people including state and provincial veterinarians, federal government animal health representatives, other animal health experts, pertinent industry representatives, legislators and elected officials from British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Washington State, Idaho, Oregon and Montana attended. More than 700 participants attended the PNWER Annual Summit.

The CBLHC included a day and a half of presentations and discussions on priority beef and dairy animal health issues, specifically traceability, animal diseases (tuberculosis, brucellosis, blue tongue and anaplasmosis) and animal welfare.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Contact Dr. Greg Douglas, Chief Veterinary Officer, Saskatchewan

Ministry of Agriculture at (306) 787-5547.

Have you heard about Enterprise Saskatchewan’s sector teams? There are a total of 18 sector teams that provide government with

recommendations to remove barriers to growth and build on competitive advantages.

Two agriculture teams are devoted specifically to the industry: Agriculture and Agri-Value. Each team has nine members, representing different areas of the industry. The teams meet regularly to discuss a number of issues, with an overall focus on growing the industry.

Members of the Agriculture sector team include:

• Gerrid Gust, Chair, Farmer

• Doug Steele, Patterson Grain Terminal

• Kenton Possberg, Possberg Grain Farms Inc.

• Cherilyn Jolly-Nagel, Western Canadian Wheat Growers

• Everette Bear, Muskoday First Nation

• Dwayne Anderson, Fosstan

• Gary Jones, Crane Valley, Beef rancher

• Maurice Berry, Saskatchewan Pulse Growers

• David Sefton, Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission

Members of the Agri-Value sector team include:

• Tim Wiens, Chair, O&T Farms

• Terry Helary, Northern Lights/Kitsaki Meats

• Darryl Schneider, Saskatchewan Food Processors Association

• Murad Al-Katib, Saskcan Pulse Trading

• Chantelle Donahue, Prairie Malt

• Tom Steve, Viterra

• Kelly Edigar, Drake Meats

• Paul Rogers, Saskatchewan Meat Processors/SJ Irvine Fine Foods

• Gene Dupuis, Prairie Meats

The sector teams will provide guidance to government from a business and industry perspective. This includes identifying burdensome regulations, slow-moving approval processes, and streamlining approvals. The two agriculture sector teams are working on

forwarding a number of recommendations to government for consideration that will help producers and the industry in both the short and the long term.

Saskatchewan producers are invited to submit feedback to either of the sector teams for review at any time. To contact a sector team, please call Chandra Mark, Manager with Enterprise Saskatchewan at (306) 787-9101 or e-mail chandra.mark@enterprisesask.ca.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Visit www.enterprisesaskatchewan.ca.

Enterprise Saskatchewan Sector Teams Represent Local Producers

prOVincE rEprEsEntEd at thE crOss bOrdEr LiVEstOcK hEaLth cOnFErEncE in bOisE, idahO

by Dr. Greg DouglasChief Veterinary OfficerSaskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture

Board of directors Progress rePortMarch 2009

prOdUctiOnprOgraMs and sErVicEs

September 2009 23

Saskatchewan Agriculture is pleased to support a new permanent exhibit showcasing Agriculture in Saskatchewan at the

Saskatchewan Science Centre.

Richardson Ag-grow-land highlights current farm practices, celebrates the science and cutting edge tools of modern day agriculture in Saskatchewan, and demonstrates the influence that Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry has around the world.

“While agriculture has always been a fundamental part of life in Saskatchewan and a pillar of its economy, it is not always well understood,” Richardson International Limited President Curt Vossen said. “Richardson International Limited saw Ag-grow-land as the perfect opportunity to introduce children to modern agriculture in a dynamic and fun environment. In doing so, we ensure that future generations will continue to appreciate and support agriculture in Saskatchewan. We are also proud of the fact that this project came about through the leadership of agriculturally based corporations with support from the public sector.”

The Saskatchewan Science Centre’s mascot, Discovery Jones, and his dog, Tungsten, take children on a tour of the agriculture industry in Saskatchewan. From driving a combine to shipping lentils to India, this exhibit shows how high-tech agriculture has become.

“Agriculture is such an important part of our province, and vital to our future success,” Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud said. “The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to be a sponsor of Ag-grow-land and give kids hands-on experience in one of our major industries.”

Children can climb to the top of an inland terminal and distribute grain, hop across the mountains and enter a port on the west coast to

load grain from a train into a port terminal and then load it on to a cargo ship that takes the

product to markets around the world.

They can also drive a combine and experience harvest, load grain

trucks, learn about soils and crops, watch a calf being born, play the market, and look at micro-organisms.

Everything is kid-sized, scaled down and made more fun in

a 2000-square-foot exhibit, an entertaining way to introduce

children to an important part of the Saskatchewan economy and the

science behind it.

“Showcasing Saskatchewan industries and innovations is a priority for the Saskatchewan Science

Centre,” Saskatchewan Science Centre Board of Directors Chair Bruce Crouter said. “We’re thrilled to have this group of agricultural leaders join us in building this exhibit.”

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Call Collette Parks, Manager of Marketing and Communications

with the Saskatchewan Science Centre at (306) 791-7917 or cparks@sasksciencecentre.com; or

• Jenna Webb, Media Relations Officer with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture at (306) 787-2359 or jenna.webb@gov.sk.ca.

New agriculture exhibit unveiled at the Saskatchewan Science Centre

Gopher Control Rebate

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is offering a 50 per cent rebate to Saskatchewan producers who used eligible products to control the gopher population.

Rebates apply to products purchased between August 1, 2007, and October 1, 2009. Deadline for applications is January 29, 2010.

A complete list of products covered under the program can be found at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/gopher-rebate.

Application forms are available at your local RM office, any Saskatchewan Agriculture regional office, or by visiting the website.

For more information call toll-free 1-866-947-9113 or e-mail gopher@gov.sk.ca.

Saskatchewan

Ministry of

Agriculture

3 col x 60 ag

prOdUctiOnprOgraMs and sErVicEs

Biotech Week in Saskatchewan will be held Sept. 18-25, 2009.

The observance is held in conjunction with National Biotechnology Week and is promoted across Canada by various organizations and governments to increase the awareness of the benefits of biotechnology.

Results of biotechnology research have created products that provide Saskatchewan’s farmers with better quality, high yielding crop varieties, reduced chemical applications and lower fuel costs.

Saskatchewan is Canada’s agricultural biotechnology capital with 30 per cent of the Canadian industry located in the province. It is estimated that about 2,000 people in Saskatchewan work in the biotechnology industry. The focus of their work is on food, health and the environment.

biOtEch wEEK in sasKatchEwan

Did you know?Saskatchewan has: • Investedmorethan$120millioningenomicsresearchandinfrastructure.

• Twocommerciallyactivebio-dieseladditivecompanies.

• Approximately44percentofCanada’scultivatedfarmland,suitedtosupplycropsfornon-foodusessuchasbiofuels,pharmaceuticalsandotherindustrialproducts.

FOr MOrE inFOrMatiOn• Visit the National Biotechnology Week website at

www.imagenenation.ca;

• Visit Ag-West Bio Inc.’s website at www.agwest.sk.ca; or

• Phone (306) 975-1939.

Biotechnology research has led to many new varieites of canola.

EVEnts caLEndar

DATE EVENT LOCATION PHONE INTERNET

Sept. 15 Ag West Bio Annual General Meeting Saskatoon 306-975-1939 www.agwest.sk.ca

Sept. 15Crop Insurance deadline to seed fall rye and winter wheat and be eligible for winterkill insurance

1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com

Sept. 18 - 25 Biotech Week in Saskatchewan www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca

Sept. 30Crop Insurance deadline to file Forage Declarations

1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com

Sept. 30Crop Insurance deadline to register forage yield-loss claims or request an extension of insurance on un-harvested forage acres

1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com

Oct. 5 - 7 National Agriculture Awareness Conference Saskatoon www.naac-cnsa.com

Oct. 17 - 18 Lloydminster Alpaca Showcase Lloydminster 306-825-6265 www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca\Calendar

24 September 2009