Drought-related resources and wildfire information for producers available here.

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Important Updates

DROUGHT INFORMATION FOR PRODUCERS

Manitoba Beef Producers has compiled the following information which may be useful to producers facing extreme dryness/drought conditions on their farms and ranches.

Resources for Sourcing Feed or Pastures

Farmers and producers have several options when it comes to listing available hay and straw, and for buying hay, straw and alternative feeds. By no means is this list exhaustive and we encourage you to share other avenues for listing and buying with Manitoba Beef Producers, so that we can share them with our members.

Manitoba Government Hay Listing Service

The Manitoba Hay Listing Service provides an inventory of hay and alternative feed for sale and pasture for rent. If you have hay, alternative feed, or pasture land for sale or rent contact an ARD and MASC Service Centre to have your listing added.

Social Media/Buy and Sell Sites

There are a number of social media and buy/sell sites that provide hay, straw and alternative feed sourcing options:
Kijiji Manitoba
eBrandon Classifieds
Manitoba Hay & Feed for Buy/Sell
Hay / Feed For Sale in Saskatchewan, Alberta & Manitoba
Internet Hay Exchange

Other social media avenues including Twitter also feature hay for sale across the province, however that exchange needs to occur on a user to user basis.

MFGA Hay Relief Website

Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association has a hay relief page. See https://www.mfga.net/hay-relief

Manitoba Agriculture Resources for Producers Affected by Dry Conditions

Manitoba Agriculture’s Livestock page also has several tools and resources for dry conditions. It covers topics such as: early weaning of calves during periods of drought; the economics of creep feeding beef calves on pasture; stretching feed when supplies are tight; alternative feeds for beef cattle; straw as an alternative roughage source for wintering beef cows; and feed testing, among others.

See: https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/livestock/index.html

Dry Conditions and Livestock

Beef Cattle Research Council Resources Related to Drought Management

http://www.beefresearch.ca/blog/resources-for-drought-management/

Recurring drought is a natural part of the climate in many areas of Canada and creates a challenge when managing grazing and forage resources. Although droughts are often unpredictable, they are inevitable, meaning they are often at the back of every producer’s mind. Long-term farm and ranch management must include planning for and consideration of how drought will affect the entire system – including plants, livestock and water sources.
Eight tips for drought management:

  • When managing through a drought, consider combining groups of animals to encourage grazing of less desirable plants and grazing pastures with species that are more tolerant of increased grazing pressure. It is important to monitor for toxic or poisonous plants, which are more likely to be grazed during dry years.
  • Sources of water for grazing animals can quickly become limited or unavailable during drought periods. It is recommended that any pastures that could possibly run out of water be grazed first. In some cases, it may become necessary to use a portable stock water supply in order to continue grazing a forage source where water has become limited.
  • Producers should consider pumping water from the source to a trough to help extend water supplies, maintain water quality and prevent cattle from getting stuck in watering sites that are drying up.
  • Stock water quality can deteriorate rapidly. Even if water quantity appears adequate, poor water quality can quickly cause health and production problems and even death. Test stock water sources frequently when animals are grazing.
  • Extended rest periods and increased recovery times are necessary to protect plants during dry periods.
  • Consider planting annual crops, supplementing pastures with alternate feeds, or creep feeding, to help extend grazing resources. Feed testing is an important consideration during dry conditions.
  • Drought management strategies should be a permanent part of every grazing plan. The benefits of rotational grazing and managing pastures to retain litter (plant residue) are especially evident during drought.
  • Drought plans should identify the order of groups or classes of livestock to be de-stocked, if necessary, and at what point each group will be moved if the drought persists.

The following are some current drought management resources available for beef producers.

Miscellaneous Resources

Manitoba Agriculture Crop Reports
The Crop Report provides information on progress of seeding and crop establishment, crop development, any pest activity including weeds, insects and disease, harvest progress, crop yields and grades, fall field work progress, and status of winter cereal crop seeding and establishment. In addition, it provides information on haying progress and estimated yields, as well as pasture conditions. Go to:
https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/seasonal-reports/crop-report-archive/index.html

Manitoba Drought Monitor
The Manitoba Drought Monitor highlights the various drought management efforts currently underway in Manitoba. This includes monthly Water Availability and Drought Conditions Reports that use drought indicators to classify the level of dryness and to summarize any drought impacts that are occurring.

Canadian Drought Monitor
The Canadian Drought Monitor (CDM) is Canada’s official source for the monitoring and reporting of drought in Canada. From this page you can access a variety of products and information about current drought conditions across the country. See: https://www.agr.gc.ca/eng/agriculture-and-the-environment/drought-watch/canadian-drought-monitor/?id=1463575104513

Agroclimate Impact Reporter Program
The Agroclimate Impact Reporter (AIR) helps to connect Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) with people in Canada’s agricultural community. AAFC relies on its network of AIR volunteers to provide information regarding agroclimate impacts across the country, such as the effects of dry conditions/droughts on production. Manitoba Beef Producers notes that cattle producer input to this network is important.

The AIR network provides valuable and reliable data that are mapped and used in the assessment and development of policies and programs including AgriRecovery and the Livestock Tax Deferral Provision, which can provide assistance to the industry during extreme weather and climate conditions and events.

The AIR survey is open during the last week of the month over the growing season (April to October) and is intended to collect weather and climate impacts on farm operations across Canada over the previous month. Survey results are made into maps and published on the Drought Watch website the first week of every month during the growing season.

To participate, visit: https://www.agr.gc.ca/eng/agriculture-and-the-environment/drought-watch/agroclimate-impact-reporter/?id=1463575416544

WILDFIRE INFORMATION FOR PRODUCERS

Due to the dry conditions, parts of Manitoba have been affected by wildfires. The following is information that may be useful to producers affected by these conditions, or those preparing for the possibility of a wildfire.

Protecting livestock and crops

Source: Manitoba Wildfire Evacuation Guidelines

  • Owners should have an evacuation plan for livestock threatened by fire. If animals can’t be moved to a safe area on your property, make and confirm transportation and feeding arrangements in advance. Obtain insurance coverage for all farm resources at risk from fire, including crops and livestock.
  • The risk to farm animals can be reduced by preparing and maintaining fuel-reduced areas. Livestock can be moved and held there during a fire. Use a plowed or heavily grazed field with a minimum of grass or stubble. If possible, this field should be shaded and located well away from any forested areas. Water should be available.
  • Concrete or metal buildings located away from forest vegetation are another livestock shelter option.
  • As a last resort, if you are unable to move livestock to a safer area, cut fences and turn the animals loose, as long as there is no danger to people or traffic.

For more information about preparing for a wildfire, go to: https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/fire/Prevention/Wildfire%20Evacuation%20Brochure%202011.pdf

Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development also has information about evacuating livestock. See:  https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/animal-health-and-welfare/emergency-preparedness/caring-for-livestock-during-an-evacuation.html

Emergency Planning Kit

SafeWork Manitoba has a 7-Step Safety and Health Emergency Planning Kit which contains information about how to prepare for different types of emergencies on the farm or ranch. It includes forms such as: a farm critical information sheet; family members/workers emergency contact information sheet; emergency contact sheets; and, a sample farm site map(s), among other tools for scenario planning. See: http://www.ecolog.com/daily_images/1002957109-1002962408.pdf

Manitoba’s Wildfire Service

Manitoba Conservation and Climate Wildfire Service is responsible for the prevention, detection and suppression of wildfires.

To report a Wildfire call 1-800-782-0076 (toll-free).

The Wildfire Service’s website includes valuable information such as:

Factsheets

Manitoba’s Home Owner’s FireSmart Manual

Wildfire Safety – Fire and Travel Restrictions

Manitobans Affected by Evacuations

Fire Prevention Tips

Other Useful Links

Current municipal burning restrictions

https://www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.html

Provincial fire and travel restrictions

https://www.gov.mb.ca/sd/fire/Restrictions/index.html

Government and Other Agency Contact Information

Manitoba Government Inquiry

1-866-626-4862 (toll free)

Email: mgi@gov.mb.ca

www.gov.mb.ca

https://www.facebook.com/ManitobaGovernment

https://twitter.com/MBGov

Manitoba Hydro Emergency Information

1-888-624-9376 (toll-free)

https://www.facebook.com/ManitobaHydro

https://twitter.com/manitobahydro

Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization – EMO

1-888-267-8298 (toll-free)

Email: emo@gov.mb.ca

https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/

Disaster Financial Assistance – EMO

1-888-267-8298 (toll free)

Email: dfa@gov.mb.ca

https://www.gov.mb.ca/emo/recover/home/dfa_home.html

Coping with Stress

For information about the Manitoba Farm and Rural Support Services line go to: https://supportline.ca/ or call 1-866-367-3276 (line operates 24/7).
Klinic Community Health also has resources available. See: https://klinic.mb.ca/

FLOOD INFORMATION FOR PRODUCERS

In a flood situation, it is important for producers to keep detailed records on all additional flood-related expenses.

Producers should document changes to their operation, damage to property and other losses.

Producers are encouraged to take photos of floodwater and the impacts and to keep all receipts and records on hand. Retaining these records and photos is important.

Producers who need to transport livestock to an alternate area are encouraged to book a transport company immediately to ensure service.

Flood Evacuation Check List

Manitoba Red Cross

Preparing a Beef Farm for Flood Conditions in Rural Manitoba

Managing Dead Livestock During and After Flooding

Returning Home

Disaster Financial Assistance for Manitobans Affected by Flooding

Which Level of Government Do I Contact?

Contact Information and Helpful Websites for Dealing with an Emergency

Government of Manitoba Flood Reports

Additional Information:

Manitoba Beef Producers participated in the Animal Health Emergency Management Project which saw the development of a number of resources to help producers in various sectors prepare for a potential emergency, with a focus on an animal-disease outbreak. For more information on the producer handbook, visit: https://animalhealth.ca/ahem/resources/

Events

Stay up to date on upcoming events, district events, and our Annual General Meeting by visiting the Events page here.

Livestock Predation Pilot Project

Predation is a significant concern for livestock producers in Manitoba, and for some, predators such as coyotes, wolves, or black bears can cause devastating financial losses. In 2020, a three-year, industry-led Livestock Predation Prevention Pilot Project was launched with the aim of reducing wildlife predation of cattle and sheep in Manitoba.

The multi disciplinary committee responsible for planning and delivery of the project, has representation from Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development (MARD), Agriculture and Agri Food Canada, Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation, commodity groups including Manitoba Beef Producers and the Manitoba Sheep Association, as well as the Manitoba Trapper’s Association.

The project will help producers most affected by predation to develop individual risk management plans, while also supporting broader industry-wide efforts to test a variety of risk management approaches and share knowledge and best practices to reduce losses.

The working group has identified a group of Risk Mitigation Practices (RMPs) which will be analyzed to determine their effectiveness in reducing the potential for negative interactions between livestock and producers. A RMP is something a producer can do to lessen the likelihood of a predator attack. The RMPs being tested aim to reduce predators’ access to possible food sources to scavenge, as well as to reduce their ability to access areas with cattle and sheep present, and over all deter interactions with them.

For information contact Raymond Bittner, Livestock Predation Lead, at rbittner@mbbeef.ca or 204-768-0010.

The RMPs include:

LPPP – RMP Deadstock Composting

LPPP – RMP EFladry Wire

LPPP – RMP Electronet

LPPP – RMP Game Camera

LPPP – RMP GPS Collars

LPPP – RMP Herd Health

LPPP – RMP Predator Resist Pen

LPPP – RMP Light Source

Codes of Practice & Assurance Programs

Follow the link below to learn about compliance-related topics like the Beef Cattle Code of Practice, Verified Beef Production Plus, producer and industry benefits, research and biosecurity.

Visit the Codes of Practice & Assurance Programs page here

Resources

There are various tools and risk management practices that beef producers can apply to keep livestock healthy.

The Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA), along with consultation from provincial beef organizations and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), developed a biosecurity standard which outlines the general practices and guidelines to implement biosecurity to control and reduce the risk and impacts of diseases in herds.

Canadian Beef Cattle On-Farm Biosecurity Standard

The beef biosecurity standard is voluntary, cost effective, and designed for on-farm application in operations of all types and sizes across Canada. The basics of the biosecurity standard are found in the producer guidebook developed by Manitoba Beef Producers.

Manitoba Beef Producers Biosecurity Guidebook (PDF)

If any producers are interested in biosecurity signage for their land, or for land they rent or lease such as Crown lands, MBP has created a template that producers can print off themselves or send to a sign company to have signs created. Please click the link below for the template and then save the PDF file.

Biosecurity Sign Template (PDF)

Workshops

From time to time MBP hosts free workshops of interest to beef producers. Due to the ongoing restrictions regarding in-person gatherings and group size limits brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, MBP will deliver these workshops in a virtual setting. Stay tuned to the Events page on our website for upcoming dates and topics.

Scholarships

MBP Scholarship

Manitoba Beef Producers is pleased to make available six $500 scholarships annually for MBP members or their children attending a university, college, other post-secondary institution or pursuing trades training. Preference will be given to those students pursuing a field of study related to agriculture or to those acquiring a skilled trade or pursuing a career that would be beneficial to the rural economy.

***Due to ongoing disruptions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic (and the related impacts on high schools and post-secondary institutions) MBP has pushed the application deadline for its 2021 scholarship competition into November instead of the usual June intake deadline. This application intake process is for students who will be undertaking post-secondary studies in the 2021-22 academic year.

Completed applications and supporting documents must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. Friday, November 5, 2021. A selection committee will review the submissions. Winners will be notified by December 14, 2021.

The scholarship eligibility criteria is as follows:

Eligibility:
• Must be at least 17 years of age as of January 1, 2021.
• Must be an active Manitoba beef producer or the child of an active Manitoba beef producer. Note: This can include beef producers returning to school after a period of time in the workforce.
• Post-secondary program or trades training must be a minimum of one year in duration.

Items You Are Required to Submit:
• Completed application form;
• A typed 600-word (maximum) essay discussing “What the beef industry means to my family, my community and Manitoba.” Also include the reasons you enjoy being involved in agriculture.*;
• A copy of your transcript (either high school, or a recognized college, university or trade school);
• Proof of enrolment in a recognized institution (current transcript, or your acceptance letter, or a letter of intent indicating your intended institution and field of study).
• A list of community involvement (e.g. 4-H, community clubs, volunteer work, etc.); and,
• The names of two references, including their addresses and telephone numbers.

Submissions and ALL documentation must be sent no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, November 5, 2021 to:

Manitoba Beef Producers
Scholarship Committee
220 – 530 Century Street
Winnipeg MB R3H 0Y4
E-mail: info@mbbeef.ca
Fax: (204) 774-3264

For more information, please contact Manitoba Beef Producers at 1-800-772-0458 or email info@mbbeef.ca.

*The 2020 scholarship winners’ essays are available in the February 2021 issue of Cattle Country. The 2021 recipients will have their essays published in Cattle Country in February 2022.

Annual Report

Manitoba Beef Producers’ Report to Members features a look at the issues affecting beef producers’ operations, details on MBP committees and the work they are doing, and reports from MBP’s national organizations.

2020 Report

Click here to view the 2020 Report to Members

2019 Report

Click here to view the 2019 Report to Members

2018 Report

Click here to view the 2018 Report to Members

2017 Report

Click here to view the 2017 Report to Members

2016 Report

Click here to view the 2016 Report to Members

2015 Report

Click here to view the MBP 2015 Report to Members

2014 Report

2014 MBP Annual Report

2013 Report

MBP 2013 Report To Members

2012 Report

MBP 2012 Report to Members

Resolutions

Resolutions for 42nd Annual General Meeting

Resolutions for the 41st Annual General Meeting

Resolutions 2013-2019

Policy

MBP Policy

Much of Manitoba Beef Producers’ work involves providing feedback on government policies, as well as proposed legislative and regulatory changes that could affect our beef industry.

MBP provides input on a broad range of issues including: the environment, animal care, business risk management programs, land and water management, disaster financial assistance, workplace safety and health, trade, competitiveness, and many, many more.

As well, MBP develops policies and conducts advocacy work based on the resolutions coming from members at our district meetings and debated at our Annual General Meeting. View a list of resolutions passed at the most recent MBP AGM on the Resolutions page.

Stay Involved. Get Active!

MBP encourages all beef producers and stakeholders to stay involved and provide feedback on issues that are important to the beef industry.