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05
VOLUME 5
bLUE-grEEn aLgaE pagE 6
2009 agri-arM fiELd days pagE 8
JUnE 2009
hay sharEs and agrEEMEnts pagE 11
Gopher Control Rebate Program continues page 14
Minister’s Message
Watrous Regional Office opening. From Left: Brenda Stefanson, MLA Greg Brkich, Minister Bjornerud, Shannon Urbaniak, Watrous Mayor Ed Collins. See story on page 12.
On April 6, Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Gerry Ritz and I announced details of the new Growing Forward agreement. This agreement will provide $216 million in funding over four years for non-business risk management programming.
The Growing Forward agreement includes several key programs that will benefit farmers and ranchers, including a province-wide Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP). We are allocating $53 million over four years to FRWIP. Farmers, ranchers, RMs and First Nations bands are eligible to apply for funding. Community wells are eligible for funding of up to 65 per cent of eligible costs and on-farm projects (wells, dugouts and
pipelines) are eligible for up to 50 per cent of eligible costs.
Growing Forward also includes funding for environmental farm programming. Funding will be provided to help producers adopt beneficial management practices such as the relocation of livestock facilities and GPS purchases. The Provincial Council of Agriculture Development and Diversification Boards (PCAB) will be administering this program.
The Growing Forward agreement also includes funding for farm business development. This programming will assist producers in their business decision making and help them to capture market opportunities. Financial support will be provided on a cost-shared basis up to a maximum of $4,000 per eligible farmer. Funding will be available for training or consultation services in areas such as financial, production, risk management, marketing, human resources and succession planning.
Growing Forward also includes programming for research, voluntary traceability and food safety initiatives.
For more information on programs under Growing Forward, contact your local Regional Office.
Sincerely,
Bob BjornerudMinister of Agriculture
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 [email protected]. to view this publication online, visit www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/programs-services.
Insect monitoring
Alfalfa management trial
tabLE Of COntEnts
7
14
15
Gopher control
05
VOLUME 5
BLUE-GREEN ALGAE PAGE 6
2009 AGRI-ARM FIELD DAYS PAGE 8
JUNE 2009
HAY SHARES AND AGREEMENTS PAGE 11
Gopher Control Rebate Program continues page 14
June 2009 agriview.indd 1 5/11/2009 10:41:22 AM
Seeded Acreage Reports
Livestock6
Cover: With winter finally releasing its grip on
our province, seeding has moved forward.
Correction: The chart on page six of the May
2009 issue was incorrect for the chemfallow
article, the online version has been corrected.
croPs4
12reGioNAL services
irriGAtioN10
13FArm sAFety
June 2009 3
ProGrAms ANd services14
eveNts cALeNdAr16
eveNts 10
8reseArch
11mANAGemeNt
4 June 2009
CrOps
Wheat Midge Risk for 2009by Scott Hartley, PAgProvincial Specialist - Insect/Pest ManagementCrops Branch
Although wheat midge populations appear to have declined in most areas
of Saskatchewan, the risk of severe infestations exists in several locations in the north, central and east-central regions of the province, as indicated in the adjacent 2009 Wheat Midge Forecast map.
The distribution forecast is based on the number of unparasitized cocoons found in samples collected in the 2008 fall soil survey. An increased population of midge parasites in 2008 is one of the factors resulting in the reduction in wheat midge numbers. However, producers should be aware that actual populations will vary from field to field. Even in areas where the risk map predicts low wheat midge numbers, producers may still experience significant damage and yield loss if the wheat crop is in a susceptible stage and climatic conditions are favourable for the midge.
Producers in all areas where wheat midge is present are urged to monitor their wheat fields from the moment the wheat head becomes visible as the boot splits until mid-flowering (anthesis). Regular field
scouting on multiple nights in succession is important to understand population changes in a particular field. Temperature and wind conditions significantly influence egg-laying by the adult female midge.
Wheat midge larvae feeding on wheat kernels lower the final yield, grade and grain quality. Severely damaged kernels that are lost during threshing will lower yield; whereas moderately damaged kernels that remain in the sample will reduce grade. Applying insecticide or planting a non-susceptible cereal (e.g. oats, barley) or a broadleaf crop (e.g. canola, pulse) into an infested field are two management options to avoid wheat midge damage.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOn
Monitoring for moths provides risk warning for larvae.
by Scott Hartley, PAgProvincial Specialist – Insect/Pest ManagementCrops Branch
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture works with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation, the Canola Council of Canada, individual farmers and other interested parties to provide information on major insect pests in the province. For this reason, insect pest surveys are conducted every year to determine the risk to crops in Saskatchewan on a regional basis. The risk to a specific field is best determined through regular monitoring by the farmer during the growing season. Climatic conditions in the spring and summer will have a major impact on actual insect infestations.
The grasshopper forecast is made based on observations of adult populations during the previous fall. Data is compiled and mapped to depict areas where successful egg-laying may result in higher infestations the following spring. The forecast map is posted on the Saskatchewan Agriculture website.
The wheat midge risk is estimated based on the number of unparasitized cocoons found in the soil the previous fall. A risk map is posted on the Ministry’s website.
Bertha armyworms over-winter in Saskatchewan as pupae in the soil. The provincial monitoring program uses pheromone traps baited with a product that mimics the scent female moths use to attract males for mating. Traps are set up in June and data is compiled weekly until the end of July. This information is used to produce maps showing areas with large moth populations that provides advance warning of the appearance of the destructive larvae in July and August. Maps are updated weekly on the Ministry’s website.
Diamondback moths over-winter in the southern regions of North America, and the location of infestations will vary from year to year depending on incoming wind currents. Surveillance for this insect uses pheromone traps to identify locations where adult moths have been deposited on the Prairies.
Pea leaf and cabbage seedpod weevils are more recent crop pests in Saskatchewan. Although these insects are expanding their ranges, economically damaging populations are currently present only in south-western Saskatchewan. Field surveys for these insects are conducted in May and June. Infestation maps are produced to show the areas at risk.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnVisit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at •www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
insECt MOnitOring prOgraMs in 2009
Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture •website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca; or
Contact the nearest Saskatchewan •Ministry of Agriculture Regional Office.
CrOps
by Clark Brenzil, PAgProvincial Specialist - Weed ControlCrops Branch
Economic Thresholds - will spraying pay?
rOtatiOnaL bEnEfits Of fOragE CrOpsby Charlotte Ward, PAg Regional Forage Specialist - OutlookRegional Services Branch
The economic threshold of a weed population is the point at which the cost of a weed control operation equals the value of yield loss from
the weed if it was not controlled.
To calculate the economic threshold of a herbicide application, see the directions on page 31 of the 2009 Guide to Crop Protection and the charts on pages 24 to 30. Follow the chart directions to determine if there are sufficient weeds to warrant spraying. Note that yield loss values in the guide also reflect how weed staging relative to the crop impacts yield in the barley and wheat charts, as well as the impact of crop density in barley. However, the charts are not accurate for the semi-dwarf varieties that are less competitive to weeds.
Scouting your field can be done with paper, pen, a weed identification book and a square frame 20 inches on a side or a hoop roughly 22 inches across, constructed using ¼-inch steel rod, to make an area of 0.25 square metres.
Begin scouting at one corner of the field and proceed to 30 paces from either edge. Begin walking a rough “W” pattern through the field, dropping the frame every 20 paces and recording the number of each species of weed you find at each drop. The number of weeds is multiplied by four to get the number per square metre. If populations are heavy, you may need to divide the frame into smaller portions and multiply up to a square metre accordingly. Once the scouting is completed, calculate the average weed density in the field.
As the value of a crop grows - whether due to improvements in the crop’s market value or its yield potential - it takes fewer weeds to justify the application of a herbicide, even in a field that may seem relatively weed-free.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnRefer to the • 2009 Guide to Crop Protection at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Guide_to_Crop_Protection; or
Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.•
It is no secret that forages are often established on marginal lands, but is there a benefit to establishing forage crops on good quality soils
and integrating them into a regular crop rotation?
On average, alfalfa can contribute 45 lb. of nitrogen per acre annually, depending on growing conditions. Studies indicate that wheat yields may increase by 50 per cent when land is previously cropped with alfalfa for three years, compared to land previously cropped with non-legumes.
Yield increases are directly related to the amount of average rainfall. Producers should consider soil moisture levels when planning crop rotations, as leaving forage stands in the ground too long may deplete soil moisture, particularly in the Brown and Dark Brown soil zones.
Annual crops grown following forages often have less competition from weeds, allowing for a reduction in herbicide inputs. In a University of Manitoba survey, 83 per cent of producers indicated that including alfalfa in rotations reduced weed populations of wild oats, green foxtail and Canada thistle for up to three years.
Effective stand termination is crucial to forage rotations. While tillage may result in a greater amount of nitrogen being released to the first post-forage crop, tillage also uses a lot of fossil fuels, dries out the soil and still may not effectively kill the entire stand.
On the other hand, termination with herbicides (glyphosate, 2,4-D, clopyralid, dicamba or combinations thereof) can be highly effective and, due to the slow release of nitrogen, spread out the fertility benefits for up to three years. For best kill, herbicides should be applied when plants are at least eight inches high and actively growing.
Often, the producer will maximize forage stand life and rotate forages only when productivity declines beyond the point of efficient harvesting. Research has shown that nitrogen accumulation and weed suppression from an alfalfa stand is optimized after two to three years, whereas the economically optimum stand duration is four or five years. Cycling forages through a rotation more quickly may provide greater agronomic and economic benefits compared to establishing forages for long periods of time.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact Charlotte Ward, Regional Forage Specialist, Regional •Services Branch, Saskatchewan Agriculture, (306) 867-5559, or e-mail [email protected]; or
Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at •www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
Legume-grass pastures can provide agronomic and economic benefits when included in crop rotations.
June 2009 5
6 June 2009
LiVEstOCK
The importance of trace minerals for reproductive performance of livestock
Trace minerals are required in small amounts in order to maintain productivity, health and reproductive efficiency. There are a few
trace minerals in particular that are of importance for livestock producers in Saskatchewan. They include: copper, manganese, zinc, iodine cobalt and selenium. Supplementation in small amounts is important. Caution is important as large amounts can cause toxicity.
Trace mineral deficiencies may not be noticeable from growth performance, but can be quite noticeable when looking at breeding and reproductive performance. It is common to see a stretched out breeding/calving season if trace minerals are lacking. Trace minerals are closely involved with the cow’s ability to cycle and rebreed after calving. If trace minerals are deficient it will take animals longer to show heat after calving, and fewer animals will catch within the first cycle. It is important to have proper trace mineral supplements available to animals prior to breeding.
There are many different types of trace minerals available and different ways of supplying them. It is recommended to work with a professional when supplementing trace minerals. In general it is recommended to supply 1.5-2.5 oz of trace mineral per head per day. They are commonly supplied in the form of a trace mineralized salt, which can be an effective way of supplying the minerals if this is the only source of salt available to the animals.
The addition of trace minerals may not have a significant impact that is noticeable immediately, but they will pay off in the long run.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOn on trace minerals for •livestock check out the publication Trace Minerals for Livestock at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca; or
Call the Agriculture •Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
by Christy Winquist, BScA, PAgBeef-Forage SpecialistAgriculture Knowledge Centre
As air and water temperatures begin to heat up, it’s time to be closely monitoring dugouts, ponds,
dams, and even lakes that are used for stock watering. True algae and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria), given nutrient rich water, can grow rapidly, seemingly becoming apparent overnight after a period of hot weather. If cyanobacteria are present, potentially toxic conditions can appear quickly if winds concentrate the bloom along a shore-line. While long-term planning can limit or prevent the growth of algae and cyanobacteria, having a back-up water source is a key priority.
Long-term strategies can limit the amount of nutrients entering the dugout. Grassed water-ways can provide a natural filter for run-off water. Restricting or removing direct animal contact by setting up remote watering stations will reduce the impact of nutrients from manure and urine. Year-round high-volume
aeration can limit the amount of nutrients available for algal growth and promote the development of a more stable aerobic aquatic ecosystem.
A period of heat and calm winds can provide the right conditions for cyanobacteria to flourish and produce a bloom (a dense growth of cyanobacterial cells). Conditions become dangerous when winds stir up
water layers causing the bloom to concentrate on the water’s surface and be blown to shore where it eventually dies off and releases its toxins (if present). If cattle are watering on the shore where and when this occurs, death may result.
If you find yourself caught off-guard in the middle of a situation where you suspect a cyanobacterial bloom, your first step should be to prevent animal losses by immediately removing your animals from the potential danger, and then seeking the advice of a professional on treatment and prevention procedures.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact your Regional Livestock Specialist, or call the Agriculture •Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.
bLUE-grEEn aLgaE (CyanObaCtEria) and aniMaL hEaLth
by R.G. (Bob) Klemmer, PAgRegional Livestock Specialist, WeyburnRegional Services Branch
Remote watering systems help improve surface water quality. Photo: Agri-Environment Services Branch, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.
Mineral supplements need to be fed throughout the year.
LiVEstOCK
Managing pasture during rapid growth
arE yOU CaptUring thE hErd EffECt On yOUr pastUrE?
by Trevor Lennox, PAgForage Development Specialist - Swift CurrentRegional Services Branch
Manipulating plants using grazing prolongs the vegetative state of pasture.
From a pasture management standpoint, there is benefit to utilizing the herd effect on your property. The herd effect is achieved by
grazing cattle on a piece of grassland at a high density for a very short time.
The advantages to producers of the herd effect can be explained by the following example. A producer who does not take advantage of the herd effect turns the animals out onto the field and allows them to
graze season-long (i.e 25 cow/calf pairs on a quarter section of land). A producer using the herd effect would combine four smaller herds of 25 cow/calf pairs into one larger herd of 100 cow/calf pairs. The advantages of having a larger herd include:
Keeping the group together increases stock density, which improves •the uniformity of grazing in the pasture (i.e. control wolfy-crested wheatgrass).
There will be a greater number of grazing fields available, which •enables the producer to keep the graze period short. Keeping the graze period short means animals are moving to fresh feed more frequently thus improving the animal’s nutrition and ultimately, performance (i.e. better daily gains).
It takes less labour to check one herd of 100 cow/calf pairs than four •separate herds of 25 cow/calf pairs.
More rest for the plants between grazing periods is beneficial to •them and results in pastures that are more productive. Make sure the regrowth is not grazed again too soon, as plants need a sufficient time before they can be grazed again.
When managing a larger number of animals together, the watering system is under greater stress. Therefore, if you are using a remote watering system that utilizes a pump and trough system, ensure you have enough capacity to water the larger herd.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.•
Unless manipulated, the majority of forage production on perennial pastures occurs from mid-May to early July. In a perfect world
forage growth would be produced uniformly over the entire grazing season.
June is normally the highest precipitation month of the year in Saskatchewan. Cool season perennial forages evolved to take advantage of this scenario. When left unmanaged, they grow quickly in spring, set seed, and become relatively dormant during the normally dry summer. New tillers emerge in fall and resume growth early the following spring.
This growth cycle is not the ideal scenario for grazing animals during the later part of summer. Plants left alone will mature with reduced palatability and lower forage quality. Ideally, perennial plants would remain relatively vegetative for the greater part of the summer.
Consequently, one of the goals of a grazing manager is to manipulate the plants with grazing to prolong the vegetative stage for a greater part of the summer. June is the opportune month to get this accomplished. Plants grazed in June can recover and be ready for grazing again later in the summer. Grazing in June needs to be followed by a period of rest so the plants can recover and recharge their root system.
An example of a rotation on seeded pasture would be to uniformly graze a paddock in June for seven days or less. This paddock would then be rested and ready for grazing in August. The vegetation will be higher quality and more palatable compared to season long stockpiled vegetation.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact your Regional Forage Specialist; or•
Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre toll-free at 1-866-457-2377.•
by Lorne Klein, PAgRegional Forage Specialist - WeyburnRegional Services Branch
Using the herd effect on pastures provides advantages.
June 2009 7
June 2009
rEsEarCh
8
by Joe Novak, PAgRegional Manager - EastRegional Services Branch
Agri-ARM Field Days 2009
The Saskatchewan Agri-ARM
(Agriculture-Applied Research Management) Program connects eight regional applied research and demonstration sites into a province-wide network that allows government, producers, researchers and industry associations to partner on provincial and regional projects. Agri-ARM sites focus on increasing value from crops and forages and enhancing production efficiency.
While the Agri-ARM sites receive funding from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, the research priorities for each site are set by a producer-led council. Each site has demonstration projects that are unique to the specific site, but also likely collaborates on
projects with other Agri-ARM sites. They also work in co-operation with a wide range of commodity and industry groups to enhance their research and demonstration efforts.
Projects include, but are not limited to, regional variety testing, new crop agronomy, weed control technology, fertility evaluations, equipment technology, crops for biofuel and many others.
Each Agri-ARM location has an annual field day to showcase these projects, to allow producers to see results for themselves and ask questions directly with the researchers. These
events have proven very popular with producers over the years. The following schedule lists the planned dates for 2009, however, always confirm the field day as the dates draw near.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact your Regional Specialist; or •
Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.•
Agri-ARM Field Days 2009
The Wheatland Conservation Area Inc. manages and operates the Brown soil zone Agri-ARM program in southwest Saskatchewan. The
Agri-ARM program receives funding from Saskatchewan Agriculture and a wide range of commodity and industry groups. This non-profit organization conducts producer-driven applied research and extension. Staff include a Farm Manager, a technician, one seasonal employee and two or three summer students.
Most of the work carried out involves large plot-replicated studies using field scale equipment. Small plot-replicated studies are also carried out, along with a few non-replicated demonstrations. Results are available to producers at tours, workshops and trade shows. Partnerships with government and non-government organizations, as well as industry and producers, are a big part of the overall success of the program. As this is the only site in the dry Brown soil zone, satellite sites run throughout the Southwest in addition to the main site at Swift Current (near Hodgeville, Aneroid and Stewart Valley). Small, single study sites are also located in the area.
Approximately 40 trials are conducted annually involving pulse crops, forages, oilseeds, cereals and many others. “With office space and storage facilities located at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Research Centre in Swift Current, we have become an important link between the science of agriculture, industry and producers,” said Bryan Nybo, site manager.
Current year trials will be conducted on a wide range of crops, including camelina, canaryseed, pulses, canola, flax and cereals. These trials are a result of ongoing co-operation between a wide range of industry and commodity groups.
You can learn more about these trials at the Wheatland Conservation Area Field Day on July 15. This year the field day is being held in conjunction with the Saskatchewan Mustard Development Commission, which will hold its field day in the afternoon.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact Shannon Chant, Regional Crop Specialist, Swift Current at •(306) 778-8291, or e-mail [email protected]; or
Contact Bryan Nybo, Manager, Wheatland Conservation Area Inc., •at (306) 778-7289, or e-mail [email protected]; or
Contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.•
WhEatLand COnsErVatiOn arEa fiELd day - JULy 15, 2009by: Bryan Nybo, Manager,Wheatland Conservation Area Inc.
and
Shannon Chant, MSc, PAgRegional Crops Specialist - Swift CurrentRegional Services Branch
Producers and industry representatives listen to a talk about an ethanol project at the annual Wheatland Conservation Area Inc. Field Day.
Melfort Agri-ARM Site active in forage crops
rEsEarCh
by Al Foster, PAgRegional Forage Specialist - TisdaleRegional Services Branch
Can sOLar pOWEr rUn an irrigatiOn systEM?
Irrigation began in Saskatchewan in the late 1890s, but it wasn’t until the construction of the Gardiner Dam, completed in 1967,
that intensive sprinkler irrigation took off. Today, some 340,000 acres (138,000 ha) of Saskatchewan farmland is under irrigation.
Currently, one impediment to the expansion of irrigation is the lack of access to electricity to power the pumps and centre pivot irrigation systems. In the absence of electricity, producers typically use diesel motors to run their systems, and, at more than twice the cost of electricity, some of these producers have ceased irrigation altogether.
A research project at the University of Saskatchewan, funded by the Ministry’s Agriculture Development Fund, has recently demonstrated the use of solar power to operate a mini-pivot irrigation system on high-value crops. The researchers were able to power the irrigation pivot by using solar-powered photovoltaic cells to store electrical power in batteries.
Their work also developed best management practices to efficiently utilize water and energy resources to produce a crop. They found that using a low pressure, night time watering schedule decreased water use and overall energy consumption compared to a high pressure, daytime watering schedule, with no reduction in crop yield. Reducing sprinkler height by switching from high pressure sprinklers to low
pressure drop nozzles significantly improved water and energy efficiency. Most Saskatchewan irrigators currently use water-efficient, low pressure centre pivots with drop nozzles.
With current technology, a solar-powered quarter section centre pivot would present logistical and economic challenges, but a solar-powered mini-pivot may be practical in certain locations. This project demonstrates the possibility of solar powered irrigation in remote areas with no access to electricity.
To obtain the final report, Optimal Management of Solar Powered Mini-Pivots for High Value Crops, phone the Agriculture Research Branch at (306) 787-5929 or download it from the Ministry’s website.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnVisit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at •www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca, or
Contact Dr. Terry Fonstad, University of Saskatchewan at •(306) 966-7860.
A number of forage crop demonstrations have been included in the Agriculture-Applied Research Management Program
(Agri-ARM) site at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Research Farm at Melfort.
These on-going forage projects provide producers with the opportunity to determine for themselves the usefulness of different forage crops and cropping practices for their farms.
The perennial forage species demonstration features 36 forage crops. Along with the commonly grown species, such as meadow brome, hybrid brome, crested wheatgrass and alfalfa, there are less commonly seeded forages, such as tall fescue, switch grass and native grass species. All but one of the demonstration plots are clipped for yield in early July and mid-September. The one replication remains unclipped until later in the summer for demonstration purposes.
Another perennial forage crop project at the Melfort Research Farm is investigating the yield of simple and complex mixtures. Some producers prefer simple mixtures of a grass and legume
because they produce well and are easy to manage. Others like to use more complex mixtures of five or more species because it is felt these mixtures will produce better. This project will provide more information on the usefulness of simple and complex tame forage mixtures for hay and simulated grazing in northeast Saskatchewan.
Annual crops are commonly used for swath grazing, green feed and pasture. Oats, barley and millets are the most popular annual forage crops. Winter cereals are sometimes used for pasture because when spring seeded they do not head in the year of seeding, making them easy to manage. However, yield is usually lower than spring cereals. The annual forage crop demonstration at Melfort is using a mixture of spring and winter cereals. The purpose is to determine if more forage can be produced by mixing the two and cutting the spring cereal for greenfeed in late July, thereby using the winter cereal for fall pasture.
These projects will continue and new ones are being planned for the 2009 season.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact Al Foster, Regional Forage Specialist, Tisdale Regional •Office, at (306) 878-8890; or
Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.•
June 2009 9
Selecting an alfalfa variety suited to the management system is important.
sEEding trEnds 2009sasKatChEWan’s OnLy dirECt sEEding fiELd day
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOn Contact the Seager Wheeler Farm at (306) 232-5959, or •
Visit the Seager Wheeler Farm website at •www.seagerwheelerfarm.org.
irrigatiOn
EVEnts
10 June 2009
Alfalfa Management Trial
Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, in partnership with the Irrigation Crop Diversification Corporation (ICDC) and the
Canada-Saskatchewan Irrigation Diversification Centre (CSIDC), has established the Alfalfa Management Trial at CSIDC to compare the performance of seven alfalfa varieties under an irrigated intensive management system.
The trial is a field scale plot design of six alfalfa varieties from industry and one public variety, AC Blue J, utilized as the irrigation check variety. The six industry varieties are:
53Q30 (Pioneer)•
Hybriforce 400 (Brett-Young Seeds)•
CEI Equinox (Proven Seeds)•
Stealth (Northstar Seeds)•
2065 MF (Pickseed)•
AC Longview (FarmPure Seeds now Pickseed)•
The trial is managed to harvest three cuts with harvest dates scheduled by the calendar. Data to be collected, beginning in 2009 through to 2011, will include maturity at harvest, yield, stand persistence and forage quality. This research project is intended to enhance and
increase the agronomic information available to irrigators when selecting for forage varieties that maximize productivity and profitability while using sustainable irrigation management practices. Data collected from the trial can help irrigators to select alfalfa varieties that perform under a three-cut harvest system, survive Saskatchewan winters and have suitable nutrient content for dairy and/or beef production.
Results will be published in the ICDC Program Final Report, which becomes available in December. A summer field event will be held this June or July. Watch for field event details to
be posted on the ICDC page of the Irrigation Saskatchewan website (www.irrigationsaskatchewan.com) or contact the Irrigation Branch office in Outlook at (306) 867-5500.
fOr fUrthEr infOrMatiOnContact Sarah Sommerfeld, PAg at (306) 867-5521. •
by Sarah Sommerfeld, PAgIrrigation AgrologistIrrigation Branch
Seminars, producer panels, hands-on exercises and pasture tours are all an important part of the Saskatchewan Pasture School to
be held June 17-18 at the Heritage Inn in Saskatoon. The school has proved to be a very popular forum for grazing managers to gain practical knowledge and expand their management skills.
The agenda includes sessions on grass growth, grazing management principles, stocking rate calculations, the use of profitability calculators and a producer’s experience grassing yearlings. An evening session, entitled My Grazing Program, will profile two producers from Broderick and Hanley as they address their grazing management practices.
Attendance at the Saskatchewan Pasture School is limited to 50 participants. Producers are encouraged to register early to avoid disappointment.
The registration form and full agenda are available on the Saskatchewan Forage Council website at www.saskforage.ca.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact Leanne Thompson, Project Coordinator, Saskatchewan •Forage Council, at (306) 966-2148 or email [email protected];
Contact Charlotte Ward, Regional Forage Specialist, •Saskatchewan Agriculture at (306) 867-5559, or email [email protected]; or
Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; or•
Visit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at •www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
rEMindEr: sasKatChEWan pastUrE sChOOL 2009
Friday, June 5th, 2009
At the Seager Wheeler Farm, Located 7 km East of Rosthern on Highway #312.
Activities commence at 9 a.m.
Program Highlights:
Direct seeding demonstrations•
Sprayer demonstrations•
Agronomic seminars•
Industry exhibits •
Representatives from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture•
Admission: $10 per person – lunch include
It’s a fact; retained ownership of cattle can offer increased opportunity for profit. Nonetheless, many farmers and ranchers don’t have the resources
to keep their calves.
Custom feedlots provide an option to the challenges of retaining ownership. The benefit of working with a custom feeder can be summed up with expertise, resources and marketing. Custom feedlots have the experience and knowledge of feeding cattle and use the newest technology. The economies of scale provided by a custom feedlot reduce feed and yardage costs. Many make financing available and most importantly, custom feedlots provide a marketing advantage.
Richard Wilson, General Manger of Plains Livestock Inc., a 10,000 head custom feedlot located in north east Saskatchewan, works with producers to feed and market cattle on their behalf. At Plains Feedlot, Wilson has developed connections into the major U.S. and Canadian markets, which benefits his clients.
In a numbers game where bigger is better, the more cattle you have to offer of similar size and type, the more likely the bids will be stronger, and thus, more profitable. A good example of this took place last fall, when clients had Plains Livestock buy cattle on their behalf or they put their own calves into the feedlot. Several chose the pen sharing option and combined their similar type cattle to be fed as a group. Thanks to close monitoring of markets and the expertise of Wilson and custom feedlot operators across the
province, cattle in certain weight ranges were sold to take advantage of market opportunities to maximize returns to the owners.
Heavier calves are put onto high grain rations and marketed as slaughter weight cattle, while lighter calves are put into a grasser program. The grasser cattle are fed a ration targeted at growth versus fattening so that they weigh between 700 to 800 lb. for June when pasture is ready. At that time, they’ll be sent to home pastures or out to custom graziers. Once the grazing season is complete, the grasser cattle will return to custom feedlots for finishing.
Proximity isn’t the only factor to consider when sending your cattle to a custom feeder. Cattle producers should look for a feedlot manager that they can work with and consider the range of services they provide. Many include age verification, production data feedback, feeding programs for wintering cows, culls and niche markets.
Wilson said his clients have appreciated the flexibility and financing options to assist with feeding costs and purchasing cattle. But above all, marketing cattle is one of the most important services a custom feeder can provide.
Retained ownership is not without risk. The superior genetics in your herd will shine through and the poor doers will also be evident. However, knowing this will, in turn, help to select the genetics which perform better and are more profitable. Custom feeders can help to fill in the “resource gap” so that retained ownership is possible for most.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact Tracy Evans PAg, Livestock Specialist at (306)-878-8847; or •
Call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377.•
The Price of the Hay
Before setting up a hay share or standing hay agreement, the price or value of the hay should be agreed upon. Local hay prices should be used because hay prices vary based on supply and demand.
Note: Hay prices can be severely affected by the cost of trucking. At times, buyers may be willing to pay more for the convenience of having a short hauling distance.
The Contributions Approach
One method to value hay is the contributions approach. Each partner in the process calculates the value of their contribution to the overall value of the hay. Based on the Farm Machinery Custom and Rental Rate Guide 2008, a stand producing 1.5 ton forage per acre and bales weighing 1300 lb., the cost of cutting and baling is about $33 per ton. The landowner, meanwhile, has contributed the forage establishment, taxes, land investment and perhaps fertility to the hay yield. The value of his or her contribution may be about $30 per acre or $20 per ton.
Therefore, the value of the hay to the partnership is $53 per ton. A hay share agreement between these partners would result in a 33/20 split or approximately a 60/40 share agreement.
Standing Hay Sales
The value of standing hay is the result of subtracting the cost of cutting, baling and hauling from the value of the bale. If hay is worth $70 per ton and the cutting and baling costs are $33 per ton, the standing price to the buyer is $37 per ton. Parties should factor production and quality risk into the agreement, as well.
Think Long Term
Working towards a long-term agreement goes a long way in protecting both the owner and operator from high and low prices. A well-written hay agreement uses both the contributions approach and the long-term average hay
price to provide value and peace of mind to both parties.
The figures used in this article are examples only. It’s important to understand your own costs as they relate to forage production. Refer to the publication, Calculating Hay Rental Agreements from the Ministry of Agriculture website, www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca | About Agriculture | Management | Financial Planning.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnCall the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377; or •
Contact your local Regional Office.•
by Andre Bonneau, BSA, PAgForage Management Specialist Agriculture Knowledge Centre
WOrKing tOgEthEr tO iMprOVE prOfitabiLityTracy Evans, PAgLivestock Specialist - TisdaleRegional Services Branch
Hay prices should be agreed upon before setting up an agreement.
ManagEMEnt
June 2009 11
Hay shares and haying agreements
Producers in southeast Saskatchewan can now access Ministry of Agriculture expertise and regional specialists by visiting
Saskatchewan Agriculture’s newest regional office in Watrous.
On April 23, Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud and Arm River-Watrous MLA Greg Brkich officially opened the new office, located at 403 Main Street.
“Producers are looking for something more than a telephone line or website,” Bjornerud said. “This new office will provide farmers, ranchers and agribusiness owners in the Watrous area with the expertise, advice and one-on-one service they need.”
The Watrous Regional Office employs six full-time staff, including a Regional Crop Specialist, Regional Farm Business Management Specialist, Regional Forage Specialist, Regional Livestock Specialist and two administrative assistants. Specialists are available for one-on-one meetings and on-farm visits.
Saskatchewan Agriculture’s next stop is Kindersley; doors opened to the public there in late April. The Ministry is now hiring full-time specialists, but in the meantime, other regional office staff are providing full services to area producers.
Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation has also relocated its office to the new Saskatchewan Agriculture Kindersley office, located at 409 Main Street, to provide one-stop Ministry and Crop Insurance services.
The Kindersley office will hold an official grand opening this summer.
The Watrous and Kindersley offices are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday.
Saskatchewan Agriculture opens new offices in Watrous and Kindersley
Meet our team! Watrous Regional Office
Shannon Urbaniak, PAg
Regional Crop Specialist
(306) 946-3216
Dale Weisbrot, PAg
Regional Forage Specialist
(306) 946-3219
Brenda Stefanson, PAg
Regional Farm Business Management Specialist
(306) 946-3214
Bob Klemmer, PAg
Regional Livestock Specialist
(306) 848-2380
Note: Bob will cover livestock inquiries until the Regional Livestock Specialist position in Watrous is filled.
Vikki Currie
Regional Service Representative
(306) 946-3230
Janelle Olorenshaw
Administrative Assistant
(306) 946-3220
Kindersley Regional Office
Staff to be introduced soon!
Call us at (306) 463-5513.
rEgiOnaL sErViCEs
12 June 2009
The spread of H1N1 flu virus has been a focal point of the news lately. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to alleviate the severity of the
flu symptoms, and most importantly, protect yourself and others from coming down with the flu.
Prevent the spread of H1N1
The flu can spread rapidly from person to person. This can occur by coughing or sneezing or through contact with something recently contaminated by fluids from an infected person, such as shaking hands with someone who has sneezed. Like any influenza, the best way to reduce the spread of the virus is to practice good infection prevention behaviours.
The most important one is to wash your hands frequently and use a hand sanitizer if necessary. This preventative measure cannot be stressed enough. Handwashing, when done correctly, is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of communicable diseases.
Additionally, cough and sneeze into your elbow rather than your hand. If you are sick, avoid going to work and being in large crowds, as you can spread influenza easily to others. If someone in your family is sick, keep
their personal items separate from other family members, and use a disinfectant to clean surfaces around the ill person.
It is important to take the necessary precautions to prevent coming down with the flu, or to lessen its symptoms if you are infected.
Symptoms
The flu typically starts with sudden onset of fever, sore throat, cough and muscle aches. However, a person may experience other symptoms such as fever and chills, body aches (especially in the back and legs), headache, dry cough, etc.
Treatment
If you suspect you or members of your family have the flu, stay home and rest. This is one of the best things to fight the flu and avoid spreading it to others.
Ensure you drink plenty of liquids to help replace the fluid lost from fever and sweating. Take medication for your symptoms. Your pharmacist can help you choose the right over-the-counter medicine and if your symptoms persist or you or your family member is getting progressively sicker, contact your doctor immediately.
Remember – the most important step is precaution. Wash your hands regularly, sneeze into your elbow (if you don’t have a tissue) and stay home if you are sick.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnVisit Saskatchewan Health’s website at •www.health.gov.sk.ca/influenza-flu; or
Visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s website at •www.fightflu.ca or call 1-800-454-8302; or
For travel notices and advisories from Foreign Affairs and International •Trade Canada, check www.voyage.gc.ca.
Saskatchewan hog producers are reminded of the importance of keeping their herds healthy.
There is every indication that producers’ existing biosecurity protocols are sufficient to protect their herds from H1N1. Producers must ensure that they vigorously enforce their protocols. That means:
Only essential personnel should have access to swine barns. No visitors!•
No people showing signs of influenza (fever, aches, cough) should come •into contact with your swine.
Swine health should be closely monitored and a veterinarian contacted •at the earliest signs of illness that could be influenza.
Laboratory testing should be done to confirm a diagnosis in any sick •pigs.
Farm workers should have a change of clothing, clean boots and access •to handwashing or gel sanitizer at the entry to barns.
Any newly purchased stock should be quarantined before introducing •them to the herd.
Barns should have signs that direct visitors to report to the house or •office before entering. It is preferable that barns be kept locked for security.
If possible, anyone returning from a region reporting H1N1 should be kept away from the herd for at least 10 days. At the minimum, anyone entering a barn should be required to change their clothes and boots and wash their hands. The Canadian Pork Council and the Canadian Swine Health Board recommendations can be accessed on the council’s website at http://www.cpc-ccp.com/documents/influenzavirusandincreasebiosecurity.pdf.
Producers are also encouraged to ensure their barn ventilation systems are functioning properly and to minimize the recirculation of air in their barns.
The symptoms of influenza in pigs are fever, loss of appetite, loss of weight, coughing and sneezing, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing and spontaneous abortion. The affected animals usually recover within five to seven days.
Producers should contact their veterinarian immediately if their animals display any of these symptoms.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnVisit the Saskatchewan Agriculture website at •www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
Protect yourself and others from H1N1
prOtECt yOUr pigs against h1n1 infLUEnZa
Washing hands is one of the ways you can help prevent spreading flu viruses.
farM safEty
June 2009 13
14 June 2009
Gopher Control Rebate 2009
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture will continue to rebate farmers, ranchers, Rural Municipalities (RMs) and First Nations for
50 per cent of the costs of purchasing approved products for controlling gophers in 2009 through the Gopher Control Rebate Program. In 2008, the Ministry provided $1.25 million worth of rebates to producers who accessed the program.
Gopher damage to crop and forage land in many parts of Saskatchewan has been extensive. To limit damage, many producers across the province have purchased, and will continue to purchase, significant quantities of gopher control products. For example, producers spent significant resources on strychnine alone last year. As such, the Ministry is pleased that the federal government’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency has approved the provincial government’s application to extend the emergency registration of strychnine again in 2009.
Rebates apply to eligible products purchased between August 1, 2008 and October 1, 2009. 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 RM offices, any Ministry of Agriculture Regional Office, or by visiting www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/gopher-rebate, e-mailing [email protected], or by calling 1-866-947-9113.
Deadline for application is January 29, 2010.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact Karen Williamson, •Manager, Account Services at (306) 778-8570 or by e-mail at [email protected].
by Karen WilliamsonManager, Account ServicesFinancial Programs Branch
The Saskatchewan Young Ag-Entrepreneurs (SYA) is a group of young farmers, ag-business owners and operators who all have
agriculture as the common link, but come from a variety of backgrounds. The group was formed in realization that a gap existed in the province where young people in agriculture could share ideas with each other, access development and educational opportunities and promote agriculture as a great industry to be a part of.
As a non-profit producer-based agriculture group, the mandate of the SYA is to access development opportunities, provide networking opportunities and share views on agriculture and rural issues. This mandate was fulfilled at the third annual Yes to Agriculture conference and annual general meeting. Held in March in Saskatoon, the conference featured topics on managing financials, entrepreneurship, program support and industry trends.
The event featured appearances from Deputy Minister of Agriculture Alanna Koch, who acknowledged that SYA is an integral part of creating opportunities to share knowledge and experience. Others spoke on agriculture industry trends and the importance of young people in agriculture, and the availability of agriculture education events and resources for grade 12 and under students. There were also presentations on monitoring fuel consumption in a cattle operation and crop management.
The SYA has a few events planned for 2009. The group will meet again in Regina on July 3 to address future goals and opportunities. All members are welcome to attend and share their ideas. The SYA is also looking to book a few summer tours with the Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute, the Western Beef Development Centre and a potash mine.
Please watch for more details on the 2010 Yes to Agriculture Conference and Annual General Meeting, to be held in Regina at the Travelodge Hotel on January 28 and 29, 2010.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOn
Contact Daphne •Gottselig, Regional Crops Specialist with the Regional Services Branch at 306-694-3587; or
by e-mail at •[email protected]; or
Visit •www.saskyoungag.ca.
sasKatChEWan yOUng ag-EntrEprEnEUrs - sUppOrting thE fUtUrE Of agriCULtUrE
by Daphne GottseligRegional Crops Specialist - Moose JawRegional Services Branch
prOdUCtiOnprOgraMs and sErViCEs
June 2009 15
Seeded Acreage Reports confirm insurance coverageWhen Crop Insurance customers open their Seeded Acreage Report
(SAR) packages, they may notice one big difference from last year – it’s simpler.
You are required to report all seeded acres (whether insured or uninsured), crop variety, seeding date, any 2009 summerfallow and acres too wet to seed. Seeded Acreage Reports are used to calculate your level of insurance and process any claims you may have. Not only will reporting insured and uninsured acres lead to more accurate claims and establish an individual history record, it is a condition of your contract. You do not have coverage until you report your seeded acres.
In the package you receive, you will find a report form with pre-printed crop codes for all the endorsements active on your contract. Producers may make land additions or deletions on the SAR form as long as the crops on those acres were endorsed by March 31. Please note that if damage occurs before Crop Insurance is notified of any land changes, you may be at risk of not having coverage.
Acres insured under the Forage Rainfall Insurance Program or Corn Heat Unit Program do not have to be reported as they were recorded before the sales deadline in March.
Also included in the package is a Stored Grain Declaration, used to make more accurate claim payments. Stored grain may be considered new production if not reported and a yield-loss claim occurs.
The deadline to submit your SAR and Stored Grain Declaration is June 25. You may submit your forms by mail, phone, fax, online via CropConnect or by visiting your local customer service office. Failure to submit these forms may result in a $60 penalty and further charges should it be necessary for an adjuster visit to gather the information.
If greenfeed acres have not been seeded as of the June 25 deadline, please report the acres as summerfallow. Contact your customer service office prior to the June 30 deadline to update your SAR when these acres have been seeded.
Details on how to complete these forms can be found in the Reporting Information section of Your Complete Guide to Understanding Crop Insurance, which is also available on Crop Insurance’s website.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOnContact your local customer service office; or•
Call 1-888-935-0000; or•
Visit• www.saskcropinsurance.com.
by Francis WachExecutive Director Saskatchewan SPCA
The Saskatchewan Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) is a non-profit animal welfare organization that was
incorporated in 1928 to protect animals from cruelty and neglect. They act on behalf of companion animals and livestock with a staff of seven animal protection officers who enforce the Animal Protection Act in response to concerns raised by members of the public. The Ministry of Agriculture values its relationship with the SSPCA, and provides annual funding of $230,000 to help enforce the Act in Saskatchewan. Every complaint that is received by the SSPCA is investigated as soon as possible to determine what action should be taken.
Animals depend on their owners or caregivers for the food, water, shelter and care that they need to thrive. While intentional cruelty does occur,
situations in which the basic needs are neglected are almost always unintentional. The SSPCA makes a concerted effort to educate and inform people about how to improve the care of their animals. Complaints related to livestock typically involve groups of animals in poor body condition without adequate food or shelter. If the owners are able to improve feed quality and care, they can keep their animals, but will be monitored by the SSPCA to ensure that the condition of the animals improve.
Seizure of abused or neglected animals is an option that the SSPCA does exercise when a veterinary assessment determines that the animals must be removed from their owner in order for them to recover. The spring of 2009 has seen an unprecedented number of seizures as the SSPCA removed livestock on seven farms in March, including one herd of almost 300 cattle. Without a doubt, the cold winter with heavy snowfall late in the season, low feed supplies and poor quality of feed in some areas contributed to the number of farms that had emaciated livestock this year.
While the reasons may be evident, a competent herdsperson should have the skills needed to assess body condition and plan rations appropriately to prevent livestock from starving during the winter. Education is a critical foundation for prevention, but individuals can face criminal charges for neglecting their responsibility to animals in their care. The SSPCA exists to protect animals.
fOr MOrE infOrMatiOn
SSPCA staff learn about body scoring.
gEt tO KnOW yOUr sasKatChEWan spCa
Contact Francis Wach, Saskatchewan SPCA Executive Director •at (306) 382-4471; or
Visit • www.sspca.ca.
prOdUCtiOnprOgraMs and sErViCEsprOgraMs and sErViCEs
EVEnts CaLEndar
DATE EVENT LOCATION PHONE INTERNET
Jun. 3 International Wheat Quality IV Conference Saskatoon 306-966-5855 www.usask.ca/iwqc4/index.php
Jun. 3-4 Multi-Species Grazing Seminar Moose Jaw 306-933-5099 www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Jun. 5 Seager Wheeler Seeding Trends Event Rosthern 306-946-3216 www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Jun. 9 Livestock Water Quality Meeting Tugaske 306-867-5504 www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Jun. 10 Livestock Water Quality Meeting Tisdale 306-878-8847 www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Jun. 10Crop Insurance deadline to finalize claims on over-winter extensions
1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com
Jun. 16Agricultural Manufacturers of Canada Annual Meeting and Convention
Regina 1-800-959-7462 www.a-m-c.ca
Jun. 17-18 Saskatchewan Pasture School Saskatoon 306-966-2148 www.saskforage.ca
Jun. 17-19 Western Canada Farm Progress Show Regina 306-781-9303 www.myfarmshow.com
Jun. 19Agriculture Council of Saskatchewan Annual General Meeting and Forum
Regina 306-975-6856 www.agcouncil.ca
Jun. 20Crop Insurance deadline to submit Establishment Benefit claims
1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com
Jun. 20Crop Insurance deadline to submit a claim for gopher damage
1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com
Jun. 20Crop Insurance will not accept yield-loss liability for any spring crops seeded after June 20 (excludes greenfeed)
1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com
Jun. 23Western Beef Development Centre Summer Field Day
Lanigan 1-800-567-7264 www.wbdc.sk.ca
Jun. 25Crop Insurance deadline to submit Seeded Acreage Reports
1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com
Jun. 25Crop Insurance deadline to submit Unseeded Acreage claims
1-888-935-0000 www.saskcropinsurance.com
Jun. 29 Forage and Grazing Tour Swift Current 306-778-8294 www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Calendar
Western Producer (6.1875”) - 3 x 97
The Ministry of Agriculture is taking action to help Saskatchewan’s cattle and hog producers by providing more than $71 million in fi nancial assistance.Producers are eligible for:
• $40 per head for all beef breeding cows and bred beef heifers owned as of January 1, 2009;
• $20 per market hog sold directly for slaughter between July 1, 2008 and January 31, 2009; and
• $10 per iso-weanling/weanling/feeder hog sold for further feeding or fed outside of Canada from July 1, 2008, through and including January 31, 2009.Applications for the Saskatchewan Cattle and Hog Support Program are available from local RM offi ces, any Ministry of Agriculture Regional Offi ce, by visiting www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca, e-mailing [email protected] or by calling toll-free 1-866-947-9113.
Application deadline for the program is June 15, 2009.
Saskatchewan Cattle and Hog Support Program
Correction:
The May edition of Agriview reported in error the qualifying dates for market hogs through the Saskatchewan Cattle and Hog Support Program. The corrected version should read:
$20 per market hog sold directly for •slaughter between July 1, 2008 and January 31, 2009;
Agriview apologizes for any inconvenience this may have caused.
16 June 2009
