DEVON & WALKER MACDONALD Love Farming in Manitoba BAUMALIGHT.COM Adair Sales & Marketing Company Inc. 306-773-0996 | info@adairreps.com MANUFACTURING MINI SKID STEERS AND A VARIETY OF ATTACHMENTS INCLUDING BRUSH MULCHERS | ROTARY BRUSH CUTTERS | STUMP GRINDERS | PTO GENERATORS AUGER DRIVES | EXCAVATOR ADAPTERS | TREE SAWS & SHEARS | BOOM MOWERS | PTO POWER PACKS TRENCHERS | TREE PULLERS | FELLER BUNCHERS | TREE SPADES | SCREW SPLITTERS | FLAIL MOWERS RETURNING TO THE FARM North Shade Cattle Co. SURVIVING WINTER FEEDLOT LAMENESS FARM-SAVED SEED FEBRUARY 2024 $9.50 YOUR CROPS & EL NIÑO BEWARE OF SCAMMERS Protect Yourself REBUILDING BEEF HERDS Growing Numbers 32 14 26 22
A TRACTOR WORTHY OF THE NAME FARMALL® With over a hundred enhancements, Farmall 100A Pro series tractors are heavy-duty, reliable tractors in a straightforward, cost-effective package. To learn more, contact your local Case IH dealer or visit caseih.com/farmall100a FARMALL 100A PRO SERIES TRACTORS All rights reserved. Case IH and CNH Industrial Licensed Product are trademarks registered in the United States and many other countries, owned by or licensed to CNH Industrial N.V., its subsidiaries or affiliates. Any trademarks referred to herein, in association with goods and/or services of companies other than CNH Industrial America LLC, are the property of those respective companies. A.E. CHICOINE FARM EQUIPMENT LTD. Storthoaks, SK 306.449.2255 FUTURE AG INC. Coronation, AB 403.578.3747 Olds, AB 403.556.6711 Red Deer County, AB 403.343.6101 Stettler, AB 403.742.3740 Stony Plain, AB 780.963.7411 HERGOTT FARM EQUIPMENT LTD. Humboldt, SK 306.682.2592 HI LINE FARM EQUIPMENT LTD. Wetaskiwin, AB 780.352.9244 LEO’S SALES & SERVICE LTD. Winnipeg, MB 204.694.4978 REDHEAD EQUIPMENT Estevan, SK 306.634.4788 Lloydminster, SK 306.825.3434 Melfort, SK 306.752.2273 North Battleford, SK 306.445.8128 Prince Albert, SK 306.763.6454 Saskatoon, SK 306.934.3555 Swift Current, SK 306.773.2951 ROCKY MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT, CANADA Balzac, AB 403.513.7000 Boissevain, MB 204.534.2463 Brandon, MB 204.725.2273 Camrose, AB 780.672.9136 Dauphin, MB 204.638.5558 Drumheller, AB 403.823.2626 Elie, MB 204.353.2392 Falher, AB 780.837.4691 Grand Prairie, AB 780.882.7637 Grimshaw, AB 780.332.4691 High River, AB 403.652.7944 Killarney, MB 204.523.4644
HIGH-PERFORMANCE BRAKES Dual-stage high-performance brake discs DIGITAL SPEEDOMETER The digital speedometer allows more accuracy for tasks involving ground speed applications HYDRAULICS The open center hydraulic system with closed center load sensing remotes provides smooth, efficient power—as needed, when needed ADVANCED EMISSIONS SOLUTION = NO REGENERATION Our Selective Catalytic Reduction technology means increased uptime and decreased operating costs—all while meeting Tier 4 B/Final engine emissions standards TRACTOR FEATURES • Outperform economy-level loaders with the Case IH L104 with its premium-level lift and reach specifications • A high comfort, deluxe cab with standard radio makes longer days seem shorter • The high-capacity, 58-gallon fuel tank means longer times between refueling WEIGHT & DURABILITY Heavier weight means more durability to push more, pull more, lift more KEY FEATURES AND COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES Kindersley, SK 306.463.4651 Lethbridge, AB 403.327.3154 Medicine Hat, AB 403.528.3838 Milk River, AB 403.647.3828 Moosomin, SK 306.435.3866 Neepawa, MB 204.476.3344 Oyen, AB 403.664.3730 Picture Butte, AB 403.732.5658 Preeceville, SK 306.547.3300 Shoal Lake, MB 204.759.2424 Steinbach, MB 204.326.6417 Taber, AB 403.223.2333 Westlock, AB 780.349.3720 Winkler, MB 204.325.4122 Yorkton, SK 306.783.8508 YOUNG’S EQUIPMENT INC. Assiniboia, SK 306.642.5991 Chamberlain, SK 306.638.4516 Davidson, SK 306.567.3074 Moose Jaw, SK 306.694.1800 Raymore, SK 306.746.2288 Regina, SK 306.565.2405 Weyburn, SK 306.842.2629 Windthorst, SK 306.224.2110 Case IH merchandise available at your dealer
4 Our Advertisers Appreciate Your Business Better Farming | February 2024 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR TOO GOOD A DEAL; DEFINING SUCCESS “Ask yourself if this is too good to be true. Is it too good of a deal?” Good advice from Joel Bouvier, director of Cyber Security at FCC, in Emily Croft’s story on “avoiding scammers” in this edition. Bouvier says that there are a variety of scams that currently target farmers. “It could be anything. We’ve seen fraudulent equipment and supplies sales, some invoice scams, online bidding and auction scams, grant scams, or government rebate scams.” A recent scheme I encountered here involved a man who claimed he ran a farm-building company in Texas. He wanted to advertise an “unbeatable” deal in this magazine, with our readers getting an excellent price on a new building. But that’s not all. He was offering free shipping to your farm. Everything would come on a truck. Including the crew – who would spend a few days on your property as they built your new structure. At no cost. What a deal. But where would the crew sleep? What would they eat? “You don’t need to worry about that. They will fend for themselves.” What a deal. And this gentleman didn’t even need full payment before the building was up. “But of course, we would need to ask for a few-thousand-dollar downpayment up-front. Just to show the farmer is serious.” Be careful, folks. Frauds and scammers are everywhere. Thoughtful response from Manitoba grain farmer and beef producer Jackie Dudgeon-MacDonald in Up Close this issue, when asked how she measures success. “If we can impact families who can maybe save some money because of our beef, or if our farm has a positive impact in our community because of our involvement, or if I have an impact on some farmers with my involvement in Canola Growers, that feels like success.” The article begins on Page 32. Paul Nolan Prairie producers came together in Saskatoon for the recent Western Canadian Crop Production Show. Some 340 exhibitors displayed their innovations across 240,000 square-feet of display space. Traycee Martens photo 1-888-248-4893 PUBLISHER & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR PAUL NOLAN ext 202 Paul.Nolan@Farms.com ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER & EDITORIAL DIRECTOR LESLIE STEWART ext 265 Leslie.Stewart@Farms.com AGRICULTURAL JOURNALIST EMILY CROFT PRAIRIE CONTRIBUTORS STACY BERRY QUINTON CUBBON Parkland County, Alta. North Battleford, Sask. RICHARD KAMCHEN RON SETTLER Edmonton, Alta. Lucky Lake, Sask. NATIONAL CONTRIBUTORS MOE AGOSTINO ABHINESH GOPAL EUGENIE OFFICER MARCEL VAN DER HEIJEN ADVERTISING TEAM GLENN RUEGG JEFF McKEE JENNY LONGSTREET SCOTT FARHOOD SAMANTHA RENAUD JOAN SPIEGELBERG ANDREW BAWDEN DESIGN & PRODUCTION TEAM TANYA MYERS GREG MARLOW SHAUN CLARK ANDREA WILLIAMS www.BetterFarming.com Better Farming Magazine, Prairie Edition is mailed to producers in Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Next issue: March 2024. 1-888-248-4893 ext 281 Subscriptions@BetterFarming.com ISSN 2563-9803 (Printed) Copyright ©2024 by AgMedia Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any content without written permission of the publisher is forbidden. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement of the advertiser, its products or services, nor do Better Farming, AgMedia or Farms.com endorse any advertiser claims. The publisher shall have no liability for the omission of any scheduled advertising. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to 90 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph, ON N1H 1B2 Mail agreement #0042518524 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. Cover: Jackie Dudgeon-MacDonald photo, ra-photos/iStock/Getty Images Plus photo Follow us on @PrairieFarming
EVEN FARMERS IN AN AD FOR WEED CONTROL, We’re guessing you didn’t get into farming for the thrill of controlling weeds. That’s where Bayer cereal herbicides come in. With a wide roster of solutions, you can be sure there’s one that’s right for your operation, no matter what cereal you’re growing. GET BACK TO FARMING. GET BACK TO WHAT YOU LOVE. WOULD RATHER NOT BE SPRAYING WEEDS. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Bayer, Bayer Cross, BayerValue™, Cirray™, Infinity®, and Varro® are trademarks of Bayer Group. Used under license. Velocity® is a registered trademark of Bayer Group or its licensor. Used under license. Bayer CropScience Inc. is a member of CropLife Canada. ©2024 Bayer Group. All rights reserved. GRASS GRASS BROADLEAF GRASS ALL-IN-ONE GROUPS 2, 4 GROUP 1 GROUPS 4, 6, 27 GROUP 2 GROUPS 2, 6, 27 Maximize your rewards with BayerValue™ where you can save up to 25% on qualifying purchases between October 1, 2023 and September 30, 2024. Visit GrowerPrograms.ca to find out more. GetBackToWhatYouLove.ca 1 888-283-6847 @Bayer4CropsCA #AskBayerCrop
Always read and follow label directions. BlackHawk®, CONQUER®, GoldWing® and ThunderHawk® are registered trademarks of Nufarm Agriculture Inc. Duplosan™ is a trademark of Nufarm Agriculture Inc.
ADVANCING THE UNSTOPPABLE SUPERPOWER OF PRE-SEED.™ 1.800.868.5444 | nufarm.ca | NufarmCA WEEDS EVOLVE, SO DO WE. Start clean with the advancing power of Nufarm’s pre-seed burndown portfolio in canola, cereals and pulses. Our evolving portfolio keeps the farmer in mind to deliver performance, convenience and resistance management in a single package – it’s pre-seed power without the complexity.
8 The Business of Prairie Agriculture Better Farming | February 2024 Saskatchewan farmers are producing some of the least carbon-intensive crops in the world, as highlighted in a carbon life cycle analysis commissioned by the Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) at USask. The two-part study commissioned in 2022 examined the carbon footprint from the production of five Canadian field crops – canola, non-durum wheat, field peas, durum wheat, and lentils. It compared these footprints, including their supply chain emissions, to some globally competitive regions across the world that export the same products, including Australia, France, Germany, Italy, and the United States. The results demonstrate that Canadian producers, particularly in Saskatchewan and Western Canada, are producing crops with the least amount of greenhouse gas emissions or carbon dioxide equivalents among regions compared. “These impressive results are driven by the widespread adoption in Saskatchewan of ag innovations and sustainable farming practices that have significantly reduced the amount of inputs and emissions needed to farm each acre of land,” said GIFS chief executive officer Dr. Steve Webb. “The sustainable practices include reduced tillage, the adoption of herbicide-tolerant canola, the variable-rate application of fertilizer, a robust crop rotation system, and the production of nitrogen-fixing pulse crops.” The study, conducted in partnership with the Food Systems PRISM Lab in the University of British Columbia, followed established protocol for measuring the carbon life cycle of agricultural production. It compiled and reviewed data on the carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for the various activities that go into crop production including transportation, seed, fertilizer and manure inputs, crop inputs, field activities, energy emissions, and post-harvest work. The carbon life cycle analysis also considered and reviewed important data about the ability of the agricultural landscape to support soil-based carbon sequestration and showed Saskatchewan has the smallest carbon footprint across all crop types and regions studied – when soil carbon sequestration is accounted for. Some highlights of the study’s results show that Saskatchewan’s carbon footprint to produce one tonne of canola is 67 per cent lower than the global weighted average. As well, Canadian growers, led by Saskatchewan farmers, are shown to be the most sustainable producers of non-durum wheat. The results of the carbon life cycle analysis also show that no-till farming and reduced fertilizer applications in Saskatchewan field peas result in a carbon footprint that is more than 95 per cent lower than any other region studied. For lentils, the carbon footprint is 130 per cent lower. “We are not surprised by the results of this study as we have always known Saskatchewan is one of the most sustainable producers of the safe and nutritious food the world needs,” said Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture David Marit. “The world-leading agronomic and sustainable farming practices being adopted by our worldclass producers are the driving force behind these results.” USask, founded as an agricultural university, has long been dedicated to developing crops, processes, and education to strengthen the province's agriculture and food sectors. This study shows how USask has been supporting producers with research and discovery for over a century. “USask has empowered Saskatchewan researchers and ag producers for over 100 years through new science, technology, and policies that sustainably feed the world. We are very pleased with the results of this study, and I know our faculty, students, and researchers will continue to lead and create innovative solutions for the environmental and agricultural challenges the future will bring,” said Baljit Singh, VP, research, at USask. The extensive carbon life cycle analysis and comparison to regions across the world provide a detailed understanding of the contributions and impacts of agronomic practices and innovation to sustainable food production. By analyzing crop production, sequestration, and emissions, it helps provide a more holistic picture of the sustainability of Canadian agriculture. The data points can be used to inform the creation of science-based Research Saskatchewan farmers are producing the least carbon-intensive crops in the world. kamaz007 - stock.adobe.com STUDY COMPARES CARBON LIFE CYCLES Prairie producers lead world in growing sustainable crops. Based on recent releases from USask and Lakeland College
9 The Business of Prairie Agriculture Better Farming | February 2024 regulations for the sector. “While these results are remarkable, there is always room for growth and to scale sustainable farming practices even further. However, it’s important to understand that one size does not fit all, and regenerative farming practices must always be suited to regions,” said Webb. “Our regulatory landscape should also recognize differences at the regional level. We hope that the insights from this study, which are a win for Canada, will inform science- based decisions at the national and international level for Canadian ag and the producers involved.” BF Lakeland alumnus Bill Robinson of Vermilion, Alta. has donated $1 million to Lakeland College. Half of his gift will be used to create an endowment that will fund bursaries for first-year students enrolled full-time and attending in-person studies at the Vermilion campus. The other half will be used to support beef cattle initiatives, such as campus farm improvements and applied research projects. A graduate of the 2-in-1 Agriculture program in 1958, Robinson returned to the Alberta institution 30 years later to take electrical training. His father Lyle also attended the college, graduating in 1927. His mother Annabel was the Dean of Women for three years. “The college has been a big part of our family for years,” says Robinson. “I hope that this gift will help the college continue to grow, while also providing financial support to the students who need it most.” Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO of Lakeland College, thanked Robinson for his generous gift and ongoing support. He has been a monthly donor to the college for years and has supported many past campaigns. Robinson regularly attends alumni events and serves as a Class Champion for the Class of 1958. “Bill’s generosity will help us continue to modernize our campus farm, which is used by our more than 650 agricultural sciences students as well as applied research staff,” says Wainwright-Stewart. “In addition, the Bill Robinson Bursary will help remove financial barriers for many students, creating greater access to a Lakeland College education,” she says. “Bill’s got a big heart and he cares deeply about our college, our current and future students, and our community. We are so appreciative of his amazing support.” In recognition of Robinson’s generous gift, a 150-seat classroom in the WHT Mead Building at the Vermilion campus has been named the Lyle and Annabel Robinson Lecture Theatre, a tribute to his parents. BF Research Kochia is an annual broadleaf weed that reproduces by seed, producing from 15,000 to 25,000 seeds per plant. Also known as summer cypress, burning bush and goosefoot, kochia is difficult to control due to its ability to thrive in heat, drought and salinity. What to look for • The first leaves, which form a basal rosette, are elongated and club shaped, covered in soft, dense hairs. • Without proper weed control, the compact seedling will mature into a branchy bush, up to two metres in height. • The colour of the stem, and sometimes the entire plant, changes from green to crimson. Count the cost • Densities of 21 plants per m2 have caused yield losses in wheat of approximately 33%, while extreme infestations of 195 plants per m2 have reduced wheat yields by 73%. • Resistant to Group 2, 4, 9 and 14 herbicides. When to scout • Kochia emerges as early as March or April, weeks before the soil is warm enough to seed into. How to control • Spray early to take advantage of early emergency to control flushes before crop emergence. • Prevent plants from setting seed with a fall burnoff. • Use a registered pre-emergent option for crops such as flax or Clearfield canola. KOCHIA Sources: https://manageresistancenow.ca/weeds/managing-herbicide-resistant-kochia/ https://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/weeds/glyphosate-resistant-kochia.html Always read and follow label instructions. Member of CropLife Canada. FMC and the FMC logo are trademarks of FMC Corporation or an affiliate. ©2024 FMC Corporation. All rights reserved. 8190 - 01/24 8190 Weed of the Month Series_Kochia.indd 1 2024-01-09 3:31 PM 2024-01-09 3:31 PM LAKELAND AG PROGRAM ALUMNUS DONATES $1 MILLION TO HELP COLLEGE GROW
10 Story Idea? Email Paul.Nolan@Farms.com Better Farming | February 2024 Beyond the Barn USASK RESEARCH IMPROVES LOCAL FOOD SECURITY A recent project at University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources uses agricultural research to address food security locally. USask has collaborated with the Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS), Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre, the Regina Food Bank and the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre to create Farm2Kitchen soup mix products. The project, led by USask researcher Dr. Michael Nickerson, aims to produce an affordable and nutritious soup using crops grown locally in Saskatchewan. Nickerson is applying results from his previous work investigating the protein quality of pulse and cereal crops. The prior study also investigated the best methods for processing the crops as food aid products in Ethiopia. The knowledge Nickerson gained from his work creating high-quality and enriched food products for Ethiopia will now be applied creating meal options for local families in need. “The Regina Food Bank states that one in five Saskatchewan children are food insecure,” reports a USask release. The packages of soup will use Saskatchewan-grown oats and lentils, with each package making four to five cups of soup. The project created 15,000 packages to be distributed in food hampers. “Saskatchewan is known for its rich agricultural resources and for producing high quality crops to feed the world and for coming together to support our communities. Food security is a worldwide issue and there are families in Canada and in Saskatchewan that face significant challenges to put food on the table,” said Nickerson. “Our research into blending and enhancing the nutritional profiles of lentils and oats provided an opportunity to collaborate and develop a nutritious meal option to support families in Saskatchewan.” BF Statistics Canada recently shared that production of wheat, canola, barley, and oats decreased in 2023. Production of corn and soybeans increased compared to 2022. In the December release, StatCan reported on crop production from January to November of 2023. In the report, it was proposed that the reduction in crop production for wheat, canola, barley, and oats could be attributed to the drier growing conditions observed in the Prairies during 2023. This resulted in lower yields, but also contributed to improved harvest conditions. Total wheat production was reduced by 6.9 per cent, for a total of 32 million tonnes. Yields were lower by 12.1 per cent, averaging 44.5 bushels per acre. Total harvested area was greater by 6.4 per cent at 14 million acres. Alberta wheat yields were reported to be 44.7 bushels per acre, while Saskatchewan had yields of 37.5 bushels per acre, and Manitoba harvested 57.8 bushels per acre. Canola yields decreased by 4.9 per cent to an average 34.8 bushels per acre. A total of 9.7 million tonnes were harvested in 2023, a two per cent decrease relative to 2022. Saskatchewan had the greatest decrease in yields, by 8.4 per cent to an average 34.8 bushels per acre. Barley yields fell 12.9 per cent to 61.3 bushels per acre, resulting in a decrease in total production. Canadian farms grew 8.9 million tonnes of barley in 2023, a 10.9 per cent decrease from 2022. Oat production also decreased from 2022, dropping 49.6 per cent. The lowest oat production in a decade is the result of decreased harvested area and reduced yields. High harvested area in 2022 likely led to the 41.3 per cent reduction in harvested acres in 2023. Yields decreased by 14 per cent to 84.1 bushels per acre. In Eastern Canada, adequate rainfall allowed for improved yields, increasing the overall production of grain corn and soybeans. BF - Emily Croft CROP PRODUCTION DECREASED IN 2023 Tracy Miller photo
YOU HAVE ONE CHANCE. STRIKE TWICE. They say lightning never strikes the same place twice. Seeing new Authority Strike™ herbicide in action in wheat, peas, flax and mustard shows otherwise. One application delivers a powerful one-pass burnoff now and extended control later – in exactly the same field. With two kinds of Group 14 action, Authority Strike™ herbicide lights up kochia, lamb’s-quarters, pigweed, Russian thistle*, wild buckwheat, waterhemp and more. WHEAT | FIELD PEAS | FLAX | CHICKPEAS | MUSTARD | SOYBEANS Put a charge, two actually, in your pre-seed weed control. *Suppression Always read and follow label instructions. Member of CropLife Canada. FMC, the FMC logo and Authority Strike are trademarks of FMC Corporation or an affiliate. ©2023 FMC Corporation. All rights reserved. 7916 - Waterhemp - 10/23
12 Our Advertisers Appreciate Your Business Better Farming | February 2024 Beyond the Barn SASKBARLEY ANNOUNCES 2023 AWARD WINNERS SaskBarley recently announced the recipients of its 2023/2024 scholarships. In November, the University of Saskatchewan’s Jenna Salmon, Ashlyn Mooney, Catherine Seidle, Suma Ghosh and Nathan Gyan were selected as the award winners. Annual scholarships are awarded to university students who are involved in research related to barley production. Often awarded to graduate students, 2023 marks the first year that a SaskBarley scholarship was awarded to an undergraduate student (Salmon). “On behalf of our board of directors, we would like to congratulate the well-deserved scholarship winners,” said SaskBarley chair Keith Rueve. “We received a record number of applicants this year and our winners’ outstanding portfolio of projects are sure to positively impact the future of barley.” Salmon was given a $2,000 award for a study investigating the effect of structure and nutrient composition of barley on microbial degradation in the rumen of cattle. This study was part of an undergraduate thesis project. Awards of $4,000 were received by MSc students Mooney and Seidle for Mooney’s work improving barley salinity tolerance and Seidle’s work investigating barley grain as feed for feedlot cattle. The PhD scholarships of $6,000 were awarded to Ghosh and Gyan. Ghosh’s research is investigating interactions between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and different forage plant species to inoculate barley. Gyan is studying the relationships of carabid beetles in barley agro-ecosystems. Rueve says that research is the key focus at SaskBarley, and their investment demonstrates their commitment to the future of the industry. “Over the past five years, we have awarded $76,000 in scholarships for barley specific research.” BF A recent study from the United States suggests that beef operations which keep cattle on lifelong grassbased diets may have an overall higher carbon footprint than those that switch cattle to grain-based diets partway through their lives. The experiment was led by Daniel Blaustein-Rejto of the Breakthrough Institute, an environmental research centre in Berkeley, Calif. The results were shared in the open-access journal PLOS ONE in December. The goal of the study was to explore all aspects of beef production systems that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, as opposed to the direct emissions from beef cattle, which has been the focus of previous studies. These prior studies have suggested that pasture-finished beef operations have a higher carbon footprint than grain-finished operations. To investigate this objective, the research team calculated carbon footprints for 100 beef farms in 16 countries. Their calculations included direct greenhouse gas emissions from cattle, soil carbon sequestration, and carbon opportunity cost. The carbon opportunity cost was defined as the carbon that would have been sequestered if the land had native ecosystems instead of being used for beef production. After calculating and comparing direct emissions across the farms, the analysis suggested that grain-finished operations were producing 20 per cent less greenhouse gas than pasture-finished farms. When soil carbon sequestration and carbon opportunity cost were accounted for it was found that this number increased – as pasture-finished farms had a 42 per cent higher carbon footprint. “Our research reveals that the carbon cost of land-use accounts for the largest part of beef’s carbon footprint. Therefore, there is an even larger carbon cost than typically found in land-intensive beef operations, such as many grass-fed systems, even when taking into account potential carbon sequestration due to grazing,” said the authors in a release on EurekAlert.org. These findings demonstrate the importance of accounting for all relevant factors when calculating and comparing carbon footprints. BF - Emily Croft Ragles/iStock/Getty Images Plus photo NEW STUDY ON BEEF EMISSIONS
© 2024 Meridian Manufacturing Inc. Registered Trademarks Used Under License. (01/2024) FIND YOUR LOCAL DEALER (800) 665-7259 | www.convey-all.com THE CST-1550 Can save 30 minutes each time you fill your drill. With 5 fills per day, that can add up to an extra 2.5 hours a day of seeding. On a 76’ drill with a rate of 34 acres/hour, that can add an extra 85 acres PER DAY. That means you can gain an extra seeded section every ten days. Save time, eliminate contamination and safely haul your seed and fertilizer this spring with a Commercial Seed Tender or Cart from Convey-All. CSC-1545 COMMERCIAL SEED TENDERS © 2024 Meridian Manufacturing Inc. Registered Trademarks Used Under License. (01/2024) FIND YOUR LOCAL DEALER (800) 665-7259 | www.convey-all.com Can save 30 minutes each time you fill your drill. With 5 fills per day, that can add up to an extra 2.5 hours a day of seeding. On a 76’ drill with a rate of 34 acres/hour, that can add an extra 85 acres PER DAY. That means you can gain an extra seeded section every ten days. Save time, eliminate contamination and safely haul your seed and fertilizer this spring with a Commercial Seed Tender or Cart from Convey-All. CSC-1545
Always read and follow label directions. Duplosan™, Oxbow™ and The Path of Least Resistance™ are trademarks of Nufarm Agriculture Inc.
Introducing Oxbow TM, a versatile cereal broadleaf herbicide that gets the job done. Powered by Duplosan™ technology, Oxbow is your workhorse on resistant kochia (including Group 2-, 4-, 9- and 14-resistant biotypes) and other tough weeds. With flexibility in application timing, rates and re-cropping options, the path is clear with Oxbow. Find your way at Nufarm.ca/Oxbow. THERE’S A CLEAR PATH. THROUGH A GROWING STORM OF KOCHIA, CLEAVERS, CHICKWEED AND MORE,
Avoiding scams Zoran Zeremski - stock.adobe.com EDUCATION IS THE BEST WAY TO KEEP YOUR FARM BUSINESS SAFE. AVOIDING SCAMMERS By EMILY CROFT
17 The Business of Prairie Agriculture Better Farming | February 2024 This could be the easiest decision you’ve ever made. Visit AgExpert.ca/gearup to learn how. GEAR UP with Farming is full of tough decisions. AgExpert Field & Accounting software is designed to help Canadian farmers make more informed decisions with the help of their data. Sign up for AgExpert and you could win! Grand Prize 2024 Polaris RANGER 1000 EPS Enter Before March 31, 2024 7948_AGEX_2023_ContestQ4_4-625x7-5_Opt-2.indd 1 2023-12-19 1:52 PM Farms, like every other business, are at risk of being targeted by scammers. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) stated that losses from reported frauds increased from $165 million in 2020 to $379 million in 2021. These numbers don’t include losses from the many instances of fraud which weren’t reported. “Fraud is, across the board, generally unreported. It’s estimated that only five to 10 per cent of cases are reported,” explains Jeff Horncastle, Client and Communications outreach officer at CAFC. “It’s a huge problem that is likely into billions of dollars lost.” As prices for equipment and com- modities increase and more money changes hands, there may even be scammers who specifically focus on the agriculture industry. How can farmers protect themselves and their businesses from fraudsters? What’s out there? Over the past few years, the farm com- munity has seen common reports of scams involving equipment, hay, grants, and more. These scams seem to take advantage of those who are looking for a deal or experiencing financial stress. Hay scams seen across the Prairies in 2021 and 2022 have seemingly targeted producers desperate for feed for live- stock after years of drought. “With these challenging times in the economy, I would say most farm- ers are at risk because everyone is trying to save a bit of money. Anyone could be targeted,” explains Horncastle. Joel Bouvier, director of Cyber Security at Farm Credit Canada, says that there are a wide variety of scams that can affect farmers. “It could be anything. We’ve seen fraudulent equipment and supplies sales, some invoice scams, online bid- ding and auction scams suggesting you might receive a discount if you pay direct, grant scams, or government rebate scams,” says Bouvier. Farms that use a lot of technology, such as hog and dairy farms, may also be at high risk. Sometimes the hightech systems can be taken over, disrupting operations. “It’s becoming more pervasive. It used to be targeted at larger organizations, but now we see it happening to small farming operations too,” explains Bouvier. “There are hackers out there that specifically target agriculture. They are just putting stuff out there and hoping someone will take the bait.” Alberta Canola found themselves targeted by scammers in 2022 through a sophisticated phishing attack. “Similar to how many others are deceived, it was by a targeted fake boss email scam,” says Ian Chitwood, vice chair at Alberta Canola. “It came through email, so it looked legitimate, but it wasn’t.” Chitwood says the scam came Avoiding scams
18 Story Idea? Email Paul.Nolan@Farms.com Better Farming | February 2024 Avoiding scams shortly after changes were made to the executive director of the commission. The announcement was shared pub- licly and was used by the scammers. “It seems that scammers try to take advantage of transitions or changes in organizations,” says Chitwood. “They requested payment for a doctored invoice and changed the banking information to a fake account, so it didn’t go to the right place. It was caught when they made a second attempt using the same invoice.” The fraud was reported to police and Alberta Canola’s financial institution and was investigated, but not all the funds were successfully recovered. As these attempts become more common, what warning signs should farmers watch for while conducting their business? Keeping your farm safe It’s important that all members of the farm are trained in what to look for when avoiding scams. “There are a few common things people can look for,” explains Bouvier. “Ask yourself if this is too good to be true. Is it too good of a deal? One of the common footprints of fraud is that they are playing on emotions and trying to get a knee-jerk reaction or playing on self-interest. That’s the deal portion.” It’s also important to verify sources to avoid scams. As an example, pro- ducers can research the seller and location of equipment, or investigate email senders. Horncastle suggests farmers should “do as much research as you can. You can look up the URL or domain that fraudsters are using for links or emails. There are also ways to verify when a website was created. “If you’re getting emails asking you to download attachments or click on links, take time to look at where it’s coming from.” Bouvier asks, “if an email appears to be coming from a known person, does it follow typical interactions with that company? Independently verify with that person if they are asking you to phone somewhere or send money. Don’t just trust it.” Spear phishing is an increasingly common type of scam that uses in- formation about the target to personalize their approach to one specific victim. Sometimes, specific details are accessed publicly, or they can be accessed when a business’s network is compromised by clicking links or downloading files. “Victimization can happen quickly, and suspects can infiltrate the business’s network, and it can lead to spear phishing,” says Horncastle. There are a few important tips for avoiding scammers and increasing the security of farm businesses. “The first step is just training themselves and their employees to be able to recognize the warning signs of phishing,” says Bouvier. “Never give out personal info, and if it’s a known person contacting you, make sure you verify.” Keeping technology protected and clean will also reduce the risk of being a scam victim. “Password hygiene on your accounts is important. Use complex passwords and multifactor authentication in case someone has your password,” says Bouvier. “Don’t reuse passwords on your accounts. Anti-virus and anti-malware software can also help protect your devices, and if it finds something malicious, it can actually help block them.” Both Bouvier and Chitwood recom- mend keeping devices updated, noting that out-of-date software can be ex- ploited by scammers. Chitwood explains that after being targeted in 2022, Alberta Canola made some updates to their protection tools and prevention practices. “We have a new firewall that does 24/7 network and security monitoring,” says Chitwood. “The board audited the internal protocols, and we’ve increased staff and director training. We used our auditor’s risk forensics services, and a lot of the best practices they recommended we brought in, and we continually monitor the risk.” There are also a few programs that are designed to reduce the fraud risk. Get Cyber Safe is a national pro- gram to increase awareness of cyber safety. It features information about securing accounts, devices, and connections. The Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) is also a nationally administered program offering grants for improving technology. Businesses Farknot Architect - stock.adobe.com Keep devices updated: Out-of-date software can be exploited by scammers. FARMERS LOVE MAGAZINES 92% of farmers use ag magazines monthly, compared to 44% for websites, 43% for radio and 10% for farm shows. (Verified Readex Research study)
19 Story Idea? Email Paul.Nolan@Farms.com Better Farming | February 2024 can apply for the Boost Your Business Technology grant for up to $15,000 in funding. One eligible application of this funding is boosting business cyber security. What if you’ve been scammed? You don’t need to be the victim of a scam to report something suspicious. “If something is suspicious it’s im- portant to report it,” says Horncastle. “You don’t have to be a victim to report it. Flag it to the platform it’s on and report it to the Canadian Anti- Fraud Centre with the contact info and payment info they are requesting. Never send money or personal info if you believe something is suspicious.” If you do find yourself the victim of a scam, don’t be embarrassed. “A lot of the time people are embarrassed, so they don’t react right away. Don’t be embarrassed – it happens,” says Bouvier. “Contact your bank and credit cards and report them so they can stop any transactions. Contact a credit monitoring service so they can alert you if anyone is trying to take out loans in your name or any other suspicious activity. Set up a temporary credit freeze so that no one can set up a loan in your name, until you can take other actions.” Bouvier suggests having these steps listed as part of a farm protocol before a scam occurs. “Make a plan for what happens when the worst occurs. Then you don’t have to rely on emotions when you are all hyped up in the moment.” The scam should be reported to the RCMP so that a report can be filed. It should also be reported to the CAFC so that it can be shared with international law enforcement agencies and scam losses can be accurately quantified. Is it possible for producers to get their money back after being scammed? Horncastle says it’s unlikely, but it depends on a few factors. “The chances are slim, but it does depend on how the money was sent. If you used a financial institution or wire transfer, reach out to the bank about getting the money back, if possible,” explains Horncastle. Bouvier says it can also depend on where the scammer is based, as many are located outside of Canada. As scammers become more creative and the risks of fraud increase, pre- vention is becoming critical for the safety of farm businesses. Taking the time to become educated in cyber security and fraud prevention and taking extra precautions when making purchases or exchanging information or money can help reduce your risk. BF Avoiding scams ALBERTA ONTARIO QUEBEC ATLANTIC WWW.STRONGCO.COM Contact your nearest branch Farmer’s choice The all-rounder for agriculture Volvo wheel loaders are built to take on the tough work you face every day. Whether you’re hauling feed, moving animal waste or carrying hay bales, your Volvo wheel loader can do it all. EMILY CROFT Emily lives on a beef farm, raising Red Angus and Simmental cattle. She holds a Master of Science in Animal Biosciences, with a focus on ruminant nutrition.
E. Bourassa & Sons Assiniboia, SK 306-642-3826 E. Bourassa & Sons Carlyle, SK 306-453-1333 E. Bourassa & Sons Radville, SK 306-869-2277 E. Bourassa & Sons Weyburn, SK 306-842-6626 Linden Agri Centre Linden, AB 403-546-3814 Mazergroup Arborg, MB 204-376-5600 Mazergroup Brandon, MB 204-728-2244 Mazergroup Dauphin, MB 204-638-1777 Mazergroup Hartney, MB 204-858-2000 Mazergroup Killarney, MB 204-523-4414 Mazergroup Moosomin, SK 306-435-3610 Mazergroup Morden, MB 204-325-1590 Mazergroup Neepawa, MB 204-476-2364 Mazergroup Portage La Prairie, MB 204-857-8711 Mazergroup Raymore, SK 306-746-2911 Mazergroup Regina, SK 306-781-2828 Mazergroup Roblin, MB 204-937-2134 Mazergroup Shoal Lake, MB 204-759-2126 Mazergroup Steinbach, MB 204-326-9834 Mazergroup Swan River, MB 204-734-9361 Mazergroup Watrous, SK 306-946-3301 Mazergroup Winnipeg, MB 204-253-2900 Mazergroup Yorkton, SK 306-783-8511 Novlan Bros Lloydminster, SK 306-825-6141 Novlan Bros North Battleford, SK 306-446-2223 Novlan Bros Paradise Hill, SK 306-344-4448 Redhead Equipment Humboldt, SK 306-682-9920 Redhead Equipment Kinistino, SK 306-864-3667 Redhead Equipment Prince Albert, SK 306-763-6454 Stettler Agri Centre Stettler, AB 403-742-8327 Vanee Farm Centre Claresholm, AB 403-625-3321 Vanee Farm Centre High River, AB 403-652-1410 Vanee Farm Centre Lethbridge, AB 403-327-1100 Webb’s Machinery Consort, AB 403-577-3899 Webb’s Machinery Lamont, AB 780-895-2189 Webb’s Machinery St. Paul, AB 780-645-4465 Webb’s Machinery Vegreville, AB 780-632-6772 Webb’s Machinery Vermilion, AB 780-853-5196 Webb’s Machinery Wainwright, AB 780-842-4408 DEMAND NEW HOLLAND newholland.com EQUIPPED FOR A NEW WORLD™
22 Follow us on Twitter: @PrairieFarming Better Farming | February 2024 Jodie Aldred photo Anne Kirk, Manitoba Agriculture photo El Niño El Niño’s threat of below-normal precipitation is of particular concern for farmers in already dry Prairie regions, but far less so to crop growers in Ontario. Going into December, 97 per cent of the Canadian Prairies were abnormally dry or in moderate to exceptional drought, according to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Drought Monitor. Tom Jensen, a soil scientist and agronomist with Jensen AgGro, says farmers in the dryland and irrigated portions of southern Saskatchewan and Alberta have expressed their anxiety about dry conditions persisting into 2024’s growing season. Dryland and irrigated regions El Niño could force dry conditions to persist or worsen, prompting farmers in unirrigated areas of Saskatchewan and Alberta to eye more drought-tolerant crops. Inadequate winter snowpack and no timely early spring rains could result in producers seeding less canola, and devoting more acres to wheat, field peas, and lentils, Jensen says. He adds that ongoing dryness might convince some farmers to consider summer fallowing – a practice that had almost disappeared over the last 30 years – just for the sake of moisture conservation. “It is economically better to grow a modest crop once every two years than have two years in a row of crop failures,” Jensen says. Meanwhile, irrigated portions of southern Alberta and Saskatchewan are heading for water shortages unless those areas receive adequate snow pack in the eastern slope mountains during winter and/or spring, he says. “There is potential for water ration- ing to occur, and some potato and sugar beet farmers may end up paying other farmers for water,” Jensen says. “That is, shifting water rights over to the high-value and high-water-demanding potato and sugar beet crops from cereal or hay crops.” Planting dates Should this winter’s anticipated strong El Niño drop below-average snow totals, farmers could end up altering their spring planting times. Some farmers might plant at their normal times or earlier, as dry conditions would be conducive to getting on fields sooner. However, there may be a risk of uneven growth stages in those fields. “The earlier crop stage will germinate and emerge in the lower areas where there is just enough soil moisture. Then, after some spring rains, the rest of the field will germinate and emerge, resulting in a field with two different stage crops,” Jensen says. This not only complicates herbicide and fungicide applications, but also harvest operations. Farmers also have the option of delaying planting until precipitation finally arrives. “This will shorten the growing season for planted crops, but the crops will germinate and emerge quickly and EL NIÑO UPSETTING GROWERS’ PLANS ACROSS THE COUNTRY CROSS-CANADA WEATHER OUTLOOK By RICHARD KAMCHEN
Crops thrive with our pre-seed herbicide. Nothing sets peas, lentils and soybeans up for success like a clean field. Which is exactly where Voraxor® pre-seed herbicide excels. Combining the trusted efficacy of Kixor® with the active, Tirexor®, it delivers high performance, broadspectrum burndown, as well as enhanced residual* activity that eliminates tough weeds like volunteer canola, cleavers, kochia and wild mustard. So, clean the slate to make way for what could be your best crop ever. Visit agsolutions.ca/pre-seed to learn more about Voraxor and the rest of the BASF pre-seed herbicide portfolio, including Certitude® and Smoulder®. START WITH A CLEAN SLATE. Always read and follow label directions. AgSolutions, CERTITUDE, KIXOR, SMOULDER, TIREXOR and VORAXOR are registered trademarks of BASF; all used under license by BASF Canada Inc. © 2024 BASF Canada Inc. *Higher rates required for residual activity. Higher rates not registered on lentils.
24 The Business of Prairie Agriculture Better Farming | February 2024 more evenly,” Jensen says. There may even be producers who choose against seeding some acres if dryness persists, and instead ready themselves to grow improved crops in 2025, he says. But well-timed, ample precipitation in the spring would change everything. “We can go from a drought to a more normal growing season with just some timely early spring precipitation over a week time frame in April or early May,” Jensen says. Cattle Ongoing dryness also affects livestock, and represents something of a doubleedged sword for the cattle sector. A milder winter with below-normal precipitation – hallmarks of a strong El Niño in Canada – would reduce feed demand, but leave the ground parched. When it comes to feed demand, the colder it gets, the more that cattle need to consume: Alberta’s Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation recommends producers increase the grain they feed their animals by 2.2 lbs. for every 5 C below -20 C. That’s because the metabolic rates of cattle will rise to increase heat production to help maintain their body temperature. Rancher and Cows in Control owner Ryan Copithorne says dry winters can further help save on feed costs if producers can turn out their cattle on grass that wasn’t grazed in the fall. “A cow might eat 20 to 30 pounds of feed on banked grass on warm winter days versus over 40 pounds on cold winter days and full feed,” Copithorne says. While positive in the face of feed supply tightness, this practice puts strain on grass supplies for the spring and summer, Copithorne explains. “Brown winters are hellish on water table and slough levels,” he adds. “Surface water is going to be an issue going forward. “It will take a lot of moisture to top up our dry slough beds and drained water tables.” Manitoba The Keystone province was spared the extreme drought which parts of Alberta and Saskatchewan experienced in 2023. Manitoba Agriculture’s final crop report last October described variable rainfall throughout the growing season and improved yields in regions that experienced timely rains. Even with an El Niño winter, agronomist Jason Voogt, owner of Field 2 Field Agronomy, says farmers would be best off sticking to their normal rotational crop plans because there can still be a lot of uncertainty and regional differences. If, however, growers were to focus on more drought-resistant crops, he would expect them to consider cereals like wheat, oats, and barley, pulse like peas, and oilseed crops like sunflowers. What Voogt doesn’t anticipate is summer fallow. “It’s very uncommon for southern Manitoba to experience prolonged drought conditions (and then) to implement summer fallow as a strategy to conserve or build up moisture,” he says. Instead, most growers are likely to respond to any ongoing dry conditions during the fall by not tilling fields to allow for the best snow trap possible. They may also end up changing their spring planting dates. “If field conditions are fit, growers El Niño Shawn Cabak photo El Niño is a double-edged sword for cattle producers: Cattle don't need to eat as much over a mild winter, but the ground will be parched.
25 The Business of Prairie Agriculture Better Farming | February 2024 will likely go out and seed earlier than normal to try and capture and make use of what moisture is there,” says Voogt. As for winter cereal growers, they’re just hoping for adequate snow cover. “Ideally, farmers want their previous crop stubble to be tall enough to hold at least four inches of snow to keep soil temperatures at crown depth warm enough for the winter cereal crop to overwinter,” says Manitoba Agriculture’s cereal specialist Anne Kirk. Ontario Agriculture Canada’s Drought Monitor reported southern sections of Ontario having lower-than-normal precipitation going into the winter season, which continued the dry trend that southern Ontario experienced during the fall. But that’s not to suggest the region is gasping for moisture. While on the drier side, AGRIS Co-operative’s senior agronomist Dale Cowan points out that a decent amount of rain fell in some areas toward the end of the growing season. In fact, there were even cases of farmers unable to harvest their last-standing corn due to their fields being too wet. If anything, a crop like winter wheat is better off with drier soils. Too much moisture jeopardizes the crop, which can be damaged by flood, frost heaving, and ice sheets. “We’ve got good emergence, good stand establishment, so being on the dry side for winter wheat is not a problem. We want rainfall when we’re starting to fill grain next year in July,” says Cowan. For spring seeding of soybeans, corn, and cereals, he says growers need to be careful not to overwork the ground and dry it out with excessive tillage. “We want to conserve that moisture and get the seed into the proper depth into good moisture. We just have to adjust our management to the conditions at the time of planting.” Planting times could be altered as well, with a dry start resulting in corn and soybeans getting seeded in April instead of mid-May, Cowan says. Weed control is another dryness aspect of which farmers need to be mindful. Dry conditions toughen up weeds, making them harder to kill, and growers would be well served to get out early when their weeds are still small. Dryness also presents a heightened risk of weed escapes, Cowan notes. “You’re always on your toes to adjust management for what the weather conditions will throw at you.” BF El Niño RICHARD KAMCHEN Richard Kamchen is a veteran agricultural freelance writer based in Winnipeg, Man.
26 Story Idea? Email Paul.Nolan@Farms.com Better Farming | February 2024 Rebuilding beef cattle herds MORE HEIFERS TO FEEDLOTS STALLS CATTLE REBUILD By RICHARD KAMCHEN Anne Lindgren - Adobe Stock photo Beef producers have chosen cashing-in over rebuilding their herds in the wake of record cattle prices in 2023. “There are no signs of herd expansion, and the cow herd continues to shrink,” says Brian Perillat, agribusiness specialist at More Than Just Feed. Persistent drought remains a big concern, as do potential feed and water shortages in 2024, and high prices made the decision to sell an easier one, he says. More heifers to feedlots Ryan Copithorne, a rancher and owner of Cows in Control, notes more heifers are heading to feedlots in both the U.S. and Canada. Heifers as a percentage of cattle on feed in the U.S. reached a 20-year high of 40 per cent in fall 2023, and Canada has run at a similar pace, he says. “In Canada, we are around 30 to 35 per cent heifers, which is still high, but understates the true percentage of beef heifers on feed, as much of our supply these days is imported dairy and dairy cross steers,” Copithorne says. “If we backed out the imported steer numbers, the ratio of beef heifers as a percentage of total cattle on feed would likely be as high as the U.S. or higher.”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTc0MDI3