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Managing Livestock in Challenging Times | |
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From the Oct 14, 2009 Issue of Agri-News | |
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| | Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development (ARD) provides information, expertise and strategies for Alberta livestock producers who are coping with market and weather challenges.
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"The rising Canadian dollar, combined with feed shortages resulting from cool, dry conditions during the 2009 growing season, means that producers have been impacted both financially and agronomically," says Patrick Ramsey, MSc, P.Ag., business development specialist - beef with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. "As a result, many producers are faced with having to make critical and strategic decisions concerning their operations."
To assist producers with their decision-making process, ARD has launched a multi-pronged approach, consisting of:
- updated information related to production options on ARD's Ropin' the Web website, as well as working with extension partners to provide expertise and knowledge at speaking events/opportunities
- a list of private sector feed companies is posted on ARD's website under General Store
- market outlook seminars with Ann Dunford were held to assist producers in examining the present cattle prices and the future outlook for the cattle industry
Producers participating in Agriculture Financial Service Corporation's (AFSC) risk management programs are also encouraged to speak with their AFSC representative for more information.
The federal government has unveiled details about investments to help hog farmers restructure or exit the industry, and to help the industry take advantage of new market opportunities. Visit www.agr.gc.ca for more information.
To help producers manage during dry conditions, and for further information:
- many sources of decision making information can be accessed by calling the Alberta Ag-Info Centre (310-FARM) or visiting Agriculture and Rural Development's 'website (www.agriculture.alberta.ca)
- extensive information is posted to www.agriculture.alberta.ca under Options for Alberta producers under the current dry conditions (species-specific information for all livestock will be posted as it becomes available)
- AFSC can be contacted at www.afsc.ca or 1-800-396-0215 for information about crop insurance, AgriStability, and lending options
- fall producer meetings, the ARD booth at fairs/trade fairs, feed and nutrition suppliers, agricultural associations are all excellent sources of information
- a map of 2009 Livestock Tax Deferral Initial Prescribed Regions is available for download or view at www.agr.gc.ca (further federal designations are expected in Fall 2009)
Contact:
Patrick Ramsey, MSc, P.Ag.
403-652-8303 |
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For more information about the content of this document, contact Lee Anne Bateman.
This document is maintained by Rita Splawinski.
This information published to the web on October 14, 2009.
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