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MFGA eBulletin - Jan 2019
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From the Desk of MFGA Executive Director
For the first time in a long time, Manitoba Forage & Grassland Association (MFGA) has more than 300 excellent, wonderful and awesome reasons to put on our work boots and kick start 2019 into the same amazing momentum space that we finished 2018 on. And those 300 reasons are you, folks.
More than 300 of you are now MFGA supporters, thanks in no small part to a large number of you that attended our 2018 MFGA Regenerative Conference where we shared, networked, laughed and learned together. If the first golden rule of marketing is to
WOW your existing clients (in this case, MFGA supporters), I am certain you will see a definite pattern in our outreach, activities and collaborations that will align with your own areas of interest. We are privileged to have you onboard and we will go forward on that premise while constantly pushing to attract the support of others. Forages and grasslands, producers, the industry and the continued awareness of societal gains from perennials, pastures, wetlands and healthy soils are in a really unique position here in Manitoba. Together, we must continue to advance the economic prosperity of producers while respecting balance on healthy landscape fronts. Welcome aboard grassland, forage, water and soil-minded souls, 2019 is going to be one great ride.
Muchos grasses all!
Duncan Morrison,
MFGA Executive Director
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MFGA Board member preps for experience of a lifetime
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| photo credit: Drew May, The Brandon Sun |
MFGA board member Ryan Boyd will soon be embarking on a Nuffield scholarship, an international learning opportunity for producers who are delivering long-term benefits to farmers and growers, providing them with international travel to farm operations around the world. Boyd says he was first introduced to the scholarship through other recipients who were touring through Westman, which included a stop at his farm. Scholars get the chance to travel to different countries studying how other farmers do their work and learning about the issues that affect them. Boyd said he was humbled when he heard he received the scholarship last year.
Read the full Brandon Sun article.
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MFGA happy to be part of Beef and Forage Week
MFGA would like to thank Manitoba Agriculture for their work and leadership in arranging Beef and Forage Week 2019. MFGA was represented by MFGA board members: Shauna Breault/Pam Iwanchysko in Ste. Rose; Arron Nerbas in Roblin; Andrea Hamilton in Holland and our MFGA Hay Expert John McGregor in Vita and Arborg. Judging from early reports, producer attendance was substantial and the week was a resounding success. Nice work, all. In other events,
Manitoba Ag Days is this week and MFGA will once again have directors and volunteers staffing our booth, including Brandon's Hans Rindlisbacher who will be volunteering at his 42nd straight Manitoba Ag Days!! BRAVO, HANS!
Mfga Aquanty's Steve Frey will
be presenting Jan 24 at 3:00 in the MNP Theatre.
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Bale Grazing Wastage
Bale Grazing is no longer considered a new practice. Whether or not you use this management technique, you likely are aware of the pros and cons of putting this practice into place on your farm. When we have a year like this one and feed supplies are limited, hay wastage is a concern in most operations. Asking ourselves the question "How much waste can be created when overwintered cattle are bale grazed?" helps in knowing how much feed we may need and allows us to plan ahead to reduce the risk of a forage shortfall. Work out of the United States has this number ranging from 11 - 45 per cent which isn't helpful if you are trying to calculate your feed requirements. A recent project from Lakeland Agricultural Research Association (LARA) in Alberta shows a much better handle on bale grazing waste and has provided some management techniques that help reduce that loss even further.
Read on...
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January Hay Situation and Price Update
John McGregor, MFGA Hay Expert, spoke with Manitoba Agriculture livestock staff, forage producers and industry personnel to get their impression of hay prices and the hay situation.
Read the report here.
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MFGA's Position on Changes to the Crown Lands Amendment Act
As an agricultural producer-based group focused on forages and grasslands, the Manitoba Forage and Grassland Association (MFGA) recognizes that Manitoba's Crown Lands and Community Pastures provide both economic prosperity and environmental opportunities to Manitoba. MFGA advocates for the sustainable agricultural use of grassland areas of Manitoba Crown Lands and Community Pastures. Read
MFGA's full position. More information on the
Crown Lands Amendment Act is now available online including an
FAQ Page.
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MBFI seeking summer student research assistants for Brandon area
Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives is looking for summer students for the beef and forage research and demonstration farm located near Brandon, MB. The positions to be filled are Research Assistants on a full-time basis from May to September, 2019. Part time work may also be available from September 2019 to April 2020.
Application deadline: Feb 1, 2019.
Further details here including where to send your resume.
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New Western Livestock Price Insurance Program Payment Option for Manitoba Producers
Manitoba livestock producers can now defer their policy premiums for up to 30 days after the policy expires. Previously only available in Alberta, this new payment option gives Manitoba producers the same flexibility for settling accounts. Set up a WLPIP account, purchase a WLPIP policy and defer your premium payments for the entire length of the policy - up to 30 days after it expires! WLPIP policies for feeder cattle, fed cattle and hogs are available year-round. The next purchase dates for WLPIP calf policies are from February 5, 2019 to May 30, 2019. More information here or read the media bulletin.
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Province advises Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation's Hay Disaster Benefit triggered for 2018
Manitoba Agriculture advises that Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) is notifying producers the Hay Disaster Benefit has been triggered and associated payments will begin shortly. The estimated payout for 2018 is $3.2 million on approximately 1,000 claims. The Hay Disaster Benefit (HDB) is a complimentary feature of the AgriInsurance program that compensates insured forage producers for the increased cost of hay and transportation when there is a severe provincial forage shortfall. The HDB was first introduced in 2014 as part of a revamped forage insurance offering and 2018 marks the first year that it has been triggered.
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Producer Events & News
This show is an exposition of agricultural production expertise, technology, and equipment that attracts exhibitors and visitors from across Canada and the United States of America and includes the most relevant, up to date, informational speakers available. Mb Ag Days has been approved for 24.5 CEU Credits this year. Visit MFGA's Booth #1338, MNP Hall, and hear about the MFGA Aquanty Project, profiled by lead scientist Dr. Steve Frey of Aquanty, Jan 24 at 3:00 pm in the MNP Theatre: "How Your Farm Management Influences Your Community Resiliency."
Environmental Farm Plans (EFP) are an essential part of every farm operation. In this half-day workshop, you will be guided through the EFP workbook to help you assess and identify the environmental assets and risks on your farm operation and develop an action plan to address identified risks. Register at the EFP workshop in your region:
Jan 24, 2019 in Vita, MB
Feb 27, 2019 in Killarney, MB
Feb 28, 2019 in Brandon, MB
This event is packed with information and innovative leading experts aimed to help Manitoba beef producers best manage their cattle operations. Find out the latest news on research and production for beef and forage management at this one-day meeting at the Austin Community Centre, 9am - 3pm. For info, call the Portage Mb Ag office, 204-239-3353.
Innovative leading experts at The Benchland Annual Meeting will provide the latest news on research and production for beef and forage management aimed to help Manitoba beef producers best manage their cattle operations. Held at the Gladstone Community Centre, 12:30pm - 7:30pm.
Pre-register by Jan 25, call the Gladstone Mb Ag office, 204-385-6633.
Time: 1pm-2pm MST (also recorded for later viewing) Scholarship Deadline: Jan 22, 2019 Registration Deadline: Jan 29, 2019 Instructor: Holistic Management Certified Educator, Ralph Tate.
Tradeshow, Kids Program & outstanding speakers including MFGA Board Member Ryan Boyd. Accommodations at the Russell Inn. FREE Pre-Conference Farm Tour with MFGA Board member Arron Nerbas at his family farm, Nerbas Bros. Angus on Friday, February 1 at 2:00pm. Note: Find out if you qualify for
financial assistance of up to 50% and apply by visiting the
Mb Ag Action Program.
All farmers are welcome to attend a FREE "Lunch then Learn" seminar focused on farm worker recruitment and orientation, including
basic information including legal requirements and resources needed to find and retain workers.
Held at the Delta Hotel from
Noon-4PM. Limited spaces - advanced registration required.
Held at the Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre in Brandon, this year's theme is "Proud Past, Promising Future" and will include a look back at MBP's 40 years representing beef producers and a look ahead to the sector's future.
Whether you're a researcher, producer, or prairie professional, join your fellow experts in exploring the latest information, research, and trends in the conservation of "Working Landscapes." Save $50 with the Early Bird rates! Details on hotel, agenda and registration
here or call Kelly Forgala, 204-257-5205.
This year's theme is "Building Resiliency - Accepting Change - From Floods to Drought" and is held at the
Victoria Inn Hotel & Convention Centre. Knowledgeable presenters include Bob Sandford, Danny Blair and Doug Griffiths and others on a variety of topics related to water management issues. Questions: Wanda McFadyen at 204-795-6672 or at
info@arb-int.com. Reserve at the Victoria Inn at 204-725-1532, quote ARBI block.
MFGA and Leader Tours have partnered to offer this agricultural-influenced tours and the opportunity to travel with like-minded people!Experience New Zealand's sublime forests, mountains, lakes, beaches and fiords that have made NZ one of the best destinations on Earth.
MFGA and Leader Tours have partnered to offer this agricultural-influenced tours and the opportunity to travel with like-minded people! In addition to spectacular tourist stops, the trip will include ExpoAgro, the world's greatest machinery demonstration exhibition. Features: Sit back and enjoy these trips hassle-free while developing new friendships and the unique sights and experiences provided by the people, producers and agricultural industries of each region. Call toll free 1-844-370-7044 for more info.
Time: 1pm-2pm MST (also recorded for later viewing) Scholarship Deadline: March 5, 2019; Registration Deadline: March 12, 2019; Instructor: Holistic Management Certified Educator, Phil Metzger.
Register now for this Manitoba Bison Association event, which includes conference seminars, AGM, banquet and Kids Program. Sponsorship opportunities available. Tickets before March 15: $50 (16 years and up); $25 (6 -15 years); Under 5 is free After March 15th or at door: $60. Special room rates at the Clarion Hotel & Suites Rooms until March 18, ph: 204-728-5775 and quote "MB Bison 2019 Great Spirit Show & Sale".
Save the Date! More details to follow.
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