It’s north verses south for seeding progress, and for progress of last year’s leftover harvest, across much of Western Canada. This spring has seen exceptional progress in some areas, while states of disaster have been declared in other parts. Southern regions are enjoying a relative stable seeding season, while northern areas continue to struggle with […] Read more
William DeKay
Stories by William DeKay
Sunny export market forecast
Economist says Saskatchewan produces many products in demand by ‘hungry markets in the world’
Trade policy bluster from the administration of President Donald Trump is just that, bluster, says a leading economist. “It’s about getting a better deal,” said Peter Hall, chief economist at Export Development Canada. “The idea is to move the needle this way and that’s why individual industries (softwood, dairy) are being picked on. They are […] Read moreDrugs take time to work: vet
Patience is a virtue when it comes to administering medications to food-producing animals. “Be patient. Once you’ve started treating, and it depends a little bit on what drug, but with an antibiotic once you start treating, that antibiotic usually needs at least 24, if not 36 to 48 hours before you decide it is not […] Read more
Canadians mark importance of Battle of Vimy Ridge
In April, about 25,000 Canadians came together at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in northern France to honour the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge. Tim Cook, an author and military historian of the First World War at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, was on hand for the moving memorial. Of particular […] Read more
Better care needed as fertility rates rise
More is not better if lamb mortality increases with higher birth rates, says Saskatchewan veterinarian
As fertility rates rise for lambs and kids, so does the need for better management practices in keeping them alive. However, therein lie the issues, said Dr. Fritz Schumann of the University of Saskatchewan’s Western College of Veterinary Medicine. “Even if fertility rates are high, there must be a point where physiologically the lambs can’t […] Read more
Remote watering systems grow in popularity
Off-grid solar operated water systems are coming down the pipe for a growing number of cattle producers. It’s a win-win on several fronts, say experts. “It’s another tool farmers and ranchers can use to help them look after the environment while improving their bottom line,” said Ken Lewis, conservation co-ordinator for Red Deer County in […] Read more
Troughs key to cattle preference, conservation
If you lead or direct a cow to clean water, it will usually drink faster and grow better. The best way to make that happen is with an off-site system like a water trough, say experts. “When given a choice, cattle will drink from a trough eight times out of 10, even if they have […] Read more
Proper advice key to good vaccination coverage
Vaccination programs can be complicated, which is why veterinarians urge producers to consult with them to design a vaccine protocol tailored to their specific needs. “Every producer has different risk levels depending on their contact with other animals, depending on their management system, when they would calve and what area they live in geographically across […] Read more
Safe trailer ride ensures happy, healthy horse
Transporting horses on trailers requires training, preparation and common sense, said a panel of experts during a recent horse expo in Saskatoon. “For the most part, I would say that people who are professional livestock and horse producers are generally well-equipped, well-prepared and well-educated about transporting safely and humanely,” said Stephen Manning from the Western […] Read more
Former boxer gives farming challenges a one-two
EDAM, Sask. — Boxers and farmers have a lot in common, said Joey LaClare. “If you go half ass in boxing, you’ll take a beating in the ring. You’ll have to pay for it,” said the 2002 Canadian middleweight champion. “The farming world can throw punches too. You’ll end up having some costly mistakes if […] Read more
