Calves lost in spring blizzard

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Published: May 4, 2011

Livestock producers who lost animals in the blizzard that swept through southeastern Saskatchewan last week are eligible for compensation, the provincial government said.

The blizzard raged April 29 to May 1 and resulted in the loss of hundreds of calves, said an agriculture ministry spokesperson.

Some producers have lost more than 25 percent of their spring calf crop.

Under the provincial disaster assistance program, municipalities must declare a disaster in order for residents to be eligible for coverage.

The program pays for uninsurable losses due to natural disaster.

Payment will be made in the same way that livestock predation losses are calculated. Compensation is based on calf market prices and is a minimum of $400.

Corrections, public safety and policing minister Yogi Huyghebaert said producers must present proof of loss. Dead livestock should be photographed and the time, date and location noted.

Coverage is also available to livestock producers who lost animals in earlier storms.

For more information, call 866-632-4033.

About the author

Karen Briere

Karen Briere

Karen Briere grew up in Canora, Sask. where her family had a grain and cattle operation. She has a degree in journalism from the University of Regina and has spent more than 30 years covering agriculture from the Western Producer’s Regina bureau.

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