Shows
Beef and Forage RoundupEconomics & Finance Mini Series: Production Economics with Dr. Kathy LarsonDr. Kathy Larson is an Extension Economist in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics at the University of Saskatchewan. Her position is one of the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s Strategic Research Program Chairs. Prior to joining the University in 2018, Kathy worked as a Research Economist at the Western Beef Development Centre for 8 years. She researches the practices and profitability of beef cow-calf producers so producers can make informed decisions. She was the 2024 recipient of the Canadian Industries Award in Extension and Public Service. Originally from a cattle and grain farm in southeast Saskatchewan, she now calls Prince Al...
2025-12-1749 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManaging Profit, Cash Flow and Tax Prep with Ken Sharpe (Sharpe & Co.)Ken Sharpe grew up in the ag industry and bought and operated a dairy farm alongside his wife, Sherri from 1987-1993. They purchased their current farm in 1997 and now raise Purebred Friesian horses and Purebred Shorthorn cattle.Ken completed his Chartered Professional Accountant degree in 1999 from the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of Manitoba. Ken has had his own public accounting practice since 2000. Today, he and Sherri own Sharpe and Company in Brandon, Manitoba, which is a small family business that employs 5 staff, including 2 CPAs and a payroll specialist. Ken specializes in farm, small business and personal tax...
2025-12-0342 min
Beef and Forage RoundupWomen in Ag: Producer Profile with Laura Plett (Sawmill Creek Livestock)Laura Plett and her husband Ryan own and operate a cow-calf operation in Stead, Manitoba, alongside her family’s fourth generation grain farm. She started this cow herd in 2014 with the purchase of 30 bred heifers while based near Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan. Laura has since returned to her homeland (with the cows), gotten married, had a baby and retired from her previous career as a professional Hunting & Fishing Guide and Manager in the outfitting industry. She now works full time on their farm, raising cattle. They grow and put up their own feed, and background their calves each year. They al...
2025-11-1937 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManitoba Women in Agriculture and Food with Laura Lazo (Chair MWAF)Laura Lazo holds a Ph.D. in biology from Dalhousie University, has published in scientific journals, and has worked as a consultant. She operates her own company, Careers in Agriculture and Food, which offers recruitment services tailored for the agriculture and agri-food industry. Laura leverages her extensive experience and network across Canada to help employers find candidates for hard-to-fill positions.Laura also co-founded and serves as the Chair of Manitoba Women in Agriculture and Food (MWAF), a non-profit organization. As Chair, she provides leadership to the Board and oversees MWAF’s growth and financial sustainability. She is al...
2025-11-0750 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManitoba Farm Women's Conference with Doris Doelger (MFWC)Agriculture has been a part of Doris Doelger’s life for as long as she can remember. Doris was born on a hog farm and raised on a beef and grain operation. At a young age 4-H gave Doris her first hands-on experiences and taught her the value of hard work, leadership, and community.In 2011, Doris started raising purebred Simmentals alongside her dad’s commercial cow/calf herd, and today she stays hands-on in both their beef and grain operation, and working on another family-run farm. Doris’ agricultural education has mostly come from the “school of hard knocks,”...
2025-10-2928 min
Beef and Forage RoundupReflecting on 100 Episodes of Beef & Forage RoundupHi! My name is Chantel McRae. I am a mom of 2, farm wife, farmer and the voice behind The Beef and Forage Roundup. I started my work as a podcaster and podcast producer in 2022 after taking a podcast mentorship program while on maternity leave with my oldest. Since then, 100 episodes of the Beef and Forage Roundup have come to life, reaching 80 countries and covering various topics in the agriculture industry.I farm alongside my husband Brett and our kids, near Brandon, MB. Our farm, McRae Land and Livestock currently farms about 2500 acres, mostly on rented land and has...
2025-10-1530 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMeet & Greet with MBFI's Full Time StaffOn today’s episode, we are introducing the full time staff at MBFI whose dedication and hard work makes the projects, data collection and project results possible.Clayton Robins operates a mixed family farm in Rivers, Manitoba with a primary focus on beef production. At the present time the operation includes; cow/calf, back-grounding, and custom grazing. The operation included sheep production for about 30 years, until 2009.Clayton graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and then spent over 20 years with Agriculture and Agri Food Canada Research Branch in Bra...
2025-10-0141 min
Brownfield Ag NewsInnovations in Agriculture: MBFi remains focused on performance, innovation, and quality biologicalsMBFi is a family-owned global leader in sustainable agriculture. The 22-year-old company has been in the United States for three years. Its mission is to develop and deliver science-backed crop technologies that solve real farming challenges, improve sustainability, and support long-time agricultural success. In this episode, Cyndi Young talks with Steven Etherington, CEO of the Americas for MBFi.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
2025-09-2608 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Bright Future of Ag with MBFI’s 2025 Summer StudentsJoin us as we introduce MBFI’s 2025 summer students!Kristy has lived in Brandon her whole life, but even though she lived in the city she has some aunts and uncles living on farms. One is a beef cattle farm, and the other is a beef cattle and hobby farm. Growing up, it was clear she loved animals and many other aspects of the farm. She started out volunteering for her uncle’s petting zoo, then has been volunteering at veterinary clinics and on local beef cattle farms. When she’s not on the farm or at the cl...
2025-09-1722 min
Beef and Forage RoundupPreference Grazing and Persistence of New Forages with Dr. Bart LardnerDr. H.A. (Bart) Lardner is a Professor and the Ministry of Agriculture Strategic Research Program Chair in Cow-Calf and Forage Systems at the University of Saskatchewan. Dr. Lardner holds a Ph.D. in Animal Science from the University of Saskatchewan, focusing on forage rejuvenation, nutrient digestibility and ruminant performance in Western Canada. Over the past 30 years his beef and forage research has focused on forage utilization and beef cattle management programs. His research has included improving water quality for beef cattle on pasture, evaluation of annual and perennial forages, pasture rejuvenation, extensive fall and winter grazing systems, nutrient...
2025-09-0349 min
Beef and Forage RoundupLiving Lab - Manitoba Update with Dan Cox (MAW)Dan Cox is the Project Manager with Manitoba Association of Watersheds. He brings 14+ years of project management experience in the renewable energy sector to the MAW project team. Dan’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science from the University of Winnipeg and an advanced diploma in GIS from Red River College. His role within the organization is to oversee all projects which MAW administers on behalf of the Watershed Districts in Manitoba.Dan joined us back in 2023 for episode #21 with Lynda Nicol where we first discussed the Manitoba Association of Watersheds or MAW and the programs an...
2025-08-2020 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMBFI Smart Farm Feature: On Pasture Weighing with the Optiweigh System with Dr. Mary-Jane OrrMary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in agricultural systems, is a Professional Agrologist, and Certified Crop Advisor. Her experience in ecology and field agronomy gives her a unique perspective on the challenges fa...
2025-08-0640 min
Beef and Forage RoundupDevelopmental Programming Impact of Nutrition in Early Pregnancy with Dr. Carl DahlenSince the year 2000 Carl Dahlen has been intimately involved in research efforts with a focus on reproduction, nutrition, and management of cattle. The emphasis of his current research program is to improve fertility in livestock species and to evaluate implications of nutrition and management strategies on reproductive and offspring outcomes. Dahlen joined the North Dakota State University faculty in 2010 as a Beef Cattle Extension Specialist where he engaged in integrated Extension and research efforts taking place on over 350 commercial beef operations. The unique mix of his research background and practical experience has led to several novel research tec...
2025-07-3056 min
Beef and Forage RoundupWild Pollinators in Ag Landscapes with Dr. Jason Gibbs (U of M)Dr. Jason Gibbs studies the diversity and taxonomy of wild bees. He completed his PhD at York University. He was a postdoctoral researcher at Cornell University and a research associate at Michigan State University before joining Canada’s only Department of Entomology at the University of Manitoba in 2016. He is curator of one of the largest insect collections in western Canada. He has published 115 scientific papers on various aspects of bee diversity, pollination ecology, and taxonomy. He has supervised 4 PhDs and 7 MSc students. He has named dozens of new species. Four species of bees have been named after him fo...
2025-07-1637 min
Beef and Forage RoundupDeveloping Native and Tame Forage Varieties and Mixtures with Dr. Bill Biligetu (U of S)Dr. Bill Biligetu is an Associate Professor, at the Crop Development Center of the University of Saskatchewan. Growing up on the Mongolian Plateau, Dr. Bill Biligetu (PhD) has seen first-hand the effect climate change can have on grasslands. As the Ministry of Agriculture Strategic Research Program (SRP) Chair in Forage Crop Breeding, his program has focused on developing new varieties of perennial forage species crucial to the western Canadian beef and forage industries such as alfalfa, hybrid brome, meadow brome, and wheatgrasses. His breeding objectives range from improving forage biomass/disease resistance to enhancing salt and drought stress tolerances...
2025-07-0222 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMBFI's Mineral Case Study with Dr. Mary-Jane OrrMary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in agricultural systems, is a Professional Agrologist, and Certified Crop Advisor. Her experience in ecology and field agronomy gives her a unique perspective on the challenges fa...
2025-06-1855 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMental Health Awareness In Agriculture - The Manitoba Farmer Wellness Program and Donna's Journey with Donna OdellDonna married her high school sweetheart Les directly out of school and has been married to him for 39 years this July.She was raised in Virden and moved to the farm when they married. For 5 years they lived in a trailer and had one daughter there. They started into cattle with 6 mixed breed cows in 1989.In 1991 they moved to the home farm where the Odell's began in 1892. They are the 4th generation of Odell's on that land. Donna's family also had connections to Hargrave and she too is the 4th generation to live in that...
2025-05-2824 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMental Health Awareness in Agriculture: The Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing with Dr. Briana HagenDr. Briana Hagen is a leading voice in Canadian agricultural mental health. As CEO and Lead Scientist of the Canadian Centre for Agricultural Wellbeing, she combines academic research with real-world solutions, co-creating programs alongside farmers to build resilience and break down barriers to mental health support. Dr. Hagen’s work spans policy advocacy, educational programming, and crisis support systems, all grounded in the lived realities of farmers. Her mission is to ensure that farmers and their families have access to trusted, tailored mental health resources — and that their voices remain at the heart of every solution. Today Briana...
2025-05-1434 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMental Health Awareness in Ag Mini Series: Do More Ag and High Heels & Canola Fields with Lesley KellyLesley Kelly is a farmer, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate who farms with her family in Watrous, Saskatchewan. As the voice behind High Heels & Canola Fields, she bridges the gap between farmers and consumers by dispelling agricultural myths and fostering meaningful conversations about food and farming. Her passion for advocacy began while building a snack food company using her family’s grain, inspiring her to create an online community of over 100,000 followers to share stories, build understanding, and strengthen agriculture’s connections.Lesley is a leader in advancing mental health in agriculture. As a trained peer supporter and...
2025-05-0733 min
Beef and Forage RoundupYellowquill Prairie Preserve: Grazing Native Prairie with Josh Dillabough & Gordon BeddomeJosh Dillabough is a dedicated natural area manager for the Nature Conservancy of Canada, he’s been with the organization since 2010. When not pursuing efforts to protect critical natural habitat or being coerced into media interviews or podcasts, he endeavours to be a loving husband and dad. Josh is an outdoor enthusiast that enjoys hunting, fishing, paddling and thick rib-eyes hot off the grill.Gordon Beddome is a cow-calf producer who lives near Shilo, Manitoba. His previous work at the Research Station at Brandon started his interest in the research side of cattle production. Gord has rented and...
2025-04-3048 min
Beef and Forage RoundupImpacts of Tariffs on Canadian Cow-Calf Production with Tyler Fulton CCA PresidentTyler Fulton and his wife, Dorelle, along with their kids Evan and Mae own and operate Tyton Farm Ltd, a 600 head cow/calf/backgrounding operation south of Birtle, MB. The farm operates about 6000 acres in prairie pothole country, which consists of mostly tame pasture, hay, and some annual crops. Tyler has spent most of his off-farm career in the field of livestock price risk management after he received a degree in Agribusiness from the University of Manitoba. He is passionate about improving the tools and programs available for cattle producers to manage risk on their operations....
2025-04-1643 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMBFI Winter Feed: Snapshot on Production & Feed Quality of Corn, Silage, Hay & Ammoniated StrawMary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in agricultural systems, is a Professional Agrologist, and Certified Crop Advisor. Her experience in ecology and field agronomy gives her a unique perspective on the challenges fa...
2025-04-021h 05
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Impact of Management of Marginal Field Areas with Dr. Christy MorrisseyDr. Christy Morrissey is a Professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. Her research focuses on issues related to agricultural pesticides and other chemicals and the use of birds and insects as indicators of ecosystem health. Dr. Morrissey has published over 95 highly cited journal articles and book chapters and in 2020 was named to the Royal Society College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists. Her work has also been featured broadly in the national and international media and documentaries (CBC, BBC, National Geographic, Nature of Things, and The Messenger film). She is cu...
2025-03-1947 min
Beef and Forage RoundupALUS Growing Roots Program with Joey Pankiw (SRRWD)Joey Pankiw grew up on a family farm in the Red River Valley. Joey is a graduate from the University of Winnipeg with a B.A. in Geography, and obtained a MSc. in Geography from the University of Regina. He started working with the Seine Rat Roseau Watershed District in 2019 as a Watershed Assistant and also held the ALUS/Grow Coordinator position before becoming District Manager in 2022.In today’s episode, Joey gives us an overview of what the ALUS Growing Roots program is and what the goals of this program are. He describes the thought process beh...
2025-03-0532 min
Beef and Forage RoundupHiring Farm Workers with Justin Girard (Young Agrarians)Justin Girard is the Manitoba Program Manager for Young Agrarians, a peer to peer educational resource network for new, young and aspiring farmers. He is also the team lead for the Young Agrarians Apprenticeship Program, a program that sets up aspiring farmers with their first farm job and provides support to both the apprentices and the seasoned farmer mentors. Justin grew up on a farm, worked on farms, and farmed himself and is excited to help carve out opportunities for the next generation of land stewards.In this episode, Justin tells us what Young Agrarians is and...
2025-02-1945 min
Beef and Forage RoundupLivestock Inspection & Traceability with Carson Callum (MBP)Carson Callum is the General Manager with Manitoba Beef Producers. Carson joined MBP in 2019, and comes with an extension background in agriculture. He has a Master’s of Science in Agriculture, specifically related to beef cattle. Carson has worked in many areas of the ag sector, and the beef industry is near and dear to him. He grew up on a small beef farm south of Miami Manitoba. He now lives in Winnipeg with his family, which includes his wife Britni, and sons Cohen and Sullivan. Carson admits his favorite role in life is fatherhood, but sure enjoys working on beh...
2025-02-0529 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Soil Health Network with Brent VanKoughnetBrent VanKoughnet M.Sc. P.Ag. is Owner / Manager of Agri Skills Inc. a company thatspecializes in agricultural innovation and human resource development services. AgriSkills provides market development consulting services, custom skills development and training programs, and field scale precision trial services to several major manufacturers and retailers in western Canada and the northern United States. He completed a Masters degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Manitoba in 1992, manages the family farm in Carman and is currently project lead for an ambitious Soil Health Network initiative with Assiniboine College....
2025-01-2959 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManitoba Ag Days with Kristen PhillipsKristen Phillips is a mother, agronomist, farmer and she is the General Manager of Manitoba Ag Days. Her and her husband Garret have 3 beautiful daughters, Leah, Bailey and Jordyn. They farm ~ 4000 acres in partnership with Kristen's parents Doug and Denise Williamson. Kristen loves spending time with her girls and you will often find them out scouting fields, playing catch in the front yard or swimming in their pool. Kristen is the head leader of the Brandon Explorers 4-H Club and a leader in the Poplar Hill 4-H Club as well. Kristen is passionate about agriculture! Her motto is "You have...
2025-01-1530 min
Beef and Forage RoundupRanching For Profit with Dallas Mount (Ranch Management Consultants)Dallas Mount is the owner of Ranch Management Consultants (RMC), home of the Ranching for Profit School and the Executive Link program. Dallas has led RMC since 2019 and worked with thousands of ranchers across North America, Australia and the UK to position their business for economic profit and ecologic health. After working with University of Wyoming Extension for 18 years, Dallas started teaching the Ranching For Profit School in 2012 and quickly established himself as an elite instructor. Dallas and his wife Dixie, have two adult children and own and manage a grazing operation near Wheatland, WY. RM...
2025-01-011h 03
Beef and Forage RoundupDigging into Marketing with Brock TaylorIn today’s episode, Brock Taylor shares his history in agriculture and about his experiences in the cattle industry. He is the second generation at Taylor Auctions and his oldest son is now involved in the business as well. Brock is the Past President of the Livestock Markets Association of Canada and shares a bit about his role with this organization.Brock gives us a breakdown of what is involved in livestock marketing and the main considerations for a producer over a production year. He also discusses where he sees the biggest opportunities for an opera...
2024-12-1835 min
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile: Experience with Backgrounding with Trevor AtchisonTrevor Atchison operates Poplarview Stock Farm with his wife Melissa, their two children Reese and Wyatt, his parents Lloyd and Joan Atchison and nephew Tyler Scott. Poplarview Stock Farm was recognized as a Century Farm in 2005. Trevor’s children and nephew are the 5th generation. The farm is located just east of Pipestone, MB in sandy soils bordering Plum Lake. The operation utilizes a land base of 9000 acres of deeded and rented land for pasture, hay, and 700-900 annually cropped acres that produce silage feed grains and some cash crops. Around 750-800 cows are calved annu...
2024-12-041h 03
Beef and Forage RoundupHarmony in Farm Family Transitions with Elaine FroeseElaine Froese has coached over 1000 families helping decrease their anxiety over the uncertainty of their future. She has authored 5 books and written a Grainews column for 30 years.Froese Family Farms, a certified seed farm near Boissevain in Southwestern Manitoba is her home base, where she farms with her husband, son, and daughter in law.Faith Today magazine calls her “Canada’s Farm Whisperer”.CBC radio calls her the “Dr. Phil for farmers. “Penny ,Ruby, and Read call her “Gramma.”Elaine understands the culture of agriculture and is gifted at helping folks...
2024-11-2051 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Impact of Grazing Management on Sequestering Carbon with Aaron Glen (AAFC)Dr. Aaron Glenn is a Research Scientist specializing in micrometeorology and has worked at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Brandon since 2011. He has a Ph.D. in Soil Science from the University of Manitoba. His area of expertise and research interests relate the impact that weather and climate have on crop production and the influence that agricultural production systems have on greenhouse gas emissions and air quality. Dr. Glenn is a past President of the Canadian Society of Agricultural and Forest Meteorology and the Manitoba Soil Science Society. He has served as a subject matter expert reviewing methodological changes...
2024-11-0651 min
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile with Glen and Pam Lowry (Lowry Farms)Glen and Pam own and operate a Beef Farm near Darlingford, MB. They are dedicated to raising their cattle using sustainable practices. The land they farm on has been in their family for 125 years, and they raised their three boys on the original homestead. Their commitment to the land is illustrated by the fact that they are participating in a Agriculture and AgriFood Canada long term research project that compares the carbon sequestration of their grassland pastures to the methane emission of the cattle.They were recipients of the 2023 TESA The Environmental Stewardship Award award, and...
2024-10-3050 min
Beef and Forage RoundupVirtual Fencing Trial at MBFI with Dr. Mary-Jane Orr & Judah Logan (MBFI)Mary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in agricultural systems, is a Professional Agrologist, and Certified Crop Advisor. Her experience in ecology and field agronomy gives her a unique perspective on the challenges fa...
2024-10-161h 08
Beef and Forage RoundupEffects of Riparian Grazing on Distinct Phosphorus Sources with Alex KoiterAlex Koiter is an associate professor in the Department of Geography & Environment at Brandon University. His research program focuses on investigating the interactions between land and water management practices and geomorphology on soil and water quality. His research group investigates a wide range of agricultural issues including soil erosion, downstream sedimentation, nutrient dynamics, greenhouse gas fluxes, and extremes of moisture.Today, Alex is sharing information from his research on grazing riparian areas. First, we start off with what a riparian area is and how these change seasonally and annually depending on water levels. Alex also shares what th...
2024-10-0251 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManitoba Beef Producers Update & Traceability Regulation Changes with Carson CallumCarson Callum is the General Manager with Manitoba Beef Producers. Carson joined MBP in 2019, and comes with an extension background in agriculture. He has a Master’s of Science in Agriculture, specifically related to beef cattle. Carson has worked in many areas of the ag sector, and the beef industry is near and dear to him. He grew up on a small beef farm south of Miami Manitoba. He now lives in Winnipeg with his family, which includes his wife Britni, and sons Cohen and Sullivan. Carson admits his favorite role in life is fatherhood, but sure enjoys working on beh...
2024-09-1839 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Bright Future of Ag with MBFI's 2024 Summer StudentsJoin us as we introduce MBFI's 2024 Summer Students!Briel Lemoing is from a grain farm near Basswood, Manitoba. She is entering her second year of a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a major in AnimalScience at the University of Saskatchewan. She plans on pursuing a career in cattle genetics and hopes to eventually return to her home farm and working cattle into their operation. Megan Harris grew up in Brandon, Manitoba and is entering her fourth and final year of her Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences at Brandon University. This...
2024-08-2113 min
Beef and Forage RoundupHarvest Timing for Green Feed Study with Greg Penner (U of S)Dr. Greg Penner is a Professor in the Department of Animal and Poultry Science and holds a Centennial Enhancement Chair in Ruminant Nutritional Physiology at the University of Saskatchewan. He was hired in 2009 after obtaining his bachelor’s degree and M.Sc. degree at the University of Saskatchewan, and his PhD from the University of Alberta. Dr. Penner’s research focuses on forage utilization, beef and dairy cattle nutrition, and regulation of gastrointestinal function in ruminants. Individual projects range from a focus on fundamental aspects of physiology to those with applied outcomes that can help promote efficient and sus...
2024-08-0754 min
Beef and Forage RoundupMBFI Sod Seeding Trial & Forage Living Library with Dr. Mary-Jane OrrToday we are talking with Dr. Mary-Jane Orr about MBFI’s Sod Seeding Trial and the Forage Living Library. Mary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in agricultural systems, is a Profes...
2024-07-3141 min
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile with Sean & Kristi-Lyn Buckley (Deer Meadow Farmacy)At Deer Meadow Farmacy, Sean and Kristi-Lyn Buckley prioritize the health and wellness of their entire ecological system- knowing the well-being of nature is parallel to that of human health. With this correlation at the forefront of their minds, they strive to maximize diversity above and below the soil to create a resilient, holistic ecosystem which produces flavourful, nutrient-dense food that is beyond food.It is medicine.They are passionate about creating food that can heal and understand that the mind, body and soul are of one essence and the entirety of nature and the...
2024-07-171h 07
Beef and Forage RoundupPositive Public Perception with Amie PeckAmie Peck leads the Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) team at the Canadian Cattle Association which works to increase public trust in the Canadian beef industry by supporting industry synergies, forming strategic partnerships and connecting positively with consumers and the public. This includes addressing industry issues by coordinating key messages and specific responses together with provincial and industry organizations. As well, promotional content and campaigns are also developed that highlight the benefits of beef production in Canada.Today’s episode is the first in a three part mini series talking about Public Perception in the Ag and Be...
2024-06-1957 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence with Scott Wright (U of S)Dr. Scott Wright is the director of the USask Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence (LFCE). Scott Wright is the Director of the Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence (LFCE) at the University of Saskatchewan. Scott started his Saskatchewan career in 1983 as a Graduate Student at the U of S Termuende Farm on pasture rejuvenation and fertilization. He has been a plant breeder with Agriculture Canada in Saskatoon, working on brome and crested wheatgrass, alongside the Ecovar development program in native grasses with Ducks Unlimited. His forage work included Forage Management at the Melfort Research Stati...
2024-06-051h 11
Beef and Forage RoundupLivestock Price Insurance & Risk Mitigation Tools with Tyler FultonTyler and Dorelle along with their kids Evan and Mae own and operate Tyton Farm Ltd, a 600 head cow/calf/backgrounding operation south of Birtle, MB. The farm operates about 6000 acres in prairie pothole country, which consists of mostly tame pasture, hay, and some annual crops. Tyler has spent most of his off-farm career in the field of livestock price risk management after he received a degree in Agribusiness from the University of Manitoba. He is passionate about improving the tools and programs available for cattle producers to manage risk on their operations.Tyler currently se...
2024-05-2949 min
Beef and Forage RoundupLivestock Price Insurance with Jeff Legaarden (MASC)Jeff Legaarden is a Business Development Specialist with MASC and a livestock coordinator. Jeff has been working for MASC for over 15 years and has worked with the Livestock Price Insurance program since its beginning 10 years ago. As well as working for MASC, Jeff has his own cattle operation, which he manages along with his wife and 3 sons.Today’s episode is jam packed with information about the Livestock Price Insurance Program. If you have questions on the following topics, this episode is for you.What is Livestock Price Insurance and how does it work?How are ani...
2024-05-1546 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Ultimate Stockmanship Challenge & Safe Handling Practices with Malcolm MacLeanMalcolm MacLean has spent his life in the cattle industry working for grazing co-ops, large ranches and feedlots. He currently lives in the Porcupine Hills near Pincher Creek, Alberta with his family. He’s now focused on teaching stockmanship and spreading awareness on low stress cattle handling. He has an online cattle handling school that prepares people for his live hands-on schools. Along with his wife Jenny, a mixed animal veterinarian, they put on the Ultimate Stockmanship School and Challenge. Malcolm is also currently working on a documentary on Bud Williams, and on how Bud’s methods can radically chan...
2024-05-0158 min
Beef and Forage RoundupGrazing: Impact of Utilization Project with Dr. Mary-Jane OrrToday we are talking with Dr. Mary-Jane Orr about the Grazing: Impact of Utilization project, which looks at two different grazing strategies, 50% utilization and 80% utilization in rotational grazing. This project started in 2022 at MBFI and is still in progress. Mary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of impr...
2024-04-171h 17
Beef and Forage RoundupIntercropping High Protein Forages with CornDr. Yvonne Lawley is an associate professor in the Plant Science Department at the University of Manitoba. Her area of research is agronomy and cropping systems. Dr. Lawley’s research has focused on several crops including soybeans, corn, and wheat and a range of management practices from residue management, strip tillage, to cover crops. Her research involves both small plot and on-farm field scale agronomy research. Dr. Lawley enjoys communicating the results of her research to a wide range of audiences including farmers, agronomists, scientist, and especially in the classrooms where she teaches at the University of Manitoba. Dr...
2024-04-0352 min
Beef and Forage RoundupSod Seeding & Hay Establishment Trial with Cam Ross and Alex Griffiths (DUCs)Cam Ross comes from a cow-calf operation North of Minnedosa, MB where he still farms with his family today. Cam has a degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Manitoba and started with Ducks Unlimited as a summer student in 2017 (He worked a summer with MBFI in 2016 as well!) and then moved into a full-time position in 2020 where he now manages all of DUC’s properties across Southwest Manitoba. This management includes, seeding down new tame stands, sod-seeding older native stands, the hay tender program and grazing program, among other things.Alex Griffiths grew up and sti...
2024-03-2027 min
Beef and Forage RoundupParkland Crop Diversity Foundation Diversification Centre Teff Trials with James FreyJames Frey works with Manitoba Agriculture as an Applied Diversification Specialist, based in Roblin. He collaborates with Parkland Crop Diversification Foundation to conduct small-plot research trials for a broad range of field and forage crops. Previously, he worked in Northeast Asia with on-farm development projects. James is always looking for ways to strengthen farm resiliency and is especially interested in crop-livestock systems. Find him on X (Twitter) at @jamesfrey21, or email him at james.frey@gov.mb.ca.In this episode we are talking with James Frey about the Teff trials he is implementing at the Parkland Crop...
2024-03-0648 min
Beef and Forage RoundupIntercropping Corn with Forage Soybeans with Joe Gardiner (Covers & Co.)Joe Gardiner grew up in the community of Clearwater Manitoba and he feels very fortunate that he and his wife Melanie, call Clearwater home today. Together with his parents, brother Sheldon and his partner Derek, they run a mixed grain and cattle farm located just off #3 highway in southern Manitoba. In 2016 Joe had a decision to make. He was not enjoying the stress and heavy operating cost that comes with conventional farming, and the draw of a 9 to 5 job was becoming ever more attractive. He had been introduced to soil health principles in university and had started atten...
2024-02-211h 09
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile & Grazing Mentorship with Randy TkachykThe Tkachyk farm is a third-generation farm that was established in 1907. Together with his wife, Randy enjoys the farming lifestyle. He had the opportunity to add custom grazing beginning in the early 2000s, with adjacent lands being available to rent and purchase. Being the only operator on the farm, and no extra help, he made the decision to take the hay ground and fence off into paddocks to aid in soil health and better grazing land for the cattle.They keep their cattle out on pasture or hay fields all year, utilizing bale grazing to im...
2024-02-0738 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManitoba Crop Alliance On Farm Research with Pam de RocquignyPam de Rocquigny is the chief executive officer of Manitoba Crop Alliance (MCA), a not-for-profit, farmer-led organization. MCA represents over 7,700 farmer-members and strives to continuously improve the competitiveness and profitability of all crops represented by the organization. Pam is responsible for providing vision and leadership in implementing MCA’s strategic direction under the guidance of its board of directors.Prior to her role with MCA, Pam was the General Manager for two Manitoba commodity organizations and worked for the provincial government in the agriculture department. Pam received a B.Sc. in Agriculture and a M.Sc. in Pl...
2024-01-311h 06
Beef and Forage RoundupKey Findings from the Canadian Cow-Calf Surveillance Network with Dr. John CampbellDr. John Campbell graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph in 1985. After several years of rural veterinary practice, he returned to Guelph to complete a Doctor of Veterinary Science degree in Ruminant Health Management. He has worked as a clinical faculty member on the Ruminant Field Service Practice at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan since 1991. He served as Dept. Head of the Dept. of Large Animal Clinical Sciences from 2011-2017. His primary research interests are in the fields of beef cattle production medicine and disease surveillance in beef cattle. He currently acts as...
2024-01-171h 05
Beef and Forage RoundupAccerlating Change with Dana PenriceDana strives to support inspired thinking and action in agriculture and rural communities. By thinking broadly and deeply about the systems upon which our society depends, Dana sees us better positioning the industry and our communities for the future. Dana’s work with Holistic Management Canada and with the Human Venture Institute has been foundational in developing her passion for supporting people to become resourceful, resilient, responsible and adaptive. Dana’s formal education was in Animal Science, earning a B.Sc. from the U of A but her much-valued informal learning has come from being on the land with othe...
2024-01-0356 min
Beef and Forage RoundupVaccination Programs and Safe Protocols with Extension Veterinarian Dr. Deanne WilkinsonDr. Deanne Wilkinson grew up near Oakville on a mixed grain and cow/calf farm and currently lives north of Ste. Rose du Lac and farms with her husband and 3 kids.Together, they calve out approximately 80 purebred Gelbvieh and Balancer (registered Angus x Gelbvieh) cows and 20 commercial cows and run Gelbvieh, Balancer and Angus bulls. They have gradually pushed their calving back to early May and calve in a large paddock. They run their cows as one breeding group with multiple bulls and DNA all calves for parentage verification. Deanne completed her undergraduate at University of...
2023-12-0644 min
Beef and Forage RoundupBONUS: The Manitoba Beef & Forage Production Conference with Pam IwanchyskoPam Iwanchysko has been a Livestock Specialist with Manitoba Agriculture in Dauphin, Manitoba for more than 25 years. Pam was raised on a mixed farm north of Dauphin and attended the University of Manitoba where she received her BSc. Degree and then proceeded to attend the University of Saskatchewan to complete her Master’s degree in Ruminant Nutrition. She is passionate about agriculture and improving grazing systems and is continuing her efforts by playing a key role in reinstating the grazing mentorship program back into Manitoba through the Canadian Forage and Grassland Association. Pam was recently inducted into Manitoba Forage and...
2023-11-2933 min
Beef and Forage RoundupEnhancing Productivity and Environmental Sustainability with Marcos CordeiroMarcos Cordeiro is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Manitoba. He holds a PhD in Biosystems Engineering and is registered as a Professional Engineer in Manitoba. He has extensive expertise in agro-environmental modeling, statistical analysis of large datasets (i.e., big data), spatial analyses using geographical information systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS), and dataset development. His multidisciplinary expertise enabled him to work on relevant research at national scale, such as the recent Water Footprint assessment of the Canadian beef industry, which empowered producers to use science-based evidence to garner public trust...
2023-11-1558 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Pan-Canadian Smart Farm Network with Dr. Joy AgnewDr. Joy Agnew grew up on a grain farm near Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and earned her doctorate in Ag/Bio Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. She joined Olds College of Agriculture and Technology in 2019 where she oversees the applied research portfolio and smart farm operations. Applied research at Olds College is focused on crop and livestock production with a specialty in technology integration and data utilization to improve productivity and sustainability of food production. Joy also has a leadership role in the development of the College's Smart Ag Ecosystem, bringing together the academic programming, applied research, strategic partnerships, s...
2023-10-1855 min
Beef and Forage RoundupSmart Agriculture Career Development with Dr. Adrienne LevayAdrienne Levay graduated with a PhD in Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems from the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Land and Food Systems in 2018. She is a two-time Canadian Institutes of Health Research Awardee and was a 4-Year Fellow at the University of British Columbia. Her research interests have included gender and food insecurity in the global south, government school nutrition policy, health ethics, ethics of technology and innovation, developing data-enabled innovations, data literacy and realist methodologies. Currently, she is an Instructor & Researcher at Lakeland College in Alberta, Canada, creating and delivering curriculum for the ne...
2023-10-041h 15
Beef and Forage RoundupAnnual Forages for Soil Health with Mary-Jane OrrThis week Mary-Jane Orr, General Manager for Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc., joins me to discuss the Annual Forages for Soil Health Project that is currently taking place at MBFI’s Brookdale Farm. Mary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD...
2023-09-201h 22
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Beef Industry & Calf Growth Implants Project with Melissa AtchisonMelissa Atchison grew up on a purebred operation in the Interlake region of Manitoba. She attended the University of Manitoba where she received her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with a focus in Animal Science. Since then, Melissa has worked for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency as a porcine inspector, and for Manitoba Agriculture as a Livestock Specialist. Melissa spent several years with the Verified Beef Production Plus program both as an auditor and as the Provincial Coordinator. Currently, Melissa is the Research & Extension Specialist with Manitoba Beef Producers. She also farms with her husband and his family in S...
2023-09-0642 min
Beef and Forage RoundupBonus Episode: The Bright Future of Ag with MBFI’s 2023 Summer StudentsMegan Harris is an undergraduate student at Brandon University majoring in the Bio Medical Science Program. She plans to pursue further education in the medical field. She was born and raised in Brandon, Manitoba and grew up around horses. Her passion for large animals led her to take the leap to work with cattle this summer at MBFI.Sydney Gerelus grew up on a mixed grain and cattle farm southwest of Shoal Lake. This fall, she will be going into her second year of her Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, majoring in Animal Science, at the University o...
2023-08-3022 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManitoba Beef Producers Update with Carson CallumCarson Callum is the General Manager with Manitoba Beef Producers. Carson joined MBP in 2019, and comes with an extension background in agriculture. He has a Master’s of Science in Agriculture, specifically related to beef cattle. Carson has worked in many areas of the ag sector, and the beef industry is near and dear to him. He grew up on a small beef farm south of Miami Manitoba. He now lives in Winnipeg with his family, which includes his wife Britni, and sons Cohen and Sullivan. Carson admits his favorite role in life is fatherhood, but sure enjoys working on beh...
2023-08-1639 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Carbon Cycle & Beef Production with Ed BorkWe are very excited to be talking with Dr. Edward Bork. In this episode, we dig into information on the study of greenhouse gasses and carbon cycling in beef production. Dr. Edward Bork is the Mattheis Chair in Rangeland Ecology in Management, and Director of the Rangeland Research Institute at the University of Alberta. He has been teaching and conducting research for more than 25 years on basic and applied topics, including integrated weed control, grazing systems, fire ecology, forage production, agro-forestry, and recently, the role of rangelands in providing alternative ecosystem goods and services, including carbon storage, g...
2023-07-191h 18
Beef and Forage RoundupPasture Cropping Project with Mary-Jane OrrThis week Mary-Jane Orr, General Manager for Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc., joins me to discuss the Pasture Cropping Project that took place at MBFI’s Johnson Farm. Mary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in so...
2023-07-0542 min
Beef and Forage RoundupSoil Organic Matter & Crop Production Risks with Stuart ChutterStuart Chutter is an agriculture junky with passion for risk management, soil health, regenerative agriculture and fitness. Building resilience - in food production, in business and in personal development - are the conversations he wants to have. For Stuart, diversity is the key to building soil health and to building his community. Stuart is a 38 year old farmer on a first-generation farm near Killaly, Saskatchewan. Inspired by his farm customers while working in agriculture banking, he began his farm career 12 years ago. Currently the farm operates in forage production – for both grazing and forage seed. Most on-farm product...
2023-06-2145 min
Beef and Forage RoundupFencing Solutions with Leah RodvangIn this episode, we are back talking to Leah Rodvang, Research Technician at MBFI. In this episode we are discussing the fencing solutions used by MBFI for rotational grazing setups, as well as batt latches and other tools that assist with the grazing practices as MBFI.For any listeners who are new to the podcast, and haven’t heard us discuss the grazing practices at MBFI, Leah gives an overview of the grazing practices and principles used at MBFI. For more information on this, listeners can tune in to Episode 4, where Leah joined us to discu...
2023-06-0733 min
Beef and Forage RoundupBonus Episode: 4-H Creating Professionals in the Workforce with Shannon CarveyShannon Carvey, the Executive Director at Manitoba 4-H Council Inc., is a generational 4-Her. She has been with 4-H since August 2016 in the role as Club Support Coordinator and transitioned into the Executive Director role in December of 2021. Shannon says that 4-H is the best youth development organization in the world. They are proud to offer over 90 projects that cover topics of interest ranging from Foods, Sewing, Outdoor Living, Livestock, and much more. We start today with a general overview of the 4-H program for listeners who have never heard of 4-H before, or who have limited exp...
2023-05-3140 min
Beef and Forage RoundupLeafy Spurge Biocontrols with Mae ElsingerToday we are talking with Mae Elsinger, who is a Rangeland Biologist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Since the start of Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives, Mae has been instrumental in lending her intellectual support for applied research and demonstration projects with a number of partners covering summer grazing strategies, pollinator habitat establishment, and leafy spurge biological control strategies. Mae also supports MBFI by serving as a committee member on our Research Advisory Committee.We focus our discussion on Mae’s experience working with leafy spurge, covering how biocontrol measures can be used to reduce its presence. We al...
2023-05-1753 min
Beef and Forage RoundupAltosid Mineral Project with Doug Allison & Casey WhiteDoug Allison has been a Beef Sales consultant with Cargill Animal Nutrition for the last 23 years. In this role, he works with livestock producers in the feedlot and cow/calf business, helping to balance their feeding programs looking at ration costs and identifying best cost scenarios.Doug has worked with many operations in Manitoba and Eastern Saskatchewan. He develops nutritional solutions with products designed with Cargill’s- Beef Max Ration Balancing Program and markets brand name products like the Right Now Mineral Program which is registered with Altosid IGR.Casey White was born and raised on...
2023-05-0345 min
Beef and Forage RoundupDucks Unlimited Canada Forage Programs with Charlotte CrawleyCharlotte Crawley was raised on a mixed farming operation in Clanwilliam, MB. She received her Bachelor of Science in Animal Systems from the University of Manitoba in 2003 and headed to Alberta where she worked as a meat inspector at the Cargill plant in High River, followed by a two year position at Ballo Feeders feedlot.Charlotte returned to the family farm in 2005 where she farmed full time for 8 years with her parents, farming 2500 acres, including forages, backgrounders, and cow/calf. Her parents retired from grain farming in 2014 and Charlotte continued to farm 3 quarters of pastureland and maintained a...
2023-04-1938 min
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile: Range Management & Grazing Mentorship with Ron MossIn this episode, we meet producer and Advanced Grazing Systems Mentor, Ron Moss. Ron grew up in Kelvington, Saskatchewan. When he was young they lived on a farm with crops and livestock such as cows, pigs and chickens. His parents also had a store and post office in our home. Along with these enterprises they also had a mail run, sold cream from milk cows, logged and sawed lumber.In the early 1960’s Ron’s dad became the Kelvington Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) pasture manager and eventually their family moved on to the pasture. Horses and cattl...
2023-04-0546 min
Beef and Forage RoundupIncreasing Pollinator Habitat with Kim Wolfe (Manitoba Agriculture) & Stephanie Frischie (Xerces Society)Kim Wolfe is a Research and Development Specialist - Ag Resources, with Manitoba Agriculture based in Portage la Prairie. She provides technical support for the Research and Innovation Program in the Department, which involves facilitating proposal reviews and helping researchers connect with industry. She has also spent the last five years working on riparian health and pollinator habitat establishment projects at the Manitoba Beef and Forage Initiatives. Kim sits on the MBFI Research Advisory Committee and the Manitoba Pollinator Working Group.Based in Indiana, Stephanie Frischie works with the Xerces Society to provide pollinator and beneficial insect...
2023-03-2953 min
Beef and Forage RoundupCanadian Ag Safety Week & Farm Safety with Brenna Mahoney & Morag Marjerison of KAPBrenna Mahoney is currently the General Manager of Keystone Agricultural Producers. Brenna is focused on building a strong primary agriculture advocacy capacity in Manitoba, by ensuring communications and outreach are at the foundation of all organizational efforts. She has contributed to and built national coalitions and partnerships focused on advancing the Canadian brand, farm practices and market access, public trust, grain nutrition and health, and sustainability. Brenna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Ecology, with a major in Clothing and Textiles/Textile Sciences, from the University of Manitoba. After working in her field, she pursued her cer...
2023-03-1555 min
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile with Clayton & Quinn RobbinsQuinn Robins graduated from Assiniboine Community College in 2017 after completing his Agribusiness Diploma. After this, he worked at Richardson Pioneer in Shoal Lake Manitoba from May 2017 to May 2022 as a Location Assist working on the grain operation as well as the crop input operations. Quinn is currently Working at Ducks Unlimited Canada and has a passion to help create a diverse environment with thriving forages and wetlands going forward in the ag industry.Quinn was a 4-H member for 14 years and held a number of club positions(e.g. club reporter, secretary, vice president, and president). He had...
2023-03-0147 min
Beef and Forage RoundupWater Monitoring Technology with Co-Founder of FarmSimple Solutions Katlin LangMBFI is excited to be collaborating with Katlin Lang Co-Founder of FarmSimple Solutions to demonstrate their Internet of Things (IoT) technologies on our Johnson and Brookdale Farms. The opportunity was made possible through connection with the Conexus Cultivator Innovation Hub. Katlin Lang is the Co-Founder of FarmSimple Solutions from Vibank, SK. He was born and raised on a cattle farm near Francis, SK with his 3 brothers. Katlin was involved in raising purebred Charolais and Red Angus since he could walk. Katlin is now a Professional Engineer. He studied Electronic Systems Engineering at the University of Regina...
2023-02-1531 min
Beef and Forage RoundupIncreasing Crop Diversity with Covers & Co. Co-founder Owen TaylorOwen Taylor runs a 200-head commercial Angus cow/calf operation with his parents, Mark and Brenda, and his wife and daughters. Owen and his wife, Teauna, were married in 2006 and have since welcomed 4 daughters; Kinley, Macey, Scarlett and Arewn. Their family moved to the farm in October 2007. Owen’s days are filled with activities including volleyball, golf, curling, hockey and figure skating. Both he and his wife love watching their girls grow on the farm.They start calving in mid-April on stockpiled grass and rotationally graze their cattle herd throughout the grazing season. For the last few ye...
2023-02-0148 min
Beef and Forage RoundupManitoba Association of Watersheds - Living Labs On-Farm Research & PWCP Producer BMP Funding with Lynda Nicol & Dan CoxManitoba Association of Watersheds - Living Labs On-Farm Research & PWCP Producer BMP Funding with Lynda Nicol & Dan Cox Lynda Nicol is the Executive Director for the Manitoba Association of Watersheds (MAW). She has worked in not-for-profit organizations for over 15 years specializing in strategic planning, operations and communications. Lynda has a Bachelor of Arts in political studies and is committed to ongoing personal and professional development to support her work. In her role as MAW’s Executive Director, Lynda oversees all aspects of the association including member services, program development, industry engagement and stakeholder relations.Dan Cox...
2023-01-1829 min
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile: The Road to Fossil Fuel Free Farming with David RourkeIn this episode, we are talking with David Rourke, author of, “A Road to Fossil Fuel Free Farming: An Example and A Challenge." David shares his journey to building the family farm operation, taking on the pursuit of completing a PhD, and his recent book publication. We discuss some of his farming practices, goals, and the trials he has coming up on the farm in the future.David and Diane have farmed at Minto Manitoba since 1980, when a chance to rent 300 acres became available. Armed with $4000 and an MSc in Plant Science, and a lot of determination, the...
2023-01-0452 min
Beef and Forage RoundupCattle Weight and Body Condition Scoring with Leah Rodvang and Dr. Everett MoreLeah Rodvang grew up on a cow-calf operation near Coronation, Alberta. Her family influenced her love of native prairie, which led to her studying Range Management at the University of Alberta. During her undergraduate degree, Leah competed with the U of A Range Team and worked with graduate students on their research. Since joining MBFI in 2016, Leah has been responsible for data collection and record keeping for project and farm purposes. She oversees day-to-day research activities, maintains technology, and is developing skills in project design and reporting. Leah worked with veterinary consultation to develop MBFI’s animal care...
2022-12-2139 min
Beef and Forage RoundupBale Placement and Binding Project with Mary-Jane OrrWe are back chatting this week with Mary-Jane Orr, General Manager for Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc. Mary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in agricultural systems, is a Professional Agrologist, and Certified Cro...
2022-12-0741 min
Beef and Forage RoundupBonus Episode: Mental Health in Agriculture with Kim MoffatFarmer Wellness Program & Mental Health Awareness with Kim MoffatKim Moffat has been a counselor for over 30 years. For the last 22 years, Kim has specialized in the area of Agricultural Mental Health. She has provided counseling and support to farm families for 20 years at the Manitoba Farm, Rural and Northern Support Services. In 2020 that service was relocated into Winnipeg.Kim grew up on a small mixed farm in Western Manitoba. She moved away to receive her education in Psychiatric Nursing, and then upon marrying her husband Brent, returned to his family farm in the Strathclair...
2022-11-3038 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Cost of Overwintering Cattle with Ben HammBen Hamm grew up on a dairy farm in Rainy River, Ontario. After moving to Manitoba when he was 12, his family moved away from dairy and switched to a beef cattle operation. Ben has been very connected with agriculture and grew up taking small side jobs in the hog, dairy and poultry industries. In 2003 he decided to return to school to pursue a career in agriculture. Ben graduated with an Animal Science Degree from the University of Manitoba in 2007 and started full time as a Business Development Specialist with Manitoba Agriculture that same year. Over the years, this position has t...
2022-11-1628 min
Beef and Forage RoundupExtended Grazing at Brookdale Farm with Shawn CabakShawn Cabak has been employed with Manitoba Agriculture since the early 1990’s and is currently the Livestock & Forage Specialist in the Portage la Prairie office. He was involved in the Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiative at Brandon and is active in the Portage area belonging to a number of associations including Mb Crop Variety Evaluation Team, the Crop Research Organization of Portage, and is past president of the Portage Skating Club and the Portage Chamber of Commerce.Shawn worked in Ukraine with the Canadian International Development Agency as both a Forage and a Marketing specialist. He graduated from th...
2022-11-0248 min
Beef and Forage RoundupWinter Rations & Alternative Feed Considerations with Elizabeth NernbergElizabeth Nernberg is a Livestock Specialist with Manitoba Agriculture based out of Roblin. For over 20 years, she has worked with livestock producers in planning their winter-feed program. Elizabeth is dedicated to assisting clients lower their winter feed costs and working with them to balance their own rations.Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with honours from the University of Manitoba, majoring in Animal Science. Growing up on the farm and being a 4-H beef member for 9 years, it is no surprise she still enjoys helping out on their 4th generation cow-calf operation today, with the 5...
2022-10-1941 min
Beef and Forage RoundupProducer Profile: Cameron & Lisa Hodgins of Hodgins FarmWe are so excited to share the first Producer Profile, where we meet Cameron & Lisa Hodgins of Lenore, Manitoba.Cameron and Lisa Hodgins of Hodgins Farm are 3rd generation farmers on their family farm near Lenore, Manitoba. Here they are raising their four young children; Carrie, Chase, Cole and Conner and farm closely with Cameron’s parents, Ed and Debra. Hodgins Farm has a cow/calf and yearling operation along with raising grass fed beef, pastured pork, chicken and turkey, free range hens and honey bees and direct marketing their products to consumers. The Hodgins are guided by...
2022-10-051h 06
Beef and Forage RoundupPrecision Cattle Ranching for Improved Reproductive Efficiencies with Dr. Susan MarkusEpisode #12: Precision Cattle Ranching for Improved Reproductive Efficiencies Dr. Susan Markus has over 30 years of extensive experience in beef cattle production and sheep nutrition being currently involved in a large cow/calf, backgrounding and feedlot operation with her husband and 4 children in east central Alberta (Castor, AB) Canada. In addition, she has been a leader in the Paintearth 4H Beef Club and regularly organizes field trips and educational activities for her club and district. Having grown up on a large mixed farm (cow/calf and grain) in northern Manitoba and regularly driving tractors to perform tasks prior to...
2022-09-211h 04
Beef and Forage RoundupCase Study in Strategic Beef Herd Development with Mary-Jane OrrEpisode #11: Case Study in Strategic Beef Herd Development with Mary-Jane OrrWe are back chatting this week with Mary-Jane Orr, General Manager for Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc. Mary-Jane leads a dedicated team at MBFI to advance Manitoba’s beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in...
2022-09-071h 16
Beef and Forage RoundupBonus Episode: The Bright Future of Ag. with MBFI's 2022 Summer StudentsBonus Episode: The Bright Future of Ag with MBFI’s 2022 Summer StudentsIn this Bonus Episode, we meet MBFI’s four amazing summer students. These up and coming ag professionals have been busy at the farm doing everything from cattle health checks and daily moves, to yard work, seeding, haying and everything in between! Each of them has a slightly different career path and future plan, but their love of the outdoors and the animals they work with is a common theme. Join me as I introduce the 2022 Summer Students!Lauren McKeeLauren grew u...
2022-08-3135 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Livestock Predator Prevention Pilot Program with Ray BittnerRaymond Bittner is the Predation Lead with the Manitoba Beef Producers. Ray has spent his career troubleshooting on farms all over Manitoba over the last 30 years, with a career spanning from livestock genetics, nutrition, environment, and economics. Ray continues to operate the family farm with beef and cash cropping with his wife and family. Ray has always enjoyed the creative side of agriculture, with boundless new ideas, inventions, and then building and using them to make life easier or more efficient.During this episode, Ray and I dig into the topic of predation in Manitoba. According to MA...
2022-08-1735 min
Beef and Forage RoundupDucks Unlimited Canada Grazing Clubs & The General Mills Pilot Program with Michael ThieleMichael Thiele was born and raised in Dauphin, Manitoba on a typical Prairie farm. Wheat and canola dominated the crop rotation with some barley, oats and peas. A small herd of cows grazed the unfarmed acres. Michael’s career trajectory was most likely farming, given his active involvement in the family farm and his decision to study Plant Science in the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Manitoba.In hindsight, not returning to the family farm after graduating university was a blessing for Michael. Instead, he began a 30-plus-year journey to understand agriculture and the importance of...
2022-08-031h 13
Beef and Forage RoundupUtilizing Planned Grazing to Increase Forage Production with Pam IwanchyskoPam Iwanchysko has been a Livestock Specialist with Manitoba Agriculture in Dauphin, Manitoba for more than 25 years. She was raised on a mixed farm north of Dauphin. She attended the University of Manitoba where she received her BSc. Degree and then proceeded to attend the University of Saskatchewan to complete her Master’s degree in Ruminant Nutrition. She is passionate about agriculture and improving grazing systems and is continuing her efforts by playing a key role in reinstating the grazing mentorship program back into Manitoba through the Canadian Forage and Grassland Association. Pam was recently inducted into Manitoba Forage and...
2022-07-201h 00
Beef and Forage RoundupTalking Ticks & Bovine Anaplasmosis with Dr. Kateryn RochonIn this episode, you will meet Dr. Kateryn Rochon.Kateryn is an associate professor of Veterinary and Wildlife Entomology at the University of Manitoba. Her research program is focused on insects and ticks as vectors of livestock and wildlife pathogens. Before joining the Department of Entomology in 2012, Kateryn was a postdoctoral fellow at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Lethbridge, where she worked on Rocky Mountain wood ticks. Past research includes work on flies and their ability to transmit bacteria and viruses in cattle, swine, and poultry operations. Currently, her research has an emphasis on the distribution and...
2022-07-061h 01
Beef and Forage RoundupAdvocating for Agriculture; Opportunities and Challenges in the Beef Sector with Carson CallumIn this episode, you will meet Carson Callum, General Manager with Manitoba Beef Producers.Carson joined MBP in 2019, and comes with an extension background in agriculture. He has a Master’s of Science in Agriculture, specifically related to beef cattle. Carson has worked in many areas of the ag sector, and the beef industry is near and dear to him. He grew up on a small beef farm south of Miami Manitoba. He now lives in Winnipeg with his family, which includes his wife Britni, and sons Cohen and Sullivan. Carson admits his favourite role in life is...
2022-06-1542 min
Beef and Forage RoundupBalancing Range Health & Cattle Production with Leah RodvangIn this episode of “Beef & Forage Roundup” I would like to introduce you to Leah Rodvang. Leah grew up on a cow/calf operation near Coronation, Alberta. Her family influenced her love of native prairie, which led to her studying Range Management at the University of Alberta. During her undergraduate degree, Leah competed with the U of A Range Team and worked with graduate students on their research. Since joining MBFI in 2016, Leah has been responsible for data collection and record keeping for project and farm purposes. She oversees day-to-day research activities, maintains research tools & technology, and is dev...
2022-06-0119 min
Beef and Forage RoundupBuilding Productivity with Grazing Management with Steve KenyonIn this episode, you will meet Steve Kenyon.Steve owns a custom grazing business in Alberta, Canada under the name of Greener Pastures Ranching Ltd. He currently runs just over 1400 head of livestock on 3500 acres of leased land with regenerative grazing management. By using extended grazing techniques he is able to pasture cattle year round. This is done by using a combination of intensive cell grazing, dormant season grazing, swath grazing, crop residue grazing and bale grazing. Steve has become well respected in the agriculture community for his business management and innovative ideas. Steve has been...
2022-05-1827 min
Beef and Forage RoundupWelcome to MBFI with Mary-Jane OrrIn this first full length episode of the podcast, you will meet Mary-Jane Orr. Mary-Jane is the General Manager for Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc. where she leads a dedicated team to advance Manitoba beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in...
2022-05-1129 min
Beef and Forage RoundupUpcoming MBFI Extension Events with Mary-Jane OrrIn Episode 2 of the podcast, we continue our conversation with Mary-Jane Orr. Mary-Jane is the General Manager for Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives Inc. where she leads a dedicated team to advance Manitoba beef & forage industry through engaging stakeholders, evaluating on-farm innovation, and extension for sustainability of farmers, the public, and the environment. She deeply values the opportunity to collaborate with producers, researchers, education providers, extension specialists, conservation groups, and all stakeholders in field-testing management practices and growing understanding of improved production in Manitoba. Mary-Jane holds a PhD from Purdue University in soil microbial ecology in agricultural systems, is a...
2022-05-1119 min
Beef and Forage RoundupThe Trailer - Welcome to MBFIOn this introductory episode to the podcast, you will meet the host, Chantel McRae. Chantel, her husband Brett, and son Corbin, farm South West of Brandon, Manitoba and run a herd of purebred Angus cattle who calve in the spring. They sell 2 year old bulls and replacement heifers and grain farm as well. Their focus is on the soil health principles for both their pasture and grain land, and they do their best to be good stewards of the land they own and rent.Chantel started working for MBFI in January of 2022 as an Extension Specialist with the...
2022-05-1007 min