Showing posts with label agri-tourism. Show all posts
Showing posts with label agri-tourism. Show all posts
Wagon Ride Ranch Adventure in Saskatchewan, Canada - Great Excursions
One might think that going on a horse-drawn wagon ride is a pretty tame activity for adventure seekers. But those who love draft horses also like to have a little fun too when they get a chance to show their fine team of Percheron at work over rugged Great Plains terrain. This was indeed the case for a group of guest on a ranch weekend break in the beautiful Arm River valley in Saskatchewan. The two hour sunset ride was definitely a treat!
Prairie Berries to make a pitch on the Dragon's Den
Just heard through the grapevine... Saskatchewan's Prairie Berries is apparently to make a pitch on the popular Dragon's Den CBC television show. I look forward to finding out what pitch they have in mind. The company describes Saskatoons as a kind of ‘Superfruit’:
"The word ‘Superfruit’ refers to fruit which contains high sources of antioxidants. From a nutraceutical perspective, antioxidant rich fruits have anti-cancer, anti-aging, and anti-heart problem effects on human body. The benefits of antioxidant have contributed against cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases, and act as a protective guard to our immune systems."
The health merits of Saskatoons have been known for hundreds of years. Their pulp has been exported to countries like England as fruit filling. Will the Dragons buy into the success these Saskatchewan entrepreneurs have been enjoying in recent times?
We will see. I wish them well because local bounty initiatives like this make a difference not only in diversifying local agricultural products, it also helps profile Saskatchean as a tourism destination worthy of discovery.
Rural tourism resources are valuable to city-based meeting planners
Meeting planners will attempt to convey to their clients how their host destination stands out, especially if they are from out of province or abroad. The likelyhood of the meeting ever being hosted in that city again depends on how evocative their first experience is. Pre- and port-conventions tours help do that. How far is your agricultural operation from the nearest city? Are you currently working with you destination marketing organization to make meetings stakeholders aware of your potential contribution to the success of an upcoming meeting in a city near you?
This Great Excursions photo album features a special day program developed for a national meeting (and international observers) held in Regina last summer. It aimed to interpret the dynamics of the grasslands ecosystem as well as to interpret the principles behind natural horsemanship, an increasingly popular approach to esquestrian training.
Terroir, Identity and Seduction Symposium
Saskatoon Inn – February 20 to 22, 2009
The conference aims to officially launch a collective reflection on terroir products through workshops and networking. These activities will point the way to introducing and developing collective projects related to the terroir. These projects will allow us to redefine and promote the revitalization of our rural communities as well as our entire community's sense of identity.
A wealth of conference experts in terroir development from around the world will discuss subjects such as:
Rural development initiatives
Food and culture
Marketing terroir products
Tourism and regional development
Dietetics and local products
www.terroirsk.ca
The conference aims to officially launch a collective reflection on terroir products through workshops and networking. These activities will point the way to introducing and developing collective projects related to the terroir. These projects will allow us to redefine and promote the revitalization of our rural communities as well as our entire community's sense of identity.
A wealth of conference experts in terroir development from around the world will discuss subjects such as:
Rural development initiatives
Food and culture
Marketing terroir products
Tourism and regional development
Dietetics and local products
www.terroirsk.ca
Regina-Based Venture Uncaps Gluten-Free "Beer"
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
A Regina-based company owned by over 200 Western Canadian seed growers is providing an alternative alcoholic beverage to people with celiac disease and wheat allergies.
Nubru Gluten Free, developed by FarmPure Beverages, is about to sell out of its first 6,000 cases of product that have been tested in the Manitoba market.
FarmPure uses an innovative, patented process. "We're making a clear, neutral concentrate out of protein sources, such as peas and soybeans," said Chief Operating Officer Carl Flis. "From that concentrate, we can do two things - we can formulate it to taste like any beer in the world, make coolers, wine coolers and fruit coolers; or we can license that technology out to existing breweries." FarmPure Beverages plans to pursue both options.
FarmPure Beverages production innovation will be attractive for other breweries. "By implementing the technology, they can reduce their production costs significantly, because we're reducing the traditional brewing time, which is 21 to 28 days, down to nine to 11 days," Flis said. "An existing brewery can increase the production of their plant without any capital investment."
The first test with FarmPure Beverages' own product line was the Nubru blend, which was a 50/50 blend of FarmPure's product and Fort Garry Lager. The advantages of blending are that it reduces costs and improves the head of the beer.
Since the original Nubru blend, FarmPure Beverages has developed the Nubru Gluten Free beverage, which is currently being distributed in the Manitoba marketplace. Upcoming products include Nubru Red, which is similar to Rickard's Red, and a cider.
The gluten-free market of food and beverage products promises growth. According to Flis, celiac disease is the fastest growing diagnosed disease in North America. An estimated one in 133 has the disease. "We're not there to build breweries around the world. It's a specialty market, and celiac patients and people with wheat allergies are looking for alternatives."
Although the target market for the Nubru line is people with celiac disease and other digestive disorders, the product has broader appeal. In its first round of market testing, Nubru was rated on par or better than traditional light beers. It scored especially well with the young female segment of the market.
FarmPure Beverages has an ambitious plan for the distribution of its products, but first, it will strive for brand recognition. "It's a new technology where the possible products we can generate are endless. At this stage, it's getting the first concepts out there, getting the name known, and then we can start further product development," Flis said.
Next, they plan to expand into Ontario and Quebec, then British Columbia. Europe already has a number of gluten-free products, based on rice and millet, using traditional brewing processes. Breweries there have tried to emulate the traditional European beer tastes.
The Nubru products have a North American taste. The market is attractive to FarmPure Beverages because there are fewer competitors. Flis names a Quebec-based company and Budweiser, with a product called Red Ridge, as the two main rivals.
"If Budweiser is getting into the market, I think we're on the right track," he said.
For more information, contact:
Carl Flis, Chief Operating Officer
FarmPure Foods
Phone: (306) 757-3663, ext. 111
E-mail: cflis@farmpurefoods.com
Website: http://www.farmpure.com/
A Regina-based company owned by over 200 Western Canadian seed growers is providing an alternative alcoholic beverage to people with celiac disease and wheat allergies.
Nubru Gluten Free, developed by FarmPure Beverages, is about to sell out of its first 6,000 cases of product that have been tested in the Manitoba market.
FarmPure uses an innovative, patented process. "We're making a clear, neutral concentrate out of protein sources, such as peas and soybeans," said Chief Operating Officer Carl Flis. "From that concentrate, we can do two things - we can formulate it to taste like any beer in the world, make coolers, wine coolers and fruit coolers; or we can license that technology out to existing breweries." FarmPure Beverages plans to pursue both options.
FarmPure Beverages production innovation will be attractive for other breweries. "By implementing the technology, they can reduce their production costs significantly, because we're reducing the traditional brewing time, which is 21 to 28 days, down to nine to 11 days," Flis said. "An existing brewery can increase the production of their plant without any capital investment."
The first test with FarmPure Beverages' own product line was the Nubru blend, which was a 50/50 blend of FarmPure's product and Fort Garry Lager. The advantages of blending are that it reduces costs and improves the head of the beer.
Since the original Nubru blend, FarmPure Beverages has developed the Nubru Gluten Free beverage, which is currently being distributed in the Manitoba marketplace. Upcoming products include Nubru Red, which is similar to Rickard's Red, and a cider.
The gluten-free market of food and beverage products promises growth. According to Flis, celiac disease is the fastest growing diagnosed disease in North America. An estimated one in 133 has the disease. "We're not there to build breweries around the world. It's a specialty market, and celiac patients and people with wheat allergies are looking for alternatives."
Although the target market for the Nubru line is people with celiac disease and other digestive disorders, the product has broader appeal. In its first round of market testing, Nubru was rated on par or better than traditional light beers. It scored especially well with the young female segment of the market.
FarmPure Beverages has an ambitious plan for the distribution of its products, but first, it will strive for brand recognition. "It's a new technology where the possible products we can generate are endless. At this stage, it's getting the first concepts out there, getting the name known, and then we can start further product development," Flis said.
Next, they plan to expand into Ontario and Quebec, then British Columbia. Europe already has a number of gluten-free products, based on rice and millet, using traditional brewing processes. Breweries there have tried to emulate the traditional European beer tastes.
The Nubru products have a North American taste. The market is attractive to FarmPure Beverages because there are fewer competitors. Flis names a Quebec-based company and Budweiser, with a product called Red Ridge, as the two main rivals.
"If Budweiser is getting into the market, I think we're on the right track," he said.
For more information, contact:
Carl Flis, Chief Operating Officer
FarmPure Foods
Phone: (306) 757-3663, ext. 111
E-mail: cflis@farmpurefoods.com
Website: http://www.farmpure.com/
Agri-Tourism Answers Demand for Real-Life Experiences
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
A group of farm buildings and a herd of cattle may look pretty ordinary to Saskatchewan residents, but they could be a tourist gold mine, according to Claude-Jean Harel.
Harel should know. He's the owner of Great Excursions of Regina, and a specialist in agri-tourism development.
"The time has never been better to look at agri-tourism opportunities," Harel said. "People are realizing the value of locally grown products. Behind every product there is a story, and authenticity is key."
Harel has been in the industry since 1998, beginning his company by showcasing Saskatchewan destinations and since expanding to offer experiences right across Canada.
"Our offerings in Saskatchewan are centred around authentic activities, like stays on guest ranches where people raise livestock and are willing to share that experience with guests from other parts of the world," he stated. "Our clients are usually people who are well-traveled, who have been to other parts of the world, and who want to find out about the grasslands environment and what comes with that. We are using an agricultural resource like ranching to stage value-added experiences and create new products for these producers."
It's not just recreational tourists who are interested in agriculture-based experiences. There is also a corporate market.
"We can use these experiences as team-building activities," Harel said. "There are opportunities for enterprises to take their staff outside their comfort zones and discover new relationships that they can work with."
Great Excursions and its partners in Saskatchewan have created tourism programs for guests from as far away as South Korea, which sent a group of 4-H students to the Beaver Creek Ranch near Lumsden.
"They needed some help to create a program for them that involved not only staying at the ranch, but doing the other activities available here, like visiting a Hutterite colony or taking in the RCMP-themed attractions in Regina," Harel said.
Great Excursions has also hosted visitors from the U.S., Scotland, Belgium, France and England, and are getting increasingly more interest from Asia.
Harel has translated his passion for the agri-tourism industry into a second career as a facilitator of workshops on agri-tourism development. He will soon be visiting Nebraska, at the invitation of the governor of that state, to participate in a rural tourism conference.
"It's a way to preserve dedicated lands for agriculture," Harel stated. "We try to work with them to develop and market tourism products that make it more attractive for producers to stay engaged in agriculture."
Harel recommends that any producer considering entry into the tourism market start with local or regional tourism associations.
"The first step is to carry out an inventory of the resources that you have, to understand what kinds of knowledge and skills you have, as well as your physical facilities. The next step is identifying potential partners, such as your local tourism organization and other partners that may be willing to work with you," he stated.
"When they market an event, they want to know what other products they can bundle together to create packages that will allow visitors to benefit from the richness of the experiences we can offer in Saskatchewan."
Many farmers and ranchers may not realize that what they do to produce food and make value-added products is of great interest to others who do not share this province's heritage. According to Harel, our secret ingredient is ourselves. "Being who you say you are and trying to develop something that's unique to you is the formula," he said.
Harel welcomes new entrants to the agri-tourism sector. "Come to Tourism Saskatchewan events and meetings. Get engaged and become active stakeholders in the industry, and together we will make Saskatchewan shine on the world tourism scene."
For more information, contact:
Claude-Jean Harel, President
The Great Excursions Company
Phone: (306) 569-1571
E-mail: cj@greatexcursions.com
Website: http://www.greatexcursions.com/
A group of farm buildings and a herd of cattle may look pretty ordinary to Saskatchewan residents, but they could be a tourist gold mine, according to Claude-Jean Harel.
Harel should know. He's the owner of Great Excursions of Regina, and a specialist in agri-tourism development.
"The time has never been better to look at agri-tourism opportunities," Harel said. "People are realizing the value of locally grown products. Behind every product there is a story, and authenticity is key."
Harel has been in the industry since 1998, beginning his company by showcasing Saskatchewan destinations and since expanding to offer experiences right across Canada.
"Our offerings in Saskatchewan are centred around authentic activities, like stays on guest ranches where people raise livestock and are willing to share that experience with guests from other parts of the world," he stated. "Our clients are usually people who are well-traveled, who have been to other parts of the world, and who want to find out about the grasslands environment and what comes with that. We are using an agricultural resource like ranching to stage value-added experiences and create new products for these producers."
It's not just recreational tourists who are interested in agriculture-based experiences. There is also a corporate market.
"We can use these experiences as team-building activities," Harel said. "There are opportunities for enterprises to take their staff outside their comfort zones and discover new relationships that they can work with."
Great Excursions and its partners in Saskatchewan have created tourism programs for guests from as far away as South Korea, which sent a group of 4-H students to the Beaver Creek Ranch near Lumsden.
"They needed some help to create a program for them that involved not only staying at the ranch, but doing the other activities available here, like visiting a Hutterite colony or taking in the RCMP-themed attractions in Regina," Harel said.
Great Excursions has also hosted visitors from the U.S., Scotland, Belgium, France and England, and are getting increasingly more interest from Asia.
Harel has translated his passion for the agri-tourism industry into a second career as a facilitator of workshops on agri-tourism development. He will soon be visiting Nebraska, at the invitation of the governor of that state, to participate in a rural tourism conference.
"It's a way to preserve dedicated lands for agriculture," Harel stated. "We try to work with them to develop and market tourism products that make it more attractive for producers to stay engaged in agriculture."
Harel recommends that any producer considering entry into the tourism market start with local or regional tourism associations.
"The first step is to carry out an inventory of the resources that you have, to understand what kinds of knowledge and skills you have, as well as your physical facilities. The next step is identifying potential partners, such as your local tourism organization and other partners that may be willing to work with you," he stated.
"When they market an event, they want to know what other products they can bundle together to create packages that will allow visitors to benefit from the richness of the experiences we can offer in Saskatchewan."
Many farmers and ranchers may not realize that what they do to produce food and make value-added products is of great interest to others who do not share this province's heritage. According to Harel, our secret ingredient is ourselves. "Being who you say you are and trying to develop something that's unique to you is the formula," he said.
Harel welcomes new entrants to the agri-tourism sector. "Come to Tourism Saskatchewan events and meetings. Get engaged and become active stakeholders in the industry, and together we will make Saskatchewan shine on the world tourism scene."
For more information, contact:
Claude-Jean Harel, President
The Great Excursions Company
Phone: (306) 569-1571
E-mail: cj@greatexcursions.com
Website: http://www.greatexcursions.com/
Log On, Sip Coffee, Learn
Producers across Canada are upgrading their skills and knowledge in the comfort of their own homes, thanks to a series of "agriwebinars" offered by the Canadian Farm Business Management Council. The current series of Internet seminars are hosted by Regina-based agri-tourism entrepreneur Claude-Jean Harel.
"They involve a presenter who comes from across Canada, the United States, Australia, or even Brazil," said Harel. "These are made for agricultural producers who are trying to decide on which future trends they should tap into. Basically, I guide the session, introduce the presenter and the topic, and make sure everything is flowing smoothly."
The agriwebinar series is presented every Monday at 12:00 p.m. eastern time.
"The neat thing about the format is that you can be in your office, in front of your computer," said Harel. "Even if you have a dial-up system, you can log on. You are joining a community of about 100 participants, listening to a presenter with a PowerPoint presentation, and the participants can ask the presenter questions, as well."
The question and answer portion of the seminar is enabled through the webinar platform.
"There's a little [text] box in the system that allows them to type in a question, and the presenter will address the questions in real time," explained Harel. "It's a very interactive format."
The topics of the webinars are wide-ranging. Subjects that have been or will be addressed include grain marketing fundamentals, biofuels, beneficial practices from outstanding farmers and agri-tourism.
The list of agriwebinar topics and dates can be found at http://www.farmcentre.com/, the website of the Canadian Farm Business Management Council. The council was developed as a management resource for the industry. It is devoted to developing and distributing advanced farm management information.
The council receives support from Saskatchewan Agriculture, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and a number of private companies. It offers a virtual library of management education and information materials, including CD-ROMs, books and DVDs, as well as the webinars.
Harel, an agri-entrepreneur himself, said he enjoys being part of the series.
"I've been active in agri-tourism and rural tourism developments in North America. I deliver workshops, for instance, in places like Quebec, Alaska and Nebraska. I learn from it myself, and it allows me to stay in touch with producers who are looking to diversify their sources of income and develop greater awareness of what others are doing across the country."
If someone logs on for the webinar, they can slip into a virtual coffee meeting with other participants.
"There is a chat system that allows people to communicate with one another for about 15 minutes before the webinar starts," said Harel.
In addition, if the timing of the live presentation is not convenient, those interested can download the webinars at their convenience from the site. It requires signing up for a membership, but that comes without charge.
Harel said this learning resource is an evolving tool.
"We're all experimenting and hoping to stage a better and more rewarding webinar each time for the participants," he said.
For more information, contact:
Claude-Jean Harel
Great Excursions Co.
Phone: (306) 569-1571
E-mail: cj@greatexcursions.com
Website: http://www.farmcentre.com/
"They involve a presenter who comes from across Canada, the United States, Australia, or even Brazil," said Harel. "These are made for agricultural producers who are trying to decide on which future trends they should tap into. Basically, I guide the session, introduce the presenter and the topic, and make sure everything is flowing smoothly."
The agriwebinar series is presented every Monday at 12:00 p.m. eastern time.
"The neat thing about the format is that you can be in your office, in front of your computer," said Harel. "Even if you have a dial-up system, you can log on. You are joining a community of about 100 participants, listening to a presenter with a PowerPoint presentation, and the participants can ask the presenter questions, as well."
The question and answer portion of the seminar is enabled through the webinar platform.
"There's a little [text] box in the system that allows them to type in a question, and the presenter will address the questions in real time," explained Harel. "It's a very interactive format."
The topics of the webinars are wide-ranging. Subjects that have been or will be addressed include grain marketing fundamentals, biofuels, beneficial practices from outstanding farmers and agri-tourism.
The list of agriwebinar topics and dates can be found at http://www.farmcentre.com/, the website of the Canadian Farm Business Management Council. The council was developed as a management resource for the industry. It is devoted to developing and distributing advanced farm management information.
The council receives support from Saskatchewan Agriculture, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and a number of private companies. It offers a virtual library of management education and information materials, including CD-ROMs, books and DVDs, as well as the webinars.
Harel, an agri-entrepreneur himself, said he enjoys being part of the series.
"I've been active in agri-tourism and rural tourism developments in North America. I deliver workshops, for instance, in places like Quebec, Alaska and Nebraska. I learn from it myself, and it allows me to stay in touch with producers who are looking to diversify their sources of income and develop greater awareness of what others are doing across the country."
If someone logs on for the webinar, they can slip into a virtual coffee meeting with other participants.
"There is a chat system that allows people to communicate with one another for about 15 minutes before the webinar starts," said Harel.
In addition, if the timing of the live presentation is not convenient, those interested can download the webinars at their convenience from the site. It requires signing up for a membership, but that comes without charge.
Harel said this learning resource is an evolving tool.
"We're all experimenting and hoping to stage a better and more rewarding webinar each time for the participants," he said.
For more information, contact:
Claude-Jean Harel
Great Excursions Co.
Phone: (306) 569-1571
E-mail: cj@greatexcursions.com
Website: http://www.farmcentre.com/
Taste of the Southwest will cater to your tastebuds
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Prepare your taste buds: the Taste of the Southwest is again featuring “the best dang food in southwestern Saskatchewan.” This mouth-watering event allows consumers to meet food producers and processors, and creates the opportunity to taste a wide variety of their food items.
The second annual Taste of the Southwest will be held on Saturday, August 11, 2007, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This year’s event will take place on Central Avenue in downtown Swift Current. The southwest region’s producers, processors, caterers and restaurants will be highlighted.
Consumers may sample products to determine what they might want to buy or try again in the future, and they can meet the food producers, processors and restaurants from their local area.
“Last year’s event allowed the opportunity for the consuming public and food providers to build relationships that lasted throughout the year,” stated Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
This year’s event will be held in conjunction with the Kinsmen Funfest weekend. A variety of live entertainment will be available all day long, including family-friendly activities such as face painting and games for children. The entertainment agenda is posted on www.southwestreda.ca.
Taste of the Southwest is a very inexpensive way for attendees to sample as many food products as possible in a fun and entertaining environment.
“The goal is not to provide meals, but to allow businesses to feature their food products to a wide range of the public. Last year’s event served over 900 people,” says Holland.
No admission will be charged this year; however, food tokens will be sold to the public for $1.00 each. These tokens can then be exchanged at the booths for the customer’s desired food items. No item will cost more than four tokens.
Ten per cent of the sales are returned to the organizing committee to offset advertising and rental costs.
The event is organized by a non-profit committee. This year’s organizing committee includes the Southwest Regional Economic Development Authority, Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Community Futures Southwest, Golden West Radio, Tourism Swift Current and Saskatchewan Regional Economic and Co-operative Development.
The committee encourages the public to come experience all the wonderful food items, in addition to local Saskatchewan entertainment and children’s activities.
“Come out and support local agriculture producers, food processors and restaurants, and sample all the tasty cuisine. You may find a local producer or processor to supply your family with the freshest and best food items ever produced, right here in your back yard,” said Holland.
For further information, contact Keleah Herron or Britney Blackmore with the Southwest REDA at (306) 778-4243.
For more information, contact:
Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-4051
Prepare your taste buds: the Taste of the Southwest is again featuring “the best dang food in southwestern Saskatchewan.” This mouth-watering event allows consumers to meet food producers and processors, and creates the opportunity to taste a wide variety of their food items.
The second annual Taste of the Southwest will be held on Saturday, August 11, 2007, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This year’s event will take place on Central Avenue in downtown Swift Current. The southwest region’s producers, processors, caterers and restaurants will be highlighted.
Consumers may sample products to determine what they might want to buy or try again in the future, and they can meet the food producers, processors and restaurants from their local area.
“Last year’s event allowed the opportunity for the consuming public and food providers to build relationships that lasted throughout the year,” stated Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.
This year’s event will be held in conjunction with the Kinsmen Funfest weekend. A variety of live entertainment will be available all day long, including family-friendly activities such as face painting and games for children. The entertainment agenda is posted on www.southwestreda.ca.
Taste of the Southwest is a very inexpensive way for attendees to sample as many food products as possible in a fun and entertaining environment.
“The goal is not to provide meals, but to allow businesses to feature their food products to a wide range of the public. Last year’s event served over 900 people,” says Holland.
No admission will be charged this year; however, food tokens will be sold to the public for $1.00 each. These tokens can then be exchanged at the booths for the customer’s desired food items. No item will cost more than four tokens.
Ten per cent of the sales are returned to the organizing committee to offset advertising and rental costs.
The event is organized by a non-profit committee. This year’s organizing committee includes the Southwest Regional Economic Development Authority, Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Community Futures Southwest, Golden West Radio, Tourism Swift Current and Saskatchewan Regional Economic and Co-operative Development.
The committee encourages the public to come experience all the wonderful food items, in addition to local Saskatchewan entertainment and children’s activities.
“Come out and support local agriculture producers, food processors and restaurants, and sample all the tasty cuisine. You may find a local producer or processor to supply your family with the freshest and best food items ever produced, right here in your back yard,” said Holland.
For further information, contact Keleah Herron or Britney Blackmore with the Southwest REDA at (306) 778-4243.
For more information, contact:
Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-4051
Moose Jaw hosts annual hometown fair and horse show
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
The time has come to once again discover the fun, food and magic of the Moose Jaw Hometown Fair and Horse Show. The 124th annual fair will be held from June 22 to 24 this year, on the fair grounds in Moose Jaw.
“The Moose Jaw Hometown Fair and Horse Show has been around since 1873,” stated Glen Louis, General Manager of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company Ltd. “The fair started back in the 1800s as an agriculture society event and then progressed. As time went on, entertainment and amusement rides were added.”
This year’s theme is “Saluting 90 years of 4-H” to represent the partnership the fair has built with the
4-H organization over its many years. Organizers continue to partner with the 4-H club, which holds its annual beef show and sale in conjunction with the event.
“As usual, we have a little taste of everything this year,” Louis said. “We have the original miniature to light and heavy horse shows, and this year we have added a couple of different events.”
A colt-breaking demonstration will be put on by Garry Hunt, a very well known and reputable expert in this field from Calgary. He will be demonstrating how to break a colt that has never been halter-broken or ridden before. The presentation will take place in a five-hour timeframe over a three-day period. By the final day, Hunt says the horse will be broken. More information on his work is available on the website at www.breakingcolts.com.
“Other attractions include a llama show and cattle shows,” Louis added. “The livestock events recognize the best in the agricultural backbone of our community.”
A number of different main stage shows will also be taking place. They include a MuchMusic Video Dance Party and a singing competition entitled “Moose Jaw Idol.”
Louis highlighted other unique demonstrations that will be featured as part of the fair. “Rick Mahone, a chainsaw carver, will perform a fascinating show through the weekend, cutting designs into 10-inch round logs. As well, the West Coast Lumberjack Show features a repertoire of lumberjack-type activities that are very exciting to watch. It’s definitely something you don’t see everyday in Saskatchewan!”
The fair will also explore old-fashioned pleasures through its “Lifestyles” displays, including the best in baking, canning, sewing, photography and handicrafts. As a tribute to seniors, a Seniors’ Tea will be held Friday afternoon, as well.
“The intent of the fair is to provide education and entertainment to area citizens of all ages. Everybody has an opportunity to participate and enjoy the event. People are encouraged to come down and take in the rural flavour,” Louis said.
More information on the Moose Jaw Hometown Fair and Horse Show can be found by accessing the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company’s website at www.moosejawex.com, or by e-mailing moosejawexh@sasktel.net.
For more information, contact:
Glen Louis, General Manager
Moose Jaw Exhibition Company Ltd.
Phone: (306) 692-2723
The time has come to once again discover the fun, food and magic of the Moose Jaw Hometown Fair and Horse Show. The 124th annual fair will be held from June 22 to 24 this year, on the fair grounds in Moose Jaw.
“The Moose Jaw Hometown Fair and Horse Show has been around since 1873,” stated Glen Louis, General Manager of the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company Ltd. “The fair started back in the 1800s as an agriculture society event and then progressed. As time went on, entertainment and amusement rides were added.”
This year’s theme is “Saluting 90 years of 4-H” to represent the partnership the fair has built with the
4-H organization over its many years. Organizers continue to partner with the 4-H club, which holds its annual beef show and sale in conjunction with the event.
“As usual, we have a little taste of everything this year,” Louis said. “We have the original miniature to light and heavy horse shows, and this year we have added a couple of different events.”
A colt-breaking demonstration will be put on by Garry Hunt, a very well known and reputable expert in this field from Calgary. He will be demonstrating how to break a colt that has never been halter-broken or ridden before. The presentation will take place in a five-hour timeframe over a three-day period. By the final day, Hunt says the horse will be broken. More information on his work is available on the website at www.breakingcolts.com.
“Other attractions include a llama show and cattle shows,” Louis added. “The livestock events recognize the best in the agricultural backbone of our community.”
A number of different main stage shows will also be taking place. They include a MuchMusic Video Dance Party and a singing competition entitled “Moose Jaw Idol.”
Louis highlighted other unique demonstrations that will be featured as part of the fair. “Rick Mahone, a chainsaw carver, will perform a fascinating show through the weekend, cutting designs into 10-inch round logs. As well, the West Coast Lumberjack Show features a repertoire of lumberjack-type activities that are very exciting to watch. It’s definitely something you don’t see everyday in Saskatchewan!”
The fair will also explore old-fashioned pleasures through its “Lifestyles” displays, including the best in baking, canning, sewing, photography and handicrafts. As a tribute to seniors, a Seniors’ Tea will be held Friday afternoon, as well.
“The intent of the fair is to provide education and entertainment to area citizens of all ages. Everybody has an opportunity to participate and enjoy the event. People are encouraged to come down and take in the rural flavour,” Louis said.
More information on the Moose Jaw Hometown Fair and Horse Show can be found by accessing the Moose Jaw Exhibition Company’s website at www.moosejawex.com, or by e-mailing moosejawexh@sasktel.net.
For more information, contact:
Glen Louis, General Manager
Moose Jaw Exhibition Company Ltd.
Phone: (306) 692-2723
New exhibits spice up Canada's national farm show"
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Canada’s largest dry land farm technology and equipment show will feature a variety of spicy new exhibits this year that will be of great interest to producers and their families.
The Western Canada Farm Progress Show is being held at IPSCO Place in Regina from June 20 to 22.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the internationally renowned event, but the show is still leading the way in innovation, technology and education for producers, buyers and sellers from here at home and around the world.
Two specific exhibits, the Heartland Woman’s Expo and the Energy Centre, will be the focus of this year’s event.
“The main stage will be dedicated to the needs and interests of prairie women as featured in the Heartland Women’s Expo, an exciting event dedicated to providing value, entertainment and education to all women of the prairies,” said Rob O’Connor, Show Manager for Western Canada Farm Progress Show.
The keynote speaker is Elaine Froese, an author and certified coach, who has been working with farm families for over 25 years. Elaine is presenting a specific topic each day at 1:00 p.m. Topics include: Living an Intentional Life – extreme self-care in a complex world; Discussing the Undiscussabull™ – tools for talking about tough issues; and Encouraging the Heart of your Family and Business – know what young families and farmers want.
The Heartland Women’s Expo will feature more than 175 exhibiting companies on more than 40,000 square feet of exhibit space, and is specifically tailored to meet the needs and lifestyles of today’s everyday women. Areas of the expo include fashion and beauty, travel and leisure, food and beverage, health and wellness, transportation, home improvement and décor, and financial planning.
“The second stage is dedicated to various types of renewable energy, as well as green issues,” O’Connor stated. Through trade displays and educational seminars, the Energy Centre will highlight the positive impact that ethanol, bio-diesel, solar, geothermal and wind energy will have on agricultural practices.
“It’s important for producers to learn how different forms of renewable energy have the ability to affect their operations as this growing industry creates opportunities,” he said.
According to O’Connor, “What makes the farm show so unique in Canada is that it is so relevant to the industry. The dealers bring with them the newest of new… technology that pertains to efficient agricultural practices that will make the producer more profitable. The types of equipment and technology showcased will be improved over models from previous years.”
He pointed out that a New Inventions area will highlight between 30 and 40 innovative products and devices that have been created within the past two years. “These inventions are totally new to agriculture,” O’Connor said.
Since 1978, the show has grown from approximately 70 exhibitors to over 700. It now features over 1.4 million square feet of exhibit space. “We have expanded to include an International Business Centre which brings in about 400 international buyers representing 30 different countries,” stated O’Connor.
Over 40,000 people from nearly 30 countries attend the show every year.
“The purpose of the event is to give associations, manufacturers, and dealers of farm equipment and technology the ability to highlight themselves and showcase their products to attendees,” he said. “Producers should attend the show to look at new inventions and techniques geared towards improving their farming operations.”
In addition to the treats for the eyes, there are also treats for the ears. Two concerts have been included in this year’s show, featuring country legend Willie Nelson on June 20 and Paul Brandt on June 21. Tickets are available for purchase and include the price of admission to the show if they are purchased in advance. Regular admission is $10 and can be paid upon entry.
Producers can find more information on the Western Canada Farm Progress Show by visiting the website at www.myfarmshow.com.
For more information, contact:
Rob O’Connor, Show Manager
Western Canada Farm Progress Show
Phone: (306) 781-9219
e-mail: roconnor@ipscoplace.com
Canada’s largest dry land farm technology and equipment show will feature a variety of spicy new exhibits this year that will be of great interest to producers and their families.
The Western Canada Farm Progress Show is being held at IPSCO Place in Regina from June 20 to 22.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the internationally renowned event, but the show is still leading the way in innovation, technology and education for producers, buyers and sellers from here at home and around the world.
Two specific exhibits, the Heartland Woman’s Expo and the Energy Centre, will be the focus of this year’s event.
“The main stage will be dedicated to the needs and interests of prairie women as featured in the Heartland Women’s Expo, an exciting event dedicated to providing value, entertainment and education to all women of the prairies,” said Rob O’Connor, Show Manager for Western Canada Farm Progress Show.
The keynote speaker is Elaine Froese, an author and certified coach, who has been working with farm families for over 25 years. Elaine is presenting a specific topic each day at 1:00 p.m. Topics include: Living an Intentional Life – extreme self-care in a complex world; Discussing the Undiscussabull™ – tools for talking about tough issues; and Encouraging the Heart of your Family and Business – know what young families and farmers want.
The Heartland Women’s Expo will feature more than 175 exhibiting companies on more than 40,000 square feet of exhibit space, and is specifically tailored to meet the needs and lifestyles of today’s everyday women. Areas of the expo include fashion and beauty, travel and leisure, food and beverage, health and wellness, transportation, home improvement and décor, and financial planning.
“The second stage is dedicated to various types of renewable energy, as well as green issues,” O’Connor stated. Through trade displays and educational seminars, the Energy Centre will highlight the positive impact that ethanol, bio-diesel, solar, geothermal and wind energy will have on agricultural practices.
“It’s important for producers to learn how different forms of renewable energy have the ability to affect their operations as this growing industry creates opportunities,” he said.
According to O’Connor, “What makes the farm show so unique in Canada is that it is so relevant to the industry. The dealers bring with them the newest of new… technology that pertains to efficient agricultural practices that will make the producer more profitable. The types of equipment and technology showcased will be improved over models from previous years.”
He pointed out that a New Inventions area will highlight between 30 and 40 innovative products and devices that have been created within the past two years. “These inventions are totally new to agriculture,” O’Connor said.
Since 1978, the show has grown from approximately 70 exhibitors to over 700. It now features over 1.4 million square feet of exhibit space. “We have expanded to include an International Business Centre which brings in about 400 international buyers representing 30 different countries,” stated O’Connor.
Over 40,000 people from nearly 30 countries attend the show every year.
“The purpose of the event is to give associations, manufacturers, and dealers of farm equipment and technology the ability to highlight themselves and showcase their products to attendees,” he said. “Producers should attend the show to look at new inventions and techniques geared towards improving their farming operations.”
In addition to the treats for the eyes, there are also treats for the ears. Two concerts have been included in this year’s show, featuring country legend Willie Nelson on June 20 and Paul Brandt on June 21. Tickets are available for purchase and include the price of admission to the show if they are purchased in advance. Regular admission is $10 and can be paid upon entry.
Producers can find more information on the Western Canada Farm Progress Show by visiting the website at www.myfarmshow.com.
For more information, contact:
Rob O’Connor, Show Manager
Western Canada Farm Progress Show
Phone: (306) 781-9219
e-mail: roconnor@ipscoplace.com
The Taste of the Southwest is back: register today
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
If your business contributes to the food industry, do not miss your opportunity to market your products at the second annual “Taste of the Southwest” on August 11. This year’s event will take place on Main Street in downtown Swift Current.
The Taste of the Southwest was started to help promote food products being made in southwestern Saskatchewan by agricultural producers, processors, caterers and restaurants in the region. The event creates exposure and new markets for those in the region whose service area may currently be limited.
“This event is a very inexpensive way for businesses to feature their food products to a wide range of the public,” said Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food. “Last year’s event served over 900 clients.”
The event also creates a level playing field by requiring each booth to be of a similar size and appearance for a consistent cost structure. Taste of the Southwest allows booth participants to sell samples of their products to current and future customers, all done in a fun atmosphere. Participating booths will be limited to serving three of their specialty food items.
“The goal is not to provide meals, but to allow attendees to sample as many food products as possible,” Holland stated. “Not to mention providing businesses with a fantastic marketing opportunity.”
Food tokens will be sold to the public for $1 each. These tokens can then be exchanged at the booths for the customer’s desired food items, with a maximum charge of four tokens per food item. Ten per cent of the sales are kept by the organizing committee to cover event advertising and rental costs.
The event is organized by a non-profit committee. As a result, any profits following the event will be retained for the next year’s function. This year’s organizing committee includes Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, producers, the Southwest REDA, Community Futures Southwest, Saskatchewan Regional Economic and Co-operative Development, Tourism Swift Current and Golden West Radio.
“A variety of entertainment will be available, such as face painting and games for the children, as well as a mixture of live entertainment,” Holland said. The event will be featured as part of the Swift Current Fun Fest Weekend.
The deadline for early bird registration is sneaking up quickly. Until June 15, participants interested in renting a booth may register and secure their spots at the event for $100. After that date, booths will cost $150 apiece, with the final registration deadline being July 15.
The registration price includes access to approximately 1,000 potential customers, as well as a 10-foot by 20-foot booth with tables, chairs and electricity.
Holland encourages people not to miss this wonderful marketing opportunity for your food-related business. To obtain a registration package, contact one of the following individuals:
Britney Blackmore
Southwest REDA, Swift Current
Phone: (306) 778-4243
e-mail: bblackmore@southwestreda.ca
Sandy Garrett
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Swift Current
Phone: (306) 778-8285
e-mail: sgarrett@agr.gov.sk.ca
For more information, contact:
Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-4051
e-mail: gholland@agr.gov.sk.ca
If your business contributes to the food industry, do not miss your opportunity to market your products at the second annual “Taste of the Southwest” on August 11. This year’s event will take place on Main Street in downtown Swift Current.
The Taste of the Southwest was started to help promote food products being made in southwestern Saskatchewan by agricultural producers, processors, caterers and restaurants in the region. The event creates exposure and new markets for those in the region whose service area may currently be limited.
“This event is a very inexpensive way for businesses to feature their food products to a wide range of the public,” said Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food. “Last year’s event served over 900 clients.”
The event also creates a level playing field by requiring each booth to be of a similar size and appearance for a consistent cost structure. Taste of the Southwest allows booth participants to sell samples of their products to current and future customers, all done in a fun atmosphere. Participating booths will be limited to serving three of their specialty food items.
“The goal is not to provide meals, but to allow attendees to sample as many food products as possible,” Holland stated. “Not to mention providing businesses with a fantastic marketing opportunity.”
Food tokens will be sold to the public for $1 each. These tokens can then be exchanged at the booths for the customer’s desired food items, with a maximum charge of four tokens per food item. Ten per cent of the sales are kept by the organizing committee to cover event advertising and rental costs.
The event is organized by a non-profit committee. As a result, any profits following the event will be retained for the next year’s function. This year’s organizing committee includes Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, producers, the Southwest REDA, Community Futures Southwest, Saskatchewan Regional Economic and Co-operative Development, Tourism Swift Current and Golden West Radio.
“A variety of entertainment will be available, such as face painting and games for the children, as well as a mixture of live entertainment,” Holland said. The event will be featured as part of the Swift Current Fun Fest Weekend.
The deadline for early bird registration is sneaking up quickly. Until June 15, participants interested in renting a booth may register and secure their spots at the event for $100. After that date, booths will cost $150 apiece, with the final registration deadline being July 15.
The registration price includes access to approximately 1,000 potential customers, as well as a 10-foot by 20-foot booth with tables, chairs and electricity.
Holland encourages people not to miss this wonderful marketing opportunity for your food-related business. To obtain a registration package, contact one of the following individuals:
Britney Blackmore
Southwest REDA, Swift Current
Phone: (306) 778-4243
e-mail: bblackmore@southwestreda.ca
Sandy Garrett
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, Swift Current
Phone: (306) 778-8285
e-mail: sgarrett@agr.gov.sk.ca
For more information, contact:
Gerry Holland, Regional Business Planning Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-4051
e-mail: gholland@agr.gov.sk.ca
Connecting urban and rural: FACS launches billboard campaign
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
If you happen to be driving down the highway and see your neighbour’s smiling face on a billboard, it’s not a mirage – it’s the latest campaign from the Farm Animal Council of Saskatchewan (FACS).
Executive Director Adele Buettner says FACS restarted its popular billboard campaign after a five-year hiatus because it is an effective way to spread an important message about agricultural producers in the province.
“The message we are conveying through these billboards is that our producers are responsible, that they care about their livestock,” she said. “It’s a very positive and a very useful message. We’re all about being proactive.”
FACS ran billboards every year from 1996 to 2001 before setting the initiative aside for a few years to focus on other projects that required its full attention. However, Buettner says the timing is right to once again let people know about the positive things going on in agriculture.
“With so few people having direct ties to the family farm, we feel it’s important to showcase what modern producers look like, to remind people who no longer have that direct link themselves,” she said.
“So this year, we’re going to feature young, responsible, active Saskatchewan producers who are involved in modern agriculture. It’s the first time we’ve used pictures of actual producers in our billboards, rather than artwork.”
The FACS campaign includes six different billboard designs, posted in 16 locations across rural and urban Saskatchewan. Buettner says that’s a change from past campaigns, which were focused entirely in Regina and Saskatoon.
The campaign is running throughout the month of May, perhaps stretching into June.
Sponsors for the 2007 billboards are Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, the Saskatchewan Egg Producers, the North American Equine Ranching Information Council and the Saskatchewan Chicken Industry Development Fund.
“Our past billboard campaigns were very successful because it was a unique message,” Buettner said. “This year is the first time for our livestock industry in the province to collectively have a number of different commodities represented in the billboards. It’s not just a beef campaign or a poultry campaign. It’s a livestock campaign that brings all these different sectors together and presents them to the public. I think that’s a really great message.”
The billboards appearing throughout Saskatchewan can also be viewed on the council’s website at www.facs.sk.ca.
FACS is a membership-based, non-profit organization that represents the livestock industry in advancing responsible animal welfare, care and handling practices in agriculture. FACS endeavours to raise producer awareness of the economic and ethical benefits of animal welfare, and to help consumers achieve a greater understanding of animal care issues.
For more information, contact:
Adele Buettner, Executive Director
Farm Animal Council of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 249-3227
E-mail: facs@sasktel.net
Website: www.facs.sk.ca
If you happen to be driving down the highway and see your neighbour’s smiling face on a billboard, it’s not a mirage – it’s the latest campaign from the Farm Animal Council of Saskatchewan (FACS).
Executive Director Adele Buettner says FACS restarted its popular billboard campaign after a five-year hiatus because it is an effective way to spread an important message about agricultural producers in the province.
“The message we are conveying through these billboards is that our producers are responsible, that they care about their livestock,” she said. “It’s a very positive and a very useful message. We’re all about being proactive.”
FACS ran billboards every year from 1996 to 2001 before setting the initiative aside for a few years to focus on other projects that required its full attention. However, Buettner says the timing is right to once again let people know about the positive things going on in agriculture.
“With so few people having direct ties to the family farm, we feel it’s important to showcase what modern producers look like, to remind people who no longer have that direct link themselves,” she said.
“So this year, we’re going to feature young, responsible, active Saskatchewan producers who are involved in modern agriculture. It’s the first time we’ve used pictures of actual producers in our billboards, rather than artwork.”
The FACS campaign includes six different billboard designs, posted in 16 locations across rural and urban Saskatchewan. Buettner says that’s a change from past campaigns, which were focused entirely in Regina and Saskatoon.
The campaign is running throughout the month of May, perhaps stretching into June.
Sponsors for the 2007 billboards are Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, the Saskatchewan Egg Producers, the North American Equine Ranching Information Council and the Saskatchewan Chicken Industry Development Fund.
“Our past billboard campaigns were very successful because it was a unique message,” Buettner said. “This year is the first time for our livestock industry in the province to collectively have a number of different commodities represented in the billboards. It’s not just a beef campaign or a poultry campaign. It’s a livestock campaign that brings all these different sectors together and presents them to the public. I think that’s a really great message.”
The billboards appearing throughout Saskatchewan can also be viewed on the council’s website at www.facs.sk.ca.
FACS is a membership-based, non-profit organization that represents the livestock industry in advancing responsible animal welfare, care and handling practices in agriculture. FACS endeavours to raise producer awareness of the economic and ethical benefits of animal welfare, and to help consumers achieve a greater understanding of animal care issues.
For more information, contact:
Adele Buettner, Executive Director
Farm Animal Council of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 249-3227
E-mail: facs@sasktel.net
Website: www.facs.sk.ca
Beef Development Centre Field Day always a popular draw
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
The annual summer field day put on by the Western Beef Development Centre (WBDC) is coming up on June 23 at the centre’s Termuende Research Farm near Lanigan.
The field day offers a mixture of guest speakers, presentations, displays and tours of current beef and forage research projects and farm facilities.
Paul Jefferson, the Vice President of Operations with the WBDC, says the event is just the latest in a long line of outreach activities the centre has organized to bring people into its facility and tell them about the exciting research work going on there.
“I think the WBDC has had a field day for as long as it’s been around, and we’ve been around for 10 years now,” Jefferson said.
He indicated the centre is taking a different approach this year by moving the event from mid-week to a Saturday. “This will allow people – particularly some of the younger producers – who maybe work off the farm or have other commitments during the week to attend,” he stated.
“We’re trying to give as many people as possible an opportunity to hear about the research and the demonstrations going on here.”
A lot of information and activity is packed into the day, but Jefferson says the intent is to provide producers and others in the beef industry with an idea of the research that is currently taking place, as well as some of the interesting findings coming to light that might be useful in their operations.
“Our keynote speaker will be Dr. John MacKinnon, a professor of animal science at the University of Saskatchewan. He’s going to talk about the increasing supply of dry distillers grains from the emerging ethanol industry in Western Canada, and how we might be able to use it as a feed resource for the beef industry,” Jefferson stated.
Currently, dry distillers grains are used primarily in the dairy sector. WBDC is initiating a project using it as a feed supplement for beef cattle, particularly in conjunction with lower quality forages, to see how the protein benefits can be captured and how the animals respond.
Other initiatives that will be discussed include a time of calving study, where part of the WBDC’s herd was shifted to a June calving date from the traditional March/April timeframe; research on low-cost winter feeding systems; a collaborative pilot project with the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration using a biological digester to remove sulfate from well water; research on using forages in backgrounding and feeding beef cattle; and an analysis of statistics that show a declining yield on Saskatchewan hay fields over the past 25 to 30 years.
“These are all very practical issues facing beef producers and the industry as a whole, so we expect the field day will once again be a very popular draw,” Jefferson said.
But he notes that the duration of the field day isn’t spent in a chair. “Part of the attraction of this event is that we take people on buses out to some of the field sites so they can see the research activities actually going on in real time,” Jefferson stated. “They’ll be able to hear from the researchers involved and dialogue with them right on the tour.”
Lunch is provided during the field day, and the event wraps up with an optional barbeque steak supper. There is a small charge for both of these meals.
Jefferson says that anyone involved or interested in the beef industry will be able to find some benefit in the WBDC field day. “If you’re working in the cow-calf sector, if you’re in the feeding or backgrounding aspect of it, if you’re in the beef industry at all – you will definitely hear some interesting and useful information during the day.”
Registration for the event starts at 9:30 a.m. on June 23, and the program itself begins at 10:00 a.m.
For more information on the WBDC field day, visit the centre’s website at www.wbdc.sk.ca, or contact Brenda Freistadt at (306) 682-3139, extension 2.
For more information, contact:
Paul Jefferson, Vice President of Operations
Western Beef Development Centre
Phone: (306) 682-3139, ext. 272
e-mail: pjefferson.wbdc@pami.ca
The annual summer field day put on by the Western Beef Development Centre (WBDC) is coming up on June 23 at the centre’s Termuende Research Farm near Lanigan.
The field day offers a mixture of guest speakers, presentations, displays and tours of current beef and forage research projects and farm facilities.
Paul Jefferson, the Vice President of Operations with the WBDC, says the event is just the latest in a long line of outreach activities the centre has organized to bring people into its facility and tell them about the exciting research work going on there.
“I think the WBDC has had a field day for as long as it’s been around, and we’ve been around for 10 years now,” Jefferson said.
He indicated the centre is taking a different approach this year by moving the event from mid-week to a Saturday. “This will allow people – particularly some of the younger producers – who maybe work off the farm or have other commitments during the week to attend,” he stated.
“We’re trying to give as many people as possible an opportunity to hear about the research and the demonstrations going on here.”
A lot of information and activity is packed into the day, but Jefferson says the intent is to provide producers and others in the beef industry with an idea of the research that is currently taking place, as well as some of the interesting findings coming to light that might be useful in their operations.
“Our keynote speaker will be Dr. John MacKinnon, a professor of animal science at the University of Saskatchewan. He’s going to talk about the increasing supply of dry distillers grains from the emerging ethanol industry in Western Canada, and how we might be able to use it as a feed resource for the beef industry,” Jefferson stated.
Currently, dry distillers grains are used primarily in the dairy sector. WBDC is initiating a project using it as a feed supplement for beef cattle, particularly in conjunction with lower quality forages, to see how the protein benefits can be captured and how the animals respond.
Other initiatives that will be discussed include a time of calving study, where part of the WBDC’s herd was shifted to a June calving date from the traditional March/April timeframe; research on low-cost winter feeding systems; a collaborative pilot project with the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration using a biological digester to remove sulfate from well water; research on using forages in backgrounding and feeding beef cattle; and an analysis of statistics that show a declining yield on Saskatchewan hay fields over the past 25 to 30 years.
“These are all very practical issues facing beef producers and the industry as a whole, so we expect the field day will once again be a very popular draw,” Jefferson said.
But he notes that the duration of the field day isn’t spent in a chair. “Part of the attraction of this event is that we take people on buses out to some of the field sites so they can see the research activities actually going on in real time,” Jefferson stated. “They’ll be able to hear from the researchers involved and dialogue with them right on the tour.”
Lunch is provided during the field day, and the event wraps up with an optional barbeque steak supper. There is a small charge for both of these meals.
Jefferson says that anyone involved or interested in the beef industry will be able to find some benefit in the WBDC field day. “If you’re working in the cow-calf sector, if you’re in the feeding or backgrounding aspect of it, if you’re in the beef industry at all – you will definitely hear some interesting and useful information during the day.”
Registration for the event starts at 9:30 a.m. on June 23, and the program itself begins at 10:00 a.m.
For more information on the WBDC field day, visit the centre’s website at www.wbdc.sk.ca, or contact Brenda Freistadt at (306) 682-3139, extension 2.
For more information, contact:
Paul Jefferson, Vice President of Operations
Western Beef Development Centre
Phone: (306) 682-3139, ext. 272
e-mail: pjefferson.wbdc@pami.ca
Zehner Couple's Retirement Project Yields Profits
Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Duane and Margaret Rose’s Shepherd’s Cottage Wool may have started out as a retirement project, but it is turning into an agricultural success story for the sheep wool industry in Saskatchewan.
“We originally started to look for an animal that was raised specifically for the fibre. We found information on Shetland sheep, and as it turned out, there was a flock at Fort Qu’Appelle that would be for sale in the next few years, and we eventually acquired it.
Shetland sheep are unique in a number of ways. They are a small, primitive breed, but the wool is very nice to work with, explains Margaret. It can be of 11 different colours. The Roses have Shetland sheep that are black and grey, and light grey and white, and brown, and light brown and very dark brown.
"It is quite a marketing asset to have the natural colours," explains Margaret.
From their initial 19 ewes, the Roses now have 85. The purebred Shetlands are being registered with the North American Shetland Sheep Association (NASSA).
“We shear them each March,” explains Margaret. “They quite enjoy it because they start getting really warm with a year’s worth of fleece on them. This can be quite a long fleece in the Shetland—six to eight inches. In the last few years, we have been breeding for shorter fleece because the mills have a hard time working with the long fleece. The long fleece is good for people who like to hand process the fleece or hand spin it.
“When we had only a few sheep, I did some of the processing myself—that means washing the fleece, picking and spinning it, but now we send it to a fibre mill to be processed. They turn it into either yarn or into spinning fibre called roving, and then the yarn is sold as either knitting or weaving yarn. The best way to add value to it is to turn it into finished product. Hand knitting, as you can imagine, is not a speedy process. So it takes quite a bit of effort to knit a sweater, but I do have knitters who knit for me.”
At Shepherd’s Cottage Wool, the farm retail shop, the Roses sell wool products from their sheep that include yarn, spinning fibre and the finished products like sweaters, mitts, hats, scarves, slippers, socks and other things.
“We also sell knitting-related products, such as spinning wheels, knitting needles, knitting bags, knitting baskets and carders," Margaret points out.
Her husband and business partner Duane is quite proud of Rose Farm’s accomplishments.
“We are pretty much self-sufficient in that we grow our own grain, barley or oats. We have grown field peas in the past, as well. We have our own hay field and our own pasture—we own a quarter section. So we have a place for the sheep for summer and winter. We have several barns and corrals to manage them and the equipment to do all this, to put up the hay and harvest the crop.”
After a rewarding career in education, Margaret and Duane needed to undertake a project that would enable them to stay engaged in lifelong learning.
“Our parents were farmers,” says Margaret. “We grew up around Swift Current, but we were living in Regina and looking for a way to get out of the city and to do something interesting. I always wanted to farm.