Bobolinks, burrowing owls and... beef cattle? See page 3!
August 29, 2025
Applications for consideration for The Environmental Stewardship Award due to MBP by December 12. All beef cattle operations in Canada are eligible to apply for consideration for TESA. Interested producers can either nominate themselves, or be nominated by another individual or an organization. More details and the application form can be found by clicking the graphic.
Bobolinks, burrowing owls and... beef cattle? Although it may be unexpected, the land used to raise beef cattle in Canada contributes the majority of critical habitat that wildlife needs to nest and raise their young (74%) and to find food (55%) when all of Canada’s crop and pastureland is considered.
Homes on the Range takes you into the wideopen landscapes of Canada to explore the surprising role of beef farmers and ranchers in protecting the vital habitats their cattle share with wildlife. Hear from ranchers, conservationists, and wildlife biologists from across the country (including Manitoba) as they reveal how cattle don’t just coexist with wildlife — they help them thrive. When it comes to habitat for many species in Canada, home truly is on the range.
Currently, the public launch is being planned for National Wildlife Day – September 4, 2025.
Watch: (English with subtitles) https://youtu.be/ru0aYrw4K34
This documentary was produced by Public and Stakeholder Engagement (PSE) which is funded by the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off and administered as a division of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) in partnership with Canada Beef. The PSE team works with national and provincial beef organizations to address consumer questions and communicate the environmental and societal benefits of raising beef cattle in Canada. To find out more about PSE initiatives, visit http://www.raisingcdnbeef.ca
After 35 years on the air, Great Tastes is changing the channel and pressing play on a new digital chapter. Beginning September 5, 2025 Manitoba’s most watched, locally produced broadcast television series will launch an all new YouTube series.
According to series producer Donalee Jones, the revival of Great Tastes is in response to public demand. "We have surveyed Manitobans and this is what they are asking for," Jones explains. The series producer believes it has potential to resonate with both nostalgic viewers and a new audience She emphasized a generational gap in awareness, stating, "Many younger Manitobans who expressed interest in watching Great Tastes were unaware it exists."
ingredients and connect with Manitoba’s farmers and ranchers.
“We understand this is a big change for our loyal audience,” Jones adds. “However, YouTube viewing has become considerably more accessible in the last five years. It’s no longer solely about short-form videos; streaming long-form content on YouTube and other platforms is now widespread, thanks to the popularity of Smart TVs.”
This shift presents an opportunity to inspire more Manitobans to cook with local
The digital format also offers greater flexibility for both producers and viewers. No longer tied to a Saturday night time slot, audiences can watch Great Tastes any day of the week, with new videos released every Friday. With content now produced year-round, producers can respond to trends more quickly and deliver timely, engaging stories all year long.The YouTube series will also introduce a dynamic cast of local hosts a mix of professional chefs and passionate home cooks who will share their favourite recipes, cooking tips, and plenty of personality. From taste test challenges to candid behind-thescenes moments, this new format invites viewers into a more relaxed, interactive kitchen experience.
The new cast (in the photo from top to bottom) includes:
● Chef Gordon Bailey – Renowned restaurateur and respected culinary instructor
● Laura Cook – Home cook and food blogger from rural Manitoba
● Chef Anna Hymers – Red Seal chef and research technician at RRC Polytech’s Prairie Research Kitchen (and still MBP food expert)
● Chef George Hudson – Sous chef at Oxbow Natural Wine Bar and Restaurant
Together, they bring a wide range of expertise and perspectives all rooted in a shared passion for local ingredients and Manitoba’s unique food culture. The hosts are also all excited about the opportunity to visit Manitoba farms and agricultural communities and share those experiences with the Great Tastes audience.
The series is produced by Frank Digital with funding provided by the Government of Canada and Manitoba Agriculture through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. It’s the only collaboration of its kind in Canada and brings together Manitoba’s farmers and ranchers through
their non-profit industry associations: Manitoba Beef Producers, Hello Canola, Manitoba Chicken, Manitoba Crop Alliance, Manitoba Pork, Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers, Manitoba Turkey Producers.
Great Tastes will be releasing new content on their YouTube channel, @GreatTastesTV, every Friday, starting September 5th. Follow @GreatTastesMB on Facebook and Instagram for exclusive behind-thescenes content, recipes, farm facts and much more. content at www.greattastesmb.ca.
Fans who would prefer to watch the series on broadcast can find Great Tastes on The Rural Channel, RogersTV and WCGTV. All three broadcasters will be sharing old and new episodes of the series multiple times per week.
Note: This information was released on August 22, 2025.
Cattle inventories
11.9 million July 1, 2025
0.8%
(year-over-year change)
Source(s): Table 32-10-0130-01.
On July 1, Canadian cattle and sheep inventories were up compared with the same date one year earlier, while hog inventories were down.
The Canadian cattle herd rose on July 1, the first year-over-year increase since 2021, mainly due to lower slaughter. Inventories rose in all breeding stock categories on July 1, 2025, lending support to the beef and dairy herds.
Cattle and calves
Canadian cattle producers held 11.9 million cattle and calves on their farms on July 1, up 0.8% from one year earlier.
Total cattle inventories, July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025
On July 1, Canadian cattle producers retained more beef heifers for breeding (+2.0%), bulls (+0.5%) and beef cows (+0.4%), while inventories of dairy heifers for breeding (+0.5%) and dairy cows (+0.4%) were also up from the same date the previous year. Higher breeding stock retention, coupled with a 1.8% year-overyear increase in births from January to June, helped support cattle herd inventories.
Meanwhile, producers held fewer steers (-1.8%) and feeder heifers (-1.5%) on July 1, compared with the same date one year earlier. Producers also held 3.8 million calves, a 3.0% increase year over year.
Cattle and calves slaughter for January to June fell 5.0% year over year to 1.6 million head, while international exports of live cattle and calves decreased to 390,400 head (-2.7%) over
the same period. Feeder and slaughter cattle prices reached record highs over the first half of 2025, as global demand for beef remained elevated.
Looking at the Manitoba situation year over year, i.e. July 1, 2025 vs July 1, 2024:
• On all cattle operations, there were 950,000, up 5,000 from July 1, 2024
• On beef operations, there were 876,800 head, up 5,700 head
• On cow calf operations, there were 696,700 head, up 14,800 head
• On feeder and stocker operations, there were 118,100 head, down 11,100 head
• On feeding operations, there were 62,200 head, up 2,000 from a year prior.
• On dairy operations, there were 73,200 head, down 700 head.
Source: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/dailyquotidien/250822/dq250822ceng.htm?utm_source=mstatcan&utm_medium= eml&utm_campaign=statcan-statcan-mstatcan
(August 20, 2025 News Release) – To address the growing ecological and agricultural threat posed by invasive wild pigs, Canada is responding with the launch of Wild Pigs Canada. This new online hub was developed by Invasives Canada and Animal Health Canada in collaboration with the Invasive Wild Pig Leadership Group
Wild Pigs Canada offers a central source for tools, information, and resources to address the threat of invasive wild pigs. This site will empower the public and interest groups to identify and report wild pigs, understand their impacts to Canada, and stay up to date on current initiatives to tackle the problem.
“Animal Health Canada is proud to be a collaborator on the new Wild Pigs Canada website that shares information to support the prevention, management and removal of invasive wild pigs from the Canadian landscape,” says Dr. Leigh Rosengren, industry co-chair on the Animal Health Board of Directors
Invasive wild pigs are uncontained pigs that are not under human control. They are adaptable, elusive, and increasingly widespread in Canada. These animals destroy crops, damage natural habitats, and pose threats to native wildlife, livestock, pets, people, and ways of life. They can also spread or be a reservoir for diseases such as African swine fever (ASF).
ASF is a foreign animal disease of particular concern that is not yet in Canada. If introduced, wild pigs could rapidly spread the disease, with devastating impacts on domestic pigs, the swine industry and international trade.
In Canada, invasive wild pigs can be found in any province and territory, however the only known self-sustaining, established populations exist in parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
Their adaptability, combined with their wideranging economic, environmental and social impacts, demands a collaborative effort from all sectors and individuals nationwide.
Canada’s Invasive Wild Pig Strategy (2022-2032) outlines a coordinated approach to preventing and eliminating this threat. Wild Pigs
Canada delivers on a key action of the strategy: by raising awareness and enabling public and interest groups to take action through a userfriendly, accessible platform. These efforts are supported by the multi-sector, national Invasive Wild Pig Leadership Group, which helps support coordinated regional action.
“Wild Pigs Canada is the result of strong and meaningful coordination across sectors and regions, developed through our partnership with Animal Health Canada and the Invasive Wild Pig Leadership Group, and informed by our ongoing work with international partners in the US and Mexico,” says Rebecca Lord, Executive Director, Invasives Canada
Wild Pigs Canada is for anyone interested in protecting the landscapes and livelihoods that we all share.
“This website brings it all together – whether you’re a farmer, hunter, hiker, or just someone who cares about our natural landscape, you’ll find everything you need to know about wild pigs and how to report them in one place.
Remember, people on the land and out in nature are our first line of defense against invasive species like wild pigs,” says Executive Director, Matt DeMille, Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters.
Learn more, report a sighting, and take action by visiting www.WildPigs.ca
This website was developed with funding from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, through the African Swine Fever Industry Preparedness Program.
About Invasives Canada
Invasives Canada is a national nonprofit charity organization working to protect Canada’s lands and waters from the impacts of invasive species. Through education, collaboration, and sciencebased action, Invasives Canada supports communities, governments, and land managers in preventing the introduction and spread of harmful invasive species across the country. For more information, visit www.invasivescanada.ca.
Animal Health Canada is the only national organization that brings together industry, federal, provincial, and territorial partners to provide collaborative guidance on a cohesive, functional, and responsive farmed animal health and welfare system in Canada. For more information, visit animalhealthcanada.ca.
About the Invasive Wild Pig Leadership Group
The implementation of the national Invasive Wild Pig Strategy and this new website are supported by the national Invasive Wild Pig Leadership Group. This group was formed to support regional coordination of invasive wild pig prevention and eradication efforts across Canada, with representation from government, industry, Indigenous, conservation, and animal health groups. For more information, visit www.wildpigs.ca/about-us/
For more information contact: Gabby Nichols, Programs Manager, Invasives Canada programs@invasivescanada.ca
Tanya Frye, Communications Director, Animal Health Canada (613) 302-2671, tfrye@animalhealthcanada.ca
#24-3 July 2025
No one starts farming or ranching with the goal of losing money. And regardless of how big or small the operation is, financial performance is a key driver determining if a farm will continue operating. During the start-up phase cash flow is king, but as an operation matures, protecting equity becomes a greater focus. Particularly, when the price cycle is low.
A 2020 survey of 131 cow-calf producers across Canada found that 79% of respondents established production goals, but only 64% set financial goals.1 However, a higher percentage (91%) reflected on past financial performance as compared to past production performance (87%) to identify areas for improvement. This suggests that although production records are more commonly used day-to-day, financial data plays a greater role in strategic evaluation.
Evaluating past financial performance can be hard, particularly if you are not where you want to be. The good news is that you don't have to stay there. Ask yourself: Are you willing to learn? Are you willing to change? What we focus on expands. Taking dramatic or incremental steps towards a different cost structure or enterprise mix can be both challenging and rewarding. Don't be discouraged by setbacks, find mentors and peers who you can talk to and who will encourage you.
The Canadian Cow-calf Cost of Production Network (COP Network) uses standardized data collection which allows for comparison both within and between provinces, and internationally Since launching in 2021, the COP Network has collected data from over 235 producers contributing to 64 cow-calf benchmark farms that represent various production systems. Each benchmark is based on data from 3-7 producers. Data collection occurs every 5 years with annual indexing of input and output prices, as well as crop and forage yields, in subsequent years. Individual benchmark farm summaries can be found at: https://canfax.ca/resources/cost-ofproduction/cop-results.html
1 Lazurko, M. M., Erickson, N. E., Campbell, J. R., Larson, K., & Waldner, C. L. (2024). Technology adoption and management practices used in Canadian cow-calf herds. Canadian Journal of Animal Science, 104(4): 524-539. https://doi.org/10.1139/cjas-2023-0080
There is substantial diversity within the COP Network in terms of herd size, mix of enterprises (with diversified income sources being a risk management tool used by many), and reliance on off-farm income. To create financial benchmarks, whole-farm financials were used to take a holistic approach.
“More than anything else, I believe it’s our decisions, not the conditions of our lives that determine our destiny.”
~ Tony Robbins
Whole-farm profitability reflects the ability to earn revenue relative to operating costs and asset base. This is necessary for both long-term survival and potential growth or expansion. Working backwards from a financial goal of Net Income at 30% of total farm revenue, this leaves 50% for input costs, 10% for depreciation and 10% for overheads. Inputs include the direct or variable costs associated with each commodity, they go up or down depending on the size of that enterprise. Depreciation is the cost of replacing assets (e.g., machinery, buildings) at the end of their lifespan. Overheads are the ongoing business expenses that are not directly tied to producing a specific product, but are necessary to keep the operation running (e.g., land taxes, improvements, machinery maintenance, fuel, electricity, etc.)
Why target Net Income at 30% of total farm revenue? The whole-farm profitability must provide a return to assets, including land, labour and internal capital. These opportunity costs (as reported in the COP Network) are accounted for at the enterprise level, but not the whole-farm level (which reports cash and depreciation costs). This requires a profit target at the whole farm level to account for the return to assets.
Input Costs
Wages, rent, interest, CowCalf, Retained, Crops and Forages
Machinery Maintenance, Building Maintenance, Office Expenses
Remember that benchmarks are NOT based on who is the most productive. Benchmarks ARE based on who is the most profitable. Therefore, financial benchmarks come from the Top 3rd performing farms (using medium-term profits) not the average.
Net Income as a percentage of total farm revenue for the bottom two-third performing farms in the COP Network was 17%, indicating that on average these farms made money in 2024. However, several of the bottom performing farms were still struggling with profitability as depreciation and overheads were double that seen in the top-third farms. This showcases that there are opportunities to reduce overheads and depreciation. The higher percentage of input costs for the top-third farms was driven by the crop and retained ownership enterprises, reflecting the greater diversity of on-farm income sources.
Every farm will be different, with a specific amount and mix of resources that the operator is looking to utilize effectively. Benchmarks are not designed to put producers in a box, but to inspire them to think about their operations from a different perspective, to see opportunities to be competitive and resilient, while providing the desired financial returns.
When evaluating your whole farm financials, there are some questions you can ask:
1. Are you happy with the Net Income % of Total Farm Revenue? If yes, congratulations!
2. If not, where are there deviations from the benchmarks in cost structure that present opportunities for change?
a. If your depreciation and overheads are substantially above the 10% benchmark, ask: Does your farm structure justify this? Or are these nice to haves that your current farm income cannot sustain in the long run?
b. If your input costs are substantially above the 50% benchmark, ask: Does your farm structure justify this? Or are these inputs masking deeper issues or supporting productivity at levels above optimal (see Moving a cowherd towards optimum productivity: 2024 Productivity Benchmarks fact sheet for more information on this).
3. If you are happy with your cost structure, is there a lack of income that could be supported by marketing? (see Build, Brand and Market your Calf Crop: A Path to Reputation Cattle fact sheet for more information)
There is no one approach that works for all operations. When setting financial goals, producers should ask themselves:
1. How much ($$) do I need to meet my financial goals?
2. What am I producing? Calves, yearlings, breeding stock, etc.? And at what price?
3. How many head do I need to meet those financial goals?
4. Is this realistic for my operation? Do I have a plan to get there?
“Your income right now is a result of your standards, it is not the industry, it is not the economy.”
~ Tony Robbins
Break down the plan into manageable steps, so that it does not overwhelm you. Identify high-return changes to make first, as that will provide both cash and energy to continue. Be patient, but be confident that change can happen.
Check out the Beef Cattle Research Council's, Financial Record Keeping modules to learn more.
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Source: Statistics Canada’s The Daily for August 29, 2025
Farm cash receipts (quarterly)
$49.6 billion
January to June 2025
3.3% (year-over-year change)
Farm cash receipts in Canada totalled $49.6 billion in the first two quarters, up $1.6 billion (+3.3%)
from the same period in 2024. Receipts for livestock (+$2.1 billion) rose in the first two quarters of 2025, while program payments ($584.5 million) declined. Crop receipts (+$80.2 million) were practically unchanged (+0.3%) compared with the same period one year earlier.
Chart 1
Total crop, livestock and direct payment receipts as a proportion of total farm cash receipts, January to June, 2015 to 2025
Most provinces recorded higher farm cash receipts in the first two quarters, led by Alberta (+$530.9 million) and Ontario (+$525.0 million). Meanwhile, Saskatchewan (-$96.2 million) and Prince Edward Island (-$3.1 million) posted small
decreases compared with the same period the previous year.
Chart 2
Farm cash receipts by category, by province or region, January to June 2025
Price increases drive up livestock receipts
Total livestock receipts rose 10.8% to $21.3 billion in the first two quarters, on account of higher prices for all livestock types except poultry.
Cattle (+$1.2 billion) and hog (+$436.4 million) receipts led the increase in the first half of 2025, together accounting for roughly 80% of the rise in livestock receipts. Cattle receipts were up because of higher prices (+20.3%), despite lower marketings (-3.1%) due to a decline in the number of cattle slaughtered. Hog receipts also increased, as a result of higher prices (+10.5%) and marketings (+3.1%). Strong international demand for pork products contributed to an increased number of hogs slaughtered
Supply-managed receipts grew 2.7% to $7.7 billion in the first two quarters, representing roughly 35% of total livestock receipts. Dairy receipts (+$184.8 million) drove the increase in supplymanaged receipts, mainly on an rise in prices. Receipts for eggs for consumption grew $58.0 million because of increased marketings. Receipts for turkeys for meat (-$39.6 million) were down, as a reduction in the national quota caused a decline in marketings.
receipts hold steady
In the first two quarters, crop receipts were relatively unchanged, at $25.9 billion (+0.3%), compared with the same period the previous year. While cash receipts increased for most crops, these gains were offset by reduced receipts for barley and
lower liquidations of deferred crop sales in Western Canada.
During the first two quarters, receipts for soybeans (+$103.2 million) and canola (+$76.4 million) rose on higher marketings, which contributed to an overall increase in oilseed receipts compared with the same period the previous year. An abundant supply of soybeans put downward pressure on prices, moderating the gain in receipts.
Cereal and grain receipts increased in the first two quarters on higher receipts for durum wheat (+$197.2 million) and wheat (excluding durum) (+$122.9 million). For most grain crops, higher marketings drove the rise in receipts while lower prices moderated gains. Meanwhile, receipts for barley (-$110.1 million) fell, as prices and marketings both declined.
Total direct payments dropped by $584.5 million (20.0%) to $2.3 billion in the first two quarters. This decrease was led by Saskatchewan (-$287.4 million) and Alberta (-$162.4 million).
Crop insurance payments (-$381.4 million) accounted for nearly two-thirds of the decrease, owing to improved growing conditions in the 2024 crop year. Saskatchewan contributed to roughly 80% of the decrease in total crop insurance payments.
Regional Tariff Response Initiative helps businesses respond, adapt, and compete amid shifting
(August 29, 2025 Prairies Economic Development Canada News release) Canadian businesses are facing economic uncertainty as tariffs disrupt their export markets and global supply chains. In this moment of global volatility, Canada is standing firm defending its industries, protecting workers, and investing in long-term resilience.
The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan), announced support will be coming through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) to help Prairie businesses respond to trade shocks, adapt to new realities, and build for the future.
PrairiesCan is on the ground across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, working closely with federal, provincial, and Indigenous partners to respond to the unique needs of the Prairies during this period of intense global trade disruptions.
The RTRI will support businesses on the Prairies affected by recent trade actions to improve productivity, expand and diversify markets, strengthen supply chains, and boost domestic trade within Canada. Not-for-profit organizations that support businesses to manage the impact of trade disruptions are also eligible for funding.
The RTRI is part of a broad set of tariff support measures, including the Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility, the Business Development Bank of Canada’s Pivot to Grow initiative, and enhancements to the Strategic Innovation Fund. Together, these measures are reinforcing
Canada’s industrial strength and defending jobs across the country.
Further details on RTRI including how to apply and eligible organizations and additional support for Prairie businesses will be announced in the coming days. These measures will help companies navigate global trade disruptions, expand into new markets, and contribute to building a stronger, more selfreliant Canadian economy that works for everyone.
“Canadian and Prairie businesses are facing real pressures in a shifting global trade landscape. The Regional Tariff Response Initiative, or RTRI, equips them to respond with strength to adapt, innovate, and lead. Prairie businesses have always punched above their weight in driving Canada’s productivity, and this initiative will help them expand into new markets while continuing to weather short-term challenges. Our new government is here to support that growth and build a stronger, more self-reliant Canadian economy for the long term.”
–The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)
• The Government of Canada has a comprehensive plan to fight back against U.S. tariffs, while supporting Canada's interests, industries, and workers.
• On July 16, 2025, the Government of Canada announced a suite of new
Regional Tariff Response Initiative helps businesses respond, adapt, and compete amid shifting market conditions
measures to support the domestic steel industry, including up to $150 million in targeted support through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative to enable businesses operating in the steel industry to adapt, grow, and anchor their presence in Canada’s economy. These investments are part of a broader package that also included enhancements to the Strategic Innovation Fund, Labour Market Development Agreements, and the Large Enterprise Tariff Loan Facility.
• The RTRI will enable businesses to offset the impacts of tariffs and adapt to longer term trade volatility by opening doors to new markets, boosting productivity, reducing costs, and strengthening domestic supply chains.
• Applications for RTRI support on the Prairies will be accepted through PrairiesCan’s web portal as of September 15, 2025.
Associated links
• Prairies Economic Development Canada
The Manitoba government has opened a special intake for livestock water supply development. The high-level program details that follow are from the Manitoba Agriculture website.
For full details, including a link to the application form, see: https://www.gov.mb.ca/scap/climatechange/sustai nableagr/livestock-water-supply.html
The “Frequently Asked Questions” document about the program is also provided in this edition of the enewsletter.
BMP 4700: 2025
• Own land where the project will be executed or have permission from the landowner to execute the project.
• Have a Manitoba Premises Identification number.
• Have a valid Statement of Completion for an Environmental Farm Plan at time of project claim.
Special Intake – Livestock Water Supply
Applications will be accepted on a first-come, firstserved basis until available funding is allocated. Program guidelines are new for this intake. Please review carefully to ensure eligibility before applying.
The 2025 Special Intake: Livestock Water Supply intake supports livestock producers in accessing new or expanding existing water supplies during prolonged periods of dry conditions.
Intake Information
The intake for this program is currently open; funding requests will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis from August 21, 2025, until available funding has been allocated.
This intake is exclusively for livestock producers in specific areas impacted by dry conditions. To be eligible, livestock producers must:
• Manage agricultural land used to produce agricultural products. Hobby farms are not eligible.
The land location(s) for the project must be within a Municipality, Northern Affairs Community or First Nation within a Designated Region as identified by AAFC's 2025 Livestock Tax Deferral Provision. A list of Designated Regions is available on AAFC's website. If you are unsure of your eligibility, please contact us at agriculture@gov.mb.ca or 1-800-8114411.
Beneficial Management Practice (BMP) Summary Establish new or expand existing water supply for agricultural use by installing infrastructure.
• Wells: drilling new or deepening/extending existing, plus test hole drilling, screening, casing, well caps, etc.
• Dugouts: constructing new or rehabilitating existing dugouts.
• Associated components and actions: purchase and installation of pipe, plumbing and electrical, trenching, earthworks, etc.
• Permanent pipeline development: pipelines below the frost line OR shallow/above ground pipelines (pipelines above the frost line) that can be winterized, pipe, plumbing materials, trenching, earthworks, etc.
The following type of expenses are eligible for funding:
• Incremental Personal Labour
• Incremental Personal Equipment Use
• Subcontracted Services
• Professional Fees
• Capital Assets and Equipment
• Equipment Rental
• Materials and Supplies
Review the Program Guide for complete details on eligible and ineligible expenses.
• All projects shall start April 1, 2025, or later.
• Project activities and all reports must be completed by December 12, 2025.
• BMP 4700 has a cost share ratio of 50 per cent government, 50 per cent applicant, and a BMP funding cap of $15,000 per applicant.
• Producers that were previously approved for Sustainable Agriculture Manitoba - BMP 4700 are eligible for up to an additional $15,000 under the 2025 Special IntakeLivestock Water Supply for new projects.
Q. Who is eligible?
A. This intake is for livestock producers experiencing water supply shortages caused by dry conditions in specific eligible areas across agri-Manitoba.
The land location(s) for the project must be within a Municipality, Northern Affairs Community or First Nation within a Designated Region as identified by AAFC’s 2025 Livestock Tax Deferral Provision. A list of Designated Regions is available on AAFC’s website.
If you are unsure of your eligibility, contact us at agriculture@gov.mb.ca or 1-800-811-4411.
Q. How do I apply?
A: Application forms and program details can be found on the Special Intake webpage at BMP 4700: 2025 Special Intake. Applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis, reviewed weekly and subject to the eligibility of submitted expenses and available funding. For eligibility criteria, refer to the BMP 4700: 2025 Special Intake – Livestock Water Supply Program Guide
Q. What is the cost share and cap?
BMP 4700: 2025 Special Intake – Livestock Water Supply has a cost share ratio of 50 per cent government, 50 per cent applicant, and a BMP funding cap of $15,000 per applicant.
Q. Can I apply more than once?
Eligible applicants may submit one (1) application for this intake, which may include multiple locations or projects within the same application. Regardless of the number of locations included in an application, the total funding cap will remain at $15,000.
Q. If I have already completed a water supply project, am I eligible?
A: Any projects for water supply occurring after April 1, 2025, are eligible. Producers that were previously approved for Sustainable Agriculture Manitoba BMP 4700 Water Supply are eligible for up to an additional $15,000 under the 2025 Special Intake – Livestock Water Supply for new projects
Q. When do I have to complete my project by?
A: Projects must be completed and claims submitted by December 12, 2025.
Q. Do I need a valid Environmental Farm Plan Statement of Completion?
A: You may submit an application without a valid Statement of Completion; however, you will be required to have one when you submit the claim to be reimbursed. To complete your Environmental Farm Plan, please visit https://online.manitobaefp.ca/
Q. Are confined livestock operations eligible?
A: Yes. All livestock operations in need of water are eligible to apply provided they are located within the eligible areas.
Q. Do I have to dig a dugout to a specific size?
A: All dugout work, including new construction or rehabilitation of an existing location, should follow the Dugout Construction Guidelines. See Appendix A below.
Q. Can I drill a new well in my yard?
A: Drilling a well in a farmyard is eligible if it will be used for watering livestock and is the most cost-efficient means of doing so.
Q. Do I need any permits?
A: Applicants must meet all regulatory requirements. This may include:
- a water rights license from Environment and Climate Change, which is required for all livestock operations extracting more than 25,000 litres (25m3 or 5,499 Imperial gallons) per day. If developing a new water source, a permit must be obtained in advance of work beginning.
- approvals from the rural municipality or Crown.
- any other standards or approvals as required by law.
- For details on regulatory requirements, please visit: Licensing, Regulation and Policy, Manitoba government Groundwater and Wells, Manitoba government Drainage & Water Control, Manitoba government
Q. Can I pipe water from an existing water source into a dugout that has run dry?
A: No. Piping or hauling from a water source (well, dugout or wetland) into a dugout that has run dry is not eligible. However, piping from a water source to an alternate watering system is eligible.
Q. How deep does the pipeline need to be?
A: Shallow or above-ground pipelines (including those above the frost line) that cannot be winterized are ineligible. Projects must be for permanent solutions only. Summer pasture pipelines permanently installed underground and those which are able to be winterized before freezing, are eligible.
Q. Can I apply for a project on a pasture that I rent?
A: Yes. Either the landowner or renter can apply. If the renter applies, they must identify the landowner and provide contact information as part of the project description. This includes pasture on Crown Land.
Q. If I have more questions, who can I contact?
A: Livestock producers can call the toll-free line 1-800-811-4411 or send an email to Sustainable CAP - Program Administration at agriculture@gov.mb.ca
Other related information
- Dugout Construction Guideline – see Appendix A below
- Program Guide
- Program Webpage
- Eligible Designated Regions - AAFC 2025 Livestock Tax Deferral Provision
- Licensing, Regulation and Policy, Manitoba government
- Groundwater and Wells, Manitoba government
- Drainage & Water Control, Manitoba government
- Exclusion fencing is recommended but not required:
• Exclusion fencing ensures that livestock are restricted from direct access to the dugout, protecting against manure contaminated runoff and drowning.
• Exclusion fencing should be a minimum of 15m (50’) from the edge of the dugout.
- Dugout location:
• The dugout should be far enough away from any stream, river or creek as to not compromise bank stability or impact the riparian area.
- Dugout construction:
• End slopes and side slopes should be no steeper than 1.5:1.
• Dugout edge should be stabilized (by excavator) during construction.
- Dugout sizing:
• In order to build resilience into your farm, dugouts should be sized for drought proof standards by accounting for more than one season’s worth of water.
• Dimensions can be calculated using this Dugout Volume Calculator
- Alternate water system components:
• Troughs / tanks should supply a minimum of one day’s water usage based on 15 imp gal/ head/day
Producers facing feed shortages due to poor hay production are encouraged to explore all available options including assessing the economic viability of harvesting hay on marginal Crown land. With calf prices at record highs, optimizing feeding strategies is essential to avoid sacrificing valuable weight gain.
Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs)
WMAs and wildlife-coded parcels are currently available for casual haying and grazing permits, based on habitat management plans. Each year, agriculture and wildlife teams work together to align these permits with ecological objectives, ensuring responsible use of the land.
As of July 31, 2025, some WMA parcels remain available for casual permit.
WMAs are one tool in our broader response to feed shortages. While not a complete solution, they can provide valuable support to some producers during challenging conditions.
Agricultural Crown Lands (ACL)
Standard Agricultural Crown Land parcels are available for casual permit.
ACL permits are managed to support agricultural use while maintaining land health and productivity. Casual use of ACL parcels is facilitated through a permit system that allows short-term access for haying and grazing, providing flexibility for producers responding to feed shortages.
Interested producers can:
1) Refer to Manitoba’s Wildlife Management Area Map to locate WMAs.
2) Contact the local Agricultural Crown Lands Farm Production Extension Specialists for available parcels.
Managing Dry Conditions and Drought information on managing crops and livestock, farm management calculators, financial assistance programs, monitoring and seasonal reports and mental health and wellness resources.
Hay Listing information on hay for sale and to list hay available for purchase
Livestock Webpage information on what’s new, resources and upcoming events.
Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) information on insurance and program assistance. Contact your MB Agriculture / MASC Service Centre for program details, including recently announced support measures to aid Manitoba’s livestock producers affected by drought conditions.
Seasonal Reports seasonal updates that pertain to crop and forage production.
Weather Conditions and Reports year round data from over 100 weather stations across agro-Manitoba that monitor air temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, precipitation, wind speed and direction, solar radiation, soil temperature, and soil moisture.
For more information, contact the department: Online: www.manitoba.ca/agriculture
Email: agriculture@gov.mb.ca
Phone: 1-844-769-6224
You cannot manage what you don’t measure. Feed testing is critically important to ensure your herd’s nutritional requirements are being met to support production. Feed testing and ration balancing also helps prevent costly overfeeding. Check out this resource from the Beef Cattle Research Council:
https://www.beefresearch.ca/blog/feed-testinga-tool-for-better-returns/
When faced with reduced supplies of good quality hay due drought, many producers seek alternative feeds for their livestock. While these alternative feed sources can offer flexibility, feed testing and advice from a livestock nutritionist is recommended to ensure nutritional requirements of the type of cattle being fed are met. Check out the following resource from the Beef Cattle Research Council for considerations when using alternative feeds:
https://www.beefresearch.ca/topics/alternative -feeds/
Alternative or non-conventional feeds can be an economical means for beef cattle producers to supplement forage and grain inventories.
However, due to variability in the supply, nutrient composition and quality of these feed ingredients, there can be pitfalls if not properly managed. Have a listen to this episode of the Canadian Beef Cattle Podcast for tips on making use of different alternative feeds:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0hsfECxYMsb 0ta0JHwon67?go=1&sp_cid=a2b2ebaa1e65940f def68f683c932de9&utm_source=embed_player _p&utm_medium=desktop&nd=1&dlsi=adc2a2 537f324cf6
New to feed testing and ration balancing? Feed testing and ration balancing are good practice normally but are even more important in times of feed shortages and when making use of alternative feed sources. The following link is your one stop shop for information and instructions on feed testing including how to take and submit a sample, and how to interpret the results:
https://www.beefresearch.ca/tools/feedtesting-analysis-for-beef-cattle/
When considering salvaging crops for feed, beef producers need to consider accessibility, availability, yield, transport costs, potential antinutritional factors or other animal health impacts, and feed quality. The value of crops for livestock feeds calculator was developed to help beef producers work with their neighbors to determine a value for salvaged crops.
https://view.officeapps.live.com/op/view.aspx?s rc=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.beefresearch.ca%2Fc ontent%2Fuploads%2F2022%2F04%2FValue_of _Crop_for_Feed_locked.xlsx&wdOrigin=BROWS ELINK