Headlines

Income Splitting Rules: How to Make the Most of Your Taxes
Incoming splitting can be used by high-income individuals, called “source individuals” by CRA, to divert their income to specified family members with lower personal tax rates, explains Christopher Doody, a CRA spokesperson. Learn More

Water Availability Engagement
The province wants to hear Albertans' thoughts on opportunities or barriers that can be addressed to enhance the water management system in Alberta and make more water available to use for years to come. Population growth, economic growth, and water variability are challenging the water management system in Alberta. New or updated policy and regulatory tools could be used to increase water availability for Albertans and optimize the water management system to better address these issues while continuing to protect the aquatic environment. The deadline to participate is January 10, 2025. Learn More

Helping Kids Lead with Heart, Heard, Hands and Health
A new investment in 4-H Alberta will offer the province's youth new opportunities to get into agriculture.
Through Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) funding, the governments of Canada and Alberta are investing more than $731,000 over five years for three 4-H Alberta programs. The Intro to 4-H program, the Agriculture Safety and Mental Health Workshop and the Senior Spring Symposium will benefit from the funding. More Here

Managing Fusarium in Cereals
Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a fungal disease of wheat (including durum), barley, oats, other small cereals grains and corn.
When FHB infects cereal crops, it can produce mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON), commonly known as vomitoxin. as most importing countries have strict maximum limits of DON in grain, the presence of DON restricts the grain's end uses and marketing potential. Learn More

3 Ways to Respond to the New Canadian Food and Beverage Processing Landscape
The entire value chain endured a global pandemic and, as an industry, continues to recover. As a result, we need to be responsive to a very different Canadian consumer.
High levels of inflation mean those now shopping for food and beverages are more value conscious. As well, the amount of people purchasing food and beverage products in Canada has changed significantly. According to Statistics Canada, our population increased 7.5%  since Q1 of 2020. More Here

Raising Heifers for Reproductive Success
During the BCRC's recent webinar, Raising Heifers for Reproductive Success, Dr. Elizabeth Homerosky and Southern Alberta Rancher Stephen Hughes emphasized the significance of making informed decisions regarding heifer development.
Dr. Homerosky highlighted that whether the heifers are purchased or home-raised, they represent a substantial investment for the ranch. She discussed a few common production practices that have been proven to enhance the profitability of herds in North America. She then explained how this information can be used to formulate strategies to improve the efficiencies of heifers and transform them into cost-effective cows in the future. Watch the Webinar

Register Now for the BCRC's 2025 Winter Webinar Series
This year’s Beef Cattle Research Council webinar series will cover topics focused on improving the health and biosecurity of Canadian beef herds based on practical, science-based information for Canadian beef producers and veterinary teams. Topics include need-to-know information for Foot and Mouth Disease prevention as well as parasite control management. The first webinar will be held  January 15, 2025. Find detailed descriptions at BeefResearch.ca.

Farm Strong: Mental Health and Resilience Strategies for Farming Families
In the demanding world of agriculture, learn how mental health and resilience are essential for personal well-being and the farm's success. More Here

Take Advantage of CAHRC's Online Learning Opportunities
Courses include:
HR Management in Agriculture - Equip yourself with the essential HR management skills tailored for the agriculture sector.
On-the-Job Training Course - Learn effective on-the-job training techniques to boost productivity and skill development.
Welcome to Canadian Agriculture - Get an insightful introduction to the Canadian agriculture industry, its scope, and opportunities.
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility - Discover strategies to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment.

Women in Ag Awards
Women play a crucial role in Alberta’s agriculture, ranching and agribusiness sectors, making significant contributions that drive the industry forward. AFSC’s Women in Ag Award celebrates and honours these inspiring women who are breaking barriers, championing innovation, and leading with passion.
This year, AFSC will recognize up to nine individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the advancement of women in Alberta’s agriculture and food sector. AFSC will also recognize up to one AFSC team member.
Nominations close January 6, 2025. Learn more and nominate a deserving woman

Rotary East Ag Scholarship
Agriculture and the agrifood industry are the engines that drives southern Alberta's economy. They encompass extensive cattle ranching to intensive irrigation of row crops and the value-added processing of a diverse range of food products.
The 2025 Rotary Club of Lethbridge East Agricultural Scholarships are southern Alberta's most coveted awards for post-secondary undergraduate agriculture students. At least two scholarships, valued at $10,000 each, will be awarded to the successful applicant(s).
This scholarship exemplifies how individuals and organizations can support the future economy of southern Alberta. Applicants must apply before January 31, 2025. More Here

Announcing the 2024 4-H Alberta Hall of Fame Inductee
4-H Alberta proudly announces the induction of Arlene Good into the 4-H Alberta Hall of Fame for 2024. This distinguished recognition celebrates Arlene's enduring contributions and leadership within the 4-H program, impacting countless members and leaders across Alberta. More Here

Bale Feeding Options: Pros and Cons of Common Strategies
Bale feeding is common across Canada for all classes of cattle especially during winter months. There are many different management strategies to deliver bales as feed. To help you determine the best option for you and your cattle, learn the pros and cons of three common bale feeding strategies. More Here

Make Your Herd Records Work For You
In beef production, genetics play a critical role in both management and profitability. Regardless of the size of your operation or whether you are a commercial or purebred breeder, keeping records is an important part of managing your herd genetics. More Here

NRCB Online Application System Now Available
The Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) has launched a new interactive online application system for applications under the Agricultural Operation Practices Act.
Now, you can easily apply online for permits to construct or modify confined feeding operations, manure storage facilities or manure collection areas.
The online application system is just one more way to apply for a permit. You can also still submit your application by email or mail, by dropping it off at an NRCB office, or by just handing it to an NRCB approval officer when they visit your site. As always, approval officers are available to answer any questions you may have. Apply Here

Adaptive Winter Grazing Strategies
Extended grazing can play a key role in lowering feed costs and can have positive benefits for the health of the land. Some of these benefits include more even manure distribution across fields, less corral cleaning, improved soil fertility and overall reduced fuel use of the operation. More Here

Biosecurity and Livestock
All livestock and poultry producers should have biosecurity plans tailored to their specific operations.
Producers are encouraged to work with industry organizations, veterinarians and other animal health professionals in developing their plans. All farm staff and anyone living on the farm need to understand the importance of biosecurity and follow biosecurity protocols. More Here

Digging in with UFA - Carbon tax
This episode examines the impact of the carbon tax on producers, particularly in the prairie provinces. The carbon tax has led to higher operating costs for farmers, including increased expenses for fuel, heating and transportation. These costs can significantly impact the profitability of farms, especially smaller operations. Producers often cannot pass on the increased costs to consumers due to the competitive nature of agricultural markets and this means that additional expenses from the carbon tax directly affect their bottom line. More Here

Record Inspections to Keep Invasive Mussels Out
Alberta inspected a record number of boats and other watercraft in 2024 to help keep the province zebra and quagga mussel free.
This spring, Alberta identified a rising risk of invasive mussels entering the province. Reports of the invasive mussels were increasing across Canada and the United States, as tiny species can be easily spread through boats and other watercraft. These mussels rapidly damage waterways and infrastructure, destroy habitats and can cause hundreds of millions in damages. More Here

How to Request a Final Quality Determination
If you disagree with a licensed primary elevator's assessment of your grain, you have the right to ask for a Final Quality Determination (formerly known as Subject to Inspector's Grade and Dockage) from the Canadian Grain Commission.
You can request a Final Quality Determination of your grain's official grade or any individual grading factor, including moisture, protein and dockage. Learn More

Nothing Replaces Boots in the Field
The 2024 insect survey maps have been posted for viewing on alberta.ca.
Each year surveyors set out to sweep net and soil sample to gather information for insect survey and population maps in Alberta. More Here

What Were the Worst Canola Yield Robbers in 2024
The Western Forum on Pest Management brought together crop disease and insect specialists from across the Prairies. Many reports delivered at the forum are based on field surveys and insect traps, which rely on farmers giving permission to survey fields. Find the Report Here

Overextended Grazing
This podcast features a University of Saskatchewan research trial that used high-moisture corn grain, snaplage or silage to partially replace barley grain or silage in finishing diets. Learn More

Invasive Wild Pigs Indigenous Online Engagement Sessions
On behalf of the Canadian Council on Invasive and Animal Health Canada, join Alberta Pork for an online session to provide your input on a national wild pig strategy. There will also be the sharing of information on invasive wild pigs, including how to identify them, and the potential threats they pose to your lands and interests. More Here

Business Plan Boot Camp: Best Practices for Risk Identification
In the second of a five-part business planning series, learn best practices to identify and evaluate risks to your operation. Watch Here

AgriStability Changes on the Way to Reduce Filing Burden and Increase Dependability and Predictability
AgriStability is known as a low-cost risk management program where coverage is based on individual farm history. At the same time, AgriStability is also viewed as a complex program that requires detailed record-keeping and associated professional fees. It is also viewed as being slow to pay.
However, changes are on the way that will reduce the filing burden, increase dependability and predictability, and result in files being processed sooner. Learn More

Deliver What You Declare
Keep it Clean reminds growers to deliver what you declare to help keep markets open for Canadian grain.
When you sign the mandatory Declaration of Eligibility affidavit, you are making a legal assertation that your crop is the variety and/or class you have designated and that it was not treated with the crop input products specified in the declaration. More Here

Farm Cash Receipts, January to September 2024
Statistics Canada reports farm cash receipts for Canadian farmers totalled $70.6 billion for the first three quarters of 2024, down 3.0% (-$2.2 billion) from the same period in 2023. Receipts for crops (-$3.8 billion) and program payments (-$51.2 million) fell, while receipts for livestock (+$1.7 billion) rose. Learn More

Be Mindful of Cattle Mineral Requirements
As winter feeding begins, a reminder to cattle producers to be mindful of cattle mineral requirements. The Beef Cattle Research Council says high quality forage-based rations (such as alfalfa/grass) typically require a 1:1 calcium-to-phosphorus ratio to meet cattle requirements. In comparison, grain-based rations (including greenfeed) often require a 2:1 or 3:1 calcium-to-phosphorus balance. More Here, And Here

Understanding Energy Requirements
Understanding how energy requirements change throughout the production cycle is key to managing cow condition and feed throughout the year. Body condition scoring cows before winter hits allows time to plan for different management groups. Learn More

Cutting Red Tape in Tax Credit Program
Changes to the Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit program allow registered partnerships to apply with a single application and investment. Learn More

Funding Updates 

4-H Alberta Grassroots Fund
Through this fund, any new or existing 4-H Alberta sanctioned club can apply for up to $300 to be used to support activities, programs, events or initiatives that fall into the areas of Agriculture/Agri-Food, Education and Outreach, and Community Well-Being. Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis until all funds are allotted.
The application deadline is December 20. Learn more and apply

This Giving Season, Earn up to $5,000 in Match Funding Through Crowdfunding Alberta
With the giving season right around the corner, now is the perfect time to get started on your first or next Crowdfunding Alberta campaign. Crowdfunding Alberta is an online fundraising program developed specifically for Alberta’s non-profit/voluntary sector organizations, such as agricultural societies. Through Crowdfunding Alberta, 50% of donations made to campaigns, within eight weeks of launching online, will be matched by government up to $5,000 per organization per year (April 1 – March 31). Learn More

Better Community Drought and Flood Protection
Drought conditions affected parts of the province this summer, while other communities have faced flooding in recent years. Building the local infrastructure needed to protect residents, property and critical infrastructure is costly, but necessary.
To help, more than $19 million is now available through the Drought and Flood Protection Program to help communities build the infrastructure they need. This is part of the five-year, $125-million program that’s helping municipalities and First Nations protect critical infrastructure from flooding and drought and improve public safety. Learn More

Alberta Export Expansion Program (AEEP) Accepting Applications
AEEP funding helps Alberta export-ready small- and medium-sized enterprises, industry associations, Indigenous organizations and economic development organizations, enhance access to international markets and attract global buyers. Apply Here

On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF) Re-opens for a Limited Number of Applications
After reviewing and approving more than 1,000 applications, RDAR recently announced the re-opening of the 2024 OFCAF program for an additional intake of 150 funding applications. The new intake will fulfill RDAR’s commitment to distributing all available OFCAF funds to Alberta producers, enabling them to adopt impactful, sustainable changes on their farms and ranches. More Here, ARGO online application system

Funding Opportunities
Curious which funding stream is right for you?
RDAR currently has two opportunities open to access funding:
•    Accelerating Agricultural Innovations 2.0
•    Producer Research and Evaluation Program
Learn more about RDAR funding opportunities here

Grant Funding for Alberta Producers
Alberta producers, processors and organizations who are looking to secure funding for an upcoming project through Sustainable CAP should be mindful of where they are getting information. Learn More Here

New Sustainable Agricultural Partnership program
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership has launched a new program called the On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP). OFEP was created by combining the past Farm Technology Program and Efficient Grain Handling Program, along with some new opportunities that were selected in response to industry feedback collected in the fall of 2023. The intent of the On-Farm Efficiency Program is to support producers in achieving environmental benefits by improving the efficient use of agricultural inputs. The Program funds primary producers to carry out projects that optimize the use of inputs such as fertilizer, pesticides and energy. When inputs reach their targets with precision, it is a win-win for producers and the environment: producers save money, fewer inputs are applied off-target, and fewer emissions are released to the atmosphere. This program has four Streams. An applicant may apply to any or all of the Program Streams:

• Smart Farm Technology
• Energy Efficiency
• Farm Security
• Efficient Grain Handling

The program opened for applications on August 14, 2024 and funding is retroactive to April 1, 2023. Eligible expenses are funded at a cost-share rate of 50%. The funding maximum per applicant is $150,000 over the duration of the Program (2023-2028). The maximum funding per Stream over the duration of the Program is: $50,000 for Smart Farm Technology, $50,000 for Energy Efficiency, $2,000 for Farm Security, and $100,000 for Efficient Grain Handling. For some Eligible Items, there is a maximum grant stated in the Funding List.

While on the Sustainable CAP website go to the bottom of the home page, enter your email, and click ‘send’ to start receiving regular Sustainable CAP updates. Please visit the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership page for program information, including how to apply. 

Agriculture Labour Task Force Grant Program 
This grant supports producers and processors recruit, hire, and retain workers in the agriculture and agri-food industry. Two grant streams are available. One to improve awareness of related careers and another to support improving HR practices and capacity. Find out more.

AgriDiversity Program
The AgriDiversity Program aims to help under-represented groups in Canadian agriculture, including youth, women, Indigenous Peoples, and persons with disabilities, to fully participate in the sector by helping these groups address the key issues and barriers they often face for sector participation. Find out more.

4 Key Details to Know About Venture Capital Funding
What food and beverage processors need to know about accessing funds through venture capital funding. Learn More

Producer Research and Evaluation Program
RDAR's Producer Research and Evaluation Program (PREP) was created to support on-farm research allowing producers to evaluate emerging technologies, products and production practices. On-farm research will support new strategies to be tested within unique farm conditions and to support decision making with data advancing profitability, competitiveness and sustainability.
The maximum total funding available for PREP is $1 million in 2024 Learn more about RDAR funding

Sowing Seeds of Success for Future Farmers
Agriculture is essential to Alberta’s history, economy and future prosperity. Over the past 20 years, the number of young and middle-aged producers in agriculture has seen steep declines, while the number of farmers over 55 has increased. The province is aiming to help reverse that trend with changes to Agriculture Financial Services Corporation’s Next Generation Loan program (Next Gen). More Here

Enhancing the Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) program  
The governments of Alberta and Canada are enhancing the Verified Beef Production Plus (VBP+) program with a $1.9 million investment to support Alberta Beef Producers. Last year, beef was Alberta's largest agri-food export at $3.9 billion, making up 22 per cent of the province’s total. Under this initiative, farmers and ranchers can receive up to $5,000 for expenses that align their operations with VBP+ certification guidelines. Learn more 

Supporting Genomics Innovation in Alberta
New funding from the province will support cutting-edge genomics research in health, agriculture and environmental technology. The province is investing $15 million over three years into Genome Alberta, a not-for-profit research funding organization working toward a better future through genomic innovation. Read More Here

Protecting Communities from Drought and Floods
Drought and floods can damage homes and businesses, disrupt critical infrastructure and, in extreme scenarios, pose a serious threat to public safety. In recent years, the impacts of drought and flooding have been felt across Alberta. More Here - Drought and Flood Protection Program

Labour Resources

Dive into issue #6 of AgriWorkforce Matters
"It’s harvest time for many of you, and as we edge away from the warmer months of summer and into the cooler days and nights of fall, we know that soon Canadians from every region will be gathering at Thanksgiving tables laden with the fruits (and every other kind of food) of your labour." - Jennifer Wright, Executive Director Read it Here

2024 Survey of Compensation Practices in Canadian Agriculture - Executive Summary Report
Across Canada, the highly competitive nature of the talent marketplace has made it an increasingly difficult landscape for agricultural producers to navigate. This salary survey and human resource benchmarking initiative equips producers with relevant and practical data resources to better compete in today’s workplace. More Here

Free Counselling Sessions
Farming is 24-7-365, but you don't have to handle it alone. Get support from AgKnow's farm-informed counsellors and get up to four free counselling sessions. This program covers counselling sessions for farmers, their families, farm employees, veterinarians and registered veterinarian technicians. Learn more and book a counselling session.

Student Work Placement Program (SWPP)
Growing Opportunities through the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) is available. Visit the SWPP Application Page and complete the online application form. If you'd like to learn more about SWPP, including eligibility criteria and detailed program information, please visit the website. For any questions or additional information, reach out to Megan Lockhart at mlockhart@cahrc-ccrha.ca. 

Phase 2 of the Recognized Employer Pilot under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Employers are now able to submit applications for positions on Service Canada’s Phase 2 Recognized Employer Pilot (REP) occupations list. These 84 occupations are in high-demand and show shortage conditions based on the Canadian Occupational Projection System assessment of recent labour market conditions (2019-2021). The deadline to submit applications to become a recognized employer is September 16, 2024, however recognized employers will continue to have access to simplified applications for the 84 designated occupations until the end of the pilot on December 31, 2026. If you have questions on the REP, please visit Canada.ca or contact the Employer Contact Centre. 

Health and Safety on Alberta Farms and Ranches
A guide to rights and obligations for farmers and workers under Alberta's OHS legislation. Provides information about hazard identification and control, incident reporting and investigations.https://ohs-bstore.labour.alberta.ca/bp029 

AgSafe FarmSafe Plan Learning Program Launched
This is a free, self-paced learning program that introduces Alberta producers to health and safety fundamentals and explains how to apply this information to their specific operations. It was designed for both family farms and farms with employees. It will walk you through creating a farm-specific health and safety program, explain why these elements are needed, and support you in putting your farm’s health and safety program into action. Learn more and register.

If you have farm-specific health and safety questions or require support relating to health and safety on your farm, please contact AgSafe Alberta at info@agsafeab.ca.   You may be eligible for onsite farm visits and up to 10 hours of advisor support at no cost!

Agriculture Job Connector: https://www.alberta.ca/agriculture-job-connector.aspx 

We were pleased to launch our partnership with the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council at our Ag-Forum on February 21. For anyone interested in the HR toolkit, please use this QR code to gain access to the free HR Toolkit offered during the program.

Events, Webinars and Podcasts

FCC Events including Business Plan Boot Camp & Young Farmer Summit: https://www.fcc-fac.ca/en/knowledge/events.html

Agri-News online - www.alberta.ca/agri-news.aspx and upcoming events
Grazing Basics for Success Workshop Series
Harnessing Humics: A Webinar on Soil Health Innovations, virtual - December 16
Alberta Canola Grower Engagement Meetings, virtual - December 18
Sustaining Barley Webinar Series
Connecting Women in Agriculture: Managing HR on Family-Owned Farms, virtual - January 7
 Agronomy Update, virtual - January 14 & 15
Webinar Series for Beef Producers and Vet Teams begins January 15 - More Here
Nutrient Management Webinar Series
High Acid Hot Fill Workshop, virtual - February 13

Other Resources

• AgKnow: Alberta Farm Mental Health Network
• AgPal: Program and Service Finder
• Agriculture Canada: https://agriculture.canada.ca/. 
• AgriProfit$ Business analysis and research program
• AgriWorkforce Matters Magazine
• AgSafe Alberta
• Alberta Crop Protection Blue Book
• Alberta crop report
• Alberta Farm Mental Health Network
• Alberta Insect Pest Monitoring Network & Prairie Pest Monitoring Network
• Animal Farm Animal Care infographics
• BCRC Calculators
• Biosecurity and livestock Overview
• Breeding Cow Management
• Business Wide View: Your one stop shop: connecting farmers and ranchers
• Bull Management
• CALF 911 Resources
• Canada Brand
• Canadian Grain Commission - Producer Rights at Delivery
• CowBytes Ration-Balancing software 
• CropChoice$
• Farming the Web - buy or sell products, services or equipment
• FCC Benchmarking Tool
• Fire Bans and Advisories
• Forage U-Pick: An Interactive Forage Species Selection Tool
• Grain Grading Guide
• Grain harvest and export quality
• Keep it Clean! 2023 Product Advisory
• Moisture situation update
• My AAFC Account: Online services for the AgriStability and AgriInvest programs
• Nitrogen Rate Calculator
• Pasture 101
• Pulse Seed Rate Calculator on the Alberta Pulse Growers app
• Seeding Rate Calculator 
• Tools for Veterinarians (Beef Cattle)
• Web tool to find permits, licenses & approval information through the Canadian Food Inspection Agency
• Weekly crop market review
• Weekly livestock market review
• Yield Estimation Calculator from AFSC

As always, you can always find more agribusiness resources on our website: https://www.southeastalbertachamber.ca/agribusiness-resources/

If you know of someone who may be interested in the work we are doing and might be interested in investing in this work through membership, please feel free to refer them to us. You can also encourage others to subscribe to our agriculture updates through this page. We look forward to continuing our work with you and pushing for our collective priorities on your behalf.