Ranchers Only

Ranchers only meeting Manitoba ranches are encountering the “perfect storm” with low calf prices, high input costs and feed shortages. This meeting is intended to frankly discuss the issues, options, and plan for the future. ___________

Cow-Calf Budget and Alfalfa Budget Explore the MAFRI budgets considering escalated input costs. Ray Bittner, Farm Production Advisor— MAFRI

AgriStability and APP Learn about 2008 AgriStability Interim Payments and the Advance Payments Program.

Dean Stoyanowski, Farm Production Advisor— MAFRI & Agri-Food Canada Representatives

Dates & Locations: September 17 Eriksdale 7:00 pm (Memorial Community Centre on Railway Avenue)

September 18 Moosehorn 8:00 am (Moosehorn Community Hall)

Riverton 7:00 pm (Riverton Curling Club—Top Floor)

September 19 Fisher Branch 8:00am (Fisher Branch Community Centre Hall)

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For more information:

Ashern GO Centre (204) 768-2782 Sponsored by:

Interlake Beef Farm Survival Model Work through a typical beef scenario of expenses and debt considerations and discuss the options.

Grant Palmer, Business Development Specialist— MAFRI

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August 24, 2008 NEW ASSISTANCE PROGRAM TO HELP FLOODED FARMERS --Program Responds to Feed Shortages Across Province: Wowchuk ARBORG After touring flood-affected areas of the Interlake today and seeing first-hand the significant challenges posed by overland flooding, deputy premier Rosann Wowchuk committed to help farmers cope with the loss of many hay crops due to excessive rains, overland flooding and drought. “Many areas of the province, particularly the Interlake region, have had significant levels of rain this summer while others have been excessively dry, both of which have decimated many hay crops,” said Wowchuk. “Either the hay has been ruined or it’s so wet producers can't access the hay they've already baled. Today, we are committing to help these producers access feed and connect them with producers fortunate enough to get a hay crop off their fields.” Wowchuk committed to establishing a Manitoba Forage Assistance Program (MFAP) which will provide financial assistance to help producers access feed supplies and will mirror the program provided in response to drought conditions in 2003 which assisted producers in meeting a feed shortage that year. The program will apply across the province and is open to all Manitoba producers having to transport feed supplies unusually long distances or needing to move cattle unusually long distances in order to access feed. It will be available to producers experiencing feed shortages, whether from flooding or drought. Application forms will soon be available at all agricultural offices and online. Full program terms, conditions and application forms will be available on the government website in early September. Flood watches and warnings issued by Manitoba Water Stewardship for the Interlake and Westman regions have ended. However, overland flooding is expected to continue for approximately four more days. The effect of recent storms has been very pronounced in the Interlake region. Rainfall was above average in May and June and was twice the average in July, which has contributed greatly to run-off and flooding of low-lying areas.

Coping With Farming Pressures With the high amount of rain fall we’ve been experiencing recently, the demands of farming can cause the family a great deal of pressure and stress. Farming is not only an occupation but it is a way of life. The entire family feels the pressure of farm life. Because the potential for problems is so high and because we deal with things out of our control, families must identify ways of coping and dealing with the stress. Talk It Out. In many cases lack of communication within the family unit is a major cause of the stress. Escape For Awhile. Whatever the pressure or weight of the workload, taking a break to escape it can help to relieve stress. Give In Occasionally. In times of stress you may find yourself getting into quarrels with your family or neighbours. Even if you are right, once and awhile give in. Take One Thing At A Time. During seeding and harvest people are under tension because the workload is so great and they are so fatigued. Remember it is only temporary and you can work your way out of it. Shun The “Superman” Urge. Many times people expect too much of themselves. Ask for help if you need it. The Farm & Rural Stress Line is answered by professional counsellors with farming backgrounds and strong rural identities. All calls are confidential. We do not subscribe to call display. Call us toll free at 1-866-FOR-FARM (1-866-367-3276) - Monday to Friday 10 am - 9 pm, Saturdays 12 - 5 pm.