April 2009
The Official ewsletter of the Canadian Bison Association
In this Issue:
President’s Message…….1
Executive Director’s
Message
.….....2
ew Business of Bison….3
Where Do Farmer Go
When They eed Help….4
BPA AGM 2009…………5
Premium Stock 2009……6
Great Spirit 2009……….7
CFIA compliance ………8
Cash Advance update…..8
Producer Support Bison
Registry…………………9
Market report ..…..10&11
Photo Contest…..……...12
Upcoming Events……...12
Directory Corrections...12
Inserts
Liliane Kot
Scholarship Information
Marketing fee information
The Bison Link is
published for the:
Canadian Bison
Association
#200 1660 Pasqua St
Box 3116
Regina, SK
S4P 3G7
Ph: 306-522-4766
Fax: 306-522-4768
www.canadianbison.ca
By:
Impact Printers
April 2009
PRESIDET’S MESSAGE - Mark Silzer
With the arrival of spring comes a new optimism. Like most springs, for many there are
great expectations for a bumper harvest,
plentiful pastures, abundant hay crops, great
calf crops and reasonable prices.
For agriculture this spring is also different.
As of April 1, 2009 there has been a sense of
cautious optimism as the federal government
announced its “Growing Forward” agricultural policy framework suite of programming to guide Canadian agriculture over the
next four years. Although only time will tell,
“Growing Forward” is a commitment to deliver programs by the federal and provincial
governments that are simple, more effective
and tailored to local needs.
Governments at the federal and provincial
levels are investing $1.3 billion over five
years into “Growing Forward” programming. The funding represents $330 million
more than the Agricultural Policy Framework (APF) and is cost-shared on a 60:40
basis between the Government of Canada
and the provincial and territorial governments.
The emphasis is on building a profitable agricultural sector through support for innovation and competitiveness, contributing to the
priorities of increasingly health-conscious
and environmentally aware Canadians, and
proactively managing risks in agriculture
through business risk management programs
that are more responsive, predictable and
bankable.
A focus on the pace of innovation to facilitate the adoption of new technologies may create opportunities for more
research in the bison industry
Enabling competitive enterprises and sectors through streamlined and harmonized regulations may assist in removing inter-provincial regulatory barriers
Increase industry capacity to exploit expanded markets may assist the bison
industry to further diversify its markets
Promotion of environmentally responsible agriculture may create opportunities
to highlight the environmental sustainability of bison production
The focus on providing assistance to the
agriculture sector meet the consumer
demands for health and wellness may
give additional profile to the bison industry
With the need to better manage the risks
through development and implementation of full-chain tracking and tracing
may result in resources for the bison
industry to further develop and complete its traceability plans
Providing tools that will allow producers
to manage business risk should result in
greater stability in producer’s incomes.
The Canadian Bison Association will evaluate and provide information to the industry
as programming becomes available. It is recognized that some of the programming will
come from the federal government while
other programs will be administered at the
provincial level. It is our goal to work with
the regional associations and their provincial
What does all this mean to the bison indus- governments as well as the federal governtry? At this time it is difficult to say but
ment to ensure that “Growing Forward” prothere are some programming areas of impor- gramming enhances the success and growth
tance including:
of the bison industry.
Page 1
BISO LIK
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT – Terry Kremeniuk
Canadian Bison Association
Box 3116
Regina, SK S4P 3G7
Phone: 306-522-4766
Fax: 306-522-4768
Www.canadianbison.ca
Executive Director:
Terry Kremeniuk
Phone: 306-522-4762
email: [email protected]
Office /Registry Coordinator:
Pauline Long-Wright
Phone: 306-522-4761
email: [email protected]
Office :
Judi Fisher
Phone: 306-522-4766
email: [email protected]
2008/2009
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRESIDET(SBA DIRECTOR)
Mark Silzer
Box 2773
Humboldt, SK
S0K 2A0
Ph: 306-682-4933
Fax: 306-682-2218
email: [email protected]
VICE PRES. (BPA DIRECTOR)
Glen Kjemhus
Box 2206
Hythe, AB
T0H 2C0
Ph: 780-356-2176
email: [email protected]
PAST PRES.(BPA DIRECTOR)
Tom Olson
Box 250
Bragg Creek, AB
T0L 0K0
Ph: 403-949-3949
Fax: 403-949-3947
email: [email protected]
TREASURER(MBA DIRECTOR)
Trevor Gompf
Box 301
Oak Lake, MB
ROM 1P0
Ph: 204-855-2727
email: [email protected]
April 2009
The profile of traceability in the farm sector has been elevated over the past number of years with the discovery of BSE and foot and mouth disease in Europe,
BSE in North America and more recently avian influenza in Canada. In Canada,
the ability to trace and isolate BSE and deal with potentially infected herds was
made much easier with the services of the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency
(CCIA). Because all cattle, bison and sheep must be identified with an approved
tag before they leave their herd of origin, isolating infected herds with diseases
such as BSE becomes much easier. Also experience has shown that if trade is interrupted because of an animal disease, resumption of trade will likely be much
more rapid if there is a traceability system. More rapid resumption of trade has
significant economic benefits to producers.
The Canadian Cattle Identification Agency recently celebrated its tenth anniversary in providing traceability services to the cattle, bison and sheep sectors. With
the focus of many countries on the ability to trace back agricultural products to
their origin, other Canadian livestock and poultry organizations have expressed an
interest in developing or enhancing their traceability systems. It is also anticipated
that traceability will be increasingly legislated from the farm to the retail outlet as
the demand for full movement tracking and other valuable information grows.
Recent developments legislating age verification and premises registration in Alberta is an indication of that trend. Quebec has legislated full traceability in the
cattle and sheep sectors. Other sectors such as hogs and cervids will also require
full traceability in Quebec in the near future.
Responding to the increased need for traceability services, CCIA has developed a
business plan that will expand the data traceability services offered to other sectors including pork, goat, poultry, and equine. To facilitate the involvement of
other sectors, it is proposed that a governance structure be developed for a new
agency. The new agency would be responsible for managing the national system
delivering traceability services under agreements with CCIA, hogs, sheep, equine
and other species requiring traceability services. Simply the various livestock and
poultry sectors would contract traceability services from this new organization.
This approach is expected to provide economies of scale that would be beneficial
to all who are participating. The new organization would be run by a skills-based
board.
There is much work to be done to achieve this new vision for traceability in Canada. In addition to developing the organizational infrastructure, the livestock and
poultry sectors must complete their traceability programs. All traceability programs require the identification of the livestock or poultry and the registration of
the premises so that eventually movement can be recorded. In the bison sector,
the animal identification process is complete. Bison producers have started registering their premises. Once all this is complete, and the technology is in place,
movement can then be recorded.
To further develop the traceability program nationally and for each sector requires
resources. Funding has been made available through the “Growing Forward” programs of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. The Canadian Bison Association
will be further developing its traceability plan and accessing funding to assist the
industry in moving towards full traceability.
Page 2
BISO LIK
The ew Business of Bison-George Gonzo-BPA
Every great recipe has all the necessary
ingredients for success. Growing and
nurturing the Bison industry to the benefit
of producers is no different, except as the
mix of ingredients keeps changing, the
Bison producers need to change as well.
At the workshops held at the recent Regional Meetings for the Bison Producers
of Alberta, the latest information in marketing, herd management, quality of the
carcass, industry updates and new forms
of communication were presented by an
outstanding line-up of speakers.
Key presenters included Tom Olson
(Chair of the Bison Producers of Alberta),
Terry Kremeniuk (Executive Director of
the CBA), Dr. Roy Lewis (Veterinarian
and Bison Producer), (Jayson Galbraith,
Bison Specialist with the Alberta Department of Agriculture), Dr. Sandra Honour
(Senior Manager of the new Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency), Dave Burdeck
(Manager of the Alberta Agricultural
Products Marketing Council), Richard
Heninger (Alberta Superintendent, Canadian Beef Grading Agency), Owen Brierley (Executive Director, Digital Arts College), Slavek Bernecki, President
(Bernecki Graphic Designs), and George
Gonzo (Marketing Director, Bison Producers of Alberta).
of Bison and why this information is of
value to consumers. Websites, properly
done, will help Producers communicate
this more effectively with their customers.
Good websites said Owen Brierley are
built upon what he termed, the “three
L’s.”
Live – a good website will aid in getting new information out to customers very quickly and most
cost effectively.
Layered – Good websites are built
upon a foundation of “layered
information” so that consumers
can “dig down deeper” into areas
that are most important and relevant to them.
Linked – effective websites are
“linked” to other relevant sites,
such as Associations, other producers, and point-of-sale sites.
Websites can be built either very cheaply
or can cost thousands of dollars. For a
basic, good functional website, he told
Producers, plan on spending about a thousand dollars.
Once the website is built, Owen Brierley
said, the real work is just beginning. Websites must be updated at least once per
month with new stories, pictures, events
Many of the Bison Producers who attended these Regional Workshops felt that and other information that will get people
there was “something for everyone” with to keep coming back for more.
such a varied and interesting line-up of
speakers. For those that were unable to
George Gonzo reminded Producers of the
be there, look for more articles in future
importance of developing new stories
editions of the Bison Link regarding the
valuable information presented – informa- based on information that is timely and
tion most Bison producers will find useful relevant to customers. You have to be
able to answer the question – “How good
and practical.
is your story..and how well do you tell it.”
Owen Brierley, Executive Director of the
Digital Arts College in Edmonton,
There will be more information on how to
stressed the need for Bison producers to
create “compelling stories” in the next
get “plugged in” to the new ‘wired’
issue of Bison Link.
world. Websites have become an integral
part of marketing and promotion, a way to George Gonzo
keep in touch and expand the Producer’s Director of Marketing
client base. At the end of the day, said
Bison Producers of Alberta
Owen, the Internet is all about a good
403-804-2064
story. Bison producers know the benefits Email: [email protected]
April 2009
Page 3
BPA DIRECTOR
Margaret Kellgren
RR # 3, Site 406, Box 1, Comp 1
Drayton Valley, AB
T7A 2A3
Ph: 780-542-5684
email: [email protected]
SBA DIRECTOR
Kurt Wigness
Box 11
Admiral, SK
S0 0B0
Ph: 306 297-6277
email: [email protected]
MBA DIRECTOR
Nolan Miller
Box 207
Biscarth, MB.R0J 0G0
Ph: 204-532-2350
email:[email protected]
OBA DIRECTOR
Bruce Mills
RR # 6
St. Mary’s, ON
N4X 1C8
Ph: 519-229-6316
Fax: 519-229-6564
email: [email protected]
OBA DIRECTOR
Todd Dowd
RR # 4
Lion’s Head, ON
N0H 1W0
Ph: 519-592-5010
Fax: 519-793-4312
email: [email protected]
QBU DIRECTOR
Gervais Bisson
750 Chemin Goshin
Windsor, QC
J1S 2L5
Ph: 819-845-2701
Fax: 819-845-2702
email: [email protected]
QBU DIRECTOR
Mme Raymonde Garant
Appalaches Safari Ranch Inc
176, St-Georges
St-Lazare-de-Bellechasse, QC
G0R 3J0
Ph. 418-883-2224
Fax 418-883-2225
[email protected]
www.chevaux.com
ITERATIOAL DIRECTOR
Dr. Gerald Parsons
Canadian River Bison
Box 557
Stratford, OK 74872
Ph. 580-759-3605
Fax: 580-759-3616
email: [email protected]
BISO LIK
Where do Farmers Go When They Need Help?
Farming and raising livestock can be very rewarding.
Why else do you do it? But taking a break, a vacation
or attending a wedding can be impossible. The demands are 24/7/52 and if the chores don’t get done,
there is a price to pay. But what if you get hurt? Who
do you call? You may have used up every favour the
neighbours owe you and now you owe him for the
last holiday you took.
sitter to work out the details. The insurance must be
carried by the farm or acreage and the terms of compensation are between the landowner and the farmsitter to negotiate.
Individuals registering as a farmsitter are retired
farmers, existing farmers with additional time on their
hands, students in Agricultural schools, individuals
with existing or previous farm skills, and people lookAs a farmer or acreage owner, the chores never go ing for opportunities to travel across Canada.
away. Livestock have to be fed, equipment has to be
maintained, and little emergencies have to be dealt Joe Nasedkin says; “We have created the perfect part
with. Taking a holiday, a sick day or even an injury time job. You can choose what you want to do; you
day is almost impossible.
choose when you are available and how far you
Typically, farmers rely on extended family members would be willing to travel to help someone.”
and neighbours to look after the farm during absences
or to pitch in during seasonal peak periods. But what AgriConnect has been offering this service in Alberta
if they are not available, where do they go for help?
since October 2007 and they are now officially offering the service throughout Western Canada. It should
Enter Farmsitters, a creation of Frank Campbell, now be available to the rest of Canada by the end of 2010.
available from AgriConnect. AgriConnect CorporaSince the data base is still growing, there are gaps
tion is offering a new service to Canadian farmers
around the provinces and so have not been able to
called “Farmsitters”, a labour pool of skilled, compe- fulfill every request, but they have given names to
tent and qualified individuals who are ready, able and over 100 of the requests to date.
willing to help farmers, ranchers and acreage owners.
AgriConnect’s mandate is to keep the service free to
AgriConnect has established a database of over 200 both the Farmer and the Farmsitter if possible, but
individuals from across Canada and overseas who they need industry support. Sponsors receive an ad on
want to help. Whether you need someone to help dur- the website plus recognition in trade show and maring harvest or calving season, to cut the grass, fix the keting materials.
fence, water the flowers and check the house for insurance compliance, AgriConnect can provide the The farming community is very loyal. “Farmers supnames. And best of all, the service is free to the farm- port the companies that support them; plain and simsitters and the farmers. How the Farmsitter is com- ple,” says Campbell.
pensated is up to the person requesting the sitter and
the terms are negotiated between them. It could be AgriConnect is looking for good corporate citizens
pay, barter or trade.
who see the necessity in supporting a vital part of the
Canadian economy. Without some much needed help,
Imagine, one phone number or web site to go to all the profession will suffer as farmers face exhaustion
across Canada if you can offer some help or if you and the possibility of losing younger generations to
need help on a farm or acreage. That is what Agri- more lucrative opportunities in the cities.
Connect is building. “We are building a network of
people willing to help people, the way it used to be Check out our website at www.agriconnect.com or
call us for more information. Frank Campbell, Presiyears ago,” says Campbell.
dent of AgriConnect can be reached at 1-888-470This is the only company of its kind in North Amer- AGRI (2474), and Joe Nasedkin, Manager of Sales
and Marketing can be reached 1-780-668-7281. Fax
ica that does matching of Farmers and Farmsitters.
780-460-5841
Once AgriConnect gives the landowner the names
and numbers, the landowner then contacts the farm-
April 2009
Page 4
BISO LIK
Bison Producers of Alberta forecast continued industry growth
and add additional expertise and youth to its Board
George Gonzo,Marketing Director, Bison Producers of Alberta
At the recent Bison Producers of Alberta Annual General Meeting held at Leduc, Alberta,
Chair Tom Olson provided an industry outlook
that forecasts a continued upward trend in market prices being paid for Bison.
The positive outlook for Bison is a reflection of
a strong consumer demand for a heart-healthy
red meat that is low in fat and cholesterol and
provides high protein and iron. Consumers are
looking for ‘natural food’, and as our Bison are
raised without antibiotics, hormones, and steroids – we can provide a meat without preservatives.
Four new Directors were also announced at the
AGM, further strengthening the Board of the
Bison Producers of Alberta.
Marvin Moore, a rancher and businessman, is
currently President of KLB Bison Ranch Inc.
His ranch operation is located in the Peace
River Region at DeBolt, Alberta, 60 kilometers
east of Grande Prairie.
Mr. Moore is the former Minister of
Agriculture for the Province of Alberta. He was elected to the Alberta
Legislature as MLA for Smoky
River in August of 1971 and helped
form the first Progressive Conservative Government in Alberta.
Marvin served in five different cabinet positions
from 1975 to 1989 including Agriculture, Municipal Affairs, Transportation, Hospitals and
Medical Care and Solicitor General.
When asked why he chose to serve on the
Board of the Bison Producers of Alberta, Mr.
Moore stated, “The Bison industry plays a key
role in the continued growth and diversification
of the entire Alberta Livestock and Meat Industry. I believe the BPA can play a greater role in
communicating the concerns and objectives of
Bison Producers to the Government of Alberta
and its agencies.”
April 2009
Page 5
Also new to the BPA Board are Ivan Smith,
Bison Producer and Businessman from Innisfail; Ms. Tara Lunzman, Bison Producer and
Meat Marketer from Bluffton; and Troy Hanson, Bison Producer from Valhalla Centre, Alberta.
Commenting on the election of the new Directors, Chair Tom Olson stated, “We welcome
this blend of experience and youth to the Board
and look forward to their fresh insights and contributions.”
In addition to BPA Chair, Tom Olson, incumbent Directors include: Gil Hegel, Bison Producer and Businessman from Valhalla Centre;
James Goransrud, Bison Rancher and local
businessman from Camrose; Margaret Kellgren,
Bison Producer and BPA Secretary/Treasurer
from Drayton Valley; and Bev Taylor, Bison
Producer and businesswoman from Vegreville.
Speaking as a Director of the Bison Producers
of Alberta, Bev Taylor said, “All the Directors
of the BPA are committed to the growth of the
Bison industry in Alberta, helping new entrants
to become part of this agricultural segment. We
feel it is important to provide insight and experience to other Livestock producers in Alberta who may wish to explore the possibility of
adding Bison to help provide diversification and
new revenue sources to their current operations.
Further information regarding the Bison Industry may be obtained from Linda Sautner, Office
Manager, Bison Producers of Alberta at 460361st Avenue, Leduc, Alberta – phone 780-9864100 - or by visiting the BPA website,
www.bisoncentre.com.
George Gonzo
Marketing Director
Bison Producers of Alberta
403-804-2064 or [email protected]
BISO LIK
2009 PREMIUM STOCK SHOW & SALE
The 2009 Premium Stock was a resounding success. The
high quality of the stock was reflected in the strong
prices. Bison producers from across the prairies both
consigned and bought animals. Judges Nolan Miller and
Wade Kot had their work cut out for them with the premium bison in all classes but did an excellent job. The
SBA thanks the judges for their time and effort. The
Kramer Family graciously provided their state of the art
auction facility for the auction and for the Friday night
awards social. Kramer Auctions Ltd. provides quality
professional service and the SBA thanks Neil and all the
Kramer family. This year the SBA AGM moved from a
fall event so as to be held in conjunction with the Premium Stock. The general consensus from the membership was favorable for the change. Attendance was up
from previous years. Many thanks to the generous sponsors of Premium Stock Show & Sale. Congratulations
to the Premium Stock Show & Sale Committee, Kurt
Wigness, Hubert Esquirol and Les Kroeger for a job
well done. Here are the show & sale results:
Breeding Stock Classes
2008 Bull Calves
Sponsor -Cavalier Agro
1st Place –Rioelta Bison Ranch Leo &Rita Schmaus sold for
$2750
2nd Place –Hollyrock Bison Tony Boldt sold for $1700
3rd Place –Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch Brad Ramstead sold for $2700
Average for the others in this class $1325/hd
2007 Yearling Bulls
Sponsor-Carmen Creek Gourmet
Meats
1st Place –Irish Creek Bison John & Joanne Dorey sold for
$6400
2nd Place Irish Creek Bison John & Joanne Dorey
sold for$4000
3rd Place –Coulee View Bison Wes Sander sold for $2000
Average for the others in this class $1943.75/hd
2008 Heifer Calves Pens of 3
Sponsor -Battlefords Tourism
3rd Place –Roaming K Bison Farm Dale & Laurie Kitzul
sold for $2850
Average for the others in this class $744/pen of 3
2007 Yearling Heifers Pens of 3
Sponsor-West Central Pelleting
1st Place – Roaming K Bison Farm
Dale & Laurie Kitzul sold for $5700
2nd Place – Kelsey Trails Bison Donald Kelsey
sold for $3300
3rd Place – Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Brad Ramstead sold for $5100
Average for the others in this class $1056.95/pen of 3
Premier Breeder
Sponsor -Bruno Feeds
Irish Creek Bison
Grand Champion Bull Sponsor -Wolverine Bison Company
#292 -2007 Yearling Bull-Irish Creek Bison
Reserve Grand Champion Bull
Sponsor -Wigness Bison
#311 -Bull Calf -Rioelta Bison Ranch
Commercial Feeder Classes
2008 Bulls Calves Pens of 5
Weyburn Inland Terminal
1st Place –XY Bison Ranch Ltd. Bill &Fay Bouffioux sold for
$4053.60 or $1.44/lb
2nd Place –Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Brad Ramstead sold for $4154 or $1.55/lb
3rd Place –Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch Brad Ramstead sold for $43355 or $1.6250/lb
2007 Yearling Heifers Pens of 5
Sponsor- Canadian Prairie Bison
1st Place –Mike Mrdjenovich sold for $5006.10 or $1.23/lb
2nd Place –Torch River Bison Greg Pagan sold for $3492.45or
$1.17/lb
2008 Heifer Calves Pens of 5
Sponsor -Ruthles Bison Ltd.
1st Place –Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Brad Ramstead sold for $3340.50 or $1.31/lb
2nd Place –Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Brad Ramstead sold for $3068 or $1.30/lb
3rd Place –White Mud Farms Ltd. Hubert Esquirol sold for
$2337 or $1.14/lb
1st Place –Hangin Maple Ranch Dave Belyk
sold for $3600
2nd Place –Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Brad Ramstead sold for $3750
SBA change of address
Due to the fact that post office where the SBA P.O. was located is closing down the mail has been
transferred to the Regina Post Office. New address for SBA is Box 31 Regina, SK. S4P 2Z5
This is effective immediately.
April 2009
Page 6
BISO LIK
GREAT SPIRIT SHOW & SALE 2009
The 11th Annual Great Spirit Show & Sale was
held April 4 & 5 in Brandon, MB at Heartland
Livestock Services.
On Saturday night the Bill Lenton Memorial
Award was also presented. This award is given in
the memory of Bill Lenton who was the first bison
producer in Manitoba and one of the Canadian pioThe dedicated committee of Nolan Miler, Jamie & neers of the industry. It is given to an individual or
Christa Lovas, Jamie Moran, Leonard Epp and
individuals who exemplify unselfish commitment
Trevor Gompf once again organized and excellent to the betterment and growth of the bison industryevent. Seminars were held at the Victoria Inn on
This years recipients were Garnet and Nora Gompf
the Saturday with the Awards and Fun Auction that of Bison Spirit Ranch, Oak Lake, MB
Evening. Judges Ivan Thompson and Wade Kot
had the difficult job of selecting the winners out a On Sunday the sale of the show bison and approxivery close quality group of animals. Here are the
mately 150 commercial bison to place. Here is a
list of winners
summary of the sale.
2006 Bull Class
1st Rockwood Bison
2nd Silver Creek Bison Ranch
3rd Rockwood Bison
4th Silver Creek Bison Ranch - People's Choice
5th Silver Creek Bison Ranch
Show Animals
2006 Bulls Average - $2279.17
High - $2600 Low - $1900
2007 Bull Class
1st Bison Spirit Ranch - GRAND CHAMPION
2nd Silver Creek Bison Ranch
3rd Lovas Bison Ranch
4th Antler River Ranches
5th Bison Spirit Ranch
2008 Bulls Average - $891.07
High - $1050 Low - $775
2007 Bulls Average - $1880
High - $3400 Low - $1550
2007 Open Heifers - Average - $1485
High -$2650 Low - $1000
2008 Heifers - Average - $798
High - $1250 Low - $650
2008 Bull Class
1st Rioelta Bison Ranch - RESERVE GR. CHAMP
2nd Rough Bark Bison Company
Commercial Animals
3rd Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
2008 Bulls
4th Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Average 500 lbs $1.38-$1.42
5th Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
2008 Heifer
Average 430 lbs $1.30-$1.35
2007 Heifer Class
1st Bison Spirit Ranch - GRAND CHAMPION
2nd Silver Creek Bison Ranch - RESERVE GR.
2007 Bulls & Heifers were to few to give an accuCHAMP
rate report on.
3rd Antler River Ranches
4th Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Cull cows and bulls 50 cents per lb
5th Niso Creek Bison (Ken) - People's Choice
Thank you again to everyone that attended, the
sponsors, the buyers, the consignors and all others!
2008 Heifer Class
1st Rioelta Bison Ranch
2nd Rioelta Bison Ranch
3rd Rough Bark Bison Company
Christa Lovas
4th Rioelta Bison Ranch
Great Spirit Bison Show & Sale
5th Rough Bark Bison Company
April 2009
Page 7
BISO LIK
CFIA Compliance and Enforcement - How are Bison producers Doing?
What are the rules?
Section 176 of the Health of Animals Regulations prohibits the movement of an untagged animal from the farm of
origin. Section 177(1) prohibits the transportation of an untagged animal, and section 177(2) prohibits the reception of an untagged animal.
There are a few exemptions to this, most notably section 183 which allows for a bison to be moved without a tag to
a tagging site if arrangements for tagging have been made. Also, section 184(3) would allow for an animal to be
transported and received without a tag, if the tag was lost during transport and the animal is destined for an abattoir. (There must be evidence that the tag was lost - a tag on the floor of the trailer, a bleeding hole in the ear, etc)
What are the penalties?
The amount of the penalty in respect of a minor violation is $500, $2,000 for a serious violation and $4,000 for a
very serious violation with adjustments depending on the gravity of the situation. Most violations are of a minor
nature and can be reduced by 50% if paid within 15 days. .
How is the bison industry doing?
From July 2002 to date, 734 Administrative Monetary Penalties have been initiated in Canada. Of those, 595 were
for ID violations in the cattle sector, 112 for sheep and 27 for bison.
So far in 2009, there have been 682 site visits for the cattle sector. The majority of inspections were at provincial
abattoirs (243), federal abattoirs (112), and auction marts (87). For sheep, there have been 103 site visits, with the
majority of inspections at provincial and federal abattoirs. For bison, there have been 42 visits so far this year, all
of them at federal and provincial abattoirs.
For 2009, 253 thousand cattle were observed with a tagging compliance of 97%, slightly down from previous
years; 6 thousand sheep were observed with a tagging compliance of 99%, slightly up from the previous year; and
348 bison were observed with a tagging compliance of 97%, slightly up from the 94% in 2008.
What are the plans?
For 2009, the focus of CFIA will remain high on producers shipping untagged animals to auction marts and abattoirs. Based on the figures above, CFIA will also prioritize the bison sector at abattoirs and continue inspections
at the prescribed frequency for tagging sites, veterinary clinics, deadstock operators, community pastures, etc.
Prepared by Terry Kremeniuk with information obtained from CFIA.
Bison Cash Advance Payments Program Streamlined
In April of 2008, the Bison Cash Advance Payments Program was announced. To March 31, 2009 there were 43
applications for over $4.0 million. Of the applications 2 were in British Columbia, 15 in Alberta, 23 in Saskatchewan and 3 in Manitoba.
Although the money extended under the program in the first year exceeded expectations, there is potential for the
program to expand. One of the limitations of the program was the requirement for producers to be participants in
the AgriStability program before they could apply for the cash advance program. Now producers are able to receive funding under the cash advance program if they can provide proof of enrollment in the AgriStability Program. This will allow producers to get their loan advance without having to wait for their AgriStability application
to be finalized and completed.
To apply for your cash advance of up to $100,000 interest free by contacting the Canadian Bison Industry
Cash Advance administrator at 1-204-774-1140 or toll free at 1-866-869-4008.
April 2009
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Canadian Bison Association Bison Registry
Bison Producers Coming Forward With Support
The revised bison registry began taking applications as of January 1, 2009 and as of March 31, 2009
over 600 Wood and Plains bison have been registered. That’s double the number that had been registered in the past. The hard work of the Pedigree Committee has resulted in producer support and commitment to the registry. The work is not done as more bison need to be included in the Foundation
Stock Registry before it closes December 31, 2011. At this point in time the subspecies
registrations are not on par. It is vital that the maximum number of bison of each subspecies be registered for the health of the populations and to provide documentation when population numbers are
deemed questionable by environment and conservation.
Here is the list of bison producers who have registered Foundation Stock Bison
Plains bison
Bell Creek Bison
Rocky Meadows Bison
Glenn Herzog
Box 8 Mayview, Sk.
S0J 1S0
Ph:306-747-2909
XY Bison Ranch
Ryan Yachyshan
Box 41
Rama, SK
S0A 3H0
Ph:306-593-2297
Bill & Fayette Bouffioux
RR # 1, Site 1, Comp 1
Fort St. John, BC
V1J 4M6
Ph: 250-785-4183
Email: [email protected]
Blanbrook Bison Farm
Bruce & Shirley Mills
RR # 6 St. Mary's, ON
N4X 1C8
Ph:519-229-6316
Email:[email protected]
Rough Bark Bison Company
David & Carol Byrns
Box 360
Yellow Grass, SK
S0G 5J0
Ph:306-465-2872
Email:[email protected]
Buffalo Horn Ranch
Peter & Judy Haase
RR # 2, Site 7, Box 7
Olds, AB
T4H 1P3
Ph:403-556-2567
Email:[email protected]
Cape Chin Bison
Todd Dowd & Charlene Valad
94 East Road, R.R. # 2 Lion's Head, ON
N0H 1W0
Ph:519 793-4312
Email:[email protected]
Hollyrock Bison
Tony Boldt
Box 146 RR # 4 Saskatoon, SK
S7K 3J7
Ph:306-933-4712
Email:[email protected]
Kole Creek Bison
Vern & Verna Wright
Box 420
Hixon, B.C.
V0K 1S0
Ph: 250-998-4830
Email:[email protected]
April 2009
Rumsey Game Farm
Mary & Trevor Newton
Box 119
Rumsey, AB
T0C 2J0
Ph:403-368-2121
Thundering Ground Bison Ranch
Larissa Helbig
R.R. # 3
Calmar, AB
T0C 0V0
Ph:780-985-2463
Email:[email protected]
Wigness Bison
Kurt Wigness& Arlene Hiltz
Myron & Merek Wigness
Box 11 Admiral, SK
S0N 0B0
Ph:306-297-6277
Wolverine Bison Company
Mark & Denise Silzer
Cec & Jane Stumborg
Box 2773 Humboldt, SK
S0K 2A0
Silzers Ph:306.682.4933
Stumborgs Ph: 306 682-3987
Email:[email protected]
Page 9
Wood bison
Beaver Creek Wood Bison Ranch
Brad Ramstead
Bag 4009 MD-303 Ft. McMurray, AB
T9H 3T1
Ph:780-790-8585
Email:[email protected]
Providence Wood Bison
John & Doris Pilon
P.O. Box 4775 Ponoka, AB
T4J 1S5
Ph:403-783-8810
Email: [email protected]
Rioelta Bison Ranch
Leo & Rita Schmaus
RR#2 Barrhead, AB
T7N 1N3
Ph:780-674-5471
Email: [email protected]
Torch River Bison
Greg Pagan
Box 118
Snowden, SK S0J 2K0
Ph:403-391-0361
Email:[email protected]
BISO LIK
Commentary
by Terry Kremeniuk, Executive Director, CBA
Marketers report continued strong demand for bison trim in the United States and Canada with U.S. prices being $1.00 per kilo higher. Marketers are also reporting that middle cuts are more difficult to sell. This has resulted in lower prices for these cuts. Some marketers are now
starting to build a frozen inventory.
The strong trim prices have resulted in an increase in the prices of mature bulls and cows with prime bull and heifer prices showing some
weakness because of the weakness shown in the price of middle cuts.
April 2009
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April 2009
Page 11
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The Canadian Bison Association Announces
“The Seasons of the Bison “
Photo Contest
Send us a photo (or photos) of your bison in any or all of the seasons.
Photo must be sent in an electronic high resolution file.
Deadline for entries is July 1, 2009
Winners will be announced and photos published in the
Fall Production Issue of Smoke Signals.
There are four categories
Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter
Winners will be awarded prizes in each category
1st-CBA Fleece Vest
2nd -CBA Hat
3rd -CBA Knife
Photos will become the property of CBA and will be used in promotion of the association and industry. Winners
will be given credit when photograph(s) is used.
UPCOMIG EVETS
May 13, 2009 @11:00
Back To The Grass
Kramers Big Bid Barn
North Battleford,SK
For more information call 306-445-5000
ovember 22-24, 2009
Canadian Bison Association
Convention & Canadian National Show & Sale
Regina, SK
Call the CBA office 306-4766 for more details
June 16, 2009
National Bison Association
Summer Conference
Oshkosh, WI
For more information call 303-292-2833
Summer 2012
•
•
•
•
•
International Bison Convention
Quebec City QC
Watch for details in upcoming issues of Smoke Signals &
Bison Link
2009 DIRECTORY CHAGES & CORRECTIOS
Cover Photograph-Wigness Bison photograph courtesy Johane Janelle
Sincere apologies to Merv Staggs who was not listed alphabetically in the directory. Mr.
Staggs is a life member of the Canadian and Alberta Bison Associations.
Roger Provencher-Postal Code-S0J 0K0
Vern Mellor-Phone number-306-297-2824
Mike Jaksic [email protected]
www.canadianbison.ca
Do you have an e-mail address and want to receive electronic updates from the CBA office?
To receive electronic updates on news and events from the industry,
email: [email protected] or call the CBA office.
April 2009
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