EP65 Grazing Through Drought
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Our hope is that the series can help with the mental health issues the agriculture sector is grappling with right now. Farming and ranching are stressful businesses, but that’s brought to a whole new level when drought hits. By equipping cow-calf producers with information and words of advice from colleagues and peers in the sector on the best ways to get through a drought, things might not be as stressful in the next drought. Things might not look so bleak either.
In this final episode of the series, we are talking to Ralph Thrall of McIntyre Ranch who shares with us his experience managing grass and cows in a pretty dry part of the province.
EP64 Building Dugouts
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Dugouts play an important role in cow-calf operations across Alberta. While some farmers have access to well water, most rely on these man-made reservoirs to provide the necessary water that their cattle need to thrive. However, building, repairing, or expanding these dugouts can come at a high cost, which is why it’s smart for producers to seek advice and resources before breaking ground.
EP63 Extended Grazing
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Ben Stuart, who runs two successful farming operations (one in Saskatchewan and the other in Hardisty, Alberta), uses stockpile grazing to extend the grazing season on his farms. But if the grass isn’t growing, how do you stockpile what isn’t available? That’s where preparation comes in. Join us as we discuss stockpile grazing and all the different forms it can take.
EP62 Recharging Groundwater
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In this episode, we chat with Dr. Masaki Hiyashi from the University of Calgary about the often-overlooked importance of groundwater, especially during dry spells. We discuss how groundwater sustains ranches, supports wildlife habitats, and provides water for a variety of household tasks. Join us as we unravel the significance of groundwater and why it’s critical to invest in its replenishment during wet years for a sustainable future.
EP61 Managing Traits
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Have you ever given any thought to what the perfect cow would be for the conditions we experience in Alberta?
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Susan Marcus of Lakeland College to talk about selecting and managing cattle traits so that your operation can be profitable during a good year while also getting you through a dry year.
EP60 Grazing & People
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For the remainder of the Getting Through Drought series, we’ll mainly be focusing on grazing management and adjusting grazing during a drought. To start things off, ranchers Blusette and Mark Campbell, out in Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan joined us to share some of what they’ve learned about grazing and herd management.
EP52 Drought Plans
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There are very few things that can mess up your grazing plans like a drought. Join us as we chat with Sean McGrath, of Round Rock Ranching, about creating a plan to help minimize the impact that a drought can have on your operation.
