July 21, 2023 (Regina, SK) – In partnership with the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association (SCA), the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) is asking producers in drought-stricken areas to strongly consider a new program from the Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) to support the livestock sector and make these crops available for feed.
Recently, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) announced that they are doubling the Low Yield Appraisal threshold levels, allowing additional acres of low-yielding cereal, pulse crops, canola, and flax to be diverted to feed.
The agriculture sector in Saskatchewan is diverse, and in these challenging times, it’s important to work together to ensure farmers and ranchers in this province get the support they need when they need it. For the third year in a row, many cattle producers are again facing drought-related issues, from drastic feed shortages and the threat of a massive herd reduction. There is a real risk that many producers will leave the industry, and that has serious implications across rural Saskatchewan.
“Livestock production is an integral part of our agricultural industry. Our industry is at its best when crops and livestock production are successful,” APAS President Ian Boxall said. “As a crop producer, I encourage others who may be experiencing drought conditions to consider activating the Low Yield Program as a means of helping livestock producers ensure access to feed.”
“Many livestock producers have been facing years of compounding drought, and the need for feed is urgent,” says Keith Day, SCA Board Chair. “As your friends and neighbours, we are asking for any help that farmers and crop producers are able to provide.”
There are many options for farmers looking to redirect crops written off due to low yield or grasshopper damage, including allowing a neighbour to cut and bale the crop or even allowing temporary fencing to be put up for grazing, which has the added benefit of manure for those acres.
APAS encourages crop producers who may not have livestock to consider their options to convert their insured crops into a feed source to help alleviate feed shortages. Contact your local crop insurance office for more information.
APAS is also encouraging all producers to attend town hall meetings next week to discuss drought. On Monday, July 24, there’s a meeting in Perdue at the Perdue Rec Complex that begins at 1:30 PM, and on Tuesday, July 25, another meeting will take place in Kindersley at the Canalta Inn at 1:30.
