There are quite a few reasons Paige and Marcus Dueck’s farm in Kleefeld, Manitoba, stand out from most. They milk their herd of 50 Brown Swiss with a tiestall automated milking system. They also farm 900 acres, own a nutrient management consulting business, raise two daughters and keep the barn doors open to tours.

Canada’s federal government ended its Community Pasture Program in 2012, which had provided grazing for 220,000 cattle owned by 2,500 producers in the Prairie provinces. Months after the announcements, the involved governments initiated a plan to transition federal pastures to patron operation.

Voluntary waiting periods (VWP) can vary based on the type of operation, management style, herd size and more. Sometimes, VWP can be based on the individuality of each animal. At Isaac Dairy in Steinbach, Manitoba, this strategy aids in overall profitability, creates more space in the dry cow pen, helps select replacement animals and contributes to a sustainable operation.

Lisa and Cameron Hodgins own and operate Hodgins Farm near Lenore, Manitoba, and direct market some of their beef, pork, chickens and honey. The cattle operation consists of a commercial cow-calf herd of approximately 125 largely Angus-influenced cows, as well as maintaining approximately 250 grazing yearlings as stockers.

As Canadians shed their coats from a moderate winter season, the results are portending a drier and hotter weather trend going into spring and summer, especially in the western provinces.

Many cattle production tasks demand extensive labor and time commitments, resulting in large money investments.

From adversity to innovation: The Mangin Bros Dairy rises stronger after a devastating fire, showcasing resilience, efficiency and cutting-edge technology in dairy farming. Read their inspiring journey of rebuilding and perseverance.