Agri Leader

Agri
Leader
hiprofeeds.com
Photo credit see page 7
Published and distributed by HI-PRO FEEDS ®
Beef
Page 7
Dairy
Page 31
Poultry
Page 65
Feed Dealers
Page 81
2016

Expect the kind of
service you can only
get from an owner.
When we say we’re invested in animal nutrition we mean that
literally, most Hi-Pro employees are also shareholders. We focus
on helping our customers through quality products, sophisticated
animal nutrition expertise and the highest level of service. We
know what it takes for you to be successful and we go out of our
way to make sure you get what you need, when you need it.
Get the Hi-Pro team working for you.
Visit us today at hiprofeeds.com
HI-PRO FEEDS® and the HI-PRO FEEDS logo are registered trademarks of Hi-Pro Feeds LP. © 2016 Hi-Pro Feeds LP.

Agriculture stays strong
in a volatile environment
As we kick off another year, it’s a good time to reflect and
understand the key issues that affected agriculture in
western Canada in 2015. The highlights (in no particular
order) included the following:
• Poultry producers in the BC Fraser Valley battled
a large outbreak of Avian Influenza, contained it,
and then saw many areas of the US (and elsewhere
globally) be devastated by the disease.
• The ghost of Christmas past arrived with another BSE
diagnosis that forced many industry stakeholders to
go back into 9-years of records to ensure safety in the
food chain.
• Ongoing weather volatility with an early spring, and a
summer drought.
• Initial transportation challenges, then improvement
as the railroads became (more) available to
agriculture as petro-products became shut-in with
decade-low oil prices.
• A tumbling Canadian dollar, which will no doubt
change some North/South trade flows, and present
export opportunities.
• Release of long-awaited details of the (somewhat
clandestine) Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). At
first it created anxiety, but that tailed-off as details
emerged
In the end, the hallmark for managing through 2015 had
to be calmness, an agility to adapt, and a resolute belief in
the ongoing importance of agriculture.
Here at Hi-Pro Feeds, we’ve
put our sights squarely Dean Prevost
on ‘creating and keeping
customers’. We’ve dedicated
ourselves to that mission, and have been investing
heavily, learning and improving since we emerged as
a new company in 2012. We took another big step in
2015 with the acquisition of Champion Feed Services in
Northern Alberta… all customers and employees have
been warmly invited to join the Hi-Pro family that can now
make/deliver high-quality feed across the province.
As you flip through the pages of this issue of the Agri
Leader, you will read about livestock, dairy and poultry
producers that have embraced the change and volatility
in this industry. As an employee-owned business their
entrepreneurial spirit is important to us at Hi-Pro. Our
business wants to be big enough to deliver (a broad range
of feed, with service excellence), but small enough to care
(about our communities, customers and employees). It
is our goal to continuously improve alongside the people
that work hard to look after their animals and produce
high quality, safe food for the people of this growing world.
Sincerely,

Dean Prevost
CEO, Hi-Pro Feeds
In this issue…
Dean Prevost, CEO ..........3 Daren Kennett, Founder .....4 Editorial Comments ........5
Beef ................. 7
Nelson Family Ranches. . . . . . . . 7
Hi-Pro Cow/Calf Program .....13
U2 Ranch ..................15
Creep Feeding Calves ........21
OB Colony-Beef .............23
Mycotoxins .................27
Advertisers’ Index .... 87
Dairy................ 31
OB Colony-Dairy ............31
From Calf to Calving .........35
Springbank Holsteins ........37
Cottonwood Holsteins ........44
Laingspring Dairy ...........45
Muller Brothers .............45
Silvervale Farm .............57
Poultry.............. 65
Willow Bend Farms ..........65
Top 5 Learnings .............71
Nature’s Farm Eggs ..........73
Functional Gut Integrity ......78
Dealers.............. 81
Purity Farm & Garden ........81
Paradise Hill Farm Supply ....84
Hi-Pro Feeds Directory .......88
AGRI LEADER » 2016
3

Global network
with a local focus
Since the beginning of Hi-Pro Feeds (April, 2012),
our plan progresses in providing high quality, consistent
animal feed products to customers across North
America.
We’ve completely revamped the company that was
previously a part of Viterra, building a strong foundation
of world-class systems, processes and people.
In other words, we’ve established an industry leading
platform that is rigorously invested in animal nutrition.
We have been working hard the last 3 years to be better
each and every day.
Champion Feed Services Acquisition
We announced the acquisition of Champion Feed Services
Ltd in Alberta back in October, 2015. This purchase
extends our business into a broader market,
creating a vast network across the entire province of
Alberta. Adding the Champion feed mills at Barrhead,
Westlock, and Grande Prairie will assist in providing a
greater mix of products and services to the customers
we serve.
This expands our business to 15 feed mills in the US
and western Canada. The assets of Champion Oat Processors
were also acquired in Grande Prairie, which
ties nicely to the Hi-Pro business in Texas, Oklahoma,
New Mexico and Arizona. We are excited to have a facility
that can process, market, and ship double and triple
cleaned oats and oat groats to our US and Canadian
customers. We can now include these high-end products
that fit nicely in our overall offer to clients.
Champion Feed Services has been an industry leader
in Northern Alberta, and has consistently demonstrated
a strong commitment to the livestock industry. Hi-
Pro Feeds and Champion
Feed Services bring
Daren Kennett
together a longstanding
entrepreneurial spirit established by deep roots in the
community and diverse strengths. Together it makes
a great combination for the continued advancement of
the agriculture industry in this region of Canada.
Both companies have helped drive the bottom line
for commercial producers and their livestock. We will
remain committed to this with continued innovation,
investment, and increased milling capacity. The Champion
Feed Services locations will continue to operate
as is, and the employees have job offers with Hi-Pro
Feeds. The deal closed officially at the end of November.
Customer Feedback
As an employee-owned company, we (over 500 employees)
take our jobs very seriously. We know that ‘if
we don’t take care of our customers, someone else
will’. For that reason we have spent a lot of time soliciting
feedback from customers across the many areas of
our business. We have learned a lot, and are investing
in ways to execute the basics, consistently right. Our
priorities are focused on the following:
1. Dependable product availability, and delivery
2. High quality, consistent feed products
3. Personalized service where we communicate, are
responsive, solve problems and go the extra mile
Making feed and rations for various species of animals
is a complex business. We are trying to simplify this and
get the basics right. This is a journey, and we will be
continuously measuring and asking you if we are getting
it right. If we are not, please make sure you tell us.
Respectfully,
Daren Kennett
Founder, Hi-Pro Feeds
Champion Feed Services mill in Westlock, AB
- Hi-Pro Feeds photo
4 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Help tell the real story of Canadian agriculture
Our industry needs more agvocates
To reach its full potential, agriculture needs everyone
in the industry to speak up and speak positively.
Agriculture More Than Ever is an industry-driven
cause to improve perceptions and create positive
dialogue about Canadian ag. Together we can share
the facts about this vibrant and modern industry, to
tell the world why we love what we do.
It’s up to all of us to be agvocates and it’s easier
than you think – visit AgMoreThanEver.ca and find
out how you can get involved.
Hi-Pro Feeds is a proud partner of this cause
Editorial Comments
Welcome to the Hi-Pro Feeds Leader
magazine for 2016 – now the Agri
Leader. Included in this revised and
expanded edition are features from
beef ranches, dairy farms, poultry operations
and feed dealers. As always,
the family human interest stories are
an integral part of the farm descriptions.
We have frequently observed
that farmers like to read about other
farmers’ experiences, and not only in
their area of production.
Throughout the magazine, Hi-Pro
nutritionists describe the relevant
programs and provide technical information
of value to respective producers.
The Beef Section features two southern
Alberta ranches: a large family
company with extensive operations in
cow/calf, feedlot, crop production and
non-ag developments. The second,
is an elite Angus breeder suppling
superior genetics to the industry. A
Colony story includes brief descriptions
of several enterprises, but details
their beef feedlot best practices
and in the next section, their dairy
operation.
In the Dairy Section, a comparative
review of three farms is presented
addressing the question how robotic
milking changed management of
the farm. Two other modern dairies
recently built in new locations are
described.
The Poultry Section features innovation:
in broiler, unique lighting and
sanitation protocols, and innovative
production and marketing of eggs.
Two dealers offer their specialized
experiences as retail operations
providing products and valuable
services to farmer and ranchers in
their communities. They discuss
how their customers’ needs have
changed over the years.
Advertisers continue to strongly
value this publication as a vehicle
to reach producers across Western
Canada with their product and services
information. We appreciate
their participation.
Enjoy the read. We invite your comments
and suggestions about this
publication. Talk to your Hi-Pro
Feeds representative.
Sincerely,
Walter Goerzen,
Managing Editor & Publisher
____________________________
PHOTOGRAPHY by W Goerzen
unless indicated
AGRI LEADER » 2016
5

The Future of YOUR FAMILY FARM:
PLANTING THE SEEDS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION
While the transition of any family business has potential pitfalls, there is no doubt that transferring
a family farm to the next generation has its own unique challenges. For this reason, a detailed farm
succession plan with input from professional advisors will be a valuable tool in meeting the family’s
needs and allowing for an effective and orderly transition.
Let the experienced lawyers at Miller Thomson LLP help you plant and plan for the next generation.
Brian P. Kaliel
Edmonton
bkaliel@millerthomson.com
Jeff N. Grubb
Regina
jgrubb@millerthomson.com
Michael Henley
Guelph
mhenley@millerthomson.com
Wendy Baker
National Co-Leader
Vancouver
wbaker@millerthomson.com
Carol VandenHoek
National Co-Leader
Guelph
cvandenhoek@millerthomson.com
Added experience. Added clarity. Added value.
Miller Thomson LLP
millerthomson.com
6 AGRI LEADER » 2016
vancouver calgary edmonton saskatoon regina london kitchener-waterloo guelph toronto markham montréal

Beef
Section
Photo credit Nelson Family Ranches
Nelson Family Ranches Ltd
Diversification and Innovation
An often lamented trend in agriculture is the transition
from family farms to corporate ownership. Nelson
Family Ranches is a fine example of a family enterprise
that has grown large enough to take advantage of the
economies of scale, certainly to the scale of corporate
operations.
Overview of Operations
The family company is managed by four brothers and
a brother-in-law with a number of other family members
involved. Jeff Nelson, the eldest son of his generation,
oversees the entire organization as CEO. His
wife, Angie, serves as administrator and office manager.
Jeff’s brother Jimmy manages the cattle side of
the business. With 3000 Black Angus and a few Black
Simmental pairs on 11,000 acres of grazing land plus a
feedlot with 12,000 capacity, there is plenty to manage.
(Details follow)
Another brother, Kevin, handles the crop farming. Of
12,000 acres, 4000 are irrigated growing canola, silage
corn, barley (both silage and grain), and alfalfa. The balance
of cropland
is farmed
using the usual
dry-land techniques
to produce
barley and
canola. Some
of the barley is
malt; the rest
is used in the
feedlots. Grain fields are all fenced for winter grazing
and feeding grounds for the beef herd.
The third division of Nelson Family Ranches is two
fully equipped gravel-pits and related construction enterprise.
Included in the gravel operations are aggregate
crushing, sorting and a full line of construction
equipment such as graders, loaders, excavators and
(right) Jeff Nelson, CEO Nelson Family Ranches with Doug Holt,
Hi-Pro Beef Sales & Service Rep, Alberta South
Cover photo – Bob Gibb at age 81 continues to ride the feedlot
and monitor the cattle almost every day at Nelson Family
Ranches. He is a cousin to Grant Nelson.
Beef Section title photo above – cattle on range at Nelson Family
Ranches
AGRI LEADER » 2016
7

Agriculture is our way of life too
Meet Justin
With a lifetime of experience in ag,
Justin helps Canadian producers
build their dreams. Like everyone on
your FCC team, Justin knows your
industry and he’ll get to know you.
1-800-387-3232 fcc.ca
Justin Vuignier
FCC Relationship Manager
8 AGRI LEADER » 2016

trucks. They deliver or haul whenever possible. This
division is managed by a fourth Nelson brother, Shawn.
A brother-in-law, Josh, an accountant, serves as CFO
of the company ensuring the company records, operational
analysis and financial management are well
taken care of.
“Yes, we are diversified,” says Jeff. “Dad said diversification
was essential. There will be times when grain
or canola pay well, other times cow/calf, sometimes
feedlot. Good advice.”
“Dad said diversification
was essential…
good advice.”
Family History
At the turn of the previous century, a group of Mormon
pioneers came to the area south of Lethbridge
from Utah with a plan to develop a community irrigation
system for farmland they purchased. They had developed
similar irrigation infrastructure in the Utah Valley.
Jeff Nelson’s great-grandfather, Alonso, came with
his family and a brother in 1904 settling on a quarter
section of land raising a modest flock of sheep. They
missed the first run of homestead land-grants so they
purchased privately owned land, mostly from the railroad.
Almost immediately the group built the community
irrigation system. The Ridge Reservoir for the irrigation
district borders on Nelson farm-land. The ranch
is near the town of Stirling, about 30 minutes southeast
of Lethbridge.
Alonso’s son, Farrell, began the transition to cattle
and that was continued and expanded by his son Grant,
Jeff’s father. Grant and Connie have four sons, as mentioned,
and four daughters who all but one live in the
region.
“I was very fortunate being the eldest to work side by
side with my father and learn the business from him,”
says Jeff. “I still run things by him. I talk to him every
day.”
After handing over the management of the farm to his
sons, Grant didn’t exactly sit back and relax. As the local
Lions Club president, Grant spearheaded the planning,
financing and construction of a new community
centre in Stirling. “Our father taught us to be involved
in the community, “says Jeff. “He believes that he was
given many blessings with our farm and wanted to give
back. We’re carrying on that tradition. We are all heavily
involved in our community and our church.”
In fact, the family’s commitment is to support local,
in retail and as volunteers in the community. In addition
the Lions Club as mentioned, family members are
involved in organizing a children’s choir and five grandchildren
are in 4-H. Jeff has been a Scout leader for 15
years. A Nelson coaches every local sports team from
elementary through high school ages – basketball,
hockey, soccer, football and baseball.
The next generation of Nelsons is growing – 36 children
and young people currently. Jeff says his eldest
son, the oldest of the next generation, now 18, is starting
to help out on the farm and about 20 others provide
various levels of summer help. The farm employs almost
50 workers besides the family.
The extended Nelson family. Parents Grant and Connie, just
right of centre, with their 8 children and spouses, and 36 grandchildren
– Photo credit Nelson family
AGRI LEADER » 2016
9

The Nelson family was honored at the Calgary Stampede
two years ago when they were presented the BMO
Farm Family Award for the County of Warner. A welldeserved
recognition for their community participation
and their outstanding farm operations.
Cow Calf Herd
The cow herd has expanded in the past three to four
years from 2000 to the current 3000 head. Jeff explains,
“Today the cow/calf business is the best it has ever
been. However, during the BSE period when prices
were low, we saw the opportunity to grow our herd. We
bought low and now prices are high. To use Hi-Pro’s
slogan, we invested in animal agriculture.
“…prices were low,
we saw the opportunity
to grow our herd.”
“My philosophy besides diversification, my father’s
mantra, is innovation,” he continues. “Never cut back,
but adapt to changing realities.”
The 3,000 cow herd includes pure-bred cows allowing
Nelsons to sell into the bull market in addition to the 90
they run on their herd. In addition, they raise about 500
pure bred replacement heifers. They track all breeding
stock; calves are tagged, birth and weaning weights are
recorded. Records from calving books are transferred
to Excel spread sheets for analysis. Ultra sound is used
on bulls. Some creep feed is provided, not a common
management practice of commercial herds in the region.
Cows on range are in groups of 300 to 400, but some
as low as 50. Horseback is used for doctoring and moving
cattle, but ATVs are preferred for all equipment related
work such as fence maintenance.
About 75% of the range is improved pasture, reseeded
to orchardgrass, brome, alfalfa and timothy. For consistency
Nelsons grow all their own feed. It is unusual
to be able to do so. “We do enjoy economy of scale.” Hay
growth this season (2015) was excellent – all irrigated.
Three cuts are usual.
“Never cut back, but adapt
to changing realities.”
Feedlot
The ranch’s feedlot of 12,000 head are all owned, from
the Nelson cow herd or purchased by private deals directly
from area ranches. The source varies consider-
We start with performance trials and testing programs to develop proprietary forage products. We then contract our forage seed needs
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10 AGRI LEADER » 2016

ably. “We know the herds well and some buy Nelson
bulls,” says Jeff. “The feedlot tracks each individual
herd’s calves using Fusion feedlot soft-ware. This provides
a herd-by-herd health and growth status for us to
compare and to use for future cattle purchases.”
“Our objective is to reduce stress at all stages,” continues
Jeff. “We follow Temple Grandin’s guidelines
whenever applicable.”
The first 21 days after weaning are critical. When
calves arrive, they are given a full vaccination shot right
off the truck and moved onto feed and water. Weather
is a factor. If wet, especially if bedding is wet, or dusty
conditions prevail, calves suffer. Calves that have only
been on natural-source water may have difficulty adjusting
to water troughs. If the mothers had access to
water troughs, calves observe and learn. They come
looking for water and adjust much faster. Similarly, if
the mothers have been at a feed bunk, or if calves have
had access to creep-feed, they come looking for feed.
The Nelson ranch has many different water sources
– springs and lakes, spring fed waterers and solar powered
pumps into troughs. Across the range, water quality
is excellent.
The various conditions of herds means a diverse
weight range in the feedlot, from 450 to 700lb. Calves
are grouped and fed by weight, so the farm is able to
sell fat cattle year round.
A background ration of mostly silage is fed initially
with a daily gain of 1.5 to 2.0lb. They feed for a slower
growth initially to push out at a later date. On full feed,
a 3.0 to 3.5ADG yields a 1350 to 1500lb market-ready
steer. “Huge improvements have been made in genetics
and nutrition in the past 20 years to push the finished
weights to these levels from 1100 to 1200lb at
that time,” says Jeff.
Fat cattle are marketed by pen groups for uniformity
and weight. Most are shipped to Cargill. Grade-out has
been Prime 2-5%, 65% AAA, and 25% AA, and a few at
A-Standard grade.
Feed rations for the feedlot have been developed by
Hi-Pro nutrition staff for many years. With the purchase
of New Life Feeds by Hi-Pro Feeds in December
of 2014, Doug Holt, the sales representative who has
been the rep for the Nelson cow/calf herd for about 20
years, has moved over to Hi-Pro and assumed responsibility
for the feedlot as well.
“The transition to Hi-Pro with all our feed business
was seamless,” says Jeff. “The same people, now more
support with more nutritionists on staff. We have appreciated
our relationship with Doug and his great service
for many years and look forward to many more at
Hi-Pro.”
(top photo) The feed mill, forage and commodity storage with a
corner of the feedlot in the foreground
Fall roundup with the next generation helping the cowboys
process calves
Photo credits Nelson Family
AGRI LEADER » 2016
11

The feedlot uses 10 different rations, all custom formulated
for the requirements of each specific group
– from backgrounding, transitioning to finishing, plus
separate diets for cow/calf, creep, and breeding stock.
The background ration is based on 80% silage (corn,
alfalfa and barley) and 20% grain (barley, millrun, and
or wheat). Hay is only fed in the first week to background
the calves.
The ration adjusts in 10% increments to the 80%
grain/commodity finisher diet for the last 100 days –
the length of time required to achieve the maximum
AAA grade out.
Jeff explains, “Our mill has capacity for many ingredients,
allowing for the use of least-cost ration formulation
giving us the best price advantage, adding to
profitability.”
Doug points out, “Jeff does more market research
and speculation than most, following all markets to
find the best value on any commodities. He has the industry
information and is seen as a commodity market
specialist. Neighbours seek his advice.”
“We must align
ourselves to where
the future is.”
Future
When asked about future plans, Jeff points back to
the fundamentals, “Diversification and innovation.
Cattle numbers were and still are down across the industry,
so we expect good opportunity. Five years ago
we expanded the herd. Seven years ago we identified
opportunity to develop our gravel resource and added
construction equipment. Ten years ago we grew the
grain farm. I believe these decisions fit together well
in terms of labour, equipment and land-base. Remember
the future of agriculture looks good. We must align
ourselves to where the future is. That is our business
model.”
Recently the Nelson family developed recreation
properties on the Ridge Reservoir Lake that borders
their land. They built roads, put in water, sewer and
power. The first lots sold in the summer of 2015, and
the venture looks positive.
“Agri tourism has possibilities, and with a large family
with lots of youth coming on, we ask, how can we
include the next generation in the family operations.
Our motto continues to be: family and community, work
hard, play well, and get the work done when needed,”
concludes Jeff.
With their many resources, the diversified operations
and their strong family and community commitment, be
assured Nelson Family Ranches Ltd will continue to be
a successful family company well into the future.
12 AGRI LEADER » 2016
Grain and silage corn harvests
– Photo credit Nelson Family

Custom Cow/Calf
Feeding Program
Raylene Boehmer, B.Sc.A., Senior Nutritionist, Hi-Pro Feeds, Lethbridge, AB
Raylene Boehmer
The beef industry is facing unique challenges in
western Canada. With low cow inventories, feeder calf
and replacement prices are high. However, with the
drought that affected much of the cow/calf regions of
western Canada, forage supplies are low. This has left
many ranches scrambling for alternatives to feeding
forages or programs that will stretch out the limited
supplies available.
Feeding straw is always an option for wintering beef
cows but requires proper supplementation. Cows cannot
eat or digest enough straw to meet their nutritional
requirements. Providing degradable protein is essential
for the digestion of the high fiber, low protein straw.
The supplemental protein must be available to the rumen
microbes to encourage microbial growth. It is
these microbes that play an essential role in breaking
down the fiber and converting it to energy for the cow.
The fiber digestion is also important to prevent impaction.
Without enough rumen microbes to digest the
fiber, impaction can occur. A properly balanced program
of free choice straw and 5 to 7lbs of supplement
works well for wintering cows, but should be adjusted
at about 6 weeks prior to calving. A program of free
choice straw and 5 to 7lbs of supplement works well for
wintering cows, however this program does not provide
enough energy for the increased demands on the cow
for fetal growth and lactation. It should be adjusted at
about 6 weeks prior to calving.
The best quality forages should be saved for feeding
cows in the last month of gestation and through calving
and lactation. Supplies can be stretched out by limit
feeding through the winter and providing either straw
or other high fiber byproducts. Forage replacement
pellets can be economically included to supplement
limited forage supplies. Pellets can be formulated to
provide all nutrients that are deficient in a limited forage
program. Energy, protein, minerals, vitamins and
even ionophores can be included in the pellet.
Customized feeding programs are very important for
cow/calf operations. The program needs to be put together
for the type and amount of forage available on
each ranch. Hi-Pro has tools that look at the economics
of feeding options. This helps to make optimal purchasing
and feeding decisions for maximum profitability
and success.
This program looks at each stage of production to
see where available forages can best fit. Nutrient requirements
change through the reproductive cycle. It
is important to meet the requirements but it is costly to
exceed the requirements.
Hi-Pro offers a wide range of products to provide
proper nutrition to balance with available forages.
Products vary from a complete mineral feeding program,
to cubes for feeding on the ground, to textured
or pelleted creep feeds, to beef supplements and premixes,
to bull rations, to forage replacement pellets, to
feedstuff commodities. Hi-Pro is committed to provide
support and products that can help to make the cow/
calf operator a success.
An example of a report generated from this tool looks
like the chart on the next page. A summary is below.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
13

The size of Canada’s cattle herd is still in decline and almost a
quarter smaller than its peak in 2005, Statistics Canada reports.
The federal statistics agency on Thursday released estimates
showing the herd at 13 million cattle on farms on July
1 this year, down 2.1 per cent from the same date in 2014.
Total cattle inventories at July 1 showed their greatest declines
in Saskatchewan and Alberta, down three per cent at
2.715 million and down 2.8 per cent at 5.3 million respectively,
compared to July 1, 2014.
Except for steers, up four per cent at 65,400 head, overall
cattle inventories declined compared to July 1 last year, with
the number of beef cows on Canadian farms down 3.4 per
cent at 3.8 million head, and beef heifers held for breeding
down 0.6 per cent at 612,600 head, StatsCan said.
Canada’s farmers had 1.4 million dairy cows and heifers
on their farms, down 2.2 per cent. Overall, the number of Canadian
farms reporting inventories of cattle and calves sat at
82,050, down 0.6 per cent.
Both slaughter and exports fell during the first half of
2015 compared with the same period in 2014, StatsCan said.
“While cattle prices remain strong so far in 2015, limited cattle
supplies mean that there are fewer animals available to
market.”
January-to-June cattle slaughter decreased 13.5 per cent,
to 1.4 million head, compared with the first six months of
2014, while exports fell 21.4 per cent, to 491,500 head.
Canada’s total inventory of cattle and calves on July 1 was
23 per cent below its peak level recorded in 2005, StatsCan
noted.
Alberta Ag News August 21, 2015
14 AGRI LEADER » 2016

U2 Ranch Ltd – Joanne & Darren Unger
One Couple’s Journey
to Elite
Genetics
Darren and Joanne Unger have developed
an elite herd of pure-bred Angus
over the past 20 years to establish
a North American wide reputation for
superior genetics. Their bulls - and
semen and embryos - have been sold
across Canada, into the US and recently
into South America.
They operate U2 Ranch just north
of Coaldale, Alberta, with the ranch
head-quarters and cropland located
on river-bottom land along the Oldman
River. The pure bred herd of 650
cows, about two-thirds Red Angus, is
the result of years of selection, growth
and development beginning with a
foundation of 20 pure bred cows.
However their journey into the cattle
business faced major challenges.
Darren and Joanne Unger with Joe McLean, Hi-Pro Beef Specialist, Alberta South.
(below) U2 cattle on irrigated pasture along the river bottom land of Old Man River
“The first year, cattle prices dropped dramatically,”
says Joanne. “Calf prices were 80 to 85 cents! Yet
somehow we survived.” “Barely,” adds Darren. “It was
Photo credit U2 Ranch
AGRI LEADER » 2016
15

a stressful time. We’ve been through ups and downs
and sometimes it seemed like mostly downs.”
However, later when the BSE crisis hit, Joanne explains,
“As a pure bred herd selling breeding stock, the
pain was not as great as many ranchers faced.”
Both Joanne and Darren grew up in the region; Darren
on a row-crop farm growing peas, sugar beets, and
beans. Joanne’s family ran a mixed farming operation
that consisted of a cow-calf herd, farrow to finish
hog operation, feedlot and crop production. “We both
learned the hard work of farming and were anxious to
acquire our own place after we married in 1992,” says
Darren. “We bought our first ranch the next year at
Wrentham, with 350 heifers. Twenty of that group we
purchased were pure bred.”
In 1997 they sold that first ranch and bought a farm
more geared to crop production. It wasn’t the perfect
place for the beef operation but was part of their expansion
plans. At this time they sold all their commercial
cattle. That core group of 20 pure bred cattle, 60 at
the time, became the foundation of the U2 herd today.
“The core group was mostly 10 year old mature cows
with excellent genetics,” says Darren. “Over the first 15
years we kept our quality females to grow the numbers
so our cow herd has been mainly a closed herd since
1997.”
For the expansion period, they used AI (artificial insemination),
bought some herd bulls and used AI from
their own bulls. In fact now they collect semen from the
best bulls and use AI on about 500 cows, almost 80% of
the herd.
Herd Management
Calving at U2 is in January and February with breeding
beginning April 1st. During breeding, Joanne and
Darren make a fine team. She watches for heats, and
Darren does the AI. First service conception rate is an
impressive 70%.
Calving occurs outside, often in extreme cold. “We
have less than five minutes to bring the calf and dam
into the calving barn. Here the calf is weighed, given
first vaccinations, and after ensuring the calf is off to a
good suck and is fully dry, mother and calf will be back
to an outside pen, usually within 24 hours.”
The fresh cow diet in winter is silage based with either
corn or barley silage, mixed with a large portion
of straw. No baled hay is fed on the ranch. In spring,
cows are managed the same as a commercial herd with
strict culling practices. Cows are usually turned out on
range by June 1st onto native pasture.
Bull calves, weaned at the end of August, average
around 750lb, and heifers a month later average about
700lb. “We like to see the bull calves in pens, settled
16 AGRI LEADER » 2016

on feed, as at this weight, they would not be growing
enough on milk even with creep feed.” Note that the U2
herd is on the early calving regime in Jan and Feb. We
believe in weaning early as these calves are already 6-7
months of age.”
Darren explains their philosophy about raising bulls,
“We’ve built a strong genetics base with the AI program
and purchased select bulls. Our observations as breeders
are essential. If I don’t like it, how can I sell it? We
are told by buyers that our bulls are very quiet, and
easy to manage. We feel this is a direct result of genetic
selection and proper management.”
“If I don’t like it,
how can I sell it?”
All calves are registered as required before 6 months
on the Angus Association program that includes birth
weight (averaging 80lb), weight at 205 days and as a
yearling at 365 days. Weights range mostly from 1350
to 1500lb with a few below and several above 1600.
Bull Sales
“Since 2004, the main event for marketing our cattle
has been the annual U2 Ranch Bull Sale held every
March. This year marks the 20th sale to be held Tuesday,
March 22, 2016 at Foothills Auctioneers in Stavely,
AB. There will be 170 U2 bulls on offer featuring ‘high
end’ bulls in volume and in everyone’s price range,”
Darren explains. “We firmly believe and take pride in
the fact that our customers get the most bull for their
dollar at our sale”
“…our customers get the
most bull for their dollar…”
In past years the Ungers have participated in cattle
shows such as the Agribition in Regina, the Canadian
Red Roundup in Red Deer and the Edmonton Farm Fair.
But as the ranch and related work grew, and the U2
brand became well known, travelling to shows has declined.
A bull sale catalogue is available from the Ungers
– 1600 copies were produced last year. Further information
as a down-loadable sale catalogue is available
through their web site – U2ranch.ca.
“Our philosophy related to bull sales is establishing
buyer confidence with strong customer service, the
same as any other customer based business,” says
Joanne. “We deliver any bull to the purchaser, we fea-
Cattle at U2 Ranch (top to bottom), on pasture and in corals, buyers
looking over the fine crop of yearling bulls, and mature bulls
in a straw bedded pen - Photo credit all three photos U2 Ranch
AGRI LEADER » 2016
17

ture injury replacement, and we invite potential buyers
to come and look at the ranch, and then go to the sale.
We build relationships with our buyers.”
“We build relationships
with our buyers.”
Darren offers, “Joanne is a great support as my ranch
partner who is passionate about customer service with
a keen marketing sense.” To which Joanne replies, “It‘s
mutual.”
It is obvious that Darren and Joanne are a great egalitarian
team, evident in the U2 Ranch success.
He continues the business philosophy discussion, “A
good bull is the best and most economical investment
for any herd. A poor bull eats the same feed and requires
the same attention. That’s what I’ve learned over
the years. We buy bulls too.
“Over two thirds of sales are repeat customers. The
bulls sell themselves, especially if the customer has
seen the performance of a U2 bull on his or a neighbour’s
ranch and experienced the customer service of
U2. This is probably more important than the EPD numbers
provided for every bull. It is network marketing. It
is repeat business.
“Recently heifer sales have been an opportunity as
U2’s own herd expansion has leveled off.” Darren continues.
“There is a demand for PB females down in
the States with cows selling for herd expansion and
as donors. We have sold groups of females to breeders
in Colorado, Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska and the
Dakotas. Show heifer prospects have sold to breeders
all over the U.S and have proudly represented us at
Denver, Fort Worth, Kentucky, Houston and Louisville
Stock Shows.”
The family home near the Old Man River, pivot irrigated alfalfa
field, and forage harvest at U2 – Photo credit harvest photos U2
18 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Crop Farming
In addition to 700 acres of native pasture, and a considerable
amount of leased grazing land, U2 Ranch
farms 300 acres silage corn and about 60ac barley under
three pivots. Corn silage yields are typically 20 to
22 ton per acre but with the weather conditions of 2015,
yields were up to 25 ton.
This crop acreage utilizes all the manure the cattle
provide with room for more cattle. About a third of the
farm receives manure applications each season.
The ranch operates a full line of equipment for their
own crops and as a custom silaging enterprise – planting,
chopping, bagging – mostly for dairy farms in the
area. Their harvester is a Claas Model 900 and bagging
equipment is AgBag.
Family and Labour
The Ungers have two children. Son Cole, 21, who is
keen on a future in ranching, has completed an engineering
diploma and is accepted in a professional engineering
program. “Education is essential and provides
a good fallback position,” Darren reminds him. Daughter
Jordy, 18, has just entered pharmacology studies in
Calgary looking forward to a career in pharmacy.
The ranch employs three full-time workers. In addition
more help is employed during crop season to help
with the custom silage operations.
“When we talk about our team of people, an important
member of the team is Joe McLean, [beef sales
rep from Hi-Pro Feeds], who has been our contact for
most of our years in the business,” says Darren. “He
and their nutrition staff are an essential part of our operation”.
Joanne adds, “We relate to the Hi-Pro Feeds slogan
that says, ‘Invested in animal nutrition’. We as their
customer are invested in animal agriculture in partnership
with them. Joe has been a great support to us; he
is knowledgeable, service oriented and a good friend.”
Future
When asked about future plans, Darren was quick to
reply, “We do not have expansion plans as more cows
means more land that is simply not available. We already
lease a lot of grazing land. Also, the present work
load is more than enough, so we are focused on innovation
and continuous improvement of the quality of the
herd we have.”
In conclusion he adds, “There will always be room for
good cattle, and we position our business for people
who recognize the value of excellent genetics. Local
commercial customers are still our priority, our main
concern and our focus. At the same time in the past
three years, we have built good relationships with customers
in the US. We are excited to see that market
develop as well.”
“There will always
be room for good cattle”
The U2 herd is already
considered an elite genetics
source for ranchers
across western
Canada, into the US and
beyond. Recently they
sold the first semen and
embryos into Argentina.
The future is always
bright for quality, backed
by excellent service and
strong relationships.
Everyone recognizes
the U2 name, some because
of the well-known
rock group, but more importantly,
many because
of the quality genetics
from the U2 Ranch operated
by 2 Ungers.
Darren, Cole, Jordy and
Joanne Unger – Photo credit
Unger family
AGRI LEADER » 2016
19

SERVICE
Expect the kind of customer service that you can only get from an owner.
At Hi-Pro Feeds, we act like owners because we are. Most Hi- Pro employees
are also shareholders. Like you, we are invested in this industry and
committed to providing the support you need to keep your operation running
smoothly. Our word means something—we do what we say and stand behind
our products. We know what it takes for you to be successful in your business
and we go out of our way to make sure that you get what you need, when you
need it.
EXPERTISE
Quite simply, our animal nutrition expertise will help you to get the most out of your feed, and more importantly,
your operation. It all starts with our animal nutrition specialists. We work with our customers to understand their
needs and develop the optimum feed formulation for their application. We bring the latest in animal nutrition
knowledge and experience to your operation so that you can focus on running your business. Our nutrition specialists
work closely with our manufacturing team to ensure that your feed is produced and delivered to specification—every
time.
NUTRITION
Not all feed is created equal. At Hi-Pro Feeds, we produce only the highest performing feed products to the most
stringent standards and with an unwavering focus on consistent quality. Our animal nutrition experts work with
you to make sure that we provide the optimum feed formulation for your application. Our tight manufacturing standards
ensure that we continue to meet that specification over time. We offer a complete range of animal nutrition
products across a wide range of species and our feed products have contributed to many award winning animals.
Animal Health & Nutrition
www.robinsonbioproducts.com
Tel: 403-938-0556 Toll Free: 888-968-0556 Fax: 403-938-0022
20 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Creep Feeding
Beef Calves
Raylene Boehmer, B.Sc.A, Senior Nutritionist, Hi-Pro Feeds, Lethbridge, AB
Creep feeding is to provide beef calves with supplemental
feed and nutrients before weaning. Calves typically
only receive nutrients from milk and grass in the
pre-weaning period. Supplemental feed can be provided
in a creep feeder that will only allow calves access
to the feed and not the cows. Providing a creep
feed makes it possible to increase weaning weights, increase
stocking density and decrease weaning stress.
Increased Weaning Weights – calves of most beef
breeds are capable of growing at a rate of 2 lbs per
day from birth to weaning. However, by the time the
calf is 3 months old, the cow’s milk will generally not
supply enough nutrients for this level of growth. As an
example, a 200 lb calf requires about 25 lbs of milk to
gain 2 lbs per day. If the cow is only producing 15 lbs of
milk, the calf must consume about 5 lbs of good quality
pasture dry matter to maintain growth. If the pasture
is in poor condition, which is likely what is causing
the poor milk production in the cow, the calf
cannot consume enough nutrients to maintain
the 2 lb growth rate. However, a creep feed can
supply the necessary nutrients for this growth.
Increases in weaning weights associated with
creep feeding are quite variable due to variability
in pasture conditions. There are limited increases
with good quality pasture that supports
milk production and calf growth. However, if
the pasture is dry and in poor condition, there
can be significant gains in weaning weights.
Research has shown an average increase of 40
lbs in weaning weights of creep fed calves, with
most calves increasing anywhere from 25 to 60
lbs, depending on pasture conditions.
Increased Pasture Stocking Rate - calves
tend to consume creep feed rather than forage.
Therefore, pasture stocking rates can be
increased when a creep feed is provided. It is
estimated that for every 1.0 lb of creep feed consumed,
forage dry matter intake will decrease
by 0.5 lb to 1.0 lb. This can represent an additional
10 cow/calf pairs for every 40 calves that
are creep fed.
Decreased Weaning Stress - calves with access
to creep feed will be accustomed to eating
grain and will be less dependent on milk from
the cow. Weaning can take place with reduced stress
as calves easily transition onto a diet without milk.
Creep fed calves are easier to start on feed and quicker
to regain shipping weight losses.
Economics must be considered when making the decision
to creep feed. When grain prices are high relative
to calf prices, it may not be profitable to provide
creep feed. Feed conversions are highly variable and
yet have a big impact on the economics. Research has
shown that the creep feed to gain ratios can range from
5:1 on poor quality pasture to 15:1 on high quality pasture.
Hi-Pro has developed tools to help in the decision
on providing a creep feed. Based on expected weaning
weights, calf price, feed conversion and creep feed
price, it is possible to determine the return (or loss)
from providing a creep feed.
ECONOMICS OF CREEP FEEDING
NO CREEP
WITH CREEP
Weaning Weight (lb) 500 550
Calf Price at Weaning ($/lb) $2.00 $2.00
Value of Calf at Weaning ($/head) $1,000.00 $1,100.00
Lb Creep Required/Lb Extra Gain 8
Lbs Creep Required/Head 400
Price of Creep Feed ($/MTD) $300.00
Notes:
Total Cost of Creep Feed ($/Head) $54.45
Net Value of Calf ($/head) $1,000.00 $1,045.55
RETURN FROM CREEP FEEDING ($/head) $45.55
1. Research shows the average increase in weaning weight from creep feeding is 40 lbs, with most
calves falling in the range of 25 to 60 lbs, depending on pasture condiYon.
2. Expected Feed Conversions depend on pasture condiYon & milk producYon:
-­‐ Excellent pasture & above average milk producYon 14:1 to 18:1
-­‐ Average pasture & average milk producYon 8:1 to 10:1
-­‐ Poor quality pasture & poor milk producYon 4:1 to 6:1
3. Return is only over cost of creep feed. It does not include cost of the creep feeder or added labor.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
21

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Email: norag@noragltd.ca

OB Colony – Marwayne, AB
Many Enterprises at OB Colony
Beef Feedlot and
Dairy are Featured
OB Colony was established in 1957 as a division
of Thompson Colony, Fort MacLeod. They are located
near Marwayne, AB, only 30 minutes northwest
of the City of Lloydminster. The interesting
name, OB, is derived from Mr O’Brian, a Texan,
from whom the first 3000 acres were purchased
in 1954.
Sam Hofer, who manages the carpentry shop
and all construction (and there has been a lot of
building recently), describes the farming operations.
“Today OB Colony owns 9800 acres with
about 8600ac seeded in crops – 3000 in wheat,
3000 canola, 700 peas, 1750 in barley (both grain
and silage), 70 to 80 in potatoes and 160 in silage
corn. The corn and potatoes are irrigated but the balance
is dryland farming. The rest of the land is pasture
with a generous amount of lakes and marshes.”
The potatoes supply the Cold Lake, AB air-force base
and are also sold to local grocery stores.
“The Colony’s two crop sprayers led naturally to custom
spraying in the region, now up to about 20,000 acres
total spring and fall. However, the labour requirement
for this operation is high and custom spraying may be
reduced.”
The operations traditionally were beef – a cow/calf
herd of 500 cows, all pure bred Hereford, and a feedlot
with 1400 capacity (the feedlot and the 160 lactating
cow dairy enterprise are featured later). The beef cow
herd was sold about six years ago. “An unfortunate decision
with today’s beef prices,” states Sam. “Diversification
is essential as rarely can we predict the future
accurately.”
(right) Sam Hofer and Robert Kassian, Hi-Pro Colony Sales Manager.
The fine wolf skin on the wall was hunted and tanned by Sam.
Below, the OB Colony at Marwayne, AB
Other livestock include a flock of 110 ewes where
the Colony made major feeding changes recently. Sam
explains, “We went to complete feed starting with Hi-
Pro’s 18% Lamb Creep right through the grower and
finisher stage instead of our on-farm mixing. Lambs
achieved market weight a month earlier! Also, we have
seen many fewer problems since we used the Hi-Pro 1
to 1 Mineral. Foot rot was an issue on our alkaline soils
but it is gone.”
“…rarely can we predict
the future accurately.”
The Colony’s poultry enterprises were dealt a serious
blow when a Salmonella out-break spread through
the central and northern region of Alberta in February
2015. It affected many producers, including six Colonies.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
23

“The depopulation of our flocks, both layer and pullets,
did provide an opportunity to rebuild aging facilities
originally built in 1977,” explains Sam. “We tore
down the entire building and are rebuilding with a modern
structure and equipment.”
They have one year to complete the reconstruction
without loss of quota, and that will be a challenge to
get it done in that period. Acquiring all necessary permits
and ordering equipment from Europe takes 6 to 8
months.
The new layer facility, 225 by 50 feet, will feature the
Big-Dutchman Enriche Colony cages that hold 70 birds
per cage in a three tier configuration, including dry manure
belts and egg collection system.
The Colony holds 6000 bird quota but are building for
10,000 capacity. They plan to lease quota and buy additional
when available. The pullet barn will be built later
when the construction pressure is past, as pullets are
available for purchase from other producers.
Other poultry raised at OB includes broilers (4000 per
8 week placement), 1200 ducks, 300 geese, plus 350
turkeys for the Thanksgiving period only. All poultry are
self-butchered on site.
In closing, Sam adds, “We greatly appreciate Hi-Pro
Feeds’ products, their nutritional advice, but above all,
our representative, Robert Kassian who has been our
contact and friend for many, many years.”
Water supply, both quality and quantity, was historically
a major problem for OB. About 35 years ago,
they made the difficult decision to spend a million dollars
to install a water system with a 12 inch water line
pumped from the North Saskatchewan River. The water
is pumped a distance of 3 kilometers into a reservoir
on a high point on the property. Then another line
was installed to gravity flow to the Colony site – another
3 kilometers. The result has been excellent.
A non-agricultural enterprise that has developed in
the past two years is the refitting of propane tanks for
the Superior Propane Company. The refurbishing includes
sand-blasting the tanks, painting and refitting
all valves and lines. Colony men are now fully certified
to completely refit the tanks to final certification as new.
Tanks are mostly 500 and 1000lb sizes, but 100lb and
20’s or 30’s are also refitted. Six men are the propane
crew: two for sand-blasting, two for painting and two
for refitting. The business has grown to an inventory on
site of about 1000 tanks. It meant the Colony needed to
construct a new building to accommodate this growing
and profitable enterprise. It is 200 by 90 feet completed
in time to work inside this winter.
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24 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Beef Feedlot
One of two operations to be featured at OB is the beef
feedlot. Gideon Hofer is the manager and his assistant
manager is Steven. The lot capacity is about 1400 feeders
plus 600 yearlings. The cow herd of 500 was sold
five years ago.
“The grazing land has been rented out since the herd
was sold but we are planning to get back into cow/calf,”
says Gideon. “The acres are available, and with yearlings
the dollar gain is only on the difference in prices
from fall to spring. We think the diversification of our
beef enterprise is important.
“Previously the herd was on early calving in January
and February, but we would probably go back to traditional
March/April calving.”
Calves are currently purchased in fall directly from
area ranchers, right off the range. The mix is typically
half British and half exotic breeds. The Colony’s dairy,
(featured later) also supplies all the bull calves as
steers to the feedlot. After the dairy calves are weaned
at 11 weeks, including being held in a group pen for a
couple of weeks, they are transported to the feedlot and
managed in separate pens from the main groups. Up to
90 Holstein steers are fed each year.
When asked about their best practices to achieve top
results, Gideon and Steven described many factors.
“First of all, we must pay attention to all the small details.
There is not one big issue, but many small things
make up the big one.”
Here is a list of the small ‘things’ according to Gideon
and Steven:
--
Recognize that each group of cattle is different
from the next
--
Remember when you are buying you are also selling
– think and plan ahead to market
--
Understand that for calves fresh off range the
most critical issue is to get them on feed and water
quickly. They require special attention
--
Body score all calves on arrival and sort into uniform
groups
--
Recognize that creep-fed calves will score higher
and will transition better onto full feed
--
Handle cattle gently, be quiet and content to develop
calm animals
--
Anything out of the ordinary equals stress
--
Make animals as comfortable as possible
--
Maintain a routine, same time of every day to walk
the pens, to feed, to push up
--
Initially, walk pens three times a day to acclimatize
the calves to you
The propane tank re-fitting enterprise at OB Colony, Gideon and
Steven Hofer with Robert Kassian, (middle), Hi-Pro Colony Sales
Manager, at the feedlot with feed mill in background
AGRI LEADER » 2016
25

--
Walk pens first thing in the morning to observe
and treat those that do not get up
--
Ensure feed rations are consistent as well as
amount fed. Do not over feed
--
Feed twice a day initially
--
Clean bunks regularly
--
Check rolling of barley periodically for consistency
and quality
--
Short cut silage eliminates sorting
--
Pay attention to silage face management
--
Ensure cattle have access to feed and water
--
Clean away manure from bunk area as needed
--
Float the pens regularly, especially after a rain
--
There is not one big issue, but many small things
make up the big one.”
“There is not one big
issue, but many
small things make up
the big one.”
live weight at shipping,” explains Gideon. “We target up
to 1600lb so that at a 60% carcass weight, this is just
below the maximum of a 1000lb carcass. If the carcass
weight is over this limit, a heavy penalty of 35 cents per
pound is deducted. Another point, we don’t strive for
Prime grade as there is no price advantage.”
In conclusion, Gideon repeats an earlier comment,
“We must remember that when we are buying calves
we are also selling. We must think and plan ahead to
market because that is the end game. And in the meantime,
we focus on the small details of the operation.
They make up the big things.”
“We must think and
plan ahead to market…
the end game.”
OB Colony Dairy
continued on page 29
The feed rations for newly arrived calves off the range
are based on 65% corn silage (at about 66% moisture).
The balance is grain plus a Hi-Pro Custom pre-mix
containing minerals, yeast, and medication. No hay is
fed except to yearlings. Intake at 2% of body weight is a
guideline for highly nutritious feed.
Mid-way in the feeding period, at the 900lb stage,
the silage/grain ratio is 50/50. At the finisher feeding
phase, the ration is 20% corn silage, 75% grain and 5%
supplement. At any given time, four different rations
are used depending on the condition and weight of the
animals.
Beef breed calves are expected to gain 3.3lb/day from
start to finish. The Holstein steers gain 3.0 and are
ready for market at 1200lb, and Steven adds, “They are
good for filling the truck to exactly the maximum total
weight allowed. The dairy steers at 1200lb still achieve
AA grade.”
Over a six month period, fat cattle are shipped to market
about every other month, 300 at a time. OB Colony
has its own cattle liner, making the non-stop trip to JBS
in Brooks in approximately five hours.
Grade out has been consistent at 45 to 50% AAA and
the balance AA with a few A. “Our average is 1530lb
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Mycotoxins
Mary Lou Swift, Ph.D., Director of Nutrition, and
Jenilee Peters Tarasoff, B.Sc., Quality Assurance Manager
Mary Lou Swift
Jenilee Peters Tarasoff
A mycotoxin is defined as “a secondary metabolite
produced by organisms of the fungi kingdom” commonly
known as mold. The term “mycotoxin” is relatively
new (1962) and evolved after a large number of
turkeys died in England (Bennett and Klich, 2003). The
cause of death was determined to be aflatoxins in peanut
meal. This incident spurred the scientific community
into producing a large body of research on mycotoxins.
Today, some 300 to 400 mycotoxins have been
identified, but in practice, only 13 are of primary concern
to animal health.
While molds are easy to see, mycotoxins are not,
and unfortunately, the presence of mold does not always
indicate the presence of mycotoxins. Fungi that
produce molds fall into two groups: those that invade
before harvest and those that invade after harvest.
Pre-harvest invaders include Fusarium. graminearum,
F. moniliform and sometimes Aspergillus. flavus. Fusarium
graminearum can produce a mycotoxin known
commonly as DON (deoxynivalenol).
In Western Canada, we normally are concerned about
the level of this mycotoxin in grain, but we should not
forget that small grain silages can test positive for DON
as well as other mycotoxins in this family. Similarly,
fungi growth on corn grown for silage can produce mycotoxins.
Extreme mold growth can have obvious negative
effects including changes in color, consistency and
odor, which can lead to undesirable feeds. Nutritionally,
mold growth can reduce the energy, protein and
vitamin content potentially resulting in decreased performance,
in high producing or growing animals. It
is essential to minimize any mold growth during the
growing season and while in storage.
Nutritionally, mold growth
can reduce the energy,
protein and vitamin content
There are many field conditions that influence the
growth of molds and the production of mycotoxins,
including moisture, temperature and the presence of
fungal spores. Additionally, stress factors like drought,
poor fertilization, high plant density, weeds, insects or
mechanical damage from events like hail or lodging
can weaken the plant’s natural defense and promote
mold colonization and growth.
While the mechanism of resistance is not well understood,
one strategy employed for reducing mycotoxin
levels in small grain crops such as barley is the
development of resistant cultivars through breeding
programs. Another strategy is the use of fungicides.
These strategies have proven effective in the case of
DON contamination.
Other management practices include minimizing
lodging, and careful management of crop residues
and crop rotation. Crop residues may be of significant
importance as increased DON concentrations have
been documented in no-till or reduced tillage systems
in comparison to clean tillage systems. Additionally,
crops rotations that include small grains following corn
or small grains planted continually can also increase
the risk.
Moisture and storage
temperature are crucial
Moisture content at harvest can be critical as moisture
can facilitate the growth of fungi such as Penicillium
and Aspergillus. After harvest, storage conditions
dictate whether fungi will continue to grow and/or produce
mycotoxins. Storage temperature is crucial as
increasing temperature (improper fermentation) can
result in the growth of other fungi causing further degradation.
It is very difficult for fungi to in properly preserved
feeds. Careful ensiling will prevent further mold
development, although it will not destroy any mycotoxin
already present. Good ensiling practices include harvesting
at the proper moisture content, chopping to a
uniform length, filling the silo/bunk rapidly, packing
sufficiently, using an effective fermentation aid and
covering completely. Essentially the goal is to reduce
the pH quickly and eliminate oxygen effectively to reduce
mold growth and mycotoxin production.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
27

Mold can grow in hay at moistures of 13% to 15%
making it difficult to make hay dry enough to prevent
mold growth. Dry down can be improved by increasing
ventilation, leaving air spaces between bales, reducing
stack sizes, altering stacking directions, and avoiding
wet products in the same area.
[In silages] … the goal is to
reduce the pH quickly and
eliminate oxygen effectively
Unfortunately mycotoxins are not uniformly dispersed
through a field, a silage pit or a grain bin. They occur
in “hot spots” which can make detection very difficult.
One method that can be employed is a mold and yeast
count, and then mold identification (Figure 1). Since
mycotoxins cannot be produced without the mold, this
at least tells you if there is sufficient mold and if so,
what mold is present. If these tests indicate a potential
for concern, then further testing through a mycotoxin
screening process may be beneficial.
As mycotoxins are heat stable, chemical substances,
not living organisms like the fungi that produce them,
they cannot be “killed”. At this time there is no proven
treatment to both neutralize a mycotoxin and leave the
integrity of the feed intact. Research reviews have indicated
that some products such as zeolites or hydrated
sodium calcium aluminosilicates (HSCAS) may be efficacious
in binding mycotoxins. Caution is advised as
these additives tend to be specific in what type of mycotoxin
can be bound. The most promising avenue of research
is the combination of an enzyme which attacks
the mycotoxin together with a binder. When evaluating
a mycotoxin binder, it is advisable to ask for data showing
its effectiveness against each type of mycotoxin.
… there is no proven
treatment to both neutralize
a mycotoxin and leave the
integrity of the feed intact.
The quantity of mycotoxin necessary to produce
negative effects varies by toxin, and can even vary by
cow within a herd. Stress can influence an animal’s response
to mycotoxins. A stressed cow in severe negative
energy balance or in poor housing conditions can
react negatively to very low mycotoxin levels where
well managed cows have tolerance. To determine the
amount of risk posed by a specific mycotoxin, the level
of contamination in the feed and the total amount consumed
must be considered. Mycotoxins that can affect
dairy animals and the recommended maximum concentrations:
are shown in Table 1.
Mycotoxin Commodity Fungal
Source
Effects
Aflatoxin Corn, Wheat Barley Aspergillus Residues in milk, immune suppression,
liver damage, decreased feed intake and
milk production, diarrhea, weight loss,
respiratory disorders, hair loss, acute
mastitis, birth of small and unhealthy calves
Deoxynivalenol
(DON) or
Vomitoxin
Wheat, Barley, Corn,
Grain silage
Fusarium
Reduced milk production, reduced feed
intakes, poor performance, immune
suppression
Fumonisin Corn Fusarium Lower milk production, reduced feed
consumption
Maximum Feeding
Guidelines for
Dairy Diets
20 ppb
6 ppm
5 ppm
Trichothecenes
(T-2/HT-2)
Corn, Wheat, Oats,
Barley
Fusarium
Gastroenteritis, intestinal hemorrhages,
bloody diarrhea, edema, dermatitis, feed
refusal, reduced milk production, reduced
immune response
1.5 ppm
Zearalenone
Corn, Wheat, Barley,
Silages
Fusarium
Reproductive issues including infertility,
decreased conception rates, abortions
7 ppm
Ergot Alkaloids Rye, Wheat, Grasses Fusarium Agalactica, anorexia, lameness, abortions,
loss of hooves or tails, nervous syndromes
< 1 ppm
28 AGRI LEADER » 2016

References available on request:
Chilliwack BC ~ Lethbridge AB
Edmonton AB
Byron Reimer
Cell: (250) 938-4555
2900 Smith Drive,
Armstrong, BC V0E 1B1
Lance Reimer
Cell: (250) 938-4554
Proudly providing feed delivery service since 1985
AGRI LEADER » 2016
29

GREAT
ER FEED EFFICIENCY* , 1 HAS A WA
AY
OF ENERGIZING A DAIRY
FARM
.
Rumensin ® gives your cows a boost of extra energy † —energy that can
increase their feed efficiency.* ,1 To see how you can get the most out of dairy
feed with Rumensin, contact your Elanco representative.
The label contains complete use information, including
cautions and warnings. Always read, understand, and
follow the label and directions of use.
*Production of milk protein per unit of net energy intake.
†Energy is a direct result of the Rumensin mode of action. 2
REFERENCES:
1. Elanco Animal Health, Data on File, INAD 1420, Efficacy Report.
2. Schelling G.T. 1984. Monensin mode of action in the rumen. J Anim Sci. 58:1518-1527.
Elanco, Rumensin ® , and the diagonal bar are trademarks owned or licensed by Eli Lilly and Company, its subsidiaries, or affiliates.
© 2016 Eli Lilly and Company, or its affiliates
CADRYRUM00054
7-19-2015
Feed Energy
30 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Dairy
Section
OB Colony - Dairy
continued from page 24
Dairy
Andy Hofer, the dairy manager is quick to point out
that their facilities are at their maximum. “We have 160
lactating cows and only 140 stalls. In summer some
cows can be held outside, but in winter it is a challenge.
The main barn is well ventilated with two 36in air
tubes the full length of the barn including air conditioning
cooling for the summer heat. It was originally built
in the 1970’s, 80ft wide and expanded by lengthening
it to 360ft in 1989. The milking parlour, holding area
and utility/tank room were completely rebuilt the same
year. The parlour is a DeLaval double-six herringbone
with weigh jars. However the Colony men fabricated all
the stalls, gates and even the auto-take off arms – all
stainless steel.
A unique innovation, before a heat exchanger was
purchased, is a large pipe installed over the milk lines
that circulates water to ‘exchange’ heat from the milk
for use in the water system and thereby reducing the
cooling expense for the milk (see photo).
The main cow barn is a four row design with a conveyor
feeder down the middle. Waterers are at both ends of
the feeder. Chopped canola straw is used for bedding.
All calves are raised, the males destined for the beef
feedlot. They are all housed in individual hutches after
the first 2 or 3 days in the warm calf barn maternity
pens. “We like the late weaning schedule for our
calves.”
They are on whole milk (3 litres, twice a day), and Hi-
Pro 17% Calf Ration – a grain blend that is a Hi-Pro
Advantage-4 Milk Supplement for 11 weeks. At 9 weeks
Calf hutches, group calf pens and heifer yard at OB Colony
AGRI LEADER » 2016
31

they move from hutches to a group pen before moving
on to the young heifer pen or, for the steers, to the
feedlot. Hay is introduced only in the heifer pens and
feedlot.
Heifers are TMR fed plus free-choice hay. The ration
is silage based at 55% corn and 45% barley. The
supplements are 2lb/head/day canola meal, 1lb barley
grain and 1lb Hi-Pro Heifer premix.
The milk cow diet is a single TMR comprised of 10lb
alfalfa hay (usually second cut at 20%+ protein), 60lb
barley silage (about 70% moisture), 14.3lb Hi-Pro Custom
OB Supplement, 12lb rolled barley, 3.3lb canola
meal and 3.3lb molasses.
Milk production has been averaging 32 - 33kg per cow
with a 4.0%+ BF. OB has 163 kg of quota, some of it
leased. The herd is young at 2.4 years average age.
In season, dry cows are on pasture with free-choice
timothy/brome grass hay and in the winter are on grass
hay and barley silage with 1lb Hi-Pro Dry-Cow Supplement.
For the close up period, the diet is 10lb barley
silage, 5lb hay and 8lb of Hi-Pro 16% Close-up Supplement.
Andy offers, “We see Robert regularly on the Colony
and Dirk [Van Der Kooij, Hi-Pro dairy sales representative],
looks after the forage analysis and ration formulation.
They are two great guys as part of our team.”
In conclusion when asked about the future of the
dairy enterprise, Andy says, “Like most dairymen, I am
concerned about the future of supply management. The
next months may tell us what to expect. We do need
and are planning for a new main barn within the next
five years provided the longer term future still looks
bright. We would probably build a four-row barn with
TMR bunk feeding and robotic milking with three units.”
Hopefully these plans can be realized at OB Colony
with full confidence in the long term future of the milk
industry.
In the milking parlor, the Colony men fabricated all the stalls,
gates and even the auto take-off arms – all stainless steel. A
unique innovation before a heat exchanger was purchased is
a large pipe installed over the milk lines that circulates water
to ‘exchange’ heat from the milk. (below) Dry cows on pasture
alongside one of the many lakes on the Colony’s land
AGRI LEADER » 2016
33

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204-985-2745
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34 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Calf to Calving
Where Can You Improve?
Brittney Schurmann, MSc, Dairy Nutritionist, Hi-Pro Feeds, Chilliwack, BC
Successful dairy entrepreneurs recognize dairy heifers
as an investment – the future of their herd and
business. They are valuable assets that must be given
adequate time and attention, cared for, and provided
optimal nutrition and environment.
Less successful dairy operations view dairy heifers as
a cost – the future of their herd but expensive to raise
with no financial return for two whole years. They view
replacement heifers perhaps as needing less attention
than the rest of the herd and not always optimal nutrition
or environment.
The difference between the above two situations may
simply be the difference in one farm versus another
recognizing the importance of a quality replacement
heifer program.
Importance of Sound Heifer Management
Sound nutrition and management of heifers from birth
to weaning, through puberty, and during pregnancy are
critical to heifers reaching their true future potential.
However, with it taking two years to see an economic
return from heifers, it can be difficult to recognize the
importance of quality heifer nutrition and management.
Studies have shown that raising one heifer costs
on average $1100 to $1300, representing up to 20% of
total farm expenses. This is often the third largest expense
on a dairy operation, after feed for the lactating
herd and labour. However, future milk production and
longevity are highly correlated to the quality of nutrition
and management provided during the time before
a heifer has her first calf. As a dairy producer you must
therefore look at your investment now in heifer management
as an investment in future milk production.
Calf to Calving Benchmarks
It is often difficult to recognize where improvements
can be made without a set of
standards to compare to. Below is a detailed
list of benchmarks that will help determine
where improvements can be made in your
heifer raising program.
√√
Optimize early development.
Brittney Schurmann
It has been well documented in research
that there is a positive correlation between
average daily gain in calves and
future milk production. It is therefore imperative
that calves in early life are provided proper
nutrition and management. Some examples include
adequate high quality colostrum, milk or milk replacer,
and calf starter, continual access to fresh water,
fresh, dry bedding, good ventilation, and monitoring
and recording health problems such as scours and
pneumonia. Improvement in these areas may involve
additional costs. However, extra costs to improve calf
rearing will actually save you money long-term, in
two ways:
1. Calves will have fewer health problems, resulting
in reduced treatment costs.
2. Improved growth, leading to higher future milk
production and longer herd life.
…a positive correlation
between average daily
gain in calves and
future milk production.
√√
Wean calves when they are eating adequate
grain.
Weaning based on starter grain intake is the best way
to determine if a calf is ready for weaning. While you
should always have a target weaning age in mind,
AGRI LEADER » 2016
35

calves must consume adequate grain to ease the
transition from a milk to dry feed diet and minimize
post-weaning slump. Grain stimulates rumen development;
therefore, starter intake is an indicator of an
adequately developed rumen to take on a 100% dry
diet. Calves should eat 0.9 kg (2 lb) grain for three
days in a row prior to weaning. For individually housed
calves, monitor this by weighing 0.9 kg of starter and
mark the container used to feed calves. For group
housed calves, take more time to watch calf aggressiveness
at the time of grain feeding and evaluate
body weight and condition. Weaning age should be
extended for calves not eating enough starter at the
target weaning age.
√√
Record and monitor heifer mortality rate.
Heifer mortality occurs for many reasons, including
failure of passive transfer of immunity from the dam
(quality, quantity, and quickness of colostrum received
by the calf), difficult calving, scours, and pneumonia.
Target heifer mortality rates by age are:
• 24 hours to 2 months of age: < 5%
• 2 to 4 months of age: < 2%
• 4 to 6 months of age: < 1%
√√
Monitor heifer body condition, weight, and
height.
Body condition should be routinely monitored by you
and your feed rep or nutritionist – a second set of
eyes never hurts. Obtaining regular body weights on
heifers can be a challenge as most dairy operations
are not set up for convenient movement of heifers to
a scale. Weight tapes are an option provided there
is a method to restrain heifers (ex. self-lockers). A
weight tape estimates body weight based on measuring
the heart-girth (circumference of the animal just
behind the withers). Heart-girth and body weight are
highly correlated. Pennsylvania State University has
developed weight tapes designed for calves between
36 and 128 kg (80-282 lb); more accurate than using
a weigh-tape intended for a cow. While weight tapes
are subject to human error they are much more accurate
than guessing. Target growth rates for Holstein
heifers are:
• 1 day to 60 days old:
• 60 days to 9 months:
• 9 months to calving:
double birth weight
0.8 kg (1.8 lb) per day
0.9 kg (2.0 lb) per day
Heifer height can be another challenge to accurately
measure. Height at the withers is the most common
measuring point. For a rough estimate of height,
measure a reference point in the barn, for example,
the top of self-lockers so that when heifers are eating
height can be estimated. Weight tapes can be used to
measure height more accurately.
√√
Review heifer rations routinely with your feed
rep or nutritionist.
Heifer rations should be routinely discussed and updated
if necessary. New forages should be tested and
the ration balanced before using new forages. Bunker
forages should be routinely tested. During environmental
changes causing heat and cold stress, extra dietary
energy may be required.
√√
Heifer conception rate of 60% or greater.
Conception rate for Holstein and Jersey heifers
should be at least 60% and 65%, respectively, when using
artificial insemination and conventional semen. If
heifer conception rates are low, re-evaluate heifer body
condition and energy status of the diet with your feed
rep or nutritionist.
√√
22-24 months for age at first calving.
Targeting heifers to freshen at 22-24 months of age
has numerous benefits, including maximizing the productive
life, accelerating income received from milk
production, minimizing the heifer inventory required to
replace cull cows, and reducing heifer rearing costs.
Even if ample feed and facilities are available for an
extended rearing period, it is generally not economical
to raise heifers past 24 months. It costs on average an
extra $50.00 per heifer per month.
√√
Keep good records.
You can’t manage what you don’t measure! Above all,
start with keeping records. Retain records for when diet
changes are made, weaning age, conception rate, age
at calving, body condition score at calving, initial milk
production, and peak milk production. Records will
help you monitor heifer development from birth to first
calving and help you recognize in what areas improvements
can be made. Evaluating your records and working
toward the guidelines above will support the goal
of healthy, productive heifers joining the milking herd.
For more information on feeding management of
calves and heifers, contact your Hi-Pro Feeds representative
or nutritionist. References available upon request.
36 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Springbank Holsteins Ltd. The Westeringh Family
Dairy Farm Built on Greenfield Site
Springbank Holsteins is a relatively young
dairy farm, built only seven years ago on a
green-field site. However, the farm has a
history of outstanding grassland production
going back almost 70 years as the former
Springbank Dehydration Co Ltd. (See next
page)
Today the family farm is managed by Adriel,
son of owners Alex and Deb Westeringh,
who was 17 and the primary milker when the
dairy was built. He has developed and grown
along with the farm, initially managing the
herd of 80 milking cows. Now six years later,
he is fully responsible for all aspects of the
200 milking herd, dry cows and an equivalent
number of heifers and calves.
Farm Description
The farmland of 180 acres, bare of any
dairy facilities or buildings other than a
house and a large office building, was purchased
in 2007. Construction of a complete
dairy complex began shortly thereafter, completed in
2009. The facilities are designed for 240 lactating cows
plus dry-cows. The main barn, a four-row design, is
120ft by 340ft with137 stalls on one side for 120 lactating
cows and 17 stalls for dry cows. On the opposite
side, 90 stalls are for first lactation heifers and a straw
pack area for the 21-day close-up group.
Adriel Westeringh (right) and Sean Bredenhof, Hi-Pro Dairy Sales Rep, and the
Springbank farm in the shadow of Mt Cheam, Chilliwack, BC
Stalls are 48 inches wide for mature cows and 44in
for heifers. Dividers are from Mid-Valley Manufacturing.
Bedding is sand at about 4 inches over concrete.
“Sand has advantages. Mastitis is reduced to 6 - 8 cases
per year and no coli-forms,” says Ariel. “Sand is excellent
bedding material but we could have increased
the depth in the stalls.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
37

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38 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Springbank Dehydrators Co Ltd
The farm name Springbank originated
as Springbank Dehydrators
Co Ltd, the company that owned the
farm land from 1947 into the late
1970’s. In the early years, Springbank
Dehydrators farmed up to 1200
acres of orchardgrass including the
land now the site of the Cottonwood
and Chilliwack malls. The owner and
general manager through the 50’s,
60’s and into the 70’s was Wally (Wallace)
Johnston. Peter Klassen was
the long-term operations manager.
An avid pilot, Wally maintained an
air-strip on the farm. After the dehydration
operations ended, it served
as a flight and parachute jump centre
for many years.
The grass was harvested direct-cut
with early models of self-propelled
Field Queen harvesters. The freshcut
grass was dehydrated with sophisticated
drying drums to produce
a nutritious grass product as an
ingredient for dairy and poultry rations.
The plant was one of the most
advanced such operations in North
America. Two significant features
were a natural gas fired ‘flash-drying’
process and inert gas storage
of the meal and pellets to preserve
nutrients. A nitrogen generator produced
the gas pumped into the large
product storage tanks, eliminating
all oxygen in the tanks.
Grass was cut at a very young
stage, up to 10 times a season, ensuring
a then high protein content of
over 23%. Up to 25,000 tons of grass
were processed annually.
The dehydrated grass product was
initially a meal, primarily for poultry
rations. In 1958 pelleting equipment
was installed to produce a pelleted
product that was not dusty, ideal for
dairy rations. Sales were to Fraser
Valley producers and feed mills, and
shipped across Canada as far as the
Maritimes. In addition to the protein
source, an important value of the
grass product was the natural Vitamin
A content, as well as other vitamins
and minerals.
With the development and common
usage of synthetic Vitamin A,
and the increasing cost of natural
gas to fire the dehydrators, the economics
of the operations could not
be sustained. In the mid 70’s when
operations ceased, about 750 acres
were farmed. Land was sold to various
owners for crop production and
other development uses.
Today, Springbank Holsteins
Ltd owns 180 acres of the original
Springbank Dehydrators operation
including the residence, office building
and farm yard site.
The Springbank Dehydration Co Ltd plant
in the 1960’s
Information source W Goerzen and The
Chilliwack Progress September 10,1958
from the Archives. Photo credit Chilliwack
Museum & Archives
“However at $1800 per month for
sand, we have to evaluate the cost
effectiveness of a sand recovery system.
Payback is at least 10 years so
for now we hire a long-reach excavator
once a year to clean out the
manure pit.”
The manure system is a hydraulic
alley-shuttle by Mid-Valley and
Houle pumps. An in-ground concrete
pit adjacent to the main cow
barn is 80ft by 160ft and 14ft deep.
The Westeringhs recently purchased
an additional 80 acres located
about 10 minutes away. This
allows for more forage production
and therefore less purchase of corn
silage. This former dairy farm provides
adequate facilities for their
heifer raising, currently housing
about 150 heifers from weaning to
first calving, with capacity for double
this number of replacements.
The milking parlour is a Westfalia-
Surge 32-stall rotary. “The choice
and size of milking parlour and tank
was designed around long-term expansion,”
says Adriel, “The milking
system has capacity for double the
present herd. Currently [November
2015] we are milking 200 cows three
times per day.
“We began 3X in March 2015 with
good results. Our milk yield increased
by 12%,” Adriel explains.
“Although 3X milking is largely a labour
issue, we have good farm help
available in the family and many local
farm-background teenagers.
“Although 3X
milking is
largely a labour
issue,
we have good
farm help …”
AGRI LEADER » 2016
39

“Training is essential as
every milking system has
some different features,
and every farm has some
different practices in how
it is operated,” Adriel continues.
“We recruit mostly
by word-of-mouth, but
have used face-book to
find workers. We invest in
training for new employees
and we have written
CQM milking protocols.
They shadow experienced
milkers for a length of
time. A rotary system means you have to move fast so
we may slow down the rotary to assist a beginner by
taking two and a half hours per shift instead of two.”
“Our goal is to complete the 110 mature-cow group in
45 minutes. This means a maximum standing time for
any cows of 45 to 50 minutes, always less than an hour.
“We invest in training
for new employees”
Crop production
The home farm grows 100 acres in silage corn and
80ac in grasslands seeded to orchardgrass and tall
fescue. Corn silage is typically 68% moisture as Adriel
chooses early maturing varieties to allow time for fall
seeding. Silage from the exceptionally hot and dry 2015
season is still about 70% moisture but starch at 26-27%
is lower by several percentage points, one of the lowest
years encountered. Over-all yield was down as well.
Grass is usually harvested in five cuts a season with
silage moisture of 65%. In addition to their own production,
they purchase about 1000 tonnes of standing
silage corn per year. That is, prior to the acquisition of
an additional 80 acres. All harvesting is by custom operators.
The corn/grass acreages are rotated every five years.
A good supply of broiler chicken manure is readily
available for the corn crop reducing commercial fertilizer
needs and boosting yields. Corn fields are seeded
to a winter forage cover-crop comprised of annual ryegrass
and winter wheat. However if a specific corn field
(top to bottom) Springbank Holsteins’ main barn rear view – note
the in-ground manure pit to the left – the centre feed alley, the
32 stall rotary parlour, and the barn north wall with doors wide
open into the parlour
AGRI LEADER » 2016
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42 AGRI LEADER » 2016

is in rotation, the perennial grass blend of orchardgrass
and tall fescue is fall seeded. “We have seen excellent
results with fall seeding after corn.”
“… excellent results with
fall seeding after corn.”
Feeding Program
A single TMR is fed to the mature lactating group and
a separate TMR ration to the first lactation heifers. Forage
in the TMR is 50lb corn silage, 35lb grass silage,
3lb alfalfa hay, plus 26lb of the custom grain mix from
Hi-Pro Feeds, (lb/cow/day). The first lactation heifers
receive the same TMR at a reduced rate.
“Sean Bredenhof, our sales rep has been great to
work with especially in the earlier years with a steep
learning curve,” offers Adriel. “Going to three times
milking added a challenge in ration balancing but we
increased the grain portion by only 10%.”
Adriel and Sean do TMR shaker box tests once a
month as well as periodic manure screening.
Herd Production
With the expansion of herd size recently by purchasing
heifers and using sexed semen, (over 95% female
calves), the herd is young at approximately 40 - 45%
first lactation.
“Ours is presently a commercial herd, but I would like
to see the herd move to registered pure-bred in the future,”
says Adriel. “I like the genetics aspect of dairying.
My emphasis is on conformation, especially feet
and legs, and milk yield. But I avoid any indications of
slow milking.
“Also, I recently began condition scoring, again also
looking at feet and legs.”
Production results on DHI are 38kg average with 33
– 34kg for first lactation heifers. Butterfat is 4.0% and
milk protein at 3.4%. SCC is 54,000 and IBC 11,000 (fall
2015).
Springbank Holsteins has consistently been in the top
10 farms for herd management score on DHI for the
Fraser Valley Region.
Future
When asked about the future, Adriel replied, “In the
near term, our plans are to fill the present facility to
capacity with 240 lactating cows. We’ll have more of our
own crop production and will have adjustments related
to forage production and feeding.
The main home and shop building, now with a home built into the
former office, both from the original Springbank Dehydration Co
in the 1960’s, and part of the commodity storage building
“Further, I look to continuous improvement. I learned
from dad who is a perfectionist, be goal oriented, but
strive for perfection.”
In conclusion, Adriel adds, “Beyond the short term,
we will be watching industry developments related to
the trade agreements and their effect on the local industry.
At this point, I am optimistic about the future.”
“I look to continuous
improvement”
AGRI LEADER » 2016
43

Robotic milking means changes
The trend to robotic milking
systems has seen phenomenal
growth around the world in recent
years with estimates of over 20,000
installations operating. The trend
has been equally strong across
Canada. Manitoba is probably the
leading province for the highest
ratio of robotic systems with
approximately 30% of all milk now
harvested with robots.
Leader magazine interviewed
three of these farms in Manitoba to
look at how this trend has impacted
their farms and to ask the owners,
“How has robotic milking changed
your management of the dairy
farm?”
44 AGRI LEADER » 2016
Cottonwood Holsteins Ltd
Brent Oswald (right) with Dean Moore, Hi-Pro Business Development
Specialist (Dairy), Carman, MB in the main barn,
(lower photo) entrance to Cottonwood Holsteins
Farm & Family
Brent Oswald operates the family farm, Cottonwood
Holsteins, established by his grandfather on the present
site in 1930. His parents, Edwood and Gwen own
all preferred shares, but after an estate freeze in 2008,
Brent holds the common shares and owns any future
asset growth. He is the youngest of three children.
Brent and Kirsty have two children, Taylor age 7 and
Breden 4. The farm is located just east of Steinbach,
Manitoba
Facilities Description
New construction of a comfort stall barn with two
DeLaval VMS units was completed in October 2009.
They expanded to 130 cows from 115 in a parlour milking/comfort
stall barn that is now used for dry cows and
bred heifers. The new barn, 162 by 125 feet, is a 6 row
design with 14ft wide stall/manure alleys and 18ft feeding
alleys. Bedding is shavings when available, otherwise
chopped straw mixed with sunflower shells.
Tri Star Dairy Centre helped design the barn and supplied
and installed equipment. Woolwich Project Management
was in charge of constructing the building and
United Livestock Systems installed the feeding equipment.
Brent has high praise for their design, construction
and equipment installation work.
Feeding Program
Alfalfa haylage from a Harvestor silo is conveyer-fed
along with hay in head-lock feed mangers.
Continued on page 46

in herd management
Laingspring Dairy Ltd
Muller Brothers
The Laing family: Ted, Tyron, parents Bertha and Ray with Dean
Moore, Hi-Pro
Farm & Family
Ray and Bertha Laing and sons Tyrone and Ted own
and manage the dairy of 165 lactating cows. The Laing
farm was established on this site by Ray’s great-grandfather
in 1872, located north of Steinbach, Manitoba.
Facilities Description
The Laings built new facilities in 2014 designed for
robotic milking, and expanded the herd from 160 in a
tie-stall barn to 165 cows in comfort stalls. They downsized
the cow herd to 138 before the move and then expanded
to 165 with purchased heifers.
The barn is a six row design, 260ft by 142ft. Milking
is with three DeLaval VMS robotic milking systems, expecting
that the fourth will be added in the short term
future with capacity for over 200 cows.
Muller Brothers – Richard, his son Paul, and brother Rene with
Denis Hague, Hi-Pro Business Development Specialist (Dairy),
Carman, MB
Farm & Family
The Muller brothers, Richard and Rene, continued
the family farm tradition as the fourth generation on
this farm since their great-grandfather started here
in 1901. Richard’s son Paul returned to the farm five
years ago after an Agriculture Business degree from
the University of Manitoba and 10 years employment in
the agricultural industry. He continues to work off the
farm part-time for a crop chemicals and seed company
but has primary responsibility for the management of
the dairy enterprise. Richard, who was responsible for
the dairy herd, says, “Paul was the stimulus to expand
the dairy herd and build the new barn.” Paul has one
brother who is involved in ag retail, and two sisters not
involved in the farm.
Continued on page 47
AGRI LEADER » 2016
45

Cottonwood Holsteins Ltd
The alfalfa haylage is fed 10 times per day – always
fresh – and cows do not have to fight for it. Five kg of
concentrate mix is fed through the robot for all cows’ Individual
cows grain/supplement requirements based on
production and condition are met with three computer
feeders. The robotic system at Cottonwood has a smart
gate feature, but Brent states, “I am far smarter than
the cow and I direct the cows where I want them to go,
yes all 125 to 130 of them. We observe, observe, observe
cows – individual cows – and set grain levels accordingly.
Production Results
The herd is all Pure Bred since the early 1980’s. “With
the time to analyze weaknesses, one focus has been
pregnancy rate. It has improved in the new barn, now
23 preg rate points. It is up from previous results by
10 points. Currently the services per pregnancy ratio is
2.1. First service conception is 45%. Alta Genetics Advantage
Program has been a great help.
The main barn and the two DeLaval VMS units at Cottonwood
+ =
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Navigator TM
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150-B Jameson Drive, Peterborough Ontario K9J 0B9. (705) 741-3100 www.delaval.ca
46 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Laingspring Dairy Ltd
Muller Brothers
The main barn and the three DeLaval VMS units at Laingspring
Tri-Star Dairy Center Ltd from Grunthal was the contractor
and equipment supplier for the facility. “Tri-Star
people were great to work with and did an excellent job
for us,” says Ray.
Feeding Program
The PMR (partial mixed ration), is fed with mixer
wagon along the feed alley around the outer sides of
the barn. The ration is alfalfa baleage, corn silage and
a Hi-Pro Feeds 19% Laing Custom Concentrate. In addition
an 18% Pelleted Concentrate is fed in the robots
– also from Hi-Pro.
Production Results
The Laings saw a significant milk yield increase in the
new facility, but Tyrone says, “Our production increase
was certainly partially due to the milking system, but
we did move from a crowded tie-stall barn into a well
ventilated spacious free-stall facility. It was a big learning
curve for us and the herd.”
Production has improved from 9,000kg to almost
11,000kg rolling herd average. SCC is 176,000 and IBC
always less than 15,000. Milking frequency is averaging
2.7 with 2.0 rejects.
The barn and the Lely Astronaut unit at Muller
The farm is located at Notre Dame about an hour and
a half south west of Winnipeg.
Facilities Description
The Mullers completed new facilities in 2014 designed
for robotic milking, and expanded the herd from
30 cows in an aging tie-stall barn to 55 in a straw-pack
loose housing system. The decision was to build new
or sell out the herd. However, a complication was that
crop farming would not support two families without
the dairy.
“We decided to build an entirely new complex and expand
the herd. And we believed from the start of planning
that the only choice was robotic milking,” says
Paul.
“...the only choice was
robotic milking.”
The barn is 80 by 180 feet. Milking is with a previously
used LELY Astronaut Model 3.
Photo credit Paul Muller
AGRI LEADER » 2016
47

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Cottonwood Holsteins Ltd
Laingspring Dairy Ltd
Milk yield has not increased in the new barn as Oswalds
achieved outstanding production long before the
change. Cottonwood Holsteins was the top producing
herd in the province seven years running in the 1990’s.
SCC is right on 200K and IBC ranges from 10,000 up to
20,000. Milking frequency is 2.5 but there are no rejects
in the controlled flow system.
“...one focus has been
pregnancy rate”
Crop Production
Cottonwood farms 2200 acres in field crops – alfalfa
(haylage) - 300ac, sunflowers (for oil) - 350, soybeans
- 500, corn (grain) 700, spring wheat 150, oats - 100,
and about 100 in pasture (for dry cows and heifers) and
barnyard.
How has robotic milking changed herd management?
Brent was quick to point out, “Number one is time
flexibility. Six less hours milking per day, means six
more hours for herd management. We know our cows
better as a whole, not only by the udder. I am not a good
schedule guy, but I did work with parlour milking for
years.
“The robotic system provides flexibility. I no longer
need to leave planting or combining to go do chores.
However, I do not spend any less time with the herd and
the farm. Some say, you have more time for other interests.
I disagree. I take more time for spread sheets,
analysis of crops, and more time for shadow in the field.
I have time for analyses of weaknesses. All on a flexible
schedule.
Inside the lactating cow barn at Cottonwood, (note the over-head
forage conveyer system), the feeding alley in the Laingspring
barn, and (opposite page) the Muller straw-pack bedded area for
the milking herd
“It was a big learning curve
for us and the herd”
Crop Production
Laingspring farms 1200 acres – 400 in alfalfa that
usually yields three cuts, mostly harvested as ‘baleage’
– plastic wrapped haylage averaging about 50% moisture.
They grow 150 acres in soybeans and the balance
(750ac) in corn for silage and grain.
How has robotic milking changed herd management?
“For us, labour has been a huge change,” says Ray.
“We employed two full time men before, now only one.”
Tyrone, who has primary responsibility for the herd,
continues, “We needed 18 man-hours of labour per day
for milking alone. We got home at 7:00pm only to be
back at 5:00am. We did little but work, eat and sleep
with so little time outside of farming.”
Bertha, mom, adds, “And little time for family life.”
“Flexibility of our time now allows for more time
spent planning,” says Ted, who is mainly responsible
for barn maintenance, scrapping stalls, bedding and
crop related work. “Already this past season, we have
put up better feed because of time flexibility and time to
plan, analyze and think beyond chores.”
“Additional benefits have been seen in health, especially
in reduced lameness,” explains Tyrone, who does
the AI breeding. “Our reproduction program needed
help. We used a bull after the second service, but now
100% AI. Our services per pregnancy is 2.2 or 37% first
service conception. We have used a lot of sexed semen
with good results.”
“Additional benefits...
especially reduced lameness”
50 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Muller Brothers
They were able to purchase the well-maintained four
year old robotic unit from a producer leaving the industry,
who coincidently was also in a straw-pack barn. The
purchase included bulk tank, compressor, gates, head
rails, manure pumps and other related equipment –
saving them huge dollars. The barn was designed to
house double the current size herd by using comfort
stalls instead of the straw pack and moving out the dry
cows.
“Penner Farm Services were absolutely great to work
with for the installation, especially considering we
bought used equipment,” expresses Paul. “They continue
to provide fantastic service with information through
webinars and technical updates, and are available any
time to solve a problem or simply show support. They
monitor all their customers’ robots and let us know we
are doing well by analyzing key performance indicators.
Feeding Program
The TMR (really a PMT), is fed with a stationary ‘Valmetal’
feed mixer that distributes the forage ration by
over-head conveyor to the feed manger along one side
of the building. The ration is mostly alfalfa haylage, averaging
about 60% moisture plus grass hay and some
straw as required. Hi-Pro Feeds’ PMR Supplement is
added at 5kg/hd.
The robot is used to feed to individual cow requirements.
The Muller Custom grain blend from Hi-Pro is
fed from 5 to 13.5 kg/hd/day, constantly adjusted for
production and body condition. Paul offers, “We greatly
appreciate the services of Denis Hague and the Hi-Pro
nutritionist for the ration formulation and Denis’ support
with the transition to robotic milking.”
Production Results
The Muller herd did see about a 10% milk yield increase,
recognizing that part of the increase was probably
the move from the old facility to a new comfortable
barn. Paul explains, “Our herd was quiet, even calm,
and although we moved from a tie-stall barn to the well
ventilated modern facility, the transition went well.
Training for Robotic
Systems Management
Several Hi-Pro Feeds dairy sales and service representatives
have received specialized training to better
assist their customers with robotic milking systems.
The courses are an intensive week including an exam
to achieve certification. Here are three sales staff who
describe the training.
Denis Hague, Carman, Manitoba, says, “The course
gave me insight into the capability of robotic milking, and
to better understand and use the available data in practical
application. We represent the feed supplier, Hi-Pro
Feeds, and with this training we have gained credibility
as an advisor to our customers who have robotic milking.
Our opportunity is to assist in data analysis, but not
to program the dairyman’s herd. We provide information,
reference materials and answer customer’s questions,
and are simply more knowledgeable of this technology.”
Sean Bredenhof, Chilliwack, BC explains, “The major
benefit of the training was to understand the almost unlimited
amount of information available in the system,
and to break down the data to what one can use in milking
and general herd management. There is so much
information, if you don’t know what to use it for, you are
lost.
A key for me is the ability to tweak the energy balance
of the PMR with the individual cows’ nutritional needs –
a range of 4 to 8kg. Further, a benefit was to understand
the cow signals information tied in with robotic milking,
including effects of barn layout on milking efficiency and
cow comfort issues. An example is watching milking
permission data. One hour less time allowed between
milking gave a significant milk yield increase. These are
excellent seminars to help us using available information
and the application of technology.”
Dean Moore, also Manitoba, says, “The course was an
eye-opener of the whole new world of technology at the
farm. Although our focus was the milking system and
the data it generates, the use of pedometers and rumenators
adds more data. The key is to see all the available
information including feed charts to monitor the herd
and to solve problems. Good management is interpreting
all the data.
“The training gave me a better ability to answer the
customer’s questions but also to ask the right questions
to help him use best practices. Further, it gave me insight
into the foundation and background of the system,
not just the surface, operational level of it. I am not suggesting
that we could or should run the robot for our
customers – just the opposite. Our role is to help trouble
shoot and provide information to assist in achieving the
best overall operation of the technology.”
AGRI LEADER » 2016
51

Cottonwood Holsteins Ltd
Brent continues, “Also, we are able to do many operations
and projects ourselves, saving huge dollars.
For example we now spread our own fertilizer saving
$20,000 annually. We bought a truck for grain hauling
resulting in $40,000 less cost. We did not hire someone
to pour the foundation for a new grain bin. There are
many more examples.
“Our two employees similarly have more time for
herd and barn management detail.” Andre is the herdsman
and Sam is the jack-of-all-trades including field
crop work.
“Farming is much more like a business today. The
industry has changed hugely. This is not a traditional
dairy, success not measured only by working hard. The
time flexibility has allowed me to attend leadership
seminars and technical meetings. I have even had a
first ever major vacation away from the farm when last
year Kirsty and I travelled to Scotland to explore her
roots. I’ve also enjoyed some recreation like fishing at
my brother’s cabin.
“The set-up also allows more time to be involved in
the industry, both locally and provincially.
Dry cow area in the previous milking barn, and part of the crop
handling and storage area
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52 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Laingspring Dairy Ltd
Muller Brothers
Other Herd Management Notes
Tyrone, Ted, Ray and their employee Braydon share
responsibility for the on-call robot alarm on a planned
shift arrangement.
The feeding variability experienced in the old barn
has been overcome with the PMR.
On the herd health question, Tyrone explains, “We
can focus on health, especially lameness. Mastitis incidents
have been improved. Generally lactation cow
health is better. The medical room has been a boon in
treating cows. Over-all, this has been a positive transformation
in herd management.”
Interesting Stories
Ray shares some history. “Great-grandfather came
from Scotland to Ontario and on to Manitoba in 1872, an
early pioneer in the region. When he started this homestead
he built the original buildings beside a large
spring. Hence the name Laingspring. However when
the surveyors came through it turns out these building
were on the road allowance and everything had to be
moved to the present yard.
We culled one cow initially and a second one recently,
both because of teat placement.”
Production is 38 to 40kg/cow on DHI with 3.7% fat.
(“My breeding focus is fat”). SCC is 170,000 and IBC
15,000. In the old facilities with a small pipe-line, SCC
was 200,000 and IBC at 3000. Milking frequency per day
is steady averaging 3.3 with 1.5 rejects.
“...the transition went well.”
Crop Production
Muller Bros farm 1200 acres. 250 are in alfalfa that
usually yields three cuts, mostly harvested as wrapped
bale haylage (or balage), and 50 acres in grass for
low potassium hay. 800 acres are in wheat and canola
50/50, plus some buck-wheat. The balance is pasture
and non-farmable areas.
How has robotic milking changed herd management?
Paul responds, “For us time flexibility was key. It allowed
me to continue to work off-farm part-time to
help make the expansion financially viable.
“It was a paradigm shift, a non-routine approach to
accommodate personal life style.
“It was a paradigm shift,
a non-routine approach...”
The comfort stalls and close-up cows’ straw bedded pen at
Laingspring. Paul Muller at the Valmetal stationary feed mixer
that delivers PMR forage to the cow feed manger by overhead
conveyer
AGRI LEADER » 2016
53

Cottonwood Holsteins Ltd
Laingspring Dairy Ltd
“The bottom line is that a robot is not magic, not the
end all and be all,” he emphasizes. “It is a milk harvesting
tool. Period! There must be a whole package of
farm management to make money. The robotic system
helps achieve that.”
“...a robot is not magic,
not the end all and be all”
Other Herd Management Notes
Cows are quiet, calm, enjoying a low stress environment
where they are not herded to the holding area.
According to Brent, they are at the max for two units.
“There is no time for down time, but we are doing well
at that level. More than 130 cows with two units would
be difficult.” Milking frequency average is 2.5 and milking
time is over 90% of the robots’ daily time. Idle time
is 2 to 4%.
“In a robotic milking set-up, I think there should be
more comfort stalls than cows – about 2 to 3%. The cow
looking for an open stall should not have to wander up
and down the alley to find an empty stall.”
Over-all health has improved. Disease costs are way
down, about half of previous. Foot and leg health has
greatly improved in the new facilities. The Bovi-Booster
in the robot together with the installation of rubber
mats in all alleys is the biggest factor for improved foot
and leg health.
A brother is the local veterinarian, who has used innovative
procedures including DNA testing and successfully
setting broken leg bones and other major
surgical interventions.
Interesting Stories
In order to begin construction of the barn beginning
in March when the frost was still deep in the ground,
large trucks could drive on the frozen soil but could not
pour concrete. So they purchased three hoppers of a
Super-B of coal to spread along the footing’s layout.
Straw was spread over top and set on fire. The coal
burned for days, thawing the frost. The soil was hot, allowing
for pouring concrete and construction in warm
conditions while trucks could continue to drive on solid,
frozen soil. The builders loved it.
Brent has produced and sold small hay bales to the
horse trade including export to Florida and Texas – one
year 32 semi-truck loads. Horse owners in the southern
US buy Canadian hay because of the blister beetle
in their local hay that affects horses.
“When my grandfather started shipping milk in 1916,
the cans were hauled by horse and wagon to Giroux six
miles away by 7:30 am, and then loaded on the train for
transportation to the milk plant in Winnipeg. His original
contract was for 160lb or two cans daily.”
When Ray and Bertha took over the farm in 1980, they
were milking 40 cows in a tie stall barn. By 2002 they
milked 110 cows in a 113 stall tie stall barn and grew to
160 as mentioned earlier. At that time, swapping cows
in and out alone took an hour twice a day.
Future
“Our four to five year projection is to expand to four
robots and maximize production,” says Tyrone.
Ted points out, “The new Manitoba QPP [quota purchase
policy – for buying quota], could slow down our
plans if we have any infractions or our SCC or IBC
counts exceed the various limits. Any single inhibitor
infraction means no quota purchase opportunity for
12 months. We must be diligent in all aspects of milk
management.”
Ray concludes, “The facility has met our expectations
to date. It is significantly better in all respects to the
old barn. And this is only the first two years. Our goal is
300kg of quota to ultimately fill the barn. Also we have
reached 300 animal units that require a farm manure
management plan – not a major issue along-side CQM
and the ProAction initiatives of Dairy Farmers of Canada.”
Weaned calf & heifer pens, and barnyard at Laingspring
54 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Muller Brothers
Cottonwood Holsteins Ltd
“Between dad and me, the same amount of time is
spent in the barn as before, but in addition to my offfarm
work, I can focus on herd data, looking at information
to make improvements,” says Paul. “Breeding and
genetics have become an area of improvement. Reproduction
efficiency has improved with 1.8 services per
pregnancy and a slightly better conception rate at 40%.
We now utilize both activity and rumination monitors,
so heat detection is much better.”
Other Herd Management Notes
“Additional benefits have been seen in herd health,
especially in reduced lameness,” explains Paul. “The
barn is focused on cow comfort, a huge improvement
from the tie-stall. With straw-pack bedding and rubber
on the alley-ways, we don’t get any swollen hocks.
However with the straw-pack, hoofs are softer and
more of a challenge to keep healthy. Hoof trimming is
even more important. We now have our own chute in
the barn for regular trimming.” A foot bath is used once
a week with copper-sulfate and sulfur booster, periodically
switched to zinc sulfate.
The straw-pack and much less wash-water from the
robot means that they can continue to stack manure for
spring spreading.
Future
“In the next few years, I hope to see the barn reconfigured
to a four row comfort stall barn with 90 stalls and
up to 100 cows with a second robot unit installed,” says
Paul. “The price of quota is lower for the time being,
interest rates remain low, the industry is strong and for
our farm, dairy is the only way to expand as land prices
are very high.
“I would hope to buy out part of dad’s
share of the land – about 400 acres as
part of the dairy to grow more alfalfa
and silage corn. With comfort stalls
and more cows, a slurry store manure
system would have to be part of the
expansion.” Currently the dairy enterprise
ownership is one third each
for Paul, dad Richard and uncle Rene,
and Paul rents the forage acres from
his dad and uncle.
Paul has ambitious plans for the future.
We wish him much success.
Future
“Our short term goal is to fill 180kg of quota with two
robots,” says Brent. “We are now at 164kg with 130
cows. Long term, I hope to see four systems with 270 –
280 lactating cows. How much quota you are filling and
at what cost is the key to financial success. We are also
adding acres as they come available. I would like to see
2500 acres in crops.”
Taylor, age 7 and Breden, 4, in the corn field
and dad Brent combining grain at sunset on
Cottonwood farm
Photo credits Oswald family
AGRI LEADER » 2016
55

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Hi-Pro Feeds Nutritionist or
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56 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Silvervale Farm Ltd - Gordon and Heather Fox
Farm Relocated for Family Opportunity
A major relocation for Gordon and Heather
Fox and their two children, Sydney and Connor,
began in 2005 when they made the difficult
decision to move from Vancouver Island
to the interior of BC. After an extensive
search, they purchased bare farm land in
Westwold, an agricultural community located
half way between Kamloops and Vernon.
The transition was huge in terms of climate,
community, farm services, schools and almost
every aspect of farming and family life.
Sydney, now 20, says, “Life here has been
good, but oh, so different. In elementary
school my grade had seven students and the
whole school from K to 7 had about 40 kids.
Then in grade 8, we bused to Kamloops leaving
home at 6:25 in the morning and returning
home after 5:00.”
“The shocker was the climate,” exclaims
Heather. “In our very first summer a heat
wave hit 42 and the following winter a minus 45 for a
week!”
“Although the area is semi-arid, that year winter
started suddenly with heavy snow in mid-October,”
continues Gordon. “It is a windy valley so drifts are
often a problem. Back on Vancouver Island my water
lines froze at minus 4 and 25 was a hot summer’s day.”
“The transition was huge
in terms of climate”
Gordon, Heather, Connor and Sydney Fox with Brittney Schurmann, Dairy
Nutritionist, and Jim Langelaan, Hi-Pro Sales Manager, Chilliwack, BC,
and the Silverdale Farm
Westwold is a small but strongly agricultural community
located in the Crater Valley 60km south-east of
Kamloops with a population of about 500. It was first
settled by ranchers in 1864. The climate is influenced
by its elevation of 2067 feet (630m) and the absence of
temperature moderating large lakes. (Kamloops City or
the Okanagan Lake are about 340m elevation). Ranching,
forestry/lumber and interestingly, turf production
are the main enterprises. Silvervale Farm is the only
dairy farm in the area.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
57

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Gordon’s great
grand-father Herbert
with a prize cow
in England in 1916,
and grandfather
Sidney in the 1930’s
on Vancouver Island
– with the dairy
inspector, leading
a haltered cow and
at the feed manger
– note individual
feeding sections.
Photo credit Fox
family.
58 AGRI LEADER » 2016

The Fox family has been a part of the dairy scene on
Vancouver Island since 1925 when Gordon’s grandfather,
having recently emigrated from England, settled
in the Saanichton community about 30km north of Victoria.
(see photos) Robert Fox, a half-brother to Gordon,
farms at Errington about two hours north on Van
Isle as Silver Meadows Farm Ltd.
Gordon explains the history of the farm name, “At the
time 10 years ago when we began our plans to move,
part of our farm was the original Fox farm on Vancouver
Island, called Silver Rill. The farm in England was
named Silver Rill because of the silvery shimmer off
a small stream that ran through it. Silvervale was as
close as we could come to that early farm name. Some
of the Fox clan were understandably sorry to see the
original Van Isle farm sold to others.
“Our reasons for considering a move were both farm
business decisions and family values,” continues Gordon.
“We were farming on three separate parcels in
Saanichton and renting a lot of land a considerable
distance from home-base. Secondly, we needed to
upgrade our facilities, and thirdly, we wanted to build
a family sized modern set-up that offered a future in
dairying for our children.”
Construction
They purchased the Westwold farm in 2005. It was
268 acres bare of any buildings other than an old shed.
The land was basically a ranch, not intensively farmed.
Construction of the barns, bunkers, and family home
was done through that year, and they moved in April of
2006 to some unfinished construction.
The barns consist of four buildings: the main cow
barn is 102ft by 160ft with 70 stalls for lactating cows
and 75 for heifers. The fully curtained barn – 8 feet on
the heifer side and 12ft on the lactating cow side – provides
a comfortable environment for the animals in this
breezy, even windy but hot summer climate.
Another structure houses the shop and a large wood
burning furnace that heats the parlor, the utility room,
barn office and the house. Underground pipes carry the
hot water to the house about 200 feet away.
The milking parlour, holding area, tank room and utilities
are in the centre building, 100ft by 152ft with housing
for calves and close-up dry cows. They are housed
near the milking parlour for easy observation, usually
about 30 days pre-partum. The parlour equipment is
Bou Matic herringbone, rapid-exit, double-6. Some of
the parlour was relocated from the Van Isle farm.
Crop Production
The soil is productive, rated as #2 on the Canadian
Land Inventory scale, but it has several gravel seams.
The Fox family home, part of the milking herd, dry-cows and
close-up cows
AGRI LEADER » 2016
59

A significant problem is moles. “We could walk across
a field and never step on grass,” chuckles Gordon.
“The real problem is soil and gravel in the silage and
the mower blades constantly need changing. We have
controlled them somewhat by crop rotation every three
years and are working on more aggressive methods but
few controls are available to us.”
Silvervale grows 45 acres of silage corn, 90 in alfalfa/
grass and 35 in barley for silage. All crops are irrigated
with the one big gun on the corn, and as Connor (age
19) states, “We have nine wheel-lines so irrigation is a
huge chore.”
Additional hay is available from area farmers to provide
the needed winter feed. About 150 big bales of first
cut alfalfa for the heifers and 100 bales of second cut
for the milk cows are required each winter.
“When we moved here, we were told that corn could
not be grown because of the low heat units and short
season. So early on we grew barley for silage,” Gordon
explains. “However we were determined to try corn. We
found the earliest maturing seed available rated at only
2050CHU and grew 10 acres as a trial. The results were
gratifying even though that year frost came on September
1st. We now harvest about 15 tons per acre with
acceptable maturity. Even if there is an early frost that
kills back most of the leaves, the cobs continue to ripen
until harvest some weeks later.”
Corn is harvested by a custom outfit (two hours away),
as is big-square baling of alfalfa/grass. About 700
small bales are harvested each season for the calves.
AgBag storage is for barley silage, alfalfa/grass haylage
and a small amount of corn silage as carry-over.
Most of the corn is stored in the bunker.
Feeding Program
A single lactating cow TMR is fed based on silage:
currently 40lb alfalfa silage (at 30% moisture) and 20lb
barley silage (at 60% moisture; 29% starch). Plus 6lb
alfalfa hay, 4lb flatted barley, 2lb beet pulp, and a Hi-
Pro customized TMR supplement in mash form at 21lb.
Gord finds it cost effective to feed barley and beet pulp
separate from the mash.
Additional alfalfa hay is also available free choice at
one end of the bunk. Typically, corn silage is also grown
and fed in place of barley silage as starch values are
comparable.
Far-off and close-up dry cows are housed and fed
separately. However, one main mix is made for both
groups, consisting of alfalfa silage, barley or corn silage,
alfalfa hay, and 3.5lb Hi-Pro customized dry cow
supplement. Close-up cows going into second lactation
or greater are top-dressed with 4lb flatted barley.
Heifers are fed a hay-based diet until 10 months of
age. At that point, a heifer TMR is fed consisting of hay,
Sydney Fox feeding calves, and the group calf pens
alfalfa silage, barley or corn silage, a small amount of
the lactating mash for energy and rumen development,
and mineral.
The herd is Pure-bred Holstein. It is obvious Gordon
looks for conformation and tall, strong characteristics
in the breeding program. “I look for type-plus bulls for
three generations, then add a bull with strong plus for
milk. Longevity is a key goal, as is achieving an Excellent
cow.”
Production has been steady at 36/37kg per day. BCA’s
are 241M 261F 230P.
Gordon adds, “We do have a great support team for
our farm in Jim Langelaan, dairy sales manager and
Shelagh Niblock, dairy field nutritionist at Hi-Pro Feeds.
I also acknowledge Mike Witt, our agronomist, and Pat
and Gerard Doorn from Mountain View Electric for irrigation
and for dairy equipment and service. Without
their expertise, farming would be a huge challenge”
“Longevity is a key goal…”
AGRI LEADER » 2016
61

295
We Know What Matters.
Her next 295 days –
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lactating dairy cows. J. Dairy Sci.
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Conclusion
When asked about their farming
philosophy and future plans, Gordon
responded, “Optimistic but cautious.
There are uncertainties today about
the future of supply management, yet
we are committed to a family farm focus.
“The facilities we designed are built
for expansion, but we expect that 70
to 100 cows will continue to be profitable
operated by our family. Labour
is an issue for us as there is limited
hired help available in this valley.
“We do not wish to grow much larger
in the short term, but eventually, if
Sydney takes over, we would plan to
increase the herd to a maximum of
120 to 140 cows to support a larger
family. We hope the government and
the industry will continue to support
the family farm.
Each family member has their areas
of responsibility. Sydney was primarily
responsible for the herd, also
milking five days of the week. However,
this past fall, she began the animal
husbandry program at Lakeland
College in Vermilion, Alberta. This is
part of her education as she looks
forward to a career on the dairy farm.
Gordon was milking week-ends, but
with Sydney at college, more frequently.
He does the feeding, breeding
and general management. Connor
is the crop, irrigation guy and
does equipment maintenance and
related work. Heather looks after the
farm accounting, records and general
paper work, and feeds and manages
calves. “With Sydney gone this winter,
I am back to full time milking.”
To conclude Gordon summarizes,
“Our future plans will come clear
when the two big issues are settled.
Will supply management continue
to support family farms and will our
children continue to be part of the operation.
We hope both answers will
be positive.”
62 AGRI LEADER » 2016

A healthy innovation at Silvervale is exercise yards for
both lactating cows and heifers. The milking herd has
free access to a three acre site on any day that is dry
and not extremely cold. Also, when the yard is frozen
solid after a wet and muddy period, the surface may be
too rough for comfortable walking. Heifers have access
to smaller open pens that also provide the benefit of
being off concrete and enjoying the sunshine.
“Lameness is a serious problem on many dairy farms
where animals are on concrete constantly, usually wet
concrete. The yards certainly help to dry out the cow’s
feet and I believe reduce lameness as reported by UBC
researchers,” says Gordon. “The one disadvantage is
the cows eat less when outside, so we monitor the time
they are away from the feed-bunk. The cow area has
hay feeders, but no TMR source. The cows and heifers
love the exercise space as evidenced by the numbers
that access the yards whenever they can.”
The laneway to the exercise yard with the cows enjoying the
outside freedom adjacent to the Ag-Bag stored silage. The lower
photo is the exercise yard for the bred heifers. Opposite page,
the back barn-yard with feed bins, TMR mixer, and commodity
storage
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AGRI LEADER » 2016
63

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Poultry
Section
Willow Bend Farms Ltd
Intensive Sanitation and
Innovative
Lighting
Andrew Reimer and his dad Ken operate Willow Bend
Farms, a crop and broiler operation located at Blumenort
about 40 minutes south east of Winnipeg. The
farm has been in the family for four generations with
Andrew’s and Jennifer’s four children making it five.
Since Andrew assumed primary responsibility for the
broiler operation, he has introduced several innovative
ideas. “I learned the finer points of chicken production
from dad and from numerous industry visits and articles,”
says Andrew. “Dad has been great to agree with
me to make various changes that I’ve come up with.”
Andrew Reimer (left) and his dad Ken (rt) with Elmer Toews, Hi-
Pro Poultry Specialist, St Anne, MB, and the barn and farm yard
at Willow Bend Farms
AGRI LEADER » 2016
65

Andrew’s reply to the suggestion that we follow the
FLLAWSS’ acronym (feed, litter, light, air, water, shipping
and sanitation), was, “I would like to start with the
last element, sanitation, as it is the foundation of all
the rest.”
“… sanitation, is
the foundation …”
Sanitation
Recently sanitation practices at Willow Bend were intensified
to the highest level possible. As Andrew and
Ken explain, “We made a farm decision driven by our
goal of improved results to raise the sanitation standard.
This is in addition to standard protocol and biosecurity
practices. And it has paid off well.”
--
After shipping, cleanout is completed the next
day.
--
Litter is moved off the yard as soon as possible,
within days.
--
Pressure washing begins immediately after shipping
with a degreaser and detergent using hot water.
Every exposed surface is thoroughly washed
with goal to remove all organic matter possible.
--
Next a disinfectant is applied through the pressure
washer to all surfaces and equipment.
--
Fumigation using formaldehyde is carried out at
least twice a year, usually in spring and fall.
--
Straw bedding is held in a bio secure building.
--
Wheat straw from the farm’s own fields is custom
chopped as required.
--
Every piece of equipment that enters the barn
(tractor, loader, wagons, pressure-washers –
all equipment) is disinfected before entering the
barn.
--
Bugs spraying (for darkling beetles and red grain
mites) is planned after every other cycle, adjusted
for season and infestation levels.
Innovative lighting program
The next protocol I’d like to review is lighting,” states
Andrew. “We have made some changes that again are
helping us to meet our performance goals. The objective
of our lighting program is better feed conversion
instead of daily gain.”
Day 1 to 7: full light, 23 hours per day
Day 8 to 19: gradual increasing of dark period up to
10 hours dark, with a minimum of at least 1 lux light
intensity during the dark period
Newly placed broiler chicks and the feed lines
Day 20 to shipping: gradual decreasing of dark period
to 1 hour, again with a minimum of 1 lux light intensity
”These changes to our lighting protocol are based on
the fact that the chickens will convert feed better if they
are given sufficient time to rest and recover. Also the
weight gain given up during the low light period means
compensatory gain later in the batch,” says Andrew.
“The trade-off was slightly higher condemns at the
plant because birds were more aggressive at the feeders
after the dark period ended. So we increased the
sunrise period to 1.5 hours and introduced a minimum
light intensity of 1 lux to the dark period. This quickly
solved the problem while not giving up any of the benefits
of our program.”
“… chickens will convert
feed better if they are
given sufficient time
to rest and recover.”
AGRI LEADER » 2016
67

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68 AGRI LEADER » 2016

“The results have been good.” says Ken. “Our seven
cycle average is 1.54 feed conversion while still achieving
average weights of 2.16 kg at 34 days.”
Air
“During the brooding period – the first four days – it
is essential to have the right room-temperature,” explains
Andrew. “I measure chick vent temperature
with a probe on about 20 chicks. We could develop a
temperature curve, but the vent measurement allows
temperature adjustment by what the chicks are telling
me. Therefore we are taking into account the age of the
chick, humidity, feed consumption, floor temperature,
air speed and chick size. It does mean manually adjusting
the temperature though. The target temperature
of the chick vent through its entire life should be
103F (39.4C), with a range of only 102 to 104F.”
Barn ambient air-temperature usually starts at 93 to
95F (33.9-35C) for 12 hours, it is then gradually dropped
to 90 to 92F (32.2-33.3C) overnight. By Day 4 temperature
has been reduced to 86F (30C).
Ken adds, “Not only are we following recommended
guidelines, but actually monitoring the chicks and adjusting
accordingly. After Day 5, we monitor the chicks’
behavior by observing panting, crowding, etc, and adjust
temperature accordingly.”
Water
“...actually monitoring
the chicks and adjusting
accordingly.”
Willow Bend has good quality water from a 225 foot
well. ‘Oxy-Blast’ (hydrogen peroxide) is used for water
sanitization. Between every other batch, water lines
are cleaned with ‘Bio-Solve’ which is an alkaline based
degreaser.
Shipping
The Reimer’s birds along with about half of Manitoba’s
production goes to Grannys Poultry Coperative
plant – located only 5km from the farm. The plant manages
the catching crew, but the owner must feed according
to the with-drawl schedule and raise the waterers
and feeders. The crew uses module cages and
fork-lifts.
Ken comments, “It is essential to have dry litter in the
barn for the catching operation to go well. To achieve
this we must ensure a low-enough humidity though the
entire batch.”
Feed
“Simply stated, we are pleased with Hi-Pro Feed and
are especially grateful for Elmer Toews, our sales representative,”
offers Andrew. “Our results have improved
since we began with Hi-Pro. Elmer has been fantastic
in helping us solve problems and offering great ideas
into developing our current program.”
The feeding program uses four feeds: 22% protein
starter, 20% grower, 19% finisher-3, and beginning on
Day 27 to shipping, 18% finisher-4.
Future
When asked about future plans and expectations,
Andrew was quick to reply, “We are optimistic about
our industry’s future. We bought 10,000kg of additional
quota two years ago that we believe was a good investment.
We had barn space, so no additional capital
investment was required. The allocations have been
good, now 115%, which is expected to continue.” Willow
Bend holds 70,000 kg of quota with birds in three
separate barns.
Ken adds, “We acted on the Hi-Pro slogan, ‘Invested
in Animal Nutrition’.”
“We are optimistic about
our industry’s future.”
Field Crops
Willow Bend farms 1000 acres in wheat (50%) and 25%
each of canola and soybeans. “We had great weather
this past season; except for a few storms in July, and
good yield results,” says Ken. “We often sell our winter
wheat to Hi-Pro Feeds at St. Anne, only 8km away.”
Farm and Family Background
As mentioned in the introduction, Andrew and Jennifer
are the fourth generation couple on the Willow Bend
farm. (A creek bends its way around the farm yard with
willows planted alongside the creek giving the Willow
Bend name).
Andrew’s great grandfather, Aron R Reimer along
with his wife Margaretha purchased the property in
1919. One of their sons, Aaron and wife Sara bought
the farm in 1953, who in turn sold a third of the farm
to son Ken and his wife Geralyn in 1980. Aaron Reimer
was born and died on the farm. According to a District
Official, no one else in the region has lived on the same
property as long as Aaron. He died in 2007 at the age
of 81.
Just the year before buying into the farm, Ken had
completed the agricultural diploma program at the
University of Manitoba. Geralyn grew up on a local layer
farm but has a full time career as a mid-wife working
AGRI LEADER » 2016
69

throughout south-eastern Manitoba for the Provincial
Health Authority – a 24/7 responsibility. They have three
children, Andrew being the eldest.
Today ownership of Willow Bend Farms Ltd is Andrew
and Jennifer 50% and Ken and Geralyn 25% each.
Ken contributes generously to their community of
Blumenort, about 1200 population, as well as the
chicken industry. He currently serves as a director of
Grannys Poultry Cooperative, is on the Parks and Recreation
committee, and on the executive of the Sandi-
Lands Cross Country Ski Club.
Andrew and Jennifer have four children: Katie is 8,
Hannah is 5, Eli 3 and Natalie 1. Andrew’s priorities at
this stage are his family and so he is involved in their
church, mostly in the children’s program. He says, “At
this stage in life, I need to be active where my children
are.”
“I need to be active
where my children are.”
The future looks bright at Willow Bend Farms, a true
family farm demonstrating innovative and creative
management.
Andrew and Jennifer Reimer with their children, Natalie age 1,
Hannah 5, Katie 8, and Eli 3. Photo credit Reimer Family.
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70 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Broiler Research
Update - Top 5
Learnings
Paul Goerzen, MSc, Regional Manager, Hi-Pro Feeds, Chilliwack, BC
Paul Goerzen
The folks at Hi-Pro Feeds talk openly about the reason
for their existence, which is simply: To enrich the
lives of the animals we feed and the people we work
with. The overall goal is easily summed up by the following:
To serve the customers we have and to grow
the business by building trust and expanding market
share.
Conducting practical hands-on research has been
one very significant tool the Hi-Pro team has used to
strive to enrich the lives of the animals we feed and the
people we work with.
Over the past dozen years, Paul Goerzen and David
Dyble at the Chilliwack mill have designed, executed,
interpreted and implemented new ideas coming from
78 different broiler research trials. “It was during period
A51 in the spring 2003 that we started this process,”
Paul explains. “Dave and I, and his teenage daughter
Shannon who helped, closed out that first trial we
ran together. We have certainly come a long way since
then.”
The research facility has 24 pens capable of housing
1500 broilers, each pen identical to the others, allowing
for scientifically-sound experimental design with
multiple replications. Measurement of individual bird
weight for age and feed conversion performance is
similar to that of commercial facilities. The 24 pens can
be randomly assigned to treatments and replications
in several configurations – for example, 6 reps with 4
treatments or other combinations.
“In addition to performance results, trials have been
conducted to test the relationship between nutritional
components and genetic ability of the bird with very
low density placements,” Paul continues. “We have
been able to determine significant differences between
treatments at a 5% confidence level with only 2.5 points
in feed conversion rate. That means a difference of only
0.025 feed conversion on a typical 1.60 FCR is scientifically
significant between treatments – a highly desirable
confidence level.”
Many of those trials’ results have been incorporated
into commercial feeding programs across the Hi-Pro
Feeds network. There are a few general lessons that
seem to repeat and remain true across our normal
range of feeding programs, genetics and environmental
conditions in Western Canada.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
71

The Top 5 Learnings:
1. Space Wins. In all cases, every time, and at all
ages, broilers grow faster and more efficiently when
allocated more physical space. Even in cases where
the most crowded birds have more than ample access
to feeder and water allocation, birds given even more
physical space grow more efficiently (lower feed conversion)
and at a faster rate (grams per day). The effect
appears to have more to do with the number of birdto-bird
interactions than some optimal density, feeder
space or water nipple allocation.
2. Birds Can Feel Feed. Compared to mammals,
chickens have very few taste buds, but they do decide
how much of a particular feed they want to voluntarily
eat by how that feed feels in their mouth. The Chilliwack
mill has multiple feed manufacturing lines and
types of pelleting equipment. In all cases the birds refused
to eat when the physical form of the pelleted feed
was too hard. Based on their measured voluntary feed
intake, modern broilers actually appear to prefer feed
manufactured as a slightly softer pellet than a much
harder one.
3. Give Them Meat. Chickens are not vegetarians.
They naturally and normally have a digestive system
that is designed to process a mix of grains and meat
products. Trial after trial has been conducted with veggie
feed in attempt to gain the same health, growth and
feed efficiency as seen with feed containing animal protein
and fats. Repeatedly the team finds it outstandingly
difficult to fully replace the nutritional value of animal
protein with veggie based proteins. Even in cases
where all known individual animal protein components
are controlled and replaced with veggie or synthetic
sources, regardless of the cost the same level of health,
growth and feed efficiency cannot fully be achieved.
4. Healthy Gut, Happy Flock. Medications in the
feed are used to control coccidiosis caused by Emeria
protozoa and necrotic enteritis caused by Clostridial
bacteria. Coccidiosis and necrotic enteritis can cause
severe physical damage to the gut of a chicken. The balance
of medications used to control these two groups
of bugs has been a main topic of work. The health of
chickens is important from perspectives of both welfare
and flock profitability. The team has found that the
balance of these medications is critically important in
order to control the risk of disease while still allowing
the normal and healthy function of the broilers’
gastro-intestinal tract. All nutrients in the feed must
pass through the wall of the gut before they enter the
blood stream and are able to be used by the growing
animal. The health and functionality of that gut wall
is absolutely key to nutrient delivery from the feed into
the bird.
5. Broilers Tell The Truth. The advertised claims
of feed additives often do not hold true when subjected
to statistically valid research. The Hi-Pro Feeds Broiler
Research Facility has been used many times to quantify
and qualify the claims of feed additives. More often
than not, the published claims of feed additives related
to health, growth and feed efficiency do not hold true
when subjected to practical and commercially viable
research. Broilers within a well-organized and wellrun
research facility tell the truth. All one has to do is
pay attention to what they are saying.
... trials’ results have been
incorporated into
commercial
feeding programs …
Photo credit Nathan Martens, Hi-Pro Feeds, Ste. Anne, MB
72 AGRI LEADER » 2016

ACKRON Egg Farms Ltd – Nature’s Farm
The Whole Basket in One Egg
Nature’s Farm has become known
as the premium brand for certified organic
eggs, pasta and granola in Manitoba
and beyond into Ontario, Alberta,
and recently into the US. The business
was developed by Hermann Grauer who
made a commitment to produce these
food products under the highest quality
standard – certified organic. All the
best attributes in one egg! He travelled
a fascinating journey to achieve this
success.
Nature’s Farm offers three product
lines: Eggs: produced, graded, packaged
and marketed from the flock of
34,000 layers per cycle, all free-run,
Pasta: produced and sold from a modern
plant in Steinbach under the name
Nature’s Pasta, and Nature’s Granola
in a variety of recipes. Appropriately,
the address for the plant is, “5 Life Sciences
Parkway”.
Ackron Egg Farms Ltd is the company
name, used publicly as well as Nature’s
Farm. It is named after the school district
where the farm is located.
Eggs
The home and some of the barns at Ackron Egg Farms - Nature’s
Farm near Steinbach, MB
Herman bought the traditional layer operation in
1987 shortly after emigrating from Germany where he
worked as a banker. He improved, rebuilt and added facilities
and equipment, but the big advancement came
when Hermann applied his investigative and marketing
skills to the sale of eggs. He began grading eggs on site
and launched his own label with nutrition information
on the egg carton. This was a first. Leading up to certified
organic production later, his eggs were labelled
‘vegetarian fed’ – a positive statement in contrast to the
‘no animal by-products’ message.
Omega-3 caught his attention. He became one of the
first 11 producers in Canada who were granted TMA
(temporary marketing authority) from Health Canada
in 1996. However, his eggs had a twist in that right from
the start the antioxidant used was Vitamin E, not BHT.
“When I went into the grocery stores, I saw such a
wide range of egg varieties,” explains Hermann. “This
gave me the idea to put all the best attributes available
for eggs into each one of our Nature’s Farm eggs –
trade marked as Smart Eggs. We achieved that single
standard in 2011 when the entire egg production became
free-run, Omega 3, as well as lutein enhanced
and certified organic – the whole basket of attributes
in one egg.”
Natures Farm is the only certified organic egg producer
in Manitoba.
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73

(top) A second layer barn a few km’s from the home farm and the
pullet facility also some distance from home. (below) Free-run
layers on upper perches at Nature’s Farm
To quote a statement on Nature’s Farm website about
protein quality and content:
“The protein in Nature’s Farm Smart Eggs is of
the highest quality found in food, and contains all
nine essential amino acids essential to our health.
Dietary protein quality is measured in terms of biological
value, i.e., the rate of efficiency with which
protein is used for growth and regeneration of our
“… all the best attributes
… in one egg …”
muscles, our skin and other body tissues, as well
as for production of antibodies, hormones and enzymes
essential to our health. The biological value
of egg protein ranks the highest – even higher than
for milk, salmon, meat or beans. Scientists use
eggs as the standard for measuring the protein of
other foods.”
This educational approach to the information provided
is typical of Nature’s Farm communications. Explore
the web site, ( naturesfarm.ca ) for more information
about all their products, nutrition and food quality standards.
Egg Production
Nature’s Farm has three production facilities on separate
sites, two layer and one for pullets. The genetics
currently used are Loman and Hendricks.
To quote from the website:
“We care about the well-being of our hens, and have
implemented innovative free-run ‘birdhouse’ aviaries,
(developed, designed and approved in Switzerland,
the world’s leader in appropriate animal
housing standards). The aviaries are conceived in
accordance with the bird species’ specific behavior,
and incorporate natural features such as sheltered,
darkened nest boxes, scratching and dust bathing
areas, and elevated multi-level perches that enable
the birds to roost, fly freely, and to ‘populate’ the
vertical dimension of the birdhouse.”
“Although layers are free-run that meet all environmental
and animal care concerns, there is no production
advantage with free-run,” clarifies Hermann, “In
fact, production is 2 to 3% lower than standard caged
layers. Our labour requirements are higher, mortality
is basically the same but bird health is better. Osteoporosis
is addressed – bone density issues are gone –
even better than Enriche cages. The returns are similar
as the premium-price off sets the higher cost of labour
and especially feed costs.”
“There is no production
advantage with free-run”
The nest belts for gathering eggs are the same principle
as in broiler-breeder systems that feed eggs into
the collection area. Grading of eggs happens every day,
year round.
The feeding program is a Hi-Pro Ackron Custom
rolled 6 stage layer program called Smart Egg Omega.
Nature’s Farm has five full-time employees. Some
share responsibilities at the pasta plant and farm.
74 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Pasta & Granola
Hermann’s adventure in making pasta goes back to
growing up in southern Germany where pasta was favoured
as the diet staple, unlike the northern part of
the country where potatoes were the norm. He remembers
as a young boy helping his mother making noodles
(‘spaetzl’ in German), to enjoy and to sell in the neighbourhood
and surrounding area.
The sale of pasta seemed a good fit with eggs for his
retail, restaurant and institutional customers. He began
offering pasta in 1993 and expanded production
with a new plant built in 1998 that includes a retail outlet,
called the Food Shed.
Nature’s Farm Pasta comes in many forms, many
varieties and is a handmade artisanal pasta available
to both the retail and food-service trade.
Hermann says, “Although uncommon, to meet my
commitment to a single highest level standard, organic
eggs are used exclusively in the pasta ensuring the certified
organic qualification.”
Nature’s Farm line of granola products began in 2008
with five different recipes and flavours from Hemp Seed
Muesli, to Chocolate Crunch, to Cinnamon Harvest and
more. Granola is sold in the Food Shed and through his
many wholesale customers. The labelling on granola
includes the standard full Nutrition Facts and the various
features – such as Omega 3, fibre, wheat free (Gluten
free), nut free as they apply to each recipe.
An interesting side bar relates to the changing knowledge
and interest of the consumer public. Hermann explains,
“One example is that at farmer’s markets 8 to
10 years ago we had inquiries every day about Omega
3, but recently in the last three years or so, very few.
These are relatively mature subjects with consumers.
It will be interesting to see what new nutritional questions
and features will come up in the future.”
These products are sold at farmer’s markets, at the
Food Shed and delivered to institutional and restaurant
customers. “Our products are not sold through distributors
within Manitoba. I remain the face of Nature’s
Farm as the sales representative, the face of the business.
This is relationship selling.”
“This is relationship selling”
Hermann received a business degree from Red River
College in 1991. He has applied the principles well in
Hermann Grauer and Nathan Martens, Hi-Pro Poultry Specialist,
Hi-Pro, St. Anne, MB, in the egg storage cool room, automatic
egg sorting, grading and stacking
AGRI LEADER » 2016
75

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76 AGRI LEADER » 2016

uilding and managing the business. With reference to
the Smart Egg with all attributes in product, obviously
Hermann has talent in marketing. Several messages
are seen on the packaging, in information, on the website
and his newsletter. To name a couple, “Gourmet
quality … goodness for your table”, “Think. Do. Eat.”.
Future
“With the consolidation of food retail escalating and
the changes the industry faces, niche markets opened
and continue to expand,” explains Hermann. “Smaller
independents fought to preserve their markets, and
specialized in various products to do so. Today, only
about 4% of total food is certified organic. Eggs are at
4% and growing. There is more opportunity.
“The future in my opinion holds more specialization.
Society will come to the point of reconciliation of
food safety and quality levels, and the increased health
costs. The fact of increased food sensitivities is real,”
continues Hermann. “We need scientific research. Government
must support long term research in the relationships
of dietary issues and health. I believe we all
need more outdoor activity in nature.
“As to the business of Natures Farm, I plan expansion
of distribution as I see market opportunities. Consumers
continue to demand natural food. On the production
side, we look for continuous gradual improvements.
“Supply management is still the foundation of our production,
but we must dialogue about the basic structure
of the industry and look at food risk, at food security. We
have efficient owner operators, but we process eggs at
only two sites in Manitoba and also process chicken at
only two plants. It is time to start talking about preserving
production and processing sites as risk management.
There will be new challenges. A reminder of
avian flu and BSE – there will be others.”
Hermann and Sheryl, who married in 1990, have
three grown children: Samuel is 24, Elizabeth 21 and
Joseph, 19. “We hope that some of the family will be on
the farm in the future.”
We can be sure that as opportunities arise in the future
they will be thoroughly researched by Hermann
and innovations will be applied to take full advantage.
The pasta plant in Steinbach, MB, inside the plant and granola on
the shelf in The Shed outlet within the pasta building
“Supply management is still
the foundation of
our production”
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77

Functional Gut
Integrity in Poultry
David Dyble, MSc, North American Monogastric Nutritionist, Hi-Pro Feeds, Chilliwack, BC
Maintaining a highly functioning digestive tract is a
critical aspect of successful modern poultry farming.
Unfortunately, the digestive tract is hidden from the
eye of the farmer adding to the management challenge.
The function of the gastrointestinal tract is arguably
more important now due to:
(1) ever increasing feed ingredient costs,
(2) an increasing importance paid by regulators
on critical nutrient utilization efficiency,
and (3) a market desire for decreased use of
antimicrobials.
Modern broiler production is increasingly dependent
on the rapid development of effective digestive function
relating to the decreasing days to market weight and
therefore the increasing proportion the first 10 days of
life contribute to the total days on feed.
A properly functioning digestive tract also plays a key
role as a barrier against pathogens, with the integrity
and repair of the intestinal border cells being vitally important.
From an animal cost perspective, the maintenance
of the gut border cell’s ability to maximize nutrient
uptake and minimize antigenic insult is responsible
for the consumption of about 20% of dietary energy and
nearly 25% of daily protein synthesis. The protein turn
over rate for the gastro intestinal tract is an amazing 50
to 75% per day. The digestive tract must remain porous
and deliver nutrients to the cells of the body while the
border remains a barrier to numerous challenges.
A properly functioning digestive
tract also plays a key role as a
barrier against pathogens …
The gut typically deals with digestive insults through
changes to the rates of:
(1) intestinal peristalsis,
(2) intestinal cell turnover,
(3) mucin production,
(4) adaptation of the microflora,
(5) inflammation and immune response,
and (6) alterations to secretions.
78 AGRI LEADER » 2016
Dave Dyble
Here is a stylized diagram of the poultry gut:
The challenges for different types of poultry production
vary. For example, required feed restriction in
broiler breeder contributes to a decreased intestinal
wall strength with can be expected to decrease important
barrier functions.
Many new management techniques are emerging to
support the gut’s barrier function and aid in nutrient
absorption efficiency. Antimicrobials have been used
since the 1940’s to maintain bird health and there have
been years of experience indicating improved feed efficiency,
favorably altered intestinal bacterial flora, moderated
immunological response to challenge, as well
as a reduced incidence of disease. It is interesting to
note that antimicrobials don’t promote growth in germ
free chicks suggesting that the presence of certain
bacteria in the gut are responsible for hindering growth
and their control is associated with efficiency improvement
observed with antimicrobial use.
Experience with poultry production indicates that the
degree of response to antimicrobials is proportional to
the sanitation of the environment in which the birds are
grown. What is currently of interest to Hi-Pro nutritionists
is discovering new effective methods of improving
gut integrity either in conjunction with antimicrobial
feeding or in diets where antimicrobials are not used.

…the response to antimicrobials
is proportional to the sanitation
of the environment …
There are a number of products reported to potentially
improve gut health. A limited number of probiotics
and/or competitive exclusion products are available
for feeding to poultry in Canada compared to the
available products in the US and the rest of the world.
Regulatory clearance and associated biosafety concerns
are currently hindering the introduction of new
products in the Canadian market place. Tracking a probiotic
strain’s resilience in the bird’s intestinal tract and
demonstrating persistence also continues to challenge
product development.
very viscous and adversely affect feed conversion. This
viscosity is associated with a reduction in absorption of
nutrients. Enzymes specifically designed to breakdown
the arabinoxylans are added to wheat based poultry diets
to reduce viscosity and improve intestinal health
with a demonstrated improvement in feed efficiency.
The largest proportion of the carbohydrate contained
in poultry feed is starch which typically accounts for
about 70% of the wheat kernel and consists of a complex
polymer of glucose. Starch structure depends on
cereal type, harvest conditions, and post harvest processing.
Hi-Pro research trials on wheat structure
have confirmed that improved feed efficiency is possible
with the correct combination of ground wheat particles
in the diet. Whole wheat feeding, for example,
has become a common practice to take advantage of
improved gizzard function. The gizzard is referred to as
the pace maker of the gut as it moderates
rates of passage. Allowing the gizzard
to develop and control digesta passage
has shown to be positive for both
feed efficiency and gut health.
The gizzard is referred
to as the pace maker
of the gut.
The world feed supplement market is no longer dominated by vitamins, conventional minerals and amino acids.
A number of phytogenic plant derived compounds are
cleared for use in poultry feed and are being used in
some Hi-Pro diets. Feed additives containing for example
Oregano essential oils contain chemicals known to
be antioxidants while other identified components have
been shown to exhibit bactericidal properties.
Hi-Pro has completed a number of recent feeding trials
at the Chilliwack Hi-Pro research barn that cover
the general area of growth and/or intestinal function as
it relates to enzyme application in broiler feeds. Most
of the trials have been associated with the indigestible
carbohydrate components referred to as NSP’s (nonstarch
polysaccharides). The structure of the wheat
cell walls are composed of NSP’s which typically account
for 10% of the whole grain. A portion of the NSP’s
in wheat known as arabinoxylans are of particular concern
to poultry nutritionists as they make the digesta
Wheat varieties also vary in starch
composition. Starch digestion varies
with physical and molecular structure
and ranges from rapidly digestible to
slowly digestible to resistant to digestion,
with the resultant released glucose
contributing to an insulin response.
Modest insulin levels can stimulate
muscle growth, while high insulin levels result in excess
fat deposition. Typically, slowly digestible starch
yield’s the best performance for monogastric diets,
while it actually yields the least net energy. It has been
hypothesized that the slower digestion leads to a more
moderate and sustained insulin response allowing increased
protein deposition.
Some of the latest trials at the Hi-Pro research facility
have focused on gut function as it relates to a dietary
ingredient called Betaine. Betaine is typically derived
from plants grown in dry climates, as it is a natural
plant protectant for water stress. Betaine is isolated
for feed use from sugar beets where it accumulates in
the condensed solubles during processing. Supplemental
betaine is absorbed from the diet into the cells
lining the wall of the digestive tract.
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79

Betaine is classed as an osmolyte because it contains
both a positive and negative charge on the same molecule.
This can play a particularly important role for the
cells lining the gut which need to be actively functioning
for efficient digestion to take place. Betaine’s protective
effect on internal organ function is well known
to human athletes where betaine has been used to enhance
performance.
Betaine’s protective effect
on internal organ function
is well known [in humans]
When the environmental temperature exceeds the
normal range for broilers (for example), water is shunted
to the extremities for cooling and the electrolyte balance
of the intestinal cells is challenged. The key electrolytes
sodium and potassium are normally required
for intestinal cells to digest and absorb nutrients
through the cells sodium/potassium powered pump
which maintains cell hydration. The sodium/potassium
pump only functions in a fairly narrow body temperature
range compared to a betaine assisted pump. If the
sodium/potassium pump stops functioning, absorption
of nutrients from the digestive tract stops. The accumulation
of betaine in the cell allows digestive activities
to continue by replacing the roles of sodium and
potassium in the cellular pump.
The action of the cell membrane
The cells lining the gut need to be actively functioning for efficient digestion to take
place.
Betaine also plays an important protective role by
keeping intestinal cells hydrated so that they can continue
their barrier function. During normal growth and
digestion, hydrated cells lining the intestinal wall form
a tight barrier so that active transport systems can
move nutrients from the lumen of the intestine through
the border cells into the circulatory system. If the cells
along the lining of the gut become dehydrated allowing
gaps to form between cells, bacteria and other pathogens
have a channel into the body’s circulation without
passing through the intestinal cells which have very
specific transports systems. This is referred to as a
leaky gut. Betaine has been shown to be protective
against the development of a leaky gut syndrome and
the resulting circulatory distribution of pathogens.
Trials are continuing at the Hi-Pro Poultry research
barn investigating ways to improve feed efficiency and
growth including methods to enhance the protective
and nutrient absorptive activities of the intestinal wall.
80 AGRI LEADER » 2016

Feed Dealers
Section
Purity Farm and Garden
Business Has Grown With Changing
Customer
Needs
John McCurrach, current owner and
general manager of Purity Feeds based
in Kamloops, BC, is the third generation
owner of the business that was
begun in 1903. His grandfather Bruce
McCurrach, was the former general
manager of then well know Brackman
& Ker Milling Co Ltd. He along with two
partners purchased Purity Feeds as an
investment in 1947. The origins of the
company are lost to history other than
to know that it began in Ashcroft, they
built a mill and retail store in Kamloops
Purity Feed in Kamloops, BC, the Garden Centre, and owner John McCurrach with
long term employee Mary Ellen, retail manager for the retail, feed and garden
centre
AGRI LEADER » 2016
81

in the early 1960’s and added a store in Merritt about
the same time. The Ashcroft location was discontinued
in 1990 but the Merritt and Kamloops outlets have expanded
and grown.
John’s father, Sandy, joined the business after graduation
from UBC in 1960 and became owner and manager
soon after. One of the original divisions of the
company was the distribution of Purity brand flour to
bakeries and retail outlets that continued until 1968.
Sandy owned one of the earliest commercial turkey
operations in BC. That enterprise grew significantly to
producing 60,000 birds annually focusing only on the
Thanksgiving and Christmas markets. The farm, located
about 20km north of Kamloops, was sold in 2001.
A 300 head beef cow/calf ranch and feedlot with 4000
head capacity were also part of Purity until 2003.
John joined Purity Farm and Garden full time in 1994.
At the time Purity operated a feed mill in downtown
Kamloops, manufacturing bulk and bagged feed. They
provided a full range of crop supplies – seed, fertilizer,
chemicals, etc – equipment rental and ran a large farm
and ranch store.
In late 2002, Purity sold its retail and feed mill properties
in Kamloops to the City and a local developer.
The property is now home to the Sandman Recreational
Centre, home of the Kamloops Blazers hockey team,
and high end waterfront condominiums. At this time,
John bought out his father to become the owner and
manager of Purity Feed Co Ltd.
The first year of ownership saw many changes to Purity
Feed. A new retail facility had to be built, staff had
to be hired and the market focus had to be re-jigged
as the Company was no longer a manufacturer of its
own products. A brand new retail store with large
warehousing and a substantial fenced yard was built,
crop protection services were greatly expanded and
new technical staff were hired to help provide technical
products and services to its primary customer base –
the cow/calf industry.
Coincidently, the day that Purity had its grand opening
of its new Kamloops location, BSE (mad cow disease)
was discovered in Northern Alberta promptly shutting
the Canadian export border for all beef products and
changing the face of the Canadian beef industry forever.
“Our grand opening day started off full of good cheer,
promise and hope. We had 300 customers, politicians
and Indian Chiefs come to help us celebrate. But by
noon it felt like a lead balloon had been dropped on our
heads,” remembers John. “Fortunately for Purity we
had history, good suppliers who were there to help and
a great staff who were going to make things work.”
BSE… changed the face of the
Canadian beef industry forever.
New crop protection services including the rental of
weed spraying equipment, custom spraying services
for private grassland and utility right of ways as well
as custom mapping and field scouting services were
added in the mid 2000’s.
A wide range of livestock and poultry feed has been
a mainstay for Purity over the years. They exclusively
feature Hi-Pro Feeds products in bagged feed under
the Pro-Form brand, and have been associated with
the Chilliwack feed operation since the very early days
in the 1950’s, back to the East Chilliwack Agricultural
Coop, now owned by Hi-Pro Feeds.
John offers high praise for the staff and management
at Hi-Pro Feeds, “Excellent quality feed. The Pro-form
brand is very well known – don’t change it. They are
innovative industry leaders especially in poultry and
horse. Hi-Pro is always anxious to lend a hand with
well attended customer seminars, literature and timely
delivery.”
Garden centres were added to the Kamloops and
Merritt locations in 2009. “We needed a draw to our lo-
82 AGRI LEADER » 2016

cations,” explains John. “We had extra property and we
were looking for a use for it. So when we identified the
opportunity of garden centre sales, we built. A friend
who owns Desert Hills Ranch in Cache Creek and Ashcroft
who grows vegetables and operates greenhouses,
provided encouragement and good advice. The garden
centres operate from March to October, basically Easter
to Thanksgiving.
In 2012 Purity saw an opportunity to expand its Merritt
store. The store’s appearance was dated, retail size
was small and the yard crowded. The retail showroom
was tripled in size, additional property was purchased
to expand the yard and garden centre, and the building
was given a new facade. Comments still come in about
what a fine store it is today.
This location sells western-wear, English and western
tack, pet food, gift-ware as well a full line of farm
and ranch supplies. “Another opportunity; no one else
in Merritt offered this,” says John. The Merritt store
is located with the equestrian in mind with its great
big parking lot capable of handling all trucks and trailers,
easy highway access and close proximity to rodeo
grounds and back country riding trails.
When asked how the farm and ranch customer has
changed, John was quick to reply, “We have seen shifts
in the focus of our customer base. My dad’s generation
of feed customers were easy to please - options were
simple – rolled or pelleted feeds, simple fertilizers and
good seed. Customers were educated but did not have
the access to information that we have today. Today’s
customers demand more options – supplements, GMO
and non GMO, organic or natural, pelleted, extruded,
mixed – options seem endless.
Many ‘hobby’ life-style farmers used to raise a few
beef. That is rare today. They are more back-yard gardeners
with chickens, perhaps rabbits or other pets,
some with horses. These are a lot easier to raise and
they are not a long term commitment. People’s diets
have changed. Also, they are willing to pay for specialty
and premium feeds.”
“Our traditional customer base, the family owned
cow/calf rancher, has also changed. In the last ten
years we have seen a large shift of ranch ownership
changed from family to corporate and foreign ownership,”
continues John. “They want the cheapest, best
buy and are strong on commodities. Their interest is
different, with less loyalty. Yet commercial ranches represent
most of our total business.”
To summarize John explains, “I would say our customers
are in three distinct categories: the home-garden
hobby farm, the commercial family owned ranch
and corporate owned ranches. The needs of our changing
customer base seem endless. However, we accept
the challenges.”
“The needs of our changing
customer base seem endless.”
The focus at Purity, whatever category is considered,
is customer service. “Purity has an amazing staff and
customer service team – 16 full-time and about 25
seasonally. The front-end people greet every customer
with a smile and a warm hello, shelves and warehouses
are well stocked with quality products and excellent
technical support.
“Our staff take a great deal of pride in what they do.
They appreciate the customers we serve and have fun
doing what they do,” states John. “The success of Purity
is not only its TEAM and team efforts, but individual
attention by each employee to make sure that Purity
Feed is the first place a customer wants to go to make
that purchase.”
The success is also evident in expansion plans again
under way – namely a major addition to the Kamloops
warehouse this winter. Best wishes to John and the
staff team at Purity Farm & Garden.
Part of the sacked feed warehouse, and (next page), the Horse
Feed Step Program bags make for a fine decor in the retail store,
and the outside heavy hardware area
AGRI LEADER » 2016
83

Paradise Hill Farm Supply
Business Success and Transition
Paradise Hill Farm Supply has served
the communities of west-central Saskatchewan,
into Alberta with quality
products and services for almost 42
years. However perhaps the greatest
contribution owners Dave and Sheila
Crittall have made to the community
is in relationships. “Our business has
grown and is successful because of
the relationships that have developed
with all the people we work with,” says
Dave. “That includes our customers,
our suppliers and our staff.”
“Our suppliers have been excellent
people to work with. Robert Kassian
[Hi-Pro Feeds Sales & Business Development
Specialist] is the longest running
rep of all suppliers and has been
our contact for all things feed for many,
many years, about 30, and a personal friend.”
“Our staff members are equally outstanding,” says
Sheila. “We have many long term employees who are
the heart of the business. To recognize just four of our
12 staff members: Edwin Volk is the purchasing member,
Judy Usenik and Alexis Fink are sales associates,
and Leanne Colliou is in charge of general ledger and
all things accounting.”
“Our business… is successful
because of the relationships”
Sheila and Dave Crittall at the Farm Supply sign along Highway
3, Paradise Hill, SK, and an aerial view of the business
Photo credit Paradise Hill Farm Supply
84 AGRI LEADER » 2016

She continues, “Financial matters such as banking,
credit, financing, and so on are vitally important to any
business, but we believe they are secondary to people.
Relationships are critical. In the ag business, a hand
shake is a contract.”
A focal point of the large retail section of the store is
the gathering place where the coffee pot is always on.
“That’s become central to the store. There are always
people swapping stories. A lot of knowledge is shared
here and many have become friends.”
Paradise Hill is a beautiful community, a village of
about 600, but with an engaged population that makes
it an excellent place to live. The area is growing, especially
with young families evidenced by the school
population growth as more young families move to the
area.
Background
Dave started the farm supply business in 1974 inside
the town with a small, basic line of feed and veterinary
products. The business out-grew that location and a
few years later moved to a larger location. In the late
70’s Dave built a state-of-the-art fertilizer plant just
east of town that allowed him to get into bulk fertilizer
and anhydrous ammonia. He sold that division about
10 years later, now CPS (Crop Protection Services).
Dave was also a cattle buyer for packing plants. The
store yard became an assembly location for cattle and
pigs. He was and is a fieldman and order buyer for Nilsson
Bros, now North Central Livestock. In addition, he
worked in various other ventures in the agricultural industry.
Selling the fertilizer plant allowed Dave to expand the
farm supply outlet. In 1991 he built the current location
along Highway 3, the first local business to locate
outside of the village limits. “This move was a prosperous
decision. There is so much oil-field and recreation
traffic along the highway. It helped the business to take
off.”
An addition in 2009 tripled the floor space to the current
size of 8500 square feet and a 3500sq/ft warehouse.
This allowed the expansion of the product line,
especially due to the increasing demand for pet food.
The large property also allowed for generous space for
parking to accommodate even the largest farm trucks
and room for a wide range of outside farm and ranch
heavy hardware such as livestock equipment, fencing,
gates, waterers and much more.
The store serves an area well beyond the local town,
providing farm and ranch supplies to a radius of approximately
100km in west-central Saskatchewan – including
the city of Lloydminster, (pop 31,500) – and well
into east-central Alberta.
Interior of part of the store showing pet food and a wide range of
western wear and general work clothing
In addition to the farm store and the earlier fertilizer
business, Dave also ranched, running a cow/calf herd
of up to 250 pairs. In recent years he has scaled back.
“As the work load of the business increased, so has the
time and energy for the ranch decreased.” Currently he
still runs 50 cows.
Dave and Sheila complement each other in the management
of the business. “Dave is the ultimate people
person,” says Sheila. To which he counters, “I attribute
the success of the store to Sheila.” However, she gives
him much of the credit. “His foresight has had a tremendous
impact on the business and the community,
especially being the first to move to the current highway
location.” A number of other local businesses have
since relocated to this ideal area as well. Clearly they
are a strong egalitarian couple, mutually contributing
to the business success.
Customer Changes
When asked about the changes they have seen in
customers over the past four decades, Dave responds,
“Historically, the farms and ranches were mostly mixed
farming with a few beef, 50 cows a typical herd, along
with a few horses, pigs, chickens, and perhaps goats
or sheep. The crop farming on these mixed farms was
similarly on relatively small acreages, mostly grain.
AGRI LEADER » 2016
85

The feed business supplied products to supplement
home-grown grain.
“Now the ranches are large – dedicated to cattle.
Many now focus on either livestock or crop farming, not
mixed as before. Farms have consolidated into large
acreages, efficient for large scale cropping. We also see
a lot of hobby farms. Young families, a growing population,
are locating on acreage homes because of the oil
industry success. They tend to keep a couple of horses,
maybe some sheep or goats but poultry has increased
significantly as has gardening.”
Further he says, “A new ‘generation’ family farm has
evolved in some cases. Mom and dad continue to live
on the family farm and the next generation builds there
as well. This means mom and dad help with the farm
operation and provide grandparent services, while the
young couple is employed off-farm, perhaps both having
outside careers. This phenomenon has increased
the school age population in the region. There has not
been an increase of corporate farms in the region unlike
many prairie communities.”
Cattleman of the Year
Dave and Sheila were honored with the ‘Cattleman of
the Year’ award in 2014 presented by the Lloydminster
Exhibition Association. The award recognized the Crittall’s
contributions to the farming and ranching community,
notably 4-H, and the beef industry specifically.
Paradise Hill Farm Supply contributes directly to many
youth events, team sports and all regional 4-H clubs.
They have helped to build these organizations. The local
4-H club has 65 members, mostly beef and horse
projects.
“In recent years, the 4-H movement has really gained
momentum in the region. We have supported 4-H aggressively
as a main focus of ours to support youth,”
explains Sheila.
86 AGRI LEADER » 2016
Recently when the community developed plans and
began fund raising for a new community centre, Dave
got involved on the committee. The plan is for a multiuse
complex built on the school grounds to include day
care, a teaching kitchen, sports activities and serves as
a second gym for the school and for the larger community.
“The five million dollar project is a huge undertaking
for a village of 600 and surrounding community,” says
Dave, “But that’s the nature of the people in this area.”
Major changes are underway
The Future
Major changes are underway. Last fall Dave and
Sheila made the decision to sell the business. In Dave’s
words, “The time had come to move to the next phase
of life, to retirement, to have time flexibility and to do all
those things neglected in recent years. Maybe I’ll even
go fishing. It will certainly give us more time for the
growing extended family; four families with 10 grandchildren
– one born last August and two in September.”
Ultimately they found “the ideal couple” to take the
farm supply into the future, to the next level. Brad and
Corrie Van Metre, the new owners are well known in
Paradise Hill. They have built alliances throughout the
region. Their three daughters (ages 8, 11 and 14), are
all outstanding members in 4-H. The family is totally
involved in the community. Their ranch has an indoor
arena for team sorting, roping and equestrian training.
There is activity in their arena three nights a week and
on the week-end. ”Those girls are incredible; they can
ride anything,” says Sheila.
In conclusion, Dave says, “Brad and Corrie have a
complementary skill set. He excels in operations and
sales, and she is skilled in financial matters with great
computer skills. They will take our legacy to the next
level.
“After what took 42 years to build, they are the best
people we could have hoped for to continue. We couldn’t
be happier with Brad and Corrie to look after and build
the business. Sheila and I wish them the best transition
from their previous careers in the oil industry, and
great success as owners of Paradise Hill Farm Supply,
renamed Paradise Hill Ranch and Western Wear Ltd.”
And all of us at Hi-Pro Feeds wish Dave and Sheila
much health and happiness in this next phase of life
called retirement. We know they will continue to be as
active as ever in their community, with all the many
people whom they have developed strong relationships
with over the years.
This picture shows two cowboys shaking hands, representing
cooperation, agreement and the fact that a hand-shake and a
man’s word are as good as any contract in many communities.
This fascinating picture is etched into the glass of the main office
window in the store

The Agri Leader is published by Hi-Pro Feeds® specifically for distribution to
those involved in the livestock industry across western Canada. We express
our appreciation to the various individuals who have shared insights into their
operations for our readers. Thank you to the researchers and nutritionists
who have offered their expertise for the articles on animal nutrition and
management. The welfare of our livestock is imperative to the success of our
industry. Contents of this publication are copyrighted and may be reproduced
only with written permission of Hi-Pro Feeds.
The editor and contributors to the Agri Leader attempt to provide accurate
and useful information. However, the editor and Hi-Pro Feeds cannot and do
not guarantee the accuracy of the information contained in this magazine. The
editor and Hi-Pro Feeds assume no responsibility for any actions or decisions
taken by any reader of this magazine based on the information provided.
Hi-Pro appreciates the participation of all of the advertisers, however this
participation does not indicate an endorsement by Hi-Pro Feeds.
HI-PRO FEEDS ® and the HI-PRO FEEDS logo are registered trademark of Hi-Pro Feeds LP. © 2016 Hi-Pro Feeds LP.
Head Office
Hi-Pro Feeds
Site 2, Box 50, RR 2
Okotoks, AB T1S 1A2
403-938-8350
Marketing Contact:
Holly Nicoll
Director of Marketing
403-995-8302
holly.nicoll@hiprofeeds.com
Photo credit Paradise Hill Farm Supply
Agri
Leader
Page
Editor & Publisher
Walter Goerzen
wgoerzen@telus.net
Graphics, Layout & Printing:
Fraser Valley Custom Printers
www.fvcustomprinters.com
Find us at:
Website - www.hiprofeeds.com
Twitter - @HiProFeeds
Facebook - www.facebook.com/hiprofeeds1
Brad Van Metre
on his horse,
checking out
the business.
Brad along
with his wife
Corrie, are the
new owners of
Paradise Hill
Farm Supply
Advertisers’ Index
(s)
AGvocate.................... 5
AKEY....................... 56
B. Reimer Trucking.......... 29
BAM - Bio Agri Mix........... 58
BMO - Bank of Montreal...... 34
CBS - Cdn Bio Systems....... 60
CanWest DHI................ 52
DanSon..................... 24
DeLaval.................... 46
Diamond V............ 62 . . . .70
DuPont Danisco ............. 76
Eagle Builders........ 32 . . . .66
Elanco ............... 30 . . . .64
FCC......................... 8
Jefo........................ 40
Lely ....................... 48
Loewen Welding............. 63
Miller Thomson .............. 6
Nor-Ag..................... 22
O & T Farms ................ 38
PenFor Construction......... 49
Pickseed ................... 10
Pro-Ag Products ............ 38
Robinson Bio-products...20 . . 76
Schippers .................. 26
United Agri Systems... 34 . . . .68
University Fraser Valley...... 42
Verus...................... 38
Walinga Inc................. 16
WestWay Feed Products...... 56
Zin Pro............... 42 . . . .68
Zoetis Canada....... Back Cover
AGRI LEADER » 2016
87

At Hi-Pro Feeds
we focus on delivering
the right nutrients for
your animals
At Hi-Pro, we’re committed to finding the best science and technology
around the globe and adopting it into our operations to meet the
requirements of our customers. Our North American team is constantly
focused on being a leading manufacturer and distributor of high
performance feed. Global reach with a local focus.
Quality
Quality feed products that perform
Not all feed is created equal. We produce only the highest performing feed products to the most
stringent standards, with an unwavering focus on consistent quality. Combining the latest science
and technology with nutritional expertise, smart business process design, and state-of-the-art
facilities allows us to deliver a complete range of quality feed products across a wide range of
species, including dairy, beef, poultry, swine, buffalo, horses and companion animals.
Expertise that
ensures you get the
most out of your feed
Our sales team and animal nutrition specialists work with
customers to develop optimum feed formulations specifically
for their operations. This means that they’re getting the right
nutrients, at the right time for the right phase of their animals’
development. Our experienced nutrition specialists work
closely with the manufacturing teams to ensure that every
load of feed is produced and delivered to specification.
1.
2. 3.
The right nutrients
At the right time
For the right phase of the animal
Service you can only get
from an owner
Consistent, timely
delivery
+ +
Accurate and
timely statements
and invoices
Flexibility in responding
to your needs
When we say we’re fully invested in animal nutrition, we mean
that literally. Over two-thirds of our employees are also owners
of Hi-Pro Feeds. We understand what it’s like to have a personal
stake in an operation. We know what it takes for you to be
successful in your business and we go out of our way to make
sure that you get what you need, when you need it.

The Hi-Pro Feeds network
Head Office
Hwy 2A & 306 Ave.
Site 2, Box 50, RR 2
Okotoks, AB T1S 1A2
403-938-8350
Carman
307 Main Street, PO Box 850
Carman, MB R0G 0J0
204-745-2050
Chilliwack
P.O. Box 1000
46255 Chilliwack Central Rd
Chilliwack, BC V2P 1J7
604-702-4500
Lethbridge
1810 – 39 Street North
Lethbridge, AB T1H 5J2
403-328-1731
Barrhead
4901 - 54 Street, Box 4500
Barrhead, AB T7N 1A4
1-800-375-3381
Westlock
9415 - 109 Street
Westlock, AB T7P 2M6
1-800-661-3924
Olds
5902 – 48 Avenue
Olds, AB T4H 1V1
403-556-3395
Ponoka
6701 – 44 Avenue
Ponoka, AB T4J 1J8
403-783-6037
Sherwood Park
20 Liberty Road
Sherwood Park, AB T8H 2J6
780-449-5850
Ste. Anne
Box 400, RR#1
42158 Municipal Road 30
Ste. Anne, MB R5H 1R1
204-355-4065
Grande Prairie
12805 - 97B Street
Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6K1
1-800-243-0415
Champion Oat Processors
12805 - 97B Street
Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6K1
1-800-243-0415
Friona
P.O. Box 519, 1201 East 11th
Friona, TX 79035
806-250-2791
Clovis
408 South Prince Street
Dexter
6967 Old Dexter Highway
Dexter, NM 88230
575-734-3333
Clovis, NM 88101
575-763-4013
Cheyenne
Box 529, 402 N. LL Males,
Cheyenne, OK 73628
580-497-2219
Comanche
Box 850, 1300 East Mill Road,
Comanche, TX 76442
325-356-2566

FOR
ANIMALS
FOR
HEALTH
FOR
YOU
At Zoetis, we’re able to put our customers first and assist them with making a real difference
in the world. From helping veterinary businesses succeed and livestock producers
raise healthy animals, we’re dedicated to the business of animal health so
that our customers can be dedicated to theirs. We know how deeply the world depends
on animals, so animals—and the people who care for them—can depend on us.
To see how we do it, visit us at zoetis.ca.
Zoetis ® is a registered trademark of Zoetis, used under license by Zoetis Canada Inc