APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE FOR NEW BSE RECOVERY PROGRAM OPTION

Application forms are now available for the province's new set-aside option under the BSE Recovery Program.

"I am very pleased that we are able to offer this new option to our industry, to help deal with limited slaughter capacity and provide some much-needed cash flow," said Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Clay Serby.

The forms are available on Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's Web site at www.agr.gov.sk.ca under the BSE Compensation Information link, and will also be available at auction marts and rural service centres throughout the province.

Under the new set aside option, Saskatchewan producers can enroll the greater of 10 per cent of their fed cattle or 45 head, and receive compensation under the BSE Recovery Program, provided they do not send the animals to slaughter for eight weeks.

"Assisting our industry through this most difficult time continues to be a priority for our government, as does working with our federal and provincial counterparts to get the borders opened to Canadian beef exports," said Serby.

More information about the BSE Recovery Program is available by calling toll-free
1-877-874-5365.

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For More Information, Contact:

Trish Alcorn Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306)787-5389