BSE CALF SET-ASIDE PROGRAM DETAILS ANNOUNCED

Details of the Canada-Saskatchewan Feeder Calf Set-Aside Program announced September 24th, 2004 are now available. This will allow producers to make informed marketing decisions this fall knowing they can utilize the calf set-aside if it makes sense for their operation.

Saskatchewan producers can apply as a cow-calf producer or as a backgrounder. Cow-calf producers will apply based on the size of their cow herd. They will enroll the number of calves equivalent to 30 per cent of their cows that calved, or will calve, in 2004. Backgrounders will sign up 30 per cent of their 2004 Saskatchewan calves owned as of December 1st, 2004. The program provides up to $200 per head on the calves enrolled for the January 1st, 2006 set-aside.

"Discussions with the federal government and other provinces continue on an additional option under the program," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said. "These discussions include an earlier release date for a reduced payment. In the event this additional option is put in place, the requirement to retain 30 per cent of calves, if a producer plans to enroll in the program, will be unchanged. Other details, other than the new release date and reduced payment, will also remain unchanged. Anyone choosing to enroll will be able to consider the new proposed option if it is implemented."

The BSE Advisory Committee continues to provide advice to the Minister of Agriculture and Food on the program details and the information provided to producers to help them make decisions this fall.

The provincial agriculture department will be mailing an application form to all Saskatchewan cow-calf producers who participated in past BSE programs. Forms will also be available online at www.agr.gov.sk.ca, or by calling 1-877-874-5365.

The province allocated $31 million of its $40 million industry commitment to support the calf set-aside program. In addition to the feeder calf set-aside program, the province will spend $6.5 million on a fed cattle set-aside program for market ready cattle, $1 million to support national BSE testing targets in Saskatchewan and $1 million on programs that provide support to ruminant livestock other than cattle.

The details on the Fed Cattle Set-Aside Program were announced October 8th, 2004. The information is available at www.agr.gov.sk.ca or by calling 1-877-874-5365.

Producers are also reminded that they can access the $100 per beef cow cash advance on their 2004 Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization (CAIS) Program payments. Details have been mailed to most producers. Additional information on CAIS can be obtained at 1-866-367-8506 or www.agr.ca/caisprogram.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031