In Red Deer County, a program allowing cattle to graze in ditches for extra feed during dry periods has seen minimal interest from local ranchers. The initiative was approved by the Red Deer County council in July to assist farmers facing potential drought conditions. Despite the opportunity for supplementary feed, the program has had very few participants in recent years.
Jordon Smith, the assistant agricultural services manager for Red Deer County, mentioned that the council reintroduced the program due to extremely dry conditions following winter. He explained that the initiative enables producers to access additional feed from typically unused areas.
However, the process of obtaining approval to graze cattle in the county’s ditches entails strict requirements. Farmers must maintain $5 million in liability insurance, set up temporary fencing, and limit grazing to daylight hours, necessitating that livestock be brought in every night.
Smith highlighted that the program has been in place for over ten years and undergoes annual review by the council based on weather conditions. He added that the renewal of the program has been prompted by drier conditions in four of the last five years.
Despite the prevailing dry conditions in central Alberta, the uptake of the program remains low. Smith noted that only one local producer applied in 2023, with another sole applicant in 2024. This year, two producers are participating, although the county typically receives up to 10 inquiries annually, most of which do not materialize.
Local rancher John Fuchs expressed that the additional effort required to utilize the program outweighs the benefits of extra feed. He cited logistical challenges and the inconvenience associated with choosing suitable and quiet locations for grazing.
Neighboring municipalities, including Lacombe County, have also reported low participation in roadside grazing programs. Producers like Nikki Olson have suggested that practical incentives from the county could make the program more appealing to cattle farmers. Olson highlighted concerns about insurance costs and the logistical challenges of moving cattle daily.
While the county currently has no immediate plans to revise the grazing regulations, Smith mentioned that potential modifications could be considered for the following year based on prevailing conditions. Until the county permits expire on October 15, the roadside ditches will remain available as alternative pasture if needed by local producers.