In Red Deer County, a program allowing cattle to graze in ditches provides extra feed during dry pasture conditions, yet most local ranchers have not embraced it. Red Deer County council sanctioned roadside grazing on municipal roads in July to assist farmers in potential drought situations. Despite the chance for additional feed, the program has seen minimal interest in recent years.
Red Deer County’s assistant agricultural services manager, Jordon Smith, mentioned that the program was reintroduced due to exceedingly dry post-winter conditions. Smith highlighted that the initiative enables producers to utilize otherwise unutilized areas for additional feed.
However, obtaining approval for grazing cattle in the county’s ditches involves stringent requirements. Producers must carry $5 million in liability insurance, set up temporary fencing, and limit grazing to daylight hours, necessitating livestock to be housed every night.
Smith clarified that the program has been in existence for over a decade, with annual reviews by the council based on weather patterns. He added that the program has been renewed in four of the last five years due to drier conditions.
Despite recent dry spells in central Alberta, the program’s adoption remains low. Smith noted that only one local producer applied in 2023 and 2024 each. While two producers are currently participating, Smith mentioned that the county typically receives up to 10 inquiries annually, but most do not materialize.
Red Deer County rancher John Fuchs expressed that the additional effort required to utilize the program does not justify the extra feed obtained. Fuchs emphasized the challenges of finding suitable locations with minimal traffic for grazing.
Neighboring municipalities also have similar roadside grazing programs with limited uptake. Lacombe County, situated north of Red Deer County, issued only three permits over the past five years. Producers like Nikki Olson suggested that practical incentives from the county could make the program more appealing.
Moreover, roadside haying, where farmers cut ditch grass for cattle feed, is a more popular use among local producers, drawing four to five regular users annually. Smith highlighted the reduced liability of roadside haying compared to grazing.
While no immediate modifications are planned for the grazing rules, Smith mentioned that revisions could be considered next year based on conditions. Until the county permits expire on Oct. 15, the roadside ditches will remain available as alternative pasture for local producers.