The Young Ranchers Network virtual meetings, hosted monthly by the Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA), may be a new initiative, but they are building on an age-old practice: connection.  

Traditionally, grazing clubs offered a way to connect with producers, share ideas and learn from one another. However, attending an in-person meeting can be difficult for busy producers. That’s why the CFGA created the Young Ranchers Network, an online, low-commitment, high-value way to stay involved and informed. 

Recognizing that many producers were seeking connection but unable to find it in their rural settings, the CFGA’s national grazing coordinator, Adrienne Hanson, started the Network to provide a welcoming space online for young producers to connect, learn and support one another. 

And while “Young” is in the name, producers of all ages are welcome and the CFGA hopes the Network serves as a place where everyone feels included and provides a space for connection and a sense of belonging in the livestock industry. 

Meetings are held on Zoom once a month, typically on the third Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m., and last no longer than 90 minutes. Each session includes a brief CFGA update, followed by a 30 to 45-minute guest presentation and a question period. All meetings are recorded and sent out to registered participants, so even if someone can’t attend live, they won’t miss out on topics that interest them. Recordings are also available in the CFGA’s video library for anyone to listen to. 

The CFGA encourages producers to suggest speakers and topics they’d like to hear about. The CFGA selects topics that are relevant at that time of year. 

Upcoming sessions 

The next session takes place on Oct. 21 and features Dr. Bart Lardner, University of Saskatchewan, speaking about grazing standing forage, the benefits of stockpiled grass, extensive winter grazing and winter management tips.  Future sessions include: 

• Nov. 25, 7 p.m.: Starting a grazing club 
• December: No meeting 
• Jan. 28, 7 p.m.: OFCAF application prep 
• Feb. 25, 7 p.m.: Record keeping 
• March 25, 7 p.m.: Calving 

Join the CFGA each month to connect with peers, explore practical topics and strengthen the forage and livestock community. Keep an eye on the CFGA’s social media and online events calendar for the Zoom link to register for upcoming meetings. 
 
Contributed by Cindy Green, CFGA – Saskatchewan grazing coordinator