Assessing Saskatchewan forage production with regard to carbon and nitrogen emissions

Abstract

CONTEXT

Policy issues in most nations include adapting primary agricultural production to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Commitments have been established through multi-lateral agreements targeting GHG emission reductions to abate climate change impacts. In response to policy initiatives targeted at industries such as agriculture, producers are adopting innovative production methods and technologies to provide environmental services and mitigate emissions. GHG emissions arising from livestock production contribute to a damaging narrative surrounding agriculture, particularly beef production.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is three-fold, quantifying (a) net emissions,² (b) changes in practice, and (c) economic outcomes attributed to the forage production facet of cow-calf production.

METHODS

The Saskatchewan Forage Production Survey was developed to gather forage management practices data, placing emphasis on land use and land management changes. Canada's whole-farm assessment model, Holos, was applied as a carbon accounting framework to derive the net emissions of the forage production cycle.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate carbon sequestration increased between the periods of 1991–94 and 2016–19. Gross emissions decreased to a larger degree and net emission results for the forage production facet of the Saskatchewan cow calf sector are −0.123 Mg CO2e/ha/yr in 2016–19.

SIGNIFICANCE

Recommendations include the renewal of forage rejuvenation funding programs that may improve forage yields and carbon sequestration potential. Further, the expansion of term conservation easement programs to include non-native forage lands is recommended to incentivize the retention of forage land.