The Farm Practices Review Board has designated a code of practice for watering livestock while on pasture. The code was developed by the Prince Edward Island Cattleman's Association and the Dairy Producers Association and was presented during a public hearing held by the Board in May. The new code of practice eliminates access to streams by cattle under most circumstances and allows for restricted use of streams for watering under difficult situations.
"I want to congratulate the livestock industry for its initiative in developing a code of practice on this very important matter," said Mitch Murphy, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry. "We are the first province to have a designated code of practice on access to streams, and taken together with the new buffer zone legislation, we have become a leader in protecting our fresh water systems, marine environment and aquatic habitats."
Ralph Yeo, Chair of the Farm Practices Review Board, said this is the first code of practice to be designated since the Board was formally established last year.
"I want to express my appreciation to the livestock industry for the great deal of work they carried out in developing the code, and to those who appeared before the Board to provide their comments and suggestions," said Mr. Yeo. "This code sets a very positive standard for agricultural practices and environmental protection."
Mr. Murphy said the designation of codes of practice is an important component in the implementation of the new Food Strategy for Prince Edward Island which is based on increased returns to producers following sustainable production practices and protecting the environment. He said the provincial Agriculture and Environmental Resources Conservation program is assisting producers in improved practices including livestock fencing and remote watering systems.
"This new code of practice will enable us to further demonstrate to the marketplace that we are leading the way in producing high quality food products in a sustainable manner," said Mr. Murphy. "I hope all Islanders will join me in congratulating beef and dairy producers for taking this most important step in the stewardship of our environment."