Producers will have different experiences at livestock auctions in the wake COVID-19
Staff Writer
Farms.com
Businesses putting new protocols in place to keep the public safe is the new normal during the COVID-19 pandemic.
One business that has changed its operations is Northern Livestock Sales (NLS). The company has three locations: Lloydminster, Meadow Lake and Prince Albert, Sask.
“NLS has implemented many changes to the operations of cattle sales after numerous consultations with the Livestock Marketers of Saskatchewan, the Livestock Markets Association of Canada as well as partnering producer groups within the livestock industry,” said Brent Brooks, president of NLS.
Producers can expect several changes, including restriction of people in the sale ring, social distancing and pre-booking cattle for delivery.
“Any changes that have been adopted at the market level to ensure the uninterrupted movement of cattle continues have been well accepted by producers, buyers, market staff and the public,” Brooks told Farms.com.
So far, most sales at NLS can continue. The main exception is horse sales.
Producers who are interesting in viewing a sale can do so online through the Direct Livestock Marketing Systems on NLS’s website. Once they’ve signed in, producers can view the sale and bid from the comfort of their homes, said Brooks.
NLS will continue sales while adhering to provincial and federal public health orders, he said.
“In these uncertain economic times and the public health emergency, please feel free to contact any of our competent sales staff in regard to the shipment of your cattle,” said Brooks. “Be smart, show respect, practice social distancing, be safe and stay home whenever possible.”
stephenallen75/iStock/Getty Images Plus photo