WINNIPEG, MANITOBA — Canada and Manitoba are investing CA$2 million (US$1.5 million) in rural veterinary services districts (VSDs) to support overall animal welfare and foster a resilient food chain.

Each VSD will be eligible for a grant of up to CA$75,000 (US$57,000) to assist in the purchase of large-animal veterinary equipment and expand their services within their district.

Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau and Manitoba Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson, who together announced the investment on June 22, hope that the modernization of veterinary clinics will improve recruitment and retention of veterinarians in rural communities.

“Manitoba's veterinary services districts provide essential veterinary services in 26 rural locations and account for over 80% of the Manitoba clinics providing large-animal hospital services,” Johnson said. “Investing in large-animal veterinary services is vital to the continued resiliency and sustainability of Manitoba's livestock sector.”

Matthew Atkinson, president of Manitoba Beef Producers, agreed.

“Manitoba’s beef producers certainly value the essential services provided at the veterinary service district sites throughout the province,” he said. “Government investments in large-animal veterinary equipment are a key component in supporting veterinary staff as they provide quality care for beef cattle.”

The funding comes through the new Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, which is a 5-year, CA$3.5 billion (US$2.6 billion) investment from Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments supporting the nation’s agri-food and agri-products sectors.