The Manitoba Beef and Forage Initiative (MBFI) has set its leadership group for 2017 on all three of the MBFI research farms located near Brandon.

Ramona Blyth of MacGregor will continue to guide the MBFI as president of the board of directors. Blyth had been serving as the research farm's management committee chair as well as president until a replacement was named.

"We know that Manitoba's beef sector provides many environmental, economic and human health benefits," says Blyth. "Well-managed grazing maintains the health of the grasslands, improves soil quality, preserves open space and wildlife habitat, and sequesters carbon in grazing lands. Beef is important for the economic vitality of our rural communities and the balance of agriculture on the landscape. As a nutrient-rich protein source, beef increases food security and human nutrition."

Clearwater's Don Guilford was recently named to guide the MBFI management committee as chair.

"I am excited to be a part of MBFI where I can be involved with leaders in the industry researching new innovations and then demonstrate in a practical way how it can be profitable for farmers and ranchers through the MBFI," says Guilford.

Manitoba Beef & Forage Initiatives is a Brandon-based collaborative effort between Manitoba Beef Producers, Ducks Unlimited Canada, Manitoba Forage & Grassland Association and Manitoba Agriculture.