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Federal government gives Alta livestock producers break on taxes due to drought

Livestock producers in about two dozen drought-affected areas of Alberta are getting a break from the federal government.

OTTAWA — Livestock producers in about two dozen drought-affected areas of Alberta are getting a break from the federal government.

Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz has announced that farmers who sell breeding stock in 2009 will be eligible for a tax deferral on the sales for one year.

The government hopes that will help producers who want to reduce their herds now because they are concerned about having enough to feed them.

It will also help them financially when they replenish their breeding stock the following year.

Many counties and rural districts in Alberta have declared local states of emergency due to a cool, dry spring that has put crop and forage production in jeopardy.

Producers who reduce their breeding herds by at least 15 per cent will be eligible.