Producers taking part in the Grasslands Sheep Expo this weekend in Humboldt can register for the province’s 'Premise ID program.'

Government representatives are set up in the trade show area.

The identification program is now a requirement for all livestock producers in Saskatchewan.

"The program was developed to plan for, control, and prevent the spread of livestock diseases and for managing animal health emergencies basically," explained Halsey Shaheen, a Regional Livestock Specialist at Watrous during the show at the Uniplex.

"We can also use it as a warning system for notifying producers if there is any kind of natural disaster such as a flood or fire that may effect their animals or operations," she added.

The program is a pre-requisite to take part in more and more of the other provincial programs. Shaheen says the process isn't a difficult one.

"Just a one, two-sided document, basically you just need your contact information, information about the number and species of animals on the premise and the land location you need as well. It's pretty simple, takes maybe five minutes."

She notes the 2016 Census numbers show that only 28% of all livestock premises had registered.

Saturday at 10 an, the purebred sheep show takes place, the fleece show is at 11:30, while the jackpot market lamb show goes at 3 pm. A stock dog demonstration takes place 12 pm and 5 pm.

The day will be capped by their banquet, the show wraps up Sunday.