Annual Report | Government Relations and Policy

The early July Stampede Summit was a major success, with a record number of Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in attendance.

The Premier delivered remarks to a packed audience of beef producers and industry stakeholders, highlighting the importance of the beef industry in Alberta and reaffirming the government’s support. The event fostered productive conversations between industry leaders and government officials, reinforcing our shared commitment to advancing the beef sector.

This summer brought a significant win for beef producers with the enhancement of the AFSC’s Next Generation Loan program. Producers returning to the farm over the age of 40 are now eligible for the program’s one per cent interest rate incentive, which was previously only available to those under 40. Additionally, the loan amount qualifying for the interest rate incentive has been increased from $1 million to $1.5 million. Borrowers can also make “interest-only” payments for up to five years, offering much-needed flexibility for producers making large capital investments. These changes all stem from a resolution brought forward to ABP in a Producer Meeting.

We extend our gratitude to AFSC for responding to the needs of producers and supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Grazing leases and crown land dispositions have become a point of concern throughout 2024, particularly with the upcoming renewal of the Recreational Access Regulation in March 2025. This regulation governs recreational and hunting access to leased lands, and consultation on its renewal took place during the summer of 2024.

Additionally, Minister Todd Loewen announced a series of inspection “blitzes” this fall, focusing on agricultural leases to ensure they are being used properly. While these inspections aim to uphold proper land stewardship, many producers have expressed concerns over the timing, as it coincides with discussions about the renewal of the Recreational Access Regulation. ABP advocates for leases to be transferred, not cancelled, to preserve forage for the beef industry.

AgriStability has been a reoccurring topic, but we’re pleased to share that we are beginning to see real progress. Minister Sigurdson recently presented proposed changes to the program at the Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture meeting in Whitehorse. There was strong support for the concept of reforming AgriStability or provide much needed Business Risk Management (BRM) support to the cow-calf sector.

While BRM programs like Livestock Price Insurance (LPI), Moisture Deficiency Insurance (MDI), and AgriStability play important roles, producers have been calling for a comprehensive solution as effective as crop insurance. We hope these reforms will bring us closer to that goal and the resolutions that spurred this work.

Two federal bills have bee key priorities for the beef industry over the summer and fall — C-282 and C-293. Bill C-282, which would prevent trade negotiators from discussing supply management, poses a risk to the 90 per cent of agricultural producers who rely on free trade. It is important that our trade negotiations remain flexible to secure market access for the beef industry. ABP has partnered with Alberta Pork, Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association, and Team Alberta Crops to urge the province to support agriculture.

Meanwhile, Bill C-293 focuses on disease preparedness in Canada. While much of the bill in sensible, some clauses could severely harm animal agriculture. We are closely monitoring this legislation and advocating for amendments that protect the interests of beef producers.

ABP also participated in the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER) summit in Whistler, where discussions centered around sustainability. This event provided a valuable platform to demonstrate how Alberta beef producers contribute to producing high-quality protein in harmony with native ecosystems. We made a strong case for the environmental stewardship in the beef industry.

Looking ahead, there are several emerging trends that will shape the future of Alberta’s beef industry:

• Private Land Conservation: Conservation easements and payment for ecological goods and services have gained traction. Producers are seeking solutions that allow them to be compensated for their land stewardship efforts without relinquishing their rights. ABP has recently made policy in this area to guide staff on pursuing payments while still respecting property rights.
• Grazing Leases and Public Perception: With the Recreational Access Regulation up for renewal, public debate around grazing leases is intensifying. We need to ensure that the value of these leases is recognized, not only in terms of agricultural production but also for their contribution to land management and conservation.
• Risk Management and Water Access: Many areas of the province continue to face drought conditions, and 2025 will be a make-or-break year for many farms and ranches. Effective risk management programs and improved access to livestock water will be critical in the year again.

As we move into the next year, the Alberta beef industry faces both challenges and opportunities. With ongoing advocacy, strategic policy development, and support from government partners, we are making progress on key issues.

This article was originally posted in Alberta Beef Producers’ 2024 Annual Report. Find the full report here.