Editor’s Note: 2026 is the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, declared by the United Nations. This column by Dr. Barry Irving explores what that means for Alberta ranchers and why engagement matters. Watch for additional IYRP-related content in the months ahead. How the IYRP came to be The International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists…
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is hosting a dedicated traceability session to give Alberta cattle producers additional time and space to share their perspectives. As ABP’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) follows a formal governance agenda, with strict time limits for input, ABP has scheduled this Producer Town Hall on Traceability to ensure there is dedicated time for open discussion preceding the AGM. This session builds on discussions already taking place across the…
Consultations are now underway on the next five-year agricultural policy framework, targeted for implementation in 2028. Formally named the Next Policy Framework (NPF) by the Government of Canada, the NPF is a federal-provincial-territorial agreement that will shape programs and supports for Canada’s agriculture sector starting in 2028. It will take over from the 2023-2028 Sustainable…
The protection of species at risk in Alberta plays a larger role in the lives of landowners than one might think. The grasslands ecosystem is an essential part of Alberta’s culture, heritage, and economy, providing ranchers with sustainable livelihoods. But grasslands don’t function without every species working together. Each species plays a role in this…
Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is recommending that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) halt the finalization of the upcoming federal traceability regulation changes to allow for additional, meaningful consultation with producers. While public consultation occurred in 2023, ABP believes further review is necessary to ensure traceability can be effectively and consistently implemented at the farm…
After years of planning and preparation, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency is expecting to publish the final version of proposed amendments to Part XV of the Health of Animals Act in 2026. To help clarify what’s coming and what it means for you, we’ve compiled a few answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we’re hearing. Will I have to change when I tag cattle? There is no required…
A robust and effective traceability system finds a balance in technical reporting and practicality. Traceability is the ability to follow the movement of an animal or food product through different stages of the supply chain. The ability to track livestock through their lifecycle relies on three pillars: premise identification (PID), animal identification, and animal movement….
As we come to the end of 2025, I’m sure you’re wondering what the new year holds for Alberta Beef Producers and its relationship with the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA). I am pleased to report that significant progress has been made since our August announcement of the intention of ABP to withdraw from the national…
The Government of Alberta is proposing the first major update to the province’s Water Act since 1999. Introduced as Bill 7, the Water Amendment Act, the legislation is designed to “modernize” Alberta’s water management system to keep pace with a rapidly growing population and evolving economic demands. “Every part of our province and economy relies on water,” said…
The opportunity to communicate directly with Alberta producers is something that usually happens in handfuls at ABP meetings or other events through the year. I appreciate the opportunity to reach many more at once through ABP magazine. CCA has a spot in many producer publications across Canada that allow me to regularly shine light on…
The Fall 2025 Issue of ABP Magazine published by Alberta Beef Producers highlights leadership, innovation, stewardship, and momentum across the beef industry. Here are five insights, among many examples, worth a closer look. 1. Taking charge: All for the Beef We’ve certainly had an active time as your beef cattle commission for the past few…
Can a perfectly grilled ribeye change the course of international trade? In Episode 11 of Season 3 of The Bovine podcast, host Kara Mastel explores that very question with guest Brodie Haugan, previous Chair of Alberta Beef Producers, and current Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) representative. Fresh from a Canadian beef trade mission to Vietnam and…