One of Alberta’s most anticipated agricultural showcases, Farmfair International, is officially underway this week at the Edmonton EXPO Centre, running November 5–8. The annual event brings together producers, youth, and a range of attendees — including consumers — to celebrate the best of Alberta agriculture. Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) — once again serving as a…
With harvest wrapped up, another important deadline is quickly approaching: delegate nominations for Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) close on November 15. ABP relies on its delegates to represent the voice of cattle producers across the province. Delegates bring forward ideas, concerns, and opportunities from their zones to help guide ABP’s programs, policies, and advocacy efforts. “ABP’s strength…
The Government of Canada released its 2025 federal budget on November 4, outlining several new commitments and program adjustments affecting the agriculture sector, including beef producers. Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is reviewing the proposed budget and will be monitoring the vote in Parliament on November 17. Here’s a rundown of the key developments: Funding programs Budget 2025 proposes…
Alberta fed prices over the past eight weeks have declined $17/cwt, but the fed market is starting to show signs of stability, holding around $300/cwt. Fed prices are within $3/cwt of their second-half lows made in early July. Dressed sales were reported from $495–$505/cwt delivered. All Western Canadian packers bought cattle, but competition on the cash market was somewhat limited….
Alberta’s beef sector has been relatively fortunate, compared to poultry and swine, having experienced few incursions of rapidly spreading diseases with high rates of mortality. That said, we all remember BSE and the devastating, long-lasting impact it had on our industry. We are a sector that relies on trade. Around 40–50 per cent of our…
The Natural Resources Conservation Board (NRCB) has released an updated Abandonment and Permit Cancellations Policy. The updated policy provides clarity on when abandonment of a confined feeding operation or manure storage facility should be considered. Key changes include: Members of the Policy Advisory Group were consulted during the update process, and their feedback is reflected in the final…
A new report from the Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) provides a comprehensive look at management practices and performance trends across Canadian cow-calf operations. The Canadian Cow-Calf Adoption Rates and Performance Levels Report is based on multiple survey sources and academic studies. It was developed for BCRC by Canfax Research Services. It tracks adoption trends…
Western Canadian and U.S. prices have been moving in opposite directions as of late. Weighted average fed prices closed $1.00–$2.00/cwt lower in Western Canada last week. Very light dressed sales were reported from $505.00–$508.00/cwt delivered. Competition on the cash market was limited, with one major packer not bidding. Cattle that traded were scheduled for delivery…
The Canadian Cattle Association is calling on the Government of Canada to terminate the Canada–UK Continuity Agreement. Despite commitments made under the agreement, the UK continues to block Canadian beef exports while its own beef exports to Canada have surged. CCA says it’s time to “stand up for Canadian beef producers” and pursue truly reciprocal…
The Calgary Stampede launched the third year of its OH Ranch Branded Beef Youth Ambassador Program, with a Steer Selection Day, Oct. 18, at the historic OH Ranch. The event welcomed 12 young agriculture enthusiasts who were selected to participate out of 52 applicants, based on criteria that centred on establishing they have a place…
New deal with JBS Canada opens doors for Canada beef and Alberta beef in 41 stores nationwide. Alberta beef is hitting Mexico’s retail market through a new agreement between JBS Canada and Costco Mexico, marking a major expansion for Canadian beef in a market long dominated by U.S. suppliers. At a ribbon-cutting event this week…
Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson has received a new mandate from Premier Danielle Smith — and at the heart of it is a clear directive to put “Alberta Agriculture First.” The Premier’s early October mandate letter tasks Sigurdson with introducing new legislation to reduce red tape, strengthen the competitiveness of Alberta producers, and…