Alberta Beef Producers’ Notice of Withdrawal from Canadian Cattle Association

Updated: This post now includes a leadership perspective from ABP Chair Doug Roxburgh (recorded August 13, 2025), sharing insight into the Board’s decision via RealAgriculture. Also included are key factors behind the withdrawal (added August 13, 2025), offering deeper strategic context for Alberta producers.

Following extensive deliberation and strategic review, the Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) Board of Directors has made the decision to formally withdraw its membership from the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA), effective July 1, 2026. 

“Membership in national organizations like the CCA must deliver clear value to Alberta’s cattle producers,” said Doug Roxburgh, Chair of ABP. “ABP holds high standards for fiscal transparency, governance, and communications, and we expect the same from the organizations we support. The CCA does not meet those standards. After seeing no meaningful progress or willingness to change, we’ve made the decision to withdraw our membership. We have a duty to Alberta producers to ensure their dollars are invested in organizations that reflect and advance our industry’s values.”  

ABP remains fully committed to representing Alberta’s cattle producers and ensuring their interests are effectively advocated for at both the provincial and federal levels. 

“We are focused on delivering strong, strategic representation for Alberta’s beef industry,” said Brad Dubeau, General Manager of ABP. “In light of the Board’s decision, we have mapped a strong path forward to ensure Alberta’s voice continues to be heard — provincially, nationally, and internationally.”  

ABP will fulfill all financial obligations to the CCA through the conclusion of the current agreement on June 30, 2026.  

Currently, ABP funds over 50 per cent of the CCA budget through the $2.00 Alberta Service Charge. This decision does not affect funding to the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off Agency ($2.50 National Levy) or its service providers – Canada Beef, Public and Stakeholder Engagement, and Beef Cattle Research Council. 

As the commission moves forward, ABP is prioritizing the long-term strength and viability of its provincial operations. This decision reflects a broader commitment to building a resilient, transparent, and producer-driven organization that is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of Alberta’s cattle industry. 

View the official statement here.

Key Factors

ABP shared a list of key factors behind the decision to withdraw with the CCA. It was important to the commission that the CCA be the first to receive and reflect on the information before any broader communication.

While the formal document is new, the challenges outlined are not — ABP has been transparent with the CCA about these concerns over time.

ABP remains open to direct and respectful dialogue with the CCA regarding the specifics of each
point outlined below.

View the key factors influencing the decision here.

Leadership Perspective

ABP Chair Doug Roxburgh shares insight into the Board’s decision in a recent interview with RealAgriculture, providing context on the strategic considerations and what the withdrawal means for Alberta producers.