From the Ground Up: Driving progress through resolutions

Over the years, ABP has received numerous resolutions that have significantly impacted both producers and the broader industry.

For instance, in 2024, cattle producers in the Southwest Zone brought forward a resolution urging ABP to lobby the Government of Alberta to improve AFSC’s Next Generation Loan program. After passing in the Southwest, this resolution was directed to the annual meeting of the delegates, where it passed a second time. As a result of the ABP’s efforts arising from this resolution, by September 2024, the Government of Alberta announced changes to the program, including expanded eligibility, increased loan limits, lowered ownership requirements and extended interest-only payments.

This is just one example of how resolutions can lead to tangible changes. In the past, we have seen resolutions aimed at increasing strategic communications with producers and consumers, improving recognition for stewardship, and collaboration between cattle industry groups. These are among many topics that have guided the evolution of the organization.

Another example is a recurring theme from producers that we push for better Business Risk Management programming for Alberta’s cattle industry. This work is beginning to show real progress. With strong support from Federal, Provincial and Territorial Ministers of Agriculture, these efforts are paving the way for a more resilient and prosperous cattle industry.

So what is a resolution?

A resolution is a formal decision or expression of opinion proposed for approval by a group. In the context of ABP, resolutions are brought forward by eligible producers at annual Producer Meetings in January and February. Those that pass are then directed by the Resolutions Committee to the Annual General Meeting for consideration by the delegate body, or to the Board of Directors.

Resolutions can address a wide range of issues, from policy changes and strategic initiatives to specific actions the organization should take. They are powerful tools for guiding the direction of an organization, ensuring that the collective voice of cattle producers are heard, and concerns and ideas is formally recognized and addressed.

By their very structure, resolutions turn challenges into opportunities. A well-crafted resolution provides background on the challenges or issues being considered and a recommendation for specific action.

To maximize their potential, resolutions brought forward at Producer Meetings should:

• resonate with other beef producers,
• be specific/relevant to the beef industry, and
• align with the scope of the work done at Alberta Beef Producers.

Eligible cattle producers are encouraged to develop resolutions to present at the upcoming Producer Meetings.

This article was first published in Volume 4 Issue 4 of ABP Magazine (December 2024). Watch for more digital content from the magazine on ABP Daily.