From ABP’s Government Desk

Here’s to another year of positive change in 2024! We’re crossing our fingers for high beef prices, great growing conditions, and policy that complements our industry.

This fall saw the announcement of another AgriRecovery. The 2023 AgriRecovery was hard fought by both Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation and AFSC, and we are thankful for the government’s willingness to go to bat for our industry.

As predicted, the implementation was complex, and ABP heard frustration both from farms that needed
support and didn’t get it and farms that didn’t need support and were in areas deemed eligible. And this
is the crux of AgriRecovery. It is a blunt tool that should not be relied on by producers. The industry needs a margin insurance program that is tailored to each farm to ensure that producers get the support necessary.

For this reason, I would encourage you to consider participating in AFSC’s AgriStability pilot. This will help AFSC determine how they can make the program better for cow-calf producers. More information on page 13 or by contacting Stuart Chutter at schutter@afsc.ca.

Renewables have been a hot topic for the southern part of the province with some companies offering very lucrative contracts. In June the province put a moratorium on renewables, giving us the opportunity to lobby for some necessary changes. Currently, renewable companies do not work under the Surface Rights Act, so there is no Orphan Well Fund if the company runs into problems or appeal body if a landowner runs into issues with the company. ABP is working with Western Stock Growers’ Association to make sure landowner rights are respected.

ABP took a stance against bill C-355, Prohibition of the Export of Horses by Air for Slaughter Act. The bill proposes stopping the transport of horses by air if they’re destined for slaughter. Canada already has transportation regulations in place to protect the welfare of animals, and we regularly transport horses for slaughter by other means than air. In Canada, we have long prided ourselves for agricultural policy that is evidence-based. We have traditionally been in contrast with other jurisdictions that pass legislation based on public opinion not on data, like the EU’s restrictions on hormone use and feed additives. ABP is pushing back against C-355 because we do not want government decision making to go this direction.

Heading into spring, progress is happening on grassland conservation, wildlife management and the renewal of the Recreational Access Regulation on grazing leases. With a strong El Niño, there is concern that we may be challenged by another dry spring. For that reason, I encourage all producers to look at risk management programs. Moisture Deficiency Insurance paid out a record $326M in 2023, showing the changes made in 2021 were effective.

Here’s to hoping you get timely moisture and a successful calving season!

This article was first published in Volume 4 Issue 1 of ABP Magazine (February 2024). Watch for more digital content from the magazine on ABP Daily.