Producer Resolutions: What you need to know

Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) is preparing for the 2026 resolution cycle, and producers will again have the opportunity to bring forward local issues, ideas, and priorities that help shape ABP’s work for the year ahead.

Resolutions 101

Producer resolutions are one of the most important ways cattle producers can influence the work of Alberta Beef Producers. Resolutions guide ABP, ensuring the commission’s initiatives are producer-led and grounded in the priorities coming directly from ranches and feedyards across the province.

As Producer Meetings approach, here’s what producers need to know about how resolutions work and how to get involved.

Why resolutions matter

Resolutions give eligible cattle producers a formal way to raise issues, suggest changes, and help guide ABP’s policies, priorities, and advocacy efforts. Many of the initiatives ABP works on today began as resolutions brought forward at Producer Meetings.

The resolution process reflects ABP’s democratic and representative structure, ensuring producer voices continue to shape the direction of the organization.

Producer Meetings are a valuable opportunity to be heard, contribute to meaningful discussion, and help shape the future of Alberta’s cattle industry — one resolution at a time.

Where and when resolutions are introduced

Resolutions are first accepted and discussed at ABP Producer Meetings, which take place across Alberta ahead of the Annual General Meeting.

During the resolution portion of the meeting:

• Eligible producers may bring forward a resolution
• The resolution is shared aloud with those in attendance
• Another eligible producer must second the resolution
• The producer who brought it forward has an opportunity to speak to it
• Time is provided for discussion before a vote is held

All resolutions are recorded, with those that are carried moving on to the next steps.

Who is eligible to submit and vote on resolutions

To submit or vote on a resolution, a producer must have sold cattle and paid check-off in their own name or company name within the previous two years.

Additional eligibility considerations include that:

• Producers vote in their business zone if it differs from their residential zone.
• If a business operates in multiple locations including the resident zone, that is the eligible zone.
• If cattle are sold under one name (for example by a couple) there is one vote.
• If cattle are sold under one company name with multiple representatives, one representative is selected to vote on behalf of the company.

What happens after Producer Meetings

Resolutions that are carried at Producer Meetings move forward to ABP’s Resolutions Committee.

The committee:

• Reviews all carried resolutions
• Groups and prioritizes similar resolutions
• Determines whether resolutions will be debated at the AGM or addressed by the Board, a committee, or a working group

The results of all resolutions brought forward from Producer Meetings — whether carried, defeated, or deemed redundant in next steps — are recorded. Producers who initially brought forward the resolution receive a written response from ABP outlining the outcome.

How to write a strong resolution

Effective resolutions tend to:

• Resonate with other eligible producers
• Be specific and relevant to the beef industry
• Align with the scope of ABP’s work

Resolutions include two key parts:

Whereas
The “whereas” statement provides background and explains why the issue matters. It identifies the problem and may include context, urgency, or relevant facts.

Be it resolved
The “be it resolved” statement clearly outlines the action being recommended. It focuses on what ABP is being asked to do.

Thinking about resolutions early helps ensure meetings run smoothly and gives producers time to refine their ideas.

Need help getting started?

Producers are encouraged to think about potential resolutions ahead of their local Producer Meeting.

If you’ve never written a resolution before or would like guidance, consider reaching out to a current or past delegate in your zone.