Stampede Spotlight: ABP’s advocacy efforts on and off the grounds

While the Calgary Stampede is best known for its rodeos and festivities, it also serves as a key opportunity for Alberta’s agriculture sector to connect, collaborate, and advocate.

Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) took part in several important events throughout the week, engaging with policymakers, industry leaders, and international guests to highlight the priorities of Alberta’s beef industry.

Showcasing Alberta ranching with Minister MacDonald

ABP, in partnership with the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA), hosted Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, The Honourable Heath MacDonald, on a ranch tour west of Longview. The visit offered a firsthand look at a working cow-calf and yearling operation and provided a platform to discuss critical topics such as trade, business risk management programs, disease preparedness, and the environmental value of grasslands.

Industry partners host fourth annual Stampede Summit

While not the first Stampede Summit, ABP and partners held the Alberta Beef Industry Stampede Summit on Stampede Grounds for the first time, welcoming local and international politicians, industry leaders, and special guests. The event served as a platform to highlight Alberta’s beef sector and included the announcement of this year’s Environmental Stewardship Award recipients. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with cattle producers, political representatives, and key stakeholders from across the industry.

Welcoming American legislators to Alberta

As part of its outreach efforts, ABP co-hosted a delegation of American state legislators — including senators and representatives — at a cow-calf and feeding operation near Didsbury. The visit aimed to deepen understanding of Canadian beef production and foster cross-border dialogue on shared challenges and best practices.

Strengthening cross-border ties with the Texas Farm Bureau

In collaboration with the Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association (ACFA), ABP welcomed members of the Texas Farm Bureau for a tour of a cow-calf operation and a feedlot. The visit highlighted the many similarities between Canadian and American producers, particularly around trade and regulatory challenges. ABP’s executive team also met with Texas Farm Bureau leadership to build stronger relationships and discuss shared priorities for the future.

Minister Sigurdson welcomes U.S. cattle leaders

The Honourable RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, hosted Washington, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, and California cattle representatives at the Calgary Stampede. Representatives from ABP and other Alberta commissions met to discuss mutual efforts to keep agriculture trade flowing between our two countries.

Engaging in policy dialogue at the NDP Agriculture Roundtable

ABP also participated in the NDP’s agriculture roundtable, contributing to discussions improving risk management tools and enhancing disease readiness. The organization shared producer perspectives and emphasized the need for strong, responsive support programs to help producers navigate an increasingly complex environment.

Kitchen Theatre brings Alberta Beef to the plate

ABP also presented Kitchen Theatre at The Range in Calgary Stampede’s Big Four Building. The high-energy event featured top Canadian chefs competing in a one-hour cooking showdown using premium Alberta beef. Attendees were invited to sample the dishes and vote for their favourite recipe, experiencing Alberta beef at its finest while celebrating culinary creativity and local food culture.

ABP on the Cattle Trail

The live cattle exhibit and interactive experience guided visitors through the lifecycle of beef production, covering topics from cattle breeding science to various beef cuts. Beef producers and industry experts were available daily to answer questions and discuss animal care and landscape preservation.

ABP extends sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to the success of these events — from organizers and partners to the many individuals who took the time to engage with Alberta’s cattle producers. Meetings and events like these are essential for advancing meaningful dialogue, strengthening relationships, and ensuring the voice of Alberta’s cattle producers is at the table.

We’re grateful for the chance to be part of these conversations and look forward to continuing them, both on and off Stampede Grounds.