Understanding ABP delegate elections

As Alberta Beef Producers’ fall producer meetings get underway across the province, producers will have the chance to discuss industry issues, debate resolutions and, in some zones, elect the delegates who will represent them within the organization.

This year is a little different from recent years. In several zones, more producers have stepped forward than there are available delegate positions, meaning elections will be required.

For producers attending fall meetings, it’s an opportunity to weigh in on industry issues and help choose who will represent their region.

Why delegates matter

ABP is divided into five zones, with delegates elected to represent producers from each area of the rpovince.

Delegates bring forward issues and perspectives from their regions, helping ensure local concerns are reflected in discussions at the provincial level. Topics can range from transportation regulations and business risk management programs to animal health, market access and predator management.

More names on the ballot

In recent years, many delegate positions have been filled by acclamation because there were the same number of candidates as available seats.

This year, some zones have more candidates than positions available, giving producers a chance to vote between candidates.

The increased interest means more producers are willing to step into a leadership role and be involved in representing their region.

How elections work

Delegates serve two-year terms, with a portion of positions up for election each year.

In zones where elections are taking place, candidates will introduce themselves and explain why they are seeking a delegate position before voting begins. This gives producers an opportunity to learn more about the individuals looking to represent their area.

Eligible producers can then cast their vote for the candidates they feel will best represent the interests of their zone. Successful candidates will serve as delegates for the next two years.

Who can vote?

To vote in an ABP election, producers must have sold cattle and paid check-off in their own name or company name within the past two years.

Additional eligibility requirements include:

• Producers may vote in one zone only.
• If a producer’s business zone differs from their residential zone, voting takes place in the business zone.
• If cattle are sold under one name, such as by a couple, there is one vote.
• If cattle are sold under a company name, one representative may vote on behalf of the company.
• Each eligible producer may caste only one vote using one voting method.

Producers who have questions about their eligibility can contact ABP or their zone representatives before voting.

Getting involved

While nominations have closed for this election cycle, producers can still take part by learning about the candidates in their zone and voting where elections are being held.

Fall producers meetings are an opportunity to hear from candidates, discuss issues affecting the cattle industry, and help select the delegates who will represent producers in their region over the next two years.