A Year in Review: Behind the scenes at Alberta Beef Producers

What’s been happening behind the scenes at Alberta Beef Producers?

In this episode of The Bovine, host Kara Mastel takes us inside Alberta Beef Producers’ (ABP) 2024 Year in review. Recorded at the end of the year, this discussion features key ABP staff as they reflect on the major issues, projects, and policies shaping the future of the cattle industry.

Joining the conversation are General Manager Brad Dubeau, Government Relations Lead Mark Lyseng, Stakeholder Relations Manager Debra Murphy, Beef Production Lead Karin Schmid, and Stewardship Coordinator Kaley Edge. Together they provide insights into ABP’s efforts in research, risk management, disease preparedness, conservation, and industry marketing.

Tackling the big issues in Alberta’s cattle industry

One of the key topics in this episode is ABP’s investment in research. Despite having a relatively small research budget, ABP has leveraged its resources to secure nearly $1.3 million in total project, focusing on areas like feed grain and forage barley breeding. Research remains a top priority, with the organization working closely with industry partners to drive innovation.

Another major area of focus is Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) preparedness. ABP is collaborating with Animal Health Canada and other stakeholders to develop emergency response plans and vaccination strategies to protect Alberta’s beef industry from this devastating disease.

On the policy front, ABP has been actively involved in risk management and conservation efforts. Government Relations Lead Mark Lyseng discusses the ongoing work to improve AgriStability, a critical program that provides financial support to producers during tough years. ABP is pushing for adjustments to ensure that payments are more responsive and reflective of real costs. The organization is also working to develop conservation policies that compensate producers for ecological services while protecting landowner rights.

Marketing Alberta Beef and strengthening industry connections

Beyond policy and research, ABP has been actively engaging with consumers through its All Ways Alberta Beef campaign. With TV commercials, digital content, and a strong presence at events like the Calgary Stampede, the campaign aims to highlight the sustainability and quality of Alberta beef.

ABP has also made major strides in industry networking with the Alberta Beef Industry Summit, an event that brings together producers, policymakers, and industry leaders. This year, the summit welcomed key government figures, including Alberta’s Premier, Danielle Smith, and former Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Lawrence MacAulay, providing a valuable platform for discussions on trade, sustainability, and industry challenges.

Why producer involvement matters

Throughout the episode, one message is clear: producer involvement drives Alberta Beef Producers. Whether through submitting resolutions, attending meetings, or participating in ABP initiatives, producers play a crucial role in shaping the organization’s direction. As ABP continues to evaluate and refine its structure through the Commission Working Group, producer feedback will be more important than ever.

As Mastel wraps up the episode, she leaves listeners with a reminder of the power of community—within the cattle industry and beyond. The work being done at ABP isn’t just about policies and programs; it’s about supporting the producers who keep Alberta’s beef industry strong.

For the full video version of this discussion, head over to ABP’s YouTube channel. If you have questions or want to get involved, reach out at karam@albertabeef.org.