Wildfire challenges prompt cross-border support for cattle producers

A partnership between Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) and the B.C. Cattlemen’s Association (BCCA) is connecting producers with feed, pasture, and livestock facilities when wildfire conditions create challenges for cattle operations.

Through BCCA’s Access to Feed program, producers in British Columbia can connect with producers who have available resources, whether that means sourcing feed, finding pasture, or securing space in a feedlot or drylot facility.

The program provides support through three streams: moving feed into British Columbia, relocating cattle to available pasture, and placing cattle in feedlots.

“One of the strengths of this industry is the willingness of producers to help each other,” says Brad Dubeau, General Manager of ABP. “By working alongside BCCA and using our communications channels, we can help connect producers with available feed resources with the people who need them most.”

The collaboration gives affected producers access to a larger network of resources than may be available within their immediate area. Alberta producers with feed, pasture, feedlot or drylot capacity can register their availability, while B.C. producers can explore options that may help them manage the impacts of wildfire-related disruptions. A key part of the program is its confidential matching process. Greg Tegart serves as the primary contact and central coordinator for all producer inquiries. Producers seeking feed, pasture, or livestock facilities, as well as those offering available resources, are encouraged to contact Tegart directly. He works with producers on both sides of the provincial border to identify potential matches and make introductions.

“We know this has been an incredibly difficult year for many producers, and the impacts of wildfires and drought are being felt differently from one operation to the next,” says Kevin Boon, General Manager of BCCA. “While this program can’t replace what’s been lost, it can help producers explore options they may not have otherwise known about, whether that’s feed, pasture, or a place to relocate cattle. By working closely with Alberta Beef Producers and expanding awareness of the program, we hope to help make those connections and support producers as they navigate the challenges ahead.”

All information shared through the program is kept confidential. By working through a single point of contact, producers can discuss their needs, available resources and operational considerations without publicly sharing those details. Once a potential match is identified, the producers involved work directly with one another to determine the terms and arrangements that best first their operations.

To help identify suitable matches, producers provide relevant information such as their location, the number and type of cattle involved, approximate weights, available feed or facility capacity, transportation options, and how long assistance may be required.

Producers looking for feed, pasture, feedlot space or cattle relocation options, as well as those with resources available to offer, can contact Greg Tegart directly through the Access to Feed program. Tegard coordinates all inquiries and matching efforts, and all discussions remain confidential.