Three insights into how Plateau Cattle Co. balances cattle, land and legacy

Nestled in the rolling hills of Alberta’s Eastern Slopes, Plateau Cattle Co. has long been more than just a ranch — it’s a living example of how care for the land, cattle, and community can create lasting impact. Now, those efforts have earned the operation the 2025 Environmental Stewardship Award (ESA) from Alberta Beef Producers.

Owned and operated by John Smith and Laura Laing, the ranch is being recognized for its multi-generational commitment to stewardship, low-stress animal care, and proactive advocacy for the future of ranching in Alberta.

Below are three insights from the Plateau Cattle team on the philosophy that underlies their success.

1. Stewardship mindset sets the foundation

“Environmental stewardship means so much to us,” says Laura. “We want to leave the landscape better for the next generation — not just for our family, but for Alberta and Canada. This land and all it offers us in the foothills is incredible, and it’s so important that we protect it.”

“We’ve got amazing cow country here,” adds John. “What we need to do is manage it well — manage our grass, our water, and how we interact with nature. And there are great programs that help with that. I really believe it’s about education and time. Producers want to do the right thing — we just need to work with nature, not against it.”

2. Culture of care guides ranch life

The ESA recognizes producers who ‘walk the talk’ when it comes to stewardship. At Plateau Cattle Co., the commitment to better land, better livestock, and a better future is deeply personal — and powerfully real. For example, cattle are embraced early on by the ranch’s culture of care, which is always evolving and improving with new knowledge.

“For us, low-stress is the focus,” explains Laura. Plateau has worked with Olds College on a program where calves receive positive tactile stimulation — a form of gentle massage — from the ranch team soon after birth. The massage technique mimics the mother’s own stimulation, to imprint calm and caring behavior, aiming to set the calves at ease with their human handlers. “We’ve seen results in stress response, sickness levels, and even calf-mother bonding.”

3. A bigger mission shapes mentorship and legacy

For ranchers across Alberta, the job of environmental stewardship is one that not only requires a strong commitment today, but also one ultimately passed down the generations.

“Our families are really proud,” Laura says, reflecting on the ESA recognition. “And when we talk about mentorship, I hope it leaves a legacy for the next generation to say, ‘We’re going to try to do even better.’”

Learn and hear more from John and Laura in this video tribute to the 2025 ESA winners, now available on the Alberta Beef Producers’ Youtube channel.

To learn more about the Environmental Stewardship Award visit ABP’s ESA program page.