Alberta Beef Producers have decided to withdraw from the Canadian Cattle Association.
Board Chair Doug Roxburgh says they've been talking with the organization about their concerns for years regarding governance and fiscal transparency.
He notes over the past five years there's been some discussion going on around the move, noting the final decision came following extensive deliberation and strategic review.
"The board initiated a consultation process with our delegate body which included several opportunities for discussion, most notably an in-person gathering (with virtual option) and special delegate meeting held on August 11th. Following these conversations the delegates voted strongly in support of withdrawl. With that clear mandate, the board proceeded to vote and voted in favour of the decision."
Brad Dubeau, General Manager of ABP says looking ahead they have a short-term plan in place to ensure Alberta’s voice continues to be heard provincially, nationally, and internationally.
"We're committed to keeping producers engaged and informed throughout this transition. Our focus remains on delivering strong, strategic representation and advocating for the long term strength and the viability of Alberta's beef industry. We'll continue to fulfill our financial obligations to CCA through June of 2026. This decision does not affect funding to the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off Agency or its service providers -including the Beef Cattle Research Council, Public and Stakeholder Engagement and Canada Beef."
Alberta Beef Producers have sent a list to the CCA of the key factors influencing their decision.
Funding and Fiscal Transparency
- ABP requires that provincial funding assessments be based on retained marketings across all provinces to ensure fairness and consistency.
- The assessment rate of $0.53 must be maintained.
- We have ongoing concerns regarding fiscal transparency and recommend the establishment of an elected Finance Chair within the CCA to enhance financial oversight.
- We also seek reassurance through regular reporting that there is an active and effective Audit Committee in place.
Organizational Structure and Governance
- ABP strongly urges the unfreezing of board seats and a revision of the representation formula to reflect the financial contributions made by each province.
- Currently, ABP contributes over 50 per cent of CCA’s budget, yet holds only seven of 24 seats under the existing freeze.
- To ensure strategic and unbiased leadership, ABP encourages CCA Executive to engage a reputable third-party executive search firm in hiring the Executive Vice President.
- We have significant concerns regarding governance and recommend the formation of a dedicated Governance Committee.
- Additionally, we suggest engaging an independent third-party to conduct a comprehensive review of CCA’s governance structure, with input from elected representatives.
- It is important to reaffirm that the CCA is directed by nine member provinces, not by 60,000 individual producers.
Communication
- It is essential that both elected representatives and provincial organizations are given adequate time and opportunity to review, digest, and collaborate meaningfully on key issues. ABP recently completed a comprehensive organizational overhaul, reaffirming our belief that evolution is the only constant in effective organizations. We are committed to continuous improvement and progress, and we hope to see the same commitment reflected in the CCA’s future direction. We believe that with meaningful reform, the CCA can better serve its member provinces and the producers those member provinces represent.
Roxburgh says the decision to withdraw is rooted in governance, transparency and accountability, values they feel must be reflecteed in any organization representing Alberta Beef Producers.
Currently, ABP funds over 50 per cent of the CCA budget through the $2.00 Alberta Service Charge. The decision for ABP to withdrawl will not affect funding to the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off Agency ($2.50 National Levy) or its service providers - Canada Beef, Public and Stakeholder Engagement, and Beef Cattle Research Council.
Alberta Beef says it remains open to direct and respectful dialogue with the CCA.
Alberta Beef's withdrawal from the CCA is effective July 1, 2026.