The Alberta Elk Association has launched a publicity campaign it hopes
will showcase the industry’s benefits and products rather than its
problems.
“Our goal is to educate the general public about our industry – the
farming we do and the products we grow and sell,” said association
president Glenda Elkow.
“We will be visible and we will be heard – for the benefits of our
producers and those about to consume our products.”
During a news conference called to highlight what’s happening in the
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elk industry, Elkow said too much negative attention has been directed
at the industry because of chronic wasting disease, hunt farms and the
drought.
Instead, the association wants to raise awareness of elk meat and
antler velvet products.
“The future prospects are tremendous,” said Elkow, of Lloydminster.
Over the next few weeks, the association will promote velvet antler
through alliances with health organizations such as the Canadian Liver
Foundation and arthritis societies, and attend nutraceutical
conferences.
It also plans to have regular booths at food fairs and trade shows to
showcase elk meat.
“If a person has never tried it, they aren’t going to be willing to buy
it, are they?”
Elkow said the province’s 450 elk producers strongly support the
program.
“They’re anxious to see us out there and publicize our industry in a
positive way.”
