Casey Vander Ploeg, a former senior policy analyst with the Canada West Foundation, has been appointed manager of policy and research with the Alberta Cattle Feeders’ Association and the National Cattle Feeders’ Association.
Originally from Vauxhall, Alta., Vander Ploeg is also a former news reporter with a degree in political science.
NCFA chair Jeff Warrack said the new staffer’s policy analysis experience is expected to be an asset.
“These are challenging times for our industry, and we need to make sure that all levels of government understand the issues. More important, we need effective policies and programs that will strengthen this vital sector of the economy,” Warrack said in a news release.
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Vander Ploeg said his immediate goals are to develop policies that will improve cattle and beef access to existing markets and create new ones. He also intends to help push for changes to the American country of origin labelling rules that are the subject of a major trade dispute between Canada, Mexico and the United States.
The NCFA represents cattle feeders on national issues and works with other cattle groups. The ACFA represents its members’ views on government policies and economic issues.
