A foundation has been established in the Canadian beef sector to help support conservation practices, leadership development and beef industry sustainability.
The Canadian Cattlemen’s Foundation, which was officially an-nounced May 20, has charitable status and $11,000 in the bank as of May 22.
Fawn Jackson of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association said plans to establish a foundation have been in the works for some time.
“It does take a bit of up-front investment to get registered as a charity,” said Jackson.
As for funding goals, “we don’t have a particular amount but we do know that the Cattlemen’s Young Leaders program, we all feel that it’s such an excellent program and some of our initial work I think is going to be to support that program.”
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Foundation chair Bob Lowe said in a news release that such support is integral to ensuring that the next generation of cattle producers has a healthy land base and the knowledge to be able to thrive in the industry.
The foundation’s three main focuses are youth, environment and research, with initial focus on the youth component.
“Although we have seen phenomenal support for (the CYL) program, we need to make sure there is a long-term funding strategy in place to support it for years to come. The establishment of a permanent fund that earns interest, dividends and capital gains would do just that.”
The nine-member board includes Lowe, vice-chair Lynn Grant, Brad Wildeman, Stan Eby, Joe Gardner, Stan Carscallen, Scott Dickson, Annemarie Pedersen and Bob France.
Its mission is to establish a fund that will function in perpetuity to support the cattle industry. The Calgary Foundation will serve as investment manager.
Donations can take the form of money, land, cattle or just about anything else, said Jackson. Benefactors can designate where they would like their donations applied if they wish.
For more information, visit www.cattle.ca/assets/Foundation/FAQ.pdf.
