For a year there has been a very interesting project in development called the Beef Straw Man which is trying to facilitate a Canadian beef industry strategy. The three straw men gathered 200 people into the Deerfoot Inn and Casino in Calgary on Tuesday to get more input, seek feedback and prepare for a final report in December. After the final report it will be up to the industry to decide what the next move is based on the results.
Find Out More at StrawManBeef.ca
The straw men are Picture Butte farmer John Kolk, Brooks cattleman David Andrews and Kim McConnell. I interviewed David Andrews at the Canfax Market Forum. David and I talk about why this process started, what has been the feedback and what happens next.
If you cannot see the above embedded audio player, CLICK HERE
Ranchers, feedyards, packers, retailers, government and industry associations were all in attendance to try and create some clarity for the Canadian beef industry. There were some detractors, some supporters of the concept and some just came to listen. Whether you agree or disagree with the beef straw man concept, you have to appreciate the passion and will of the three straw men to engage change and creation of a clearer industry strategy as a result. No agendas, no biases, just good decisions based on the input of participants from across Canada at all levels of the value chain.
Download the Presentation that was made in Calgary