Canadian Cattle Young Leaders (CYL) mentees from across Canada gathered May 28–30 for the annual Spring Forum. For the first time, the three-day event was held in Kamloops, BC and the surrounding area. The 15 young leaders participated in a range of industry tours and training designed to enhance their Canadian beef industry knowledge and connections, specifically in the British Columbia region.
The first day kicked off with industry experts sharing their insights on timely industry topics. The young leaders heard from Blake Lechkobit and Tammy Cox from Foundation Partner MNP about financial literacy and business planning. From our Platinum partner Cargill, Kristine Tapley spoke about sustainability in the beef industry and Cargill’s connection with the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB). To round out these sessions, the CYLs also had the opportunity to voice their perspective on industry questions brought forward by Platinum Partner McDonald’s Canada. After the speaker sessions, the CYLs toured the local Save-On-Foods grocery store and gained insight into how the retail end of the supply chain functions, learning more about the retailer’s meat department and consumer preferences.
Thursday morning, the CYLs were up bright and early to tour Westwold View Farms, a Verified Beef Production Plus feedlot. Andrea van Iterson, who manages the operation, is a past CYL and enjoyed connecting with this year’s group of young leaders. Dr. Lacey Fowler from Elanco gave a presentation on growth implants in beef production, followed by a demonstration of the Component with Tylan implant. CYLs had the opportunity to test their skills and implant a few live animals.
After lunch at the Weldwold Community Hall, the CYLs headed out for a tour of Indian Gardens Ranch hosted by David and Bonnie Haywood-Farmer. David and BC Cattlemen’s Association (BCCA) General Manager Kevin Boone provided great insight into the operation’s range and ag-forestry management. David and Bonnie hosted the group for the annual CYL Sponsor Reception, complete with a steak dinner. The reception is an opportunity to celebrate the generous support for the CYL program and event sponsors while networking and building long-lasting connections with sponsors and industry representatives. To round out the evening, Kevin spoke about some of the impacts and actions taking place through BCCA.
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