Manitoba Beef Producers (MBP) will be seeking to fill four positions on its board of directors during its 2017 district meetings this fall.
The first of 14 meetings kicks off Oct. 23 as MBP members gather at the Eriksdale Recreation Centre.
MBP President Ben Fox noted that while the district meeting run is always an important time for the association, this year holds extra significance with four board positions coming open as directors complete their six-year terms. The retiring directors are Dave Koslowsky, District 2; Heinz Reimer, District 4; Bill Murray, District 12 and Stan Foster, District 14.
“It’s very important to MBP that we find interested and engaged producers to join our board,” Fox said. “As the voice of the provincial cow/calf producers and cattle feeders, it’s critical that all of our districts and all aspects of our industry are represented at the board table.”
Fox added that joining the board is an excellent opportunity to not only represent your fellow beef producers in Manitoba but also nationally, as many MBP directors also serve on the boards for organizations such as the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, National Check-off Agency and Beef Cattle Research Council.
“This is an excellent opportunity for Manitobans to take a leadership role in the industry and work with their fellow producers to create a strong and sustainable industry for all.”
Fox said if any MBP members are interested in becoming a director he recommends they contact their local director to learn more about what the job entails. Their contact information can be found at http://www.mbbeef.ca/about-mbp/board-and-staff/.
Along with the director elections in even-numbered districts, the meetings will include a look back at MBP’s finances for the past year and a review of the association’s activities on behalf of members. A discussion of traceability and a proposed cow/calf loss survey are also on the agenda.
“These meetings are an important opportunity for us to meet face-to-face with members and hear about their concerns and thoughts on the direction of the association,” MBP General Manager Brian Lemon said. “We look forward to getting to meet with producers and strongly encourage them to attend the meetings and have their say in the future of MBP.”
The meetings begin at 6 p.m. with a free beef on a bun supper. For more information please go to mbbeef.ca or contact the MBP office at 1-800-772-0458.
A new wrinkle has also been added this year as MBP has partnered with 4-H Manitoba to hold Emerging Beef Leaders Forums at three locations this year – district 3, district 5 and district 11.
“Our board has long expressed a desire to get more young producers involved with MBP. After the success we had with our Young Producers Forum at the 38th annual general meeting we felt this was another step in that direction and are excited to partner with 4-H on this venture.”
Source : Manitoba Beef Producers