Survey seeks to build an understanding for livestock welfare in Alberta

HIGH RIVER, AB — A new initiative called the Livestock Welfare Engagement Project is being undertaken by Alberta Farm Animal Care (AFAC).
 
AFAC wants individuals and organizations across the sector to offer input on animal welfare in the province’s livestock industry.
 
The project is being funded by Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, with gathered information presented in a report to be shared with the government. An on-line survey has been set up to gather information from four groups:  1) organizations, 2) abattoir & auction markets, 3) individuals (e.g. producers), and 4) students.
 
AFAC Executive Director, Annemarie Pedersen, says practices continue to change and evolve, making livestock welfare important to all industry stakeholders, as well as the bodies that regulate the sector.
 
“This project will provide every stakeholder – from individual farmers and ranchers to producer association groups, veterinarians and all others – the opportunity to share their insight into what is happening in their sector today – these diverse insights will be critical in creating a clear picture of the extensive work being done related to animal welfare in Alberta, and in providing direction for the future.”
 
The survey is open until October 31st, with all participants encouraged to complete the survey. Any participants falling under more than one category are welcome to complete multiple surveys.  When the survey concludes, focus groups will follow, before a final report is assembled.
 
“Sharing and redistribution of this survey is requested. The more responses gathered, the clearer the final picture of Alberta’s livestock sector will be,” says Pedersen. “Industry associations such as producer and commodity organizations are encouraged to circulate this information to their members and stakeholders and we encourage them to participate as well.”
 
 If you have questions on any aspect of the project, you can contact Melissa Moggy, Livestock Welfare Engagement Project Lead, (403) 652-5111 or melissa@afac.ab.ca    AFAC website: www.afac.ab.ca