Inside the November ASBPC–Minister Meeting

On November 17, the Agricultural Service Board Provincial Committee (ASBPC) met with the Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation and senior staff to discuss top priorities affecting rural municipalities and producers. The conversation was constructive and solution‑oriented, with the Minister underscoring that ASBs remain critical partners as the province leans more on local expertise and community‑driven approaches.

Budget Realities

ASBs asked for a 3% annual inflationary increase to grants through Resolution PC1‑25. The Minister confirmed that the 2026 Provincial Budget is forecasting a deficit, and an inflationary increase will not be considered at this time. While this constraint is province‑wide, the Minister reiterated that support for ASBs remains a high priority should fiscal flexibility emerge.

Richardson Ground Squirrel (RGS) Control

The Minister thanked ASBs for participating in the recent RGS survey, noting that local data strengthens Alberta’s position in federal discussions. Alberta is advocating for access to critical control products for the 2026 season, though no firm timelines have been provided by federal regulators. Alberta and Saskatchewan submitted a joint Emergency Use Registration application for 2% Liquid Strychnine on October 1, with a decision expected by year‑end; if approved, it would be valid for one year, continuing the temporary approach used since 2003. Its clear that this is not a solution, and there is still more to do to ensure access to products that work in a timely fashion.

Evidence Matters

The Minister encouraged ASBs to compile case studies that quantify local impacts of regulatory delays and infestations. Measurable, evidence‑based examples help Alberta advocate for balanced federal regulations that protect health and the environment while recognizing on‑farm realities.

Rural Veterinary Capacity

Addressing livestock veterinary shortages remains a priority. The Minister discussed expanding training seats and ideas like developing rural internship pathways modeled after the Rural Health Professions Action Plan (RhPAP), suggesting that perhaps there are roles for AgSocieties and ASBs to play a role in hosting interns and supporting community attraction efforts. The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP) program referenced by Advanced Education in their resolution response has not yet been announced, and the minister’s staff committed to providing an update. The program initiated by the Provincial Veterinarian, it is expected to support summer student hiring, housing assistance, and community engagement. ASBs are encouraged to document local gaps and prepare clinics to apply once it launches, with updates promised before the January Provincial ASB Conference.

Mental Health in Agriculture

The Minister reaffirmed cross‑ministry collaboration with Mental Health & Addiction, recognizing the importance of accessible supports for producers and ag workers.

On‑Farm Slaughter and Food Safety

The Minister reiterated support for local food and farm‑gate sales, clarifying that regulatory thresholds are based on 5,000 kilograms—not pounds. Changes introduced in July 2025 were paused amid concerns about the impact of the limits on operational viability. The Minister talked about the need for balance stating that its not the intent of the on-farm slaughter program to have the volume of product that are being seen. This begs the question why not just be licensed? Traceability and transparency are concerns when volumes are over the 5000kg limit. E. coli outbreak could trigger Health Canada to initiate a province‑wide shutdown with huge implications for food supply. Clearly there is a market for small scale local slaughter, and licensing appears to be a barrier. Engagement and review are expected as the province tries to strike a balance between local food supply and protecting food safety.

Bottom Line for ASBs

ASBs remain central to advancing Alberta’s agriculture industry. Budget pressures are real, but the province values ASBs’ role and data‑driven advocacy. Keep documenting local impacts, prepare for potential RGS control decisions, and get ready to support rural veterinary internships and community attraction initiatives when SCAP details become available.

This update is shared ahead of the January Provincial ASB Conference to help boards, stay aligned on priorities and next steps.