WESTERN PRODUCER — An organization that has promoted responsible care of livestock in Alberta since 1993 has been forced to shut down due to lack of funding.
“This is by no means the conclusion we wished to see happen, but the board feels this is the responsible action to follow,” said a statement March 1 by the Alberta Farm Animal Care Association.
“We are saddened to see our organization come to an end, but we are proud of the work AFAC and its staff has done over the years.”
Initiatives have included Livestock Emergency Trailers that were developed in collaboration with counties in Alberta, along with the 1-800-506-2273 ALERT line that helped people with questions or concerns about animal welfare. Other resources included Urban Hens and the Alberta Beekeepers Education and Enhancement (BEE) program, said the statement.
“AFAC has been hit hard in recent months, including a lack of government funding. Though the board heard from members and supporters that AFAC and the ALERT line were important to Alberta’s livestock welfare and organizations, numerous funding resources were investigated and exhausted.”
The organization was founded by the province’s livestock producers.
“Throughout the past 30 years, AFAC has developed into the collective voice of the livestock industry on matters of livestock welfare and provided an opportunity for the industry to work together to advance and promote responsible livestock care,” said the statement.
“AFAC’s vision was to ensure farm animals in Alberta are respected, well-cared for and experience a high state of welfare through collaboration with and support of our members.”
The board made the decision to close the organization effective March 1.
“Work is underway to transition current activities and resources to other partners, including the ALERT line.”
doug.ferguson@producer.com
