By Jordan Bay

Olds College certified as a sustainable beef producer

Feb 27, 2019 | 8:19 AM

Olds College has been recognized as a “Certified Sustainable” beef production facility by the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB).

Stuart Cullum, President, Olds College says the recognition is a huge honor.

“As a post-secondary institution focused on agriculture, it is important for Olds College to raise our livestock using sustainable methods that support healthy animals, has minimal environmental impacts and offers transparency to the consumer,” he says.

“We are very proud that our practices meet the standard to be recognized as a Verified Beef Production Plus and CRSB Certified Operation.”

The CRSB evaluates producers on five Principles of Sustainability:

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 1. Natural Resources: the beef value chain manages natural resources responsibly and enhances ecosystem health.

2. People and the Community: stakeholders protect and respect human rights, and recognize the critical roles that all participants within the beef value chain play in their community regarding culture, heritage, employment, land rights and health.

 3. Animal Health and Welfare: producers and processors respect and manage animals to ensure a high standard of health and welfare.

 4. Food: stakeholders ensure the safety and quality of beef products and utilize information-sharing systems that promote beef sustainability.

 5. Efficiency and Innovation: stakeholders encourage innovation, optimize production, reduce waste and add to economic viability.

With this certification, Olds College can now participate in beef supply chains interested in sourcing beef from Certified Sustainable Operations. This supports companies like McDonald’s to enable sustainable beef sourcing.

The College’s feedlot operation has capacity for up to 500 head of cattle each year and maintains a cow-calf breeding herd of 160 head, which supports the College’s National Meat Training Centre and on-campus retail store. In addition, the College’s Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production provides vital research and development services to the Canadian beef industry and is an active participant of the CRSB’s Scientific Advisory Committee.