The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) is pleased to share the new environment and climate change team, comprised of Mitchell Zoratti, who has been promoted to environment and climate change manager; and new staff member Graydon Garner, environment and climate change coordinator. CCA’s previous environment and climate change manager, Larry Thomas, retired at the end of March after 16 years with the organization.
The CCA environment committee collaborates with industry, government, conservation organizations, academics and other stakeholders to understand how environmental issues affect beef production in Canada, and to ensure the interests of Canadian cattle producers are well represented on issues of climate, environment and sustainable beef production. The committee is comprised of CCA directors with support from staff led by Zoratti.
“I appreciate the guidance and leadership that Larry provided, and I look forward to continuing CCA’s efforts to advocate in the areas of environment and climate change,” says Zoratti. “Canadian beef farmers and ranchers take immense pride in being stewards of the land. Rightly so, I think, since for generations they have managed their land to protect and enhance grass, soil and water health, ensuring sustainable and resilient operations for their families.
“The CCA environment committee has identified reducing regulatory barriers, soil health, grasslands, emissions and conservation policy as areas of focus and priority,” he says. “Efforts and initiatives that enhance environmental outcomes can come with multiple benefits, such as protecting species at risk, improving soil and water health, and increasing carbon sequestration, which can also increase profitability and resilience.”
About the staff
Mitchell Zoratti grew up on a multigenerational ranch near Pincher Creek, Alberta, where his family has been ranching since 1907. He is proud to be the fifth generation on the land and leverages a deep respect for the environment to guide his approach to work.
Prior to joining CCA, Graydon Garner worked for Ducks Unlimited Canada, delivering farmgate agricultural conservation programs and managing relationships with beef and crop industry partners in Alberta. Garner and his wife live on the family ranch near Strathmore, Alberta, where his wife’s family has been ranching since 1909.
Larry Thomas joined CCA in 2008. He led the team developing the Beef InfoXchange System. He worked on the Verified Beef Production Plus program and then moved to the environment portfolio.
—From a Canadian Cattle Association news release
