Under the management of Jack Reiger, the quality herd of commercial Angus cows at the 96 ranch are efficient and profitable. These high capacity and easy fleshing cows are certified Organic to COR and NOP by Ecocert Canada. The operation is rated as a Global Animal Partnership Step 4 operation and they are certified Grass Fed by Animal Welfare Approved. The 96 Ranch supplies high quality beef to premium grocery stores.
The selection of cows best suited to this climate and ecology helps balance the protection of native plants with ongoing cattle grazing. Done right, the two sides of this equation form a positive feedback loop that enhances the health of the grasslands and rewards producers in the form of lower inputs and nutritious feed for livestock. Grass-fed cattle are part of the equation of ensuring that this land is available for future generations.
Conservation
Grasslands are one of the world’s most threatened ecosystems. In North America, tall-grass prairie has been reduced to 1% and mixed-grass and short-grass prairie to 20-30% of their former range. In Saskatchewan, it is estimated that only 17% to 21% of the original native prairie remains intact. Sustainable use of this resource has been key for the ongoing success of the 96 ranch.
As we look to the future there is increasing emphasis on climate and responsible agricultural practices. The World Economic Forum’s top five long-term global risks are all environment-related and regenerative agriculture which rebuilds soil health, supports biodiversity and contributes to the recapturing of carbon are taking center stage. The prairie has cultural, spiritual and recreational importance.
Animal Welfare
The 96 cow herd is certified Grass Fed by Animal Welfare Approved. Consumers and industry stakeholders are placing a premium on sustainability and animal welfare. AGW is the only label which guarantees that:
Certified Grassfed by AGW is the only certification in North America that guarantees food products come from animals fed a 100% grass and forage diet, raised outdoors on pasture or range for their entire lives.
Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW leading welfare and environmental standards certification program is an independent, nonprofit program. It has the single highest impact on consumer purchasing of any food label, according to The Hartman Group.
This certification has been able to meet consumer expectations of transparency and credibility when it comes to grassfed and forage diet, environmental management, and animal welfare.
Market Trends
Demand for grass fed beef has increased by 25 to 30 percent every year over the last decade and is projected to grow by USD 14.5 billion during 2020 to 2024. As interest grows in sustainable production methods, holistic management, and a concern for preserving natural resources, a sustainable mindset is supported by consumer interest. North America is expected to be a leader with the grass-fed beef market to hold the majority share of 47.5% by 2025.
