Moose Jaw, SK―Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA) successfully concluded its 112th Annual General Meeting and Convention in Moose Jaw, June 8-10, 2025. With this year’s theme, “Focusing on the Future,” the event brought together livestock producers, industry leaders, government partners, and conservation allies to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Saskatchewan’s livestock industry―and set a course for progress.
From trade and taxation to youth recruitment and ecosystem stewardship, this year’s convention demonstrated the strength of Saskatchewan’s ranching community and its resolve to lead through change.
“Profitability is critical to Saskatchewan livestock producers, but long-term success also means protecting what sustains us―our land, our markets, and our next generation,” said SSGA President Jeff Yorga. “When producers come together to share ideas and make bold decisions, we build better businesses and a stronger future.”
A Major Win for Grassland Conservation
A highlight of the AGM was the announcement from the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Foundation (SSGF) of the first Term Conservation Easement in the province―a landmark 25-year agreement protecting 640 acres of native grassland near Fir Mountain, SK. This easement will safeguard vital habitat for species at risk like the Greater Sage-Grouse and Swift Fox, while allowing for flexible, working land use.
“This is a proud moment for our community,” said Kelcy Elford, SSGF Chair. “It reflects our commitment to stewardship and innovation―ensuring ranching and conservation thrive hand in hand.”
The easement was made possible through the dedication of landowners Lloyd and Nyla Anderson and support from the Weston Family Foundation, whose Prairie Grasslands Initiative continues to play a transformative role in conservation efforts across the Canadian Prairies.
Bold Ideas and Global Perspectives
Attendees were inspired by a standout keynote from Devry Boughner Vorwerk, Founder and CEO of DevryBV Sustainable Strategies. Drawing from decades of experience navigating global trade, Boughner Vorwerk urged producers to stay proactive and collaborative.
“Markets are won in moments of uncertainty,” she said. “Canada’s integrated role in North American agriculture is a strength and Saskatchewan ranchers are at the center of that story.”
This session, “Trade-o-War: Implications for the Global Beef Industry,” emphasized the urgent need for sustainable trade policies, cross-border cooperation, and producer-led innovation in a high-stakes, rapidly shifting global environment.
2025 Resolutions Reflect Urgent Industry Needs
Members passed 15 resolutions during the AGM, tackling issues such as:
• Wildlife overpopulation and elk management
• The call for a 10-year tax deferral on the sale of breeding livestock to give ranchers flexibility during droughts
• Livestock Price Insurance parity with crop insurance programs
• Producer-led big game tags to manage ecological impacts
• Support for certification program research to assess benefits and costs
• Disease risk management tools, especially in light of rising TB and biosecurity concerns
“We’re calling for a 10-year tax deferral to be written into the tax code,” said Yorga. “Producers require the freedom to make stocking decisions based on land health and economics—not fear of excessive taxation.”
Celebrating Stewardship and Leadership
This year’s Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) was presented to Mark and Karin Elford of Wood Mountain, SK, for their outstanding conservation work and sustainable ranching practices. Their leadership sets a powerful example for producers across the country.
In addition, Emma Thomason of Central Butte, SK was awarded the Rangeland Scholarship, recognizing her commitment to agriculture, community, and leadership.
Leadership, Continuity, and New Voices
SSGA’s Board of Directors remains steady with:
• Jeff Yorga, President
• Kelly Williamson, 1st Vice-President
• Henry McCarthy, 2nd Vice-President
• Garner Deobald, Past President
• Chay Anderson, Finance Chair
SSGA welcomed Brooks Whitney to the board as a new Director-at-Large and extended gratitude to Lee Sexton for his years of dedicated service.
Looking Ahead
Amid record-high cattle prices and ongoing concern over moisture and feed supplies, the mood at the AGM remained optimistic but realistic. Producers left Moose Jaw energized by connection, collaboration, and clarity of purpose.
“Trade opens doors. Flexibility builds resilience. And coming together to make our voices heard―at a time like this―is absolutely essential,” Yorga concluded.
As SSGA looks ahead to the coming year, the association will continue to advocate for sustainable ranching, fair trade, and strong rural communities, guided by the priorities set forth at this pivotal 112th AGM.
