Running with the Ranchers
Running with the Ranchers (RWR) is a new, pilot program delivered by Alberta Beef Producers in partnership with Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation.
RWR allows elementary students from kindergarten to grade five to explore raising beef animals in Alberta. Following the Alberta school curriculum, RWR offers the opportunity for students to gain a better understanding of food production systems by exploring the different stages of beef production and its role in local ecosystems.
Classes will follow a selected cow from fall gathering to pasture entry the following spring through video content and virtual meetings with their rancher. The aim is to highlight key sectors within the beef industry from cow-calf, background, finishing, auctions and more.
Through the months of May and June, students within the Calgary area will join Glenbow Ranch for a day to experience a real working ranch and personally connect the activities to lessons taught throughout the year.
Classes unable to connect at Glenbow Ranch will join our partners at Public and Stakeholder Engagement by viewing the Guardians of the Grasslands documentary. Students may then try their own hand at ranching by playing the Guardians of the Grasslands game online as part of the program wrap-up.
If you are interested in participating in RWR or would like additional information, please express your interest below.
Running with the Ranchers effectively utilizes the limited resources and time of both producers and teachers to bring the story of beef “from farm to plate” to local classrooms.
Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation recognized for 10 years of grassland education
Every year, the Alberta Emerald Foundation awards leaders and innovators in environmental stewardship and sustainable land use. In 2021 the Glenbow Ranch Park Foundation (GRPF) was recognized for its tireless dedication to grassland education, with an Emerald Award in the Land category.
Connecting agriculture to curriculum in the classroom
Schools across the province are incorporating hands-on learning and a connection to agriculture through student-led and student-managed farms and facilities. In this article, first published in ABP Magazine, author Mary MacArthur takes us on a tour of two such places – Altario School and École Secondaire Lacombe Composite High School.
Ag for Life acquires Classroom Agriculture Program
“It is undeniable that both organizations are deeply rooted in Alberta agriculture and have a passion for sharing this story,” said Luree Williamson, CEO of Ag for Life, at the announcement of the acquisition. “Therefore, this is a natural fit for us as we continue to expand our programming and make a bigger impact in our province.”