Western Feedlots shutting down; Canada's biggest feeder blames 'headwinds' in cattle industry

One of Canada’s largest cattle feeder operations is shutting down, blaming market forces currently rocking the feedlot sector as well as what it calls Alberta’s “poor political and economic environment.”  Meanwhile, Alberta’s minister of agriculture and forestry says he was surprised by the move, expressing disappointment at the looming job losses but insisting the industry remains strong.  President and CEO Dave Plett said in an interview that the majority of Western’s approximately 85 employees will eventually be laid off, and the company has “teams working now to assist them with transition.” He said all of Western’s equipment will be shuttered, stored and maintained in functional condition. “Should circumstances change going forward, there may be opportunities to do something to activate it — but that’s not the case at this time,” Plett said. Minister Oneil Carlier said it’s the job losses he’s most worried about. “It’s really unfortunate,” Carlier said. Western, which started in 1958, has been hit hard by recent volatility in the cattle markets. Alberta cattle prices surged to record heights in 2014 and 2015, but have since plummeted — meaning feedlot owners bought animals at high prices and now have no choice but to sell them at a major loss.