The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) has introduced a new Environment and Climate Change Team as part of its ongoing commitment to sustainability and climate advocacy in the beef sector. Mitchell Zoratti has been promoted to Environment and Climate Change Manager, joined by new team member Graydon Garner, who takes on the role of Coordinator.
The team transition follows the retirement of Larry Thomas, who concluded a 16-year tenure at CCA at the end of March. Thomas played a key role in initiatives such as the development of the Beef InfoXchange System and the Verified Beef Production Plus program before shifting his focus to environmental issues.
Zoratti, now leading the Environment and Climate Change team, will continue to support the work of CCA’s Environment Committee. This committee brings together directors, staff, and external partners including government, academia, and conservation organizations to address environmental challenges facing Canadian beef producers.
The committee is prioritizing areas such as reducing regulatory hurdles, improving soil health, protecting grasslands, managing emissions, and advancing conservation policies. These efforts aim to strengthen both environmental outcomes and producer resilience, with co-benefits that include improved water health, carbon sequestration, and support for species at risk.
Zoratti brings firsthand ranching experience to his role, having grown up on his family’s multi-generational ranch near Pincher Creek, Alberta. Garner also brings valuable experience from his work with Ducks Unlimited Canada, where he focused on agricultural conservation programs and industry partnerships. He and his wife reside on their family ranch near Strathmore, Alberta.
Together, Zoratti and Garner are set to lead CCA’s environmental advocacy and policy work at a time when climate and sustainability are top priorities for the beef industry.
