The Alberta government has revised grazing rental rates for public lands in 2025, marking a significant update for ranchers across the province. For 2025, Zone 1 will see rates rise to $8.70 per Animal Unit Month (AUM), up from $7.63 in 2024. Zone 2 will increase to $6.07 per AUM, compared to $4.99 previously.
This adjustment follows the Return on Capital Employed (ROCE) model, which aligns rental fees with economic conditions, including inflation and market trends. While the increases aim to reflect fair usage costs, the provincial government emphasized efforts to minimize financial strain on ranchers.
The Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) commended the government’s collaborative review process, highlighting the importance of balancing economic pressures with accessibility for ranchers. “We appreciate the effort to keep these increases moderate while ensuring sustainability,” the ABP stated in a recent announcement.
These updates come amidst rising operational costs in Alberta’s agricultural sector, where ranchers rely on public lands for grazing to maintain their livestock. Public land stewardship plays a key role in preserving ecosystems, making the updated rates an essential factor in maintaining a balance between economic and environmental considerations.
The rate adjustments are part of an ongoing review process, and stakeholders will continue to monitor their impact. Both the government and the ABP remain committed to addressing concerns and ensuring that future changes reflect the realities of Alberta’s ranching industry.
