Celebrating Alberta Beef Producers and the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) 2026
$70.69 November 10, 2026 Health & Production
To celebrate IYRP 2026, declared by the United Nations, Alberta Beef Producers is highlighting the dedicated ranchers who manage sensitive ecosystems and produce the world's best beef. The initiative aims to raise awareness of rangelands' vital role and the pastoralists who safeguard them.
Matt and Angela Kumlin of Lazy J Cattle Company
Matt and Angela Kumlin, fifth-generation ranchers, are passionate about sustainable ranching practices. Since taking over in 2018, they've focused on:
- Optimizing rotational grazing to regenerate the land.
- Breeding efficient cattle for improved profitability.
- Adopting regenerative agriculture and technology.
The couple, both raised in farming and ranching families, met while studying agriculture. Matt, a former veterinarian, returned to the ranch in 2018, and they've since expanded their operations.
Technological Advancements
This year, Lazy J Cattle Co. implemented GPS collars on a quarter of their herd, enabling virtual fencing and data collection on reproduction, movement, and pasture health.
"We’re going to collar all of our cows this fall... Winter grazing is going to be a game changer." - Matt Kumlin
Regenerative Practices in Action
In just a few years, their regenerative practices have led to significant improvements:
- Soil recovery and native grass replenishment.
- Enhanced land resilience during droughts and heavy rainfall.
Their herd includes Angus-Polled Hereford cross cattle, carefully bred for endurance in the Rocky Mountain foothills.