Global Animal Partnership Board of Directors member, Executive Director of Country Natural Beef, and Owner of Probert Ranch, Dan Probert is a life-long rancher committed to humane, compassionate, and sustainable production that improves the welfare of animals and protects the land. Founded in 1986 with 14 ranch families, the member-owned cooperative has grown to include 120 ranch families in most U.S. Western states.
With only 2% of the U.S. population involved in agriculture, it is important that our urban population is assured that the meat, eggs, and milk they consume are from animals who are raised humanely and cared for in a way they can feel good about. As a rancher, it is important to me that the consumers who purchase products I raise know that my family and I, and our rancher neighbors, are genuinely concerned about how our animals are treated—not only on our ranches, but after they leave our ranches, too. Although profitability is essential for the sustainability of farmers and ranchers, it should not come at the expense of poor animal welfare practices.
Our forefathers considered “stockmanship,” or the “husbandry” of the animals in our care, as a source of pride and essential for the health and well-being of our animals. I feel it is important to build on that heritage of exceptional animal welfare by also striving to always look for better ways to care for and handle the animals in our care.
Global Animal Partnership’s tiered approach to standards facilitates that continual improvement through higher and more stringent Step ratings. Having retailers involved in the process and willing to purchase higher Step-rated products creates an incentive for farmers and ranchers to improve their welfare standards and achieve a higher rating.
I chose to serve on the GAP Board of Directors because I saw an opportunity to be a contributing part of a diverse group with a common goal of improving animal welfare. Global Animal Partnership truly represents a multi-stakeholder group, including producers, animal welfare groups, retailers and scientists, which will achieve long-term sustainability and continual improvement of higher welfare for animals in agriculture. I believe as a rancher involved in livestock production I can contribute, in a meaningful and hands on way, to the success of improved animal welfare.
—Dan Probert
