Here To Grow
We are driven by ensuring you have strong gains, humane treatment of cattle, and incredible customer service.
We pride ourselves in being at the forefront of innovative, collaborative, and custom feeding. Thorlakson Feedyards Inc. was started in 1970, as a small custom cattle feedlot of 1,500 head and has grown over the past 50 years to a current capacity of 20,000 head.
Sustainability: Working with Brewers
At Thorlakson's Feedyards, sustainability is a cornerstone of our operations. One of the innovative ways we contribute to environmental stewardship is through our partnership with local brewers. This collaboration not only supports our commitment to sustainability but also enhances the quality of our cattle feed and promotes a circular economy.
Upcycling: We work closely with local breweries to repurpose spent grains, a byproduct of the brewing process, as a nutritious supplement for our cattle. This practice reduces waste and provides a high-protein, fiber-rich feed that benefits our livestock’s health and growth.
Environmental Benefits: By utilizing brewer’s grains, we help reduce the environmental impact of both the brewing and farming industries. This upcycling process minimizes waste sent to landfills, lowers greenhouse gas emissions, and conserves natural resources by reducing the need for conventional feed ingredients.
Economic Efficiency: Partnering with brewers allows us to access a cost-effective feed source, enabling us to manage feed costs while maintaining high-quality nutrition for our cattle. This economic efficiency supports the sustainability and viability of our farming operations.
Continuous Innovation: We are committed to continuously exploring new ways to enhance our sustainability practices. Our partnership with brewers is just one example of our innovative approach to sustainable farming. We are always looking for opportunities to implement new techniques and technologies that further our commitment to environmental stewardship.
Research trials
Science has always been a passion of Ben’s. Thorlakson Feedyards has participated in hundreds of research trials, with many being published in various peer-reviewed journals.
To this day, we still participate in research studies to help make advances in agriculture efficiency.
Over the years, this business and family has grown and diversified. Through all these ventures, family has always been the heart, soul, and driving factor.
Community Commitment
Our involvement in the community extends beyond farming. We actively participate in and support local initiatives, believing that a strong community is the foundation of our success.
Ben has held various positions, including President of the Canadian Cattleman’s Association and the Chair of the Canada Beef Export Federation.
Tom has continued this involvement by volunteering as a board member for the National Cattle Feeders Association, Alberta Cattle Feeders Association and AgSafe Alberta.
