The Canadian Cattlemen's Association says the government should work with the beef industry on common environmental and economic targets.
Association representatives recently made a presentation to the Federal Government's Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development.
The Species at Risk Act was part of the discussion.
The CCA presentation argued healthy rangelands provide forage for cattle as well as providing critical habitat for native species, enhance water conservation and sequester large amounts of carbon.
Director John Masswohl told the government committee effective partnerships between the ranching community and conservation organisations, governments and academic institutions are essential to preservation efforts.
He also argues cattle producers have to be able to be profitable to maintain their role as stewards of a threatened grassland ecosystem.
The Canadian Cattlemen's Association says the current Species at Risk Act has created a loss of real and perceived land holder rights and placed unjust liability on Canada's farmers and ranchers.
The Association is urging the government to do everything possible to implement an act that is truly based on the stewardship approach and the sustainability of the farmer-landowners involved.
