The Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) presented Bruce Holmquist, Kinistino, Saskatchewan, Canada, a BIF Continuing Service Award July 4 during the group’s annual research symposium in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Continuing Service Award winners have made major contributions to the BIF organization. This includes serving on the board of directors, speaking at BIF conventions, working on BIF guidelines and other behind-the-scenes activities. As BIF is a volunteer organization, it is this contribution of time and passion for the beef cattle industry that moves BIF forward.
Holmquist has spent his entire life in the beef cattle business and has been a lifelong advocate for the importance of a strong seedstock sector as the foundation for a thriving and profitable beef industry. First and foremost, Bruce is a third-generation cattle producer.
In 1977, at the age of 16, Holmquist began his own seedstock herd when he purchased his first Simmentals. Through the years he grew and expanded the business under the name Spruce Grove Cattle Co., and now is extremely proud to see his children and grandchildren carrying the operations of the family business. Holmquist has been actively involved in leadership roles for over two decades. He was first elected as a director of the Canadian Simmental Association (CSA) in 2000 and served in various capacities, including as president in 2005-06. Following his contributions as a board member, he joined the CSA staff and leads the organization today as general manager.
In addition to his work with the CSA, Bruce has served in leadership roles for the Canadian Beef Breeds Council, Canadian Western Agribition, Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association and World Simmental Fleckvieh Federation. Throughout his career, Holmquist has been a strong proponent for true collaboration focusing not just on promoting Simmental cattle but working to connect the entire beef production chain to add value for all beef producers.
More than 300 beef producers, academia and industry representatives attended the organization’s 55th Annual Research Symposium and Convention in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. BIF’s mission is to help improve the industry by promoting greater acceptance of beef cattle performance evaluation.
For more information about this year’s symposium, including additional award winners and coverage of meeting and tours, visit BIFSymposium.com.