MOUNTAIN VIEW COUNTY - Mountain View County's contest for the design of an honorary county livestock brand, which will be used to further the agricultural image of the county in future marketing activities, is nearing deadline.
Open to all ages, the contest is seeking a brand design that has three characteristics: Distinctly represents Mountain View County; uniquely reflects the county heritage; and illustrates the county’s strong agricultural identify.
“At Mountain View County we take pride in our strong agricultural roots,” said Chris Atchison, director of legislative and agricultural services. “It’s something that’s tied heavily into our community, identity and history and we are looking to showcase that though the development of a new county livestock brand.
“This brand will be used to further our agricultural image through various future marketing campaigns.”
Deadline for submissions is Dec. 31.
The county intends to establish an honorary brand design, which means there are no typical limitations associated with designing a standard brand, he said.
“As long as your design incorporates the three characteristics, feel free to get creative,” he said.
During a presentation to council in July, administration said the county currently has two active registered brands and associated certificates, one each for both cattle and horses.
The brands have not been used in many years since the county no longer has cattle or horses.
In a report to council, administration said that an honorary brand could have a character or combination of characters to promote the livestock industry but not to denote ownership of livestock.
“Any brand design can be registered as an honorary brand, though honorary brands can feature more intricate and arbitrary features than standard brands, provided that approval from the Livestock Identification Services is granted.”
During the July council discussion of the matter, Coun. Peggy Johnson said, “I want to honour our historical roots. Certainly I think it is valuable to honour both our history and our agricultural roots.
“Maybe there would be a way to include an element from our historical brand, as well a something that would be recognizable based on our current marketing strategy.”
Following the Dec. 31 deadline for submissions, the submitted designs will be evaluate by county officials, with the top selected designs submitted to county council for review and selection.
The designer of the winning submission will be officially recognized by council, Atchison told the Albertan.
Submissions should be made at [email protected]. More information can also be found on the county’s website.
