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One of Canada’s largest cattle feeder operations is shutting down, blaming market forces currently rocking the feedlot sector as well as what it calls Alberta’s “poor political and economic environment.”

Meanwhile, Alberta’s minister of agriculture and forestry says he was surprised by the move, expressing disappointment at the looming job losses but insisting the industry remains strong.

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THE LATEST ON THIS STORY: Western Feedlots shutdown a sign of widespread industry pain: Cattle feeders

Western Feedlots Ltd. — which has sites near Strathmore, High River and Mossleigh, with standing capacity for 100,000 head — said Wednesday it will idle its operations in early 2017 after it finishes marketing the cattle it currently owns.

President and CEO Dave Plett said in an interview that the majority of Western’s approximately 85 employees will eventually be laid off, and the company has “teams working now to assist them with transition.” He said all of Western’s equipment will be shuttered, stored and maintained in functional condition.

“Should circumstances change going forward, there may be opportunities to do something to activate it — but that’s not the case at this time,” Plett said.