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Founded in 2005 with just over 20 members, NFACC has grown into a globally unique organization. It is the only entity in the world that brings together farmers, animal welfare groups, enforcement agencies, government representatives, and other stakeholders under a collaborative decision-making model to advance farm animal welfare. Today, NFACC includes more than 50 primary members, partners, and associate members.
"NFACC has created processes for those with the jurisdiction, influence, or responsibilities in farm animal welfare to collectively progress on farm animal welfare while maintaining the viability of Canadian animal agriculture," says Hans Kristensen, Chair of the NFACC Board. "Around the NFACC table, opportunities are created to have conversations with those who see farm animal welfare differently and to build relationships and trust amongst each other."
At the heart of NFACC’s work is a credible, science-informed approach to developing, updating, and maintaining Codes of Practice for the care and handling of farm animals, as well as a similar process for creating animal care assessment programs.
Over the past two decades, NFACC has developed, updated, or amended 14 Codes of Practice, and recognized eight animal care assessment programs that have followed its rigorous Animal Care Assessment Framework process.
NFACC’s commitment to transparency and credibility goes beyond traditional multi-stakeholder committee work. Its Code process includes:
- A Scientific Committee that reviews priority animal welfare issues for each species and provides evidence-based guidance to the Code Committee.
- A 60-day public comment period that invites input from anyone interested in shaping the draft Code.
- Top-of-mind surveys conducted at the outset of each Code update, allowing stakeholders to share their highest animal welfare priorities.
Each Code of Practice and Animal Care Assessment Program is developed using consensus decision-making, ensuring that solutions reflect and integrate diverse interests, give all parties a voice, and promote mutual understanding and respect.
"I am so proud that after 20 years we are still growing and continuing to support important conversations on farm animal welfare” says Jackie Wepruk, the NFACC Division Director, who has been part of the organization since its establishment. "We are very fortunate in Canada that our society values collaborative approaches and that we have a history of animal welfare advocates working with farmers on animal welfare standards. We need to treasure and preserve this ability to work together. Everyone that comes together under NFACC is a shining example of how we reduce polarization on important social issues."
August 14, 2025 - NFACC