Outgoing President Dale Carlton Highlights Membership Gains, Disaster Response Initiatives, and Leadership Transition
As Dale Carlton concludes his term as President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA), he shared insights on the organization’s key accomplishments over the past year—highlighting progress in membership growth, formalized disaster response efforts, and a strong future leadership team.
— Dale Sandlin, Southeast AgNet reports:
Reversing Membership Declines
Carlton identified membership as a top priority during his presidency. Following a 24% decrease in membership since 2020, FCA has made measurable strides to reverse the trend. “This year we gained 7% of that back, which I think is a huge success,” Carlton said, crediting the work of Membership Chair Tommy Bryant and the collective effort of engaged members.
He emphasized that member involvement is critical, especially in today’s changing agricultural landscape, where a growing population, shrinking green space, and a declining cow herd require producers to be more united and proactive. The renewed enthusiasm from the cattle community served as a source of motivation throughout his term.
Strengthening Disaster Response Capabilities
Another key achievement under Carlton’s leadership was the establishment of a standing Core Committee on Disaster Response and Relief. Although FCA has been informally involved in disaster relief since Hurricane Charley in 2004, the new bylaw change formally institutionalizes that effort, enabling the association to secure funding and expand its capacity to assist members during natural disasters.
Carlton noted that this initiative exemplifies what makes FCA special: “Really being able to help people when a natural disaster happens… that’s what makes this association very special.”
A Year of Learning and Leadership
Reflecting on his term, Carlton described the year as personally enriching and full of growth. “So much of it was a learning experience,” he said. “I’ll always look back on it as something I’m really glad I had the opportunity to do. It’s been a blessing.”
Carlton also expressed confidence in the organization’s future, praising the incoming leadership team. While acknowledging that the association will miss Executive Vice President Jim Handley, he shared optimism about the direction FCA is headed with leaders like Dusty Holley and D.A.N. Walters stepping up in their respective roles.
Incoming President Rick Moyer and the rest of the officer board have Carlton’s full support. “All the guys behind him are just supermen that have done nothing but support me through this year,” he said. “It just made this year a lot better to know that you have just full and complete support from your officers.”
Looking Ahead
With a year marked by renewed engagement, strategic structural changes, and a committed leadership team in place, the Florida Cattlemen’s Association is poised for continued growth and resilience. Carlton’s tenure ends on a high note, leaving behind a legacy of collaboration, service, and forward-looking leadership.