Nearly 700 cattle producers from across the country gathered last week in Aurora, Colorado for the Cattle Industry Summer Business Meeting, and the message coming out of the event is one of optimism for the cattle business. Hosted by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the meeting brought producers together to discuss policy priorities, efforts on beef promotion, industry challenges, and opportunities that could shape the future of the cattle sector. NCBA President Gene Copenhaver said the annual gathering serves as an important opportunity for producers to share ideas and strengthen the industry.
Copenhaver said, “We conduct a lot of business during this meeting, but we also benefit by gathering together and learning from each other.”
Copenhaver also added that producers continue demonstrating their commitment to making the industry stronger for future generations. Throughout the week, cattlemen and women participated in policy meetings and beef checkoff discussions focused on research, education, promotion, and emerging issues facing producers.
Regional meetings also gave attendees a chance to address concerns unique to their areas of the country. According to Copenhaver, the meeting highlighted the strength of NCBA’s grassroots policy process. State cattle associations submitted recommendations covering a variety of issues including the Conservation Reserve Program, livestock risk protection, and Asian longhorn ticks.
Copenhaver said, “This meeting showcases the strength of NCBA’s grassroots policy process. These discussions and resulting recommendations are where true grassroots policy development comes to fruition, ensuring NCBA’s policy priorities are driven by cattle producers and reflect the needs of our industry.”
Audio Reporting by Elizabeth Sanders for Southeast AgNet.