Two prominent agricultural groups, I-BAND and R-CALF USA, convened in North Dakota to address concerns over the U.S. cattle industry. Their discussion centered around the industry's decline and the potential to reverse its fortunes.
Scott Shively, a member of I-BAND, advocates for greater democratic participation in national and state beef checkoff programs, ensuring producers have a say in program operations and state commission appointments. He emphasizes the need to differentiate between influential bodies and lobbying entities.
According to Shively, the Opportunities for Fairness in Farming (OFF) Act could be a game-changer. This legislation, if included in the 2023 Farm Bill, promises reforms leading to more transparency and accountability in the beef checkoff program.
Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA, highlighted the challenges faced by the cattle industry, stating that despite better prices, inflated costs have offset these gains. He highlighted that vital industry components are declining, and without significant reforms, this could lead to fewer producers, cattle, and marketing channels.
In a telling statistic, Bullard pointed out a loss of 77% of family-sized feedlots over recent decades. This equates to a dramatic reduction in cattle buyers, impacting the market dynamics.
The 2023 Farm Bill is a key discussion point, with Bullard advocating for mandatory country of origin labeling for beef to restore competition and prohibiting multinational beef packers from manipulating domestic prices through instruments.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle