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LOOKIN’ FORWARD LOOKIN’ BACK
First of all, let me re-introduce myself. My name is Randy Fisher, from Garden City, Kansas. And several years ago I penned an article in this publication called “WHO’S LONG AND WHO’S SHORT”. Now for the rest of the story…. In 1998 I sold my companies - four banch commodity offices, and merged my home office in Garden City with a major midwest securities and commodities firm. For compliance and other corporate reasons, I was asked to discontinue writing this article. Fast forward through the next ten years, my business grew and was good as a combination of stock market and commodities brokerage business. In 2008 my business world changed as I awoke one morning to the announcement that our firm had been acquired by one of the largest east coast investment banks and securities firm. Enter the beginning of the end of the sub-prime mortgage crisis and the start of large bank bailouts. Our new company name on the building outside lasted about six months before it became a 100-year plus “statistic”, went broke, had to be bailed out, and was acquired by another very large investment bank/securities firm. Those are the hard facts. The following comments are my opinions. I am an optimist, similar to most of you that are reading this, (farm/ranch born and raised, ag production background B.S. degree from a major land-grant university). However, I am very concerned about the future of this greatest country on earth that we are fortunate enough to live in. The reason…Wall Street bankers and politicians. “Horse manure runs downhill”. Please allow me to explain. As consolidation in the business world has become globally more the way we operate, “the big get bigger and the small get smaller”, the power, control, and money is in the hands of fewer and fewer people and has caused an out of control breed factor like never before seen in this civilization. The reason I bring this up and the point to be made is that…no civilization even before, during, or since the time of the Roman Empire has ever survived such deceipt and corruption. Remember, all manure and all its effects run downhill. This mentality starts in the corporate boardroom and eventually slimes and stinks up until it not only effects and contaminates those at the top and turns company policies into individual and personal gains, but the run-off gravitates to mid-management and finally it reaches those in the trenches doing the day-to-day wor
Next, let’s look at politicians and consider the truism of manure running downhill, top to bottom and the power and lobbyist payoffs that have caused many good men and women to go bad. “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.” Better yet, I’d better wait until next time. That’s the topic of a whole different article. Let’s focus for a brief moment on how to be part of the solution instead of the problem. That brings me full circle and to where we are today. It’s always the right time to do the right thing – always. Ultimately it’s looking at and living with the person you see in the mirror. If our life’s report card is based solely on how much money we have in the bank when we die, we’ve lost! Granted, I’m in the financial business industry but my job is bigger than just making money. It’s conducting day-to-day business with honesty, integrity, and with the customer’s needs and best interest kept first. I still believe, “help enough people get where they want to be and you’ll end up where you want to be”. I quit corporate Wall Street, as a senior vice-president, last fall and started my independent brokerage company called Fisher Commodities Services, Inc., with the help of my wife and many satisfied customers. It’s always the right time to do the right thing. It’s not always about the money, the benefits, and the empty corporate promises. I am the happiest and most blessed man on the face of this earth today. We still salute the flag, stand up for the National Anthem, pray to God seeking His wisdom every day at our new, old-fashioned business. Thanks for listening and until next time, here’s lookin’ forward and lookin’ back.
American Angus Association® Names Communications Intern
Molly Witzel, Burlington, Colo., will join the American Angus Association as the public relations and communications summer intern. She will assist the department by writing press releases, designing brochures, traveling to shows, publicizing Angus events, taking photos and assisting in the Association’s multimedia public relations and communications efforts. “I am looking forward to the challenge,” Witzel said. “This is an excellent opportunity to put my skills to the test.” Witzel is an agricultural communications student at Oklahoma State University (OSU). On campus she is a member of Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT) and has served as a member of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Student Success Leader Team. “Molly will make a great addition to our team this summer,” says Eric Grant, director of public relations and communications. “Her creativity will be a real asset to our department. We’re looking forward to working with her.” Witzel was raised on a small, family farm and commercial cattle operation near Kanorado, Kan. While growing up, she was an active Colorado 4-H member, showing and judging livestock. After graduating from OSU in fall 2010, Witzel plans to pursue a master’s degree in agricultural education and stay actively involved in the agriculture industry.
Angus Junior Activities Intern Announced
The American Angus Association® announces Jordan Paulsrud, Danbury, Iowa, as its junior activities summer intern. She will assist with the planning and execution of National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) shows and events, including the National Junior Angus Show (NJAS) and the Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) Conference. “I’m excited for the summer,” Paulsrud says. “I am looking forward to working with all junior members.” Paulsrud served as the vice president of the Iowa Junior Angus Association and competed in the 2008 NJAS showmanship competition. She is a Gold Award and Angus Foundation Scholarship recipient and has participated in other Angus junior activities. “Jordan is already putting her extensive Angus background and strong work ethic to use,” Robin Ruff, director of junior activities, says. “We’re glad to have her here and look forward to the summer ahead.” In the fall, Paulsrud will be a senior at Iowa State University, where she is pursuing a degree in animal science. At ISU, she is an active member of Block and Bridle. After graduation her plans are uncertain, but she is positive her future will include Angus cattle.
Annual LEAD Conference to be held in Nashville
Early registration for the annual youth leadership conference ends June 15. “Angus: Live and Loud” is the theme for the 2010 Leaders Engaged in Angus Development (LEAD) Conference, set for Aug. 5-8 in Nashville, Tenn., and designed for members age 14-21. Angus juniors will attend leadership workshops presented by the National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) Board and hear from past Oklahoma state FFA president and motivational speaker Rhett Laubach. Diane Johnson of Details by Design will present sessions on public speaking and business etiquette, and attendees will participate in team-building, workshops and an overview about Tennessee agriculture. Other highlights of the conference will include tours of Tennessee Angus operations Deer Valley Farm and Robert Elliott & Sons Angus. While in Nashville, participants can also look forward to sightseeing at the Country Music Hall of Fame, Music Row, Ryman Auditorium and Nashville Shores. “We’re looking forward to another great LEAD event this year,” says Robin Ruff, director of junior activities. “Past flooding in parts of Nashville has not affected our facility nor event plans, and we’re excited to visit a city so deeply rooted in agriculture and country music.” Conference space is limited, and early registration is encouraged by the June 15 deadline. The early registration fee for NJAA members is $200. After June 15, registration will be $225 and accepted based upon space availability. Registration for adults, state advisors and chaperones is $250; no early registration deadline applies. Registration is available online at www.angus.org/njaa. For more information, contact the junior activities department at 816-383-5100. LEAD is funded in part by the Angus Foundation and is a program of the NJAA, which provides programs for nearly 7,000 members across the nation.
Duysen Hired As AHA Junior Activities Intern
KANSAS CITY, MO--Corey Ann Duysen will serve as the American Hereford Association’s (AHA) junior activities intern this summer. Duysen grew up showing livestock and is a recent graduate of Oklahoma State University’s (OSU) agricultural communications program. Duysen, from Porterville, Calif., was very active in the livestock industry as a youth, showing cattle, sheep and hogs. She got started helping out on her grandparents’ ranch, and remains active in the cattle industry after retaining the heifers she showed and growing her own herd. Duysen was active in the California Junior Livestock Association, and served on its board of directors. Also involved in college, Duysen served as a chapter and national Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow (ACT) officer. She worked with the New Product Development Center at OSU as a marketing communications intern. Duysen has also gained experience working in the livestock publications division of the State Fair of Texas and Browarny and Show Champion’s Photography at the Tulsa State Fair. AHA Youth Activities Director Amy Cowan says, “I am very excited to have Corey join the Hereford team this summer. She is very talented and brings some outstanding communication, marketing and showring experience to the internship. She will be a big asset at the Junior National Hereford Expo, Program for Reaching Individuals Determined to Excel (PRIDE) Convention, and in working with the junior participants and their families.” Duysen plans to continue her education following the internship by pursuing a master’s degree in agricultural communications at Texas Tech University. The National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) is one of the most active junior programs in the country with approximately 3,000 members. The NJHA’s mission is to create and promote enthusiasm for the breed while providing opportunities through leadership, education and teamwork. For more information about the NJHA, visit www.jrhereford.org or contact the American Hereford Association Youth Activities Director Amy Cowan at acowan@hereford.org or 816-842-3757.
Creason Joins Simmental Field Staff
Ed Creason, Polo, MO, is the newest addition to the American Simmental Association (ASA) Field Services staff. He has assumed responsibility for the states in the South Central Region of the US, working primarily in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas and Louisiana. “We are excited to bring Ed to our Field Staff team,” said Dr. Jerry Lipsey, ASA Executive Vice President. “Along with a great attitude and enthusiasm, he brings solid beef industry credentials and Simmental experience to this position. He is eager to take on the challenges and rewards that come with serving a membership organization.” Creason received both his B.S. and M.S. degrees from the University of Missouri-Columbia; B.S. in Animal Science (2003); M.S. in Animal Sciences, Animal Breeding and Genetics (2007). Prior to joining the ASA team, Ed served as Director of Marketing and Performance for the American Chianina Association in Platte City, MO. The American Simmental Association is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, and maintains the breed registries for the Simmental and Simbrah cattle breeds. ASA has an active adult and junior membership of nearly 5,500.
Stockmanship And Stewardship Program: The Right Message At The Right Time
The checkoff’s Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) and producer education programs are once again teaming with industry partners to present an educational cattle-handling seminar to producers. The Stockmanship and Stewardship Tour, funded in part by your beef checkoff, travels the country and uses live cattle-handling demos to inform cattlemen about the importance and benefits of proper cattle handling — and its critical role in increasing consumer confidence in beef. The tour includes special hands-on training sessions at livestock auction markets and other venues where cattle producers and others meet to discuss improved stockmanship methods, as well as the pivotal role producers play in sustaining beef quality for consumers. The Stockman and Stewardship sessions teach handling methods that improve gathering, penning, chute work, and hauling. Much emphasis is placed on ways to increase cattle performance by reducing handling stress, and interactive discussions show how cattlemen can actually shape consumer's perception of beef. Other topics include how the principles presented actually have a significant economic — as well as “quality of life” — benefit when applied in one's operation. Ryan Ruppert, director of beef quality assurance for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, contractor to the Beef Checkoff Program, says this tour is important to cattle producers and the industry for three vital reasons: 1. Welfare: Improved cattle handling leads to improved public perception; Less injury to handlers and cattle; Less carcass damage and trim loss 2. Performance: Increase efficiency; Increased gain; Less investment in veterinary intervention; Less investment into facilities and repair 3. Quality of Life: Improved profitability; Sustainable family operations; Enjoyment of the ranching lifestyle The tour is led by renowned Montana horseman, rancher and stockmanship instructor Curt Pate and lifelong cattleman Ron Gill, PhD, Texas A&M livestock specialist and cattle handling advisor. If you would like to schedule a session at your auction market, please contact Tom Field at tfield@beef.org or 303-850-3378 or Grace Webb at gwebb@beef.org or 303-850-3338. For a complete schedule of upcoming events and more information about the checkoff’s BQA program go to www.bqa.org. For more information about your checkoff investment, visit MyBeefCheckoff.com. The Beef Checkoff Program was established as part of the 1985 Farm Bill. The checkoff assesses $1 per head on the sale of live domestic and imported cattle, in addition
United States plays host to 2010 World Charolais Congress
Charolais breeders from all over the world recently convened in the United States for the 2010 World Charolais Congress. The Congress, which takes place every two years, rotates among various countries. This year’s edition, which had over 150 attendees from 16 different countries, cut a swath through Oklahoma and Texas. In addition to the tour, many attendees opted to participate in a pre-tour which covered the High Plains of Montana, Badlands and Black Hills of South Dakota, Nebraska Sandhills, Western Kansas cowboy country, and the Gypsum Hills of Oklahoma. The official Congress kicked off with a bang May 14th in Oklahoma City at the Cowboy Hall of Fame. There, delegates learned of the rich cowboy history of the U.S. and enjoyed a night of dinner and dancing in the banquet hall. The next morning, everyone loaded up on 3 tour busses and hit the road. They began the day with a cowboy breakfast at M&M Charolais, in Perry, OK. There, ranch manager Kevin Wiley, gave them a background on their program, and marketing of commercial bulls. From there, the tour made its way to Lehman Charolais, in Tioga, TX. In addition to dinner, Larry Lehman played host to a junior heifer show, which was won by Kendra Elden from Hillsboro, TX. After dinner, the busses made their way to Fort Worth for the night. The next day featured a tour stop at Marti Charolais, in Cleburne, TX. In addition to Wes Marti and his family, the day’s activities were also hosted by Bar J Charolais, Mogo Charolais, and OBBCO Ranch. As soon as the busses neared the ranch, the international spectators were wowed with 5 cowboys moving a group of Charolais females across the pasture. For most of them, this was the first time they have ever seen cattle gathered and moved horseback. In addition to viewing full-French Charolais cattle, the group was able to view a demonstration of branding on a set of commercial calves, and a western jewelry show was held for the women. To conclude the evening, tour goers gathered at Billy Bob’s in Ft. Worth for a night of dinner and two-stepping. Monday morning came early for many as everyone boarded a plane and flew to the Rio Grande Valley. There, they went to Thomas Charolais, in Raymondville, TX. Billy, Claudette, Mitch, and Tonnyre gave the group a snapshot of their rich 70 year history, entertained everyone with a mariachi band, and hayride tours through their ranch. From there, everyone met back up with their luggage which was waiting for them in Corpus Christi. Tuesday morning, the group left the gulf coast for Gonzales and visited Graham Land and Cattle. There, the busses toured the feed yard and got a glimpse of how the majority of cattle are finished in the U.S. After lunch, the Congress was bound for San Antonio. Along the way, the international visitors decided it was time to head to a western store so that they could properly outfit themselves, so the entire group descended upon Cavender’s Western Wear. The next day, was a day for everyone to relax and see the sights of San Antonio. Wednesday evening, it was back to Charolais business with the World Congress Sale. The American International Charolais Association and Hubert Cattle Sales put together 18 premium Charolais genetic packages, which averaged $4200, with some of these lots going overseas. The final day, Thursday, was everyone’s final bus trip. The tour set its sights on Fredericksburg and the shops and restaurants there for one last day of shopping and sightseeing. That evening, the closing ceremonies were held back in San Antonio with the country presentations, and a banquet dinner. Following dinner, everyone danced the night away, looking ahead to the 2012 World Charolais Congress, which will be held in the United Kingdom. KLA OPENS NEW OFFICE TO BETTER SERVE WESTERN KANSAS
TOPEKA, OK--The Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) will provide more timely and efficient service to rancher, feeder and dairy members in western Kansas from a new office in Scott City. The office opened June 1 and will house a variety of KLA staff primarily involved in providing service to western Kansas members. “Having an office in western Kansas has been a long-time dream of the association,” according to KLA President Mark Smith, a rancher from Sharon Springs. “This office will allow us to better serve the needs of the livestock industry in the High Plains area.” The primary occupants will be employees of KLA Environmental Services (KLA ES). The 11 full-time employees in this division all previously were located in Salina. KLA ES has experienced growing demand from the cattle feeding and dairy industries for services including waste management system design, nutrient management plans, water resources planning and assistance with permit applications for facilities. A portion of the existing KLA ES staff will move to the Scott City office. Over time, there will be other positions within KLA that also will be transferred to the new western Kansas office. “KLA has been receiving more requests for hands-on help with regulatory issues such as nutrient management plans and transferring water rights,” said Smith.
The opening of the Scott City KLA office was made possible by a $500,000 gift from the Jennison family, which has a long history in the western Kansas banking business. The Jennison Family has been involved in banking since 1906 when First State Bank of Healy was organized. Harold and Robert Jennison spent their lifetimes serving customers and communities. They were licensed insurance agents and real estate brokers and prepared income tax returns for customers. Harold and Robert were instrumental in getting street signs and street lights installed in Healy. They operated the Healy Telephone Co. until it merged with S & T Telephone Company. Their children, Lois Fenster and Pam Jennison, both from Healy, and Paul Jennison of Concorde, CA, continue to serve active roles in the management of the banks in which they are involved. These five banks are located in Healy, Ransom, Scott City, Oakley and Colby, with assets of more than $400 million. “The livestock industry greatly appreciates the generosity of the Jennison family,” said Smith, who added no dues dollars were used to build the new Scott City office. The KLA headquarters office in Topeka will continue to house most of the association staff. This facility was built 20 years ago and provides easy access to government bodies KLA works with on behalf of producer members every day, including the state Legislature KLA is a trade organization representing the state’s beef business on legislative, regulatory and industry issues at both the state and federal levels. The association’s work is funded through voluntary dues dollars paid by its members.
Rain in May dampens haymakers’ plans Cutting in April improves forage quality
COLUMBIA, MO--The rain won and haymakers lost. Farmers aiming to harvest quality hay have been frustrated by prolonged rain in May, says a University of Missouri Extension forage specialist. But Rob Kallenbach has a plan for next year: Harvest more hay early, starting in April, to improve the odds of cutting and baling hay without getting rain damage. Watching producers who record their grass grazing and haymaking progress on the MU Extension grazing-wedge website, Kallenbach sees producers using his new strategy. “Graziers who baled hay in April are ahead of everyone in making quality hay for winter feeding,” he said. “But cutting early will take a change in thinking for some.” Traditionally, May is haymaking month across Missouri. Hay cut early in May has a chance of being made when plants have the fewest seed heads and the leaves contain the highest nutrient content. Cattle don’t like to graze seed heads. Even worse, fescue seed heads contain a toxin from fescue endophyte that cuts cattle performance, whether in pounds of gain or pounds of milk. For years Kallenbach has taught that the goal should be to cut hay before grass sets seed. Once seeds form, the plant nutrients move from the leaves into the seed. This lowers the quality of the hay to be fed next winter. While May is the goal, most hay in Missouri is cut in the somewhat drier month of June—or even July—well past prime quality. “The last three years, with high rainfall, we’ve baled a lot of bad hay,” Kallenbach said. April has lower average monthly rainfall than May or June. Some farmers may resist the idea of cutting hay in April because grass won’t look tall enough to cut, Kallenbach admits. “They think they will make more hay if they wait, but I’d rather have one bale of high-quality April hay than two bales of bad late-June hay. “It’s the difference between nutritious feed and sawdust.” Once seeds form, the grass leaves and stems become straw instead of hay. Making one bale of quality hay instead of two bales of straw makes both economic and nutrition sense. It costs the same in fuel, machinery and labor to cut, rake and bale bad hay as high-quality hay. The same applies at feeding time. “You have to move and feed two bales on a cold morning, instead of one bale of quality hay,” Kallenbach said. “In addition, when feeding bad hay, you’ll have to go out and feed a supplement to make up for lost protein and energy.” Keeping records on the grazing wedge helps graziers know which forage paddocks to harvest first. Farmers using the wedge measure and record the pounds of dry matter per acre in each paddock once a week. The software behind the wedge highlights in red any paddocks that are past their prime. The goal is to harvest hay before quality In a grazing system stocked with animals for year-round grazing, producers are finding that in the rapid growth of spring, about half the pastures must be harvested for hay to maintain grazing quality. “Too many producers lose the chance to make quality feed by not seeing which paddocks need to be harvested first,” Kallenbach said. Keeping seed heads under control is the first step in improving both grazing and hay harvesting. “A grass plant has only one purpose in life,” Kallenbach said. “It must make seed to continue the species.” Farmers have other purposes. Graziers want nutritious leaves, not seed, to feed their livestock. By harvesting or grazing before the leaves lose nutrients, a producer cuts the need for buying supplements. “Quality hay reduces feed costs, the No. 1 cost in maintaining a herd,” he said. Starting hay harvest early—think April—improves chances for profitable livestock production. That’s Kallenbach’s new message. Producer can see MU grazing wedges at plantsci.missouri.edu/grazingwedge/.
NALF Names New Activities Director
The North American Limousin Foundation (NALF) has hired Kasey Woolam, formerly of South Windsor, Conn., as its director of activities. She joined the staff May 17. In her new role, she will oversee the Medal of Excellence (MOE) Limousin show program; help advise the North American Limousin Junior Association (NALJA); provide a point of contact for state and regional Limousin associations; and help plan other events, programs and services for Limousin breeders. “I am excited to be part of the team at NALF,” Woolam said. “I look forward to ensuring fun, safe and well-organized activities and working with Limousin youth in their development as competitors in the showring and leaders in the beef industry.” Woolam received her bachelor’s degree in agricultural and Extension education, with a focus on leadership development and communications and a minor in animal science, from Pennsylvania State University. She grew up on a full-time Hereford farm in Maine, showed Hereford cattle and Southdown sheep, and was president of the New England Junior Hereford Association. She was an active 4-H member and International Four-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) delegate to Estonia. She also was on the Fiber Festival committee within the New England Sheep and Wool Growers Association and served as secretary for the Northeast Southdown Breeders Association.
At Penn State, Woolam worked at the beef barn and twice managed the university’s Little International Livestock Exposition. She had leadership roles with the spring judging workout and Pennsylvania Beef Expo Skill-a-Thon committees. For two years, she was involved in all aspects of the Penn State Ag Progress Days, which draws more than 50,000 attendees. She most recently was the beef and swine assistant superintendent at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Mass., which includes the largest livestock show in the Northeast. Woolam is from a noted New England livestock family. One of her grandfathers was the livestock superintendent at the University of Connecticut, where he managed regionally recognized Polled Hereford and Angus herds. Now deceased, he also was a renowned shepherd who showed numerous champion Southdown, polled Dorset and Shropshire sheep at national shows. Her other grandfather was an Appaloosa and draft horse enthusiast who was active in the American Horse Council. Both of her parents make their living in the livestock industry, and her aunt is executive secretary/treasurer of the Continental Dorset Club, that breed’s national association. “We are glad to welcome Kasey to NALF,” said Bob Hough, Ph.D., the organization’s executive vice president. “She has a solid background in the livestock industry and an impressive record of accomplishments. I am con The North American Limousin Foundation (www.nalf.org), headquartered in Centennial, Colo., provides programs and services – including genetic evaluation of 5,000 active sires – to more than 4,000 members and their commercial customers. The Limousin breed and its Lim-Flex® hybrid lead the beef industry in muscle-growth efficiency and ideally complement British breeds.
NCBA, PLC Support Murkowski, Lincoln Resolution To Prevent EPA From Regulating Agriculture Out Of Business
WASHINGTON, D.C.--The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) are asking the Senate to stand up for American agriculture by supporting S. J. Res. 26 (“Resolution of Disapproval”) by Senators Murkowski (R-AK) and Lincoln (D-AR). The bipartisan resolution—expected to come before the full Senate for a vote later this week—would effectively reverse the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) finding that greenhouse gases (GHG) are an "endangerment to public health and welfare." “If EPA succeeds in its efforts to trump Congress and unilaterally regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act, it will be devastating not just to agriculture but to the entire U.S. economy,” said Tamara Thies, NCBA chief environmental counsel. “It would be irresponsible to allow the EPA to move forward on this type of regulation when there’s so much uncertainty surrounding humans’ contribution to climate change.” EPA’s “endangerment” finding (issued in Dec., 2009) provides the foundation for the agency to regulate GHGs from small and large sources throughout the economy—including farms, hospitals, office buildings and schools—under the Clean Air Act (CAA). The CAA is ill-equipped to address climate change, and it was never the intent of Congress that it be used for this purpose. “The Resolution of Disapproval would in effect reverse EPA’s finding, and instead allow the complex issue of climate change to be handled through thoughtful Congressional debate,” Thies continued. “In these challenging economic times, we cannot afford to take actions that further jeopardize the ability of the U.S. to remain competitive in the global marketplace.” Earlier today, NCBA, PLC and nearly 50 other agriculture groups sent a joint letter in support of the resolution to members of the Senate. According to the groups, Title V operating permits alone would cost farmers over $866 million (on top of increased input costs as a result of the regulatory impacts on other economic sectors). In addition to supporting S.J. Res. 26 and similar resolutions introduced in the House by Reps. Ike Skelton (D-MO) and Joe Barton (R-TX), NCBA and the Coalition for Responsible Regulation, Inc. (“the Coalition”) have taken legal action to prevent EPA from moving forward on GHG regulation. In December, 2009, the Coalition filed petitions with the DC Circuit Court of Appeals and “We’re asking every member of the Senate to support democratic debate, verifiable science, and American jobs by voting in favor of this resolution,” said Thies. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America's cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy. As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.
DASNR faculty and staff experience agriculture in southwest Oklahoma
STILLWATER, OK--Participants of the 2010 Access Tour loaded up on a Big Orange Bus to see the many faces of agriculture in southwest Oklahoma. Cowboys who took to the road were faculty and staff members of Oklahoma State University’s Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural resources along with OSU College of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources students and alumni. The trip was sponsored by the CASNR alumni association. “This tour gives our faculty, Extension educators, students and alumni the unique opportunity to see innovations in Oklahoma agricultural industries and to learn from our rural agribusinesses and producers,” said Robert E. Whitson, DASNR dean and director and OSU vice president for agricultural programs.
The first stop was in Chickasha for a state-wide agriculture update with Sen. Ron Justice. Then the group arrived in Frederick for lunch where they were addressed by Mike Schulte, Oklahoma Wheat Commission executive director. Schulte gave an overview on wheat across the state and what producers are expecting from their upcoming crop. “There are still many factors that will come into play in the next three to four weeks,” Schulte said. “But right now, we are somewhat optimistic that harvest will start on time and with good results.” The state is predicted to see an average yield of 33 bushels an acre from 4.2 million acres expected to be harvested. After visiting with Schulte, the group took a driving tour of Cassidy Grain where participants learned about the history of the company’s elevator and how the current operation runs. Then it was on to the Hackberry Flat Wetlands. The Hackberry Flat Wetlands mission is to support, preserve and enhance Hackberry Flat Wetlands and its use for recreational, educational and scientific research purpose. The afternoon tours of Altus area farms and cotton gin along with Lake Altus – Lugert, were guided by Tom Buchanan. “Lake Altus – Lugert is a reservoir located 17 miles north of Altus which provides irrigation to approximately 48,000 acres of land located in southwestern Oklahoma. There’s also an extension system of canals leaving Lake Altus in order to deliver the irrigation water to farmland,” Buchanan said. “This irrigation system is vital to area cotton farmers.” The day ended with dinner provided by Farm Bureau where area cotton producers visited about their operations and the current cotton crop. The group started off the next day at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge where participants learned about the 59,020 acre Refuge which provides habitat to animals such as the American bison, Rocky Mountain elk, Texas longhorns, prairie dogs and river otters. After the Refuge the group arrived at Minde The next stop in Apache was Woods and Waters Winery, where the group had a tour of the winery and facilities given by owner Dale Pound. Lunch was provided by the winery and Farm Credit of Central Oklahoma. The tour concluded with a visit to the Horn Canna Farm in Carnegie where Dustin Snow gave a presentation and a history of the approximately 130 acre farm which grows 28 varieties of cannas. “The CASNR Alumni Association is proud to be able to sponsor an event like the Access Tour. We feel this is a great opportunity to showcase agriculture from around the state to the CASNR faculty and staff as well as exposing some of the state’s top producers to our outstanding faculty and staff,” said John Cothren, CASNR Alumni Association president. “Each year we’re able to provide this trip with the support of our sponsors. I can’t express enough gratitude to everyone at CASNR, our producers and our sponsors for making this a successful event every year.”
Giving Back: FAPC Donates To Regional Food Bank Of Oklahoma
Stillwater, OK--“Five hundred thousand Oklahomans will wake up today and wonder where their next meal will come from. Oklahoma ranks as the sixth hungriest state in the nation, but thanks to donors, volunteers and advocates, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma is ‘Fighting Hunger...Feeding Hope.’” This excerpt from the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma tugs on the hearts of many Oklahomans, including specialists from Oklahoma State University’s Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Center. Thanks to the approval of the OSU/A&M Board of Regents, the FAPC can now donate perishable food products to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma and has since donated 600 pounds of ground beef to the non-profit organization. This action allows the FAPC to forgo disposing the meat and other perishable food items through sealed bid or public auction and simply donate the surplus directly to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma. “The FAPC’s mission is to add value to Oklahoma,” said Chuck Willoughby, FAPC manager of business and marketing relations. “We are honored to have this opportunity to add value to people’s lives beyond our day-to-day activities of assisting manufacturers, processors and entrepreneurs.” Most of the meat generated from FAPC and the department of animal science is sold through FAPC’s Cowboy Meats. However, before the OSU/A&M Board of Regents approval, if these products were not sold in a timely manner, they had to be discarded, according to OSU Policy 3-0126 – Disposition of Surplus Property. The FAPC estimated a $3,700 inventory loss in 2001 and a $6,900 inventory loss in 2003 because of discarded items. “All in all, we have done a pretty good job of selling meats from research and teaching activities, but we want to have this option to donate when the need or opportunity arises,” Willoughby said. Because of this and a request from the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, the FAPC asked the OSU/A&M Board of Regents to consider the donation of perishable food items to the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma but under strict guidelines that provide accountability and demonstrate responsible inventory management and stewardship of OSU resources. “This OSU initiative will help many Oklahomans who are struggling to put food on their table, and for that, we are extremely grateful,” said Rodney Bivens, executive director of the Regional Food Bank. “Since the recession hit, we’ve experienced a significant increase in demand. In July 2009 alone, we distributed 3.1 million pounds of food - the most ever distributed in a single month in the 30-year history of the Regional Food Bank.” Since its inception in 1980, the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma has distributed more than 293 million pounds of food worth more than $468 million. In fiscal year 2008, the Food Bank distributed 25 million pounds of food, enough to feed 63,600 Oklahomans every week. However, its greatest need continues to be protein products. “This is a win-win situation,” said OSU President Burns Hargis, who helped establish the Regional Food Bank and has served as the organization’s president. “The FAPC will be able to make use of perishable food surplus in a timely manner and help meet a need in our statewide community, which extends the teaching, research and extension mission of the university.” The Board’s approval also allows the FAPC to handle the meat processing for individuals and businesses that may want to make a donation to the Regional Food Bank. “The Food Bank often will have individuals and business entities who are willing to donate live animals and/or meat in need of further processing but have difficulty finding processors to donate their services,” Willoughby said. “Thus, the FAPC would like to consider providing the processing services of live animals and/or meat donated to the Food Bank when such activity fits the current needs of the teaching, research and extension programs and does not over burden current FAPC resources.” The Regional Food Bank is a private nonprofit organization that acts as a link through which the food industry and community may donate food and other goods. The products are then distributed to more than 700 charitable feeding programs and schools in 53 central and western Oklahoma counties. For more information about the Regional Food Bank, go to http://www.regionalfoodbank.org/.
Debris in pastures potential health risk to cattle
OKMULGEE, OK--The aftermath of Oklahoma’s recent tornadoes has many cattle producers walking their pastures looking for insulation, building materials and other debris that may negatively affect animal health and time management costs. Cattle will eat just about anything that looks interesting in the pasture, cautions Doug Maxey, Okmulgee County Extension director and agricultural educator. “Producers are going to have to pick up as much debris from their pastures as possible,” Maxey said. “This can be a painstaking, labor-intensive process given the potential amount of small debris.” Insulation can cause bloat, impaction and gastro-intestinal problems when consumed, including possible hemorrhaging of the rumen. Nails and other small pieces of metal can cause “hardware” disease, health problems associated with the consumption of metal. Dr. Gene Parker, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service veterinarian and area food animal quality and health specialist, said a single piece of wire consumed by a bull, cow, heifer or calf can drop down into the reticulum, the first stomach, where it potentially can pierce the heart. Other problems sometimes associated with “hardware” disease are the shutting down of the rumen, depression, acute pain and decreased milk production. “Cattle producers may want to use rumen magnets if there appears to be a significant amount of metal debris in pastures,” Parker said. “A rumen magnet may be a health-care investment well worth the money.” Local large-animal veterinarians have information on rumen magnets, including associated costs and availability. “Insulation debris is more problematic, because of the small size,” Parker said. “Producers are unlikely to rid their pastures of every bit of insulation. If animals exhibit symptoms of insulation-related problems, producers should contact their local veterinarians immediately.” Treatment of cattle suffering from insulation problems is symptomatic. “Your local veterinarian will treat on a case-by-case basis,” Parker said. “This might mean employing a treatment with laxatives, mineral oil, fluid therapy or, in appropriate cases, surgery.” Nails and other sharp metal objects of various sizes also create a significant hazard to the feet and legs of animals. It is not uncommon for these objects to cause puncture wounds and cuts in the feet and legs of livestock. “Often these metal objects have been carried by wind or washed into water holes, ponds or other areas accessible to livestock and a potential source of injury,” Maxey said. “It’s prudent for livestock owners to keep this in mind when they have animals showing lameness.” If an animal is lame for more than one or two days and the lameness continues to worsen, Maxey and Parker recommend the animal be examined by a veterinarian
Global Challenges, Strategies and Successes Highlighted at Opening Session of USMEF Board of Directors Meeting
The USMEF Board of Directors Meeting and Product Showcase got underway in St. Louis Wednesday, with nearly 200 members hearing from several experts on the state of the global marketplace for U.S. beef, pork and lamb. In his address to USMEF members, President and CEO Philip Seng emphasized the fierce competition that exists in key markets and urged the U.S. industry to remain committed to aggressive promotion and product differentiation. Seng displayed a slide of more than 20 pork-exporting countries that are competing for market share in Japan. While the United States is the leading exporter of pork to this market and holds an especially strong share of the high-value chilled pork market, he emphasized that this position cannot be taken for granted. “Some people might say that perhaps we are in the post-promotion phase of what we do in Japan,” Seng said. “But we’re supplying about 72 percent of the chilled pork in this market and this is fresh pork that is fully ready for consumer use. So the role of promotion is very critical, and it’s not just marketing in a retail or restaurant setting. It’s also imaging the U.S. industry, accommodating the specific needs of our customers and positioning our industry for success.” Seng cited Hong Kong, one of the most rapidly growing destinations for U.S. beef, as another market where competitors are out in full force. Though limited to boneless cuts from cattle less than 30 months of age, this year’s U.S. beef exports to Hong Kong have more than tripled their 2009 pace. “There are more than 40 countries currently supplying beef to Hong Kong, which shows you just how competitive the international marketplace really is,” Seng said. “This also illustrates how important it is that we differentiate our product. Our competition is well aware of the opportunities in these key markets and they are doing everything they can to avail themselves of those opportunities.” Seng also stressed the advantages of having experienced USMEF staff stationed in major markets and the important role they play in giving U.S. products a competitive edge. “When you go to an international market, you know what you are saying – but do you always know what your customers are hearing?” he said. “This is something we learned very early on at USMEF – that you can’t take anything for granted, and you really have to understand the culture if you are going to be a factor in these markets.” Guest speakers for the opening session included John Brewer, administrator of USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS). Brewer offered highlights of the recent successes achieved by U.S. agricultural products overseas, and the agency’s strategies for fur “For this fiscal year, U.S. agricultural exports have experienced the best six-month performance on record,” Brewer said. “U.S. agricultural products exported in the first half of FY10 totaled $59 billion. This figure is more than $7 billion greater than the same period in FY09. We want to help you build on this success.” Brewer cited the recent opening of a new Agricultural Trade Office (ATO) in northeast China as an excellent opportunity for U.S. agriculture and an example of how FAS and USMEF work together to grow global markets. “I’m pleased to announce that on May 13, the new ATO in Shenyang, China, opened to the public,” he said. “This office will focus on the northeast region of China, which has a population of 100 million. In fact, the very first cooperator meeting held at this office was with USMEF’s Shenyang-based representative, Louisa Liu. We appreciate the support Ms. Liu and the USMEF-China team have provided our staff, such as sharing local contacts and helping FAS actually establish the ATO.” Also addressing the conference was Jerry Steiner, executive vice president of sustainability and corporate affairs for Monsanto Company. Steiner’s presentation focused on the challenges of producing sufficient quantities of food for a rapidly growing global population. “Two years ago, on the cover of every magazine, was something that I think the world has already forgotten about – called the food crisis,” he said. “And if you look at the stocks-to-use-ratio today, it’s really only marginally better than it was two years ago. Fortunately, farmers continue to innovate and respond to the market. But it’s so easy for the world to lose sight of the fact that we need to produce more food in the next 40 years than we did in the last 10,000 – and the Earth didn’t get any bigger.” The day concluded with a panel discussion on emerging issues in key global markets. Steve Isaf, USMEF secretary-treasurer and president of Interra International, served as the session moderator. USMEF Senior Vice President Joel Haggard (Asia Pacific) and regional directors Chad Russell (Mexico, Central America and the Dominican Republic) and John Brook (Europe, Russia and the Middle East) discussed the impact of issues such as traceability, food safety, animal welfare and environmental sustainability have on meat production and consumer demand in their respective markets. The U.S. Meat Export Federation (www.USMEF.org) is the trade association responsible for developing international markets for the U.S. red meat industry. It is funded by USDA; the beef, pork, lamb, corn and soybean checkoff programs, as well as its members representing nine industry sectors: beef/veal producing & feeding, pork producing & feeding, lamb producing & feeding, packing & processing, purveying & trading, oilseeds producing, feedgrains producing, farm organizations and supply & service organizations.
US Beef, Pork Exports Show Strength In First Quarter
U.S. beef and pork muscle cut exports performed well in March, concluding the first quarter of 2010 with increasing momentum. A sluggish global market for variety meat held down the overall totals, but muscle cut export value for both products are running ahead of their 2009 pace. Beef muscle cuts are off to a particularly strong start in 2010, increasing 22 percent in volume to 156,947 metric tons (346 million pounds) for the quarter. The increase in value was even higher, up 24 percent to $678 million. The combined beef/beef variety meat totals are also impressive, rising 11 percent in volume (to 225,122 metric tons or 496.3 million pounds) and 14 percent in value (to $788.5 million). Total beef exports accounted for 10.6 percent of overall production in March compared to 9.4 percent in March 2009. Export value per steer and heifer slaughtered equated to $127.40, compared to $110.67 last year.
Pork muscle cut exports pulled ahead of their 2009 pace by 1 percent in volume (356,297 metric tons or 785.5 million pounds) and 2 percent in value ($941.9 million). Combined pork/pork variety meat totals are slightly behind last year in both volume (468,793 metric tons or 1 billion pounds) and value ($1.11 billion). On a positive note, the value of total pork exports in March edged up 1 percent compared to March 2009, and it was 18 percent ahead of the value of pork exports in March 2008, a record-setting year for U.S. pork exports. Pork exports accounted for 22.5 percent of total production compared to 25 percent in March 2009, but muscle cut exports accounted for 19 percent of production, the same as one year ago. Per-head pork export value equated to $39.80 – which is down about $1 from March 2009. The results for both beef and pork exports were achieved despite significant declines in each of their leading value markets. Beef exports to Mexico continue to struggle due to weakness in Mexico’s economy. Though beef muscle cut exports managed to pull within 7 percent in volume and 10 percent in value of their 2009 pace, variety meat exports to Mexico are still down dramatically. Pork exports to Japan – which exceeded $1.5 billion in each of the last two calendar years – have slowed due to unusually high inventories of domestic pork. Muscle cut exports to Japan are within 13 percent in volume and 11 percent in value of last year’s pace. But while variety meat makes up only a small portion of the U.S. pork shipped to Japan, those exports are down 62 percent in volume and 46 percent in value. Beef exports booming overseas, but still struggling in Mexico With the exception of Mexico, U.S. beef exports are surging in nearly all key global markets. Asian markets are performing well across the board, with excellent gains also posted in Canada, the Middle East, the Caribbean and Europe, and explosive growth achieved in Russia. Canada solidified its position as the No. 2 volume and value market for U.S. beef, with first quarter beef/beef variety meat totals reaching 32,045 metric tons 70.6 million pounds) valued at $139.4 million. This is an increase of 14 percent in volume and 19 Japan is the No. 3 value market at $95.3 million – up by 33 percent over the first quarter of last year. In terms of volume, Japan is up 37 percent to 18,487 metric tons (40.8 million pounds). While the United States and Japan recently undertook a new round of discussions on market access for U.S. beef, these gains were achieved despite Japan’s restriction of U.S. imports to beef from cattle 20 months of age or younger. South Korea surpassed Japan slightly in terms of first-quarter volume (18,763 metric tons or 41.4 million pounds) and is the No. 4 value market at $78.2 million. This is an impressive increase of 11 percent in volume and 24 percent in value over 2009, but recent Korean import data tell an even more positive story. These data show imports of U.S. beef/beef variety meat increasing 66 percent in the first quarter, with the United States accounting for more than 30 percent of Korea’s beef imports. Korea’s April data show an 80 percent increase in imports of U.S. beef. Weekly U.S. export data compiled in April suggest that Korea is currently the second-largest market for U.S. beef muscle cuts, trailing only Mexico. Other first-quarter beef highlights include: The recent addition of bone-in beef cuts has helped bolster exports to Taiwan, which gained 85 percent in volume (8,488 metric tons or 18.7 million pounds) and nearly doubled in value to $45 million. While the expansion of eligible products generated some negative local publicity, USMEF worked very closely with importers and end-users of U.S. beef to reassure them about product safety and quality. As a result of these ground-level efforts, consumer response has been positive and beef exports continue to gain significant momentum in Taiwan. Despite exports to Vietnam being about equal to 2009, the ASEAN region continued to show a strong increase in demand for U.S. beef. Led by outstanding growth in the Philippines and Indonesia, beef/beef variety meat exports to the region are up 12 percent in volume (21,936 metric tons or 48.4 million pounds) and 11 percent in value (to $71.2 million). Beef/beef variety meat exports to Hong Kong more than tripled in both volume (7,613 metric tons or 16.8 million pounds) and value ($28.8 million). The Middle East continued its growth as a major destination for U.S. beef, gaining 37 percent in volume (to 25,963 metric tons or 57.2 million pounds) and 51 percent in value (to $43.9 million). The increase in muscle cut volume (158 percent) and value (72 percent) were even more impressive. While the region has long been a mainstay market for U.S. beef variety meat, muscle cuts continue to make up a higher percentage of exports to the Middle East. Russia, which almost exclusively purchased beef livers in 2009, is now importing U.S. beef muscle cuts at a pace not seen since mid-2008. This resurgence is reflected in Russia’s combined beef/beef variety meat totals, which more than doubled over last year (to 12,855 metric tons or 28.3 million pounds) and increased by more than 400 percent in value to $28.9 million. Impressive gains were also posted in the Dominican Republic, which was up 130 percent in volume and 108 percent in value. The rest of the Caribbean region increased substantially as well, up 30 percent in both volume and value. The European Union (up 37 percent in volume and 80 percent in value) and Central and South America (up 39 percent in volume and 44 percent in value) also gained significant ground over 2009. These results left Mexico as the only major beef market trailing last year’s pace, but even this decline is largely attributable to variety meat. Variety meat exports to Mexico are down 44 percent in volume and more than 60 percent in value, while muscle cuts are down 7 percent and 10 percent respectively. Despite this decline, Mexico remained the largest destination for U.S. beef/beef variety meat at 58,156 metric tons (128.2 million pounds) valued at $184.7 million. “As a beef producer, I can’t help but be extremely excited about these global results,” said USMEF Chairman Jim Peterson, a rancher from Buffalo, Mont. “We’re confident that U.S. beef will rebound in Mexico when economic conditions improve. And when that happens, U.S. beef is well-positioned for a remarkable performance in 2010.” US pork exports post solid gains in several markets, but remain slower to Japan While lower purchasing power in Mexico has created a struggle for U.S. beef, pork exports to Mexico continue to surge. In the first quarter, pork/pork variety meat exports to Mexico topped 100,000 metric tons (220.5 million pounds) valued at nearly $195 million. This was an increase of 24 percent in volume and 45 percent in value over last year. “The growth we have achieved for U.S. pork in Mexico is just terrific,” Peterson said. “About this time last year, we were facing the A-H1N1 crisis and pork demand in Mexico looked like it might be in serious jeopardy. But we worked very hard to educate consumers and the trade there to keep the market open and maintain consumer confidence in our product. As a result, Mexico is now our leading volume market for U.S. pork. And now that prices are improving we’re seeing sustained buying at higher prices, which gives us impressive gains in export value.” The growth of U.S. pork in Mexico has helped offset this year’s declines in four key markets – Japan, South Korea, Russia and China. The results in Japan and Korea are largely attributable to a spike in domestic pork production, while market access has been a major issue in both Russia and China. Access to Russia is improving, with excellent progress being made in reinstating U.S. plants that were ineligible for export to Russia in late 2009 and early 2010. Most exports from these plants, however, are not reflected in the first quarter data. Despite an agreement between the United States and China for resumption of U.S. pork exports, no U.S. product has yet entered the country in 2010 as final details regarding import certificates are still being resolved. In contrast to these markets, U.S. pork has posted impressive first-quarter gains in other regions. Highlights include: Pork/pork variety meat exports to Canada are up 10 percent in volume (to 43,557 metric tons or 96 million pounds) and 19 percent in value (to $141.2 million). Exports to Hong Kong reached 64,417 metric tons (142 million pounds) valued at $89.6 million. This is an increase of 52 percent in volume and 34 percent in value over last year. The ASEAN region increased its imports of U.S. pork/pork variety meat by 51 percent, reaching 19,385 metric tons (42.7 million pounds). Value increased by 57 percent, reaching $43.7 million. The region was led by particularly strong gains in the Philippines and Singapore, while exports to Vietnam declined significantly. Exports to Taiwan surged by 43 percent in volume (to 7,943 metric tons or 17.5 million pounds) and 53 percent in value (to $15.2 million). U.S. pork’s strong momentum in Mexico has also extended to other Western Hemisphere markets. Exports to Central and South America increased 22 percent in volume (to 15,254 metric tons or 33.6 million pounds) and 25 percent in value (to $33.8 million). These results were led by strong increases in export value to Honduras and Guatemala. Exports to the European Union climbed 69 percent in volume (to 5,493 metric tons or 12.1 million pounds) and 49 percent in value (to $16.4 million). “Across the globe, we are making strong gains for U.S. pork,” Peterson said. “When our shipments to Russia recover and we regain access to China, those markets will provide some important growth. “We also expect Japan to work through its high inventories fairly soon, which will improve conditions for U.S. pork,” he said. “We have developed so many channels for U.S. pork in Japan, including hotels, restaurants, institutional, retail and processing, so that market will come back strong. For example, in one three-week campaign USMEF developed recently with Japan’s leading retailer, Aeon, 2.6 million pounds of American pork were sold. Through the ‘Aeon Loves U.S. Pork’ campaign, our relationship with Aeon continues to grow.” Lamb exports also hindered by slow variety meat demand, lower value U.S. lamb exports increased by more than 60 percent in volume in the first quarter, but declined by 7 percent in value. Variety meat exports struggled at a pace that was 30 percent below last year in terms of volume and 11 percent lower in value. Among the three primary destinations for U.S. lamb, exports to Mexico are increasing but exports to the Caribbean and Canada are down sharply. Complete first-quarter statistics are posted online. The U.S. Meat Export Federation is the trade association responsible for developing international markets for the U.S. red meat industry and is funded by USDA, exporting companies, and the beef, pork, corn and soybean checkoff programs.
Working Ranch Cowboys Presents $50,000 to Clarendon College Ranch Program
When a representative of the Working Ranch Cowboys Foundation called Laban Tubbs, director of the Ranch & Feedlot Operations Program at Clarendon College in Clarendon, Texas, and told him that the Foundation wanted to give the program some financial help, Tubbs was excited. He immediately began to think about things the program needed, such as a few supplies, a jacket sponsor for all the students and maybe some scholarship help. That’s when the Foundation representative told him that all that was fine, but they were talking about a significant grant, maybe $50,000. Then, Tubbs got really excited. The Working Ranch Cowboys Foundation is the benevolent arm of the Working Ranch Cowboys Association, which is headquartered in Amarillo, Texas, and produces the World Championship Ranch Rodeo each November in Amarillo. The Foundation has as its goal to provide assistance to ranch cowboys and their families in times of need. This has been carried out through the Foundation’s crisis fund, which, to date, has distributed more than $275,000 to ranch families in need, and through the scholarship fund, which provides financial assistance to family members of the working ranch cowboy who wants to attend a college or university, or a vocational program. To date, more than $160,000 has been awarded in scholarships. “The association was started years ago with the intent of furthering our western heritage and helping the working cowboy on the ranch,” said Sam Daube, president of the Foundation. “Then we started the Foundation, and it has the duty of dispersing the funds that the WRCA generates. Through our scholarships, we’ve had lots of kids graduate and go back to the ranch with a college education, and through our crisis fund we’ve been able to help some families through some really bad times. Now, we’re able to make a bigger impact with this grant to the Ranch & Feedlot Operations program. They are educating kids to work on a ranch, and by making a grant to that program we are able to help a lot of people.” The Ranch & Feedlot Operations program is a work force educational program that is structured to help young people get an introduction into the ranching and feedlot industries. “Clarendon College was seeing a lot of rural kids who weren’t going to college but needed some sort of education to help them get started with their lives and their careers,” said Jason Green, an instructor with the program. “We start out with basic animal health, basic nutrition, basic feeds and feeding, marketing, anything that you would probably learn while working for an operation for a year or two. “Probably 80 percent of the students coming into this program have what you would call a cowboy background,” Green said. “They grew up on a ranch, and they know that working on a ranch is what they’re going to do the rest of their lives. Some of them already have jobs. Sometimes the ranches pay their tuitions so they will come here and learn something and then go back to the ranch and go to work.” To complete the Ranch & Feedlot Operation program takes two semesters. However, Clarendon College also offers an RFO Green said that each student pays, in addition to his tuition, a professional services fee that goes toward artificial insemination schools, training clinics and things like that. He says that they always run short of funds for those services before the end of the year, and they plan to use part of the WRCF grant to supplement that. “There are also lots of travel expenses,” Green said. “We have two vans that hold 14 passengers each, and this year we went 6,500 miles. So we can use some help on those expenses, and we’re also going to use some of the money to help boost our scholarship fund. We give 13 scholarships a year, and we need some help in that area right now, too.” Daube says that the grant is actually a matching grant. In order for the program to receive all of it, the school must raise another $50,000. “I know they plan on matching that grant,” he said, “and that will give the program $100,000 to work with. “The number one thing we want this money to do,” Daube said, “is directly impact those students and get them as good of an education as possible, and we want to make sure the program continues and grows. And, of course, we want people to understand what the Working Ranch Cowboys Foundation is doing, so they will continue to support it.” For more information on the WRCA please visit, www.wrca.org.
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