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An international committee assigned to review all of the available evidence on red meat and cancer risk were divided on their opinion whether to label red meat a “probable” cause of cancer, according to the Beef Checkoff nutrition scientist and registered dietitian who observed the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) process. After seven days of deliberation in Lyon, France, IARC was unable to reach a consensus agreement from a group of 22 experts in the field of cancer research, something that IARC has proudly highlighted they strive for and typically achieve. In this case, they had to settle for “majority” agreement. “Ca
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update October 22 [caption id="attachment_4924" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, October 22, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Moderate to Extreme drought continues along and west of the Divide with slight increase in dry conditions in Central Montana this week. Dry weather dominated much of the country, favoring summer crop harvesting and winter wheat planting. However, topsoil moisture shortages hampered wheat emergence and establishment in a variety of regions, including portions of the Plains, lower Midwest, and int
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association is seeking applications for a Manager of Communications and Outreach. The position is responsible for all formal Association communications, facilitates outreach programs for Association members, industry and public audiences, and provides staff support for Association programs. Strong applicants should be familiar with ranching industry communications platforms, media relations, create and design programs and social media outreach strategies. The position works closely with young rancher and collegiate education and leadership programs, as well as event publicity. Successful candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications, journalism, public relations, mark
Read MoreDuring the 2015 Young Ag Leadership Conference in Billings, guest speaker, Janice Person from Monsanto, helped attendees learn more about Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) and how to find resources about the crops and technology online. While at the conference, Janice also conducted a workshop with Daren Williams of NCBA, where the two shared their experience handling controversial topics. Their workshop gave attendees great insight on how to handle these topics in conversations with others who may not know much or may be skeptical of modern agriculture practices. In this week's podcast, Ryan Goodman and Janice Person discuss these topics along with Janice's favorite crop - cott
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update October 15 [caption id="attachment_4910" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, October 15, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Moderate to Extreme drought continues along and west of the Divide with improvement of conditions in eastern portions of the state during recent weeks. Dry and warm conditions have persisted across much of the region during the past week. While a limited period of dry and warm conditions is ideal for the maturation, dry down, and harvesting of summer crops, too much time under such condition
Read MoreDr Marty Zaluski, Montana State Veterinarian The United States is experiencing another active year of vesicular stomatitis (VS) in horses. VS is a regulatory concern (and reportable) because when found in cattle, it is clinically indistinguishable from foot and mouth disease (FMD). While FMD does not affect equines, the presence of VS in horses allows us to avoid panic mode when multiple cattle with vesicles in the same geographical area are detected. The 2014 season’s VS count finished in March 2015 with a near record of 420 affected premises in four states. For the current season, the count already stands at 49
Read MoreQ: Who decides how to spend the checkoff dollars in Montana? A: The Montana Beef Council Board of Directors administers the beef checkoff program in Montana. There is cross-industry representation on the board which allows for dynamic insight and collaborative goals. The board meets throughout the year to stay up-to-date and each September the board specifically meets to evaluate projects from the current fiscal year and hear funding requests from outside contractors seeking to promote beef or educate others about beef. Through a committee process, recommendations are then made to the full board on the various funding
Read MoreIn ranching it’s often necessary to spend money to make money. Funds from savings accounts or operating loans are spent to purchase inputs such as vaccine, seed, fertilizer, or feed. These inputs help fuel the engine that hopefully returns enough income to replenish the savings account or repay the bank, and also cover enough living expenses that you can afford to play the game again next year. Range grasses often play a similar game during early autumn. Most years range grasses go dormant in late summer when days get hot and soils get dry. If more mild temperatures return in September and October accompanied by rain or early wet snow, grasses respond by breaking summer dormanc
Read MoreThe countdown has begun for beef and dairy producers to become Beef Quality Assurance (BQA)-certified for free online through Nov. 20. And, as an added bonus, anyone who becomes certified during this period is eligible to win a prize package, courtesy of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. and the BQA program, funded in part by the beef checkoff. Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica, Inc. will pick up the $25-$50 online training fee for every person completing BQA training through Nov. 20. That includes anyone who works with cattle – whether it is beef or dairy. Visit www.bqa.org to take advant
Read MoreIn connection with the National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA), the checkoff is helping to distribute a producer survey about use of antibiotics on cattle operations. The survey was created with the help of Kansas State University, in response to comments from the checkoff’s Safety Subcommittee at the 2015 Cattle Industry Summer Conference. NIAA has been a checkoff subcontractor to the National Livestock Producers Association, on authorization requests that have helped provide funding for a national symposium about use of antibiotics in food animals for each of the last five years. During their meeting in July, members of the checkoff’s Safety Subcommittee discussed the
Read MoreThe 2015-2016 academic year has begun which means it is time to start “rounding up” steers for the Montana State University Steer-A-Year (SAY) program. In this program, steers donated by Montana ranchers are fed to finish on campus. Donated steers make a direct impact on MSU students, particularly those on the livestock judging team. The funds allow judging team members to compete and represent Montana State University at a national level. In addition, SAY contributions are important in enhancing the educational experience for students in the College of Agriculture. The steers are used to allow for “hands-on” learning experiences in courses such as Beef Cattle
Read MoreDENVER – Registration and housing for the 2016 Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show is now open. The 118th Annual Convention will be held in San Diego, Calif., Jan. 27-29, 2016. Advanced registration is open until Jan. 4, 2016. Convention participants will hear from industry leaders, gather insight on industry trends, enjoy an evening of stars and stripes on the USS Midway and this year’s Cowboy Concert Series will feature Martina McBride. NCBA President Philip Ellis said this convention is a must for everyone involved in the cattle industry. “The Cattle Industry Convention is the oldest and largest, national convention in the cattle business,” El
Read MoreThe Wheatland County Stockgrowers have been busy as bees. They kicked off the year by sponsoring a Donkey Basketball Tournament. The Stockgrower team defeated the FFA team for bragging rights for the year. However, it was a fundraiser for both the FFA and the Stockgrowers. June had the MT RANGE DAYS come to Wheatland Co. and the Stockgrowers cooked a prime rib dinner with all the trimmings for their evening banquet. They served 254 people. August was the annual Wheatland Co. Youth Fair. The Stockgrowers proudly sponsor the Breeding Beef Contest, the Senior and Intermediate Round Robin Champions and the Carcass Contest. The carcass contest is
Read MoreMontana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Association of State Grazing Districts and the Montana Public Lands Council, submitted comments regarding the Montana FWP’s DRAFT Environmental Impact Statement Bison Conservation and Management in Montana document. The 90 day comment period closed on September 11th. FWP has stated a record of decision is expected by early next year. Our organizations comments were reflective of our membership policies regarding bison management. Some of the general concerns regarding a potential bison relocation included: Damages to fences by bison that compromise landowner attempts at good grazing management
Read MoreMembers of several Montana agricultural organizations met in Billings this past weekend for the 2015 Young Ag Leadership Conference this past weekend. The annual meeting offers a variety of workshops, discussion groups and guest speakers to young farmers and ranchers who want to learn more about their respective industries. This year’s meeting had approximately 175 young agriculturalists attend from all corners of the state.
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update October 1 [caption id="" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, October 1, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Moderate to Extreme drought continues along and west of the Divide with no significant changes in recent weeks. For this week’s analysis, above-normal temperatures prevailed across much of the country, seasonably dry weather continued over the western U.S. Hot, dry conditions prevailed, with temperatures averaging more than 10°F above normal. Despite the 90-degree readings and a lack of rain during the p
Read MoreThe 131st Montana Stockgrowers Annual Convention & Trade Show is moving dates and location for 2015, to make for the largest ranching industry convention in the state! All meetings, meals and events with this year’s Annual Convention will take place in Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark in Billings, December 3-5. Tickets may be purchased online at mtbeef.org beginning October 1. Hotel rooms are available at a discounted rate and should be booked soon. Northern Hotel (Host Hotel) - $124+tax. Make reservations by calling (406) 867-6767 and reference ‘Montana Stockgrowers Association’. Room block expires November 1. Crowne Plaza - $109+tax. Make reser
Read MoreWASHINGTON - Yesterday, Kathy Simmons, DVM, Chief Veterinarian, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, delivered comments before a joint public meeting of the Food and Drug Administration, United States Department of Agriculture, and Center for Disease Control addressing antimicrobial use and resistance data collection. “NCBA believes that a clear strategy for data collection, analysis and reporting must first be established before moving forward with the data collection process in order to provide information that correctly represents actual antimicrobial drug use in food-producing animals,” said Dr. Simmons, adding
Read MoreQ: Who can contract with the checkoff on the national level? A: By definition, qualified checkoff contracting organizations are national nonprofit beef industry-governed organizations. The role of these organizations is to contract with the Beef Promotion Operating Committee to conduct promotion, research, consumer and industry information, foreign marketing and producer communications programs funded with beef checkoff dollars and under Agriculture Marketing Service Guidelines. See all the current national contractors and programs at
Read MoreWASHINGTON (Sept. 30, 2015) – Today the Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Fisheries, Wildlife and Water held a hearing on the Army Corps of Engineers’ participation in the “waters of the United States” regulation. The subcommittee focused on internal memos released by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. While the memos show the Corps leadership having serious concerns with the science underlying the WOTUS rule, Jo Ellen Darcy, Assistant Secretary of the Army insisted, as co-author, the Corps supported the final rule. The hearing provided ample opportunity to highlight the issues raised in the memos and the gulf between the Corps and EPA in the arbitrary standards used in the f
Read MoreBOZEMAN - Montana State University’s Department of Agricultural Economics and Economics and MSU Extension will host the 9th annual Agricultural Economics Outlook Conference on Nov. 6. This year’s conference, “Montana Agriculture: Global Trade to Local Foods,” will run from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Procrastinator Theater in MSU’s Strand Union Building. The conference’s keynote speaker is Colin Carter, professor of agricultural and resource economics at the University of California Davis and director of the Giannini Foundation
Read More[caption id="attachment_4839" align=blog-postRight width="266"] Montana Beef Council President Kristin Larson, Stockgrowers Representative[/caption] BILLINGS – The Montana Beef Council will invest about $1.8 million into programs of beef promotion, education, research, consumer information, industry information, foreign marketing and producer communications in fiscal year 2016, which begins Oct. 1 2015. Programs approved are funded through Montana’s 50 cent in-state portion of the $1 per head checkoff. In action concluding its Sept. 9-11 meeting in Billings, the MBC Board of Directors—all volunteers, including members from
Read MoreAccording to a press release from the Department of Livestock, Dr. Marty Zaluski has been appointed to serve as interim Executive Officer for the DOL. Zaluski assumed the interim role, vacated last week by the resignation of Christian Mackay, following a Board of Livestock meeting via conference call on Friday, September 25. Dr. Zaluski has served as Montana state veterinarian in the
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update September 24 [caption id="attachment_4848" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, September 24, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Moderate to Extreme drought continues along and west of the Divide with no significant changes in recent weeks, except some decrease of abnormally dry areas in Eastern Montana. Long-term conditions remain dry heading into the Fall season. Large sections of the nation experienced dry weather, reducing topsoil moisture but promoting summer crop maturation and h
Read MoreOn Tuesday, September 22, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services announced that the greater sage grouse would not be listed as an endangered species. This is a significant accomplishment following extensive work by officials, industry and conservation groups in 11 states who have worked to form plans for conservation of the bird’s habitat. Department of the Interior Secretary Sally Jewell made the announcement on Tuesday via video. Click here to watch and read her statement. Montana Stockgrowers Association, Montana Public Lands Council and Montana Associa
Read MoreOn Friday, September 18, ranchers and Billings-area residents gathered for a night of beef, wine and fun at Yellowstone Cellars and Winery, hosted by Clint Peck. Proceeds from the event go to support the Montana Environmental Stewardship Program (ESAP). The night’s events included good wine, fresh beef tri-tip grilled by Chef Megan Jessee thanks to the Montana Beef Council, and several donated items auctioned by Ron Dinkle. The auction raised more than $4,000, which will go toward outreach efforts to help ranchers share their stories of environmental stewardship. In its 25th year, ESAP recognizes Montana ra
Read MoreThe Montana Board of Livestock convened in Helena September 21-22. Following Monday's morning session, the Board of Livestock released information announcing the resignation of Executive Officer, Christian Mackay and John Grainger, Brands Division Administrator. Mackay said he is leaving to pursue other interests and wishes the board and staff the best of luck in the coming months and years ahead. The Board of Livestock accepted his resignation. "MSGA appreciates the service of Christian MacKay and John Grainger to Montana's cattle and livestock industry. We appreciate the working relationshi
Read MoreWASHINGTON (Sept. 22, 2015) – The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association appreciates the efforts of the Senate in reauthorizing Mandatory Livestock Price Reporting through 2020. NCBA President, Philip Ellis, a Wyoming cattle producer, said this information provides producers greater transparency in market conditions. “Transparency is essential to the functioning of our livestock markets, and our ability as producers to make decisions critical to our profitability,” said Ellis. “We appreciate the Senate’s reauthorization of this provision before it expired at the end of the month. Unfortunately, due to the actions of Senator Stabenow, not only does this legislation lack the status of an essential service, the bill differs substantially from the Hou
Read MoreMontana Governor Steve Bullock today announced that he will lead a seven-day trade mission to Taiwan and South Korea in the fall of 2015. Governor Bullock made the announcement during his remarks at the Why Asia Matters to Montana public forum that took place in Bozeman as part of the 2015 Asia + Montana Bozeman Retreat coordinated by the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Center, the City of Bozeman, and Montana State University. “With an increasingly connected global economy, I am committed to enhancing the competitiveness of Montana businesses in the international marketplace,” said Bullock. “I look forward to strengthening our trade relations with these two countries and promoting the quality and authenticity of Montana’s businesses, products, and people.” The mission will bring together leaders in business, education, and government to focus on creating export opportunities f
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update September 17 [caption id="attachment_4810" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, September 17, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Moderate to Extreme drought continues along and west of the Divide, now covering 38.6% of the state. No movement was seen in coverage of drought conditions compared to last report. However, with significant rainfall over portions of the state in recent days, slight improvements may be seen in the next report. Long-term conditions remain dry heading into the Fall season.
Read MoreDENVER (Sept. 15, 2015) – The National Cattlemen’s Foundation is now accepting applications for 2016-17 beef industry scholarships sponsored by the CME Group. Ten scholarships of $1,500 each will be awarded to outstanding students pursuing careers in the beef industry. “The CME Beef Industry Scholarship enables us to invest in the next generation of our nation’s food producers, while helping them understand the importance of risk management to the beef industry,” said Tim Andriesen, CME Group Managing Director of Agricultural Commodities. “For more than 25 years, NCBA has been a key partner in advancing risk management education t
Read More[caption id="attachment_4567" align=blog-postRight width="252"] Sign up for Checkoff Updates at BeefBoard.org today![/caption] Q: I never see information about what the checkoff is doing. Why not? A: Updated information is always available at MyBeefCheckoff.com, where you can also sign up to receive regular e-mail updates. The Cattlemen’s Beef Board and the Montana Beef Council are always looking for the most effective and efficient ways to share information and communicate with producers. Currently the Montana Beef Council works with news media, agriculture organizations, publicatio
Read MoreWASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds farmers and ranchers affected by the recent wildfires in Alaska, California, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington State that USDA has programs to assist with their recovery efforts. The
Read MoreLast week, Montana Public Lands Council Directors attended the National Public Lands Council annual meeting, held in Cody, Wyoming. MPLC Chair, Vicki Olson of Malta, visited with us to review important topics that were discussed affecting Montana ranchers. These topics included Sage Grouse, PLC dues increase, emerging Animal Welfare law education, Bighorn and domestic sheep conflicts, and a change of leadership for national PLC.
Read MoreWASHINGTON – The Public Lands Council hosted its annual meeting in Cody, Wyo., last week to discuss issues critical to the western ranching industry. Session topics included the need for modernization of the Endangered Species Act, sage grouse, invasive species, wildfire management, water rights issues, and management of wild horses among others. These hot button items drew a wide attendance and speakers from national affiliate organizations, the Western Governors’ Association, Western Resources Legal Center as well as
Read MoreBy Dr. Megan Van Emon, MSU Extension Beef Cattle Specialist Water is the most essential nutrient for livestock production and is needed for numerous processes, such as the regulation of body temperature, growth, digestion, reproduction, metabolism, lubrication of joints, excretion, eyesight, etc. Water is also an excellent solvent for amino acids, minerals, glucose, vitamins, and metabolic waste. Water requirements are influenced by a number of factors, including gestation, lactation, rate and composition of gain, type of diet, activity, environmental temperature, and feed intake. The intake of water from fe
Read MoreCODY, Wyo. - Western ranchers are gathering this week in Cody, Wyo., for the 2015 Public Lands Council annual meeting. As the only organization in Washington D.C. solely dedicated to representing livestock ranchers who utilize public lands, PLC’s annual meeting will focus on legislative and regulatory updates. This year’s meeting has a schedule full of top-notch speakers covering a wide range of topics. “Each year this meeting gets better, and this year will be no exception,” said Brenda Richards, PLC president. “Ranchers in the West have had some great wins over the past year, including the passage of key provisions of the Grazing Improvement Act, because of our strong membership base and the engageme
Read MoreResearchers from Montana State University Extension and Washington State University are asking Montana beef cattle producers and veterinarians to participate in a voluntary online survey to learn more about a novel form of neonatal calf pneumonia found in Montana. Rachel Endecott, MSU Extension beef specialist, and colleagues at WSU said that a unique form of neonatal calf pneumonia has been diagnosed in several Montana beef herds over the last 6-8 years. The majority of affected calves are relatively normal at birth, but go on to develop signs of pneumonia within the first 1-4 days of life
Read MoreThe National Public Lands Council is hosting their annual meeting this week in Cody, Wyoming. Several Montana ranchers are taking advantage of the close proximity to attend the conference and meeting with public land users from across the country. Montana Stockgrowers and Montana Public Lands Council has several representatives at the meeting and we’ll be catching up later with Jay Bodner to learn more about the big topics of discussion coming out of the event. Ranchers representing the Montana Public Lands Council in Cody this week include Vicki Olson of Malta and MPLC
Read MoreThe 2015 Young Ag Leadership Conference is less than a month away! If you have not registered, be sure to do so (Click Here!) and reserve your rooms for a great rate at the Crowne Plaza in Billings before September 18. More details are on our event page.
Read MoreExperience a night of culinary fusion, Montana style! Meet local chefs and local beef producers as they bring you their latest creations during a walking tour of three premiere downtown Billings restaurants. Registration is open for the 2015 Cattle Crawl, taking place in downtown Billings on Sunday, October 11, beginning at 5:00 p.m. The Cattle Crawl is an opportunity to acquaint urban consumers with area ranchers to feature beef in a creative way. The tour kicks off at Uberbrew for an opportunity for diners to enjoy beef appetizers at one of the area's most popular gastropubs and breweries. The dinner tour then continues with stops at The Rex Restaurant and TEN at The
Read More[caption id="attachment_4760" align=blog-postRight width="219"] Common Reed (Phragmites australis) - Click image to learn more[/caption] The State of Montana updated the Montana State Noxious Weed List to include three new plants and shifted the priorities of three existing weeds effective July, 2015. Noxious weeds are invasive plants that have been determined to have the potential to or have actual detrimental impacts to Montana’s environment and economy. Propagation of these state listed noxious weeds is prohibited by law. They are prioritized by the establishment of the weed and management criteria. “Noxiou
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update September 3 [caption id="attachment_4767" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, September 3, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Moderate to Extreme drought continues along and west of the Divide, now covering 40% of the state. A continuing lack of precipitation across western Montana prompted a slight eastward shift of all drought categories. Recent days have brought beneficial precipitation for western Washington (1.5 inches), northern Montana (2-4 inches). This combined with coo
Read MoreDENVER – Applications are now being accepted for the 2016 Cattle Industry Convention and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Trade Show internships. If you are a college junior or above and are interested in being a part of the cattle industry’s largest event you are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants must have at least a 3.0 GPA, a passion for the cattle and agricultural industry and the ability to travel to San Diego Jan. 25-30. NCBA President, Philip Ellis, said this internship is a great opportunity for college students to gain first-hand experience and network with leaders from every segment of the cattle and beef industry.
Read More[caption id="attachment_3909" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Checkoff programs conduct demonstrations for restaurant chefs to learn more about preparing beef cuts. Click to watch video.[/caption] Q: Are national restaurant chains educated about beef? A: Absolutely. In fact, in January the checkoff demonstrated cutting methods for the sirloin, loin and ribeye for a large national casual-dining restaurant chain, educating restaurant personnel about the flexibility of these middle meats
Read More[caption id="attachment_4732" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Hole in One prize provided by Montana Ford Stores[/caption] Ranchers and leaders from Montana’s business communities had a great time at Big Sky last week for the 2015 T-Bone Classic. The event included a gala dinner and golf tournament, Calcutta auction and a day of great golf on the Big Sky Golf Course with great views below Lone Peak. The event benefits Montana Stockgrowers’ Research & Education Endowment Foundation a
Read MoreBy Dr. Emily Glunk, MSU Extension Forage Specialist Nitrate toxicity is a problem that many producers have to deal with in Montana. Particularly this year, with a large amount of cereal grains being harvested for hay, it is something that should be kept in the back of your mind at harvest and feedout. Nitrate toxicity is an accumulation of nitrates in the plant. Typically, the lowest third of the plant stem will have the highest level of nitrates. Why are these high levels of nitrates toxic to the animal? When the animal consumes a large amount of nitrates, it is unable to be completely converted to microbial protei
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update August 27 [caption id="attachment_4715" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, August 27, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Extreme drought continues to expand west of the Divide, now covering 18% of the state. In the northern Rockies and Pacific Northwest, the USDA Forest Service reported approximately 40 large wildfires in progress as of August 26th, as warm and very dry weather persisted. Moderate drought (D1) was expanded across southeast portions of Idaho. The change is based on low stream fl
Read MoreWASHINGTON – Yesterday, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the Natural Resources Conservation Service will continue its partnership with ranchers to invest in efforts for the conservation of Sage Grouse habitat. The four-year strategy will invest approximately $211 million in conservation efforts on public and private lands throughout the 11 Western states. The Public Lands Council and the
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association is seeking nominations for the 2015 Montana Ranching Woman of the Year. The annual award is presented to an MSGA member who has made great contributions to the Montana ranching community and has gone above and beyond to support their family and friends. Nominations are due October 31 and the recipient will be recognized at MSGA’s annual convention in Billings, December 3-5. “Women are often the backbone of Montana’s ranching communities. These women often go above and beyond to support their immediate family members and pitch in whenever the need arises in their communities,” said Gene Curry, MSGA President from Valier.
Read MoreThe following is a guest column from Montana Representative Rob Cook, R-Conrad The arrival of reappraisal notices from the Montana Department of Revenue (DOR) has many Montana taxpayers experiencing sticker shock. But, before we are panicked enough to begin construction of a bunker, it would be useful to know how a sharp increase in appraised market value affects our actual tax bill. Let’s look at a reappraisal notice. Assume that we find in the table on page 2 that the previous year taxable value for our residence was $1000 and that our current year taxable value is now a
Read MoreIn July, U.S. District Court Judge Brian Morris denied a preliminary injunction to block sheep grazing on two U.S. Forest Service allotments in the Gravelly Mountains in southwestern Montana. The injunction was sought by the Gallatin Wildlife Association (GWA) and would have affected permittees Helle Livestock and Rebish/Konen Livestock Limited Partnership. The decision is significant because it demonstrates that the Court is thus far unconvinced by GWA’s claims and presently finds the group unlikely to succeed on the merits of the case. GWA claimed an injunction was necessary to prevent irreparable harm to grizzly bears and bighorn sheep, as well as its members’ recreational and aesthetic values. In
Read MoreIrrigators in Eastern Montana find themselves in the midst of a lawsuit involving a 100-year-old diversion dam and habitat for the pallid sturgeon. Despite efforts made by irrigators to provide project allowances to protect fish habitat, environmentalist groups are pressing forward with damage claims. On August 27, a preliminary injunction hearing will be held to stop construction on modifications to the Intake Diversion Dam on the Lower Yellowstone River in front of Judge Morris at the Federal District Court. The diversion dam, dating back to 1905, was constructed to divert water into a main canal in order to provide dependable water supply sufficie
Read MoreRegistration is now open for the twelfth annual Young Ag Leadership Conference (YALC)! This exciting conference is set to take place October 2-4 at the Crowne Plaza in Billings, MT. YALC is a collaborative effort between nine of Montana’s agricultural organizations, offering attendees a chance to take part in various workshops, discuss current ag issues, meet with industry leaders and network with fellow young people who live Montana agriculture. Anyone aged 18-40 and involved or interested in agriculture is encouraged to attend. The conference is put together by a committee of representatives from each of the following organizations: Alpha
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update August 20 [caption id="attachment_4666" align="blog-postRight" width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, August 20, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Extreme drought continues to hold its grip on portions of far Western Montana where fire danger remains immediate concern. Warm, dry air continued to dominate the West. Click here to hear from Idaho ranchers impacted by the large Soda
Read MoreBILLINGS – Earlier this week the Montana Beef Council hosted another successful pasture to plate tour for nearly twenty Montana Dietetic Internship (MDI) students pursuing a career as a Registered Dietitian. The tour was conducted in Two Dot, Montana with local ranchers Jed and Annie Evjene where the attendees were able to experience first-hand where and how beef is raised on the
Read More[caption id="attachment_3877" align=blog-postRight width="300"] The 30 Day Protein Challenge is one example of the Beef Checkoff digital promotion efforts. Click here to learn more.[/caption] Q: Is the beef checkoff staying relevant in this digital age? A: You bet. For example, in 2006 the Beef Checkoff was delivering beef enjoyment messages to consumers through a checkoff-funded national radio and print advertising campaign that reached 96 percent of targeted adults more than 18 t
Read More[caption id="attachment_4463" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Pushing cattle in Ledford Creek Grazing Allotment by Neil Barnosky[/caption] Here in southwestern Montana we are having a good start to the summer season. It is still dry but the grass in the mountains is exceptional in most areas, although there have been some problems with stock water. It is a busy time but sure a rich time of year to be involved in the livestock business. The Department of Labor is proposing changes to the H-2A guidelines for sheep herders that would be extremely difficult for ranchers to
Read MoreWASHINGTON – As massive wildfires blaze across the West this week, the need to address the increasing wildfire threat is even more apparent. According to the Agriculture and Interior Departments, there are currently 19,000 interagency personnel fighting wildfires across 13 states. The Soda Fire that burned across southern Idaho and eastern Oregon consumed roughly 300,000 acres of rangeland, threatening the homes and lives of residents, livestock and wildlife. While Washington bureaucrats call for more funds to suppress the growing fires, the Public Lands Council and the Nat
Read MoreThis week's Montana Rancher Feature highlights John Henry Beardsley from Terry. John Henry is 24, grew up on the family ranch and has recently branched out to his operation during the past year. He runs a small cow-calf operation with a small feedlot and row crop operation. Be sure to leave John Henry any questions in the comments section below and check out other posts in our Montana Rancher Feature series. Know a member of the Montana ranching community who should be featured in a future post? Use this online form to send us the information!
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update August 13 [caption id="attachment_4623" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, August 13, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Extreme drought continues to hold its grip on portions of far Western Montana where fire danger remains immediate concern. Cooler than normal temperatures dominated the west this last week. Most areas were normal to 5 degrees below normal for the week, followed by much warmer temperatures this week. In Washington and Oregon, D3 conditions were pushed to the west
Read MoreSubsequent to adoption of the new 2016-2020 Beef Industry Long Range Plan during the 2015 Cattle Industry Summer Conference in Denver last month, the national Beef Checkoff Program transitioned its committee structure to reflect the consumer demand drivers critical to the success of that long range plan. “Our checkoff committees align directly with the core strategies of the current Long Range Plan to make certain that our checkoff investments are tightly focused on the most important goals for the industry as a whole,” said Cattlemen’s Beef Board Chairman Jimmy Maxey, “so we felt it necessary to realign our committee structure with that new Long Range Plan.”
Read MoreThe Crazy Mountain Stockgrowers Association is made up of a group of local ranchers, farmers and producers from the Sweet Grass County area. We have a board of 9 directors, with the county extension agent serving as ex oficio. Our membership consists of over 100 members in 70 families. As individuals and as an association, we continue to watch issues that affect our county, our surrounding counties, our state, as well as at the national level. In the winter and spring of each year, we, in conjunction with the extension office, host Rancher Roundtable Discussions. These are open to all CMSGA members as well as to the public. We bring in experts to share information on different topics and give those attending the oppo
Read MoreBy Dr. Jeff Mosley, MSU Extension Range Management Specialist Former eastern Montana rancher and Past President of the Society for Range Management Dan Fulton once wrote, “Range, and particularly Great Plains range, cannot be rationally managed on the basis of range carrying capacity surveys. The only way to know for sure how many cows can run on it is by grazing cows on it.” Fulton’s statement reminds us that grazing management is a circle. We begin by observing the land and animals, and then make a plan based on what we have observed. Next we implement the plan and observe how well the plan is working. Based on what we observe, we make adjustments, observe again, mak
Read MoreENNIS –Montana lands have great stories to tell, and the 2015 Montana Range Tour will offer unforgettable tales for attendees of this statewide event. “This tour will have something for everyone, showcasing projects that are really making a positive impact for these landscapes,” said Sunni Heikes-Knapton, Watershed Coordinator for the Madison Conservation District. “Anyone with an eye for good stewardship will benefit by attending”. The two-day event is Wednesday, Sept. 16 and Thursday, Sept. 17. The first stop on day one of the tour will visit a multi-year, multi-landowner noxious weed control project at the foothills of the Tobacco
Read MoreIn this week's Montana Rancher Feature, we highlight Jerry Jones from Kirby. Jerry works on the family ranch as owner/manager. Jerry says, "this means that I do every part of the ranch work - feeding cattle in the winter. calving cattle out, haying and gathering cattle in the fall." Be sure to leave Jerry any questions in the comments section below and check out other posts in our Montana Rancher Feature series. Know a member of the Montana ranching community who should be featured in a future post? Use this online form to send us the information!
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update August 6 [caption id="attachment_4598" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, August 6, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] As can be expected this time of year, it was a pretty uneventful week on the precipitation front across most of the region, including a quiet monsoon signal across the Desert Southwest. The West remains unchanged this week but the impacts (near-record/record low streamflow, water supply, water temperatures, fire, etc.) are still being felt and are of major concern as we head toward a new water year with Sep
Read MoreWASHINGTON, D.C. – Phillips County, Mont. Commission Chair Lesley Robinson was elected as the Western Region Representative on the National Association of Counties (NACo) Executive Committee during NACo’s 80th Annual Conference, July 10-13, in Mecklenburg County, N.C. NACo’s Executive Committee includes eight elected county leaders – four officers (president, first vice president, second vice president and immediate past president) and four regional representatives – who guide the association to meet the needs of its members. Robinson will represent counties in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. On behalf of their regions, regional representatives provide substantive input to NACo’s p
Read More[caption id="attachment_3889" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Beef retains a 49% share of retail dollar sales in grocery meat cases.[/caption] Q: Do consumers still want beef? A: Yes they do. Consumer demand for beef is strong. In fact, even with higher beef prices, demand for beef increased nearly 7 percent in 2014, and beef brought more sales for foodservice and retail operators than any other protein. When it comes to price, consumer say beef is worth it. According the Beef Checkoff’s Consumer Beef Index, 70 percent say steaks are worth the price,
Read MoreThe National Cattlemen’s Foundation is now accepting applications for the W.D. Farr Scholarships for the 2015-16 school year. The annual W.D. Farr Scholarship awards were established by the National Cattlemen’s Foundation in 2007 to recognize outstanding students who plan to pursue careers in meat science and animal agriculture. Each $12,000 award recognizes superior achievement in academics and leadership, and will allow graduate students to further their study in fields that benefit the cattle and beef industry. Application deadline is August 31. “By helping to make my st
Read MoreThe National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council's government affairs office in Washington, D.C., is accepting applications for the spring 2016 public policy internship. The deadline to submit an application is Oct. 1, 2015. NCBA Executive Director of Legislative Affairs ,Kristina Butts, said this is a great opportunity for students with an interest in the beef industry and public policy. “The internship gives college students the opportunity to work alongside staff on a range of issues that impact U.S. cattlemen and women,” Butts said. “The internship is designed to work closely with the lobbying team on Capitol Hill; t
Read MoreThe Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame & Western Heritage Center (MCHF & WHC) recently announced the eighth class of inductions into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame. The inductees were chosen from a field of candidates nominated by the general public. Inductees are honored for their notable contributions to the history and culture of Montana. “The board of trustees, our volunteer network from around the state, has reviewed this year’s nominations and completed the voting process,” said Bill Galt, White Sulphur Springs rancher and MCHF & WHC president. “This process gives local communities a strong voice in who will represent them in the Mont
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update July 30 [caption id="attachment_4546" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, July 30, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Frontal rains and leftover moisture from Hurricane Dolores brought above-normal precipitation to parts of California, Nevada, Montana, and the Pacific Northwest this week. The heavier rainfall amounts ranged from half an inch to 2 inches, with less than half an inch common. This is the dry season for the Far West, so even minor amounts of rain equate to well above normal. A frontal low near the end of the week gave parts of
Read MoreIt’s been a busy week getting the word out about our Montana Running Ranchers relay team and the Team Beef program. This has included sharing the word in a few different television programs across the state. On Tuesday, our friends at the Northern Ag Networkwe
Read MoreBOZEMAN - Montana State University Extension announced Class II of REAL Montana (Resource Education and Agriculture Leadership), a two-year program focused on building a network of informed and engaged leaders to advance the natural resource industries in Montana. The class of 20 participants was competitively selected from a pool of highly qualified candidates, all of who represent a variety of agriculture and natural resource industries. REAL Montana is funded through a partnership with MSU Extension and private industry. REAL Montana is a two-year program featuring eight in-state seminars, a four-day national
Read MoreThe majority of beef herds in this region are in the heart of their breeding seasons, and many of those that aren’t will start their breeding seasons soon. “From a management standpoint, the work isn’t over once breeding soundness exams are conducted and potentially fertile bulls are turned out to breeding pastures,” says Carl Dahlen, North Dakota State University Extension Service beef cattle specialist. To ensure a successful breeding season, bulls should be monitored carefully for breeding activity, injuries and overall condition throughout their time in breeding pastures, he advises. The desi
Read MoreIn the world of running and fitness, challenges are king as obstacle courses and overnight-relay races have gained popularity in recent years by fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers. Montana ranchers are taking part in the fun and using this scene as an opportunity to advocate for beef as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle. On July 17 and 18, twelve members of the Montana Running Ranchers relay team took part in the Ragnar Relay Series Northwest Passage race. This event began in Blaine, Washington and covered 200(ish) miles, wrapping up in Langle
Read MoreWith severe and extreme drought expanding throughout the state this growing season, some cuttings of hay and pasture haven’t been as productive as years past. The Montana Department of Agriculture’s Hay Hotline is available to producers as an online tool to connect buyers and sellers of hay and pasture. “We started the Hay Hotline during the droughts that impacted the state in nineties. Ever since it went online, it has been a popular and useful tool for producers when they are in need or looking to sell. Even in a good year parts of our state can be dry or unproductive and the hotline is an easy tool to find the resources needed,” said Director Ron de Yong. The U.S. Drought Monitor shows that abnormally dry to extreme drought conditions cover nearly three-fourths of the state. With the relatively mild winter and low snow pack, many areas reported that grass and grazing pasture was
Read MoreBy Dr. Rachel Endecott, MSU Extension Beef Cattle Specialist Happy summer! This month, I’m proud to feature this press release from MSU News Service about the MSU Academic Quadrathlon Team. BOZEMAN - Four students from Montana State University’s Department of Animal and Range Sciences in the College of Agriculture placed second in the Western Region Academic Quadrathlon, held June 22-23 in Ruidoso, N.M. The regional contest was held in conjunction with the 2015 Western Section American Society of Animal Science meetings,
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update July 23 [caption id="attachment_4478" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, July 21, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] In the Pacific Northwest, above average temperatures and precipitation deficits continue to mount across the region with growing concern about potential crop losses in central and eastern Washington. According to the NCEI climatological rankings, the contiguous U.S. average temperature for June was the second hottest in the observational record (1895–2015). On a
Read MoreDENVER – During the 2015 Cattle Industry Summer Conference in Denver last week, 16 beef industry leaders representing every link in the beef value chain presented a plan for meeting aggressive goals to strengthen the beef industry from 2016-2020. The Beef Industry Long Range Plan Task Force has been meeting since December, 2014. “While the beef industry has faced many challenges, the future holds tremendous promise for the industry,” according to Don Schiefelbein, owner/operator of Schiefelbein Farms and task force co-chair. “The task force took a research-based approach to not only determine where the industry is and how we got here, but also at the trends and issues potentia
Read MoreMore than 600 cattle producers gathered for the Cattle Industry Summer Conference in Denver July 16-18 to help set direction for industry programs. The event included meetings of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Cattlemen’s Beef Board, American National CattleWomen and National Cattlemen’s Foundation. This has been a great year for cattlemen and women, and the optimism for our industry shows at this meeting,” said Philip Ellis, NCBA President and Chugwater, Wyo., cattleman. “With great prices and moisture across much of cattle country, spirits are high.” A Checkoff Program update started the meeting, providing those attending for
Read MoreMontana CattleWomen are excited to announce their newest promotional and educational program, the CattleWomen’s Ranch Run. Planned by a committee of energetic group of young ranching and running CattleWomen from across Montana, the event will be held on September 19, 2015 starting and concluding in beautiful downtown Lennep, MT. This event is designed as a 25-mile relay run with up to five members in each team. Runners will pass through three different ranches, which have been owned by the same families for over a century as well as some public land. The goal is to display our ranching lifestyl
Read MoreAmerican Fork Ranch of Two Dot, Mont., was honored with one of seven regional Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) awards. The honorees, announced during last week's 2015 Cattle Industry Summer Conference, were recognized for their outstanding stewardship practices. This year’s regional winners will compete for the national award, which will be announced during the 25th anniversary celebration in January 2016. ESAP is sponsored by Dow AgroSciences, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA
Read MoreDr. Emily Glunk, Extension Forage Specialist and Dr. Jessica Torrion, Crop Physiologist Depending on who you ask, you may get a wide range in how much seed you should be planting per acre. There are a lot of factors to consider, but in my experience, there are many producers throughout the nation that are spending more money, and putting more seed in the ground, than is necessary. There are some situations where it may be desirable to increase your seeding rate, say in an irrigated field versus a dryland field, if the seedbed is less than optimal, or where the seeding depth is hard to get completely accurate due to rough terrain.
Read MoreDr. Megan Van Emon, MSU Extension Beef Cattle Specialist As I’m sure many of you have noticed, it’s shaping up to be another bad fly year. Horn flies are common on beef cattle here in Montana. Annual control costs and cattle production losses can exceed $780 million annually in the U.S. Horn flies spend the majority of their time on animals and will move from the back to the sides of the belly during the heat of the day. Female horn flies deposit their eggs in fresh manure and can deposit up to 500 eggs during her life. Horn fly larvae hatch and develop in manure. Several generati
Read MoreThe 2015 Montana Cattlewomen's Memorial Scholarship has been awarded to Lilly Brogger, a senior at Montana State University, Bozeman. Lilly is majoring in English Writing with a minor in Agricultural Business. She has already aligned herself on her career path by writing agriculture-related articles for the school newspaper, The MSU Exponent. Lilly's plan is to become a Professional Agricultural Journalist. Lilly is the daughter of Marc and Lola Brogger of Three Forks, Montana. Coming from a ranch background herself, Lilly knows she can be a bridge between the producer and consumer. "No community can function wi
Read More(BOZEMAN) - Montana Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Bruce Nelson announced on Tuesday, July 14, that the 2015 Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP) triggered eligibility in 15 Montana counties based on the U.S. Drought Monitor report released on July 9, 2015. LFP provides compensation to eligible livestock producers who suffered grazing losses due to a qualifying drought or fire on federally managed land. Eligible producers must own or lease grazing land physically located in a county affected by a qualifying drought during the normal grazing period for the county. The following counties met the extreme drought (D3) criteria; qualifying producers with land in these counties will be eligible for three monthly payments: Beaverhead, Deer Lodge, Flathead, Glacier, Granite, Lake, Lewis and Clark, Lincoln, Mineral, Missoula, Pondera, Powell, Ravalli, Sanders and Silv
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) is looking for public input on values, needs and priorities as part of its ’15 & Forward initiative to plan for the next 10 years. There will be nine listening sessions around the state starting Monday, July 20 through Wednesday, August 12. FWP’s vision update will be a foundation on which it builds programs and services that hold the most value for the public and Montana’s fish, wildlife, recreation, cultural, and state park resources in the years ahead. “It has been over 20 years since FWP last took a department-wide look at planning for the future and established its current Vision for the 21st Century,” said FWP Director, Jeff Hagener. “It is time to update this document and set program goals and design services that reflect our current context.” Hagener stressed that public input is critical to t
Read MoreThe Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA), Montana Association of State Grazing Districts (MASGD and the Montana Public Lands Council (PLC), recently provided comments to Yellowstone National Park, regarding the Yellowstone-area Bison Management Plan/EIS. Currently, the National Park Service (NPS) and the State of Montana are serving as joint lead agencies in the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for a plan to manage Yellowstone-area bison. As stated in their documents, the goal is to minimizing brucellosis transmission between these wild bison and livestock to the extent practicable. This EIS would be developed to replace the existing Interagency Bison Management
Read MoreThe Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) Rule was finalized by EPA and Army Corps on May 27, 2015. MSGA is currently reviewing the rule, but initially, it appears few changes have been made from the proposed rule. In a number of cases, the rule represents an expansion of federal jurisdiction beyond current practices and the limitations affirmed by the Supreme Court. The agencies received over 1 million comments on the WOTUS proposal before they closed the second comment period on November 14, 2014. MSGA, working with NCBA, also viewed the new rule as a: Increase in jurisdiction over ephemeral streams New expansive jurisdiction over adjacent waters
Read MoreDrought Monitor Update July 9 [caption id="attachment_4427" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, July 7, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Most of the region was warm during the last week with temperatures 9-13 degrees above normal in the Pacific Northwest and 3-4 degrees above normal over most of the rest of the region. Idaho, Utah, Washington, Oregon, and California all had their warmest June ever (121 years of data) while Nevada had their second warmest, Wyoming their fourth warmest, and Montana their fift
Read MoreGovernor Steve Bullock and Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks (FWP) are seeking applicants for appointment to the Private Land/Public Wildlife (PL/PW) Council. This Council is Governor-appointed and made up of persons interested in issues related to hunters, anglers, landowners, and outfitters. The Council does focus on evaluating and reporting back to the Governor and legislature regarding existing hunting and fishing access enhancement programs and other issues related to private lands and public wildlife. Application forms, accompanied by a resume (or equivalent short written summary of work, education, and/or public service experience), must be received by July 17, 2015. Any MSGA members who have interest or need additional information, please contact the MSGA office.
Read More[caption id="attachment_3913" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Check out the Beef. It's What's For Dinner YouTube page for educational videos about beef![/caption] Q: Kids today are always watching stuff on their phones. Where is beef promotion in all this? A: Throughout the year, consumers look to “Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner” videos for great beef meal ideas and recipe inspiration. In fact, beef checkoff-funded videos reached over 5 million consumers in 2014 alone. This worked to convey the message that lean bee
Read MoreLeaders from Montana’s ranching and business communities are invited to gather for a round of golf and networking at the T-Bone Classic Gala Dinner and Golf Tournament at Big Sky Resort, August 27-28. The annual event benefits the Research and Education Endowment Foundation (REEF) of the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA). “The T-Bone Classic is organized to address the need for stronger relationships between leadership from Montana’s business and ranching communities; both essential parts of our state’s leading economies,” says John Grande of Martinsdale, Chair of the Stockgrowers Foundation. “The Classic provides the opportunity to network in the atmosphere of a gal
Read More[caption id="attachment_4362" align=blog-postRight width="300"] A team of Montana State University researchers and community partners has been awarded a three-year, $220,000 grant to help Montana beef producers and meat processors and increase the use of local beef in Montana’s schools and communities. MSU photo by Kelly Gorham.[/caption] MSU News Service - A team of Montana State University researchers and community partners has been awarded a three-year, $220,000 grant to hel
Read MoreBy Lacey Ehlke, Townsend, Young Stockgrowers Vice-Chair MSGA’s 2015 MidYear Meeting was a very well planned and executed event. We are all extremely lucky to have such a wonderful staff that is committed to organizing informational, interesting and fun events all year round. If you were not able to attend this year, I highly recommend attending next summer in Great Falls! At this year’s MidYear, our opening workshop was put on by leadership coach, Sarah Bohnenkamp. I really enjoyed her workshop, as it was applicable to people of all ages. She had a different approach than I have seen in past leadership trainings I have attended. She really focuse
Read More[caption id="" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Montana Drought Monitor Update, July 2, 2015. Click image to learn more.[/caption] Drought Monitor Update July 2 A strong ridge over the west and a deep trough over the east dominated the weather this past week. Record high temperatures were recorded over much of the west, with many locations reaching temperatures in the 110 degree range during the week. The heat along with very dry conditions over the last 30 days has elevated the fire risk over much of the west. Record heat and dryness over the r
Read MoreFree trade is on the minds of Congress, MSGA and many U.S. business executives these days as the White House looks to push for reauthorization of Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) as well as a watershed Pacific trade deal with Japan and 10 other countries. The Japan agreement is better known as TPP. Congress is also weighing in to modify mandatory Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) requirements. MSGA was actively involved in the formation of COOL legislation during the 2002 Farm Bill. Since that time, the program has been challenged in the World Trade Organization (WTO) by Canada and Mexico. The WTO’s Appellate Body has determined that our COOL requirements unfairly discriminate Canada and Mexico’s
Read More[caption id="attachment_3616" align=blog-postRight width="300"] Image via Flickr.[/caption] WASHINGTON – On Monday, June 29, USDA APHIS released their final rules for the Importation of Fresh Beef from Northern Argentina and a Region in Brazil. With this step by the Administration, these areas with a known history of Foot-and-Mouth disease would be allowed to begin the inspection process to import fresh and frozen beef products into the United States. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association stands firmly opposed to this regulation, not on the basis of trade but on the basis of animal health concerns; no trade is worth jeopardizing our herd health. “FMD is a highly
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