Alexandria, La (January 20, 2006) – The annual convention of the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association (LCA) hosted the first joint appearance by incoming leaders of two national cattle organizations. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) President-elect Mike John, a cattleman from Huntsville, Mo., shared the stage here Saturday morning with Chuck Kiker of Beaumont, Texas, incoming president of R-CALFUSA.
About 125 cattle producers were in the audience, and many posed questions of John and Kiker. The forum was moderated by Dr. Jason Rowntree, extension service beef coordinator with LouisianaStateUniversity.
The discussion brought out clear policy differences between NCBA and R-CALF, as well as contrasting outlooks of the cattle industry. John urged cattlemen to use advancements in the industry to their advantage, in order to extend the current period of strong profitability.
“I have never in my life been so optimistic about the future of our industry,” John said. “Yes, change is inevitable. But this time it comes with a premium. There are programs out there now that are paying producers added premiums for their calves that we have never had before. These premiums are due to producers embracing the change.”
Emphasizing the need for involvement at the local and state level, John said NCBA policy begins and ends with individual cattlemen. He noted that over 60 percent of NCBA’s board of directors is from the cow-calf sector. An additional 30 percent are cattle feeders. This provides individual cattlemen with an excellent opportunity to shape NCBA policy. He added that NCBA is making a concerted effort to increase participation from states in the Southeast region, including Louisiana.
“If a state doesn’t feel like its voice is being heard, then increase your membership,” John said. “The more members, the louder your voice and the stronger your vote.”
John said NCBA recognizes that in some areas of the United States, cattle producers have struggled to recover from natural disasters. In addition to the hurricane devastation in the GulfCoast region, other areas are suffering from severe drought and range fires. NCBA has answered the call for help by organizing financial contributions and donations of hay and other farm supplies, and by helping farmers and ranchers gain federal disaster assistance.
LCA showed its appreciation by presenting John with a plaque in recognition of the relief efforts provided by NCBA and the National Cattlemen’s Foundation.
LCA is one of 64 state and breed affiliates of NCBA. At the convention, LCA members voted overwhelming to reaffirm their commitment and affiliation with NCBA.
“LCA and NCBA were there for us when we needed them,” said Todd Little, a cow-calf producer from Hackberry, La. “Had it not been for their help, I don’t know where we would be now. We need to get behind them and support them, and stop wasting time.”
“The membership has spoken, and we need to get on with carrying out the responsibilities of our organization,” added Robert Joyner, a producer from West Monroe, La.