For those unfamiliar with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), it is a leading organization in the United States dedicated to representing the interests of cattle producers and promoting the beef industry. While primarily known for its advocacy within the cattle and beef sector, the NCBA offers numerous benefits to its members, making it a valuable organization for anyone involved in the cattle industry.
The NCBA's primary mission revolves around ensuring the vitality and sustainability of the beef industry. They serve as a powerful voice for cattle producers, advocating for policies that support their interests and the broader beef community. This includes lobbying for fair trade practices, agricultural policies, and regulations that impact cattle producers and beef consumers. I ask Colin Woodall, Chief Executive Officer of the NCBA, “what are a couple of key, impactful efforts the NCBA has made that has had a positive impact on the operations of local cattle producers?”
“NCBA’s members are the ones who make the decisions on what issues we work on and what our position on those issues should be. Cattle producer members just like you and me. After those decisions are made, NCBA’s team in D.C. works the White House, Capitol Hill, Federal agencies, international embassies, and more to make sure your voice is heard. NCBA is the only organization representing cattle producers that has multiple staff with a full-time presence in Washington. As a result, we have delivered many victories that have a direct impact on your bottom line. If you received a Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) payment, that was due to the work NCBA did. Did you have a generational transfer of your operation and not have to pay the Death Tax? NCBA did that. Just recently, we were part of the WOTUS legal case in front of the Supreme Court where the Supreme Court ruled for cattle producers and against the EPA. These are just a few things NCBA has done to help you stay on your operation.” Colin Woodall, CEO, NCBA.
One of the significant benefits of being an NCBA member is the access to a wealth of resources and expertise. Members receive updates on industry trends, market information, and legislative developments that can influence their operations. This information is crucial for making informed decisions in the ever-changing landscape of the cattle and beef business.
Additionally, NCBA members have opportunities to network and collaborate with fellow cattle producers and industry professionals. This networking can lead to valuable partnerships, knowledge-sharing, and access to best practices, enhancing the efficiency and profitability of their cattle operations.
Furthermore, the NCBA offers educational programs and initiatives to help members improve their cattle management and marketing strategies. This includes workshops, webinars, and resources on topics such as cattle health, genetics, and sustainable practices.
Jerry Bohn, former General Manager and current Board Member of the Pratt Feeders Organization was elected to serve as the NCBA President in 2021. During his tenure as President, a couple of major efforts he led was 1: Addressing Supply Chain Issues: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. beef industry faced significant disruptions in the supply chain. Jerry Bohn worked to address these challenges by advocating for policies that would enhance the resilience and efficiency of the supply chain.
Also, the NCBA collaborates with state cattlemen's organizations and the Federation of State Beef Councils across the United States to advance the interests of the beef industry at both the state and national levels. These partnerships play a critical role in shaping the industry's landscape and effectively addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise in the beef sector.
“The NCBA Public Policy internship impacted my career significantly. The exposure that I gained to the various policy areas impacting the beef industry, and agriculture as a whole, gave me valuable insight to which areas of the industry that I felt I could make the most impact in. During my internship, I became uniquely interested in beef exports and international trade, which led me to pursue a masters degree in international agriculture from Oklahoma State University. Without the exposure I received from the NCBA internship, I likely would not have pursued that degree and developed the network that led to future internships and put me on the path to my current career in agriculture.” Emily Shuping, Executive Director, Made in Oklahoma Coalition, ODAFF.
In summary, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association is a vital organization for those involved in the cattle industry, providing advocacy, resources, networking opportunities, and education. Being a member of NCBA not only helps individuals stay informed and connected but also contributes to the strength and resilience of the entire beef industry. It's an investment in the future of cattle farming and beef production in the United States.
~Tom Fanning
Manager, Buffalo Feeders
