February 8, 2007

NCBA approves new policies on ethanol, trade, cloning

Members of the National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) recently approved policies on ethanol, trade, cloning and more.

At the 2007 annual convention of the NCBA, renewable energy dominated the discussion due to the surging demand for ethanol and its impact on feed grain prices.

Members approved a proposal from the NCBA Agriculture Policy Committee aimed at easing the impact of skyrocketing corn prices.

The resolution voiced support for the nation's commitment to reduce dependence on foreign energy, including efforts to develop renewable energy. But cattlemen called for transition to a market-based approach to renewable energy production, which would help level the playing field for cattle producers and other feed grain users.

Also discussed was a USDA's proposal to allow imports of beef from Canadian cattle older than 30 months. The policy resolution approved by NCBA members demands permanent identification of all live cattle imported from Canada through harvest. It further calls for the USDA to develop an orderly market transition plan before expanding the scope of cattle and beef imports from Canada.

Cattlemen adopted a policy supporting cloning as one of many reproductive technologies to promote the beef industry. They also urged all technology companies and owners of cloned animals to voluntarily keep these animals and their offspring out of the food supply until the FDA made a final decision on its risk assessment.