February 8, 2022

US agriculture chief welcomed at cattle convention, commits to address producers' challenges

The United States' National Cattlemen's Beef Association welcomed US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation Robert Bonnie and British Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce to the 2022 Cattle Industry Convention and NCBA Trade Show early this month.

"We appreciate the working relationship that our team has with both Secretary Vilsack and Under Secretary Bonnie. NCBA continues to build relationships with leaders at USDA to ensure that the US cattle industry is top of mind in policy decisions made in D.C., and the industry's contributions to the administration's conservation priorities are recognised," said NCBA vice president of government affairs Ethan Lane.

Vilsack committed to addressing challenges that producers are facing regarding the supply chain, processing capacity and drought. He recognised the need for increased processing capacity and announced continued assistance for producers who have suffered loss from catastrophic disasters. Under Secretary Bonnie noted the industry's role in conservation efforts and that cattle producers play a critical role in environmental stewardship goals.

Pierce shared her optimism in strengthening the relationship between the United Kingdom and the US through continuing negotiations to reach a free trade agreement.

As the UK places the upmost importance on sustainable beef production, Pierce shared her confidence in the sustainability goals set by the NCBA last year.

"We were honored to welcome Ambassador Pierce to convention. Increasing US beef producers' access to global markets is a top priority for NCBA. Our relationship with Ambassador Pierce marks a tremendous opportunity in the trading relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom," Lane said.

- High Plains Journal