From the President
Gene Copenhaver
REFLECTIONS FROM SUMMER BUSINESS MEETING
When nearly 700 cattle producers gather in one place, the conversations are about much more than committee meetings and votes. They are about the future of our industry.
As I reflect on our Summer Business Meeting held last month in Colorado, I leave encouraged, not only by the business we accomplished, but by the people who continue to make this organization strong. Every producer who took time away from their operation and family to participate demonstrated a commitment to something bigger than themselves— ensuring the cattle industry remains strong for generations to come.
We are fortunate to be part of this industry at a remarkable moment. Cattle markets remain strong, consumer demand for beef continues to reach historic levels, and producers have opportunities to build successful businesses. That optimism was evident throughout the week, but that alone doesn’ t secure our future. It takes engagement, thoughtful discussion and a willingness to work together to address the challenges that lie ahead.
One of the greatest strengths of NCBA is our grassroots process. Our policy priorities don’ t begin in Washington, D. C., and they don’ t originate in NCBA’ s offices. They begin with cattle producers.
Throughout the week, NCBA members and our network of state cattlemen’ s associations brought forward ideas, debated solutions and helped shape policies on issues that matter to producers across the country. Discussions ranged from reviewing the Conservation Reserve Program and strengthening Livestock Risk Protection to addressing emerging animal health concerns like Theileria orientalis Ikeda,
a disease transmitted by the Asian longhorned tick. Those conversations ensure our policies reflect the realities facing cattle producers today.
Just as importantly, Beef Checkoff committees reviewed and discussed NCBA’ s proposed body of work as a contractor, and we were proud to spotlight our efforts that will continue advancing the research, education and promotion efforts that help build consumer confidence and drive demand for beef. Advocacy protects our ability to raise cattle. Beef promotion helps ensure consumers continue choosing beef. Together, those efforts create a stronger future for every segment of our industry.
As I think back on the week, I’ m reminded that progress is often measured in a series of small wins. A productive committee discussion. A new relationship formed between producers from different states. A fresh perspective shared across the table. A policy recommendation refined through respectful debate. Individually, those moments may seem small. Collectively, they shape the direction of our association and the future of the cattle business.
We will continue this work as an industry when cattle producers and stakeholders gather for CattleCon 2027, which is returning to downtown Nashville, Tennessee, Feb. 2-4, 2027, with business meetings beginning Feb. 1. Registration opens Aug. 10, and housing tends to fill up quickly so make sure to check our website for details at www. convention. ncba. org. I hope to see many of you there.
Every producer who took time away from their operation and family to participate demonstrated a commitment to something bigger than themselves— ensuring the cattle industry remains strong for generations to come. www. NCBA. org NATIONAL CATTLEMEN 5