Highlighting successful programs of NCBA as a contractor to the Beef Checkoff .

Where do outdoor enthusiasts , conservationists , and cattle farmers and ranchers intersect ? A video series developed by the National Cattlemen ’ s Beef Association ( NCBA ), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff , aims to demonstrate how these seemingly different groups have a lot in common . “ Voices of the Outdoors ” shines a light on how cattle producers across the country are conserving natural resources for future generations and protecting landscapes for hikers , climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy .

There are many shared values in both the beef and outdoor recreation communities , including a passion for caring for animals and preserving land for all to appreciate . “ Voices of the Outdoors ” was created to foster communication between these groups , combat misinformation , reach new audiences , and encourage future partnerships . One of the first videos in the new series highlighted how open space brought a Colorado cattle producer and an avid hiker together .

As exponential development shrinks the distance between Denver and Colorado Springs , an oasis of green pastures dotted with cattle remains unspoiled in Douglas County , Colorado . The county is committed to preserving open spaces , which includes the land where Welch Cattle Company grazes their cattle .

“ Most of the land that I raise our cattle on is owned by Douglas County , preserved forever as open space ,” explains Bob Welch , owner of Welch Cattle Company . “ Because there is both a grazing program and a system of trails for the public to use , we intermingle with the public as we ’ re raising our beef .”

Cattle grazing is a natural part of the ecosystem that helps with wildfire mitigation , reduces invasive noxious weeds , increases grass varieties and sequesters carbon in the soil , creating an environment conducive for hikers .

“ I really just want to help people recreate responsibly and take good care of the outdoor spaces and make sure that they stay looking beautiful ,” said hiker Myranda Hausheer .

Relationships between ranchers and outdoor enthusiasts are built through partnerships , including those with local governments , such as Douglas County , which is committed to bringing groups together for everyone ’ s benefit .

“ It is really a great combination of using cattle as a tool to help manage noxious weeds , which reduces the amount of chemicals

Myranda Hausheer enjoys hiking on local ranches and open spaces . that we spray on land , making it better for everyone ,” said Scott McEldowney , Deputy Director , Douglas County Open Space and Natural Resources .

Kristen Welch with Welch Cattle Company credits the county for creating opportunities for her community .

“ This land was so close to being developed for housing , and I ’ m grateful to the county for maintaining it so we have more wildlife opportunities ,” she said .

Finding common ground may not always be easy , but as

Myranda Hausheer captures social media content of Welch Cattle Company .

producers and outdoor enthusiasts come together and agree that preserving natural resources benefits everyone , cattle quickly become a unifying force .

“ If we don ’ t take care of this land , then we ’ re out of business ,” concluded Welch .

Hosted on BeefItsWhatsForDinner . com , the “ Voices of the Outdoors ” videos are promoted through social media channels and shared by outdoor enthusiasts , reaching a new audience with positive beef stories . So far , the videos have generated 3 million views and have inspired viewers to share positive comments about the beef industry . Followers appreciate knowing that ranchers are conserving land and working hard to provide a nutritious product everyone can feel good about eating .

Not only is “ Voices of the Outdoors ” creating a positive image of the beef industry and reaching new audiences , but its success is being recognized nationally , receiving first place honors in the Region 2 Awards of the National Agri-Marketing Association .

Scan the QR code to watch the first three videos in the “ Voices of the Outdoors ” series , with more to be released soon .

www . NCBA . org NATIONAL CATTLEMEN 19