This year continues to be a unique one for the record books, but as life seems to somewhat be returning towhead may be a new normal, the cattle industry is picking back up in action. Sales are on the calendar, events are on the docket (in moderation), and we are able to find ourselves traveling a bit more than we have in the past few months. As we all continue to navigate these unchartered waters, we encourage you to stay updated with what’s going on here in our Montgomery office and beyond. Keep reading for this week’s Bama Beef Update.
ACA SUBMITS CARES PROPOSALS, AWAITING RESPONSE
One portion of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economics Security (CARES) Act was earmarked funds for each state, and Alabama received $1.8 billion. The association was instrumental in submitting three requests on behalf of the cattle industry for review by Governor Kay Ivey’s office.
- Rep. Nathaniel Ledbetter submitted a request for a comprehensive feasibility study to increase meat processing capabilities in the state.
- Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries Rick Pate submitted a request for $1.5 million to be used for small meat processing plant enhancements to increase beef cattle harvest capabilities in the state.
- The association submitted a request for additional funds to be used for direct payments to cattlemen who sold feeder calves between April 16-May 15 that were not compensated for losses in the USDA Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) due to selling cattle after April 15.
The association is hopeful to that some of these requests will come to fruition in an effort to provide additional relief to cattlemen and meet the need of increased beef cattle slaughter in the state.
STAFF ATTENDS YOUTH EVENTS
Staffer Morgan Pounds has been out and about at junior events this month. Youth of Alabama have been excited to be able to compete in livestock shows and participate in field days again. From Pike Memorial Day Blowout, Alabama Angus field day, to the Belt Buckle Classic this past weekend we are thrilled to see our youth back at livestock shows. We are looking forward to seeing you all in July at the 14th annual Round-Up! Registration closes June 29 register online here! www.BamaBeef.org/RoundUp
YCLP CLASS VII TO HOLD FIRST MEETING IN MONTGOMERY
This YCLP Class VII will be headed to Montgomery for their first session of the year. This class will meet at ACA Building for tour and leadership training on Friday June 26th. They will get the chance to tour Montgomery Stockyards, McLane Garrett Cattle Company, and CK Cattle. This years class ranges in ages 38-22 and from 19 counties all throughout the state. If you are a YCLP Alumni and would like to meet this years class please fill out the form at this link to stay updated on YCLP Alumni events and current class. Click Here
FILMING A VIRTUAL BEEF 101
With the unknowns remaining about what the school year may look like come fall, staff has elected to be vigilant in maintaining one of our shining star programs of the Alabama Beef Checkoff Program, BEEF 101. Just in case events are still discouraged and outside-the-classroom travel isn’t possible, staffers Ali Cantrell and Kayla Greer will be working this summer to create a virtual BEEF 101 learning experience. Tomorrow, the duo will join the butchers, meat scientists and cattlemen at Auburn’s Meat Lab to film a live animal evaluation and a carcass fabrication. This footage will be accompanied with explanations from professionals, and this content will be provided to any and all who would like to still experience the pasture to plate story we tell during this successful program. Stay tuned as we produce this educational content!
BAMA BEEF SALES DIRECTORY
In response to growing demand for local beef products, the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association is in the process of creating a digital portal to directly connect consumers looking to purchase beef with those who produce it. We are now accepting submissions to be included in this directory. If you are an Alabama beef producer who sells freezer beef, please add your operation to the listing by completing our form available also at www.BamaBeef.org/BamaBeef. Or you can call our office to relay the information. Just ask to speak with Ali Cantrell or Kayla Greer.
ACA MEETS WITH SWEET GROWN ALABAMA
Staffers Erin Beasley and Ali Cantrell will head over to the Alabama Department of Ag & Industries today to meet with Ellie Watson, Alex Tigue, Dr. Misty Edmondson, Brady Ragland and Dr. Nealy Barrett to brainstorm the possibilities of incorporating Sweet Grown Alabama- branded beef into local grocery stores across Alabama. This effort will require much forethought, and this team is looking to work toward benefiting both Alabama cattle producers and the consumers who place high value in local products.
14TH ANNUAL AJCA ROUND-UP
Registration is now open for the 14th annual Alabama Junior Cattlemen’s Association Round-Up. Happening July 16-19 at the Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery, this annual junior event is full steam ahead. With adjustments constantly being made to accommodate CDC guidelines in the wake of COVID-19, we would like to draw attention to the fact that the following contests could potentially be cancelled due to the inability to properly and safely socially distance our competitors: Showmanship Clinic, Cattle Judging, Volleyball, Battle of the Beef. The follow events are cancelled: Awards Banquet. Divisions will be called in separately, and winners will be given their awards. No food will be served throughout the weekend. Voting will be come-and-go at allotted time slots based on division. A full schedule and the rules packet are available on the website and are being updated continually, along with registration. Check it out >> www.BamaBeef.org/RoundUp.
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