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Ranchers.net

R-CALF United Stockgrowers of America


“Fighting for the U.S. Cattle Producer”



For Immediate Release Contact: Shae Dodson, Communications Coordinator
February 27, 2009 Phone: 406-672-8969; e-mail: [email protected]





CEO Discusses Industry Issues with Vilsack During Meeting



Washington, D.C. – R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard on Wednesday met with Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and a senior adviser to discuss the challenges that face independent U.S. cattle producers, as well as to discuss the various remedies available to improve the U.S. live cattle industry.



Bullard explained to Vilsack how the unprecedented concentration in the feedlot and packing sectors of the industry that has occurred over the past 20 years has harmed producers and resulted in a significant exodus from the industry of many producers. Bullard also explained how current trade policies, the ongoing relaxation of border restrictions and USDA’s ongoing efforts to implement a mandatory National Animal Identification System (NAIS) are disadvantaging the competitiveness of domestic cattle producers.



“While the cattle industry is in dire need of many reforms, it also is uniquely positioned to help revitalize the U.S. economy, without any government expenditures, provided that fundamental changes are made to fully restore competition in the marketplace,” Bullard said. “We wanted to demonstrate to the Secretary that we need his help to prevent the U.S. cattle industry from falling under corporate control by the multinational meatpackers, as has already occurred in the hog and poultry industries.”



Bullard also urged Vilsack to continue with his efforts to end the mislabeling of USA beef under the mandatory country-of-origin labeling law and to make certain it is implemented in the manner Congress intended.



“The Secretary was not only attentive throughout the meeting, but he also asked numerous questions and took numerous notes,”
Bullard concluded. In just his first few days in office, Secretary Vilsack has already given more consideration to the issues of importance to independent cattle producers than did any of the three Secretaries who preceded him.”
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