Somewhere between boots and saddles, briefcases and taxis…

Oklahoma Grain and Stocker Producers, EPA, SDARL Conference, and more…

This morning I had breakfast with the Oklahoma Grain and Stocker Producers leadership: Dean Keiffer, David Vontungeln, DVM, and Candace Krebs.  The discussion revolved around current agriculture issues here in Washington D.C. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) requirement that confined feeding operations report “estimated” emissions was a hot topic.  We also discussed country of origin labeling and the grain and cattle market outlook.  Dean and Dr. Vontungeln are experts in their fields.  Dean grows wheat in Oklahoma and Dr. Vontungeln operates a large feedlot.  I appreciated getting their first hand insight on how issues in Washington D.C. are affecting their operations.  Candace is the veteran leader and press person for this group, and it’s always a pleasure catching up and discussing the latest agriculture news!

The rest of the day revolved around preparing for the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association fly in.  The fly in takes place March 7-12.  More details to follow so keep tuning into this blog.

This evening found me spending time with my good friend and Faith livestock market owner Scott Vance.  Scott Vance and leaders from across the state of South Dakota are in town this week for the South Dakota Agriculture and Rural Leadership (SDARL) conference.  Several members of the delegation and I spent the evening at the hotel lobby cussing and discussing the latest happenings in agriculture.  There is nothing better than spending time with good country folks here in DC.  South Dakota can be very proud and rest assured of the fact they are truly being represented by the best of the best.  This SDARL groups is composed of excellent and informed leaders.  Our discussions covered everything from animal welfare, COOL, and animal ID, to beef and dairy product exports.

Each group expressed appreciation for the work being done in Washington D.C. by the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association.  Days like this make me realize it’s not always about the pay and hours, it’s about doing something that helps out 1000s of people!

Tags: Dean Keiffer, Dr. Vontugeln, Jess Peterson, Oklahoma Grain and Stocker Producers, Scott Vance, South Dakota Agriculture and Rural Leadership