nc cattlemens association

Through a livestock camp I recently attended at NC State University, and attending the North Carolina FFA State Convention, I have been exposed to so many amazing agricultural organizations. One of those being the NC Cattlemen's Association. They are bringing awareness to the younger generations of what they do and how it impacts agriculture. They focus on promoting the beef industry and serve as an extension for cattlemen throughout the state. In their own words, they “[assist] cattlemen in legislative, regulatory and production issues.” 

Their social media and website play a big role in their outreach. On their social media, they promote beef production and its use in our day-to-day lives. From recipes to young livestock showers they have connected with cattle, they are continuously raising awareness for this industry. Their website provides access to news and events, NC Forage and Grasslands Council, NC BQA information, basics of the industry, membership opportunities and many other resources. 

Representatives from this association regularly attend events as well as hosting their own. They host an annual NC Cattlemen’s Conference, a Young Producers Council Beef Tour with Farm Bureau, and publish The Carolina Cattle Connection. This monthly resource “serves as the official publication for the North Carolina Cattlemen's Association and South Carolina Cattlemen's Association and as an information network for cattlemen sharing the latest in technology and management.” 

Another way they are encouraging young agricultural leaders is through their NCFF Scholarship. This scholarship is made possible through donations contributed from cattle producers in North Carolina and proceeds from North Carolina Cattle Reflections, a book highlighting cattle history in the state. 

I spoke with Fincher Martin, Fincher Martin Farms LLC, Ansonville NC, to better gather how this organization directly benefits cattle producers; these were his words. "The Cattlemen's Association offers countless opportunities to improve cattle production. Each monthly county meeting focuses on some aspect of the cattle industry from calving difficulties to changes in vaccine protocol, and rules and regulations for administering medication. These county meetings also provide opportunities to network and collaborate with other cattle producers. I love that the state association conducts a lot of research that I can bring back to my farm to better my operations. Lastly, The Cattlemen's Association has countless learning opportunities not only for me but for my children as well who have a growing interest in the beef industry."

The North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association is constantly taking measures to support and engage youth in the beef industry, as well as agriculture in general. The connections they have with current and past cattlemen is what allows this association to be so successful in their networking practices. This organization continues to advocate for the beef industry directly and indirectly while providing resources necessary to further knowledge in this business.

North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association, www.nccattle.com/.