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Golden opportunityR-CALF USA is in the midst of implosion. The organization was started by a group of cattlemen that were disgruntled with the type of representation they were getting from the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. R-CALF has always relied more on legal means to get their point across than discussion, suing the U.S. government many times. But as they lost their case concerning the importation of Canadian cattle, it appears that many in the group realized that they would have to expand their methods in order to affect change. The group hired a Washington lobbyist and began working in other ways to try to get their mission accomplished. The problem was, that didn't sit well with a few members and R-CALF CEO Bill Bullard. An overthrow began. A few members of the board successfully removed their more moderate president Chuck Kiker and replaced him with Dr. Max Thornsberry. What happened next was a rash of resignations from the board as well as long-time committee leaders. No one can blame those who are disgruntled with an organization that has, by all practical purposes, been hijacked. But their solution isn't much better. It now appears that those that have defected from R-CALF intend to start a new organization, the United States Cattlemen's Association. In a time when agriculture is already a rapidly shrinking segment of a legislator's constituency, having three groups, all with a different agenda simply dilutes the overall message of livestock producers. Cattlemen now have a golden opportunity to do something radically against their nature--work together. Yes, cattlemen will disagree. But isn't it better to hash those things out amongst ourselves instead of in public? It can be done. The National cotton Council is an excellent example. It combines producers, ginners, warehousers, merchants, cotton seed merchants, cooperatives and manufacturers. Yes, at times they have issues that are at odds with each other, but no one segment carries more weight than another. Their struggles are handled within their organization. In the end, they realize for the cotton industry to be successful in the United States, they must present a unified voice. Do you think it is any coincidence that cotton continually fares well at farm bill time? The R-CALF organization appears to be on its way out due to financial and leadership struggles. But instead of forming a third organization, those that are upset with what has happened with R-CALF should learn from the past. And by the same token, it is time for NCBA to offer an olive branch to the former leaders of R-CALF. These are passionate, charismatic leaders that can influence the industry. NCBA by now should understand why R-CALF was formed in the first place. Those producers didn't feel like their voice was being heard. And the former R-CALF leaders by now have realized that suing people doesn't get you very far. Why not form an all-inclusive organization that works together? The result would be a dynamic organization that can carry the beef industry far into the future. It is a rare opportunity indeed. All involved need to swallow their pride and get on with what is most important--ensuring a solid future for U.S. cattlemen. Holly Martin can be reached by phone at 620-227-1806, or by e-mail at hmartin@hpj.com. B 4 3/19/07 4 Star NE Date: 3/21/07
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