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NCBA spring membership drive off to a strong startThe 113th Congress is in session and the House and Senate are already discussing many legislative issues that directly affect cattlemen and women including the farm bill, disaster assistance programs, border security and immigration reform and environmental regulations. As the country's oldest and largest organization representing the cattle industry, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association has a strong presence in Washington, D.C., and a great opportunity to represent the forceful, unified voice of America's beef producers. According to NCBA Policy Division Chair Philip Ellis, a fifth-generation rancher from Chugwater, Wyo., NCBA is urging cattle producers to join in this fight. Ellis stated that NCBA's strong membership base ensures the voices of cattle producers are heard loud and clear. "This organization is producer-owned and member driven. It's important that the policy priorities set by NCBA are geared toward sustaining this industry for future generations," said Ellis. "Having our voices heard in Washington, D.C., on important issues such as border security and immigration, along with Clean Water Act legislation and the farm bill is crucial to the success of our industry." Ellis went on to add that now more than ever, the livestock industry is under fire from groups such as radical animal rights activists who are working to undermine advances in animal agriculture as they push their extremist agendas. He stated that even though NCBA already has a strong membership base and many legislative and regulatory victories under its belt, the organization can become even stronger by increasing its membership. "NCBA achieves amazing success when we come together as a collective voice for our members and as an association representing thousands of cattlemen and women," said Ellis. "I encourage participation of family farmers and ranchers in this process, both at the grassroots level and through affiliation with our organization in order to defend our industry against government regulations and policies which negatively affect producers and our nation's agricultural economy." In an effort to foster productive relationships and further the priorities and goals of the cattle industry, NCBA is also partnering with its state affiliates to increase membership within state organizations at the grassroots level. During this membership drive, NCBA is partnering with New Holland to reward states for their membership efforts. The state with the most new NCBA members before Mar. 31 will receive a one year lease on a New Holland baler or tractor. State affiliates that show an increase of NCBA membership by 15 percent or more will also be entered to win two additional one year leases. Winners will be announced at the 2013 NCBA Legislative Conference, Apr. 16 to 18 in Washington, D.C. For complete information on the campaign, member dues/benefits and recruitment incentives, visit www.beefusa.org or call 1-866-BEEF-USA. Date: 2/25/2013
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