Editor’s Note: This interview was conducted May 14, 2020.

Q: What are the major issues standing in the way of fair cattle markets? 

The retail and processing sector are seeing substantial profit margins while the cow calf producers, backgrounders, and feeders are experiencing losses.  

Q: What are your thoughts on the Department of Justice investigation into meatpacker pricing? 

The cattle industry has momentum asking for this investigation to take place. As an industry, we need answers as to why cattle producers are struggling, while the processing sector is experiencing great prices. The supply chain needs increased transparency.  

Q: How do we create more competition within our cattle markets? 

In order to maintain a healthy market, our supply chain needs to work together and have the same goals. Transparency is key; we need to know how prices are determined. From the cow calf producer to the processor, our industry needs to have a fair system. 

Q: What are you hearing from your constituents? 

Stress and worry. Producers have been dealing with low prices for quite a few years now. Last year, Nebraska producers dealt with catastrophic losses because of flooding. This weather event along with tough commodity prices and now Covid-19 has caused significant stress on those folks involved with agriculture.  

Q: What do you see happening to the independent cattle producer if fair cattle markets are not achieved? 

The independent cattle producer will have a tough time continuing to operate. The more light we can shine on the lop-sided cattle markets, the better our chances will be to bring about change and correct our markets.  

Q: In one sentence, what does the cattle industry need most right now? 

The cattle industry needs certainty. 

Q: What can individuals do to help bring about changes? 

Cattle producers need to be better messengers. It is important to spread our story not only to elected officials, but also to our neighbors. There is a growing disconnect between people who live off the land and people who live in towns/cities. Now more than ever, we are seeing a substantial disconnect between rural and urban America. Cattle producers must make their voices heard so America is aware that we care for our resources. 

Q: Any closing statements? 

Producers are being hit hard by Covid-19. It is important that we solve these issues facing our cattle industry.  

Editor’s Note: This interview was conducted May 14, 2020.