AN OPPORTUNITY IS A TERRIBLE THING TO WASTE
Beef producers in both Tennessee and Kentucky have many more opportunities to achieve higher profits in their cattle enterprises than just a few years ago. The cost share dollars for genetics, han- dling equipment, feeding equipment, feed storage structures and other bottom line improving programs are options for cattlemen to improve their lot. Many thanks should be given to the Commissioners of Agriculture in both states, both past and present, for making such programs come to fruition. Praise should be given to them and their staff for working with their governors and legislative bodies to make these programs a reality. We hope that Commissioners of Agriculture in the future work as hard as past and present Commissioners of Agriculture to maintain and/or start such programs.
Many farm organizations worked very hard to see these ideas of im- provement programs for cattle producers come to fruition. Among the groups on the front line of bending ears, explaining need and forecasting the improvement in the economy to the powers that be were the Cattlemen’s Associations of both states. Without these two associations we would not have these opportunities. Less than two percent of our population is involved in production agriculture. We must join together to explain our business needs to our urban brethren. After all, they pass the laws, interpret the regulations and control the purse strings of our government. The Cattlemen’s Association in your state, no matter where you live, needs your insight, wisdom, input and membership if they are to continue to be a valid voice for cattle producers.
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