Iowa Cattle convention set for Dec. 12

AMES — The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association, the leading grassroots organization supporting Iowa’s beef cattle industry, invites cattle producers and industry supporters to attend the 2024 Iowa Cattle Industry Convention held Dec. 12 and 13 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames.

The Iowa Cattle Industry Convention is an opportunity for people starting out and for people with years of experience to network and learn from others within the industry.

This is also where a significant part of ICA’s policy development process happens. ICA members can voice their perspectives and help develop the association’s policy priorities for the year ahead.

Trey Wasserburger, of TD Angus at Rishel Ranch, will be the keynote presenter. Wasserburger will share his motivational story of creating a sustainable beef brand and packing plant in his session ‘Conception to Consumer.’

Wasserburger describes his presentation as the story of producers coming together for the common good of the community and cattle industry.

Breakout session topics will include such topics as current cattle research, the future of beef exports after the recent election, feedlot prosperity in 2025 and building a brand.

ICA has worked in a variety of networking opportunities. Guests will not want to miss out on the beef pairing experience, industry social and entertainment from the Red Dirt Renegade band.

Trade show exhibit space sold out; more than 30 industry partners will be on site to share their products and services.

The Iowa Cattle Industry Convention is the culmination of ICA’s formal policy development. Producer members are encouraged to participate and provide input in the policy committee meetings which will review expiring resolutions and directives and provide time to introduce new policy priority suggestions.

Voting and ratification will conclude this process during the ICA annual meeting Dec. 13.

“I want to encourage all members and those considering membership with the Iowa Cattlemen’s Association to attend this year’s Iowa Cattle Industry Convention to get a firsthand look at the value of our association,” said Bryan Whaley, chief executive officer.

“We know this is a busy time of year, but your investment of time at the Convention will be well spent for you and your operation.

“Not only does this event provide educational sessions that offer something for everyone, but the industry connections are key. I also can’t emphasize enough the importance of members being involved in ICA’s policy development process at the Convention. Input drives legislative wins such as passing the Meat Integrity Bill or reinstating the capital gains deduction that the association accomplished last year,” said Whaley.

“Your participation helps shape the industry’s future.”

Registration and additional event details can be found at iacattlemen.org/events-meetings/iowa-cattle-industry-convention.