By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) recently held its Annual Meeting and Awards Banquet, highlighting industry achievements and recognizing dedicated leaders. The event celebrated strong beef demand, innovation, and leadership in the sector.
Garrett Stanfield, a third-generation Simmental seedstock producer, was honored as the Young Cattleman of the Year. His family, raising Simmental cattle since 1974, has embraced advanced reproductive technologies like artificial insemination, embryo transfer, and in vitro fertilization. These innovations help improve herd genetics and efficiency. Stanfield also mentors young farmers through the Ohio Junior Simmental Association, fostering future industry leaders.
“The demand for beef is still there. The domestic market is just crazy. We went out to eat at a nice steakhouse in Columbus and it was just amazing the number of people that were there enjoying nice cuts of meat. There were maybe 15 items on the menu and 12 of them were cuts of beef, and they were very reasonably priced too for the quality of the steakhouse,” said OCA President Mark Goecke.
Colin Woodall, CEO of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), discussed federal policies impacting cattle producers. He welcomed the withdrawal of a USDA rule that would have disrupted cattle marketing strategies. “This was attack on alternative marketing arrangements, something that we have used to improve ourselves to be able to get paid for the quality of cattle and beef that we’re producing,” Woodall said. “Looking forward, I see a lot of opportunities right now. When you look at demand, when you look at where the market is right now and the overall quality of the product that we’re putting on the table, it’s a good time to be in the cattle business,” said Woodall.
The event also launched the Ohio Beef Youth Council (OBYC), a program dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation of beef industry leaders. The initiative, supported by the Beef Checkoff and OCA, aims to equip young professionals with essential skills.
The Ohio Cattlemen’s Foundation (OCF) awarded scholarships to students pursuing careers in agriculture and recognized outstanding contributors in the industry. Honorees included Wood County Beef Producers, Twin Oak Farms, and Ferguson Cattle Company.
With strong leadership, technological advancements, and continued advocacy, the future of Ohio’s beef industry remains bright.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-pamwalker68
Categories: Ohio, Livestock, Beef Cattle