Special to the Times Vedette
The Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (ICA) invites cattle producers and industry supporters to attend the 2024 Iowa Cattle Industry Convention held Dec. 12-13 at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames.
The Iowa Cattle Industry Convention is an opportunity for those just getting their start or those 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 story of creating a sustainable beef brand and packing plant in his session, “Conception to Consumer.”
A series of breakout session topics and speakers will address topics including current cattle research, the future of beef exports after the recent election, feedlot prosperity in 2025, and building a brand.
The convention will also include a variety of networking opportunities including a beef pairing experience, industry social, and entertainment from the Red Dirt Renegade band. More than 30 industry partners will be on site to share their products and services.
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 on December 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,” Bryan Whaley, ICA CEO, said. “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. Your participation helps shape the industry’s future.”
Registration and additional event details can be found at https://www.iacattlemen.org/events-meetings/iowa-cattle-industry-convention.