By Scout Nelson
R-CALF USA, a national nonprofit organization, has effectively utilized rollover auctions held at livestock sale barns across the Midwest to fund its advocacy efforts. Over the past year, these auctions have raised more than $111,000. The funds are crucial for ensuring competitive markets and restoring fair trade for cattle and sheep producers in America.
These funds are crucial for advocating fair trade and restoring equitable market conditions under the 100-year-old Packers and Stockyards Act.
The fundraising kicked off at Platte Livestock Market in South Dakota with a yearling steer, raising almost $14,400. The momentum continued with auctions in Wyoming and Nebraska, with each event contributing thousands of dollars thanks to community support and generous donations from local ranchers.
For instance, a bred heifer auctioned at Tri-County Stockyards in Minnesota raised about $5,000.
Highlighting the importance of these events, Brett Kenzy, President of R-CALF USA, emphasized the need for mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) for beef to level the playing field on a global scale. These funds also support the organization’s efforts to finalize essential rules under the Packers and Stockyards Act, protecting producers from market abuses by large meatpackers.
The season concluded with a remarkable auction at Fort Pierre Livestock Auction in South Dakota, where over $36,600 was raised from a single calf donation.
This series of auctions not only underscores the community's commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture but also reinforces the necessity for a unified voice in policy decisions affecting the industry.
For those interested in participating in the upcoming 2024-25 calf sale fundraisers, they are encouraged to reach out to R-CALF USA to contribute to a cause that directly supports the future of America’s farming and ranching families.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: South Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Goats & Sheep