Missouri Cattlemen’s Association 2014 President Jim McCann was recently honored with the Peter Myers Distinguished Service Award. Current MCA President Greg Buckman said the recognition is one of the highest honors for Missouri civic duty and service to the agricultural industry. Buckman said McCann is very deserving.
“McCann has consistently and constantly given of his time to advance Missouri agriculture,” said Buckman. “He is the first to volunteer and is most passionate about the next generation.”
McCann was born into a farming and ranching family in central Texas and has always been interested and informed about issues affecting the beef industry. While other pursuits led him away from ranching, opportunities in Missouri led him back to full-time ranching several years ago.
McCann and his family run a diversified cattle farm near Miller, Missouri, which is primarily a stocker and cow calf enterprise. McCann is active in both MCA and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
Since the award was first conceptualized by the Missouri Agribusiness Association, Senator Brian Munzlinger, R-18, has presented the award to the recipients each year at the MO-AG banquet. In a surprise twist, Sen. Munzlinger also received the award alongside McCann and other industry leaders.
The banquet is held in conjunction with the Missouri 4-H Legislative Academy. McCann said that made the award all the more appreciated.
“To see youth at the banquet made this award even more special to me,” said McCann. “The next generation is truly my focus. If we are serious about advancing Missouri agriculture, we must empower and engage the youth in this industry. They are the future.”
