Beef production at center stage during Colorado Beef Council industry farm tour
Of the 18 attendees in a recent industry farm tour hosted by the Colorado Beef Council, nearly all of them had never stepped foot on a farm or ranch. Those who responded to the post-tour survey, 100% said their perception of the beef industry had changed positively because of the tour.
Colorado School Nutrition Association members were hosted recently by the Colorado Beef Council for an industry farm tour where they were able to talk to industry leaders and see the lifecycle of the beef cattle firsthand. The event was a precursor to the CBC’s annual convention.
“It was amazing to see the care and thought that goes into raising the animals,” an attendee from a local school district said in a news release. “It is clear that the farmers and ranchers put a lot of thought into what they are doing.”
Attendees were able to view the beef production process starting with the cow-calf stage and follow it through the feedyard segment. Stops on the tour included the Walter Angus Ranch and the Five Rivers-Kuner Feedyard. Throughout the tour, participants had the chance to speak with cattle producers, ask questions, and learn about the use of science behind breeding, animal care and nutrition.
At the Walter Angus Ranch, attendees were able to ask questions and learn about planning and dedication that goes into daily ranch activities. This portion of the tour highlighted the care and effort involved in the early stages of beef production.
Attendees were able to gain insights into animal nutrition at the Five Rivers Kuner Feedyard, where they examined various types of feed and learned about the scientific principles guiding each stage of the feeding cycle. Advance methods of care were described and how they ensure the health and well-being of the cattle.
CBC said the tours have been particularly effective in fostering interest among participants in connecting with local beef farmers and ranchers in their areas.
This was the first time CBC has partnered with the CSNA for an industry farm tour and the opportunity came to fruition at a past farm tour when members of CSNA were able to attend one of CBC’s farm tours and found immense value in the information it could provide for school nutrition programs.
CBC looks forward to its continued partnership and support of CSNA. The hope of the farm tours is to bridge the gap between consumers and beef producers. According to the news release, CBC allows health professionals and consumers to gain direct knowledge about beef production, as well as the families and communities involved. This exposure aims to build a deeper understanding and appreciation of the beef industry, ultimately leading to more informed and positive perceptions among consumers. Initiatives such as the farm tour help bring a true understanding to the consumer of the beef industry and in turn develop their trust and confidence in the products that they bring to their tables.
For more information about the Colorado Beef Council visit www.cobeef.com.
Kylene Scott can be reached at 620-227-1804 or [email protected].
