WCA Has Concerns Regarding Producer/Packer Debate

The Washington Cattlemen's Association has concerns about the federal government getting involved in issues between beef producers and meat packers. The WCA’s Mark Streuli said government intervention to try and make things more equitable between producers and packers is a delicate issue.

"This is definitely a hot topic in our industry and an important topic in our association," said Streuli. "So, we're watching what's going on with that, at least what's going on with that in D.C. with a close eye."

There's also concern about the cost of running a cattle operation among the Association's members, especially with inflation at historic levels.

"The cost of diesel at five dollars a gallon and more just for starters," he added. "And the list goes on. All inputs are going up."

According to Streuli, there's concern over how outside factors, particularly federal policy, are squeezing the industry.

"We are increasingly under attack from regulations that don't seem to necessarily understand how food production works, how beef production works," said Streuli. “And when you add that into a rough economy, we're concerned."

Streuli points out that conditions in the industry just highlight the need for the state Cattleman's Association.

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