Farm Organizations Create State Animal Care Coalition
Missouri Farm Bureau and many of the state’s other major agricultural organizations have joined together to form a new coalition called Missourians for Animal Care.
Identified activities for the new coalition are broad and intended to help the agricultural organizations to work together to protect and strengthen animal agriculture in Missouri. As stated in the articles of incorporation, plans for specific activities are still being developed. However, likely activities include: (1) developing a coalition strategy; (2) initiating a public affairs strategy; (3) coordinating actions of member organizations/strengthening coalition; (4) working with regulatory and elected officials; and (5) participating in the federal regulatory process.
The coalition is consensus-based, thereby allowing the member agricultural organizations to maintain the integrity of the policy positions adopted by their respective boards and memberships. Educational efforts will be funded by contributions, rather than membership dues. The new coalition was formed in St. Louis on Jan. 7 with the adoption of bylaws and articles of incorporation. Don Nikodim, executive director of the Missouri Pork Association, is chairman of the coalition. Jeff Windett, executive vice-president of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, is vice-chairman. Secretary is Ashley McCarty, director of public policy for the Missouri Corn Growers Association, and treasurer is Dale Ludwig, executive director of the Missouri Soybean Association.
Missouri Farm Bureau recently hosted a planning meeting of the coalition, with more than 30 people representing Missouri organizations such as The Poultry Federation, the Soybean Association, Corn Growers Association, Cattlemen’s Association, Pork Association, Dairy Association, Veterinary Medical Association, University of Missouri, Beef Industry Council, Equine Council, MFA, Egg Council, Missouri Federation of Animal Owners, Missouri Pet Breeders Association, Professional Pet Association, and others.
Among the issues discussed was the threat to animal agriculture by extremist organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States. Also discussed was the misleading advertising campaign of HSUS and how the organization uses most of its membership dues for lobbying and fundraising, rather than actual care of animals. The group also addressed the dog breeder initiative petition being circulated by HSUS. Charlie Kruse, president of Missouri Farm Bureau, said of the new coalition: “It is important that many Missouri agricultural organizations are working together to address these threats to animal agriculture. Missouri farmers and ranchers care about their animals, and we look forward to sharing our story with consumers.”
Published:
Wednesday, February 3, 2010