Montana Cattlemen's Association

Press Release

Release Date:      January 16, 2009

MONTANA BEEF COUNCIL WANTS PRODUCER MONEY BUT NOT THEIR PARTICIPATION

On Monday, January 12, the Montana Beef Board suspended Montana Cattlemen's Association from further participation and representation.  The action was erroneously taken, taken without notice, and deprives a large portion of Montana cattle producers who pay checkoff dollars a voice in how their dollars are being spent.

Montana Cattlemen's Association represents a large number of cattle producers.  All documentation has been provided to the Beef Board to verify these facts.  However, the views on various issues put forth by MCA are different than those of some members of the Beef Council Board as well as its Executive Director.  For example, MCA is calling for more transparency, producer input, and using a portion of checkoff fees to promote USA Beef.  MCA further objects to funds being delivered to NCBA and believes a periodic producer vote should be taken to assure that the Checkoff is responsive to producer interests.

We believe the action by the Beef Board is in violation of their own rules and the spirit of the checkoff legislation.  Litigation is being considered by the MCA board.   President Brett DeBruycker stated, "We invite your opinion and input.  Either email mca@montanacattlemen.org or call 406-259-5433."

Vice-President Kim Baker said, "The actions of the Montana Beef Council are insulting to the cattle producers we represent who pay checkoff dollars and yet are not being allowed representation."