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New Missouri Cattlemen’s Association president outlines priorities for organization

The new president of the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association says the organization is working to ensure producers are well equipped to navigate the industry’s ups and downs.

Anita Vanderwert says staying informed on issues is critical for the future of the industry.  “We started councils for private property rights, like eminent domain,” she says. “We know that’s a big issue in our state, and that’s an area we’re going to focus on this coming year.”

She tells Brownfield the group has also worked with other commodity organizations in the state to address tax and credit issues. “We got rid of capital gains tax in our state,” she says.  “So if you want to transition to the next generation, you can go ahead and sell that farm while you’re still alive and not having to worry about being dead before you can start that transition process and still hold their hands and be able to help them guide the way the first few years.”

Vanderwert says it’s also important that the association remains focused on retaining interest from younger members. “We have built up so many barriers, and most of them are financial, that we can’t get young people to just jump into our industry,” she says. “Those who are there, we better be protecting them and encouraging them and empowering them to really make a difference and to join us.”

Anita and her husband raise cattle in central Missouri.  

AUDIO: Anita Vanderwert, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association