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Protecting animal health a priority for cattle producers

The president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says producers have outlined their priorities for the farm bill — and protecting animal health is at the top of the list.

Todd Wilkinson a cow/calf operator from South Dakota says the livestock industry needs the vaccine bank reauthorized.  “In 2018 we got the vaccine bank authorized for a five-year period,” he says.  “I think it looks reasonably optimistic we’re going to get it right again.”

He tells Brownfield response measures are also important.  “The rollout of the disaster planning that goes into this process,” he says.  “All of the state and federal government entities in case of an outbreak of a disease.”

Wilkinson says while the beef industry is fairly confident its priorities will be included in the 2023 Farm Bill, there are uncertainties that remain.   “I don’t know if we’re going to know the answer until it comes down to the last day and the bill is signed,” he says.  

AUDIO: Todd Wilkinson, NCBA

Photo courtesy NCBA