San Lucas, Calif.  (April 23, 2007) Last week, the Cattle Producers of Washington (CPOW) voted to affiliate with the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association (USCA).

“USCA is pleased that cattle producers in Washington State have joined the effort to give the cattle industry a strong voice in our nation’s capital,” said USCA President Jon Wooster, San Lucas, Calif.  “The members of CPOW are some of the most dedicated cattlemen that I have ever known.  They will be an asset to USCA’s efforts to represent independent cattlemen on the issues and policies that directly affect our industry.”

Founded in 2003, CPOW is an organization of 400 independent live cattle producers and industry representatives who pride themselves on providing consumers with beef  from cattle “bred, born and raised in Washington State.”  The organization also has an active political arm that is respected by elected officials in both their state capital and the nation’s capital.  And according to CPOW Immediate Past President Lee Engelhardt, joining USCA will provide them with more opportunities to be involved in the policy making process.

"USCA was formed with the specific intent of providing the cattle industry with representation in Washington, DC to press forward on issues that impact producers,” said Engelhardt.  “Debate is underway in Washington, D.C. regarding implementation of mandatory country of origin labeling, animal identification, beef checkoff reform, international trade and competition issues.  Cattle producers must be engaged in the process if we are to shape policy that will result in lasting and meaningful change."   

“With our interim board of directors appointed and our Washington, D.C. representation in place, USCA is now moving forward to adopt policy on key issues,” said Wooster. “We are preparing to represent the concerns of cattlemen during discussion on the new Farm Bill and every time we add a new affiliate we gain insight, experience and another set of hands to lighten the work.”

"CPOW is pleased that a team has been assembled in Washington, D.C. to represent the interests of cattle producers," said Engelhardt. "Now, more than ever, the cattle industry has significant opportunities on Capitol Hill and within the Administration to shape policy critical to our economic viability. Cattle producers in Washington State are proud to affiliate with USCA as it moves forward representing the interests of producers."

Established in March 2007, USCA is committed to assembling a team to concentrate efforts in Washington D.C. to enhance and expand the cattle industry's voice on Capitol Hill. For membership forms and other information visit www.uscattlemen.org.