Arkansas Farming Associations – Livestock

As the leading producer of rice in the U.S., agriculture is the top industry in Arkansas. More specifically, Arkansas has a significant livestock industry, with:

• Broilers comprising over 2 billion dollars of annual revenue
• Beef cattle farms make up over half of all farming operations within the state, and
• Turkey production provides over 800 million dollars annually.

Fundamentally, livestock is a major contributor to the state’s economy.

Many farmers face the same challenges regardless of crop or livestock focus. Concerns about productivity, legislative changes, tax issues, and operations, often make the top of the list. While advisors like Adams Brown, Strategic Allies, and CPAs, can help navigate tax, accounting and other financial challenges, it is important to be aware of the various industry associations and groups that provide other essential types of support.

Arkansas Livestock Associations

Below is a summary of top Arkansas livestock associations, including:

• Arkansas Beef Council works to promote the brand of cattle herding via the $1 per head checkoff it receives. Marketing and public relations are key focus of the organization. Ensuring the public is aware of the brand and the benefits of eating beef are central components of its mission. The Council offers a Beef in the Classroom Grant Program designed to provide financial support to education courses using beef in the classroom. There is also a Cattlemen’s Corner which provides specific details on the Beef Check Off Program and compliance requirements. Finally, there is a resource center for both retailers and consumers as well.
• Arkansas Cattle Auction is every Tuesday at 11 a.m. in Searcy, Arkansas. There is an information-rich weekly market report which provides recipients with access to a wealth of information including cattle market reports and livestock industry news. There is also a partnership with the Arkansas Beef Project, which provides protein to senior citizens and others in need of food.
• Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association has four key aspects to what it provides: legislative representation, advocacy, educational programs and the development of future generations. Associates of this organization receive multiple discounts on various products/services including access to key insurance coverage. Members can also participate in programs such as receiving monthly goodies and monetary bonuses based on the recruitment. The Association also offers an Arkansas Cattlemen’s Leadership Course which provides important training on various segments of the beef industry.
• Arkansas Junior Cattlemen’s Association furthers the interests of training the next generation and fosters youth interested or involved in cattle. Several applicants are eligible for a scholarship between the amounts of $500 and $1,000 along with various awards. The Association also offers the title of AJCA Princess and Miss ACJA which provides the opportunity for girls ages 9-21 years old to participate. Selected winners will be called upon to represent the livestock industry at various public events including store openings and field days.
• The Poultry Federation acts as a voice for the poultry and egg industries. Events include an annual food safety conference and poultry festival, the latter of which involves tournaments and an auction that funds scholarships for agricultural studies. There are also programs to help members implement biosecurity designed to better manage and prevent disease outbreaks. Members receive a plethora of insurance covering vision, dental, life insurance and coverage for accidents.

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If you have a question about these organizations or need assistance with a tax, accounting, farm management, or financial challenge, Adams Brown can help.