Fedorchak hosts roundtable with ranchers to discuss meeting increased demand

McKenzie, ND - Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) today brought together ranchers, market experts, and state ag leaders at Black Leg Ranch near McKenzie, N.D., for a roundtable discussion on meeting increased demand for American beef.

"North Dakota ranchers are problem solvers," Fedorchak said. "They're innovating every day to raise safe, high-quality beef and keep food on America's tables despite droughts, high costs, and market uncertainty. As emphasized during our discussion today, North Dakota ranchers are ready to supply Americans with quality, healthy beef for their families and just need consistent, commonsense policies that let them do what they do best."

The meeting followed concern over significant market disruptions after reports that the United States may soon import beef from Argentina to lower beef prices. Participants emphasized their desire to grow their herds to meet growing demand and the importance of stable market signals to support that long-term investment. Of particular concern is maintaining quality standards for any imported beef to ensure the food supply is safe and that domestic cattle herds are protected from any imported illnesses.

They shared ideas for increasing import inspections, enforcing quality standards, improving labeling, improving working lands programs, enhancing market stability, and promoting the health benefits of beef. The ranchers also discussed workforce shortages and the impact of the government shutdown on H1-B visas.

Last week, Fedorchak led a letterwith seven House Republicans asking President Trump for clarity on his administration's plans and urged him to give U.S. producers the first opportunity to meet increasing domestic demand. Roundtable participants agreed that the administration must continue to pursue an America-First agenda.

Participants included:

• Julie Schaff Ellingson - Beef Producer, Ellingson Angus Ranch, North Dakota Stockman's Association

• Erika Kenner - Beef Producer, Kenner Simmental Ranch, Leeds, ND

• Tim Petry - North Dakota State University

• Larry Schnell - Beef market expert, former owner, Stockman's Livestock

• Jerry Doan - Beef Producer, Black Leg Ranch, McKenzie, ND

• Jay Doan - Beef Producer, Black Leg Ranch, McKenzie, ND

• Jace Doan - Beef Producer, Black Leg Ranch, McKenzie, ND

• Kenny Graner - Beef Producer, Graner Angus Ranch, Mandan, ND, IBAND

• August Heupel - Beef Producer, Medina, ND, Vice President, IBAND

• Warren Zenker - Beef Producer, Zenker Feeders, Gackle, ND

• Dave Caroenter - Beef Producer, LaMoure, ND

• Darrell Oswald - Beef Producer and Burleigh County Soil Conservation District

• Shelly Ziesch - Beef Producer, Pettibone, ND

• Jay Reiser - Beef Producer, Washburn, ND