Cattle Producers Invited To USDA-AMS Listening Sessions On Cattle Contracts Library Pilot Program

Jun 05, 2023

It’s been a few months since the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service began the Cattle Contracts Library pilot program, and the agency is looking for feedback. Beef feedlot producers are invited to attend a listening session either in person or virtually.

The Cattle Contracts Library is a pilot program designed to increase market transparency for cattle producers. During each listening session, AMS will present an overview of the current pilot followed by an opportunity for participants to share their feedback on the usage and value of the Cattle Contracts Library.

The two closest locations for Iowa producers are June 14 at the Iowa State University ISU Wallace Foundation Learning and Outreach Center located at 53020 Hitchcock Avenue, Lewis, and June 16 at the USDA Cattle & Carcass Training Center located on the campus of University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Loeffel Meat Science Laboratory, in Lincoln, Neb.

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Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.