Source: National Cattlemen’s Association news release
WASHINGTON – Today, Hawaii Cattlemen’s Council (HCC) Managing Director Nicole Galase testified before the U.S. House Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Research, and Biotechnology at a hearing on conservation and agricultural production. The HCC represents 135 Hawaiian ranchers who steward 750,000 acres of Hawaii, or nearly 20% of the state’s total land mass. As a state affiliate of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), HCC works with NCBA to ensure that cattle producers’ interests are represented at both the state and national levels.
“When you think of Hawaii, you might picture lush greenery, beautiful forests, and mountains. Today, three-quarters of a million acres of these beautiful spaces are stewarded by Hawaii’s dedicated cattle ranchers–actively managing the land while producing food,” said Galase. “The cattle industry across the country is under threat from urban encroachment and the loss of farmland, but that issue is especially felt in Hawaii. Our cattle producers rely on conservation programs to protect pastureland while also staying profitable, resulting in benefits for both agricultural communities and the federal government.”
Cattle producers are stewards of the land and both NCBA and HCC have advocated for voluntary conservation programs that recognize the good work already happening on farms and ranches. The 2018 Farm Bill helped more cattle producers access tools like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP). As Congress continues working on a new Farm Bill, it is critical that policymakers build upon these successful voluntary conservation programs and expand flexibility.
“Whether it’s more resources for USDA-NRCS staff to work with producers, flexible guidelines on conservation programs, or allowing more CRP grazing to manage land, improvements to the 2018 Farm Bill’s conservation title will have substantial benefits for cattle producers and the conservation work they do on a daily basis,” said NCBA Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “NCBA will continue sharing this message with Congress and reminding legislators that cattle producers are America’s original conservationists.”
About NCBA
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has represented America’s cattle producers since 1898, preserving the heritage and strength of the industry through education and public policy. As the largest association of cattle producers, NCBA works to create new markets and increase demand for beef. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or [email protected].
