State-By-State
A WR….
Featuring:
Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association
By Kacy Atkinson
The Rundown
Tennessee Cattlemen’s Association
Founded in 1985 (converted from Tennessee Livestock Association which also represented pork)
7,000 total membership
Focus – Youth, Education, Advocacy/Legislation
Charles Hord, Executive Vice President
www.tncattle.org
Interview with Charles Hord
WR What’s a really great story that sticks with you?
CH A few years back we were having our annual convention in east Tennessee not far from where one of our past presidents, Dr. Dick Daugherty, lived. He had been battling cancer, and was able to make it to this one last convention. We all had a great time talking with him, and having the opportunity to visit one last time. He had as much to do with the growth and success of our organization as anyone, plus he hired me, so it’s a memory that sticks with me. He passed away shortly after the convention, so we all appreciated the chance to see him again.
WR What has been one of your greatest accomplishments?
CH A few years ago we partnered with some other industry organizations, and created the Second Harvest Initiative. During the TN Beef Expo, we take the funds we have to purchase the top steers that are shown and sold, and then donate the beef to Second Harvest, which provides food to those in need. We started with enough money to buy two, but we are now up to four. This year we donated about 3,000 pounds of beef to those who need it most. It’s built great relationships, plus the kids selling their steers know that they are helping provide food, and where it is going. It’s been a great thing for everyone involved.
WR Where is TCA headed?
CH We are becoming more urban as a state. Fewer understand agriculture; we have to find ways to connect and be able to correct misinformation and let people know what we do. In TN, 98% of our farms are family-owned, and our average herd is 26-27 head. Our producers are committed to raising cattle the right way, and take their role in providing food seriously. They don’t cut corners, and we need to do a better job telling our story and letting people know what we are doing.
WR What’s a unique opportunity TCA has?
CH Thirteen years ago as part of the tobacco settlement, TN received money to help those producers switch into new enterprises, and many chose cattle. Through the TDA, producers can be rewarded for receiving education, and get money to help on their operation. One of the major pieces of education they choose is the Beef Quality Assurance program. In fact, TN leads the nation in BQA certifications, with over 23,000 producers having gone through the program. We’re pretty proud of that.
WR What would you say to someone thinking about joining TCA?
CH We need to have a voice at the local, state and national level. We have over 40,000 producers in the state, and we’d love to reach more of them and get them involved. We have a lot of opportunities to grow and do incredible things. TCA is the voice for producers to make sure they are heard. We need their voices to know what their interests are, and we invite anyone to join us.
WR encourages beef producers to have a voice by being active and involved in an association that aligns with your needs and ideals.
