Top 5 Learnings about the Beef Checkoff
I have been honored to serve as the Wisconsin Beef Council Board president for the past two years and on the board six years, representing Wisconsin’s Cattlemen’s Association and producers across the state. As I reflect on this time, I’d like to share my top five takeaways from the experience1. DEDICATION DRIVES RESULTS
The passion and commitment of staff, board members, and producers—both in Wisconsin and at the national level—are extraordinary. Their hard work to increase beef demand and share the story of beef makes a real difference. The Beef Checkoff proves its value with one of the highest returns on investment of any national checkoff program, returning $13.41 for every dollar invested. (See the study at www.beefboard.org/return-oninvestment)2. QUALITY IS KEY
The quality of the beef we raise and produce in the United States is outstanding, and it is the reason why our customers keep coming back to purchase despite higher beef prices. As long as we keep striving to improve, this will continue. Furthermore, our story resonates with our customers, so find new ways to share yours – it matters.3. EXPORTS ADD VALUE
The contribution of exports to the total value of the beef you produce is vitally important. The United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF), a Beef Checkoff contractor, has played a key role in opening and expanding markets worldwide. Thanks to increased investment by the Wisconsin legislature in agricultural exports, WBC has been able to receive grant funding to partner with USMEF on trade missions to showcase our beef products globally.4. EVERY BEEF CHECKOFF DOLLAR COUNTS
We all need to do our part to make sure our checkoff dollar is paid. Each time a bovine changes ownership (beef or dairy), one dollar should be remitted. Our staff over the past couple of years has worked hard to build awareness and reach out to producers who are not marketing through traditional channels. We have been successful in increasing the percentage of remittance compared to cattle inventory. We have a shrinking checkoff budget with lower cattle inventory. Plus, the cost of business has increased due to inflation. The WBC board and staff are working hard to make sure each dollar is judiciously spent and funding tactics that have a good return on investment to increase beef demand.
5. NEVER STOP IMPROVING
As stated previously, we produce a high-quality product, but we must continuously seek areas for improvement. We need to continue to educate ourselves on Beef Quality Assurance principles and address quality challenges. The National Beef Quality Audit has been a great tool to monitor the improvements we have made while also identifying new and old challenges to address. BQA has been a producer-led effort, and your participation has led to this success.
Thank you for all you do to produce high-quality, safe, and nutritious beef. If you have any questions about how the WBC is driving demand for your product, please contact them at wbc@ beeftips.com, or 608-833-7177.
Best regards,
Amy Radunz
2023-2025 Wisconsin Beef Council Board President.