KCA Members Meet in McPherson

Members of the Kansas Cattlemen’s Association (KCA) met at the historic McPherson Opera House in McPherson, Kansas for presentations and industry discussions the evening of July 9, 2015. The free event was hosted in part by McPherson County Feeders, was open to the public, and it included a free USA Beef BBQ dinner courtesy of Zoetis & First Bank Kansas.

The evening included presentations by Dr. Mike Wells of Zoetis and Mark Kinoff of Ceres Hedge. The meeting wrapped up with a discussion of industry issues and door prizes provided by area sponsors were given away to those that attended.

“Small regional events like these allow ranchers to come together, discuss herd and industry issues, find possible animal health and financial solutions, and enjoy the company of other ranchers from all across the state. They are considered regional, but when we bring speakers in from Chicago, we see members and the public come from as far as 200 miles away.” stated Tyler Dupy, KCA Executive Director.

Dr. Mike Wells provided a presentation on proper vaccine strategies, discussing the importance of ensuring modified live vaccine survival prior to vaccination. Techniques include not mixing vials, maintaining proper storage temperatures, and proper cleaning of syringes and needles. Herd deworming was also discussed as an integral part of herd maintenance. Mark Kinoff of Ceres Hedge discussed hedging strategies to minimize risk. Ceres Hedge specializes in commercial grain and livestock producers to optimize hedging strategies, understanding market dynamics and analysis.

Proud sponsors of the meeting included prime sponsors Zoetis and First Bank Kansas. Other sponsors included Countryside Feed, Central Livestock, Ehling Custom Mills, Mid Kansas Coop, Zeitlow Distributing, McPherson County Feeders, Don’s Tire, A5 Western, Cargill, Holm Auto, Triple C, Inc., First Choice Meats, Orscheln Farm & Home, The Stone Chimney, Herington Livestock Commission, and Animal Health International.