CONTACT:        Tanya Augustson                       (202) 347-0228       taugustson@beef.org

                        Karen Batra                               (202) 347-0228       kbatra@beef.org

Reminder: 2006 ESAP Nominations Due March 16

Washington, D.C. (March 2, 2006) – The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is still accepting applications for the 16th annual Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP). Any group or organization is eligible to nominate one individual/business who raises or feeds cattle. The deadline for nominations is March 16.

Sponsored by NCBA, Dow AgroSciences and the USDA - Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), ESAP annually recognizes seven regional winners who exhibit outstanding commitment to protecting the environment and improving fish and wildlife habitats, while operating profitable cattle operations.  Nominations are accepted for seven regional awards, and these seven winners compete for the national ESAP award. The most recent national winner, Lightsey Cattle Company of Lake Wales, Fla., was announced at last month’s Cattle Industry Annual Convention in Denver. Lightsey Cattle Company was nominated for the award by the Florida Cattlemen’s Association.

The ESAP nomination application is now available for download online at http://hill.beef.org/esap, or you may request a copy of the application from NCBA by calling Stacey Katseanes at 202-347-0228.

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The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) is the largest organization representing America's cattle industry. Initiated in 1898, NCBA is the industry leader in education, influencing public policy to improve producer profitability and in preserving the industry's heritage and future. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.