Texans Praise Veneman’s Work on BSE Situation

Texas Cattle Feeders Association Chairman Scott Keeling and the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association President Bob McCan recently sent a letter to USDA Secretary Ann Veneman thanking her and USDA for swift and appropriate action following discovery of BSE (mad cow disease)  in a Canadian cow.  Text of the letter follows:  

“The Texas Cattle Feeders Association and the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association commend USDA for its swift and decisive actions this week after news that a cow in Alberta, Canada was diagnosed with BSE. 

“Our organizations recognize that two-way agricultural trade is an important and necessary part of our industry.  We also recognize that protecting American consumers and American cattlemen is of utmost importance.  That’s why we feel that USDA, and you in particular, were prudent and appropriate in the actions of this week.

“Certainly, closing the border to all ruminants and ruminant products from Canada was necessary and we commend USDA for acting very quickly in this regard.  Sending a team of USDA experts to assist their Canadian counterparts in the investigation not only served to protect American consumers and producers, but was a strong example of international goodwill and showed the U.S. has a compelling desire to help its neighbors and trading partners in their time of need. 

“The cattle market, both futures and live, is probably the best barometer of how the industry perceives the actions and reactions of USDA, other government agencies, and industry organizations in times of crisis.  The futures market as well as beef prices rebounded quickly this week and the economic impact to U.S. producers was minimal, thanks to the effective leadership, quick actions and excellent communications of USDA working closely with industry organizations. 

“We’re proud of you and proud of USDA.  Please know you have our full support as we continue to work on this issue.”