February Roundup: National Conversations, Youth Leadership & Industry Education

February was a busy month for the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association, with staff and leaders representing Arkansas producers on the national stage, supporting youth development, and continuing leadership training programs for the next generation of industry leaders. Here’s a look back at what happened across the association this month.

ACA Represents Arkansas at NCBA CattleCon

In early February, ACA staff and leadership traveled to Nashville, Tennessee to attend the NCBA CattleCon — one of the largest gatherings of cattle producers and industry leaders in the country.

During the convention, Arkansas leaders participated in national policy discussions, industry meetings, and educational sessions focused on the future of beef production. Events like CattleCon provide an important opportunity for Arkansas cattlemen to stay informed on national issues impacting the industry while connecting with producers and partners from across the country.

These conversations help ensure Arkansas producers have a voice in shaping policies and priorities that affect the cattle business nationwide.

Cattlemen's Choice Pen Heifer Show

ACA was proud to host the Pen Heifer Show during the Arkansas Beef Leadership Event in Texarkana.

This event brings together youth exhibitors from across the state, providing an opportunity to showcase high-quality cattle while developing leadership, livestock evaluation, and prese

ntation skills. The pen heifer show continues to grow each year, highlighting the dedication and hard work of Arkansas youth who represent the future of the cattle industry.

Events like the Arkansas Beef Leadership Event play a vital role in encouraging young producers and strengthening the connection between today’s cattle industry and tomorrow’s leaders.

Congratulations to our winners!

Overall Pens:

• Overall Champion Pen - Roanne Harper

• Reserve Overall Pen - Luke Scott

• 3rd Overall Pen - Jamey Martin

• 4th Overall Pen - Tinley Davidson

• 5th Overall Pen - Drake Davidson

  
  

  American Influenced Pens:

• Champion - Huck Plyler

• Reserve Champion - Levi Askew

• 3rd Place - Reed Webb

  
  

English/Exotic Influences Pens:

• Champion - Roanee Harper

• Reserve Champion - Luke Scott

• 3rd Place - Jamey Martin

• 4th Place - Tinley Davidson

• 5th Place - Drake Davidson

Arkansas Cattlemen's Leadership Course Session 1

February also marked the first session of the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Leadership Course (ACLC) for the new class.

These producers from across the state had the opportunity to learn about the Arkansas Cattlemen’s Association and our policy efforts and see the state legislature in action.

The group heard about the ACA's structure, organization, and policy work from ACA President Don Hubbell, Secretary/Treasurer Marcus Creasy, and Executive Vice President Michelle Bufkin Horton. They also learned about the history of ACA and the rules of life from Jim Baker.

On the second day, the group went to the State Capitol, where they toured the Capitol, went to the Senate floor, and met with Arkansas Secretary of State Cole Jester to talk about the history of the capitol and what issues cattle producers are facing.

Thank you to our speakers, hosts, and sponsors for making this session a success!

Class Participants:

• Alan Spraggins

• Amy Lassetter

• Brian Cockrell

• Buddy Hinson

• Casey Simpson

• Clint Young

• Don Clark

• Donald Garringer

• Holley Sheals

• Jason McAnulty

• Justin Gossett

• Luke Holman

• Opie Walter

• Robert McDonald

• Schyler Marley

• Amy Graves

• Shanna Armstrong

• Steve Daniel

• Tiffany Herman

• Zeb Garner

• Dylan McDaniel

Area Conference Preparations

March kicks off our Area Conferences! We're excited to see our members in their areas and provide a free steak dinner to y'all. The events this year are sponsored by Watkins Cattle Company.

RSVPs are currently open for certain conferences, view the full list on our website.

Doors open at 5:00 pm each night, so come visit with our vendors, eat a steak and listen to our producer panel, receive an ACA legislative update, and more!

Looking Ahead

As we move into March, ACA remains focused on strengthening producer education, leadership development, and industry representation. From supporting youth programs to engaging in national conversations, the association continues working to ensure Arkansas cattle producers have a strong voice and a bright future.

As always, thank you for your membership and commitment to Arkansas cattle. Thank you for being part of our mission.