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is getting towards County Fair time and I know that many of you
breeders do exhibit at many fairs. What a wonderful opportunity
to come in contact with the public. Keep in mind that not only
are we presenting our animals, groomed, clean and most times
gentle, but it is a learning experience for many fair visitors.
I would hazard a guess that many of those visitors leave the
livestock barns with a great deal more knowledge about livestock
than they had before they came. We, as exhibitors, have the
responsibility to inform these patrons of all aspects of raising
and caring for beef animals. Make sure that you are up to date
on information regarding agriculture practices and Prime natural
beef, including grass fed animals as well. They need to know
and understand about safety procedures that are taken to insure
quality beef. Try to have an open mind as to the needs of the
public and their concerns about the beef they are consuming.
Most of these people are interested in food safety, drug free
and good quality of the animals they purchase. We can readily
supply this information and relay a positive message about
agriculture practices. Keep in mind that these people have been
educated by the negative organizations out there and their
knowledge is exactly the opposite of what we take for granted.
With just a sincere and knowledgeable conversation, we can
change their perception of the bad to the good. The more
information that we can provide about good nutritious beef, the
better for our industry and for us.
Many of us use this opportunity,
while exhibiting, to enhance our own operations. I am sure most
of you have found new customers for your businesses. I have
started many families, with youngsters wanting to raise a steer
or enter 4-H groups, towards purchasing a good tame animal. It
is very rewarding to watch them grow into dedicated Angus
enthusiasts. The 4-H and FFA groups that exhibit are a great way
to bring knowledge to Fair goers, that are also consumers of our
products. Schedule a meeting with these groups and supply some
accurate information on new techniques and management practices.
These groups can be very good ambassadors.
On the lighter side, we have all
had the privilege of answering those ridiculous questions about
the animals being exhibited. I suggest that we turn these
questions into a learning session and get your message out
there. What better place than the County Fair!
Good Luck and Enjoy Your Summer.
Julie Edmondson
WSAA Director
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