Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts recently designated March 20 as “Meat on the Menu Day" in the state — to point out the importance of the livestock and meat production industry in Nebraska and to support farmers and ranchers.

Nebraska Farmer reached out to a few of Nebraska’s livestock and poultry industry leaders to get their ideas about how they believe Nebraskans could celebrate.

Elysabeth Kierl

“My hope is that Nebraskans express their appreciation for the livestock industry by visiting their local meat counter and purchasing their favorite cuts, whether beef, pork, lamb or chicken,” says Elysabeth Kierl, manager, Sandhills Cattle Association. “I hope that we purchase enough meat on March 20 to show the rest of the world how much we value our livestock producers in our state.”

With about 6.85 million head of cows and calves in Nebraska, they vastly outnumber the estimated 1.93 million people, Kierl explains. “The largest sector of the largest economic industry in Nebraska directly affects at least 1 out of every 4 people, without even factoring in the indirect impacts like clothing retailers, grocery stores, and similar vendors and services,” she says.

“It doesn't take long in a conversation around here to realize the direct impact our local ranchers have on our community,” Kierl continues. “Stop in and talk ‘shop’ with local businesses, and they know how the markets are doing, without even being directly involved.

“Ranchers are historically a conservative group, purchasing commodities when prices are high and holding back when prices are low. When prices are high, the community directly benefits from their purchases, whether it's buying extra groceries or a new pickup.

“They donate to their local youth organizations through serving on boards, livestock premium auctions or the FFA labor auctions,” Kierl says. “When a tragedy strikes, you better believe that the local ranchers will be lined up with their heavy equipment like tractors, skid loaders, trailers, hay, fencing supplies and more — to make sure their neighbors have what they need to get through.

“I don't know of a single other profession that when asked why they do what they do, the most common answer is, ‘It's in my blood.’ Therefore, they make the best neighbors and build amazing communities.”

Ann Marie Bosshamer

Ann Marie Bosshamer, executive director, Nebraska Beef Council, writes, “Agriculture is the foundation of Nebraska, and we are excited for consumers in our state to enjoy beef with their family and friends. With over 81% of Nebraskan’s eating beef on a weekly basis, it’s a true testament to not only our great tasting product, but to our hardworking farmers and ranchers.

"Beef is the No. 1 industry in our state and its economic impact is significant. Whether it is rural or urban parts of our state, the beef industry has an impact that benefits our economy.”

Shana Beattie

“Together with my family, we will have warm pork carnitas for lunch,” says Shana Beattie, president, Nebraska Pork Producers Association, about her plans to celebrate Meat on the Menu Day. “After a busy day on the farm, we will celebrate with beef rib-eye steaks on the grill.”

Beattie says that she and her family are proud to be key suppliers of pork and beef, not only to our country, but also internationally as well. “That is something to celebrate,” she says.

“We have so many protein sources at our local retailers. As Americans, that is our luxury,” Beattie continues. “I hope that Nebraskans will take advantage of that luxury and shop their neighborhood grocery store or local butcher, selecting their favorite cut of pork or beef to prepare. Another great idea to celebrate would be visit your favorite restaurant. It is exciting that our communities are opening back up, so let’s celebrate with some pork baby back ribs, or a juicy Nebraska corn-fed rib-eye.”

Pat Melena

“Agriculture is the No. 1 industry in Nebraska, and poultry is an important part of that,” says Pat Melena, president, Nebraska Poultry Industries. “Farmers and ranchers are the backbone of Nebraska, and our industry provides a variety of great choices on the menu.”

Pete McClymont

Pete McClymont, Nebraska Cattlemen executive vice president and treasurer, notes that the state’s livestock industry is the largest employer and taxpayer in Nebraska, and the state’s economy would suffer without livestock.

“In the big picture, there would be less revenue for good public schools, the universities, state and community colleges, roads, infrastructure, health and human services, prisons, and much more,” McClymont explains. “Skyrocketing unemployment would also devastate our rural communities beyond all repair” without livestock.

“Livestock can be found on 48% of the farms here in Nebraska,” he adds. “We are known as the Beef State for a reason — being No. 1 in commercial cattle slaughter for the U.S. and No. 2 in all cattle and calves as well as cattle on feed.”

McClymont says that beef producers and all ag producers are the foundation for the positive culture and work ethic that defines the state. “Nebraska Cattlemen members are proud of that distinction,” he adds.

“Nebraska Cattlemen members appreciate all our consumers,” McClymont says. “Enjoying a nutritious, delicious beef meal is a great reward for a hard day’s work. We hope people will purchase meat to cook and eat on March 20, supporting the largest industry for Nebraska and honoring its importance to our state.”

Melissa Nicholson

Melissa Nicholson, Nebraska Sheep and Goat Producers newsletter and correspondence secretary, says NSGP members appreciate and promote all kinds of meat producers. “Most of our sheep and goat producers run diversified operations that include cattle along with sheep and goats,” Nicholson says. “Having livestock grazing the land is good for our state’s environment and our grazing lands.”

She says that she hopes Nebraskans will try all kinds of meat March 20 to celebrate Meat on the Menu Day, including perhaps lamb or goat meat. “Personally, we like lamb chili, or sloppy joes or spaghetti made with lamb for our family,” Nicholson says. “We prepare lamb chops just like we would other cuts of meat. There are tons of recipes available for consumers to enjoy.”

Put meat on the table

“While all residents in our state may not be directly related to agriculture for their livelihood, it is important for Nebraskans to understand how livestock production is the leading sector that makes agriculture the No. 1 industry,” Beattie concludes. “Whichever way you choose to celebrate Meat on the Menu Day, do it with the ones you love. There is no better way to enjoy Nebraska meat than with your family.”