Governor Rendell Announces Creation of Pennsylvania Beef Task Force

Press Release

GOVERNOR RENDELL ANNOUNCES CREATION OF PENNSYLVANIA BEEF TASK FORCE

Pennsylvania's beef industry will begin to explore ways to enhance profitability and promote itself through the creation of a task force, Governor Edward G. Rendell said today.

"The beef and cattle industries in Pennsylvania include 28,000 producers and contribute $1.9 billion to our economy," the Governor said. "By establishing a task force, we can improve the industry for everyone involved - producers, processors and consumers - from pasture to plate."

The task force is modeled after the highly successful dairy and fruit task forces, which were formed in 2003 and 2005, respectively, by Governor Rendell. Since 2003, the dairy task force has helped farmers increase profits by $82 million and contribute $185 million more to the state's economy.

Specifically, the Beef and Cattle Industry Task Force will focus on:

* Supporting growth and development through a progressive and proactive infrastructure that results in a wholesome supply of high-quality beef products preferred by consumers and greater revenue for the commonwealth.
* Getting new and existing cattle production units to work together using the latest farm management and business planning tools to help improve performance and increase profits.
* Collaborating across all segments of the cattle industry to improve the communication of ideas, data and information.Actively showing the beef and cattle industry's contribution to Pennsylvania's economy, and working for fairness in the laws that govern producers and programs.

"In order to do what is best for the industry, we need input from those in the field," said Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. "Once we assemble the industry partners, we can begin breaking down possible barriers to new markets and improve profits."

The Department of Agriculture is seeking representation on the task force from all stakeholders in the beef and cattle industry. Task force members will be responsible for defining goals and working to achieve those goals. As the department and the beef and cattle industry begin this task force, the public can share thoughts, ideas and recommendations with Michael Pechart at 717-705-2122 or mpechart@state.pa.us.

Source