By Scout Nelson
The Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) will host its 2026 KLA Convention & Expo from November 18-20, 2026, in Manhattan, Kansas. The event will bring together ranchers, cattle feeders, dairy producers, and industry professionals to discuss topics affecting the livestock sector, including rural development, consumer trends, market conditions, and agricultural policy.
The convention will offer educational sessions, networking opportunities, and industry discussions designed to help producers navigate changing economic conditions and evolving consumer expectations. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with agricultural leaders and fellow livestock producers from across the region.
Activities will begin with the KLA Branding Party, a fundraiser supporting the Kansas Livestock Foundation (KLF) scholarship program. Proceeds from the event will help provide educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in agriculture.
The annual Cattlemen’s Banquet will recognize longtime KLA members and scholarship recipients. A live auction benefiting agricultural organizations and programs will also be held, followed by entertainment from Tim the Dairy Farmer, a dairy producer and comedian known for agricultural-themed performances.
A featured educational session, Beef Industry University, will focus on the growth of data centers and their potential effects on rural communities. Speakers Robin Roberts and Autumn Lankford Higgins will discuss topics such as infrastructure demands, zoning considerations, and other factors relevant to livestock producers.
The Kansas Beef Council Consumer Trends Forum will examine how consumers form opinions about beef production, nutrition, and food preparation. Industry experts will also discuss marketing and educational efforts aimed at increasing consumer confidence and beef demand.
The convention will conclude with the Membership Breakfast, featuring a cattle market outlook from Randy Blach, CEO of CattleFax. His presentation will address cattle prices, supply trends, and market conditions affecting producers.
Beyond education and networking, the event serves as a platform for discussing legislative, regulatory, and industry issues affecting livestock producers. Through the convention, KLA continues to support advocacy, leadership, and the long-term success of Kansas’ livestock industry.
Registration information, event schedules, and hotel details are available through the KLA website. Livestock producers, agribusiness representatives, and other industry stakeholders are encouraged to attend.
Photo Credit: kansas-livestock-foundation
Categories: Kansas, Education, Livestock