By Jamie Martin
R-CALF USA will host its 2025 National Convention and Trade Show under the theme “All In” from June 17–19 at The Lodge at Deadwood in South Dakota.
The annual gathering is the nation’s largest event dedicated to independent cattle and sheep producers and is set to attract hundreds of ranchers, industry professionals, media members, and policy leaders.
“This year’s convention is about equipping producers with the information, tools and community they need to defend their operations and strengthen their voice,” said R-CALF USA Marketing Director Jaiden Moreland. “We’ve worked to build a program focused on education, legal updates and grassroots action, and we look forward to uniting producers who are all in to restore profitability and prosperity in the U.S. cattle and sheep industries.”
The event kicks off Tuesday, June 17, with pre-convention activities, including policy development sessions, an affiliate council meeting, and a welcome reception.
The main convention opens Wednesday, June 18, with a welcome and prayer breakfast led by Max Thornsberry, D.V.M. Featured speakers will include author Austin Frerick, trade expert Brian O'Shaughnessy, animal science professor Brad Skaar, private property rights advocate Shad Sullivan, and agricultural law professor Roger McEowen.
Later that afternoon, legal representatives will provide updates on ongoing litigation involving R-CALF USA. Kara Rollins will address the electronic ID eartag case, Patrick McGahan will discuss the antitrust lawsuit targeting the Big Four meatpackers, and David Muraskin will speak on the beef checkoff case. The day concludes with a steak dinner and a keynote from journalist Alex Newman.
Thursday, June 19, begins with a membership breakfast, followed by remarks from CEO Bill Bullard and committee chairs. Guest speakers will include Wyoming attorney and rancher Tracy Hunt, Margaret Byfield of American Stewards of Liberty, South Dakota ranchers Charles and Heather Maude, U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), and U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.).
The afternoon features a live Lonesome Report podcast recording and the organization’s business meeting with policy resolution proposals. The evening wraps up with the Denim and Diamonds Gala, complete with dinner, a live auction, and music by JJ Kent and the Aces and 8’s.
Visit www.rcalfconvention.com for registration and full event details.
Photo Credit: r-calf-usa
Categories: National