A prominent figure in Ohio's agricultural community, Dennis Vennekotter, has been appointed to the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) board. This move recognizes his extensive background as a fourth-generation farmer and his deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Vennekotter's role on the national board will commence in October, where he plans to champion initiatives aimed at boosting corn demand, broadening international market access, fostering innovation, and emphasizing corn's vital contribution to livestock production and the broader agricultural economy. His long-standing commitment to service, evident through his leadership roles at both state and local levels, positions him as a strong advocate for American farmers.
Simultaneously, the Ohio Cattlemen's Association (OCA) is rolling out a new series of free "roundup" meetings across Ohio this autumn, targeting all beef producers. These sessions will provide valuable, up-to-date information on various industry topics, although specific agendas will differ by location. Each meeting includes a complimentary meal, but advance registration is mandatory. The OCA is committed to supporting beef producers by offering accessible educational resources and networking opportunities, ensuring they stay informed about best practices in herd management, genetic testing, and direct-to-consumer marketing strategies.
Ohio Farmer's National Role in Corn Advocacy
Dennis Vennekotter, a respected fourth-generation farmer from Putnam County, Ohio, has been elected to the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) board, marking a significant step for Ohio agriculture on the national stage. His deep roots in farming, cultivating corn, soybeans, wheat, and raising hogs alongside his three sons, provide him with firsthand insights into the complexities and daily realities faced by grain producers. Vennekotter's colleagues and industry leaders commend his principled leadership and profound expertise in both agricultural production techniques and policy development. His comprehensive understanding of the cyclical nature of farming, including periods of prosperity and adversity, makes him an invaluable asset to the NCGA board. He is resolute in his commitment to leverage his new position to improve the future outlook for farmers and their families nationwide.
Beginning his term on October 1, Vennekotter brings a wealth of experience gained from years of dedicated service to the agricultural sector. He previously held the presidency of the Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association and chaired the Ohio Corn Checkoff, demonstrating his leadership capabilities and his dedication to advancing the interests of corn and wheat farmers. Furthermore, his involvement as a founding member of the Ohio Corn & Wheat PAC underscores his proactive approach to influencing agricultural policy. His agenda on the NCGA board is ambitious: he aims to increase global demand for corn, facilitate greater market access and forge stronger international trade partnerships, and promote the adoption of cutting-edge innovations and technologies that yield tangible results for farmers. Vennekotter is also eager to highlight the indispensable role of corn in livestock nutrition and its broader economic impact on the agricultural industry, ensuring that corn farmers' voices are heard and their contributions recognized at the highest levels of national agricultural policy-making.
Empowering Ohio Beef Producers Through Educational Programs
The Ohio Cattlemen's Association (OCA) is launching an innovative series of free "roundup" meetings this fall, specifically designed to empower beef producers across Ohio with critical industry knowledge. These accessible events, which do not require OCA membership, are tailored to provide timely and relevant information on diverse topics crucial for modern beef farming. While the content will vary by location, each session is meticulously planned to address the immediate needs and challenges faced by producers, ensuring practical takeaways. The meetings are structured to begin at 6 p.m. with a complimentary meal, fostering a congenial atmosphere for learning and networking before transitioning into the main program. This initiative underscores the OCA's commitment to continuous education and support for the beef industry, facilitating the adoption of advanced practices and improved operational efficiencies among its participants.
The series kicks off with diverse topics tailored to different regions. For instance, the August 19 meeting in Malvern will cover "Grazing Management & Alternative Forages" by Jerrod Hittle from the Ohio Department of Agriculture, and "Herbicide Solutions & Management" by Rachel Walker from Corteva Agriscience. Subsequent sessions include discussions on "Commercial Genetic Testing Programs" by Alex Tolbert of the American Angus Association and "Preconditioning Vaccination Protocols" by Brent Tolle from Boehringer Ingelheim at the West Union location on August 26. The September 4 meeting in Baltic will explore "The value of AI in a Commercial Herd" with John Yost from OSU Extension and "Herd Health & Vaccination Protocols" by Seth Clark from Merck Animal Health. Further meetings are scheduled for September 16 in Upper Sandusky, focusing on "Feedlot Nutrition & Management" by Kyle Nickles from Kalmbach and "Marketing Beef Direct to Consumer" by Lyda Garcia from OSU Meat Science Extension, and September 23 in Zanesville, covering "Bull & Genetic Selection" by Dave Felumlee and "Marketing Beef Direct to Consumer" by Garth Ruff from OSU Extension. The final session on October 7 in Jackson will feature discussions on "Buy or Develop Heifers?" by Scott Payne from OSU Jackson Agricultural Research Station and "Heifer Reproduction Management" by Alvaro Garcia Guerra from OSU Animal Sciences. This comprehensive program is designed to equip Ohio's beef producers with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance their operations, improve herd health, and effectively market their products directly to consumers.
