Collaboration

Rather than providing summaries on the individual presentations this morning, the following is a synopsis of the common theme that was apparent from all the speakers.

The North American beef industry is once again in the midst of significant change. Factors such as fuel prices, labor shortages, technology advances and consolidation are having a huge impact on everything from daily management to end product marketing.

So, how can we take advantage of the opportunities and overcome the challenges?

COLLABORATION.

Collaboration among industry segments. Collaboration across borders. Collaboration between producers.

Industry Segments
Sharing of information among the various levels of the industry will allow everyone to improve the quality and consistency of the final beef product at a much faster pace than has previously been possible. Increasing the availability of genetic, performance and management information for all those involved will allow each player to make adjustments to their niche that can enhance the entire chain.

Across Borders
Collaboration on projects such as genetic evaluation and research between Canada and the United States has become more common during the past 20 years. This ensures more efficient collection and interpretation of information, increased data accuracy and better use of financial and human resources. There is certainly opportunity to expand these partnerships as breed associations are forced to re-evaluate expenditures and look at ways to become more efficient.

Between Producers
Gone are the days when commercial customers were happy with their seedstock providers selling them a pedigreed bull and showing an interest in their farm and family. Commercial producers have become value-driven business people with sharp pencils, and a need for more information and customer service. They are utilizing the most current technology and looking for innovative ways to market their calves. Collaboration between seedstock and calf suppliers is a natural partnership that has the potential to greatly influence the quality of the cattle and beef produced that should lead to improvement in their bottom line.

North America should be the genetic source for the world. The industry cannot afford inefficiencies or duplicate efforts. In the words of John Pollak, let’s begin to take small steps toward… someday.