Vilsack announces implementation of Country-of-origin Labeling law
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Feb. 20 the final rule for the Country-of-origin Labeling (COOL) program will go into effect as scheduled on March 16. He also released a letter inviting stakeholders to follow additional voluntary labeling practices. more
Texas headed back into drought conditions
Despite hurricanes Dolly, Gustav and Ike soaking Texas in 2008, about 58 percent of the nation's second largest agricultural state is in some stage of drought, according to the most recent U.S. Drought Monitor map, released Jan. 6. That's up from about 30 percent in mid-October. more
Colorado ranchers pray for death of 'death' tax
Land-rich but cash poor, Western ranchers are lobbying Washington to exempt them from the estate tax, which can force heirs to sell their inheritance — often to real estate developers — to pay the duty within a nine-month deadline. Washington might be listening, according to the Colorado Cattlemen's Association. "The current administration is lending a favorable ear toward agriculture on this issue…" more
TPWD accepting online public comment on regulations proposals
In addition to presenting proposed hunting and fishing regulations at dozens of public hearings taking place around the state, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is looking to interact with constituents through an online public comment survey. The public may get involved in the process by attending one of the 46 public hearings taking place, providing comment online or by contacting TPWD directly. more
TSCRA Political Action Committee seeking auction donations
The TSCRA Political Action Committee (PAC) will host the 2009 TSCRA PAC Dinner and Live Auction during the TSCRA Annual Convention and Trade Show on Friday, March 20 at 7 p.m. at the Worthington Hotel in Fort Worth. We are currently seeking items for the auction and would greatly appreciate it if you would donate an item. Items such as hunting and fishing trips, college football packages, overnight packages such as a vineyard package or a resort-spa weekend package, cruises, bronze statues and art work, rodeo packages, and ranch equipment and supplies have been successful in the past. The proceeds from the items sold at the auction go to the TSCRA PAC so that it can support elected officials who support the cattle industry. For more information or to donate, please contact Jason Skaggs or Carmen Fenton at 512/469-0171.
Introducing the TSCRA Government Connection Web site
TSCRA has launched a Government Connection Web page that allows you to play an active role in government as well as keep you informed on happenings in Austin and Washington. There, TSCRA members can communicate with elected officials, track the progress of legislation and regulations and check voting records. Please register on theTSCRA Government Connection website to receive alert emails from the TSCRA Government and Public Affairs team keeping you updated on the latest legislative and regulatory actions. more
Join TSCRA in Fort Worth for the 2009 Annual Convention and Trade Show March 20-22
Come to Fort Worth for TSCRA's 132nd Annual Convention and 34th Annual Trade Show! go
Country-of-Origin Labeling forms available
Cattle raisers have made forms available
for download to help fulfill your part of the country-of-origin
labeling (COOL) law. Visit TSCRA's COOL information Web site to download the forms and for more information. go
