CICA 2nd Annual Convention Information

The convention kicked off with opening remarks by President Doug Zalesky, Hesperus, CO. Producers grouped together in working groups that entailed Individual Property Rights and Environment; Marketing and Trade; Industry Pressures; Product Safety, Health & Promotion; and Resource Management. The issues facing our industry were discussed within the working groups and policies were set forth to later be discussed and approved for the ballot.

To begin the afternoon session everyone enjoyed hearing the latest news from United States Cattlemen’s Association Lobbyist, Jess Peterson and R-CALF USA’s Director, Randy Stevenson. Acting President of Independent Cattlemen of Wyoming, Judy McCullough briefed us on the new association that was started in 2006. CICA President Doug Zalesky gave a president’s report and Chuck Sylvester, CICA member, talked about how he was able to help get House Bill 1069 passed. Cathy Calderwood, CICA Lobbyist, discussed what she worked on during the Colorado legislative session at the state capitol. The speaker session was wrapped up by Vice President John Reid who gave a report on the Colorado Coalition Opposing Mandatory 4-H and FFA Premises Registration and the latest on the USDA National Animal Identification System. A short break was followed by a convention wrap-up with all the policies being read and votes taken. Nominations were also made for director’s positions for the upcoming year.

The live auction took place after dinner by auctioneer, Jimmie Flowers from Montrose, CO. The first item was a registered three year old Hereford bull donated by OXO Hereford Ranch. Many unique and handmade items were donated and the silent and live auction brought in over $6000.00 for CICA. The convention marked another successful milestone for CICA, as the Colorado Independent CattleGrowers Association continues to lead the voice for independent producers throughout Colorado and across the United States of America.