FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 16, 2007

CONTACT: Becky Grisham, Missouri Corn Growers Association, (573) 893-4181 or (800) 827-4181

MISSOURI FARM GROUPS TEAM UP TO SUPPORT ANIMAL AGRICULTURE

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.)--The Missouri Corn Merchandising Council (MCMC) cosponsored an educational event today with the Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) and the Missouri Beef Industry Council (MBIC) emphasizing the importance of the beef cattle industry to Missouri agriculture. The Lunch and Learn Program was held at the Lolli Brothers Livestock Market facility in Macon, Mo.

Leaders of the local community, elected officials from Macon County and surrounding areas, as well as friends of Lolli Brothers Livestock Market were in attendance at the event. Participants learned more about Missouri’s animal agriculture and the important connection that exists between beef cattle and row crop industries.

"Activities such as this provide a great opportunity to highlight the benefits and importance of animal agriculture and, in this case, beef production," said John Kleiboeker, executive director of MBIC. "Missouri is a leader in the beef industry and to maintain that role we need to continue to educate the public on these issues."

A quick review of the facts makes it easy to see why animal agriculture is so important to the state’s economy. Missouri is the second largest cattle producing state in the nation with more than two million beef cows. Cattle and other livestock consume 94 percent of all U.S. soybean meal and 60 percent of all corn products. This relationship is a key component to continued prosperity for the livestock, soybean and corn industries.

"Missouri soybean farmers need animal agriculture to succeed," said Dale Ludwig, MSMC executive director/CEO. "Livestock producers are Missouri soybean farmers’ No. 1 customer and we are committed to supporting them through our Lunch and Learn Programs. These programs should help more Missourians grow in their appreciation of our livestock-producing neighbors."

The luncheon also highlighted the important connection between the growing biofuels industry and the state’s livestock industry.

"Every 56-pound bushel of corn used in the ethanol process yields 18 pounds of distillers grains, a good source of energy and protein for livestock and poultry," said Gary Marshall, chief executive officer with MCMC. "Missouri’s farmer-owned ethanol plants need a strong livestock industry to utilize ethanol’s valuable co-product. Cattle and corn are intrinsically linked and programs like this help convey that message."

This was the first in a summer series of Lunch and Learn Programs. Additional programs will be held around the state in the coming months to spread knowledge about Missouri agriculture and the impact animal agriculture and crops like corn have on rural economies.

MCMC was formed in 1984 through a half-cent per bushel corn checkoff referendum and is dedicated to market development, research and education. To learn more, call (800) 827-4181 or visit Missouri Corn Online at www.mocorn.org.