WENATCHEE — The Washington Cattlemen’s Association marked nearly a century of service to the cattle and agriculture industries during its Annual Tradeshow and Convention held from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1 at the Wenatchee Convention Center. This year’s event attracted approximately 400 ranchers, industry professionals and stakeholders, exceeding the usual attendance range of 300 to 350. 

“We had record attendance this year in Wenatchee,” said Chelsea Hajny, WCA Executive Vice-President. “We just really had a great celebration together. It was a great convention.”  

She added that the convention not only serves as an educational platform but also as a crucial networking opportunity for those committed to the beef industry. The event commenced on Oct. 30 with registration followed by a WCA board meeting and a tradeshow social.  

The programming officially kicked off on Thursday morning with a breakfast buffet, featuring a presentation from ENVU that focused on digital solutions for rangeland management. Hajny noted that sessions aimed to equip ranchers with strategies for custom grazing plans to enhance productivity and profitability. 

“Our purpose is to help ranchers do the important work of raising beef so that we can feed the world,” Hajny said. 

Throughout the day, participants engaged in a series of presentations covering crucial topics in cattle ranching. Dr. Fred Muller of Cyon Animal Health provided insights on cattle health and wellness, reinforcing the importance of effective animal handling to ensure optimal health outcomes.  

Following Muller, Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director of Public Lands, discussed challenges related to public lands, transportation and natural resources pertinent to cattle operations. A third presentation focused on water and ecological concerns. 

“It’s not glamorous work; it’s hard work, but some of the best people that you’ll find in one room,” Hajny said.  

Simultaneously, WCA and the Washington Cattlewomen conducted meetings to discuss pivotal policies affecting their industries. Among the highlights of the convention was a presentation from Randy Blach, CEO of CattleFax, who provided a comprehensive update on the cattle market. Blach, who has been with CattleFax since 1981, shared forecasts and trends that projected favorable conditions for cattle prices in the coming years. 

“His presentation was wonderful,” Hajny said. “He is such a polished speaker and just gave a really thoughtful presentation on the cattle market and what we can expect in the future.” 

The following day’s programming included multiple breakout sessions covering a variety of topics. One session titled “Securing Your Legacy: Strategic Tax and Estate Planning for Washington Cattlemen” was led by Larson Gross CPAs. This session addressed critical actions ranchers should take now to safeguard their financial health in light of potential changes to the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. 

Additionally, Roylene Comes at Night and Keith Griswold from the Washington Natural Resources Conservation Service discussed budget increases for Fiscal Year 2025 and program updates that could benefit producers.  

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association provided legislative updates, emphasizing the necessity for ranchers to stay informed on policy changes affecting their operations. 

The convention culminated in a formal banquet dinner that celebrated the achievements of the ranching community. Attendees participated in an auction to support the WCA and recognized Noreen Olma as the 2024 Cattlewoman of the Year. Olma is from Okanogan County.  

“This event is open to anyone and everyone; you don’t even have to be a member of the Cattlemen’s Association to join us,” Hajny said.  

Looking ahead, the WCA plans to host its centennial conference and tradeshow from November 12 to 14 next year. Hajny indicated that plans are being made already underway to ensure that the upcoming event builds on this year’s success. 

“Well, the planning is underway and we’re going to have to work hard to make it a bigger bash than we did this year,” she said. “But that is the promise to folks, that if you come out this year and thought it was fun, definitely don’t miss next year.”  

    CEO of CattleFax Randy Blach does a presentation on the cattle industry at the 99th annual Washington Cattlemen’s Association tradeshow and convention.
 Courtesy photo/Washington Cattlemen's Association   

    The Washington Cattlemen’s Association annual tradeshow and convention had a packed room during the presentations.
 Courtesy photo/Washington Cattlemen's Association   

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    From left to right Rep. Alex Ybarra, R-Quincy, Sen. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake and Rep Tom Dent, R-Moses Lake attend the 99th annual tradeshow and convention for the Washington Cattlemen’s Association.
 Courtesy photo/Washington Cattlemen's Association