MAUSTON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association (WCA) hosted its Annual Meeting and Winter Conference in Mauston, bringing together members and industry partners from across the state to discuss policy, leadership, and the future of Wisconsin’s beef industry.
Highlighting the meeting, members elected Jared Geiser of Riveredge Farms in Chilton as president of the organization. Geiser succeeds Tressa Lacy of Lacy Acres in Rio, who completed her two-year term as president.
“I am proud of the progress we’ve made during my time in leadership from securing continued funding for the Agriculture Road Improvement Program to strengthen rural roads and bridges, to supporting increased resources for DATCP’s Producer-Led Watershed Grant Program,” Lacy said. “We’ve also stood firm in advocating for clear labeling standards for cultured animal products and for responsible wolf management that gives producers the tools they need to address depredation. These accomplishments reflect the power of our members working together, and I’m confident WCA will continue building on this momentum.”
In accepting the role, Geiser emphasized the importance of grassroots leadership within the cattle industry.
“Every person in this room brings a unique perspective and experience to the table,” Geiser said. “Our strength as an organization comes from producers who are willing to share their voices and work together to shape the future of Wisconsin’s cattle industry.”
Geiser has been an active member of WCA from his participation in the Beef Leadership Institute to his initial election to the board in 2023 and looks forward to building on the organization’s policy efforts and member engagement initiatives in the coming year.
The association also recognized Brady Zuck of Zuck Cattle Company in Ladysmith, who completed six consecutive years of leadership service, including two years as president-elect, two years as president, and two years as past president. WCA members expressed appreciation for his dedication and commitment to advancing Wisconsin’s beef community.
Policy Updates Reflect Producer Priorities
During the business meeting, members voted to update WCA’s wolf management policy. The revised policy supports proper management of Wisconsin’s wolf population while protecting cattle herds and the livelihoods of beef producers. Members underscored the importance of science-based wildlife management that balances conservation goals with agricultural sustainability.
In addition, the membership passed a resolution regarding the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The resolution proposes the development of a working-lands CRP option that would allow for increased managed grazing on CRP acres. The proposal places particular emphasis on creating opportunities for young and beginning farmers to access land while maintaining conservation outcomes.
The Annual Meeting and Winter Conference provided educational sessions, networking opportunities, and updates on industry initiatives, reinforcing WCA’s mission to advocate for Wisconsin beef producers and promote a strong, sustainable cattle industry.
For more information about the Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association, visit www.wisconsincattlemen.com.
