Fargo Standard

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) convened a roundtable with ranchers, market experts, and state agricultural leaders at Black Leg Ranch near McKenzie, North Dakota. The discussion focused on strategies to meet the rising demand for American beef.

“North Dakota ranchers are problem solvers,” Fedorchak said. “They’re innovating every day to raise safe, high-quality beef and keep food on America’s tables despite droughts, high costs, and market uncertainty. As emphasized during our discussion today, North Dakota ranchers are ready to supply Americans with quality, healthy beef for their families and just need consistent, commonsense policies that let them do what they do best.”

The meeting was held amid concerns about possible U.S. imports of beef from Argentina as a measure to lower domestic prices. Attendees expressed interest in expanding their herds to help meet growing demand but highlighted the need for stable market signals before making long-term investments. Maintaining strict quality standards for imported beef was identified as a priority to protect both consumer safety and domestic cattle health.

Participants discussed proposals such as increasing import inspections, enforcing quality standards, improving labeling practices, enhancing working lands programs, supporting market stability measures, and promoting the nutritional benefits of beef. Workforce shortages and the effects of government shutdowns on H1-B visa availability were also addressed.

Last week, Fedorchak led a letter signed by seven House Republicans requesting President Trump clarify his administration’s approach regarding increased imports and urging that U.S. producers be given priority in meeting domestic demand. Roundtable participants supported an America-First policy agenda.

Attendees included local ranchers such as Julie Schaff Ellingson of Ellingson Angus Ranch; Erika Kenner of Kenner Simmental Ranch; Jerry Doan and family members from Black Leg Ranch; Kenny Graner of Graner Angus Ranch; August Heupel of IBAND; Warren Zenker of Zenker Feeders; Dave Caroenter from LaMoure; Darrell Oswald from Burleigh County Soil Conservation District; Shelly Ziesch from Pettibone; Jay Reiser from Washburn; Tim Petry from North Dakota State University; Larry Schnell formerly of Stockman’s Livestock; among others.