NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — The cattle industry is gearing up for its largest event of the year as CattleCon 2026 kicks off next week in Nashville, just steps away from the RFD News Studio on Music Row. Thousands of producers, industry leaders, and state cattle organizations are expected to attend the multi-day event, which runs Tuesday, February 3, through Thursday.
Policy discussions will be front and center, as state associations bring forward proposals for consideration in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) policy book.
The Texas Cattle Feeders Association says the annual gathering provides a critical opportunity for producers from across the country to weigh in on national priorities.
“Where all the state associations bring forward different ideas on things that need to be addressed in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association policy book,” said Ben Weinheimer with the Texas Cattle Feeders Association. “We’ll talk about a variety of things, lots of government-related program acronyms that many of us are accustomed to talking about.”
Among the key topics expected to be discussed are updates to the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), including ways to incentivize grazing as acres come out of contract. Risk management tools will also be in focus, including potential additions and improvements to the Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) program.
“That’s been a good risk management tool that’s been available to a lot of folks throughout the country,” Weinheimer said.
In addition to policy discussions and industry meetings, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with media and fellow producers throughout the week.
The RFD-TV News team will be on-site and invites attendees to stop by Booth 606 on Tuesday from 4 to 6 p.m. to meet the team. Those attending can meet Tony, Jeff, Eliza Petry, Kirbe Schnoor, Rob Sharkey, and other members of the RFD News staff.
Shaun Haney joined RFD News to discuss the potential impact of the Trump-Xi summit uncertainty, ongoing agricultural trade talks, and why geopolitical developments could carry important implications for farmers and global commodity markets.
