DENVER, Colo. (RFD News) — What is now a global red meat export industry began 50 years ago as a small group of people working to create new opportunities for American farmers and ranchers.
Today, the U.S. Meat Export Federation works in more than 80 countries to help expand demand for U.S. beef, pork and lamb products through trade relationships, market development and consumer outreach.
Joel Haggard, who worked with USMEF from 1989 through 2023, says the organization’s early years felt very different from the global operation it is today.
“Well, it was stressful but you know, we were youthful and it was fun. It was kind of the wild west because there was no precedent.”
Over the decades, USMEF has helped open new international markets for U.S. red meat products while navigating changing trade policies, consumer trends and global competition.
The organization now plays a major role in helping connect U.S. livestock producers with customers around the world.
Vanessa Wood shares more about Ag Women Connect, the importance of uplifting women in agriculture, and upcoming projects designed to highlight stories across rural America.
March 16, 2026 03:31 PM
·
Diversification is critical as conservation reshapes rural economies.
March 14, 2026 06:00 PM
·
Kentucky Firefighters Jonathan and Lonny Epley and Extension Agent Leann Martin tell us about a new portable grain bin rescue tool, and its potential to enhance safety for farmers and first responders nationwide.
March 13, 2026 03:03 PM
·
Tennessee Ag in focus: Commissioner Holt shares his farm economy outlook, the TNFB honors a cotton legacy, and TN 4-H and FFA leaders discuss support for the next generation of agriculture in Tennessee.
March 13, 2026 02:46 PM
·
Dr. Jeffrey Gold provides insights on supporting aging populations in rural communities on this week’s Rural Health Matters segment.
March 11, 2026 03:43 PM
·
NRECA CEO Jim Matheson warns that rising electricity demand from AI and data centers could strain the grid and affect rural electric cooperatives if U.S. power infrastructure cannot keep up.
March 11, 2026 11:59 AM
·
