Corn Farmers Like Livestock Producers

August 21, 2001

The National Corn Growers Association wants the livestock industry to know that corn farmers appreciate their livestock counterparts. The livestock industry (beef, pork, poultry and dairy) is the largest user of corn, consuming 4.4 billion bushels per year. Sixty percent of the corn grown in the U.S. is consumed as feed by livestock, while another 20% is used by industry for ruminant rations.

To meet the needs of corn growers' number one customer, the NCGA has developed a livestock program designed to act as a resource to NCGA staff and members. NCGA Livestock Information and Programs Manager Tracy Snider said, "We work on the marketing of co-products," said Snider, "as well as act as a liaison to the livestock industry. We also monitor some of the key issues facing the livestock industry."

She said the ability to sell these products profitably could indicate the potential financial success of certain industrial processes. With the majority of domestically used corn being fed to livestock, it is of the utmost importance to work with that industry to meet its needs," said Snider.

"Our best potential customer is our best current customer and that's the livestock industry," she added. "By coordinating efforts with corn growers, the future of value-added corn and its use is more secure and supply can better fit the demand."

For more information on livestock, visit the NCGA website at http://www.ncga.com/key_issues/issues_summary/slide014.htm.