When it comes to spreading the word about beef cattle production, have you ever felt like you’re preaching to the choir? While there are still misconceptions about cattle production here in the middle of Kansas, I sometimes wish I had a more direct way of communicating with consumers who’ve never set foot on a fairgrounds (let alone a farm), or wandered into a 4-H petting zoo.

In just the past few years agriculturalists have gotten wise to the benefits of social media. This has become the direct route from you, the producer, to the eyes and ears of American consumers who are often far from the farm but controlling the fork. One such media tool is the blog. The word blog comes from “web log,” an online document that can be updated and contributed to over time.

It’s been said that a new blog is created somewhere in the world every half second.  Do you have one?

I began blogging last winter following the completion of my MBA (Master’s of Beef Advocacy). While I’ve been on a bit of a summer blogging hiatus, I enjoy documenting life on the ranch and sharing these experiences with friends both in and out of the industry. But it takes time. Having a blog has been more time intensive than I anticipated. So what’s an agvocate to do?

Consider posting to the Young Producer’s Council Blog. By strengthening our community blog we can connect with others in the industry as well as consumers. Do you have an issue that’s unique to your area or perhaps you’d want to share a day in the life of your ranch. Contact Cattle Call Blog Editor, Katy Groseta, to contribute to the Cattle Call Blog today.

Already blogging on your own? There are so many fascinating agricultural blogs out there. Just see the column to the right of your page for proof.  Do you see one that’s missing? We’re currently working to gather information on YPC member blogs. Please send us your blog address or the address of a friend or favorite you’d like to share.

Finally, for you pros out there, we’ve recently begun a blogging sub-committee. Could you help us? One project that we’re currently working on is a “How to Blog Guide.” We’re also working on developing a network of YPC blogs and bloggers.

Please contact me if you are interested in serving or have a blog to add to our list.

Thanks!
Sharon Breiner, Co-Chair Blog Sub-Committee
sharonbreiner@yahoo.com