February 2024 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN 43 However, the opportunities for producers extend beyond these initiatives. Recently, we have engaged in discussions with a beef company undertaking the development of a new co-op, packing plant and brand. This presents a significant avenue for producers in the beef industry. The co-op, known as Legacy Beef Co-Op, offers a host of benefits to those seeking a more consistent pricing structure based on the boxed beef price, dependable delivery times and the option to invest in their exclusive brand, Heritage Cattlemen’s Beef. Notably, Legacy Beef Co-Op will be the sole supplier of Heritage Cattlemen’s Beef, which is poised to become a well-known national brand. Furthermore, they will have their own packing plant located in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Our team is genuinely excited about this opportunity for Nebraska cattle producers and welcomes discussions with anyone interested in learning more. Another positive thing that came down the pipeline for Nebraska producers in 2023 was the expansion of the Livestock Modernization Act. The program offers a multitude of advantages to producers in the state, presenting a valuable opportunity for those looking to enhance their agricultural operations, whether the goal is constructing a new barn, acquiring cutting-edge feeding equipment or integrating state-of-the-art smart technology. The refundable tax credit, which can cover up to 10 percent of the total investment cost, is a substantial financial boost. While the project’s minimum investment must be $10,000, the grant is applicable to investments reaching up to $5 million, providing flexibility for a diverse range of endeavors. More information on this program can be found at revenue.nebraska.gov/incentives/rural. Our statewide achievements owe their success to the exceptional individuals within our network. This includes our industry partners, dedicated board members, elected county officials and numerous others who contribute significantly. Maintaining connections is essential in our collaborative efforts. The saying “it’s not what you know but who you know” holds true in various scenarios, emphasizing the value of relationships. Of particular importance are our relationships with elected county officials, as county zoning varies widely across the state, necessitating ongoing conversations about livestock facilities. To facilitate this dialogue, we have implemented modern livestock facility tours specifically tailored for elected county officials. Our goal is to lead three of these tours regionally each year, fostering understanding and collaboration on livestock-related matters. In anticipation of 2024, our unwavering commitment to the overarching goal and mission of expanding the livestock industry in Nebraska remains at the forefront of our endeavors. With optimism for the upcoming year, we are hopeful that a potential decrease in interest rates will create a conducive environment, opening doors for new growth opportunities across various industries. To fortify our initiative, we are seeking financial partners who share our vision and are willing to contribute to our mission. Your support as AFAN partners would be essential to sustaining and enhancing our impactful work within the livestock industry. As we embark on the journey of 2024, we extend an invitation to potential partners to join us in making a meaningful impact on the growth and prosperity of the livestock sector in Nebraska. We also want to express our gratitude to our current partners for their unwavering support, with a special acknowledgment to Farm Credit Services of America as our premier partner. If you are interested in learning more about being an AFAN partner, please visit our website at becomeafan.org. In closing, we express our gratitude to the entire agricultural community for consistently producing high-quality products that Nebraska is renowned for. Your commitment to excellence fuels our shared mission to grow agriculture in Nebraska. We extend our heartfelt thanks for connecting with us and cheering us on in these endeavors. To learn more about our initiatives or engage in further discussions, please contact us at (402) 421-4472 or visit our website at www.becomeafan. org. ~NC~ AFAN’s County Official Tours provide county decision-makers with a firsthand look at modern livestock facilities. In 2023, AFAN hosted two tours with more than 25 attendees. AFAN organized a successful tour in 2023 for NECC college students, providing them with the opportunity to explore livestock facilities. The event drew a participation of more than 170 students.
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