Join us in Fort Worth, Texas, from April 11-13, 2025, for the premier livestock event in the Southwest – the Cattle Raisers Convention & Expo. This year’s highlights include compelling sessions featuring industry experts, impactful general sessions and a dynamic expo showcasing over 280 exhibitors with the latest in livestock technology and practices.
Main-stage speakers include:
Opening Session: Weather Outlook
Friday, April 11, 8-9 a.m.
Speaker: Brian Bledsoe, Brian BledsoeWX, LLC
Description:In an industry where the weather can make or break your operation, staying informed is crucial. Join us for our opening session, where leading meteorologist Brian Bledsoe, a trusted voice in agricultural weather forecasting for more than 25 years, delivers actionable insights to help cattle raisers stay ahead of unpredictable weather patterns. With his unique blend of meteorology expertise and understanding of agriculture, this session will empower you to make smarter decisions for your operation’s success.
General Session: CattleFax Market Outlook
Friday, April 11, 3-4 p.m.
Speaker: Randy Blach, CattleFax
Description:Everything from U.S. beef supply and demand, market volatility and drought implications on domestic beef prices will be discussed in this prime-time CattleFax Outlook on today’s beef business.
General Session: The Evolution of Agritech: Enabling the Ranch of the Future
Saturday, April 12, 8-9:30 a.m.
Speakers: Eric Yates, Vence; Evon Onusic, Frontiers Market; Andrew Coppin, Ranchbot; Terrell Miller, CattleMax
Moderator: Callee Fischer, Superior Livestock Productions
Description: From barbed wire to artificial intelligence, agricultural technology has always driven productivity and profitability on the ranch. With the U.S. agritech market expected to exceed $32 billion by 2030, adopting these innovations is becoming a matter of when. Join agritech leaders to explore how ranchers are using these tools to save time, cut costs and secure the future of ranching for the next generation.
Keynote Session: The Business of Sustainability: Strengthening Beef’s Future Through Industry Partnerships
Saturday, April 12, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m.
Speakers: Ms. Julia Shuck, Costco; Mr. Luke McKelvie, McDonald’s; Mr. Jack Scott, Nestlé Purina
Moderator: James Clement III, TSCRA natural resources and wildlife committee chairman
Description: The future of beef isn’t just about sustainability — it’s about relationships. From ranch to retailer, every link in the supply chain plays a role in ensuring a strong, high-quality and resilient beef supply. But what does real partnership look like? Join top industry leaders from Costco, McDonald’s and Nestlé Purina as they discuss why investing in agriculture is not just a responsibility, but a strategic advantage. This session will explore how leading brands are working with ranchers and supply chain partners to drive innovation, protect resources and ensure a thriving beef industry for generations to come.
Educational session highlights include:
New World screwworm: The Threat Returns
Friday, April 11, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Speakers: Dr. Lewis R. ‘Bob” Dinges, Texas Animal Health Commission; Dr. Burke Healey, USDA’s APHIS
Description: New World screwworm infestations pose a significant risk to livestock, wildlife and the agricultural industry. Dr. Dinges and Dr. Healey will share insights on how state and federal agencies work together to detect, prevent and control this destructive pest. From surveillance strategies to rapid response efforts, this discussion will highlight the latest policies and actions to protect animal health and minimize economic impact. Stay informed on what this means for producers and landowners in the fight against screwworms.
Risk Management: Turning Uncertainty into Opportunity
Saturday, April 12, 10–11 a.m.
Speaker: Caitlyn Grudzinski, Commodity and Ingredient Hedging (CIH)
Description: Compare Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) vs. Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Risk Management during different periods of time. Look at current profit/loss levels and historical price swings to understand capital at risk for ranchers. Learn how to adjust profit/loss potential and take advantage of market volatility through risk management strategies. Discuss margin implications of hedging vs. staying open at current price levels.
The detailed agenda is available here.
