Oklahoma Farm Report’s Ron Hays caught up with Michael Kelsey, Executive Vice President of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association at the 2026 Cattlemen’s Congress and talked about the value of Congress to the Oklahoma cattle industry- and then moved on to spend most of their time previewing the 2026 OCA Winter Policy Meeting, set for January 21st at the Embassy Suites Northwest Oklahoma City from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.
Kelsey tells Hays that they have invited Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond to come and explain his position as he represents the State of Oklahoma in the poultry lawsuit that has been revived after laying dormant for over twenty years. OCA is also inviting the Poultry Federation to send a representative to offer their position in this battle that finds poultry contract growers in the middle and threatens their way of life. This issue also raises real questions about the court being able to dictate environmental policy and overrule established science based regulations at the state and federal levels. Kelsey says his members will consider if they need to update their policies as a result of the developments in this case.
OCA will also welcome Colin Woodall of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association to the meeting, as Woodall will offer an overview of the federal issues impacting the cattle industry just ahead of CattleCon 2026 which will be happening in early February in Nashville, Tennessee. OCA will review their federal policies ahead of the Nashville meeting when several members will be weighing in during Committee meetings there.
Lots of other issues will be considered- including state tax policy and possible changes in property taxes that will be considered by the State Legislature starting in February. Kelsey also expects a conversation about the efforts to keep New World Screwworms out of the US and Oklahoma.
Ron and Michael have a wide ranging conversation previewing the meeting- click on the audio button above to listen.
Share your thoughts, exercise your membership voting power and help chart the course for a successful Oklahoma beef industry! Member Engagement is Vital to the Success of Policy Development! Be sure to attend the 2026 Annual Winter Policy Meeting.
- Extended discounted registration available online until January 19.
- Onsite registration is $65/person.
- OCA Membership is Required to Attend.
- Dues May be Paid at the Door.
$50 Early Registration Fee, Lunch Included.
