“Our three pillars are beef education, legislation and promotion,” said Amarie Bartel, president of the Oklahoma CattleWomen’s Association. “We are promoting the industry from pasture to plate making sure that all folks, whether it be an agriculturist themselves or a consumer, are very aware that beef is a healthy, sustainable protein.” She explained, “On the education side, we educate on best practices for our fellow producers and ensure that the consumer knows more about the industry, that we are good stewards of the land and of livestock, and that beef is a protein they should want in their homes.”
OCW’s president Amarie said she is “excited to continue to uphold the wonderful programs that OCW already does.” These include “beef day at the Capitol,” reading “accurate ag books,” a “kids cattle camp,” and the “beef advocate contest where we train the next generation of advocates.” to name just a few. Bartel added, “I am working on a platform called the gate getter we are not an organization of gatekeepers. We’re gate-getters, and we want everyone to know that they’re welcome to join us in our organization.”
Looking ahead, Amarie said, “We will have our routine quarterly meeting and launch our gate getter speakers and our gate getter tours.” She encouraged members to “mark their calendars for April, that is going to be the Region Four meeting,” bringing together “women of Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas” for industry celebration, fellowship, tours, and learning opportunities. “It kicks off April 17 and 18th,” she said.
Addressing membership requirements, Amarie clarified, “You do not have to even own cattle to be a part of OCW If you love beef and you believe in the cattle industry, then this is the place for you.” She emphasized, “There are also no age requirements. We even have junior memberships, so bring on the kiddos. Get plugged in, no matter your age.”
“All you have to do to join,” Amarie concluded, “is to go to OKCattleWomen.org there is a place to join as a new member, and I highly encourage everyone to visit that link to get signed up today.”
