Oklahoma AG Gentner Drummond Seeks ‘Finality’ in Poultry Lawsuit, Reassures Cattle Producers of Industry Stability: In a direct address to the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) on Wednesday, Attorney General Gentner Drummond sought to quell fears regarding the ongoing poultry litter litigation in Eastern Oklahoma, outlining a path toward settlement that he says will protect both the environment and the agricultural economy.
The meeting, held amidst what Drummond acknowledged was high anxiety among producers, focused on the state’s lawsuit against major poultry “integrators” accused of polluting the Illinois River watershed. While the litigation targets the poultry industry, cattle producers have expressed concern that they could be next in line for strict environmental regulations. Farm Director, KC Sheperd caught up with Drummond after his visit with the Cattlemen and women to talk about what he see’s as a path forward.
A Path to Settlement
Drummond, a rancher himself, described the current legal landscape as precarious, noting that the federal judge overseeing the case is “angry at the integrators” and views them as “callous polluters.” However, the Attorney General emphasized that his goal is not endless court battles but a structured resolution.
“There’s a path, and the path forward is through resolution and settlement between the integrators, the poultry producers, and the State of Oklahoma,” Drummond told Sheperd.
He revealed significant progress in these negotiations, confirming that one of the six major companies involved has already signed a settlement agreement.
“One of the six is already signed, and three, as of yesterday, are very, very close to terms of a reasonable and fair and equitable settlement,” Drummond said. “I hope to land those in the next couple of weeks.”
“Tip of the Iceberg” Fears
A primary concern among cattlemen is that the crackdown on chicken litter is merely the “tip of the iceberg,” setting a precedent that could eventually target cattle manure and ranching operations. Drummond moved to dismiss this “slippery slope” narrative by distinguishing the regulatory frameworks.
“We know that cattle manure in a concentrated animal feeding operation is already regulated by the federal government, and that’s maintained,” Drummond explained. “If we play by those rules, we’re fine.”
He argued that the poultry producers in Eastern Oklahoma who follow their nutrient plans are similarly protected. “They’re in compliance with the law. They have nothing, no fear of subsequent lawsuits,” he added.
Preserving the Industry
Beyond regulation, producers are worried about the economic fallout—specifically the threat of major integrators like Tyson or Simmons leaving the state or facing bankruptcy due to legal penalties. Drummond was firm in his commitment to keeping these companies in Oklahoma.
“I need to give Tyson’s and Simmons every reason to stay… buying poultry, buying broilers, buying eggs in Eastern Oklahoma,” Drummond said. “It’s an important industry for our state, and I’m going to do everything I can to preserve it.”
He stressed that the ultimate goal of the settlements is “finality”—locking in terms that are acceptable to the state and the companies so that business can continue without the looming threat of shifting legal standards.
A Rancher in the AG’s Office
The appearance at the OCA meeting also highlighted Drummond’s political future. He referenced his background as the first rancher elected Attorney General and confirmed his candidacy for Governor in the upcoming election.
“On June 16, 2026, voters in the Republican Party have an opportunity to vote for a rancher to be governor,” Drummond noted. “I’m hopeful that they do that because that’ll be the first time for the state as well.”
