#FarmFactFriday

It's More than a Moo! 

Did you know cattle and beef production represent the largest single segment of American agriculture. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) says more farms are classified as beef cattle operations (31 percent) than any other type of farm. USDA’s 2007 Census of Agriculture classified 687,540 farms as beef cattle operations. 

There are more than 1 million beef producers in the United States who are responsible for more than 94 million head of beef cattle. More than 97 percent of beef cattle farms and ranches are classified as family farms. 

Tennessee ranks fourth in the nation behind Texas, Oklahoma and Missouri for number of cow-calf producers. In 2010, cattle and calves ranked No. 1 in the state over beans and broilers with $545 million in receipts for cow-calf operations.

The University of Tennessee offer many different opportunities for Tennessee beef producers to enhance their knowledge by becoming a Master Beef Producer and Beef Quality Assurance certified. Being a member of the many beef organizations like Tn. Cattlemen's Association and Tn. Beef Industry Council will allow for communicating with many different beef producers.  

We always want to encourage the younger generation of producers and ag enthusiast. UT Block and Bridle members pride ourselves in sponsoring many different youth programs and events. We invite everybody to attend our Rocky Top Classic Cattle Show on December 6th in Brehm Animal Science Arena. For more information please contact Jessy Shanks jharri50@utk.edu   

Remember always be proud of American Agriculture.

#FarmFactFriday