Ranch It Up Radio Show & Podcast: Episode Summary

Episode Title: Beef Checkoff Dollars Allocated, Cattle Thefts, & China Trade War Update
Hosts: Jeff “Tigger” Erhardt and Rebecca “BEC” Wanner
Date: October 17, 2025
Theme: This episode centers on the latest headlines impacting the working ranch world—rising cattle thefts tied to higher market values, the strategic allocation of Beef Checkoff dollars, and escalating US-China trade tensions affecting beef exports. Tigger and BEC aim to keep ranchers, cowboys, and cowgirls informed about current issues shaping rural America and the beef industry.

1. Main Themes & Episode Purpose

• Cattle Thefts on the Rise: With cattle prices surging, rural areas face an uptick in livestock theft.
• Beef Checkoff Program Funding: Breakdown of how $38.1 million will be used to promote and protect the beef industry in fiscal year 2026.
• China Trade War Update: Recent trade tension developments between the US and China, and their impact on the beef and soybean markets.

2. Key Discussion Points & Insights

A. Cattle Thefts: Increased Risk with Higher Prices

• Tigger delivers a warning (01:09):
  “With the continued surge in cattle prices, cattle thefts are also on the rise. Pawnee County, Kansas was the next location to get hit, and just one month ago in Cowley County, Kansas, 30 head came up missing.”
• Actionable Advice (01:27):
  “If you have any suspicious activity, make sure that you report it to your state Department of Agriculture in the local Sheriff's office.”
• Real-World Impact:
  Ranchers need to stay vigilant as market values climb, making theft more lucrative for criminals.

B. Beef Checkoff Dollar Allocations for FY2026

• CBB’s New Budget (01:38):
  “Beef promotion, consumer information, foreign marketing, producer, communications and research will be among the top fiscal priorities for the Cattleman's beef board, the CBB in fiscal year 2026... committed to a total of $38.1 million.”
• Key Funding Breakdown:
  • $25.1 million: National Cattlemen's Beef Association
  • $7.9 million: U.S. Meat Export Federation
  • $1.8 million: Cattlemen’s Beef Board
  • 14 grant proposals funded
• Strategic Focus:
  Dollars are directed toward boosting consumer confidence, advancing research, strengthening export marketing, and supporting communication within the industry.

C. US-China Trade War & Its Impact

• Escalating Tensions (02:00):
  “The ongoing trade issues between the United States and China are heating up as recent tariff announcements move closer to implementation. President Trump says he may end some trade relationships with China in light of the trading partner's refusal to buy [from] farmers.”
• Soybean Market Effects:
  “China is the world's largest importer of soybeans but recently cut its purchase of US soybeans after the imposition of 100% tariffs on Chinese made goods on November 1 or sooner.”
• Beef Export Challenges (02:35):
  “The trade dispute between the two superpowers have been strained since this spring after China did not renew operational permits of U.S. beef processing facilities, which have severely hampered shipments of U.S. beef products into China.”
• Industry Implications:
  Loss of Chinese market access is acutely felt by ranchers and beef producers; ongoing uncertainty underscores the need for strong international marketing and trade policy strategies.

3. Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On rising theft risk:
  “Just one month ago in Cowley County, Kansas, 30 head came up missing.” – Tigger, (01:17)
• Advice to listeners:
  “If you have any suspicious activity, make sure that you report it...” – Tigger, (01:27)
• On Checkoff priorities:
  “Beef promotion, consumer information, foreign marketing, producer, communications and research will be among the top fiscal priorities...” – Tigger, (01:38)
• On trade challenges:
  “...after China did not renew operational permits of U.S. beef processing facilities, which have severely hampered shipments...” – Tigger, (02:35)

4. Important Segments with Timestamps

• Cattle Theft Report & Action Steps: (01:09 – 01:27)
• Beef Checkoff Funding Announced & Details: (01:38 – 02:00)
• China Trade War and Agricultural Impact: (02:00 – 02:55)

5. Conclusion

This week’s recap equips listeners with critical updates affecting their operations—emphasizing vigilance against theft as cattle values climb, transparency on how Checkoff dollars are being invested, and a sober look at how global politics are impacting the flow of US beef to international markets. The tone remains practical, informative, and deeply grounded in the everyday realities of rural and ranch life.

For full episodes and more in-depth discussion, visit Ranch It Up Radio’s platforms on SiriusXM, AM/FM, podcast, or YouTube.