Kansas State University is taking the lead in improving the communication among producers, regulatory officials, veterinarians, nutritionists and consumers with this month's International Symposium on Beef Cattle Welfare.

We are excited that more than 250 people from around the world are planning to attend, with even more people signed up to view the live Webcast of the event. Strong interest demonstrates that people in the beef cattle industry are interested in understanding more about beef cattle welfare and how these practices will improve our industry both biologically and economically.

We are fortunate that they are coming to the state of Kansas to discuss the future directions for best practices and the future of cattle health and well-being.

No one cares more about cattle than the beef producers. The health and well-being of their animals not only impacts their profitability but is also part of providing safe, wholesome food for society. Anybody who has been associated with raising livestock understands firsthand the connection ranchers and beef producers have with the cattle they care for on a daily basis.

It is amazing when we watch TV and read blogs on the Internet about cattle abuse. This type of abusive behavior is not the norm within the industry. However, it doesn't seem like normal behavior makes news stories as exciting. Nobody within the beef industry knowingly tolerates abuse of livestock.

That's where we at K-State are taking the lead with the International Beef Cattle Welfare Symposium, May 28-30. We will reflect on strides that have been made, but we also will keep an open mind about areas where we can improve.

We are bringing together producers, government regulators, researchers and others, and this will be a great starting point to better understand the best practices and to get everyone on the same page and moving forward.

Beef cattle welfare means increased production and efficiency for the cattle we produce. Defining practices that improve nutrition, health, environment and more are all important in improving the well-being of the cattle we produce.

We also need to find ways to inform consumers of the dedication of our producers to ensure that cattle are properly cared for day in and day out.

The beef industry has a lot to be proud of when it comes to producing wholesome, safe beef products through humane treatment of cattle. We stand beside our industry to promote the hard work of many families across our country that not only feed the world but also serve humanity.

We must continue to work forward on improving the health and well-being of cattle while increasing the education of consumers about how their food is produced.

With the cooperation of beef producers and industry professionals, K-State is working hard to make that possible.

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