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As we put the finishing touches on the September issue, we are also closing another chapter in the history of The Florida Cattleman & Livestock Journal. This issue marks the completion of Volume 90, a milestone that represents nine decades of documenting Florida’s cattle industry, its people, and its progress. For me personally, this issue also marks my first 12 editions of the magazine.

If you’ve ever gathered a big bunch of headstrong cattle with just a small but capable crew, you know there’s a moment when the big gate swings shut, that everyone lets out a sigh of relief for getting them penned. The hard part is over—or so it seems. In reality, it’s just when the next job begins. Our annual convention is much the same. For months, our staff and volunteer leaders spend countless hours preparing for those few days together.

My focus as the Water and Environmental Manager for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, is on helping protect the long-term viability of Florida’s cattle operations by working at the junction of ranching, water, and environmental policy. In addition to providing ‘industry-level’ support, I enjoy and am available to assist with your property specific water and environment resource questions or concerns.

Greetings from Tallahassee—and elsewhere. Needless to say, in a legislative year that was intended to run from January through March, we now find ourselves, still working, months later and well into the start of summer. As of this writing, we are still awaiting final resolution on the state budget, and Governor DeSantis has called the Legislature back to address several outstanding issues.

Advocacy doesn’t only happen in Tallahassee, it happens every time a story is told. As an association, we work to protect the ability of Florida’s cattlemen to produce and market their products. That work often shows up through legislative efforts and educational programs, but it also happens in a quieter way through how our industry is represented and understood.

A lot has happened since my last Headquarters Range update, and it has been a busy close to 2025 and a productive start to 2026 for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. We had a successful Year-End Quarterly meeting, followed shortly after by our Legislative Quarterly in Tallahassee. These meetings are always important opportunities for our leadership and members to come together, discuss priorities for the industry, and ensure that the voice of Florida’s cattle producers is

Over the past several months, you’ve seen a rotating cast of FCA staff take a turn behind the wheel of this column. From Abby and Jessica, to Benita and Sam, each has offered a glimpse into their corner of the association and the work that keeps FCA moving forward every day. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading these perspectives as much as we’ve enjoyed sharing them. One of the goals behind launching the Headquarters Range was to pull back the curtain a bit—to give members a better

As the Water and Environmental Manager for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, my focus is on helping protect the long-term viability of Florida’s cattle operations by working at the intersection of ranching, water, and environmental policy. Much of my time is spent representing FCA and our members on issues related to water management, environmental regulation, and natural resource policy.

As the Legislature gavels in this January, I’m reminded how much of our success in Tallahassee comes down to relationships—earned over time, strengthened with trust, and put to work when it matters most. A wise politico once said “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” The Florida COW PAC is a key reason Florida cattlemen have a strong, steady voice in the Capitol. COW PAC support helps us build and maintain bipartisan connections with committee leaders, freshman me

As we wrap up the year and bring you the third installment of The Headquarters Range, I’m especially excited to share my first column as Editor of The Florida Cattleman & Livestock Journal. It’s a true honor to help guide a publication that has long represented the voice and values of Florida’s cattle industry.

When you received this edition of The Florida Cattleman & Livestock Journal, you should have noticed it was plastic-wrapped, containing a member sticker and everything you need to get ready for the 2026 Florida Cattlemen’s Convention & Allied Trade Show. The convention packet includes information and forms for sponsorship, preregistration, and the new combined registration/table reservation option. In addition, Allied Members will find details about trade show registration

As we turn the page into fall, I want to thank each of you for the way you’ve shown up this year — at convention, at the Quarterlies, and in the NCBA membership drive that just wrapped up. Florida Cattlemen have once again proven that when there’s work to be done, we get it done. Membership strength is more than numbers on a page. It determines Florida’s voice at the national table and secures important rebates that keep our state association strong.