December 2025 President's Message
- Dec 1, 2025
- 3 min read
Quote of the Month
“And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.” — Genesis 1:26 (KJV)
There are many groups and organizations that do not support our industry. Some even work tirelessly to end animal agriculture altogether. When I hear about their efforts to disrupt the livelihoods of cattlemen and women, through protests or unreasonable legislation, my thoughts always return to this verse.
God saw that cattle were good and charged us with their care. The fact that He mentions cattle specifically in the Bible confirms that they are meant to be here, and that by caring for them, we are fulfilling His will.
Protecting Florida’s Land and Legacy
Another challenge we face in Florida’s cattle industry is rapid development. It’s no secret that Florida is one of the most desirable places to live. Our beautiful beaches, year-round sunshine, and abundant resources attract people from all over the world. While growth is inevitable, it comes at a steep cost.
Florida is losing an estimated 45,000 acres of ranchland and agricultural land each year, roughly five acres every hour, to residential and commercial development. This loss is staggering and irreversible.
So, how do we balance the demand for growth with the need to preserve our working lands? The answer is conservation with a sense of urgency. Our ranchlands not only support food production, but also serve as vital water recharge areas, wildlife habitats, and green spaces that benefit every Floridian.
The Florida Cattlemen’s Association has always supported private property rights, but we must acknowledge the increasing pressure on ranchers to sell. That’s why we must continue to remind others that #CowsKeepFloridaGreen, and #LeadTheWay in our efforts to stay #LoyalToTheLand, working together to promote conservation so that our land remains productive, green, and wild for generations to come.
FCA in the Field
This past month, I had the pleasure of attending the Ocala Bull Sale and the Kempfer Bull Sale. Both were outstanding events showcasing quality bulls and dedicated producers from across our state and the southeast.
I also had the honor of speaking at the Levy, Gilchrist, Jackson, and Manatee County Cattlemen’s Association meetings. Congratulations to Kyle Fisk, Bruce Thomas, Lee Bigham, and Gene Wingate for your leadership and successful programs. The turnout and enthusiasm at your meetings were inspiring, proof that your efforts are making a real difference.
A special congratulations to my friend Marty Howell, the new President of the Manatee County Association. I know you’ll do an outstanding job #LeadingTheWay for your county.
I also joined the District 2 Leadership Meeting at the Beef Teaching Unit in Gainesville, where county leaders came together to discuss current industry issues and strengthen our association. Thank you to Tom Bryant, Dan Smith, Abby Clapp, and Dusty Holley for your continued dedication to making the FCA stronger.
Highlight of the Month
Every county meeting I attend is special, but the Gilchrist County meeting truly stood out. It was their first gathering since 2019, and the energy in the room was contagious. A packed house, positive spirit, and renewed excitement for the cattle industry made it a night to remember.
Thank you, Bruce Thomas, for #CirclingTheHerd and putting your association “back in the saddle.” Your hard work is paying off, and the Gilchrist County Cattlemen are once again #LeadingTheWay!
Looking Ahead
If you’re reading this before our December 4th Quarterly in Ocala, I encourage you to attend. You won’t want to miss the committee meetings packed with the latest industry updates, followed by a great evening of fellowship and a special guest speaker at the Steak Out. If you’re reading this afterward, I hope I saw you there!
Finally, as we enter December and celebrate the birth of Jesus, let’s take a moment to slow down and reflect on the true reason for the season. Let’s continue to #LeadTheWay for Jesus, for without JESUS, there is no way.
Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving our great association.
Sincerely,
Rick Moyer
