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RMFU member Tom Parks, a large-animal veterinarian and grassfed beef rancher in Yuma County, Colorado, has been appointed to the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion and Research Board by USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. The Beef Board helps farmers and ranchers develop new markets, strengthen existing markets, and conduct research and promotion activities.
“RMFU nominated Dr. Parks to the board, and we are pleased to see him selected,” said RMFU Executive Director Ben Rainbolt. “His commitment to sustainable agriculture and humane beef production will bring a fresh, consumer-friendly perspective to the Beef Board. He is aware of concerns over the management of producer check-off funds, and he will represents the best interests of producers.”
Parks has been a Yuma County veterinarian since 1977. Parks and his son, Keith, converted their beef operation to grassfed, certified natural, in 2003. The Parks family raises cattle on 1,300 acres and sells direct to consumers under the Sun Prairie Natural Beef brand. They are certified by the American Grassfed Association, which represents grass-fed livestock producers and certifies cattle based on total forage diet, no feedlots, no antibiotics and no added hormones.
Parks will serve a three-year term on the board.
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