New reference guide to help market Florida beef

Florida cattle producers have a new marketing tool to help them increase exports of Florida bulls, heifers, brood cows and genetics as seedstock to other countries seeking to improve and expand their beef herds.

A reference booklet titled "Ganado del la Florida/Cattle of Florida" - produced by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services in conjunction with the Florida Cattlemen's Association and various state breed associations - will be used to promote Florida beef cattle and genetics during international trade events.

"Many Florida breeds are well adapted to hot and wet environments found in other parts of the world, particularly in South America and the Caribbean," Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson said. "Florida breeders use the very best processes and practices to meet customer commitments, and are dedicated to continuously improving genetics, herd sustainability, characteristics and affordability."

The booklet contains contact information provided by each association, as well as a list of livestock markets in Florida. The introduction is in English and Spanish.

Funding for the project was provided through a grant by U.S. Livestock and Genetics Export Inc. (USGE). USLGE is a nationwide livestock-specific, not-for-profit trade association representing the international market development interests of the U.S. dairy, beef, sheep, swine and horse breeding industries.

To download the booklet, visit http://www.Florida-Agriculture.com and click on the "Brochures" tab.