(McKenzie, ND) – Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) today brought together ranchers, market experts, and state ag leaders at Black Leg Ranch near McKenzie, ND, for a roundtable discussion on meeting increased demand for American beef.

“North Dakota ranchers are problem solvers,” Fedorchak said. “They’re innovating every day to raise safe, high-quality beef and keep food on America’s tables despite droughts, high costs, and market uncertainty. As emphasized during our discussion today, North Dakota ranchers are ready to supply Americans with quality, healthy beef for their families and just need consistent, commonsense policies that let them do what they do best.”

The meeting followed concern over significant market disruptions after reports that the United States may soon import beef from Argentina to lower beef prices. Participants emphasized their desire to grow their herds to meet growing demand and the importance of stable market signals to support that long-term investment. Of particular concern is maintaining quality standards for any imported beef to ensure the food supply is safe and that domestic cattle herds are protected from any imported illnesses.

They shared ideas for increasing import inspections, enforcing quality standards, improving labeling, improving working lands programs, enhancing market stability, and promoting the health benefits of beef. The ranchers also discussed workforce shortages and the impact of the government shutdown on H1-B visas.