Historic Common Ground Summit Unites Industry to Secure America’s Agricultural Future
May 21, 2025
In the face of mounting challenges, 40 leaders from across the livestock industry convened at the Common Ground Summit April 21-23 at Denver’s Brown Palace Hotel. Their shared mission: to safeguard rural communities, ensure America’s food independence and preserve a way of life central to the nation’s agricultural heritage.
One of the participants was LMA Vice President and Billings, Mont. auction market owner Joe Goggins. He explains the task at hand for the entire U.S. livestock industry and the call to action.
Turning Challenges into Solutions
The three-day summit tackled a stark reality: America risks losing its capacity to feed itself independently, a situation with profound implications for both national security and the agricultural sector.
Through intensive dialogue, participants reached consensus on six critical areas for action:
- Ag-Friendly Tax Policy – Extend and enhance key provisions like transfer tax exemptions, step-up in basis, and accelerated depreciation to support agricultural families.
- Risk Management Tools – Improve programs like Livestock Risk Protection to better serve producers.
- Access to Labor – Streamline and expand H-2 programs to address labor shortages.
- Flexibility for Livestock Haulers – Exempt livestock haulers from restrictive Hours-of-Service rules and the electronic logging device mandate.
- Support for Young and Emerging Producers – Expand USDA loan programs, incentivize land transfers to younger producers, and foster interest in agricultural careers.
- Innovation and Sustainability – Champion technologies and programs that enhance livestock production efficiency and sustainability.
A Call to Action
The Common Ground Summit stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, charting a path forward for America’s livestock industry. For more information on this initiative and to sign your name and join the charge, visit commongroundsummit.net.
Source: Common Ground Summit & Western Ag Network
