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Agricultural producers in the United States are fighting anti-ag messages by using the same tactics that activists have proven effective. By making their voices heard via Facebook and Twitter U.S. farmers and ranchers have persuaded Yellow Tail wine and Pilot Travel Centers to divert donations to the Humane Society of the United States. Both companies were flooded with posts informing them of the HSUS’ quest to end animal agriculture. The uproar prompted Yellow Tail to earmark its $100,000 donation specifically for animal rescue, and Pilot Travel was persuaded to redirect its money to an organization focused specifically on animal rescue. The Missouri Beef Industry Council is also utilizing the Internet to combat activists. A new Web site, farmerfreedom.com, features blogs and e-newsletters informing producers of the latest anti-ag efforts and what they can do to protect against them.

On Friday Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced USDA plans to increase agricultural exports to $100 billion annually. Vilsack explained that the plan – part of President Obama’s National Export Initiative, which was discussed in the State of the Union address – will differ from traditional trade strategies that are based on geographic regions. This export effort will instead develop strategies aimed at specific markets where there is opportunity to increase trade, such as potential growth markets, restricted access markets and rapid growth markets.

A bill, recently proposed by U.S. Reps. Diane Watson (D-Calif.) and Elton Gallegly (R-Calif.), would require that all meat purchased by the federal government come from animals raised in accordance with the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act. More than $1 million is allocated annually for the purchase of meat for federal programs.

During the month of March Beef Checkoff is promoting “29 Ways Toward Better Health” in celebration of National Nutrition Month. The program, aimed specifically at registered dieticians, promotes healthy and affordable food choices centered on beef.