President Trump signs Executive Order to Strengthen U.S. Beef Supply

By: Madi Deskovick, Skyline Reporter 

ALPINE - President Trump signed an executive order giving ranchers the ability to butcher, process, package, and sell their own meat privately.  

“We are giving farmers and ranchers the right to process their own food.” said President Trump on Sept. 4 while signing.  

It is directing the US Secretary of Agriculture to investigate violations, modernize meat inspections, expand federal licensing, and establish a loan program to help smaller farms and ranches, according to a White House fact sheet. This executive order has already sparked discussion among farmers and ranchers across the country. 

“Growing up, raising and selling cattle has always been the center of my family,” said Sul Ross junior student, Jordyn Hunger. She explained how cattle prices have increased in the past few years, but “now with this new executive order, my family can accomplish goals for our business.”  

“I think it’s great,” explained Sul Ross State University Meat Market manager, Destinee Campbell, “The only thing I’m concerned about is sanitation.” Campbell explained the extensive sanitary practices that she must follow when processing meat, including an inspector who is always present during the process. With over 5 years of experience butchering and processing cattle, she is “not really concerned” about these farmers and ranchers having access to their own processing, as the SRSU Meat Market is the only slaughter plant within hours. She feels that most ranchers in Brewster County and beyond will still use the SRSU Meat Market for butchering and processing, as equipment and experience are in short supply.  

While the executive order is relatively new, talk from local ranchers seems to highlight their interest in keeping their meat-to-market process in-house selling directly to their consumers.