Long-time Beef Council Executive to Retire

PIERRE (December 20, 2006)--After 33 years helping direct the South Dakota Beef Industry Council (SDBIC), Pat Adrian will step down as executive director July 1. Adrian announced her retirement plans during the SDBIC quarterly Board of Directors’ meeting December 13.

“I’ve had the opportunity to work for some of the most wonderful people in the world in one of the greatest programs, and now it’s time to retire,” says Adrian . Adrian began working for the SDBIC in 1973, shortly after the Council was created.

“I have enjoyed every day of this job and will miss working with the people who are so committed to the Beef Checkoff program,” says Adrian . “It’s been very rewarding to be involved with a dynamic program created to make a positive impact on our state’s leading agricultural industry.”

SDBIC President Roger Gerdes says it will be difficult to replace Adrian . “Pat is an icon in the beef industry and has been a mentor to many,” says Roger Gerdes, a Miller, S.D. rancher serving his second term as president. “She has been a stabilizing influence throughout the years.” Gerdes says the Council’s Executive Committee and two past SDBIC presidents recently met with Adrian to draw up plans for a transition and will begin a search for a replacement.

The SDBIC collects and administers the Beef Checkoff on cattle sold in South Dakota . Checkoff dollars are utilized strictly for promotion, education or research programs. Fifty cents of every dollar is directed to the Cattlemen’s Beef Board for programs on the national level. The SDBIC retains 50 cents, which is invested in additional national programs or in-state programs.

The SDBIC is comprised of three representatives from eight agricultural organizations: SD Beef Breeds Council, SD Cattlemen’s Association, SD Cattlemen’s Auxiliary, SD CattleWomen, SD Farm Bureau Federation, SD Farmers Union, SD Livestock Market Association, and SD Stockgrowers Association.