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The Independent Cattlemen’s Association has been representing cattlemen since 1974. As the premier representative for the cattle industry, ICA works hard to provide an effective legislative voice for farmers, ranchers, and cow/calf producers. Our objective is to promote change that supports efforts of cattlemen and their well being, while combating policy that hinders the progress of the cattle industry.

Story of ICA
Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas was formed in 1974, by T.A. Cunningham of Goliad, TX. At the time, there were severe problems with beef dumping into the US market and the implementation of the brucellosis program, which concerned many farmers and ranchers. In response, Mr. Cunningham convened a group of 17 like-minded cow/calf producers together to discuss forming an organization that specifically represented their sector of the beef industry. Thus, the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas was born.

The ICA provided representation for the average Texas rancher. Since then, the association has grown from a small assembly to a grassroots organization that represents thousands of agricultural families.

The ICA state headquarters office is located in Lockhart, where the 37 volunteer state directors and officers meet on a regular basis to discuss hot topics facing the cattle industry.

Why ICA?
Independent Cattlemen’s Association is a grassroots organization devoted to fighting for the rights of Cattlemen. With so many new laws and regulations being brought forth daily, it is vital for Cattlemen to have representation in the halls of both the state and national capitols and that’s where we come in!

As government gets further and further away from the rural community, it’s our job to educate officials on the importance of the beef industry. ICA advocates for the rights of each and every cattle producer.

There are many benefits to being a member of the Independent Cattlemen’s Association. ICA needs cattlemen, cattlewomen, and others involved or even interested in the cattle industry to continue to make this association an effective state cattle organization. Please join us in this effort and become a member of the Independent Cattlemen’s Association today.

Your ICA membership helps us to successfully achieve these goals and objectives which include but are not limited to…
· Promotion of beef consumption
· Creating stronger eminent domain laws to protect the land owner
· Promoting Country Of Origin Labeling (COOL)
· Supporting voluntary animal identification
· Protecting private property rights
· Encouraging youth involvement in the cattle industry
· Educating consumers on the importance and safety of US beef
· Representing the voice of Texas cattlemen
· Fighting for the future of the cattle industry

ICA believes in the cattle industry and strives to preserve cattlemen’s thinking, way of life and values.

If you believe in our efforts and would like to become a corporate sponsor of the Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas, please contact the ICA state office.
Phone: 512-620-0162
PO Box 1168, 220 W. San Antonio St., Lockhart, TX 78644

Chapters
Independent Cattlemen’s Association has various chapters throughout the state. Chapter involvement is highly encouraged but not required. Chapter and local meetings are excellent venues allowing cattlemen to learn about current industry trends, provide input to the state association, receive updates on ICA’s government relations efforts, and network with fellow cattle producers. When possible, chapter meetings feature CEU credits toward their pesticide applicator license applications.

Unfortunately, there are still areas in the state that do not have a chapter. Chapters are not necessary to hold a local ICA meeting. ICA staff will come to your area and help organize meetings for local ranchers if a chapter is not present. However, if you wish to start an ICA chapter in your area, please contact the ICA office and we will assist you in the process.

Speakers for meetings and events are another service ICA offers local agricultural and civic organizations (when available).

Annual Convention and Trade Show
Independent Cattlemen’s Association annually sponsors an informative and entertaining convention each summer. The convention features excellent speakers on a variety of educational topics important to cattlemen. An outstanding trade show features vendors offering the latest products and services available to the beef industry. ICA’s 50^th Annual Convention and Trade Show will be held July 1-3, 2024 at the Embassy Suites in San Marcos, Texas. Click here for more information: ICA’s 50th Annual Convention & Trade Show