DEADWOOD, S.D. — R-CALF USA is set to host its 2025 National Convention and Trade Show, themed “All In,” from June 17-19, 2025, at The Lodge at Deadwood.
The convention is expected to draw hundreds of cattle producers, industry leaders, journalists and policy experts from across the country for industry updates, networking, and policy and strategy development. It is the largest event of its kind for independent cattle and sheep producers in the United States.
“This year’s convention is about equipping producers with the information, tools and community they need to defend their operations and strengthen their voice,” said R-CALF USA Marketing Director Jaiden Moreland. “We’ve worked to build a program focused on education, legal updates and grassroots action, and we look forward to uniting producers who are all in to restore profitability and prosperity in the U.S. cattle and sheep industries.”
Pre-convention activities begin Tuesday, June 17, with policy development meetings, an affiliate council meeting and a welcome reception.
The main program opens Wednesday, June 18, following a convention welcome and prayer breakfast led by Max Thornsberry, D.V.M. Scheduled speakers include Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America’s Food Author Austin Frerick; trade expert and senior vice president of Revere Copper Products Brian O’Shaughnessy; Iowa State University Animal Science Professor Brad Skaar; R-CALF USA Private Property Rights Chair Shad Sullivan; and Washburn University School of Law Professor of Agricultural Law and Taxation Roger McEowen.
Wednesday afternoon will include litigation updates from attorneys Kara Rollins on R-CALF USA’s electronic ID eartag lawsuit, Patrick McGahan on its antitrust lawsuit against the Big Four packers, and David Muraskin on its beef checkoff lawsuit. A social and steak dinner will follow, featuring a presentation from international journalist Alex Newman.
Thursday, June 19, will begin with a membership breakfast and updates from R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard and the R-CALF USA committee chairs.
Speakers for Thursday will include Wyoming rancher and attorney Tracy Hunt; American Stewards of Liberty Executive Director Margaret Byfield; South Dakota ranchers Charles and Heather Maude; U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyo.; and U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D.
Thursday afternoon will feature a live recording of the Lonesome Report podcast with Jim Mundorf and Shad Sullivan, followed by the organization’s annual business meeting, where current R-CALF USA members will present proposed policy resolutions. Final voting will take place via mail-in ballot.
The convention concludes Thursday evening with the Denim and Diamonds Gala, which will include a steak dinner, live auction and dance featuring JJ Kent and the Aces and 8’s. Cowboy cocktail attire is encouraged but not required.
Early bird attendee registration is now open and may increase June 1. All events listed are included in the full convention registration. For the complete agenda, hotel room block information and registration, visit www.rcalfconvention.com.
