Governor Pillen Proclaims May as “Beef Month” in Nebraska

Lincoln, NE (April 29, 2025) – Governor Jim Pillen has officially proclaimed May as “Beef Month” in Nebraska, recognizing the essential role that the beef industry plays in the state’s economy, communities, and agricultural heritage. The proclamation was signed in Lincoln on April 29 at The Single Barrel restaurant, with Governor Pillen joined by Nebraska Department of Agriculture Director Sherry Vinton, Nebraska Beef Council board chairwoman Rosemary Anderson, and Nebraska Cattlemen president Dick Pierce.
 
Governor Pillen praised the hard work of Nebraska’s beef producers, processors, and exporters. “Nebraska beef is the gold standard, and it continues to power our economy, support our communities, and feed the world,” said Governor Pillen. “Beef Month is an opportunity to honor everyone involved in this world-class industry.”
 
According to US Department of Agriculture statistics, Nebraska processed more than 6.8 million head of cattle in 2024 and ranked #1 in beef and veal exports, shipping more than $2 billion in high-quality products to international markets. The state ranks second nationally in all cattle and calves, with 6.05 million head, and second in cattle on feed, with 2.7 million head.
 
“As beef cattle producers, we are proud of our renowned reputation for providing the safest and highest quality beef products in the world," said Pierce who ranches near Miller, Nebraska. "We thank Governor Jim Pillen and our friends at the Nebraska Beef Council for bringing us together to kick off Beef Month as we celebrate hardworking beef producers.”
 
Rosemary Anderson emphasized the perfect timing of Beef Month as Nebraskans head into the spring and summer grilling season.

“What a wonderful time to enjoy a flavorful, nutritious beef meal,” said Anderson. “As summer approaches, Nebraskans will be firing up the grill for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations. Beef is always at the heart of great meals and great memories.”
 
Cattle production is the largest segment of Nebraska’s number one industry—agriculture. The state’s unique combination of resources, from abundant feed and water to dedicated producers and processors, continues to make Nebraska a global beef powerhouse.
 
In addition to the Beef Month proclamation, Governor Pillen also recognized The Single Barrel restaurant as one of the featured locations on the 5th annual Nebraska Beef Passport. Developed by the Nebraska Beef Council, the beef passport program features nearly 60 restaurants and meat shops across the state offering premier beef products. Participants with a beef passport can earn points by visiting the featured locations, enjoying their favorite beef products, and then using their points to redeem prizes from the Nebraska Beef Council. Passports are free and available now at www.GoodLifeGreatSteaks.org.###
 
The Nebraska Beef Council is a non-profit organization served by a nine-member board of directors. The volunteers oversee the Beef Checkoff in Nebraska and checkoff-funded programs. Programs for marketing and promotion are funded by the $1/head Beef Checkoff.