For Immediate Release
By: R-CALF USA Marketing Director Jaiden Moreland
Contact: R-CALF USA CEO Bill Bullard
Phone: 406-252-2516; r-calfusa@r-calfusa.com
BILLINGS, Mont., Feb. 25, 2026 – R-CALF USA will host its 2026 National Convention and Trade Show, “Fire in the Brand,” June 16–18 at The Monument in Rapid City, South Dakota. It is the largest event in the country dedicated exclusively to American independent ranching families.
The convention is expected to draw hundreds of cattle producers and industry leaders from across the country for three days of education, community and candid discussion focused on the most consequential issues affecting the U.S. cattle and sheep industries. As consolidation, trade pressures and regulatory decisions continue to reshape the market, the gathering provides independent producers an opportunity to engage directly, influence the direction of the industry and help secure the future of independent ranching for the next generation.
The event combines structured education with grassroots advocacy and relationship-building among producers committed to strengthening independent agriculture. Attendees will receive legislative and litigation updates and hear presentations on competition, trade, country-of-origin labeling, private property rights and other issues directly impacting cattle markets, operational viability and long-term profitability.
The convention also serves as the organization’s policymaking body, where working cattle producers debate resolutions and vote to establish the policy positions that direct R-CALF USA’s advocacy efforts in Washington and nationwide.
Pre-convention meetings will begin Tuesday afternoon, June 16, followed by a welcome reception that evening. General sessions will be held Wednesday and Thursday, June 17-18. A full agenda and speaker lineup will be announced at a later date.
Sponsor and trade show vendor opportunities are available, with an April 1 registration deadline. Applications for the Kimmi Lewis Scholarship are open through May 1. Early-bird attendee registration is open, with rates subject to increase June 1.
Event details, hotel accommodations and registration information are available at www.rcalfconvention.com.
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Ranchers Cattlemen Action Legal Fund United Stockgrowers of America (R-CALF USA) is the largest producer-only lobbying and trade association representing U.S. cattle and sheep producers. It is a national, nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the continued profitability and viability of the U.S. cattle and sheep industries. Visit www.r-calfusa.com or call 406-252-2516 for more information.