Mike Martz, a local cattle feeder, was recently elected president of the Illinois Beef Association. “I am honored to serve our Association and Illinois beef producers,” Martz said. “It’s an exciting time to be part of the cattle industry and I’m looking forward to continuing to serve our members and build demand for beef.” Mike and his wife, Lynn, along with their family operate Larson Farms, a cattle finishing and grain farm near Maple Park.
His participation in the Illinois Farm Families program has earned him a reputation as the go-to-advocate for the beef industry in Illinois. Mike has traveled to Washington, D.C. meeting one-on-one with Illinois’ delegation to stress the importance of the growing beef industry in our state. He’s done the same in Springfield forging personal connections with state legislators.
Martz is at ease sharing the message of beef production and animal welfare to consumers and other groups of influencers by hosting farm tours throughout the year at Larson Farms. He also volunteers his time speaking to various organizations and businesses about beef production practices.
Martz previously served as vice president of IBA and also is a former director of the DeKalb-Kane Cattlemen’s Association. Other local cattlemen serving the beef industry on the IBA Board of Governors are: Sandra Robertson, Sycamore, District 3 Director, Policy Division; and Kent Wesson, Leland, District 3 Director, Checkoff Division.
From the Connections Publication of the DeKalb County Farm Bureau
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