OUR HISTORY

Using cash value projections for agriculture production, over the past 4 years, the livestock industry has been the most significant segment of the agricultural economy in Cooke County. Its contribution to agriculture output has been $65 million, 72% of the total ag output. Supporting commodities like forages and feed crops contribute another $18 billion or an additional 20%.

 The beef cattle industry dominates Cooke County’s agricultural commodities in number of people involved in economic importance. The last complete agricultural census available from 2007 identified 1,343 farms with beef cattle. The most recent Texas AgriLife Extension Service’s cash value projections suggest the beef industry contributed $41.3 million to the county’s economy, which represented about 46% of all agricultural output. The equine industry is the second strongest livestock segment with $18.5 million last year, about 20.5% of the total.

 Recognizing the value of the commodity being produced, Texas AgriLife Extension Service began development of this program area with the formation of the Cooke County Beef Cattle Improvement Association in 2003. This association is to serve the beef producers of the area with relevant education, producer interaction and beef promotion. The Board of Directors is elected by the entire membership during the Annual Meeting. They serve as a program area committee for the Texas AgriLife Extension Service.

Cooke County Beef Cattle Improvement Association (CCBCIA) is a non-profit organization composed of independent cow/calf producers and agribusiness representatives with vested interest in the beef industry. The organization works to enhance the beef industry in Cooke County and surrounding area.