Where do outdoor enthusiasts, conservationists and cattle farmers and ranchers intersect? A video series developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), a contractor to the Beef Checkoff, aims to demonstrate how these seemingly different groups have a lot in common. “Voices of the Outdoors” shines a light on how cattle producers across the country are conserving natural resources for future generations and protecting landscapes for hikers, climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. 

There are many shared values in both the beef and outdoor recreation communities, including a passion for caring for animals and preserving land for all to appreciate. “Voices of the Outdoors” was created to foster communication between these groups, combat misinformation, reach new audiences, and encourage future partnerships. One of the first videos in the new series highlighted how open space brought a Colorado cattle producer and an avid hiker together. 

As exponential development shrinks the distance between Denver and Colorado Springs in Colorado, an oasis of green pastures dotted with cattle remains unspoiled in Douglas County. The county is committed to preserving open spaces, which includes the land where Welch Cattle Company grazes their cattle. 

“Most of the land that I raise our cattle on is owned by Douglas County, preserved forever as open space,” explains Bob Welch, owner of Welch Cattle Company. “Because there is both a grazing program and a system of trails for the public to use, we intermingle with the public as we’re raising our beef.” 

Cattle grazing is a natural part of the ecosystem that helps with wildfire mitigation, reduces invasive noxious weeds, increases grass varieties and sequesters carbon in the soil, creating an environment conducive for hikers. 

“I really just want to help people recreate responsibly and take good care of the outdoor spaces and make sure that they stay looking beautiful,” said hiker Myranda Hausheer. 

Relationships between ranchers and outdoor enthusiasts are built through partnerships, including those with local governments, such as Douglas County, which is committed to bringing groups together for everyone’s benefit. 

“It is really a great combination of using cattle as a tool to help manage noxious weeds, which reduces the amount of chemicals that we spray on land, making it better for everyone,” said Scott McEldowney, Deputy Director, Douglas County Open Space and Natural Resources. 

Kristen Welch with Welch Cattle Company credits the county for creating opportunities for her community. 

“This land was so close to being developed for housing, and I’m grateful to the county for maintaining it so we have more wildlife opportunities,” she said. 

Finding common ground may not always be easy, but as producers and outdoor enthusiasts come together and agree that preserving natural resources benefits everyone, cattle quickly become a unifying force. 

“If we don’t take care of this land, then we’re out of business,” concluded Welch. 

Hosted on BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com, the “Voices of the Outdoors” videos are promoted through social media channels and shared by outdoor enthusiasts, reaching a new audience with positive beef stories. So far, the videos have generated 3 million views and have inspired viewers to share positive comments about the beef industry. Followers appreciate knowing that ranchers are conserving land and working hard to provide a nutritious product everyone can feel good about eating. 

Not only is “Voices of the Outdoors” creating a positive image of the beef industry and reaching new audiences, but its success is being recognized nationally, receiving first place honors in the Region 2 Awards of the National Agri-Marketing Association. 

Visit https://www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/raising-beef/voices-of-the-outdoors to watch the "Voices of the Outdoors" videos.