Making Sense of the Beef Checkoff: How It Works in Kansas​ | Scott Stebner & Randall Debler

It’s not just about beef or Kansas. With thousands of individualc ommodity producers, building a recognizable brand and supporting an entire industry can be complicated. Checkoff programs play role through research, education and promotion.​ In this episode of Smoke & Mirrors, Scott Stebner, executive director of the Kansas Beef Council, and cattle producer Randall Debler break down how the Beef Checkoff works, from the $1-per-head collection to how funds are divided between state and national programs.​ They also discuss how producers help determine funding priorities, how projects are evaluated and why checkoff programs can be controversial.​ The conversation includes examples from Kansas, including partnerships with the Kansas State High School Activities Association and K-State football.​