Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association Celebrates Industry Leaders During Annual Summer Tour

Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association Celebrates Industry Leaders During Annual Summer Tour

[CHIPPEWA VALLEY, WI] -The Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association (WCA) recognized outstanding leaders in Wisconsin's beef industry during its 2026 Annual Summer Tour, honoring individuals and families whose dedication has strengthened cattle production, producer education, and industry advocacy across the state. 

Hosted in the Chippewa Valley, this year's Summer Tour brought cattle producers together for a day of education, networking, and on-farm learning. Attendees visited Rooney Angus, Strey Farm, and Kostka Ranch, where they learned about each operation's unique approach to beef production while discussing opportunities and challenges facing Wisconsin's cattle industry. 

"The Summer Tour is one of our favorite opportunities to bring producers together," Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association President Jared Geiser said. "Not only do we get to learn from fellow cattlemen and women, but we also have the privilege of recognizing individuals whose leadership and service continue to move our industry forward." 

Friend of the Cattlemen: Larry Parr 

WCA presented its Friend of the Cattlemen Award to Larry Parr in recognition of his lifelong commitment to Wisconsin's beef industry. 

Parr began his agricultural career on a dairy farm in southwest Wisconsin. Throughout his career, he managed a feed mill, raised beef cattle, and later worked with Quality Liquid Feeds, all while becoming a respected advocate for the beef industry. He also served on the Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association Board of Directors, representing the Vernon County Cattlemen's Association. 

While expressing excitement for future generations in the industry, Parr encouraged producers to confidently share the story of modern agriculture. During his remarks, he reflected on an experience where he unknowingly sat next to an animal rights activist at a WCA event and built trust by honestly explaining how farmers care for their livestock. 

"Hear or know the story. Learn it, and tell it, because you never know who you're going to sit next to," Parr said. 

Beef Quality Assurance Award: Dr. Sandy Stuttgen 

The Beef Quality Assurance Award was presented to Dr. Sandy Stuttgen for her exceptional commitment to improving beef quality, cattle well-being, and producer education throughout Wisconsin.

As the agriculture educator for Taylor County with the University of Wisconsin Division of Extension, Stuttgen has been a driving force behind Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) programming statewide. She has devoted countless hours to developing educational resources, leading BQA workshops, and helping producers implement best management practices that strengthen consumer confidence.

Prior to joining Extension, Stuttgen spent her career as a large animal veterinarian. She earned a Bachelor of Science in bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison before completing her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree through the UW School of Veterinary Medicine. 

“I'm honored to receive this award and grateful for the opportunity to continue working with Wisconsin's beef producers,” Stuttgen said. “Beef Quality Assurance has allowed me to combine my passion for veterinary medicine with education, helping producers adopt practices that benefit their cattle, their operations, and the future of our beef industry.” 

Cattlemen of the Year: Hallstrand Angus 

Hallstrand Angus was recognized as the 2026 Wisconsin Cattlemen of the Year for generations of dedication to producing high-quality cattle and providing outstanding leadership within Wisconsin's beef industry. 

Family-owned since 1884, Hallstrand Angus traces its roots to the original Hallstrand homestead near Jump River. In 1998, Kurt and Christina Hallstrand purchased their first registered Black Angus cows, and today the family manages more than 300 registered and commercial Black Angus cattle. The operation is led by Kurt and Christina alongside Todd and Jed Hallstrand, with support from multiple generations of the Hallstrand family. 

In addition to raising quality Angus seedstock, the Hallstrand family has demonstrated decades of service to Wisconsin agriculture. Kurt Hallstrand previously received WCA's Friend of the Cattlemen Award in 2021 and has served as a founding member and longtime president of the North Central Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association, vice president of the Wisconsin Angus Association, and a member of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Board. 

Kurt, Todd, and Jed Hallstrand accepted the award on behalf of their family. 

Kurt credited the success of their operation to the family members who keep the farm running while others volunteer their time to strengthen the industry. 

"If I didn't have Todd or Jed or some of the others taking care of things, I couldn't be involved with anything," Hallstrand said. "A lot of credit goes to my family. That's what makes an operation work. You need to have good people around you, and good organizations around you." 

Reflecting on today's cattle market, Hallstrand added, "What a great business that we are in. Two years ago, we couldn't have imagined where we were going to be today." 

He also encouraged producers to remain optimistic about the future. 

"Some people might doubt if you can make it in the industry, but keep your head high. That's why I got involved in organizations because I always believed that we can." 

Todd Hallstrand emphasized the importance of industry organizations working on behalf of producers, comparing the beef industry to a bicycle chain. 

"A bad link can impact the entire machine," he explained, noting that organizations like the Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association help ensure the industry continues moving forward together. 

He also reflected on the challenges their family has overcome. 

"Throughout the highs and the lows, we had a lot of heart-to-heart talks. We just said we have to stick with it, and it's working out really well for us today, but it's because of the people we've gotten to know." 

Through educational farm tours and recognition of industry leaders, WCA's Annual Summer Tour continues to strengthen connections among producers while celebrating the people who are shaping the future of Wisconsin beef.

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The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association is a trusted leader in the Wisconsin beef industry and gives a voice to Wisconsin’s beef producers on a local, regional and national level. Cattlemen and women can count on the WCA to protect their backs when it comes to legislation impacting beef farms. The association works closely with many industry partners to maintain a positive business environment for cattlemen through leadership and education. Become a member to ensure a viable Wisconsin beef industry now and in the future.