[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 158 (2012), Part 2]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 2023]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING DAVE WOOD: INDUCTEE TO THE CATTLE FEEDERS HALL OF FAME

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                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 16, 2012

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Dave Wood for 
being inducted into the Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame. Dave has been a 
pioneer and true leader for the Cattle Industry for the past 40 years. 
It is fitting that a man who has dedicated his whole life to bettering 
an industry be recognized by his peers.
  Dave has worked for Harris Ranch since he graduated from Cal Poly-San 
Luis Obispo in 1970. Originally hired on as a feedyard pen rider, Dave 
quickly worked his way up to the feedyard manager and then the 
company's chief operating officer. In 1989, Dave was named chairman of 
beef operations for Harris Farms and has held that position ever since.
  During his time with the company, Dave has helped to build Harris 
Feed Company into the largest feeder on the West Coast and the 16th 
largest in the Nation. Annually they finish about 250,000 head of 
cattle, with a one-time capacity of 120,000 head. Under Dave's 
leadership, the company has taken great pride in its animal welfare. 
Harris Feed Company has invested in the installation of shade 
structures and automated sprinkler systems to control dust and to help 
keep the cattle cool.
  Maintaining his unwavering devotion to excellence, Dave worked to 
ensure that Harris Ranch's clients receive only the best quality beef. 
Dave helped develop the ``Partnership for Quality'' which was created 
in response to consumer demand for consistent, high-quality beef. The 
program now consists of about 70 families, all of whom are dedicated to 
the highest quality genetics, management practices and calf process and 
verification strategy. Individuals like Dave Woods have helped make 
America's beef industry one of the most trusted in the world.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the hard 
work and dedication my good friend, Dave Wood, has demonstrated over 
the past 40 years. His passion and diligence speaks to his character 
and truly exemplifies the best of what America has to offer. I 
congratulate Mr. Wood for this great achievement and ask that you join 
me in wishing him continued success.

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