Rebuilding Stockyards, Processing Power, and America's Energy Future
Jay starts by breaking down why attendance at the Fort Worth rodeo was lower than expected this year, pointing to lost momentum from weather issues and missed opportunities. Despite the challenges, he shares optimism about the historic Fort Worth Stockyards and the growing push to revive local meatpacking and processing in the region.
The discussion dives deep into animal processing trends, highlighting how modern facilities can handle multiple species under one roof to boost efficiency and strengthen local markets. Jay explains how technology-driven logistics, cold storage, and custom packaging can transform processing without building entirely new plants. He points to successful examples, including a repurposed wild boar processing facility in Texas, as proof that smart investment can rebuild America’s food infrastructure. Trent adds perspective on regional butcher access and seasonal processing demands, especially during deer season.
The conversation expands to the broader livestock industry, with a strong focus on sheep and lamb production, direct-to-consumer sales, and producer partnerships. Jay and Trent then tackle energy head-on, discussing government spending priorities, growing electricity demand, small modular nuclear reactors, and serious concerns about nuclear waste storage. This episode connects agriculture, energy, and national security, making it clear that rural America sits at the center of the country’s future.
