AMES (IBIC) – Douglas Bear, of Ankeny, has joined the Iowa Beef Industry Council as director of industry relations.

IBIC chairman Dan Cook, a cattle farmer from New Providence, said, Bear will work on beef quality assurance issues, producer communications and relations with other organizations.

He will also be responsible for collecting the $1-per-head beef checkoff from all cattle sales.”

“Doug grew up on a cattle farm near Russell, in Lucas County, and has both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in animal science from Iowa State University,”?Cook said. “He brings experience in working with Iowa cattle producers since he grew up in the industry.”

Bear’s graduate work focused on cattle grazing and water quality in southern Iowa, said Nancy Degner, IBIC’s executive director.

Bear, who joined council staff on July 18, said “I have a strong respect for the importance of agriculture and the impact of the beef industry on Iowa’s economy.”