Daily named Franklin Cattleman of the Year
RUSSELLVILLE — The Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association recognized David Daily as Cattleman of the Year during its annual meeting Saturday at the A.W. Todd Centre in downtown Russellville.
Daily operates Daily Farms, a cattle operation in Russellville.
He said he began working with cattle at a young age and has remained involved in the industry since he was about 5 years old. Five decades later, he said his motivation remains strong.
Daily said rising costs and long-term changes have reduced the number of people involved in cattle farming locally, making youth involvement essential.
“We’ve got a shrinking number of farmers every year, and we need a generation of youth to get back into this and be encouraged to participate in this industry.”
Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association President Michael Pounders awards Jackson Posey a memorial scholarship in honor of Grayson Garcia.
He said working together to support one another makes a difference, and he sees that locally he said.
“The people that are involved with the Franklin County Cattlemen are always a source of encouragement,” Daily said. “They serve the community so well, it makes you want to be a part of that.”
Lane Easterling and Jackson Posey received memorial scholarships through the Franklin County Junior Cattlemen’s Association in honor of Grayson Garcia.
Officers elected for the coming year include Michael Pounders as president, Mark Hill as vice president, and Jack Hargett and Bonnie Hargett as secretary and treasurer.
Alicia Swann, Franklin County 4-H agent, shared updates on youth agricultural programs offered through 4-H, including livestock, baking and construction- based projects. She said programs including livestock projects teach responsibility and expose students to opportunities in agriculture.
The Franklin County Cattlemen’s Association recognized David Daily as Cattleman of the Year during its annual meeting Saturday at the A.W. Todd Centre in downtown Russellville.
“They are part of something bigger than just Franklin County,” Swann said. “It’s statewide and nationwide, and they can take it as far as they want to go.”
Michael Smith, director of Industry Outreach for the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, spoke about statewide programs and leadership opportunities. He said Franklin County has the largest cattlemen’s chapter in the state.
County Extension Coordinator Katernia Cole Coffey described the meeting as a “great opportunity to network” as well as to keep members informed of issues and upcoming events. She said the anniversary reflects decades of local involvement.
“Seventy-five years is a major milestone, and it reflects the commitment of the people involved in this association,” Coffey said.
