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The volunteer leaders and staff of the Colorado Livestock Association work diligently to represent, inform, and advance Colorado’s livestock industry. We have had many successes in our efforts to represent, inform, and advance Colorado’s livestock industry. Below is a summary of the top five highlights from the second quarter of 2025.

#1 District Court Upholds CAFO General Permit, Reaffirms State’s Existing Regulation to Safeguard Colorado’s Natural Resources

Following oral arguments in early May, the Larimer County District Court rejected the Center for Biological Diversity and Food & Water Watch’s appeal. It affirmed, again, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s (CDPHE) director’s decision from April 2024 to uphold the existing Concentrated Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) General Permit, which meets Colorado’s groundwater protection requirements. CDPHE and the Colorado Livestock Association (CLA) were both named as defendants in the case.

“Colorado’s General Permitting system sets one of the highest standards nationwide in environmental stewardship and protection. This decision was the right result for livestock-raising families in Colorado and preserves a permitting system that protects our state’s natural resources while maintaining economic viability for Colorado’s agriculture industry for generations to come,” stated Kory Kessinger, CLA President.

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#2 Key Service Provider Bill Signed by the Governor

In early June, Governor Polis signed SB25-128 Agricultural Worker Service Providers Access Private Property at a press event hosted by CLA member Marc Arnusch at his farm in Keenesburg, fixing the Key Service Provider language included in the 2021 Ag Labor Bill. This is a massive win for farmers and ranchers whose private property rights were at risk from this provision. This regulation allowed unfettered access to farms and ranches to anyone considered a “key service provider,” creating concerns for private property rights, food and animal safety, and other issues.

SB25-128 helps agricultural workers continue to receive important services while respecting employers’ private property rights and supporting Colorado’s farmers and ranchers. During the Legislative Session, the CLA Legislative Affairs Committee supported the bill, and CLA’s lobbying team worked alongside other state agriculture organizations to ensure the collective voice of the agriculture community was heard.

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#3 CLA Selects New Chief Executive Officer

The Colorado Livestock Association (CLA) is pleased to announce that Travis Grant will become the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective August 4, 2025. Grant will succeed Zach Riley, who stepped down in April 2025 after a successful tenure.

As a Colorado native, Travis Grant brings a deep passion for both the state and its vital $48-billion livestock industry, which serves as the cornerstone of rural communities. His extensive experience advocating for agriculture and rural issues positions him well to lead the CLA into its next chapter of growth.

“CLA has a legacy of leadership, a legacy that I look forward to being a part of,” said Grant. “The association is well-positioned for growth and impact, and I look forward to working with both members and the Board to seize the moment.”

CLA President Kory Kessinger expressed his enthusiasm for Grant’s appointment. “Travis’s experience with agriculture producers and his expertise in both regulatory and legislative matters make him an invaluable asset to the organization. He has a keen understanding of the challenges our members face daily and will be a strong advocate for our industry.”

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#4 CLA Annual Meeting Unites Colorado’s Livestock Industry in Black Hawk

Over 200 livestock producers, agribusiness partners, elected officials, and agency representatives gathered in Black Hawk for the Colorado Livestock Association’s (CLA) 2025 Annual Meeting on June 9-10, 2025.

During the Annual Membership Meeting, the members heard reports regarding the strong state of the Association’s finances, the successes and challenges during the legislative session, and the Nominating Committee presented the slate of officers and directors, recognized outgoing leadership and presented the Association’s awards.

View pictures from the event on CLA’s Facebook page!

#5 Updated Labor and Employment Compliance Guide Available for CLA Members

The Colorado Livestock Association has revised the Labor and Employment Compliance Guide for livestock producers as of July 1, 2025.

The guide, compiled under the guidance of attorneys from Range, PC, covers important topics for all Colorado livestock producers, including background information and what employers are required to do regarding the areas of:

  • Wage and Hour Recordkeeping Requirements
  • Colorado Minimum Wage
  • Colorado Agriculture Overtime
  • Mandatory Meal Breaks Rest Breaks, Extended Meal Breaks, and Additional Paid Breaks
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Vacation and PTO
  • FMLA and FAMLI
  • Heat Injury & Illness Protection
  • Key Service Provider Access
  • Harassment and Discrimination
  • Disability Accommodations
  • Pregnant Worker and Nursing Mother Protections

To request a copy of the guide, please contact office@coloradolivestock.org.

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