Tax on Beef and Pork

If you're like me, you'll probably find the EPA's latest idea to tax greenhouse gases generated by livestock preposterous. The first time I read about taxing methane emissions generated by beef cattle, dairy cows, and hogs, I thought it was some sort of joke. You know...some politician's leaving his job once the new administration takes over and decided to put out a news release to get a rise out of people for self amusement. But, apparently it's a real proposal. Here's a document published on Regulations.gov that discusses all the scientific aspects of animal "emissions".

I know one thing for sure, if they put a tax on cattle and hogs for this we'll have to add meat to the list of imported products that already includes cars, toys, textiles, appliances, etc. It will put farmers out of business entirely. It will definitely raise the price of bbq too.

The American Farm Bureau estimates "annual assessments could reach $175 per dairy cow, $87.50 per head of beef cattle and $20 per hog.

I mean seriously, $87.50 per cow and $20 per hog?! I doubt most farmers earn that much in net profit per head in the first place!

Barbecue Digest

Here's a few bbq new articles you might be interested in.

Virginia Barbecue
I wrote an article a few weeks ago about Virginia Barbecue and the franchise by the same name. TheStreet.com included an article on this low cost bbq franchise concept today.

Bone Daddy's at the Mill BBQ
This Saginaw, MI restaurant features bbq and live entertainment.

Above Average BBQ
Mackie Hayes, owner, sells bbq from his barbecue chuck wagon. For Mackie, it's a family tradition.

Doc's Q'in Pit Stop
This Modesto, CA restaurant uses almond wood for their bbq.

British BBQ Invasion at Jack Daniels Cookoff
American-style barbecue receives some international recognition.