By Mike Barnett

Domino’s Pizza “just said no” to the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

Shareholders of the pizza giant overwhelmingly rejected a HSUS proposal to study ending the use of pork from suppliers who confine pregnant pigs in gestation stalls.

It’s about time one of the major fast food franchises showed some backbone to the animal rights activist group. Other fast-food companies—including Burger King, McDonald’s and Wendy’s—have caved to their demands, fearing HSUS will stir public outcry and reprisal if they don’t.

By Mike Barnett

Whoa, Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). Enough is enough. It’s time to expose who you really are.

That’s the intent of The Humane Society for Shelter Pets (HSSP), who launched last week with three ads in USA Today, Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune to show Americans the benefits of supporting their local pet shelter. That’s easier said than done with the confusion over which group does what when it comes to finding homes for and taking care of homeless companion animals.

By Mike Barnett

Social media in agriculture for third generation farmer and rancher Jeff Fowle boils down to a few simple words: “That is what I am. That is what I share. This is my story.”

Fowle, who didn’t know Twitter from Facebook two years ago, is now regarded as an expert in agricultural social media. He spoke those words at Texas Farm Bureau‘s summer commodity conference recently. They stuck with me. I hope they stick with you as well.

Agriculture is very good at telling consumers what is good for them. We’re not so good at listening; or talking; or changing the way we operate to meet their expectations. We must engage consumers in meaningful dialogue. We must build trust.

By Nathan Smith

It’s 3 a.m. The air is hot, the wind is rising. Smoke is heavy in the sky.

A wall of fire rages through a pasture and only minutes before an entire herd perished in the flames. The only thing between other frightened cattle and impending death is a rancher.

This is not a fictional scenario. It’s one that has played across Texas for the last six months. And with little rain falling, it will continue.

By Mike Barnett

I hope 2010 was a year to suit you. Here are my fearless ag predictions for 2011.

January 2011: In late 2010, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) lauded Bill Clinton as Person for the Year in honor of his newfound vegan diet. PETA revokes title as the former president is discovered in a compromising position with a cheeseburger.

February 2011: Global warming officially declared dead after mini-Ice Age continues to grip East Coast.

March 2011: Mass defection to meat markets as vegans discover there’s a little bit of bovine in most everything.