In the ongoing public relations fight against outside animal rights groups and others seeking to slam and discredit them, Nebraska's farmers and ranchers are fighting back, and not just idly sitting by taking the heat.

They've just formed a new statewide group, from every corner of Nebraska, called "We Support Agriculture" designed to defend the state's livestock industry against misinformation and accusations about so-called alleged mistreatment of farm animals, including cattle, pigs and poultry.

Jay Rempe, of the Nebraska Farm Bureau said it's about being ready.
"We want to...be prepared to respond when we see an extreme animal rights group try to make a move to enact a law or legislation in this state that would be harmful to Nebraska's economy."

WSA also says Nebraska farmers and ranchers are caring people who know how to properly care for their animals.

1011 News contacted PETA, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, for their reaction to the formation of WSA and some of the WSA comments made at the official unveiling of the group Tuesday in Lincoln, at the Capitol. "The strategic thing to do is to read the handwriting on the wall and to start growing things that people actually want to eat," said Lindsay Rajt, PETA spokesperson.

PETA, which believes all people should avoid meat and instead eat plant-based foods, also sent 1011 News a video they claim shows video of pigs at a Nebraska factory being inhumanely slaughtered. It's authenticity could not be confirmed right away.

For now, the PR battle could just be heating up.

Meanwhile, Governor Dave Heineman has endorsed WSA.