Livestock “The greatest homage we can pay to truth is to use it.” – JAMES RUSSELL LOWELL JULY 15, 2010 •
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Digest I Volume 52 • No. 7
NCBA In Retreat by Lee Pitts anchers should honor June 25, 2010, as an important date in history. In the war over who will control the cattle industry going forward, that date will be remembered as the day the NCBA waved the white flag and called for a truce. The NCBA attempted a sneak attack to steal the checkoff, were repelled, and the last time we looked, the NCBA was in full retreat. If an army marches on its stomach, the fuel for an industry group like the NCBA is cold hard cash. Now what will they do after the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) has changed the combination to the checkoff safe?
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Tough Or Toothless?
NEWSPAPER PRIORITY HANDLING
We were busy preparing what we thought was the biggest story of the year, and perhaps the young century, namely, that the USDA, the Justice Department and the Packers & Stockyards Administration were finally going to do something about packer concentration. But that story was kicked off the front page by an even bigger one! While we were writing about captive supplies the NCBA was suffering the single biggest defeat in its young life at the hands of the Farm Bureau, Livestock Marketing Association, R-CALF, WORC, National
“Your fences need to be horse-high, pig-tight and bull-strong.” Farmers Union, United Cattlemen’s Association, the USDA and many other groups, among them the Beef Board. In our last issue we speculated that Ag Secretary, Tom Vilsack, was different from recent models because he vowed to defend and serve the farmers and ranchers of this country, not just big multinational corporations. We wondered aloud if Vilsack and the Justice Department just talked tough but were toothless. Well, early results are in and we’re elated to report that Vilsack has a full set of choppers! Thanks to him the good guys in their sweatstained white cowboy hats have
finally won one. We are happy to report that there really is a new Sheriff in town and this one isn’t bought and paid for by some big company he plans to go to work for when his work at the USDA is done. When the NCBA sent their dog and pony show to Washington to sweet talk and bedazzle the bureaucrats like they have in the past, they fell flatter than a cow pie on concrete. Let’s just say it wasn’t old home week as usual and the red carpet was definitely not rolled out. Instead they were told in no uncertain terms that this USDA and this Ag Secretary would not
look the other way as the NCBA tried to heist the part of the checkoff they don’t already get to spend.
One Plan, One Voice, One Dollar As we’ve reported for two years now, the NCBA has been devising a new governance structure that would allow them to completely take over the cash belonging to the Federation of State Beef Councils. They came up with a plan to render the Federation a figurehead, while they’d come up with ways to spend the half dollar of every buck the Federation can legally keep. The only problem was that mixing the nonpolitical checkoff with the very political NCBA is against the law! But that didn’t stop the always-broke NCBA, who desperately needs the cash despite the infusions of checkoff bucks they already get as the largest contractor for checkoff dollars. The NCBA says their new governance structure was necessary so that the industry could move forward, so it could become more streamlined and efficient. They urged everyone to continued on page two
USDA livestock rule draws mixed reaction by TOM STEEVER, BROWNFIELD
he Grain Inspection, Packers & Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) is proposing rule changes that USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack says will protect producers against unfair or retaliatory practices in livestock marketing. In a conference call in mid June, the Secretary said the proposed rule addresses fairness. “It’s about making sure the playing field is level for the people that put in, in some cases, most of the capital and a great deal of the labor, and have seen over the course of time their margins squeezed considerably,” said Secretary Vilsack, speaking from USDA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. “We’ve seen a rather substantial decline in the number of people who can compete, and who can produce, and who can participate in what they want to do, which is to farm.”
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Riding Herd
Among other things, Vilsack says specifically, the rule will improve transparency by making sample contracts available for producers to view online. The proposed rule announced on June 19, 2010 would provide: ■ Provide further definition to practices that are unfair, unjustly discriminatory or deceptive, including outlining actions that are retaliatory in nature, efforts that would limit a producer’s legal rights, or representations that would be fraudulent or misleading. Additionally, the proposed rule reiterates USDA’s position that a producer need not overcome unnecessary obstacles and have to always prove a harm to competition when they have suffered a violation under the Act; ■ Define undue or unreasonable preferences or advantages; continued on page four
by LEE PITTS
Speechless
have always been fascinated by the possibility of talking to animals. Like most ranchers, sheepherders and pig persons, I feel I have this special ability to know what animals are thinking and often I seem to communicate better with cattle and sheep than I do my wife. Don’t lock me in the looney bin, but I feel strongly that animals speak to us. Oh, they may not use the proper syntax and pronunciation but when they say arf arf, meow, moo or baa, I feel they are trying to tell us something. About the only reason I’d like to live another 100 years is because I bet that in that time frame, using computers, translators and decoder rings, we’ll be able to ask animals questions and get back answers. But I won’t be around, so please ask these questions for me. I’d like to ask a donkey if he’s offended when we call a politician by his family name? I want to know what breed of dogs that sheep hate the most and I’d like to know chicken’s innermost thoughts, if they have any. I’d ask pigs if they believe in God and, if so, what religion are they? Also, to what political party would most hogs belong if they could join? (Although sometimes I think they already have.) I’d like to ask a sow nursing 12 babies if, given the opportunity, she didn’t ever want to just sneak away in the dark of night? I’d also like to know how they feel about their heart valves being used to save people they didn’t even know, or were related to, and if they’d voluntarily fill out an organ donor card if they could? I have a ton of questions I’d like to ask dairy cattle. Such as . . . Do you consider milking machines foreplay and do they turn you on? When a milker strips your teats do you feel violated? How do you feel about artificial insemination and would you outlaw it if you could? Do you understand Spanish or English better? I’d like to ask a Mad Cow if she really does feel crazy and I’d follow up with, “Are you the brains behind PETA because it sure seems like it?” continued on page seven
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Livestock Market Digest
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July 15, 2010
NCBA in Retreat look at the results they’ve achieved these past 14 years. In the words of NCBA’s CEO Forrest Roberts, they need this new governance structure to become an industry with “one vision, one plan, one budget and one voice.” The problem with that is that the only voice would be NCBA’s, an organization that 96 percent of cattlemen refuse to join. And more and more that single voice appears to emanate from a wooden puppet with the packers pulling all the strings. To prove our point, after Vilsack and the Justice Department announced they were going to crack down on the packers, every major farm or ranch group we can think of cheered Vilsack and said it was about time. When groups as diverse as the American Farm Bureau Federation and the National Farmers Union agree on anything you know it’s significant. The only major group with ranchers as members that opposed the plan to put more competition into the pricing of your cattle was the NCBA. And their press release looked like it had been written by the AMI, the packer’s lobbyists. If no one had stopped NCBA’s grab, we’re guessing it wouldn’t have been many years before you’d be asked to sign the same 24-page contracts shoved in front of today’s hog hothouse janitors and corporate poultry pluckers.
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After NCBA failed to convince the USDA in Washington on May 17 that their motives were pure, Tom Vilsack sent a letter to NCBA informing them that their proposed new governance structure was dead on arrival as far as he was concerned. Now, consider this cruel and satisfying twist of fate: You’ll recall that in order to save the checkoff the NCBA argued in the U.S. Supreme Court that the checkoff was a government program, which came as a complete surprise to most ranchers because the NCA, CBB and NCBA had been telling us for years that it was a cattlemen’s program, run by them and for their own benefit. But here’s the satisfying part: it is because the checkoff is a government program that the USDA can now stop the NCBA from stealing your checkoff dollars. The NCBA was shot down with their own gun. How sweet is that? Then, while the NCBA was still reeling from Vilsack’s body blow, the Cattlemen’s Beef Board delivered a hard right to the jaw that knocked the NCBA senseless. Well, at least even more so than they already were. The CBB Board of Directors’ Executive Committee passed a unanimous resolution that suggests they no longer think it’s a good idea for all the industry groups to try and coexist under the same roof. What they are really saying is that perhaps the merger wasn’t such a good idea
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after all. IMAGINE THAT! On June 22 the Cattlemen’s Beef Board Executive Committee called for an independent Federation of State Beef Councils that should be a “strong, independent checkoff entity that should be separate from any policy organization.” In short, the CBB just served divorce papers on the NCBA. The CBB press release said, “The Executive Committee of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board strongly believes that the Federation of State Beef Councils is a full partner in checkoff activities, but also takes seriously its responsibility for oversight of checkoff producer-invested, funds. CBB continues to have a great deal of respect for the work and responsibilities of the Federation. Further, CBB has a significant interest in, and oversight responsibilities for, the Federation. The Executive Committee believes that a separate and independent Federation is in the best interest of all those who pay the checkoff, regardless of organizational affiliation or policy position. “The CBB Executive Committee believes that the Federation of State Beef Councils should exist independently from any policy organization.” (That means you NCBA!) “The Executive Committee prefers a Federation structure that assures that no policy organization has influence on programming, budget or governance decisions made by the Federation.” The Executive Committeeapproved motion stated, “The Federation should be separate from any policy organization, since all funds for the checkoff come from mandatory assessments of producers and importers. The checkoff is owned by, and responsible to, all producers and importers, and no specific organization.” The Beef Board’s motion gets sweeter each time you read it. It’s what we’ve been saying ever since the merger, when the Digest was a lone voice of dissent. But who knew the Beef Board had been feeling this way for some time? One CBB Board member said the concept of decoupling had been discussed for several years at the Beef Board. Although NCBA’s Governance Task Force didn’t initiate this showdown, it did put the issue front and center and the Beef Board felt they had no alternative but to act. The CBB was worried that if NCBA’s recommendations were implemented they’d lose the checkoff, either in court or by referendum. One of the major players, and a member of NCBA’s Governance Task Force, told the Digest that he felt the NCBA might be able to tweak their proposal to get by the USDA (we doubt it) but that they knew they’d be challenged in court. AND LOSE! Here’s more of CBB’s continued on page three
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NCBA in Retreat best press release ever. “The structure and function of the Federation often are topics of discussion for the Executive Committee. Recently, these discussions have occurred more frequently, due to increased interest from industry organizations, as well as recent USDA guidance regarding the Federation. The Executive Committee met today and discussed the structure of the Federation in light of concerns expressed by USDA and other industry organizations. “On many past occasions, the Executive Committee recommended the need for greater separation of the Federation from NCBA.”(We must have missed those press releases, but never mind.) “In addition to its programming functions, the Executive Committee’s position is that two of the Federation’s primary responsibilities, 1) election of Federation members to the Operating Committee, and 2) a recipient of funds from state beef councils, should be organized and operated as A SEPARATE LEGAL ENTITY FROM ANY INDUSTRY ORGANIZATION.” Emphasis ours. Drum roll please because here comes the best part. “After considering USDA’s recent guidance, as well as continued industry concern, the CBB Executive Committee voted recently to recommend complete separation between NCBA and the Federation of State Beef Councils.” Yes folks, you read that right. What the Beef Board is recommending is an UN-MERGER.
continued from page two
A Timeout After being shot down by Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack we were told that the NCBA was trying to compose a set of draft bylaws that would satisfy the USDA and still allow them the 30 days necessary so that the new bylaws could be voted on at Denver’s midyear meeting on July 31. But hold your horses, it appears now that what the staff at NCBA was really doing was trying to compose a letter of surrender that would make it sound like the NCBA hadn’t just suffered a humiliating defeat. But make no mistake, the NCBA lost and went into retreat . . . and we’re not talking about the kind of retreat where expense-account employees sit in a circle around a bonfire, get all warm and fuzzy, sing Kumbaya and get in touch with their inner selves. As a precursor to their surrender the NCBA staged a feeble press conference in which they expressed their sense of disappointment with the Beef Board’s resolution. Then following that press conference the NCBA sent out a bombshell of a press release. After working on their new governance structure for two years, spending who knows how much money, they issued a statement saying they were “suspending plans to proceed with changes to its governance structure to allow the Federation of State Beef Councils an opportunity to clarify its role and intentions to all industry shareholders.” Like a stressed out mother
with a bratty child, the NCBA wanted a “time-out.” Scott George, Chairman of NCBA’s Federation, insisted that NCBA was not giving up on revising its governance structure, but rather “turning its attention to U.S. producers to ensure a governance structure is developed that fosters unity within the industry.” Funny, we thought that’s what they said their initial plan would do. “We want to do this right. The Federation effectively represents all cattle producers paying into the checkoff,” said George. “Quite frankly, it is impossible to do so when there is so much controversy driving a divide within the industry. We have critical issues affecting this industry that requires us to be united, not divided. We are calling a timeout to clarify our role and wishes to all shareholders.” As the NCBA tucked their tail and ran George said, the transparent “Through process of reinventing our governance structure, the industry has awakened to what we have known since NCBA’s inception: NCBA is much more than a policy organization.” Therein lies the problem Mr. George. Read the law. You cannot be a policy organization and get your hands on checkoff cash. We don’t know how long NCBA’s time-out will last but we expect they’ll keep trying. With the new governance structure the NCBA was like a kid who put his hand through the narrow neck of a candy jar and couldn’t remove his hand while it was
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NCBA in Retreat filled with candy. We’re betting the NCBA still won’t let go of the candy and will come up with new and creative ways to get their hands on the cash. After all, it appears they need the checkoff dollars to exist. Meanwhile, while all our efforts should be directed towards increasing demand for beef, both at home and overseas, we are about to get sidetracked into another long and expensive
continued from page three
battle and the sad part is, the petty barbs back and forth will be financed with your checkoff dollars. In the end the only winners will be the lawyers. In conclusion, here’s something we at this newspaper thought we’d never say and yet are elated to do so: Thank you Mr. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack and the Beef Board for doing the right thing and not passing the buck . . . along to the NCBA.
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USDA Livestock Rule ■ Establish new protections for producers required to provide expensive capital upgrades to their growing facilities, including protections to ensure producers have the opportunity to recoup 80 percent of the cost of a required capital investment; ■ Prohibit packers from purchasing, acquiring or receiving livestock from other packers, and communicate prices to competitors; ■ Enable a fair and equitable process for producers that choose to use arbitration to remedy a dispute. Additionally, clear and conspicuous print in the contract will be required to ensure producers are provided the option to decline the use of arbitration to settle a dispute; ■ Require that companies paying growers under a tournament system provide the same base pay to growers that raise the same type and kind of poultry, including ensuring that the growers pay cannot go below the base pay amount; ■ Provide poultry growers with a written notice of a company’s intent to suspend the delivery of birds under a poultry
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growing arrangement at least 90 days prior to the date it intends to suspend the delivery; ■ Improve market transparency by making sample contracts (except for trade secrets or other confidential information) be made available on GIPSA’s website for producers;
1980, but only roughly 950,000 today. Further, Secretary Vilsack pointed out that in the hog industry, producers received 50 percent of the retail value of a hog in 1980, but in 2009, only 24.5 percent of the retail value goes to the producer. He said that cattle producers received 62 percent of the retail value of a
Vilsack acknowledged that “Rural America has struggled for some time,” as a result of shrinking farm numbers and a general decline in competition in livestock markets. ■ Outline protections so that producers can remedy a breach of contract; ■ Improve competition in markets by limiting exclusive arrangements between packers and dealers. Secretary Vilsack cited concerns that he said relate to increasing consolidation and vertical integration in the livestock and poultry marketplace, and shrinking farm numbers. He stated that in 1980, there were over 666,000 hog farms, but today only 71,000 are in operation. In the cattle industry, there were over 1.6 million farms in
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steer in 1980, but only 42.5 percent in 2009. In the poultry industry today, Vilsack said that growers average 34 cents per bird, while the processing company on average makes $3.23 a bird. Vilsack acknowledged that “Rural America has struggled for some time,” as a result of shrinking farm numbers and a general decline in competition in livestock markets. “Over the course of my lifetime, we’ve lost over a million farm families,” Vilsack said Friday. “Certainly livestock producers across the country are no strangers to this notion of struggle.” The group R-CALF USA is pleased with the GIPSA proposal. “This proposed rule corrects the core problem that prevents U.S. cattle farmers and ranchers from obtaining relief from the anticompetitive practices of the highly concentrated meatpackers and will help restore competition to our industry by providing a means to discipline anticompetitive behavior,” said R-CALF President Max Thornsberry, in prepared comments. Other provisions in the proposed rule include a requirement that meatpackers retain written records to justify differential prices offered to livestock sellers, a prohibition to prevent two or more meatpackers from using a single cattle buyer to procure cattle, and a prohibition to prevent meatpackers from trading live cattle among themselves. “While more must be done to reestablish a fully functioning competitive market for independent U.S. cattle producers, continued on page seven
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The Western Watersheds Project’s Assault on Family Ranchers by PATRICK DORINSON, Western Legacy Alliance
nother Earth Day has come and gone. Earth Day has become a holy day of obligation for America’s secular religion, the environmentalist movement. But hidden behind the facade of planting trees or discussing the virtues of “paper or plastic” is a well-financed global group of dedicated radicals who are bent on changing the way we live whether we like it or not. They are funded by a vast network of wealthy individuals, trust funds, and foundations who selectively give money to organizations they can control like puppets on a string (think George Soros). One such organization has dedicated its entire existence to the warped dream of one man who says that his ultimate goal in life is to destroy families and a way of life with absolutely no regard for the economic or human cost. Meet Jon Marvel and the Western Watersheds Project. This is an organization that talks a big game about saving the environment but in truth has never lifted a finger or raised a dollar to mitigate the environmental issues they claim to care so much about. This is an organization that bills itself, according to its mission statement, as a group dedicated “to protect and restore western watersheds and wildlife through public education, public
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policy initiatives and litigation” That last word “litigation” is the key, because in truth they are nothing more than a group of professional plaintiffs who have filed hundreds of lawsuits against the government and individuals to accomplish their goals. Between 2000 and 2009 they have filed 91 lawsuits and 31 appeals in Idaho alone and hundreds more throughout the West. And this is an organization that has been funded in part with the hard-earned tax dollars of the American people to the tune of $1.2 million in Idaho Federal District courts alone by the abuse of the Equal Access to Justice Act (EAJA), which others have written about on these pages. The Western Watersheds Project is headquartered in that playground of the rich and famous, Sun Valley, Idaho. The organizaton’s neighbors include Teresa Heinz Kerry and her husband John Kerry as well as Arnold Schwarzenegger. Marvel’s ultimate goal? Ending any and all economic activity on the vast public lands that make up 75 percent of the American West. These are lands that are rich in resources and provide recreational opportunities like hunting, fishing, and hiking. They are also a critical part of our food supply, as grazing rights make cattle and sheep ranching possible. Marvel saves his particular venom for the ranching communities of the West who lease the
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Form 1099 Headaches For Agriculture by STU ELLIS, University of Illinois via AgNetwork
ou may soon need another month at the end of the year, just to get all of your tax information ready to visit your tax advisor. Several major changes were recently made in the US tax code, and one, in particular, will hit hard at ranchers and farmers. If you have ever received a Form 1099 from a company paying you, keep that in mind, because you will have to issue Form 1099 to many companies that you are paying. And that is only part of it! Subscribers to the Cornbelt Update learned about this development in mid June, which will cause most ranchers and farmers to spend a lot more energy in collecting information ahead of their annual visit to their tax advisors. The health care bill, which was at the top of the Washington, D.C. agenda, was the vehicle that carried a number of changes in the tax law. One of those changes is found in Section 9006 and greatly expands the use of Form 1099 which documents income, other than wages and salaries. For example, if your annual repair bills at the local welding shop exceed the $600 threshold, you will have to issue a 1099 to Joe’s Welding Service, which means you have to find out his corporate name, official corporate address, and obtain his federal tax identification number. Once you have that you will mail him a Form 1099 that indicates you have paid him $603.67 during the prior 12 months. Maybe you bought a new computer from Dell Computers and wrote a check for $738 to cover the computer, a printer, and an ink cartridge. At the end of the year you will have to obtain the corporate name, address, and federal tax identification number for Dell and mail them a Form 1099 from Smith Farms.
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The requirement is not just for one single payment over $600, but the accumulated payments throughout the year. Whether you are making monthly interest payments to the bank or writing a single check at the
. . . if your annual repair bills at the local welding shop exceed the $600 threshold, you will have to issue a 1099 to Joe’s Welding Service.
end of the year, you will have to send a Form 1099 to your bank and it will have to supply its Federal tax ID to you. Maybe it is monthly bills to your diesel fuel supplier, or to the bottled water company. If you want to be able to deduct all of those expenses at Menards, Farm and Fleet, Ace Hardware, Lowe’s, or anywhere else you run for a bag of bolts and a grease gun cartridge, you will have to send them a Form 1099 if your total checks exceed $600 during the year. Extension economist Craig Althauser at Kansas State University describes some of the details in his monthly newsletter in which he says corporations being paid are no longer exempt from receiving Form 1099 from their customers and clientele. He says you may have issued a Form 1099 in the past for rent, interest, and custom work, but now the requirement is spread to everything that is considered “property.” That includes seed, fertilizer, chemicals, feed, supplies, medicine, fuel, and other goods and services. Another element of the health care bill expands the information required on the W-2 form sup-
plied to employees, if they are provided with health insurance as part of their compensation. The reporting will include the cost of the health insurance premiums paid for the employees. They will not pay tax on the amount, but will serve to verify whether the employer was in compliance with health care requirements. These new provisions do not become effective next year, but will become effective for tax year 2012 and will make the first few weeks of 2013 rather tedious in accumulating the necessary information. There is legislation already being considered by Congress to repeal Section 9006, but unless it is approved and signed into law, it will create substantial changes in the tax prepa-
The reporting will include the cost of the health insurance premiums paid for the employees. ration process, and also generate an estimated $17 billion additional dollars in tax revenue for the US treasury over the coming decade.
Summary Recent changes in the tax code will require ranchers and farmers to issue Form 1099 to any business which was paid more than $600 in the prior tax year. Such payments would include interest, seed, chemicals, fertilizer, parts and repairs, and other usually deductible items on the ranch and farm. The requirement will cause taxpayers to collect names, addresses, and federal tax identification numbers for those many companies which provided goods or services in the prior tax year.
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ood prices are expected to go up between now and 2019. Dietary changes and a growing population will drive the increase, according to a report released by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. The annual agricultural forecast says growing swine herds in Brazil and China will likely keep pork prices in check as other food prices increase over 1997-2006 levels. On average, prices will remain below the levels they reached during the 2007 and 2008
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price spike. Beef and pork prices did not go up during that period, and the forecast calls for these costs to increase by 10 percent to 20 percent by 2019 as compared to 2007-2008 levels. Lower supplies and higher feed costs are behind the predicted increase in livestock prices, as well as increasing demand for meat and processed food in developing countries with rising income levels. By 2050, the global population is expected to hit 9.1 billion, up from roughly 6.8 billion right now, and the FAO has said that food production will have to increase by 70 percent. Agricultural growth is on track to hit that level, according to this year’s report.
“America’s Favorite Livestock Newspaper”
July 15, 2010
Riding Herd continued from page one
I hate to pry but I’d love to ask dogs when they are watching television if they have a favorite show and if they don’t think Dancing With The Stars is really lame? Whenever I see an urban dweller pick up dog poop and place it in a plastic bag I’d love to ask the dog if he or she wasn’t laughing his or her socks off. And did they do it more often just to watch? Whenever I see a poodle with one of those spiffy hairdos I’d love to ask if they didn’t feel stupid, or, if other dogs made fun of them? When I see dogs dressed in clothes I’d love to ask if they have a favorite designer? “Just between you and me,” I’d ask, “don’t cats really get on your nerves?” I know that dogs really are man’s best friend but I’d love to ask a Border Collie, “Am I really the best you can do for a friend?” If given the choice between interrogating a horse or Hitler I’d pick the equine every time. The first question I’d ask a horse is if, when they see an obese person coming at them with a bridle in their hand, don’t they get the sudden urge to run like the wind? I’ve always been curious if horses prefer women to men because it sure seems that way. I’d ask trail driving horses if they like cowboy poetry, I’d poll Quarter Horses to determine if they prefer heading or heeling, and I’d ask a herd of wild mustangs if they didn’t think thoroughbreds were snooty and overbearing? I’d query beef cows in a pasture if they ever had their eye on a certain bull and if another bull made love to them were they disappointed they’d have to wait until next year? I’d ask bulls if they have a favorite auctioneer, if cows know it’s Christmas, and how do they feel about Al Gore and meatless Mondays? I‘d ask what they think of livestock shows, if they preferred FFA or 4H owners, and do they know what’s coming at the end of their lives? The one question I’d love to ask all meat animals is, “Would you have rather lived to become someone’s supper, or to never have lived at all?” I think I already know the answer to that one.
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USDA Livestock Rule this is definitely a positive start,” Thornsberry concluded. Still, other groups differ in their view of the GIPSA proposal. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is wary of the changes. “In general, we have serious concerns with any efforts to increase government intrusion in the marketplace,” said Steve Foglesong, president of the NCBA, in a news release from that organization. “Cattle producers support free-market principles and we deserve the right to enter into private negotiations between willing buyers and sellers.” Meanwhile, American Farm Bureau Federation President (AFBF) Bob Stallman praised the rules, citing the sections on capital investment, which he pointed out, would reduce requirements for new investments in modifications of farm buildings. “These continuous modifications keep producers in debt and minimize their ability to negotiate reasonable contracts,” said Stallman, quoted in a news release. “Farm Bureau believes the contracting companies
continued from page four
should justify the mandatory modification of facilities, and this proposed rule would require that justification.”
Among numerous changes to the law, the proposed rule would redefine what constitutes an “undue or unreasonable preference or advantage” in a livestock contract. The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) says it is carefully reviewing details of the proposed changes to the Packers and Stockyards Act contained in the 2008 Farm Bill. A news release issued by the NPPC says the change may limit pork producers’ options in selling pigs to processors. Among numerous changes to the law, the proposed rule would redefine what constitutes an “undue or unreasonable preference or advantage” in a livestock contract. “We don’t want to see produc-
Page 7
er marketing options limited by overly broad government regulations that negatively impact pork producers’ bottom line,” said NPPC President Sam Carney, a pork producer from Adair, Iowa, quoted in the release. The American Meat Institute (AMI) had the harshest words for USDA and its proposal. It accused USDA of “attempting to turn the clock back on the livestock and meat marketing practices that have made the U.S. meat production system the
envy of the world.” AMI says the proposal “could potentially cause harm and enormous disruption.” “This is not guaranteeing success,” said Secretary Vilsack, during the conference call, “this is just making sure that if you do play by the rules and you work hard and you’re willing to make investments, that you’ve got a shot at success.” GIPSA is taking comments on the proposal until August 23. Source: brownfieldagnews.com
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Livestock Market Digest
Page 8
July 15, 2010
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other source for ASK YOURSELF THIS: why go to any SOURCE”. “THE to come can you when Beefmaster bulls across the from cers produ ercial comm by Proven time and time again er Ranch Foundation Bulls) countr y that when you use these Bulls (Lasat mation, hardiness, and milk production that your disposition, fertility, weight, confor females that will effect your bottom line! ment replace create lf yourse Help ve. will impro
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any of us use references to help us make deciconfirm our sions, beliefs, or for inspiration. Books (or online versions) like the “Statistical Abstract of the United States,” the “Merck Veterinary Manual,” the “Bible,” the “Angus Herd Sire Registry” or the “Congressional Directory.” A recent acquisition for my audio parody library is a CD entitled “The Udder Side,” composed, recorded and available by Judy Williams at judyntom@ ixi.net. It contains such titles as the dystocia calf’s lament, “Take These Chains From My Parts and Set Me Free!”, the grafted calf’s favorite “She Can’t Kick Me Now ‘Cause Mama’s Tied!” and the spring-drive theme song, “Don’t You Ever Get Tired of Herding Me!” Ms. Williams surely must be a cow psychologist, the way she can see inside their thinking.
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Since we all have global warming on our minds because the press and the Algorites keep pointing to cows as a major producer of greenhouse gasses, her song about Vegan F . . . Flatulations was spot on. It seems to me that most of the urban animal rights activists, Defenders of Wildlife, Sierra Club zealots and politically correct Luddites proclaim themselves vegetarians. It is a trade-off to maintain credibility. I mean, if you want to remove all trace of humans in the wilderness, release endangered wolves in downtown Beverly Hills or Detroit, and think eating ice cream, cheese, hamburgers, spare ribs and chicken wings is tantamount to murder, then it is a sacrifice they should make. However, there is a corner they have backed themselves into, that must give them consternation. I would assume that omnivores (the human race) who restrict their diet to only plants might experience a change in their visceral bacterial population. Now, I don’t know that as a fact. But if you’ve ever heard a faithful vegetarian claim that he got sick from eating broth that had been stirred with a spoon they’d used to serve the chile con carne, it might be proof that enteric conversion could happen in people. If we accept that premise that vegetarians can actually affect their digestive system by changing their diet, then the gaseous by-products of this new abnormal digestive system would be more like that of a ruminant. Methane, for instance, is a product of the breakdown of biological material, i.e., compost heaps, land fills, wetlands, termite mounds, rice fields, burning natural gas in your home or car, and enteric fermentation. Enteric fermentation is the digestion of grass and grain inside a ruminant’s rumen and vegetarian’s intestines. Assuming this to be true, then vegetarians would expel a higher level of noxious greenhouse gasses being released into the atmosphere by going ‘vegan.’ Each of their clever commercials and celebrity endorsements would have to contain warnings. Produce departments would be required to label each fruit and vegetable with the amount of greenhouse gasses you would emit per serving. In the end Al Gore would be selling them carbon credits from Rendezvous Barbecue, Memphis, Tenn. Blaming others when your own house is not in order is a slippery slope. “I refuse to take all the heat, there are some folks that don’t eat meat.” The air is blue or is it green, they are the real gas machine.” Judy Williams, rancher.
“America’s Favorite Livestock Newspaper”
July 15, 2010
Page 9
More cattle placed on feed, but supplies still tight by RITA JANE GABBETT
attle and calves on feed for the slaughter market in the United States for feedlots with capacity of 1,000 or more head totaled 10.5 million head on June 1, up 1 percent from a year ago, according to USDA’s monthly Cattle on Feed report. Placements in feedlots during May totaled 2.02 million, 23 percent above 2009. “The recent surge in placements implies an increase in cattle availability later in the year,” according to the CME Group’s Daily Livestock Report. “For the moment, however, market-ready
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fed cattle supplies remain tight.” Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist Derrell Peel agreed. In an analysis of the USDA report, he noted the increase in cattle placements comes after months of feedlots reducing inventories. “After two months of larger placements, we will likely see slower placements until summer grazing cattle are available in the fall,” he predicted. Peel forecast continued seasonal pressure on fed cattle prices until Labor Day, with recovery expected in the fourth quarter, adding that just how low summer prices will go will depend on demand. Boxed beef
demand dropped sharply last month, he noted, but appears to be stabilizing. “If [beef demand] holds near current levels, there is not a lot of pressure for fed prices to drop much further,” Peel said. USDA reported marketings of fed cattle during May totaled 1.87 million, 4 percent below last May and the lowest for the month of May since the series began in 1996. The DLR suggested very high prices likely caused packers to be less aggressive in trying to secure cattle, especially with beef sales slowing in May and sparse June delivery orders. J.P. Morgan analyst Ken
Goldman called the report “neutral” for packers such as Tyson Foods. “Though the increase in cattle on feed was, all else equal,
good for packers such as Tyson (because more supply equals lower costs) we think it already was priced into the stock,” he wrote in a note to investors. Source: www.meatingplace.com
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The “paralyzing” principle he Gulf oil spill is having all sorts of nasty consequences well beyond damage to the regional environment and economy. Not least, the resulting political panic seems to be rehabilitating the thoroughly discredited theory of regulation known as the “precautionary principle,” says the Wall Street Journal. This principle holds that government should attempt to prevent any risk — regardless of the costs involved, however minor the benefits and even without understanding what those risks really are. Developed in the late 1960s, this theory served as the intellectual architecture for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is still required to eliminate certain environmental risks no matter how expensive or pointless the effort is. This same mentality is now prompting not merely tighter safety standards, but President Obama’s moratorium on all new deep water drilling,
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shutting down dozens of Gulf and Alaskan projects, maybe permanently, says the Journal: Last month, 26 Democrats demanded that the government fold up BP’s other major Gulf operation, Atlantis, “to ensure that the explosion and mishap of the Horizon platform are not replicated.” Meanwhile, Governor Charlie Crist and other Florida politicians want a Gulf drilling ban unto eternity, and the California, Washington and Oregon Senate delegations want one for the West Coast, too. “Without a permanent ban on drilling off our shores,” said Dianne Feinstein, “there is no guarantee whatsoever that this will not happen again.” In other words, the precautionary principle is back with a vengeance, says the Journal.
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Grant to Step Aside at National Western Stock Show at Grant, President / CEO of Western Stock Show Association (aka National Western Stock Show) will step aside from his current duties in the near future. The announcement was made in late June by Jerry McMorris, Chairman of the Board. “Pat might be stepping away from the day to day responsibilities of running NWSS, but he will continue in his role as a key resource for our long range planning process,” McMorris explained. Grant joined the NWSS Executive Committee in 1985 and became President/CEO in 1991. During his tenure, he oversaw the funding and construction of the Events Center, the Expo Hall and the Hall of Education; the addition of the Coors Art Exhibition & Sale (with proceeds going to the NWSS Scholarship Trust); increased ticketed events from 23 each year to 43 by bringing in new exciting shows including Mexican Rodeo Extravaganza, Martin Luther King, Jr. AfricanAmerican Heritage Rodeo, PBR Denver Chute-Out Bull Riding, An Evening of Dancing Horses ®, Super Dogs and planned the most successful National Western Stock Show in history, the 100th Anniversary show in 2006 which drew almost 750,000 guests. National Western will be conducting a national search to iden-
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tify and select a dynamic leader who will continue to build upon the stock show legacy, tradition, charitable mission and history. Grant will continue as President during the entire search and transition process. Prior to 1991, Grant was a Colorado State Representative (1985–1992) and a Director and Shareholder of Grant-McHendrie Law Firm (1982–1993).
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Livestock Market Digest
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ederal environmental regulations that prevent border agents from expanded patrols of national wildlife parks appear to have had a hand in the government’s decision to declare an 80-mile stretch of Arizona-Mexico border a virtual noman’s land. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has closed about 3,500 acres of Arizona border lands — including parts of the Buenos Aires National Wildlife Refuge — warning Americans that it cannot guarantee their safety in the face of increased violence from drug gangs and illegal immigrants. That warning comes nearly three months after Rob Krentz was shot to death near the border. The shooting prompted four Republican lawmakers to introduce legislation banning the Interior Department from using environmental laws to limit border agents from doing their job. The bill, H.R. 5016, has since been referred to the Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands. U.S. Representatives Doc Hastings (R-WA), Peter King (RNY), Rob Bishop (R-Utah) and Lamar Smith (R-TX) said their bill, if passed, will address environmental degradation of federal lands and help close national security gaps along the border, which they say has become an uncontrolled highway. “Effectively securing our borders against illegal entry is a matter of homeland security,” King said in a statement. “Border Patrol agents spend every day on the front line, securing our homeland from terrorists. Denying or limiting the Border Patrol access to public lands and allowing the flow of illegals, including potential terrorists, doesn’t protect anything.” The lawmakers said internal documents showed that the Interior Department and the U.S. Forest Service have consistently and actively prevented Border Patrol agents from securing U.S. borders by requiring Department of Homeland Security officials to complete lengthy and expensive environmental analyses, and even blocking Border Patrol agents from entering some areas. “As a result, Border Patrol agents are being forced to wade through bureaucratic red tape just so they can do the job Congress has mandated: gain operational control over the U.S. border,” according to a fact sheet released by House of Representatives’ Natural Resources Committee Republicans. Kendra Barkoff, a spokeswoman for the Interior Department, told FoxNews.com in April that Secretary Ken Salazar visited the area in March to meet with land managers and federal, state and local law enforcement, including U.S. Customs and
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Border Protection and Homeland Security officials. She said Salazar placed a high priority on working with DHS and other agencies to “meet the twin goals of protecting our national security and our natural resources.” But some federal lands are specifically targeted by criminals, drug traffickers and human smugglers for easy access into the United States from Mexico or Canada, the congressmen say. The Interior Department, the primary land management agency for 40 percent of the Mexican border and 10 percent of the Canadian border, warned of potential problems in a fiscal year 2002-2003 report, Threat Assessment for Public Lands.
. . . some federal lands are specifically targeted by criminals, drug traffickers and human smugglers for easy access into the United States from Mexico or Canada. “Virtually all of the lands managed by Department of the Interior (DOI) along the Arizona/ Mexico border are sparsely populated with easy access into the United States from Mexico,” the report reads. “Terrorist [sic] wishing to smuggle nuclear — biological — or chemical (NBC) weapons into the United States from Mexico could use wellestablished smuggling routes over DOI-managed lands.” Border Patrol agents, park rangers and private citizens have been killed in these federal lands, most recently on March 27, when Arizona rancher Rob Krentz was murdered by a person who entered and exited the U.S. illegally via the San Bernardino Wildlife Refuge — a fact confirmed to the House of Representatives’ Natural Resources Committee Republicans by officials from both Customs and Border Protection and the FWS. In 2007, Krentz’s wife, Sue, wrote a letter to Congress opposing additional wilderness areas in Arizona she claimed would worsen criminal activity along the border. “We have experienced $6.2 million dollars of damages to our ranch and water line because of illegal foot traffic,” the letter read. “These areas along the border have long been targeted because of the high amount of private property with[in] the boundaries.” Krentz wrote that ranchers in the area, herself included, were fearful for their lives. “It is not right that illegal immigrants and drug smugglers should take precedence over honest, hardworking Americans whose recreation and livelihood is damaged,” the letter continued. “It is the job of the federal government to protect the defined U.S. borders from invasion.”
July 15, 2010
“America’s Favorite Livestock Newspaper”
Page 11
Agriculture slows pace of global warming, say Stanford researchers LOUIS BERGERON, Stanford News Service
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dvances in high-yield agriculture over the latter part of the 20th century have prevented massive amounts of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere — the equivalent of 590 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide — according to a new study led by two Stanford Earth scientists. The yield improvements reduced the need to convert forests to farmland, a process that typically involves burning of trees and other plants, which generates carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The researchers estimate that if not for increased yields, additional greenhouse gas emissions from clearing land for farming would have been equal to as much as a third of the world’s total output of greenhouse gases since the dawn of the Industrial Revolution in 1850. The researchers also calculated that for every dollar spent on agricultural research and development since 1961, emissions of the three principal greenhouse gases — methane, nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide — were reduced by the equivalent of about a quarter of a ton of carbon dioxide — a high rate of financial return compared to other approaches to reducing the gases. “Our results dispel the notion that modern intensive agriculture is inherently worse for the environment than a more ‘oldfashioned’ way of doing things,” said Jennifer Burney, lead author of a paper describing the study that will be published online by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Adding up the impact The researchers calculated emissions of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide, converting the amounts of the latter two gases into the quantities of carbon dioxide that would have an equivalent impact on the atmosphere, to facilitate comparison of total greenhouse gas outputs. Burney, a postdoctoral researcher with the Program on Food Security and the Environment at Stanford, said agriculture currently accounts for about 12 percent of human-caused greenhouse gas emissions. Although greenhouse gas emissions from the production and use of fertilizer have increased with agricultural intensification, those emissions are far outstripped by the emissions that would have been generated in converting additional forest and grassland to farmland. “Every time forest or shrub land is cleared for farming, the carbon that was tied up in the biomass is released and rapidly makes its way into the atmosphere — usually by being burned,” she said. “Yield intensification has lessened the pres-
sure to clear land and reduced emissions by up to 13 billion tons of carbon dioxide a year.” “When we look at the costs of the research and development that went into these improvements, we find that funding agricultural research ranks among the cheapest ways to prevent greenhouse gas emissions,” said Steven Davis, a co-author of the paper and a postdoctoral researcher at the Carnegie Institution at Stanford. To evaluate the impact of yield intensification on climate change, the researchers compared actual agricultural production between 1961 and 2005 with hypothetical scenarios in which the world’s increasing food needs were met by expanding the amount of farmland rather than by the boost in yields produced by the Green Revolution. “Even without higher yields, population and food demand would likely have climbed to levels close to what they are today,” said David Lobell, also a coauthor and assistant professor of environmental Earth system science at Stanford. “Lower yields per acre would likely have meant more starvation and death, but the population would still have increased because of much higher birth rates,” he said. “People tend to have more children when survival of those children is less certain.” Avoiding the need for more farmland The researchers found that without the advances in highyield agriculture, several billion additional acres of cropland would have been needed. Comparing emissions in the theoretical scenarios with realworld emissions from 1961 to 2005, the researchers estimated that the actual improvements in crop yields probably kept greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to at least 317 billion tons of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, and perhaps as much as 590 billion tons. Without the emission reductions from yield improvements, the total amount of greenhouse gas pumped into the atmosphere over the preceding 155 years would have been between 18 and 34 percent greater than it has been, they said. To calculate how much money was spent on research for each ton of avoided emissions, the researchers calculated the total amount of agricultural research funding related to yield improvements since 1961 through 2005. That produced a price between approximately $4 and $7.50 for each ton of carbon dioxide that was not emitted. “The size and cost-effectiveness of this carbon reduction is striking when compared with proposed mitigation options in other sectors,” said Lobell. “For exam-
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Livestock Market Digest
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DEADLINE: AUGUST 5, 2010 FEATURING: • More tremendous art by the renowned Tim Cox • The Digest 25 • Contact information for the Who’s Who in the Livestock Industry FOR MORE INFO. CONTACT: DEBBIE CISNEROS, Advertising Representative, Livestock Market Digest 505/332-3675 • debbie@aaalivestock.com The FME is online year-round at: www.aaalivestock.com
July 15, 2010
Extreme Caution Urged in Hiring Practices he Animal Agriculture Alliance urges farm managers to be watchful for a number of individuals who have been found responsible for some of the latest undercover activist videos released to the media and public in the past year. The Alliance recommends that all producers ensure high standards of animal welfare by following approved industry guidelines. Operators should also review their hiring practices, train employees on proper animal handling according to company policy, and hold all workers accountable for their actions. The activist tactic of obtaining illicit employment at a farm or processing plant in order to acquire video intended to malign the reputation of farmers and ranchers is becoming increasingly common. While animal abuse in any shape or form is never condoned by the agriculture industry, activists use highly-edited images of violence and neglect to prey on the emotions of the public. It is hard to determine the authenticity of the images. Too often, the activists wait for weeks or even months before turning the video over to the proper authorities. By waiting for the most politically opportune time to ‘go public,’ they allow any alleged abuse to continue. The following individuals have been connected to a number of recent undercover video campaigns. “Jason Smith”: It appears one individual is responsible for undercover videos taken at Quality Egg of New England, Bushway Packing Inc, Maine Contract Farms, Wiles Hog Farm, Hodgins Kennels, C.C. Baird, and at least one other dog breeding facility. It is probable the same individual is responsible for undercover videos taken at Gemperle Farms, Norco Ranch, DeCoster Egg Farms, and HyLine’s Spencer Iowa hatchery. According to credible sources, the person who worked undercover at these facilities was born in Houston, Texas, as Christopher Parrett. Some of the other names given to employers include Jason Smith, John Knoldt, and Chris Paxton. When employed by Maine Contract Farms, the person claimed to be Jason Smith but used a social security card belonging to John Knoldt, originally Christopher Parrett. The social security card of the individual who worked as Jason Smith identifies his social security number as ending in these last four digits: - 0852. His driver’s license is from North Carolina. Smith also was found to have led an undercover investigation of a Minnesota dog breeder in 2009. “Pete Romoland”: The Alliance suspects that this same individual is also known as “Pete Romoland,” whose picture appeared in a TIME magazine article accompanying an interview with him on March 6, 2009. In the TIME magazine article,
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“Pete” indicated that he had legally changed his name twice. “Pete” also indicated that he is a vegan and specifically stated, “. . . I do not believe that under any circumstances we should raise animals for food.” In the same interview, “Pete” stated that he operated as an unlicensed investigator and had contracted with the anti-modern farming group Humane Farming Association and the vegan animal rights group Mercy for Animals. He proudly boasted that video footage he was responsible for procuring had been featured in at least two HBO documentaries, including Death on a Factory Farm. In July 2007, video obtained by Smith (who went by Knoldt) was used in a trial against an Ohio hog farm. He said that he had used his real name and a false address when he was hired. Video was obtained using a buttonhole camera. “James/Jimmy Carlson”: Possibly the same, but without confirmation, another individual was hired by Country View Family Farms. The name provided was Jimmy Carlson, supposedly from Sag Harbor, N.Y. The individual was in his twenties and had his hair cropped short in a buzz cut. Sources confirmed that Carlson was also responsible for the January 2010 video taken at Willet Dairy in New York for Mercy for Animals. In a National Public Radio interview that has since been taken offline, an individual took credit for conducting the HyLine undercover operation. He stated that he worked for Mercy for Animals. In the radio interview, this individual asked the reporter to call him “James.” He said that since he often had to use his real social security card with his picture ID, he couldn’t reveal his real name when giving interviews. In all cases, the undercover videos were provided weeks or months after the individuals had left employment, and the videos were initially provided to either the media or the USDA — not directly to the businesses involved. In most cases, employers realized — after the fact — who the
former undercover employee had been. They also recognized — after the fact — many behaviors or actions demonstrated by the undercover employee that allowed them to have access to the animals and to produce videos — whether of real or staged animal mistreatment. Some of the behaviors included: ■ Befriending or mingling with upper management — asking questions about operations including security matters or time schedules. ■ Volunteering for jobs before or after normal business hours. ■ Volunteering for jobs that are less desirable, but would provide them access to the animals, often before or after normal business hours. ■ Seeking employment in jobs below their skill or education level; demonstrating previous jobs or experiences out of character for the job they were seeking. ■ Seeking employment with no pay — so they can “learn more about the business before committing to that field” either with regard to their education or possibly before starting their own business. ■ Using an out-of-state driver’s license. The Alliance urges producers to use caution when hiring new employees. Operators should follow the recommendations in the Alliance’s Farm & Facility Security Recommendations Report, which is available on the members section of the Alliance's website. Operators must make certain that they hire people who are there for the right reasons — to help produce a safe and nutritious food supply. The agriculture industry must be wary — activists have shown that they will work every angle in their quest to put all farmers, ranchers, and meat processors out of business. The first step for every farm operator is to ensure that top quality animal care is provided at all times. It is also critical that those in the industry take extra security precautions to prevent getting targeted by animal rights groups looking for video to aid in their fundraising efforts and political campaigns.
Feds want full market value for Utah land it bought for $1 in Mantua by LEE DAVIDSON, Deseret News
he town of Mantua, Box Elder County — population 756 — once sold the federal government 31.5 acres of land for $1. Now, the town would like that unused land back for free. But the Obama administration said recently it wants full market value for that land instead. Harris Sherman, Undersecretary of Agriculture, told a Senate Energy & Natural Resources subcommittee hearing that the
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administration opposes a bill by the Utah delegation that seeks to give Mantua the land for free. “Our concern with the bill is it does not provide for fair market value to the Forest Service, which runs counter to well-established, long-standing policies,” he testified. He added, “We are clearly willing to work with the town of Mantua to effectuate this conveyance. We want to do so under the terms of the Townsite Act, which requires us to receive fair market value for the conveyance.”
“America’s Favorite Livestock Newspaper”
July 15, 2010
Page 13
THE LIVESTOCK MARKET DIGEST “Advertising with Livestock Market Digest and New Mexico Stockman for the past couple years has been a very positive experience. We have worked directly with Debbie Cisneros and she goes above and beyond! Both publications offer a great circulation and a great website presence which helps us market more effectively for our clients. By advertising with them we get the results we desire.” (800) 772-7284 * (541) 772-0000 *
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QUAY CO., N.M.: 880 acres, 3 pivots, alfalfa, home, pavement, PRICED TO SELL. SUNSHINE BELT OF N.M.: approx. 30 sections mostly deeded some BLM and State, employee housing and two sets of steel pens, county maintained, all weather road. Mild climate year round. HEART OF THE PLAINS: 8 section ranch with new set of pens, concrete bunks, truck/cattle scale and commodity barn, mobile home, watered by subs, mill and pipeline, on pavement, hour from Lubbock. READY TO RANCH and DEVELOP (wind energy, comm., res.) Potter Co., TX. – 4872.8 ac. of beautiful ranch country four miles north of loop 335, Amarillo, TX., pvmt. on four sides. Well watered by pumps powered by solar energy (state of the art). Deer, quail and dove.
INTEREST RATES AS LOW AS 3%. PAYMENTS SCHEDULED ON 25 YEARS
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WAHOO RANCH – Approx. 41,376 acres: 12,000 deeded, 6,984 BLM, 912 state, 40 uncontrolled and 21,440 forest. Beautiful cattle ranch located on the east slope of the Black Range Mountains north of Winston, N.M., on State Road 52 — three hours from either Albuquerque or El Paso.The ranch is bounded on the east by the Alamosa Creek Valley and on the west by the Wahoo Mountains ranging in elevation from 6,000' to 8,796'. There are 3 houses/cabins, 2 sets of working corrals (one with scales) and numerous shops and outbuildings. It is very well watered with many wells, springs, dirt tanks and pipelines. The topography and vegetation is a combination of grass covered hills (primarily gramma grasses), with many cedar, piñon and live oak covered canyons as well as the forested Wahoo Mountains. There are plentiful elk and deer as well as antelope, turkey, bear, mountain lion and javelina (46 elk tags in 2009). Absolutely one of the nicest combination cattle/hunting ranches to be found in the Southwest. Price reduced to $6,000,000. SAN JUAN RANCH – Located 10 miles south of Deming off Hwy. 11 (Columbus Hwy) approximately 26,964 total acres consisting of 3,964± deeded, 3,800± state lease, Farm Portion 14,360± BLM and 4,840± Uncontrolled. The allotment is for 216 head (AUYL). Under There are 278± acres of ground water irrigation rights (not currently being Agreement farmed) as well as 9 solar powered stock wells and metal storage tanks and approx. 6½ miles pipeline. The ranch begins on the north end at the beautiful Mahoney Park high up in the Florida mountains and runs 5½ miles down the mountains to their south end. It continues another 7½ miles south across their foothills and onto the flats. The ranch has a very diverse landscape with plentiful wildlife including quail, dove, rabbits, deer and ibex. Lots of potential and a good buy at $1,200,000. 46 ACRE FARM LOCATED IN SAN MIGUEL – Full EBID irrigation and supplemental well. Bounded by Highway 28 on the east, County Road B-041 on the south and County Road B-010 on the west. Priced at $14,000/acre – $644,000. 212 ACRE FARM BETWEEN LAS CRUCES, NM AND EL PASO, TX – Hwy. 28 frontage with 132 acres irrigated, 80 acres sandhills, full EBID (surface water) plus a supplemental irrigation well, cement ditches and large equipment warehouse. Reasonably priced at $2,000,000. 50.47-AC. FARM - Located on Afton Road south of La Mesa, N.M. Paved road frontage, full EBID (surface water) plus a supplemental irrigation well with cement ditches. Priced at $14,500/acre – $731,815. BEAUTIFUL 143.81 ACRE NORTH VALLEY FARM located in Las Cruces, N.M. next to the Rio Grande River. Great views of the Organ Mountains. Cement ditches, 2 irrigation wells & EBID. 2 older houses and shed sold “as is”. Priced at $13,212/acre - $1,900,000. Will consider dividing. OTHER FARMS FOR SALE – In Doña Ana County. All located near Las Cruces, N.M. 8, 11, and 27.5 acres. $15,000/acre to $17,000/acre. All have EBID (surface water rights from the Rio Grande River) and several have supplemental irrigation wells. If you are interested in farm land in Doña Ana County, give me a call.
DAN DELANEY R E A L E S TAT E , L L C 318 W. Amador Ave., Las Cruces, N.M. 88005 • (O) 575/647-5041 (C) 575/644-0776 • nmlandman@zianet.com • www.zianet.com/nmlandman
Livestock Market Digest
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PREMIER RANCH FOR SALE 12,000 acres, Terrell County, Texas. Southwest of Sheffield, southeast of Fort Stockton. Excellent hunting ranch, mainly deer (whitetail and mule) and turkey. New hunter’s lodge and walk-in freezer. Surface rights only; no minerals. Principals only. $400/acre, cash.
billkalil@juno.com • 432/683-0990 • 432/349-8448
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July 15, 2010 continued from page eleven
ple, strategies proposed to reduce emissions related to construction would cut emissions by a little less than half the amount that we estimate has been achieved by yield improvements and would cost close to $20 per ton.” The authors also note that raising yields alone won’t guarantee lower emissions from land use change. “It has been shown in several contexts that yield gains alone do not necessarily stop expansion of
cropland,” Lobell said. “That suggests that intensification must be coupled with conservation and development efforts. “In certain cases, when yields go up in an area, it increases the profitability of farming there and gives people more incentive to expand their farm. But in general, high yields keep prices low, which reduces the incentive to expand.” The researchers concluded that improvement of crop yields
should be prominent among a portfolio of strategies to reduce global greenhouse gases emissions. “The striking thing is that all of these climate benefits were not the explicit intention of historical investments in agriculture. This was simply a side benefit of efforts to feed the world,” Burney noted. “If climate policy intentionally rewarded these kinds of efforts, that could make an even bigger difference. The question going forward is how climate policy might be designed to achieve that.”
The price of predators: ! %
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“EAGER SELLERS” 1,350 -1,400 AU’s YEAR ROUND – WINTER RANGE – 11,750 DEEDED PLUS BLM and STATE LEASES - ONE CONTIGUOUS BLOCK - LOW OVERHEAD – GOOD IMPROVEMENTS – 10 MINUTES TO TOWN and SCHOOLS -$6,000,000 – CAN CUT TO 1,000 HD AND REDUCE PRICE! – P BAR 225 – 250 AU’s - 850 DEEDED (650 irrigated) – 1-1/2 MILE RIVER - NICE MEADOWS – MODEST IMPROVEMENTS WITH GREAT WORKING FACILITIES – CLOSE TO TOWN and SCHOOLS - $1,800,000 – WANT OFFER -CAN ADD CUSTOM HOME AND 80 ACRES – GREAT STOCKER OPERATION – LYMAN – RAE @ 208-761-9553 LIFESTYLE RANCH 55 MILES TO BOISE – 2,213 DEEDED ACRES PLUS STATE AND BLM – DROP DEAD PRIVATE – 2 MILES MAJOR STREAM – BEHIND LOCKED GATE – COMFORTABLE IMPROVEMENTS – ELK, DEER, TURKEY, CHUKAR, HUNS, QUAIL, WATERFOWL - BEAR, LION AND VARMINT – TROUT and BASS PONDS - $1,400,000 – WANT OFFER – TURKEY CREEK LIFESTYLE – 320 DEEDED ACRES (105 irrigated) COMFORTABLE IMPROVEMENTS – SPECTACULAR VIEWS – BORDERS FEDERAL LANDS – ELK, DEER, TURKEY – ONLY MINUTES TO SOME OF THE FINEST YEAR LONG FISHING IN THE NORTHWEST – STEELHEAD, STURGEN, TROUT, BASS, CRAPPY AND MORE - $690,000 – WANT OFFER – POSY -RAE @ 208-761-9553 LIFESTYLE/INCOME – POSSIBLY THE FINEST WILDLIFE VARIETY/QUANITY AVAILABLE – 1,160 DEEDED ACRES (180 irrigated) – 2-1/2 MILES RIVER – 2 BASS PONDS – PLENTIFUL QUAIL, CHUKAR, DOVE, PHEASANT, WATERFOWL, DEER and AND VARMINTS - EXCELLENT IMPROVEMENTS – COW/CALF AND/OR STOCKER OPERATION FOR INCOME /TAX ADVANTAGE - $1,900,000 – LANDRETH
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An economic impact model for livestock ranches n Wyoming, about $4 million worth of rangeland cattle and sheep were lost to predators in 2005. Using a computerized model, researchers have now simulated an individual ranch’s economic impact of livestock losses to predators such as wolves and coyotes. Both short-term profitability and long-term viability were found to be affected by predation. The article appeared in the June 2010 issue of the Journal Rangelands. The Western Wyoming Grazing Model simulates cow–calf operations, taking into account herd size, grazing strategies, annual livestock sales, and fluctuating cattle prices to determine ranch income and viability. The model uses three scenarios to predict the consequence of predation on profits: decreased weaning weight, increased death loss, and increased variable costs. Of these, reduced weaning weight had the greatest impact. This is because all calves would become less profitable when the stress of predation resulted in a lower sale weight, whereas death loss would affect only those animals directly lost to predators. Reduced sale weights of up to five percent were sustainable in this model. However, we have little scientific data describing
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the impact of predation on weaning weights and a better understanding of this relationship is needed. With an annual death loss of four percent, a ranch would experience negative profits in three of ten years. Increasing the loss to ten percent would bring about an additional year of losses and possible insolvency of the business. However, in this scenario, the losses due to decrease in herd size were offset to an extent by increased sale of hay. Variable costs that might increase due to predation include herding costs, the need to check on and move animals more frequently, and increased veterinary services. An overall cost increase of 20 to 30 percent, which is unlikely, would be required to significantly affect profits. The model shows that predator control activities that achieved a one percent reduction in death loss or a one percent lessening of the affect on weaning weights would be economically efficient. This knowledge can help determine how to best control rangeland predators — whether individually or with state and federal funding. Full text of the article, “Ranch-Level Economic Impacts of Predation in a Range Livestock System,” Rangelands, Vol. 32, Issue 3, June 2010, is available at: www2.allenpress.com/pdf/rala-32-03-21-26.pdf.
RANCHES – FARMS – COMMERCIAL
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ealtors® working in land now must have education and greater competence specific to land. The National Association of Realtors® added the discipline of "land" to the National Association of Realtors® — Code of Ethics in Dec., 2009. Article 11, of the Realtor® Code of Ethics, says that land is now recognized as a specialized, professional service. Article 11 describes that Realtors® are in violation of the code of ethics if they participate in a land listing or land deal if outside their level of competence and training. Realtors® with little or no training and experience in land sales need to hire a professional with sufficient brokerage experience, such as a professional Accredited Land Consultant, to help them if they wish to work on a land related transaction. Otherwise, the Realtor® must disclose in writing that he or she does not possess expertise, education or competence so parties in deal are aware that the Realtor® they are working with does not have the specific marketing knowledge or training. Knowledge and experience is one of the keys to success in real estate sales. A real estate license allows an agent to sell any kind of real estate. Most select a certain area to work in, a specific market and product to sell. For most Realtors®, it's a type of residential real estate. The World Organization Land Federation (WOLF), The American Land College, and The Realtors® Land Institute each offer advanced land education and marketing courses, lec-
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tures and events for real estate practitioners relating to: (1) farm and ranch; (2) undeveloped tracts of land; (3) transitional and development land; (4) subdivision and wholesaling of lots; and (5) site selection and assemblage of land parcels (6) land development and land brokerage; (7) Site Selection. (8) Timber. Each of these organizations offer valuable classes real estate agents and brokers can complete to fully understand all the options and operations in the land brokerage business. And each offers instruction and mentorship leading to various land brokerage designations. The ALC (Accredited Land Consultant) designation is one such designation a land broker can attain and is indicative of a broker who has conscientiously applied themselves, to acquire the knowledge and practice of a professional. Agents and brokers should take advantage of the educational opportunities available specific to marketing and selling farms, ranches,
Idaho Mountain Ranch: 59,896± ac. of deeded, State and BLM. Run cattle, recreate, hunt and enjoy. In the Owyhee Mtns. one hour from Boise, Idaho. Irrigated pasture, hay, timber, creeks, Snake River frontage and 3 homes. $8,000,000.
timber, land development that will enhance their credibility with clients, streamline learning, and accelerate earnings potential. Realtors® who list and sell anything specialized need to make sure they are in compliance with Article 11 of the National Association of Realtors® – Code of Ethics. For more information on educational and marketing opportunities, contact John Knipe at john@ knipeland.com. Knipe served two terms as Regional Vice President, Region 12, of the National Association of Realtors®, Realtors® Land Institute. JOHN KNIPE is President of Knipe Land Co., Inc.; Accredited Land Consultant with the Realtors® Land Institute Past President of the Idaho Chapter of the National Association of Realtors®; Realtors® Land Institute Past Regional Vice President of National Association of Realtors®; Realtors® Land Institute
“America’s Favorite Livestock Newspaper”
July 15, 2010
THE LIVESTOCK MARKET DIGEST
Real Estate G U I D E KEVIN C. REED Ranchers Serving Ranchers Texas and New Mexico
LEE, LEE & PUCKITT ASSOCIATES INC.
RANCH SALES & APPRAISALS Office: 325/655-6989 Cell: 915/491-9053
1002 Koenigheim, San Angelo, TX 76903 • www.llptexasranchland.com • llp@wcc.net
OREGON OPPORTUNITIES Real Estate
~ SOUTHERN OREGON ~ Farm/Ranch ~ Rural ~ Timber Recreational Properties View available properties at: www.orop.com
Spacious home, great views. Fenced in-ground pool. Four-stall barn with runs, large shop with additional shed, row stalls, round pen and arena. 15.28 level acres with 6.5 irrigated. $749,000 Close in 48+ acres with panoramic views. Homesite situated among mature oaks. Lots of level ground for barn or shop. $249,000 11.9 acres with 11.1 irrigated. Four-bedroom home. Lodge-style interior with stunning fireplace stonework and great floorplan. Shop, lighted arena, indoor and outdoor stalls and tack room. 60x12 hay barn. RV hookups at shop. Year-around creek. Great soils. $850,000. Beautiful setting, level pastures. Home comes furnished. Landscaped and fenced grounds. Nice barn with stalls and shop area, hay barn and arena. 35+ acres with 23.6 irrigated and year-round creek. $799,000. Livestock ranch on 1,038 acres with irrigation, dryland pasture and feed lots. Four homes, five barns, shop, 2 sets of working corrals. $3,700,000. Tom Harrison, CCIM • 800/772-7284 • harrison@orop.com
■ 5-acre Horse Set-up: Location-location, only 2+ miles north of Mountain Grove on Girlstown Rd. New fencing, 20x40 new 3-stall horse barn/shop/1-car garage, 1,300 sq. ft. , 3-br., 2-ba. manufactured home, wrap around deck ( 2 sides), nestled down your private drive. MLS #1010102, ■ 5 Acres – Log home. Price Decrease: 3,800 sq. ft. log home, 6 br, 4 BA on 5 acres m/l. 35 x 68 bunkhouse/classroom heated and 1 BA. Additional 55 acres m/l available to buy which could give you access to the Gasconade River Asking $170,000. MLS#814022 ■ 483 Acres, Hunter Mania: Nature at her best. Dont miss out on this one. Live water (two creeks). 70+ acres open in bottom hayfields and upland grazing. Lots of timber (marketable and young) for the best hunting and fishing (Table Rock, Taney Como and Bull Shoals Lake) Really cute 3-bd., 1-ba stone home. Secluded yes, but easy access to Forsyth-Branson, Ozark and Springfield. Property joins Nat’l. Forest. MLS#908571 See all my listings at: paulmcgilliard.murney.com
PAUL McGILLIARD Cell: 417/839-5096 • 1-800/743-0336
MURNEY ASSOC., REALTORS SPRINGFIELD, MO 65804
TEXAS & OKLA. FARMS & RANCHES • 503 Ac. So. Navarro Co., Texas. It’s got it all. $1,950/ac. • 532-acre CATTLE and HUNTING, N.E. Texas ranch, elaborate home, one-mile highway frontage. OWNER FINANCE at $2,150/ac. • 274 ac. in the shadow of Dallas. Secluded lakes, trees, excellent grass. Hunting and fishing, dream home sites. $3,850/ac. • 535-ac. Limestone, Fallas and Robertson Co., fronts on Hwy. 14 and has rail frontage, water line, to ranch, fenced into 5 pastures, 2 sets, cattle pens, loamy soil, good quality trees, hogs and deer, hunting. Priced at $2,300/ac. • 1,700-acre classic N.E. Texas cattle and hunting ranch. $2,750/ac. Some mineral production. • 146 ac. – Horse, hunting are cattle ranch N. of Clarksville, TX. Red River Co. Nice brick house, 2 barns, pipe fences, good deer, hogs, ducks, hunting. Price at $395,000. • 256 ac. – E. Texas jewel. Deep, sandy soil, high, rolling hills, scattered good-quality trees. Excellent improved grasses, water line on 2 sides. Road frontage on 2 sides, fenced into 5 pastures. Five spring-fed tanks and lakes, deer, hogs, ducks. Near Tyler and Athens. Price $1,920,000.
Joe Priest Real Estate 1205 N. Hwy 175, Seagoville, TX 75159
972/287-4548 • 214/676-6973 1-800/671-4548 www.joepriest.com joepriestre@earthlink.com
Southwest Brangus Breeders Initiate Youth Heifer Program embers of the Southwest Brangus Breeders Association (SWBBA) are offering youngsters in their region of New Mexico, Arizona, Utah and Colorado a unique opportunity to show a heifer in the months to come. Under a memorandum of understanding (MOU) approved at the SWBBA annual meeting in Ruidoso in late June, 4-H or FFA members may receive a registered Brangus heifer along with feed and expense funding to prepare a heifer to compete in the Arizona National or other appropriate show. The heifer will be transferred into the youth’s name for the duration of the project and the youngster must become a member of the International Junior Brangus Breeders Association. Additionally, the youth will be expected to provide daily care and management of the heifer as directed by their 4-H leader or FFA advisor as well as maintaining a record book and financial records relating to the animal. The heifer will be returned to its breeder at the conclusion of the show season. To ensure a strong network for the youngsters participating in the program, the MOU must be signed by the youngster, his or her advisor or leader as well as his or her parents and the breeder of the heifer.
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CALIFORNIA RANCHES FOR SALE Crane Creek Ranch: Tehama County, 556 acres. Two small homes, winter range. West of Red Bluff. Priced at $975,000. Wilson Ranch: Modoc County, 487 acres, house, barn, summer range. Surprise Valley, Calif. Priced at $950,000. Willow Springs Ranch: Shasta County, 1,470 acres, barn, two homes, Cottonwood Creek frontage. Make offer. Pasture Ranch: Modoc County, 427 acres, nice home, 400 acres irrigated. 2.5 miles Pit River frontage, priced at $1,600,000. Fisher Ranch: Modoc County, 2,808 acres, 465 irrigated, USFS and BLM permits, older nice home, 200 cows included. Priced at 2,999,000. Hooker Creek Ranch: Tehama County, 1,023 acres, winter range, large ponds, recreation, electric, well, septic, telephone. Priced at $1,095,000.
R.G. DAVIS, BROKER
Rubicon Ranch: Tehama County, 2,082 acres, Hunting Ranch, pigs, deer, quail dove. Ponds and creek. Priced at $1,350,000. Spring Meadow Ranch: Shasta County, 160 acres, water rights, 50 acres irrigated, large home, swimming pool, barn, shop. Priced at $699,000. Trinity River Ranch: Trinity County, 117 acres, 5,000 ft. Trinity River frontage, excellent trout fishing. Priced at $665,000. Kelley Ranch: Modoc County, 658 acres, 156 acres irrigated, three houses, barn, shop. Priced at $900,000 Paskenta Ranch: Tehama County, 487 acres, house, corrals, barns. Approx. 200 acres, class one soil. New well, nursery-orchard. Priced at $1,795,000 Horse Ranch: Tehama County. 26+ acres, 14 acres irrigated, house, corrals, 120x200 covered arena. 140 ft. cutting arena, 16-stall barn, Cottonwood Creek frontage. Priced at $1,350,000
n June 10, by a 53-to-47 vote, Senate Democrats defeated a bipartisan effort to halt the attempt by the Environmental Protection
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MASON MOUNTAIN RANCH Nothern Elko County ranch with 3700 deeded acres and a small BLM permit. Great summer pasture with free water from springs, creeks and seeps. No power but land line phone. The ranch received 1 landowner Elk Tag this year. The irrigation reservior on Mason Creek is stocked with Red Band trout. Several useful buildings including home with gravity flow water and propane lights, water heater and refrigerator. The ranch should run 300 pair for the season. Price: $1,575,000.
Bottari Realty Out West Realty Network Affiliate
“We hope this project will enable youngsters to show heifers that would otherwise be unable to have one,” explained Bill Morrison, Lack-Morrison Brangus, Clovis, New Mexico, “along with providing public exposure to the Brangus breed that fits so well in the region and the breeders who provide the heifers.” Youngsters who participate in the program must insure their heifers for their full value as determined by the heifer's breeder and 4-H or FFA advisor. In addition to funding to assist with feed and travel costs, each youngster will receive $100 for their efforts and be eligible for a $500 scholarship offered by the SWBBA. The scholarship winner will be selected based on a written project story, a completed record book and a letter of support from the leader or advisor. The scholarship will be paid directly to the student’s college or technical school when the student provides SWBBA with a copy of enrollment verification. Youngsters and Brangus breeders interested in participating in this program should contact SWBBA President Dr. Bart Carter, Thatcher, Arizona at home, 928/348-8918 or office, 928/348-4030; or Mr. Morrison at home, 575/482-3254 cell, 575/760-7263 in Clovis.
Efforts to turn out the lights
NEVADA RANCHES and FARMS 19855 S. Main St. P.O. Box 1020 Cottonwood, CA 96022 Office: 530/347-9455 Fax: 530/347-4640 homeranchr@aol.com
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PAUL D. BOTTARI, BROKER www.bottarirealty.com • paul@bottarirealty.com
Ofc.: 775/752-3040 Res: 775/752-3809 • Fax: 775/752-3021
Agency (EPA) and the Obama administration to mount a regulatory takeover of the U.S. economy. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, Alaska Republican, had offered a resolution disapproving of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ruling that carbon-dioxide emissions pose a threat to human health and the environment. Murkowski, the entire Senate Republican caucus and the six Democrats who voted for the bill were doing no less than reasserting Congress’ constitutional authority to regulate interstate commerce, says H. Sterling Burnett, a senior fellow with the National Center for Policy Analysis. Energy production and use make up a large percentage of the economy and people’s wellbeing. The proposed EPA greenhouse-gas regulations would have a bigger impact over the long term than the financial bailouts and the various stimulus packages. It would have a larger impact on our economy than any single piece of legislation other than, perhaps, the recently passed health care overhaul. Murkowski and her allies simply thought that elected memcontinued on page sixteen
Livestock Market Digest
Page 16
Fremont okays immigrant ordinance by LESLIE REED and CINDY GONZALEZ, World-Herald Staff Writers
ity officials warned of higher taxes. Residents were told they’d likely see cuts in city services to pay for anticipated legal challenges. Yet voters passed a controversial law aimed at ridding their town of illegal immigrants on June 21, 2010. “You’ve got to take a step,” said Jerry Hart, a leader of a petition drive to put the ordinance on the ballot. “You’ve got to do something.” Residents in this town of 25,000 just west of Omaha voted 57 to 43 percent in favor of the ordinance that city officials warned could bring a legal battle costing up to $1 million annually. The results were a reflection, supporters said, of growing frustration with illegal immigration and the federal government’s lax enforcement. But as quickly as supporters raised a glass to celebrate their victory at the polls, the legal challenge was on. The ACLU imme-
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diately promised a lawsuit that challenges the constitutionality of the city ordinance that aims to cut off housing and jobs to illegal immigrants by fining landlords and employers who house or hire them. “Our intention is to make sure the law does not go into effect for even one day,” said Amy Miller of the Nebraska chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union. “It’s un-American. It’s unconstitutional.” And, she said, it would unfairly discriminate against all Hispanics. Already, Brenda Garcia said she was feeling a colder shoulder. She moved to Fremont 12 years ago, drawn by its peaceful atmosphere and family environment. Monday when she arrived at her polling place, she was the only Hispanic there. “When I opened the door, everyone turned and looked at me,” she said. The vote was the latest spark in the country’s explosive and emotional debate over illegal immigration. It was the country’s first public vote on an immigration law since the April passage of the Arizona law that ignited emotional debate and demonstrations across the country and even outside the U.S. Fremont’s special election came at a time when Capitol Hill is embroiled over how to overhaul the nation’s immigration system, which most agree is broken. Indeed, national news media converged upon Fremont in the days leading up to the vote, seeking to gauge small town America’s sentiments on the divisive issue heating up political races all over the nation. While election results — about 45 percent of registered voters turned out — directly affect only
activity within Fremont’s borders, observers said the outcome could set a legal precedent and motivate more towns across the nation to enact similar laws. Don Blackford of Logan, Iowa, for example, said he will push western Iowa towns to follow suit. “There will be a ripple effect,” Blackford said. “Towns are screaming for help. They’re crying for help.” Fremont supporters of the ballot measure said they were motivated by jobs lost to illegal immigrants and by rising costs from emergency rooms and classrooms handling illegal immigrants. Hispanics today make up about eight percent of Fremont’s population, compared to about four percent in 2000. The growth this decade in Fremont has been 85 percent immigrants, drawn largely by jobs at meatpacking plants that sit just outside the city limits. The potentially precedent-setting move, however, will come with a price tag for residents of Fremont. City officials have estimated — based on two other cities currently fighting legal challenges to similar laws — that Fremont taxpayers could see a double-digit city property tax hike and cuts in city services or a combination of both. If the measure ultimately stands up in court, city officials said roughly $200,000 more would be spent each year to enforce the provisions that punish landlords who rent to illegal immigrants and employers who knowingly hire undocumented workers. John Weigert, another petition leader, dismissed the city’s cost estimates as “scare tactics.” If the city attorney handles the case properly, it won’t be as expensive
Western Legacy Alliance Research Spurs Congressional Action on Exposing Taxpayer Funded Lawsuit Racket of Radical Environmentalists I am/our organization is committed to protecting the open spaces, private property, private businesses and ensuring the responsible use of public lands. Please list me/my organization as a member of the Western Legacy Alliance. I have included my membership dues and my $____________ additional contribution. Individual Membership $25
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July 15, 2010 as some predict, he said. Fremont City Council President Gary Bolton said Monday night that the people of Fremont have spoken, but he is concerned. “It’s going to be very costly for the city while this is litigated, and
we need to be prepared for that.” It was a two-year battle to get the ordinance to a public vote. More than 1,000 people packed an auditorium for the first public hearing of the measure in July 2008.
What does the farmer and rancher mean to your community? TRI STATE LIVESTOCK NEWS
n financial terms it means a lot, according to Calvin Pietz, Farm Business Management Instructor at Mitchell Technical Institute. The average business purchases within local communities based on information proved by farmers enrolled in South Dakota’s Farm/Business Management Program was $561,556, an increase of $9,126 over 2008. Feed purchased topped the expense list in 2009 at $79,934 for the average enrolled farm. Much of this feed is produced and processed in South Dakota creating a multi-million dollar industry within the state. Equipment repairs and purchases provide the basis for the ag equipment industry in local communities. The average farm generated $30,855 in repair bills. Gas and lubricant purchases added another $21,209 in dollars paid to local businesses. The livestock health industry received an average of $17,414 per farm in 2009. “The industries save the producer millions in livestock losses, creating more spending revenue within each community,” says Pietz. Crop input expenses also make up a large part of the farm
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purchases from local vendors. In 2009 the average farm spent $50,389 for fertilizers, $29,221 for chemicals, and $66,592 for other crop expenses. There are other farm expenses which benefit their communities. Hired labor cost were $17,308 per farm in 2009, providing jobs and income for employees within the community. Interest payments of $36,312 were paid per farm allowing lending agencies to raise funds for other community investments. The average farm also generated $7,946 in property taxes. A great deal of the budget of community schools and local government is carried by taxes paid by each farm or ranch. In addition to $561,556 spent on operating costs, ag operations spent another $111,928 on capital improvements — expenses included $42,025 on new buildings and land, and $58,199 on new machinery and livestock equipment. An additional $11,704 was spent on the purchase of breeding livestock. Family living costs were $46,306 in 2009. The average farm consisted of 1,790 acres, of which 663 acres were farmer-owned and 1,127 acres were rented. Total investment per farm by owner/operator and lenders is $1,707,644.
Society for Range Management announcers Summer Tour: Express UU Bar Ranch he New Mexico section of the Society for Range Management (SRM) will be offering an outstanding opportunity to join manager Mike Hobbs for a personal tour of the Express Ranch UU Bar ranch (www.expressuubar.com) August 6 near Cimarron, N.M.
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Turn Out Lights continued from page fifteen
bers of Congress, accountable to their constituents, rather than unelected bureaucrats or judges should decide if, when and how the United States should respond to the potential threat posed by global warming, says Burnett. President Obama, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid of Nevada and the majority of the Democratic caucus disagreed, killing the bill. Source: H. Sterling Burnett, “Murkowski vote isn’t end of the story; Democrats persist in efforts to turn out the lights,” Washington Times, June 15, 2010.
From the mountains to the plains and in-between, the historic, 160,000 plus acre UU Bar combines stocker, commercial and breeding cattle operations with high quality hunting, recreation and very attentive range management. The tour will be open to ranchers and all those interested in furthering the art and science of range management. Youth in particular will be welcome. Portions of the proceeds from the $50 tour ticket ($25 youth and students), which includes a hearty cowboy luncheon at the Express UU Bar Lodge, will support NM SRM scholarships, the NMSU Range Club, and the NMSU Range Plant ID team. Continuing education credits will be available for Certified Professionals in Range Management. For tour agenda and other details see http://nmsrm.nmsu.edu or contact New Mexico SRM President-elect, jimthorpe@wildblue.net. Those seeking overnight accommodations in the area should not delay as it will be “high season in the high country.”