NMCGA Rolls Out First Herita I
n 2021 the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association initiated a program to honor youth at each of the state’s county fairs called the Heritage Buckle Award program. To be eligible for the Heritage buckle award, youth ages 9 to 21 were asked to provide a 200 to 500 word essay on the ‘value they placed on the heritage of the cattle industry and ranching in New Mexico.’ Recipients from each county are presented with a trophy belt buckle and a 1-year junior membership to NMCGA, winners are then automatically entered in the overall state Heritage contest. Buckles were donated and presented by NMCGA members. Caysie Wood, Chaves County wrote: “The heritage of the cattle industry is invaluable to our present and future generations because of the traditions it honors, the land it conserves, and the people it values. Ranchers are dedicated to their land, their livestock and their families. Keeping these traditions alive is an active and ongoing responsibility.”
(L-R) Bill Marley, Donna Marley, Dennise Bridgers, award sponsor; Caysie Wood, and Rowdy Green
Jacee Smith, Eddy County wrote: “My great-grandpa raised cattle, rode horses, and taught many lessons to my grandpa and my father who have taught them to me. If I don’t place a large impor tance on ranching in (L-R) Callie Bennett, Rowdy Green, Jacee Smith, Eddy my life the County Queen Laurel Henson next generation may not have the same opportunities as me. I hope that I can keep learning and growing and one day become a leader in the cattle industry.”Award Sponsor Robert R. Homer & Associates Jordan Perez, Guadalupe C o u n t y wrote: “My legac y was built from a c at tl e a n d sheep homestead in the 1900’s. Now as the 4th generation, I place (L-R) Jordan Perez and Taylor Riggins, NMCGA my family’s successes in the traditions and old fashioned values found in 3 words: hard work, sacrifice and determination.” Award Sponsor: Jim Thorpe & Carol Church
Lacey Knight, Dona Ana County wrote: Isabella Sugg, Lincoln County wrote: “My “As a member family has been ranching on the Bar W of 4-H and FFA, Ranch I feel that it is outside of my responsiCarrizozo bility to tell s i n c e others about 1888. Part my agriculof passing tural way of d o w n (L-R) Lacey Knight and award life and how heritage sponsor Senator Crystal R. Diamond rewarding it is. is being There is no honest greater feeling of accomplishment than to (L to R) Kayanna and Chelsie Wilson, about the care for the animals and the land, with my Isabella Sugg, Kendal and Gemma rew ards , Wilson family by my side.”
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challenges and sorrows that occur in ranching. With fewer choosing to become a part of the cattle industry, it is important that we continue to educate the public with our knowledge of animal husbandry and how food is produced. This begins with the knowledge we pass from generation to generation.” Award Sponsors Kendal and Chelsie, Wilson Beef Myra Olivas, Valencia Co u n t y wrote: “I recently asked myself this question: Who will share the heritage (L-R) Myra Olivas with of the cattle Representative Gail Armstrong industry and ranching in New Mexico if there is no one in the future to maintain its legacy? I was able to explore this more after attending the New Mexico Youth Ranch Management Camp. Surrounded by likeminded youth, we learned about grazing, administering vaccines and consumer driven markets. Consumers want to know where their food comes from! I see opportunities now that I didn’t see before attending camp.” Award Sponsor Representative Gail Armstrong. Breylin Rubio, Colfax County wrote: “A big part of ranching heritage is work ethic. To get things done you have to have a good attitude and love your work. My grandpa and my dad have taught me that along with Breylin Rubio responsibility. I have a large amount of responsibility when I shoot my rifle, care for my animals, and someday when the ranch is passed to me. My responsibility and work ethic are what will keep my ranching heritage alive.” Award Sponsor Major Ranch Realty
