The Progressive Rancher - JANUARY 2025

IN THIS ISSUE

26

27 AFBF | Whiplash as BOI Reprieve Granted - Again

27 AFBF Congratulates Sen. Klobuchar on new position

27 USDA | Ruby Mountains protections proposed by Biden

27 BLM seeks input on wild horse gather for herd management

28 AFBF | Pillars of Ag Literacy

29 UNR Ext appoints new state associate 4-H program leader

29 Call for Monarch Conservation

29 Grant Opportunity Available (NV specialty crop projects)

30 Number of people fed by U.S. farmers increases

31 Bird Flu in Livestock (updates)

32 Van Norma 2023 Sales Results

34 Elko County Fair 2023 Results

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CONVENTION REPORT

As much as I look forward to the NCA Convention every year it’s always a relief when it is over, especially when you are the President.

Our Convention was cut a little short with the passing of Will DeLong. With everyone wanting to attend the services in Winnemucca the Executive Committee made the decision to hold the Awards Banquet early and postpone the Board of Directors meeting until a later date, which was an easy decision to make. Will was family and a good friend of mine; I have no words.

If you weren’t able to attend the Convention this year you really, and I mean really missed out. Our Executive Director did an outstanding job of holding everything together! Big thanks to all of our agency friends that came and gave updates. It was a really good opportunity to engage with them and ask questions. Next to the NCBA crew. I deeply appreciated the strong showing that they made. Colin, Gene, Tanner, and Kaitlynn were OUTSTANDING in their panel updates. Having the opportunity to engage closely with highranking leadership was awesome. There is a lot of BS being spread around about them being controlled by the packers and it just isn’t true. They really are a grass roots organization governed by their membership

the NCBA crew are highly intelligent, motivated and working on your behalf no matter what propaganda you might be made to believe. They came all the way too little ol’ Nevada to hear our concerns. If you’re not paying your NCBA dues you should be! I couldn’t come up with a better team to engage on our behalf in Washington D.C., than the team at NCBA.

The CattleFax update during the “Sam Mori Inspirational Breakfast” was very well done. If you can’t attend anything else during the convention I highly recommend you make it to this event. In a two-hour breakfast you get all the necessary industry business planning data you need to set up your operation for success. It always baffles me how many producers make huge business decisions on “gut feeling” without any hard data to back it up. This business is hard enough to make good decisions even with all the best data and information, so why would a person think they could make well informed decisions without any information? We all have to guess what the market is going to do, but we can at least try to make an educated guess, be informed like Sam!

The goat branding Thursday night was a blast! Thanks to Tommy and Nora Lee for bringing the goats and

We were able to present some awards Thursday night during the dinner in the Trade show. It was low key, but very nice and I was glad for the opportunity to celebrate some deserving folks in our industry.

Big thanks to our vendors and sponsors that always hang with us even through the changes that happened this year. If you’re in Fallon and need a meal I highly recommend the Slanted Porch. They were great to work with and the food was awesome.

Even though the Convention this year was not well attended it was maybe one of the best we have put on. Thanks again to everyone that did attend and hopefully next year we can get a few more folks to

by Martin

Paris | NCA Executive Director |

Happy New Year

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a great Christmas and is off to a good start to the year. Before I turn the page on 2024, I want to thank everyone that consigned cattle to the 22nd Annual Silver State Classic Feeder Sale last month at Fallon Livestock LLC. There were a lot of great cattle through the ring this year and prices remained strong. A big thank you goes to Fallon Livestock LLC for all of their support year after year. As we turn the calendar to 2025, we will be working with a new Presidential administration, a new Congress, and some fresh new faces at the State Legislature in Carson City, NV. As these governing bodies begin to hit the ground running, NCA will continue engaging with the entire political spectrum to make sure livestock producer’s interests, concerns, and needs are known and addressed. It’s important to hear from you should you feel something needs to be brought forward. Remember, NCA works for you.

NCA has our sights set on several high priority issues as the new year begins to take shape. These include BLM’s Conservation and Landscape Health Rule, amended Greater Sage-Grouse Land Use Plans, the Solar Energy Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement in response to the Biden-Harris administration’s goals of permitting 25 gigawatts of renewable energy on public lands by 2025, tax policy, the Farm Bill, and endangered species listings, just to name a few.

cattle industry. Please be sure to check out their website, https://naes.unr.edu/cattlemens/, for additional information on session locations and times the week of January 13-17.

There are also a few noteworthy events taking place in the first part of 2025. The University of Nevada, Reno will again be hosting the annual Cattlemen’s Update in person and virtually from January 13-17. The University has hosted these sessions across Nevada for more than 40 years to provide ranchers with current research-based information about issues that may affect the efficiency, productivity, profitability, and sustainability of Nevada’s

Lastly, if you’re in need of bulls this upcoming season please mark February 15, 2025, on your calendars for the 3rd Annual Great Basin Bull Sale in Fallon, NV at the Rafter 3C Event Center at 1:00 p.m. In the tradition of both the Fallon All Breeds Bull Sale and the Bulls for the 21st Century Bull Test and Sale, there will be a combination of performance tested and range bulls available at the sale. If you’re looking to improve the genetics of your operation, there’s no doubt you should be able to find what you’re looking for at the upcoming sale. For more information about the sale please check out the website at www.greatbasinbullsale.com.

Until next time.

NCA Honors Awardees at 89th Annual Convention

by Martin Paris | NCA Executive Director | O: 775-738-9214

During the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association (NCA) Annual Convention held in Fallon, Nevada, President Hanes Holman announced this year’s recipients for the 2024 President’s Award, 100,000 Mile Club Award, Allied Industry Award, Teacher of the Year Award, and Cattleman of the Year. These awards are given annually to individuals in recognition of significant contributions to NCA, their community, the land, and the beef industry.

NCA would like to congratulate the 2024 Teacher of the Year, Rachel Gonzalez. Mrs. Gonzalez teaches Kindergarten at Lahontan Elementary in Fallon, NV. Teacher of the Year candidates must utilize agricultural information and/or materials within their classroom curriculum in an effort to assist students in learning the importance of agriculture. NCA salutes Mrs. Gonzalez in educating the students in her classroom on where their food comes from and her efforts to expand and develop agriculture instruction at the elementary school.

NCA would also like to thank the Nevada Agricultural Foundation for their continued partnership in recognizing outstanding teachers throughout Nevada.

Each year, the NCA’s President honors an individual who they feel have served the industry with dedication and passion by presenting them with the President’s Award.

The 2024 President’s Award was given to Governor Joe Lombardo. NCA thanks Governor Lombardo for his continued commitment to Nevada agriculture and the livestock industry.

Since 1980, the 100,000 Mile Club Award has been given to dozens of cowboys and cowgirls that have traveled 100,000 miles horseback over their lifetime. This year NCA would like to congratulate Dave Stix on receiving the award. Dave has spent much of his life on the back of a horse and NCA congratulates him on 100,000 miles well spent!

The 2024 NCA Allied Industry Award was presented to the Great Basin Bull Sale operated by Charlie Hone, Kris Gudel, and Dave Holden. Born out of the former Snyder Livestock’s Bulls for the 21st Century Sale and the NCA Fallon All-Breeds Bull Sale, the Great Basin Bull Sale continues the legacy of providing a combination of performance tested and range bulls for the most discerning of bull buyers.

The 2024 Cattleman of the Year Award was given to two longtime Nevada ranching couples, Pete and Kathi Marvel and Bert and Jill Paris. The award was established to recognize beef producers who have made significant contributions to the industry. Both families have embodied the spirit of Nevada ranching through their stewardship, collaboration, and community engagement. NCA is proud to recognize them as the 2024 recipients and appreciates their commitment to Nevada’s livestock industry. A special thank you goes to American AgCredit for sponsoring the Cattleman of the Year Award.

PHOTO A:

NCA Teacher of the Year Award

Rachel Gonzalez. Left to Right: Candace Lopez, Rachel Gonzalez, Catherine Guild, Martin Paris, and Hanes Holman

PHOTO B:

100,000 Mile Club Award

Dave Stix. Left to Right: Candace Lopez, Davy Stix, Therese Stix-Ure, Dave Stix, Martin Paris, and Hanes Holman

PHOTO C:

Allied Industry Award

Great Basin Bull Sale. Left to right: Candace Lopez, Dave Holden, Paula Holden, Vicki Hone, Charlie Hone, Martin Paris, Hanes Holman,and Audrey Paris

PHOTO D:

Cattleman of the Year

Bert & Jill Paris/Pete & Kathi Marvel

Left to right: Candace Lopez, Audrey Paris, Bert Paris, Jill Paris, Martin Paris, and Hanes Holman (not pictured: Pete & Kathi Marvel)

New Independent Study Finds Each National Beef Checkoff Dollar Returns $13.41 To Producers & Importers

by Nevada Beef Council | Courtesy of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board

A recent economic analysis of the national Beef Checkoff program found that each dollar invested in its demand-driving activities for the most recent five-year period (2019–2023) positively impacted domestic beef demand and U.S. beef exports, creating a total financial benefit of $13.41 for the producers and importers who pay into the program.

This spring, the Beef Checkoff commissioned an independent economic analysis to thoroughly assess the effectiveness and additional financial benefits produced by the program’s demand-driving activities. Conducted by Dr. Harry M. Kaiser of Cornell University, this study’s objectives were to measure:

• Whether national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities increased demand for beef products (domestically and abroad)

• The combined benefits of those activities in terms of their incremental financial impact to beef producers and importers

• The indirect benefits of national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities to the broader macroeconomy

“We’re extremely pleased with the results of this latest study,” said Cheryl DeVuyst of Morrison, Oklahoma, chair of the Beef Checkoff Evaluation Committee and current secretary-treasurer of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB). “The Beef Checkoff’s primary goal is to increase beef demand here in the U.S. and worldwide. The statistics uncovered by this study tell us that we’re achieving that goal and providing producers and importers with an excellent return on their national Checkoff investments.”

Beef Checkoff’s Return-on-Investment (ROI):

In addition to calculating a ROI of $13.41, the ROI analysis enabled the study to simulate market conditions for beef demand in the absence of national Beef Checkoff investments. For the most recent five-year period, 2019-2023, had there not been any investments in national Beef Checkoff demand-driving activities:

• Total domestic beef demand would have been 2.4 billion pounds (8.5%) lower per year than actual results.

• The steer price would have been 7.8% lower per year than actual results.

• U.S. export beef demand would have been 372 million pounds (11.5%) lower than actual results in the seven major importing countries included in the study.

Beef Checkoff’s Broader Economic Impact:

The study also evaluated the national Beef Checkoff’s direct effect on the beef industry (i.e. producers and importers that pay into the program) and its indirect effects on the broader U.S. economy. To quantify the total revenue impact of the national Beef Checkoff on the beef industry sector, the study utilized the beef demand (8.5%) and U.S. beef export (11.5%) percentages derived from the ROI market simulation analysis. Applying these percentages indicated that the national Beef Checkoff added an incremental $3.3 billion to the beef industry in 2023.

The direct effect of the national Beef Checkoff adding an incremental $3.3 billion to the beef industry sector had positive indirect effects on the broader U.S. economy, including increases in:

• U.S. employment by almost 47,000 people

• U.S. employment income by $2 billion

• Total value added to the U.S. economy of $4.1 billion

• U.S. GDP by nearly $9.5 billion

Furthermore, the national Beef Checkoff contributed to increased tax revenue at the federal, state, and local levels, amounting to a grand total of $743 million in 2023, distributed as follows:

• $34 million in county tax revenue

• $205 million in state tax revenue

• $504 million in federal tax revenue

“While we’re pleased Beef Checkoff programs are having a positive impact, we know there’s always room for improvement,” DeVuyst said. “The CBB is dedicated to making the best possible decisions on behalf of beef producers and importers. As we head into the remainder of FY24, we’ll take what we’ve learned from this study and continue moving the needle forward.”

All commodity boards conduct an independent evaluation of the effectiveness of their programs every five years, as outlined by the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) guidelines for commodity research and promotion programs. To view the complete study, executive summary or to get more information about the Beef Checkoff and its programs – promotion, research, foreign marketing, industry information, consumer information and producer communications – visit DrivingDemandForBeef.com.

*This study only pertains to the funds collected for the national Beef Checkoff program. It does not asses the impacts of Beef Checkoff program dollars invested by qualified State Beef Councils for state-level efforts.

Big Game Day FRITOS® Pie

Wow everyone with Ground Beef Chili served in a bag of FRITOS® Corn Chips. Easy, quick, fun and TASTY!

Ingredients:

2 pounds Ground Beef (93% lean or leaner)

2 teaspoons olive oil, divided

1 medium onion, diced

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1-1/2 cups beer (12 ounce can)

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with mild green chiles

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

2 tablespoons cornmeal or masa harina

8 bags (1 to 2 oz each) FRITOS® Corn Chips

1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat large Dutch oven over high heat until hot. Add 1 teaspoon olive oil and Ground Beef. Cook 8 to 10 minutes, breaking into small crumbles and stir occasionally. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan and stewing the beef in its own juices. Remove beef; set aside.

2. Heat remaining 1 teaspoon oil over high heat. Add onion; cook until evenly browned. Add cooked ground beef, chili powder, cumin, garlic and cayenne powder. Season with salt, as desired. Stir until combined.

3. Stir in beer, tomatoes and tomato sauce; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, cook 1 hour until chili thickens. Stir in cornmeal. If chili becomes too thick, add a little water. If chili is not thick enough, simmer until desired consistency is reached.

4. Slice or fold open bags; spoon chili on top of chips. Top each bag with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Allow to melt slightly, then serve.

Optional topping ideas: salsa, jalapeno slices (plain or pickled), chopped green onion, diced white or red onion, sour cream.

Nutrition information per serving: 430 Calories; 198 Calories from fat; 22g Total Fat (10 g Saturated Fat; 0 g Trans Fat; 1.1 g Polyunsaturated Fat; 8.1 g Monounsaturated Fat;) 140 mg Cholesterol; 640 mg Sodium; 11 g Total Carbohydrate; 2 g Dietary Fiber; 42 g Protein; 5 mg Iron; 664 mg Potassium; 3.3 mg NE Niacin; 0.6 mg Vitamin B6; 4 mcg Vitamin B12; 9.7 mg Zinc; 49.9 mcg Selenium; 137.2 mg Choline.

Recipes & photos courtesy of

Count Your Blessings

I was playing with my three-year-old granddaughter recently and I was struck by this incredible thought about how fortunate I am to be blessed with this life. There are so many blessings if I look back, I can point to. Websters says blessed, among other things, is of or enjoying happiness. Now like you readers, I am not always enjoying happiness. We all have struggles and there are times when nothing seems to be going as it should. The details sometimes swallow the big picture, but if you pay close attention, the things that really satisfy us and bring us happiness are usually pretty close to the surface.

An obvious example for me is watching the little things bring my granddaughter joy. And since she is joyfully playing with me, how can I not be happy? How about beautiful sunrises and sunsets - think about

people who work indoors all day and rarely see the sun come up or go down. A covey of quail running across a road with the little ones being herded by the adults always brings a smile to my face. Like most Nevadans, I enjoy rainstorms even if they are way across a desert valley and won’t actually reach me before the air sucks the clouds dry.

Calves and foals! Who doesn’t get some joy in seeing those first wobbly steps and motherhood caresses? As the little calves get bigger, bunch up and run around not caring what they almost run into or seeing a colt jump up off all four legs just for the sheer heck of it, it is hard not to smile. I remember seeing my daughters and sons playing sports or just pausing their busy lives to ask another question which led to an actual discussion. Those are good moments.

We are part of an industry, one of mankind’s oldest civilized endeavors, that does good things for the planet and its people. People need to eat. This is obvious to those who help provide the food but is often times not so obvious to those who take us and what we do for granted or criticize our ways of doing things on a full belly. Grazing animals are part of original animal evolution. People who care for those animals and watch over the land used by those animals are continuing a service to mankind that began over 10,000 years ago. So, I am grateful to be playing a small part in this effort and this makes me feel blessed.

Another thing I am grateful for is cattle and agricultural Industry organizations and associations whose missions are to protect livestock farmers and ranchers so they can grow food and fiber and other products useful to humans. It would be difficult to stay in the business of farming and ranching without these member-driven organizations dealing with issues originating off the farm. I am blessed for having participated in some small way as a leader in these associations. I would urge anyone in agriculture to find an association with similar philosophies to their own to join and participate.

We are blessed with honest work helping mankind in beautiful places. I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and I hope you are prosperous in the coming year.

I’ll see you soon.

And When There Is No Government Back-Up…

By Doug Busselman | NFB Executive Vice President

As this month’s piece is being written there are lots of eyes looking toward Washington, D.C. and what might be playing out in Congress. The clock is ticking and long before you read this, we’ll know whether the lastminute crisis was solved or we end up in a wreck because nobody had the ability to blink.

At the very best we possibly got the necessary extension to kick the can down the road for not having to shut down government spending. Perhaps there was also a last-minute extension provided for the Farm Bill that expired on September 30th. Whether something was included to provide additional financial support for farmers is one wild-card that we don’t know as this is being written.

Again, using our time reference as the time where this is being written, there has been a flurry of activity, partly as there are less than four days until the existing December 20th government funding deadline. Part of the flurry involved frantic calls for action, contacting elected representatives and stressing how important it is for them to adopt legislation to provide financial assistance for identified farmers who grow certain crops. The framework being contemplated for this support action is HR 10045, primarily sponsored by Congressman Trent Kelly of Mississippi’s 1st District. There were 48 additional House members who signed onto the proposed legislation.

The purpose of HR 10045, nicknamed “FARM” Act (for Farmers Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act of 2024), is to direct the Secretary of Agriculture to make emergency assistance payments to agricultural producers to mitigate high input costs and low commodity prices during crop year 2024.

The commodities covered by the proposed legislation include: corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, rice, sorghum, oats and barley. Under the proposed operations of the Act, if the Secretary of Agriculture determines that the expected gross return per acre of one of the agricultural commodities that are noted above are determined to be below the expected costs of production per acre – the Secretary will make a one-time economic assistance payment to each producer no later than 90 days after the Act is passed and signed into law.

As we have already highlighted this will likely be all settled out, one way or another, by the time that you are reading this article. Perhaps some would question why write something that is out of date and so uncertain even while the details are being written.

What About Those Who Aren’t Covered?

The point for writing this isn’t to point out that Congress may or may not have come through and delivered the needed assistance that was being sought. Whether the Farm Bill was extended or even properly written as new legislation that takes account of the current economic realities in agricultural production and markets isn’t really the point either.

If there had been a new Farm Bill drafted that correctly “put the farm into the Farm Bill” or provided the safety net provisions that it should have correctly applied – there would be very little protection or assistance to those who produce the commodities that Nevada farmers grow and make a living doing. Whether that is a good thing or should be changed to address the needs of Nevada producers is possibly a debatable discussion.

The Farm Bill does provide conservation programs which benefit Nevada agricultural producers who participate in programs through the Natural Resources and Conservation Service (NRCS). The Farm Bill provides some marketing assistance, on a small scale, for specialty crop producers in helping them with marketing resources. There is research funding for some support for Nevada’s land-grant college. There is also some assistance for risk management and crop insurance policy protection.

Overall, the greatest level of funding that comes into Nevada through the Farm Bill comes in the form of various food assistance programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (SNAP).

Nevada’s most significant crop production takes the form of alfalfa or other forms of hay. It is no secret that this year’s hay market situation is less than ideal. If alfalfa was included in one of the “eligible” commodities that are highlighted within the text of the proposed FARM Act, it would be very likely that the Secretary of Agriculture would be able to determine that the expected gross return per acre of alfalfa would be below the expected costs of production per acre.

There’s no argument that those who produce the commodities that are included in the Farm Bill program crops and which are included on the list of eligible crops for the FARM Act are facing significant difficulties.

Inflationary input costs are slamming the expense side of farm ledgers and the market prices for production outputs are providing returns that are extremely below the costs of production. A properly renewed Farm Bill, with the necessary changes to the mechanisms that are supposed to provide workable safety net benefits should have been helpful for those encountering the challenges that they are now dealing with.

Regardless of whether these foundational pieces would be in place or were added to the actions that Congress took in wrapping up their 118th Session – the circumstances that Nevada crop producers are dealing with would not be any different than they are now. For better or worse (and one might be able to make a strong case for the advantages of relying on markets rather than government) Nevada agricultural producers can’t rely on whatever Congress decides because there is no government backup that’s provided for their crops.

Nevada Water Solutions LLC

Water Rights / Resource Permitting Expertise

Thomas K. Gallagher, PE

775 • 825 • 1653 / FAX 775 • 825 • 1683 333 Flint Street / Reno, NV 89501 tomg@nevadawatersolutions.com

Nevada Farm Bureau members from around the state gathered in Fallon, Nevada for the 105th Nevada Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. People were welcomed to the Rafter 3C Arena for two days of breakout sessions, catching up with members from around the state and important policy work that will carry through the 2025 legislative session. The meeting began with an informative deep dive on all thing’s regenerative agriculture. Members were able to learn more about the regenerative agriculture process ask questions and learn how to turn those practices into a successful farming operation.

Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) welcomed Haily and Ben Sand from the American Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers committee to speak on the importance of YF&R and joining the Farm Bureau family. The breakout session had great attendance with many FFA members from a local school participating. It was a great opportunity for the YF&R program to inform FFA students of opportunities they have after their time with FFA is over.

The Annual YF&R Discussion Meet also took place after the Breakout session. It was a great competition with productive conversation. The Discussion Meet winner was Kadee Muratore. Kadee was awarded a $300 cash prize and an electric scooter. Second place was awarded to Eddy Guzman, Third place was Danielle Guzman and Fourth place was Caitlyn Dock. Kadee decided to not participate in American Farm Bureau YF&R Discussion Meet this January. We ended the first night of the Annual Meeting with a family night. Family night was a huge success with a bounce house, face painting and games. Kids especially loved the night, but members of all ages thought this

Celebrating 105 Years

By Brittney Money | NFB Director of

was a great time to catch up with other members from around the state.

We kicked off the next morning with the Women’s Leadership breakfast. Women from around the state gathered to discuss the coming year and ideas to recruit more members and continue the great work the Women’s Leadership Committee participates in.

Women’s Leadership Committee also hosted the silent auction. The silent auction raised $1,295 dollars this year. The money raised is split equally between Women’s Leadership Committee, YF&R and the Nevada Heritage Foundation to fund projects throughout the year.

Breakout sessions also continued. Some of the overall favorite breakout sessions included Overhead Line Safety with NV Energy, the Drone presentation with Desert Oasis Spray and ATV Safety program just to name a few. Many people commented they now have a better understanding of powerlines and just how dangerous they could be after listening to NV Energy’s presentation on overhead line safety.

Communications

Important work was also covered as voting delegates came together to vote and adopt the 2025 Policy book. The 2025 NFB policy book is now available on our website. Hard copies are also available; inquire with Brittney Money at brittney@nvfb.org

We are excited to announce Bevan Lister was also reelected as the Nevada Farm Bureau President and will now serve his 7th term as President. We also have a few other exciting changes to announce. Jill Combs is the new Women’s Leadership Committee Chair with Women’s Leadership Vice Chair Cindy Hardy. Sarah Stallard is the new YF&R Chair. District 1 director is now Dann Mathews. We ended the final evening with the award dinner. People were able to claim their silent auction prizes the quilt raffle was awarded to Patty Julian of Fallon, Nevada.

Carla Pomeroy Presented the Nevada Agricultural Foundation Ag In The Classroom Volunteer of the Year Award to Rachel Godecke. Godecke received a $1,000 stipend to use in her Ag In The Classroom program.

A huge shoutout also goes to all the wonderful sponsors who made the 105th Nevada Farm Bureau Annual Meeting a huge success. The 2024 Nevada Farm Bureau Annual Meeting sponsors include: American Ag Credit; Bayer; COUNTRY Financial; USDA Farm Service Agency; USDA NASS; Nevada Department of Agriculture; USDA Natural Resources Conservation; Nevada Agricultural Foundation; Nevada Small Business Development Center & Grown in Nevada; Nevada Dairy Farmers; UNR College of Agriculture - Biotechnology & Natural Resources; University of Nevada Extension, Reno Extension; Las Vegas Livestock; and Farm Bureau Bank.

As we close the door to the 105th Nevada Farm Bureau Annual Meeting we are excited to announce the 106th Nevada Farm Bureau Annual Meeting will be held in Winnemucca, Nevada November 13th and 14th. We encourage you to mark your calendars and we hope to see you there.

Nevada Farm Bureau Grassroots News

The Courts Giveth – and The Courts Taketh Away

You’ll recall that recently a Texas District Court placed an injunction on the provisions of the Corporate Transparency Act and the need for filing a Beneficial Ownership Information form with the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. A last-minute court of appeals ruling has now put tens of thousands of farmers in the legal crosshairs for failing to register their businesses with the federal government.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall expressed disappointment with the timing of the appeals court ruling.

“Farm Bureau is very disappointed in the court of appeals decision to reinstate the Jan. 1 filing deadline,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “It’s clear than many farmers aren’t aware of the filing requirement because of lack of guidance and the government’s poor public outreach.”

With the reversal of the 5th Federal Circuit Court of Appeals ruling, Limited Liability Corporations (LLC) and other businesses (including farms and ranches) who operate as limited partnerships, S or C corporations will need to file the Beneficial Ownership Information reports.

AFBF has provided this additional information on the deadlines for different companies:

• Reporting companies that were created or registered prior to January 1, 2024 have until January 13, 2025 to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN. (These companies would otherwise have been required to report by January 1, 2025.)

• Reporting companies created or registered in the United States on or after September 4, 2024 that had a filing deadline between December 3, 2024 and December 23, 2024 have until January 13, 2025 to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN.

• Reporting companies created or registered in the United States on or after December 3, 2024 and on or before December 23, 2024 have an

additional 21 days from their original filing deadline to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN.

• Reporting companies that qualify for disaster relief may have extended deadlines that fall beyond January 13, 2025. These companies should abide by whichever deadline falls later.

• Reporting companies that are created or registered in the United States on or after January 1, 2025 have 30 days to file their initial beneficial ownership information reports with FinCEN after receiving actual or public notice that their creation or registration is effective.

• As indicated in the alert titled “Notice Regarding National Small Business United v. Yellen, No. 5:22-cv-01448 (N.D. Ala.)”, Plaintiffs in National Small Business United v. Yellen, No. 5:22-cv-01448 (N.D. Ala.)—namely, Isaac Winkles, reporting companies for which Isaac Winkles is the beneficial owner or applicant, the National Small Business Association, and members of the National Small Business Association (as of March 1, 2024)—are not currently required to report their beneficial ownership information to FinCEN at this time.

This link will provide you with the information to use in filing the required Beneficial Ownership Information form: www.fincen.gov/boi

Farm Bureau Applauds Congressional Action To Support Emergency Funding

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall offered his comments on the completed passage of the Continuing Resolution to pass the funding from preventing a government shutdown and provide funding for support of agricultural producers.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Extends the 2018 farm bill for one year.

• Provides $20.8 billion in emergency natural disaster assistance

- Available for losses of revenue, quality, or production for crops (including milk, on-farm stored

commodities, prevent plant crops, and harvested adulterated wine grapes), trees, bushes, and vines as a result of droughts, wildfires, hurricanes, floods, derechos, excessive heat, tornadoes, winter storms, freeze, smoke exposure, and excessive moisture in calendar years 2023 and 2024.

- Up to $2 billion available for livestock

- Block grant eligibility for eligible states and tribes

Assistance includes timber, citrus, pecan, and poultry (including infrastructure)

Lack of Mexican water delivery (Rio Grand Valley, TX)

• Provides $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers and ranchers

- Greater than 75 percent of average gross revenue from on farm sales has payment limitation of $250,000; Less than 75percent $125,000.

- Limited to wheat, corn, sorghum, barley, oats, cotton, rice, and soybeans on a per planted acre basis. Producers are paid 26 percent of the difference between the expected cost of production and expected gross returns. Payments of 50 percent for prevented planting acres.

The House vote on the legislation was 366-34 and the Senate vote was 85 to 11. All of Nevada’s delegation voted in support for passage of the measure.

AFBF Market Intel

Sheds Information On The Underlining Need For Financial Relief

Prior to Congress passing and President Biden signing the legislation into law, American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) economist Betty Resnick penned a Market Intel piece (www. fb.org/market-intel/three-reasonswhy-farmers-need-economic-aid) which offered the reasons for the support that Farm Bureau and others were pressing for in obtaining the financial support for farmers. While those gaining the benefits of the legislation, that was included in the Continuing Resolution, are awaiting the support offered in the legislation

the points made by Resnick still offer helpful background on the conditions that are still in effect.

“The lack of a new farm bill, which is two years overdue, has left farmers in a lurch during the sort of difficult stretch where they traditionally relied on the safety net.” Resnick wrote.

Urban Ag Conference January 28-30

An Urban Ag Conference is being planned for January 28-30, 2025 at the South Point Hotel in Las Vegas. The goal is connecting urban farmers with fellow farmers, experts and agricultural enthusiasts to discuss all things related to urban farming. Another reason for getting urban farmers together is to collect those interested to consider objectives that the group need to pursue in future policy work. Register using this form: files.constantcontact.com/ ce74815a701/167b9622-8eb1-4b8992f5-6edd291d91f4.pdf There’s a $75 registration fee which covers the preconference workshops and the entire schedule for the multiple-day sessions.

A February 20-22, 2025 Small Farm Conference is being planned to be held at the Sparks, Nugget.

2025 Nevada Cattlemen’s Update

The 2025 Nevada Cattlemen’s Update will be held at various locations across Nevada from Monday, January 13 through Friday, January 17. Monday’s session will be held virtually and will begin at 10 a.m. Register here: unrextension.zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_1XCtR1IUQEm6uCs9cpH16g# /registration

The schedule meeting locations and times for the in-person sessions include: Tuesday, Jan.14, 2025 - 5:30 p.m. Fallon Convention Center, Fallon, NV Wednesday, Jan.15, 2025 - 5:30 p.m. Ely Convention Center, Ely, NV

Thursday, Jan. 16, 2025 - 12:30 p.m. Great Basin College Theater, Elko, NV Friday, Jan. 17, 2025 - 10 a.m. Humboldt County Extension Office, Winnemucca, NV

Session cost is $20 per ranch.

Three Of Nevada’s Congressional Delegation Earn Friend Of Farm Bureau Awards

During his visit to Washington, D.C., attending the annual American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Resolutions Committee, Nevada Farm Bureau Federation President Bevan Lister delivered three “Friend of Farm Bureau” awards to U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen and Congressman Mark Amodei. The “Friend of Farm Bureau” award is based on the voting record of Congressional members in line with Farm Bureau’s request for specific votes. Based on Farm Bureau policy, letters seeking a particular vote on a bill are sent to each Senator or House member and when the vote is taken those who have voted in support of Farm Bureau’s request is counted.

For each of the members of Nevada’s Congressional delegation who received the “Friend of Farm Bureau” award for the 118th session of Congress, their voting record totals were 100 percent in line with the request that Farm Bureau had made.

Thank you to these elected representatives for their support of Farm Bureau policy on the specific votes that were identified as being included in the count for the two-year session.

Rural Counties Receive Funding Support For Broadband Pilot Project

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack and USDA Rural Development Nevada State Director Lucas Ingvoldstad today announced more than $23.5 million to connect rural residents in Nevada to reliable high-speed internet through the Broadband Technical Assistance and ReConnect programs.

“USDA Rural Development is dedicated to realizing rural prosperity in Nevada,” said State Director Lucas Ingvoldstad. “Internet access is critical to lowering barriers around education, healthcare, and new markets for rural Nevadans.

Through Rural Development programs and investments, we’re proud to deliver on the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to the Silver State.”

Valley Electric Association Inc. (VEA) is receiving a $542,281 Cooperative Agreement for a Broadband Technical Assistance pilot project in Nevada to promote the deployment of high-speed fiber networks to the rural areas of Clark, Esmeralda, Lyon, Mineral and Nye counties. VEA will partner with local internet service providers and energy providers to promote the development of mid-mile and last-mile fiber in these remote areas of Nevada.

Lincoln County Telephone System will receive a $22,997,014 loan through USDA’s ReConnect Program to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network to provide high-speed internet. This network will benefit a number of persons, businesses and farms in Lincoln County.

Clark, Esmeralda, Lyon, Mineral and Nye counties are part of Nevada’s Rural Partners Network (RPN) community networks.

Monarch Butterfly Proposed To Be Listed As Threatened Species

As we reported in last week’s newsletter, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that they are putting forward a proposal to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species with speciesspecific protections and flexibilities to encourage conservation under Section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The agency is also proposing to designate critical habitat at the overwintering grounds in California. The proposed rule and the opportunity to provide comments are available at this link: www.regulations.gov/document/ FWS-R3-ES-2024-0137-0001

The stated objectives that U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is attempting to accomplish with their proposal are:

• The achievement of significant increases in the availability of milkweed and nectar plants in monarch breeding and migratory areas

• Protection and enhancement of overwintering habitat

• Avoiding and minimizing impacts to monarchs from insecticides and herbicides

• Maintaining public support for the conservation of monarch butterflies

USDA Launches $2 Billion Specialty Crop Program

In the most recent American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Market Intel report economist Daniel Munch provides details on a new program that the United States Department of Agriculture is offering, targeted for specialty crop producers.

“This initiative, administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA), aims to help specialty crop producers manage heightened marketing costs and expand markets.” Munch writes. “However, the program’s structure does not require funds to be directed toward marketingspecific activities, functioning instead as general financial assistance for specialty crop farmers.”

His Market Intel article offers the details for eligibility as well as additional information about the program which needs the applications associated with the program to be submitted by January 8, 2025. There is also a link with the USDA background paper that may be helpful in better understanding how the program could work for you: www. fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/12-092024/new-marketing-assistance-nowavailable-specialty-crop-producers

Nevada Has First Dairy Farm Infected With H5N1

During the Nevada Board of Agriculture meeting on December 6th, Dept of Ag Director JJ Goicoechea said there’s is evidence of a detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1). on a dairy farm in Nye County. The premises affected have been quarantined and mandatory testing will occur onsite on regular intervals until the herd is confirmed to be virus-free.

“Ensuring the safety of the industry is our utmost priority,” Director Goicoechea shared with the Board.

“Early action is critical to prevent the spread of animal disease.”

It has been stressed that Dairy and meat products remain safe for consumption. In addition, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has determined that pasteurized milk will not transmit the virus to humans. As the Nevada Department of Agriculture stressed in their announcement, raw milk (unpasteurized) is not legally sold in Nevada.

A California raw milk dairy herd has been infected with H5N1 and has had several recalls because of the testing showing that the virus was in the milk that was being sold.

Another development is coming from the national level with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s announcement for a new five-stage testing protocol that is based on a new order that will play out over the next several months:

• Mandatory testing of dairy plants and receiving silos where milk is delivered

• Dairy cattle testing (starting with states that are more advanced in their testing processes)

• Responding to herds that have been identified as being infected

• Demonstrating ongoing absence of avian influenza in dairy herds

• Demonstrating statewide absence of avian influenza of dairy herds on a statewide basis

Nevada Dairies To Be Treated For Starling Infestations Aimed At Control Of H5N1

The USDA Wildlife Services and the Nevada Dept of Agriculture will begin removing non-native European starling populations around several dairies in Churchill, Lyon and Nye Counties.

The public in the areas that are being treated have been notified by Wildlife Services that if they come into contact with dead or dying birds, during the treatment process, that any handling of the birds be done with single-use gloves and disposing them in the trash. There is not a need to report dead birds to any one or agency.

American Farm Bureau 106th Annual Convention

annualconvention.fb.org

If you want the inside scoop when it comes to policies and perspectives that will affect your farm or agribusiness in 2025, don’t miss the 106th consecutive American Farm Bureau Convention. This is your opportunity to help set the agenda for the leading voice of agriculture in Washington, DC, and so much more. Participate in educational workshops to advance your leadership skills, expand your business acumen, and gain deep insight into the trends and realities impacting food production. Witness cutting edge innovation in agriculture, hear from powerful speakers, and explore the trade show to build a stronger network, shop featured products, and idea-share with other state and county Farm Bureaus.

Don’t miss the chance to look beyond the horizon at the future of agriculture, sharpen your skills and help set the agenda in Washington.

Cattlewomen’s Corner of the Corral

Nevada Cattlewomen at the 89th Cattlemen’s Convention

By Keri Pommerening, NVCW President

Nevada Cattlewomen were excited to welcome all members to our annual general membership meeting and silent auction that took place November 21, 2024, at the Rafter 3C Arena in Fallon, Nevada.

Ruth Coffey, ANCW President, gave a talk on the American National Cattlewomen and all the activities they are doing. We were excited to have Ruth join us from Oklahoma. Our additional guest speaker was Charlie Holland, co-author of the Ranch Raised Kids book series. She and her partner, Seth, have finished book projects on Ranch Raised Kids in New Mexico, California, and Arizona. She brought copies of these beautiful books for all the members to view. Charlie and Seth are currently in the process of helping various Nevada cattlemen and cattlewomen find sponsorships for a Nevada Ranch Raised Kids book. If you are interested in learning more about this project, please let me know and we can connect you with Charlie and Seth.

Our annual NVCW Silent Auction items were displayed at the front table to the Convention; however with the Convention being cut short by one day, our Beef Ambassadors and their chairman,

Charmi Mitchell, suggested we also do the silent auction online using social media. Pictures of items were posted on the NVCW social media page with bids being taken in the comments. Comments were checked continually by the board members. At the end of the auction, people with winning bids were contacted via telephone or messenger. Items could be paid via check, cash or Venmo. All in all, we sold all the items and made an additional $500 by moving it online. I guess if we can sell cattle online, why not silent auction items. We’d like to thank everyone that participated in our annual fundraiser.

I want to thank our NVCW Executive Committee for agreeing to work together for their 2nd year of their term. They are a great team, and I would not want to tackle our projects alone. See photo at right: from L-R: Charmi Mitchell, President-Elect; Rosealee Reiman, Vice-President; Keri Pommerening, President; and Ana Dagenhart, Treasurer (not pictured - Madison Bowers, past president; Lacey Tom, secretary; and Julie Irish, parliamentarian)

I hope this issue finds you healthy, happy, and ready for a great new year.

If you’re looking to sell a farm or ranch, give us call!

Central Nevada Ranch

This 400 head year around ranch has good winter range and the deeded has good sub irrigated pasture on most. There are two homes and good corrals. Price: $4,800,000 Call Chad Steele on this one 775-962-1395

Central Nevada Farm

This farm in Railroad Valley 320 acres with 240 acres of Certificated Water rights. Custom home 55% complete. Not far off Hwy 6 and in the same valley as the farm above. $900,000 Call Paul on this one 775-752-0592

The Bottari Realty Team

Paul Bottari, Broker ALC 775-752-0952

Chad Steele, Salesman 775-962-1356

NV Broker License No B015476 BottariRealty.com • 775-752-3040

January 6

Consignment Deadline: December 26 North Platte Stockyards | North Platte, NE

January 23

Consignment Deadline: January 15 Red Bluff Bull and Gelding Sale | Red Bluff, CA

wvm@wvmcattle.com (530) 347-3793

www.wvmcattle.com

Let’s Talk Ag

By Staci Emm | Editorial

The Southwest Regional Food Business CenterNevada released applications in early December for the first round of competitive grant awards that are available to local and regional meat businesses.

The Southwest Regional Food Business Center was created as one of the 12 USDA-designated regional centers in the country to focus on business development, regulatory guidance, and supply chain solutions across Nevada, Arizona, California and Utah. California Extension is the lead agency for the Center, and I oversee setting up the center within the State of Nevada through Extension and in partnership with the Nevada Department of Agriculture. The center hopes to provide over $900,000 in grants over the next three years to those trying to bring local and regional meat products to market.

In the fall of 2024, I transitioned into an Extension statewide role to start up the Center under the Southwest Food Business Center partnership. This has been the most exciting project that I have undertaken in years. We are creating a technical assistance network, and providing funds directly to ranchers, farmers,

aggregators, and distributors involved in the local and regional food system.

The Request for Applications (RFA) was released for Nevada on December 6, 2024. The RFA will close on February 3, 2025 at 5 p.m. A ranch, producer, or qualifying business must have a Unique Entity ID (UEI) to apply. For more information on this firstever grant program, please go the following website link: https://extension.unr.edu/food-business-center/ funding.aspx. On the website, you can also sign up to attend our office hours for any questions that you may have. The office hours are Mondays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Pacific time.

Our Nevada team will be releasing a technical assistance program in January of 2025. This will include a series of classes via Zoom, the creation of a business plan and cash flows, and the ability to get up to $10,000 to put your business plan in motion. A letter of intent will be required for this program and will be posted on the website by the first week of January. This funding can be used for everything but ag product production.

Extension is taking the first step of being able to regrant federal funds through this partnership and assist the Nevada meat industry. We realize that $50,000 does not go very far in our current environment, but we also know it is one step closer to being able to support our local industries in getting food products to market. There are some exciting things going on to support local and regional food businesses. Please check out our website, and do not hesitate to reach out to our team if you have questions. The website can be found at https://extension.unr.edu/food-business-center/

As we close out 2024, I want to express my deep gratitude for all the blessings experienced this year. May this holiday season bring joy, peace, and warmth to all.

I send heartfelt prayers and strength to those who are facing difficult challenges or mourning the loss of loved ones. The Nevada ranching community is truly like a big family, always there to support one another. As we look ahead to 2025, we do so with hope for a fruitful and prosperous year. Wishing you all a peaceful holiday season and a bright new year!

Lifetime Pipe for Agriculture

The holiday season is a time for reflection and gratitude. I want to take this opportunity to thank Nevada’s producers. Your dedication ensures that food, fuel, and fiber reach our communities.

With 2024 coming to a close, the NDA is also preparing for the 83rd Nevada Legislative session. This session we remain committed to supporting Nevada producers by advocating for policies that strengthen your operations.

In exciting news, we invite you to recognize the winner of the 2024 Nevada Agriculture, Food and Beverage Small Business of the Year at the release of the 2025 Nevada Craft Beverage Passport. To celebrate, please join us on Thursday, Jan. 9 at 4 p.m. at Schussboom Brewing Co. located at 12245 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89511, as we recognize Nevada’s agriculture businesses.

We look forward to celebrating the season with you and continuing to work together to preserve, protect and promote Nevada agriculture.

Happy

Holidays, JJ Goicoechea

JJ Goicoechea, Director

Nevada Dept of Agriculture

405 South 21st Street Sparks, NV 89431

News from the desk of NDA DIRECTOR GOICOECHEA

Virtual fencing funding available

The Property and Environmental Research Center (PERC) is looking for landowners interested in environmental stewardship to apply for the Virtual Fence Conservation Fund. PERC’s Virtual Fence Conservation Fund gives ranchers the ability to adopt virtual fencing technology on public and private lands, supporting wildlife and working lands. Virtual fencing technology uses GPS-enabled collars on livestock, paired with a base station, to create boundaries that do not require physical fences, allowing for flexible grazing management and eliminating the time-consuming and expensive task of maintaining traditional fencing options.

Grants range from $10,000 to $75,000 and may be used to support partially funded projects or entirely new initiatives. Applications are open through Feb. 1, 2025, and ranchers, agricultural landowners, conservation organizations, and indigenous communities are encouraged to apply.

Visit perc.org/virtual-fence-conservation-fund for more information.

Assistance is available for producers in severe drought conditions

The USDA has declared a drought disaster due to severe drought conditions in three Nevada counties (Clark, Lincoln and Nye) with contiguous disaster in six counties (Churchill, Esmeralda, Eureka, Lander, Mineral, White Pine). This designation allows eligible farmers in those affected counties to apply for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) emergency loan assistance. We’re here to support Nevada’s producers during these challenging times. For info, visit https://tinyurl.com/ USDA-DAPrograms

Apply for 2025 Livestock Movement Permits

Current Livestock Movement Permits expire on Dec. 31, 2024. Movement Permits are required for the movement of livestock between district lines in Nevada and are only valid for the calendar year in which they were issued. If you have not yet applied for a 2025 Livestock Movement Permit visit the link below to get started. An annual fee of $25 is required. https://tinyurl.com/NDA-2025-LMPA

Protecting consumers this holiday season

Did you know that the NDA inspects all weighing and measuring devices, including the baggage scales at airports and fuel pumps at gas stations? As you travel this holiday season, rest assured that any purchase you make based on weight or volume has been inspected by the NDA. Should you suspect an issue or inconsistency with items purchased by weight or volume, visit agri.nv.gov/ce to file a complaint.

Tend

your

fire with local firewood

As you plan to light the fire this holiday season, make sure to use local firewood. Moving firewood can transport invasive insects and diseases that can impact our local plant species. If you are buying firewood, purchase local or heattreated firewood. Visit dontmovefirewood.org/map/nevada for more information.

NDA is partnering with Montana Office of Public Instruction School Nutrition Programs for school meal planning training

The NDA in partnership with the Montana Office of Public Instruction School Nutrition Programs will create and deliver a comprehensive, statewide training program called School Meals: Mastering Meal Patterns Under the Final Rule. Schools will be prepared to meet updated school meal patterns for school breakfast and lunch which are based upon the 2020 – 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Schools will serve meals with less added sugars and sodium, more whole grain-rich options, and increased variety and freshness to enhance meal quality and student satisfaction. Targeted training and grant activities delivered over a 3-year period will reach rural and other high-need schools. Training topics will focus on Mastering the Meal Pattern (menu planning and forecasting to meet weekly menu requirements), Get to Know your Food (label reading to identify whole grain-rich products, added sugars, and sodium), Financial Management of School Meal Programs, and Preparing for the Final Rule Workshops (combined meal pattern and culinary training).

Cheatgrass Fuels Reductions Following Targeted Grazing

By Charlie D. Clements and Dand N. Harmon

There are an estimated 990 million acres of non-cropland in the United States, primarily designated as rangeland and pastureland, and there are more than 300 invasive weeds found on these sites causing an estimated annual loss of $120 billion.

Rangeland weeds can have a significant impact on both humans and the environment. Their impact on human activities can be associated with livestock production, including interfering with grazing practices, lowering yield and quality of forage, increasing costs of managing and producing livestock, slowing animal weight gain, reducing the quality of meat, milk, wool, and hides, and poisoning livestock. In addition, infestations can reduce recreational land values and the spiny species can cause human health problems.

Invasive and exotic weeds cause more economic loss in rangelands than all other pests combined. Invasive weeds that infest rangelands and other non-crop areas can have significant negative ecological impacts, including depleting soil moisture, reducing forage production, reducing plant diversity and community productivity, altering wildfire frequency, reducing the value of recreational land, and negatively altering wildlife habitat.

Among the invasive rangeland plants in the western United States, cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) is the most pervasive and problematic. The establishment of perennial grasses is critically important in suppressing cheatgrass densities and cheatgrass associated fuels, increasing water infiltration, decreasing soil erosion, reducing wildfire threats, and allowing succession to proceed to improve ecosystem function, and improve grazing and wildlife resources.

The introduction and subsequent invasion of cheatgrass onto millions of acres of Great Basin rangelands has revolutionized secondary succession by providing a fine-textured early maturing fuel that has increased the chance, rate, spread and season of wildfires. Historically, wildfires are reported to have occurred every 60-110 years in big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata)/bunchgrass communities, whereas the frequency of wildfires are now reported to occur as little as every 5-10 years in some instances. Habitats that were formerly dominated by big sagebrush/ bunchgrass have largely been converted to habitats dominated by cheatgrass (Figure 1). It is estimated that as much as 900,000 acres of rangelands are converted annually to cheatgrass dominance following disturbances such as wildfire. Invasive weed management on rangelands and pasturelands remains a significant challenge throughout the United States.

During previous experimentation with cheatgrass control and plant material testing to rehabilitate a degraded rangeland community at the Horse Creek Ranch located in northern Nevada, we established a mixture of crested wheatgrass (Agropyron desertorum), Siberian wheatgrass (Agropyron fragile ssp. sibericum), Sandberg bluegrass (Poa secunda), and ‘Immigrant’ forage kochia (Bassia prostrata) during 2011-2014 (Figure 2). This rehabilitated habitat is within a 40-acre exclosure for research purposes. We hypothesized that spring grazing would reduce cheatgrass more than fall grazing, but that perennial grass species would experience a higher reduction rate with spring grazing compared to fall grazing treatments. The reason for this, is past experimentation of clipping cheatgrass during spring months showed signs of reducing cheatgrass seed production in some cases, whereas fall grazing takes place after cheatgrass seed set in most habitats. Also, spring grazing

Figure 1. A failed rehabilitation project resulting in cheatgrass dominance. Current stocking rates cannot begin to affectively reduce cheatgrass fuel loads.

would reduce cheatgrass fuels prior to the fire season compared to fall grazing which largely takes place after the peak wildfire season, yet very important in reducing cheatgrass carry-over fuels and thatch build-ups.

In 2016 we implemented an experiment using cattle to reduce spotty cheatgrass invasions of cheatgrass (Figure 3). Our approach was to test the use of cattle grazing to reduce cheatgrass both under spring-time conditions as well as during the fall. Prior to grazing activity, we recorded perennial grass densities and cheatgrass densities at 30 randomly selected 3 ft² quadrats. Perennial grass and cheatgrass densities were recorded in late May and early June where green plant material is present to record actual live plants. In 2015, we placed 40 dry cows in the 40acre exclosure from May 6th through May 26th (21-day period), followed up with the recording of perennial grass densities, cheatgrass densities and biomass. These measurements were also recorded the following July to record any mortality of perennial grasses that may have occurred. Cheatgrass biomass was also clipped to measure fuel loads during peak production, July. In 2016, we placed 40 dry cows in the 40-acre exclosure from September 7th through 27th and replicated the same measurements throughout the 30 randomly selected quadrats. We replicated both spring and fall grazing practices with 40 dry cows again in May 2018 (May 6-26) and September 2019 (September 7-27) followed by the same monitoring protocol.

Grazing in the spring (May) and fall (September) both significantly (P ≥ 0.05) reduced cheatgrass densities and fuel loads. Grazing practices in May of 2015 reduced cheatgrass densities from 28/ft² down to 6/ft² while also reducing cheatgrass fuels from 640 lbs/acre down to 105 lbs/acre, 84% reduction. Grazing plots in from September 2016 treatments reduced cheatgrass fuels from 1,285 lbs/acre down to 94 lbs/acre, 93% reduction. May 2018 grazing treatments reduced cheatgrass

densities from 41 cheatgrass/ft² down to 11/ft² and cheatgrass fuels were reduced from 1,090 lbs/acre to 64 lbs/acre, 94% reduction. Grazing treatments conducted in September 2019 reduced cheatgrass fuels from 1,680 lbs/acre down to 165 lbs/acre, 90% reduction. Again, both May and September grazing treatments significantly reduced cheatgrass fuels.

Prior to grazing treatments conducted in May 2015, perennial grass densities were recorded at 1.75/ft². Following grazing activities, we recorded an average of 1.60 perennial grasses/ft², 8.6% reduction. Measurements taken during the fall of 2016 recorded no mortality of perennial grasses from the 2015 measurements. Following September 2016 grazing treatment, perennial grass density was recorded to drop from 1.6/ft² down to 1.4/ft², 12% reduction. In May of 2018 we recorded 1.2 perennial grasses/ft² and following grazing treatments we did not record any decrease in perennial grass densities. During the September 2019 grazing treatments, we recorded a decrease in perennial grass densities from an average of 0.9/ft² down to 0.5/ft², 40% reduction. Over-time, this site experienced significant decreases in perennial grass densities. Many factors can contribute to this decline as it is very difficult to not only establish perennial grasses in arid environments, but more importantly the ability of these perennial grasses to persist in higher densities over-time. The amount and periodicity of precipitation is critical in plant germination, emergence, establishment and persistence. At this research site, there has been a noticeable decrease in perennial grass densities following the 2021 (6.6”) and 2022 (7.2”) droughts, and a noticeable increase in forage kochia densities.

In our experience, the increase in forage kochia is largely due to bare-ground rather than out-competing the perennial grasses. Forage kochia also withstands heavy grazing pressure and has a high potential to propagate within its’ community. We also noticed that grazing practices in this exclosure and at this density of grazing animals, is in fact a heavy rate of grazing animals/acre. Although this was a short duration-targeted grazing experiment, when favorable precipitation occurred, or followed shortly after grazing treatments, the negative impact to perennial grasses was absent or very low. When the site did not receive favorable precipitation, there was a measurable decline in perennial grass densities. For example, during the May 2018 grazing treatment, the site received 2.1” of precipitation in the month of May and we recorded no perennial grass reductions. We recorded the largest perennial grass reductions during the September 2019 grazing treatments, where the site only received 0.12’ of precipitation during that September and October, which may play a role in the ability of perennial grasses to rebound following heavy grazing pressure.

Though we hypothesized that spring grazing would be more detrimental than fall grazing to established perennial grasses, our results do not support this hypothesis. Even though the literature suggests that spring grazing has more impact than dormant season grazing on perennial grasses, our study suggests that under favorable precipitation years and available soil moisture, perennial grasses can sustain spring grazing treatments. Although we only tested this in 2 separate spring seasons, perennial grass reductions were recorded at 8.6% and 0%, respectfully, compared to 12% and 40% following fall grazing treatments. Spring grazing also significantly reduced cheatgrass fuel loads by 84% and 94%, respectfully, which occurred prior to the upcoming wildfire season. Fall grazing on the other hand decreased carry-over fuel by 93% and 90%, respectfully, which is very important in decreasing carry-over fuels and thatch build-ups yet does not address the current years’ cheatgrass fuel build-up of the current years’ wildfire season. The use of cattle to decrease cheatgrass fuel loads can be accomplished and may not be detrimental to the existing perennial grass communities if properly managed through specific targeted grazing treatments. On the other hand, the over-utilization of perennial grasses will have a negative impact on the community and result in an increase in cheatgrass densities and associated fuels.

It necessary that resource managers understand that unfavorable precipitation will occur and result in drought years, under these events, grazing of perennial grasses may result in further depletion of perennial grasses where active and onthe-ground management will be critical in reducing the loss of perennial grasses.

Figure 3. The use of cattle to target cheatgrass fuels can be an important mechanism biologically reducing cheatgrass associated fuels on a l andscape level under judicious high intensity management.

Figure 2. Horse Creek Ranch Rehabilitation Project resulted in a successful seeding of perennial grasses and ‘Immigrant’ forage kochia.

THE ROUNDUP

An analysis of western ranching politics.

IN THE NEWS...

Congress: In the final hours of funding deadline, farm aid and disaster relief are at the center of the chaos; Senate passes outdoor recreation package.

Farm aid, disaster money at center stage in Hill meltdown, E&E News - Congress engaged in a nasty tug-of-war over government funding Thursday that pinned disaster relief and farm provisions at the center of all the chaos. A day after Presidentelect Donald Trump and his allies told Republicans to reject a bipartisan deal to prevent a shutdown at midnight Friday, the House resoundingly defeated a pared-down GOP-crafted alternative amid sweeping blowback from Democrats and an insurgency from more than three dozen conservatives.

Senate approves sweeping outdoor recreation package, E&E News PM - The Senate on Thursday passed a sweeping outdoor recreation package unanimously, sending it to President Joe Biden, who is likely to sign it into law. The “Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act,” H.R. 6492, which passed the House earlier this year, is a collection of bills that outdoor recreation groups have sought for decades.

Gray Wolves

‘Disastrous’ or ‘off to a good start?’: One year into wolf restoration, Colorado navigates divide between wildlife conservation and ranching, Summit DailyAround one year ago, gray wolves were released in Colorado, implementing the voter-approved mandate to reestablish the predators in the state after being eradicated over 80 years ago. Between Dec. 17 to 22, 2023, 10 wolves were captured in Oregon and released in Colorado’s Western Slope — eight in Grand County and two in Summit County. While environmental advocates and Colorado Parks and Wildlife laud the reintroduction efforts as successful and remarkable from a biological perspective, the first year has been heavily scrutinized. Ranchers and legislators described it as disastrous, painful, frustrating, stressful and challenging.

Enviros push to proceed with wolf releases, Western Livestock Journal - Environmental groups are pushing back against a petition filed by ranching groups in Colorado seeking to pause reintroduction efforts in the state. “Industry bullies are trying to undermine the will of voters who want a thriving wolf population in Colorado’s wild areas,” said Alli Henderson of the Center for Biological Diversity. In September, the Middle Park Stockgrowers Association and 20 other industry groups penned a letter to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), asking the agency to refrain from releasing wolves in Middle Park and to not release the remaining wolves in the Copper Creek Pack in Colorado.

Garfield County residents not pleased with possible wolf release, The Daily Sentinel - Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s plans for possibly releasing gray wolves in Garfield County this winter met with considerable resistance this week from elected officials and local residents. “Gov. (Jared) Polis, voters from the Eastern Slope, urban voters, even Pitkin County, we don’t want your stinking wolves in Garfield County,” Garfield County Commissioner Tom Jankovsky said at a heavily attended meeting hosted in New Castle on Tuesday night by the county and Parks and Wildlife. One year ago this week, Parks and Wildlife began the release of what ended up being 10 wolves from Oregon at sites in Summit and Grand counties, as the agency began a wolf restoration project required by a 2020 ballot measure narrowly approved by state voters. Grants made available for producers to help prevent wolf attacks, FarmProgress - Livestock producers in Minnesota feeling the wrath of wolf attacks have access to funds for reimbursement for costs of approved practices to prevent wolf-livestock conflicts.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will award $45,000 through Wolf-Livestock Conflict Prevention Grants. Only costs incurred after entering into a grant agreement with the MDA are eligible for reimbursement.

Wild Horse & Burro: The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals considers removing horses in OR.

9th Circuit considers OR horse removals, Western Livestock Journal - In early December, horse advocates testified before the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to stop the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) from removing feral horses from a central Oregon forest. The Central Oregon Wild Horse Coalition contends the agency’s herd management plan to remove 78 of the estimated 135 horses from a territory in the Ochoco National Forest violates the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act and National Environmental Policy Act. The USFS said it is necessary to maintain adequate winter forage for the horses. In a hearing on Dec. 2 set before the 9th Circuit Court in San Francisco, CA, USFS said in addition to maintaining adequate forage, one of the primary goals with removing horses was to restore riparian management areas.

ESA: USFWS issues proposed rule to list Suckley’s Cuckoo Bumble Bee. Suckley’s bumblebee up for protection, Western Livestock Journal- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is proposing to list the Suckley’s cuckoo bumblebee under the Endangered Species Act. The species has a historical distribution across the West and into Canada. The last confirmed sighting in the U.S. was in Oregon in 2016, the agency said. “The viability of this bee is highly dependent on its host bumble bee species, many of which have declined historically, and are expected to continue to do so in the near term,” USFWS said. A public comment period is open until Feb. 18. To submit a comment, visit regulations.gov and search for docket ID FWS–R7–ES–2024–0117.

Trade: USDA-APHIS working with Mexico to resume live cattle imports.

USDA, Mexico working to resume imports, Western Livestock Journal- USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Mexico are working to resume live cattle imports from the country following the detection of New World screwworm in Mexico. The agency originally said it planned to allow imports back in ahead of the holidays, but reversed course and said it was unlikely to occur. APHIS suspended live cattle imports from Mexico on Nov. 22 following detection of the screwworm on the country’s southern border. The agency announced $165 million in emergency funding to protect U.S. livestock from the screwworm and boost efforts to curb its spread. The funding will increase surveillance and animal health checkpoints, establish a barrier on the isthmus between the Gulf of Mexico and Pacific Ocean, eradicate the screwworm from affected areas and reestablish the biological barrier in Panama.

Administration Transition:

Former Trump admin official leading Interior “landing team”; President elect Trump’s pick to lead USDA wraps up meetings with lawmakers; Haaland may run for NM Gov.

Kate MacGregor served as deputy Interior secretary in the previous admin, E&E NewsPM- Kate MacGregor, who served as Interior deputy secretary during the Trump administration, is leading the Trump transition effort at that department, according to a person who works for the Biden administration. MacGregor, who could return as Interior’s deputy in a second Trump term, held several other senior posts at the department under Trump, including as deputy chief of staff for policy and principal deputy assistant secretary for land and minerals management. The Trump transition landing team had not yet arrived at the Interior Department headquarters as of Wednesday afternoon, said the Biden administration source, who was granted anonymity to discuss transition details that had not been publicly announced. Brooke Rollins, Trump’s pick to lead USDA wraps up meetings on the Hill, AgriPulse - President-elect Donald Trump’s selection

for agriculture secretary, Brooke Rollins, told AgriPulse Wednesday her meetings with senators this week have been “extremely productive” and highlighted the regional and bipartisan nature of farm policy. “It’s been illuminating. It’s been inspiring,” she said in a brief interview between meetings with the senators who will have to confirm her nomination. Rollins, 52, has been president of the America First Policy Institute, an organization closely allied with President-elect Donald Trump, since its founding in 2021. She served as director of the Domestic Policy Council and assistant to the president for strategic initiatives during the first Trump administration.

The exiting Interior Secretary eyes bid to be Governor of New Mexico, E&E Greenwire - Outgoing Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is eyeing a run to be New Mexico’s next governor, according to three people familiar with her plans. Haaland has been in discussions with political operatives in her home state about a gubernatorial run, said those people, who were granted anonymity to discuss Haaland’s plans before they were announced publicly. She has been in discussions with donors and activists for months about a potential gubernatorial bid, said one person familiar with her plans.

Lawsuits: Environmental Group sues Utah over public lands; Judge dismisses timber lawsuit

Environmental group sues over public land Supreme Court fight, The Salt Lake Tribune - A Utah conservation group has sued the governor and attorney general over the state’s U.S. Supreme Court public lands lawsuit. The Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, in a lawsuit filed in 3rd District Court Wednesday, argues that Utah Gov. Spencer Cox and Attorney General Sean Reyes violated Utah’s state constitution by taking their challenge of federal lands to the nation’s high court. The group wants to stop the state from “dismantling a core part of Utah’s identity: public lands,” said Steve Bloch, SUWA’s legal director, in a statement.

Federal judge denied Freres timber companies’ complaint, OPB - A federal judge in Eugene, Oregon, has dismissed a timber company lawsuit against the U.S. Forest Service over its response to a destructive and deadly blaze that was part of the 2020 Labor Day Fires. U.S. District Judge Michael McShane on Dec. 6 dismissed the lawsuit brought by Freres timber companies in January against the agency. The lawsuit, which sought $33 million in damages, alleged the Forest Service was negligent in battling the Beachie Creek Fire in the Willamette National Forest. The complaint said officials did not put their full aerial firefighting arsenal or other resources to work in the first 14 days of the fire before it spread and became part of a complex of fires in the Santiam Canyon fueled by high winds and downed power lines. The Beachie Creek Fire ultimately spread over 193,000 acres, mostly in the Willamette National Forest, killed five people and destroyed dozens of homes in the towns of Detroit, Gates and Mill City.

Industry: Benefits of cattle grazing on wildlife refuge; How sportsmen defeated a CO ballot measure.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service turns to cattle to improve their habitat, The Glasgow Courier - Nestled in the sweeping plains of north-central Montana, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge is a 15,551-acre sanctuary that provides beneficial habitat for an array of wildlife. From the greater sage-grouse to shorebirds, waterfowl, and pronghorn antelope, the refuge serves as a haven for species that rely on the unique sagebrush and wetland ecosystems of the region. Amidst the bird song, a familiar sound to northern Montana cuts through. Was that a moo? While the refuge is known for its emphasis on bird conservation, the birds are also benefiting from an ally not all would first think ofcattle.

Sportsmen defeated a CO ballot measure that would ban Mountain Lion Hunting, Forbes - A mountain lion peers through glass patio doors, staring intently at a young girl just a few feet away inside the house. Behind the big cat is the family’s dead house cat, freshly killed by the 120-pound mountain lion. Inside, the girl’s mother frantically yells through the glass panes to scare the cougar away, but to no avail. The scene was part of an ad that was seen by millions of Coloradans leading up to one of the nation’s most hotly contested ballot measures last November. Proposition 127, backed by mostly Washington D.C.-based animal rights groups, sought to ban mountain lion hunting in that state. The ad ends with Dan Prenzlow, former director of Colorado Parks & Wildlife observing, “The cat killed one meal (the house cat) and was eyeing the child as its next prey. That should give every parent chills,” he warns.

Wildfire: Long road ahead for recovery from OR wildfires.

Wildfire season year in reflection for OR, Axios Portland

- Many of the wildfires that blackened a record 1.9 million acres in Oregon this year raced across the high desert east of the Cascades, leaving ranchers wondering how they’ll recover after the grasses their cows graze on went up in smoke. Cattle are the second most valuable commodity in Oregon — worth nearly $800 million in 2022. We asked Matt McElligott, president of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, how things are looking in the rangelands east of the Cascades. “Loss of rangeland was the biggest one, but there was infrastructure too, like fencing, and some people lost cattle.” “When you lose your rangeland, that’s your pasture so you have to find new pasture somewhere else, or you have to switch to hay, or you have to depopulate (sell off cattle).”

ESA: USFWS to open public comment period on proposed listing of Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee in 15 states & Canadian provinces.

Service Proposes to List Suckley’s Cuckoo Bumble Bee as Endangered, Seeks Public Comment, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service- The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is opening a 60-day public comment period on a proposed rule to list Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee as endangered under the Endangered Species Act. This determination also serves as the 12-month finding on a petition to list Suckley’s cuckoo bumble bee. The public comment period on the proposed rule opens Tuesday, December 17th, 2024 and closes Tuesday, February 18th, 2025. The proposed rule, supporting materials, and information on how to submit comments can be found at www.regulations.gov under Docket Number: FWS–R7–ES–2024–0117.

BLM: WY Resource Advisory Council announces meetings for 2025; Desert Quartzite Solar facility in CA now fully operational.

Wyoming Resource Advisory Council announces 2025 meetings, Bureau of Land Management- The Bureau of Land Management’s Wyoming Resource Advisory Council (RAC) has announced its 2025 meeting dates. A January 29 in-person meeting is scheduled at the Cheyenne State Office. Virtual participation will be provided on the Zoom platform and the meeting is open to the public. The public is responsible for their own transportation and meals. An April 23 inperson meeting is scheduled at a Field Office. Virtual participation will be provided on the Zoom platform and the meeting is open to the public. The public is responsible for their own transportation and meals. A July 9 in-person meeting is scheduled at a Field Office. Virtual participation will be provided on the Zoom platform and the meeting is open to the public. The public is responsible for their own transportation and meals. An October 21 in-person meeting is scheduled at a Field Office. Virtual participation will be provided on the Zoom platform and the meeting is open to the public. The public is responsible for their own transportation and meals.

BLM announces Desert Quartzite Solar is fully operational, Bureau of Land Management- The Bureau of Land Management today announced the Desert Quartzite Solar facility, located near Blythe in eastern Riverside County, is now fully operational and producing clean energy to power up to 120,000 homes. The 300 megawatt (MW) solar facility also has 150 MW of battery storage, increasing reliability and availability of clean energy on the state grid.

National Water and Climate Center

Early Winter Snowpack Status

As of December 17, snow water amounts across northern Nevada and the Eastern Sierra are above normal ranging from 106% to 157% of median for this time of year. For southern Nevada, the Upper Colorado Basin snowpack is 89% of median while the Spring Mountains are still waiting for snow to start accumulating.

It is still much too early to say if April 1 snow water percentages will be above normal or not. There are three months of winter ahead so current snow water amounts represent just 25-30% of median springtime peak amounts for most basins.

You can continue to track conditions throughout the winter from the Nevada Snow Survey website at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/nevada/snow-survey. The first Water Supply Outlook Report of the season will be published in early January 2025.

SNOW SURVEY

Jeff Anderson, Nevada Water Supply Specialist jeff.anderson@usda.gov.

New Staff – Jason Welz

Jason Welz (pictured right) has joined the Nevada Snow Survey as of August. Jason brings a wealth of hydrology experience from working with the USGS in Carson City and the NRCS Colorado Snow Survey.

New SNOTEL

Lost Lakes SNOTEL was constructed September 16-17, 2024. This new SNOTEL is located near the crest of the Sierra at 8,640 feet elevation at the headwaters of the West Fork Carson River. This is high accumulation snow zone. Access site data here: wcc.sc.egov. usda.gov/nwcc/site?sitenum=1331

New Snow Depth Sensors

NRCS staff were busy replacing SNOTEL snow depth sensors this summer. The new sensors are more reliable at making measurements during storm events which will allow data users to track snow accumulation during storms on an hour-byhour basis with far fewer missed readings than in the past. Currently over half the SNOTELs in Nevada and the Eastern Sierra have been upgraded. The red and blue symbols on the included map indicate SNOTELs with new snow depth sensors. Work will continue this winter and into next summer.

Heavenly Valley SNOTEL upgraded to “Supersite”

To support research and snowpack modeling efforts the NRCS has upgraded 18 SNOTEL sites across the western US to SNOTEL “Supersites”. As part of this effort, Heavenly Valley SNOTEL in the Lake Tahoe Basin was upgraded. In addition to its standard sensors Heavenly now is collecting data for wind speed and wind direction, relative humidity, as well as incoming and outgoing long and short-wave radiation. All supersites are also testing a beaded temperature cable which hangs vertically from the tower to measure snowpack temperature every 8 inches (20cm). This application is still somewhat experimental and is intended to measure the snow’s vertical temperature profile. This is helpful for predicting how much energy is needed to produce snowmelt which impacts flood potential during rain on snow events. These supersite sensors are in addition to the standard sensors at all Nevada and Eastern Sierra SNOTELs which measure snow water equivalent, snow depth, precipitation, air temperature, soil moisture and soil temperature.

Court Ordered Whiplash: Farmers Granted Reprieve –Again – From Legal Filing

Contact: Mike Tomko, Director, Communications (202)

406-3642 miket@fb.org

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on the ping pong of court orders that ended with a court-ordered reprieve from reporting requirements for many small businesses.

Earlier this month, a federal court halted the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting requirement from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. On Monday, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit reinstated the Jan. 1, 2025, deadline. In a third about-face, late last night, the court reversed that order until arguments can be heard, delaying the reporting requirement indefinitely.

“We appreciate the court’s recognition that a lastminute reinstatement of reporting requirements caused an unwelcome scramble for small businesses, including more than 230,000 farmers. The latest court decision to postpone the filing requirement is the right thing to do, but the legal back and forth created (stress) for many farm families. Lack of guidance and poor public outreach have left many farmers in the dark about whether they’re expected to file.”

Under the BOI requirement, businesses that fail to file or do not update records when needed could face criminal fines up to $10,000 and additional civil penalties of up to $591 per day. Failure to file could also lead to felony charges and up to two years in prison.

Read the latest court order here: www.fb.org/files/ backgrounder/BOI-CoA-Injunction-12.27.24.pdf

Read a Market Intel on the Beneficial Ownership Information requirement here: www.fb.org/marketintel/corporate-transparency-act-deadline-looming

AFBF Congratulates Sen. Klobuchar on new position

“We congratulate Sen. Amy Klobuchar on her new role as ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee. She understands the importance of agriculture and is dedicated to listening to the needs of farmers and ranchers, not just in her state, but across the country. She’s demonstrated a willingness to reach across the aisle, and that type of bipartisan leadership will be needed to pass the next farm bill. Sen. Klobuchar also has a close working relationship with farmers and Farm Bureau leaders in Minnesota, and she takes the time to truly understand constituents’ concerns. We look forward to working with her and all members of the Senate Agriculture Committee to address the many challenges facing farmers and ranchers today, including passing a modernized farm bill that provides risk management support, investments in conservation, and advancements in research and education.”

- AFBF President Zippy Duvall

Biden-Harris Administration

Proposes Protections for Ruby Mountains

Withdrawal would protect wildlife habitat, cultural heritage and the thriving local outdoor recreation economy

ELKO, Nev., Dec. 30, 2024 — Today, the BidenHarris administration announced steps to protect Nevada’s Ruby Mountains, one of the state’s most unique landscapes. In response to requests from Tribes, conservationists, sportsman and the local community, the Department of the Interior is initiating consideration of a 20-year withdrawal of the Ruby Mountain area from operation of the public land laws, mining laws, and mineral and geothermal leasing laws, subject to valid existing rights. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service submitted a withdrawal petition and application to Secretary Haaland. The approval of the petition and publication in the Federal Register initiates a two-year segregation that will prohibit new mining claims and the issuance of new federal mineral leases on approximately 264,000 acres in the Ruby Mountains area.

The area in Elko County, Nevada, referred to as “Nevada’s Swiss Alps” are the ancestral homelands of the Te-Moak Tribe of the Western Shoshone Indians of Nevada and provide abundant recreational opportunities for hunters, anglers, birdwatchers, and other recreationists. Additionally, the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge includes a wetland oasis for migratory waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway and fisheries that include trout and largemouth bass.

“The Ruby Mountains are cherished by local communities for their scenic value, cultural heritage, numerous wildlife and benefit to the local economy through a thriving outdoor recreation industry,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “Today, we are taking an important and sensible step to pause new mining claims to ensure that we have the science and public input necessary to inform proposed protections of the Ruby Mountains area for future generations.”

“The Ruby Mountains are an iconic landscape with exceptional recreation opportunities and valuable fish and wildlife habitat worth preserving for the future,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Today’s action honors the voices of Tribal communities and conservation and sportsmen’s groups and marks another important step to protect a treasured landscape.”

The Federal Register notice initiates a 90-day public comment period on the proposed withdrawal. The Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service will prepare an environmental analysis to inform whether the lands should be withdrawn for a period of up to 20 years. This process will include Tribal consultation and participation by the public, environmental groups, industry, state and local government, as well as other stakeholders. By law, the Secretary of the Interior can withdraw these lands for a maximum of 20 years. Only Congress can legislate a permanent withdrawal. The lands would remain open to location and entry under the U.S. mining laws, and subject to mineral material disposal under the Materials Act of 1947. The withdrawal will not impact other allowed uses of the landscape, including hiking, hunting, off-highway vehicle recreation, and camping.

Responsible development of domestic mineral supplies is important to transitioning to a clean energy economy. The study and two-year segregation from the location of new mining claims and the issuance of new mineral leases will give the Interior and Agriculture Departments the opportunity to fully support sciencebased decision-making in the Ruby Mountains area.

BLM seeks input on proposed wild horse gather plan for Lahontan Herd Management Area

The BLM is seeking public input to help inform an environmental assessment of the proposed Lahontan Wild Horse Gather Plan. If approved, the gather would occur within and outside the Lahontan Herd Management Area, in an area encompassing 304,705 acres in Lyon and Churchill counties, about 40 miles east of Carson City, Nevada. BLM will accept public comments Dec. 11, 2024, through Jan. 10, 2025.

In 2024, BLM conducted aerial census flights to monitor the area’s current wild horse population. Based on that census, BLM estimates the current population to be 518 wild horses, well above its appropriate management level. The BLM proposes to gather and

remove excess wild horses from the Lahontan HMA to achieve the established appropriate management level of wild horses.

BLM prefers comments be submitted via the “Participate Now” option at the BLM National NEPA Register at https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanningui/project/2035674/510 Comments may also be delivered to the BLM Carson City District Office, 5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV 89701, or faxed to (775)-885-6147. Written comments must be postmarked or otherwise hand delivered by 4:30 p.m. on or before Jan. 16, 2025. Please email questions to blm_nv_ccd_whb@blm.gov or call 775-885-6000.

It may seem hard to imagine a world without agriculture. However, a majority of Americans do not have a basic understanding of where their food, fiber and fuel comes from. For them, Agriculture is simply not part of their world. We believe that the solution to this problem is education.

The Pillars of Agricultural literacy offer a framework for lifelong learning. The goal is to build a strong foundational understanding of the relationship between agriculture and the environment, food, fiber, energy, animals, lifestyle, the economy and technology. We seek to cultivate this awareness in any person, no matter their age or experience.

Who are the Pillars for?

1) Teachers & Ag Literacy Coordinators

Purposeful Planning

When planning your outreach efforts for the coming month, quarter or year use the Pillars to focus your efforts. Build targeted awareness and understanding for each age level.

Team Strategy

Do you work with others to plan lessons or events in your school or community? Identify one Pillar to focus on. Craft activities, discussions and events to support your stategic goals throughout the year.

Practical Resource Guide

Are you planning to order resources? Use the Pillars Matrix to identify the resources offered by the American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture which align with each Pillar.

2) Industry Partners

School Visit Planning

Do you have employees who are excited to connect with local schools to share what you do? Use the Pillars to plan your visit by selecting a Pillar of focus and an age group.

Partnership Opportunities

Do you partner with Agriculture in The Classroom or other agricultural outreach organizations? As you begin partnership discussion regarding outcomes, use the Pillars to brainstorm and explore new opportunities to reinforce key industry concepts.

Evaluation

Do you already have agricultural literacy resources available? Use the Pillars as a tool to review current resources and identify areas of strength and opportunities for improvement.

A Framework for Learning

View full article land download pdf /doc resources here www.agfoundation.org/resources/pillars

UNR Extension appoints new state associate 4-H program leader

Sarah Chvilicek to lead staff development and program expansion

University of Nevada, Reno Extension has appointed Sarah Chvilicek as the state associate 4-H program leader for the 4-H Youth Development Program.

With decades of experience in youth development, Chvilicek brings leadership and mentoring skills to help prepare Nevada’s 4-H members to become future civic leaders.

Chvilicek, previously northern Nevada’s 4-H coordinator, will focus on expanding membership statewide to ensure all Nevada youth have the opportunity to benefit from the youth group’s transformative experiences. She will also prioritize growing after-school programs that complement classroom learning through hands-on opportunities, while increasing participation in clubs, projects and camping programs.

“Sarah’s appointment as the state associate 4-H program leader reflects her unwavering commitment to empowering Nevada’s youth,” said Lindsay Chichester, Nevada 4-H program leader. “With her leadership, the 4-H Program is poised to build on its strong foundation, creating even more opportunities for young people to thrive.”

Chvilicek will work closely with state 4-H professionals to establish a unified, systematic approach to youth development programs. Her immediate focus includes fostering partnerships, engaging volunteers, and developing innovative educational initiatives to help youth build leadership skills, explore STEM fields and cultivate community connections. She will also collaborate with state officials to integrate the nationwide Beyond Ready Program into Nevada’s 4-H framework to equip youth with dynamic skills for an evolving workforce.

Chvilicek holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from UNR. Before joining Extension, she worked as a youth employment specialist for Montana’s Labor Dept and later continued helping youth to secure jobs through Join Inc., a nonprofit focused on educational and occupational training in Nevada. She came on board as staff for the Nevada 4-H Program in 1989. Parents and guardians of youth interested in joining the Nevada 4-H Youth Development Program can contact their local county Extension offices for information about clubs and programs available. Adults interested in volunteering can find more details or register online, and a program representative will contact them.

NCBA and PLC Call on USFWS to Partner with Producers on Monarch Conservation

by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public

Lands Council

(12.11.24) Yesterday, the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) released its plan to list the Monarch Butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) with section 4(d) flexibilities. The agency will accept public comments on the proposal until March 12, 2025. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) call on USFWS to partner with livestock producers throughout this process.

“USFWS must increase partnerships with livestock producers throughout this process recognizing their work managing the landscape. As stewards of the land, ranchers work tirelessly to implement sustainable management practices to ensure the longevity of the lands they utilize. Recent studies have shown that grazing and animal agriculture in general, builds robust habitat, increases insect populations, and manages invasive species on America’s pastureland,” said NCBA Director of Government Affairs and PLC Garrett Edmonds.

“The USFWS management plan must recognize the voluntary conservation work that ranchers do every day to care for America’s vast natural resources providing the regulatory certainty necessary for ranchers to manage their operations.”

Sarah Chvilicek joins Nevada 4-H state leadership as state associate 4-H program leader after a decades-long career in youth development.

by Robert Moore

Grant opportunity available to support Nevada specialty crop projects

Over $267,000 available in grants for research, education and production

(SPARKS, Nev.) – The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) has over $267,000 available for projects promoting specialty crops in Nevada through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP).

“Nevada’s specialty crop industry has so much potential, and we are excited to support projects that foster the industry’s growth,” said NDA Agriculturist IV Jozo Vujeva. “We encourage organizations with research, education or production ideas that would benefit Nevada’s specialty crops to apply.”

Specialty crops are defined by USDA as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, legumes, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops (including floriculture).” Grant funds through this program have been used to establish various projects, including projects to help specialty crop producers achieve success in developing and marketing their products through the Women’s Farm to Food Accelerator Program, research projects to determine what bean varieties will grow well in Nevada climates through the University of Nevada, Reno, and education and outreach projects through Nevada Farm Bureau.

Project proposals that promote and enhance specialty crops through research, marketing, education and production must have multiple beneficiaries and may not be used to benefit only one individual or organization. Individual agricultural producers, non-profit and tribal organizations, minority groups, disadvantaged farmers, agricultural associations, industry groups, community-based organizations and academic institutions are encouraged to apply.

The deadline to submit Letters of Intent is Dec. 16, 2024. Full applications are due Feb. 3, 2025. The request for proposals, previously funded projects and more information can be found at agri.nv.gov/scbgp.

Photo

Growing the Number of People Fed by U.S. Farmers

https://yohta-blog.yokohama-oht.com/ growing-the-number-of-people-fed-by-u.s.-farmers

One U.S. Farmer Feeds More than 160 People

The number of people fed by a single U.S. farmer has grown steadily over the years. In the 1800s, a U.S. farmer grew enough food to feed between three and five people. According to the website Statista, the number has continued to grow over the decades:

1940 ~ 20

1960 ~ 45

1980 ~ 100

2005 ~ 144

2022 ~ 165

While the statistic isn’t perfect, it does show a massive improvement in the efficiency and productivity of U.S. farmers. It might surprise you to learn that tires play an important role in helping farmers grow the number of people they feed.

How the Number of People Fed by a Farmer Is Calculated

In 2014, Bob Young, chief economist at the American Farm Bureau Federation (which has been doing this calculation since the 1970s), explained how the number of people fed by a farmer is calculated. The number is based on a ratio—it’s calculated by taking cash receipts from farm ag products, subtracting the trade balance, and dividing the number back into to total cash receipts from ag products. To arrive at the number of farmers, economists take the U.S. population and divide it by the number of farms in the U.S.

The Problem with How the Number of People Fed by a Farmer Is Calculated

The statistic showing how many people are fed by U.S. farmers is useful for highlighting the improved productivity of the nation’s farms, however, the calculation is not without its flaws. First and foremost, the statistic assumes that everything grown by farmers is consumed, which is simply untrue.

For example, a large percentage of corn—the largest U.S. crop in terms of total production—isn’t used to feed people, at least directly. According to the USDA, about a third of the corn crop is used to feed livestock, while another third of the corn crop is used to make ethanol. Similarly, 70% of soybeans—the nation’s second-largest crop—are used for animal feed, while just 15% are used directly for human consumption. This a great reminder of the versatility of U.S. crops! Another issue with the calculation is that it uses the number of farms, rather than the number of farmers.

The USDA reports that there are more than two million farms in the U.S., however, the USDA agricultural census counts roughly 3.4 million “producers,” a category that can include everyone from farm owners to farm owners’ family members to farm managers to tenant farmers. Ultimately, the nuanced nature of farms and the use of agricultural products is not easily captured by the use of a simple calculation.

Why the Number of People Fed by a Farmer Is Still Impressive

Although the fact that a single U.S. farmer feeds roughly 165 people is imperfect, it’s still impressive. Today, farmers produce significantly more food than their predecessors and achieve this exceptional output using less land—between 1992 and 2012, U.S. farmland decreased by 31 million acres, an area roughly equivalent to the state of New York.

The number of farmers has also shrunk considerably over time. According to the New York Times, farm people made up 64% of the nation’s workforce in 1850. By 1920 the U.S. farm population had receded to just 30%. Today, direct on-farm employment accounts for about 1.5% percent of U.S. employment—a little over 10% of total U.S. employment is related to the agricultural and food sectors. This means that just 1.5% of the population feeds the rest of us, as well as millions of other people around the world.

Innovation is Driving Agricultural Production

Numerous innovations have helped farmers improve their efficiency and production over the years, including increased and improved mechanization, better fertilizers and pesticides, high-tech and hybrid seeds, improved post-harvest handling and storage, and digital advancements such as automation, artificial intelligence, and data collection and analysis.

Tires and Increased Farm Production

Another aspect driving the growth in production from U.S. farmers is a better understanding of how they themselves affect the land. The adoption of new

growing techniques and the creation of strategic practices have bolstered farm productivity by minimizing soil compaction, reducing erosion, and conserving water. It’s here that tires have played an important role.

Radial tires are becoming a common sight on today’s farms. Radial tires provide a larger footprint than older, bias-ply technology. Radials lessen the impact of machinery on the field, help reduce soil compaction, and improve yields. They also deliver improved puncture protection in the tread area, better traction, and more efficient fuel use—maximizing uptime, increasing efficiency, and lowering expenses.

High-tech VF radial tires are pushing the benefits of traditional radials to new levels and are poised to help farmers feed even more people. VF tires can carry up to 40% more load at the same inflation pressure as a conventional radial or the same load at up to 40% less inflation pressure. This allows farmers to significantly increase efficiency and minimize the impact of today’s increasingly large and powerful machinery on the ground (the number of people fed by farmers isn’t the only thing that has grown over the years—so has ag equipment).

Yokohama Off-Highway Tires America

Yokohama Off-Highway Tires America’s Alliance brand continues to deliver cutting-edge tires designed to keep pushing production forward. Innovative radial tires like the Alliance Agri Star II—which features a larger-than-typical contact patch and a unique tread pattern—are helping to improve performance, minimize the impact on valuable soil, and boost production. The Alliance Whole Farm Concept is a commitment to delivering a low-pressure VF solution to every piece of ag equipment that enters the field and is an important step in protecting soil health and yields.

Contact your local YOHTA dealer or rep to learn more about Alliance’s numerous ag tire solutions and how we’re helping farmers grow their production and profits.

December 19, 2024: CDFA Has Confirmed New Cases of H5N1 Bird Flu in California Dairy Herds and Released 56 Fully Recovered Dairies from Quarantine

SACRAMENTO, CA — Following an investigation by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and rapid disease detection by California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS), the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) has confirmed H5N1 Bird Flu in 266 dairy farms in the last 30 days in California. Since California’s first detection of H5N1 Bird Flu in dairies, there have been a total of 650 infected dairies with 56 of those affected, fully recovered and released from quarantine. All quarantine released dairies will be placed on a surveillance list for weekly testing through creameries to maintain continued monitoring of the virus in California.

Recommended Biosecurity Measures for Livestock Operations

CDFA strongly encourages dairy farms and processors to:

1) Review biosecurity protocols, including industry biosecurity resources such as those that may be found on the CDFA website for the Secure Food Supply Program, as well as the resources that can be found on the FARM/ NMPF Everyday Biosecurity manual (Biosecurity - National Dairy FARM Program) and the Secure Milk Supply website (Secure Milk Supply Plan).

2) Continue to be vigilant to observe for clinical signs consistent with this outbreak such as acute loss of animal appetite and rumination; significant/ acute drop in milk; changes in manure consistency.

3) Contact your herd veterinarian if you observe animal conditions outside of the ordinary. This has not currently been reported in California, but it is a reminder to enforce biosecurity on your dairy operation or when visiting other dairy operations.

H5N1 Bird Flu Virus in Livestock

State of Emergency Proclamation by the Governor

Following the recent detections of Avian influenza A (H5N1) in dairy cattle within California, Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency. According to a statement from the Governor’s Office, “This proclamation is a targeted action to ensure government agencies have the resources and flexibility they need to respond quickly to this outbreak.” The goal of this announcement is to boost our state’s preparedness for a quick response to the spread of this disease in California.

Public awareness plays a critical role in the state’s strategy. This includes regular public updates, multilingual outreach, and education on prevention. Governor Newsom stated, “While the risk to the public remains low, we will continue to take all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this virus.”

Bird Flu in Humans

For the most up to date data on bird flu cases in California, please visit CDPH’s Current Bird Flu Situation dashboard. While the risk to the general public remains low, additional human cases of bird flu are expected to be identified and confirmed in California. CDPH recommends that personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye protection (face shields or safety goggles), respirators (N95 masks), and gloves be worn by anyone working with animals or materials that are infected or potentially infected with the bird flu virus. Wearing PPE helps prevent infection. Please see CDPH’s Please see CDPH’s Worker Protection from Bird Flu for full PPE guidance. For the latest updates from CDPH, visit Bird Flu (ca.gov). If you have any questions, comments or concerns, you can submit an inquiry directly to CDPH.

National Detections

This nationwide outbreak of H5N1 Bird Flu began in poultry in 2022 and was first detected in US dairy cattle in March 2024. All national detections in cattle can be found on the USDA website at: HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov) and all national detections in poultry can be found on the USDA website at: Confirmations of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Commercial and Backyard Flocks | Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (usda.gov)

Inquiries?

For public inquiries in California, e-mail to cdfa.HPAIinfo@cdfa.ca.gov or call 916-217-7517. If you suspect Bird Flu in your livestock, call: 1-866-922-2473

For up-to-date info, please view: www.cdfa.ca.gov/AHFSS/Animal_Health/HPAI.html www.cdfa.ca.gov/AHFSS/Animal_Health/docs/governors_proclamation_of_a_state_of_emergency_bird_flu_2024.pdf

CA Interstate Movement Requirements and Restrictions for Dairy Cattle

All dairy breed cattle originating from H5N1 affected state(s): Must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) and signed by an accredited veterinarian within seven (7) days before transport that includes the following statement: “All animals identified on this Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) have been inspected within seven (7) days before transport and do not originate from a premises with a confirmed detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) or that is currently under investigation as a suspect premises.”

All lactating dairy cattle moving interstate require a CVI and matrix-A negative HPAI test from a NALHN laboratory within seven (7) days before movement, in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.

Dairy cattle moving interstate direct to slaughter are exempt from the test requirement but do require a CVI or a stateapproved owner shipper statement and Premises ID (NPIN), in addition to any state-specific entry requirements of destination state.

Lactating dairy cattle from herds which have tested positive for Influenza A are not eligible for interstate movement for thirty (30) days from the most recent collection of any sample that tests positive from any individual animal in the herd. Re-testing may occur after this 30-day period.

Lactating dairy cattle with clinical signs consistent with HPAI in dairy cattle are ineligible for interstate movement (including to slaughter) as per 9 C.F.R. 71.3(b).

Enhanced Testing helps combat HPAI H5NI

Bio-security is the best defense against HPAI H5NI USDA financial aid is available to offset costs and losses from H5N1

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and State veterinary and public health officials are working together to protect livestock, farms, and communities from avian influenza.

See HPAI Confirmed Cases in Livestock in Nevada, CA and Texas here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/ livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpaidetections/hpai-confirmed-cases-livestock

Producer Support Programs - Some options are available to all dairy producers; others are available only to dairy producers with HPAI-positive herds. The USDA can help you with Biosecurity Enhancement, Financial Assistance, and more.

Get The Facts Now! Learn how HPAI spreads, why it’s different from other animal health issues, what testing is being done by the USDA and what to do if you suspect possible HPAI on your farm. Learn more here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultrydisease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-livestock

Horse enthusiasts from across the country joined together on September 13 and 14 at the Elko County Fairgrounds to admire and purchase some of the best horses the Great Basin has to offer. From weanlings to bridle horses, there was something for everyone. Most of these horses were ranch raised and the majority sold were previously used as working ranch horses.

The preview started at 10 a.m. and dinner was at 6:00 p.m., catered by The Star who also catered a complimentary buyers breakfast Saturday morning. The sale preview was held on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. Consignors showcased their horses in the arena, highlighting their many talents. Riders completed reining patterns, worked cattle, and roped live cattle to show the individual horse’s talents. The sale auctioneer was Steve Friskup of Muleshoe, Texas. The high selling horse was Lot #69 JP Scootin Wranglers, consigned by Van Norman Quarter Horses of Tuscarora, Nevada. The big roan gelding was ridden and shown by Anna Van Norman. He was her go-to horse for team ropings, rodeos, branding and more. He sold for $40,000 and will stay in Tuscarora with the Jackson family on the YP ranch.

Sixty-seven horses sold averaging $10,586.58. Broodmares averaged $8066. Weanlings averaged $3928. Yearlings averaged $7355. Two-year olds averaged $10,343. Four year olds and older averaged $23,540. Save the date for next year’s sale, September 12 and 13, 2025. For more information, you can follow the Van Norman and Friends Production Sale on Facebook, or check out their website: www.vannormansale.com

sales: $709,300

Champion Nevada Cowhorse Results

1st Diamond AK 47 shown by Flint Lee owned by Janet Kubichek

2nd Cats E Ticket Time shown by Matt Mori owned by Betsy Searle

3rd Hard Rockin Rebel shown by Ed Robertson Owned by Phillipa Heathcock

4th Last Diamond Vintage shown/Anthony McClimon owned/Janet Kubichek

Top Earning Rider Award: Flint Lee

Top Stockhorse Award

Sponsored by JM Capriolas in memory of Paula Wright, earned by Hard Rocking Rebel owned by Phillipa Heathcock and shown by Ed Robertson

For more results, please visit

Open & Open Incentive Results

1st Mori Range Bulls-Michael Mori, Quinn Mori, Asher Freeman, Barak Freemen 4.15.62

2nd Bar A- Alan Malotte, Ira Walker, Jake Ward, Blake Teixeira 4.49.72

3rd Warr Land & Livestock- Mason Warr, Taylor Lloyd, Braydin Evans, Quirt Boyles 5.34.93

Open Incentive

1st NK Team- Nathan Kelly Jr, Will Knight, Junior Harney, Marshall Smith

2nd Merkley Ranch- Tom Merkley, Ross Peters, Clayton Blanthorn, Dean Turner

3rd Faith Hill Construction- Dustin Feyder, Dakota Feyder, Brock Feyder, Cody Barkdull

2024 Results

Non Pro Snaffle Results

1st Socks By Boon & Bea Lee 215

2nd Spooky Times Marisa Julian 212.5

3rd Rated P Gee Gina Liberini 204.5

4th Dualin Cattarey Josh Prom 200.5

Open Snaffle Results

1st Dun In Hollywood Flint Lee Janet Kubichek 220

2nd Smart and Dark Time Casey Bieroth John Wright 218

3rd Cats Little Bet Flint Lee Janet Kubichek 216.5

4th Brudder N Style Anthony Mclimon Janet Kubichek 215.5

Non Pro Hackamore / Two Rein Results

1st TI Stylish Bo Isaac Spratling 215.5

2nd Rated P Gee Gina Liberini 208.5

3rd Not A Blackcat Maggie Van Norman 208

4th One Eyed Redneck Jake McKay 206.5

Open Hackamore / Two Rein Results

1st SR Zings Prince Malachi McLain 214

2nd HTS Howlnatthe boon Pook Hoots 212.5

3rd Modocs Crown Royal Justin Sorenson 210.5

4th Call Me Mirabelle Darbylee Winter 207.5

Non Pro Cowhorse Results

1st Nu Red Diamond Debbie Armuth 144 2nd Roslyn Hadley Denier 143

3rd Nics Black Jax Renee Jackson 142.5

4th Woodys Tuff Cat Patty Julian 142

Senior Non Pro Cowhorse Results

1st Nu Red Diamond Debbie Armuth 144

2nd Woodys Tuff Cat Patty Julian 142

3rd Rey Too Much Gail Manoukian 134

4th Gunnaberryya Joi Brackenbury 131.5

Ranch Horse Class Results

1st Pistols Bay Cat Cory Dean Shelman 287.5

2nd Justice is Blind Range Martin 281

3rd Triplesmart Starlite Quentin Anseth 280.5

4th Colonel Bailey Berrett 280

Nevada Cattle Working Results

1st Bonez Jonez Casey Bieroth 147.5

2nd Kick The Dust Up Millie Wakley 146

3rd Hard Rockin Rebel Ed Robertson 145

4th Cats Little Bet Flint Lee 144.5

Women’s Class Results

1st Spooky Times Marisa Julian Patty Julian 218

2nd Socks by Boon Bea Lee Flint & Bea Lee 213.5

3rd DW Dun Frettin Marinna Mori Michael Mori 207.5

4th Paisley Jennifer Black Jolynn Young 204.5

Ranch Horse Champion Pistols Bay Cat, owned & shown by

Non Pro Cowhorse & Senior Non Pro Rider

Nu Red Diamond and Debbie Armuth

Womens Class Champion Spooky Times, owned by Patty Julian shown by Marisa Julian

Open Hackamore Champion SR Zings Prince, owned by Sharon Rhoads, shown by Malachi McLain

Non Pro Hackamore/Two Rein Champion TI Stylish Bo, owned by Dr. Boyd Spratling, shown by Isaac Spratling

Cory Dean Shelman

Photos provided by Nicolo Poyo Photography

Champion

Senior Branding Results

1st Mark Eldridge / Ira Walker 1.42.02

2nd Jess Peters / Ira Wines 2.05.00.

3rd Rocky Roa / Joe Wines 2.07.85

Fastest over 70 roper Milt Oman

CO-ED Branding Results

1st Boyles Gang: Junior Harney, Haley Pennington, Bailey Boyles, Quirt Boyles 3.10.88

2nd Goemmer Ranches: Riata Anseth, Quentin Anseth, Logan Anseth, Dally Goemmer 4.19.27

3rd Faith Hill Construction: Michael Mori, Quinn Mori, Marinna Mori, Payton Feyder 4.24.65

Womens Branding Results

1st Kiel Livestock: Sandy Kiel, Kaylee Filippini, Andrea Sestanovich, Mesa Martin 5.34.69

2nd Goemmer Ranches: Riata Anseth, Dally Goemmer, Mindy Goemmer, Abby Jackson 5.38.91

3rd Reverse FP Cattle: Payton Feyder, Desi Dotson, Brynn Lehman, Lindy Norcutt 6.46.25

2024 Results

Youth Branding Results 7-14

1st Mori Range Bulls- Pete & Michael Mori

2nd

3rd

Youth Branding Results 6-10

1st Eden Valley Ranch-Jett & Barak Freeman

2nd Flying Nevada #1 Adree Jo & Marc Morrison 3rd Steel Runnings Hadlee & Chad Steele

Team Roping Results

11.5 winners Mark Eldridge and Dalton Jim 15 winners Travis Tom/ Mike Mori

1st place Chad Alexander, Zane Wines, Alan Malotte, Casey Stouard

2nd place Zack Kelley, Curtis Robinson, Dustin Feyder, Zane Wines

3rd place Hannah Kelley, Curly Thomas, Josh Wines, Arturo Vega

Team Malotte- Hadley & Alan Malotte

Vades Team- Garrett & Vade Donker

Annual John Henry Roderick Drawpot Branding

The change in agriculture today is just a glimpse of what lies ahead. It’s why, more than ever, we are committed to being the partner you can trust, who understands your needs and delivers value to help you achieve your goals.

Wherever agriculture goes, we’ll be there, alongside you, as you lead the way.

For more information, please contact:

The Central Nevada Regional Water Authority was established in 2005 to proactively address water issues in the Central Region, the largest of Nevada's 14 hydrographic regions. CNRWA formulates and presents a united position on water-related issues; monitors, assesses and responds to water projects that may adversely impact a member county; implements a groundwater monitoring program and encourages citizen participation in water-related issues. CNRWA’s nine member counties are: Churchill, Elko, Esmeralda, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Nye, Pershing, and White Pine.