2018 May Nevada Rancher Magazine

Oldest Independent Livestock Monthly in Nevada $2.00

SPECIAL EDITION:

Stock Dogs

Ranch helpers we couldn’t do without ALSO INSIDE: Winners of the first-ever Rancher youth photo contest BLM announces outcome-based grazing projects for 2018 Photo by Theresa Willis

MAY, 2018

Volume XLVIII, Number 5

The Nevada Rancher (ISSN 0047-9489) (USPS #003-257) published monthly at Winnemucca Publishing, 1022 S. Grass Valley Road, Winnemucca, NV 89445 Call us toll free at (866) 644-5011 Periodical Postage Paid at Winnemucca, 89445

Publisher, Peter Bernhard Editor, J. Carmen Kofoed Staff Writer, Jennifer Whiteley

Cattle Dogs: Ranch assets we can’t live without

This issue compiles stories that take a look at the rancher’s best friend, the cattle dog. From tips on training your own dog to a peek inside the lives of some epic ranch dogs, there’s a wealth of love for man’s best friend.

Our Issue Focus stories begin on Page 14

WP Staff Contributors, Debra Reid Shanna Cummings Contributors, Heather Smith Thomas, Michael Thomas, Jolyn Young Erik Holland, Mike Popovitch, and Andi Harmon Sales Representative Ashley Buckingham

LOOK AT THESE KIDS!

The Rancher’s first-ever youth photo contest yielded some impressive images from a great group of kids.

Jennifer Whiteley gives readers some details, as well as these fantastic photos.

Starts on Page 40

Office Manager, Tracy Wadley Production Manager, Joe Plummer Graphic Designer, Emily Swindle The Nevada Rancher does not assume responsibility for statements by advertisers nor products advertised within, and The Nevada Rancher does not assume responsibility for opinions expressed in articles submitted for publication. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject advertising or editorial material submitted for publication. Contents in The Nevada Rancher may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, including, but not limited to original contents and original composition of all ads (layout and artwork) without prior

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SPECIAL EDITION:

Stock Dogs

ALSO INSIDE:

Ranch helpers we couldn’t do without

Winners of the first-e ver Rancher youth photo contest BLM announces outco me-based grazing projects for 2018 Photo by Theresa Willis

MAY, 2018

Volume XLVIII, Number

5

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Nevada Rancher, Winnemucca Publishing, 1022 S. Grass Valley Road, Winnemucca, NV 89445

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WINNEMUCCA PUBLISHING THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 3

OPINION

S

Rebuilding Infrastructure Vital for Rural Nevada

ome people remember when many rural households didn’t have electricity or running water. Although those days are long gone for most, there’s still lots of room for improvement.

In fact, our American infrastructure used to be the envy of the world, but now it’s in disrepair.

This is why President Trump has made it a priority to rebuild America’s infrastructure. He proposes to devote $50 billion, which is 25 percent of new federal money, to improving infrastructure in rural America. This is an unprecedented commitment.

His proposal will stimulate at least $1.5 trillion in infrastructure investments over the next decade.

As Congress takes up the President’s infrastructure proposal, I am delighted to share with you some great news right now. Included in the FY 2018 budget bill that Congress just passed and President Trump signed in March is a robust investment of $600 million in rural broadband.

These funds will serve as a “down payment” on the President’s full, comprehensive infrastructure funding proposal that will be further deliberated over the coming months.

USDA will use these new rural broadband funds to administer a new program that will begin to meet the Administration’s goals of bringing reliable and affordable broadband e-Connectivity to America’s rural towns, cities and tribal areas. Today, 80 percent of the 24 million American households that do not have 21st century high-speed internet are in rural areas, according to the Federal Communications Commission. That is unacceptable.

America can do better for our rural citizens and for rural production sites that need e-Connectivity to continue to supply the nation and the world with food, fiber, minerals and manufactured products.

As we set up the new program, USDA will work diligently to ensure that the broadband e-Connectivity projects provide the most “bang for the buck” and improve access for as many rural American homes, businesses, farms, schools and health care centers as possible.

Every day, I see firsthand the tremendous difference USDA Rural Development makes by investing in rural infrastructure. Here in Nevada, USDA funded a $12 million combination loan and grant that is helping Storey County replace its aged and failing wastewater collection system.

This project protects the health of residents and the environment, while supporting the tourism

4 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Phil Cowee,

Nevada State Director, USDA Rural Development

economy in the historic district.

USDA has also invested over $41 million in broadband projects in places like remote Elko County and Esmeralda County--communities that would otherwise go completely without any kind of service. This included $25 million in infrastructure loans to small rural telephone companies $2.5 million in Distance Learning Telemedicine loans and grants for universities and community colleges, rural school districts, Tribes, and medical clinics, $3 million for Community Connect Grants to provide community connectivity in small towns and $11 million in Broadband Initiative Program for infrastructure improvements. Without USDA, many areas would simply be without broadband or internet.

These investments are the result of strong partnerships that USDA has formed over the years with

local business and civic leaders.

In addition to providing infrastructure financing, USDA is addressing statutory changes, regulatory relief and cultural shifts to help improve the way the Federal government serves its citizens. This approach is consistent with the Secretary’s priorities: Infrastructure, Partnerships and Innovation. All three are needed to rebuild this great nation.

During the next few weeks and months – and throughout my term – I will be meeting with business owners, developers, elected officials and rural residents to learn about your infrastructure needs and concerns. I want to hear from you about what is working – and what we can do better.

Here is how you can help: Please contact me or our team of specialists in Carson City, Nevada, to let us know of your community’s infrastructure needs. I can be reached by phone at (775) 8871222 Ext. 4751.

Together, we can ensure that USDA investments in rural infrastructure will create jobs, expand economic opportunities and help ensure that rural communities continue to be great places to live, work, start a business and raise a family.

It’s an honor to serve you. F Cartoon by Erik Holland

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 5

Bourbon makes it better!

Our pick of the latest items for the western ranching lifestyle

Rustic Belle Boutique For uniquely designed clothing, home decor, jewelry and custom items check out Rustic Belle!

Photo transfers on wood, embroidery and vinyl projects galore!

Do you enjoy the vanilla oak, sweet fruits and rich spices of Bourbon? You can savor these complex flavors not only by the dram, but in culinary creations both sweet and savory! A recipe for Old Fashioned Cocktail Spice Cake is available on our website. Have a great recipe using Two Bitch Bourbon? We would love to try it! Share it with us at TwoBitchSpirits.com!

Find these ideas and local bourbon retailers at www.TwoBitchSpirits.com!

Gifts they’ll treasure forever from Capriola’s

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Sierra Nevada Leather Sierra Nevada Leather focuses on building quality working cowboy gear for those long days in the Great Basin brush, or those days we all love roping some calves and spending hours sitting in the saddle.

If you’re wanting something that is built to be used tough and look good doing it, we can help you out.

For some Great Basin style chinks or armitas, head on over to www.sierranevadaleather.com or check us out on instagram @sierranevadaleather or Facebook.

Their greatest adventure has just begun. Give your graduate the gift of their dreams.

www.capriolas.com | 500 Commercial St., Elko

Wild Rose and Freshwater Pearls from Josie Nash Freshwater pearls evoke a sense of elegance. But when paired with the wild rose, Josie Nash jewelry is truly something unique and memorable.

The new Wild Rose and Freshwater Pearls collection from the artist will take her breath away.

You can find Josie on Facebook & Instagram @josienashsilver or www.josienash.com

Interested in having your item featured as part of our Ranch Journal? Contact Ashley Buckingham at (775) 304-8814 6 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 7

OBITUARIES

Harold “Andy” M. Anderson January 15, 1955 – March 24, 2018

Harold “Andy” Anderson, 63, of Emmett Idaho passed away on March 24, 2018 at his home. He was born January 15th to Harold Glen Anderson and Edith Melba Main-Anderson in 1955 in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Andy grew up in a military family and spent most of his youth in Northern and Southern California where he enjoyed a plethora of activities.

He had a great love of sports, especially baseball. He fell in love with the western cowboy lifestyle that took him to many Harold “Andy” M. Anderson places and experiences. He was with his dogs and horses. a dedicated family man, loving Preceded in death by his parents and caring father and grandfather, and a loving devoted husband. He and his three brothers, Larry, Ralph supported his family and children in and Ron. Survived by his wife, Debbie their dreams and endeavors in any way he could. He went to school Anderson (Harris) and his five chilat Piedmont High School, in Milpi- dren, Jay and Monte Anderson, tas, California and later received his Dusti Scott (Anderson), Leah Ford degree from Ricks College in Rex- and Samuel Bishop; his sisters, Julie Bay (Anderson) and Colleen Hansen burg, Idaho.

He married his love, Debbie, on (Anderson). He was the proud GrandMarch 31, 2004 in Reno, Nevada and father of 11 grandchildren.

A memorial service was held on would be celebrating 14 years this year. His life was filled with those he March 29, 2018 at the Potter Funerloved and doing things that brought al Chapel 228 E. Main St. Emmett, him joy. He enjoyed his work and had Idaho.

The family asks in lieu of flowers many lifelong friends throughout his career. His last days were some of the to please donate to the St. Luke’s happiest, with his wife, at their home Humphries Diabetes Center. F

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Kenny Merkley December 6, 1959 – April 1, 2018 Kenny was born on December 6, 1959, in Elko, Nevada to Ray and Marie (Gamboa) Merkley. He had two older brothers, Ernie and Lenny. He attended grade school in Jiggs and graduated from Elko High School with the class of 1977. Throughout high school, Kenny competed in high school rodeo, played football, Kenny Merkley wrestled and boxed as a golden glove contender.

During college he continued his passion for rodeo competing in team roping and bareback riding. After college, Kenny returned to Jiggs and was the fourth generation on the family ranch.

In 1989 Kenny met the love of his life, Terri Peters. They were married at the church in Lamoille in 1991. They had two children, Tom and Sidney. He raised his family in Jiggs, Nevada teaching them the values that he lived his life by. His granddaughter Brooke was born September 26, 2015. Kenny and Brooke had a very special bond. Kenny loved his time with his little “Turbo” and Brooke loved spending time with her “Grumpa”.

Kenny passed away peacefully in his sleep after a short battle with cancer on April 1, 2018. Kenny is survived by his wife Terri; children, Tom (Mikayla) Merkley, Sidney (Kelly) Wintermote; granddaughters, Brooke Merkley and Jordan Wintermote; Brothers, Lenny Merkley and Ernie Merkley along with many nieces and nephews. Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Ray and Marie Merkley.

A celebration of life was held on April 14th at the Basque Clubhouse in Elko. The family suggests memorial contributions be sent to the Elko Cancer Network at 2003 Errecart Boulevard, Elko, Nevada 89801. F

Donald Kieth Hurlbert

“Gone Hunting” On Monday, April 9, our father, grandfather, great-grandfather and beloved husband, Donald Kieth Hurlbert, 76 passed peacefully to rest eternally after a short battle against cancer.

Memorial service were held April 23, at Gold Hill Lutheran Church, Butte, MT. I was born in the early morning hours on June 23, 1941, weighing 9 lbs. 4 oz., in Bottineau, ND. I was the first of eight children born to George and Elnor (Bjornseth) Hurlbert. On August 6, 1941, I was baptized in Salem Lutheran Church in rural Bottineau. Back on the farm growing up I always liked animals. It was my job to drive the tractor from the farm to town for my Grandpa to use, I was 7.

I started school in Eckman, ND, the fall of 1946.

I remember at times the teacher, her daughter and I were the only ones making it to school do to blizzards. Dad drove a team with a bobsled; we kids would ride with him to school. I don’t ever remember walking to school, but we did walk home the 3 ½ miles plenty of times. When school was over it was my job to bring the milk cows in from the big pasture. I’d get them started for home and then crawl up on Roany’s back and ride her home.

1950, (age 9) this year I held down my first job, running the tractor raking hay. I earned $10, and

with $5 of that I bought a little sorrel colt and later sold him for $28 and bought some chicks. I sold fryers and traded some for another horse.

About this same time I got 3 ewes, a ram and some geese on shares with my Uncle Donald Kieth Hurlbert Cecil.

I finished my schooling in May of 1955. I graduated from the 8th grade. I was the top of the class or maybe it was the bottom-depending on who you asked. I was the only one in the 8th grade. From there on all my schooling was from the school of hard knocks. The first winter out of school I worked milking about 17 cows by hand. I always had a job working for someone, family or neighbors.

The summer of 1957 I received a pen pal letter from a Montana gal. She described herself and said that if I come to Montana she would like to meet me. It sounded pretty good so that fall I went to Montana and met her. We went together for a few years before getting married when she was 17 and me a whole 19. On January 31, 1961, we started our 57 years together. I have worked for the

Anaconda Co. Smelter, cattle ranches, dairy farms, feed lots, bar tending, Correctional Officer at the Montana State Prison, Phillips County Road Crew, Auctioneer, Logging Cat Skidder and a Plummer.

I never left an employer on bad terms because I thought I might need to go back.

Though all this working and moving around we had time to have 5 kids, Corliss, Donavon, Dennis, Darin and David; they have given us 30 grandkids and so far 13 great-grandchildren. After 40 some years of working for others I decided to strike off on my own and started my own company-Don’s Plumbing Service. I retired to enjoy more time with family and friends playing cards (cribbage) and hunting. I’ve hunted the same area in SW Montana for almost 50 years, and got my share of deer, elk, antelope and 2 moose. I’d tell a few hunting stories but I’ll leave that for family and friends to share.

My one wish is that all my honesty, hard work, ambition, determination and faith in family in passed on from generation to generation.

Survivors include the love of his life, Katheryn Rae Hurlbert, children, Corliss Nelson, Donavon Hurlbert, Dennis (Rachelle) Hurlbert, Darin Hurlbert and David (Megan) Hurlbert, sisters, Gloria Forward, Karen (Pat) Mulcahy, Nancy (Serge) Myers, and Marlys Hurlbert and brother, David (Cheryl) Hurlbert; many grandchildren and great grandchildren; extended grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many more to numerous to mention. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 9

REPORT FROM THE FIELD

BLM announces outcome-based grazing projects for 2018 Initiative provides grazing permit holders flexibility in the management of livestock WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management in April announced 11 demonstration projects in six states for its outcome-based grazing authorizations initiative, which is designed to provide BLM managers and grazing permit holders greater flexibility in the management of permitted livestock. This initiative emphasizes the Trump Administration’s goal of promoting shared conservation stewardship of public lands while supporting uses such as livestock grazing.

The flexibility allowed under the outcome-based grazing authorizations, which were first announced in September 2017, will demonstrate management practices that BLM managers and livestock operators can use to respond to changing, on-theground conditions such as wildfires, high moisture years, or drought. This will better ensure healthy rangelands, high-quality wildlife habitat, and economically sustainable ranching operations.

“The demonstration projects will play an important part in establishing outcome-based grazing authorizations as a standard practice,” said Brian Steed, Deputy Director of Programs and Policy.

“We will consider the success of the demonstration projects as we develop guidance for future authorizations.”

Outcome-based grazing emphasizes conservation performance, ecological, economic and social outcomes and cooperative management of public lands. This initiative will help demonstrate that permitted livestock grazing on public lands can operate under a less rigid framework than is commonly used in order to better reach agreed upon habitat and vegetation goals.

The demonstration projects will provide BLM, working in partnership with ranchers and other partners, with an opportunity to enhance its guidance and best management practices to use when issuing grazing permits. The projects will also be used as models for developing cooperative monitoring plans and land health evaluations that will be implemented in future authorizations under this program.

Nevada Farm Bureau photo

The permit holders chosen to serve as demonstration projects are: Little Snake Land Company in Craig, Colorado (Little Snake Field Office) Deep Creek Ranch LLC in Burley, Idaho (Burley Field Office) Winecup-Gamble Ranch in Elko, Nevada (Wells Field Office) Elko Land and Livestock Company in Elko, Nevada (Tuscarora Field Office)

10 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Willow Ranch in Battle Mountain, Nevada (Mt. Lewis Field Office) Smith Creek Ranch, Carson City, Nevada (Stillwater Field Office) John Uhalde and Company in Ely, Nevada (Bristlecone Field Office)

Roaring Springs Ranch in Burns, Oregon (Andrews/Steens Field Office) Fitzgerald Ranches in Lakeview, Oregon (Lakeview Field Office) PH Livestock in Rawlins, Wyoming (Rawlins Field Office) Joe King and Sons, Inc. and Gran Prairie Limited Partnership in Lewistown, Montana (Lewistown Field Office) The BLM looks forward to working with ranchers and other partners on the selected projects to develop innovative, flexible, and forward looking best management practices that can be applied more widely on the public lands.

For more information on outcome-based grazing authorizations, please visit https://www.blm.gov/ programs/natural-resources/rangelands-and-grazing/livestock-grazing F

FROM OUR ADVERTISER

The Cycle: Maintaining lactation

By Wes Klett Anipro / Xtraformance CEO

In my previous articles, I have discussed that during a 12-month period, there are specific physiological stages a cow progresses through and certain opportunities, challenges and goals we need her to navigate, to ensure we optimize our productivity, which simply stated is to produce a weaned calf every year. In this issue, we will specifically discuss the period of Maintaining Lactation.

During the next 125 days, we are concerned with Maintaining Lactation, dealing with emerging forages, trying to get the cow rebred, the potential of lack of rainfall and numerous other potential challenges.

Nutrient requirements, while lower than the previous period, remain high as we try to sustain lactation as long as possible.

As I mentioned in my first article, my belief has always been that a cow can grow a calf much cheaper than buying feed to grow the calf. Therefore, ensuring nutrient levels remain high through good supplementation practices on emerging forages is critical.

Cows should also gain weight and increase body condition during this

period. Finally, and most importantly for future profitability, this is the period in which we breed back and need to maintain early pregnancy.

To start our discussion, we must ensure before everything else that the calf which is on the ground has the nutrition it needs to enhance its immune system and grow to weaning.

This all begins with extending peak lactation as long as possible. Typically, in beef cows, peak lactation will last 75 days and then both quality and quantity begin to drop off.

Complicating this is the emergence of spring grass which is typically high in moisture.

While some think this is the best grass of the season, most realize that the rate of passage of this high moisture forage is so quick that the cow has difficulty absorbing he nutrients.

Maintaining consumption on your supplement product is difficult as cows get green grass fever and begin chasing these new shoots. However, ensuring you extend supplementation during this time helps reduce the effects of the increased rate of passage, but also is necessary to deliver magnesium if grass tetany is a problem in your area.

Continues on Page 53

  THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 11

FROM OUR ADVERTISER

Liphatech’s Rozol Vole Bait approved to manage TGS in Utah and Nevada MILWAUKEE, WI – Rozol Vole Bait (RVB), a restricted use pesticide, has been used and trusted to manage voles in dormant orchards, and in border areas and buffer strips adjacent to crops for decades. Following extensive field testing conducted

by Mark Nelson and Nicki Frey of Utah State University, Beaver & Iron County Extension respectively, RVB has received Special Local Need (SLN) labels for use in Idaho, Utah and Nevada.

Liphatech is seeking the approval of an alternate brand name “Rozol TGS” in all three states.

Townsend’s ground squirrels (TGS) are common pests in agricultural crops, rangeland, and pastures. Their burrows cause injury to livestock and damage agricultural equipment.

TGS digging brings fresh weed seeds to the surface, facilitating infestations of noxious weeds, some of which are toxic to livestock. TGS can decrease available forage by up to 49%. In addition to direct crop loss and increased input costs, TGS can damage underground irrigation, drainage systems and wiring, and mounds can slow harvest and damage harvesting equipment. According to Nelson: “the reduction in alfalfa and other crop yields combined with the cost of controlling them is in the hundreds of thousands of dollars in western Utah alone. Current control programs such as shooting, flooding, treating with zinc phosphide, and using fumigants have not been effective.”

Field Trial Highlights: Three spot bait applications (one-quarter cup or ~2 oz. per spot) totaling a combined 6-7 lbs. per acre applied over two weeks resulted in effective TGS control documented by two independent census methods.

Labeled use patterns: The SLNs for Rozol Vole Bait permit its use on Townsend’s ground squirrels in fallow agricultural land, rangeland and border areas / buffer strips adjacent to crops. It can be applied via spot baiting around burrows or via secured, tamper-resistant bait stations.

Rozol Vole Bait for TGS is made with 0.005% chlorophacinone invented by Liphatech. There is no need to pre-treat making it easy-to-use, and its quick acceptance means less repeat applications, resulting in labor savings for a low applied cost per

12 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

At left, Townsend Ground Squirrel eating alfalfa; at right is an animal exiting its burrow.

acre. Rozol Vole Bait for TGS is formulated as a paraffinized weather-resistant pellet, and is available in convenient, economical 50 lb. bags. The SLN label must be in the possession of the user at the time of application. For more information, see the entire SLN label: EPA SLN Nos. ID 180001, NV-180001, UT 18-0009.

Stewardship: Liphatech offers integrated pest management training to fit diverse meeting schedules. This content is ideal for continuing education events for landowners at farm dealers, crop/ranch association or county extension meetings. To find out more, contact Michael Brownell (Valier, MT) with details about your event at: brownellm@ liphatech.com, or 414-559-4436.

Controlling Other Field Rodents: Rozol is also available in other restricted-use pesticide formulations and labels for the control of pocket gophers and voles (meadow mice).

Rozol’s pocket gopher bait label (a treated grain formulation, EPA#7173-244) allows below-ground application using a mechanical burrow builder or probe. Rozol’s Vole Bait label (formulated as a weather-resistant paraffinized pellet, EPA#7173-242) allows broadcast use in dormant orchards and year-round use on border areas and buffer

strips around crop fields.

About Liphatech Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Liphatech has a long history of advancing the science of pest management through research and product innovation. Combining the most advanced technology available with the highest level of customer service and technical support, Liphatech delivers solutions that allow growers, landowners and certified applicators to quickly achieve the cost-effective management of pest populations.

Liphatech specializes in servicing agricultural and animal health markets, in addition to pest management professionals. Its product line also includes: FastDraw®, Revolver®, Cannon™ soft bait rodenticides, Hombre™, BootHill®, and Gunslinger® block rodenticides, as well as Metarex Snail & Slug Bait® and Aegis® tamper-resistant bait stations. Bait formulations include: soft bait, treated grains, manufactured miniblocks, bulk pellets, and pellet-place-packs.

For more information about Liphatech, its comprehensive line of products, and /or to find a Rozol dealer near you call 888-3317900 or visit www.liphatech.com. F

ISSUE FOCUS The Stock Dog

Tough and Loyal

Well-trained working dogs make life easier on the ranch

By Andi Harmon Special to the Rancher

Tough and loyal: Those are two of the traits Ron Shelley looks for in his dogs. “I want a quick dog that goes to the heel, bites and sets back.” The dogs must have good recall, which is where loyalty plays a part. It’s not easy when there are multiple dogs going after a cow. “You almost can’t stop them when all the other dogs are doing it.”

Calling Harney County home, Ron began his breeding program in 1959 with an English Shepherd, imported from England. The blood of that dog still runs in his dogs today. In the early years, he bred her and her offspring to Australian Shepherds, and Heelers, such as Queensland Heelers or Australian Cattle Dogs, as they are sometimes called.

It was the Heeler that possessed the traits he sought the most. Fierce and loyal, fearless and quick, going to the heel first, but doing what it takes to get the job done. Smart and agile, they are good to train but aren’t for everyone. A person needs to have a job for the dogs or they will find a Photos by Andi Harmon, LC Ranch Photography.com

At top, working dogs “Zip” and “Dally” walk alongside owner Ron Shelley. Shelley has a cattle dog breeding program that has spanned 59 years. Over the decades he has refined what he wants to see in a young cattle dog – primary on the list is toughness and loyalty.

At left, Shelley’s dog “Babe” nurses a litter while his senior male “Tuffy” watches.

job that you might not like.

Countless litters over the years, Ron has either bred one of his bitches or taken the pick of the litter from one of his male’s litters. Over 59 years, innumerable dogs, and lots of cattle have refined exactly what he wants from a pup. Some of his dogs in the past which others have owned gained “legend” status, their feats still spoken of today.

Today, Ron still has “Tuffy” his senior male, who is in his

14 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

early teens now. His breeding female, “Babe,” is a daughter out of a blue Heeler from Montana, sired by his male “Zip,” who disappeared not long after he bred “Bluebell.” Zip was tough and aggressive, and a one-man dog, like Tuffy. Not as quick as Tuffy, Zip would occasionally get kicked by a cow, but he never quit one.

Babe is proving to be tough, and quick, as well as very loyal and willing to bite.

She is Ron’s shadow, whether on horseback, or on the 4-wheeler working on the irrigation or in the pickup working on fence.

She is one of the best dogs Ron has ever owned, he said. He has hopes for “Duke,” a young pup from her last litter.

He’s going to have some size, already shows a strong interest in heeling anything that moves but he has some ways to go to get his feet under him well.

One or two good dogs, whether they are Heelers, Borders, Aussies, Kelpies, McNab’s or whatever breed of choice you may have, are worth their weight in gold when working cattle. On the range, in a pen, at a stockyard or at home, a person can more efficiently get a job done, with the help of man’s, or woman’s, best friend. F

Tuffy and Zip working cows in the pen at preconditioning time

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 15

Stock Dog Showcase

16 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 17

THE STOCK DOG

A Tribute to Some Working Cow Dogs

By Michael Thomas Special to the Rancher

I don’t profess to know much about training cattle dogs. Our dogs have never competed in working stock dog trials – other than those long-hot summer days on the mountain, and those rotten-cold winter days moving and checking cattle. I’ll be the first to admit that, to have a successful career around here, a dog must be smarter than me. But, despite all of that, we have been blessed with a few very good dogs - and a few we don’t want to talk about.

This past winter we lost two great old border collie-cross cow dogs, a brother and sister out of the same litter. Tuff preceded his sister, Tiny, by a few months. The passing of these two loyal companions gave me pause to reflect on the memories of all of the hard days in the field, and all of the great dogs Photos by Michael Thomas

Above, Fred leads Gus to the stock trailer. At left, Tuff and Tiny’s first day on the ranch at 8 weeks old

that have stood by my side through it all: those dogs that I hauled to a water trough, draped across the seat of my saddle, because they had given me all they had on a hot day; those dogs that put their small bodies in harm’s way to save someone from a bull on the fight; those dogs that trailed cattle dayafter-day, the pads of their feet cracked and bleeding, but eager to go the next day; and those great dogs that performed all of this grueling work and still had room in their lives to help raise our two kids.

Tuff and Tiny were two of those dogs, but to tell their story, I must go back to the spring of 1997.

Our daughter, Heather, had just turned six, and our son, Nicholas, was on the verge of his fourth birthday. The kids were at an awkward age where they

18 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

could tag along for some of the ranch work, but they were still small enough that they could not be involved in all of the day-to-day activities.

We were at the point where we needed to bring on a young cow dog, so my wife, Carolyn, and I decided to get the kids a pup – to entertain them on those days that they had to stay out of the way of cattle work. As luck would have it, we ended up with two border collie-blue healer cross pups – Jake and Sam. We lost Sam to the county road, but Jake went on to grow into a motivated and loyal working cow dog.

I’ve never been schooled on the tricks of teaching a dog multiple commands, but Jake and I developed our own system. Jake was the first dog that I

could send out to gather cattle from great distances.

If I pointed, Jake would go out and find the cattle, gather and drive them.

One fall, when Jake was about three years old, I began to understand how special he was. Carolyn and I spent several days helping a range neighbor gather his cattle from his BLM allotment. There were just three of us riders and a couple dogs to gather a 6,500 acre mountainous pasture. We spread out and started gathering the cattle. Before long Jake and I found ourselves gathering two canyons together. Within a short time I realized that I could ride the ridge between the canyons and send Jake down one canyon and then the other. When Jake would push the cattle in one canyon well beyond the group in the other, I would call him back and send him down the other – all the while I gathered the cattle in the holes and pockets along the ridge line.

That was the beginning of great career for Jake.

It wasn’t long before I began to realize that Jake was a natural born leader. In our relationship I was the alpha, but in his relationship to the other dogs, he was the leader and teacher.

By the spring of 2002 our cow herd had grown, and we were running cattle on two BLM permits about twenty miles apart. It took more good horses to keep up with the work, and the old dogs, that had been Jake’s backup, were fading. We had tried a couple young dogs along the way without much success.

One windy March day a good friend and neighboring rancher, Don Hatch, from Tendoy, Idaho, met us at a local bull sale and delivered to us two eight-week old border-collie pups. Heather and Nick, who had volunteered to come to the sale to take care of the pups, spent the day in the pickup with the pups. By the end of the day they had named the male Tuff and the little female Tiny.

That first summer those two little black dogs tailed Jake around the ranges after the cows.

Although they were a bit timid around cows in the beginning, they took their responsibility seriously.

They were very loyal and never strayed from Jake.

Neither Tuff nor Tiny looked to me for direction in those early days, but they never abandoned Jake – no matter how hard the day.

One hot August afternoon in the summer of 2003, Don Hatch drove into a field where I was cutting hay to tell me that lightning had started a fire on our high range BLM pasture. Carolyn and I, two good horses, and the dogs: Jake, Tuff, and Tiny, loaded up and went to the mountain. We unloaded and started up into the high pasture just before sundown. The pasture tops out near the head of a multiple-drainage system – about two miles beyond where we could drive the truck and trailer. We split up and started gathering from the top. Before long the smoke and darkness made it difficult to safely navigate the terrain horseback.

Carolyn and I worked our way down to the old log-

Baxter (left) and Tuff double up on a stubborn cow.

ging roads and followed the cattle down out of the mountains.

In order to get the cattle out of the remaining outlying canyons and draws, I sent Jake and his two young sidekicks out again and again. The dogs would disappear into the smoke-filled darkness.

Usually they would return with cattle. If not, I would send them again – to be sure.

When we reached the main Forest Service road several vehicles fell in behind our cattle drive – providing some light from their headlights. Even though the dogs were exhausted – and suffering smoke inhalation – they refused a ride from those family and friends that had waited to help bring those cattle the rest of the way to the private property. We finally reached the private ground after midnight – dogs, horses, cattle, and riders exhausted.

The range fire stayed within that drainage system for most of the next week. Carolyn and I rode with the dogs every day to check the status of the fire and make sure none of the cattle from the northeast side of the allotment had drifted into the burning area. One week later the fire blew into the northeast side of the allotment.

Heather and Nick were in the middle of a 4-H horse show when we received word that the fire had blown up. We abandoned the kids with a good friend and 4-H leader, Mary Krasowski, and made another mad dash for the hills. We gathered all of the cattle from the northeast side of the high pasture and moved them to the private property.

By this time the fire was threatening the upper part of the ranch, so we had to gather the cattle that we had brought home the previous week and bring everything to irrigated ground farther down the mountain from the fire.

By sundown Tuff and Tiny were exhausted. For

the first time in those two young dogs’ lives they were slow to go with Jake. When I would call him to the top of a ridge, they hesitated with Carolyn and the herd in the creek bottoms. Their young bodies were used up.

Late that night, with a group of fire fighters following on foot behind the cattle, we reached the lower part of the ranch. This was a horrific event, but thanks to those hard-working loyal dogs we saved cattle that most certainly would have been killed by the fire.

I was blessed to share the trail with Jake for a few more good years. Tuff and Tiny went on to be great dogs.

In the fall of the year, after the fire, we acquired a full brother to Tuff and Tiny. Carolyn and I took Don Hatch and his wife, Cathy, to Baxter Black’s show in Dillon, Montana, in exchange for the pup.

It seemed fitting to name the mischievous pup Baxter. An unusual dynamic developed between Tuff, Tiny, and Baxter. Baxter quickly developed into the alpha dog on the job, but subordinated to his older brother, Tuff, off the job.

Baxter is getting old, and his days of driving cattle are over, but he has earned an honest retirement. I will write his story one day. Beyond a doubt he is the smartest dog I have ever had the pleasure of working with, but, like his name’s sake, he has an intense sense of humor. There is a kind of magic with a great dog – or so it seems to me – a connection that goes beyond training.

Fortunately I still have some very good dogs.

Baxter is no longer young, but Freddy, Kate, and Abbie are stepping up to take on their respective roles. Although the younger dogs show much promise, I will never forget those that have come before.

Rest in peace my old friends. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 19

THE STOCK DOG

An Australian Kelpie competing in a cattle trial in Woolbrook, NSW.

Cgoodwin / Wikimedia

Training dogs: Some tips and tricks to help your dog work for you

By Jennifer Whiteley Nevada Rancher Magazine

LAMOILLE, Nev.-North Queensland, Australia is in the north-east part of Australia. Its geography is varied. It includes tropical islands, sandy beaches, flat river plains that flood after monsoon rains, tracts of rough, elevated terrain, dry deserts, rich agricultural belts and densely populated urban areas. Queensland is Australia’s largest supplier of beef products and is renowned for producing high quality beef products. Due to it’s vast terrain, dogs are a must throughout the cattle stations of North Queensland. Travis Baulch of Lamoille, Nevada grew up working dogs along side his dad and family while mustering cattle in North Queensland.

Baulch prefers to work with Kelpie-Border Collie cross dogs. The hybrid vigor of the cross gives the best of both breeds to create a dog with a strong work ethic that is eager to please its master.

“I like kelpies a lot, but kelpies can be really timid when they are straight kelpies, so I like to cross them with border collies. A border collie likes to please you, so I cross them together. If I cross them together they will a little bit less timid with the border collie and the kelpie work ethic is very strong.” He explains. Baulch likes papered dogs

David Kimble photo

Baulch explains “I think the great dog is out there, but if they help me 60-70% of the time, they are a pretty good dog. I haven’t seen a dog yet that is perfect 100% of the time, and I think the cows if you take the best dog there is, and you put him on cows that haven’t seen dogs before, they will make the dog look worse than my wiener dog at the house.

You’ve got to have cows that are broke to the dogs.

Otherwise they will just run all over the dogs.”

20 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

because the genetics of long recorded animals is hard to beat but aren’t necessary if you know the breeder and past generations of the line. He says, “the product at the end of it when they [the dogs] are a year old, there is so much more of a percentage that your dog is going to work.”

A good stock dog is a dog that has a lot of good presence and a herd instinct. They’ve got to have a pretty good idea around cattle and know where they are going and what they are doing. A good dog is confident in itself and around cattle.

When they need to bite, they bite and when they don’t need to bite they don’t. Presence is huge.

It is how they eye the cattle. They talk about eye a lot. Dogs with a “strong eye” make strong, and continuous eye contact with animals. Sometimes, it’s a “fixed stare.” It’s typical of Border Collies and Kelpies.

Dogs with a “strong-eye” often accompany their style with a crouching stance, so much so that these dogs can look like a predator stalking prey. If these dogs cautiously approach the stock, the sheep or cows tend to warily move away to keep ahead of the presumed predator. Strongeyed dogs work well with light livestock. If they can stay in the eye of the cow and move the cow without biting, that is better than a dog that moves with biting. They can move them just with

Working Dog Terms Come-bye or just bye - go to the left of the stock, or clockwise around them.

Away to me, or just away or ‘way - go to the right of the stock, or counterclockwise around them.

Stand - stop, although when said gently may also mean just to slow down.

Wait, (lie) down or sit or stay – stop, but remain with that contact on the stock...don’t take it off by leaving.

Steady or take time - slow down.

Cast - gather the stock into a group. Good working dogs will cast over a large area. This is not a command but an attribute.

Find - search for stock. A good dog will hold the stock until the shepherd arrives. Some will bark when the stock have been located.

Get out or back - move away from the stock. Used when the dog is working too close to the stock, potentially causing the stock stress. Occasionally used as a reprimand.

Keep Away or Keep - Used by some handler’s as a direction and a distance from the sheep.

Hold - keep stock where they are.

Bark or speak up - bark at stock. Useful when more force is needed, and usually not essential for working cattle and sheep.

Look back - return for a missed animal. Also used after a shed is completed and rejoined the flock or packet of sheep.

In here or here - go through a gap in the flock.

Used when separating stock.

Walk up, walk on or just walk - move in closer to the stock.

That’ll do - stop working and return to handler.

These commands may be indicated by a hand movement, whistle or voice. There are many other commands that are also used when working stock and in general use away from stock.

Herding dog commands are generally taught using livestock as the modus operandi. Urban owners without access to livestock are able to teach basic commands through herding games.

These are not the only commands used: there are many variations. When whistles are used, each individual dog usually has a different set of commands to avoid confusion when several dogs are being worked at one time. F

David Kimble photo

Baulch prefers to use a whistle for his dogs. “I use a whistle, I like it because they can hear me a long way away, but my wife can’t whistle, so when she wants to use the dogs and they are in close range, they will work off a voice command. In the wind or long distances, they can’t hear me yell, I whistle.

The whistle is never changing. So, when you are really, really upset they can’t hear anything in your voice and don’t get scared and run off.”

their presence. If they can do this, they are the good ones.

Baulch explains “Puppies are tough to pick.

People will say they like the one that is the most independent and then there are ones, people pick them up by the tail and do weird things, I think the art of picking a puppy hasn’t yet been discovered.

I just stick to the middle. The really independent ones aren’t the best listeners. They go out and do their own thing. The sleepy tired ones might hang out, but I don’t know. I’ve talked to a lot of dog people about that [selecting puppies]. I usually take 3 puppies, or if you get a chance to pick a puppy, if you don’t have sheep or goats, take them to some chickens and you can see which ones are interested and which ones want to go to the head, which ones like the side, see which ones want to run through the middle, and which ones want to keep them together. That’s how you pick them. If you put them on something in a pen of chickens, or goats, or sheep or anything, you can pick the right one, if a dog does something you like, that’s the one you want, because they are mostly going to stick to that their whole life.”

Baulch offers this advice on training dogs: “Stay with it every day. 20 minutes. After a month your dog will show humongous improvements. If you have a good foundation and good basic techniques 20 minutes a day is all that it takes. Its every day though. There is no missing, or catching up, doing 40 minutes tomorrow, it is 20 minutes every day. Eventually you will start reading your dogs. If they are tired, some puppies only take 15 minutes and they will show they are not interested. They will start looking outside the

David Kimble photo

Baulch prefers to start his pups on sheep. Sheep are good when they [pups] are supper young. I’ll put them on sheep or goats to see where they are at, then slowly wean them off. I’ll get rid of the pups I don’t like. The pup that really stands out to me, is the one I keep. I don’t start them on cattle till they are a year old. I still take them and make it a game, but it’s not work, there is no chance of them getting hurt or kicked, it just ruins their confidence.”

pen or they will start looking around or not look at you. You will do one thing and then stop. But just stick with it and after a month, if your dog’s willing and you are doing it correctly, you will have direction. I expect my dogs, if I stick with it every day, after a month, I’ll say come by and they will go to the left or if I say away to me, they will go to the right. Down, because that has been put into them as a puppy, they will lay down. And that is all I expect after a month, and they will do it. You can move cows through a pen very easily.

It can be on livestock or with puppies, that might only take 5 minutes.” F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 21

THE STOCK DOG

Training puppies not to bite: Nip it in the bud

day the puppy eats and then wants to “do his business.” This targeted training time is very important because a puppy’s attention span is very limited.

Remain consistent.

Recognize the behavior.

Once you have identified the behavior and the times associated with it, you can begin to successfully train your new puppy. The next step is to remain consistent with his training. For instance, if your puppy has a biting problem you will have to make the necessary corrections as soon as the problem presents. Simple commands such as “NO,” will trigger a response from the puppy that something is wrong. Eventually he will recognize the command and avoid the behavior that is associated with your authority. The other behavior problem of wanting to “relieve themselves,” will likely occur after eating their meals. Dogs in general already want to go outside when relieving themselves, so timing and consistency will play a role in house breaking the new puppy.

The first thing that the proud owner of a new puppy will have to do is recognize the behavior that presents a problem. For example, if the puppy is tearing up your morning paper or biting at your hands when you try to play with him, then the training will revolve around those activities. The new owner will also have to learn what times of

Puppies are simple creatures and are easily pleased with small tokens of affection or treats.

When training your new puppy, rewarding their good behavior will fast track the training process.

The new puppy will quickly relate their good behavior to the treat or a sign of affection from

By Cindy Morse Special to the Rancher

The great thing about training puppies not to bite is that you are not trying to teach an old dog, new tricks. Training the puppy early in its life is relatively easy, and the benefits your family reaps will last a lifetime. Do you have a new puppy, and need some advice on his puppy biting problem? Would you like to know the best training tips on how to house train a puppy to prevent accidents around the house? Then this perspective with instructions for training your new puppy will nip the problem in the bud.

Reward the results.

22 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

you. When you are house breaking the puppy, regular walks around the neighborhood right after their meals, are a good way to encourage bathroom activities outdoors.

Reinforce the rules.

Reinforcement of the rules is needed for the new puppy when he breaks the rules. The important thing to remember is to correct the behavior with a command as soon as the infraction happens.

Again, puppies have short memories, and they are not going to understand your authority if they cannot relate to the problem. What I mean by this is you cannot expect the puppy to know what he has done wrong after a period of time has gone by.

Training puppies not to bite [http://disobedientdogtraining.com/training-puppies-not-to-bite/] is not as hard as you may think, just stay consistent and reward the good behavior and the puppy biting problem [http://disobedientdogtraining.com/ puppy-biting-problem/] will go away with time.

Not every one knows how to house train a puppy, but with these tips you should be able to control the problem with relative ease. More importantly you will have to have patience during the learning process and understand that there will be occasional “accidents,” but eventually the puppy will establish a routine of good behavior. F

Tips that will make your puppy leash-training effortless

By Gavin Mur Special to the Rancher

Puppy leash training is major precondition for a nice and quite walk with your dog. Pulling on the leash is probably caused by boredom or excitement, or it even may be your dog’s way of showing his natural dominance over you.

The first thing you need to remember is that your dog must be under your control at all times and this is why a leash is a vital part of equipment during training. If your puppy continues to pull regularly, you need to retrain him in the basic obedience commands. But before you become desperate try some of proven techniques that will give you command over your small rebellion.

These 5 steps should help you: Walk with your puppy on your left side, holding the leash with both hands.

If the puppy pulls, put your left hand down the leash and pull back firmly. This will give him signal to slow down.

When your puppy is in the correct heel position, command him to sit.

When you start to walk again give him the command to “Heel”. This should be repeated each time your puppy starts pulling.

When your puppy start walking to heel without pulling, reward him with a treat. He will soon learn to associate the rewards with good behavior and gradually stop pulling on the leash. Puppy leash training is about teaching and rewarding.

Every time when your dog starts to pull you, quickly turn in the opposite direction. If he follows you in the new direction, praise him and reward with treat.

When your puppy pulls you forwards, give him the command “Stop”. After that put your right hand in front of his nose while keeping a firm grip on the leash with your left hand.

Sometimes the leash itself makes a dog want to pull. This is why it’s important not to use the leash to pull him back because your dog will get used to you pulling him back, and he will just learn to pull against it or he might understand it as a game.

As a way of help, in addition to a standard leash, you can use a longer leash for outdoor training. I even find an extendable leash works just as well specially with smaller dogs. Puppy leash training is key to proper start in obedience education for your small partner. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 23

Ranching Scrapbook

So much more than ‘just a dog!’

Just a Dog Author Unknown

Photo by Kimberlee Jacobs

“Moving sheep over the interstate sucks...except today they trotted right over like they do it every day,” explains Kimberlee Jacobs of Baker City, Ore. MISR Mae, affectionately known as “Mae” herds sheep over From time to time, people tell me: “lighten an overpass.

up, it’s just a dog,” or “that’s a lot of money for just a dog.”

They don’t understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for “just a dog.” Some of my proudest moments have come about with “just a dog.” Many hours have passed and my only company was “just a dog,” but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by “just a dog,” and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of “just a dog” gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it’s “just a dog,” then you will probably understand phrases like “just a friend,” “just a sunrise,” or “just a promise.”

“Just a dog” brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure and unbridled joy.

“Just a dog” brings out the compassion and patience that makes me a better person.

Because of “just a dog,” I will rise early, take long rides and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it’s not “just a dog” but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.

I hope that someday they can understand that it’s not “just a dog,” but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being “just a man.” So the next time you hear the phrase “just a dog,” just smile--because they “just don’t understand.”

Photo by Kimberlee Jacobs

“Spook’s first drop check. She’s pretty excited about all the sheep,” Jacobs sayd. Spook is a “kelpie in border collie clothes.”

Photo by Jennifer Whiteley

When you are hot, tired, and thirsty, you will drink just about anything!

“Belle,” the product of years of selective breeding and questionable parentage cools off and gets a drink in a water trough after a hot day of doing cow dog things in Northern Nevada.

Photo by Cara Small

Paisley Small and Jaycee Gould enjoy kisses from their new puppies “Cocoa Bean” and “Petey Stumpy.” In addition to great tools on the ranch, cowdogs make great companions for kids and adults alike.

Photo by Jennifer Whiteley

This dog. Acts just like my kids. Doesn’t know whoa back from sick em, and only listens when she wants to. But, she adores me, and will put her feet on my stirrup so that can run a foot through her collar when she needs it!” What she lacks in skill, she makes up for in enthusiasm!

Erika Zundel uses her dogs Sage, a collie/heeler cross, Bones, a heeler cross, and Karl, kelpie/pit bull cross to help turn out Riddle Ranches cattle on the Idaho/Nevada state line.

THE STOCK DOG

Controlling parasites in your dog

By Heather Smith Thomas Special to the Rancher

Most ranchers have some type of control program to minimize the effects of internal parasites in their cattle and horses. This generally involves a combination of reducing environmental risks and by deworming periodically. Many ranchers also A stock dog works a herd of ewes on the Hawley Ranch in Montana. Experts advise that ranch dogs need have dogs, which have their own set of parasites, to be on a parasite control program to deal with internal parasites that can affect the health of the animal. and a few that can be shared with humans. Thus the stock dog or family pet should also be on a muscles. Then when the herbivore is consumed by dogs in an area with other heartworm-infected parasite control program. a dog through predation or scavenging, the imma- dogs, and mosquitoes to transmit these worms ture stages of the tapeworm mature and complete to the naive dog. In years past, people thought Internal parasites of dogs their life cycle in the intestine of the canine, where heartworm infections occurred only in the South, Lindsay Starkey, DVM, PhD, parasitologist at they generate eggs that pass out with the feces and but now we find dogs with heartworms all around Oklahoma State University, says there are many start the cycle all over again. the country. “The Southeastern U.S. has ideal common parasites in dogs. “Most of these parThere are different canine tapeworms. Echino- environmental conditions that promote mosquito asites are not transmitted to dogs from horses or coccus granulosus is associated with the hydatid cyst development and increase the heartworm translivestock the dogs might be hanging out with. The in sheep and other prey species. The adult worm in mission season, but heartworm-infected dogs are transmission risk is mainly from other dogs, or wild the intestine of the dog is very small but the larval everywhere. Movement of heartworm-infected canines like coyotes or wolves,” she says. cyst is massive. In earlier years hyatid cysts were pet dogs or relocation of dogs following natural “The major dog worms (helminth parasites) seen mainly in the body cavity of sheep in the Great disasters has allowed heartworm transmission to include hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum and UncBasin. Now we are seeing some of these tapeworm establish in locations where heartworm was not inaria stenocephala), roundworms (Toxocara canis, cysts in deer and elk as well (prey animals eaten by historically present,” she says. Several species of Toxascaris leoninae and sometimes Baylisascaris prowolves that have been spreading the worms over mosquitoes are capable of transmitting heartworm cyonis from raccoons), whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) greater areas). These tapeworms can also occur to dogs. and heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis). Tapeworms in humans that ingest the tiny eggs passed in the “Other canine parasites include protozoa like (Dipylidum canimum, Taenia pisiform, Echinococcus feces of the canine. The eggs released by the tape- Giardia, coccidia, Neospora and cryptosporidium,” granulosa, and others are another concern, and worm segment may cling to the hair of the dog and says Starkey. Many different animals can become very common, but most dog owners don’t realize to the hand of the human. infected with Cryptosporidium spp. (causing diartheir dogs have them because they are difficult to “Another tapeworm that occurs in dogs (Taenia rhea). Neospora is a parasite that includes the diagnose at the veterinary clinic, and typically do pisiformis) also requires that the dog eats tissues of canine and a herbivore in its life cycle. If a dog is not cause noticeable illness,” she says. infected small mammals (such as rabbits) contain- out with cattle and eats a cow’s placenta, it could A couple of these tapeworms are transmitted to ing the immature stage of the tapeworm. Dipylidi- pick up Neospora. This protozoan parasite requires dogs through a predator-prey relationship, needing um caninum, is different, as it is transmitted through two hosts—a canine and a grazing animal. The dog both the canine and the herbivore to complete their ingestion of immature tapeworm stages within sheds immature protozoa in feces, which then conlife cycle. Coyotes, wolves, and dogs pass tapefleas. Its life cycle is similar to the horse tapeworm taminate the pasture (or hay, if the dog defecates worm eggs in feces, which contaminate grazing that is transmitted through ingestion of pasture on hay fed to cattle). After being ingested by the areas. The eggs are ingested by the herbivore (wild mites,” says Starkey. herbivore the protozoa go through part of their life or domestic, such as elk or cattle) and the immature Heartworms are also a serious concern. Any dog cycle in that host, forming cysts in the body. With stages of the tapeworms end up encysted in the is susceptible to heartworm infections, especially Neospora, the parasite also ends up in the cow’s

26 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

uterus and infects the fetus.

“C. canis is host-adapted to canines and rarely infects humans or other hosts, but C. parvum is not as species-specific and can be shared between cattle and people. This protozoan parasite doesn’t care which host it infects. Cryptosporidium will cross over, whereas coccidia will not. Horses and cattle each have their own species of coccidia, and it is not the same type that infects dogs, or birds,” says Starkey. Giardia, by contrast, can be spread amongst many animals—from wildlife to humans and pets, and vice versa.

Treating internal parasites

with the dog hookworms, drug resistance is not as common,” says Starkey.

“Parasite drug resistance is not as big a deal in dogs as it is in horses and small ruminants like sheep and goats This is partly because we treat them a different way. Most horse owners and ruminant owners treat their animals as a herd, unless you just have one horse. With dogs there isn’t a herd situation except for a kennel. Most dogs are treated at different times of the year, with different products, and exposed to different things—whereas a herd is exposed to all of the same things, treated all at the same time, with the same drugs, and this is more likely to promote drug resistance,” she explains.

“Most of the common parasites are easy to treat. Because they are common, drug companies have formulated medications for treating them.

Many of the drugs used for treatment of intestinal parasites are the same drugs used for the prevention of heartworm in dogs,” Starkey says.

“Heartworm preventative products are great not only for heartworm prevention but also for treating common intestinal parasites. The majority of heartworm products on the market today are labeled for treating hookworms and roundworms, and some of the products treat for whipworms, as well. A couple heartworm preventive products also treat tapeworms. These products combine various drugs for a broad-spectrum approach. I don’t think there are any products labeled for Echinococcus because it is less prevalent than some of the other tapeworms of dogs in the U.S. The combination drugs that include a tapeworm drug should also control Echinococcus, however,” she says.

“Heartworm prevention is a great thing for any dog, not only for preventing heartworm infection but also for all the other parasites that the product treats. Even if you are not in an endemic heartworm area, these products given monthly will treat other parasites that we don’t think about as often but which can cause disease in dogs and even in people.”

Horse owners and cattle producers are already familiar with many of the drugs which are also used in dogs. “These include pyrantel, fenbendazole, praziquantel, ivermectin and moxidectin. These same drugs have been formulated into dog products for treating similar parasites, but you need to buy the dog product,” she says.

“The drug compounds may be the same, but the formulations are different, with different concentrations of the drug in the dog product. It is important to make sure you get the correct treatment for your dog,” she explains.

Horse owners are generally familiar with the various classes of parasites, such as strongyles and small strongyles. “The equivalent in dogs are called hookworms. In horses, small strongyles are developing resistance to some of the drugs, but

“Some parasites are transmitted from the bitch to hre puppies. One way to prevent this is to work with your veterinarian on a protocol for deworming the pregnant dog. This can keep pups from being infected in the first place,” says Starkey.

“Dogs that are allowed to roam have more chances to come in contact with infected feces dropped by a coyote, feral dog or some other canine. Some of these parasites have direct fecaloral life cycles. The eggs go out with the fecal material from whatever host they were in, sit in the environment for a period of time and become infectious. Then if a dog ingests infective eggs or larvae in a feces-contaminated area (either accidentally, or eats some grass next to a fecal pile or through coprophagy—eating feces), the dog can become infected,” she says.

Some parasites are opportunistic and use an optional host that is not necessary to the life cycle.

“This animal ingests the eggs, and then through scavenging or a predator-prey situation, the dog becomes infected through ingestion of the dead animal. In the optional host, the parasite realizes it’s in the wrong host and just stops maturing. It waits in an arrested-development stage for the correct host. When the canine eats that host it becomes infected with the adult form of the parasite,” she explains.

In other situations the parasite (like a tapeworm or heartworm) must have an intermediate host in its life cycle. “To prevent some types of infection in your dog, don’t let your dog eat dead animals, or prey upon rodents and other prey animals.

Deworm the pregnant dog, and use monthly heartworm preventative treatments for all dogs. The monthly heartworm preventatives have been truly helpful. It doesn’t really prevent the infection but treats these parasites on a monthly basis and helps prevents egg-laying into the environment. If the environment is cleaner, there won’t be as many eggs to be picked up by dogs.”

Many parasite eggs are very sticky and persistent in the environment. “Once they are out

Prevention

in the environment they are hard to get rid of.

By deworming the dog routinely, adult parasites are being killed, and egg production is decreased.

Some of the worm cycles are fast enough that you can’t prevent it completely. A dog could ingest a hookworm larva and 3 weeks later that worm is an adult and making new eggs, so you are not preventing that one. But with roundworms, whipworms and tapeworms the prepatent period (from egg to egg-laying adult) is longer than a month.

Even if the dog picked up these parasites, if you are treating the dog monthly with a heartworm preventative, those infections won’t become patent, and this will eliminate contamination of the environment,” says Starkey.

Some people buy horse or cattle ivermectin deworming drugs to deworm their dogs, and to use as a heartworm preventative, because there is an ivermectic product made for dogs. “But a person has to be really careful doing this, because certain breeds of dogs are very susceptible to toxicity with ivermectin and that whole class of drugs. This is why it is important to use the dog products because the concentration is different for dogs. The wrong concentration can prove fatal in susceptible dogs.

These are typically the white-footed breeds, which include many herding dogs. The saying is: ‘Four white feet, don’t treat’ but this should not be taken to mean not treating those dogs for heartworms,” she says.

“The dog heartworm prevention drug that is ivermectin-based is a very low concentration and has been proven safe for all dogs, even the susceptible breeds. If you use the cattle or horse products, however, and don’t dilute them properly, you are putting the animals at risk. You are not supposed to do this; you are supposed to use the dog product,” she says.

It is never wise to use large animal products in dogs because toxicity can occur. It may also promote worm resistance if a person tries to dilute them and does it incorrectly and gives a too-low dose. If parasites receive a sub-optimal dose, and it doesn’t kill all of them, the ones that survive are the more resistant, hardy worms and they are the ones left to reproduce—to create large numbers of resistant worms. Even though the horse or cattle wormer is cheaper and a person is tempted to use them in dogs, it’s not a good idea.

“Some of the drugs used in large animals, like albendazole (used for liver flukes and some worms in cattle, and for certain worms in horses) can cause severe anemia in dogs, which can be fatal. It’s one of those weird side effects that can occur when you put a drug into a different species than it is intended for. It’s safest to never use any large animal products in dogs,” says Starkey. The drugs are the same, but we need to choose the right formulation for the right animal. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 27

THE STOCK DOG

Dogs:

Man’s best friend and great help on the ranch

By Jennifer Whiteley Nevada Rancher Magazine

WINNEMUCCA, Nev.-Just about every ranch you go to has at least one dog. Their job descriptions range from companion, ranch security, to herding kids and livestock. Some are tools to be used, while others are purely ornamental. Whichever category they fall into, stock dogs are an integral part of the ranch scenery.

The Border Collie is a working and herding dog breed developed on the Anglo-Scottish border region for herding livestock, especially sheep. It was specifically bred for intelligence and obedience.

They are very intelligent, energetic, and athletic.

KELPIE Photo by Marty Pot, Wikimedia

The Kelpie’s signature move is to jump on the backs of sheep and walk across the tops of the animals to reach the other side and break up the jam.

McNAB Photo by Randifredricks, Wikimedia

The McNab Dog is a herding dog that originated in the Mendocino region of northern California.

The McNab was bred to withstand the tough conditions found in California such as heat, burrs, foxtails, and rugged terrain.

They are often cited as the most intelligent of all domestic dogs. They are one of the most common herding dogs throughout the world. Working Border Collies can take direction by voice and by whistle at long distances when herding. Their great energy and herding instinct are still used to herd all kinds of animals, from the traditional sheep and cattle, to free range poultry, pigs, and ostriches.

They are also used to remove unwanted wild birds from airport runways, golf courses, and other public and restricted areas.

The Australian Shepherd, often known simply as the “Aussie”, is a medium-sized breed of dog that was, despite its name, developed on ranches in the Western United States during the 19th century.

The dog was developed from a breed or breeds from the Basque country in Western Europe. It was brought by Basque people to the United States.

The breed has no connection to Australia. Selective breeding for many generations focused on aspects of the dog that enabled it to function as an effective

28 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

stock dog in the American West. It had to handle severe weather; have plenty of speed, athleticism, energy, and endurance; and be intelligent, flexible, and independent; while remaining obedient.

The Catahoula Cur is an American dog breed named after Catahoula Parish, Louisiana, United States. Also known as the Catahoula Leopard Dog or Louisiana Catahoula, it became the state dog of Louisiana in 1979. These dogs are outstanding bay dogs or tracking and hunting dogs. They have been known to track animals from miles away, and have been used for hunting feral pigs, squirrel, deer, raccoon, mountain lion, and black bear. They often track silently and only begin to make their distinctive baying bark, eye to eye with the prey, once it is stopped, they hold it in position without touching the animal; using only posture, eye contact, and lateral shifts. They are used primarily for herding cattle, and pigs by a method of antagonizing and intimidation of herd animals as opposed to the method of all-day boundary patrol and restricting

AUSTRALIAN CATTLE DOG

BORDER COLLIE

Photo by CC, Wikimedia

The Austrailian Cattle Dog, aka Heelers were bred to drive cattle, but are also used to herd sheep.

the animals being herded from entering or leaving the designated area. Catahoulas exhibiting basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in cow/ hog dog trials.

Good working Kelpies are herding dogs that will prevent stock from moving away from the stockman. The Australian Kelpie, or simply Kelpie, is an Australian sheep dog successful at gathering and herding with little or no guidance. It is a medium-sized dog and comes in a variety of colors. The Kelpie has been exported throughout the world and is used to herd livestock, primarily sheep, cattle and goats. This natural instinct is crucial when gathering stock in isolated country, where a good dog will silently move ahead of the stockman and block up the stock (usually cattle) until the rider appears. Kelpies have natural instincts for managing livestock. They will work sheep, cattle, goats, pigs, poultry, and other domestic livestock. The Kelpie’s signature move is to jump on the backs of sheep and walk across the tops of the sheep to reach the other side and break up the jam. A good working Kelpie is a versatile dog—they can work all day on the farm, ranch, or station, and trial on the weekends. Kelpies compete and are exhibited in livestock working trials, ranging from yards or arenas to large open fields working sheep, goats, cattle, or ducks.

The McNab Dog - commonly called McNab Shepherd or McNab Collie - is a herding dog that originated in the Mendocino region of Northern California. The McNab was bred to withstand the tough conditions found in California such as heat, burrs, foxtails, and rugged terrain. Until recently, the McNab was little known outside California, but the last three decades have seen a gain in popularity and geographic dispersal of the breed. McNabs have a loose-eyed herding style and tend to work more independently than many herding breeds.

They are skilled at both heading and heeling stock, meaning they can turn stock from the front or get behind stock and drive them forward. Originally bred to herd sheep, stock handlers quickly dis-

David Kimble photo

Working Border Collies can take direction by voice and by whistle at long distances when herding.

Their great energy and herding instinct are still used to herd all kinds of animals, from the traditional sheep and cattle, to free range poultry, pigs, and ostriches.

CATAHOULA CUR Photo by CharlesFuchs1, Wikimedia

Catahoula Cur dogs have been known to track animals from miles away, and have been used for hunting feral pigs, squirrel, deer, raccoon, mountain lion, and black bear.

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD Photo by Bonnie van den Born, Wikimedia

Brought by Basque people to the United States, the Australian Shepherd breed has no connection to Australia. Selective breeding for many generations focused on aspects of the dog that enabled it to function as an effective stock dog in the American West.

covered that the McNabs bold nature and working abilities made them ideal for herding cattle.

McNabs are also used for herding geese, goats, llamas and gathering horses in from the pasture.

Renowned for their incredible endurance, McNabs have been known to cover over a hundred miles a day driving their herds.

The Australian Cattle Dog, aka Heeler is a breed of herding dog originally developed in Australia for driving cattle over long distances across rough terrain. This breed is a medium-sized, short-coated dog that occurs in two main color forms. It has either brown or black hair distributed evenly through a white coat, which gives the appearance

of a “red” or “blue” dog. As with dogs from other working breeds, the Heeler is energetic and intelligent with an independent streak. It responds well to structured training, particularly if it is interesting and challenging. It was originally bred to herd by biting and is known to nip running children. It forms a strong attachment to its owners and can be protective of them and their possessions. Its attitude to strangers makes it an excellent guard dog.

Which of these categories does your dog fall into, or is it a combination of two or more?

Whether they are the best help on the ranch, or the least, you probably couldn’t imagine a day without them! F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 29

Nevada Cattlemen’s Association at Legislative Conference

By Kaley Chapin NCA Executive Director

ELKO, Nev – On April 9th through the 12th NCA members Sam Mori (President), Ron Cerri, Joe Guild and I attended the Public Lands Council (PLC) and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Annual Legislative Conference in Washington D.C. This conference serves as an important part of the year to meet with state delegation to address the issues that face the cattle industry. The PLC section of the conference took place the first two days. On Monday, we attended the AUM Focus Meetings where they divided into two committees, one for Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the other for U.S. Forest Service (USFS).

During the USFS meeting we met with representatives from the agency to discuss key issues concerning public lands. Attendees briefly mentioned their frustrations about how Permittee holders are constantly being blamed for the cause of any damage to an allotment. The representatives were in agreeance stating “it is easier to take action against ranchers instead of making all patrons be accountable”, they are optimistic that it will change. It was mentioned multiple times that they need a national push from PLC and NCBA members to get more flexibility within the permits, faster decision making and use of scientific data provided to them. We are hopeful to see solutions take place as a result from these conversations. Meanwhile in the BLM meetings, members prioritized three main areas of concern that need to be addressed with the agency—NEPA and its effects on land management, flexibility within the EIS and EA and lastly, suspended AUMs. After all of the meetings on Monday there was a rooftop reception at the NCBA headquarters and the state affiliates did a Chef Iron Cook-off, I even participated for Nevada by “trying” to BBQ hamburgers. Some members from the Hill stopped by and it provided a great opportunity to network with them as well as with our surrounding state affiliates.

Tuesday morning we attended the NCBA and PLC Political Action Committee (PAC) breakfast and had the pleasure to hear from Nevada Congressman Mark Amodei. He identified the current issues he is working on and what he is doing to support the cattle industry. Back at the PLC conference our first speaker was Congressman Rob Bishop who spoke about procedure and getting rid of the Filibuster. Next we heard from Aurelia Skipwith, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Fish, Wildlife & Parks, U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI).

She explained how “science shows no emotion” and that she believes in “common sense”, both of

Joe Guild, Senator Dean Heller, Ron Cerri, Sam Mori and Kaley Chapin in Washington, DC. Representatives from the Nevada Cattlemens Association attended the annual Legislative Conference in early April.

which they are trying to incorporate into the DOI’s priorities and commitments. They are also working on a reorganization within the DOI by aligning the different bureaus to help ensure collaboration between all of the agencies.

Our next speaker was Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney who is a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources. She explained how she is trying to stop some of the government encroachment. She pushed for prevention of farms and ranches in the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability (CERCLA) regulations, she is introducing legislation that addresses the dispositions of Wilderness Study Areas (WSAs) and voted for the Omnibus because it will provide adequate resources to the Defense.

We also heard from Brian Steed, BLM Deputy Director Programs and Policy. He gave a brief overview of his background and why he feels strongly for the need of agriculture, he understands the challenges that lie ahead because “people do not understand where their food comes from”. He explained that although there are challenges, we have an administration that will provide opportunity and now “we are better off working together than against each other”. Brenda Richards, past PLC president, asked what we can do to help them,

30 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Director Steed’s answer included taking photos and having evidence of timelines, getting to know your local BLM and helping young BLM employees to see grazing as a tool and not as a threat. He also mentioned that members can help by working continuing to work on wild horses, using grazing to help native bunch grasses and advocating that grazing is the solution to controlling wildfire.

In the afternoon we had the opportunity to meet again with Congressman Amodei to discuss issues about federal land, current lands bills, trade and the cattle market. We also talked about the high costs associated with providing health insurance to employees and how it is becoming overwhelming and burdensome to small businesses and operations.

Wednesday’s theme for the conference was “Boots on the Hill” because it brought together numerous representatives of the beef industry all impacted by the policy decisions made in DC. It is always great to see so many people walking around Capitol Hill with their cowboy hats and boots representing the livestock industry. While walking from one meeting to the next people would ask what we were doing in DC which provided a perfect chance to advocate for our industry and talk about the importance of what we as ranchers do. Our day

Greetings from Cow Country Ron Cerri, Kaley Chapin, Congressman Ruben Kihuen, Sam Mori

Sam Mori, Congresswoman Catherine Cortez Masto, Ron Cerri, Kaley Chapin

on the Hill was productive while we met with Senator Dean Heller, Congressman Ruben Kihuen, Congresswoman Jacky Rosen, Congresswoman Dina Titus’s staff and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. We were able to spend constructive time discussing issues that matter to Nevada producers. I have found that it is very important that we work closely and build relationships with our legislators in Washington D.C. to promote sound public policies that create a stable business environment for producers, and promote conservation for natural resources and wildlife.

I believe we all have the chance to make a positive impact. Our voices and our time are valuable and can make a big difference. Having “Boots on the Hill” in D.C. helps to protect the way of life we enjoy day in and day out. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our meetings in D.C. please feel free to contact the NCA office at 775-738-9214. If you are not currently a member of the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association, I encourage you to join. Become a part of an Association that is working hard to protect and promote the future of ranching in Nevada. To learn more about the Association or to become a member, please call our office or visit our webpage at www.nevadacattlemen.org. We look forward to hearing from you! If you currently are a member, we thank you for your continued support. Without your membership the voice of the Association wouldn’t be as strong as it is today. F

I hope you are having a good spring season. Mother Nature has sure been reminding us who is really in control, and thankfully timely moisture has been coming. It is so rewarding and uplifting to see the new life coming in the form of green grass and baby calves, a cow man’s dream.

With that dream come true comes a tremendous responsibility, one that we here at the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association do not take lightly. The things that are required to get a calf from conception to the consumer’s plate are all things your Association is involved in.

Turn out time is in full swing on many ranches as I write this column. We are working on many issues that are vital to us to be able to provide feed and water to our cattle in the most efficient way for each individual ranch. ONE of the most important issues we are working on is the need for FLEXIBLITY. No two years or no two ranches are exactly the same and if we are able to use the rangelands in concert with production, efficiency and rangeland health are increased. Fire risk and expense can be reduced if ranchers are allowed to respond to rangeland production. Science is proving this point as we take this message forward.

By the time many of you read this, we will have been to Washington D.C. to work on many, many issues. The Public Lands Council, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Congressional Visits are all on our agenda as we take the message forward as to Industry’s needs and expectations.

We deal on many subjects that include flexibility , permit renewals, fire, wild horses, sage grouse, traceability, trade agreements, and many others as the need arises. There is a consistent road block that keeps popping up that inhibits progress and that is the lack of leadership in many critical positions in the agencies. Many appointments have not been made to the levels of authority required to make some of the major decisions. We will be pushing to move forward with that process. It is advisable every time you have an opportunity to communicate this need to your elected officials it would be effort well spent.

The cattle industry is a very critical time right now. There is record production of poultry and pork, and an increasing beef supply. Protein inventories and supply are high and fortunately demand is good. One of the reasons for high demand is our export market is good.

It is absolutely critical we get the message to our officials in Washington the importance of getting these trade deals right! We commit as an Association and we as individuals need to push hard on this one!

It is an honor and it is humbling for our leadership team to work for the wonderful people in our industry. If we can be of any help let us know. F – Till next month, Sam

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 31

Mosquito season means it is time to vaccinate horses against West Nile Virus

conjunction with practices that reduce exposure to mosquitos, are very effective in protecting horses from WNV.” Every year, the NDA monitors WNV and other diseases carried by mosquitos (also known as arboviral) very closely for the protection of public health and safety and the agriculture industry.

In addition to WNV, the Animal Disease Laboratory (ADL) at the NDA tests for two other prevalent arboviral diseases: Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE) Virus and Western Equine Encephalitis (WEE) Virus. All three can cause severe disease and death in humans.

“WNV has been prevalent in Nevada since 2004, while SLE and WEE have been widespread in the western United States for decades.,” Laura Morrow, ADL supervisor, said. “In the laboratory, we test mosquito sample pools from across the state to survey for all three diseases.”

Mosquito season has already arrived in some parts of Nevada, and with heavy rain and snowfall earlier in the year, mosquito habitats and breeding sites with standing water are prevalent. Nevada residents should take precautions such as eliminating mosquito-breeding sites, using insect repellents and keeping horses vaccinated against WNV, SLE and WEE. F

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The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) urges horse owners throughout the state to vaccinate against West Nile Virus (WNV). WNV can cause severe illness in a horse’s brain, spinal cord and nervous system.

“Vaccination is the best protection horse owners have for their animals,” Dr. JJ Goicoechea, the NDA’s state veterinarian, said. “Vaccinations, in

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Call Ashley to learn more: (775) 304-8814 32 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Bureau of Land Management names Ester McCullough as Winnemucca District Manager RENO, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management has selected Ester McCullough as the new District Manager for the Winnemucca District. She begins this assignment today and replaces Robbie McAboy, who has being acting District Manager since December 18, 2017.

McAboy will return to her duties managing the BLM Southern Nevada District’s Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area and Walking Box Ranch.

McCullough is currently BLM Utah’s Vernal Field Office Manager, Green River District, a position she has held since November 2015. In this position, she has led and managed more than 120 permanent employees, 20 seasonal employees and volunteers who conduct work on more than 1.7 million acres of federal surface and 3.8 million acres of federal minerals estate, including Forest Service and Indian Trust lands.

McCullough began her federal career as an Environmental Protection Specialist with the U.S. Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, Calif., where she stood up the newly formed Branch of Natural Resources and Environmental Affairs.

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From 1994-2001 she was the Acting Natural Resources Officer (Environmental Protection Specialist) for Naval Air Station Fallon and served as the planning lead to modify air space for the 1996 move of the Navy’s elite “Top Gun” aviation training program form Miramar to NAS Fallon. In 1998, she led the withdrawal effort to create the existing 200,000 acre training range.

“The Winnemucca District has a diverse, multiple-use mission and a talented group of employees,” McCullough said. “Being able to return to Nevada as District Managr there is an honor and a great responsibility. I am looking forward to working with the great staff, civic leaders and stakeholders in Winnemucca.” F

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THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 33

Adel adoption event was a ‘wild success!’

Public-private group working to overhaul how wild horses are managed, trained and sold

By Andi Harmon Special to the Rancher

ADEL, Ore. – Adel, Oregon is a quiet little ranching community in the beautiful Warner Valley. The second weekend in April, however, it was bustling with excitement.

Horse trailers, out of state plates and new faces descended on the town in the first ever “Beaty Butte Wild Horse Adoption Event.”

This was not your typical wild horse adoption where a number of unhandled horses from various areas are put up for adoption. This was a unique event – the first of it’s kind – and an idea organizers hope will catch on in other places. This program has been called the first truly sustainable wild horse program in the West.

“We are not only preserving the Beaty Butte wild horses, we are preserving ourselves. We need to make the problems with their sustainable management our problem. They are part of our culture and heritage,” said Richard Kiely, whose family has ranched in the Warner Valley area since the early 1900’s.

Learn more about this program online: http://beatybuttewildhorses.com All photos by Andi Harmon, LC Ranch Photography.com

Trainers showed off a formerly-wild horse while being ponied by another rider at a sale in Adel, Ore. The Beaty Butte Wild Horse Training Facility trained 10 horses for sale at the April 14 event.

This project began three years ago when the community members from Adel and Lake County, Ore., and a broad group of stakeholders met to resolve the issues surrounding the multiple-use aspect of the 437,120-acre Beaty Butte Herd Management Area (HMA) in their backyard.

Out of these meetings came the first of it’s kind – a combined public and private wild horse program.

Beaty Butte Wild Horse Training Facility The Beaty Butte Wild Horse Training Facility (BBWHTF) in Adel, is a non-profit agency which will provide professionally trained horses, while preserving the population within the mandated Appropriate Management Level (AML).

Working in partnership with the BLM, the herd will be maintained every year with selective removals and application of fertility control.

The goal, then, is to maintain a thriving ecosystem while also preserving the historical connection to the horses. The hope is to reduce or even end the horse roundups.

Organizers say that to make this The gray gelding ‘Bascoe’ was adopted by a Washington women program work, all the horses on the who hopes to both use him on the ranch and compete as a Beaty Butte Herd Management area performance horse. will need to be removed so that there

34 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

can be an accurate count to start with.

They estimate that approximately 1400 horses will be permanently removed from the HMA – an area designated to not to have more than 250 horses.

One hundred of the gathered animals will be selected to be returned to be the basis of the new herd, organizers say.

Most of the horses have already been removed, with the final gathers soon. The horses are currently being cared for at the BLM Burns holding facility and, later, those that are to be returned will enjoy running free again.

Middle Ground The BBWHTF has worked hard with various groups, including ONDA (Oregon Natural Desert Association) and wild horse advocates, as well as the local ranching families to find a middle ground and address the issues surround multiple use lands.

There have been disagreements, naturally, but in the end, everyone wants what works best for the land, and the uses of the land, whether it’s horses, cattle, wildlife or plants. You achieve a balance and it all comes together.

Catlin Martin, lead trainer, and his grandfather, Jim Hiatt, facility manager, put on demos of their training methods, and previewed the horses for the sale. Both have ranching backgrounds they use in their training. The horses spent a little time in the arena getting comfortable with a rider before they ventured into the world, sometimes just making

their way through rocks and sagebrush, sometimes trailing cows.

Ten horses were offered up, and adopted out on Saturday, April 14. Several were two-year olds with light riding – enough to give them a good foundation – with a lot of ground work being done with them first. They all were trained to lead, load in and out of trailers, stand for saddling with the exception of one, Snowball, who was a late addition to the program. One horse, “Bumpy” was trained to the cart, as he is a little small yet for a rider, although he has been saddled and backed briefly just so he knows what to do.

High seller was a five-year-old bay gelding, “Oly”, selling for $2100 with an added “donation” of $500 to the selling price.

Nearly all the horses were adopted out locally to ranchers, with the exception of a tall, 5-year-old gray gelding, “Bascoe,” who stood at 15.2 hands. His new owner drove down from Ellensburg, Wash. specifically for this horse. Jennifer Lewis was drawn to him, feeling he has the conformation that would “lead to him being a successful performance horse for working equitation. I also have cows, so I was interested that he had a start where I could put him right to work,” she adds.

At the end of the day, when speaking with BLM representatives, the trainers, Mary Bradbury, who is on the board for the facility, and happy adopters, one thing was Formerly wild and wooly, “Oly”, a five year old gelding was high seller at the Beaty Butte Wild Horse agreed upon – it was a success!

Training Facility sale on April 14. His turnaround from mustang to well-behaved ranch horse is a “The goal was to adopt out trained horses, and that is feather in the cap of the unique private-public partnership undertaken in Oregon. what we did,” said trainer Catlin Martin. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 35

AI advances in the beef industry Heat synchronization has revolutionized the way ranchers breed their cattle

By Heather Smith Thomas Special to the Rancher

The first use of artificial insemination was accomplished by Arab Sheiks who wanted to utilize bloodlines of tribal enemies. They would sneak up to the other tribe’s herd at night with a mare in heat and secretly collect semen from the desired stallion into a leather pouch and take it back to their own camp to inseminate a prize mare.

Artificial insemination in the U.S. was first used in dairy herds in the 1930’s with cooled fresh liquid semen — transported in glass vials kept cool in ice-water. Most AI bulls were local, because fresh semen couldn’t be transported very far.

The advent of frozen semen revolutionized this process. Beef AI got started in the early 1950’s along with with performance testing of certain bulls. Some progeny testing was done in the late 1960’s and early 1970’s by the Beef Improvement Federation. Importations of some European breeds were only possible by using frozen semen and AI, due to restrictions on importing live animals.

Today the AI process is easier with use of synchronization protocols. All the cows in the herd can be bred on the same day instead of having to watch them for signs of heat. Conception rates have also improved. Being able to ultrasound the cow’s ovaries and determine the time of ovulation helped researchers figure out the best time to inseminate cattle and obtain better conception rates.

Willie Altenburg, a cattleman in northern Colorado who runs registered Simmental and Angus cattle and works for Genex (a company that supplies a lot of semen for AI) says heat synchronization and artificial insemination has worked very well for heifers for many years. “Heat synchronization has become commonplace for heifers. It has become a management tool for many producers,” he says.

“We were struggling more with cow AI, however. Advent of the CIDR and use of prostaglandin has really helped us in that area, so we’ve been doing more cow AI. Synchronization and fixed time insemination has helped a lot when working with cows, but we need an army of arms to get this accomplished. Most producers can’t breed 100 cows in one morning, and it can also be a challenge with their facilities,” he says.

“The AI organizations now have portable breed-

Artificial insemination administed at a chute. Advances in the procudure has been aided by the Beef Reproductive Task Force and Reproductive Leadership Team.

ing barns and technicians who can come to your place to do this service—and get those cows all bred in a few hours,” says Altenburg.

Progress in AI techniques has been aided by the Beef Reproductive Task Force and Reproductive Leadership Team, figuring out the best AI protocols. The Task Force is a group of researchers who work with beef reproduction at various universities, doing research on estrous synchronization and AI. The Leadership Team includes representatives from the Task Force, AI studs, the pharmaceutical industry, and veterinarians. This group came up with recommended estrous synchronization protocols for AI after looking at research from all the universities on different AI systems. Whenever something new looks promising, the data is analyzed to see if there are enough numbers for valid conclusions, and whether it is consistent enough to say it’s better than what was being done before.

“We hold conferences on applied reproductive strategies, and the committee that is formed each year updates those protocols. We try to make those almost foolproof. We tell producers to stay with those and not deviate from them. I tell my

36 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

clients to let the researchers do the research, and apply what the research has proven to work,” he says.

“Now the CIDRs have allowed us to be more successful with cow AI and the systems have improved so much that we are doing this a lot more. Only about 15 to 18% of cow herds are heifers, so that’s a small part of the female population that we can AI. We can make so much more improvement if we can move to the cow here,” he explains.

“Our goal is to have 6 out of every 10 animals that leave the breeding shed be pregnant on the first day of the breeding season. Those numbers get breeders’ attention. When you say 60% pregnancy rate that doesn’t sound very good, but when you say this another way—that 6 out of every 10 females are pregnant on the first day of breeding season—this makes a difference, especially in terms of your needed bull power, with bulls at $5000 to $10,000 apiece,” says Altenburg.

At an AI school at Fort Collins a few years ago, the cost of using AI versus buying bulls was discussed. “I asked the producers to give me their

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 37

numbers. They argued about what it would cost to buy a bull. Some said $3000 and some said $5000.

There was a lot of discussion and they finally came to a $4500 figure—even though some producers said it needs to be higher and others said they couldn’t afford bulls that high,” says Altenburg. The price for bulls has gone up even more since then.

The cost per pregnancy for a bull—figuring in the fences that he wrecked and the feed he ate—if you used him for 3.5 years and he gave you 25 calves per year, was estimated at $74 per calf. “Then we figured the AI side, with fixed time insemination, breeding the cows, and cleanup bulls, and came up with $62 per calf. The producers were a bit surprised, but realized that AI has never been more affordable, with the high cost of bulls.” Today AI is even more attractive because the bulls are even more expensive.

“We are also utilizing DNA markers in our selections for the bulls that come into AI programs, and some producers are even using DNA when making selection on their yearling bulls, to improve the accuracy. This is exciting,” says Altenburg.

With the cost of AI and the cost of bulls, more large herds are incorporating AI into their business plan. “It is very affordable, and the expertise of the people who come into these ranches (to give a full service program to quickly get the job done) can easily get 60% of the females pregnant on the first day of AI season.” Having that many females pregnant early in the season is always a plus, and makes the producer money.

Some of the newer reproductive technologies available today include embryo transfer and sexed semen, but the average commercial cowman isn’t going to use these tools.

“Of all the things that I’ve tried in my own operation, including embryo transfer and sorted semen, AI has made me a lot more money than anything else I’ve ever done. The more AI calves I can get, the more improvement I can get,” says Altenburg.

You can select the genetics you want for certain traits. You can breed heifers to calving-ease bulls with high growth and good maternal traits (and

A mobile trailer specifically designed for artificial insemination is becoming a common site on Western ranches.

keep replacement heifers from that group) and breed the cows to a high performance bull or terminal sire for bigger calves to sell or to make you money on retained ownership through the feeding phase. “I make more money with an $18 straw of semen than I do with anything else I do with my cows,” says Altenburg.

Some of the newer technologies may also become more affordable in the future. The sorted semen from Genex (GenChoice, from Sexing Technologies, the company that holds the patent to the sorting process) at this point has a lower conception rate than regular AI, however.

“We get about 8 to 10% reduction in conception using sexed semen, but the flip side is that we get very good results on the sex. We call it GenChoice 90 because we guarantee more than 90% of the calves will be the desired sex. That’s actually a minimum; we usually get a better sex ratio than that. We bred a lot of cows one year to a bull with sorted semen for bull calves and ended up with only one heifer, from that particular sire,” he explains.

38 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

“Sexed semen allows you to do several things. If you are breeding heifers you can use heifer semen to reduce dystocia (since heifer calves tend to be smaller at birth than bull calves), and then you can keep replacements out of your heifers

because hopefully they will be your best genetics. If you are in the bull business you can produce males and sell $5000 to $10,000 bulls instead of $2000 heifers. There are so many positive ways that it can work for various breeders,” Altenburg says. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 39

Young photographers shine in first-ever Rancher photo contest Grand Prize K-4h Grade Division “Long Shot” by Dallie Wilcox Hoodoo Ranch, Cody, Wyo.

Anyone can take a picture…. a person with passion sees the picture before it is taken.

By Jennifer Whiteley Nevada Rancher Magazine

WINNEMUCCA, Nev.- The 2018 Nevada Rancher Youth Photo Contest was an enormous success! 11 youths from Wyoming, Nevada, and California submitted four photographs each to be considered by our judges.

The quality of the pictures submitted was beyond compare, it was hard to pick just one favorite from

each division, so we included an honorable mention! Each winner received a $25 gift card from The Nevada Rancher, and their photo published here!

K-4th Grade Divsion Grand Champion K-4th grade age division winner is Dallie Wilcox. Her photo,“Long Shot” was taken at the YU Bench Branding, Hoodoo Ranch near Cody, Wyo. The photograph taken with a Canon Rebel 73.

5th - 8th Grade Division Grand Champion photographer of thee 5th-8th grade age division is Arena McDermott. “I took this picture of our black horse in his pen during a beautiful sunrise coming across the mountain.”

Taken in Lamoille, Nev, Arena used a Canon EOS

40 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Rebel T6 1300D.

9th - 12th Grade Division Grand Champion 9th-12th grade age division photographer is Mackie Griggs. “Some soul windows are harder to see into than others.” Photographed at the Maggie Creek Ranch, Elko, Nevada.

Photograph taken with a Loomix Camera.

Honorable Mention Honorable Mention winner was photographer Jade Kennedy. “Morning feeding,” was snapped in Calpine, Ca. Photo taken with a Nikon Coolpix.

Excellent job to everyone who submitted photos and keep taking pictures! Stay tuned for our next Youth Photo Contest coming in 2019! F

Grand Prize 5th 8th Grade Division “Black horse and sunrise”

by Arena McDermott Lamoille, Nev.

Grand Prize 9th 12th Grade Division “Soul Windows”

by Mackie Griggs, Maggie Creek Ranch, Elko,

Honorable Mention: “Morning Feeding”

by Jade Kennedy, Calpine, Calif.

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 41

YOUTH IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Rancher photo contest winners are impressive youngsters!

A little more about these young photographers and ranch kids

By Jennifer Whiteley Nevada Rancher Magazine

WINNEMUCCA, Nev.-In this issue, we would like to highlight the winners of our 2018 Youth Photo Contest. These individuals are our future Ag-Vocates! Keep an eye on these girls because they are the ones who will be telling our story!

Dallie Wilcox Dallie Wilcox of Cody, Wyoming is the winner of the K-4th grade age division. She is the 7-yearold daughter of Jesse and Colleen Wilcox and is a second grader at Glenn Livingston Elementary. Dallie submitted 4 photographs which she took while working with her parents and brother Connor on the HooDoo Ranch near Cody, when not in school. Her mom tells us Dallie “enjoys taking pictures of people cowboying. Especially branding time when there are a bunch of roping shots! It makes her excited for the day when she will get to be horse back in the branding pen.” She has been taking pictures for a little over a year now. Dallie has a great eye for action photography which shines through on her branding time pictures.

Photo by Dallie Wilcox

“Red against Red” by Dallie Wilcox. This picture was taken during an East Red Cabin branding on the HooDoo Ranch, near Cody, Wyoming.

Arena McDermott Arena McDermott of Lamoille, Nevada is the winner of the 5th-8th grade division. She is the 13-year-old daughter of Sallie and Justin McDermott, and an 8th grader at Spring Creek Middle School where she is an honor roll student. Arena began taking pictures in December of 2016 after she signed up for photography in 4-H. That year all her family pitched in to buy her a nice Canon EOS Rebel T6 1300D camera for her 12th birthday. Arena explains “What I enjoy most about taking pictures is that I get to be creative and you can’t really make any mistakes or mess up because there is beauty in every picture. I draw my inspiration from professional’s pictures. I want to try to make everything the best that I can and make my pictures stand out and tell a story. I also get my inspiration by taking pictures of things that I like to do and am interested in.” Arena is also very active in 4-H, soccer, and rodeo.

Her pictures capture the beauty of the Ruby Mountains and Lamoille valley.

42 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Mackie Griggs Mackie Griggs of Elko, Nevada is the winner of the 9th-12th grade division. She is the 16-year-old daughter of Jon and Shelly Griggs, and a Junior at Elko High School. Mackie has been taking pictures for about 6 years with her Loomix camera.

She admits “I love nature, which is what I take the most picture of. Living on Maggie Creek I see all kinds of animals and landscape I find interesting. I always have my phone or camera on me because I see a picture opportunity everywhere!” Mackie plans to attend University of Idaho after high school. She plans to put her prize money toward the purchase of a more advanced camera. Mackie’s photography revolves around her life growing up on Maggie Creek ranch and what she views daily. You can purchase some of her original work at Good Blends in Elko, Nevada!

‘Bond, Maternal Bond” by Mackie Griggs

Mackie Griggs is the 16-yearold daughter of Jon and Shelly Griggs of Elko, Nevada. Mackie placed 1st in the 9th-12th grade category.

Jade Kennedy Jade Kennedy of Calpine, California is our honorable mention for the 2018 Nevada Rancher Youth Photography contest. She is the daughter of Chris and Jennifer Kennedy and is in the 8th grade at Forest Knoll Academy in Calpine. Jade has been taking pictures since she received her first camera at age 4.

Clover Valley Barn

by Jade Kennedy

She says she “enjoys capturing the glory of the natural world and documenting the changes she sees. She finds inspiration in photographing the patterns she sees in nature.” Jades entries were unlike anything else entered in the contest, and all were taken in the Sierra Valley area. She uses a Nikon Coolpix camera.

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 43

YOUTH IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Mound Valley 4-H club celebrates a busy year

By Thor Welch Mound Valley 4-H Reporter

JIGGS, Nev.-The Mound Valley 4-H has been on the run all year. This year Mound Valley 4-H had their annual achievement night in November.

At achievement night we named our new officers, celebrated our 2017 fair year, said good bye to our leaving members, and welcomed new members.

Later in November, we sold drinks at the Jiggs Turkey Shoot as a community service for the Maggie Club. In December we completed two community service projects. We wrapped gifts for shop with a cop and shopped for seniors at Highland Manor.

In February, we sold jerky at the Ridin’ for JT benefit rodeo in Spring Creek at the Horse Palace.

The jerky was one of our fundraising events for the year.

We are looking forward to our upcoming events such as putting flags on graves of veterans.

Later in May we have our silent bake sale auction.

The next few months we get our animals ready for fair. Then we start our year over.

Thor is the 10 year old son of Thor and Christy Welch of Spring Creek, Nev. This is his second year in 4-H, where he is the Mound Valley 4-H club reporter. F

Photo courtesy Marva Smith, Mound Valley 4-H

The Mound Valley 4-H club had their annual achievement night in November. Club members (from L to R): Front Row: President elect Riley Roderick, Trent Whiteley, clover bud Tamara Greenlee, clover bud Miranda Welch, Kylie Welch, Ella Roderick, Reporter elect Thor Welch, and Treasurer elect Dayton McKnight. Second Row: Allie Ross, Natalya McKnight, clover bud Rydan Barns, and Jenni Barns. Back Row: Leader Marva Smith, Secretary elect Riley Smith, retiring member Anthony Barns, retiring member Emma Little, retiring member Rosemary Little, Katie Ross, and Jessie Husbands.

At left are Mound Valley 4-Hers selling drinks at the Jiggs Turkey Shoot in November. The Jiggs Maggie Club uses the event as their fundraiser for the year. Members worked in shifts, taking turns selling drinks. Pictured, L to R: Cooper Tervort, Trent Whiteley, Katie Ross, Allie Ross, Dayton McKnight, Natalya Mcknight (holding sign), and Riley Smith (seated).

Jennifer Whiteley photo

44 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Photos by Marva Smith, Mound Valley 4-H

Above, Mound Valley 4-H club members pose with Santa Clause after wrapping gifts for Shop with a Cop at Kmart in Elko, Nevada. Front Row (L to R): William Ward, Allie Ross, Ella Roderick, Emmaline McKnight, Paislee McKnight, and Natalya McKnight. Back Row (L to R): Riley Roderick, Santa Clause, and Jessie Husbands.

Below, 4-H members selling jerky at the Ridin’ for JT benefit. Back Row (L to R): Jessie Husbands, William Ward, and Riley Smith. Front Row: Quin Whiteley and Tamara Greenlee.

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 45

YOUTH IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Wells FFA blazes to victory at Nevada state convention

By Laila Jackson Wells FFA Chapter Reporter

WELLS, Nev-For an average student, the most stressful time of year is midterms, or finals, maybe even a state athletic competition. For members of the National FFA organization, the most stressful time of year is marked by the most climatic event of the Nevada FFA season…the Nevada FFA State Convention.

This year marked the 89th annual Nevada FFA State Convention, the first convention for many new Freshman and the last for numerous Seniors.

Photo by Heather Dye, Wells FFA The Wells FFA chapter made their presence known once more at the State convention, snatching a 1st high Agriculture Issues Forum team presents their skit on wild horses during the third general session. variety of individual awards and returning home Pictured from left to right: Matthew James, Kaysen Sorenson, Liberty Johnson, Camberlin Uhlig, and with twelve first high teams, just two short of their Hyrum Johnson. ​ 14 high teams record achieved at the 87th annual LDE awards were announced. The Wells FFA Range Johnson from the Wells FFA chapter. His rendition Nevada FFA State Convention, as well as abundant team chalked up another couple gold awards, also of Jon Pardi’s Head Over Boots probably had more second and third high team and individual awards. adding a silver and a bronze to the pile. The Wells than a few girls executing a swoon right out of a The Wells FFA chapter took thirty-four members Range team competed in September 2017, earn- fairytale. After a traditional drum performance by to the State Convention, competing in seventeen ing a position as first high team. Matthew James members of the Duck Valley chapter, the second team events and seven individual events. received first high individual and Logan Ballard was general session commenced.

The first two days are spent in rigorous competi- awarded second high individual. T The first Wells win came at the hands of Wells tion as members spend hours in testing and holding he evening continued producing positive results, senior, Liberty Johnson. Competing in seven conrooms. While the State Convention is marked as adding two first high teams and two proficiency tests, she proved her range as she gathered her a period of competition between chapters for the awards. The results of the Agriculture Issues Forum first award in Employment Skills as the first high tantalizing gold standard, it is also marked as a peri- had most of the Wells FFA chapter balanced on individual. Another win was added to the scoreod when members of Nevada FFA come together the edge of their seats and those who hadn’t seen board with the announcement of the Best Informed to mingle with others who share their avid passion their performance yet praying they would have Greenhand competition, achieving not only a first for agriculture. the chance to view it. To the sound of cheers, high team award, but multiple individual awards as Contests continue throughout the last three Wells was announced as the first high team. The well. Wells swept the competition, taking positions days, but attention is diverted on Thursday night to award for Marketing soon followed. Wells FFA was one through four, losing the fifth spot, but claiming the general sessions. Numerous awards for CDE’s confident they would take the Marketing event sixth and seventh. Mackenzie Wachtel placed first, (career development events) and LDE’s (leadership and per their expectations, the young team filled Liliana Cobian took second, and McKenli Myers development events) are presented at each session. by sophomores Brent Battenfeld, Aubrey Durant, received third.

The first general session sparked the Wells FFA and Julianne Wright won first high team. The An intense competition in the Conduct of Chapstreak as chapter awards were given. Jade Kelly, the announcement of the Marketing event results was ter Meetings event scraped out a grueling third Vice President of the Wells FFA chapter, submitted followed by Star and Proficiency awards. Aubrey place finish for the Wells FFA team of Greenhands. a POA (program of activities) during the latter half Durant received the Star Zone Farmer award. Brent The Wells FFA Novice Parliamentary Procedure of 2017, and her POA was recognized as outstand- Battenfeld earned the Star in Agribusiness award. team brought Wells back into the camera’s flash ing amongst the numerous other POA’s submitted Friday dawned bright and early with hordes of with a first-high team finish.

by Vice President’s from around Nevada. Liberty blue corduroy dragging their feet to the convenDespite the disappointment of falling just short Johnson, the Historian of the Wells FFA chapter, tion center for the second general session. The of that enticing gold standard, the Wells FFA team submitted a scrapbook in February of 2018. Her session didn’t begin until 8:30 A.M., but members was shocked and ecstatic when they were called scrapbook submission was also recognized as out- who arrived early for the preshow experienced the onto the stage as the second-high Senior Parliastanding among the other scrapbooks submitted. vast wealth of talents Nevada FFA has to offer. mentary Procedure team. Members competing in After listening to a speech from the National FFA Members from around the state took the stage to Parliamentary Procedure compete as a team, not Organization President, Breanna Holbert, CDE and display their talents. One such member was Hyrum for individual awards. However, chairs compete for

46 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

an individual award known as the high chair. This year, Benjamin Ballard of the Wells FFA chapter proved his superior skills from behind the podium, earning the high chair award.

After a presumably unhealthy dose of food court meals for lunch, the Wells FFA chapter made their way back to the Lawlor arena for the third general session. After a greeting by past state officer, Bailey Kelton, and the recognition of members who participated in the service projects, results for the Agriculture Mechanics Olympics were declared.

Four members represented the Wells FFA chapter, Levi Talbert, Corbin Madison, Dallin Myers, and Garrett Carter, attaining third place.

Novice FBM achieved the status of first high team and swept the contest, placing one through four. Matthew James was third, Logan Ballard took second, and Hyrum Johnson placed first. (Brent Battenfeld rounded out the team in fourth place.)

Senior FBM couldn’t let their novice team outdo them…The Wells Senior FBM team received first high team and executed a perfect sweep, posiPhoto by Heather Dye, Wells FFA tioning Liberty Johnson, Ben Ballard, Ian Spratling, 3rd high Conduct of Chapter Meetings team prepares to make their run. From left to right: McKenli Myers, and Camberlin Uhlig in the one through four spots Quinlin Jackson, and Grace French of the Wells FFA team. respectively.

Wells was called as the first high team in Poultry fortable enough, spending that day wringing your state can bestow upon its members. Wells FFA had Judging, adding to their growing pile of awards. hands, heaving into a trash can, or chattering three members apply for their State Degrees. LiberLiberty Johnson, continuing her romance with the endlessly with nerves is nearly unbearable. With ty Johnson, Jade Kelly, and Camberlin Uhlig walked stage, was awarded second high individual. For the twenty-one Career and Leadership Development through the arch in pristine fashion, accepting this first time in her career as a member of Nevada FFA, Events already announced, the stress of FFA State revered award.

Wells FFA had a stake in nearly all the events Shaylee Lattin received the plaque of a first high was over for many individuals, but the Wells FFA individual. Wells continued sating its thirst for gold chapter was still invested in numerous contests still announced Saturday morning. Liberty Johnson earned a third-place finish in Extemporaneous as the results of Environmental Natural Resources to be announced.

Kaysen Sorenson, building on the topic cho- Speaking. Novice floriculture took the stage next. were announced.

Nearly following the lead of both FBM teams, sen by the Agriculture Issues Team, presented his Liliana Cobian was called as second high individthe Wells ENR team stashed away another first prepared speech Friday afternoon. Thankfully, the ual. The Wells novice floriculture team followed high team plaque to lug back on the trip home wait for results was short. Tension built as Prepared the silver brick road and finished as second high and placed first through third. Amanda Murphy, a Public Speaking came up to bat. The Wells FFA team. Liberty Johnson outpaced the competition senior competing in her first and last year as an FFA Chapter was overcome with elated shouts and in senior floriculture to win first high individual. member, received the third high individual award. riotous clapping as Kaysen was called to the stage. The senior floriculture team, boasting two brand Ruth Gale, another senior member, attained sec- Competing for the first time in a speaking event, new members to the competition, came out with ond high individual. Camberlin Uhlig, competing Kaysen Sorenson came up with a third-place finish. a third-place finish. Veterinary Science wrapped up In the typical fashion of Wells Advisor Don the contests for Wells. Ian Spratling received third in the contest for the first time, earned the rank of first high individual, claiming it felt “like eating ice Noorda, the Wells Meats Evaluation and Tech- high and Laila Jackson was awarded first high for cream for the first time when you have been on a nology team was fraught with distress, believing the first time in her career. The Wells Veterinary diet for 5 years.” (Uhlig) That feeling, that sense they had been the team to let their coach down Science team, boasting three members new to the of receiving an immense reward for hours upon with a third-place team finish. To their immense contest, limped out of the fight as a first high team. hours of arduous work mingled with blood, sweat, shock (and anger towards Mr. Noorda), when the The Veterinary Science win wrapped up the Wells and tears perfectly captures the satisfaction FFA Meats Evaluation and Technology CDE individual contests, ending the Nevada FFA State Convention members feel when their name or team is called to results were announced, three very familiar names on a high note. came over the speakers. Jade Kelly, Ian SpratWells FFA brought home twelve first high indithe stage.

Before the third session ended, the winning ling, and Marshall Botts were called down to the vidual awards as well as numerous second and third Agriculture Issues Forum team presented their stage. Marshall Botts received third high individual. place awards. The seniors ended their careers with winning presentation to the entire Nevada FFA Ian Spratling earned second high individual. Jade strong performances and the freshman provided a membership. As the lights fell upon the Wells Agri- Kelly announced as first high individual. As a first spark of hope for the future of the chapter. All in culture Issues team, Lawlor arena was filled with through third sweep tends to, it resulted in a first all, the Wells FFA chapter has had a smooth season the intense debate over wild horses and the best high team award for the Wells Meats Evaluation filled with achievements. and Technology team.

The Wells FFA chapter rounded out the year on management practices available.

The State FFA Degree is the highest degree a April 24 with the annual chapter banquet. F Spending an entire day in official dress is uncom-

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 47

Let’s eat!

Home cooks shine during branding time

By Jennifer Whiteley Nevada Rancher Magazine

LAMOILLE, Nev.-The other day, my son QT was asking me if we had any traditions and I said yes, of course! As we were talking about traditions, he asked me what some of our traditions were, and the first thing that popped into my mind was brandings. In Mountain City, branding season is taken very seriously. From who brands on which weekend, to how the calves are branded, and even the foods we eat, branding is a family tradition.

Branding season is one of my favorite times of the year. Growing up, from the first of April, to the end of May, and even sometimes into June (depending on the weather!), there was a branding nearly every weekend in the Mountain City area.

We started at Guy Vega’s one weekend, my mom and dad’s the next.

The following weekend, there was the Thompson branding which coincided with Morse’s. As soon as the last calf was branded at the Thompson ranch, we piled into pickups and hurried up to Morse’s to brand their calves, then back to Thompson’s for dinner.

The weekends after that were filled with Rizzi’s, Connolly’s, Mori’s, Prunty’s, and finally, Baker’s branding on Memorial Day weekend.

Everyone in the community was invited to come help, and to celebrate a successfully calving season.

Cattle were gathered, cows sorted from the calves, and then roped, and drug to the fire for vaccinations, castration if needed, and branded with an iron, hot from the sage brush fire. Aunts, uncles, cousins from town, school teachers from Owyhee, and even Forest Service employees living in Mountain City were invited. We looked forward to the roping as much as the camaraderie and food!

The branding meal was a time for the cooks in Mountain City to really shine, and just like everyone helped with the actually branding of calves, the

Red Velvet Cake from Margie Vipham Ingredients ½ c. Shortening 1 ½ c. Sugar 2 Eggs 2 T. Cocoa 2 oz. Red Food Coloring 2 ½ c. Cake Flour 1 tsp. Salt 1 c. Buttermilk 1 tsp. Vinegar 1 tsp. Baking Soda 1 tsp. Vanilla

creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk.

Add vinegar and mix.

Add vanilla and soda and mix well.

Pour into 2 pans and bake for about 30 minutes.

Let cool completely.

Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees; grease bottom and sides of two round cake pans.

Cream shortening, sugar, and eggs.

Make a smooth paste out of cocoa, and food coloring. Add paste to creamed mixture and mix well.

Sift together flour and salt. Add flour and salt to

Frosting for Red Velvet Cake Ingredients 1 c. Butter at room temperature 1 c. Sugar 1 c. Milk 3 T Flour 1 T Vanilla Directions Cook milk and flour over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Let cool, then whisk to smooth.

Cream butter and sugar till fluffy, add vanilla.

Add thickened mill gradually, beating constantly.

Assemble like a layer cake and frost. Enjoy!

cooks all worked together to make a fabulous meal.

In addition to potluck staples like potato salad, homemade rolls, and roasts, you could bet on Cucka’s Tamales at at least one branding, sweet breads, and an enchilada of some kind.

Other favorites included my great grandma Rosella’s Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings, Pretzel Salad, and Cucka’s homemade tortillas. Trying to save room for deserts was the biggest challenge of the day. Picture homemade ice cream, Rhubarb Pie (if it was close to my sister’s birthday), Marge’s

Burnt Sugar Cake, Margie’s Red Velvet cake, Stella’s Cream Puffs, and my mom’s Lemon Meringue Pie just to name a few.

Today I am sharing an old family recipe for a Red Velvet Cake. I’m sure you’ve had red velvet cake before – but chances are, this recipe is different from any you’ve ever tasted. The difference is all in the frosting. Margie tells me that she got this recipe from her mom Ellen Thompson who Margie thinks got it from a high school Home Economics class. It’s a real treat – for branding time or not! F

48 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

The Importance of Protein

Restauranteurs seeing the importance of beef on the menu From Beef.ItsWhatsForDinner.com

Tastes change and food trends come and go, but through it all, beef remains an enduring favorite and a menu anchor. The 2017 Beef Foodservice Volumetric Study found that 97 percent of foodservice operators are serving beef, with ground beef being the most popular followed by steaks and roasts.

Since 2003, Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner., managed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association on behalf of the Beef Checkoff, has engaged Technomic annually to study how beef is being purchased by the foodservice industry.

The 2017 study revealed that beef had the highest gain in volume of all proteins, up a total of 221 million pounds.

Additionally, the 2017 study showed an increase of nearly 10 percent from 2015 of operators purchasing roasts for their restaurants1. The significant increase in popularity points to a growing supply of beef in response to strong consumer demand, as well as the growing trend of in-house fabrication. The ability to cut steaks in house is a significant asset for foodservice operators as 45 percent indicated that featuring steak on the menu increases traffic.

“In-house fabrication allows the operator to explore new cutting techniques to offer guests a unique beef eating experience. All in all, it’s a win-win for the operator and their customers,” said Chef Dave Zino, chef at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the beef checkoff.

While roasts have seen a more notable increase in popularity, sales of all beef cuts continue to do well across the foodservice industry, with beef

volume overall increasing by 221 million pounds from 2016 to 2017. This is a trend that should continue into 2018 as indicated by the beef supply forecast from USDA stating that consumers are projected to eat 9.6 percent more beef in 2018 than in 2015.

Key study takeaways: Beef had the highest gain in volume of all proteins and represents 51 percent of all animal protein growth in 2017.

Beef volume has increased for the second year in a row.

Beef volume is up a total of 221 million pounds, or 2.8 percent.

There is a rebound in premium cuts of beef in both pre-cut steaks and roasts.

Emerging Cuts, such as Flat Iron, Petite Tender Medallions and Hanger are gaining popularity.

45 percent of operators say that having Steak on the menu increases traffic, which is the highest number in 5 years.

Checkoff research continues to show that nutrition remains a strong incentive for consumers to eat more beef.

For the Nevada Beef Council and other checkoff-funded organizations, sharing information about beef’s nutrition is an important component of our programs and efforts – especially for those consumers who question whether beef belongs in a healthy diet.

So, what are some of those nutrition facts that are worth sharing?

There are many, in fact, but for now, let’s focus on protein. Among the powerful package of 10 essential nutrients beef is known for, protein may be one of the most notable. In fact, one 3 oz cooked serving of beef provides 50% of your Daily Value (25 grams) of this important nutrient— making it an excellent source.

A wealth of research has linked protein to favorable lifestyle markers such as healthy body weight and/or weight loss, maintaining and building muscle, and overall diet satisfaction.

When it comes to improving overall health, managing weight or satisfying appetites, protein packs quite a punch: People who eat a higher-protein diet (about 30% of daily calories from protein) feel more satisfied, which may help prevent overeating.

Protein helps support strong, lean bodies. Eating at least 4 ounces of high-quality protein from foods like beef at each meal provides your body with energy to lead an active lifestyle.

Protein may help cut the fat.

Research has shown exercise is more effective for weight management when paired with a higher-protein diet, and beef provides the amino acids necessary for building and replenishing muscles.

High-quality diets with high quality lean protein helps lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and reduce high blood pressure.

Studies have also shown that it’s not only important to get protein in at lunch or dinner, but to spread it throughout the day to help maximize all the aforementioned benefits.

Aiming for 25-30 grams of protein at each meal is recommended. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 49

ON A HISTORIC NOTE

Nevada’s forgotten counties

By Mike Popovitch

Special to the Rancher

How many counties are in the state of Nevada? Ask anyone who lives here and they may tell you sixteen plus the Consolidated Municipality of Carson City, an independent city not within a county. But what about the forgotten, renamed, or absorbed counties that were created over land disputes and population decreases? There were a few whose names are remembered only by historians…

Major William Ormsby, a man who served in the Pennsylvania State Militia jumped on the bandwagon in 1849 during the California Gold Rush.

Like most prospectors, he was lost in a sea of men, all out to make their fortune only to realize that they worked hard and produced very little success.

Ormsby tried his hand at horse sales and that too was unsuccessful.

Disenchanted, he joined William Walker’s Filibusters and their travels to Nicaragua. Walker, a physician, lawyer, journalist, and mercenary saw his opportunity for adventure and fame by organizing many privately funded military expeditions into Latin America.

His goal was to establish English speaking colonies under his personal control to gain wealth and prominence. His term for these tactics was “filibustering”.

In 1856, Walker was able to take control of the presidency of the Republic of Nicaragua. He ruled for one year when he was defeated by a coalition of Central American armies. Because of his role in the takeover, he was executed by the Honduran government in 1860. As for Ormsby, he had had his fill of mercenary work and returned to Califor-

50 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Isaac Newton Roop was the first elected provisional governor of the Nevada Territory. nia, later settling in Mormon Station (present day Genoa) which was part of the Utah Territory. By 1857, he was an agent for the Pioneer Stage Line which operated a line from Mormon Station to Sacramento.

The line was 30 miles shorter and 2,000’ lower in elevation than Kit Carson’s Carson Pass route.

The PSL became one of the most important stage lines in California, transporting gold from Virginia City to banks in Sacramento and San Fransisco.

Ormsby gained popularity in Mormon Station and presided over a meeting which selected Judge James Crane to go to Washington, D. C.

to persuade the government to create a new territory with Carson City as the capitol of the new territory.

This new territory would be named, “Sierra Nevada.”

Fellow petitioner, Abraham Curry donated several tracts of land in the center of Carson City for the possibility of a capitol building. Ormsby purchased land to the southwest of Curry’s proposed capitol site and by 1860, he constructed a hotel which he named the Ormsby House at the corner of 2nd and Carson Streets.

The hotel remained there until the early 1900’s

when it was demolished. Ormsby gained wealth through his hotel and notoriety by being appointed as a judge in a murder trial thus etching his name in the Nevada history books.

Ormsby and Curry’s plan for a new territory in 1859 was unsuccessful and it would not be until 1866 that Nevada would become a recognized territory.

Ormsby met his fate along with seventy five other men who were attempting to quell a Paiute uprising near Pyramid Lake In the Pyramid Lake War. During the Second Battle of Pyramid Lake, Captain Edward Farris Storey (Storey County) also lost his life. After Ormsby’s death, Ormsby County was named after him which encompassed Carson City. On April 1, 1969, Ormsby County merged with Carson City and became the Consolidated Municipality of Carson City.

Nevada’s boundaries changed often as more and more gold discoveries popped up. Originally, the eastern boundary was along the 116th meridian. As gold was discovered, the Nevada territorial delegates petitioned Congress to move it east to the 115th meridian and then the 114th meridian. This took land away from the Utah Territory.

On the western side of the Nevada Territory, the boundary was not clearly defined and was assumed as the ridge line of the Sierra Mountains. This ambiguity sparked the Sagebrush War (also called the War of Injunctions and the Roop War) which was a land dispute between Plumas County, California and the citizens of Honey Lake, located in the northern part of the Nevada Territory known as Lake County.

This area covered Honey Lake, Pyramid Lake and Winnemucca Lake and a portion of Surprise Valley north of Reno.

The first elected provisional governor of the Nevada Territory was Isaac Newton Roop. Roop was born in Maryland in 1822 and after the devastating loss of his wife, he joined the California Gold Rush in 1850 via a route through the Sierras near present day Honey Lake, California.

After spending a few years in Shasta County, California, Roop became a postmaster and school commissioner.

He accumulated a large amount of property but lost is all in a fire. By 1853, Roop returned to Honey Lake

and regained his wealth through the creation of the city of Rooptown and thus renamed Lake County to Roop County. Rooptown would later be renamed Susanville after his daughter Susan and the neighboring town of Janesville after his daughter Jane.

By 1853, Nevada’s territorial lines were still unclear. Officials from Plumas County, California sought to collect taxes from residents of Rooptown and Roop County. Residents refused to pay taxes, claiming they lived in the Nevada Territory and when Nevada collectors came around, citizens would refuse to pay stating they lived in Plumas County.

As the population grew and no taxes were being collected, both governments felt that a decision had to be made. Many of the citizens favored being part of Plumas County which had more funding for schools and protection from Native Americans. Eventually, officials from both sides delivered injunctions, restraining each other from any attempts to collect taxes.

Tempers rose and several arrests were made. Several days later, Plumas County Sheriff E.H. Pierce returned to Honey Lake with about 100 armed men only to find Roop and his 30 men hunkered down in an old log house built by Roop known as Fort Defiance to ward off any Indian attacks. As the situation grew more tense, shots were fired and a four hour volley of bullets ended with two of Roops men and one of the Plumas County deputies injured. Neither side was out for blood but it prompted government officials to clearly define the designation of Honey Lake.

During the legal debate, no taxes were to be collected by either side and after more surveys, it was determined that Honey Lake fell within the California border. This forced Rooptown and Roop County to shrink so much that the neighboring Washoe County was forced to absorb it. In order to appease residents of the Honey Lake area that didn’t want to be annexed into California, the legislature created Lassen County in 1864 with Susanville as it’s county seat. After his term as provisional governor, Roop returned to Susanville to serve as Lassen County’s district attorney for two terms until his death in 1869. James Warren Nye

Major William Ormsby, Nevada Historic Photo Collection succeeded Isaac Roop as the only Territorial Governor of Nevada before it’s statehood. At his side was Orion Clemens, older brother of Samuel Clemens who served as governor in Nye’s constant absence.

Other little known counties of the Nevada Territory and Nevada include Bullfrog County which was established in 1987 from a part of Nye County. It encompassed all of Yucca mountain and it was landlocked by Nye County. The county seat was Carson City, the only county in the country to have it’s seat outside of it’s border and not in an adjacent county. This was an attempt to collect increased tax revenue from the Federal Government at the Yucca Mountain Disposal Site.

There were no inhabitants of the area and all public officials were to be appointed by the governor. It was the only county in the country that had a population of zero. Since there was no court, it was possible for a criminal to commit a crime and not be tried. There was no population to draw from as jurors. The county was abolished in 1989 as it was deemed that it violated the Nevada Constitution.

Other counties were formed by neighboring territories before Nevada became it’s own territory. Pah-Ute County was created in 1864 by the Arizona Territory which covered part of Clark County. Most of Nevada to the Sierras was originally part of the Utah Territory. Creation of several counties by Utah between 1854-1869 included: Saint Mary’s County, Humboldt County, Carson County, and Rio Virgin County.

The long lost counties of Ormsby, Lake, Bullfrog and Roop remain only in history books but the importance of these names will live on forever as Nevada continues to grow and change with every moment in time. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 51

Primatelevel tech skills The 21st century called, and I finally decided to answer. Recently, I traded in my six-year-old slide-out cell phone for a new-fangled smartphone.

Receiving that first call was a frantic swiping game reminiscent of an orangutan trying to wipe butter off its thumb onto a piece of glass, but I’m happy to report that I was indeed able to eventually connect with another person via my fancy touchscreen handheld cellular telephone device.

Since that initial foray into the technological realm that nearly all residents of developed countries have inhabited for years, I have expanded my smartphone skills to include taking pictures, forwarding texts, and having my husband download apps for me.

He can’t spell worth a darn, but that cowboy is surprisingly tech-savvy.

Without his help, I would still be writing Facebook posts asking friends to tell my husband I am on my way home from town, because I couldn’t figure out how to install Messenger on my own.

I was leery of the phone when I first brought it home, because so much has been written about their addictive powers. They suck up all your time, give you bad posture, ruin your relationships, and hand out your personal bank account information to criminals like candy at a Christmas parade. I was afraid to turn my back on the phone for fear it might steal my soul. When I turned in for bed that first night, I was edgy.

“What do you think the smartphones are doing right now?” I asked my husband as I climbed beneath the covers.

“I don’t know,” he said. “Charging?”

“Let’s never bring them to the bedroom and scroll before bedtime, okay?”

“I don’t usually look at my phone in bed,” he replied.

“I know, but you’re a veteran smart-

Doc is a genius! phone user. Help me stay strong. I feel like it can sense weakness.”

I’m not sure if my phone can actually sense weakness, but it can definitely sense where I am at all times.

Before I switched over to the smartphone side, I prided myself on my ability to perform tasks such as driving from Arizona to northern California aided by nothing more than a jug of water, a road atlas, and a dozen phone calls to residents along the way asking “Did I miss my turn? The exit I needed was closed, what should I do? Does this road always have two names? Where’s the nearest Taco Bell?”

Now, I can use Google Maps, a handy little app that helps drivers navigate unfamiliar cities. Or, in my case, my hometown. Thanks to location finding technology, I no longer have to worry about complicated concepts such as “from which way did I come?” “am I driving in circles?” and “east” or “south.” I just follow the little blue arrow and watch the distance between my vehicle and my destination gradually increase, because I still can’t follow a map, even one equipped with the latest in modern satellite technology.

But the biggest benefit of owning a smartphone is my newfound status.

Besides the ability to swipe and attempt to utilize its location-finding abilities, now I can finally say that coveted phrase savvy, smug smartphone owners utter every day: “Oh, shoot, my battery is about to die.” F

Jolyn Young lives in a remote cow camp on the O RO Ranch in northern Arizona with her husband and their two small kids. To read more of her work, visit www.jolynyoung.com.

52 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Our pal Doc is a genius.

Just take the other day, and all of us were gathered up and coffee’d at the Mule Barn truck stop coffee shop and world dilemma think tank, and ol’ Doc just proved it again.

Steve noticed them first, the young couple who had just pulled into a parking space outside the “efaC” window. From the outside, it reads “Café.”

“Say,” said Steve, “isn’t that Bobby and Carol Ann?” “Yep,” said Jimmy, “and if I ain’t mistaken, there’s three of ‘em today.”

Sure enough, Carol Ann reached into the back seat and unstrapped a brand-new baby from the car seat and smiled at it as they carried the baby to the front door.

“Boy or girl?” Herb asked. No one seemed to know.

“Look for clues,” Dud chipped in.

One blue blanket, one pink blanket. No obvious ribbon Scotch-taped to baby’s head. If we didn’t know the baby’s name, how would we tell? And with today’s names, how would you tell anyway?

The creased foreheads took over at the counter.

“This will embarrassing,” Dud said.

“No problem, Dudley,” said Doc. Sure enough, here came Bobby and Carol Ann, all smiles, with the bundle.

“Hi Guys!” said Carol Ann, “look what we have!”

And Doc, who sometimes unofficially leads because he has more degrees than a thermometer, stood up, looked down at the little one and said, “Now THAT’S what I call a baby!”

Doc’s a genius. No argument.

-------Brought to you by the Assoc. of Mature Americans (AMAC), better for you, better for America. https://amac.us/.

Director Barbee to serve as Churchill County Manager The Nevada Department of Agriculture director announced today he will be transitioning into a new role as Churchill County Manager.

“It has been a great pleasure to serve Governor Sandoval, The Nevada Board of Agriculture and citizens of Nevada. NDA has a strong team and I have no doubt they will continue to do good work for the constituents of our great state,” Director Barbee said. “I look forward

to working with NDA as I represent Churchill County on the many diverse topics related to agriculture and natural resources on the local level.”

Director Barbee will be with the NDA through May 18.“Jim Barbee has served as a member of my administration since 2011,” Governor Brian Sandoval said. “I want to thank him for his service and I wish him well in his future endeavors.” F

A cow can grow a calf much cheaper than buying feed to grow the calf. Therefore, ensuring nutrient levels remain high through good supplementation practices on emerging forages is critical.

Continued from Page 11

Grass tetany is a complicated mineral interrelationship between potassium, calcium and magnesium and keeping supplement intake high now with a high magnesium product, loaded with trace minerals, will pay dividends later in the season.

As the lactation curve begins to drop, the calf will begin imitating its mother by grazing. The rumen is far from mature, effective and efficient now, but this “grazing’ is what helps build the future microbial population in the calf’s gut. Assuming you still have supplement out, you will also begin to see the calf consuming this product.

A good supplement fortified with macro and trace minerals of high bioavailability, will help the calf develop frame and structure. For bull calves, this nutrition builds the necessary structure to carry the weight of a finished steer later in life, while for a heifer, she will develop the growthiness and frame to be a highly productive cow.

Finally, this is the period in which we will rebred the cow to ensure a progeny is available next season to continue the cycle of production and profitability. Maintaining or adding body condition during this time is the key to breedback.

Additionally, ensuring your sup-

plement program is up to snuff with those elements critical to returning to estrous is vital. Phosphorous, copper, zinc, manganese and selenium are primary players during this time. As we discussed in the last article, understanding nutrient partitioning helps us understand the importance of keeping supplementation going during this early period of “washy” forage.

As a review, sixty percent of a cow’s daily intake goes to maintenance. Once this physiological condition is met, nutrients are allocated to weight gain and body condition development. Only after these 3 “buckets” are nutritionally filled, can the cow lactate to successfully grow a calf and finally fill the fifth bucket, which is reproduction.

Making sure our nutrition package for the cow is maintained at a high level to fill that reproduction requirement, is what will get that cow bred in the first heat cycle. Tightening the calving interval (i.e. more cows bred earlier) is the single easiest and most effective and cost efficient way to increase weaning weights.

In the next article, we will discuss the weaning process and taking advantage of late season forages and crop residues to efficiently increase body condition of cows in a cost-effective manner. F

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 53

BULL SALE REPORTS Sinclair Cattle Company Annual Production Sale March 24, Buffalo, WY 102 Bulls $5,105 2 Spring pairs 12,500 13 Open heifers 2,846 Auctioneer: Roger Jacobs TOPS—Bulls: Sinclair Black Iron 7UR17, 2/14/17 by Sinclair Exactly 4U2; to Jason Willis, Colts Neck, NJ, $27,000. Sinclair Shadow XXS 7S1, 2/11/17 by N Bar Shadow X4124; to Lee Van Dyke, Manhattan, MT; Hartman Farms, Grand Island, NE;

and Jenkins Cattle Company, Moultrie, GA, $14,000. Sinclair Black Iron 7UR12, 2/18/17 by Sinclair Exactly 4U2; to Gaugler Angus, Garneill, MT, $11,000. Sinclair Executive 7U43, 2/15/17 by Sinclair Executive 9XV2; to Triangle S, Interior, SD, and Triangle S/Willow Creek, Interior, SD, $10,000. Sinclair Black Iron 7UR13, 2/18/17 by Sinclair Exactly 4U2; to Reece Half Box Ranch, Morton, SD, $9,500. Females: Sinclair Eriskay 2xx7 7V74, 2/18/12 by Sinclair Emulation XXP; to Knoll Farms, Charlestown, WV, $20,000.

Maag Oft Vallad Bull Sale March 15, Vale, OR 139 Angus bulls $3,392 Auctioneer: Rick Machado TOPS: Oft All In 6065, 8/24/16 by Deer Valley All In; to Mike Robertson, Vale, OR, $6,750. MA Fortitude 7049, 1/20/17 by PA Fortitude 2500; to Chris Bennight, Nyssa, OR, $6,700. MA Absolute Value 6159, 8/12/16 by FHCC Absolute Value 3525; to Mitch and Lindsay Baker, Burns, OR, $6,500.

Oft Tour of Duty 6115, 10/3/16 by RB Tour of Duty 177; to Mitch and Lindsay Baker, $6,000.

54 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

Red Angus Association releases two new EPDs aimed at increasing efficiency DENVER – Beef producers consistently look toward the horizon for new tools to help them improve their bottom line. The Red Angus Association of America has a long history of supporting commercial cattlemen and women who are dedicated to efficiently producing high-quality beef. The recent release of two new Red Angus EPDs, targeted at providing producers with additional selection tools to meet their goals, exemplifies this effort.

Dry Matter Intake and Average Daily Gain are the newest EPDs offered by Red Angus, and are designed to help producers improve growth and feed efficiency. Units for the DMI EPD are average pounds of dry matter feed intake per day, while the ADG EPD is expressed as pounds of daily gain during the post-weaning growth period.

“The DMI and ADG EPDs are designed to be used together, with the goal of identifying animals that have a favorable combination of intake and gain,” said Ryan Boldt, Director of Breed Improvement. “An animal that gains in the top 20 percent of the breed whose intake is breed average is easily understood as being better than average for feed efficiency.”

The DMI EPD is calculated using a multiple-trait model that includes DMI, On Test Average Daily Gain, Post Weaning Average Daily Gain and Weaning Weight. Phenotypic data have and will continue to be collected using feed intake records that measure an animal’s average daily intake for a minimum of 35 days following a warm-up period.

Thousands of feed-intake records have been collected and were used in the EPD calculation. The heritability estimate for DMI is moderate in magnitude at 0.36, which is higher than traits such as weaning and yearling weight.

The ADG EPD was developed to more easily identify animals with favorable combinations of gain and intake. This will serve as a more intu-

itive measure of an animal’s growth rate from weaning to a year of age.

The new ADG EPD will also be comparable to all animals from breeds that are members of the International Genetic Solutions multi-breed genetic evaluation in the same manner as the current RAAA growth and carcass trait EPDs. The Red Angus breed has been dedicated to providing the most accurate EPDs possible for decades, which are backed by Total Herd Reporting data across the breed and membership. These two newly released EPDs are conveniently displayed with in-breed ranking percentiles to facilitate selection decisions. Both the DMI and ADG EPD promise to further arm Red Angus breeders and commercial producers with better means to enhance their ability to select cattle that will perform more efficiently while growing at desirable rates.

There is tremendous opportunity to improve the efficiency of post-weaning gain in U.S. beef production,” according to Tom Brink, CEO of RAAA. “With these new EPDs, Red Angus will be positioned to help lead the way in identifying and propagating genetics that can help the entire cattle industry improve its feed conversion rates.”

Producers can access these new EPDs for individual animals, breed percentiles and calculate the projected EPDs of specific matings, via the RedAngus.org website.

The Red Angus Association of America serves the beef industry by enhancing and promoting the competitive advantages of Red Angus and Red Angus-influenced cattle.

The RAAA provides commercial producers with the most objectively described cattle in the industry by seeking and implementing new technologies based on sound, scientific principles that measure traits of economic importance. For more information, visit www.RedAngus. org. F

MARKET REPORT

Fallon Livestock Exchange Fallon, Nevada

Steers Heifers

300-400 lb.

400-500 lb.

Stock Cattle by Weight 500-600 lb.

600-700 lb.

700-800 lb.

800+ lb.

Breakers (Fat Cows)

159 avg.

157 avg.

146 avg.

148 avg.

143 avg.

141 avg.

105 avg.

109 avg.

120 avg.

115 avg.

Boning (Med. Flesh) Cutters (Lean)

135 avg.

128 avg.

3,4,5 year solid mouth Top cow: 815# (avg.101) $860-$1125 Top 10 cows:1252# (avg. 75) April 10, 2018 sale; volume: N/A. Single, small-framed or plainer cattle 30 to 65 less than top offering.

Slaughter Cattle 63-81 Butcher Bulls 57-60 Shelly Bulls 52-57 Cutter Bulls

Shelly Cutters (Thin)

No test

Stock Cattle by Weight

Cattlemen’s Livestock Marketing Galt, Calif.

Shasta Livestock Auction Yard, Cottonwood, Calif.

Treasure Valley Livestock Caldwell, Idaho

Central Oregon Livestock Auction, Madras, Ore.

Steers Heifers

300-400 lb. #1 quality No test No test

400-500 lb. #1 quality No test No test

500-600 lb. #1 quality 160-184 140-162

600-700 lb. #1 quality 145-168 135-154

No test 78-81 91

Slaughter Cattle 700-800 lb. #1 quality 125-150 122-135

800+ lb. #1 quality 120-134 120-131

Boner Cows

62-70

Breaker Cows Cutter Cows

55-62 35-55

Bulls

80-96

Pairs: 85-100 April 18, 2018 sale; volume 785. Market notes: Feeder cattle in all weight classes were steady compared to the previous week. Slaughter cattle held steady.

Steers Heifers

300-400 lb.

400-500 lb.

Stock Cattle by Weight 500-600 lb.

600-700 lb.

700-800 lb.

800+ lb.

High yielding

205-223 few 160-186

No test 140-165fw

No test 140-165

126-147few 135-143few

125-136 No test

Medium yielding Low yielding

140-165few 130-157

Slaughter Cattle 63-68 Bulls

60-87

53-62 No test

Results from April 20, 2018 sale; volume 704. Market notes: Weigh-up cows and bulls $3 lower. Good light cattle market, call it steady. Off lots and singles $25 - $40 below top offerings.

Steers Heifers

300-400 lb.

Stock Cattle by Weight (Friday Sale) 400-500 lb. 500-600 lb.

600-700 lb.

700-800 lb.

800+ lb.

Cows 1700# +

150 avg.

155 avg.

145 avg.

120 avg.

110 avg.

104 avg.

Cows 1400-1700# Cows 1100-1400#

61 avg.

63 avg.

Cows 800 – 1000#

55 avg.

130 avg.

127 avg.

125 avg.

110 avg.

115 avg.

113 avg.

Slaughter Cattle (Monday sale) 68 avg.

Bulls 1800#+

80 avg

Bulls 14001800#

Pairs $1325-$1500

Stock Cows $1065-$1450

300-400 lb.

400-500 lb.

Stock Cattle by Weight 500-600 lb.

600-700 lb.

700-800 lb.

800+ lb.

Fleshy

175-190

175-185

150-174

145-155

130-144

130-142

Lean

Slaughter Cattle 68-75 Bulls (High Yield) 70-75 Bulls (Med)

150-170 Heifers Heiferettes: 95-110

147-166

140-152

129-139

118-128

115-122

Low Yield

65-70

79 avg

Bulls 10001400# Results from April 20, 2018 Beef cattle sale (held each Friday) and April 23, 2018 butcher cows / bulls sale (held each Monday). No volumes reported for either sale.

Notes: 1901 E. Chicago, Caldwell, Idaho, (208) 459-7475, (800) 788-4429, www.treasurevalleylivestock.com

Steers

No test

90-95 80-85

Bulls (Feeder)

85-90

Pairs, full mouth Pairs broken mouth Feeder 70-80 $1500- $1650 $1150-$1400 Results from April 16, 2018; volume: N/A. Notes: Beef sale every Monday. P.O. Box 29/3457 S.W. Hwy 97/Madras, Ore. 97741/www.centraloregonlivestockauction.com.

Stock Cattle by Weight

Producers Livestock, Salina, Utah

Top Bull

80-91

Steers Heifers

Slaughter Cattle

300-400 lb.

400-500 lb.

500-600 lb.

600-700 lb.

700-800 lb.

800+ lb.

170-195

162-180

155-176

143-168

127-150

115-135

140-177

135-161

127-154

111-138

91-127

85-107

Cows: 63-76

Commercial/Utility Cows

57-59

Cutting Bulls

106-115

Slaughter Bulls

85-93

Heiferettes: 93-95

April 17, 2018; volume: N/A. The figures on this report are computer generated from “The Hottest Sale in the West” at Producers Livestock in Salina, UT. Notes: For great service contact the Salina Producers Auction at (435) 529-7437. For current market information call toll free 1-888-287-1702.

Producers Livestock, Vale, Ore.

Steers Heifers

300-400 lb.

400-500 lb.

Stock Cattle by Weight 500-600 lb.

600-700 lb.

700-800 lb.

800+ lb.

Butcher Cows – bulk

Slaughter Cattle 63-72 Butcher Bulls

167-187 133-168

162-177 149-167

158-167 136-155

128-136 117-125

126-133 109-113

Shelly Cows

47-61

139-158 124-137

Top Bull

77-91 94

Young cow pairs Older BM cows $810-1035 Older BM cow pairs $960-$1235 $1325-$1510 April 18, 2018; volume: 777. Report: Grass cattle remain steady to strong. Not enough heavier cattle to truly test the market. Questions about the market and/or to consign, call Producers Livestock, Vale Oregon, at (541) 473-3136

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 55

CLASSIFIED ADS

56 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

CLASSIFIED ADS

THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018 57

Auction Directory Get the most up-to-date market reports by visiting these websites NEVADA Nevada Livestock Marketing LLC Sale every Wednesday 1025 North Allen Road, Fallon, Nevada Office: (775) 423-7760 Fax: (775) 423-1813 www.nevadalivestock.us F

Fallon Livestock LLC Sale every Tuesday 2055 Trento Lane, Fallon, Nevada Office: (775) 867-2020 Fax: (775) 867-2021 www.fallonlivestock.com F

Superior Livestock Auction Load-lots of cattle sold via satellite and the Internet

Northern Nevada Representative Allie Bear (775) 738-8534 www.superiorlivestock.com

CALIFORNIA Shasta Livestock Auction Yard Sale every Friday Cottonwood, California Office: (530) 347-3793 Fax: (530) 347-0329 www.shastalivestock.com F

Cattlemen’s Livestock Market Sale every Wednesday 12495 E. Stockton Blvd., Galt, California Office: (209) 745-1515 www.clmgalt.com

IDAHO

F

Treasure Valley Livestock Auction Beef sale every Friday; General sale every other Saturday 1901 E. Chicago, Caldwell, Idaho Office: (208) 459-7475; (800) 788-4429 treasurevalleylivestock.com

Livestock Auction Services

58 THE NEVADA RANCHER – MAY 2018

OREGON

Producers Livestock Marketing Assn.

11 South 100 West, Jerome, Idaho Office: (208) 324-4345 Cattle auction every Tuesday; dairy auction every-other Wednesday www.producerslivestock.com

Producers Livestock Marketing Sale every Wednesday P.O. Box 67, Vale, Oregon Office: (541) 473-3136 www.producerslivestock.com F

Central Oregon Livestock Auction Sale Every Monday 3457 S.W. Hwy. 97 Madras, Oregon Office: (541) 475-3851 www.centraloregonlivestock

WESTERN REGION Western Video Market Satellite video auctions www.wvmcattle.com