2024 Gold Buckle Winners shine at the NILE Page A5
USDA's Beagle Brigade searches for prohibited ag products at airports Page B1
Oversized cattle influence consumer protein buying preferences Page B6
Winterizing the coop keeps chickens comfortable and productive through winter months Page B7
The Wyoming Stock Growers Association has announced a third application period to assist Wyoming livestock producers affected by fire, which will close on Nov. 22. Application forms are available at wysga.org or by calling 307638-3942. Completed applications can also be mailed to PO Box 206, Cheyenne, WY 82003 or e-mailed to susan@wysga.org.
The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) will be hosting two virtual meetings on understanding animal disease traceability. The Zoom meetings are set for Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 6 at 7 a.m. For more information or to access the Zoom links, visit @StateofWyomingLivestockBoard on Facebook.
Wyoming is seeing an increase in turnout across the state compared to turnout numbers from previous election cycles. As of Oct. 28, absentee turnout by mail and in person exceeded 76,000, which is over 30% of the number of registered voters in Wyoming. Secretary of State Chuck Gray stated, “Turnout continues to outpace the 2022 General Election across the Cowboy State as eligible Wyoming voters exercise their right to vote.”
The Wyoming Department of Agriculture and University of Wyoming (UW) Extension, in partnership with the Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, are hosting a Wyoming Agricultural Stress Symposium at the UW Ag Resource Center in Casper. The symposium will start at 1 p.m. on Nov. 13 and at 8 a.m. on Nov. 14. Participants will have opportunities to learn about resources available across the state and participate in several trainings. For more information, contact Lucy Pauley at 307777-8788 or e-mail lucy. pauley@wyo.gov.
During the last full week of October, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee released its prelimi-
nary recommendations for the 2025-30 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), a framework providing
advice on what to eat and drink to meet nutritional needs, promote healthy living and prevent disease.
As part of these new recommendations, the committee pushes even harder for
For more than 70 years, the Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC) has been organizing an annual conference to unite its 23 districts and advance the organization’s mission of safeguarding Wyoming’s agricultural lands and open spaces from invasive species.
On Oct. 29-31, individuals gathered at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Casper to attend the WWPC’s 80th Annual Conference.
During the three-day event, participants engaged in
various activities such as training sessions, business meetings, historical presentations and legislator roundtables.
The conference is an excellent opportunity for individuals to expand their knowledge, establish connections and enjoy camaraderie with fellow professionals.
The WWPC’s efforts and commitment ensures Wyoming remains a beautiful and pristine environment for outdoor enthusiasts and landowners.
Please see WWPC on page A14
Fall conference – Wyoming Weed and Pest Council held its 80th annual fall conference and business meeting Oct. 29-31, where U.S.
Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wyoming State Plant Health Director Bruce Shambaugh gave a report on the agency's current projects. WYLR photo
The Northern International Livestock Exposition (NILE) drew hundreds of livestock producers, youth exhibitors and rodeo athletes from across the U.S. and Canada to Billings, Mont. for the annual week-long stock show and rodeo, held Oct. 11-19.
Over the course of these seven days, livestock judges sorted through some of the highest-quality classes of market and breeding beef, goats, hogs, lambs and youth showman.
Amidst the tough competition were numerous exhibitors and breeders hailing from Wyoming and other Western states who took home top honors in their respective shows.
Beef show results
In the Junior Fed Market Steer Show, Livestock Judge Amanda Schnoor of Chowchilla, Calif. honored Chael Roberts of Absarokee, Mont. with the “Grand Champion Slap,” while Wyoming’s own Taryn Miller took reserve-champion honors back home to Douglas.
Fellow Wyoming beef showmen Jace Rich of Newcastle and Hadley Cooper of Powell impressed in the senior showmanship division, earning grand and reserve honors, respectively.
Raegan Nash of Pocatello, Idaho was the Grand Champion Junior Beef Showman and Layton Mrnak of Bowman, N.D. was the reserve champion.
In the open breeding show, Hadley Hartman of Tecumseh, Neb. exhibited the Supreme Champion Female, TBARS MS 5028K, while Lazy JB Angus, LLC of Montrose, Colo. had the Supreme Champion Bull, BRDG Mahogany Prime 904B.
Wyoming youth impress at National FFA Convention
Youth from sea to shining sea donned their navy and gold and gathered in Indianapolis for the 97th National FFA Convention and Expo Oct 23-26.
While there, chapters hailing from the state of Wyoming proved a competitive force in multiple competitions.
Top 10 teams Awards were presented to national event winners throughout the week, and on Oct. 24 winners of the National FFA Agricultural Sales Career Development Event (CDE) were announced.
According to the National FFA Organization, the Agricultural Sales CDE allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real-life situations through sales presentations, a written exam and a team sales situation.
The top 12 individuals and the national winning team in the event received cash awards.
The Torrington-Lingle FFA Chapter, made up
Individuals honored at WWPC conference
During the 80th Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC) Conference individuals were recognized for making a significant impact in managing invasive species in Wyoming.
On Oct. 30, members of Wyoming’s 23 weed and pest districts gathered at their annual awards banquet to honor several individuals who have played pivotal roles in conserving Wyoming’s natural beauty and for their extensive years of service.
The awards program began in 1984 and has grown to include the Harold P. Alley Award, Everett Johnson Award, Archie Lauer Award and Guy Haggard Award.
To kick off the evening, Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) addressed the large crowd of WWPC employees and honorary guests.
“I’m here tonight as I think it’s pretty exciting WWPC is celebrating 80 years of service, and this organization is near and dear to my heart,” she said. “You all are the experts in this industry, and I welcome your ideas, recommendations or suggestions, as I know with the recent fires Wyoming has sustained, we are facing some challenges ahead of us. But, I am here to help.”
Years of Service awards WWPC President Donley Darnell
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans were first released in 1980. It was established when Congress passed the National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act, which mandated the Dietary Guidelines be published jointly by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) every five years.
Currently, we are under the 2020-25 edition of the guidelines until the 2025-30 guidelines are released.
I think when the guidelines were first released, consumers could see value and read through them while making up their own minds about what to eat.
Remember in 1980 when we didn’t have all of the fastfood drive-ups and processed foods in the grocery stores? We mostly ate in our homes and not in our cars. We all knew what a pot roast was – complete with potatoes, gravy and onions.
Maybe the Kraft Foods Macaroni and Cheese was the start of the processed food era. Now it is hard to find something without sugar or corn syrup in it.
I don’t think people today take much notice of the guidelines, as they don’t like the government telling them what to eat. It will make news for a day or two, but mostly people are talking about what they don’t want us to eat anymore, which has gotten so political.
If one looks at the makeup of the guidelines committee, they seem to be younger people who work at universities with PhDs. I would guess they all grew up in cities and don’t know how to garden. Their food and vegetables come in a box once a week. And while I’m not against getting food from a box once a week, most people nowadays –particularly in the cities – just don’t realize where their food actually comes from.
I’m sure some individuals on the committee don’t eat meat of any kind, which is okay, but from the preview of the new guidelines results, they don’t want anyone else eating meat either.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Executive Director of Nutrition and Registered Dietitian Dr. Shalene McNeill points out, “There have been more than four decades of dietary guidelines advice, and during this time red meat consumption has declined, yet obesity and chronic disease are on the rise.”
McNeill goes on to say, “Seventy percent of the calories in the U.S. diet are plant based. Now the committee wants to reduce red meat intake even further, marginalizing the 80 percent of the population who identify themselves as meat eaters. These recommendations put some of the most vulnerable at risk for nutrient gaps, especially older Americans, adolescent girls and women of child-bearing age.”
And now the committee is going after whole milk. We’ve heard for years how whole milk is good for strong bones, but in the last couple editions of the guidelines, we’re supposed to drink low-fat milk from happy cows.
I have to think there are some on the committee who trend towards being an animal rights activist and don’t want cows on the planet. They have never taken time to realize the benefits of a cow and the care it receives.
If one looks at older pictures of people from 40 years ago, there are usually not many overweight people, but nowadays we see more and more overweight people. I think a lot of it is due to the food we eat today.
By Ashley Beying
Sometimes, life is heavy. Several months ago, I was in the throes of motherhood, having a newborn baby as well as three other little ones. Trying to balance my career, household duties, being a mother and a wife and helping on the farm after my maternity leave quickly became overwhelming. To put it lightly, I was exhausted.
There were days where it felt easier to just stay in bed and not succumb to the pressures of the outside world.
I am fortunate in that when the stress and all of the demands of the world seemed too heavy for me to carry, I had a team of family and friends to pick me up
and serve as my anchor.
I knew I had to lighten the load of responsibilities I was accountable for and focus on the things that matter most to me.
Working full time during the day and coming home to work full time on the farm in the evening can be allencompassing, and sometimes self care can put one’s emotional and mental health in a better place.
For me, this is making sure I get up and exercise and staying connected with my loved ones. For others, it may be seeing their therapist, eating healthy or practicing yoga.
Living and working in a rural area can be so enrich-
ing, but at times it may feel isolating.
My husband and I made the conscious choice to live in a rural area, and I honestly cannot think of a better place to raise my children with the supportive community behind us.
Rural life can be full of double rainbows and magical sunsets, but also moments where you feel like you are flying through endless clouds of turbulence, going up and down, questioning if it will ever stop.
Between fluctuating market prices, weather conditions, fatigue and the workload farmers and ranchers face, the stress can be daunting and at times may feel
unconquerable. I know this narrative is not uncommon, as more people than we truly know struggle – although at times one can feel entirely and completely alone.
The most poignant epiphany is knowing just this – we are not alone.
The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has recently partnered with the Farm Family Wellness Alliance to offer a service called Togetherall to farm and ranch family members who are age 16 or older.
Togetherall is an anonymous online support community for those engaged in agriculture. It provides peer support to those who need
The Beef Reproduction Task Force (BRTF) presented Estrotect General Manager Boyd Dingus with the Friend of BRTF award on Sept. 4 during the Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle Symposium (ARSBC) in Athens, Ga.
This was the first year the Friend of the BRTF Award was presented in recognition of Dingus’ long-term dedication and contributions to the task force.
Hailing from Weatherford, Texas, Dingus participated in the first meeting which established an educational partnership between industry and academia 20 years ago.
BRTF, together with the national Beef Reproduction Leadership Team, work to promote wider adoption of reproductive technologies among cow/calf producers, educate cow/calf producers in management considerations to increase the likelihood of successful artificial insemination and educate producers in marketing options to capture benefits resulting from the use of improved reproductive technologies.
“The BRTF relies on the financial support of many in the industry to defray costs of our meetings and other activities,” says Sandy Johnson, BRTF member at Kansas State University. “But Dingus’ support has been far beyond this – providing advice, advocacy and encouragement to the group.”
For more information about this year’s BRTF symposium, visit beefrepro.org/
The Second Annual Green River Valley Rancher’s Workshop will take place Dec. 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Sublette County Extension Office in Pinedale.
The free event will feature presentations from several University of Wyoming Extension educators and specialists covering topics such as supplementation, cow herd management, heifer development, markets, livestock risk protection and forage prediction tools.
Lunch will be provided for those who RSVP. To do so, contact the Sublette County Extension Office via e-mail at dmontgo8@uwyo.edu or call 307-367-4380.
Johnson and Platte County communities impacted by devastating wildfires this year continue to receive disaster relief support from Farm Credit Services of America (FCSAmerica).
To date, FCSAmerica has donated $15,000 to aid relief efforts in Johnson and Platte counties, helping local residents rebuild and recover.
“As a financial cooperative owned and governed by farmers and ranchers, we work every day to fulfill our mission to serve rural communities and agriculture. Our disaster relief efforts reflect this commitment,” says Mark Jensen, president and chief executive officer of FCSAmerica. “Wildfires have disrupted business vital to rural communities, as well as the lives of many rural residents.”
“In the immediate aftermath of the wildfires, our focus was on volunteering and supporting emergency services. Where needs remain, our contributions have shifted to long-term recovery efforts,” he says. “Just as our customer-owners know they can depend on us in tough times, we are here for rural communities.”
FCSAmerica has directed disaster relief funds and volunteer hours to the Wyoming Stock Growers Wildfire Relief Fund and Big Horn Equestrian Center Wildfire Relief Fund.
The Public Lands Council (PLC) is issuing a call for videographers to support the creation of digital content in the coming year.
PLC is seeking a number of videographers with advanced video production skills to capture audio and visual content on farms and ranches throughout the western U.S. Applicants must be available for work on a contracted basis; supply their own equipment, including – but not limited to – cameras, microphones, lighting equipment, sound equipment, computers and/or video editing software and have the correct equipment and skill to record and edit highquality, high-resolution videos for use on social media, broadcast television, websites and other platforms.
Additionally, PLC strongly prefers applicants have prior experience on farms and ranches, understand basic farm/ ranch safety procedures and practices and are comfortable near livestock.
To be considered, submit a sample of your work and join PLC’s videographer roster. For more information and to access an application form, visit publiclandscouncil.org
Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (R-WY) introduced the Protecting Agricultural Spaces Through Effective Ranching Strategies (PASTURES) Act which will safeguard landowners with property adjacent to federally-leased land from federal enforcement actions related to livestock trespassing.
“The Biden-Harris administration continues to reduce grazing opportunities for livestock producers who hold federal grazing leases. This administration is making it increasingly difficult for ranchers on public and private lands to adjust to sudden changes in allocations – often creating circumstances where livestock cross into unfenced land, which ultimately results in heavy penalties for the rancher,” Hageman explained.
“My bill will prohibit federal land management agencies from enforcing a trespass after permits or leases are adjusted or rescinded until the relevant land management agency constructs a fence to keep the livestock out,” she continued. “Livestock grazing is an important land management tool we should be using more – not less – on our federal lands. This legislation would help ranchers while also requiring our agencies to be better neighbors on our public lands by applying these appropriate fencing protocols.”
The PASTURES Act provides ranchers with the security and stability needed to continue their operations after significant federal decisions are made regarding the surrounding land. The bill has the support of the American Stewards of Liberty, Wyoming Farm Bureau, Wyoming Stock Growers Association and R-CALF USA.
FEEDERS
Doug Hatch 100 Blk, few Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 800-850#, Complete Vac Program, Coming off Grass, No Implants
Gerald Roundy 60 Blk Strs, 850#, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass
WEANED CALVES
Bates Creek Cattle Co. 695 Blk/Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 500-575#, Weaned for 45 days, Running out on Hay Meadows, Branding Shots: Inforce, BoviShield One Shot, Vision 7, Pre-cond. Shots (Aug. 1): Bovi-Shield One Shot, Weaning Shots (Sept. 1): Inforce, Vision 7, No Implants, All Natural, Age & Source, SAV, NHTC, VBN Verified thru IMI Global Fosha Ranch 39 Blk Angus Strs & Hfrs, 500-550#, Branding Shots: Vision 7/Somnus & Spur & BoviShield Gold One Shot, Precond Shots: Alpha 7, BoviShield Gold One Shot & Clean Up II, Weaned 25 days, Grass Hay & Cake Broke, High Altitude, Raised at 8000-8500 ft, Home Raised Raechel Nelson 39 Blk/Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 500-650#, Weaned 30+ days, Grass Hay, Been on a Mineral Program, Branding Shots: Pyramid 5+Presponse, Ultra Choice 7, Pre-cond. Shots: Pyramid 5+Presponse, Ultra Choice 7, +Summered at 7000’, Home Raised, No Implants, No Antibiotics, BQA Will Jurek 23 Blk Bull Calves & Hfrs, 300-425#, Weaned 50+ days, Bunk Broke, Alfalfa Hay and 1 ½# of Corn, 2 Rounds of Shots: Convexin 8-way, 1 Round of Vira Shield 6, No Implants PRE-COND. CALVES
Bill & Mary Strauch 250 Mostly Blk Strs & Hfrs, 500#, Branding Shots: Pyramid 5+Presponse & 7-way, Precond Shots: Pyramid 5+Presponse, 7-way & Injectable Valcore Wormer, Producer All Natural, Coming off Grass Bell Livestock/Russell Bell 140 Mostly Blk Strs & Hfrs, 400-450#, Branding Shots: Pyramid 5, 7-way, Pre-cond. Shots (Oct. 12): Bovi-Shield Gold 5, 7-way, All Calves are Angus Sired, Home Raised CALVES Kent Brickman 90 Red Angus Strs & Hfrs, 300-475#, Branding Shots: Bovi-Shield Gold, 7-way, Steers are Knife Cut Dale Anderson 27 Angus/Hereford-x Strs & Hfrs, 500-600#, Branding Shots: Bovi-Shield Gold One Shot, Ultrabac 7, No Implants
Gov. Mark Gordon has announced the Wyoming awardees of the Colorado-Wyoming Climate Resilience Engine grants.
Chosen from a field of nearly 50 proposals, the University of Wyoming (UW) and Laramie-based start-up HighPlains Biochar were selected by the inaugural grant program. The projects address key, emerging aspects of natural resource management in the two-state region, including water security, wildfire prediction and response, enhanced weather modeling, soil carbon sequestration and methane emissions monitoring.
UW received a project research award focused on water security and weather prediction. High Plains Biochar has been awarded a translation grant for work in soil carbon capture and analytics. In addition, UW is a partner institution on three separate grants.
“When Wyoming joined the Colorado-Wyoming Climate Resilience Engine, we were focused on addressing specific emerging natural resource issues with particular importance to Wyoming – including the impacts of droughts and wildfires – in innovative ways,” Gordon said. “It is a tribute to the good work of UW, High Plains Biochar and the Colorado-Wyoming Climate Resilience Engine that they were the first to receive this important funding from the National Science Foundation.”
Ochsner Roth Cattle Co. 351 Blk Hfrs, AI’D Bred to “Connealy Rowden” a Blk Angus Bull (With Proven Calving Ease, High Growth Performance, Excellent Maternal and Weaning Indexs) Ultra-sound to CF: Feb. 8, Complete Vac. Program: 2 Rounds of Bovi-Shield Gold 5, One Shot, Pasturella, Multi-Min 90, Ultrabac 7/Somnus at Weaning, Pre-breeding Shots: Bovi-Gold FP+L5 HB Springfield Ranch 44 Red/Rwf Cows, 3-4 hd are AI’d, Balance Bred to Schuler Red Angus Bulls, CF: March 1, Complete Vac, 1st ScourGuard Shot
Dylan Hager 35 Blk/Bwf Hfrs, 1000#, AI’d Bred to Sitz Domain and Cleaned up with Ochsner Heifer Bull, CF: March 1, Full Vac. Program, Home
Raised
Sidwell Herefords 3 Registered Hereford Hfrs, Bred to Son of BR Rip Wheeler E092, CF: Feb. 20, Shots: Cattle Master 4+VL5, Vision 8 Somnus, Poured w/Silence, Registration papers available for an additional cost
BRED COWS
T-Bench Land & Livestock 110 Mx Cows, ST, Bred to Blk Angus Bulls, CF: April 15 for 45 days
Springfield Ranch 38 Red/Rwf Cows, Bred to Schuler Red Angus Bulls & 30% Haas Black Angus Bulls, CF: Mid March for 50 days, Complete Vac, 1st ScourGuard
John Ledingham 16 Angus/Gelbievh-x Cows, 6-7 yr olds, Bred to Blk Bull, CF: March 15 for 45 days, Selling only due to drought conditions, All Raised a calf.
Sidwell Herefords 2 Registered Hereford Cows, Coming 4 and Coming 6 Yr olds, Bred to BR Rip Wheeler E092, CF: Feb. 20 for 50 daus. Complete Modified Live Vac. Program, Poured, Registration papers are available for an additional cost
3yr/Apr-May Bred Cow 1098 $2,100.00
H5 Cattle Co 18 Black ST/Mar-Apr Bred Cow 1468 $2,000.00
H5 Cattle Co 11 Black SS/Mar-Apr Bred Cow 1426 $1,975.00
Boot Ranch LLC 10 Black SS-ST/Feb-Mar Bred Cow 1337 $1,950.00
Rafter Star Ranch 11 Black ST/Apr-May Bred Cow 1393 $1,910.00
Bridgit Downs 12 Black SS-ST/Apr-May Bred Cow 1447 $1,900.00
Corky Fosher 16 Black ST/Mar-Apr Bred Cow 1338 $1,825.00
Coberly Creek Ranch 8 Black SM/June Bred Cow 1438 $1,800.00
Double D Cattle Co 7 Blk/Red SS-ST/Feb-Mar Bred Cow 1487 $2,010.00
Double D Cattle Co 18 Blk/Red ST/Feb-Mar Bred Cow 1269 $1,935.00
Shirley Keil 1 BWF SM/Feb-Mar Bred Cow 1295 $2,000.00
Joe Patterson 34 Red 3yr/Apr-May Bred Cow 888 $3,000.00
Joe Patterson 60 Red 3yr/Apr-May Bred Cow 979 $2,900.00
Joe Patterson 10 Red 3yr/Apr-May Bred Cow 1169 $2,525.00
Boot Ranch LLC 3 Red 3-SM/Feb-Mar Bred Cow
Double D Ranch Co 5 Red SM/Feb-Mar Bred Cow 1224 $2,250.00
Dustin Beck 14 Black Apr-May Bred Heifer 878
Thomas Painter 1 BWF Mar-Apr Bred Heifer
Christian Winger 6 RWF Mar-Apr Bred Heifer
Fred Reichert 2 Black 3-SM Pairs
SALE RESULTS -FEEDER SPECIAL WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 30 - 5401 HD
Gerald Roundy 19 Black Steer 687 280.00 $1,923.60 Kevin Gaukel 15 Black Steer 719 274.50 $1,973.66
“Wyoming and Colorado may not always see eye-toeye, but our economies are related, and I will always support efforts within each of our states to benefit our citizens,” Gordon added.
Nov. 2 marks 2024 National Bison Day, a celebration of America’s national mammal – the American Bison.
As it has for nearly a decade now, the U.S. Senate in September passed the National Bison Day resolution. As the species continues its restoration to its native landscape, National Bison Day recognizes the animal’s importance to American culture, conservation and commerce.
Bison neared extinction 150 years ago due to a combination of unregulated hunting, persistent drought and disease and a disregard for conserving the species. The species’ numbers dropped to under 1,000 bison left in the world.
Thanks to a cohort of forward-thinking ranchers, conservationists and federal officials, the American bison was saved from extinction. This collaboration remains intact today, resulting in restoring the species to over 400,000 animals across North America.
This unique collaboration among conservation, Tribal and agricultural bison stakeholders led to the establishment of bison as the U.S. National Mammal in 2016.
This National Bison Day, bison farms and ranches, zoos, Native American Tribes, museums, schools and more will celebrate this iconic species across America. The National Bison Association encourages all bison enthusiasts to take part in these activities to learn more about bison and to celebrate its continued restoration.
For more information about National Bison Day, visit bisoncentral.com/perfected-item/bison-regenerative-by-nature/
The Wyoming Stock Growers Association is offering four scholarships for students in agricultural pathways to attend the annual Winter Roundup Convention and Trade Show, held Dec. 9-11 at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Casper.
The scholarship will cover full convention registration and applications are due by Nov. 12. Scholarship winners will be notified via e-mail on Nov. 20.
For more information or to request an application, e-mail madeline@wysga.org or call 307-638-3942.
others to bring them strength when times get challenging. Because it is anonymous, one may interact with others in the agricultural community who are halfway across the country but are there to provide encouragement and advice.
Whether it is working through a farm transition, dealing with a loss or just feeling overwhelmed and overworked, this medium of support can let individuals know they are not alone.
Rural life can be difficult, but I know all too well tough times make stronger individuals. Sometimes all we have to do is learn to see the rainbow after the storm.
Ashley Beying is an AFBF member, farmer and rancher in Kansas. This column was adapted from an “Insightˮ column published by the Kansas Farm Bureau on Sept. 5.
In 1966, discussions began about hosting an event to showcase the region’s vast livestock industry, and by the fall of 1968, the first Northern International Livestock Exposition (NILE) showcased livestock and horse shows, a rodeo, multiple exhibitors and hundreds of entries.
Those traditions continued on at the 2024 NILE Stock Show and Pro Rodeo, held in Billings, Mont. on Oct. 11-19, where exhibitors and visitors gathered to celebrate one of the largest agricultural events of the Northwest.
This year, the NILE was once again recognized by the American Quarter Horse Association for its Ranch Horse Versatility and Heritage Show.
As this program continues to expand, it provides an excellent competition for horses and equestrians to showcase their abilities
Gold Buckle Futurity
According to the NILE website, each horse purchased through the NILE Gold Buckle Select Horse Sale or sired by a participating stallion is eligible to compete in the Gold Buckle Futurity.
Gold Buckle Futurity entrants can show horses ranging from weanlings to an aged horse and are split into two main events – ranch horse or barrel racing.
“Weanlings are shown
strictly in halter and are judged on ranch conformation, including a positive combination of balance, structural correctness and movement for appropriate breed and sex characteristics and adequate muscling,” reads the NILE website.
This year’s Gold Buckle Weanling Ranch Horse Futurity class winner was Joe Hawkins of Ballantine, Mont. with Scandalouslystruttin.
Hawkins first-place red dun stallion comes from a long line of horses who are versatile, smart, athletic and easily trained.
Ward Fenton of Worden, Mont. took home secondplace honors with a stunning bay stallion called Call Six Guns, a fantastic rope horse prospect.
Fenton also took home a third-place win with A Montana Cat, a sorrel mare with a pedigree going back to Doc Bar.
In the Gold Buckle Yearling Futurity Ranch Horse class, horses are shown on the ground in a round pen and judged on ranch conformation and in a timed exhibition testing the horse’s movement, training and manners.
This year, Tyrell Bucklund of Frenchtown, Mont. secured first- and secondplace honors in the yearling class.
A stallion, One Royal Fancy Step, took home the first-place buckle, while Lady
Smokin Tanqueray earned Buckland a second-place win. Landing in third place was Will Lyons of Billings, Mont. with a Quarter Horse named TDM Stormy Boon. More Gold Buckle winners
In the two-year-old ranch horse class, exhibitors compete in a reining and trail course, which may include trotting over poles, a bridge or through a gate and can demonstrate loping in both directions.
This year’s 2024 NILE Gold Buckle Ranch Horse Futurity winner in the twoyear-old class was Steve Bond of Worden, Mont. with Genuine GT.
Following Bond was Dean Sanford of Helena, Mont. on Playguns Pistol Pep in second place, and rounding out the top three was Hannah Goffena of Roundup, Mont. on One Smart Sign.
In the three-year-old class, teams are able to compete in a Limited Working Ranch Horse event, which consists of a box-drive style cow horse class.
Securing a first-place finish in the three-year-old futurity class was Paul Van Dyke of Sheridan on TDM Playboys Driftin.
Quinn Larsen of Deaver slid into second place on Heavens Mark, while Aspen Larmer of Molt, Mont. landed in third place on Pretty Smooth Mate.
Lastly, in the four- and
five-year-old and up class, competitors have the option to continue showing in Limited Working Ranch Horse or advance to the Working Ranch Horse class, which consists of a reigning pattern, box work and fence work.
Crystal Andersen of Mountain View, the 2023 NILE winner in the threeyear-old ranch horse futurity class, took home first-place honors in the four-year-old futurity category, with the same American Paint horse, a bay tobiano stallion named Paddys Hydrive.
Landing in second place was Faith Stevenson of Hobson, Mont. who also competed in the 2023 NILE with the same Quarter Horse Montana Kat. Goffman and Sheas Fancy Barbie earned another spot in the winner’s circle, securing third place.
Larsen earned another
Gold Buckle with top honors in the five-year-old futurity class, winning the event with Smooth Sixtys CD.
Josh Bilbrey of Scobey, Mont. landed in second place on A Montana Frenchman and Kiarra Kennedy of Roundup, Mont. rounded out the top three on Haida RJ.
The winning continues
The Gold Buckle Incentive Barrel Racing consists of three divisions – futurity, derby and maturity –and Amy Vogel of Billings, Mont. won the Gold Buckle Barrel Futurity class on PDS Famous Whiskey.
In the Gold Buckle Barrel Derby class, Joelene Gould of Meridian, Idaho secured first place on JG Eye Opening Lena, and Jamie Riley Zingg of Hardin, Mont. secured second place with JRS Cruisin To A Win. Katie Kading of Billings, Mont. landed in third
place on StreakinTaThePardi.
Ending the NILE horse event winners list was Chad Wiltfang of Rosebud, Mont., the lucky 2024 NILE filly raffle winner.
The 2024 NILE raffle filly was Rawhides Rez, donated by Nate and TJ Wald of Wald Ranch near Lodge Grass, Mont.
Each year the NILE sells tickets for a chance to win a top-notch horse donated by an established ranch and the ticket sales support NILE youth programs.
These horses are some of the best in Montana and surrounding states, and the drawing took place during the NILE Gold Buckle Select Horse Sale.
Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
December 3
Silver Legacy | Reno, NV Consignment Deadline: November 14
January 6
North Platte Stockyards | North Platte, NEConsignment Deadline: December 26
of Connor Booth, Natalie Speckner, Louden Bremer and Anna Frederick, finished ninth overall and received a gold team emblem.
Additionally, Bremer, Speckner and Frederick received individual gold emblems in the event, and Booth received a silver emblem.
The next day, during the National FFA Livestock Evaluation CDE, Casper FFA took home honors as the fourth-place team overall and secured a gold team emblem.
Garrett Burkett and Carter Cox earned individual gold emblems, while Emerson Hornecker and Madison Dickinson earned silver emblems.
Also on Oct. 24, 10 winners of the 2024 National FFA Agricultural Proficiency Awards were named during the third session of the national convention, and one Wyoming resident was called to the stage.
According to the National FFA Organization, Agricultural Proficiency Awards honor FFA members who, through supervised agricultural experience (SAE), have developed specialized skills which they can apply to their future careers.
Hayden Hubbard of the Burns FFA Chapter earned the National FFA Agricultural Proficiency Award in the Diversified Livestock Production Entrepreneurship and Placement category.
Hubbard runs a show hog, show cattle and market steer operation, which he has diversified to also include
selling processed meat direct to consumers.
Team and individual emblems
In addition to recognizing top-performing teams and individuals, judges rank competing chapters into three categories – gold, silver and bronze – based on how well they accomplish the organization’s mission and strategies in each event.
Including those earned in the Agricultural Sales and Livestock Evaluation CDEs, Wyoming teams returned home with emblems in 18 of 26 competitions held during the 97th National FFA Convention.
In the Agronomy CDE, where participants’ knowledge of agronomic sciences in tested, Wheatland FFA earned a silver team emblem, while team members Corinne Gaby and Nolan Allen earned individual silver emblems and Jazlynne Gonzalez and Landon Thomas earned bronze emblems.
The National FFA Creed Speaking Leadership Development Event (LDE) tests members on their ability to present the National FFA Creed in a competitive setting, and Addisyn Perkins of Lovell FFA earned a bronze emblem in the event.
During the Extemporaneous Public Speaking LDE, members are given 30 minutes to prepare a four- to six-minute speech and respond to five minutes of questions on a specific agricultural issue. Hubbard took home an individual silver emblem in this event.
Likewise, the Public Speaking LDE requires members to prepare and deliver an eight- to 10-min-
ute speech from memory and respond to five minutes of questions. Trever Campbell of Casper FFA was recognized with a silver emblem in the contest.
Wheatland FFA impressed during a few national events throughout the week, earning a silver team emblem in the Veterinary Science CDE, with team members Kaylee Rasnake and Megan Sagner earning silver emblems and Lily Nichols and Sabella Douglas earning bronze emblems.
Additionally, Wheatland FFA team members Hunter Furl and Rylie Davis earned individual gold emblems in the Farm and Agribusiness Management CDE, while Karly Jones and Jessie Graves earned silver emblems.
The Wheatland chapter also earned a bronze team emblem in the Environmental and Natural Resources CDE, which tests students’ problem-solving and decision-making skills regarding topics such as soil profiles, water quality, waste management and the use of global positioning systems.
Ace Keil of the Wheatland FFA earned an individual silver emblem, while fellow team members Clayton Dahlstedt, Carter Herb and Cooper Meyer earned bronze emblems.
In the Meats Technology and Evaluation CDE, Cheyenne Frontier FFA took home silver emblem honors, with members Haylee Bruckner and Brody Medina earning gold emblems and Regan Allen and Gage Broda earning silver emblems.
Bearlodge Sundance FFA had a strong showing in the Horse Evaluation CDE, with Tessa Sanderson
and Savannah Peterson recognized with gold-emblem honors and Avery Marchant and Cienna McGuckin earning silver emblems.
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Casper FFA was honored again with a silver emblem in the Poultry Evaluation CDE, with Lily Smith and Jonathan Danford earning individual gold emblems, Nathan Danford and Noah Danford earning silver emblems and Madalynn Magee earning a bronze emblem.
The Ag Technology and Mechanical Systems CDE includes a written exam, a team event, demonstration of problem-solving skills and hands-on performance activities. In this CDE, Douglas FFA earned a silver team emblem. Team members Dean Shatto and Miles Chapman earned individual silver emblems, while Tyler Bevers and Waylon Boynton earned bronze emblems.
Also during the week, Cheyenne High Plains FFA earned a bronze team emblem in the Agricultural Issues Forum LDE, Snowy Range FFA earned a gold emblem in the Parliamentary Procedure LDE and Casper FFA earned a gold emblem in the Marketing Plan CDE.
Sarah Birdsall of the Torrington-Lingle FFA earned a silver emblem in the Employment Skills LDE as well.
Lastly, the Conduct of Chapter Meetings LDE is a
contest for seventh, eighth and ninth graders who conduct an orderly and efficient chapter meeting using parliamentary procedures. Cheyenne High Plains FFA earned a gold emblem in the contest.
American FFA Degree
According to the National FFA Organization, the American FFA Degree is the highest degree achievable. It shows a FFA member’s dedication to his or her chapter and state FFA association and demonstrates the effort FFA members apply toward their SAE, as well as their outstanding leadership abilities and community involvement.
To be eligible for the American FFA Degree, members must receive a State FFA Degree, be an active FFA member for the past three years, complete at least 540 hours of ag education, maintain records of at least $10,000 in earnings with $7,500 productively invested, maintain a record of leadership abilities and complete at least 50 hours of community service.
Twenty-four Wyoming FFA members received the American FFA Degree this year, including Charmayne Dewey, Jerikah Huelle, Anna Kassens and Sonja Post of Shoshoni FFA; Carleigh Dugger and Klacie Groene of Torrington-Lingle FFA; Kody Feldmann and Destre Kaisler of Lit-
tle Snake River FFA; Nolan Hornecker, Harper Pollock and Afton Stewart of Casper FFA; Macie Hopkin and Zenaena Tryon of Rocky Mountain FFA and Savanna Metz and Caden Wade of Wheatland FFA. Other American FFA Degree recipients include Kinley Grace Anderson of Ten Sleep FFA, Lainy Duncan of Lander FFA, Caytlin Heatherington of Cheyenne Frontier FFA, Jackson Hill of Riverton FFA, Riley Miller of Snowy Range FFA, Allison Morrison of Powell-Shoshone FFA, Karina Mysse of Buffalo FFA, Katherine Olson of Burns FFA and Brand Terrell of Gillette FFA.
National officers
To round out the national convention, a new National FFA Officer Team was elected to serve a oneyear term from 2024-25. Those elected include Thaddeus Bergschneider of Illinois as president, Luke Jennings of Ohio as secretary, Mary Schrieber of Wisconsin as Central Region vice president, Caroline Groth of Kentucky as Eastern Region vice president, Abigale Jacobsen of California as Western Region vice president and Jack Lingenfelter of Georgia as Southern Region vice president. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this arti-
to roundup@wylr.net.
from the Weston County office started off the awards ceremony by recognizing employees and board members for their years of service, with the help of University of Wyoming (UW) Department of Plant Sciences Assistant Professor and Extension Weed Specialist Dr. Kelsey Brock and Wyoming Department of Agriculture Weed and Pest Coordinator Lindsey Woodward.
First, they recognized those who have served WWPC for five years including Holly Kennedy of Albany County; Ken Blackburn, Kie Miller and Dale Nuttall of Big Horn County; Ryan Farthing of Laramie County; Bridger Berry and Jason Gutierrez of Natrona County; Eric Heatherly of Platte County; Jim Gibbs, Rachel Mealor and Andrew Cassidy of Sheridan County; Hadley Manning, Lars Anderson and Peter Guernsey of Sublette County; Lucus Truner of Teton County; Jerri Crompton of Uinta County and Angela Parker of Washakie County.
Doug Balwin of Albany County, William Bonham of Laramie County, Matt Jolivet and John Leman of Natrona County and Gleny Laffitte received honorary pins for serving 10 years.
Those who received awards for serving WWPC for 15 years were James Tarver of Campbell County; Jess Butler of Converse County; Dennis Wambolt of Goshen County; Chip Axtell of Hot Springs County; Cecelia Smock of Laramie County; Allen Sellers of Lincoln County; Jake Jarrett of Park County; Mark Daluge, Coleton Rives, Kasey Mateosky and Lorin Wilson of Teton County and Adrian Hunolt of Uinta County.
Charles Tweedy of Campbell County and Terry Scholz of Hot Springs County have dedicated two decades to the organization.
Celebrating 25 years of service was Bob Shellard and Sollie Cadman of Fremont County, Sam May of Park County and John Watson of Platte County.
Darnell was honored for serving 30 years, while Niobrara County Director Gail Mahnke was recognized for serving WWPC for 35 years.
Mahnke accepted the award for Jim Wasserburger, also from the Niobrara County office, who celebrated 50 years with WWPC but unfortunately was unable to attend.
“I know he would have loved to be here today, but he is not getting around well. He appreciates each and every one of you,” Mahnke said. “This is such an accomplishment, and we are all honored to have been able to work with him.”
WWPC also honored three individuals – Sarah Taylor from Platte County, Alycia Davis from Crook County and Steven Trowbridge from the City of Cheyenne – for earning their
supervisor certifications.
Sheridan County Supervisor Walker Billings was also honored for earning the Rita Beard Award at the North American Invasive Species Management Association Conference.
Harold P. Alley Award
The Dr. Harold P. Alley Award commemorates the contributions of Dr. Harold P. Alley, a renowned weed scientist at UW from 1955-84.
This honor is bestowed upon individuals who have exhibited outstanding support, leadership, motivation and education in advancing weed and pest control programs in Wyoming.
Alley’s exemplary dedication sets a high standard for recipients of this award, and this year’s recipient was Envu Government Relations Liaison Derek Sebastian. Everett Johnson Award
The Everett Johnson Award, established in 1995, commemorates the dedication of Albany County Rancher and longstanding Weed and Pest District Board Member Everett Johnson.
It honors his remarkable contributions to addressing Wyoming’s weed and pest challenges.
This year’s award, given in honor of Johnson, went to Campbell County Supervisor Quade Schmelzle in recognition of his exemplary service as a district employee, showcasing his outstanding practices in weed and pest management within WWPC.
Archie Lauer Award
The Archie Lauer Award, established in 2003, commemorates the legacy of Archie Lauer, who served as the Weed and Pest Supervisor in Niobrara County from 1977 to 2002.
Lauer dedicated himself
to weed and pest programs and the individuals striving to achieve their objectives.
This annual award pays tribute to Lauer by acknowledging an exceptional weed and pest board member who has made significant contributions to the board’s accomplishments and overall success.
This year long-time board member Darrel Repshire, Hillsdale rancher and former Laramie County School District Two bus driver, was honored with the Archie Lauer Award.
Guy Haggard Award
The Guy Haggard Award, established in 2007, commemorates Guy Haggard, a devoted ally of the WWPC.
Despite retiring, Haggard remains actively engaged, attending council meetings out of personal dedication.
This year, Gov. Mark Gordon was recognized for his exemplary qualities such as motivation, friendship, loyalty, camaraderie and unwavering support for both the people and the organization.
“This year’s winner has shown commitment to WWPC over the years and has collaborated across state agencies, enabling discussions about issues effecting the state,” stated Wyoming Department of Agriculture Director Doug Miyamoto who presented Gordon with the award. “This would not have happened without the leadership of Gordon.”
Gordon accepted the award, thanked the organization for honoring him and applauded the outstanding work WWPC continues to do.
Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Jordan Steele, RMC Director of Operations, will lead a full-day workshop on building a livestock business you love to operate. Learn the 3 Secrets to Increasing Profit while building a business from scratch. Discover your own paradigms and the difference between working in vs on your business.
Friday 8-9:15 AM – Discussion on the WY Food Freedom Act and Local Food Market Perspectives 9:15-12PM – RFP Workshop runs as a separate conference track
12-1:30PM – Locally-Grown Lunch & Agri tourism Panel facilitated by Hailey Sorg, UW Extension 1:45-4:30PM – RFP Workshop resumes
Consider joining in the rest of the conference offerings including Friday’s Keynote Address and WY Local Food Dinner, from 6-8pm at the Tate Pumphouse.
Baird, Jack - Thermopolis
1 Hrfd Bull, 1855# $14850
1 Hrfd Bull, 1980# $13750 TD & Sons - Worland
1 Blk Bull, 2010# $13100 Lyman Ranch Co. - Ten Sleep
1 Blk Bull, 1920# $12850
Crouse, Doug - Basin
1 Blk Bull, 1755# $12600
RCA Livestock - Worland
1 Red Bull, 2080# $12400
L U Ranch - Worland
1 Blk Bull, 1450# $12400
Hoyt, Mark - Basin
1 Blk Bull, 1775# $12000
Donley, Janell Dee - Worland
1 Red Bull, 1265# $11800 COWS
Larsen Ranch Co. - Meeteetse
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1295# $12900
1 Blk Cow, 1400# $12600
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1463# $12200
Dobson, Martin - Burlington
1 Blk Cow, 1700# $12750
1 Blk Cow, 1440# $12200
Lyman Ranch Co. - Ten Sleep
1 Blk Cow, 1565# $12650
Mooncrest Ranch - Cody
1 BWF Cow, 1700# $12650
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1285# $11500
Hamilton Ranch Inc. - Hyattville
3 Blk Cows, avg. 1412# $12600
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1395# $12300
1 Blk Cow, 1230# $11950
3 Blk Cows, avg. 1223# $11200
Baird, Jack - Thermopolis
1 Blk Cow, 1475# $12600
Dausman, S. Dave - Lovell
1 Blk Cow, 1770# $12500
1 Blk Cow, 1570# $11100
Greet Ranch - Ten Sleep
1 Blk Cow, 1150# $12200
1 Blk Cow, 1335# $12100
Coble, Mike - Burlington
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1205# $11950
Nicholson, Jerry - Burlington
1 Blk Cow, 1250# $11900
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1418# $11500
Mastre, Shane - Basin
1 RWF Cow, 1150# $11800
French Clay Creek Angus - Greybull
1 Blk Cow, 1540# $11300
Foss, Reaghan - Basin
1 Blk Cow, 1360# $11200
1 Blk Cow, 1300# $10900
Nielson, Hunter - Worland
4 Blk Cows, avg. 1155# $11150 HEIFERETTES
TD & Sons LLC - Worland
3 Blk Hfrettes, avg. 947# $19000
Greet Ranch Inc. - Ten Sleep
Consignments • November 4 • Bawl of the Fall Feeder Special
Mooncrest Ranch – 120 black steers, 30 black heifers, 500-600#, two rounds of shots.
Campbells Inc. – 100 mixed black & BB, 450-600#, shots at branding.
Colter McCumber – 140 mixed black, 450-550#, complete vacc at branding.
SLS Cattle Co. – 100+ mixed black & BB, 400-500#, two rounds of shots, high elevation.
Clayton Galloway – 100 black & BWF steers, 475-525#, complete vacc at branding, knife cut.
Joe & Joy Bain – 100 mixed black, 500#, complete vacc at branding, knife cut.
Cliff Winters – 80 mixed black, 450-550#, complete vacc at branding.
Doyle Ranch – 40 BB steers, 500-575#, two rounds of shots.
Dean Schlattmann – 50 mixed black & red, 500-550#, complete vacc at branding.
Truman Trosper – 55 mixed black, 450-600#, shots at branding, knife cut, high elevation.
Larry Love – 50 mixed black, 450-550#, complete vacc at branding.
Carol & Wade Rogers – 50 Red Angus/Simmental, 450-550#, two rounds of shots.
Brian Skorcv – 40 mixed black, 400-600#, shots at branding, poured.
Keith & Lisa Bower – 40 mixed black, 500-550#, two rounds of shots, poured, weaned.
Star Whitt – 40 mixed black, 400-500#, complete vacc at branding.
Susan Neeves – 30 mixed black, 500-600#, two rounds of shots, weaned 45 days.
Dick Loper – 20 black steers, 10 black heifers, 500-600#, complete vacc at branding.
Ernie & Ruth Geis – 25 mixed, 550-600#.
Brenton Paxton – 24 mixed black, 600#, shots at branding, bunk broke, weanted September.
John Schlager – 10 black steers, 10 black heifers, 500-600#, shots at branding.
Bryan & Marti Warner – 17 mixed Red & SimX, complete vacc at branding,
Mike & Carolyn Conner – 15 mixed black.
Tye Henderson – 15 black
15
a plant-based diet, suggesting Americans replace red meat such as beef with beans, peas and lentils.
Over the past week, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has spoken out to voice their disgust of this sentiment, calling the committee’s recommendations “unhinged” and “out of touch.”
“The preview meeting of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee stands out as one of the most out-of-touch, impractical and elitist conversations in the history of this process,” states NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane in an Oct. 22 press release.
“After 22 months of public discussion and lip service to transparency, we are disappointed by the number of chaotic new directions proposed at the literal last minute,” he continues. “We would laugh at the suggestion beans, peas and lentils are going to replace lean red meat and fill all of the nutrient gaps
Gov. Mark Gordon announced the state of Wyoming has filed an amicus brief in support of Utah on their federal public lands claim pending before the U.S. Supreme Court. Wyo-
Americans are facing if it weren’t such a dangerous and deceptive idea.”
Total package protein
During an episode of NCBA’s Beltway Beef podcast, Registered Dietitian and NCBA Executive Director of Nutrition Science Dr. Shalene McNeill notes, over the past four decades, dietary guidelines have slowly nudged Americans to eat less meat.
However, in this same time frame, the U.S. has seen an increase in obesity, diabetes, nutrient deficiencies and chronic disease.
“Research continues to show, as red meat intake declines, iron and other nutrient deficiencies are on the rise,” she says. “We are headed in the wrong direction in regards to our nutritional adequacy in the U.S., and beef can help offset and close the nutrient gaps we are facing.”
With this, McNeill explains beef offers 10 essential nutrients in just one three ounce serving, including protein, iron, zinc, vita-
mins B6 and B12, choline, niacin, phosphorus, riboflavin and selenium.
While beef offers a total package protein source to all Americans, McNeill notes these essential nutrients are especially critical for adolescent girls, pregnant women and seniors.
“Few foods offer the nutritional package beef offers,” she states.
Consumer preferences
On Oct. 25, McNeill made an appearance on RFDTV to voice NCBA’s concerns regarding the committee’s proposed guidelines.
During the program, she tells RFD-TV News Anchor Suzanne Alexander, not only is encouraging Americans to eat less meat a concern health-wise, it is also out-of-touch when it comes to consumer preferences.
McNeill explains many consumers, particularly those in the health and wellness space, are most interested in including highprotein foods in their diets.
In fact, there has been a recent push in younger generations to eat an “animalbased” diet, which consists of foods that come from
ming joined with the states of Idaho and Alaska, as well as the Arizona Legislature in the amicus.
“Federal ownership of unappropriated land negatively impacts Western states’ ability to regulate local land uses. I consistently preach the best land management policies are developed by those who live close to the lands,” Gordon said. “As we have seen with
Austin Snook • 307-290-2161
Taylor Snook • 307-290-2273
Craig Deveraux • 307-746-5690
Dan Catlin • 406-671-7715
Clint Snook • 307-290-4000
Cheyenne Seymour • 605-641-0638 Kyle
animals such as fresh meat, fish, eggs, dairy and honey, with some going more extreme and eating strictly carnivore.
Proponents of these diets understand the benefits of red meat and prefer it over other sources of protein.
“The public is looking for more protein, but these guidelines are saying we should cut back on highquality protein and replace it with something of less quality like beans, peas and lentils. It just doesn’t make sense,” McNeill states.
“Consumers want to eat food they enjoy – like beef – as part of a healthy diet, so I think we need to be encouraging beef as part of a healthy diet, as opposed to discouraging it,” she adds.
Next steps
Although beef is in demand, McNeill points out the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s push to nix red meat from the DGA is still con-
the Rock Springs and Buffalo resource management plans, the whims of the current administration can have immense impacts on the states where those lands are located.”
cerning, as these guidelines form the basis of nutritional policy.
“I often say, if it is not in the dietary guidelines, it is not going to be in the school lunch program or military feeding programs,” she explains. “It is also the key document which informs so much of what health professionals including physicians and dieticians use to recommend healthy diets.”
“It is a critical document, and it is really important we are involved in shaping the input and research on this document because there is so much good news and great research about how beef can play a very important role in nourishing Americans today,” she continues.
From here, McNeill explains the committee will create a written report by Dec. 9, followed by a comment period where the public can weigh in on the proposed
“The well-established legal principle of multipleuse of public lands is sacred to Wyoming citizens, and this concept is something we have lost in this era of Washington, D.C. constantly curtailing their uses,” he continued. “Wyoming believes it is essential for the states to be
dietary recommendations.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and Department of Health and Human Services will consider the recommendations and public comments to create the final 2025-30 DGA.
NCBA encourages all individuals to provide comments on the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee’s proposed guidelines when the comment period opens.
Meanwhile, NCBA is calling producers and the public to reach out to their respective members of Congress to discourage the committee from eliminating red meat from the DGA.
To do this, visit ncba. org/policy or text BEEF to 52886.
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@ wylr.net.
recognized as the primary authority when it comes to unappropriated lands within our borders. The federal government’s indefinite retention of millions of acres of land is a critical question impacting all Western states, which is why Wyoming has filed this amicus.”
Thank you and we appreciate your business!
RJC Lady Killer 322L ET, a heifer exhibited by Preston Hartman of Tecumseh, Neb., was the Junior Supreme Champion Female, and Bar S Dueces 3519, shown by Jayce Dickerson of Paradise, Kan., was the Junior Supreme Champion Bull.
In the NILE Merit Heifer Show, a heifer exhibited by Maddi Johnson of Susanville, Calif. and donated by Summit Livestock of Charlo, Mont. earned grand-champion honors.
The Reserve Champion NILE Merit Heifer was shown by Elizabeth Jordan of Alva and donated by Doug Booth Family Angus of Torrington.
Johnson also received honors as the NILE Merit Heifer Overall Top Herdsman and was recognized as the Reserve Champion Merit Heifer Showman and had the Top Record Book.
Claire Murnin of Pompey’s Pillar, Mont. was the Grand Champion Merit Heifer Showman and had the Top Interview.
Lamb show results
Former University of Wyoming Livestock Judging Coach Caleb Boardman of Bryan, Texas judged the market lamb, hog and goat shows.
Boardman placed Charleigh Fender of Wells, Nev. at the top of the Junior Fed Market Lamb Show Final Drive, followed by Ryder Hansen of Wellsville, Utah in reserve.
The Supreme Breeding Ewe was exhibited by Hayze Johnson of Benja-
min, Utah, and the Reserve Supreme Breeding Ewe was shown by Laila Sargent of Kalispell, Mont.
In beginner showmanship, Paden Parks of Anaconda, Mont. earned the top spot, followed by Layla Deeds of Hayden Lake, Idaho as reserve.
The Grand Champion Junior Lamb Showman was awarded to Johnson, with Carley Parcell of Heber, Utah in the reserve slot, and the Grand Champion Senior Lamb Showman was Tessa Delmore of Wellington, Colo., followed by Fender as reserve.
Goat show results
In the Junior Fed Market Goat Show, Jana Stearns of Edgemont, S.D. exhibited the Grand Champion Market Goat, while Taygen Johnson of Benjamin, Utah had the Reserve Champion Market Goat.
The Grand Champion Beginner Goat Showmanship title was earned by McCoy Earl of Lewiston, Utah, followed by Gavin Gorzalka of Sheridan in reserve.
Junior goat showmanship was topped by Baylor Johnson of Benjamin, Utah, with Cole Spurlock of Colorado Springs, Colo. finishing as the reserve champion.
Stearns topped the leaderboard again as the Grand Champion Senior Goat Showman, followed by Zane Downey of Whitehall, Mont. in reserve.
Downey and Stearns were recognized yet again during the breeding goat show, exhibiting the
Supreme Breeding Doe and Reserve Supreme Breeding Doe, respectively. Swine show results
Spencer Braaten of Townsend, Mont. had a strong run in the Junior Fed Market and Breeding Swine Show, taking home honors with the Grand Champion Market Swine and Reserve
Supreme Breeding Gilt.
The Reserve Champion Market Swine was exhibited by Megan Otis of Emigrant, Mont., and the Supreme Breeding Gilt was shown by Stetson Westmoreland of Tremonton, Utah.
Otis topped the leaderboard again, taking home honors as the Grand Cham-
pion Senior Showman, followed by Landon Thomas of Benjamin, Utah as reserve.
Sheridan brothers Wyatt and Gavin Gorzalka both earned honors as reserve champion showmen in the junior and beginner categories, respectively.
The Grand Champion
Junior Swine Showman was Kaylee Eiter of Hayden, Idaho and the Grand Champion Beginner Swine Showman was Kenley Tetrick of Pomeroy, Wash. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Nov. 1-4
2024 Angus Convention and Trade Show, Fort Worth, Texas. For more information or to register, visit angusconvention.com
Nov. 4 Wyoming Livestock Board Animal Disease Traceability Virtual Meeting, 7 p.m., Zoom. For more information or to access the Zoom links, visit @StateofWyomingLivestockBoard on Facebook.
Nov. 4-6 2024 Wyoming Society of Range Management Meeting, Ramkota Hotel, Casper. For more information or to register, visit bit.ly/3ZG7A8o
Nov. 6 Wyoming Livestock Board Animal Disease Traceability Virtual Meeting, 7 a.m., Zoom. For more information or to access the Zoom links, visit @StateofWyomingLivestockBoard on Facebook.
Nov. 4-7 Irrigation Show and Education Conference, Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, Long Beach, Calif. For more information, visit irrigation. org/2024show/
Nov. 6 2024 Cover Crop Grazing Conference, West Central Research, Extension and Education Center, North Platte, Neb. For more information, contact Connor Biehler at cbiehler2@unl.edu or 402-624-8030 or Mary Drewnoski at mary. drewnoski@unl.edu or 402-472-6289.
Nov. 7 Stockmanship and Stewardship, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., online. For more information or to register, visit stockmanshipandstewardship.org/
Nov. 7 2024 Krutsinger Beef Scholars Summit, 9:15 a.m., Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center, Mead, Neb. For more information or to register, visit go.unl.edu/beefsummit
Nov. 7-8 Wyoming Women in Ag Symposium, Laramie. For more information and to register, visit wywomeninag.org
Nov. 7-9 Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation 105th Annual Meeting, Casper. For more information, visit wyfb.org
Nov. 11-12 Second Annual Wyoming Association of Irrigation Districts Conference, Hilton Garden Inn, Casper. For more information or to register, visit waidwy. org/w-a-i-d-conference-registration
Nov. 12-14 41st Annual Governor’s Business Forum, University of Wyoming Campus, Laramie. For more information or to register, visit wyomingbusinessalliance.com
Nov. 13-14 Wyoming Agricultural Stress Symposium, University of Wyoming Ag Resource Center, Casper. For more information, Lucy Pauley at 307-777-8788 or lucy.pauley@wyo.gov.
Nov. 14-16
Wyoming Food Coalition Sixth Annual Conference, Casper. For more information or to register, visit wyfoodcoalition.org/fall-conference-2024
Nov. 14-17 29th WRCA World Championship Ranch Rodeo, Amarillo, Texas. For more information, visit wrca.org
Nov. 15 Wyoming Food Coalition Ranching for Profit Workshop, 9:15 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Casper Community College, Casper. For more information, visit wyfoodcoalition.org
Nov. 19 2024 Southeast Wyoming Beef Symposium and Trade Show, Rendezvous Center, Torrington. For more information, visit eventbrite.com/e/2024-southeast-wyoming-beef-symposium-trade-show-tickets-969431053377
Nov. 19-20 U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service Center for Animal Welfare Virtual Avian Enrichment Welfare Symposium, online. For more information, visit aphis.usda.gov/animal-care/caw
Nov. 20 Livestock Theft Informational Meeting, 6 p.m., Glendo Town Hall, Glendo. For more information, contact Lisa Millikin at 307-331-1714.
Nov. 20-22 Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts Annual Convention, The Virginian, Jackson Hole. For more information, visit conservewy.com/events2/2023-annual-convention
Nov. 1
Ochsner Roth Cattle Co. Private Treaty Bull Sale, at the ranch, Torrington, 307-575-6772, 307-575-2709, qualitybulls.com
Nov. 3 Triangle J Ranch Harvest Select Female Sale, at the ranch, Miller, Neb., 308-627-5085, 308-457-2505, 308-293-9241, trianglejranch.com
Nov. 4 Pharo Cattle Company Fall Sale, Burlington Livestock Exchange, Burlington, Colo., 800-311-0995, pharocattle.com
Nov. 9 Leachman Cattle of Colorado Fall Harvest Sale, Leachman Bull Barn, Fort Collins, Colo., 970-568-3983, leachman.com
Nov. 9 Carlson Equipment Fall Consignment Auction, Riverton, 307-856-8123, carlsonequipment.com
Nov. 11
Ludvigson Stock Farms Fall Herdbuilder Bull and Female Extravaganza Sale, Diamond Y Development Center, Park City, Mont., 406-601-9192, ludvigsonstockfarms.com
Nov. 13 Hummel Cattle Company and Friends Angus Bull and Commercial Female Sale, Snowy Range Equestrian Center, Laramie, 307-399-7617
Nov. 14 Bieber Red Angus Ranch Fall Female & Bull Sale, at the ranch, Leola, S.D., 605-439-3628, bieberredangus.com
Nov. 16
Nov. 17
Nov. 18
Nov. 21
Nov. 21
Nov. 21
Nov. 23
Nov. 23
Pharo Cattle Company Fall Sale, Headwaters Livestock, Three Forks, Mont., 800-311-0995, pharocattle.com
The Wyoming Angus Association 14th Annual Wyoming Select Female Sale, Grace Werner Ag Pavilion, Casper College, Casper, 307-630-1593, wyomingangus.org
J&L Livestock Montana Angus Female Bonanza XX, PAYS, Billings, Mont., 406-861-5664, 406-690-1150, northernlivestockvideo.com
K2 Red Angus and Friends Fall Female Sale, K2 sale barn, Wheatland, 307331-2917, k2redangus.com
Largent and Sons “Prime Fuel” Sale, at the ranch, Kaycee, 307-738-2443, 307-267-3229, largentandsons.com
5L Red Angus Winter Profit $eeker Sale, at the ranch, Sheridan, Mont., 406596-1204, 5lbulls.com
Redland Angus Annual Production Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307-250-1548, redlandangus.com
Pharo Cattle Company Fall Sale, Valentine Livestock Auction, Valentine, Neb., 800-311-0995, pharocattle.com
Nov. 25 The Berry’s Herefords Annual Bull Sale, at the ranch, Cheyenne, 307-6345178 and 307-630-7944
Nov. 26
Paint Rock Angus Annual Fall Sale, at the ranch, Hyattville, 307-469-2206, 307-271-2000, 307-272-5332, 307-578-7392, paintrockangus.com
Nov. 26 Huge Premier Retirement Online Auction, Bonesteel, S.D., 800-251-3111, 605-491-4748, wiemanauction.com
Nov. 29-30
Dec. 2
Vermilion Ranch Fall Performance Sale, PAYS, Billings, Mont., 406-6700078, 406-672-5844, vermilionangus.com
Stevenson’s Diamond Dot Angus 64th Annual Fall Production Sale, at the ranch, Hobson, Mont., 406-366-9023, 406-374-2250, stevensonsdiamonddot.com
Dec. 3 Western Video Market, Silver Legacy, Reno, Nev., 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com
Dec. 3
ZumBrunnen Angus Annual Bull and Female Production Sale, at the ranch, Lusk, 307-216-0198, 307-334-2265, zbangus.com
I know I’ve published this poem before, but it is one of my favorites and is especially relevant this screwed-up election year. Please humor me and enjoy.
He was getting old and paunchy and his hair was falling fast, and he sat around the Legion, telling stories of the past.
Of a war that he once fought in and the deeds that he had done, in his exploits with his buddies – they were heroes, every one.
And ‘tho sometimes to his neighbors his tales became a joke, all his buddies listened quietly for they knew whereof he spoke.
But we’ll hear his tales no longer, for ol’ Joe has passed away, and the world’s a little poorer for a Veteran died today.
He won’t be mourned by many, just his children and his wife.
For he lived an ordinary, very quiet sort of life.
He held a job and raised a family, going quietly on his way, and the world won’t note his passing, ‘tho a Veteran died today.
When politicians leave this Earth, their bodies lie in state, While thousands note their passing and proclaim that they were great. Papers tell of their life stories from the time they were young, but the passing of a Veteran goes unnoticed and unsung.
Is the greatest contribution to the welfare of our land, some jerk who breaks his promise and cons his fellow man?
Or the ordinary fellow who in times of war and strife, goes off to serve his country and offers up his life?
The politician’s stipend and the style in which he lives, are often disproportionate to the service that he gives.
While the ordinary Veteran, who offered up his all, is paid off with a medal and perhaps a pension – small.
It is not the politicians with their compromise and ploys, who won for us the freedom that our country now enjoys.
Should you find yourself in danger, with your enemies at hand, would you want some cop-out, with his every waffling stand?
Or would you want a Veteran, his home, his country, his kin, just a common Veteran, who would fight until the end.
He was just a common Veteran, and his ranks are growing thin, but his presence should remind us we may need his likes again. For when countries are in conflict, we find the Veteran’s part is to clean up all the troubles that the politicians start.
– Author: just an unknown common Veteran
This week’s Postcard is a special tribute to a dear lifelong friend and fellow Veteran, Teense Willford, who passed away earlier this summer. He enlisted in the Army in 1961 where he served as a motor sergeant in Germany. Part of his job was to patrol the Berlin Wall, which he witnessed being torn down. He left the Army in 1963 and returned to the homestead on Cow Creek in the Upper North Platte River Valley between Saratoga and Encampment. He was a member of the Angus England American Legion Post No. 54 and the Platte Valley VFW Post No. 6125. “Teense always gave every inch of himself to those around him. He was very proud of his military service,” VFW Commander Jason Campbell noted. “The VFW funeral tribute says it all, ‘As a brave man he served faithfully with abiding faith in God, his county and his flag.’ He will be greatly missed.” Throughout his lifetime, Teense conducted hundreds of military funerals as well as Memorial Day and Veterans Day programs which he always concluded with a rendition of “God Bless America” as pictured in this Saratoga Sun photo. Dick Perue, Air Force Veteran. Historical Reproductions by Perue
Source: USDA- CO Dept of Ag Market News Service, Greeley, CO Wyoming Hay Summary As of October 31, 2024
According to producers, movement and demand is light for this time of year all over Wyoming. According to the Wyoming Crop Progress Report, as of October 27th, 2024 Alfalfa Hay 3rd cutting is 80% completed, other hay 2nd cutting is 42% harvested, corn harvested for silage is 93% completed in the state. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor Website there is a patch of extreme drought with a small patch of exceptional drought in Eastern Wyoming. Western Wyoming is moderately dry to severe dry soil moisture. According to the National Weather Service Website precipitation is below normal for this time of year and temperatures have been a little higher than normal for this time of year.
lower, grass hay steady, Dehy alfalfa pellets steady and ground and delivered hay steady. Some buyers are getting the opportunity to by all of 2023 along with 2024 hay from area producers. There is still quite a lot of hay sitting around the state. Spotty rain showers across the state this week with pretty good chance of rain into the weekend. Showers have settled the dust and clearing the air for the time being. Per NASS as of Oct 27, corn harvested came in at 79 percent complete compared to 67 percent for the 5-year average. Soybeans was 94 percent harvested compared to 91 percent 5-year average. No surprise here with the pasture and range conditions with little to no rain the last several months, 37 percent very poor, 26 percent poor, 24 percent fair, with only 13 percent good or better.
PRICE Month Week Prev This Week Change
Montana Hay Summary
As of October 25, 2024
Compared to last week: Hay sold mostly steady. Demand for hay continues to see improvement as ranchers are starting to market their calves. Good demand was seen for dairy quality hay this week as hay testes have been very high on 3rd cutting. Several sales to ranchers and feedlots were seen again this week. Very light rain showers were seen again this week but not enough moisture was seen to affect drought conditions. Drought conditions continue to expand as unseasonably warm, dry weather continues to be seen. Hay supplies in central Montana remain high with some producers still trying to finish selling old crop hay. Supplies of feeder quality (Fair and Utility) hay are especially high in central Montana. Most of the state has wrapped up hay production for the year. According to the drought monitor 54.89% of the state is in Moderate drought or worse, up 0.53% from last week. 33.83% of the state is in an Severe drought or worse, up 1.54% from last week. 13.88% of the state is in Extreme drought or worse, up 0.68% from last week. 0.90% of the state is in Expectational drought, unchanged from last week. Notably, 85.53% of the state is abnormally dry, up 1.30% from last week.
Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Billings, MT
South Dakota Hay Summary
As of October 18, 2024
Demand and movement for all hay has been extremely slower than normal, producers are saying it has been quiet. Most producers are stating corn harvest and what hay that is being sold is going out of state. According to National Agricultural Statistics Services as of October 15, 2024 , SIOUX FALLS, S.D. For the week ending October 13, 2024, there were 6.8 days suitable for fieldwork, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. Topsoil moisture supplies rated 30% very short, 43% short, 27% adequate, and 0% surplus. Subsoil moisture supplies rated 24% very short, 37% short, 39% adequate, and 0% surplus. Field Crops Report: Corn condition rated 2% very poor, 7% poor, 22% fair, 57% good, and 12% excellent. Corn mature was 90%, behind 96% last year, but near 86% for the five-year average. Harvested was 33%, near 34% last year, and equal to average. According to U.S. Drought Monitor as of October 15, 2024, South Dakota had moderate and severe drought expand in the northern, southern, and western portions of the state and had extreme drought expand in the northwest and a new area in southern portions of the state. Eastern South Dakota
With a district office in each county, the work conducted within these districts is essential for fulfilling the mission of managing noxious weeds and pests and contributing to the preservation of Wyoming’s natural beauty.
Opening events
To kick off the fall convention, attendees had the opportunity to hear from Keynote Speaker Russell Hawley, Casper College Tate Museum education specialist.
Following Hawley, WWPC jumped into their first business meeting, which included area updates and committee reports.
After a quick budget review and discussion about bylaws, University of Wyoming (UW) College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources Associate Professor Timothy Collier presented UW’s annual weed biological control report. Collier was joined by
UW Department of Plant Sciences Assistant Professor and Extension Weed Specialist Dr. Kelsey Brock who updated attendees on the Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) program.
EDRR is an important weed management strategy which utilizes a variety of surveying methods to detect new invasive species.
After a quick break, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Wyoming State Plant Health Director Bruce Shambaugh gave a report on the agency’s current projects, including an update on the spongy moth, previously known as the gypsy moth; potato cyst nematodes and staffing updates.
Convention continues
To begin the second day of convention activities, attendees were provided with a closer look into the Early Detection and Distribution
Mapping System (EDDMapS).
University of Georgia (UGA) Director of the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health Chuck Bargeron explained EDDMapS is a web-based mapping system for documenting invasive species and pest distribution.
According to Bargeron, the system is fast, easy to use and doesn’t require geographic information systems experience.
Launched in 2005, it was originally designed as a tool for state Invasive Plant Councils to develop more complete distribution data of invasive species.
Since then, the program has expanded to include the entire U.S. and Canada, as well as to document certain native pest species.
“EDDMapS’s goal is to maximize the effectiveness and accessibility of the immense numbers of invasive species and pest observations recorded each year,” Bargeron stated.
As of February 2023, EDDMapS has over 7.5 million records and aggregate data from other databases and organizations, as well as volunteer observations to create a national network of invasive species and pest distribution data which is shared with educators, land managers, conservation biologists and beyond.
He continued, “This data will become the foundation for a better understanding of invasive species and pest distribution around the world.”
“The goal of EDDMapS is to maximize the effectiveness and accessibility of the immense numbers of invasive species observations recorded each year,” Bargeron concluded.
Closing remarks were made and the morning educational session ended when WWPC Employee Association President Jake Jarrett took to the podium to conduct the annual employee meeting.
The afternoon business session was launched by
NEW DATE - Selling Friday, November 29 at 1:00 pm
1,500 Fancy Commercial Angus Bred Heifers
One-Iron – Montana’s Best. 900 heifers AI bred to Unified, Leo and King Air. Calving mostly February-March 2024. All ultrasound pregnancy tested and AI calves will be sexed. 600 pasture bred heifers calving March-April 2025 and bred to Vermilion sons of King Air and Commerce. All heifers will be sorted into 14 day calving periods.
60 Head Commercial Cow Dispersion All 2017 born Commercial Angus Cows from the Diamond Ring Ranch.
Selling Saturday, November 30 at 11:00 am
Bulls are genomic measured with and PAP tested at 6,200’.
170 Outstanding Fall Yearlings
The best of our Fall Breeding Program! Sired by Bomber G017, Savvy, Leo, Glory Days, Three Rivers 0065, Conclusion and Power Ball 9195.
150 Big, Stout Coming Two-Year-Olds
Sired by the same outstanding sires!
90 Head Spring-Calving Registered Cow Dispersion
All 2017 born Registered Angus Cows from the Vermilion Ranch. They all sell – no exceptions. Bred to Riverside, Bedrock, Unified and Jameson.
60 Head April-Calving Registered Cow Dispersion
All April-Calving 2 to 6-year-old cows.
70 Registered Bred Heifers
AI bred to Unified, Leo and Teton 107. Guest Consignor Jocko Valley Cattle 10 2-year-old cows with fall calves.
WWPC area representatives from Natrona, Converse, Weston and Niobrara counties who presented updates of their respective areas and current invasive weed activity.
Next up to present was WWPC Teton County Assistant Supervisor Mark Daluge who gave an introduction to utilizing drone programs and the benefits which accompany drone usage for weed and pest control.
“They are more efficient than doing treatments by hand,” Daluge stated. “There are areas in our county which we could not treat if we did not have the ability to use a drone. Plus, using a drone allows for uniformity in treatment and allows for better recordkeeping.”
Closing the convention
Bargeron closed out the second day of the convention with a presentation on ways to think differently about detecting and reporting invasive species.
He introduced a new resource called Wild Spotter, a program to build citizen science volunteer capacity to protect America’s wild places from harmful invasive plants, vertebrates, invertebrates, microbes, algae and fungi which outcompete the nation’s native species and
threaten the biodiversity and health of every aquatic and terrestrial ecosystem.
“Wild Spotter helps individuals identify, map and report invasive species found in their favorite wild places,” he explained.
Wild Spotter is a partnership between the UGA, USDA Forest Service and Wildlife Forever, and it is currently available for all national forests and grasslands, with hopes to expand to all public lands.
“It’s not just an app, it’s an entire campaign,” Bargeron said. “We have to get the public involved and have them assist in keeping our counties free of invasives. Now, thanks to the app, citizen scientists can help researchers track and stop the spread of invasive species by reporting and mapping sightings of them.”
“It is impossible for agencies like yourself to monitor all of the lands. Reaching the public, who are in these specific areas across the country, is a solution to help find new infestations before they spread,” Bargeron concluded.
Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Commercial red meat production for the U.S. totaled 4.45 billion pounds in September, up two percent from the 4.35 billion pounds produced in September 2023.
Beef production, at 2.2 billion pounds, was three percent above the previous year. Cattle slaughter
totaled 2.57 million head, down one percent from September 2023. The average live weight was up 44 pounds from the previous year, at 1,406 pounds.
Veal production totaled 3.1 million pounds, 16 percent below September a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 16,100 head, down
26 percent from September 2023. The average live weight was up 37 pounds from last year, at 324 pounds.
Pork production totaled 2.23 billion pounds, up two percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 10.5 million head, up slightly from Septem-
ber 2023. The average live weight was up four pounds from the previous year, at 285 pounds.
Lamb and mutton production, at 10.6 million pounds, was up four percent from September 2023. Sheep slaughter totaled 176,400 head, one percent above last year. The aver-
age live weight was 118 pounds, up two pounds from September a year ago.
January to September 2024 commercial red meat production was 40.8 billion pounds, up one percent from 2023. Accumulated beef production was down slightly from last year, veal was down 14
percent, pork was up two percent and lamb and mutton production was up two percent.
For a full copy of the Livestock Slaughter report, visit nass.usda.gov. For state specific questions, contact Wyoming State Statistician Leslee Lohrenz at 800-392-3202.
590#
582#
574#
631#
629#
658#
682# $242.00
826# $237.00
PINEY 11 Heifer, 932# $226.50 DANIEL 20 Heifer, 927# $220.50 COWS
DANIEL 1 Cow, 1020# $174.00
DUBOIS 1 Cow, 1050# $168.00
LYSITE 3 Cow, 1013# $161.00
THERMOPOLIS 3 Cow, 1040# $159.00
LANDER WY 1 Cow, 1065# $155.00
LYSITE 1 Cow, 1075# $149.00 ROCK SPRINGS 1 Cow, 1035# $145.00 DANIEL
1 Cow, 1215# $125.00
DUBOIS 5 Cow, 1313# $121.00
ROCK SPRINGS
8 Cow, 1591# $120.50
7 Cow, 1362# $120.50
LYSITE 7 Cow, 1340# $120.00
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5
YEARLINGS
Ruby Ranch- 35 Blk Ang Yrlng PTO Hfrs 850# 15 Blk Ang Yrlng Strs 850# David Brinton- 7 Blk Ang Yrlng Hfrs. CALVES
Broken Bones Cattle Co- 300 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 450500#. Rec Vision 8 & Virashield 6 @ branding. Yeararound mineral program. Sired by Lucky 7 Blk Ang bulls. Nice, high desert, reputation calves!
Ed & Garrett Miller- 250 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs
500-575#. Rec Vista Once SQ & Vision 7 @ branding. Year around mineral program. Choice, Reputation high desert calves!! Hopkins Hamilton- 225 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs
450-550#. Rec Vision 7 w/Spur, Stimulator 5, & ProBac4 @ branding. Steers are EID tagged. Sired by Popo Agie, HD Dunn & Vermillion Blk Ang bulls. High desert.
E Spear Ranch- 225 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 450500#. Rec Vista Once SQ & Vision 8 w/Somnus + Spur @ branding. Knife cut. High elevation. Sired by Reyes & Abernathy Blk Ang Bulls. Nice set of One brand calves!!
Roberts Land & Livestock- 225 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 450-600#. Rec Nasalgen & 8 way @ branding & Precon. High elevation. Reputation set of fancy calves!
Richie Ranch- 180 Hereford & HerefordX Strs 400450#. Rec Pyramid 5 w/Presponse & 7 way @ branding & Precon. No implants. Reputation, high elevation, yearling making steers!!
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Armada Ranch & Braxton Crofts- 175 Blk Ang & AngX Strs 450-550#. Rec Vision 8 & Vista Once SQ @ branding. Sired by Paintrock, Sitz & Redland Blk Ang bulls. Reputation, high desert calves that are green & fancy!! Dale & Amy Hamilton- 120 Blk Ang & AngX Strs 475550#. 50 Blk Ang & AngX Hfrs450-500#. Rec BO-SE & C&D START TIME 9:00 AM