WLSB November meeting includes election of officers and animal disease discussion Page 7
Connecting Ag to Climate outlines recent and current weather conditions Page 10
Wyoming Collegiate Cattlemen’s Association sees success in 2024 Page 15
World Championship Ranch
Rodeo winners crowned Page 18
Quick Bits
Rodeo Set
Lynch Performance, LLC is set to host their biggest rodeo of the year on Dec. 14 at the W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds in Sioux Falls, S.D. Starting at 6:30 p.m., the Rodeo Extravaganza will include a ranch rodeo, barrel racing finals, Crazy Cowgirl Trick Riding, live music, shopping and concessions. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit @LynchPerformanceLLC on Facebook.
Symposium
The West Greeley Conservation District Ag Symposium is scheduled for Dec. 5 from 7:30 a.m.-4:40 p.m. at the Island Grove Event Center in Greeley, Colo. The free event will cover irrigation, grazing land, crops and soil. For more information or to RSVP, call 970-302-1011 or e-mail taylorwebb@wgcd. org or leroy.hall@wgcd.org.
BCRC Series
This year’s Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) webinar series will focus on improving health and biosecurity in cattle herds, including need-to-know information for foot and mouth disease prevention and parasite control management. The webinars are scheduled for Jan. 15, Feb. 12 and March 19. All webinars will begin at 7 p.m. For more information or to register, visit beefresearch.ca
Labor Data
According to the Agricultural Labor Survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, there were 29,000 workers hired directly by farms in the Mountain One Region, which includes Idaho, Montana and Wyoming, during the week of Oct. 6-12. Operators paid hired workers an average wage rate of $17.85 per hour, compared to $16.77 in October 2023. The number of hours worked averaged 45.5 for hired workers during the reference week, compared with 47 hours in October 2023.
Feds release proposal for Colorado River management
Considered the “lifeblood of the American West,” the Colorado River is shared across seven states and parts of Mexico – an area including over 40 million people, a multi-billion-
dollar ag industry, 30 federally-recognized Native American Tribes and countless ecosystems. However, in the wake of ongoing drought conditions and increased
resource demands, the river’s streamflow – most recently reported at 12.4 million acre-feet (maf) – has continued to shrink, leaving the upper basin states of Colorado, New Mexico,
Utah and Wyoming and the lower basin states of Arizona, Nevada and California in disagreement about how to share its dwindling resources.
The biannual Southeast Wyoming Beef Symposium and Trade Show, a premier event bringing together producers and industry professionals for knowledge exchange, professional development and networking opportunities, was held at the Rendezvous Center in Torrington on Nov. 19.
Among an impressive lineup of speakers covering everything from backgrounding, heifer development and direct-to-consumer marketing, University of Wyoming Livestock Production and Marketing Specialist Rob Ziegler discussed the cattle market outlook and provided Please see MARKETS on page 6
Rebuilding the nation’s herd – University of Wyoming Livestock Production and Marketing Specialist Rob Ziegler noted the beef cattle inventory, at 28.2 million head, is the lowest it has been since 1941 and will likely not rebound to the 41 million head seen at the peak not the last cattle cycle. WYLR photo
Wyoming teams shine at national 4-H contests
On Nov. 17-20, qualifying state 4-H teams competed in two national 4-H livestock contests, held at the North American International Livestock Exposition (NAILE) in Louisville, Ky.
The National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest is the oldest of the three national 4-H contests, with roots tracing back to the Chicago International Livestock Exposition in the early 1900s.
The National 4-H Livestock Skillathon Contest started in the late 1990s and has been held at the NAILE from the beginning, comprised of everything in the livestock industry from breeding to retail meat cuts and everything in between.
Throughout the year, students practice for the livestock judging and skillathon contests with their respective 4-H clubs.
This year, Wyoming’s Skillathon Team and 4-H Livestock Judging Team placed in the top five at the national contest.
The 4-H Livestock Judging Team, hailing from Natrona County, won the 2024 Wyoming State 4-H Livestock Judging Contest during the Wyoming State Fair in August, giving them the honor of representing Wyoming at the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest in Kentucky.
Natrona County 4-H team members include Madi Dickinson, Kaleb and Conner Booth, Emmy Hornecker and Carter Cox.
The team secured fourth place in the high team overall
Protecting state resources
Ag and environmental genetics provide updates at WACD conference
In March 1941, the state legislature passed an enabling act establishing conservation districts to direct programs protecting local renewable natural resources across Wyoming.
Today, the Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts (WACD) has 34 districts in all 23 counties conserving natural resources in the state for over 79 years.
WACD provides a unified voice for Wyoming’s local conservation districts, and its board of directors selects conservation policy priorities which are used to develop and review environmental and natural resources legislation and to secure adequate federal funding for natural resources conservation programs.
On Nov. 20-22, WACD hosted its annual convention at the Virginian Lodge in Jackson Hole.
President remarks
To kick off the threeday event, WACD President Todd Heward provided opening remarks focusing on mindful choices in regards to protecting the states natural resources,
Trump nominates Rollins as ag secretary
On Nov. 24, just weeks after winning the 2024 Presidential Election, PresidentElect Donald Trump rounded out his cabinet picks by nominating America First Policy Institute President and Chief Executive Officer Brooke Rollins as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) secretary of ag.
Rollins grew up on a generational family farm in Glen Rose, Texas, where she was actively involved in 4-H and FFA before attending Texas A&M University and obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Development.
Rollins formerly served as the director of the Office of American Innovation and as the acting director of the U.S.
Domestic Policy Council during Trump’s first administration, then spearheaded the America First Policy Institute, a nonprofit organization launched in 2021 to keep Trump’s policy agenda alive.
“From her upbringing in the small, agriculture-centered town of Glen Rose, Texas and her years of leadership involvement with 4-H and FFA, to her family farming background and guiding her four kids in their show cattle careers, Rollins has a practitioner’s experience, along with deep policy credentials in both nonprofit and government leadership at the state and national levels,” Trump stated during his announcement speech on Nov. 24.
see ROLLINS on page 12
Humans are Part of the Ecosystem
While recently celebrating Thanksgiving, many people in the agriculture industry likely expressed thanks for God, their families and the change in administration in Washington, D.C.
Now, I believe there will be many changes for the better and some commonsense solutions implemented. We hope people in the West who live and do business in rural settings will be a part of the ecosystem where their livelihoods matter.
A recent press release I read from the state of Wyoming says, “Wyoming outdoor recreation industry sets new record.”
The release reported Wyoming’s outdoor recreation industry remained a significant economic driver in 2023, contributing $2.2 billion to Wyoming’s economy, placing our state fifth in the nation in this sector.
Wyoming has established the Wyoming Outdoor Recreation Grant Program to fund outdoor projects. It is a great idea, but somewhere they need to educate outdoor recreationists to have respect for private lands – and all other lands for that matter.
Every year trespassing and destruction gets worst.
Dr. Rick Knight, professor emeritus at Colorado State University’s Warner College of Natural Resources, said while talking about federal and private lands, “We will not successfully conserve our natural heritage if we focus on public lands. This means thinking about and working with landowners and those with permits to utilize public lands to make impacts as sustainable as possible. The biggest problem species, it seems, is humans. If you ignore the human economic dimension and focus only on the ecological dimension, policies will fail. We as humans are a part of these ecosystems.”
Knight went on to say, “Residential developments and outdoor recreation have immense – often overlooked –impacts, and we need to keep this in perspective. Based on land use, current economic incentives drive private land use toward residential development, which deteriorates the ecosystem more than grazing and ranching, and outdoor recreation is the number two cause of degradation on our public lands.”
I would guess Knight is talking about all of the ATVs, four-wheelers, etc. we all realize cause damage to the lands.
Knight also discussed the issue of introducing predators into an ecosystem.
He said, “Once depredation happens, it is much harder to prevent because it becomes a cultural option for the predator.”
In interactions with wild predators, he stressed the importance of establishing aversion to humans with minimal harm.
Knight continued, “If interactions with humans have a penalty, wildlife will avoid humans. If interactions have a reward, they are attracted to humans. If there is neither penalty or reward, wildlife become habituated, which is the most dangerous option for these species.”
This, to me, is why it is so important to have hunting seasons on wolves and mountain lions and to allow lethal take of animals that attack livestock.
California outlawed hunting of mountain lions in 1990, and in the 34 years since, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife has had to kill many more lions every year than were killed when permitted hunting was a policy.
In an ecosystem, all species have to be managed – even people – to make it work.
GUEST OPINIONS
Planning Ahead: Insights from the 2024 Farm Income Report
Rural community stakeholders across the U.S. use the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Income Forecast to guide financial decisions for the coming year. The data also provides insight into the trajectory of the U.S. farm economy and how current market trends are impacting farmers’ bottom lines.
The September 2024 Farm Income Report presents a mixed outlook, revealing key trends which are affecting the agricultural sector and giving insight into how these trends could impact farm income in the year to come.
Key takeaways
Net farm income decreased by 19.5 percent from 2022-23, falling from a record-high of $182 billion to $146.5 billion.
In 2024, it is projected to fall $6.5 billion or 4.4 percent to $140 billion. Similarly, net cash farm income fell
By AgAmerica Lending, LLC
nearly 21 percent from 2022-23 and is expected to decrease another 7.2 percent in 2024.
While the overall decline from 2022-24 is notable, the good news is the rate has slowed compared to initial predictions earlier this year. In fact, this was an upward revision from February’s Farm Income Forecast, which predicted a $39.8 billion decline in farm income in 2024 – a drop of more than 25 percent.
The decline in farm income in 2024 is primarily driven by lower commodity prices, decreased government payments and rising production costs, particularly for labor and interest rates.
Reduced demand for U.S. agricultural exports is also placing further pressure on American farm profitability. Because of these economic challenges, U.S. farm sector debt is expected to increase by 5.2 percent, totaling $547.6 billion.
Adapting a financial strategy
Understanding the latest farm income forecast enables U.S. producers to adjust their financial strategies.
Based on September’s data, there are three main financial adjustments to keep in mind when producers plan for their financial future.
First, anticipate economic shifts.
With the 2024 election potentially shaping economic policies, it’s crucial to prepare for tighter margins, particularly in crop sectors. Look for ways to diversify income sources, such as exploring new crops, livestock or agribusiness ventures.
Reevaluate input costs to find savings without sacrificing quality. Ensure water and energy usage is optimized to further reduce operational expenses.
Second, capitalize on opportunities.
When assessing the impact of farm income on a unique operation, it’s Please see REPORT on page 8
From the Publisher Dennis Sun
USDA announces investments
On Nov. 22, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced next steps and selections within the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Water-Saving Commodities program to support agricultural commodity production while reducing water losses in communities across the West.
USDA is announcing the preliminary selection of three Congressionally-authorized Indian Irrigation Projects supported by the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs and a new initiative to support acequias in the Southwest through a partnership with New Mexico and Colorado associations of conservation districts.
In August, USDA announced the preliminary selection of 18 irrigation districts for the production of water-saving commodities. USDA has entered into formal agreements with all 18 districts to implement water-saving strategies across the West.
With the addition of the Nov. 22 preliminary selections, these Water-Saving Commodities partnerships – which support irrigation organization projects and producers in using innovative water saving technologies and farming practices while continuing to produce crop commodities in the face of continued drought – are expected to conserve up to 50,000 acre-feet in water use across 250,000 acres of irrigated land in production, all while expanding and creating new, sustainable market opportunities.
Slaughter numbers reported
Commercial red meat production for the U.S. totaled 5.02 billion pounds in October, up five percent from the 4.77 billion pounds produced in October 2023.
Beef production, at 2.47 billion pounds, was five percent above the previous year. Cattle slaughter totaled 2.86 million head, up one percent from October 2023. The average live weight was up 44 pounds from the previous year, at 1,418 pounds.
Veal production totaled 3.3 million pounds, 21 percent below October a year ago. Calf slaughter totaled 17,100 head, down 26 percent from October 2023. The average live weight was up 21 pounds from last year, at 330 pounds.
Pork production totaled 2.54 billion pounds, up five percent from the previous year. Hog slaughter totaled 11.9 million head, up four percent from October 2023. The average live weight was up two pounds from the previous year, at 287 pounds.
Lamb and mutton production, at 11.7 million pounds, was up four percent from October 2023. Sheep slaughter totaled 194,700 head, slightly above last year. The average live weight was 118 pounds, up three pounds from October a year ago.
January to October 2024 commercial red meat production was 45.8 billion pounds, up one percent from 2023. Accumulated beef production was up slightly from last year, veal was down 15 percent, pork was up two percent and lamb and mutton production was up two percent.
For a full copy of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Livestock Slaughter Report, visit nass.usda.gov For state specific questions, contact Wyoming State Statistician Leslee Lohrenz at 800-392-3202.
Stabenow releases proposal
With a little more than a month left in her Congressional career, Senate Ag Committee Chair Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) released a farm bill draft.
She says the bill, formally dubbed the Rural Prosperity and Food Security Act, contains more than 1,000 bipartisan bills.
According to Stabenow, this puts the 2024 Farm Bill “back on track” to being signed into law before year’s end, and she notes farmers, families and rural communities cannot wait any longer for a new farm bill.
Stabenow’s proposal devotes $20 billion to farm safety net programs. Reference prices for all covered commodities would increase by at least five percent, with many commodities seeing 10 to 15 percent increases.
It would maintain $2.5 billion in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) trade promotion program over the next 10 years and includes language protecting common food product names like “parmesan” and “bologna.”
The bill also includes additional options for new farmers to obtain credit and eliminates the cap on the number of years a farmer can receive direct USDA loans.
Stabenow has been praised for her work to get bipartisan consensus on previous farm bills. However, she may not be able to repeat this success this time around. The Michigan Democrat is retiring at the end of this year. When Congress returns in January, Republicans will control both the House and the Senate.
This means Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) will almost certainly chair the committee next year. Based on his social media comments, he’s unmoved by Stabenow’s proposal.
“An 11th hour partisan proposal released 415 days after the expiration of the current farm bill is insulting,” Boozman said. “America’s farmers deserve better.”
“This is a serious proposal which reflects bipartisan priorities to keep farmers farming, families fed and rural communities strong,” Stabenow says. “The foundation of every successful farm bill is built on holding together the broad, bipartisan coalition of farmers, rural communities, nutrition and hunger advocates, researchers, conservationists and the climate community. This is that bill, and I welcome my Republican colleagues to take it seriously and rejoin us at the negotiating table so we can finish our work by the end of the year.”
Monitoring policy announced
The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) announced a new policy for monitoring national forests and grasslands. The policy aligns monitoring, partnerships and information-sharing efforts to help land managers monitor changes related to climate change and other stressors affecting National Forest System lands and make timely, informed, science-based decisions within staffing and budget constraints.
This policy is an important step in implementing the agency’s 2012 planning rule, which requires the agency use monitoring to inform adaptive management.
USFS monitors national forests and grasslands to gauge progress toward forest restoration, the effects of disturbance and climate on forests – such as the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, drought and floods – and to help people understand how forests are changing through time.
In support of the policy, the USFS is developing resources in response to common monitoring needs which use consistent and automated data analysis and reporting methods. These resources will increase overall monitoring reporting efficiencies, aid in development of biennial monitoring evaluation reports and support informed decisionmaking and adaptive management across national forests and grasslands.
Through government-to-government consultation, the new policy emphasizes the importance of integrating science and Indigenous knowledge into efficient and transparent monitoring programs.
Henderson to lead ACS CAN
After years of grassroots organizing and campaign work in the Western states, Denver Henderson has been named the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Government Relations Director for his home state of Montana, as well as Wyoming.
In this role, he will lead ACS CAN’s efforts to advance legislation and public policy to reduce the cancer burden in both states.
Henderson previously served as ACS CAN’s grassroots manager in Montana and Wyoming and worked for more than a decade as organizer for the Service Employees International Union Local 775 in Montana, helping improve wages and benefits for caregivers across the state.
He has spent significant time in Wyoming as part of his ACS CAN work, connecting with residents on their need for quality, affordable healthcare and learning about the burden placed on rural care systems in states that have not yet acted to expand Medicaid.
ACS CAN is the nation’s leading cancer advocacy organization. For more information, visit fightcancer. org/states/montana or fightcancer.org/states/wyoming
NEWS BRIEFS
WSGA programming released
The Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) released the schedule for their popular Progressive Rancher Forum, held during the Winter Roundup Convention and Trade Show Dec. 9-11 at the Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center in Casper.
The annual event brings together over 250 cattle producers and industry stakeholders for policy development, education and camaraderie.
This year, the Progressive Rancher Forum will take place on Dec. 9 starting at 9 a.m. with discussions on herd management and marketing during tight supply with University of Wyoming (UW) Livestock Production and Marketing Specialist Rob Ziegler in the North Ballroom and fire-related herd health issues with South Dakota State
University Professor and Extension Veterinarian Dr. Russ Daly in the Central Ballroom.
From 10-10:45 a.m., individuals can attend a talk in the North Ballroom on guardian animal research and implementation through the use of donkeys, while those in the Central Ballroom will hear from UW Ecosystem Science and Management Professor Dr. Stephen Williams on post-fire recovery for forested sites, trees and shrubs.
UW Extension Program Assistant and Wool Judging Coach Dylan Laverell will present on ewe and lamb nutrition in the North Ballroom from 11-11:45 a.m., followed by a discussion on drought-impacted herd health management with UW Extension Beef Specialist Shelby Rosasco from 2-2:45 p.m.
and a presentation on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) beginning farmer and rancher programs by USDA Risk Management Specialist John Lockie from 3-3:45 p.m.
The Central Ballroom will wrap up with discussions on new advances in controlling grazing animal movement with University of Nebraska-Lincoln Associate Professor and Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center Director Dr. Mitchell Stephenson from 2-2:45 p.m., followed by postfire recovery on grasses and invasive species with UW Professor and Sheridan Research and Extension Center Director Dr. Brian Mealor.
For more information or to register, visit wysga.org/programs/conventiontrade-show
Christmas Corral
Forum scheduled
During a wellness forum hosted by the University of Wyoming (UW), Gov. Mark Gordon will discuss The Wy We Care Initiative, an extensive statewide collaborative effort among all branches of state government, local community teams and private sector providers aimed at reducing suicide risk and promoting mental health.
The event, open to students, faculty, staff and community members, will be held in the Wyoming Union Ballroom on Dec. 3 from 5:30-7 p.m.
The governor will be joined by Suicidologist and Psychologist Dr. Kent Corso and the UW Violence Prevention Coordinator Bob Vines for a fireside chat, followed by an audience question and answer session.
Vines will share his personal story of mental health challenges during the isolation of the COVID19 pandemic.
The event is sponsored by the Associated Students of UW, as well as the Dean of Students Office, Violence Prevention Center and Student Wellness.
The forum is part of a continuing month of mental health awareness events at the university. Additional upcoming events include an evening of storytelling from UW students, faculty and staff on Dec. 4 at Pokes Pub starting at 6 p.m. and a “beard shave” during Union After Dark on Dec. 6.
USDA launches online tool
Happy Holiday Season
On Nov. 22, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the launch of a new online portal to manage civil rights discrimination complaints more efficiently and transparently.
The USDA Civil Rights Management System Program Discrimination Complaint electronic submission portal will streamline the filing of complaints by USDA customers who believe they have experienced discrimination when they apply for USDA services or participate in USDA programs or USDA-funded programs.
The portal is administered by USDA’s Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights (OASCR).
At the direction of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, USDA commenced a top-to-bottom review of the OASCR and has worked to rebuild the transparency, accountability and integrity of operations and programs.
The new program complaints portal is one result of this effort.
The portal allows USDA customers to submit and track complaints throughout their lifecycle, as well check the status of previously submitted USDA program discrimination complaints.
The system is available in both English and Spanish. The online portal complements other existing methods of submitting complaints including e-mail, mail and fax which USDA customers will continue to be able to use.
To create an account, visit usda.gov/oascr/programcomplaints
For questions or assistance, contact 866-632-9992 or program.intake@usda.gov.
USDA accepting applications
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) is accepting applications for a trade mission to Guatemala City, Guatemala March 3-7, 2025.
Current and potential U.S. exporters interested in participating should apply for consideration by Dec. 3. Guatemala is the largest economy and population center in Central America, and projections suggest continued economic growth. In 2023, Guatemala imported $1.7 billion in U.S. agricultural products, and it became the top market in the region.
Honduras and El Salvador imported $1.3 billion and $800 million, respectively. Under the Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement, all remaining tariffs will phase out by 2025 and further strengthen the position of U.S. products in the region.
The trade mission will provide participants with the opportunity to meet directly with buyers from Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador through tailored business-to-business meetings. FAS staff and regional experts will also lead market briefings, site visits and networking events.
Export opportunities exist in several sectors, including poultry, pork, beef and related products; dairy products; consumer and processor-oriented foods; condiments and sauces; soups and food preparations; fresh fruit; bakery goods, cereals and pasta; chocolate and cocoa products and alcoholic beverages including distilled spirits, wine and related products.
The deadline to apply for the Guatemala trade mission is Dec. 3.
For more information or to apply, visit fas.usda. gov/topics/trade-missions/guatemala-march-2025
With current water man-
rules set to expire in 2026, the Bureau of Reclamation (BuRec) released its highly-anticipated proposal on Nov. 20, outlining five alternatives for managing water in the Colorado River Basin long term.
The five alternatives Alternative One, the “Federal Authorities Alternative,” closely reflects BuRec’s current management strategy, which was established in 2007. However, many believe this plan to be insufficient because it allowed reservoirs to fall so low in the first place.
Under this alternative, releases from Lake Powell to the lower basin states would be determined based on the lake’s elevation and range anywhere from five maf to 9.5 maf.
Additionally, lower basin shortages of up to 3.5 maf would be distributed through a priority system and triggered based on combined storage in Lake Powell and Lake Mead.
Alternative Two, the “Federal Authorities Hybrid Alternative,” uses concepts and proposals from Tribal Nations, federal agencies and other stakeholders to achieve robust protections of the river’s resources, while also taking natural resources, hydropower and recreation into account using a new approach.
“This alternative would include delivery and storage mechanisms for Lake Powell and Lake Mead with federal and non-federal storage pools and maximum flexibilities or all users,” explains BuRec. “The operations incorporate basin-wide shared contributions to the sustainability of the system, includ-
ing upper basin conservation, which would be stored in Lake Powell and lower basin storages starting at 1.5 maf, which exceeds average annual evaporative and system losses at and below Lake Mead, reaching 3.5 maf.”
Under this alternative, shortages would be triggered by combined storage in Lake Powell and Lake Mead and distributed proportionally.
Releases from Lake Powell to the lower basin states would be determined by a combination of Lake Powell and Lake Mead elevations, the 10-year running average hydrology and lower basin deliveries.
Titled the “Cooperative Conservation Alternative,” Alternative Three considers ideas proposed by conservation organizations with the goal of “stabilizing system storage, integrating stewardship and mitigation strategies of Lake Powell and Lake Mead, maintaining opportunities for binational cooperative measures, incentivizing water conservation and designing flexible water management strategies.”
Under this alternative, Lake Powell would release more water, ranging from five to 11 maf and would be determined by total upper basin system storage and recent hydrology.
This proposal also includes basin-wide cutbacks, including more conservation in the lower basin – a maximum of four maf, compared to the 35 maf in other alternatives.
Alternative Four, the “Basin Hybrid Alternative,” looks to blend competing proposals submitted by the upper and lower basin states and Tribal Nations back in March.
Under this alternative, Lake Powell releases would be primarily determined by the lake’s elevation, with some consideration for storage in Lake Mead. Releases would range from five to 12 maf and storage distribution would be two-pronged – priority and proportionally.
“This alternative would include new delivery and storage mechanisms for Lake Powell and Lake Mead, including incentivizing conservation and managing/offsetting reduction, to afford the Tribal and non-Tribal entities the same ability to use these mechanisms. The operations incorporate basinwide shared contributions, including upper basin conservation which would be stored in Lake Powell and up to 2.1 maf of lower basin shortages triggered by combined seven-reservoir storage,” BuRec says.
The last alternative is the “No Action Alternative,” in which operations would revert to annual determinations announced through the Annual Operating Plan.
Moving forward
With a deadline of August 2026, BuRec notes the alternatives were released now to “enhance transparency and create a framework for a realistic and fair path for Colorado River Basin states, Tribes and non-governmental organizations to continue to work toward a consensus agreement protecting the stability and sustainability of the Colorado River System into the future.”
From here, BuRec will analyze the proposed alternatives to develop a draft environmental impact statement (EIS), and once published, the draft EIS will kick off a public comment period. BuRec will then publish a final EIS, which will be followed by a
Colorado River states submit competing proposals
The Bureau of Reclamation’s longawaited proposal on managing the Colorado River’s dwindling resources comes after the upper basin states of Colorado, Utah, Wyoming and New Mexico and the lower basin states of Arizona, Nevada and California submitted competing proposals in March of this year.
In their proposal, upper basin states point out 85 percent of the water in the Colorado River originates from snowpack in their respective mountain ranges, but with unpredictable weather patterns and ongoing drought conditions, they must adjust their water usage based on snowfall, while lower basin states can count on predictable upstream water delivery, as current law requires the upper basin states to send a fixed amount of water to their downstream neighbors each year.
After complying to this rule for nearly a century, the upper basin states believe they should be allowed to send less water downstream.
“We can no longer accept the status quo of Colorado River operations,” Colorado River Commissioner Becky Mitchell writes in a March 6 press release. “If we want to protect the system and ensure certainty for the 40 million people who rely on this water source, then we need to address the existing imbalance between supply and demand. This means using the best available science to work within reality and the actual conditions of Lake Powell and Lake Mead. We must plan for the river we have – not
record of decision in 2026.
So far, a few proponents from each group have weighed in on the BuRec’s proposal.
In a joint statement, Las Vegas Valley Water District General Manager John Entsminger and representatives from other lower basin states note, while they need time to evaluate the options released from the federal government, they remain committed to negotiating a path forward with all seven Colorado River states.
Colorado River Com-
the river we dream for.”
On the other hand, the lower basin states proposed a new framework for measuring how much water is stored in the region’s reservoirs and a new method for distributing water cutbacks accordingly.
Currently, the main criteria for measuring the amount of water in the Colorado River System are elevations of Lake Powell and Lake Mead – the two largest reservoirs in the nation.
However, according to this new system, which the lower basin states describe as a “more holistic” approach, storage in other reservoirs in the Colorado River Storage Project would also be considered, including Blue Mesa in Colorado, Navajo in New Mexico and Flaming Gorge in Utah and Wyoming.
Under this proposal, water cutbacks would be triggered when the combined amount of water in these eight reservoirs falls below a certain amount.
“It’s very easy to craft an alternative which doesn’t require any sacrifice,” says JB Hamby, California’s lead negotiator on Colorado River issues, in a March 6 KUNC article written by Alex Hager. “But this is not what the lower basin alternative does. The lower basin is home to three-quarters of the Colorado River Basin’s population, most of the basin’s Tribes and some of the most productive farmland in the country. Our proposal requires adaptation and sacrifice by water users across the region.”
missioner Becky Mitchell told the Colorado Sun she couldn’t yet comment on BuRec’s alternatives, but she continues to stand behind the upper basin’s proposal submitted to BuRec in March.
“Colorado remains committed to working collaboratively with the other Colorado River Basin states, the federal government and Tribal Nations towards a consensus approach and also stands ready to protect our state’s significant interests in the Colorado River,” she says.
During a Nov. 20 press
conference, BuRec Commissioner Camille Touton commented, “These alternatives represent a responsible range from which to build the best and most robust path forward for the basin. There certainly are extremely difficult choices and tradeoffs to be made, but we believe there are ample opportunities to create a fair path to solutions that work for the entire region.”
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
MARKETS
information on livestock risk protection.
Cattle market outlook
To begin, Ziegler noted the beef cattle inventory, at 28.2 million head, is the lowest it has been since 1941 and will likely not rebound to the 41 million head seen at the peak of the last cattle cycle for several reasons.
First, he mentioned the national cow herd has been in a steady decline and advancements in genetics have created bigger cattle with the potential to put on more weight now than they have in the past.
“The other thing I would like to point out is I don’t think this particular rebuild will be as rapid as the one we saw in 2014-15,” he said, noting current markets may be attractive for older producers on the verge of retirement
but they create a large capital barrier to entry for young producers trying to get into the business.
As expected, less cows means less feeder cattle, and when supplies are short, prices tend to go up.
“In 2023, we were on an upward trend, which ebbed and flowed on the calf side of things until the peak in 2024,” Ziegler said.
He also noted, when calves are weaned and shipped in October, prices tend to go down. However, this year, calf prices went up during September and October.
Likewise, 2024 cull cow prices have increased from the $60 per hundredweight (cwt) seen in 2020.
“Average prices in October across Wyoming auctions were pretty similar to what
we saw in the last cow cycle in 2014-15,” Ziegler said. “When demand increases for bred cows, I think there will be a lot of upside potential on these prices.”
“The other thing I want to mention is this represents an average bred cow price, not just for Wyoming but for surrounding states as well, so with Wyoming producers facing drought this summer – and potentially devastating wildfires – they might find themselves in a position to liquidate, and there may be an economic advantage to going to a surrounding state,” he added.
“Keep in mind, there are some legalities when taking breeding females across state lines,” he continued. “And on the flip side, there may be an advantage to going outside of the state to buy cattle.”
When it comes to rebuilding the nation’s cattle herd, Ziegler reiterated he believes
Swanson 59 Blk Hfrs,
the rebuilding stage will be more prolonged during this cattle cycle than the last.
He explained the October heifer on feed report pegs the percentage of heifers on feed around 40 percent.
“When this gets below the 36.5 percent mark, it will be a signal that producers are thinking about rebuilding their herd,” he shared.
However, as of now, there is no indication producers are retaining replacement heifers, likely waiting to see another year of good returns before they are confident in rebuilding, Ziegler said.
Beef prices and input costs
Next, Ziegler shared, while the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) predicted a 1.5 percent decline in 2024 total beef production, a report published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture in October pointed to production being on par or slightly above
PTO @ ranch, Branding Shots, Bangs Vac., Coming off grass, Home Raised, Sired by Lucky 7 Bulls J. R. Nettles 53 Mx Strs & Hfrs, 800#, Heifers are PTO @ ranch, Coming off grass, All shots Shawn Kontour 17 Blk Hfrs, 900-950#, Bangs Vac., Branding Shots: Bovi-Shield Gold 5, Ultrabac 7, Poured, Coming off grass Randy & Adene Kusma 10 Mx Strs & Bulls, 775#, Coming off grass WEANED CALVES
BG Ranches 220 Blk Strs & Hfrs, 400-550#, Weaned 45 days, Runing out, Hay Fed, Branding and Weaning Shots, No Implants, Very Green Scott Rafferty 150 Blk/Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 525-625#, Weaned 60 days, Running out, Birth, Branding, Precond & Weaning Shots Pennington-Hall 110 Blk/Bwf Hfrs, 475-550#, Weaned since Oct. 1, Bunk Broke, Hay Fed, Cake Broke, Branding, Precond & Weaning Shots
Whetham Family 232 Blk Angus Cows, Complete Dispersal, 3 yr olds (coming with 2nd calf), Bred to Ochsner Blk Angus Bulls, Ultra-sounded by Dr. Paul Fornstorm on October 8 to CF: April 1 for 30 days, Shots: 3 Rounds of Bovi-Shield Gold FP, Cake Broke, Have been handle by Horse or ATV, Hot Wire Broke, Age Branded and Tagged, All Raised a Calf, Sorted from 370 Head, Weaned Calves on 10/8 Tom Jackson 79 Blk Angus (2 Red) Cows, Complete Dispersal, Coming 2’s to ST, Bred to Blk Angus Bulls, CF: Feb. 20th, Shots: Bovi-Shield Fold FP 5 VL5, Poured Eathan Skinner 22 Blk Cows, Complete Dispersal, Coming 3 yr olds, Bred to Sim/Angus Bulls, CF: April 1st for 60 days, Complete Vac Program, Poured in November, Running on Stalks, Supplemented with Hay as needed ****15 Blk Cows, Complete Dispersal, Short Term, Bred to Sim/Angus Bulls, CF: May 1st for 60 days, Complete Vac Program, Poured in November, Running on Stalks, Supplemented with Hay as needed BRED HEIFERS
5 W Livestock 5 Blk Hfrs, Bred to Low Birth Weight Angus Bulls, CF: May 1 for 30 days, First Round of Scour Guard, Poured w/Ivomec ****65 Blk Hfrs, Bred to Low Birth Weight Angus Bulls, CF: June 1 for 42 days, First Round of Scour Guard, Poured w/Ivome David Sherrod 50 Red Angus Hfrs, AI’d Bred to ABS Energize or Bull Bred to Schuler Red Angus Low Birth Weight Bulls,AI’d to Cf: Feb. 20th, Prebreeding Shots: Preg Guard Gold FP 10, Shots at Preg-check: 1st Shot of Guardian, Safeguard, Poured, High Elevation, Mineral Program, Home Raised, No Brands, Electric Fence Broke C. J. Vetere 45 Mostly Blk few Char-x Hfrs, Bred to Low Reg Angus Bulls (Circle L & Thomas), CF: Feb. 11
BRED COWS
A Cross A Livestock 120 Blk/Bwf (8 Char) Cows, SM-ST, Bred to Atenberg SimAngus Bulls, CF: Feb. 25 for 60 days, Bangs Vac., Been on a Complete Modified Live Vac. Program, Had a Multimin Shot, EID Tagged, High Elevation: Running at 6300-9500’, Home Raised but may have 2 family brands, Calves Pay Weight off these cows: Steers—705#; Heifers—660# (Note: Age Breakdowns: 42 hd---SM; 78 hd---ST) Bill Skavdahl 100 Blk (3 Bwf) Cows, 2-4 yr olds, Bred to Registered Blk Angus Bulls, CF: March 8 for 60 days, Been on a Full Vac. Program David Sherrod 22 Red Angus Cows, 3 yr olds, Bred to Schuler Red Angus or Leachman Bulls, CF: Feb. 25 for 60 days, Shots on Oct. 25: Guardian, Safeguard Wormer, Poured, Pre-breeding Shots: Preg-Guard Gold FP-10, High Elevation that Originated from the Crow Valley Livestock ****40 Red Angus Cows, 7-8 yr olds, Bred to Schuler Red Agnus Bulls, CF: Feb. 25 for 60 days, Shots on Oct. 25: Guardian, Safeguard Wormer, Poured, Pre-breeding Shots: Preg-Guard Gold FP-10, Home Raised, 1-iron, Been on a Mineral Program their whole lives Cody & Joel Tremain 60 Blk Cows, 1250#, Bred to Blk Angus Bulls, CF: April 20, Spring Shots: Express FP 5-VL5 HB, Poured C. J. Vetere 40 Mostly Blk Cows, Mx Ages, Bred to Blk angus Bulls (Circle L & Thomas), CF: March 10 Josh Wallace 25 Mostly Blk Cows, Mx Ages, Bred to Blk or Hereford Bulls, CF: Late April, Poured Only
2023, likely due to larger carcass weights.
Additionally, per capita consumption is forecast 0.8 percent higher for 2024 but 3.5 percent lower into 202526. Ziegler noted this is about four pounds less per capita than today’s numbers, which is cause for some concern.
With this, live steer prices in the five-state region are forecast to land between $186 and $191 per cwt, then trend upwards to $196 and $212 per cwt into 2026.
Ziegler noted prices for seven- to eight-weight and five-weight steers are expected to do the same, with 700- to 800-pounders predicted to round out the remainder of 2024 at $255 to $260 per cwt, then increase in 2026, while 500-pounders will finish the year around $310 per cwt and move to $320 per cwt in 2026.
Although live cattle prices appear promising, Ziegler pointed out it is also important to consider input costs, which have certainly gone up in recent years.
He cited data from the LMIC showing producers spent an estimated $878 per cow in 2020, and while this number appears to have fallen to $830 per cow in 2024, other reports show it is much higher, nearing around $1,100.
“Some of Kansas State University’s (KSU) data shows cash costs and fixed costs, and KSU estimates an additional $450 in fixed costs,” Ziegler said. “When we add $450 to $1,100, we’re just over to $1,500 and a calf is worth around $1,800. The output in these prices is really shiny looking, but the margins might not be the same as we saw in the last cycle.”
Ziegler also shared data showing cow/calf producers made an estimated $534 dollars per head in 2014, rising to $621 per head in 2024. But, it is important to note inflation increased during this time as well, with periods of inflation topping nine percent.
“Although it looks glamorous on the surface, I caution producers because the cost to do business now is more than what it was 10 years ago,” he stated. “The other thing I will point out is these numbers are averages and they mask a lot of variation, so what it takes me to run a cow is a lot different than what it will take someone else.”
Livestock risk protection
To round out his presentation, Ziegler discussed livestock risk protection.
“I would like to remind you of the three disclaimers I have,” he said. “First, there are several market risk management strategies available, whether it is hedging or using other options, but this just so happens to be a tool gaining a lot of attraction recently so I wanted to deliver some content on it.”
Second, Ziegler noted risk tolerance and risk variability is highly subjective, and third, he shared he believes investing in a risk management strategy is no different than buying car insurance for a vehicle.
“If I knew with 100 percent certainty I would never get in a wreck, I wouldn’t buy the insurance. But I don’t know, and livestock risk protection is a safety net to have in place when a potential price wreck occurs,” he stated.
Ziegler pointed out livestock risk protection must be purchased through a risk management agency approved vendor and requires a lengthy, up-front application process.
“Coverage prices range from 70 to 100 percent, and one of the beauties of this is producers can insure one animal up to 25,000 head per producer per year,” he said. “Coverage length ranges from 13 to 52 weeks and they do not have to be consecutive, the idea being if a producer has a specific target date in mind, there should be a policy close to what they need.”
For feeder cattle, there are two weight ranges – 100to 600-pounders and 600- to 1,000-pounders. On the finishing side, the weight range is 1,000 to 1,600 pounds.
“Producers must own cattle 60 days prior to selling them, and premiums are due 30 days after the contract ends,” Ziegler explained.
Ziegler also said he believes livestock risk protection has gained so much attention in recent years because premiums are subsidized, and for young, beginning farmers and ranchers, the program includes an additional 10 percent subsidy.
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
WYLR photo
WLSB elects officers, discusses animal disease and traceability at November meeting
The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) held its fall meeting on Nov. 15 in Casper.
There was good attendance at the meeting, which included discussion on the board’s position on the requirements of the new U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal Disease Traceability (ADT) Rule, the development and adoption of an anthrax disease response protocol and the election of officers.
ADT Rule discussion
WLSB Director Steve True led off the conversation about the ADT Rule by sharing summaries of conversations held with USDA staff regarding language in the rule and how Wyoming statue directs the response and WLSB’s ability to keep producer information confidential.
True also touched on the agency’s role in informing producers and veterinarians on what it takes to comply with the new rule.
State Veterinarian Dr. Hallie Hasel, Assistant State Veterinarian Dr. Rose Digianantonio and Field Veterinarian Dr. Teckla Webb offered a short presentation on changes from the previous rule.
Hasel spoke to radio frequency identification (RFID) tag availability and how these tags are distributed by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
WLSB heard from several commenters on the ADT Rule including Congresswoman Harriet Hageman (R-WY), State Sen. Cheri Steinmetz, State Rep. Chip Neiman, State Senator-Elect Laura Pear-
son, Utah Animal Industry Director Leeann Hunting, the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation and several Wyoming producers.
Hunting and the Wyoming legislators spoke to an idea offered by the state of Utah regarding the possibility of forging agreements between states allowing movement of cattle utilizing other identification options allowed in the ADT Rule.
The board had questions for each of these commenters.
After all public comments had been heard, WLSB Member Hugh Hageman of Fort Laramie offered two resolutions for the board to review.
Each of these resolutions would direct WLSB staff to seek memorandums of understanding with other
states regarding movement of livestock to and from Wyoming without the requirement of RFID tags.
Both resolutions were amended and passed unanimously by the board. These resolutions will be finalized with the amendments and available on the WLSB website.
Anthrax report
Hasel presented her animal health report, including the recent anthrax event in Carbon County. Though uncommon, these events carry a heavy toll.
In order to streamline and make producers aware of the process, Hasel and staff prepared a compendium including a factsheet and disease response protocol for anthrax in Wyoming.
WLSB voted to adopt the offered anthrax protocol for the state, and this infor-
mation will soon be posted on the WLSB website.
It should be noted by all who may review this protocol, certain areas maintain a great amount of flexibility in order to meet unforeseen needs in the event of an outbreak. In fact, all disease outbreak response plans require this flexibility.
Hasel and staff have also recently completed an updated Reportable Disease List for the state of Wyoming, which will also be posted on the WLSB website.
Election of officers
Additionally, WLSB held an election of officers during the Nov. 15 meeting.
Mary Owens of Casper was elected president and Hugh Hageman of Fort Laramie was elected vice president.
Board members and
staff profusely thank outgoing President Shaun Sims and Vice President Kirby Camino for their service and consistency, having served three consecutive terms each in those positions.
True also informed the board of the recent retirement of Criminal Investigator Joel Senior and thanked him for his service, then introduced Senior Criminal Investigator Chris Strang and recently hired Criminal Investigator Cody Meyers of Casper.
WLSB is responsible for the protection of livestock interests in the state of Wyoming from disease and theft. Seven members are appointed by the governor and approved by the Senate for six-year terms. For more information, visit wlsb.state.wy.us
Family-run businesses that last 100 or more years often leave a legacy, and when an Angus herd lasts this long, the breed comes together to celebrate the accomplishment.
At the 2024 Angus Convention in Fort Worth, Texas the American Angus Association honored Sitz Angus of Dillon, Mont. and Harrison, Mont., with the Century Award for their 100plus years as a registered Angus herd.
“Being able to say we’ve been in the Angus business for over 100 years is a feat itself,” says Jim Sitz of Sitz Angus.
History of Sitz Angus
William and Frieda Sitz started Sitz Angus in the Nebraska Sandhills in 1923 with the purchase of registered Angus cows from William Williams of Clarks, Neb.
William and Frieda had four children – Robert “Bob, Sr.; Bill; Dolores and Ruth.
In 1952, William and Frieda moved with Bob, Sr. to a ranch in Longmont, Colo. In 1959, two years after Bob Sr. married Donna Scriffiny, the young couple
Sitz Angus recognized for 100-year Angus legacy
purchased a ranch in Harrison, Mont. and moved the herd.
Here, Bob, Sr. and Donna raised two daughters and two sons – Deb, Sherrie, Bob and Jim – while being early champions of performance testing and Angus Herd Improvement Records.
In 1966, Sitz Angus hosted its first bull sale and began offering customers free delivery of their bulls.
The family was also early adopters of artificial insemination (AI).
All four of Bob, Sr. and Donna’s children are still involved in the cattle business through Sitz Angus, Bar 69 Angus Ranch and Stockman Angus of New Zealand.
The legacy continues Bob, Sr. was inducted into the Angus Heritage Foundation in 1993, four years after his untimely death.
Donna and her sons persevered through the loss with a cow sale and rebuilt the herd. The brothers, Jim and Bob, are 2024 inductees into the Angus Heritage Foundation.
Leaving a legacy of
REPORT continued from page 2
important to consider the variation across sectors. For example, wheat and other grains are expected to experience the most significant drop in 2024, while many livestock sectors are showing potential for short-term profitability.
Producers in these areas should assess how to maximize gains by improving herd management or expanding operations, while remaining cautious of future volatility.
Third, revisit farm debt. With interest rates
leadership within the breed at both the state and national level, Bob, Sr. served on the American Angus Association Board of Directors from 1979-85. Donna was an active member of the National Angus Auxiliary and Montana Angus Auxiliary.
Jim followed in his father’s footsteps, serving on the Board of Directors from 2009-16 and as president in 2016. In 2001, Sitz Angus donated the Angus Foundation Heifer.
Today, William and Frieda’s grandsons, Bob and Jim, along with Jim’s wife Tammi, run Sitz Angus in Harrison, Mont. and Dillon, Mont. with their families.
The Dillon ranch was acquired in 1997.
The fourth generation, known sometimes as “the Sitz six,” are preparing to make their mark on the Angus breed as they each find unique ways to support the ranch through cattle breeding, raising crops, bookkeeping, hosting interns, influencing range management and even managing social media and promotion. They are Taylre, Lane, Amber, Ashley, Tyler
expected to drop soon, now is an opportune time to review farm debt. Refinancing high-interest loans could lower monthly payments and improve cash flow. Work with a trusted financial advisor to explore consolidation options, which could provide longterm savings and help mitigate rising operational costs
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and Tucker Sitz.
“I see no reason why they shouldn’t be able to take it to a whole new level,” Jim says of the next generation on the ranch.
Sitz Angus sires have consistently held spots in the list of top 25 sires for breed registration and sell high-quality Angus genetics across the U.S. and internationally.
The family offers yearling bulls each spring and
like labor.
By taking these proactive steps, producers will better position their farm to maintain financial stability and adapt to any policy changes which may arise from the election outcome.
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140 head of registered angus females selling as commercial. (Registration papers are available on most for an additional fee).
Many AI bred to Coleman Rock, SAV Rainfall, Millars Duke, Sitz Heritage and B Bar Black Mass. Calving mid-February thru April, many different calving groups available. Selling bred heifers, coming 3’s, and mature cows.
¢ 35 head bred heifers, primarily AIed to low birthweight bulls, calve March 1st for 30 days.
¢ 29 head of 3-year-old cows, primarily bred to AI sires.
¢ 15 head of 4-year-old cows, primarily bred to AI sires.
¢ 31 head of 5–6-year-old cows, primarily bred to AI sires.
¢ 24 head of 7–10-year-old cows, primarily bred to AI sires.
¢ 7 head of short-term cows, primarily bred to AI sires.
Craig Deveraux
• 50 coming 4-year-old cows, bred to black bulls, calve April 1st for 50 days.
• 125 running age cows, bred to black bulls, calve April 1st for 50 days.
Merlin Ranch
• 65 head of mixed age bred cows, heifers all the way through broken mouth. Bred to black and Hereford bulls, calve April 1st for 30 days.
Welles Ranch
• 50 head of black 3–4-year-old bred cows, bred to black bulls, calve March 15th for 60 days. Vincent Oedekoven
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• 45 head of black and black baldy bred cows, bred to Powder River Angus and Largent and Sons bull, calve April 1st for 60 days. www.buffalolivestockwyo.com
coming two-year-old bulls at their annual fall sale.
While being wellknown for their bulls, Sitz Angus maintains its status as a MaternalPlus herd, as it has since the program’s first year in 2012, proving their focus on producing highperforming, profit-yielding females for their commercial customers.
After 100 years with The Business Breed, Sitz Angus – the family and oth-
ing the agricultural sector in today’s economy, and our tailored financial solutions are designed to support the unique needs of farmers and ranchers with flexible financing options, expert guidance and security through uncertainty.
Through flexible financing, AgAmerica offers loans and refinancing options tailored to specific operational needs, ensuring each operation is equipped to weather economic shifts.
AgAmerica’s expert guidance through a team of experienced professionals provides insights to help producers optimize their financial strategies, from managing debt to securing the right inputs at the right time.
Additionally, AgAmerica provides security through uncertainty. As policy changes loom, farmers need financial stability more
ers who have been dedicated to its success – still exhibits a forward-thinking attitude and a love of Angus cattle.
“My dad always said a long time ago we have to be a jack of all trades,” Jim says. “This would fit Sitz Angus ranch to a T.” Sarah Kocher is a communications specialist for the American Angus Association. This article was originally published by the association on Nov. 22.
than ever. AgAmerica can help producers prepare for these uncertainties by helping build a strong financial foundation.
As the 2024 farm income forecast highlights, the agricultural economy is facing significant economic challenges. Whether producers are facing rising input costs, tightening margins or increased debt, planning for the future is critical, but can feel overwhelming as we wait to see what the future holds.
AgAmerica is here to lighten the load and provide the customized solutions people need to stay resilient no matter what lies ahead.
AgAmerica Lending, LLC is a licensed mortgage lender. For more information, visit agamerica. com. This opinion column was originally published by AgAmerica Lending, LLC on Sept. 11.
Leaders pen letter
Wyoming State Treasurer Curt Meier and dozens of other state financial officers sent a letter to each member of Congress imploring them to develop and implement a long-term plan to remedy the growing national debt.
“Our country’s national debt has gotten out of hand, and there is no relief in sight,” Meier said. “This is an issue which should be a day-one priority from our Congressional leaders, regardless of their political affiliation.”
In 2023 alone, the federal government collected $4.5 trillion in revenue but spent more than $6.3 trillion – a difference of $1.8 trillion. In addition, the annual interest payment on the country’s $35 trillion debt exceeds the annual budget for national defense and Medicare.
In their joint letter, these officers concur with Senate Resolution 600 and House Resolution 190 and declare the deteriorating federal financial situation a “national security threat” and “unsustainable and dangerous.”
The officers encourage Congress to ensure total federal government spending in 2025 is less than it was in 2024, create a path to a balanced budget as soon as possible and cut red tape to unleash economic growth and the nation’s vast natural resources.
Hundred-year-old legacy – Sitz Angus was awarded the American Angus Association Century Award at the 2024 Angus Convention, held on Nov. 3 in Fort Worth, Texas. Pictured from left to right are 2024 Miss American Angus Lauren Wolter, Jim Sitz, Tammi Sitz, Amber Konen, Tyler Sitz, Tucker Sitz, Taylre Sitz, Bob Sitz and the association’s Chief Execuitve Officer Mark McCully. Courtesy photo
450 BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
2-YEAR-OLDS TO BROKEN MOUTH
Over 2,000 Bred Heifers & 5,500 Bred Cows!
FEATURED CONSIGNMENTS:
Matt & Tracy Basset – Complete Dispersion
Bred to Vermilion Angus Bulls. Start Calving March 1st . Every Cow is home raised . 70% are 6 years old & younger. 96-98% breed up the last 10 plus years –FANCY KIND.
100 BLACK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
Group 1: February 1st-28th Ultrasound Tested. 68% AI
Bred to Connealy King Air – balance bred to LBW King Air Sons. Group 2: March 1st-30th Ultrasound Tested. Bred to LBW King Air Sons. COWS & HEIFERS both had Vira Shield 6 VL5, Multimin, and Poured this Fall. Camas Creek Ranch-Complete Dispersion
1,200 BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
(750_2 6-YEAR-OLDS)
150 BLACK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
Bred to calve April/May. Ultrasound tested. Fall shots & poured. Bred to Vermilion and Sitz Angus bulls.
FL Robinson Ranch – Complete Dispersion
385 BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
2-YEAR-OLDS TO BROKEN MOUTH
Bred to Black Angus Bulls . Start Calving April 1st. Reputation set of cows that have years of AI & highquality bull selection .
Lazy TM Livestock
205 MOSTLY ANGUS. FEW BWF 2- COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve April 1-30
17 MOSTLY ANGUS FEW BWF 2- COMING 3-YEAROLD BRED COWS
Calve May 1-15
90 BLACK ANGUS 3 & 4-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve April 1-30
16 BLACK ANGUS 3 & 4-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve May 1-15
Ultrasound tested. All bred to front end Midland Test Angus growth bulls. Calves weaned mid Sept. Cows are in excellent condition coming off winter range and Rio Max. Tubs.
85 BLACK ANGUS 3 & 4-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve March 5 for 50 days
14 BLACK ANGUS 5 & 6-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve March 5 for 50 days
All bred to Vermilion Angus growth bulls. Excellent for quality and disposition. Steer calves shipped mid Oct. at 605 lbs, heifers 585 lbs.
40 BLACK ANGUS 3 & 4-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
40 BLACK ANGUS 5 & 6-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve March 7 to April 30
Bred to Heiken and few Gateway Simm Angus bulls. Steer calves mid Oct. at 650 lbs. Total Dispersion of 3-6-year-old cows off one ranch.
Arntzen, Kevin
80 BLACK ANGUS MIXED AGE BRED COWS
Calve March/April. Bred to Angus bulls.
Arthun Ranch
28 BLACK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
Start Calving late April/Early May
130 MIXED AGE BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
Calve from March – May . Bred to Current Creek Angus and Wheeler Mountain Bulls. Give Scour Boss and Safe Guard this Fall.
Barnett
60 BLACK 2- COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
55 calve April 1-30, 5 calve May 1-30
Ultrasounded. Bred to Angus bulls. ViraShield 6 VL5 and Poured in November.
Davidson, Peter
100 BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
Start Calving March 20th . Bred to Angus Bulls. Vaccinated & Wormed.
Dingwall
45 BLACK MIXED AGE BRED COWS
Calve March/April. Bred to good Angus bulls.
Dierks Brothers
9 BLK ANGUS AI BRED HEIFERS
AI Bred to Vermilion Leo Due Feb 6
25 BLK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
Calve March 1-15
25 BLK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
Calve March 16- April 5
2 BLK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
Calve April 10-31
Bred to LBW Sons of Deposit, Exchange, Logo \ 1100+, Fancy, Gentle, Reputation Kind.
Green, Larry (Semi-Retirement Dispersion)
10 REGISTERED HEIFERS
Calve February/March
20 REGISTERED YOUNG COWS
End of January through April
All Bred to AI Sires(KR Kingley, Connealy Commerce, Connealy Kraftsman & Greens Private Stock) . Shots & Poured this Fall
Griffin Land & Cattle
100 MIXED AGE BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
Start Calving March 1st on Heifers & March 8th on the Cows – Bred for 45 Days. Bred to Black Angus Bulls. Vira Shield 6 VL5 and Cydectin Injectable.
Hammersmark/Howard
48 BLACK ANGUS
COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve March 10 to April 10
11 BLACK ANGUS COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve April 10 to May 10
All Bred to Felton Angus bulls. All had ViraShield 6 and poured with Clean Up this Fall. Been on a Payback mineral program.
Johnson, Phil & Peggy
60 BLACK ANGUS
2-, 3-, 4-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Start Calving March 25th
Bred to Black Angus bulls from GDAR All Fall shots and poured
30 BLACK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS
Calve April 15 to May 15
Bred to LBW Black Angus bulls
Jurenka, Joe
300 BLACK/BLACK BALDY
BRED HEIFERS
240 F1 BALDY HEIFERS
Bred to LBW Shipwheel BLS Bravado 1536
186 AI BRED HEIFERS
Start Calving February 20th . Cleaned up with Math Angus and Shipwheel Bulls. Fully Vaccinated: Modified Live Pre-Breeding. Cattle Master 5 this Fall. Stay Bred BL5 . Full Free Choice Mineral.
Kuhlman – Bittercreek
20 SHORT TERM BLK ANGUS BRED COWS
Start Calving March 20. Bred to Blk Angus Bulls from VR and Clear Creek. Fall Shots & Poured.
Lamey, Corey
50 MIXED AGE BLACK ANGUS
BRED COWS
Start Calving February 10th
(Shoulder Marks are May Calvers). Bred to Circle L Bulls. Shots & Poured.
Lesh Cattle Co.
120 BLACK ANGUS AI BRED HEIFERS
Start calving March 26, White Button Tag AI bred to 44 Farms Good News, registered Angus calving ease bull, 75 lbs BW
Lesh Cattle Co. (continued)
100 BLACK ANGUS BULL BRED HEIFERS
Start calving March 26 to April 16, 1st cycle heifers Red Button Tag. Bred to Register Angus calving ease bulls from Larsen and Vermilion Angus bulls. All are one iron heifers, home raised (EID) and some purchased from Dolatta and Reiger Ranches. Home raised steers have been in the Prime Pursuits program for 7 years, 98+% Choice and Prime. All have had VL5, poured and age branded Sept. 5. Averaging 950-1000 lbs.
Lesh Cattle Co.
Wyatt & Amy Lesh
100 BLACK ANGUS COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Start calving April 1. Bred to registered Angus bulls from 44 Farms, Larsen Ranch, and Vermilion. One iron, home raised cows with age brand and EID. . Home raised steers have been in the Prime Pursuits program for 7 years, 98+% Choice and Prime. All have had VL5 and Safeguard in Oct. Averaging 1000-1100 lbs.
Les Craft Angus
15 REGISTERED BLK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS ($100\ HD FOR PAPERS)
Calve March 1-April 10. Bred to Sons of Jameson & Baldridge Versatile. No Brands, 1200#, Pre-Breeding Shots, Year Round Mineral Program.
10 BLK ANGUS MIXED AGE BRED COWS ($100\HD FOR PAPERS)
Calve March 1-April 15. Bred to Sons of Alternative, Tahoe, Verdict. Pre-Breeding Shots, Year Round Mineral Program.
Little Belt Cattle Company
130 2 COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BLK ANGUS BRED COWS
Calve April 10 – May 30. Bred to High Performance Vermilion & Sitz Angus Bulls. All Raised Calves, Front End Fancy Reputation.
Morgan, Jim
30 SHORT TERM BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
Start Calving March 15th – May 15th
Bred to Black Angus Bulls. On Scour Boss 9 Program, Vira Shield 6 and Poured.
Pierce, Jeremey & Liz
150 BLACK ANGUS AI BRED HEIFERS
AI bred to Vermilion Leo. Bred to calve March 1st for 10 day period.
150 BLACK ANGUS PASTURE BRED HEIFERS
Start calving March 15th for 60 days. Bred to Vermilion and Hinman Angus bulls. Fancy set of heifers weighing 1000 lbs, handled horseback all Summer long, spent the Summer. at the top of the Crazy Mountains.
Pine Coulee
140 MIXED AGE BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
Start Calving Middle of March through the Middle of May. Bred to Pine Coulee Bulls.
Rock Creek Cattle Co.
50 BLACK MIXED AGE BRED COWS
Calve March 1 for 45 days
100% Vermilion bred. Have had 8 Way, VL5, and Safeguarding.
Roe Livestock
12 PUREBRED BLACK ANGUS
BRED HEIFERS
Sired by HF Quick Draw 145G
Start calving Feb. 12th. Bred to a Ellingson Rangland son. Cattle Master in the Spring & Fall.
Roen, Ryan
50 BLK/BWF MIXED AGE BRED COWS
Calve March (green tab)/April (white tab). Bred to Black Angus bulls.
Siewert Ranch
90 MIXED AGE BLK ANGUS BRED COWS
Calve April\May
Bred to Blk Angus Bulls. Virashield 6 & Safeguard.
Stampfel, John
15 BLK ANGUS SHORT TERM BRED COWS
6 – 4-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve Jan\Feb
Bred to Pine Coulee Angus Bulls. Fall Shots.
Stevensen Angus Ranch
30 MIXED AGE BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
Stevenson, Bob & Robin
138 MIXED AGE COMMERCIAL ANGUS COWS
Calve March/April
Bred to Black Angus bulls. Preg Guard, Guardian Scour Boss, booster needed, Dectomax.
S & G Livestock Inc
55 MIXED AGE BRED COWS (15-3’s, 40- 5 to Broken Mouth)
Calve March 5 to May 25. Bred to Heiken and Vermilion Angus bulls.
Two Dot Land & Livestock (South)
46 COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BLACK ANGUS BRED COWS
Start Calving March 25th through May 15th (May Calvers have dye mark). One Iron Cows – No Fall Shots.
Bred to Vermilion Angus bulls. Fall shots and poured.
30 BLACK AI BRED HEIFERS
Bred to calve March 20-25
AI bred to Vermilion Leo . Ultrasound tested, ViraShield 6 VL5, Scourboss 9, and poured this Fall.
Wichman, Garrett & Steiner
120 F1 BLACK/SIMM CROSS BRED HEIFERS
Start Calving March 1st
Bred to Gateway Simmental Angus Bulls. Will Have Preg Guard and 7 Way given at Yards.
Zentner Family
160 BLACK 2 COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve March 25 to April 30th Blue tags
40 BLACK 2 COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS
Calve May 1-30 Yellow Tags
Ultrasound tested, bred to Zentner & Vermilion Angus Bulls. Fall shots and poured.
CONNECTING AG to CLIMATE
By Windy Kelley, Northern Plains Regional Climate Hub
Recent and Current Conditions
Wyoming experienced its second warmest and 40th driest October out of 130 years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Centers for Environmental Information database, retrieved Nov. 22.
Scaling to the county level, the minimum October temperatures of Wyoming’s counties ranked from the second to the 18th warmest, and the maximum temperatures ranked from the warmest to the seventh warmest out of 130 years – see adjacent tables.
Precipitation rankings of select counties for the month of October are also
included in the adjacent tables.
The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) map for Wyoming, released Nov. 21, classifies nearly two percent of Wyoming as being abnormally dry (D0), and it shows over 98 percent of the state in moderate (D1) to extreme drought (D3).
View the current USDM map at bit.ly/usdmwy. Consider submitting a Condition Monitoring Observer Report at bit.ly/ condtionreports
Eight- to 14-day and one-month forecasts
NOAA’s eight- to 14-day forecast for Dec. 1-7, issued on Nov. 23, shows a 33 to 40 percent probability of above nor-
mal temperatures for the western two-thirds of Wyoming, and an equal chance for below, near or above normal temperatures for the eastern third of the state.
For the same timeframe, there is a 33 to 50 percent probability for below average precipitation for most of Wyoming, with the highest probability in the southwestern corner of the state. The exception is the greater northeast corner of the state where there is an equal chance for below, near or above normal precipitation.
The one-month forecast for December, issued on Nov. 21, indicates a 33 to 40 percent probability of above normal temperatures along the southern border of Wyoming and an equal chance for below, near or above normal temperatures for the rest of the state.
For the same timeframe, there is a 33 to 40 percent probability for above normal precipitation in the very northwestern corner of Wyoming and an equal chance for below,
* Temperatures are observed daily & then averaged across those days for the given timeframe.
** Rankings & additional information are available at NOAA's Climate at a Glance website.
*** Icons from the Noun Project.
near or above normal precipitation throughout the rest of the state.
For additional information and NOAA forecasts, visit cpc.ncep.noaa.gov
Windy K. Kelley is the regional Extension program coordinator and state specialist for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Northern Plains
Climate Hub, the University of Wyoming Extension and WAFERx. She can be reached at wkelley1@ uwyo.edu or 307-3674380.
Word for Word by Lee Pitts IT'S THE PITTS
Because they may be offensive, the L.A. Times banned the use of the words “deaf,” “alien” and
“handicapped.” This is the same newspaper that refers to looters as “non-traditional shoppers.”
FOR SALE OR RENTAL
RATIO WET KIT, 1 LIFT AXLE – $59,500 2013 MACK 600, 306,406 MILES
EXTENSIVE ENGINE WORK DONE – $39,500
2006 INTERNATIONAL 9200 DAY CAB, 292,298 MILES, 12,695 ENGINE HOURS, CAT C-13 ACERT ENGINE, 10 SPD SHIFT TRANS., JAKE BRAKE, STATIONARY 5TH PLATE – $39,500
UPS scores its worst drivers as the “least worse,” and when Chrysler announced a big layoff, they called it “a career change opportunity.” Workers called it getting fired.
We are living in a society where the Army refers to friendly fire as “the accidental delivery of ordnance equipment.”
You can’t take a stab at something or kill two birds with one stone any more. You can’t even “hit”
a computer key or use the expression “there is more than one way to skin a cat.”
We use several words in agriculture which may be offensive to the politically correct.
With some help from The Politically Correct Dictionary and Handbook, I came up with some alternatives.
Artificial inseminator: Animal companion sex care provider.
Bummer lambs: Disowned future providers of
non-human animal fibers.
Castrated: Cosmetically-altered and sexuallychallenged male.
Dead: Non-living corpse; terminally inconvenienced; no longer a factor.
Dwarf: A verticallychallenged, non-conforming bovine of color.
Dog: A canine American.
Dog catcher: Animal welfare officer who picks up temporarily-displaced animal companions and canine Americans.
Eggs: Stolen nonhuman animal products that come fried, poached or scrambled.
Fat: Adipose tissue from horizontally-challenged, processed animal carcasses.
Futures trader – A potential client of our corrective ecosystem who creates negative cash flow
Grubby: Parasitically oppressed.
Horseback riding: The thievery of uncompensated non-human animal transport.
Housebreaking: Environmental orientation.
Husband: Sub optimal utensil sanitizer.
Kill: Degrow.
Locoweed: Unwanted botanical companion.
Manure: Previously utilized organic matter.
Pig: A hair-disadvantaged animal companion that, because of its good taste, will fail to fulfill its wellness potential.
In the future, in order not to offend any of our readers, this “processed tree carcass” will continue to be on the lookout for words that a socially-misaligned, incompletely-successful person may find cerebrally challenging.
+89 and Milk: +21 Buyer:
SALE REPORTS
Redland Angus Ranch “Range Calved-Range
Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor Nov. 23, 2024
Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo Auctioneer: Joe Goggins
170 Angus Bulls Avg. $9,611
58 Commercial Angus Bred Heifers Avg. $4,200
Top
2008 Dam’s Sire: O C C
24 Commercial Black Baldy Bred Heifers Avg. $3,500 5L Red Angus Annual “Profit $eeker” Fall Sale
3/27/23
Sire: Mc Cumber Cow Power 118 Dam’s Sire: O C C Jet Stream 825J EPDs: BW: -2, WW: +49, YW:
Largent and Sons Herefords “Prime Fuel” Sale
Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor Nov. 16, 2024
Largent and Sons Hereford Ranch, Kaycee Auctioneer: Joe Goggins
77 Two-Year-Old Hereford Bulls Avg. $7,404 18 Fall Yearling
Do It All 656D EPDs: BW: -1.1, WW: +49, YW: +89 and Milk: +23 Buyer: Lee Ranch Company, Montana Lot 5 – Redland Emblazon 253 – Price: $17,000 DOB: 3/27/23 Sire: Redland Emblazon 1205 Dam’s Sire: Mc Cumber Tremendous 2008 EPDs: BW: +1.5, WW: +52, YW: +92 and Milk: +21 Buyer: Tim and Linda Burch, Wyoming
Lot 40 – Redland Tremendous 903 – Price: $17,000 DOB: 3/25/23 Sire: Mc Cumber Tremendous 2008 Dam’s Sire: O C C Do It All 656D EPDs: BW: -1, WW: +42, YW: +77 and Milk: +20 Buyer: Marty Lawerence, South Dakota
$13,500 DOB: 4/8/23
Sire: Desert Explosion 728
Dam’s Sire: NJW 98S R117
Ribeye 88X ET EPDs: BW: +5.1, WW: +67, YW: +103, Milk: +29 and M&G: +63
Buyer: Pearson Ranch, LLC, Aladdin
Reported By:
Top Sellers
Bulls Lot 8 – 5L Hummer 1218-231L – Price:
$14,000 DOB: 2/19/23
Sire: 5L Hummer 956407H Dam’s Sire: 5L Body Builder 4434-68D EPDs: BW: -0.4, WW: +67, YW: +107 and Milk: +19 Buyer: Ray Veale, King City, Mo. Lot 105 – Augustine G1110-L69 – Price:
$10,500 DOB: 4/10/23
Sire: LCoC Augustine U927E Dam’s Sire: 5L Game On 703-50C
EPDs: BW: -1.2, WW: +71, YW: +111 and Milk: +25 Buyer: Smith Ranch,
Whitehall, Mont.
Lot 1 – 5L Road Trip 5679-657L – Price: $10,000 DOB: 4/10/23 Sire: 5L Road Trip 117211H Dam’s Sire: 5L Deadbolt 5634-85D EPDs: BW: -0.7, WW: +77, YW: +124 and Milk: +23 Buyer: Steve and Linda Kukowski, Billings, Mont.
“As our next secretary of agriculture, Rollins will spearhead the effort to protect American farmers who are truly the backbone of our country,” he continued.
According to several sources, Rollins originally campaigned to serve as Trump’s chief of staff, one of the first position’s the president-elect announced to be filled by his Campaign Manager Susie Wiles.
Instead, Rollins was a surprise pick to head the USDA, as former Sen. Kelly Loeffler (R-GA) was rumored to fill the position prior to Trump’s Nov. 24 announcement.
Rollins’ nomination must be confirmed by the Senate, which will be controlled by the Republican Party when Trump
takes office on Jan. 20, 2025.
If confirmed, Rollins would succeed current Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack as the second woman to lead the USDA, where she would oversee nearly 100,000 employees and numerous farm subsidy and federal nutrition programs, policy and regulations, meat inspection and all other aspects of the food, farming and forestry industries.
Rollins will likely also work closely with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Trump’s nominee for the Department of Health and Human Services, who has vowed to reform ag policy and “make America healthy again.”
Following her nomination announcement, Rollins wrote on the
social media platform X, “It will be the honor of my life to fight for American’s farmers and our nation’s agricultural communities. Who is ready to make agriculture great again?”
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Cowboy Channel acquired
Teton Ridge, the premier brand at the intersection of Western sports and entertainment, announced its acquisition of The Cowboy Channel, the leading network for Western sports, along with the Cowgirl Channel. The Cowboy Channel+, a livestreaming and ondemand service.
Acquired from Rural Media Group, a global leader in agriculture and rural lifestyle media and entertainment, this strategic move establishes Teton Ridge as the largest rights holder in the Western sports sector and reinforces its dedication to elevating the reach and impact of Western sports
across the world.
The Cowboy Channel and Cowgirl Channel collectively reach an audience of over 100 million people across social, audio, digital/ OTT and linear platforms, broadcasting more than 600 live rodeo events annually.
As part of the acquisition, Teton Ridge has secured an exclusive licensing agreement with the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, covering more than 600 sanctioned rodeos domestically and internationally, including the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.
Additionally, The Cowboy Channel has distribution agreements with major cable
providers such as DISH, DIRECTV, Comcast, Cox, Charter and Altice, among others. The Cowgirl Channel is currently exclusive to DISH.
Teton Ridge holds distribution agreements with FOX, FS1, FS2 and DAZN for live broadcast coverage of The American Rodeo and Contender Series, further expanding the reach of these marquee events.
In March 2024, The American Rodeo and The American Performance Horseman garnered a combined viewership of 5.7 million across FOX platforms.
For more information, visit tetonridge.com
PERC releases report
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) recently released a new report in conjunction with Beyond Yellowstone, “Unlocking the Conservation Potential of Virtual Fencing: A Policy Framework for Supporting Innovative Land Management,” which analyzes the effectiveness of pioneering virtual fencing technology while proposing policy opportunities to integrate these solutions as a conservation tool.
The report brings together the collective recommendations of leading conservation organizations including the Nature Conservancy, World Wildlife Fund, Audubon Society, Greater Yellowstone Coalition and more, plus emerging technology partners and leaders from the ranching and agricultural community.
A promising alternative to barbed-wire,
virtual fencing technology consists of a series of signal towers and GPS collars worn by livestock within geofenced areas, allowing for increased flexibility for ranchers and eliminating physical barriers which disrupt wildlife migration patterns.
But, despite growing popularity among Western states and widespread support from conservation organizations, policy solutions for the nascent technology have been limited due to several existing barriers impeding the practice’s adoption.
In an effort to address these challenges, the report examines the current virtual fencing policy opportunities and provides recommendations for widespread advancement of its uses.
To read the full report, visit perc.org/ virtualfencing
4-H continued from page 1
category and brought home a first-place win in the beef category, fourth place in the swine category and fifth in reasons.
seventh in the swine category.
The Natrona County 4-H Livestock Judging Team is led by Coach Jeremy Burkett, who runs the Casper College farrow-to-feeder farm.
Hornecker placed sixth in the beef category and Conner finished in
Two local students, Garrett Burkett and Carter Cox, both of Casper, came home with All American honors as well. Burkett secured seventh in the beef category and 15th overall, while Cox placed fifth in the beef category and secured seventh overall.
Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
National winners – The Natrona County 4-H team shined at the 2024 National 4-H Contest in Louisville, Ky. Pictured from left to right in the back row are Madi Dickinson, Kaleb Booth and Coach Jeremy Burkett. Pictured from left to right in the front row are Connor Booth, Garrett Burkett, Emmy Hornecker and Carter Cox. Courtesy photo
Brooke Rollins Courtesy photo
USMEF elects new officer team, recognizes outstanding members
The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) concluded its annual strategic planning conference in Tucson, Ariz. on Nov. 8 with the election of officers for 2024-25.
Leadership selected Steve Hanson, a rancher and cattle feeder from Elsie, Neb., is the new USMEF chair, succeeding Minnesota Pork and Grain Producer Randy Spronk.
Hanson has previously held many beef industry leadership roles, including chair of the Nebraska Beef Council and Federation of State Beef Councils and president of the Nebraska Cattlemen. He also served on the Beef Promotion Operating Committee, where he came to appreciate the importance of international marketing programs for U.S. red meat.
“The operating committee is where I first got my exposure to USMEF, which invests our checkoff dollars so well and adds value to the beef carcass,” Hanson said.
Hanson also praised USMEF for bringing together a wide range of agricultural sectors to support a common goal –something he said was fully on display in Tucson, Ariz.
“This is one of the best things about USMEF conferences – the idea I can attend the Pork Committee and Exporter Committee meetings to broaden my perspective,” he said. “Yesterday, I sat in on the
Exporter Committee meeting so I could learn more about the challenges they face moving product overseas. Those guys have some real hurdles, and this meeting gave me a much greater appreciation for what they do.”
Hanson added industry unity is also critical when countering efforts to shut down animal agriculture. He cited a Denver ballot initiative which sought to ban slaughterhouses as a prime example.
“Fortunately, this measure was defeated by nearly a two-to-one margin, and we are very proud of the fact,” he said. “But there are more cities on these activists’ lists, and we need to be paying attention.”
USMEF’s new chairelect is Jay Theiler, executive vice president of corporate affairs for Agri Beef Co., a diversified business with operations in ranching, cattle feeding, cattle nutrition and beef processing. He is a past director of the Idaho Beef Council and has served on the Beef Industry Long Range Plan Task Force.
USMEF Vice Chair Dave Bruntz is president of Bruntz Farming and Feeding in southeastern Nebraska, where he raises corn and soybeans and feeds cattle.
Bruntz is a past president of the Nebraska Corn Board and Nebraska Cattlemen. He also served as a regional vice president for
the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.
The newest USMEF officer is Secretary-Treasurer Darin Parker, director of Salt Lake City-based exporter and distributor PMI Foods.
Members honored
On Nov. 7, USMEF hosted its annual awards luncheon where Nick Giordano, former lead lobbyist with the National Pork Producers Council, was honored with the Michael J. Mansfield Award.
USMEF established this award in recognition of the U.S. Senate majority leader and ambassador to Japan whose five decades of government service advanced U.S. trade relations throughout the world.
Mark Jagels, a corn and livestock producer from Davenport, Neb. and former USMEF chair, received
USMEF’s Distinguished Service Award.
This award honors outstanding figures in the red meat industry who exemplify the exceptional, individual dedication responsible for the federation’s success.
USMEF also honored the Montana Beef Council with its Million Dollar Club Award.
This award recognizes USMEF member organizations which have contributed more than $1 million in support of USMEF’s marketing programs.
Montana Beef Council is a longtime partner of USMEF, making its initial contribution in 1984.
USMEF members will next meet at the organization’s Spring Conference on May 21-23, 2025 in Fort Worth, Texas.
USMEF collects and analyzes market intelli-
gence, implements promotional programs and collaborates with industry stakeholders and governmental
enhanced through partnerships.
“I would like to provide a few updates on the WACD’s current efforts, including our employee and supervisor training,” Heward stated. “It’s extremely beneficial for all of us to be trained and certified, including myself, as we are role models within the state.”
He then explained the agency’s experience this past year investigating district bond requirements and insurance options.
“It’s been kind of a learning curve for us to try and get our heads wrapped around it, and I appreciate all of you who have sat on those committees and worked through it,” he added. “We feel we are getting closer to giving some recommendations as well.”
Heward also reminded everyone to sign up for the WACD monthly newsletter, and if anyone has information they would like to submit to do so.
This year, WACD participated in several national conventions allowing the association to network with other agencies, including federal agencies in Washington, D.C. and other state agencies from
around the country.
“We were able to attend the National Association of Conservation Districts Summer Forum in Boston this year and the southwest region meeting which occurred in Alaska,” Heward stated. “We were also able to participate and become a bigger part of the National Grazing Lands Coalition.”
WACD continues to be involved with state legislation and appreciates local representatives and senators who communicate with the districts.
“I can’t say enough for our partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service Office and Wyoming State Conservationist Jackie Byam and her team,” he added.
Heward took participants on a personal journey, explaining his families’ footsteps homesteading in the Shirley Basin and the conservation steps they have taken over the years.
“How do we mindfully make choices and prepare, protect, manage and be responsible for future resources?” he asked. “It really is about our future
and how we preserve our resources and take care of them for future generations down the road.”
DEQ update
Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Water Quality Administrator Jennifer Zygmunt provided an overview of current initiatives involving water quality.
“There is a lot going on with changes in administration after the election, and we will have to wait and see what the new administration does,” Zygmunt stated. “We are very interested to see what rules might be revealed, but we don’t have a good sense of how things might go.”
Zygmunt gave a brief update on the department’s budget and employee changes, along with details on a few current legal cases the DEQ is involved in with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and a few other federal agencies.
“A bill to watch is House Bill LSO-0253, relating to the storage of used nuclear fuel and establishing requirements and standards for storage facilities,” she added. “We have had a lot of good discussion on this bill and there will be more to come.”
Another lawsuit Wyo-
ming is involved in includes new regulations in Waters of the U.S.
Zygmunt mentioned, “Wyoming is part of a 24-state coalition looking for clarification, as Wyoming is still under the pre-2015 regulations conformed by the Sackett vs. EPA decision.”
The new definition will subject additional Wyoming water features including those on private land to federal regulation.
“There is a lot of conversation happening at the national level and between states and federal agencies about jurisdiction,” she stated. “I think those conversations will continue as the next administration tackles the subject.”
Another hot topic Zygmunt discussed was Section 401 certifications of the Clean Water Act (CWA), where a federal agency may not issue a permit or license to conduct any activity which may result in any discharge into waters of the U.S. unless a Section 401 water quality certification is issued or certification is waived.
Zygmunt said, “The biggest issue we have before us, and the reason Wyoming joined the state of Louisiana, is the EPA’s CWA. It’s concerning
because we have had certifications and permits in place for our national park for years, and now the EPA – without any communication – has taken over.”
The Wyoming DEQ’s primary focus with this lawsuit is to make sure all waters in the park can’t have any degradation and they stay at the same level of protection.
WDA update
Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA) Director Doug Miyamoto addressed conference participants on highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
“Wyoming does not have many – only a few – dairies, and we had one HPAI case in Wyoming this year. But, Colorado has had a lot of issues with it,” Miyamoto stated. “The good thing with HPAI is it is easy to detect and treat.”
“The USDA is now doing national tracing programs to identify where milk came from if HPAI was detected,” he added. “It is a little nerve-racking because they are using a human health condition and milk as a medium in order to do traceability, so we are watching it very closely.”
The USDA declares HPAI testing is voluntary but continues to ask
local dairies to volunteer, and as of today, no dairies in Wyoming have volunteered, according to Miyamoto.
Moving on to legislative updates, Miyamoto briefly discussed the department’s budget and future funding for projects. Miyamoto said, “We may have some opportunities in the future to assist with land restoration projects, but we will just have to see what can’t be picked up by other agencies.” He mentioned, over the past year, the department was involved with the EPA on a pesticide strategy program.
The program provides the analytical testing of products to ensure they meet standards and labeling is accurate.
“This is going to take a lot of work from our standpoint, and it is very complicated but there is no other choice because this ruling was the result of a court decision,” he stated.
Keep an eye on future editions of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup for more from the WACD Annual Convention. Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
agencies to increase U.S. red meat exports. This article was originally published on Nov. 8.
Dedication to the industry – Mark Jagels, pictured left, accepts the U.S. Meat Export Federation’s (USMEF) Distinguished Service Award from outgoing USMEF Chair Randy Spronk, pictured right. Courtesy photo
Marketing program support – Montana Beef Council Directors Jake Callantine and Debbie Anderson accept the U.S. Meat Export Federation’s Million Dollar Club Award on behalf of the Montana Beef Council. Courtesy photo
Advancing trade relations – Nick Giordano, pictured left, accepts the U.S. Meat Export Federation’s (USMEF) Michael J. Mansfield Award from outgoing USMEF Chair Randy Spronk, pictured right. Courtesy photo
WACD continued from page 1
CALENDAR
Nov. 18-Dec. 1 Cheyenne Livestock Exposition, Laramie County Event Center, Cheyenne. For more information, visit cheyennelivestockexpo.com
Dec. 3 Wy We Care Initiative Wellness Forum, 5:30-7 p.m., Wyoming Union Ballroom, University of Wyoming Campus, Laramie. For more information, visit governor.wyo.gov
Dec. 4 Second Annual Green River Valley Rancher’s Workshop, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Sublette County Extension Office, Pinedale. For more information or to RSVP, e-mail dmontgo8@uwyo.edu or call 307-367-4380.
Dec. 4 Natrona County Predator Management District 2024 Annual Meeting, 3 p.m., ARLC Building, Casper. For more information, e-mail ncpmd1@charter.net.
Dec. 4-6 Ninth Annual National Grazing Lands Conference, Tucson, Ariz. For more information, visit grazinglands.org/grazing-conference
Dec. 4-6 Montana Stockgrowers Association Annual Convention and Trade Show Billings, Mont. For more information or to register, visit bit.ly/MSGAconvention
Dec. 5 West Greeley Conservation District Ag Symposium, 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Island Grove Event Center, Greeley, Colo. For more information, visit wgcd. org/symposium or call 970-302-1011.
Dec. 5-7 U.S. Cattlemen’s Association 2024 Annual Meeting, InterContinental Hotel, San Antonio, Texas. For more information or to register, visit uscattlemen.org/ annual-meeting-2024/
Dec. 5-14 2024 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Thomas and Mack Center, Las Vegas. For more information, visit nfrexperience.com
Dec. 6-7 Wyoming Leadership, Education and Development Program 40th Anniversary Celebration Gala, Laramie. For more information, visit wylead.com or contact Cindy Garretson-Weibel at wylead@gmail.com or 307-214-5080.
Dec. 7-11 American Association of Equine Practitioners 69th Annual Convention, Orlando, Fla. For more information, visit convention.aaep.org
Dec. 9-11 Wyoming Stock Growers Association Winter Roundup Convention and Trade Show, Ramkota Hotel and Conference Center, Casper. For more information, visit wysga.org
Dec. 10-12 Nebraska Ag Expo, Lancaster Event Center, Lincon, Neb. For more information, visit nebraskaagexpo.com
Dec. 14 Lynch Performance, LLC Rodeo Extravaganza, 6:30 p.m., Sioux Falls, S.D. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit @LynchPerformanceLLC on Facebook.
Jan. 7-10, 2025 33rd Annual No-Tillage Conference, Louisville Marriott Downtown Hotel, Louisville, Ky. For more information or to register, visit no-tillfarmer.com
Jan. 15, 2025 Beef Cattle Research Council Foot and Mouth Disease Webinar, 7 p.m., online. For more information or to register, visit beefresearch.ca
Dec. 2 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
Dec. 3 Ward Livestock Sixth Annual Red, White and Blue Bull Sale, at the ranch, Laramie, 307-399-9863
SALES
Dec. 5 Sitz Angus 59th Annual Fall Bull Sale, at the ranch, Harrison, Mont., 406683-5277, 406-581-9153, 208-670-2364, sitzangus.com
Dec. 6 KG Ranch Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Three Forks, Mont., 406285-3660, kgranch.com
Dec. 7 Leachman Cattle of Colorado High Altitude Sale, Loma Livestock, Loma, Colo., 970-568-3983, leachman.com
Dec. 7 T-Heart Ranch High Altitude Female Sale, at the ranch, LaGarita, Colo., 719-850-3082, 719-850-3083, t-heartranch.com
Dec. 7 Fredrickson Ranch Annual Bull Sale, at the ranch, Spearfish, S.D., 605254-4872, fredricksonranch.com
Dec. 7 Lofink Farms Live Hay Auction, Lofink Farms Stackyard, Thermopolis, 307921-1825, 307-921-1864
Dec. 9 Hollow Top Angus Third Annual Production Sale, Montana Livestock Auction, Ramsay, Mont., 208-365-8862, 303-513-9058, 406-552-0491, hollowtopangus.com
Dec. 9 Cross Diamond Cattle Company Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Bertrand, Neb., 308-991-2452, crossdiamondcattle.com
Dec. 10 Rock Lake Angus Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Wheatland, 307331-1175, 406-600-7514, rocklakeangus.com
Dec. 10-11
Dec. 11
Dec. 13
Dec. 14
Dec. 16
Dec. 19
Jan. 6
Jan. 11
Jan. 16
PAYS Annual Blue Ribbon Stock Cow and Bred Heifer Special Sale PAYS, Billings, Mont., 406-245-6447, publicauctionyards.com
Shipwheel Cattle Company 16th Annual Bull Sale, at the ranch, Chinook, Mont., 406-357-2492, shipwheelcattle.com
Bowman Cattle Ranch-Ready Rugged Two-Year-Old Bull Sale, Sugar Valley Stockyards, Gering, Neb., 307-287-6503, 307-575-4992, bowmancattle.com
Amdahl Angus Fall Bull and Female Production Sale, at the ranch, Rapid City, S.D., 605-999-6487, 605-929-3717, amdahlangus.com
The Wyoming Angus Association 14th Annual Wyoming Select Female Sale, hosted online by anguslive.com, 307-630-1593, wyomingangus.org
Bobcat Angus 20th Annual Production Sale, Western Livestock Auction, Great Falls, Mont., 406-937-5858, 406-788-3272, 406-788-3244, bobcatangus.com
Western Video Market, North Platte Stockyards, North Platte, Neb., 530-3473793, wvmcattle.com
Rafter T Angus Annual Bull Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307736-2415, 307-299-4569, raftertangus.com
Ingalls Angus and Quarter Horses Annual Production Sale, Riverton Livestock Auction, Riverton, 307-349-3097, 307-349-1894, 307-690-7557
POSTCARD
from the Past
A terrific gale tears up sidewalk and turns over everything it could get hold of Thus read the headlines in the July 19, 1900 issue of The Saratoga Sun, accompanied by the following article:
One of the worst wind storms that ever visited this valley struck Saratoga Sunday morning about half past nine o’clock.
It could be seen coming for half an hour before it struck and looked like an immense wall of dirt.
It lasted about 20 minutes and ripped up sidewalks, blew off a brick chimney, turned over outhouses and blew out window lights. It tore part of
a sheet iron roof off of the building belonging to E.P. Andrews and carried it clear across the river.
The Fort Steele Stage, which was on the road for this place, was stopped before the full force of the gale struck them, and the horses were unhitched.
W.M. Orville, who drives the Encampment Coach, says the wind tipped his coach back and over until the body of the coach was riding on the off-hind wheel, and the air was so thick with dust he could not see his horses for a time, nor get a good breath of air.
The windmill belonging to John Johnson was torn to pieces, and the wind literally blew large
windows from Mrs. Dyers millinery store, C.P. Clemmons and John Mayden’s dwelling houses, the restaurant of Alfred Smith and The Sun office. One of the windows on the west side of the Presbyterian Church was blown out, and the interior was considerably damaged.
The halfway house between this place and Pass Creek was struck by the wind and hail both and was blown to the ground. It is reported the stable belonging to Curtis and Orville at Fort Steele was blown over. Considerable damage was done to other properties at that place.
This is certainly the nearest approach to a cyclone the people of this valley ever experienced, with the wind blowing at the rate of about 60 miles an hour. There was very little rain that fell during the blow at this point, but at different places it hailed and rained both. The temperature went way down during the storm, and it felt quite winterish.
Michael & Karen Vigil – 55 PTO black yearlings, 900-1,000#, home raised.
Michael & Karen Vigil – 55 PTO black yearlings, 900-1,000#, home raised.
Ron Hoffman – 325 mixed mostly black, 35-550#, complete vacc at branding.
Ron Hoffman – 325 mixed mostly black, 35-550#, complete vacc at branding.
Jerry Kienlen – 140 mixed, mostly black, 550-650#, two rounds of shots, weaned. Luke Foss – 50 black steers, 650-700#, two rounds of shots, weaned.
Jerry Kienlen – 140 mixed, mostly black, 550-650#, two rounds of shots, weaned.
Luke Foss – 50 black steers, 650-700#, two rounds of shots, weaned.
Miller & Co. – 50 black steers, 400-450#, two rounds of shots, weaned Oct. 10.
Miller & Co. – 50 black steers, 400-450#, two rounds of shots, weaned Oct. 10.
Lloyd Nielson – 50 black steers, 50 black heifers, 550-650#, two rounds of shots, weaned.
Lloyd Nielson – 50 black steers, 50 black heifers, 550-650#, two rounds of shots, weaned.
Jason Wiechmann – 75 black steers, 500-600#, three rounds of shots, poured, high elevation, weaned September.
Sage Creek - Snyder Sisters – 65 mixed black & red, 550-650#, weaned.
Sage Creek - Snyder Sisters – 65 mixed black & red, 550-650#, weaned.
Jason Wiechmann – 75 black steers, 500-600#, three rounds of shots, poured, high elevation, weaned September.
Dave Greer – 60 mixed, mostly red, 425-575#, two rounds of shots, poured, weanted September.
Hurricane Cattle – 50 mixed, BB & black, 350-550#, two rounds of shots, hay fed, weaned Oct. 10.
Bruce Robertson – 36 mostly heifers, black, 600#, high elevation, bunk broke, weaned 60+. Brewster Ranch – 30 black & BWF steers, 400-550#, two rounds of shots, high elevation, out on pasture, weanted September.
Eric Bower – 32 black steers, 600-700#, two rounds of shots, poured, weaned.
Eric Bower – 32 black steers, 600-700#, two rounds of shots, poured, weaned.
Dave Greer – 60 mixed, mostly red, 425-575#, two rounds of shots, poured, weanted September. Hurricane Cattle – 50 mixed, BB & black, 350-550#, two rounds of shots, hay fed, weaned Oct. 10. Bruce Robertson – 36 mostly heifers, black, 600#, high elevation, bunk broke, weaned 60+. Brewster Ranch – 30 black & BWF steers, 400-550#, two rounds of shots, high elevation, out on pasture, weanted September.
John Miller – 22 mixed black, 600-650#, two rounds of shots, bunk broke, weaned 45+.
John Miller – 22 mixed black, 600-650#, two rounds of shots, bunk broke, weaned 45+.
Lucky Homewood – 10 CharX steers, 600-700#, two rounds of shots, bunk broke, weaned.
Lucky Homewood – 10 CharX steers, 600-700#, two rounds of shots, bunk broke, weaned.
Randy & Marti Baird – 10 red steers, 450-500#, one round of shots, poured, bunk broke, weaned Oct. 15.
Randy & Marti Baird – 10 red steers, 450-500#, one round of shots, poured, bunk broke, weaned Oct. 15.
Triple C Hay Farms – 9 black heifers, 650#, two rounds of shots, replacement quality, weaned long time.
Triple C Hay Farms – 9 black heifers, 650#, two rounds of shots, replacement quality, weaned
Jacob Miller – 8 black steers, 600-650#, two rounds of shots, bunk broke, weaned. Herman Livestock – 35 steers, black & BB, 550-600#, two rounds of shots, poured, weaned 60+. Broken Back Ranch – 117 black steers, 550#, 49 black heifers, 425#, two rounds of shots. Nick & Shauna Harris – 100 mixed black, 450-550#.
Layne Weber • Field Rep & Auctioneer • (307) 331-2222 Consignments • December 2 • Bawl of the Fall
Herman Livestock – 35 steers, black & BB, 550-600#, two rounds of shots, poured, weaned 60+.
Danny Vigil • Owner and Northern Livestock Represenative
Danny Vigil • Owner and
The Wyoming Collegiate Cattle Association (WCCA) is proud to announce its significant growth, now boasting 107 active college student members.
This milestone reflects the organization’s continued dedication to fostering education, community service and opportunities within the cattle industry.
A semester of growth and impact
This fall, the WCCA has actively engaged in meaningful events to benefit both its members and the local community.
In October, WCCA members participated in a creative outreach project by going trick-or-treating for canned goods. Their efforts resulted in a donation of 350 pounds of food to Laramie’s Interfaith Food Pantry, providing much-needed support dur-
WCCA experiences unprecedented growth and success in 2024
ing the holiday season.
This successful event was organized by Community Service Chair Caroline Schlattman and CoChair Grace Baas. Additionally, members had the opportunity to participate in educational ranch tours, visiting Miller Cattle and Feedyards in Torrington and attending the Leachman Bull Sale in Fort Collins, Colo.
These experiences provided valuable firsthand learning opportunities, especially for members new to the cattle industry.
Upcoming events and fundraisers
WCCA is preparing for an exciting spring semester, packed with opportunities for its members to grow and connect within the cattle industry.
To support these initiatives, the organiza-
tion is actively fundraising through a Beef Box Raffle, which is currently underway. The funds raised will help the club host additional guest speakers and organize more ranch tours, providing members with invaluable learning experiences.
In February 2025, WCCA will send 12 members to the National Cattle Convention in San Antonio. This prestigious industry event offers a chance for students to network and learn from top professionals in the cattle industry.
To make this opportunity possible, WCCA is seeking sponsorships to help cover travel and registration costs for participating members.
Additionally, the Annual WCCA Gala is scheduled for May 3, 2025 and is open to the public. The event will celebrate
For more information about the Wyoming Collegiate Cattlemen’s Association, sponsorship opportunities or to donate prime rib for the gala, contact Marie Lawson at mlawso13@uwyo.edu.
the cattle industry and bring together students, community members and supporters.
Gala Chair Lilly Stewart and Co-Chair Emma Hamlin are working diligently to make the evening a success.
To ensure the gala is both enjoyable and accessible, WCCA is seeking donations of prime rib and additional sponsorships.
These contributions will help lower ticket costs, allowing more members and guests to attend this special event.
WCCA is grateful for the community’s ongoing support and looks forward to a successful spring
semester full of impactful events and opportunities for its members.
Recognition of leadership
WCCA success is a testament to the dedication of its officer team including Vice President Shelby Sinclair, Secretary Luke Duksa, Treasurer Paden Knull, Public Relations Eva Lewin, Advisor Dr. Paul Ludden and CoAdvisor Shelby Rosasco.
Looking ahead
As WCCA plans for a busy spring semester filled with fundraising, ranch tours and community service projects, the organization is excited to welcome new members
and continue providing educational and networking opportunities for students passionate about the cattle industry.
WCCA is a recognized University of Wyoming student organization open to all students who are interested in learning more about the cattle industry. As joint members of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association, the club works to promote the cattle business and its values throughout the state and university. For more information, visit uwyo. edu/anisci/students/clubsorganizations/wyomingcollegiate-cattle-association/index.html
www.torringtonlivestock.com
The Natrona County Predator Management District is holding its 2024 Annual Meeting on Wednesday, December 4th, beginning at 3:00 p.m. This meeting will be held at the ARLC Building, Casper Room, 2011 Fairgrounds Road, Casper. All producers, Wyoming Game and Fish representatives, Wildlife Service representatives and the public are invited to participate. Tentative agenda items will be reports from the NCPMD trappers, game and fish, ADMB and Wildlife Services representatives. At the conclusion, we will conduct Election of Officer’s and set Predator Fees. For additional information, please contact the NCPMD office at ncpmd1@charter.net
Events
RAPID CITY GUN SHOW: Dec.
7, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Dec. 8, 9 a.m.2 p.m. Monument Civic Center, Rapid City, SD 57701. Buy, sell and trade, $5 daily admission. For more information, call 605391-8843 11/30
CODY GUN SHOW DEC. 6-7, Cody Auditorium, 1240 Beck Ave., Cody, WY. Guns, knives, Old West collectables. Fri., Dec. 6, noon to 8 p.m. Sat., Dec. 7, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For information and table reservations, call Paul, 307-254-2090 11/30
taking cattle to the hospital and shipping fat cattle. This person will need to be a team player who is seeking a long-term position. You will have the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the best in the industry. We offer a benefits package that includes health insurance, dental, vision, 401(k), health savings, life insurance and paid vacation. Retention bonus offered to full-time employees. Incentives paid out at 6 months and 1 year of employment. If you are interested stop by and fill out an application or visit our website at Call Brandon Furr at 402-257-7769 or
for more information.
THE DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL SCIENCES AT COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY (CSU) INVITES APPLICATIONS FOR THE JOHN E. ROUSE BEEF IMPROVEMENT CENTER NEAR SARATOGA, WY: Responsibilities include maintaining and operating flood irrigation systems, haying, maintaining/ repairing equipment, assisting with beef cattle research and processing activities and compliance with university research and accounting requirements. Reqs. include: High School Diploma, General Education Development (GED) or equivalent required and 2 years of relevant, specialized training/experience. Two years’ exp. in beef cattle, cow/calf or feedlot operations. Read full job description and apply by Dec. 8: www.jobs.colostate.edu/postings/153167 CSU is an EO/EA/AA employer and conducts background checks on all final candidates 11/30
REMOTE NORTHEAST WYOMING RANCH IS LOOKING FOR A FULL-TIME FARM/ RANCH EMPLOYEE: This position is open immediately. Applicant must be self-motivated, reliable and responsible with knowledge of haying and farming. Mechanical skills are a must. Farming duties include: Swathing, baling and raking hay, etc. THIS IS NOT A COWBOY POSITION, but applicant will need to assist in all aspects of cattle work as well. Those duties include calving heifers, feeding hay, branding and gathering, etc. Nearest big town is 60+ miles and nearest K-12 school is 30+ miles away. Housing is provided and on a school bus route. Please send resume with references by mail or e-mail to: PeeGee Ranch, 1251 Lower Powder River Road, Arvada, WY 82831, pgranch@rangeweb.net. Call 307-736-2461 11/30
WYOMING BRAND FOR SALE: Registered to 2031, LRC, LSH, $1,500. Call 307-262-7874 11/30
AGRI-ONE FINANCIAL: Farm/ ranch and all commercial loans. RATES
PROGRAMS designed for the farmer/rancher and not the banker. Please call Steve, 303-7733545 or check out our website www.agrionefinancial.com. I will come to you and get the job done!! 11/30
COW DOGS FOR SALE, $500. Call 307-272-5507 12/21
HEELER/BORDER COLLIE PUPS FOR SALE: Variety of colors. Parents onsite. Will make good farm/ranch/livestock dogs and companions. Western Nebraska. Delivery arrangements available, $200 OBO. Call Johnny, 308-279-2419. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 12/21
AKC BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG CHRISTMAS PUPPIES: All first shots, microchipped and vet checked. Ready just in time for Christmas!! $1,000. Call or text 605-680-2571. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 11/30
AKC LAB PUPPIES: All colors available, whites, blacks, yellows, dark chocolates and dark reds. Excellent hunters, family companions. Full AKC registration. Shots, wormed, dewclaws removed. All puppies are cute, but it’s what they grow into that counts. Not all Labs are the same. Proud to own!! Been raising quality AKC Labradors for 30-plus years. Look at the rest but buy the best. Both parents on site for viewing. Will sell quickly!! $200 deposit, picking order is when the deposit is received. Doug Altman, Mitchell, S.D. Call/text 605999-7149, click the “Our Labs” tab on the website for pictures, www.southdakotayellowlabs. com 11/30
Angus
FOR SALE: 125 registered and commercial Blank Angus and black baldy BRED HEIFERS. Two groups AI bred to our 2 new herd bull purchases: SCR Feat 202K and GB Mogul M64J, 2 elite calving ease bulls. Two groups pasture bred to “sleep all night” low birthweight, calving ease performance Angus bulls. AI bred: Group #1 due March 15. AI Group #2 due March 28. BULL BREDS: Group #1 due April 7 for 21 days. Group #2 due April 15 for 14 days. Group #3 due May 1 for 30 days. Vaccinated, poured/dewormed. Full mineral program. Available FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. Pictures and videos available. Delivery and volume discounts available. MILLER ANGUS FARMS, Estelline, S.D. Kody, 605-690-1997, Brady, 605690-5733 or Greg, 605-6904399 1/11
TOP NOTCH BLACK ANGUS HEIFERS BRED TO LK BULLS: Four head calving March 20-25, 2025, average weight 1,045 lbs. Eleven head calving April 3-15, 2025, average weight 1,060 lbs. Seven head calving May 8-15, 2025, average weight 1,025 lbs. TOP NOTCH BLACK ANGUS HEIFERS AI’D TO SILVER BOWL: Seven head calving March 1-10, 2025, average weight 1,040 lbs. SOLID BLACK ANGUS RUNNING AGE COWS, 3-11 YEARS OLD: Ten cows bred to LK bulls calving March 5-April 23, 2025. One cow bred to LK Bulls calving May 13, 2025. Contact Joe, 970-6290757 12/7
SEVENTEEN AI BRED BLACK ANGUS HEIFERS TO CALVE MARCH 1: These girls are deep bodied, medium framed, moderately fleshy and weighing 1,050 lbs. 100% AI bred to Beartooth Atlantis and Sitz Dignity. Ranch developed, handled horseback and with 4 wheelers. Electric fence broke. Full modified live vaccine program since weaning or before. Located in southeast Wyoming. For photos and video, call 970-556-5657 12/7
180 BLACK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS: South Dakota origin, OCVD, exposed to proven LBW Black Angus bulls for 45 days. Start calving Feb. 1, 2025. References available. Call 785-394-1955 (cell), 785394-2374 (home) or 785-7315067 12/14
FOR SALE: Pure Black Angus bull calves average weaning weight 733 lbs. Herd has been AI’d since 1969. Sold as pure but not registered. Call John Gerstner, 307-366-2911, Ten Sleep, WY 12/14
FOR SALE 82 FANCY
BLACK ANGUS BRED HEIFERS, 1,050 lbs., 30 day calving window from approximately March 15 to April 15. Bred to 100% registered calving ease Black Angus bulls from top producers, i.e. Sitz, Walter, TJS and Beartooth Angus. Bulls chosen for strong maternal characteristics, good feet and structure, longevity in the cow herd and performance in the feedlot. Ranch developed at Woods Landing, WY. For photos and video, call 307760-3837 12/7
LOOKING TO ACCOMMODATE AND FEED CATTLE THIS WINTER: Are you looking to make winter accommodations for your cattle? Our ranch is located in southwest South Dakota and we are looking to bring on additional cattle for the winter. We have an established facility on 340 acres. This includes 2 feedlots, an extensive corral system and a dedicated calving barn. Feel free to text or call Tony, 231392-1744 12/14
Pature Wanted
PASTURE WANTED AND/OR RANCH OR FARM LEASE, northwest Wyoming or south-central Montana. References available. Call 307-851-2426 11/30
SUMMER GRASS PASTURE WANTED for 50-200 head of cattle. Call Taylor at 307-3312145 12/7
PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. Call 701-523-1235 12/7
WANTED GRASS FOR YEARLINGS SUMMER OF 2025, references available. Maddux Cattle Company 308-350-1133 12/7
Saddles & Tack
COWBOY SANTA SHOPS
HERE!! 5 STAR saddle pads and MOHAIR cinches. MONTANA Silversmith and AUSTIN Accent jewelry, MONEY clips, barrettes and MORE… Tom BALDING and DUTTON BITS and SPURS. It’s ALWAYS a great day to $AVE on BOOTS: HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! RIDE, ROPE, WORK and play!! LEATHER belts, WALLETS, checkbook covers. Wool VESTS, silk SCARVES and more!! WE CAN ship!! Shop Moss Saddles, Boots and Tack, 4648 West Yellowstone Highway, Casper, WY; 307-472-1872. Our family serving yours for 50 years!! Check us out on Facebook or our website 11/30
Swine
WEANER PIGS FOR SALE, located in Powell, WY. For more information, call 307271-1014 1/18
Hay &
200 tons 2023 GRASS/ALFALFA in large rounds, cut slightly mature but baled green!! Also, selling 2024 LR CERTIFIED WHEAT STRAW and 200 tons MILLET HAY. Will deliver!! For sale by Cheyenne, WY area producer. Call 307-630-3768 12/21
LOTS AND LOTS OF HAY FOR SALE!!! Alfalfa, alfalfa/grass mix, straight grass (crested wheat and native grasses), winter wheat, 1,300-1,350 lb. net-wrapped round bales. Deliveries are available if needed or come and get it. Sheridan, WY area. Call the ranch, 307-737-2680 or 702-5014243 (cell) 12/21
GRASS HAY FOR SALE: 3x4 bales, some barn stored, some outside. No weather damage. ALSO, alfalfa hay for sale 3x4 bales. Barn stored hay, $150/ton. Outside hay $125/ton. Test available upon request. Riverton, WY. Call 307-709-6290 12/21
WE HAVE SMALL SQUARE 21BALE BUNDLES TO OFFER: First, second and third cutting straight alfalfa. First and second orchard/brome grass. First and second cutting alfalfa and grass bales average 53 lbs., third cutting alfalfa bales average 63 lbs. Prices: First cutting alfalfa, $147/ bundle or $7/bale (no rain) tests supreme. Second cutting alfalfa, $126/bundle or $6/bale (price reduced due to some rain) tests premium. Third cutting alfalfa, $210/bundle or $10/bale (no rain, very leafy) tests high supreme. First cutting grass, $126/bundle or $6/bale (no rain). Second cutting grass, $189/bundle or $9/bale (no rain, all leaf, very nice). All hay is either stored inside or covered outside. Able to load semi flatbeds and dry van trailers. Hay analysis upon request. Located in Powell, WY. Call Scott, 307-272-4570. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 12/21
FEED CORN FOR SALE. ALSO, grass hay, first and second cutting alfalfa for sale. For more information, call 307-754-5864 11/30
HAY FOR SALE: 3x3 and round bales of grass or alfalfa/grass mix. Prices starting at $70/ton. FOB. Delivered only. Call 605840-0015 11/30
GRASS HAY FOR SALE: 2023 crop, 3x4x8 bales, 1,200 lbs., $100/ton. 2024 crop, $135/ ton. Call Kelly Foianini, don’t text, 307-780-7027 or Bronson Foianini, 307-760-2263, Lyman, WY 12/7
CLEAN ALFALFA AND SOME BARLEY HAY FOR SALE in Riverton, WY area with some trucking available. Call 307851-4532 12/14
Hay & Feed
MILLET AND BARLEY HAY, 4x4 square bales for sale, $135 and $140 a ton. ALSO, have third and fourth cutting alfalfa available. Located near Douglas, WY. Call 307-351-4175 12/14
LARGE ROUND BALES OF NET-WRAPPED GRASS AND ALFALFA HAY FOR SALE: Delivered in semi loads. ALSO, custom hay hauling with 53’ step deck. Call 605770-6453 11/30
HAY FOR SALE: Alfalfa, mix and grass. Rounds and squares. Call 605-670-9242 11/30
STRAW FOR SALE: 250 TONS OF BARLEY STRAW, 4x4 squares, $50/ton. Located west of Powell, WY. Call or text 307-202-0532 for more information 12/14
CERTIFIED WEED-FREE PURE ALFALFA HAY: Small squares, covered. 2023 first cutting available for a reduced price. 2024 first, second and third cutting available. Will load trucks and any open trailer. MONIDA OATS: Combine run. Will auger into truck, trailer or large totes/ag bags. STRAW: Small squares available. Located between Powell and Cody, WY. Call or text Knopp Farms for details, 307-254-0554 1/4
VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: Hay available. Go to www.valleyvideohay.com or call Barry McRea, 308-2355386 12/7
HORSE QUALITY GRASS HAY, 3x4s barn stored, $175/ ton. 2024 GRASS COW HAY, 3x4s barn stored, $135/ton. 2023 GRASS COW HAY, 3x4s barn stored, $115/ton. Encampment, WY. Call 307-3211444 TFN
BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/ bale. ALSO, 5x6 round bales, $125/ton. GRAIN OATS, wheat and barley, $20/cwt. Greybull, WY area. Call 307762-3878 or 307-899-4714, leave message 11/30
HAY FOR SALE: 2023 and 2024, alfalfa, sainfoin, grass and combine grass/straw. Small squares and 3x3x8 bales. Test results available for 2023 and 2024. Will load 3x3s in open truck and trailer. Call 307-250-6005 11/30
CERTIFIED WHEAT STRAW FOR SALE, large round bales. Call 303-898-8496 or 303-5002685 12/28
HAY FOR SALE: 2023 milo and grass/alfalfa. 2024 first cutting 90% alfalfa/10% grass mix, grass mix, grass/alfalfa, millet, milo, CRP cut early, green and high, non-raked and clean. ALSO, new seeding hay field oats/kosha/crested wheat. All in net-wrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, ask for Klint, 701-2904418, send a text if no answer or keep trying 11/30
HAY FOR SALE: Large quantities!! Grass and alfalfa. Cow and horse quality. ALSO, forage wheat. 2023 hay still available. Small squares, 3x3 square bales and 3x4 square bales. Delivery available!! Call 307630-3046 11/30
2024 FIRST CUTTING HORSE
QUALITY HAY: Timothy/orchard/brome with a bit of alfalfa at 14% moisture, 90 round bales averaging 1,450 lbs./ bale. Located in Clark, WY. No rain. Barn stored. $175/ton. Call 847-420-9615. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 11/30
CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW FOR SALE, 3x4 bales. Cody, WY. Call 307-899-1952 TFN
Trucks
1996 PETERBILT 379: Lots of recent work, immaculate, well cared for, good tires, retiring. Call 308-320-0905 11/30
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE, FARMER RETIRING: 9600
John Deere combine with 930 30’ grain header and an 893 8 row 30” corn header. A 20’ Krause offset disc (new blades in front). 24’ Model 630 John Deere tandem disc. Safety pull with a bull hitch. John Deere front suitcase weights. IHC front suitcase weights. Round John Deere wheel weights. Two 1,000 gallon fuel tanks with pumps. 500 gallon round fuel tank with stand. Contact Greg Keller at 406-679-1136 12/7
2018 GREAT PLAINS 13’ END WHEEL ALL SEED
DRILL: Model # 1300-2606, like new. Call Kelly Burch, 307-259-2134 11/30
FOR SALE: 2016 Mack (day cab), automatic transmission, MP7 engine, air ride, A/C, cruise control, 185” wheelbase, 488,000 miles, very clean truck, runs great. 2015 Freightliner, automatic transmission, DD13 engine, 178” wheelbase, 490,000 miles, runs and drives nice. New Holland 195 manure spreader, 410 bushel with slop gate. Vermeer 7000 bale processor with hydraulic deflector. H&S 7+4 16’ chuckwagon with bunk feeding extensions and tandem 14 ton running gear. John Deere 716A chuckwagons with John Deere running gear and bunk feeding extensions, been shedded, nice condition. Wilson portable wheel corral. 24’ portable ground hay/bale feeder. 12’ HD box scraper with tilt. Farm King 8’ snowblower with hydraulic spout. All in very nice condition!! Call 605-999-5482 12/14
RAIL TIES: #1-9 ft., #1 and #2-8 ft. Used culverts: Three foot, 2 ft., 18” and various lengths. Call 307-630-2345 or 307-534-5253 12/7
LODGEPOLE PRODUCTS, 307-742-6992, SERVING AGRI-BUSINESSES SINCE 1975!! Treated posts, corral poles, buck-and-rail, western rail, fence stays, rough-sawn lumber, bedding. SEE US at www.lodgepoleproducts. com and click our “Picking A Fence Post” tab to see why folks choose our posts!! TFN
Fencing
PIPE FOR SALE!! 2 7/8”, 3 1/2” tubing, 4” drill pipe, 4 1/2” casing, 5” casing, 7” casing. Rods 3/4”, 7/8” and 1” located in Montana, can ship anywhere. Call Mike, 602-758-4447. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 2/22
OILFIELD PIPE: PRICE REDUCED!! RPJ Enterprises, Inc. 2 3/8”, 2 7/8” and 4.5” is available, pricing is coming down. Used for fencing, corrals, cattle guards, etc. 2 3/8” and 2 7/8” are on average 31.5’ long per joint. Pierce, CO. Call for details, 970-324-4580 1/11
WANT TO BUY!! Ford 172 cubic inch industrial engine off of New Holland 903, 905, 907 swathers, a 500 swather or Owatonna 350 swather. Call Lloyd, 701-226-4055 11/30
TrailerServices/ Repairs
WANT TO BUY!! 1962-1964 SELECT-O-SPEED FORD 4000 TRACTOR with gas or diesel engine, complete, running or not running. Call Lloyd, 701-226-4055 11/30
NORTHEAST OREGON, THE DLX RANCH: Located near Baker City, OR the DLX is noted as one of the most productive and finest ranches around. It is well balanced and contains 17,000 deeded acres with 4,000 acres of irrigated meadows and cropland. Native and improved rangeland provides good spring and summer pasture. The ranch is well improved with nice homes, excellent livestock working facilities and is noted for its production and ease of operation and management. Abundant water and over 6 miles of the Powder River running through the ranch provide for not only production but unbelievable waterfowl and upland game bird habitat. The ranch also provides good populations of elk and mule deer. Situated in the heart of the Baker Valley, the ranch enjoys very scenic mountain views and is very private yet only a short drive to Baker City, OR. Currently operated as a commercial cow/ calf operation with a permitted feedlot. The ranch would also make an ideal yearling or combination operation. It is rare to find this quality of a ranch and particularly a property that is a going concern. This is a first-time offering and we look forward to hearing from you. $32,500,000. Livestock and rolling stock available by separate treaty. Please give us a call for further information, Greg Sackos, 541-5234434 (office) or 208-598-0267 (cell), Intermountain Realty, www.intermountainland. com 11/30
GOSHEN COUNTY, WY: Selling 640 acres of pasture grass near Torrington, WY. This is a State of Wyoming Grazing Lease. A 10-year lease with the right to renew. Excellent native grass. No improvements. One well. Selling is the leasehold right. $185,000. NEW PRICE!! 3,316± DEEDED ACRES consisting of improved meadow grass and lush hard grasses. Run 250± cows through 12 pastures. Outstanding condition. Nice home plus excellent corrals and calving facilities. Natural tree-lined draws for livestock protection. LaGrange, WY. $3,900,000!! 1,230 ACRES OF PRIME AGRICULTURAL NON-IRRIGATED FARMLAND: Soils consist primarily of silt and sand loams. Located east of Hawk Springs, WY along the Wyoming/Nebraska state line. Professional care is dedicated to optimizing soil health. Divisible into smaller parcels to meet your investment needs. No improvements. $1,100,000. Pictures and video at www.buyaranch. com. Call Casey Essert, Land Broker, 307-532-1750 TFN
Hunting & Fishing
SEVERAL DOZEN TRAPS FOR SALE: Sizes, 1, 11/2, 1/34, 2 and 3. Some new, some dyed, night latched and tension set. Some with extra-large pans for mink and muskrats. A few conibears also, 110, 160, 220 and 330. A colony trap and poles. Stretchers, stakes-cable and rebar. Other equipment also available. Call Frank, 307-3314251 12/7
DEC. 11-15: PETSKA FUR WILL BE BUYING ALL RAW/ DRY FUR DEER/ELK HIDES AND ANTLER IN THE FOLLOWING TOWNS AND LOCATIONS: DEC. 11: Bill 6:306:45 p.m., Bill’s Store (drive thru, call/text Greg). DEC. 12: Wright 6:50-7:20 a.m., Exxon Big D on S. 387; Newcastle 8:30-9:15 a.m., Voelker’s Body Shop; Sundance 10:30 a.m.11 a.m., Rapid Stop; Moorcroft 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m., The Coffee Cup; Gillette 12:30-12:50 p.m., T&T Guns and Ammo; Gillette 1:10-1:40 p.m., Rocky Mountain Sports. DEC. 13: Sheridan 7-7:40 a.m., Sportsman’s Warehouse; Buffalo 9-9:20 a.m., Good 2 Go; Ten Sleep 10:50-11:20 a.m., Pony Express; Hyattville 12:10-12:30 p.m., Paint Rock Processing; Manderson 12:50-1 p.m., Hiway Bar (drive thru, call/text Greg); Basin 1:15-1:30 p.m., Overland Express Mart (drive thru); Greybull 1:45-2 p.m., Overland Express Mart (drive thru); Lovell 2:40-3 p.m., Good 2 Go; Powell 3:30-3:50 p.m., Murdoch’s; Cody 4:20-4:50 p.m., Nature’s Design Taxidermy; Meeteetse 5:45-6 p.m., Elk Horn Bar (drive thru, call/ text Greg). DEC. 14: Worland 7-7:30 a.m., Coop One Stop; Thermopolis 8:30-8:50 a.m., Renegade Guns; Shoshoni 9:30-9:50 a.m., Fast Lane (NW corner, drive thru); Riverton 10:20-11:15 a.m., Vic’s Body Shop (behind the Dollar Tree); Hudson 11:30-11:45 a.m., Wyoming Custom Meats (drive thru, call/text Greg); Lander 12:30-1 p.m., Zander’s One Stop; Jeffrey City 1:50-2:10 p.m., Split Rock Café (drive thru, call/text Greg); Muddy Gap 2:20-2:40 p.m., truck stop (drive thru, call/text Greg); Casper 3:45-4:15 p.m., Wagner Outdoor Sports; Glenrock 5 p.m., Sinclair (drive thru, call/ text Greg). DEC. 15: Douglas 7-7:20 a.m., Douglas Feed; Orin Junction 7:40-7:50 a.m., truck stop (drive thru, call/text Greg); Lost Springs 8:15-8:30 a.m., Main St. (drive thru, call/ text Greg); Lusk 9-9:30 a.m., Decker’s Grocery; Alliance, NE 12:45-1 p.m., Petska Fur Shop (drive thru, call/text Greg). For more information, call Greg, 308-750-0700 or visit www. petskafur.net 12/7
WE WILL PICK UP SCRAP
IRON: On-site processing and removal. Receive $$$ top dollar $$$ for your junk!! Call for details: Pacific Steel and Recycling, 307-234-6006. Casper/Central Wyoming 11/30
BUYING 200-300 JACKRABBITS PER MONTH AT $10/ EACH: I pay shipping. E-mail ohminocat@gmail.com or call Dave at 406-529-1080 for further details 12/7
The Working Ranch Cowboys Association (WRCA) hosted the 29th Annual World Championship Ranch Rodeo Nov. 14-17 at the Amarillo Civic Center Complex in Amarillo, Texas, where 25 pre-qualified teams competed in five events to showcase the skills of America’s working ranch cowboys.
Following four days of tough competition, Arizona Cowboys Logan Anderson; Logan Westcott; Ace, Whip and Dally Peterson and Cole Hubbell of the Muleshoe and Hatchet ranches in Kirkland and Paradise, Ariz. were named the 2024 World Champion Team.
The Reserve World Champion Team was EC Cattle Company and Mule
A cattleman wakes up in the morning after sleeping on an advertised mattress, washes with advertised soap, shaves with an advertised razor, puts on advertised clothes, eats breakfast at an advertised restaurant, glances at his advertised watch, rides to work in an advertised pickup, writes with an advertised pen, drinks an advertised soft drink but yet this same cattleman hesitates to advertise, saying that advertising does not pay. Finally, when his unadvertised business goes under, he will advertise it for sale.
World Championship Ranch Rodeo winners crowned
Creek Cattle, made up of Reece Clark, Waylon Davis, Nathan and Korlee Carter and Slick Robison of Santo and Breckenridge, Texas.
Circle M8 Land and Cattle of Silverton, Texas finished as the third-place team, made up of members Phillip and Rye Reynolds, Chance Holcombe, Jayde Smith and Casey Pope.
Pulling into the fourthplace position were Tyler and Chace Thompson, Chad Williams, Alex Nino, Quay Howard and Colton McCarley of Thompson Ranch in Munday, Texas, and finishing out the top five was a team made up of cowboys from Rocking P Cattle and S&P Cattle of Latham, Kan. and Welch, Okla., including Chris, Colton and Carlee Potter;
Justin and Jake Peterson and Dillon Sherrick. Event winners
The World Championship Ranch Rodeo tests the skills of cowboys across five events representing everyday tasks of the working ranch cowboy, including ranch bronc riding, team penning, team branding, stray gathering and wild cow milking.
With an 82-point ride in the first go and an 84.5point ride in the second go, Waylon Davis earned a first-place finish for EC Cattle Company and Mule Creek Cattle in the ranch bronc riding.
The EC Cattle Company and Mule Creek Cattle team also topped the podium in team penning with a time of 57.01 seconds on three head in the
first round and 41.03 seconds on three head in the second round.
The Blackmore Ranch and Rail 3 team, hailing from Hillside and Florence, Ariz., won team branding. This team is made up of members Shad Beebe, Seth Hall, Dee Oles, Chase Pope and Jason Olson.
A time of 58.99 seconds in the first round and 45.97 seconds in the second round earned the Muleshoe Ranch and Hatchet Ranch team a first-place finish in stray gathering.
To round out the individual events, Colorado Cowboys Jesse Jolly, Dustin Bowling, Will Shaffer, Phy Lord, Kyle Spitz and Luke Kelley of Jolly Ranch and S&L Cattle in Agate and Lamar, Colo.
won the wild cow milking.
Top individuals
In addition to recognizing top-performing teams during the four days of ranch rodeo competition, WRCA also honors individuals with the Top Hand and Top Horse awards.
The Top Hand Award is given to a single cowboy chosen by a panel of judges who take note of skill, horsemanship and teamwork abilities over the course of the competition.
This year, Logan Westcott of the Muleshoe Ranch and Hatchet Ranch team was named the Top Hand, while Waylon Davis of the EC Cattle Company and Mule Creek Cattle team earned honors as the Reserve Top Hand.
Four-legged athletes are also recognized for
their athleticism, versatility and contribution to the team with the WRCA’s Top Horse Award.
Tick Tick Boom Boom, a three-year-old blue roan ridden by Rodney Wilson and owned by Wilson Cattle, LLC, was named the 2024 Top Horse. Known to his rider as Big Valley, this impressive gelding proved an integral part of the Wilson Cattle, LLC team during the tough week of competition.
The Daube Company’s 10-year-old bay roan Nu Metallic, ridden by Tristan Grantham, was named the 2024 Reserve Top Horse. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Flying M Ranch of Hansel Valley, Utah has been selected as the recipient of the 2024 Utah Leopold Conservation Award.
The award honors ranchers, farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working lands.
Flying M Ranch’s Owners Tim and Laurie Munns were presented with the award at the Utah Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting.
The Munnses will
Flying M Ranch receives Utah Leopold Conservation Award
receive $10,000 for being selected.
Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Utah, the award is presented with Utah Farm Bureau Federation, Western AgCredit and Utah Cattlemen’s Association.
Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers and forestland owners who
inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement.
For decades, the Munnses have understood a healthy landscape is key to sustainable wildlife populations and a successful cattle ranch. They achieve this by employing conservation practices which benefit livestock, wildlife, crops, rangeland and water resources in northern Utah.
Over the years, the Munnses converted many acres of dry cropland to perennial vegetation to
prevent erosion and build soil health while enhancing biodiversity. Other parts of Flying M Ranch once grazed by sheep had become dominated by broom snakeweed and rabbit brush.
Tim and Laurie worked with the Natural Resources Conservation Service to remove invasive brush species and reseed the range to provide improved livestock forage and wildlife habitat. Populations of sharp-tailed grouse, mourning dove, chukar and gray partridge
have since flourished.
The Munnses have enrolled 3,000 acres of their ranch in Utah’s Walk-in Access program, allowing public access for upland game hunting. Likewise, biologists are welcomed to track migration patterns, survival rates and health of mule deer, elk and pronghorn.
The Munnses were early innovators in demonstrating the grazing benefits of forage kochia which was first introduced to the U.S. in 1960 as an orna-
mental plant. The Munnses found the semi-evergreen half shrub to be highly nutritious late season grazing plant for cattle while providing cover for wildlife and upland game birds. Off of the ranch, the Munnses have served in a variety of leadership positions to advance conservation practices. Laurie has served as president of the Utah Cattlewomen’s Association and Tim is a longtime board member of the National Grazing Lands Coalition.
DECEMBER 10
841# $221.00
8 Heiferette, 810# $207.50
7 Heiferette, 830# $203.00
7 Heiferette, 852# $199.00
2 Heiferette, 867# $195.00
6 Heiferette, 849# $190.00 DANIEL 23 Heiferette, 893# $185.00
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3
CALF SPECIAL • START TIME 9:00
CALVES Diamond D Cattle- 150 Blk Ang & AngX Strs 625675#. 160 Blk Ang & AngX Hfrs 575-625#. Rec Bovishield Gold, Inforce 3, OneShot Ultra 8 @ branding. Rec Bovishield Gold & OneShot Ultra 8 @ weaning (10-1). Over 60 days weaned. Appr. 40% are AI sired by Baldridge Alternative. The balance are sired by Redland, Redland Redbank & Reverse Rockin R (sons of POSS Deadwood & POSS Rawhide) Blk Ang bulls. All bulls selected for balanced maternal traits & strong terminal traits, as well as for length, foot structure, growth & end product merit. No implants. Superior Low PAP genetics! True high elevation program! Over 3 months run up to 11,000 ft. Weaned &
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6
COW
BRED COWS
Flagstone Ranch- 80 Mostly Blk ST Bred Cows. Bred to Blk Ang bulls to calve March/April. Good, high desert cows.
Diamond X Ranch- 60 Blk Ang Bred 4-7yr olds Cows. Bred to Blk Ang bulls to start calving April 1st. High desert, One iron cows. Reputation!!
TY Ranch- 50 Blk Bred 3-6 yr old Cows. Bred to Lucky 7 Blk Ang Bulls to start calving end of March. Vaccinated & poured this fall. Nice set of High elevation cows that are producers!
Neal & Becky Anderson- 49 Blk Ang 3-10 Yr old Bred Cows. Bred to Blk Ang bulls to calve March/April. Good producing cows selected for mothering ability, milk production, good disposition & easy fleshing. Steers averaged over 600# middle of October. Super set of reputation, family cows that are proven! Complete Dispersion!
Greet Ranch- 38 Blk Ang & AngX Mixed Age Bred Cows. Bred to Blk Ang bulls to calve March/April. Rec Virashield 6 VL5 & poured this fall. Reputation, one brand, ranch raised. High elevation. Superior disposition!!
Brodie Livestock- 15 Blk Ang Bred Running Age Cows. Bred to Lucky 7 & Diamond Peak Blk Angus bulls to calve March/April. Rec 8 way & Ivomec this fall. Nice, reputation, high desert cows!
TK Land & Livestock- 2- 4yr old Bred Blk Ang Cows. Bred to a Powerball progeny bull to start calving around February 17th.
2- 3yr old Bred Blk Ang Cows. Bred to a Powerball progeny bull to begin calving late April.
1- 4yr old Blk Angus cow exposed to Powerball progeny bull on 10/17/24. All cows have been vaccinated & poured this fall. Nice set of cows that come from the Wagler Angus line of cows in Cody.
BRED HEIFERS
Greet Ranch- 9 Blk Ang Bred Heifers. AI bred to Select Sires Movin On to calve late February.
73 Blk Ang & AngX Bred Heifers. Bred to Low PAP, Low BW Vermillion Bomber Sons & Grandsons to start calving early March. Rec Virashield 6 VL5 & poured this fall. Reputation, one brand, ranch raised. High elevation. Superior disposition!!
Brodie Livestock- 10 Blk Ang Bred Heifers 10001100#. Bred to LBW Lucky 7 Blk Angus bulls to calve March/April. Rec 8 way & Ivomec this fall. Nice, reputation, high desert heifers!