Wyoming Livestock Roundup March 9, 2024 Section B

University of Wyoming (UW) scientists have gained international attention for new research showing invasive ants in a Kenyan savanna have caused lions to change their predatory behavior.

On Feb. 23, Department of Zoology and Physiology Professor Jacob Goheen and PhD Student Douglas Kamaru shared their findings with a vast American audience on National Public Radio’s (NPR) “Science Friday” program.

Their appearance is the culmination of a remarkable month of national and international publicity for UW researchers, with five publications in major scientific journals attracting attention from media outlets across the globe.

Invasive ant study

The research, led by Kamaru and Goheen,

appeared Jan. 25 in the journal Science, one of the world’s top academic journals.

UW researchers and colleagues from nine other institutions and agencies found the invasion of bigheaded ants at Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy makes lions less effective at killing zebras – their primary prey.

This is because the invasive insects kill native acacia ants which protect the whistling-thorn tree from elephants and other herbivores, resulting in less tree cover for lions to ambush zebras.

“I’m especially happy this paper was leadauthored by a Kenyan citizen – Kamaru. Africa is a continent with exceptional wildlife diversity, with lots of aspiring young wildlife biologists. Those wildlife biologists are often lacking in opportunity for profes-

sional advancement,” says Goheen, who has trained several graduate students from Kenya while conducting wildlife research in both Africa and Wyoming.

“We now are at a point

Continued on next page

Behavioral changes – This pride of lions in Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy was a subject of research by University of Wyoming scientists, who found the big cats have changed their predatory behavior as a result of an invasion of non-native ants. Professor Jacob Goheen and PhD Student Douglas Kamaru shared their findings on National Public Radio’s “Science Friday” program on Feb. 23. Caroline Ng’weno photo

BLM holds lease sale

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Wyoming State Office held a competitive oil and gas lease sale, offering 28 parcels covering 12,974.71 acres in Wyoming.

In total, 204 bids were received, with 25 parcels covering 11,737.96 acres leased, roughly 90.5 percent of the total acreage available. A total of $9,003,285 in high bids were received.

The environmental assessment, maps, parcel lists, Notice of Competitive Lease Sale and proposed lease stipulations are available at eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2025221/510

As authorized under the Inflation Reduction Act, BLM will apply a 16.67 percent royalty rate for any new leases from this sale.

Leasing is the first step in the process to develop federal oil and gas resources. Before development operations can begin, an operator must submit an application for permit to drill detailing development plans.

The BLM reviews applications for permits to drill, posts them for public review, conducts an environmental analysis and coordinates with state partners and stakeholders.

All parcels leased as part of an oil and gas lease sale include appropriate stipulations to protect important natural resources. Information on current and upcoming BLM lease sales is available through the National Fluid Lease Sale System.

Continued from previous page

where scientific knowledge is rarely the rate-limiting step for conservation of African wildlife. Now, Western scientists working in Africa have an obligation to not just involve locals in their work, but to train local leaders,” Goheen adds. “There are several faculty at UW who are doing this, and they have been doing it for a long time.”

UW’s media release about the research stimulated media attention across the globe. Outlets covering the topic included Forbes, The Washington Post, The Economist, The Atlantic, LeMonde, The Independent, USA Today, The East African, Scientific American and Barron’s Other notable UW research But, research on African wildlife isn’t the only work by UW scientists gaining international attention.

Faculty members in

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UW’s Department of Anthropology have been in the headlines for research into ancient peoples in the South American Andes and in what is now east-central Wyoming.

Professor Todd Surovell and his team of collaborators discovered a tube-shaped bead made of bone which is almost 13,000 years old at the La Prele Mammoth site in Converse County.

Their findings, published in the journal Scientific Reports, note the hare-bone bead is the oldest known bead in the Americas.

The La Prele Mammoth site preserves the remains of a killed or scavenged subadult Columbian mammoth and an associated camp occupied during the time the animal was butchered.

UW’s media release stimulated coverage from outlets including MSN, Newsweek, The Sacramento Bee, McClatchy News, Live Science, Heritage Daily, WyoFile, Poland’s Onet and Turkey’s Turkiye

Assistant Professor Randy Haas and colleagues from six other institutions published a paper in the journal PLOS ONE showing early human diets in the Peruvian Andes were composed of 80 percent plant matter and 20 percent meat.

This contradicts conventional wisdom early human economies focused

on hunting.

Haas and his colleagues reached their conclusion by analyzing the isotopic composition of bones dating from 9,000 to 6,500 years ago at the Wilamaya Patjxa and Soro Mik’aya Patjxa burial sites in Peru.

UW’s media release helped attract coverage from outlets including The Guardian, Science Magazine, The Argentina Star, Business Insider, The Independent, The Evening Standard and The Inverness Courier.

Associate Professor

Jason Toohey and Professor Melissa Murphy discovered one of the earliest circular plazas in Andean South America demonstrating monumental megalithic architecture, which refers to construction using large stones placed upright with no mortar.

Published in the journal Science Advances, their research at the Callacpuma archaeological site in northern Peru used radiocarbon dating to place the plaza’s initial construction at around 4,750 years ago – about 100 years before the Great Pyramids of Egypt and around the same time as Stonehenge.

UW’s media release so far has stimulated coverage by outlets including the Miami Herald, MSN, The Sacramento Bee, The Archaeologist and Germany’s Schwarzwaelder Bote

Another high-profile

journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, recently published the work of UW Department of Zoology and Physiology Postdoctoral Research Associate Jordan Glass.

Glass found honeybees carrying nectar have the remarkable ability to adjust their flight behavior to avoid overheating when air temperatures increase to as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

UW’s media release, as well as publicity by Glass’ doctoral institution – Arizona State University – so far has stimulated coverage by outlets including Earth.com, ScienceDaily and MSN

“UW’s outstanding researchers are published regularly in major scientific journals, but the past month has brought the most sustained and widest stretch of international exposure over a short period that I can recall in my dozen years at UW,” says Chad Baldwin, associate vice president for marketing and communications.

“Our team loves to tell the state and the world about the incredible research being done at UW, much of which includes UW students at even the undergraduate level,” Baldwin concludes. “We know there will be many more of these stories to tell.”

Maya Kate Gilmore is a reporter and editor for UW Ag News. This article was originally published in UW Ag News on Feb. 29.

By M.P Cremer

Like many females in their mid-twenties, one of my guilty pleasures is occasionally following pop culture news and trends. It’s not something I’m super proud of, and truly, as far as “news” goes, it’s about as meaningful as a $3 bill, but it is entertaining at times.

One can’t argue whatever new, ridiculous and offensive stunt Kanye West has pulled isn’t entertaining. It may be baffling, it may make you shake your head, but it’s captivating, nonetheless.

Speaking of captivation, I find it surprising when a moment in pop culture makes me think a little deeper, and there’s been a recent topic which has made me fall down a rabbit hole.

I submit to you – Hollywood’s country Western, rhinestone cowboy, “yeehaw” culture.

A few years ago the stars and coattail-riders in Hollywood latched on to the “cowboy vibe,” and they haven’t let go yet. Is this trend here to stay? Or is it but another passing fancy?

Only time will tell, but let’s look at the root of this Western pop culture frenzy.

I believe it started in 2018 with the premier of Paramount’s hit drama series “Yellowstone.” The show is a popular television series, and it’s ranchy characters paved the way for other Western movies, TV shows and short-form videos to hit the mainstream.

The next domino to fall

“country” music or not, but despite our opinions, it still remains the country music capital of the world.

Thus, a cross over between country, pop and hip-hop occurred.

Speaking of Nashville, it’s more or less bachelorette party central right now. Thousands of brides to be and their gal pals flock to the city year-round in search of a “cowboy.” Some of these women come from a rural background, some don’t, but what they all have in common is they love wearing pink cowboy hats and

line dancing – I say, more power to them.

The cherry on the sundae is the fashion industry.

In 2023, multiple bigname, high-end brands promoted Western fashion. Among these brands was the crown jewel, Ralph Lauren, whose models donned rodeo-style gold buckles, sherpa collared jackets, cowboy hats, silk scarves and cowboy boots.

These runway looks trickled all the way down to department stores and fastfashion boutiques, creating a Western-style shockwave in city dweller closets across the U.S.

All of these pieces falling into place led to an abundance of celebrities embracing our Western culture, which influenced every day, working-class people who have most likely never seen a cow in person to want to be a cowboy.

It’s almost like anyone and everyone could claim the late, great Toby Keith’s

hit song “Should’ve Been a Cowboy” as their anthem.

So now I ask, my dear agriculturist reader, how does this make you feel? Is this cultural appropriation or cultural appreciation?

Cultural appropriation is the adoption of certain language, behavior, clothing or tradition belonging to a minority culture or social group by a dominant culture or group in a way which is exploitative, disrespectful or stereotypical.

An imbalance of power between the appropriator and the appropriated is a critical condition of the concept, according to Britannica

Whereas cultural appreciation is purely mimicking someone’s culture to pay homage for a lifestyle they adore while learning in an attempt to better understand the culture.

As far as social media comedians who bank on cheap laughs from pok-

ing fun at rednecks and –as much as I hate to admit it – recording artists like Beyonce, I have to question their motives.

I believe they are riding the cowboy culture wave for as long as they can and filling their pockets along the way. I don’t think they have much malicious intent behind their actions, I think they just want to make a quick buck.

I wouldn’t sell my soul to the devil for this kind of fame. Let me be clear, I am specifically referring to the devil from Charlie Daniels’ hit song “The Devil went Down to Georgia,” but that’s just me.

On the contrary, I would argue in the case of Ralph Lauren, “Yellowstone” Creator Taylor Sheridan and one of my favorite tattooed Rapper Post Malone, they are purely appreciating a culture and hoping to share their love for our culture

with the rest of the world.

Post Malone’s face tattoos may not be what we’re used to on the country scene, but this man has said on multiple occasions Hank Williams is his hero and he can cover an outlaw country tune like you wouldn’t believe.

All in all, I don’t take much offense to Hollywood’s heartthrobs and it girls immersing themselves in the muddy, countrycreek water. I say, let them wear their cheap 10-gallon hats and listen to our radio stations.

Maybe even invite them out to your place for a steak – they’ll probably want to take a photo with your cows, your horses or your tractor, but who cares?

It’s like the old saying goes, “Imitation is the best form of flattery.”

Why not revel in this recent agri-culture-al appreciation boom?

The story of America’s farmers and ranchers runs far deeper than the crops and cattle we raise.

It’s a connection to the land, the wildlife, the wide open spaces and having a front row seat to a gorgeous

sunrise and sunset to kick off and end each day.

It’s hearing the coyotes howl and the birds chirp.

It’s the cattle grazing and the kids running wild in the yard. It’s the starry sky with a big moon so bright,

you can see for miles, even in the dead of night. It’s the peace and quiet.

And yet, even in the silence, the prairie hums with life and activity.

And on the prairie, you build your hopes and your dreams, praying you can leave the land and a business for generations that are yet to come.

For many of us, our stories on this land began before statehood. For others, it’s the first generation of big things to come. And, whether you own a quarter-acre lot or 10 sections of land, there’s something about owning the

ground beneath your feet – you can put roots down, get married, have a bunch of babies, raise your family, build businesses and plan for the future.

This tradition of setting down roots dates back to the beginning of our great nation. Our Founding Fathers understood it well.

President George Washington is credited for saying, “Freedom and property rights are inseparable. You can’t have one without the other.”

I think of this quote often as I look at the land my family lives on. Feeding cattle while my kids play in

the yard, I feel grateful for the pursuit of the American dream.

I’m not entitled to it, but I can pursue my own version of life, liberty and happiness by my own labor and ability to grow a business.

We don’t think in weeks or months or years. We think in decades and generations. The decisions we make on the land today will impact our future greatgrandchildren.

It’s an honor to live this life in agriculture. It is a challenge to live it, too. And now, with external threats powered by greed, power, control and the heavy hand of the government, we wonder if there’s any future at all.

Yet, we press on. We buy the land and plant the seed. We water the dream and pray for sunshine. We work hard for a bountiful harvest.

And even though there are very few of us left on the land growing food, we do it with integrity, hard work, an honest handshake and perseverance.

It reminds me of a John Adams quote, “Always stand on principle, even if you stand alone.”

There’s a growing trend of “public-private” partnerships, where the government, using taxpayer dollars, funds and helps grow major corporations and businesses. Even more alarming is the use of carbon credits to incentivize these businesses.

tainly not what’s going to strengthen this country for future generations.

Yet, there is a mentality out there if you can’t beat them, you might as well join them.

Instead of standing on principle, you cave to an extremist environmental agenda and the Green New Deal. When there is enough money involved, you jump on board, and if anybody gets in the way of “progress,” you’ll take their land rights, bulldoze over the top of them and hey, if you’re feeling generous, you’ll give them a little check on your way through.

This is exactly what’s happening with a multistate carbon pipeline project which plans to rip through the prairie, divide towns, sever relationships among neighbors and family members and leave a cloud of pain and broken promises in its wake.

I contend, and will continue to say, if you want to bury carbon in your backyard, be my guest. But for the rest of us, we just want to be left alone to enjoy our little slice of prairie – the land where we call home.

It’s essentially grown men creating businesses that produce nothing, based on the premise of a red hot lie, with their hand out waiting for the federal tax credits and government checks to arrive.

This is not what built this country. And it’s cer-

Private property rights are critical to a free and fair society. Will our elected officials hear the cries of the people? Will they take part in destroying the American dream? Will they choose the slick lobbyists and billion-dollar public-private partnerships? Or will they choose the people?

It takes courage to do the right thing. I pray for courageous leadership. We desperately need it.

Amanda Radke is a rancher, author, motivational speaker and podcast host. For more from Radke, visit amandaradke.com

During the second day of the Green River Valley Cattlemen’s Association Meeting, held March 1-2 in Marbleton, University of Wyoming (UW) College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources (CALSNR) Acting Dean Kelly Crane provided an update on current happenings within the college.

Crane’s presentation covered the college’s recent reorganization, enrollment, current research and updates on Extension and the Wyoming State Vet Laboratory (WSVL).

New leadership and reorganization

To begin, Crane informed those who were not already aware, in the past few years, UW underwent a massive reorganization which dismantled the College of Arts and Sciences. He explained physical sciences were moved to the Engineering Department and biological sciences were moved to CALSNR.

“Notably, when this change was first announced, part of the restructuring was going to eliminate the Family and Consumer Science Department and combine ag economics with the College of Business,” he stated. “Both of those caused some panic throughout the state, but neither of them happened.”

Under this reorganization, CALSNR now houses UW’s Zoology, Physiology and Botany departments, which includes the undergraduate program for wildlife, fisheries, biology and management, as well as the majority of UW’s pre-med programs.

Crane noted the college has subsequently gained nearly 500 undergraduate students and about 50 faculty members.

“When we get everything ironed out, we will have wildlife, fisheries, range management and animal science under our roof, which I believe will make us better poised to serve the natural resources and agriculture industries in Wyoming,” Crane stated. “We will have a few growing pains, but I do think this is a good reorganization.”

Student enrollment and undergrad programs

Next, Crane shared enrollment at UW CALSNR is remaining steady, which is good news considering the current demographic blip.

“There just isn’t as many high school grads to choose from, which experts believe is going to last for 10 years or longer,” Crane said. “I think this, combined with the fact people are seeing less value in a college education, has

simply led to fewer people going to college.”

“Despite this, our enrollment has stayed steady across all of our programs, and it looks like we might even do some growing this next semester,” he added.

Additionally, Crane mentioned the college’s new undergrad program – Ranch Management and Ag Leadership – which was approved last fall.

“We are really excited about this interdisciplinary program that brings the basic knowledge of ag business management and animal science together for one degree,” he said.

Current research

Crane noted as part of UW’s unwavering land-grant mission, CALSNR is responsible for conducting relevant research on current issues affecting the state, and as far as research goes, the college has been very busy.

The Institute for Managing Annual Grasses Invading Natural Ecosystems (IMAGINE) has been conducting comprehensive research on three invasive annual grasses found in Wyoming – cheatgrass, ventenata and medusahead – for almost five years under the guidance of Brian Mealor, according to Crane.

“IMAGINE is doing good work to guide detection, management and control of these invasive annual grasses on a large scale,” said Crane. “We are proud of the program, and we think it will have a real impact.”

Other ag research happening at CALSNR include a project on soil health, carbon sequestration and grazing impacts under UW Extension Rangeland Specialist Derek Scasta and Research physiology and field program studies under UW Extension Beef Specialist Shelby Rosasco.

Crane also noted, “Our Molecular Biology Department is the most research productive department at the university, and we have one faculty member who is responsible for over three percent of the indirect costs that come to the whole university.”

“They do a lot of basic research at the cellular and molecular level, which is important to all of us,” he added.

UW Extension and WSVL update

Sharing knowledge gained at the university with those in the state whom it directly impacts is another pillar of UW’s land-grant mission, and Crane explained this has been best achieved through UW Extension and the WSVL.

Crane shared at this point in time, the UW Extension 4-H program is fully staffed,

“When we get everything ironed out, we will have wildlife, fisheries, range management and animal science under our roof, which I believe will make us better poised to serve the natural resources and agriculture industries in Wyoming.” – Kelly Crane, University of Wyoming College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources

with one Extension educator in every county in the state, which isn’t always the case. Additionally, the program recently hired a state livestock project coordinator.

“Enrollment in 4-H is holding steady statewide, with somewhere around 6,000 youth participants and 1,500 to 1,800 registered volunteers,” he said. “UW Extension and 4-H is our most impactful program in the state.”

Crane further noted UW Extension is preparing for its fourth year of Wyoming Ranch Camp, an intensive, hands-on training program focused on ranch and business management and livestock production.

“Wyoming Ranch Camp helps participants get a look at how things are done in other places,” said Crane. “It has been really valuable to our students.”

In regards to the WSVL, Crane pointed out there have been a few new hires

joining the team, including a new director and two new clinical pathologists. WSVL also hired a brucellosis chair and is in

the process of interviewing several other positions, including a virologist, a bacteriologist and two more pathologists.

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

What

Brad Arntzen: 406.350.4000

Kevin Arntzen: 406.350.1612

Derik Arntzen: 406.350.1728

577 Arntzen Lane Hilger, MT 59451 arntzen@mtintouch.net www.arntzenangus.com

SALE REPORTS

Lucky 7 Angus "Cowboy Bulls" Sale

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor March 2, 2024

Riverton Livestock Auction

Auctioneers: Lander Nicodemus and Colby Hales

50 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $9,145

52 Fall Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $9,048

255 Two-Year-Old Angus Bulls Avg. $7,487

Top Sellers

Lot 5 – Lucky 7 Cushman 2535 – Price: $21,000

DOB: 10/12/22 Sire: Lucky 7 Alliance I87 7185

Dam’s Sire: Lucky 7 Right Time 428 EPDs: BW: -0.4, WW: +76, YW: +119 and Milk: +18 Buyer: Harding Ranch, Meriden

McCann Red Angus Annual Bull Sale

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor March 4, 2024

Billings Livestock Commission, Billings, Mont.

Auctioneer: Bill Cook 63 Yearling Bulls Avg. $5,238

Top Sellers

Lot 39 – McCann

American Dream 3077

– Price: $15,000, DOB:

2/7/23 Sire: LASO Amer-

ican Dream G117J Dam’s

Sire: MR Coach 1296

EPDs: BW: -1.4, WW: +77, YW: +126 and Milk: +32 Buyer: Weber Land and Cattle, Lake Benton, Minn.

Lot 58 – McCann

Blue Collar 3115 – Price:

$13,000, DOB: 2/10/23 Sire:

Lot 99 – Lucky 7

Upward 2568 – Price:

$16,000 DOB: 10/8/22

Sire: Lucky 7 Upward 8157 Dam’s Sire: Lucky 7

Alliance I87 3171 EPDs:

BW: +3.6, WW: +56, YW: +101 and Milk: +25 Buyer: Harding Ranch, Meriden

Lot 110 – Lucky 7

New Standard 293 – Price: $16,000 DOB: 4/3/22 Sire: Lucky 7 New Standard 4540 Dam’s Sire: MCD

SF Consensus 3518 Total EPDs: BW: +1.7, WW: +67, YW: +115 and Milk: +30 Buyer: McDonnell Angus, Columbus, Mont.

Red U-2 Blue Collar 295E

Dam’s Sire: 5L Canyon Watch 1386-113Y EPDs:

BW: -1.5, WW: +55, YW: +90 and Milk: +32 Buyer: Cathy Stalcup, Gillette

Lot 71 – McCann

Mega 3141 – Price: $10,500, DOB: 12/17/22

Sire: Crump Mega 8849

Dam’s Sire: PIE Sensation

591 EPDs: BW: -3.1, WW: +61, YW: +101 and Milk: +33 Buyer: Cathy Stalcup, Gillette

Lot 4 – McCann American Dream 3007 – Price:

Celebrating our 60th year in the Angus seedstock business. We truly appreciate all the support over the years and will continue to be a trusted seedstock source for many years to come. Our PATH has not wavered. Our FOCUS has and will continue to be to produce profitable, problem-free cattle for the commercial cow/calf producer. We BELIEVE an efficient, highly maternal, lowmaintenance cow herd is key to a profitable operation.

PRODUCTION SALE March 27th at 3:00 PM at the Ranch.

Lot 111 – Lucky 7 Special Focus 2133 – Price: $16,000 DOB: 3/20/22

Sire: Lucky 7 Special Focus 9085 Dam’s Sire: Lucky 7 Right Time 1238

EPDs: BW: -1.3, WW: +61, YW: +103 and Milk: +26 Buyer: DeGrand Angus, Baker, Mont.

Lot 115 – Lucky 7 Confidence Plus 2029

– Price: $16,000 DOB: 4/8/22 Sire: Sterling Confidence Plus 804 Dam’s Sire: A A R Ten X 7008

S A EPDs: BW: -1.9, WW: +59, YW: +107 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Harding Ranch, Meriden

$9,000 DOB: 3/16/23 Sire: LASO American Dream G117J Dam’s Sire: MR

Coach 1296 EPDs: BW: -0.3, WW: +76, YW: +123 and Milk: +24 Buyer: Dustin Evans, Whitman, Neb.

Lot 54 – McCann Energize 3107 – Price: $9,000 DOB: 2/3/23 Sire: Bieber

CL Energize F121 Dam’s Sire: Red MRL Resource 137E EPDs: BW: -2.4, WW: +61, YW: +100 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Cathy Stalcup, Gillette

SELLING 130 Bulls, 30 Registered Yearling Heifers, 25 Mc Cumber Commercial Open Heifers and NEW this year Mc Cumber influenced Bred and Open Commercial Heifers.

MC CUMBER CONVICTION 3202

REG#- 20840698

A standout for muscle mass, capacity, and base width. Mc Cumber

Conviction 3202 is the result of our philosophy of stacking as many of our top cows into a pedigree as possible. He is loaded with our best! Predictably bred to make a positive impact.

MC CUMBER PROGRESS 359

REG#- 20840758

A Mc Cumber Zodiac 073 son that grabs your attention and won’t let it go. He has a style and herd bull presence all his own. Outstanding on the move with a long, fluid stride and the softness, muscle, and rib dimension to sire elite females. A new generation herd sire prospect out of a top young OCC Edge of Glory 841E daughter of the pathfinder donor dam Miss Wix 2012 of Mc Cumber. No doubt capable of continuing the progression of our breeding program.

MC CUMBER COW POWER 3184

REG#- 20840685

The first and only son of Mc Cumber Cow Power 118 born here last year, and he does not disappoint. Not often do you find a calving ease bull with +12 CED and -1.3 BW EPD with this much mass and muscle. He is hard to miss and the first of an exciting new sire group that looks to have a bright future.

MC CUMBER 4 REAL 3113

REG #- 20840651

When style, balance, structure, and power combine the result is a herd bull prospect with a look you can’t take your eyes off. Not only a phenotypic standout, but one with figures to rival any in this sale.

SSpring calf market is heating up

Spring is in the air, and across the auction markets, calf prices are starting to heat up.

A quick round-up across the U.S. implies many markets are almost $100 per hundredweight (cwt) higher than they were last year at this time.

Montana auctions are up $90 and $95 per cwt for 400- to 500-weight and 500to 600-weight steer calves, respectively. South Dakota is toting similar figures, up $115 per cwt from last year in 400- to 500-pound steer calves and $94 per cwt for the next weight class up.

Nebraska is $88 per cwt higher in 500- to 600-pound steer calves, and Georgia is up $94 per cwt.

Southern Plains auctions are showing 400to 500-pound steers calling for $107 per cwt over 2023, while 500- to 600pound steers are $83 per cwt higher.

One of the few exceptions the Livestock Marketing Information Center (LMIC) tracks, although there may be others, is Washington auctions. Prices for 400- to 500-weight steer calves were only four dollars per cwt higher, and 500 to 600 weights were $32 per cwt higher.

These prices are reflecting the last week of February for auction markets.

Weather pattern

For many of these, auction prices ended the year slightly below the highs seen over last summer but have taken off since the beginning of 2024.

LMIC saw a similar pattern across the U.S. last year, but the rate of increase, at least for now, seems quite a bit steeper.

In 2023, there was a sense of fear regarding whether there would be enough cattle for the supply chain. This drove prices through most of the first half of the year, and optimism stemmed from a break in a three year La Niña weather pattern which had put most of U.S. cattle country in drought at one time or another during those three years.

The promise of an El Niño and with it, better forage production, had many producers willing to pay up for cattle.

This year, supplies of cattle are even tighter with a smaller calf crop in the wings.

However, there is more uncertainty regarding the weather situation.

The U.S. Climate Prediction Center has been giving off a few warnings this year that the odds of returning to La Niña conditions this summer are increasing.

On a climate news briefing issued Feb. 8, the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center estimated a 79 percent chance the U.S. will transition from El Niño to El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) neutral by April through June and gave a 55 percent chance of La Niña developing in June through August.

Even with the development of La Niña, it does not necessarily guarantee the development of drought, but points to more likely drier weather for the Southern U.S.

The good news is an El Niño or ENSO-neutral spring will likely be good news for calf prices and a grass fever market will continue to fuel these already high prices. In the event the U.S. remains out of drought, LMIC expects those prices to continue to build into the fall.

However, the caveat is if drought does develop in some parts of the U.S., it could slow down price increases. Tight cattle supplies should ensure any price weakness will be small.

Price outlook

Current LMIC forecasts call for steers in the Southern Plains weighing 500 to 600 pounds will average just about $300 per cwt on an annual basis and will likely set the high for the year in the fourth quarter.

This is largely due to continued tightening expected across all parts of the cattle supply chain and the demand for fall-weaned calves to be very strong.

Next year, prices are expected to continue to increase as it seems herd rebuilding will not be able to return quickly.

Prices may average as high as the mid-$300s per cwt, reaching at times close to $400 per cwt.

The weather may play a significant role, though, if La Niña returns and the U.S. reverts to intense drought patterns. Drought would likely extend the cattle liquidation phase and thereby extend higher prices for cow/calf producers for future years.

Katelyn McCullock is the director and senior agricultural economist at LMIC. This article was originally published in BEEF Magazine on March 1.

3202

359

3184

3113

We are once again o ering a tremendous group of open replacement Angus heifers. We work hard to make sure they are REPLACEMENT QUALITY! We have a “Program” that has been in place for many years.

A high percentage of these heifers are sired by or out of Vermilion genetics. These heifers have been sorted three times ahead of the sale for quality and disposition. They are all identi ed as to the ranches they came from and have never been rebranded. We have sorted them back to their origin and will sell them to you that way. This will be the front end of around 10,000 head that we started with. These heifers have been developed in large lots that a ord them plenty of exercise.

200 embryos from Vermilion’s best sell at the Public Auction Yards, Billings, MT - 6:00  and online www.northernlivestockvideo.com

FEATURING THE BEST YOUNG COWS IN THE VERMILION HERD MATED TO:

Stellpflug Hoffman Rise Above, Connealy Craftsman, Long Teton 107, Baldridge Jordan, Coleman Mendoza 271, FF Ambitious, Basin Jameson, SG Salvation, Vermilion Riverside, V A R Conclusion 0234, S A V Glory Days 1832, Coleman Glacier 041

Contact Bill Cook at 406-670-0689 or Jake Kading

SALE OF COLLECTIBLE, VINTAGE AND ANTIQUE TOYS. Hours

Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., First National Bank Exhibition Building, Larimer County Fairgrounds (The Ranch), 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland, CO, I-25 exit 259 (Crossroads Blvd.). The toy show is in both north and south halls. You can enter at either hall. Admission $5. Children 12 and under are free. Early entry before the public from 7-9 a.m., $10. Ninety plus dealers from 10 states displaying 250+ tables of items. Contact Sherlyn Sampson, 970663-9392, e-mail sks80538@ gmail.com or visit website at www.lovelandlionsclub.com

Facebook at Loveland Lions Clubs/events 3/23

LANCER LIVESTOCK SALE, SUN., MARCH 24 AT EASTERN

WYOMING COLLEGE’S ATEC

BUILDING, 3401 West C Street, Torrington, WY. Viewing 10:30 a.m. Sale 1 p.m. Up to 16 show lambs, up to 16 show goats, up to 16 show swine. Call 307-7995419 for more information 3/16

GUN SHOW MARCH 16-17: Weston County Senior Citizens Center, Newcastle, WY, Sat., March 16, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., March 17, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission $5, kids 12 and under free when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Vendor setup Fri., March 15, 3-8 p.m. For more information, call Mike Novotny, 253-678-4825 3/9

2024 CACHE VALLEY COWBOY RENDEZVOUS, MARCH 14-17: Welcomes in concert Ned LeDoux, Wylie Gustafson and Dave Stamey. Free admission to Cowboy Poetry, Western Music, Vendors and Poetry Contests, etc. Fri. 3-10 p.m. and Sat. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Cache County Event Center, Logan, UT. Go to www.cvcowboy.org or leave message at 435-760-0160 3/9

SPRAY OPERATOR NEEDED FOR BETHUNE CO. AREA: Must have some experience. Salary depending on experience. Call 719-340-5480 3/30

RANGE RIDING JOB: Come spend your summer herding cattle for the Caribou Cattlemen’s Grazing Association, located east of Montpelier, ID. This job requires cowboys or cowgirls with a strong work ethic and a desire to tend to cattle on the National Forest. The pay is $3,500 a month. Job is from June 1-Oct. 31, 5 days a week. Responsibilities are packing salt, working with permittees to move cattle, doctoring cattle and keeping cattle where they belong. A cabin is provided with horse pasture. Applicants must have their own horses and tack, (dogs are welcome) and pickup and trailer. If interested, contact Dru Haderlie, 307-7230944 or Layne Keetch, 208540-0634 3/23

Help Wanted

The University of Wyoming is seeking an Assistant Farm Manager at the Sheridan Research and Extension Center. The University of Wyoming is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. For qualifications, additional details and to apply visit https://eeik.fa.us2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/ CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/ job/234074/?utm_medium=jobshare

GOTTSCH LIVESTOCK FEEDERS

LLC Red Cloud, NE

Come Join the Gottsch Livestock Feeders Family! Gottsch Livestock Feeders is looking for Cowboys/Pen Riders for their feedyard in Red Cloud, NE. The main focus of the Cowboy/Pen Riders are spotting, pulling, diagnosing and 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

www.gottschcattlecompany.com

Call Brandon Furr at 402-257-7769 or 402-746-2222 for more information.

GOTTSCH LIVESTOCK FEEDERS

LLC Red Cloud, NE

Join Our Team! Gottsch Cattle Company, Red Cloud, NE is looking to hire motivated and dependable feed truck drivers. Our full-time benefit package includes: Health, dental, life insurance, health savings account and 401(k). 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 www.gottschcattlecompany.com

Call Russ Weber 402-984-8485 or 402-746-2222 for more information.

EXPERIENCED FARMHAND WANTED: Year-round employment and benefits. Call 307899-3772, 307-254-5672 or 307-271-1471 3/23

HELP WANTED: Five years plus cattle handling experience. All aspects of ranch operations: Irrigation, haying, feeding, cattle stewardship and horseback skills. Housing, benefits and salary. Only serious, committed candidates should apply. Eastern Oregon cow/calf operation. Send resumes to lisa.steele@ pvranch.com 3/23

MOUNTAIN RANCH IN COLORADO LOOKING FOR COWBOY ON A YEARLING

OUTFIT: Experience roping, doctoring and riding rough terrain preferred. Must be able to work on a team. Housing and benefits included. For more information, call Whit Gates at 970-846-4353 3/23

COWBOY/RANCH HAND

WANTED AT CROSS FOUR

RANCH, MILES CITY, MT. Duties include: Moving and handling cattle, calving, branding, maintaining water sources, fencing, putting out salt/mineral as needed, riding pens, etc. We offer housing, groceries (beef), health insurance, life insurance, paid-time off, profit sharing bonus, competitive wages dependent on experience. Contact Fred at 406-951-3953, Julie at 406-232-4527, e-mail resume to jnowicki@midrivers.com or mail to PO Box 70, Miles City, MT 59301 3/30

Brands

OLD REGISTERED

WYOMING BRAND FOR SALE: LRC, LBH. Hasn’t been used for 10 years. Expires 2032. $7,500. Call 307259-2062 3/30

Dogs

Help Wanted Services

ASSISTANT SUPERVISOR

POSITION AVAILABLE AT LARAMIE COUNTY WEED AND PEST, PINE BLUFFS, WY: This position is full time and open until filled. The position qualifications are available on our website at www.laramiecountyweedandpest.com along with the job application or by calling 307-245-3213. Please mail your completed application and resume addressed to Attention:

Matt Haas, district supervisor, Laramie County Weed and Pest, 801 Muddy Creek Drive, Pine Bluffs, WY 82082 and clearly marked “job application” on the envelope or by e-mail to lcwpsupervisor@ gmail.com. For more information, contact Matt Haas, District Supervisor at 307-2561979 3/30

HOT SPRINGS COUNTY WEED & PEST IN THERMOPOLIS, WY IS SEEKING A PROGRAM LEADER: Our ideal candidate enjoys working outdoors, has strong leadership skills and has an interest in weed science and natural resource management. This is a permanent, full-time position with benefits. EOE. Contact hscwpsupervisor@gmail.com or 307-864-2278 for a complete job description and application information 3/30

Financial Services

AGRI-ONE FINANCIAL: Farm/ ranch and all commercial loans. RATES AS LOW AS 5%. We have been helping with all aspects of agricultural, commercial financing and management for years. LET US HELP YOU on a consulting level with management to increase profitability, deal with and fix credit problems and for all your financing needs. WE CARE AND HAVE WORKING PROGRAMS designed for the farmer/rancher and not the banker. Please call Steve, 303-773-3545 or check out our website, www.agrionefinancial.com. I will come to you and get the job done!! 3/23

WALKING M REGISTERED WYOMING

BRAND: Renewed to March 1, 2031, RRC, RSS, RTH, single iron, branding iron included. $4,000 OBO. Call 307-714-2484 3/9

OLD WYOMING REGISTERED BRAND, LRC, LSH. Expires January 2029. $3,500. Call 307283-3431 3/16

Dogs

AIREDALE TERRIER

OORANG PUPPIES: AKC registered, will be large calm protective dogs. Great farm/ranch protectors from mountain lions, bears, coyotes, vermin... For more information, call 307-2192217 3/16

WE HAVE A LITTER OF GREAT

PYRENEES LIVESTOCK

GUARD DOGS: Two males, ready to go now. They’ve been exposed to various types of livestock. Have sweet and loving personalities. $150/pup. For more information, contact Casey or Cristy Davis, 605-431-2067 or 605-206-0495 3/9

AKC SHELTIE SABLE/ WHITE PUPPIES: All first shots, de-wormings, dewclaws removed and microchipped, asking $900. Call or text 605-680-2571. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 3/16

BORDER COLLIE PUPPIES FOR SALE: Great bloodlines, out of excellent working parents. Born Feb. 1, $500. Call 307-645-3130 3/30

LIVESTOCK GUARDIAN

DOG PUPPIES, ANATOLIAN SHEPHERD/BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG/GREAT PYRENEES MIX: Puppies will be 85-120 lbs. at maturity. These puppies are raised on a ranch and are highly socialized with 3 young children (ages 5, 7 and 9), adult dogs and chickens. These dogs are awesome with protective livestock guardian instincts, high intelligence and, with proper training, make great family dogs. Large backyard or acreage a requirement. Puppies 11 weeks old and immediately ready for new homes. Dewormed, vaccinated and come with a transponder chip kit, $550. Call Tyler Toth, 303-828-6397, e-mail tlrtoth@gmail.com. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 3/16

JOB OPENING: PUBLIC WORKS POSITION FOR THE TOWN OF COKEVILLE. A water level 1 license, a waste water level 1 & 2 and a CDL Class B driver’s license are preferred at the time of hire. Applicant must be able to obtain CDL Class B within 6 months of hire, a water level 1 within 1 year of hire, a waste water level 1 within 1 year of hire and a waste water level 2 within 2 years of hire. $40,000 annual salary with health insurance and Wyoming retirement. To apply, contact Town Clerk at 307-279-3227. Pay is negotiated on experience 3/16

Cattle

WANTED: PRAIRIE DOGS AND YOTES. Mature (60+), responsible, experienced Iowa hunter seeking ranchers/ farmers with excess prairie dogs and/or coyotes. Precision shooting, not lead flinging. Call or text Scott at 319431-2491 3/23

WANT TO BUY LONGHORN/ CORRIENTE COWS OR HEIFERS: Bred or open. Crossbred would be ok. Must be bangs vaccinated. Call 307-921-3593 3/30

STAIRCASE CHAROLAIS AND RED ANGUS ONLINE BULL SALE: 50+ purebred yearling Charolais and Red Angus bulls SELLING APRIL 13-18 Timed auction online with www.DVAuction. com!! Our bulls are bred for balanced traits, functionality, disposition and efficiency to serve the cattle industry every step of the way, from the cow/ calf producer all the way to the packer and consumer! For more information, visit www. staircasebulls.com, find us on Facebook or give us a call. Gus, 307-575-5860 or Amy, 308-631-1952 4/13

WANTED RECIP COWS: Must be open!! Two to 6 years old, Red Angus or Angusbased cows. For more information, call Corie Mydland, 406-855-5598 (cell), Trans Ova Genetics 3/9

Sires

March 16, 2024

Resilient • Iron Horse • Man in Black Thedford • Value Added • Movin On Many suitable for heifers.

Also see our pen of 6 bulls at Midland Bull Test.

SimAngus

YEARLING

grown, not fattened, will get out and cover cows. Many will work on heifers. We will deliver. Call Joe Buseman, 605-351-1535 3/9

Red

ANNUAL PRODUCTION SALE

Lunch Noon - Sale 1:00 PM Glasgow Stockyards Glasgow, MT

Selling:

Gibbs Red Angus 406-977-2852

Hereford

YEARLING POLLED HEREFORD BULLS FOR SALE

PRIVATE TREATY: Forty-five year breeding program, bred to produce top baldy calves. Balanced trait genetics. Reasonably priced. See us on the web at www.mcmurrycattle.com, for pedigrees, photos and videos. BUY NOW! Call 406-254-1247 (house), leave message or 406697-4040 (cell). E-mail mcmurrycattle@gmail.com 3/23

BROWN SWISS BRED HEIFERS FOR SALE: Will calve March, April and a few in May. Bred to Brown Swiss bulls, most are AI’d and some live covered. Have had all shots. Poured with Ivomec on regular basis. TB tested and current health papers. Nice, gentle, outside cattle, in good shape and well fed. Delivery options available. For pictures or more information, call Robin Carlson, 605224-6100, if no answer leave message. Pierre, S.D. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 3/23

Ranch Lease Wanted

FINAL DRIVE FOCUSED!!

CUSTIS SHOW PIGS

19TH ANNUAL SALE, MARCH 23, 2024 AT 1 PM

CARBON COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS

RAWLINS, WY

Multiple State Fair Grand and Reserve Champions have sold in this sale year after year. Don’t miss the chance to own the next champion!!

Call Krisha 307-760-0327

SIMANGUS BULLS FOR SALE: 18-month-olds

PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. Call 701-523-1235 4/13

PASTURE WANTED: I am looking for a ranch lease or summer pasture lease for 250-500 pairs. Call Joe, 605830-2210, jrcredangus@yahoo.com 3/23

DO YOU WANT TO RETIRE AT THE TOP OF THIS MARKET AND KNOW YOUR LAND IS IN GOOD HANDS? Regen, LLC is a business that provides for ranchers/landowners the service of professional ranch management. We work to understand your needs on your ranch and provide a professional management team tenancy where you no longer need to worry about the work, get paid competitive rent and can keep the ranch legacy intact. Instead of selling, please consider renting the ranch to our team. We are a family business, based in Wyoming and with expertise in all arrangements of federal, state and deeded land and work every day to accomplish our mission. We steward land with regenerative principles, where animals thrive by connecting rich heritage to vibrant futures. Call Sage, 307-351-4875 or e-mail at saskin12@gmail. com 5/11

Seed

OPEN POLLINATED SEED

CORN out produces hybrid for silage and grazing quality grain, $67/bushel +S/H. Call 217857-3377 or cell/text 217-3434962, visit website www.borriesopenpollinatedseedcorn. com 3/23

2023 ALFALFA AND ALFALFA/GRASS MIX HAY, 3x3 bales barn stored. ALSO, SOME FEEDER HAY and BARLEY STRAW available. Call 307350-0350, Farson, WY 3/30

HAY FOR SALE: 200 tons left of first crop hay with protein ranging between 19.7% and 22.4%, baled mature, but not rained on, bales weigh between 1,500-1,650 lbs., $160/ton. 400 tons of second crop hay with protein around 21%, baled without rain damage, bales weigh around 1,650-1,800 lbs., $180/ ton. ALSO, 200 tons of straw left, bales weigh approximately 1,100 lbs., certified weed free, $75/ton. All bales are 4x4x8 in size. Location between Lovell and Powell, WY. Contact 307272-3712 3/16

HAY FOR SALE: 3x3 and round bales. Call 605-840-0015 3/9

CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW: Small bales, average 65 lbs., $5/bale. Farson, WY. Call 307350-5211 3/30

CERTIFIED ALFALFA HAY FOR SALE: Certified string on hay, 3x3 bales. 65 tons first crop and 55 tons second crop. No weather damage, under cover. Call for pricing. Pavillion, WY. Ranch phone 307856-1226 if no answer, leave a message 3/9

Seed

Seed

Warner Ranch Seed

Serving Fremont County, Wyoming and the surrounding areas.

HarvXtra® alfalfa with Roundup Ready® technology, Roundup Ready® alfalfa and conventional varieties available!

Plant the best!

Hereford

PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. Call 701-523-1235 3/9

Hereford

513 Van Norman Road Jordan, MT 59337 www.GibbsRedAngus.com

RED ANGUS HIGH-ELEVATION YEARLING BULLS FOR SALE IN NORTHEASTERN UTAH: Out of AI and bull-bred sires. Will be trich, semen tested and fed for free until May 1. $2,500/head. Bar Lazy TL Ranch, David, 435828-1320, barlazytlranch@ gmail.com 6/30

Buffalo Brand Seed for annual forages, cover crops, pasture grasses, small grains and custom mixes.

GRASS SEED FOR SALE:

Leatherwork

LS CUSTOM LEATHER: Belts, tack, cell phone cases and much more!! Contact Lester, 307-631-1053, leave a message. Located in Riverton, WY 3/9

Sheep

ARE YOU IN NEED OF A NEW HERDER CAMP OR A PERSONAL RANGE CAMP FOR YOUR FAMILY? Contact us at Western Range Camps and see what we can build for you. We specialize in quality, handcrafted camps built to your specifications. Contact us today to design the camp just right for you. Western Range Camps, 435-4625300, heidi@wrcamps.com, 1145 S. Blackhawk Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647 3/9

Manifest wheatgrass and Cache Meadow brome, good germination, $3/lb. Call Big Horn Seed Company, 307-202-0704 or 307645-3322 3/30

Hay & Feed

CERTIFIED WEED-FREE PURE

ALFALFA HAY: Small squares, all covered. First, second and third cutting available. Will load trucks and any open trailer. 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 at 307254-0554 4/27

ROUND BALED GRASS HAY

FOR SALE: Cody, WY area, 1,000 lb. net-wrapped bales, $60/ bale. Call, don’t text, Anthony at 307-254-2645 3/30

300 TONS SUDANGRASS FOR SALE, NOT SORGUM SUDAN. Light rain. Most stored under shed. 3x4s, 1,100 lb. average. Great ration mixer. Extend your good hay. Riverton, WY area. Delivery available. Call 307-709-6290 3/30

2023 ALFALFA/GRASS HAY: Large rounds, net wrapped. ALSO, 2023 OAT HAY, large rounds, net wrapped. Scale on site. Near Rapid City, S.D. Call 605-786-3272 (cell) or 605-7875373 (landline) 3/23

VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: Ranch hay consignments available now $130-$160, rounds and squares alfalfa. Lusk and Torrington, WY. Scottsbluff and Lyman, NE. Go to www.valleyvideohay.com or call Barry McRea, 308-235-5386 3/30

Hay & Feed

2023 OAT HAY FOR SALE: Good and green with lots of oats, 1,500 lb. round bales, plastic twine. Tested low in nitrates. $110/ton, 45 miles west of Fort Pierre, S.D. Call 605224-6100, if no answer leave message 3/30

100 TONS ALFALFA HAY: Big round 1,400 lb. bales, $165/ton.

100 TONS OATS/25% BEARDLESS TRITICALE MIX, big round 1,400 lb. bales, $150/ton. Call 308-778-6104 3/23

BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/ bale. ALSO, 5x6 round bales, $125/ton. GRAIN/OATS, $20/ cwt. Greybull, WY area. Call 307-762-3878 or 307-899-4714, leave message 3/23

600+ TONS OF GRASS HAY FOR SALE. ALSO HAVE grass/ alfalfa mix and alfalfa hay, cow and barn stored. WHEAT HAY, OAT HAY AND STRAW. Small squares, 3x3s, 3x4s and round bales. Delivery available!! Large quantities still available. Call today for best price, 307-6303046 3/23

800 TONS NICE, green grass/ alfalfa mix (80/20); 600 TONS MIX with rain and/or weeds (cow/grinding hay); 300 TONS GRASS HAY, green; 1,000 TONS TRITICALE HAY, mostly green, some with rain; SEVERAL LOADS MILLET HAY, nice!! All types, mostly round bales, some 3x4/4x4. Delivery available. Please call 307-630-3768. Marketed by the Cheyenne, WY area producer 3/16

LOTS OF GRASS HAY FOR SALE, 1,200 lb. 3x4x8 bales. Cow and horse hay, $150/ton. Southwest WY. Call Kelly, 307-7807027 3/9

ROUND BALES: QUALITY

GRASS HAY FOR SALE, bales weigh approximately 1,300 lbs. each, Laramie, WY. Call 307760-8429 3/9

GOOD QUALITY OAT HAY: 3x4 bales. Barn stored $145/ ton. Outside $120/ton. Tests available, Lusk, WY. Call Paul Hicks, 970-203-5019 3/16

285 PLUS TONS OF 2023

GRASS HAY: 3x4, $175/ton, Encampment, WY. Call 307321-1444 TFN

CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW FOR SALE, 3x4 bales. Cody, WY. Call 307-899-1952 TFN

Vehicles Wanted

WANT TO BUY: 1980’S ERA FORD F-350 TRUCK. With or without motor. 1980 to 1986 year preferred. Flatbed and dually preferred. Call Eric at 307696-9930 3/23

Equipment

Pipe Pipe

JACKSON AG

Derek Jackson • 307-532-0338 • CHUGWATER, WY

FOR SALE: Notch 24’ portable ground hay feeder. 12’x24’ heavy duty bale hauler. 12’x40’ portable calving shed with 4 pens, on steel skids for easy moving. Phoenix H14 42’ rotary harrow. John Deere 235 24’ tandem disk. H&S 7+4 17’ and 16’ chuckwagons with bunk feeding extensions and tandem 14 ton running gear. Meyer 18’ chuckwagon with bunk feeding extensions and 14 ton gear, very nice. Two John Deere 716A chuckwagons with John Deere running gear and bunk feeding extensions, been shedded, nice condition. John Deere 158 loader. Danuser post hole digger with 12” bit. Big Valley cattle working chute with automatic headgate. Lorenz 16’x29’ stack mover. 12’ box scraper. SnoMachine 8’ snowblower with hydraulic spout. All in very nice condition!! Call 605-9995482 3/9

Fencing Fencing

LODGEPOLE PRODUCTS, 307-742-6992, SERVING AGRIBUSINESSES SINCE 1975!!

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 4/20 Equipment

Livestock Equipment

Trailer Services/ Repairs

Livestock Equipment

2020 JOHN DEERE

3046R TRACTOR: 4x4, low hours. Quick Attach 3 pt. hitch. Rear blade. Post hole digger 8” and 12”, 3 pt. Rototiller, 5’ Quick Attach loader, 3pt. brush hog, dozer blade and bucket forks. $49,500. Call 307-331-1151 or 307-214-0814. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 3/30

OILFIELD PIPE: PRICE REDUCED!! RPJ Enterprises, Inc. 2 3/8” and 2 7/8” is available. 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-

Livestock Equipment

Property for Sale

HOME FOR SALE BY OWN-

ER!! Lewistown, MT, 97 SW. Ash St., 3,000 sq. ft. Three bedroom, 3 bath with basement. Nice size man cave 46’x48’ shop with loft and bathroom, 12’ doors on shop. Creek in backyard with a greenhouse. Approximately 2 acres front and back of house. Asking $897,250. For more information, call 406-350-0919. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 3/30

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE

Property for Sale Property for Sale

NEW Big Valley Farm: Fremont County, Wyoming. 197+ acre farm with nearly 170 acres irrigated out of Riverton and LeClair Irrigation District. Good working facilities, 2 older homes, very nice clean farm with great production close to Riverton and county road access. Price: $1,500,000

Wilkes Limousin Ranch: Fremont County, Wyoming. 965+ acres with 330 Walton Right adjudicated acres along the Wind River near Crowheart. 2001 3 bed 3 bath log home, shops, sheds, corrals and additional home with outbuildings perfect for a managers residence. Located near Crowheart Butte with beautiful cottonwood lined river bottom and tons of wildlife. Price: $5,000,000

MO. Flats Ranch: Hot Springs County, Wyoming. 655+ acres located 12 miles west of Thermopolis with paved road access. Approximately 140 irrigated acres with an additional 50 adjudicated. Nearly 2 miles of Owl Creek frontage, 4 pastures and 3 wells. 40’x84’ metal building with concrete floor, water and power. This is a great setup for a base property and great value. Price: $1,540,000

South Muddy Farm: Fremont County, Wyoming. Top quality 146+ acre farm with 129 acres in excellent alfalfa hay production. Located in the Midvale Irrigation District, it includes a 4 bed 2 bath home and a 40’x60’ pole barn. Very productive hay farm in a great area. Price: $1,070,000

Middleton Farm: Hot Springs County, Wyoming. 62+ acre farm on Owl Creek and Missouri Flat Road 15 miles from Thermopolis. 21+ acre of irrigated land in the Owl Creek irrigation district. No improvements but power and well. Really great location. Price: $349,000 CALL US ABOUT OWNER FINANCE OPTIONS ON SOME OF THE FARMS WE HAVE AVAILABLE.

Roy Ready - Broker

Amy Ready - Sales Associate • Rees Ready - Office Manager

Office: 307-234-2211

Roy Ready - Broker: 307-921-0170 www.westernland.net

66.856 ACRES, JUST NORTHWEST OF RED LODGE, MT BORDERING THE GOLF COURSE: This property is presently agriculturally zoned, current use is hay and pasture and it is fenced and cross fenced. Enjoy views of several mountain ranges and lots of water, including Spring Creek frontage, mature trees and lush grass. Could be zoned commercially, allowing for develop-

OREGON RANCH, Baker City, Baker County, OR. The Alder Creek pasture contains over 2,000 acres of native spring, summer and fall pasture. The rangeland is situated just east of Baker City, OR. The property is in good condition and has good perimeter fencing. The range is gently south facing slope with a variety of native grass. FIRST TIME OFFERING at just over $500 per acre for deeded and contiguous ownership, $1,095,000. Give us a call at 541-523-4434, Intermountain Realty, Inc., Greg Sackos, Principal Broker, James Dunlap, Broker, www.intermountainland. com 3/23

3 TUBS RANCH: 3,316 + deeded acres in the treed canyons of 66 Mountain, LaGrange, WY. Lush meadows and mountain outcroppings. Deer, antelope, turkey and sage grouse. Run cows through 12 pastures, plus improvements. Excellent calving facilities. $5,100,000. Pictures and video at www. buyaranch.com. Call Casey Essert, Land Broker, 307532-1750 3/9

Property for Rent

CASH RENTER WANTED:

The West Nebraska Joint Water Board is taking bids for cash rent on the farming of 162 acres of dryland grass. A specific outline of what is expected can be obtained at the Village of Lyman Office located at 414 Jeffers Ave. in Lyman, NE. DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING BIDS WILL BE APRIL 15 at 3:30 p.m. Bids will be opened on April 16 at the Village of Lyman meeting room at 414 Jeffers Ave., Lyman NE at 6 p.m. Any questions can be directed to WNJWB Clerk, Kim Robb, 308-787-1444 3/16

Property Wanted

FREE GRAZING RIGHTS!! My wife, two kids and I would like to purchase 150-500 acres in the Big Horn Mountains for recreational purposes, (western slope preferred). Seasonal water a must!! We like to camp, hunt and fish... YOU KEEP GRAZING!! Text, call or e-mail me, 307-2184866, william.neighbors@ gmail.com 3/9

FOR SALE: With clear views of the Beartooth Mountains, this pristine 89-acre property with 2,175 ft. of river frontage is located directly across from the Game and Fish hatchery on the Clarks Fork River. With plenty of building sites and abundant pasture, there is plenty of room for livestock, crops or your new home. It is rich with numerous wildlife species and blue-ribbon fishing, with approximately 50 acres of irrigated ground. All acreage is approximate and subject to survey before closing. Irrigation fees are to be determined as well. CALL MIKE CREEL AT COLDWELL BANKER ANTLERS REALTY, INC. 307-587-5533. To view photos, go to www. codyproperty.com, MLS# 10022475, $899,000 3/9

BLM to host public meeting

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Kemmerer Field Office is seeking public comment on an environmental assessment to analyze resource concerns associated with right-of-way applications associated with Project West, a private trona mine proposed to the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality by West Soda, LLC.

The associated right-of-way applications will affect lands located in Sweetwater County.

Applications on file to support the private Project West Trona Mine include a water pipeline to the Green River, fluid transportation pipelines, future fluid transport pipeline extensions, a solution mining area primary access road, a solution mining secondary access road, a paved access road to the soda ash plant and a rail line from the processing plant to the Union Pacific mainline.

Additional federal connected actions to this project include a natural gas pipeline and two power lines, which will be applied for by a third-party application.

The virtual public meetings will be held on March 20 at 3 p.m. Interested parties can join the meeting a blm. zoomgov.com/j/1617465819?pwd=aGtoTUs2MzhiRWJ1 NHNzbEROUnNZZz09

The 30-day public scoping period will begin after the meeting and end April 19.

Comments may be submitted electronically through the BLM’s ePlanning website or by mail to the BLM Kemmerer Field Office, Attn: Kelly Lamborn, 430 North Highway, Kemmerer, WY 83101

All comments, including personal identifying information, may be made publicly available at any time. While those commenting may ask that their identifying information be withheld from public review, the BLM cannot guarantee they will be able to do so.

For more information, contact Lamborn at 307-8284505 or klamborn@blm.gov.

UW Mortar Board honors Top Profs

Members of the University of Wyoming’s (UW) senior honor society recently honored their “Top Profs” at the 44th annual Top Prof Night.

Members of the Cap and Gown Chapter of Mortar Board selected professors who have positively influenced their lives at UW. These professors go beyond normal classroom expectations to help their students succeed.

“Top Prof is an event our members value greatly, as it allows students to recognize the faculty who have had an impact on their lives,” says Christine Wade, associate dean in the UW College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources (CALSNR) and adviser to the UW chapter.

“Faculty are always honored to be recognized as a Top Prof because this is a student-driven selection process.”

Mortar Board is the premier national honor society recognizing college seniors for outstanding achievement in scholarship, leadership and service. Mortar Board provides opportunities for continued leadership development, promotes service to colleges and universities and encourages lifelong contributions to the global community.

UW chapter members participate in numerous projects and activities throughout the year, both on campus and in the Laramie community.

The 2024 UW CALSNR Mortar Board Top

Top Prof Night – University of Wyoming (UW) Mortar Board Member Annie Walgren of Laramie recognizes her Top Prof, Jay Gatlin from the UW Department of Molecular Biology,

Profs include Department of Plant Science;s Randa Jabbour, honored by Chelsea Turner of Cheyenne and

Department of Molecular Biology’s Jay Gatlin, honored by Annie Walgren of Laramie.

during the recent Top Prof Night. Christine Wade photo

There should be a law against people who smell bad. And this is coming from a guy who, on many occasions, was smellier than Taco Bell on a bad bean day.

If I asked what one thought most American’s preferred – a bath or a shower – what would you say?

by Lee Pitts

In a recent poll of Americans, 57 percent of the people chose the smart answer – which is shower – while 32 percent preferred to soak in their own filth and take a bath. By my count, this leaves 11 percent who take neither.

Yakov Smirnoff, a Russian comedian, once said, “I

like American women. They do things sexually Russian girls would never think of doing – like showering.”

I admit my preference for showers is a direct result of being third in line through the bathwater. First was my dad, second was the “exalted one” – my older brother – and then there was me.

You may have heard the phrase “Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water?” Well, I was that baby, and you might not have seen me through all of the murky water.

Another phrase you’ve probably heard is “rural

cleansing.” This is what happened every Saturday night in farm and ranch houses across the country.

My grandpa told me every farm had a big, old tub which was filled with hot water on Saturday night. The first one through was the father, followed by the sons in descending order of age. No wonder the eleventh son got the nickname “Stinky” at school.

These were the lucky folks.

Before this, most people got married in June because they were still smelling pretty good following their ANNUAL bath in May. But,

even in June the betrothed were both pretty ripe so the bride carried flowers to mask the smell. This is where the custom got its start, much to the pleasure of flower shop owners.

Did you know the White House didn’t have a permanently installed bathtub until 1850? This meant all of the presidents before Millard Fillmore smelled like they just cleaned out the hog barn.

One wonders, how did they ever get re-elected?

of them couldn’t even find enough water to drink, let alone take a bubble bath.

Personally, the longest I’ve ever gone without a bath or a shower was seven days, and this is because I was in a coma. I didn’t do that much hard, sweaty work while comatose, so I’m sure I didn’t stink much.

But, while taking me home from the hospital, my wife wore my 3M mask with replaceable cartridges that firemen wear to breathe cleaner air.

It wasn’t that long ago American farm boys were sewed into their long johns in November and didn’t take them off until March. Later generations, of course, took a bath every Saturday whether they needed it or not.

I often wonder what our soldiers did in World War II when they were fighting for the freedom to be filthy. How did they get clean in the trenches and in the tanks?

All I know is famous Author Ernie Pyle said if you go long enough without a bath even the fleas will leave you alone.

And what did the cowboys who drove the great herds up from Texas in the 1880s do for a bath? Some

I’ve never resided in areas with high humidity, and I don’t know how people do it who live in places like Florida or Washington, D.C.

In the South, I always felt dirtier by the time I got out of the shower than I did before I got in. It was so disgusting seeing all of the men and women sweating through their armpits.

I remember being in an Eastern big city restroom with the first deodorant dispenser I ever saw. I’ve always been an Old Spice guy, and I could use a swipe or two. The dispenser supposedly had some, so I put in my money, only to discover the machine was “out of odor.”

LETTERS

Dear Editor,

Recently, I had the privilege of serving among a group of judges for the Wyoming State FFA Agriscience Fair. It was a terrific experience.

My compliments to the more than 100 participants, my fellow judges, our state high school vocational agriculture teachers and advisors and especially Wyoming FFA State Advisor Stacy Broda, who planned and coordinated this exceptional event.

Along with two other judges, I had the opportunity to observe 12 of the day’s presentations provided by 20 high school students representing FFA chapters from around the state.

I was distinctly impressed with all of the student presenters. Their research topics were relevant, important and worthy of consideration. These brilliant young leaders dared to research animal, plant and social science issues which challenge the future of the agriculture industry.

Topics such as animal health as a result of nutritional supplements, natural versus timed artificial insemination, companion planting, the effects of irrigation methods on plant growth and opportunities for women in agriculture were just a few many superb presentations we enjoyed.

I was inspired to write this because of the remark-

able sense of awe I felt while listening to the student presenters. I admired their awareness of contemporary topics worthy of further research and understanding.

These issues are complex and multifaceted with no easy solutions. I felt great respect for their willingness to commit so many hours to the preparation and rehearsal of their presentations.

I sincerely appreciate their courage to stand in front of a group of judges and present their topics. These young people represent a future we can all look forward to.

The world is changing, and the agriculture industry, like many others, faces many unknowns. For sure, the industry will continue to be changed by advancements in technology, challenged by increased requirements and competition while being continually hampered by dwindling resources and so many other challenges.

I walked away from the agriscience fair with a strong sense of hope in the future, knowing the bright, industrious youth of Wyoming are willing to face adversity, innovate, solve problems and forge the future of agriculture.

Congratulations to all of the student presenters on a job well done.

Kelly Ivanoff Casper

Law and Odor