Roundup for 3.13.2021 Section B by Wyoming Livestock Roundup

Ehrhardt: Winter nutrition is critical for pregnant ewes “Proper winter nutrition is critical for pregnant ewes,” says Michigan State University Small Ruminant Extension Specialist Dr. Richard Ehrhardt during an American Sheep Industry Association podcast dated Feb. 24. Ehrhardt explains winter is an important time of year as producers are managing and feeding ewes through some point of pregnancy. He shares, producers need to understand pregnancy requirements, especially when the goal is to feed sheep to a productive state. Risks caused by weight “I rarely cross paths with someone who overfeeds their ewes,” Ehrhardt says. “Oftentimes, I find producers underfeeding ewes, causing an energy shortage during late pregnancy.” “Ewes are at increased risks when influenced by weight,” Ehrhardt adds. “Being underweight, or even overweight, can cause risks during pregnancies.” Underweight ewes are at higher risk of experiencing pregnancy toxaemia, more commonly known as Twin Lamb Disease (TLD). TLD occurs when a lamb in utero requires more glucose than the ewe can provide, Ehrhardt explains. This disease commonly affects ewes carrying twins or triplets. TLD can be treated by giving ewes an oral glucose solution twice a day. If one

ewe is affected by TLD it can be assumed the rest of the flock is in danger. According to Ehrhardt, it is better to prevent TLD than to treat it. Ehrhardt shares underfed ewes might experience other issues, as well. “Most times, chronically underfed ewes will provide less milk,” Ehrhardt says. “Being underfed will also affect ewe behavior. Generally, these ewes will not be good mothers.” Ehrhardt shares overfeeding breeding ewes usually isn’t an issue. It can be hard for producers to know the body condition score of their ewes, especially if they aren’t shorn. He adds, “Ewes go from needing nine to 10 percent crude protein during pregnancy to needing 13 to 15 percent during lactation. The amount of protein needed during these times can be dependent on how many lambs a ewe has. If a producer has a higher protein forage, they might consider saving it for the lactation period.” Pregnancy maintenance “Ewe requirements will vary throughout the duration of pregnancy,” says Ehrhardt. “Feeding ewes during midterm pregnancy requires a maintenance diet.” Ehrhardt continues to explain lambing in late spring results in feeding a maintenance diet throughout winter. “About 40 days before lambing, producers should

switch their ewes to a higher caloric diet,” Ehrhardt states. “It is essential to recognize late pregnancy is a critical time.” Ehrhardt notes, ewe requirements are starkly different depending on the number of lambs they are carrying. He adds it is crucial to acknowledge the number of lambs and size of an ewe is dependent on breeds. Producers should keep in mind the size of the ewe and the number of lambs carried during pregancy when calculating feed requirements. Ewes carrying one lamb require a 50 percent increase in calories, whereas ewes carrying three lambs require 130 percent more calories. Wintering ewes outside requires more feed so ewes can maintain their body temperature. Wind protection and full fleece can also affect feed requirements, Ehrhardt shares. Full fleece can make up to a 25 percent difference in feed intake.

“Sheep are great at acclimating,” Ehrhardt explains. “They don’t stress as much once they are acclimated. However, they do stress when the temperature dramatically changes.” Ehrhardt explains vitamins are crucial when it comes to maintaining pregnancy. Many ewes lack vitamins A, D and E. “Sheep store extra vitamin A in their liver,” Ehrhardt says. “They can store six months worth of vitamin A.” He shares vitamin D2 is found in sun-cured forages, such as hay, and vitamin D3 is from exposure of skin to ultraviolet light, such as sunlight. Because of this, keeping ewes in a lambing shed for a prolonged amount of time while on a diet low in vitamin D2 can cause a vitamin D deficiency. Ehrhardt adds sheep kept in pastures don’t usually experience vitamin D deficiency like sheep kept out of the sun.

“Sheep don’t store vitamin E like they can vitamin A,” Ehrhardt shares. “This means sheep require a daily intake of vitamin E.” Ehrhart adds vitamin E supplements can increase lamb weaning weights, improve production and result in higher quality colostrum. Feeding lactating ewes “There are three different feed programs producers often use for lactating ewes,” says Ehrhardt. “Stockpiling pasture, grazing covered crops and silage are some common feeding practices.” Stockpiling pasture or range has significant advantages and disadvantages. Ehrhardt shares, producers should do extensive research before implementing a feed program such as stockpiling. Limiting grazing on a pasture too early will provide tall, non-nutritious grasses whereas limiting grazing too late will provide nutritious grasses, but can raise concern

due to not having enough feed. Ehrhardt says cover crops can also be quality forage producers can feed lactating ewes. He adds, lambs may be finished out on cover crops with careful management. “Producers may also feed ewes hay or silage,” Ehrhardt explains. “It is important to know the quality of feed. If the silage or hay being fed doesn’t have high enough quality, producers may have to supplement with grain.” “Silage managed carefully will reduce the risk of diseases,” Ehrhardt notes. “The quality and cost can help sway a producer’s decision regarding feed.” Ehrhardt says hay or silage may be a good option, especially for larger operations. Madi Slaymaker is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Polled Akaushi debuts For the first time, polled Akaushi genetics will be publicly available to interested cattle breeders – marking a significant milestone in the breed’s history. “HeartBrand Dos Equis XX 3618H is the first homozygous polled purebred Akaushi bull ever bred,” says JoJo Carrales, vice president of cattle operations for HeartBrand Cattle. This is a turning point for the American Akaushi breed. “Through the careful selection for sire quality HeartBrand Cattle is known for, we’ve removed a significant obstacle for cattle breeders,” says Carrales. “Now those who don’t want to use horned genetics can reconsider all the tremendous benefits of the American Akaushi breed.” Cattle breeders interested in Dos Equis XX can bid for 50 percent semen interest along with 20-unit semen packages during the Elite of the Elite Akaushi Sale on March 16. The online auction will be held at wagyu365.com.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

resulting in higher resistance seeded with kochia at a rate kochia population densities management practices, still there are key factors to conin the weed population or pos- of 1.8 pounds per acre and a were higher. treatments, sider with weed management itive with lower levels of resis- known concentration of five Tillage tance? The latest research percent ALS-resistant kochia including intensive versus programs, especially for herminimal tillage, resulted in bicide resistance. from the University of Wyo- seed. Results no difference in the resistant The more diverse weed ming’s Plant Sciences DepartBy Jeremiah Vardiman, UW Results indicated crop proportions in the popula- management practices always ment addresses these very Extension Agriculture and rotation was the only treattion. The three different her- resulted in the lower kochia questions. Horticulture Educator The last objective of this ment which significantly bicide treatments, ALS-inhib- plant densities and seed prolarge study was to quantify the impacted the resistant pro- iting herbicides every year, duction, which results in a impact of crop rotation, tillage portion of kochia populations tank mix of ALS-inhibiting decreased amount of resistant and herbicide regimes on the actively growing in the field and second mode of action seed produced. This demonenrichment of resistant to sus- and also found herbicide treat- for ALS-resistant every year strates high levels of resisceptibility ratios of acetolac- ments were only marginally and annual rotation of non- tance are not always found or ALS inhibiting then ALS- associated in fields or areas My last article dis- tant weeds, must focus on tate synthase (ALS) resistant impactful. In contradiction to the inhibiting herbicide the next with high density of weeds cussed the economic bene- incorporating as many diverse, kochia. fits and risks of implementing effective control methods as In simpler terms, the last study’s hypothesis, the more year, resulted in no differ- or resistant seeds in the seeda diverse, herbicide-resistant possible for the weed in ques- objective of the study is to diverse crop rotation resulted ence as well, which is contra- bank. weed management program. tion. determine if these herbicide in the greatest proportion of dictory to other field studies It also reinforces the As previously menStudy objectives resistant weed management resistant kochia plants. How- conducted on the evolution of notion that long-term weed management needs to focus tioned, the study demonstrates Diverse weed manage- practices are increasing or ever, this crop rotation also herbicide resistance. a diverse weed management ment programs are more prof- decreasing the level of resistant resulted in the lowest kochia This could be attributed on the weed seeds within the to gene flow from kochia pol- soil seedbank, not just the program implemented effec- itable and provide the best weeds within the population. plant density. tively results in greater over- control of kochia populations The large study was con- This means a high pro- lination – kochia pollen is weeds above the soil surface. all profits. Undoubtedly, the in the field. This is wonderful, ducted over four years under portion of resistance does not able to travel large distances. The overall conclusion small grains crop drove the however, the deeper question field conditions in four loca- mean high population densi- There was no difference in for this large research study is increase in profits because facing the agriculture indus- tions – Lingle, Powell, Scotts- ties or resistant seed per area. control when treatments were proactive herbicide-resistant 175 The Bulls are Polled d one-crop, two-crop and combined. weed management practices of its high competitiveness try and particularly produc- bluff, Neb. and Huntley, This study also found can impact the establishment against kochia plants, not ers is, “How does the impact Mont. The research focused three-crop rotations were because it is the most profit- of crop rotation, tillage treat- on kochia management since found to contain similar pro- tillage, crop rotation and her- and development of targeted able crop. ments and herbicide regimes it is a problematic weed in the portions of resistant kochia bicide treatments had the weeds and herbicide-resistant Long-term, effective impact resistant weed popula- major crops grown in Wyo- plants and resulted in the greatest impact to resistant weeds, while also being prof175 Bulls are Polled d weed management programs, tions?” ming, such as sugarbeets, corn lowest proportions of resis- seed density after four years itable to implement. This also especially for175 herbicide-resis Is are this impact negative,dand dry beans. The plots were tant kochia, even though the of the study. Intensive tillage includes the idea that manBulls Polled had better control with lower agement strategies should not 175 Bulls are Polled d resistant seeds than minimum only focus on herbicide regitillage. mens. The most diverse crop Incorporating as many rotation also contained the effective control practices 175 Bulls are Polled d At the Ranch h lower seed density when as possible results is the best 175 Bulls are Polled d compared to the one-crop, weed control. In this specific two-crop and three-crop rota- example, tillage, crop selecView Saleand andVideos Videos Viewour our Sale on:on: tions. The lower seed densi- tion and crop rotation had ties in the tillage treatments significant impacts to kochia At the Ranch h and most diverse crop rota- density in the field and seed 175 BULLS ARE POLLED tion are attributed to the low density in the soil seedbank. Powerful • Mature • Easy Traveling • Stout • Polled kochia plant densities within The results of this study, View our Sale and Videos on: View our Sale and Videos on: h these treatments, i.e., fewer such as small grains being the h 110 of Our purebred heifers graded 93% Prime Choice with most 66%competitive Cutabilitycrop, only kochia plants or results in fewer seeds in the seed bank. apply to other annual weeds Our bulls will increase your weaning weights and carcass value 175 BULLS ARE POLLED As for the herbicide treat- which are similar in growth Powerful • Mature • Easy Traveling • Stout • Polled ments, the lowest seed den- and development to kochia. h sity was found in the ALS More research is needed h 110 of Our purebred heifers graded 93% Prime or Choice with 66% Cutability mixture treatment, which to find the applicability of contained aweights mixture ofand ALS carcass cultural and mechanical weed Our bulls will increase your weaning value TO REQUEST A CATALOG: herbicide and a second mode control practices to other Powerful • Mature • Easy Traveling • Stout • Polled Powerful • Mature • Easy Traveling • Stout • Polled Buddy Westphal of action to control ALS- resistant weeds, such as bianPowerful • Mature • Easy Traveling • Stout • Polled resistance, when Call or Text: (406) 270-0222 compared to nual, perennial and complex an ALS herbicideemail: only and to perennial weeds. buddy@vvcrbulls.com 110 of our purebred heifers graded 93% Prime or Choice with 66% Cutability REQUEST annual rotation ofTO ALS. A CATALOG: Jeremiah Vardiman is a Visit our Website: Powerful • Mature • Easy Traveling • Stout • value Polled Research implications University of Wyoming AgriOur bulls will •increase your weaning weights and Powerful Mature • Easy Traveling •carcass Stout • Polled Buddy Westphal www.vvcrbulls.com and Horticulture Powerful • Mature • Easy Traveling • Stout • Polled Even though Callthis or study Text: culture (406) 270-0222 indicated there was no difExtension Educator. He can AUCTIONEER: Rick Machado • (805) 501-3210 email: buddy@vvcrbulls.com ference to resistance between be reached at jvardima@ 110 of our purebred heifers graded 93% Prime or Choice with 66% Cutability diverse and non-diverse weed uwyo.edu. Visit our Website:

EXTENSION EDUCATION

Part 5: Latest research on herbicide resistance

185 BULLS BULLS 185 185 BULLS BULLS TWO-YEAR-OLD R-OLD

185 BULLS 185 BULLS 185 185

TWO-YEAR-OLD R-OLD

TWO-YEAR-OLD R-OLD TWO-YEAR-OLD R-OLD TWO-YEAR-OLD R-OLD 52 nd Annual Sale TWO-YEAR-OLD R-OLD SATURDAY 52 nd Annual Sale Valley View Charolais March 28, 2020

53rd Annual Sale SATURDAY 52 nd Annual Sale 52 nd Annual Sale TWO-YEAR-OLD Valley View Charolais SATURDAY March 28, 2020 SATURDAY BULLS SATURDAY March 27, 2021 53rd Annual Sale 52 nd Annual Sale At the Ranch 52 nd28, Annual Sale TWO-YEAR-OLD March 2020 March 28, 2020 SATURDAY SATURDAY BULLS SATURDAY March 27, 2021

185

At the Ranch March 28, 2020 March 28, 2020

Powerful • Mature Easy Traveling • Stout • Polled

Our bulls will increase your weaning weights and carcass value www.vvcrbulls.com TO REQUEST A CATALOG: Buddy AUCTIONEER: Rick MachadoWestphal • (805) 501-3210 Call or Text: (406) 270-0222

& Lin Westphal NCBABuddy supports tax act Scott & Amy Westphal

The Death Tax Repeal Act of 2021 was introduced email: buddy@vvcrbulls.com Valley Road this week by 44601 Sen. John ThuneView (R-SD), Rep. Sanford TO REQUEST A CATALOG: Polson, Montana 59860 Bishop (D-GA) and Rep. Jason Smith (R-MO). Buddy Westphal Visit our Website: Buddy & Lin Westphal The National Cattlemen’s Beef ofAssociation Ranch located 50 miles north www.vvcrbulls.com Call or Text: (406) 270-0222 (NCBA) issuedScott a statement inWestphal support of bipartisan & Amy Missoula, Montana repeal the federalView estateRoad tax, commonly CALL ABOUT FREE DELIVERY legislation to 44601 email: buddy@vvcrbulls.com Valley AUCTIONEER: Rick Machado • (805) 501-3210 referred to as the death tax. Polson, Montana 59860 “The estate tax disproportionately harms cattle Visit our Website: producers because with few50options to pay Ranch located miles north of off tax liawww.vvcrbulls.com bilities many farm Missoula, and ranch families are forced to Montana CALL ABOUT FREE DELIVERY make tough choices at the time of death – and in worst AUCTIONEER: Rick Machado • (805) 501-3210 case scenarios, must sell off land to meet their federal Buddy & Lin Westphal tax burden,” said NCBA President Jerry Bohn. An estimated 2,000 acres of agricultural land is Scott & Amy Westphal paved over, fragmented or converted to uses which 44601 Valley View Road compromise agriculture each day in the United States. With more than 40 percent of farmland expected to Polson, Montana 59860 Buddy & Lin Westphal transition in the next two decades, Congress must prioritize policies supporting land transfers to the next Scottlocated & Amy Ranch 50Westphal miles north generation of farmers and ranchers. Most farm estate of Missoula, Montana 44601 Valley View Road values can be attributed to non-liquid assets such as Call about free delivery the fair market value of land, livestock and equipPolson, Montana 59860 ment. Ranch located 50 miles north “As small business owners, environmental stewof Missoula, Montana ards and the economic backbone of rural communities across the country, U.S. cattle producers underCall about free delivery stand and appreciate the role of taxes in maintaining and improving our nation. However, they also believe the most effective tax code is an equitable one. For this reason, NCBA ardently supports the Death Tax Repeal Act of 2021,” Bohn said.

Call about free delivery

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

Beef cattle experts discuss considerations for open cows The question of keeping open cows, especially young cows, is a fairly common conversation according to Kansas State University (KSU) Beef Cattle Institute (BCI) Veterinarian Bob Larson. Larson joins BCI Faculty Brad White, Philip Lancaster and Dustin Pendell during the BCI CattleChat podcast dated March 5 to discuss the topic. Larson shares many producers debate the cost of replacing open cows when the market value for cull cows might rise and the chances of the cow rebreeding in the future. Financial analysis “Producers often question if they should keep open cows through the upcoming calving season and try to rebreed the cow,” Larson notes. “However, it is also easy to consider current cull cow prices and the possibility of barely breaking even or losing money when she could rebreed next year and remain productive in the herd.” Through a financial analysis taking fair market value prices for calves and cull cows, as well as annual cow maintenance costs, Larson evaluated different scenarios to answer some of the questions producers ask. “As I run through scenarios, it is hard to make keeping the open cow pay off in the end, even with the excuse she has better than average calves,” he says. “While the magnitude of this effect certainly depends on the prices of the scenarios, it was always the best option from a financial standpoint to cull the cow immediately.”

Considerations for rebreeding Lancaster shares he isn’t surprised a financial analysis makes it tough to rationalize keeping the open cow in the herd, however as a nutritionist, he questions if the cow’s infertility is related to a lack of nutrition on the part of the producer or another underlying issue. “If it was my fault as a producer the cow wasn’t in the best condition to rebreed, I would have to consider if I would be better off to keep the cow and get her back into good condition for successful rebreeding because I already have many costs invested in her,” Lancaster adds. Additionally, he notes the probability of the cow having a successful pregnancy in the next breeding season is another consideration for producers to keep in mind, especially for younger cows. “Young cows would have to produce another five to six calves after the first open season in order to pay off keeping the cow open for one season,” Lancaster shares. Larson adds it would be safe for producers to assume the cow, in good condition, should have the same pregnancy success as the rest of the herd if retained. Although, he notes one could make the argument the cow might be at a higher risk of showing up open again. “To give the cow the benefit of the doubt, I wouldn’t expect her to be more likely to get pregnant over the rest of the cows in the herd,” Larson shares. He continues, “I struggle to make keeping the

AccessYes succeeds A Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) program which works with landowners to secure permission for the public to access private lands for hunting and fishing saw another year of success. In 2020, AccessYes opened access to more than 2.6 million acres of land for hunting as well as 4,005 lake acres and 87 stream miles for fishing on otherwise inaccessible private, state and landlocked public lands. “Access to places to hunt and fish has never been more highly valued than today,” said Rick King, chief of the WGFD Wildlife Division. “Maintaining and expanding access for hunting and fishing is a top priority for WGFD for recreation and to meet wildlife management objectives.” Revenue for AccessYes comes from the sale of lifetime and annual conservation stamps, court-imposed restitution fees from individuals convicted of wildlife violations and AccessYes account interest. The program also benefits from donations from organizations and individual hunters and anglers – about 21 percent of the revenue is from donations. Combined, these sources generated $1.17 million for the program last year. AccessYes coordinators collaborate with landowners to enroll them into one of the WGFD access programs – hunter management areas, walk-in hunting areas and/or walk-in fishing areas. Donations from hunters, anglers and conservation groups are used to make easement payments to landowners for hunting and fishing access. “Thank you to landowners for their partnership to make these access opportunities possible,” King said. “We also extend our thanks to hunters and anglers for donating to AccessYes when buying a license and to our partners for their continued donations to support the program. Each dollar donated equates to 2.8 acres of access.”

open cow a financially good decision. If the cow doesn’t bring a check every year with a calf, she has to bring a check another way.” Managing depreciation Pendell states cull cow feed prices and labor might be costs producers incur while keeping an open cow, but one of the most overlooked costs of keeping an open cow is depreciation. “Because depreciation is a non-cash expense, it tends to be forgotten, but it is generally one of the larg-

est expenses,” he explains. “Cows decrease in value because of injury, reproductive efficiency and age.” To reduce depreciation costs, Pendell notes there are two main options. “Producers should consider if there is a lower replacement cost or a higher salvage value,” says Pendell. “Or producers could simply increase productivity.” Either way, he notes, depreciation is a significant expense which comes into play when considering

“If it was my fault as a producer the cow wasn’t in the best condition to rebreed, I would have to consider if I would be better off to keep the cow and get her back into good condition for successful rebreeding because I already have many costs invested in her.” – Philip Lancaster, Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute keeping or culling an open cow. White adds this time of year is a great time to go over the books and find any other overlooked expenses to take into con-

sideration for the next year of production. Averi Hales is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

SALE REPORTS SO Cattle, Inc. Angus Bull Sale

Hancock Livestock Angus Bull Sale

March 2, 2021 Riverton Livestock Auction, Riverton

Reported By: Curt Cox, WLR Field Editor March 9, 2021 Riverton Livestock Auction, Riverton

Reported By: Curt Cox, WLR Field Editor March 8, 2021 Wagon Box Ranch, Hardin, Mont.

Auctioneer: Warren Thompson

Auctioneer: Ty Thompson

37 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $4,664

159 Angus Bulls Avg. $6,121

Auctioneer: Warren Thompson 25 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $4,110 Top Sellers Lot 6 – SO Ashland 502 016 – Price: $11,000 DOB: 2/13/20 Sire: G A R Ashland Dam’s Sire: A A R Ten X 7008 S A EPDs: BW: +0.3, WW: +87, YW: +150 and Milk: +23 Buyer: Nick Pince, Pavillion Lot 10 – SO Unanimous 401 053 – Price: $6,250 DOB: 3/22/20 Sire: SO Unanimous 105 569 Dam’s Sire: S A V Final Answer 0035 EPDs: BW: -0.1, WW: +42, YW: +76 and Milk: +32 Buyer: Flying Z Enterprises, Laramie

Pine Coulee Bulls, LLC. Angus Bull Sale

Top Sellers Lot 3 – Hancock Big Thunder 0RF2 – Price: $11,000 DOB: 1/13/20 Sire: HL Thunder Struck 7RR5 5RI2 Dam’s Sire: Sinclair Grass Master EPDs: BW: +1.9, WW: +56, YW: +105 and Milk: +27 Lot 7 – Hancock Prosecutor 0XR4 – Price: $6,500 DOB: 1/6/20 Sire: HL Ladies Man 5RI1 Dam’s Sire: Sinclair Emulation 5522 XP EPDs: BW: +2.1, WW: +56, YW: +110 and Milk: +19 Seven bulls sold for $5,500.

800.967.1647 • 307.234.2700 www.wylr.net P.O. Box 850 Casper, WY 82602

Top Sellers Lot 1 – Pine Coulee Ovation H309 – $20,000 DOB: 1/4/20 Sire: Coleman Bravo 6313 Dam’s Sire: Connealy Impression EPDs: BW: -1.6, WW: +48, YW: +93 and Milk: +33 Buyer: Outlaw Coulee Ranch, Eastend, Saskatchewan, Canada Lot 6 – Pine Coulee Hannibal H316- $17,000 DOB: 1/8/20 Sire: Coleman Bravo 6313 Dam’s Sire: Connealy Onward EPDs: BW: +1.2, WW: +65, YW: +118 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Arntzen Angus Ranch, Hilger, Mont. Lot 21 – Pine Coulee Renown 112H – $17,000 DOB: 1/4/20 Sire: S A V Renown 3439 Dam’s Sire: S Chisum 6175 EPDs: BW: +4.1, WW: +62, YW: +107 and Milk: +22 Buyer: Cross W Ranch, Ekalaka, Mont. Lot 2 – Pine Coulee Bravo H308 – $16,000 DOB: 1/6/20 Sire: Coleman Bravo 6313 Dam’s Sire: Connealy Impression EPDs: BW: -0.4, WW: +54, YW: +106 and Milk: +34 Buyers: Native Prairie Genetics, Ness City, Kan. and Cedar Top Ranch, Stapleton, Neb. Lot 15 – Pine Coulee Renown 116H – $15,000 DOB: 1/5/20 Sire: S A V Renown 3439 Dam’s Sire: Pine Coulee Right Time X138 EPDs: BW: +4.4, WW: +70, YW: +122 and Milk: +22 Buyer: Cross W Ranch, Ekalaka, Mont. Lot 14 – Pine Coulee Renown 224H – $13,000 DOB: 1/28/20 Sire: S A V Renown 3439 Dam’s Sire: Sinclair Fortunate Son EPDs: BW: +2.0, WW: +59, YW: +106 and Milk: +23 Buyer: Cross W Ranch, Ekalaka, Mont.

Lucky 7 Angus “Cowboy Bulls” Sale Reported By: Curt Cox, WLR Field Editor March 6, 2021 Riverton Livestock Auction, Riverton Auctioneers: Warren Thompson and Barry Ellis Lot 1 :: 19945504 :: S A V Raindance 6848 BW: 0.4

WW: 63

YW: 114

MILK: 31

Lot 8 :: 19945383 :: Paintrock Trapper BW: 1.2

WW: 62

YW: 104

MILK: 25

Lot 22 :: 19945356 :: McConnell Altitude 3114 BW: 2.7

WW: 64

YW: 120

MILK: 28

Lot 3 :: 19945497 :: S A V Raindance 6848 BW: 4.6

WW: 76

YW: 133

MILK: 22

Lot 7 :: 19944330 :: D U Innovation 816 BW: 2.1

WW: 71

YW: 117

MILK: 23

Lot 13 :: 19944342 :: PRA 141 249

Lot 21 :: 19945365 :: McConnell Altitude 3114

Lot 23 :: 19945364 :: McConnell Altitude 3114

Lot 26 :: 19944337 :: KG Resolution 4042

BW: 3.5

BW: 1.1

WW: 67

WW: 65

YW: 120

YW: 108

MILK: 15

MILK: 19

BW: -0.4 WW: 62

BW: -0.8 WW: 57

YW: 110

YW: 101

MILK: 26

MILK: 28

63 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $7,250 22 Fall Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $6,898 270 Two-Year-Old Angus Bulls Avg. $6,130 Top Sellers Lot 14 – Lucky 7 Confidence Plus 024 – Price: $13,500 DOB: 2/17/20 Sire: Sterling Confidence Plus 804 Dam’s Sire: Lucky 7 I87 978 EPDs: BW: +0.4, WW: +68, YW: +118 and Milk: +28 Buyer: DeGrand Angus, Baker, Mont. Lot 94 – Lucky 7 Cash 968 – Price: $12,500 DOB: 1/30/19 Sire: TM Cash 516 Dam’s Sire: Lucky 7 Special Focus 4520 EPDs: BW: -0.3, WW: +54, YW: +90 and Milk: +28 Buyer: Brian Merriman, Albion, Idaho Lot 103 – Lucky 7 Special Focus 991 – Price $12,500 DOB: 4/10/19 Sire: Lucky 7 Special Focus 448 Dam’s Sire: DeGrand 0118 Total EPDs: BW: -0.7, WW: +62, YW: +110 and Milk: +18 Buyer: 17 Bar Cattle, Tonopah, Nev. Lot 21 – Lucky 7 Confidence Plus 014 – Price: $12,000 DOB: 2/17/20 Sire: Sterling Confidence Plus 804 Dam’s Sire: Lucky 7 Special Focus 4520 EPDs: BW: +2.0, WW: +67, YW: +118 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Larry Ulrich, Elgin, N.D. Lot 84 – Lucky 7 Homesteader 9536 – Price: $12,000 DOB: 9/29/19 Sire: Lucky 7 Homesteader 666 Dam’s Sire: TC Total 8107 EPDs: BW: +2.1, WW: +58, YW: +103 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Neal McQuery, Ruby Valley, Nev.

ASF discovered in China Lot 31 :: 19944377 :: Bar 69 Motive 6101 BW: 3.2

WW: 42

YW: 83

MILK: 31

Lot 32 :: 19944379 :: Bar 69 Motive 6101 BW: 2.6

WW: 57

YW: 108

MILK: 24

A new variant of African swine fever (ASF) has been discovered in China. According to experts, a large scale outbreak would impact both U.S. pork exports and the feed demand from China. Chinese officials have been suggesting the swineherd should be fully restored by mid-2021. This new variant has the potential to continue China’s large pork import numbers, increasing U.S. pork exports significantly from what they were estimated. In fact, one analyst has released an estimate sharing as many as seven to eight million sows have been culled in the last six to eight weeks in China. This number in total surpasses the total U.S. sow count of 6.3 million as reported in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s December Hogs and Pigs Report.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

SALE REPORTS Ox Bow Ranch Annual Angus Bull Sale Reported By: Curt Cox, WLR Field Editor March 3, 2021 Ox Bow Ranch, Wolf Creek, Mont. Auctioneer: Roger Jacobs 73 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $5,587 19 Two-Year-Old Angus Bulls Avg. $4,250 Top Sellers Lot 3 – OX Justified 0017 – $38,000 DOB: 1/15/20 Sire: KG Justified 3023 Dam’s Sire: Ox Bow Ozzie 3233 EPDs: BW: -2.5, WW: +65, YW: +122 and Milk: +21 Buyer: Desert Creek Ranch, Brothers, Ore. Lot 2 – OX Charlo 0302 – Price: $10,000 DOB: 1/22/20 Sire: Coleman Charlo 3212 Dam’s Sire: Ox Bow Final Answer 1304 EPDs: BW: -1.0, WW: +58, YW: +102 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Mrnak Herefords, Bowman, N.D. Lot 5 – OX Mytty 0329 – Price: $9,000 DOB: 1/27/20 Sire: Mytty Resource 7701 Dam’s Sire: Boyd Resume 9008 EPDs: BW: +0.4, WW: +79, YW: +38 and Milk: +23 Buyer: Crouthamel Cattle Company, Touchet, Wash. Lot 7 – OX Mytty 0376 – Price: $9,000 DOB: 2/3/20 Sire: Mytty Resource 7701 Dam’s Sire: S A V Final Answer 0035 EPDs: BW: +1.0, WW: +72, YW: +140 and Milk: +27 Buyer: Mission Valley Farms, Pablo, Mont. Lot 1 – OX War Party 0221 – Price: $8,000 DOB: 2/2/20 Sire: Werner War Party 1472 Dam’s Sire: Ox Bow Final Answer 1304 EPDs: BW: +1.8, WW: +70, YW: +122 and Milk: +16 Buyer: Eagle Ridge Cattle Company, Mobridge, SD. Lot 6 – OX Mytty 0340 – Price: $8,000 DOB: 1/28/20 Sire: Mytty Resource 7701 Dam’s Sire: Ox Bow Revival 1313 EPDs: BW: +2.6, WW: +85, YW: +145 and Milk: +22 Buyer: Botts Angus Ranch, Enterprise, Ore. Lot 16 – OX War Party 0206 – $8,000 DOB: 1/26/20 Sire: Werner War Party 1472 Dam’s Sire: Ox Bow Ozzie 3233 EPDs: BW: +0.9, WW: +71, YW: +132 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Shotgun Ranch, Post, Ore.

Bieber Red Angus “Bieber Fever” Spring Production Sale Reported By: Curt Cox, WLR Field Editor March 4, 2021 Bieber Red Angus, Leola, SD Auctioneer: Seth Weishaar 274 Yearling Red Angus Bulls Avg. $6,850 Top Sellers Lot 1 – Bieber Fully Stocked H179 – Price: $30,000 DOB: 2/10/20 Sire: Bieber CL Stockmarket E119 Dam’s Sire: Bieber Federalist B543 EPDs: BW: -0.6, WW: +80, YW: +134 and Milk: +30 Buyers: Feddes Red Angus, Mont., C-T Red Angus, Mont., Rocking Bar H Ranch, Wash. and Northern Lites Red Angus, Mont. Lot 136 – Bieber Blue Chip H302 – Price: $27,500 DOB: 2/27/20 Sire: Bieber CL Stockmarket E119 Dam’s Sire: Bieber Iron Ore A104 EPDs: BW: -5.5, WW: +70, YW: +112 and Milk: +30 Buyer: Select Sires, Ohio Lot 10 – Bieber Portfolio H581 – Price: $25,000 DOB: 3/12/20 Sire: Bieber CL Stockmarket E119 Dam’s Sire: Bieber Spartacus A193 EPDs: BW: -4.5, WW: +74, YW: +124 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Loosli Red Angus, Idaho Lot 71 – Bieber Herdsman H128 – Price: $25,000 DOB: 1/10/20 Sire: Bieber CL Stockmarket E119 Dam’s Sire: GMRA Trinity 5222 EPDs: BW: -3.2, WW: +87, YW: +143 and Milk: +33 Buyer: Hansine Ranch Partnership, SD. Lot 2 – Bieber Money Maker H128 – Price: $24,000 DOB: 1/11/20 Sire: Bieber CL Stockmarket E119 Dam’s Sire: Bieber Mitigator C314 EPDs: BW: -0.4, WW: +91, YW: +153 and Milk: +33 Buyer: McCann Ranch, Idaho Lot 68 – Bieber Warrant H520 – Price: $21,500 DOB: 3/2/20 Sire: 9 Mile Franchise 6305 Dam’s Sire: Bieber Gladiator C386 EPDs: BW: -7.1, WW: +56, YW: +100 and Milk: +33 Buyer: Ludvigson Stock Farms, Mont.

LECHLEITER SIMMENTALS SELLING:

SATURDAY

Selling 100 High Altitude Bulls

BULL SALE March 20, 2021 • 1:00pm

40 Purebred Bulls 60 SimAngus Bulls GAR Sure Fire

Loma Livestock Loma, Colorado

 Proven Live Calves  High Carcass Merit  Proven Growth  PAP Tested  Calm Disposition

CCR Boulder 1339A

Sires include TJ Main Event E 503B, GAR Sure Fire, CCR CR Boulder 1339A, 133 TJ Cowboy wbo Up 529B, CCR Wide Range, J Bar J Nightride, and Paint Rock Mountain Man.

bulls that are unpampered and ready to work for your herd! Kim Lechleiter

970.209.8008 Cell- Evenings 970.249.5938 • lechleitersimmentals@hotmail.com Females Offered Private Treaty

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

Youths have access to professionals during virtual career night Wyoming youths are invited to participate in a virtual career night hosted by University of Wyoming (UW) Extension starting at 6 p.m. on March 23. Youths can choose from six different career tracks in animal science, business, health and education, natural resources, trades and wild and crazy. “Each track features four industry professionals who will provide insights into their careers and how they got there,” shared Amber Armajo, Washakie County 4-H Educator. Career night information “We have been doing this for a couple of years now as part of WESTI Ag Days,” said Armajo. “But since WESTI was a little bit different this year, we decided to offer this event virtually, which also allowed us to broaden it out a bit. We were able to open it up to get different careers from people across the country.” The evening will start with a welcome and introduction. From there, participants will breakout

into different track options and move around between tracks, shared Armajo. “Each presenter will take about 15 minutes to discuss their career, challenges and highlights and then have some time for kids to ask questions,” said Armajo. Presenters Industry professionals for the animal science track include Hannah Cunningham-Hollinger, assistant professor of animal genetics, and Shelby Rosasco, UW Extension beef specialist and assistant professor, both in the UW Department of Animal Science, as well as Kortney Baham, meat scientist and Krisha Geffert, nutritionist. Industry professionals for the business track include Kari Jo Gray, Wyoming Supreme Court justice; Brian Gregg, attorney for Gregg Law LLC; Andi Cloaninger, banking and crop insurance for Farm Credit Services and Averi Hales, editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Within the health and

For more information and to register, visit wyoming4h.org/virtual-careernight/.

education track, professionals include Jeanna Butterfield, owner of Healthy Frontier Counseling; Ryan Clark, principal of Worland Middle School; Megan Brittingham, UW Extension 4-H Educator in Goshen County and Chris Brewer, a pilot. Natural resource industry professionals include Meg Armistead, rangeland management specialist for the U.S. Forest Service; Kyle Cutshall, sales and plant health care member and leadership team member for Taddiken Tree Company; Jeremiah Vardiman, mugger and net gunner for Native Range Capture and Tara Hodges, information and education specialist for the Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Trade industry professionals include Kyndal Reitzenstein, livestock judging coordinator for Colorado State University and owner of KR Images; Bronson Smith, auctioneer; Glen Erickson, artificial insemination technician and Heather Anderson, cosmetologist. Industry professionals within the wild and crazy track include Rachel Crane, training coordinator for Diveheart, captain for Coral Restoration Foun-

Use Schuler Red Angus bulls for a healthier Bottom Line!

39th Annual Bull Sale March 25, 2021 - Bridgeport, NE Selling 160 Registered Red Angus & Schuler Red Composite Bulls

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dation and undersea specialist for Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic; Melanie Sartori, imaginer for Walt Disney Imagineering; Jim Johnson, leadership development program manager for Microsoft and Bridget Burns, lead animal keeper for Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. Career options “After the career rep-

resentatives talk, we also have some colleges on board to visit about their schools and opportunities within their schools,” said Armajo. Representatives from the University of Wyoming, Casper College, Eastern Wyoming College, Sheridan College, Northwest College, Central Wyoming College, WyoTech in Laramie and Lara-

mie County Community College will be there. 4-H is the youth arm of UW Extension, and its state offices are in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. This article was written by Katie Shockley and is courtesy of the University of Wyoming. For more information, e-mail Shockley at jshock12@uwyo.edu or visit uwagnews.com.

Chariot races contestants succeed The Wyoming State Chariot Races Championships were held outside of Glendo March 6-7. Competition throughout four divisions was stiff, and the fastest teams through two runs were honored. In Division One, the team Sagebrush Motel Number One owned and driven by Roy Morgan took the lead. Horses on the team were BF Candy Cartel and Serenghetti. Over both races, the team only accrued 44.82 seconds. Just Off Brothers, the team consisting of TLF Just Fittin In and Just a Skirt Chaser, owned and driven by James Olguin, placed second with a combined time of 45.20 seconds. The Demler/Newman/Skelley team, owned by Mike Newman and Lara Skelley and driven by Newman with horses Country Flyboy and Mister Fun on the Run, earned a total time of 45.55 seconds for third place in the division.

In Division Two, the team Boys Comin’ In Hot, running Dangit and Dr. Dredge, placed first. Driven by Rod Parkinson and owned by Donnie and Sherri Wheeler, the team accrued 45.60 seconds to win. Second place in the division was earned by the team Sagebrush Motel Number Two, which ran JJ’s Dashing Now and Stormy’s Rylynn Jo. Driver Roy Morgan earned the team a combined time of 45.65 seconds. Dad’s Bar and Steakhouse, the third place team, consisted of Harley and Little Man. Owned by the Morgan and Giles families, the team placed with a total time of 45.74 seconds. In Division Three, the team Children’s Inheritance owned by Stretch and Dawn Dawson, earned a time of 45.86 seconds for first place. Racers were Señor Bugs and Shake N Bake, and Stretch Dawson drove the team to victory. HLH Nelson Quarter Horses, owned by Tom and Misty Nelson, placed sec-

ond with a total time of 46.61 seconds. Almost Corona and Miss Jael were driven by Tom Nelson. In third place, the team Horse Creek Express ran Goody Goody Goody and Cowboys Runner for a total time of 47.75 seconds. The team is owned and driven by John and Leilani Williams. In Division Four, the team TM Jack’s Brats, owned by Tom Nelson and driven by Jen Barber placed first. Horses Bash’s Shadow and The Boomer Special made a time of 48.08 seconds. Second place in Division Four was the Team Equine Addition, owned by Stretch and Dawn Austin and driven by Jackson Newman. Noble Sheik and Fling N Haul ran for a total combined time of 48.41 seconds. Averi Hales is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

Economist explains how to manage risks within grain markets “There are a lot of risks in the grain markets,” says Kansas State University (KSU) Agricultural Economist Extension Specialist Daniel O’Brien during a KSU Managing Risk and Marketing Grain in 2021 webinar held March 5. “The rare individual who can make tremendous decisions and successfully manage a farm from year to year is capable of great grain management,” O’Brien shares. “U.S. farmers make 20 to 30 cents per bushel. It’s not about finding the highest price, but rather, it’s about finding the extra 10 cents.” O’Brien adds, “Finding this extra 10 cents can increase farmer income by 33 to 50 percent.” Importance of a plan Marketing plans remain the tested and true approach in

planning for various markets, potential disasters and overall success. “Several people, including myself have taken the old stale approach,” O’Brien expresses. “Farmers need to present a grain marketing plan which looks at things on the upside, while also showing what will happen if things go downhill.” O’Brien explains a marketing plan should be a proactive strategy to determine the price of grain before and after harvest. Additionally, he shares a proactive strategy should consider price needs and objectives, storage capacity, crop insurance, risk acceptance and financial and cash flow. “Crop production is a crucial consideration in a marketing plan,” O’Brien states. “A

pre-harvest plan is important. Crop insurance can help with replacement bushels and help to fill forward contracts.” O’Brien shares a marketing plan should include a call to action which includes bushel increments, targets and certain dates. “A marketing plan can help guide decisions,” O’Brien shares. “It can also take the emotion out of marketing. Having a guide eliminates the question of when to sell.” Creating a marketing plan O’Brien continues, “When farmers are creating their marketing plan, they should look at seasonal sale prices. Having a strong preharvest plan can offer profitable forward pricing opportunities.” “Researchers are always gathering data from past years

OBITUARIES

We welcome obituaries. Obituaries are printed free of charge and can be sent to roundup@wylr.net.

Carl Dockery Sept. 19, 1936 – March 2, 2021

Carl Obe Dockery, 84, passed away on March 2. Carl was born on Sept. 19, 1936 in Thermopolis to Clifford and Edna (Ready) Dockery. After high school, Carl worked on the Arapahoe Ranch with his father and then went on to work at the Pitchfork in Meeteetse, George Woods on No Wood River in Ten Sleep, Spratts at Lost Cabin, Antler Ranch in Montana, Kennedy and Brown north of Sheridan, Powder River at Arvada, Paul Axtell east of Thermopolis and Landis Webber west of Thermopolis. Ranching wasn’t Carl’s only love. He married Carol (Ireland) Dockery on May 20, 1959, and they

shared over 62 beautiful years together. His dream to own and operate his own place came to life in 1968 when he bought the ranch on Mud Creek Road and spent the remainder of his life creating his legacy with his wife at his side. Carl was also a member of many different organizations and had many hobbies. He was part of the Hot Springs County Farm Bureau where he served as vice president. He was a founding member of the Hot Springs County Natural Resources Planning Board and the Kiwanis Thermopolis Chapter. He was also a member of the Hot Springs County Historical Society, the Pioneer Association and most importantly, the Church of Christ – Thermopolis. Carl was inducted into the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2017. He enjoyed stream-fishing, hunting and spending time with family and friends. Carl is survived by

his wife Carol (Ireland) Dockery of Thermopolis, brother William (Marlene) of Lusk, brother-inlaw Frank Rhodes of Thermopolis, children Pam (Jack) Bailey of Gillette, Claudette (Kenneth) Wilcox of West Fork, Ark., Billee (Dockery) Mayfield of Thermopolis and Thad (Andrea) Dockery of Sweetwater River, along with seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his sister Barbra June Dockery, father Clifford Dockery, mother Edna (Ready) Dockery, brother Robert “Bob” Dockery, son-in-law Roy Mayfield and sister Colleen (Dockery) Rhodes. Services will be held at the Hot Springs County Fair Building at 1 p.m. on March 13. Carl was a friend to many, a light for Christ to all, a true cowboy and one of a kind.

to study seasonal tendencies,” he adds. To create a marketing plan, farmers must first understand the different types of sales. Early sales are considered neutral or beneficial. This is when seasonal trends are flat, O’Brien explains. Declining grain markets are considered bear markets, while bull markets are uptrending. Many farmers consider bull markets as lost pricing opportunities. “Farmers need to have decision dates in marketing plans,” O’Brien states. “These dates add hard discipline to a market plan by relying on trends and pre-harvest

strategies over time.” Additionally, O’Brien recommends purchasing crop insurance. He explains crop insurance can help protect farmers’ production risk and will price 75 percent of expected corn crop based on actual production history yield. Small producer risks Farmers may also look for contracts with lower risk, which are especially helpful for smaller producers, according to O’Brien. These contracts give producers the ability to forward smaller amounts. “There are other contracts for small producers to enter,” O’Brien notes. “Miniature

contracts are a good example of this option.” O’Brien explains miniature contracts are an excellent option for small producers because they can make offers as low as 1,000 bushels. “Farmers aren’t killing themselves trying to fill 10,000 bushel contracts like larger producers,” O’Brien explains. This option can be extremely helpful for smaller producers to add into their grain marketing plan. Madi Slaymaker is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr. net.

Weevil recommended for control The seed-feeding weevil Mogulones borraginis has been recommended for release in North America to help control the invasive noxious weed houndstongue. The recommendation by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Technical Advisory Group (TAG) signals a key accomplishment in the process of getting M. borraginis released in the field as a classical biological control agent against houndstongue – a rangeland weed in the western U.S. and adjacent Canadian provinces. Houndstongue has become a significant problem in pastures, grasslands and open range, where it poisons animals which consume the plant and hinders the establishment of desired forage species. In a next step, USDA Animal and Plant

Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will prepare a Biological Assessment, a federal document required for consultations with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Once the weevil successfully passes this step, the petition still needs to go through consultations with Tribal Nations and U.S. states and public commenting periods before a release permit can be issued by APHIS. Dr. Hariet Hinz, regional director and head of the Weed Biological Control Programme at CABI Switzerland, said, “We hope the release can take place within the next two years. In the meantime, we are maintaining colonies of the weevil at CABI and in quarantine in the USA, so we will be ready to release it when all the necessary checks and approvals have been done and granted.”

Herring Angus Ranch 19th Annual High Country Bull & Horse Sale SATURDAY, APRIL 24, 2021 • HERRING SALE BARN 1 1/2 miles North of Encampment on Hwy 230, then 1/2 mile West

SELLING:

60 Angus 20 Black Simm-Cross Bulls 5 Ranch Broke Horses

SALE SCHEDULE

Friday – 4 p.m. Horse & Bull Preview Saturday – 1 p.m. Sale Time

HIGH ALTITUDE. PAP - AND PERFORMANCE-TESTED BULLS ANGUS AND BLACK COMPOSITES Lot 39

PAP: 38

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY

Angus • Sire: Herring Sinclair Extra CED: +6 BW: +0.3 WW: +37 YW: +59 M: +19 BW: 72 lbs. Act. WW: 710 lbs.

ONE-BAR-ELEVEN JOHN E. ROUSE BEEF IMPROVEMENT CENTER

35th Annual Yearling Commercial Angus Bull Sale

Lot 70

Monday, April 12, 2021 • No lunch will be served due to COVID restrictions Sale begins at 12:30 p.m. • One Bar Eleven Ranch • Saratoga, WY Phone ands Sealed Bid Accepted

Herd Records from over 60 years - In-herd EPDs, Daily Gain and Much More! Raised at 7200’ elevation, PAP tested by Tim Holt DVM, DVM, these calving ease bulls perform well at any altitude! Details in the catalog. Please contact us if you need a catalog or more information.

PAP: 37 Sale is to be held LIVE AT TH RANCH! E

Lindsey Wamsley 307-710-2938 or Mark Enns 970-491-2722 Colorado State University, Department of Animal Science

Simm-Cross • Sire: Broker BW: 82 lbs. Act. WW: 730 lbs.

Contact us for more information or a Sale Catalog Kal Herring, Angus & Composites (307) 327-5396 Home • (307) 329-8228 Cell Jon Gabel, Consultant Cody Miller, Horses (303) 594-5520 (307) 329-7400

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

Risk specialist provides tips for making proactive drought decisions “Everyone makes decisions, whether they are a producer or not,” says Jay Parsons, farm and ranch management specialist at University of NebraskaLincoln (UNL) during a UNL Beefwatch Drought Management webinar on March 3. “Making decisions is one of the most important things anyone can do.” “Decisions are hard, especially when there’s a lot of choices and uncertainty,” Parsons explains. “They are the only way to make an impact in life.” He adds, decisions are opportunities to shape the environment in which the choices are made in. They are not just solutions to problems needing to be solved. Decisions give producers the opportunity to maximize the possibility of achieving their goals and objectives.

Characteristics of a good decision There’s a science behind decision-making, says Parsons, who continues to explain the characteristics of good decisions set producers up for making proactive decisions. First, decisions need appropriate time frames. According to Parsons, a solid time frame helps producers realize what they are trying to accomplish. Clear values are helpful to adhere to and help obtain objectives, he adds. Additionally, creating a list of alternatives to choose from while making decisions can be helpful. “Producers don’t want a limited selection of alternatives, so I encourage them to be creative and have a long list of options,” Parsons explains. Next, Parsons adds, good information is another crucial characteristic in deci-

sion making. Often, producers deal with uncertainty, especially when it comes to weather or markets. “Clear tradeoffs and sound reasoning are also characteristics of good decision-making practices,” Parsons says. “Producers want to have choices aligning with their values and objectives.” In fact, Parsons explains sometimes producers’ choices will not have anything to do with their objectives. Committed implementation with good alternatives to choose from also aids in the process of making decisions for operating. Proactive decision-making The process behind making a proactive decision is quite lengthy, but it can pay off. Parsons shares, “First, producers need to realize there is a decision to be made. After they start thinking about things they want to accomplish and create a cor-

responding list of alternatives, many producers find themselves creating decision opportunities instead of just identifying such opportunities when they happen.” “We are trying to create value with these decisions, opposed to seeing a problem where producers feel forced to choose between two options,” he adds. “It has taken me five to six years to start using proactive decision-making skills.” Producers need to remember objectives come first and alternatives come second. Parsons explains an objective provides direction to improvements of one or more attributes, such as increasing profit or decreasing debt. He also shares attributes are things producers value and measure such as profit, debt and happiness. Combining an attribute with an acceptable target level of achievement such as reduc-

180 True High Altitude

SimAngus and Simmental Bulls

RANCH

PAP 38 IR CAPITALIST E041 son. Dam’s PAP 41.

TO P G

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GW MOUNTAIN DUE 373C son. Dam’s PAP 43.

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•

G EASE LVIN CA

0481H 5/8 SM 3/8 AN $API 152.5 $TI 85.5

0484H 5/8 SM 3/8 AN $API 174 $TI 98.5

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E EAS NG VI

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PAP 43 THR MOUNTAIN TIME 8441F son. Dam’s PAP 42.

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True High Altitude Cattle Cattle SIRE GROUPS INCLUDE: GW Mountain Due 373C - ASA 3012725 LCRR THR Mountain Pass 6219D - ASA 3117102 Hook’s Frontline 40F - ASA 3403352 IR Capitalist E041 - ASA 3344847

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At T-Heart Ranch we offer more than just a PAP score. We take it a step further in testing every one of our registered cows to ensure we can stack multiple generations of PAP testing to allow our customers to get the most information. Our entire herd lives at high altitude. We are confident that you are receiving genetics that will ultimately help your program excel in the high country. Shane & Beth Temple

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ing debt to less than 20 percent of asset value is conseridered a goal. Parsons explains there are two different types of objectives and goals – fundamental and means. Fundamental objectives and goals capture necessary reasons behind a producer’s decisions. They can also help evaluate alternatives throughout the process. Means objectives and goals lead producers toward accomplishing fundamental objectives and help identify the alternatives in decisionmaking, according to Parsons. When it comes to making decisions for drought, Parsons notes producers should identify decision opportunities which help to mitigate the effects of drought. Producers can also identify all risks and uncertainties, such as reduced precipitation, in their plan. Steps towards decisions There is a list of steps producers can use when making proactive decisions, says Parsons. During the first step, producers need to write down concerns they hope to address by making the decision as well as a wish list stating the best and worst outcomes. Secondly, producers should convert concerns into short, clear statements describing what they will accomplish. Parsons provides the example, “If I run out of feed, I will sell cows.” “Lastly, separate the ends from the means to establish fundamental objectives,” Parsons says. “Keep asking why. ‘If I run out of forage, I will have to buy some. Why? Prices will be higher. Why? It will affect my cost of production.’” Parsons continues, “Clear objectives help identify choices, determine information needed, determine the importance of those decisions, speed up the evalua-

tion of decisions made and explain choices made to others.” Let objectives be the guide, he notes. A full, clear set of objectives is key to making good decisions more consistently. Producers can establish context by determining the differences between internal and external, according to Parsons. Internal contexts include range conditions, fencing, cattle inventory, labor situations and finances within a ranch. External contexts include nearby forage markets, cattle markets, weather forecasts, USDA disaster programs and insurance options. Producers need to recognize risks and uncertainties. While creating plans, Parsons recommends producers consider major uncertainties, the worst and best case, the most likely scenarios and probability of each scenario. Insurance for drought The U.S. Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency (RMA) includes Crop Insurance and Livestock Risk Protection. Parson shares insurance could be included in drought planning decisions. Other resources include the Rainfall Index Insurance for pasture, rangeland and forage as well as annual forage and the Whole Farm Revenue Protection Program. Additionally, Parsons notes Farm Service Agency (FSA) programs include Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program, Livestock Forage Disaster Program, Livestock Indemnity Program, Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey BEes and farm-raised fish and conservation programs through the Natural Resource Conservation Service. Madi Slaymaker is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

Expert encourages sheep producers to be more flexible with weaning During the American Sheep Industry Association’s (ASI) December Research Update podcast, Lincoln University Associate Professor of Animal Science Dr. Bruce Shanks discusses the importance of minimizing stress when weaning lambs and encourages producers to be flexible in deciding when to wean their lambs. Weaning stress To begin, Shanks points out weaning is a very stressful event for both the lamb and ewe. “There is a strong mental bond between ewes and lambs, which is pretty remarkable,” states Shanks, noting many shepherds have likely marveled at the ability of a ewe to recognize and bat away any lamb that isn’t hers. “When this bond is broken, there is potential for a lot of stress caused by maternal separation, social disruption and a huge hormonal response.” Despite this, Shanks notes there are some practices producers may consider implementing to reduce stress felt during weaning. One of the most important of these practices, according to Shanks, is to wean in a clean, sanitary environment. “This is important at any

stage of development, but it is absolutely critical during weaning,” he says. “Producers who wean in old, muddy lots or barns where they keep their sick animals are just setting themselves up for problems. I can’t stress enough how important a clean, sanitary environment is to successful weaning.” Another practice Shanks is a strong advocate of is natural weaning. “Nursing really defines the closeness of the ewe/ lamb bond, so as milk supply diminishes over time, so does this bond,” explains Shanks. “As they get older, lambs go longer amounts of time between nursing events and become more independent while doing so. Eventually, nursing aggravates the ewe, and she will naturally wean off her lamb.” Additionally, in order to reduce stress during weaning, Shanks recommends tagging and vaccinating lambs before they are weaned, removing ewes and leaving lambs in familiar surroundings when weaned and keeping around an old “grandma” ewe to teach young lambs and ease their nerves. Weaning timing and type Shanks notes the U.S. sheep industry is home to a

diverse array of management styles, with some operations weaning lambs 30 days after birth, others waiting an entire year and everything else in between. “The typical weaning age in the U.S. is around three to four months old. However, weaning age varies greatly, and it ultimately depends on the particular operation,” he says, noting there are advantages to both early-weaning operations and those who wait a little longer. “Programs with high inputs such as dairy operations who try to coax more production out of their system may benefit from early weaning,” states Shanks. “Operations with parasite issues, pasture quality or quantity issues, ewe condition issues and drought may also see some economic advantages of weaning early.” On the flip side, Shanks explains later weaning is not only less stressful on ewes

and lambs, it also allows time for ewes to regain body condition and recover before rebreeding. Later weaning also helps with mastitis issues, allows producers to take advantage of available forage and may help them save on labor. In addition to determining the time of year they will wean, Shanks says producers should also consider the time of day they wean their lambs and the type of weaning style they will implement. He points to research conducted by himself and a few colleagues, which compared weaning during the day versus at night as well as fenceline weaning versus traditional weaning. “The study started out looking at the impacts of calves when fence-line weaned versus traditional weaned and weaned in the morning versus at night. We found some pretty incredible things. In fact, calves

weaned at night, especially those which were fence-line weaned were less stressed and performed better,” Shanks explains. “Since we are sheep producers, we decided to apply the same research model to lambs and found the exact opposite was true,” he continues. “It is better to wean lambs during the day and to get ewes completely out of sight and mind.” Weaning flexibility While many producers have found a weaning style and time to work for their operation, Shanks says this shouldn’t be set in stone. In fact, he encourages producers to consider several factors year to year while determin-

ing when to wean their lambs. “Markets and weather are always hard to predict,” he states. “Producers can’t get entrenched in a certain weaning time. They need to be flexible and make adjustments.” For example, Shanks notes, in drought years when feed supplies are reduced it may be economically advantageous for producers to wean earlier than usual. He also notes markets should play a role in their weaning timing. Hannah Bugas is a corresponding writer for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@ wylr.net.

Power of

Predictability

ALB releases annual report “Upheaval. This describes 2020,” says American Lamb Board (ALB) Chairman Gwen Kitzan in the checkoff group’s annual report released for Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. The industry was already facing significant processing infrastructure changes when the COVID pandemic hit. “Literally within days, the ALB shifted programs, and continued to do so for months as situations evolved. Promotions and communications intensified. As dining out became almost nonexistent, home cooks became our primary consumers. Many had never prepared lamb, so making our product more accessible and approachable was paramount,” continues Kitzan. There were many highlights of FY 2020 in terms of promotions. The H-E-B retail promotion was the first of its kind for the ALB and resulted in American lamb sales increasing 46.6 percent, compared to the same time a year earlier. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe and ALB partnered for the first time through an American lamb chain restaurant promotion which included all 90 locations in 17 states. Additionally, Lamb Jam and other events went virtual. However, the Sunday Funday showcased American lamb as the perfect fall choice through online promotion and contest. Lamb Lovers Month contest used proven methods such as e mails, Facebook, Instagram ads, Lambassador blogs and the American lamb website. The American Lamb Challenge Contest was developed at record speed to address the early COVID-19 situation. It enticed consumers to give lamb a try and raised funds for Feeding America. Glamburger expanded to include both at-home and restaurant components. In addition, the Lee Initiative, with the help of ALB and others, provided meals and essential supplies to hospitality workers that were deeply affected by COVID-19 closures. Influencer partnerships curated by ALB showed value by quickly, effectively and efficiently connecting American lamb messages with consumer followers. Food bloggers amplified ideas and recipes to inspire consumers to choose American lamb for home cooking. The checkoff tapped into 21 food influencer partners for 78 new recipes. During FY 2020, Instagram reach alone through influencer partnerships was more than two million. Even though emphasis shifted to promotions, the new American lamb environmental footprint research was launched, while COVID-19 restrictions did not allow for completion of the flavor research’s third phase. “The checkoff dollars are enticing consumers to make American lamb part of their meals. Whatever comes in 2021, producers can be sure ALB will meet the challenges head-on. We thank everyone for continued support and valuable input,” says Kitzan.

“Producers can’t get entrenched in a certain weaning time. They need to be flexible and make adjustments.” – Dr. Bruce Shanks, Lincoln University

What does 65 years of breeding with the same goal in mind get you? A consistent, predictable product that has stood the test of time.

A A R Knockout 0503 A A R Justified 0042

A A R Load Up 0035

Lot Lot

A A R Knockout 8732 x TEF Confidence 403 Moderate, long and sound made. BW WW Milk YW

Reg. 19848301

A A R Justified 8244 x Consistent Largest ADJ WW in offering. WR 122 BW WW Milk YW

+1.7

+77

+31

Reg. 19858545

+0.8

+145

-65

-32

+118

A A R Stunner 0919

Lot

Reg. 19848281

Load Up x Ten X 3052 Excellent phenotype and performance BW WW Milk YW

+1.6

+77

+37

+148

A A R Load Up 0198 A A R Outside 0277

Lot

Reg. 19858184

Stunner x Matrix 9534 Pathfinder dam posts 6 WR 104 and 5 YR 104 BW WW Milk YW

Reg. 19850489

Load Up x Matrix 4132 One of 4 full brothers by the great donor Blackbird 9044 BW WW Milk YW

+1.4

+75

+35

+1.8

+132

+70

+21

+109

A A R Justified 0725

Lot

Reg. 19855523

Reg. 19855532

A A R Foreman 7733 x Wind Over 830 lb. actual weaning weight off a heifer. BW WW Milk YW

-1.2

+68

+24

Brad Arntzen cell: 406.350.4000 Kevin Arntzen cell: 406.350.1612 Derik Arntzen cell: 406.350.1728 577 Arntzen Lane Hilger, MT 59451 arntzen@mtintouch.net www.arntzenangus.com

Justified x Final Statement Lots of production in this cow family. BW WW Milk YW

+0.9

+64

+32

+120

+112

View bulls and bid online

TEF Outside 514 x Final Answer Calving ease Outside. BR 99 WR 113 BW WW Milk YW

-0.2

A A R Foreman 0806

Lot

Reg. 19850539

+66

+32

+121

ADDITIONAL SIRES GDAR Load Up 7104 KG Justified 3023 A A R Knudson 8241 Musgrave 316 Stunner Ellingson Consistent 6235 A A R Foreman 7733 Circle L Landmark A A R Kendall 7015 A A R Frontman 3132 A A R Justified 8244

APRIL 1st, 2021 • 1:00 P.m.

45th Annual Production Sale at the ranch Selling

220 Bulls & 20 Top End Yearling Heifers

All bulls have genomicaly enhanced EPDs.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

State vet lab tests 2,500 COVID-19 samples each day The director of the laboratory testing University of Wyoming (UW) COVID-19 samples was describing how the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory (WSVL) came to be testing 2,500 samples a day when he stopped midsentence and changed facial expressions. “Let me just step back a minute,” said Will Laegreid, a professor in the Department of Veterinary Sciences. Vault Health provided diagnostic testing services to UW until the WSVL took over diagnostic testing in December, literally saving the state of Wyoming and UW millions of dollars, Laegreid estimates. Tests are conducted in the UW Biocontainment Facility. Innovative testing Hundreds of UW employ-

ees are involved in the scheduling, testing and results process, from taking samples, to testing, to creating the digital communication infrastructure, to student and employee contacts and then helping quarantine those testing positive. “It’s really striking,” said Laegreid, who specializes in the pathogenesis and control of animal diseases. “One of the greatest things about this is it’s been really great working with the people who have been involved in this overall program. It sounds hokey, but we have some really, really excellent people on this campus and they have really gone beyond the extra mile to get this testing program to work.” “The effort hasn’t been easy,” he added. “But, it’s sure been a whole lot more pleas-

ant than it could have been. It would have been impossible without everyone continuing to pitch in.” UW is now testing all undergraduate students spending time on campus twice per week, while graduate students, faculty members and staff members are tested weekly. The university also offers free COVID-19 testing to the broader Albany County community. The testing program, one of the most innovative in the nation, is a key component of the university’s efforts to limit the spread of COVID-19. “We’re extremely grateful for the work done by the WSVL team and others to make it possible for the university to conduct its own testing program,” UW President

Ed Seidel said. “Their efforts, and the compliance of our students, faculty and staff have helped us maintain a safe environment on our campus – and set the stage for returning to a more traditional semester this fall. I’m proud of the team and university for achieving this national leadership role while serving our community.” Testing the UW community Efforts began not long after Seidel arrived on campus July 1. Seidel had indicated in a late-July meeting a desire for intensive testing of students, staff and faculty members with the goal of limiting the infection in the UW community. “This was important,” said Laegreid, “because stating the reason why they directed what testing would be done, what

would be done with the data and how many people would be tested determined the type of testing required.” Laegreid said information at the time indicated about 80 percent of the infectivity could be removed from campus if everyone on campus was sampled every two to three days and those testing positive quarantined. Nationwide data made clear universities and similar institutions were hotspots of infection for their surrounding areas. “We really wanted to avoid UW being a source of infection for other people,” he said. UW ditched the nasal pharyngeal swab test, the sample of choice at the time, to follow schools such as Yale and the University of Illinois

Brooks Chalky Butte Angus Ranch

Annual Production Sale Selling

Saturday • 1 pm MT

April 3, 2021

180 Yearling Registered Angus Bulls 800 Yearling Commercial Heifers

Bowman Auction Market • Bowman, ND

Commercial heifers are from our bull customers. They will be fancy and weighing from 750 to 850 lbs.

Sires Represented: sell 27 Sons

GAR Ashland

sell 21 Sons CED+14 BW+.5 WW+80 YW+138 MK+21 MB+1.20 RE+1.01 $W+78 $B+275

Connealy National 390C

sell 18 Sons

sell 20 Sons

Basin Payweight 1682

Our Cattle are:

• Bred to perform on the range, in the feed yard and on the plate. • Developed realistically for soundness and fertility. • Not creep fed, bulls fed moderate ration for fertility and longevity. • More than 80% will work on first calf heifers • Cow herd is culled hard for disposition and udder quality.

CED+16 BW-1.3 WW+69 YW+120 MK+35 MB+.53 RE+1.11 $W+86 $B+250

CED+7 BW+.7 WW+66 YW+119 MK+32 MB+.63 RE+.28 $W+92 $B+257

Musgrave 316 Stunner

Poss Achievement – 17 Sons sell SAV Rainfall 6846 – 12 Sons sell KG Justified 3023 – 14 Sons sell Brooks Payweight 7257 – 14 Sons sell Tehama Bonanza E410 – 17 Sons sell GDAR Justified 862 – 9 Sons sell

CED+7 BW+.1 WW+68 YW+117 MK+23 MB+.75 RE+.46 $W+69 $B+272

CED BW WW

+16

+123

+16

+.96

+.53

+55

+252 +233

-1.7

+64

+.2

+58

+114

+26

+.64

+.63

+63

+11

-2.2

+60

+107

+28

+1.01

+.30

+81

+258

+10

+.2

+74

+132

+22

+.30

+.36

+75

+238

+1.0

+75

+127

+32

+.66

+.96

+88

+269

+.5

+68

+128

+32

+.74

+.57

+78

+265

Sale will be broadcast on: Free delivery in ND, SD, MT, WY and Canadian ports of entry For more information or sale book, contact:

Brooks Chalky Butte Angus Ranch 7206 146th Ave SW • Bowman, ND 58623 brookssa@ndsupernet.com brookschalkybutteangusranch.com

Steve Brooks - 701-523-5391 • Cell 701-523-6732 Ryan Brooks - 701-523-3730 • Cell 701-523-6731 Skeeter Brooks – Cell 701-440-8436

EPDs as of 1/27/21

which use saliva testing. Accuracy is as good or better than the nasal swab, Laegreid said, so the decision was common sense. “Nasal pharyngeal swabs are pretty unpleasant,” he said. “And, if we were trying to do people twice a week, it would last about half a week because no one’s coming back voluntarily to do this test twice.” Applying similar skills WSVL conducted surveillance or screening testing from October to December when the lab was Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments registered, which allowed human diagnostic testing. The lab is awaiting certification, but can provide diagnostic testing while registered. Surveillance or screening tests the likelihood someone may be positive, while diagnostic testing changes the management of an individual, such as warranting quarantine. Ramping up to more than 10,000 tests a week began to strain the six diagnostic technicians who volunteered to do the tests in addition to their day jobs. A robotic liquid handling system, delayed in getting to the laboratory, has eased the load, and another technician has been hired to operate that equipment. High throughput testing is not unusual for the WSVL. Getting 1,000 test samples from a ranch is common. “We were able to apply those skills and knowledge we already had from doing animal testing and apply to human testing,” Laegreid said. “I think this is why we were able to do it effectively and efficiently with a small number of people.” Laegreid praises Dr. Brant Schumaker, a WSVL veterinary epidemiologist, for his efforts. He organized students and other volunteers for the expanded COVID-19 hub, which involves checking in people when they arrive for vaccinations, monitoring them after they receive their shots and recording the vaccinations for the Wyoming Immunization Registry. “Brant is a really good example of an infectious disease epidemiologist who’s worked on animal diseases his whole career. But, you know, people are animals, too,” Laegreid said. “He was able to go in and help establish the parameters -for sampling KG Justified 3023 à Cor our UW population to hopefully achieve an 80 percent reduction in infectivity on campus and then just on the nuts and bolts of traceback and quarantine and setting up those processes. He’s just been tireless, and now he’s shifted this effort to vaccines. Honestly, the vaccine program in Albany County would not be where it is now without his efforts.” This article was written by University of Wyoming Extension Senior Editor Dr. Steve Miller and is courtesy of the University of Wyoming. Miller can be reached at slmiller@uwyo.edu. For more information, visit uwagnews.com.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

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Low-stress cattle handling pays off for producers Easy-to-handle cows are made with proper handling and training when they are young. Additionally, a group of stocker calves or preconditioned calves headed for sale are healthier and less likely to get sick if they’ve had lowstress handling. Quiet cattle handling pays off in many ways. Becoming a distraction At weaning, whether fence-line or corral weaning, producers should spend time with calves in the corrals or pastures. Dr. Ron Gill, Texas A&M Livestock Extension Specialist, says this not only gets calves accustomed to seeing people, but it’s also distracting and takes their mind off being weaned. “Calves are curious about the person and are not focusing on their mom across the fence or worrying about where their mom is, and producers become the surrogate mom during this process,” he says. “The calves start looking to people for comfort and they become a little less stressed.” Gill adds, “This calms calves down faster than if a producer just puts out hay in the corral and comes back three or four days later when they quit bawling.” One of the best ways to reduce stress at weaning is to use low-stress handling and stockmanship methods to quiet the calves when they are separated from their mothers. “Even if a producer gets them sorted and separated quietly and puts them in a pen or pasture without a lot of hassle, calves will still be walking the fence and bawling,” Gill continues. “Producers should get in there with them and quietly change their focus. This is part of the process we call acclimation – getting calves settled into their new situation smoothly.” “There’s usually one or two instigators of the fencewalking and bawling, so if producers can get the instigators to stop and focus on them, this helps,” Gill says. “If a producer can do this periodically during the first day or two, the calves start to realize they can stop, relax and rest.” “Calves start looking to people for some reassurance and guidance, just as they always looked to their mothers. Ranchers need to take charge of the group and let calves know they can settle down enough to understand people are the ones providing their feed. By being a distraction, producers reduce a lot of the stress on cattle,” he explains. Stockmanship in action “We used to have a preconditioning operation and this is when I got into stockmanship,” Gill shares. “We found through careful management practices, sickness, morbidity rates and mortality rates were reduced.” He continues, “The problems dropped to almost nothing after we implemented these good handling practices. This is more valuable than most people acknowl-

edge. Most producers separate calves from cows, leave them in the pen or pasture and don’t return until they quit bawling. If producers can relieve the stress the first day or two, the calves stop bawling a lot faster.” “When preconditioning freshly weaned calves, if we could get them calmed down when they got off the truck and let them go through an acclimation process immediately, they did well,” Gill notes. “We took the time to get them relaxed enough they would walk, rather than run, past people and someone could stop them if they needed to.” Gill explains calves went right to feed as soon as they relaxed enough to think before they react to their environment. In fact, Gill adds consumption and average daily gain was much higher in calves given time to relax. He notes in most cases, calves get sick because they

are not eating or drinking enough. The interaction with people is huge because it calms the calves to the point they feel safe enough to eat and drink. Gill continues, “Producers want calves to be calm enough to stop worrying about being in a new place and be comfortable to look for something to eat.” “Not everyone has the resources to spend time with their calves, but sometimes producers don’t utilize possibilities,” he says. “Nearly anyone who is calm around cattle can do this. It doesn’t have to be an experienced stockman.” Gill shares anyone who can spend time with calves – a spouse or a young family member who enjoys being with cattle – can be helpful. However, if someone is there who doesn’t enjoy being around cattle or isn’t comfortable around cattle, the calves won’t respond as well. Gill

notes cattle are good at reading people. Learned response Craig Howard, cow boss at Bieber Red Angus Ranch in Leola, SD., says if one handles cows right, their calves learn a lot by taking cues from their mother’s attitude and actions. “If cows respect a person and respond to pressure, rather than react in fear, the calves pick this up,” Howard says. Some producers make their calves wild and fearful early on. “I have seen producers manhandle calves when they are babies, which doesn’t teach them anything except to be afraid of people and want to get away,” says Howard. “We try not to do things this way when we are handling calves.” He continues, “Even if it takes a few extra minutes to handle cattle calmly and quietly, it pays off and saves lots

Sellman h c n Ra The Best In Quality and Service

annual PrOductiOn Bull sale

of time later. My theory is spending five minutes today will save us at least 10 minutes tomorrow.” Pressure and relief Give cattle time to figure things out and release pressure if they are going in the right direction. If cattle don’t get any reward or relief, they never learn how to do the right thing when being moved or sorted. It’s much like training a young horse, Howard notes. “Any time someone is around a horse, cow or kids, they are teaching them something. This something can either make things worse or make them better,” says Howard. Howard recommends being confident walking into a pen of cows or heifers as cattle can immediately sense a person’s attitude – whether they are confident and calm or nervous. “If someone thinks they are going to get kicked or run over, they are probably going

to get kicked or run over. Cows can read body language,” says Howard. “Use body language as an advantage,” he shares. “Don’t stand in one spot with a flag or paddle and think it is going to teach cattle anything other than they can get by.” Howard continues, “Whenever I’m helping new employees learn to work cattle, they don’t get to use anything other than their body to move cattle. If they can’t move cattle with their hands in their pockets, they are just going to teach the cattle bad habits when they get a flag.” If people give cattle a chance to do what they need to do, make cattle think it’s their idea and help to understand where to go, most cattle work can go very smoothly. Heather Smith Thomas is a corresponding writer for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr. net.

LOT 41

LOT 10

Sire: Accomplishment *19836275 MGS: Comrade 1385 MGS: Mentor 4199-939 19836209 BW +2.3; WW +88; YW +152; MK +28; $C +306 BW +.4; WW +72; YW +124; MK +39; $C +247 Top 10% for 12 EPD Traits Sire: Crossfire

Friday, April 9, 2021 1 PM (MST) Crawford Livestock Market, Crawford, NE Sale Day Phone 308-665-2220 Volume Discount ~ Delivery First Breeding Season Guarantee

Sellman Ranch

Butch 308-430-4223 Adam 308-430-3742 82 Highland Road ~ Crawford, NE email: ajsellman@bbc.net

www.sellmanranch.com

half page 2021.indd 1

LOT 98

LOT 146

Sire: Dry Valley

MGS: Consensus Z606 Sire: Sensation 2296 MGS: C. Kickstart 501C 19836257 44206324 BW +1.9; WW +56; YW +105; MK +29; $C +212 BW +1.7; WW +58; YW +88; MK +29

Selling 150 Yearling and 2 Year Old Bulls angus ~ HerefOrd ~ simangus

Angus Sires: Mr Crossfire 6P01, Sitz Accomplishment, SydGen Enhance, Dry Valley and Southern Charm Hereford Sire: Sensation 2296 3/7/2021 1:32:11 PM

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

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Reich Charolais Ranch 64th Annual Bull Sale

Thursday, April 8, 2021

1 PM MST at Belle Fourche Livestock Market, Belle Fourche, SD

45 head sell

Tim & Ree Reich

1007 Kingsbury | Belle Fourch, SD 57717 605.892.4366 | cell 605.580.2393 timreich@rushmore.com

Feedlot study opens To get a snapshot of current feedlot cattle health management practices, U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS), in partnership with the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), is conducting a national study on U.S. feedlots with at least 50 head. Researchers will put the information gathered this year alongside previous studies to analyze cattle health trends. Participation is voluntary. Along with health management practices on U.S. feedlots with 50 or more head, the study will delve into the prevalence of important feedlot cattle diseases, the use of antibiotics and the implementation of stewardship practices on feedlots. “NAHMS provides a snapshot of how the industry partners are operating their business and making decisions, serving as a benchmark and gutcheck for making decisions on how to run our business. This helps us stay open-minded and current in today’s practice of feeding cattle,” said Josh Szasz, staff veterinarian at Five Rivers Cattle Feeding in Colorado. The reports generated from the study will benefit the U.S. feedlot industry by providing current and scientifically valid estimates to aid in understanding disease preparedness strengths and vulnerabilities, help policymakers and industry stakeholders make informed decisions and identify research and development needs on vital feedlot cattle health issues. Among other endeavors, the data gathered will also enable economic analyses of the health and productivity of the U.S. feedlot industry, identify educational needs and opportunities related to feedlot cattle health and provide benchmark data on important feedlot cattle health management practices to inform quality assurance programs. In March and April, representatives from NASS will visit participating operations to complete a questionnaire. If participants choose to continue in the study, USDA or state veterinary health professionals will visit feedlots from June through August to complete a second questionnaire. For more information, visit aphis.usda.gov/ aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/monitoring-and-surveillance/nahms/nahms_feedlot_studies.

, s e h t o l C n i l a l u f r e P Pow but

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 46 • March 13, 2021

It’s the Pitts by Lee Pitts

Cowboy Viddles Cowboys have always had their own vocabulary. It’s almost as if they are talking in code so only other cowboys can understand what they’re saying. For example, the cook on a cowboy crew is a pot rustler,

coosie or cookie, the chuckwagon where he prepares the grub is his crumb castle and when he rings his dinner bell cowboys put on the nosebag. To determine just how well one speaks cowboy, here is a little multiple-choice test

Visit leepittsbooks.org for more from Lee Pitts.

to find out if they are a real cowboy or one of the drugstore persuasion. Answers are at the end of the test. 1. Boggy top is a) pine nuts with goat cheese, b) portobello mushrooms on a buckwheat roll with balsamic vinegar dressing, c) cod tacos with mutton enchiladas or d) pie with no crust. 2. Bear sign is a) fried coleslaw, b) donuts, c) a bologna sandwich on white bread or d) pepperoni pizza without anchovies. 3. Spotted dog is a) Dalmatian on fry bread, b) dirty sock soup, c) garlic rattlesnake hash or d) suet pudding. 4. Cackleberries are a) eggs, b) cowcumbers, also known as pickles, c) peanut M&M’s or d) raisins. 5. Cow salve is a) dou-

ble espresso, half decaf with mocha, b) guacamole c) butter or d) venti almond frappuccino with a hint of cinnamon. 6. Saddle horn is a) biscuits hard enough to break the teeth on a rat, b) Fig Newtons, c) arugula salad with saddle soap dressing or d) cooked carrots in beet sauce. 7. Chuckwagon chicken is a) haggis b) pheasant under glass, c) salt pork dipped in flour and fried or d) barbecued prairie chicken. 8. County attorney is a) beans which talk behind your back, b) rutabaga nestled in a bed of mixed greens, c) son of a gun stew or d) oatmeal with raisins. 9. Splatterdabs are a) fish sticks with chutney, b) pork and beans, c) fried mozzarella cheese balls or d) pancakes.

“Cowboys have always had their own vocabulary. It’s almost as if they are talking in code so only other cowboys can understand what they’re saying.” – Lee Pitts 10. Lick is a) molasses, b) an ice cream cone, c) peppermint candy or d) watermelon infused with vodka. 11. Desperation cake is a) fried Hostess Twinkies, b) cake made without eggs or milk, c) re-gifted Christmas fruitcake or d) wedding cake. 12. Neck oil or bug juice is a) castor oil, b) coffee so weak it tastes like scalded water, c) lemon and honey or d) whiskey. 13. Rocky Mountain oysters are a) moose balls, b) sheep eyeballs, c) bovine testicles or d) oysters from Colorado.

14. Kansas City fish is a) chipped tuna on toast, b) fried pork, c) chicken gizzards or d) rack of woodchuck. 15. Whistleberries or Mexican strawberries are a) onions, b) beans usually cooked in dishwater, c) cabbage or d) prunes. 16. Calf slobber is a) Cool Whip, b) butter, also known as axle grease, c) leftovers or d) meringue. Answers: (1) d, (2) b, (3) d, (4) a, (5) c, (6) a, (7) c, (8) c, (9) d, (10) a, (11) b, (12) d, (13) c, (14) b, (15) b and (16) d.

The DeTye Vet Supply Spring 2021 Catalog is now available! Get your copy today!

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The Best Prices with the Service you Deserve!

LISCO & M DIAMOND ANGUS ANGUS BULL SALE

Since 1992

U-2 COALITION 206C

at the Ranch

16 SONS SELL AAA# 18626847

OFFERING

112 ANGUS BULLS Over 50 Suitable For Use On First-Calf Heifers All PAP Tested

65 FEMALES

U-2 ERELITE 109Z

DAM OF U-2 COALITION 206C

35 Yearling Heifers 30 Young Pairs

SIRES ALSO INCLUDE: S Summit 4604 LD Capitalist 316 Marcys Scale Breaker N Plus S Cornerstone 607 HA Cowboy Up • Justified

Sale broadcast live via internet on

LOCATION: M DIAMOND ANGUS RANCH | GLENROCK, WY View catalog and videos at www.mdiamondangus.com

MARCY LIVESTOCK SERVICES George Marcy C: (308) 430-2005 marcylivestock@msn.com

LISCO ANGUS

Dick Lisco C: (307) 359-0167 liscoangus@vcn.com

M DIAMOND ANGUS

Brad Boner C: (307) 359-1162 brad@mdiamondangus.com