Roundup for 3.4.23

®

The Weekly News Source for Wyoming’s Ranchers, Farmers and AgriBusiness Community • www.wylr.net

A Look Inside Volume 34 Number 45 • March 4, 2023

Wyoming State Fair launches new internship program Page A6

Experts give advice for working heavy-bred cows in the winter

Many producers with spring-calving herds will have babies hitting the ground in no time, and with calving season right around the corner, it is time to think about how to best keep calves healthy and alive.

Because colostrum is imperative to a calf’s health in the first few weeks of life, several experts remind producers vaccinating cows prior to calving can help build antibody levels in cows’ colostrum, which will

Snow Report

The 12th snow report for Water Year 2023 shows current Wyoming snow telemetry data reads 112% of median with a basin high of 145% and a basin low of 78%. In 2022, the state was at 85% and at 94% in 2021. The report and a map displaying basin snow water equivalent percentages of median for the state may be found at wrds.uwyo.edu/ wrds/nrcs/nrcs.html

Crop Prices

As of March 3, corn prices were mixed with nearby futures rising $0.01$0.02 per bushel to $6.24$6.40 per bushel. Despite the early morning gains, corn prices have dropped 2.3% lower this week on forecasts for a larger U.S. corn crop in 2023. Soybean futures edged up $0.01$0.06 per bushel this morning, sending nearby futures to $15.02-$15.27 per bushel. Wheat prices rose $0.02-$0.05 per bushel this morning thanks to a weaker dollar.

UW Event

The University of Wyoming (UW) Big Horn County Extension will host their 2023 Extravaganza at the Big Horn County Fairgrounds in Basin. The event will take place on March 7 from 2-8:30 p.m. and will include topics ranging from backyard agriculture and hydroponics to alfalfa weevil control and direct marketing of meat. A free dinner will be served. Those interested can RSVP by calling 307-272-0576 or 307-568-4160.

FFA Degree

AgroLiquid CoFounder and Board President Troy Bancroft of Saint Johns, Mich. was honored by the National FFA Organization with the Honorary American FFA Degree. The Honorary American Degree is given to those who advance agricultural education and FFA through outstanding personal commitment.

then provide passive immunity to the newborn calf.

How Far We’ve Come

Bugas Ranch photos

Vilsack reflects on innovation of ag during annual forum

Arlington, Va. – During the U.S. Department of Agricultureʼs (USDA) 99th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack provided the keynote address.

The forum, held virtually Feb. 23-24, addressed topics such as food price and farm income outlooks, U.S. trade and the global marketplace, supply chain resilience, climate mitigation and adaptation, frontiers in agriculture production and technology and equity

Ecologist serves on FWS

On Oct. 27, 2022, Ecologist and Wildlands Advocate Dr. Siva Sundaresan was appointed deputy director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) by the Biden-Harris administration.

Previously, Sundaresan served as the Yellowstoneto-Yukon program officer at the Wilburforce Foundation, where he worked for six months before taking over as director for FWS.

Prior to the Wilburforce Foundation, Sundaresan worked for the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance and as the Kenya program director for the Denver Zoological Foundation.

Siva Sundaresan

Dr.

Today, Sundaresan is hard at work advocating for U.S. wildlife under FWS Department Head Martha Williams. GYE work and career ascension

Originally from India, Sundaresan got his start in North American wildlife advocacy while working for the Jackson Hole Conservation Alliance in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), according to a Feb. 28 WyoFile article written by Mike Koshmrl.

During this time, he also served on the board of directors at the National Wildlife Federation, where he made several connections which contributed to his quick career

and inclusion.

With a theme of “Seeds of Growth Through Innovation,” Vilsack noted the event reflected on innovation in agriculture and the industry’s “truly remarkable” direct continuation of a long tradition throughout U.S. history.

Ag history

“This is a pivotal moment in agriculture, and we’ve had a number of pivotal moments in agriculture,” said

Please see USDA on page A10

Zack and Hannah Guild are Uinta County ranchers who run an Angus/Hereford/Limousin cow/calf operation.

Zack went to college in Logan, Utah and received his diesel mechanics certification. Upon graduation, he moved to Phoenix, Ariz. where he worked for six months before returning to his family’s ranch, which was established in 1867.

Today, the couple looks forward to ranching alongside their 10-month-old son Callan and several of Zack’s family members, including his grandpa, dad

vital to preventing diseases, such as E. coli, coronavirus and rotavirus,” writes First Defense, a leading producer of cattle vaccine, on their website. “However, the quality of maternal colostrum periodical

Sheep celebration

Kemmerer slated to host inaugural Wyoming Sheep and Wool Festival

The Wyoming Wool Growers Association (WWGA) recently announced the first annual Wyoming Sheep and Wool Festival will be held June 30-July 2 in Kemmerer.

WWGA encourages Wyoming residents and sheep producers to make plans to bring their families to the festival to enjoy art, education and cultural events in an effort to celebrate Wyoming’s sheep and wool industry.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to see animals, feast on lamb, browse through vendor booths and dance to live music at an after-dinner party on the night of July 1.

Schedule of events

Events will begin on the afternoon of June 30 with an educational session about range management. Attendees will then gather for an art show and reception, in addition to a panel discussion about the area’s sheep and wool heritage, provided from multi-generational perspectives. During the festival,

on page A8 Please see COWS on page A7

WWGA

and brother.

Unique operation

The family is getting ready to start calving in the next several weeks.

Zack notes he keeps his replacement heifers open an extra year before breeding them, which is something really unique to his operation. He has found this helps his herd’s productivity and breed-back success.

“There is a year they sit here and don’t produce any profit, but we have

Young couple returns to family ranch

Certified Angus Beef provides cattle market update Page B2

Grizzly bear legislation introduced by Sen. Cynthia Lummis Page B6 Horse vaccination programs outlined by Nebraska veterinarians Page B11

Seventy-four years ago, on Jan. 2, 1949, a blizzard out of the northwest swept across the Northern Plains, catching people unaware. This would later be known as the Blizzard of 1949 and the worst winter of the century for eastern Wyoming, western South Dakota, northern Colorado and western Nebraska.

The first storm lasted until Jan. 5, 1949 and was one of many storms to hit the region.

Those who are still around and can remember the winter of 1949 have unbelievable stories of survival across the region. The National Weather Service reported 12 people perished in the first storm, and other states reported 28 more deaths.

I bring up the Blizzard of 1949, as it has been talked about during this hard winter of 2022-23.

As many people realize, this winter has been relentless, with horrific winds, frigid temperatures and large amounts of snow, which altogether, have left ice and hardpacked drifts for people, livestock and wildlife to deal with.

I was only two years old in 1949, so I don’t remember the winter. But, I sure remember the hard winters of the 1970s and 80s. They were a lot like this winter, except most of them started in late October or early November. It was typical to plow snow and feed livestock every day.

I don’t feel it is fair to compare the winter of 1949 to today’s winters, as most ranchers and farmers now have equipment to handle the snow, and counties and states have great snow removal equipment for roads.

This doesn’t mean hard winters are a cakewalk these days, but pictures of the Blizzard of 1949 show equipment was limited and didn’t have cabs to shelter the operator.

In 1949, the government used C-130 airplanes to bring in hay from Kansas and Colorado to feed livestock with, because it was the easiest way to get to them.

Nowadays, we have side-by-sides and ATVs with tracks and snowmobiles to gather livestock. Winter clothing is also high tech today with battery powered heating. And, we now have communications to town and to the ranch house.

As I understand, the winter of 1949 followed a drought – similar to this winter – which resulted in a shortage of hay. Maybe this is the reason for the saying, “It takes a hard winter to break a drought.”

If this is the case, we’ve broken it this winter, so far.

The winter of 1949 stopped a number of trains with the drifted snow. In those days, people traveled by train in the winter, and if the train was stranded in a small town, food supplies were short. In many cases, planes, along with the Red Cross, were called in.

By Jan. 26, 1950, President Truman declared a disaster area for the region and designated western Nebraska, South Dakota and Wyoming as special “distress areas.”

Every hard winter is different, and we can tell which areas in our state and surrounding states got hit the hardest, just by looking at the road closures. We thank the state of Wyoming for helping this year with a disaster declaration.

We’ll get through this winter as we have in the past. Our pockets will be emptier and the livestock thinner but, as always, we’ll remember this winter and have stories to tell our grandchildren.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup

Reporting the News by the Code of the West

307-472-1781 • E-mail: roundup@wylr.net

Phone: 307-234-2700

800-967-1647 • www.wylr.net

HANNAH BUGAS, Managing Editor • hannah@wylr.net

BRITTANY GUNN, Editor • brittany@wylr.net

CANDICE PEDERSON, Production Coordinator • candice@wylr.net

JODY MICHELENA, Advertising Director • jodym@wylr.net

DENISE OLSON, Classified Sales Manager • 307-685-8213

• denise@wylr.net

ANDREA ZINK, General Manager • andrea@wylr.net

CURT COX, Director of Livestock Field Services • 307-630-4604

• curt@wylr.net

CALLI WILLIAMS, Livestock Field Services Rep. • 605-695-1990 • calli@wylr.net

GUEST OPINIONS

Speaker of the House: Focusing on Wyoming Solutions, Not Out-of-State Influences

Throughout the last decade serving as a representative in the Wyoming State Legislature, I have consistently used the following metric to assess legislation: does it solve a Wyoming problem with a Wyoming solution?

Some bills coming to the legislature do not come from Wyoming, but instead from another state, or they are templates from a national organization. Bills not crafted in Wyoming often take a one-size-fits-all approach, which demands the Wyoming Legislature’s due diligence to ensure a bill solves a problem and does not create a new one.

As Speaker of the House, I have the added

By Albert Sommers

responsibility of keeping the House of Representatives focused on getting work done for the people of Wyoming. Part of this leadership responsibility is choosing which standing committee a bill goes to and whether it gets sent to a committee at all.

I take this responsibility seriously – bad policy can create major consequences for Wyoming.

Bills that are unconstitutional, not well vetted, poorly written, duplicate bills or debates and bills which negate local control, restrict the rights of people or risk costly litigation financed by the people of Wyoming should not become law.

Working with Appropriations and Revenue

I depend heavily on two particular committees – the Appropriations and Revenue Committees. These committees work on many of the most important bills during the session and are comprised of seasoned legislators with critical expertise. Their members currently hold a combined 106 years of experience in the legislature.

I rely on those bodies to scrutinize weighty legislation because they understand the repercussions of legislation on Wyoming’s citizens. These two committees are led by four chairmen and other pillars of the legislature.

The members of Appropriations and Revenue Committees are workhorses who use their experience to critically examine tough issues without letting rhetoric and intimidation get in the way.

As an example, bills like Senate File (SF) 0172, Stop ESG – state funds fiduciary duty act, in theory, have merit. However, it’s our job to determine how bills will play out in Wyoming’s reality.

I sent SF 0172 to the Appropriations Committee to ensure it was evaluated on its substance. The bill bans Wyoming government officials from contracting with businesses which have

NCBA hires director

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association is pleased to announce the hiring of Rebecca Barnett as director of animal health and food safety policy in their Washington, D.C. office.

Barnett will work on issues such as traceability, dietary guidelines, animal welfare and food safety. She is from a small California ranching community in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and received her bachelor’s degree in sustainable agriculture and food systems from the University of California (UC), Davis.

While attending UC Davis, Barnett served on the 2017 California Young Cattlemen’s State Committee and managed the UC Davis Research, Teaching and Outreach Sheep facility. She gained experience in policy and animal health through working at the California State Assembly and UC Davis Veterinary Hospital.

Barnett graduated from Texas A&M University with a master’s degree in agribusiness in 2020.

Applicator education offered

The University of Wyoming (UW) Extension will offer private pesticide applicator education programs across the state this March.

These two- to four-hour educational sessions provide an overview of certification requirements for private applicators, pertinent laws and regulations, pesticide safety and handling, groundwater contamination, pesticide disposal and more.

Upon completion of an educational session, applications for private applicator licenses will be submitted to the Wyoming Department of Agriculture for approval and issuance of licenses.

Dates, locations and contacts for the spring 2023 education programs are available at bit.ly/wy-psep-private and listed in the calendar of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup on page A12.

For more information, contact UW Extension Pesticide Safety Education Program Coordinator Jeff Edwards at jedward4@uwyo.edu or call 307-837-2956.

Camp applications open

Applications are now open for the 2023 Inspire a Kid Camp and will close on March 13. The Inspire a Kid Camp focuses on exploration of nature, introduction to conservation principles, leadership development and learning new recreational outdoor activities while giving participants experiences to successfully navigate and positively interact with the great outdoors.

Campers will partake in a five-night, six-day, one-of-a-kind Western experience where they will be immersed in Western conservation lessons, leadership development and numerous outdoor activities including horseback riding, fly rod building, fly fishing, hiking, archery and star gazing, amongst many others.

Campers will stay in tents in the Gros Ventre wilderness, a short ride away from Little Jennie Ranch Headquarters in Bondurant. The historic Craig Cabin Camp provides a great setting for the Inspire a Kid Camp. The boysʼ camp will be held June 19-24, and the girlsʼ camp will run from June 26 to July 1.

For more information, call 307-316-3863 or e-mail chris@thewyldlifefund.org.

Bee College announced

Laramie County Extension announced they will be hosting the Wyoming Bee College and High Plains Garden-to-Market Conference at Laramie County Community College located at 1400 E. College Drive in Cheyenne on March 24-25.

The Garden-to-Market Conference will offer educational seminars on how and why to grow medicinal herbs, native plants, flowers for cutting and growing grapes, fruit trees, hazelnuts, small fruits and more.

There will be several vendors and a vendor reception on the afternoon of March 25. Registration is $125 for March 24, $85 for March 25 or $195 for both days and includes lunch, coffee, tea and snacks.

For more information and to register, visit wyomingbeecollege.org. Registration closes March 21 at 11:59 p.m.

4-H program inspires youth

A new twist on a traditional 4-H project area has inspired culinary adventures in Wyoming kitchens across the state.

Wyoming’s Food, Fun and 4-H Program provides young chefs with recipes and utensils to make their own home-cooked meals.

Designed to help young chefs hone their cooking skills at home, the Food, Fun and 4-H Program provides monthly recipes, cooking utensils and informational materials to Wyoming 4-H members.

Launched in November 2022 with funding from the Ellbogen Foundation, the program is coordinated by University of Wyoming Extension Educators Kellie Chichester of Niobrara County, Joddee Jacobsen of Natrona County, Erin Persche of Weston County and Mary Louise Wood of Park County.

Food, Fun and 4-H is open to all Wyoming 4-H members at no cost to participants aside from groceries. The program runs through May 2023 and new participants are welcome to join at any time.

To join the Food, Fun and 4-H Program, contact Kellie Chichester at kelliec@uwyo.edu or 307-334-3534.

FOR SALE PRIVATELY

Yearling Hereford Bulls

• BALDY MAKERS

• VIGOR

• DOCILITY

• ADDED VALUE

• ADDED FEED EFFICIENCY

Bryan: 970-381-0264

Linda: 970-381-6811

54286 CR 27, Carr, CO 80612

Catalogs available upon request

Videos on Facebook: Sidwell Herefords, RLLP or YouTube: Sidwell Herefords

SIRED BY STEERLING PACIFIC

LOT

less frame performance will work in pastue conditions or for smaller heifers Top 20% for CED @ +10 - Top 30% For BW @+.2 - WW +51 - YW +92 - Carcass Top 20% IMF @+.93 - RE +.45 ADG 3.33 - WDA 2.79 - Weaned 560’s - 90 WR - Feed Test -feed 6.33 : 1# gain

Bulls were fed a ration to gain 3.25 pounds a day. This is a cross section of the bulls we are selling not just the biggest and best numbers just like everyone else; We have had quite the winter we'll have pictures coming right up and the sale book will be right along perhaps with a few less pictues because of the weather

On Feb. 28, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced 86 U.S. manufacturing plants earned the agency’s Energy Star Certification in 2022, a designation reserved for manufacturing plants in the top 25 percent of energy efficiency in their sector.

Together, these plants saved over 105 trillion British thermal units (Btus) of energy and prevented more than six million metric tons of carbon

EPA recognizes companies

dioxide emissions, equivalent to the emissions from the electricity use of more than 1.1 million American homes.

Manufacturing plants use EPA’s Energy Star energy performance indicators or, in the case of petroleum refineries, the Solomon Associates Energy Intensity Index Scoring System to assess their energy performance.

Plants scoring a 75 out of 100 or higher – indicating they are more energy

Torrington Livestock Markets PO Box 1097 • Torrington, WY 82240 307.532.3333 Fax: 307.532.2040 www.torringtonlivestock.com

efficient than 75 percent of similar facilities nationwide – are eligible to earn Energy Star Certification. The certification is available for 20 manufacturing sectors, from cement and steel to glass and commercial bakeries.

Several companies from across the West earned Energy Star Certification including J.R. Simplot Company of Rock Springs; Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc. and TreeHouse Foods Inc. of Utah; GCC

Pueblo and Rocky Mountain Bottle Company, Wheat Ridge of Colorado; Koch Ag and Energy Solutions of Nebraska; Flowers Baking Company of Nevada; Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc., Drake Cement, LLC, Holsum Bakery of Tolleson, Mesa Organic Baking Company and Salt River Materials Group of Arizona and Ardaugh Glass, Inc., Bimbo Bakeries USA, Inc. and J.R. Simplot Compay of California.

Lex Madden 307-532-1580

Chuck Petersen 307-575-4015 Lander Nicodemus 307-421-8141

FEEDERS Trowbridge Ranch 215 Blk few Red Hfrs, 650-750#, Been Weaned a long time, Been on Ground Hay & Silage, Branding and Weaning Shots, Poured last fall

Dr. Joe Skavdahl & Jared Klein 160 Red/Blk Hfrs (60 hd Red/100 Blk), 700#, Weaned a long time, Been on a Grower Ration, Shots: Vista Once (1x), Bovi-Shield Gold 5 (2x), 7-way (2x), Pinkeye (2x), Wormed w/Synanthic, Poured w/Clean-up, Bangs Vac., Replacement Quality

T-Chair 108 Red Angus Hfrs, 1000#, Ran Open, Shots: Bovi-Shield Gold 5, Blackleg, Comng off grass, Home Raised

Loren & Jim Smart 55 Mx Strs & Hfrs, 750-800#, Weaned since Oct., Bunk Broke, A Silage/Hay

Ration, Branding Shots Only

Butch White 69 Blk few Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 625-725#, Weaned a long time, Bunk Broke, Been on a Grower Ration, Complete Modified Live Vac. Program,

WEANED CALVES

Doug Derouchey 250 Blk (2 Char/3 Rd) Strs & Hfrs, 500-600#, Weaned a long time, Bunk Broke,

Barley Hay, Silage, No Grain, 3 Rounds of Shots, Poured

Paul & Nancy Landeck 122 Mx Strs, 450-800#, Weaned a long time, Bunk Broke, Been on a Grower Ration, Branding Shots: 7-way,

Educator joins Extension team

After 15 years serving both youth and families in Albany County, 4-H Educator Mary Louise Wood has transferred to the University of Wyoming (UW) Extension’s Park County office in Cody.

“Mary Louise leaves big shoes to fill in Albany County,” says Amanda Marney, senior associate director of UW Extension. “She is the best of 4-H, and it can be seen in everything she does. She brings a wealth of knowledge to Park County.”

As a Park County native, Wood welcomes the opportunity to mentor a new generation of 4-H’ers.

“I’m excited because I grew up in Park County, and I’m a product of the Park County 4-H program,” she comments.

Cattle Country Video - 1:00 pm

Lot 305 Wright Bros. 172 Weaned Steer Calves. 85% Blk/Bwf; 15% Red/Rwf. Base Wt: 660 lbs. Wt Stop: 695 lbs. Slide: .12 cents. Located: Brandon, SD. Delivery: 3/11/23 to 3/18/23. Branding, Precond & Booster Shots. Weigh: load on buyer’s pre-weighed truck, haul approx. 6 miles and weigh w/a 3%. Comments: Nice home raised purchased steers. Purchased steers off one ranch from Wyoming. Great location and health program. 3 rounds of shots and 2 rounds of tetnus shots. Not being pushed 50 megacal ration. Lots of room to grow and gain. BQA. Rep: Richard Zweifel 605209-6307. www.cattlecountryvideo.com

Kerbs Four Bar 90 Blk Hfrs, few Strs, 450-600#, Weaned 100+ days, Hay Fed, 3 Rounds of Shots: Pyramid 5+Presponse, Vision 7 w/Somnus,

Home Raised, High Elevation

Rodgers Ranch/Mike Rodgers 70 Blk/Bwf few Rd Strs & Hfrs, 550-650#, Weaned 70+ days, Been on a Light Grower Ration, Bunk Broke, Complete Vac. Program, High Elevation

Smith Sheep Company 60 Blk Hfrs, 600#, Weaned since Nov., Bunk Broke, Been on a Grower Ration, Full Vac. Program, Bangs Vac

Joel Sandlian 37 Blk few Red Hfrs (1 Blk Str), 600-700#, Weaned a long time, Running out, Bunk Broke, Ground Hay and Silage Ration, Branding & Weaning Shots, Poured last Fall, Electric Fence Broke

COMPLETE DISPERSALS

Guy Givens 200 Fancy Blk few Bwf Cows, Complete Dispersal, Coming 4”s to 9 yr olds, Bred to Gardner, Seeley & Hancock Blk Angus Bulls, CF: March 15, Complete Vac. Program but No Shots this Fall, Poured, Bangs Vac.

Bill & Michele Homrighausen 30 Red/Rwf Angus Cows, Complete Dispersal, 4-ST, Bred to Schuler Red Angus Cows, CF: April 12 for 60 days, Calves weaned 692# avg. last fall coming off the cows

BRED COWS

Johnson Hill Land and Livestock 31 Blk Cows, ST, Bred to Blk Bulls, CF: End of April/May, 1-iron

-BRED/ALL

In Albany County, Wood has worked with volunteers to develop a strong, holistic program offering opportunities for all 4-H youth.

Wood has also collaborated with 4-H educators across the state to develop innovative new initiatives like the Rocky Mountain Youth Entrepreneur Program, designed to equip young people with the skills required to build successful businesses.

In fall 2022, she helped launch the ongoing Wyoming Food, Fun and 4-H Program to encourage 4-H participants and their families to experiment in the kitchen together.

Open house postponed

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Wyoming State Parks, Historic Sites and Trails are seeking input in the planning of new hiking, horseback and trail running opportunities on public land in the South Pass City area.

To kick off this effort, the partners are hosting an open house at the Lander Library from 5:30-7 p.m., followed by an initial public input period through May 31. This open house was previously scheduled for Feb. 23, but has been rescheduled for March 16.

During this first comment period, public input is needed as trail locations, designs and desired experiences are planned. The open house will provide an opportunity to discuss possible options for these trails with South Pass City State Historic Site Superintendent Joe Ellis and BLM Outdoor Recreation Planner Jared Oakleaf.

While input is welcome at any time, comments at this stage of the process should be submitted by May 31 to joakleaf@blm.gov or joe.ellis@wyo.gov.

For more information, including to request a map depicting possible trail options, contact Oakleaf at 307-332-8400 or Ellis at 307-332-3684.

Conservation defended

On Feb. 27, advocates of conservation programs delivered a letter to leadership in the House and Senate Agriculture Committees calling for the defense of climate focused conservation spending in the 2023 Farm Bill.

Brickman 11 Red Brd Cow

1401# 1410.00

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Michael Schmitt - Torrington, WY 307-532-1776*** Ty Thompson – Lusk, WY 307-340-0770

Cody Thompson - Lusk, WY 307-340-0150***Zach Johnson Lingle, WY –307-575-2171

Jeff Ward – Laramie, WY 307-399-9863***Tam Staman – Crawford, NE 308-631-8513

Justin Smith - Lusk, WY 307-340-0724***Danny Nicodemus – Cheyenne, WY 307-632-4325

Chris Williams - Greybull, WY 307-272-4567***Hunter Dockery - Lusk, WY 307-340-1202

- Lusk, WY 307-216-0033 ***Ben Kukowski - Kaycee, WY

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The letter, signed by 644 organizations, businesses and farmers, makes it clear to Congress the historic investment in conservation programs made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 must be preserved in the 2023 Farm Bill. The IRA provided sweeping greenhouse gas reductions across sectors including farming.

Alongside several conservation partners, the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) helped lead this recent effort calling for durable, increased spending on climate change through conservation programs in the next farm bill.

“NSAC is pleased to see the letter reflect the overwhelming support for climate focused spending in conservation programs,” stated NSAC Climate Policy Coordinator Dr. Cathy Day. “By highlighting the simultaneous benefits possible through climate focused conservation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) can ensure climate benefits are also benefits for biodiversity as well as water, soil and air quality.”

“Climate solutions must build farm resilience, and this requires holistic, systems-based farm support. Along with an agroecological focus, we look forward to seeing USDA prioritize spending conservation funds on farmers of color as IRA funds are rolled out. Protecting USDA’s ability to do this work in the next farm bill is one of our top priorities,” added Day.

For more information, visit sustainableagriculture.net

Mary Louise Wood

boycotted fossil fuels or are considering climate change in their investments.

Members of the Appropriations Committee identified significant gaps in the language, and the Treasurer’s Office raised questions about how this bill may impact Wyoming’s investment portfolio.

This bill is not worth risking our state’s fiscal future just to send a message. I am hopeful the language in this policy can be tightened up in the interim to allow us to support our base industries while preserving our investment strategies.

Bills focused on Wyoming issues

Keeping bills in my drawer is another way to ensure we stay focused on solving pressing issues for Wyoming. Here is a list of the bills I currently have in my drawer and why.

SF 0086, Voter identification – concealed carry permit, allows Wyomingites to use their concealed carry permits as voter identification.

I like this idea, but House Bill (HB) 79 is a mirror bill which has already passed through the legislature and became law during this session. Consideration of this bill would have wasted time with duplicate debate.

SF 0117, Parental rights in education is a bill which disallows public school teachers from teaching sexual orientation and gender identity themes to children from kindergarten through third grade and directs schoolboards on how to interact with parents.

This type of teaching is not happening in Wyoming schools. Moreover, the bill strips local control.

Regardless of the issue, I’ve always fought against taking authority away from local schoolboards, town councils and county commissions. Additionally, I believe this bill is unconstitutional as it violates the single-subject rule.

SF 111, Child abuse –change of sex is one of two bills taking on the subject of gender change in children. I sent a similar bill, SF 144, Chloe’s law – children gender change prohibition out to a committee.

I did not see the need to spend time debating two similar bills.

I thought SF 144 had a more appropriate policy position, and I sent it to the Appropriations Committee to be vetted. The bill was passed out of committee

continued from page A2

with a “Do Not Pass” recommendation, but is available for debate if the Majority Floor Leader so chooses.

SF 143, Wyoming Freedom Scholarship Act is virtually the same bill as HB 194, which would have created an education savings account (ESA).

An ESA account is similar to a school voucher system, giving parents state money to put their children in private schools or homeschool. However, HB 194 died in the House Education Committee.

The committee heard this bill once, and it failed. There was no need to waste time hearing the bill twice. I do not support this bill because I believe it is unconstitutional, and it is a major policy shift for the state of Wyoming.

I do believe this issue will be taken up as an interim topic in the Joint Education Committee, where the idea can be fully vetted.

Senate Joint Resolution 0001, Amending Wyoming’s act of admission for leases and earnings would request Congress introduce a bill and enact a law to amend Wyoming’s Act of Admission.

It changes the very language which made Wyoming a state, and I have serious concerns about its consequences. I believe it is a bad precedent to alter the document that created our statehood.

Bills not sent to committee

Bills I also did not send to committee included HB 0162, County optional tax – affordable housing, which would have allowed a county to impose a real-estate transfer tax; HB 0193 – Carbon capture energy standardsrepeal, which would have gutted Wyoming’s carbon capture policy and HB 0115, Elections administration, which would have taken away election administration authority from the Secretary of State.

The Wyoming Constitution allows the legislature to meet in session for only 60 working days over two years. This time constraint is by design and helps curtail frivolous bills being debated over a lengthy period.

I will continue to do my best to keep us focused in the brief time remaining in the session.

Albert Sommers is the Wyoming Legislature Speaker of the House and Republican representative for Wyoming House District 20. He can be reached by visiting wyoleg.gov

Another round of aerial slaughter of estray cattle in the Gila Wilderness of New Mexico came to an end on Feb. 28. Over a three-day operation, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), with a contracted Animal Plant and Health Inspection Service Wildlife Services shooter reported to have killed 19 head.

As stated in a Feb. 28 release from the Gila National Forest (GNF), the entire project area was searched by naked eye and thermal imagery, and no additional cattle were seen. Temporary closure of the operation area ended on March 1.

“What a waste of taxpayers’ money,” said New Mexico Cattle Growersʼ Association (NMCGA) President Loren Patterson. “Reporting 19 head killed over several days of flight shows the USFS has absolutely no idea

concludes aerial gunning

about actual herd numbers in the wilderness, and has no evidence to support its claims a herd of 150 head was causing dire terror and environmental damage. The environmental organization the USFS apparently listens to has failed it.”

In a Feb. 28 press release, GNF Supervisor Camille Howes expressed their commitment to working collaboratively with the ranching community saying, “GNF will continue to coordinate with permittees in their efforts to locate, gather and remove their branded cattle from areas where they are not authorized.”

This statement of willingness to coordinate and cooperate falls flat, however, because for over a year, NMCGA has met with USFS on a monthly basis to offer solutions to avoid lethal aeri-al

slaughter. The USFS was not interested, preferring aerial slaughter to any other approach.

Solutions NMCGA offered included a request to give a recent New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) directive a year to show whether it would be effective. The directive would authorize any valid allotment owner within the GNF and the Gila Wilderness to gather unbranded cattle, hold them for proper inspection and purchase them from NMLB.

Another proposal was to ask USFS to allocate funds to repair existing infrastructure in the wilderness to facilitate the humane gathering of cattle. Those facilities would aid in holding captured cattle as well as serve a useful purpose for the use of bait traps with salt blocks, water or feed.

. GET THE LINE OF CREDIT THAT DELIVERS MORE.

WORKSMART

Learn more by calling the Casper office at 307.577.4700.

The State Fair Times

Wyoming State Fair launches new internship program

The first of many exciting new announcements, the Wyoming State Fair (WSF) is pleased to launch its new summer internship program, which will kick off this summer and offer-

students from across the West the opportunity to gain hands-on, real-world experiences at one of Wyoming’s largest summer events.

WSF General Man-

ager Courtny Conkle notes WSF is seeking enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about WSF, livestock and the ag industry to join their 2023 team and learn about how livestock shows, events and fairs are run behind the scenes while building valuable skills in event planning, organization, communication, project management and customer service.

The program will offer season-long or fair-time specific internships, paid and for-credit, with the option of housing and will provide students a customized experience designed to

align with their individual goals and interests.

Seasonal opportunities

Seasonal internships will run from July 1 through Aug. 20 and will offer students an opportunity to assist with the development and implementation of organizational systems. These include fair-time credential checkout, exhibitor office preparation, organization of ribbons and plaques for show superintendents and the installation of fair-time components such as the Passport to Fun Scavenger Hunt, Every Day Agriculture educational campaigns and the

launch of the World Champion Mutton Bustin’.

Job duties for seasonlong interns will include answering phones, helping with walk-in guests, preparing Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) day sheets for the PRCA Rodeo, printing call sheets and programs for WSF livestock shows, installing educational components for the fair, creating credential check outs, preparing packets for distribution, preparing thank you notes, conducting surveys and assisting with fair-time event planning and implementation.

“Summer internships at WSF would create a mutually beneficial opportunity for interns by providing hands-on learning experience and unique and fun opportunities,” notes Conkle. “These internships will also introduce students to career opportunities in state government while supporting the state of Wyoming by enhancing the 2023 WSF and providing stronger customer service and guest experiences throughout the summer season.”

Fair-time internships

Fair-time internships will run from Aug. 11-20 and will be focused on improving the production of WSF and guest experiences.

Conkle notes WSF sees over 60,000 guests each year, so providing a better experience for them will be a key priority for fair-time interns.

These interns will actively check on enter-

tainers, vendors and judges and serve as guest service ambassadors to ensure patrons, exhibitors and participants are enjoying the fair.

They will be uniformed and trained to understand the layout of WSF grounds and locations of various shows, buildings and exhibits so guests can easily spot them to ask questions, and they can easily give directions and share information.

Other job duties will include answering phones, helping with walk-in guests and conducting fair surveys.

“By creating these fair internships, we can improve valuable administrative, hospitality and event production skills to our interns,” says Conkle.

Internship applications

Students of all majors and programs are encouraged to apply for these internship opportunities, and applications will be accepted until June 1.

“We are thrilled to offer this exciting opportunity to students who are interested in pursuing a career in the fair and events industry,” Conkle states. “We believe this program will not only provide valuable experience and skills but also create memories that will last a lifetime.”

For more information or to apply, call 307-358-2398 or e-mail courtny.conkle@ wyo.gov.

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

JC Heiken Angus and Sons Annual Production

EMAIL INFO@BLACKSUMMITCATTLE.COM

Top Sellers Lot 11 – Heiken

Incentive 2030 – Price:

$16,000 DOB: 1/29/22

Sire: Sitz Incentive 704H

Dam’s Sire: Sitz Logo 12964 EPDs: BW: -0.2, WW: +81, YW: +144 and Milk: +23 Buyer: Thousand Hills Angus, Toston, Mont.

Lot 9 – Heiken Incentive 2070 – Price: $14,000

DOB: 2/6/22 Sire: Sitz

Incentive 704H Dam’s

Sire: Connealy Countdown EPDs: BW: +0.8, WW: +68, YW: +124 and Milk: +31 Buyer: Richard

Angus Ranch, Belfield, N.D.

Lot 13 – Heiken Resilient 2087- Price: $13,000

DOB: 2/9/22

Sire: Sitz

Resilient 10208 Dam’s

Sire: Sitz Logo 12964

EPDs: BW: +1.2, WW: +98, YW: +147 and Milk:

+26 Buyer: Vermilion Ranch, Billings, Mont.

Lot 6 – Heiken Broadview 2412 – Price:

$12,500- DOB: 2/20/22

Sire: Heiken Broadview

Dam’s Sire: JCH Chisum 7019 EPDs: BW: -0.6, WW: +91, YW: +153 and Milk: +25 Buyer: Stevenson Diamond Dot Angus, Hobson, Mont.

Lot 3 – Heiken

Broadview 2004 – Price:

$10,000- DOB: 1/25/22

Sire: Heiken Broadview

Dam’s Sire: Peak Dot No Doubt 69F EPDs: BW: +0.7, WW: +91, YW: +152 and Milk: +21

Buyer: Ed Beers, Isabel, S.D.

Lot 17 – Heiken Cowboy Kind 2058 – Price:

$10,000- DOB: 2/6/22

Sire: HA Cowboy Kind

8157 Dam’s Sire: Sitz

Investment 689B EPDs: BW: +2.9, WW: +85, YW: +164 and Milk: +31

Buyer: Buyan Ranch, Sheridan, Mont.

can be comprised, leaving a newborn calf without adequate protection.”

The company further notes, “For decades, producers and veterinarians have used pre-calving scour vaccines with the hope the dam will impart antibodies into the colostrum to protect her calf.”

Vaccination considerations

The main goal of precalving vaccinations is to maximize protection against the calf scours complex, which can become an incredibly costly issue on any operation.

In a Jan. 4, 2016 article published in Drovers, experts explain scour vaccines must be delivered to a pregnant female at the correct dose and window of time in order for them to be effective in transmitting protection to the newborn calf.

“Pre-calving vaccinations stimulate production of antibodies in the motherʼs body, which are then directed toward the mammary gland when she begins producing colostrum. Increased levels of antibodies targeted to scours organisms in the blood of the mother while she produces colostrum results in more of these specific antibodies in the colostrum,” the article reads.

The article further notes these antibodies are then passively delivered to the calf through its first drink of colostrum, which should occur within the first 12 to 24 hours of life.

In order to ensure the most effective transfer of antibodies, producers must administer vaccine at the proper time. Drovers notes pregnant females begin to form colostrum by pulling antibodies from the blood and storing them in mammary tissue three to five weeks before calving, and this process continues until birth.

“Depending on the age of the female and type of product used, there are different requirements which need to be followed,” writes Drovers. “Heifers require an initial vaccination followed by a booster at least three weeks later, whereas cows that have been vaccinated in previous

years only require an annual booster.”

Additionally, the article notes it is important to follow vaccine label instructions and consult with a local veterinarian when creating a precalving vaccination program for a specific operation.

Animal handling considerations

When administering precalving scour vaccines to heavy-bred cows, experts advise producers take extra low-stress handling precautions to reduce the instance of potential abortion.

Although cattle generally handle cold weather better than hot weather, these vaccines are given during a period of time when there are still nasty winter weather conditions and frigid temperatures, which is another stressor producers need to consider.

In a Sept. 10, 2014 BEEF Magazine article written by Heather Smith Thomas, South Dakota State University Extension Veterinarian and Professor Dr. Russ Daly notes if cattle have been stressed by weather, such as a recent blizzard or cold temperatures, it may be best to postpone until a calmer day.

“We don’t want to be working cattle if there’s a huge cold front coming in. Even if producers scheduled help and a veterinarian on a certain day, they might want to reschedule if weather will be really bad,” agrees University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Dean and Director Charles Stoltenow.

When conditions allow producers to work their cattle, Stoltenow says it is important to go slow so cattle and the crew don’t build up a sweat and subsequently chill when standing around.

University of Idaho Extension Beef Specialist John Hall says this is also important to prevent cattle slipping and falling if conditions are icy.

“A non-slip surface where cattle exit the chute is also important,” Hall shares. “Packed snow, ice or a slick concrete apron at the chute exit can lead to cattle spills.”

Hall suggests chopping or shoveling icy surfaces and applying sand or salt to add

traction and help heavy-bred cattle keep their footing.

Daly encourages producers to pre-check their facilities to ensure chutes, gates and other moving parts are not frozen and are working properly.

Product handling considerations

“Maintaining animal health products at the required temperature is imperative,” says Daly, who advises producers keep vaccines at refrigerator temperature when using them. He notes freezing will inactivate modified-live vaccines and

create compounds in killed vaccines which can cause cattle to get sick.

To avoid this, Daly suggests placing hot packs, rice bags or water bottles in the bottom of Styrofoam or hardplastic coolers to keep vaccines, needles and syringes from freezing while also not getting too warm.

On a warmer day, University of Idaho Lemhi County Extension Educator Shannon Williams says producers can simply keep vaccines in their pocket and hold syringes and needles under their coat to utilize body heat

and keep the contents from getting too cold.

While keeping vaccine from freezing is crucial, Daly and Williams note it is also important to resist from getting them too warm.

“Never put vaccines on the pickup’s heater or defroster, as they may get too warm. It’s a fine line trying to keep it within the proper window of temperature,” Williams says

Daly adds, “Don’t expose vaccines to hot temperatures. This also applies to pour-on products and antibiotics. Start with something

at proper temperature, and don’t let it freeze.

“When using pour-on dewormer or delousing products administered via tubing, it doesn’t take very cold temperatures to freeze the tube,” he continues. “It pays to find ways to keep those products insulated and keep the tubing heated while working cattle. It’s much better to keep things from freezing than trying to thaw them out.”

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

Calving preparation – Administering

scour vaccinations to heavy-bred cows will assist in the passive transfer of crucial antibodies for newborn calves when they have their first drink of colostrum. WYLR photo

WWGA continued from page A1

domestic sheep flocks will be moving along their migration trails, leaving desert-sagebrush range-

lands and moving to the high country of the BridgerTeton National Forest.

Festival attendees will have the opportunity to go on a self-guided tour to see flocks on the move or sign up for a commercial tour, which includes joining in on moving sheep wagons and providing other support for local shepherds.

Austin Snook • 307-290-2161

Taylor Snook • 307-290-2273

Craig Deveraux • 307-746-5690

Dan Catlin • 406-671-7715

Clint Snook • 307-290-4000

This is a great chance for the public to see the animals and people who live alongside them in action.

Events on July 1 include an all-day vendor fair and programming for all ages, followed by the “Sheepherders Come Bye” lamb feast. During dinner, several individuals will be honored with awards, and a dance will follow.

The morning of July 2 will bring other educational activities, and members of WWGA will gather for a business meeting.

Cheyenne Seymour • 605-641-0638

Casey Sellers • 307-217-2614

Jim Forbes • 307-351-5932

Tye Curuchet • 307-351-8666

Daniel Escoz • 307-217-1440 Kade Kinghorn • 307-620-0525

Market Report • March 1, 2023

Thank you and we appreciate your business!

visit wyomingsheepandwoolfestival.com.

www.buffalolivestockwyo.com

Input, donations and involvement

The festival committee is happy to consider ideas for demos, workshops or other activities which might enhance the festival, so they encourage any public input.

Organizations or businesses wanting to get involved in the festival are also encouraged to contact WWGA.

“We’ve got some great ideas, and we’d love to have partnerships to make them happen,” says WWGA Executive Director Alison Crane.

Although there will be a few ticketed events, WWGA notes donations and sponsorships for the festival will help make many of the weekend’s events free to the public.

Craft and food vendors are encouraged to set up shop at the festival’s vendor fair on July 1, and booth spaces can be reserved for as little as $25. Educational vendors are also welcome, and WWGA encourages activities for the public to participate in and enjoy at these booths.

The City of Kemmerer has signed on as a festival sponsor and has allocated use of the South Lincoln Training and Events Center for most activities, along with Triangle Park in the heart of downtown for the vendor fair.

Cat Urbigkit is the vice president of WWGA. She can be reached by visiting WWGA’s website, wyowool.com

The total value of fish sales received by trout growers in the U.S. totaled $103 million for 2022, up four percent from 2021.

The number of trout 12 inches and longer sold during 2022 totaled 27.2 million fish, up three percent from the previous year.

The average price per pound was $2.19, up seven percent from the previous year. The value of sales for the 2022 marketing year was $94.7 million, up three percent from 2021. For trout 12 inches or longer, 69.3 percent were sold to processors.

The number of six- to 12-inch trout sold during 2022 totaled 5.01 million fish, up three percent from 2021. The average price per pound was $4.39 during 2022, up slightly from the 2021 price.

The total value of sales was $6.89 million during 2022, up 14 percent from the previous year. The major sales outlets for six- to 12-inch trout were for recreational stocking, accounting for 53.7 percent of total sales.

The number of one- to six-inch trout sold during 2022 totaled 5.21 million, up four percent from the previous year. The average value per 1,000 fish was $246 during 2022, up from $241 in 2021. The total value of sales was $1.28 million, up six percent from last year’s total.

Trout distributed for restoration, conservation, enhancement or recreational purposes, primarily by state and federal hatcheries, included 5.73 million 12-inch or longer fish, 64.8 million six- to 12-inch fish and 45.1 million one- to six-inch fish.

The estimated value of fish distributed totaled $139 million, up slightly from 2021.

Total losses of all trout intended for sale were 10.1 million fish during 2022. Disease accounted for 66 percent of these losses.

For a full copy of the Trout Production Report, visit nass. usda.gov. For state specific questions, contact Wyoming NASS State Statistician Leslee Lohrenz at 800-392-3202.

For more information, call Alison Crane at 307-265-5250 or The Weekly News Source for Wyoming’s Ranchers, Farmers and AgriBusiness Community

Grass cattle trading on a very active market. Weigh up cattle and bull market dollars higher, with lots of weigh up buyers in the seats. Light test on sheep with a steady market.

"From the ring, to the video, and in the country, we market your livestock the competitive way."

Vilsack.

He noted in 1862, in the midst of the Civil War, the president of the U.S. decided there was a need for the country to have a Department of Agriculture as well as a research unit so farmers, ranchers and those who lived in rural communities could proposer.

“He understood and appreciated that a democracy required a food-secure nation. He also understood the importance of research and making sure farms and ranches received information and knowledge. So, in addition to starting the department, he also had a vision of establishing our land-grant university system and Extension opportunities,” shared Vilsack.

He further noted during the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, Secretary of Agriculture Henry Wallace understood the importance of investing in conservation

and the need for farmers and ranchers to have a stable income.

Therefore, Wallace created a supply management system, which was in place for nearly 60 years until Secretary Earl Butz took office. Butz understood world expansion and that the world needed more food production.

“Butz famously said he wanted farmers to plant fence row to fence row, and farmers did,” explained Vilsack.

“The agriculture industry responded with extraordinary innovation and technology,” he added. “In my lifetime, the productivity of American farmers has improved by 17 times. It’s truly a remarkable story of innovation.”

Challenges impacting ag

Continuing his history recap of the agriculture sector, Vilsack shared increased productivity resulted in the increased cost of seeding

a crop which encouraged farmers to spread the cost over larger areas of land, ultimately impacting rural populations.

However, as the industry focused on productivity and innovation, it lost one of its most precious resources – topsoil.

Additionally, recent challenges have included a global pandemic, invasion and a year-long war between Ukraine and Russia, increased input costs for producers and weather challenges such as droughts, wildfires and fierce storms.

“We learned from the experiences of these challenges that American agriculture and our food system was extraordinarily efficient, but wasn’t as resilient as we needed it to be,” said Vilsack. “We rebounded from all of these conflicts and challenges, and over the last two years, we’ve enjoyed record farm income.”

“The chief economist’s recent report suggests we

won’t set a record this year, but it also suggests we will have higher income than the historical average,” he added. “In fact, the past couple of years have beat the historical income by 50 percent.”

He mentioned while historical income was noted, it’s difficult to recognize who benefited.

“While we had record income, large commercial-sized operations did very well, and they should after investing a lot of time and energy in producing an extraordinary crop. However, the other 90 percent or so struggled,” he said.

“We are at a pivotal moment. We have to ask ourselves a serious question about whether we want a system which continues to see further consolidation and the impacts this has on farmers, ranchers and rural communities, or whether we’re innovative enough to figure out a new, different way – an expanded opportunity – so we have

“I know there are challenges out there, but I’m excited about the future. If we do this right, we will continue to invest in multiple opportunities for farmers and ranchers to profit.”

Agriculture

record income, one that is not shared by a few but by many,” he continued.

Investing in new markets

Vilsack explained an innovative strategy for farmers and ranchers could include generating new markets and on-farm diversity.

“It’s not just growing crops and selling them, or raising livestock and selling them, or receiving government payments,” said Vilsack. “We can be innovative and creative enough to create additional profit opportunities.”

Vilsack mentioned an early success in developing sustainable agriculture products is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Partnership for Climate-Smart Commodities Program, which looks to expand America’s climate-smart commodities, leverages the greenhouse gas benefits of climate-smart commodity production and provides direct, meaningful benefits to production agriculture, including to small and underserved producers.

“So instead of two or three ways to generate profit and income on an operation, we have five, six or seven different ways,” he said. “Each farm becomes a center of entrepreneurship.”

Additionally, he said funding and tools from the American Rescue Plan, Commodity Credit Corporation, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act will allow the agriculture sector to rise to the occasion and “think anew.”

“Now that small- or mid-sized operations can stay in business, they can adopt sustainable agriculture practices and produce renewable energy and fuel for the country so we’re energy independent. This will help create lower costs for energy in their communities,” he said.

“They can also create an opportunity for higher farm income, more rural jobs, better soil health, purer water quality and a stronger sense of community and connection,” he added. “This is the future, and it’s what we’re investing in now.”

Vilsack further mentioned investing in new markets and innovation, while still important, is not only about farmers’ and ranchers’ income, opportunities or entrepreneurship. It’s also about the essence of this country.

“I know there are challenges out there, but I’m excited about the future,” shared Vilsack. “If we do this right, we will continue to invest in multiple opportunities for farmers and ranchers to profit.”

He added, “The seeds of innovation are all about creating new opportunities. The opportunity for growth comes down to these opportunities. And, I ask all of you to join us in making this happen because our farmers and ranchers need it, and our country depends on it.”

Brittany Gunn is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

found they last longer and breed back better if we wait a year to breed them,” he says.

Zack explains he can walk through his herd of cattle and tell which cows were bred as replacement heifers because they tend to be smaller and don’t last as long. Although many other producers don’t do this, Zack says he has found it to be pretty effective.

Additionally, the ranch produces all of their own hay on 2,000 acres.

Overcoming challenges

Like other producers across the state, Zack and Hannah have faced many challenges, but they note nothing is impossible with a little bit of hard work and support from family and friends.

Zack shares they don’t deal with a lot of predator issues in the area, but one of their biggest challenges is having a short growing season.

“Our ranch house is at 8,000 feet in elevation but our cattle operations run all the way up over 10,000 feet,” mentions Zack. “With elevation being so high, our growing season can be pretty short, so it can be difficult – we are pretty lucky if we get two crops rotations off of our pastures.”

Some producers in higher elevations deal with brisket disease, but Zack shares he focuses on choosing bulls testing well on pulmonary arterial pressure tests. Therefore, brisket disease isn’t really a concern for him, but something he is always watching for.

WyFB involvement

Today, the couple actively participates in the Wyoming Farm Bureau (WyFB) Federation’s Young Farmers and Ranch-

ers (YF&R) Committee. The couple notes they’ve enjoyed being involved and learning new things.

“Before getting involved, I didn’t really know what they did. But, I had a brother who was involved, and he was aging out of YF&R. He invited me to an annual WyFB conference in Cody a few years ago,” Zack explains. “It looked like a good opportunity to go out, meet new people and get new ideas. I was really interested in learning and getting ideas from other people, as well as advocating for agriculture.”

The couple has enjoyed being a part of the committee and found it has been a good way to get involved in their community. Zack shares the organization has been a great stepping stone and looks forward to other ways he can help in his community.

Ranching lifestyle and advice

Although the ranch work never ends, Zack notes it’s something he truly enjoys, and he never finds himself looking forward to the weekend like he did when he worked a nineto-five job during the week days as a diesel mechanic.

“The reason I came back was because I wanted to be able to raise my kids and spend time with my family,” he shares. “I really enjoy the fact I can have my family with me at any time, and I love the freedom I have.”

He adds, “For the little time I did work at other jobs, I didn’t like how I was always thinking about or excited about the weekend. But, as a rancher, I no longer think this way – I love what I do all day, every day, and I’m never looking for a

Gov. issues proclamation

Gov. Mark Gordon has issued an official proclamation declaring the week of March 6-11 as Wyoming Agricultural Literacy Week. The governor noted the importance of reading and agriculture as the state celebrates Wyoming Agricultural Literacy Week.

Educating Wyoming elementary school children about agriculture and the role Wyoming farmers and ranchers play in keeping Wyoming strong is critical.

The Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation Young Farmer and Rancher Committee started the Ag Books for Kids Project in 2005 with a goal of building the collection of accurate agriculture reading materials in the state’s elementary schools.

The grassroots strength of the Farm Bureau Federation enables the Ag Books for Kids Project to reach across the state of Wyoming. Each year, the county Farm Bureau Federations purchase nearly 800 books to donate to Wyoming elementary schools.

Farmer and rancher volunteer members often conduct classroom book readings and activities to help students meet an actual farmer or rancher and learn directly from them about the food they grow.

Wyoming students and teachers are encouraged to visit their school’s elementary library to check out the 2023 book “Popcorn Country” by Cris Peterson. Three contests are offered for Wyoming students to encourage use of the book and provide application opportunities for what is learned.

The 2023 contests include a coloring contest for Kindergarten and first graders, a poster contest for second and third graders and a marketing ad contest for fourth and fifth graders. Contest rules and details are available at wyfb.org. The county contest deadline is March 31.

break because I love it.”

Hannah grew up on her family’s operation showing cattle in 4-H and open shows. She notes she is learning a lot by being back on the ranch and fulfilling her duties as a ranch wife.

She shares, “As others looking at getting involved with production ag, it’s okay to get ideas, but they shouldnʼt feel like they have to do it the way everyone else is doing it.”

“At times it can be intimidating, because as a young producer, we’re immersed in a community of people who have done ranching a specific way,” mentions Hannah. “It can be easy to feel like we won’t succeed if we don’t follow in our predecessors’ footsteps. But, in reality, it’s okay to reach out and get information, because sometimes it takes trial and error to figure out what works best for you and reaching your goals.”

Zack shares, “I wasn’t excited about getting any

kind of education at all. I didn’t want to go to school, but I did and I’m glad I did.”

As

this event.

ASA# 4065022 SimAngus™

4065109 SimAngus™ CLRS HOMELAND 327H SON $API 150.6 $TI 87.4

K712 ASA# 4028322 3/4 SM TJ 50K 485H SON $API 145.8 $TI 82.6

Guild family – Callan, Hannah and Zack Guild, pictured left to right, ranch in Uinta County. The family runs an Angus/Hereford/Limousin cow/calf operation. Courtesy photo

March 6 Goshen County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 1-5 p.m. Platte Valley Bank Meeting Room, Torrington. For more information, call Brian Sebade at 307-721-2571.

March 6 Casper College Annual Doornbos Lecture Series, 6 p.m., Gertrude Krampert Center for Theatre and Dance, Casper College, Casper. Free and open to the public.

March 7 University of Wyoming Big Horn County Extension 2023 Extravaganza, 2-8:30 p.m. Basin Fairgrounds, Basin. For more information or to RSVP, call 307-272-0576, 307-568-4160 or 307-388-0383.

March 8 State Trade Expansion Program Logistics of Export Webinar, online. For more information, visit sba.gov

March 9 Fremont County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Dubois Community Center, Dubois. For more information, call Chance Marshall at 307-332-2363.

March 9 Campbell County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 12-4 p.m. Cottonwood Room of the George Amos Memorial Building, Gillette. For more information, call Jaycie Arndt at 307-673-2856

March 10-11

March 10-12

Harvest Wyoming Small Farm Symposium, Central Wyoming College Health and Science building, Riverton. For more information, visit harvestwyoming.eventbrite.com or call 307-347-3431.

Cache Valley Cowboy Rendezvous, Cache County Event Center, Logan, Utah. For more information, visit cvcowboy.org

March 10-12 Black Hills Gun Show, The Lodge at Deadwood, Deadwood, S.D. For more information, call 605-641-0870 or 307-751-1877.

March 11 Weston County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 12-4 p.m. Weston County Fairgrounds, Newcastle. For more information, call Jaycie Arndt at 307-673-2856.

March 13 Sublette County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 10 a.m. Sublette County Extension Office, Pinedale. For more information, call Hudson Hill at 307-885-3132.

March 13 Sweetwater County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 2 p.m. Community Center, Farson. For more information, call Hudson Hill at 307-885-3132.

March 14 Lincoln County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 1 p.m. Afton Civic Center, Afton. For more information, call Hudson Hill at 307-885-3132.

March 14-16 National Cover Crop Summit, online. For more information and to register, visit covercropstrategies.com

March 15 Washakie County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Washakie County Extension Office, Worland. For more information, call Caitlin Youngquist at 307-347-3431.

March 16 Bureau of Land Management South Pass City Trail Opportunity Open House, 5:30-7 p.m. Lander Library, Lander. For more information, call Jared Oakleaf at 307-332-8400 or Joe Ellis at 307-332-3684.

March 16 Fremont County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Lander Extension Office, Lander. For more information, call Chance Marshall at 307-332-2363.

March 16 Cattle Market Update and Free Meal, 6 p.m., Ramkota Hotel, Casper. For more information and to RSVP by March 13, call 307-747-6377.

March 18 Natrona County Cow-Belles Annual Gala, Hilton Garden Inn, Casper. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Natrona County Cow-Belles on Facebook or e-mail nccowbelles@gmail.com.

March 21 Sheridan County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 12-4 p.m. Sheridan County Extension Office, Sheridan. For more information, call Jaycie Arndt at 307-673-2856.

March 22 Crook County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 12-4 p.m. Crook County Extension Community Room, Sundance. For more information, call Jaycie Arndt at 307-673-2856.

March 22 State Trade Expansion Program Money Talk Webinar, online. For more information, visit sba.gov

March 22 U.S. Department of Agriculture Schedule F Webinar, 1 p.m., online. For more information and to register, visit farmersgov.com

March 23 Crook County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 12-4 p.m. Greater Hulett Community Center, Hulett. For more information, call Jaycie Arndt at 307-673-2856.

March 23 Uinta County Private Pesticide Applicator Program, 1 p.m. Mountain View Library, Mountain View. For more information, contact Hudson Hill at 307-885-3132.

Worland, WY

March 6 McCann Red Angus Annual Bull Sale, Billings Livestock Commission, Billings, Mont., 208-743-5517, 208-790-0646, mccannredangus.com

March 6 Veseth Cattle Company 17th Annual Sale, Glasgow Stockyards, Glasgow, Mont., 406-658-2504, vesethcattleco.com

March 7 Ipsen Cattle Company 10th Annual Internet Bull Sale, 208-681-4794, 208681-4793, ipsencattle.com

March 7 Apex Angus 50th Value Added Production Sale, at the ranch, Valier, Mont., 406-279-3341, 406-472-3245, apexangus.com

March 8 Sitz Angus 21st Annual Spring Bull Sale, at the ranch, Dillon, Mont., 406683-5277, 406-581-6448, 208-670-2364, sitzangus.com

March 8 Heart River Ranch/Open A Angus Annual Production Sale, the Feedlot, Belfield, N.D., 701-575-8145, 701-623-4461, openangus.com, heartrivergenetics.com

March 10 Leland Red Angus 40th Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Sidney, Mont., 701-565-2347, 701-565-2361, lelandredangus.com

March 10 Quest of the West 18th Annual Cattle Sale, Spanish Fork Fairgrounds, Spanish Fork, Utah, 801-420-2962, questofthewestcattle.net

March 11 MTR Cattle Company Bull Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307217-0408, 307-217-0409, mtrcattle.com

March 11 Diamond Peak Cattle Company Diamonds in the Rough Bull Sale, Riverton Livestock Auction, Riverton, 970-326-8621, diamondpeakcattle.com

March 13 Holden Herefords 57th Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Valier, Mont., 406-450-1029, holdenherefords.com

March 13 Pine Coulee Bull Sale, Wagon Box Ranch, Hardin, Mont., 406-855-2832, 406-780-1230, pinecoulee.com

March 13 P\T Livestock Annual High Country Genetics Performance Bull Sale, Shoshoni, 307-709-8351, 307-709-8361, ptlivestock.com

March 14 Hancock Livestock Seventh Annual Bull Sale, Riverton Livestock Auction, Riverton, 307-250-6900, hancocklivestock.com

March 14 Cooper Hereford Ranch 57th Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Willow Creek, Mont., 406-539-6885, cooperherefords.com

March 14 Loosli Red Angus 49th Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Ashton, Idaho, 208-652-3303, 208-227-3779, 208-351-3333, loosliredangus.com

March 16 Carter Cattle Company 24th Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Pingree, Idaho, 208-390-4811, 208-681-9711, 208-681-8859, cartercattleco.com

March 17 Black Summit Cattle Company Annual Bull Sale, Black Summit Cattle Sale Facility, Powell, 307-899-3553, 307-899-1764, blacksummitcattle.com

March 17 Montana Performance Bull Co-op with Basin Angus Ranch Annual Bull Sale, Midland Bull Test Sale Facility, Columbus, Mont., 406-780-1219, 406321-2470, 406-350-0350, basinangus.com

March 18 Triangle J Ranch and Altenburg Super Baldy Ranch LLC Colorado Select Sale, Centennial Livestock Auction, Fort Collins, Colo., 303-627-5085, 970481-2570, trianglejranch.com, altenburgsuperbaldy.com

March 18

Gnerer Angus Annual Bull Sale, at the Ranch, Olive, Mont., 406-427-5293, 406-498-6113, gnererangus.com

The headline and story read:

Ice Jam Up River

With below-normal temperatures in Saratoga and record snowfall in both the Snowy Range and Sierra Madre Mountains, local residents are concerned with ice jams, flooding or both. A news item in the April 19, 1909 issue of The Saratoga Sun expressed similar concerns.

The articles reads:

This morning, the river is filled with an angry flood, full of broken ice, the result of an ice gorge somewhere up river.

The water in the river has been rising steadily for the past three or four days and is higher than usual this morning. It is now almost as high as at any time last year, and yet, the snow has not gone out of the hills surrounding the

town, to say nothing of the foothills and mountains.

There is hardly anyone so skeptical at this time as to doubt we are soon to have the highest water seen here for many years. The weather has remained cool all through April, and this has held back the melting of the snow.

When the warm weather does set in, the banks will not hold the flood.

If any preparations are to be made to keep the water out of the town, they had better be made now, as it will be impossible to do anything when the waters are out of the riverbanks.

Yet, another article in the March 25, 1920 issue of the Rawlins Republican had another slant on an ice jam.

Eight Hundred Woolies Saved by Ice Jam Worland, March 20 – Eight hundred head of sheep, marooned on a little island in the Big Horn River and belonging to the Dickie outfit, were saved from being washed downstream by the biggest ice jam ever witnessed in the river here.

Ice was piled high on all sides of the island, forming a dam which kept out the water and prevented floodwaters from reaping a heavy toll. The owners of the animals later paid $1,422 for the rescue of the sheep through their transfer to a safe place.

Worland was also subjected to a small flood from Nowater Creek, when railroaders were striving to save a bridge and inadvertently turned the tide down the tracks into town, flooding streets and basements.

The Worland Lumber and Hardware Company sustained damages amounting to $6,000, and others reported smaller damages.

An ice jam on the Upper North Platte River, just north of the Wyoming/Colorado state line, in 1928 washed out this bridge at the A Bar A Dude Ranch. Photo from the Dick Perue/Bob Martin collection. Historical Reproductions by Perue

FOR THE

WEEK ENDING March 3, 2023

FOR THE WEEK ENDING May 24, 2019

National Wool Review

As of February 24, 2023

In Australia this week, the Eastern Market Indicator was down 10 cents at 1364 cents per Kg clean from the sale a week ago. A total of 53,060 bales were offered with sales of 87.0 percent. The Australian exchange rate was stronger by .0049 at .6831 percent of the U.S. dollar. Australian wool prices are quoted US Dollar per pound, delivered, Charleston, S.C. The current freight rate is .15 cents per pound clean.

Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Torrington

Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Greeley, CO

National Sheep Summary

As of February 24, 2023

Compared to last week slaughter lambs mostly firm to 30.00 higher. Slaughter ewes mostly steady to 10.00 higher. Feeder lambs not well tested. Hazardous weather cancelled several sales and restricted receipts at other sales this week. At San Angelo, TX 4,115 head sold. No sales in Equity Cooperative Auction. In direct trading slaughter ewes and feeder lambs not tested. 4,048 lamb carcasses traded with no trend due to confidentiality. All sheep sold per hundred weight (CWT)unless specified.

Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 2-3

San Angelo: wooled and shorn 125-130 lbs 151.00-170.00; 155-180 lbs 148.00-169.00.

Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 100-135 lbs 180.00-215.00.

South Dakota: wooled and shorn 115-145 lbs no test.

Billings: wooled and shorn 100-145 lbs no test.

Equity Coop: no sales.

Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 1-2

San Angelo: hair 40-60 lbs 285.00-318.00, few 326.00; 60-70 lbs 274.00-299.00, few 302.00; 70-80 lbs 246.00-281.00, few

301.00-302.00; 80-90 lbs 220.00-264.00, few 276.00; 90100 lbs 180.00-228.00, few 235.00. wooled and shorn 52 lbs

305.00; 60-70 lbs 277.00-299.00; 70-80 lbs 253.00-274.00; 90-100 lbs 228.00-229.00.

Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 86 lbs 240.00. hair 90-100 lbs

225.00.

South Dakota: no test.

Billings: no test.

Slaughter Ewes

San Angelo: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy)

70.00, hair 90.00-111.00; Utility and Good 1-3 (medium flesh)

122.00, hair 110.00-132.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) hair 107.00110.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) hair 92.00-93.00; Cull 1

70.00-80.00.

Ft. Collins: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 85.00-100.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 72.50-100.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) no test; Cull 1 no test.

South Dakota: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) no test; Utility 1-2 (thin) no test; Cull 1 no test.

Billings: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) no test; Utility 1-2 (thin) no test; Cull 1 no test.

Feeder Lambs: Medium and Large 1-2

San Angelo: hair 25-30 lbs 300.00-322.00; 30-40 lbs 281.00-318.00; 40-50 lbs 290.00-316.00; 50-60 lbs 278.00-326.00.

Ft. Collins: no test.

South Dakota: no test.

Billings: no test.

Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2

San Angelo: mixed age hair 100-115 lbs 135.00-150.00/cwt; hair ewes and lambs 105.00/head.

Ft. Collins: ewes with lambs 220.00/family.

South Dakota: no test.

Billings: no test.

Sheep and lambs slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 34,000 compared with 37,000 last week and 30,000 last year.

Source: USDA AMS Market News, San Angelo, Texas

Eastern Market Indicator was down 10 cents at 1364 cents per kg clean. Australian exchange rate was stronger by .0049 at .6831 percent of the U.S. dollar.

Source: USDA- CO Dept of Ag Market News Service, Greeley, CO

Wyoming Hay Summary

As of March 2, 2023

Compared to last report, all reported hay sold fully steady. Sun-cured alfalfa pellets sold 20.00 higher. Demand was good throughout the week. Most producers are almost out of hay with a few unsold lots of hay around. Bulk of the produced hay is staying in the local trade areas. Tick warmer temperatures most of the week helping snow melt. States snotel for the median comes in at 112% with the basin high of 145% and basin low of 78%. Last year the state median was at 85% and 94% for 2021. Snowpack is watched by many as it’s an indicator of how much irrigation water they should have to use in the upcoming growing season. It appears several of the water basins should be nearly full at the start of the summer due to the snotel report.

Alfalfa - Supreme

Alfalfa - Good

Alfalfa

Alfalfa - Premium

Eastern Wyoming

Square 3x4 310

Round 285

Square 3x4 270

15% Suncured 390

Square 270-300

Square 3 Tie 285-350

Alfalfa Cubes 380

Alfalfa/Orchard Mix - Premium Small Square 285-300

Grass - Good/Premium Large Square 3x4 265

Oat Small Square 200

Teff - Fair Small Square 200

Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News Torrington Nebraska Hay Summary

As of March 2, 2023

Compared to last week all reported hay sales sold steady. Demand was good. Most contacts said their cell phones were not a busy this week compared to the last several weeks. Some snow melting has helped take some pressure off the market as cows can graze winter feed resources. Quite a few loads of hay continue to be shipped in from North and South Dakota. Nebraska Department of Agriculture website has a hay and forage hotline with listings of hay for sale.

bulls th at are unpampered and ready to work for your h erd!

SALE REPORTS

Kretschman Angus Annual Bull Sale

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor

Mt. Rushmore Angus Ranch

Annual Bull Sale

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor Feb. 26, 2023

Mt. Rushmore Angus Ranch, Rapid City, S.D.

Auctioneer: Kyle Schobe 118 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $5,977

Myers Fair-N-Square M39

Dam’s Sire: KG Justified 3023 EPDs: BW: -0.6, WW: +82, YW: +140 and Milk: +32 Buyer: Payco-Holecek, Bowman, N.D. Lot 59 – M R A Intuition

+139 and Milk:

Buyer: Green Mountain Angus Ranch, Ryegate, Mont. Lot 12 – M R A Advocate

REG#-

A sharp, heavy muscled, herd bull prospect. 2122 is a top performer with a moderate birth weight, an ADG of 4.03 lbs/day and a 1416 lb 365-day weight. His dam is a top young daughter of Mc Cumber Armour 7148 that excels for structure, soundness, udder quality and fertility.

Selling

REG #- 20498836 A calving ease herd sire prospect with the structure, style, length and extension to get your attention. Additionally, he is heavy muscled, easy going and wide based. 280 is not only a double digit CED and minus BW EPD bull but has performed well with a WWR of 108 and YWR of 107. He is backed by all the top cows identified within our program.

130

BULLS

40 REG. YEARLING HEIFERS 30 COMMERCIAL HEIFERS

A breeding program built for 59 years on producing profitable, predictable, adaptable cattle for the commercial cattle producers. Our commitment has never changed.

MC CUMBER 2008 TREMENDOUS 2103

REG #- 20498709 An impressive, heavy muscled, deep ribbed, high performing full brother to Mc Cumber Tribute 702. A herd bull prospect with the muscle, body dimension, and natural thickness to sire forage efficient, easy fleshing progeny. An additional sale highlight includes an Embryo interest in his flush sister and full sister to Mc Cumber Tribute 702.

REG#-20498755 A performance powerhouse with abundant capacity, natural thickness, and muscle shape. He was the #1 weaning weight bull of the calf crop with a 205-day weight of 845 lbs an ADG of 3.87 lbs/day and a 365-day weight of 1464 lbs. for a ratio of 111. More than a performance bull he is loaded with maternal quality bred in for generations.

Sire: M R A Advocate 9035 Dam’s Sire: Baldridge Breakthrough A091 EPDs: BW: +2.0, WW: +78, YW: +134 and Milk: +41 Buyer: Matt Bowen, Scenic, S.D. Lot 18 – M R A Fair N Square 2060 – Price:

$11,000 DOB: 1/9/22 Sire:

2216 – Price: $11,000 DOB:

1/22/22 Sire: Sitz Intuition

Dam’s Sire: Connealy Arsenal 2174 EPDs: BW: +3.2, WW: +90, YW: +151 and Milk: +37 Buyer: Darby Jespersen, Hemmingford, Neb.

Lot 61 – M R A Intuition 2332 – Price: $10,000DOB: 2/1/22 Sire: Sitz Intuition Dam’s Sire: Haynes Outright 452 EPDs: BW: +0.6, WW: +77, YW: +135 and Milk: +33 Buyer: Payco-Holecek, Bowman, N.D.

Reyes/Russell Annual Bull Sale

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor Feb. 27, 2023

MR Angus Ranch, Wheatland

Auctioneers:

Top Sellers

Two-Year-Olds

Lot 6 – MR Next 00131

– Price: $21,000 DOB:

5/22/21 Sire: Next Gen 36

Next Step 189 Dam’s Sire: MR Marlboro 3308 EPDs: BW: +3.6, WW: +57, YW: +106 and Milk: +32

Lot 4 – MR Outside 34791 – Price: $20,000

DOB: 6/4/21 Sire: KR

Outside 7687 Dam’s Sire: Granger Great Falls 053

EPDs: BW: +0.9, WW: +70, YW: +120 and Milk: +33

Lot 67 – MR Ideal

FWS continued from page A1

ascension. These include Williams and Senior Advisor for Conservation Policy Tracy Stone-Manning.

In an exclusive interview with WyoFile, Sundaresan noted he worked on several regional issues of national significance, which also contributed to his new position at FWS.

“This led me to get recruited to go to work for a philanthropic foundation, where I was working on Western conservation issues – all the way from Yellowstone, up into Canada and down the spine of the Canadian Rockies,” he said. “I guess my approach to conservation and how I think about these issues caught the attention of people at the Department of Interior, and I was asked to consider this position.”

Second in command

Now, as FWS deputy director, Sundaresan is second in command for the

national organization. In this position, he will help guide the management of 560 national wildlife refuges and 70 national fish hatcheries.

Additionally, he will work to enforce the Endangered Species Act and other federal wildlife laws.

“At the director’s office, we have Department Head Williams, Director of Policy Programs Steve Guertin and Deputy Director of Operations Wendi Weber,” Sundaresan told WyoFile. “I’m a political appointee, which means I’m slightly different from the other two deputy directors.”

“I have a portfolio of issues – on birds, fish and wildlife – which I represent the director’s office on,” he further explained. “I try to help understand where and how we can be effective and further the cause of conservation. There’s rulemaking, conversations with stakeholders and meetings about

UW professors honored

Members of the University of Wyoming’s (UW) Senior Honor Society recently honored their “Top Profs” at the 43rd annual Top Prof Night.

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

Five faculty members in the College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources received “Top Prof” honors.

These include the Department of Family and Consumer Science’s Treva Sprout Ahrenholtz, selected by Ashlyn Dunn of Carbondale, Colo.; the Department of Family and Consumer Science’s Grace Shearer, selected by Grace McCartney of De Soto, Iowa; the Department of Family and Consumer Science’s Megan McGuffey Skinner, selected by Katie Norris of Green River; the Department of Molecular Biology’s Jason Gigley, selected by Kit Ng of Laramie and the Department of Molecular Biology’s Kassi Willingham, selected by Camryn Leland of Parker, Colo.

issues with other federal agencies we are trying to move the agenda on.”

Sundaresan noted his time working in the GYE has influenced the way he approaches his job as second in command at FWS.

“Throughout my career, internationally in India and Kenya, there’s been a running theme of how I approach conservation, which I also employed when I worked in the GYE. The approach which animated my entire career is one of working with all partners,” he said.

“Looking to find common ground is something I feel we can all do, whether it’s through advocacy, working at a foundation or right now in my role at a government agency. There’s a robust and thoughtful group of people who care deeply about conservation, even if our specific position on a particular issue might vary,” he concluded. “In many parts of the West, we share a deep and abiding love for

Siva Sundaresan, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Bangs