April 1, 2023

Wyoming Weed and Pest Council offers advice on how to prepare for grasshoppers this spring Page 7

Dick Perue recalls Fighter Pilot Lt. Jack Shively’s last flight home in September 1943

Page 14

Wyoming State Fair launches new, immersive educational program focused on everyday agriculture Page 18

Lee Pitts recounts how he learned to cowboy Page 19

Quick Bits

Snow Report

The 16th snow report for Water Year 2023 shows current Wyoming snow telemetry data at 122% of median, with a basin high of 158% and a basin low of 88%. In 2022, the state was at 83% and at 95% 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

WSGA Event

The Wyoming Stock Growers Association’s (WSGA) annual Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show will be held in Riverton at the Holiday Inn Riverton Conference Center June 7-9. This annual event brings together cattle producers and industry supporters for policy development, education and camaraderie over three days. For more information, visit wysga.org

USDA Aid

On March 27, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it will provide approximately $123 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers who are facing financial risk, beginning in April, as part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers provided through Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act.

IDF Summit

Registration is now open for the International Dairy Federation (IDF) World Dairy Summit 2023, the world’s largest annual global dairy conference, held Oct. 16-19 in Chicago, which is the first time the summit has been held in the U.S. for the past 30 years. The summit’s immersive program will bring together dairy leaders and renowned experts to address dairy’s most significant opportunities in a dynamic global marketplace. For more information and to register, visit idfwds2023. com. To receive a discounted rate, register by June 30.

OSU releases new, dual-purpose winter wheat variety

Oklahoma State University (OSU) recently announced the creation of a new variety of hard red winter wheat – OK18510, also known as High Cotton –which will be released to the commercial market this fall.

According to OSU Plant and Soil Sciences Professor Dr. Brett Carver, this new, dual-purpose variety will provide growers with multiple benefits including high yields and disease resistance.

High Cotton creation

In an episode of SUNUP TV, dated March 9, Carver explains High Cotton first came into existence in 2010 in an OSU greenhouse in Stillwater, Okla.

It was created by breed-

ing an OSU wheat variety, Ruby Lee, with a CIMMYT experimental line developed in Turkey as part of the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center’s breeding program –

Please see WHEAT on page 11

2023 Spring Planting Edition

The

Farmer

By Amelia Barr

The king may rule o’er land and sea, the lord may live right royally, the soldier ride in pomp and pride, the sailor roam o’er ocean wide. But this or that, whate’er befall, the farmer he must feed them all.

The writer thinks, the poet sings, the craftsmen fashion wondrous things. The doctor heals, the lawyer pleads, the miner follows the precious leads. But this or that, whate’er befall, the farmer he must feed them all.

The merchant he may buy and sell, the teacher do his duty well. But men may toil through busy days, or men may stroll through pleasant ways. From king to beggar, whate’er befall, the farmer he must feed them all.

The farmer’s trade is one of worth; he’s partner with the sky and earth. He’s partner with the sun and rain, and no man loses for his gain. And men may rise, or men may fall, but the farmer he must feed them all.

God bless the man who sows the wheat, who finds us milk and fruit and meat. May his purse be heavy, his heart be light, his cattle and corn and all go right.

God bless the seeds his hands let fall, for the farmer he must feed us all.

Protecting production

UW research works to protect Wyoming’s dry bean production from soil-borne disease

The next time someone settles down to enjoy a steaming bowl of chili or a spicy bean burrito, they should thank a dry bean producer.

Dry edible beans, such as pinto, navy, kidney, black and white beans, are grown in 30 states, with 1.34 million acres harvested in 2021.

According to 2014 data, Wyoming was ranked eighth for dry bean production and is a leading producer of bright, packaging-quality pinto beans.

In Wyoming, dry bean production in 2007-16 ranged from 25,000 acres to 49,000 acres, and the top producing areas were the Big Horn Basin and the southeast corner of the state.

Wyoming also produces certified dry bean seed. Soil-borne disease

One challenge of dry bean production in Wyoming and neighboring states is soil-borne disease, particularly root rot diseases. Several pathogens cause root rot diseases, and Rhizoctonia and Fusarium root rot are

Please see UW on page 8

Fertilizer update provided at forum USDA shares sugar outlook

The U.S. is among the world’s largest sugar producers. Unlike most countries, the U.S. has large and well-developed industries for both sugarcane and sugarbeets. Since the 1990s, sugarcane and sugarbeets have accounted for about 45 percent and 55 percent, respectively, of domestic sugar production.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Economic Research Service (ERS) monitors developments in the sugar market and provides a range of data products and reports covering domestic and international supply, demand, trade and prices.

Sugar and sweeteners outlook

In the USDA’s March 2023 Sugar and Sweeteners Outlook, compiled by Coordinator Vidalina Abadam, the 202223 U.S. total sugar supply has declined by 54,000 short tons, raw value (STRV) to 14.460 million from last month as larger sugar production – a new record if realized – is offset by lower imports.

The decrease in imports is mainly driven by the 172,000STRV increase in higher-tier imports to 156,000. Additionally, sugar delivered for human consumption has increased 100,000 STRV to 12.6 million.

Total use has increased by the same amount to 12.705 million STRV. Ending stocks fell by 154,000 to 1.720 million for an ending stocks-to-use ratio of 13.5 percent, down 1.3 percentage points from last month’s 14.8 percent.

Mexico’s sugar production in 2022-23 has declined 415,000 metric tons (MT) actual value from last month to 5.485 million, due to lower expectations for sugarcane

Arlington, Va. – During the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 99th Annual Agricultural Outlook Forum, International Fertilizer Association Market Intelligence Service Director Laura Cross; StoneX Vice President of Fertilizer Josh Linville and University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign Associate Professor Hope Michelson discussed a presentation titled, “Fertilizer Availability and Price Volatility –Implications for Production Costs, Consumer Prices and Food Security.”

Global fertilizer market drivers

To begin, Cross noted the last 12 to 18 months have been fairly unprecedented with the number of questions aris-

ing about fertilizers, especially from outside the sector.

She explained fertilizer markets are global commodities and prices are set based on the balance between supply and demand. They fluctuate between a price floor set by a marginal cost of production and a price ceiling, which is driven by a number of factors.

She noted energy and the presence of raw materials drives supply, while global food demand, crop prices, ability to pay and the foreign exchange market drives demand.

“Fertilizer markets sit directly

Please see USDA on page 6

WYLR photo

Agriculture comes with numerous names, but the most important is “business.” As a business, like others, we realize stability comes in all forms.

For those involved in agriculture, especially farmers and livestock producers, the main factors for stability are prices and weather. Another factor agriculture has always had to deal with is politics.

When it comes to agriculture in politics, we are often out voted, but we need to learn to be better at telling our story. We have some great ag organizations assisting us.

Having an administration in Washington, D.C. that doesn’t understand agriculture, especially public lands, endangered species and water issues, creates volatility which can hinder our business climate.

Every dollar spent on regulations is a dollar less to spend toward improving land for wildlife, recreation and the business of ranching and farming. If one values open space, water development, improved soil conditions and wildlife habitat, a family in agriculture is a friend.

The old saying is so true, “Every so often a person will need a doctor, a dentist or a banker, but this same person will need someone from agriculture three times a day.”

Agriculture’s biggest responsibility is food security. Responsibility of the land is an important part of food security. Having to deal with unneeded regulations makes food security more fragile.

For livestock producers, stability means good prices for cattle, sheep and horses. I realize a wild swing in prices may not always be the best, but high cattle and sheep prices are sure nice.

Cattle prices have been off for a number of years, but forecasts show they will be quite a bit higher the next few years. Cattle numbers are currently low these days, and rebuilding herds may take some time.

Lower beef production is the result of decreases in both cattle slaughter and carcass weights. In the last four weeks, beef production has averaged around 6.4 percent lower compared to last year at this time. Total beef pro duction is expected to drop sharply for the remainder of the year.

In the sheep markets, lambs are up one week and down the next, with the trend slightly moving up. Car cass weights are down, which hopefully means slaughter is current.

There is nothing anybody can do about the weather, but a couple of years of drought followed by a horren dous winter does not do agriculture’s cash flow any good.

Cold weather paired with all of the snow has really hurt the condition of livestock. I just hope we don’t have a late spring.

Many people ranch and farm because it is their live lihood and passion. With so many dollars tied up in land, it can, at times, be a good business to enjoy with our families.

Sure, there are hardships, but the culture of agricul ture has numerous rewards. Providing food and fiber for America is an honor not taken lightly.

Someone once said, “One of the nicest things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating.”

GUEST OPINIONS

Legislative Accomplishments Are a Win for the People of Wyoming

At the commencement of the 67th Legislature, in my State of the State address and my supplemental budget request, I identified multiple legislative priorities focused on ensuring Wyoming’s success, now and into the future.

I am pleased to report several noteworthy achievements which will benefit our citizens and our state.

As governor, I have always been committed to ensuring our state is financially stable and prepared for unforeseen economic challenges.

This is why I emphasized the importance of making hay while the sun is shining – in times of economic prosperity, we must

By Gov. Mark Gordon

save for leaner times. This fiscally-responsible approach ensures we have the resources to continue providing the services our citizens expect of their state government without increasing taxes, even when facing economic downturns. Some argue this approach is unnecessarily cautious, but I firmly believe we owe it to our citizens to be thoughtful and strategic with our financial decisions.

A cursory look at the downward trend in current crude oil or natural gas prices underscores why the state must be wary of profligacy in good times.

Supplemental budget bill

Overall, the supple

mental budget bill I signed aligns with my goals and is a responsible, forwardthinking approach to managing our state’s finances by prioritizing funding for essential services and programs now and setting aside $1.3 billion in savings.

We are looking toward the future and investing in the present. It is important to do this now because our current budget includes a one-time windfall of $412 million of federal revenuereplacement funds going away next year, and I have already mentioned commodity volatility.

The second largest component of my budget focuses on addressing those most impacted by the effects of

inflation – seniors and those living on a fixed income.

I appreciate the legislature recognizing targeted property tax relief for Wyoming families facing rapid inflation-driven increases in residential property taxes helps to provide stability when it is most essential.

Expanded eligibility and funding for the Property Tax Refund Program is expected to double the number of Wyoming households who can receive targeted assistance – a huge win for Wyoming people.

Local governments are not immune to the impacts of inflation. This is why I requested additional funding for direct distribution

Wyoming Livestock Roundup Reporting the News by the Code of the West

Wyoming Livestock Roundup (USPS # 005-774) is published weekly by Maverick Press, Inc. P.O. Box 850 • Casper, WY 82602

Periodicals postage paid in Casper, WY Fax: 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

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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

WY 82602

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ALB nominations open

The American Lamb Board (ALB) is now accepting nominations for board members, and nomination forms must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service by May 5. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack will appoint the board members.

USDA is soliciting nominations for board positions, which will begin January 2024, for producers with 100 or fewer lambs, producers with more than 500 lambs, feeders with 500 or fewer lambs, first handlers and seedstock producers.

One of the producer representatives must be from Region One, east of the Mississippi River. The board positions for feeder, first handler and seedstock representatives are not limited to geographic location.

Board members who have completed two consecutive three-year terms are not eligible for reappointment to ALB. Each vacant position is required to have a minimum of two nominations.

Nominations should include an LP-84 “Nomination for Appointment to the Lamb Promotion, Research and Information Board” form; a form AD-755, advisory committee membership background information, completed in its entirety and signed and a form LP-13, nominee’s agreement to serve.

For more information, visit lambresourcecenter.com

NSAC applauds bill

On March 28, Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Sen. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced the Agriculture Resilience Act (ARA) in both the House and Senate. The ARA outlines a farmer-focused, sciencebased path to agricultural climate mitigation and adaptation.

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) is proud to endorse this bill which delivers a bold vision for the future of agriculture.

The ARA would refocus farm bill conservation, research, renewable energy and rural economic development programs on climate resilience and empower farmers and ranchers eager to drive climate change solutions on the ground.

The ARA represents a comprehensive approach to climate and agriculture legislation which offers both funding for farmer-led solutions and policy specifics that ensure targeting of the practices of the highest ecological value.

The bill is a step toward building a public climate and agriculture research framework which will benefit many communities.

In addition, it provides expanded opportunities for farmers of color as well as states and Tribes to more fully implement their own climate change solutions.

BLM offers reward

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is offering a $250 reward for information to help identify individuals responsible for vandalizing natural features in Roger’s Canyon, a recreational area located approximately seven miles northeast of Laramie.

BLM rangers discovered discarded furniture and multiple rocks spray painted on March 15.

Roger’s Canyon is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Hikers, climbers, cyclists and sharpshooters find refuge and adventure among the canyon’s limestone walls. The area’s value to recreators and residents is evident, as multiple groups have organized clean-up events over the years to protect the canyon ecosystem.

Anyone with information can call a statewide dispatch center at 888-358-2310 or the Albany County Sheriff’s Office at 307-721-2526.

EPA announces proposal

On March 28, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a notice of proposed rulemaking which would strengthen the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) rule, making annual drinking water quality reports with important public health information more accessible to residents and businesses across the country.

A CCR, sometimes called an Annual Drinking Water Quality Report, summarizes information about the local drinking water from the previous year. EPA’s proposal would support public education by more clearly communicating important information in water quality reports and improving access to the reports.

When finalized, EPA’s proposal would improve the readability and clarity of water quality reports, enhance risk communication, encourage modern electronic delivery options, clarify information regarding lead levels and efforts to reduce lead in drinking water, provide translation for customers with limited English proficiency and require reports be issued twice a year for systems serving 10,000 or more people.

Additionally, EPA’s proposal would require states to submit compliance monitoring data to EPA. While states already collect compliance monitoring data, current EPA regulations limit the data available to the EPA.

When final, this action will help EPA identify trends both geographically and demographically, which will improve transparency and accountability and amplify best practices to maximize direct benefits in communities.

EPA is seeking comments on this proposal for the next 45 days. The public comment period will open following the proposed rule publishing in the Federal Register. Public comments can be provided at regulations.gov under Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OW-2022-0260.

BuRec schedules flushing flow

The Bureau of Reclamation (BuRec), at the request of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and in coordination with Willwood Workgroup Two, has scheduled a flushing flow in the Shoshone River downstream of Buffalo Bill Dam.

The flushing flow will begin with rapidly increasing flows on April 11 and conclude on April 14. Willwood Irrigation District, in coordination with Willwood Workgroup Two, is planning a controlled elevated release of sediment from Willwood Dam on April 11.

The sediment release will pass naturally accumulated sediment to facilitate operations and maintenance of the diversion structure. The purpose of the increased flows from Buffalo Bill Dam following the sediment release is to help protect the fishery by mobilizing the sediment downstream.

The sediment release and increased flow are being coordinated to minimize impacts to irrigators, recreators and aquatic life in the Shoshone River.

BuRec will retime operations and provide the flushing flow with the expectation excess water will need to be released this spring. The flush will be accomplished without adversely impacting the expected water supply for irrigation.

Flows are expected to fluctuate in the Shoshone River at Cody.

Flows of 4,500 cubic feet per second or more in the Shoshone River below Buffalo Bill Dam are not unusual during peak summer snowmelt runoff periods. However, the flows will be high for this time of year, and the public is urged to use extreme caution during this period of flushing flows below Buffalo Bill Dam.

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Linda: 970-381-6811 54286 CR 27, Carr, CO 80612 Catalogs

Supply sector faces risks

The outlook for agricultural retailers is generally favorable for 2023 following a year of record profits in 2022. However, the sector faces an emerging set of risks which could depress profit margins and challenge traditional business models in the years ahead.

Lower levels of industry working capital, higher property insurance costs and changing grower needs are three of the key issues ag retailers will need to navigate over the next five years.

According to a new report from CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange, a downturn in the crop cycle – after several years of consecutive high profits – is likely during 2024 or shortly thereafter. The prospect of lower grain prices and financial pressure at the farm level, combined with the newly emerging risks, has business implications ag retailers should begin preparing for now.

“Grain and farm supply cooperatives delivered tremendous value to their customers over the past three years of extreme volatility in prices and economic activity stemming from COVID-19,” said Kenneth Scott Zuckerberg, lead grain, farm supply and biofuels economist for CoBank. “Unfortunately, the post-pandemic world is one featuring a variety of new risks. The good news is ag retailers and farm supply coops can develop risk mitigation strategies before the eventual cyclical downturn occurs.”

GORDON continued from page 2

funding for our communities, as well as funding the Mineral Royalty Grant Program.

Smaller Wyoming communities with limited rev-

UW to host workshop

For sheep producers interested in learning more about budgeting, benchmarking and marketing, the University of Wyoming (UW) Extension will offer a free workshop in Lingle on April 19 from 3-7 p.m..

Producers of all ages, experience levels and operation sizes are welcome to attend the event, which will be hosted by the James C. Hageman Sustainable Research and Extension Center.

Stewart, alongside South Dakota State Extension Sheep Field Specialist Jaelyn Whaley and UW Agricultural Economist Brian Lee, will lead the workshop. Stewart will also facilitate a question and answer session.

Presenters will discuss what production parameters and costs are important, how to calculate key costs and successfully develop an enterprise budget and how to match production calendars with optimal markets.

Attendees are encouraged to come prepared with basic information about their own operations, such as the number of ewes and lambs they market and their feed costs.

To register, call 307-837-2000 or e-mail blee@ uwyo.edu.

Sens. reintroduce bill

U.S. Sens. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) reintroduced the bipartisan Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act to create a short-term authorization of funds to increase truck parking capacity and to improve existing truck parking infrastructure.

The legislation is cosponsored by Sens. Jon Tester (D-MT) and John Boozman (R-AR). Reps. Mike Bost (R-IL) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

Truckers are legally obligated to comply with Hours of Service regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. It is estimated truckers spend approximately one hour per day looking for safe parking, which cuts down on time driving to their destination.

According to a study commissioned by the Federal Highway Administration, 98 percent of truck drivers say they regularly experience difficulty finding safe parking and are forced to park on an exit ramp, on the side of an interstate or other unsafe areas.

The Truck Parking Safety Improvement Act will allocate funds to create thousands of safe parking spots for trucks and make necessary improvements to existing truck parking areas.

“Wyoming is home to three major interstates carrying thousands of tons of cargo a day. Without safe truck parking, truckers spend an unnecessary amount of time searching for a place to park – putting truckers and Wyoming drivers at greater risk for accidents. This is easily solvable, and I am thankful to Sen. Kelly for joining me in finding a commonsense solution,” said Lummis.

enue opportunities struggle when faced with unexpected emergencies and accelerated inflation. I am grateful the legislature recognized

the importance of supporting our communities and funded these requests.

Mental health

Since 2018, Wyoming has solidly landed as the state with the highest suicide rates, and every year our citizens’

BLEVINS

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demand for mental health services grows.

At my conference on mental health in Casper last year, the call for help in mental health services was apparent. No one seems immune, as demand for mental health services spans all generations and socioeconomic strata.

Last year’s data shows a reduction in our ever-increasing suicide rate, which may indicate some of our recent efforts are starting work.

Increasing access to mental health services in Wyoming has been one of my top priorities, and I am happy to share we had a productive session, which will positively impact our Wyoming residents.

Senate File (SF) 26 and SF 10 expand access to mental health services. House Bill (HB) 140 establishes the

Collaborative Care Model, which creates a funding model for providers offering wrap-around mental health services, improving patient outcomes.

These bills increase access to this critical care for our people struggling with the debilitating effects of mental health.

Suicide hotlines help break down the barriers of stigma around mental health and suicide, while encouraging individuals to seek help when needed.

In 2022, we launched a critical tool to help Wyomingites experiencing a mental health crisis, the 24/7 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

I am grateful the legislature created a trust fund account for the 988 hotline, although I was disappointed it wasn’t funded this year.

To sustain this vital lifesaving program, securing an adequate appropriation for the hotline is one of my priorities.

Pro-life healthcare

From day one, I have been clear, I am pro-life, not just pro-birth. If one is truly pro-life, it means supporting mothers, Wyoming’s families and kids – not just opposing abortion. Anything less seems cynical.

Wyoming must ensure access to healthcare for vulnerable infants and mothers so they can thrive during and after pregnancy. Complications from pregnancy and maternal mortality rates are often preventable, as well as improved health outcomes for mother and baby when access to prenatal and postnatal care is readily available.

Proactive care for babies and mothers can also translate to cost savings later by reducing the need for social services and law enforcement.

I could not be more pleased we signed two essential bills helping mothers and newborns receive the care they need in the most important year of a child’s life. HB 4, Medicaid Twelve Month Postpartum Coverage, extends postpartum coverage for Medicaid-eligible moms from 60 days to 12 months.

SF 79, Plan of Safe Care, developed with providers, requires hospitals to develop a plan of safe care for any infant born exposed to substances, ensuring necessary resources are established before discharge from the hospital.

These legislative achievements are conservative and truly pro-life.

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My commitment to the people of Wyoming and prioritizing their needs remains unwavering. Together, we will build a stronger, more prosperous Wyoming.

Mark Gordon is the governor of the state of Wyoming and can be reached at 307777-7434. This guest column was originally published in Cowboy State Daily on March 23.

Top Sellers

Lisco and M Diamond Angus

31st Annual Bull Sale

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor

March 24, 2023

M Diamond Angus Ranch, Glenrock Auctioneer: Lander Nicodemus

Sale Manger: Marcy Livestock Services

95 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $6,803

15 Aged Angus Bulls Avg. $6,417

EPDs: BW: -1.4, WW: +66, YW: +102 and Milk: +24

Buyer: Mill Iron Diamond Ranch, Shawnee Lot 31 – M Diamond Businessman 1282 – Price: $13,000 DOB: 3/24/22

Sire: M Diamond Business-

man 727 Dam’s Sire: Lisco Grand Finale 4103 EPDs: BW: +0.7, WW: +82, YW: +140 and Milk: +27 Buyer: Bridle Bit Ranch, Gillette Lot 49 – M Diamond

The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is publishing a proposed rule which would allow the importation of fresh beef from Paraguay.

APHIS conducted a risk analysis and concluded fresh beef can be imported safely from Paraguay under certain conditions, including verifying foot and mouth disease (FMD)

APHIS proposes rule

has not been diagnosed in the exporting region in the past 12 months, the meat comes from premises where FMD has not been present during the lifetime of any of the animals and the animals were inspected before and after death, among others.

In response, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) called on U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack to continue the ban

blocking Paraguay from importing beef into the U.S.

The proposed rule can be viewed in the March 29 Federal Register at federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2023-05889/importation-offresh-beef-from-paraguay

Beginning March 30, members of the public may submit comments on the proposed rule, and all comments must be received by May 26.

Choice to Fancy set of black

WW: +84, YW: +141 and Milk: +32 Buyer: Joe Netz, Lost Springs

Lot 30 – M Diamond Grand Finale 152 – Price:

$13,000 DOB: 2/21/22 Sire: Lisco Grand Finale 4103

Dam’s Sire: S Summit 4604

Scottsbluff, NE. Delivery: 4/6/23 to 4/8/23. Frame: Med to Med Lg; Flesh: Light Med to Med; Wt Var: Sl Uneven. Purchased: WY & N CO. Feed: Ration; Silage, pulp, DDG, earlage, wheat straw to gain 1.75 lbs/hd/day. Shots: Pyramid 5 + Presponse, 7-way/Somnus, Poured w/ Ivermax, Clean Up & Wormed with Valbazen. Component TEG Implant. Weigh: Early am gather, weigh on ground w/a 3%. Comments: Choice set of big end heifers coming of a string of 930 head. Heifers should go on and perform. Been on a ration to gain 1.75 lbs/hd/day. Rep: Lex Madden 307-532-1580. www.cattlecountryvideo.com

SALE RESULTS -FEEDER & CALVES

Boardwalk 262 – Price:

$13,000 DOB: 2/25/22 Sire:

U2 Boardwalk 407G Dam’s Sire: Redland Emblazon

2134 EPDs: BW: +2.5, WW: +60, YW: +109 and Milk: +27 Buyer: Rising 3 Livestock, Gillette

Closure permit submitted

In accordance with the provisions of the Wyoming Environmental Quality Act and Chapter One of the Solid Waste Rules, the Big Horn County Solid Waste Disposal District has submitted a closure permit application for the North Big Horn Landfill Number Two.

This facility will cease disposal of solid waste. The 71-acre facility is located approximately two and a half miles southeast of Cowley in Big Horn County.

The Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) Solid and Hazardous Waste Division has reviewed the permit application and determined it is generally complete.

Any interested person has the right to file comments on the permit application and the department’s completeness review. The period for providing comments began on March 16 and will end on April 24. Comments must be received by 5 p.m. on the last day of the notice period.

Comments can be submitted on the DEQ comment portal at shw.wyomingdeq.commentinput.com or in writing to DEQ Administrator Suzanne Engels, Solid and Hazardous Waste Division, 200 W. 17th Street, Cheyenne, WY 82002.

- Kaycee, WY 307-217-1472

between energy and food markets. And, what this means is there is quite a lot of opportunity for disruption, like we’ve seen in the last 12 months as a result of global changes,” said Cross.

“Then, we add in other factors outside of the control of any given commodity market – weather, planting progress, trade disruption, domestic policies and geopolitics – which have really had an impact,” she added.

Fertilizer myths debunked

Cross noted one myth about fertilizer is there is a shortage around the world.

However, this isn’t true. She explained global phosphorus fertilizer production increased from 2021 to 2022, and while nitrogen and potash production were curtailed somewhat during this time, the large drop-off in production was never seen.

“Global fertilizer production is expected to increase in 2023, with the urea capacity up two percent and phosphorus production up seven percent,” she said. “Potash production is expected to fall about 14 percent, but it would only be around a five percent drop compared to 2019.”

She noted another myth about fertilizer is prices are still at record-high levels. Again, this is not true.

Cross mentioned while there are certainly fertilizer supply challenges, fertilizer affordability is much better heading into the 2023 growing season compared to 2022.

However, U.S. farmers are running out of time to assess their nitrogen fertilizer form needs. If they wait until April, there most likely won’t to be enough, mentioned Linville.

Fertilizer outlook

“Things happening halfway around the world, absolutely matter at home,” Linville noted.

Going into 2023, he said there are two entities he’s watching – Europe and Russia.

Despite recent global disruptions, Russia continues to export fertilizer, particularly urea, across the world despite sanctions from other countries.

According to Linville, Russia is the world’s largest leading producer of anhydrous fertilizer, and sanctions have not stopped the production of nitrogen fertilizer.

He noted one thing to watch for in the global fertilizer market this year could be U.S. farmers switching to different forms of nitrogen due to different affordability indexes before the 2023 growing season.

“This could cause some shifts in nitrogen fertilizer demands,” he said. “Farmers may be complaining about the price of fertilizer, but they’re loving the price of grain. The value is there.”

Food insecurity and fertilizer prices

Michelson shared after decades of declines, global hunger is increasing, affecting 46 million more people in 2021 than in 2020 and 150 million more people in 2021 than in 2019.

There are two main types of food insecurity – acute, what’s in the news, is severe and impacts a small share of the world’s insecure population and chronic, what does not make the news but is the dominate form of food insecurity in the world.

Small farms produce roughly 35 percent of the world’s food and consist of less than five acres, and large increases in fertilizer prices have a devastating effect on the chronically food insecure, Michelson noted.

“High fertilizer prices can tip food-insecure individuals into even worse situations,” she said. “Shocks matter for the chronically food insecure and those who rely on them.”

For example, last year,

in Kenya, fertilizer prices increased by 60 percent, causing farmers to reduce their fertilizer use by 13 to 54 percent. As a result, yields dropped with less fertilizer applied, causing maize prices to increase considerably, she explained.

“This put 10 percent of the Kenyan population at risk of food security,” she said. “While fertilizer prices have stabilized, prices are still expensive for struggling farms across the world.”

She noted investments in Extension funding, infrastructure improvements and risk protection products are needed in low-income countries, not just access to fertilizer.

“These investments are a means to protect vulnerable households, communities and regions from crises,” Michelson concluded.

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

Adobe Stock photo

ducers to buy supplemental feed or sell their livestock at reduced prices. Besides feeding on grasslands, large grasshopper and Mormon cricket populations can also devastate cultivated crops such as alfalfa, barley, corn and wheat.”

It’s hard to believe spring is just around the corner, especially when snow is still on the ground. But rest assured, better weather is on the way, so it’s never too early to get prepared for grasshopper season.

This is especially true for landowners and cropland owners who have the most to lose when it comes to dealing with grasshopper infestations.

The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC) sat down with Bruce Shambaugh, the state plant health director for Wyoming in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to talk about the upcoming grasshopper season.

Grasshopper outlook

The good news is this season’s outlook for Wyoming is better than it’s been in recent years. USDA APHIS primarily focuses on grasshopper densities on rangelands, but they’re able to provide a snapshot of what hotspots may come up.

Grasshoppers are measured by the number of grasshoppers per square yard. For example, one or two grasshoppers are considered normal, three to seven grasshoppers indicate the potential for an outbreak and eight or more are considered outbreak levels for high-value grazing land

or cropland.

In the 2022 adult grasshopper survey, USDA APHIS indicates there will be about five or six small areas with high densities of grasshoppers they’ll focus on this spring. This includes Uinta, Sublette, Carbon, Converse, Natrona and Johnson counties.

“A couple of the hot spots are areas where we’ve experienced high densities of a damaging species on rangeland bordering cropland,” Shambaugh said.

“Our surveys this spring will help landowners and managers make informed management decisions.”

Over 400 grasshopper species can be found throughout the Western U.S., with 107 in Wyoming, and only 12 of the 107 species are considered pests.

Infestation damage

Grasshoppers and Mormon crickets are natural components of the rangeland ecosystem. But, when their populations reach outbreak levels, they cause a lot of damage. Heavy defoliation, complete loss of forage and crop damage can happen as early as midJuly.

According to USDA APHIS,“Uncontrolled infestations could cause significant economic losses for U.S. livestock producers by reducing forage available on rangeland, forcing pro-

The main thing landowners and land managers should do is learn about grasshoppers and what to look out for. If a high grasshopper density is seen on a property, landowners should contact their local weed and pest district, county Extension educators or Shambaugh at USDA APHIS.

“Early communication is the key to success with grasshopper and Mormon cricket management,” Shambaugh said. “We provide technical assistance to landowners and managers, deliver public outreach programs and may work with landowners and managers to suppress grasshopper populations when direct intervention is needed.”

Bruce Shambaugh can be reached by e-mailing bruce.a.shambaugh@usda. gov. A contact list of weed and pest districts can be found by visiting wyoweed. org This article is courtesy of the Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC).

2023

Spring Herdbuilder Bull Sale April 8,

200 Yearling Red Angus Bulls

Yellowstone Development Center • Shepherd, MT • 1:00 PM MST Lot 32 • 2600K • 4619857 • 1/4/22 LEVERAGE X INCENTIVE X 190A 94PROS 43HB 51GM 22CED -7 8BW 73WW 116YW 23MILK 13HPG 12CEM, 12ST, 0 67MB 0 21RE, $20,074$P, $126$R, 2 35FERT Complete outcross bull with incredible CE numbers SONS OF THE FOLLOWING BREED GREATS SELL! 32 SONS OF 5L GENUINE 1603-195C 30 SONS OF BIEBER CL ENERGIZE F121 10 SONS OF BIEBER CL STOCKMARKET E119 15 SONS OF BIEBER DEEP END B597 15 SONS OF EGL GUIDANCE 9117 15 SONS OF HXC CHARTER 6610D 10 SONS OF LSF BRA BRIGADIER 0839H 10 SONS OF LSF MEW X-FACTOR 6693D 10 SONS OF PIE QUARTERBACK 789 10 SONS OF LEACHMAN FIRST CL ASS W306G Several outcross sons of the most exciting bulls in the breed will be featured in this sale! Lot 1 • 2844K • 4620025 • 2/2/22 GENUINE X DECL ARATION X REDEMPTION 113PROS 36HB 77GM 14CED -2 4BW 68WW 119YW 27MILK, 11HPG 10CEM, 12ST, 0 75MB, -0 07RE $21,810$P, $76$R 1 76FERT Super sogg y made bull that does it all right! Lot 2 • 2687K • 4617585 • 1/4/22 GENUINE X COMMANDER X RIGHT VIEW 99PROS 16HB 83GM 12CED -1 0BW 83WW 141YW 34MILK, 7HPG 9CEM, 9ST, 0 84MB, 0 14RE, $20,468$P, $99$R, 1 97FERT One of the highest performing bulls in the sale! Lot 33 • 2544K • 4592465 • 2/8/22 PRIME TIME X UNRIVALED X NIGHT CALVER 136PROS 38HB 98GM 17CED -5 5BW 70WW 122YW 31MILK, 16HPG, 9CEM, 10ST, 0 98MB, 0 41RE, $18,695$P, $59$R, 1 58FERT One of the first Prime Time Sons to Sell! Lot 42 • 2861K • 4620365 • 2/11/22 DEEP END X PREMIER X BIG SKY 147PROS 82HB 65GM 15CED -3 5BW 69WW 114YW 24MILK, 16HPG, 10CEM 17ST, 0 82MB, 0 06RE, $18 145$P $77$R 1 68FERT Great maternal numbers in this prospect! Lot 15 • 2842K • 4620023 • 1/27/22 CHARTER X INDEPENDENCE X TITONKA 178PROS 79HB 99GM 16CED -3 1BW 74WW 129YW 32MILK, 11HPG, 8CEM, 19ST, 1 03MB, 0 12RE, $12 883$P $18$R 1 19FERT Great spread bull with lots of marbling! Lot 19 • 2833K • 4620021 • 1/4/22 CHARTER X PROFITBUILDER X REDEMPTION 132PROS 41HB 91GM 9CED -0 6BW 73WW 130YW 30MILK, 11HPG, 6CEM, 13ST, 0 65MB, 0 17RE, $11 884$P $15$R 1 53FERT Stout bull posting over a 1400 lb yearling weight! Go to www.ludvigsonstockfarms.com for updates MccLUN’S M LAZY JM RANcH ANGUS AND POLLED HEREFORDS | APRIL 13, 2023 SELLING AT TORRINGTON LIVESTOCK TORRINGTON, WY • SALE: 1 P.M. •••SELLING 120 BULLS••• Kody: 307-575-3519 • Jeff: 307-575-2113 Jim: Cell: 307-534-5141 • mccluncattle@gmail.com FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: www.McClunRanch.com MC NOBLE 243J DOB: 09/02/21 • CED: 5.3 • BW: 1.8 WW: 66 • YW: 103 • CHB: 123 LOT 25 WEED & PEST COUNCIL Wyoming Preparing for Grasshoppers in Wyoming

in the ongoing management of noxious weeds and pests. The overall mission is to provide unified support and leadership for integrated management of noxious weeds and pests to protect economic and ecological resources in the state. Orion Beef Group Call today for a catalog! Ryan Ludvigson 515-450-3124 rl ludv gson@ho mai com

30 Yearling Red SimAngus Bulls

common in the West.

The severity of disease depends on environmental conditions, soil compaction, variety and cropping history, and growers have limited options to address these issues.

For the past eight seasons, a University of Wyoming (UW) lab has conducted 11 field studies, including a master’s project by Graduate Student Kyle Webber, which investigated ways to manage dry bean root rot.

Because more than half of Wyoming’s dry bean production is pinto beans, researchers studied several pinto bean varieties using an integrated approach to root rot disease management.

Dry bean root rot diseases limit root growth, which reduces crop yields. Stress factors such as soil compaction and dry or saturated soil can increase disease severity.

Fusarium root rot is found throughout the world in areas where dry beans are grown, and it can almost destroy a bean crop when plants are stressed by drought, soil compaction, soil saturation or oxygen stress.

Fusarium root rot is often found in association with other disease organisms, such as Rhizoctonia, in what we call a disease complex.

In a study conducted in Nebraska, respective yield reductions of 52 percent and 42 percent for Great Northern beans and pinto beans were observed because of Fusarium root rot.

In separate surveys conducted in Colorado in 197172, pinto bean field yield losses averaged 27 to 62 percent, with some individual field losses as high as 89 percent.

Commonly grown varieties are equally susceptible to root rots in this region, but some varieties are more tol-

erant to Fusarium infection than other varieties.

If producers are going to have reliable yields, they need to continue screening new and existing varieties for tolerance to fungal root rot diseases and explore potential chemical controls.

Testing an integrated approach

UW researchers’ goal was to determine if a single, in-furrow fungicide application at planting, varietal selection and deep tillage to alleviate soil compaction would protect the dry bean crop from the effects of soilborne disease.

Specific objectives of the study were to compare the efficacy of two commercially available in-furrow fungicides for Rhizoctonia and Fusarium disease suppression, evaluate up to five locally adapted pinto bean varieties in the presence of disease and investigate the utility of deep tillage on bean root development and how it affects root disease.

These studies took place over two years, during 2018-19, at the UW Agricultural Experiment Station research sites – the Powell Research and Extension Center (PREC) and the James C.

Hageman Sustainable Agriculture Research and Extension Center (SAREC).

With support from Bayer CropScience and BASF, UW also investigated other fungicides and methods of application in seven separate field fungicide efficacy studies conducted at the UW SAREC research site from 2015-21. Results

With deep-ripping tillage treatments, researchers were able to reduce soil compaction. However, there were no positive benefits to disease suppression or yield compared to conventional field preparation.

It is widely assumed dry bean roots can tolerate root rot disease pressure more easily by having a healthy, extensive root system. Bean roots suppressed by the compaction layer found in some agricultural fields are much more prone to the effects of soil-borne diseases.

Although this is not the first time science didn’t back up conventional wisdom, it’s possible the lighter soils found at SAREC and PREC are less prone to soil compaction layers, and the roots were not stressed enough.

Because of genetic variances in breeding, the UW research team found significant differences among pinto bean varieties in terms of disease susceptibility and yields, as seen in Table One.

Sundance, a newer, slow-darkening variety whose seed does not darken with age on store shelves, had the lowest average disease severity. However, this did not translate to greater yields, most likely due to varietal differences.

The other varieties had variable yield results depending on the experimental conditions.

Othello, a common variety grown in Wyoming, is very susceptible to root rot infection. However, it was among the highest yielders in the presence of disease.

While none of these varieties are resistant to root rot disease – all varieties tested had 100 percent of the roots infected to some degree – dry beans in general can compensate for root diseases by producing extra roots once the main tap root becomes rotted. In fact, heavily infected bean plants frequently fail to show any visible aboveground symptoms.

All of the tested varieties in UW’s studies have displayed very few aboveground symptoms, but under limited water conditions this could be a different story because newer, developing roots tend to be shallower than the deeper main tap root.

In-furrow fungicide treatments – in which fungicide is applied in furrows as seed is planted – were, for the most

Leachman Grass Time Sale

part, ineffective when used in the integrated study.

However, in the fungicide efficacy trials, which investigated different fungicide chemistries than those used in the integrated study, researchers did reduce earlyto mid-season disease by almost 50 percent in some cases.

Despite reductions in disease, in most studies this did not result in yield increases compared to the untreated treatments, and sometimes the fungicide applications hindered bean emergence.

In one out of 11 studies, scientists saw significant yield increases with fungicide treatment. Fungicide effectiveness is time-sensitive, meaning once applied in the environment, compounds are subject to degradation and lose effectiveness over time.

Unfortunately, these fungal pathogens can continue to attack the bean roots all season long.

As a rule of thumb, from years of experimentation in various cropping and disease situations, fungicide applied as seed treatment results in several weeks of protection, in-furrow applications can protect for up to a month and in-furrow application plus a foliar application to the leaves can extend protection for one and a half to two months.

Implications

Alleviating stressors such as soil compaction only makes sense to keep roots growing and healthy.

Lack of effects from the UW researchers’ attempts to reduce soil compaction were probably due to the level of compaction they were able to

create in their experiment.

Degree of soil compaction can vary among soil types, and soils with a higher percentage of clay and silt have more of a problem with soil compaction compared to lighter soils found at the research sites.

Under a true compaction problem some farming operations can have, reducing compaction should have a positive effect on the health of plants.

As for varieties, it’s clear there is room for improvement in terms of increased plant resistance to these root rot organisms.

Dry bean disease resistance breeding is an ongoing process, but it is difficult because of the number of genes involved for resistance. In any event, local Wyoming varieties, at least in UW’s studies, seem to do relatively well under high disease incidence.

The viability of using fungicides is less clear.

Researchers were able to reduce severity, but some fungicides caused reduced crop emergence and shortlived plant injury.

Based on the results, it’s difficult to justify the additional expense of in-furrow and foliar fungicide applications. At the bare minimum, growers should use fungicide-treated seed, because it’s relatively inexpensive and reduces early infections.

Despite some of UW’s disappointing results, researchers still believe an integrated approach is the best bet to manage dry bean root rot. To better answer these questions, future research is required in field environments more con-

ducive to plant stressors so these integrated approaches can be further tested.

Dr. William Stump is an associate professor in UW’s Department of Plant Sciences, Kyle Webber is UW graduate student in the Department of Plant Sciences and Wendy Cecil is a research associate in the Department of Plant Sciences. They were in charge of the research outlined above. This article was originally published in Reflections, the UW College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources research magazine.

FINGER BUTTES RANCH

Dry bean research –University of Wyoming’s (UW) Dr. William Stump, Kyle Webber and Wendy Cecil conducted a study to determine if a single, in-furrow fungicide application at planting, varietal selection and deep tillage to alleviate soil compaction would protect Wyoming’s dry bean crop from the effects of soil-borne disease. Pictured is Plant Sciences Graduate Student Kyle Webber, now with Wyoming Seed Certification, harvesting his dry bean plots at the James C. Hageman Sustainable Agriculture Research and Extension Centersite. UW photo

ALZADA, CARTER COUNTY, MONTANA

AUCTION

MAY 1, 2023 @ 1:00 PM

MOOSE LODGE, 399 STANLEY ST, BELLE FOURCHE SD

RANCH LOCATION: The finger Buttes Ranch is located approximately 23 miles north of Alzada, MT on Hwy 323.

RANCH DESCRIPTON: The Finger Buttes Ranch is centered in the heart of the strong grass cattle country of eastern Montana and the western Dakotas. Consisting of 7,716+ deeded acres, 640+ State of Montana lease acres (98 AUM’s) and 1,561+ BLM acres,(299 AUM’s) for a total of 9,917 acres The land is comprised of rolling hills and flat-top buttes with minimal unproductive ground. Approximately 3,560+ acres are tillable with over 1,000 acres currently planted to mixtures of grass and alfalfa for grazing and haying. Underground pipelines provide water to numerous tanks located throughout the ranch in addition to multiple seasonal reservoirs. The ranch includes two homes, corrals, livestock barns, grain bins and two Quonsets. Southeast Montana is well known for large populations of mule deer and whitetail deer, as well as antelope and upland birds, of which Finger Buttes ranch has a strong population of each. There is an active Equip Program in place that may allow for the construction of additional pipeline, water tanks and fencing if the new owner qualifies. In addition, there approximately a total of 2000 FSA (1,950+ Wheat Base Acres) base acres on the ranch. The ranch will be offered in 2 tracts as well as one complete unit, selling in the manner realizing the greatest return to the Seller

FINGER BUTTES RANCH WEST PARCEL: West Finger Buttes Ranch consists of 2,800+ total acres: 2,360± deeded acres, 440+ BLM acres (80 AUM’s) fenced into four pastures. There are 1,052 acres of tillable ground of which approximately 532.5 acres has been planted in 2021 to hay/grass introducing perennial grass and legume. The balance of the tillable acres is already in hay/grazing production. Water is provided from dams and reservoirs located throughout the ranch. There are no improvements.

FINGER BUTTES HEADQUARTERS PARCEL: The Finger Buttes Headquarters consists of 5,356.48+ deeded acres, 640+ State of Montana lease acres and roughly 1,121 BLM acres (219 AUM’s) for a total of 7,117 acres. The ranch is fenced into 10 pastures. There are currently 2,437.4 acres of tillable ground with 258.5+ acres in hay/grazing production. Improvements include two houses, calving barn, pipe corrals, two Quonsets, grain bins, and other outbuildings. A 2,900-foot water well supplies water to several tanks located throughout the ranch.

AUCTION TERMS:

EARNEST MONEY: At the conclusion of the auction, the successful bidder shall make a 10% nonrefundable earnest money deposit, with the balance due in cash or certified funds at closing. CLOSING: Closing to take place on or before June 1, 2023. TAXES: All 2022 and previous years taxes shall be paid by Seller. The 2023 taxes shall be prorated to the day of closing. All subsequent years taxes shall be paid by Buyer. INSPECTIONS: The property will be sold in “As-Is” condition without any warranties, either expressed or implied, as to the nature, condition, or description of any improvements. Buyer shall inspect property to the extent deemed necessary and shall rely upon own judgment when bidding. FINANCING: Property sells without Buyer contingency of any kind. Please have all financial arrangements secured prior to bidding. LEGAL DESCRIPTION: Property sold by legal description only, which will be included in the owner’s title insurance commitment that will be provided by Security Abstract, Miles City, Montana, and made available on or before the day of the auction. Acreages and square footages are approximate and determined by the Carter County Assessor and /or Treasurer. CLOSING COSTS: Closing firm’s fee shall be shared equally between the Buyer and Seller. Security Abstract, Miles City, Montana shall be the closing agent. Buyer and Seller shall be responsible for their own closing costs as customary. GENERAL

TERMS: Property will be transferred by Warranty Deed subject to easements, assessments, and reservations of record. The Auctioneers/Brokers are representing the Seller’s interests as the Seller’s Agent in this transaction. Please see the Real Estate Brokerage Disclosure for agency relationship definitions. All information is derived from sources deemed reliable; however, neither Seller nor Auctioneers/Brokers are making any guaranties or warranties, actual or implied. Any announcements made day of auction supersede any and all previously printed material and any other oral statements made. METHOD OF SALE: The ranch will be offered in 2 tracts as well as one complete unit, selling in the manner realizing the greatest return to the Seller. Seller shall require an all cash sale. The Seller reserves the right to effectuate a 1031 tax-deferred exchange.

Mark

CONTACT:

Fungicide application – A Kincaid research plot planter allows for in-furrow fungicide applications and changing of bean varieties while on the go. Pictured, from left to right, is James C. Hageman Sustainable Agriculture Research and Extension Center Farm Manager Kevin Madsen, Graduate Student Kyle Webber and Research Associate Wendy Cecil. UW photo

Shirley Dawn (Wright)

Lilley, age 90, of Laramie, peacefully passed from her earthly home and went to be with her Lord on March 17.

She was born Aug. 29, 1932 in Cheyenne to Alan (Curly) and Nina Wright. Her father was a bricklayer by trade, but also a very skilled horseman who trained horses for his family and others. In high school, Shirley helped with the training.

She said, “He took the

buck out, I put the miles on.”

The family moved to Laramie, where Shirley graduated from Laramie High School in 1950. She attended the University of Wyoming (UW) for a year, where she competed on the rodeo team, becoming an accomplished rodeo cowgirl.

In 1952, Shirley and Frank Lilley were married. This same year, they moved to the 57,000 acre Chimney Rock Ranch in Albany County, where they spent the next 35 years of their entire married life together as ranch managers and raising their three children Clay, Carol and Julie.

Shirley never shied away from any of the work cattle and children require.

Fencing – often in rough country on foot or horseback – haying, cooking, bookkeeping, checking windmills and water, all

between checking, doctoring and moving cattle prior to gathering, sorting and shipping 5,000 head with 50 different brands in the fall, were the things she did while raising her kids and supporting her husband.

Dick Johnson, a neighboring rancher, said Shirley was the best cowhand he had ever known.

Shirley grew up deeply involved in ranching and agriculture and passed this love on to her three children, 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

She and her brother Floyd were also involved in rodeo, and Shirley won the All-Around Cowgirl at both Wyoming and Colorado State University rodeos in 1950 – known back then as Colorado A&M.

She also won barrel racing at the Laramie Jubilee Days (LJD) Rodeo in 1960, something she is especially proud of since she prepared for the win with three small children at home.

Shirley’s 74 years of involvement in LJD began in 1949 when she was named Lady-In-Waiting, then in 1951, Shirley served as LJD Queen.

Shirley helped with kids’ events in the LJD rodeos during the 1960s.

In 1976, she started the Kids’ Horse Show and continued to the present time. She was also instrumental in the team penning each year for as long as it was held.

Shirley was awarded a Gold Card from the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association for years of volunteering at LJD. For many years, she had been involved with the royalty committee and helped to research, compile and print Jubilee’s Golden Years of Royalty, a history of the first 50 years of LJD queens. She also helped Kerin Castle contact past queens for the Silver Queen Book.

When Shirley met Frank, they were a great couple, and when they married, they found out they were a great team as well. The two of them raised three very well-rounded children, operated Chimney Rock Ranch and later worked as public servants.

With Shirley’s continuous support, Frank served as Albany County Commissioner for many years until his death in 1987. Shirley was then appointed to finish his term and was re-elected for another term.

She also enjoyed serving as an election judge for nearly 50 years and as a bailiff for nearly 10 years.

In 2000, Shirley was given the honor of LJD Parade Marshall, as well as an Outstanding Volunteer Award.

Because of Shirley’s extensive involvement and many years of volunteering in the community of Albany County, she received the 2004 Community Service Award, which is given by the Laramie

Lions Club and the Laramie Boomerang

Her community impact and accomplishments are almost too numerous to mention, but a short list of highlights includes serving as a charter member of the Albany County Cow-Belles, a member of the Wyoming and American CattleWomen Associations, a board member of Ag in the Classroom, treasurer of the Cow-Belles Scholarship Committee, co-chair of the Ag Expo Committee for many years and continued helping every year, recipient of the Ag Service Award, 1996 Ranch Woman of the Year, Steer-A-Year donor for 10 years, a member of the Friends of Albany County Public Health and a member and treasurer of Friends of Community Recreation for 30 years, which brought about the Laramie Recreation Center.

She was passionate about history and cherished spending time with her best friends Dicksie May and the late Rita Parker and Bertha Ward, working on preserving and documenting ranch and family histories for the Albany County Ranch History Project.

Even through all of her activities, this wonderful woman found time for her family.

Shirley raised three kids and helped raise 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. Every grandchild or great-grandchild has enjoyed her cheers from the sidelines and grandstands in whatever activities they were involved in.

She has accumulated tons of cookie dough, doughnuts and magazines from various fundraisers for all of the clubs they were in and is a source of

love and wisdom in each of their endeavors. She saw to it each grandkid would be able to attend UW and supported all of them in whatever they chose to do after.

She is preceded in death by her husband Frank P. Lilley; parents Nina and Curly Wright; father and mother-in-law Charles and Julie Lilley; brother and sister-in-law Floyd and Maxine Wright; brotherin-law and sister-in-law Charles Lilley, Jr. and Katherine Lilley and sisterin-law Donice Lilley.

She is survived by her children Clay (Marianne) Lilley of Laramie; Carol (Larry) Pancost of Stoneham, Colo. and Julie (Roger) Lorenzi of Laramie, her grandchildren Kirby (Dixie) Berger, Kyle (Stacy) Berger, Hadley (Emilee) Berger, Oscar (Stefanny) Lilley, Eli Lilley, Amanda (Patrick) Lewallen, Abbey Robbins-Lilley, Trey Lorenzi, and Jori (Jordan) Steele; her great-grandchildren Kaden, Bayla, Bryndal, Bexton, Braycen and Bastian Berger; Burris, Neacy and Thayne Berger; Althea, Cannon and Tank Lilley; Cooper and Lincoln Lewallen; Roan Steele; Kinlee Shoemaker; Tres Miller; her brother-in-law Roy Lilley; her nephew Eldon (Eileen) Wright and grandniece Frannie Wright.

She is survived by many more family and friends.

Memorial services were held on March 27 at the Albany County Fairgrounds.

Memorial donations may be made to the Albany County Cow-Belles Scholarship, PO Box 2157, Laramie, WY 82073 or to Special Olympics Wyoming –Team Laramie, 239 West 1st St., Casper, WY 82601.

OBITUARIES

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

Dennis Leman Irwin

Feb. 5, 1923 – March 24, 2023

las; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

Funeral services were held on March 30 at the Fort Reno Building on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas with Montey Crummer officiating and Diane Harrop as the eulogist.

the largest wheat breeding program in the world.

WHEAT continued from page 1 For more information on High Cotton or OSU’s wheat breeding program, visit agresearch.okstate.edu.

This hybrid was then crossed with an OSU experimental line, bred from a collection of Pioneer hard red winter wheat.

Dennis Irwin, age 100, died March 24 at the Memorial Hospital of Converse County in Douglas with his loving family at his bedside.

Dennis was born on Feb. 5, 1923 in Douglas, the son of Charles Gruwell and Ruth Louise (Leman) Irwin.

Dennis was preceded in death by his father Charles on May 16, 1984; his mother Ruth on Feb. 27, 1990 and his first wife Lucille E. (Edwards) Irwin on March 13, 1979.

He is survived by his wife Jane M. Irwin; children Douglas D. (Glenda) Irwin of Douglas, Denise L. Langley of Douglas, Dianne L. (Dave) Birch of Keeline, Terry L. Askin of Douglas and Randy (Diane) Harrop of Douglas; brother C. Donald (Carolyn C.) Irwin of Doug-

Interment was in the family plot at the Douglas Park Cemetery with military honors accorded by the Samuel Mares American Legion Post #8 and the Wyoming Army National Guard Military Funeral Honors.

Serving as pallbearers were Steven Harrop, Chad Langley, Troy Langley, Daniel Langley, Sage Askin, Charles Irwin and Trevor Birch. Serving as honorary pallbearers were Dorothy Taylor, Donna York, Marilyn Fitzhugh and all of his family and many friends.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Converse County Ranchers Memorial Scholarship Fund in care of the Converse County Bank, PO Box 689, Douglas, WY 82633 or to Samuel Mares American Post #8, PO Box 1, Douglas, WY 82633.

In an OSU Extension article, also dated March 9, Carver notes the new variety was given the name “High Cotton” because OSU researchers wanted to draw attention to its elite performance through a name that would be easy to remember.

“I wanted to suggest the adoption of this variety would put producers in a position to enjoy a bountiful harvest,” he shares.

High yield potential

According to OSU, one of the most notable attributes of High Cotton is an increased yield potential, which will offset potential declines in planted wheat acreage in the future and help maintain the nation’s current food supply.

“I have been watching this variety since 2018. It

really caught my eye during the first year we had it in yield trials, and it has caught my eye ever since because it has continued to rank either first or second in OSU breeding trials for the past five consecutive years,” says Carver.

According to OSU Extension, High Cotton performed 17 percent above average in OSU statewide yield trials, exceeding Showdown, Smith’s Gold, Bentley and Gallagher wheat varieties by five to 13 bushels per acre.

“It’s really pushing the envelope for yield in and outside of our breeding program,” Carver shares.

“We have tested it in the Southern Regional Performance Nursery, a U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service nursery full of great varieties from other great institutions, and it finished in a tie for first place in 2021,” he continues. “This is impressive because

want high yield potential, of course, but we also want to protect the yield, which is what High Cotton will provide.”

2021 was a really tough year with a lot of disease and a devastating freeze.”

Other benefits

“We want high yield potential, of course, but we also want to protect the yield, which is what High Cotton will provide,” Carver says, noting the new variety boasts several other benefits for the grower, in addition to higher yields.

One of these other benefits is resistance to disease.

“High Cotton comes with a pretty good genetic insurance policy including leaf rust resistance, stripe rust resistance and resistance to many other common diseases in this area,” he says.

“However, High Cotton does not hold a lot of resistance to powdery mildew, so if producers have a lush canopy, I caution them to keep an eye on the mildew,” he adds. “It also has some low pH tolerance, but I wouldn’t push it past a five.”

Additionally, OSU notes High Cotton’s test weight has an average of 1.2 pounds per bushel above average research tri-

als, and the Wheat Quality Council has deemed it acceptable for milling and baking.

High Cotton also provides early grazing opportunities while simultaneously sustaining winter dormancy.

Performance potential

“High Cotton will allow wheat producers to reap the benefits of the most advanced wheat genetics currently on the market,” Carver concludes, further noting he hopes growers will have an interest in adopting High Cotton in their next variety lineup.

He notes the OSU wheat breeding program intends to have the seed available this fall.

“If we get it harvested as we anticipate, we should have 3,000 to 4,000 bushels of foundation seed available through the Oklahoma Foundation Seed Stocks,” Carver explains.

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

“We

– Dr. Brett Carver, Oklahoma State University

SALE REPORTS

Lot 28 – Obsidian Kenia 771 – Price: $6,000 DOB:

2/5/2022 Sire: MW DNA-

Mite Dam’s Sire: Obsidian Black Granite 452 EPDs:

CED: +12, BW: -1.5, WW:

+48, YR: +90, Milk: +29 and PAP: 36 Consigned

By: Obsidian Angus Buyer: Sarah Faith Ranch, Big

Piney

Lot 31 – Obsidian Skagway 776 – Price: $5,750

DOB: 2/9/2022 Sire: MW

382 EPDs: CED: +10, BW: -0.3, WW: +69, YR: +127, Milk: +31 and PAP: 35 Consigned By: Obsidian Angus Buyer: Jason and Chawna Weichmann, Ten Sleep Lot 11 – DA Resilient 250 – Price: $5,750 DOB: 3/24/2022 Sire: Sitz Resilient 10208 Dam’s Sire: S Foundation 514 EPDs: CED: +5, BW: +1.5,

Sinclair Cattle Company Annual Production Sale

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor

March 25, 2023

Buffalo Livestock Auction, Buffalo

Auctioneer: Roger Jacobs

115 Yearling Angus Bulls Avg. $4,664 60 Yearling Commercial Replacement Heifers Avg. $1,741

One Semen Package supporting the Wyoming 4-H Foundation and Wyoming FFA Foundation $2,000

Top Sellers

Lot 32 – Obsidian Tok 778 – Price: $6,500 DOB:

2/9/2022 Sire: MW DNA-

Mite Dam’s Sire: Barstow

Bankroll B73 EPDs: CED:

+8, BW: -0.1, WW: +62, YR: +117, Milk: +31 and PAP: 35 Consigned By:

Obsidian Angus Buyer: Brewster Ranch, Ten Sleep

Lot 37 – Obsidian Skeena 787 – Price: $6,500

DOB: 2/18/2022 Sire: MW

DNAMite Dam’s Sire: Barstow Bankroll B73 EPDs:

CED: +12, BW: -2.0, WW: +60, YR: +112, Milk: +30 and PAP: 38 Consigned

By: Obsidian Angus Buyer: Sarah Faith Ranch, Big Piney

DNAMite Dam’s Sire: Barstow Bankroll B73 EPDs:

CED: +11, BW: -1.0, WW: +55, YR: +106, Milk: +29 and PAP: 36 Consigned

By: Obsidian Angus Buyer: Brewster Ranch, Ten Sleep

Lot 35 – Obsidian

Tagish 782 – Price: $5,750

DOB: 2/15/2022 Sire: Deer Valley Growth Fund Dam’s Sire: Obsidian Hoover Dam

Bulls Lot 38 – Sinclair Black Iron K502 – Price: $13,500 DOB: 2/6/22 Sire: Sinclair Exactly 4U2 Dam’s

Sire: N Bar Emulation Ext A1747 EPDs: BW: +0.0, WW: +46, YW: +76 and Milk: +19 Buyer: Ma and Pa Angus, Presho, S.D. Lot 1 – Sinclair

Justified K555 – Price:

$9,000 DOB: 2/16/22

Sire: KG Justified 3023

Dam’s Sire: N Bar Emulation EXT EPDs: BW: -0.3, WW: +61, YW: +102 and Milk: +28 Buyer: Nathan Palm, Estelline, S.D.

Lot 45 – Sinclair

X-Plus K611 – Price:

$7,750 DOB: 2/26/22 Sire: Sinclair Emulation XXP

Dam’s Sire: Sinclair Entrepreneur 8R101 EPDs: BW: +2.9, WW: +56, YW: +99 and Milk: +20 Buyer: Cook

Angus, Miles City, Mont. Lot 99 – Sinclair Emulation K324 – Price: $7,750

DOB: 3/6/22 Sire: Sinclair Exquisite 9X6 Dam’s Sire: Sinclair Timeless 8BA4 EPDs: BW: -1.2, WW: +37, YW: +67 and Milk: +32 Buyer: Risse UV Ranch, Vetal, S.D. Lot 5 – Sinclair Justified K011 – Price: $7,500 DOB: 2/22/22 Sire: KG Justified 3023 Dam’s Sire: N Bar Prime Time D806 EPDs: BW: -1.2, WW: +48, YW: +88 and Milk: +32 Buyer: Keller Cattle Corporation, Tremonton, Utah

9139 Loyal 35K – Price: $30,000 DOB: 2/5/22

Sire: Pyramid Candor 9139 Dam’s Sire: NJW 78P Twentytwelve 190Z

EPDs: BW: +2.8, WW: +58, YW: +106, Milk: +29 and M&G: +58 Buyer: Coyote Ridge Ranch, LaSalle, Colo.

Lot 187K – NJW 95G

41E Hoss 187K – Price:

$25,000 DOB: 2/23/22

Sire: NJW 11B 028X Hoss 41E ET Dam’s

Sire: NJW 76S 27A Long

Range 203D EPDs: BW:

-0.9, WW: +53, YW: +98, Milk: +34 and M&G: +61

Buyer: Sonoma Mountain Herefords, Santa Rosa, Calif.

Lot 183K – NJW 79Z

84E Highland 183K ET

– Price: $25,000 DOB:

2/23/22 Sire: S16 782B

Highland 84E Dam’s Sire: NJW 73S M326

Trust 100W EPDs: BW:

+2, WW: +60, YW: +103, Milk: +30 and M&G: +60

Buyer: Rankin and Sons, Murdo, S.D.

Lot 163K – NJW 73S

D287 Daybreak 163K ET

– Price: $24,000 DOB:

2/19/22 Sire: SHF Daybreak Y02 D287 ET

Dam’s Sire: PW Victor Boomer P606 EPDs: BW: +1, WW: +58, YW: +98, Milk: +38 and M&G: +67

Buyer: Harvie Ranching, Olds, Alberta, Canada

Lot 195K – NJW EH 130H 254G Ridge 195K – Price: $22,000 DOB:

2/25/22 Sire: NJW 139C 103C Ridge 254G Dam’s Sire: NJW 160B 028X

Historic 81E EPDs: BW: +1.2, WW: +69, YW: +105, Milk: +35 and M&G: +70 Buyer: Perks Ranch, Rockford,

SUGAR continued from page 1

yields and sucrose recovery.

USDA forecasts low polarity sugar production has the potential to be between 784,000 and 805,200 MT, about 70 to 72 percent of the revised Mexican export quota –equivalent to 1.118 million MT.

Fulfilling the remaining portion of the quota allocated for refined sugar implies reduction in sugar deliveries to the Mexican market and ending stocks.

Sugarbeet production

Sugarbeet production in 2022-23 has increased by 60,000 STRV to 5.160 million from February on an increased forecast of sucrose recovery based on processors’ August through January data reported in the USDA’s Farm Service Agency Sweetener Market Data (SMD).

If realized, the updated forecast would surpass last year’s 5.155 million STRV and would be the second largest production behind 2017-18’s 5.270 million.

Also based on the SMD, cane sugar production is up by 19,000 STRV to 4.150 million from last month – a new record exceeding 2020-21’s 4.142 million – as the 30,000STRV combined increase in Florida and Louisiana countered the 11,000STRV decrease in Texas.

In total, sugar production is raised by 79,000 STRV from last month to a record-high of 9.310 million, surpassing 2017-18’s 9.293 million.

Total imports in 202223 are lowered by 134,000 STRV to 3.330 million from last month as the anticipated 172,000-STRV reduction of imports from Mexico to 1.306 million countered the increased forecast for high-tier tariff imports and the 2021-22 World Trade Organization raw sugar tariff-rate quota (TRQ) imports.

High-tier tariff imports have increased by 31,000 STRV to 156,000 from February due to largerthan-expected entries of

refined sugar paying the high-duty. The raw sugar TRQ imports are up 7,000 STRV to 1.153 million on an upward revision in imports under the extended 2021-22 raw sugar which arrived by the end of 2022.

Improved outlook for beet sugar production

Sugarbeet production in Fiscal Year (FY) 202223 has increased by 60,000 STRV to 5.160 million from February, exceeding last year’s 5.155 million to become the second largest production behind 201718’s 5.270 million.

The increase is driven by the higher sucrose recovery forecast for the crop year, from 15.2 percent to 15.4 percent.

This recovery, which is based on the SMD August through January processors data, would set a record in the last decade. It is driven by aboveaverage recovery rates observed across most of the major sugarbeet-producing regions.

Given the bullish tone generated by the March World Agriculture Supply and Demand Estimates’ (WASDE) outlook for tight supplies and increased demand, the Sosland Sweetener Report predicts the booking share of the 2023-24 business would rise to 75 percent before the spring planting gets under way in April.

Sugar prices to remain firm

After being unquoted since the first week of December 2022 due to lack of spot supplies, the nominal price for the 202223 Midwest refined beet sugar is again published at 60 cents per pound by the Sosland report during the week of Feb. 22.

This is about 16 to 18 cents per pound higher – about 37 to 39 percent – than the same time last year. Sosland notes most of the spot beet sugar supplies are only available from distributors since beet processors have already contracted all of their 2022-23 supplies.

Wyoming Sugar Company supports sugarbeet industry

The Wyoming Sugar Company, LLC, located in Worland, processes sugarbeets for the southern Big Horn Basin and Fremont County.

President and Chief Executive Officer Michael Greear shares the Wyoming sugarbeet outlook for the 2023 growing season.

“We’re almost finished up with contracting for our 2023 crop,” he says. “We’ve had a strong contracting year, but we are down a couple of acres compared to years past.”

He adds, “We feel good about where we’re at.”

In terms of weather, cold and wet temperatures for many sugarbeet producers have been a challenge this spring.

“Many producers would have their barley planted by now and would be itching to get sugarbeet

As of Sosland’s March 8 report, quoted prices ranged between 52.5 to 55 cents per pound. This is high considering beet sugar prices averaged between 35 to 36 cents per pound before the force majeure incidents occurring in late 2019.

The quoted 2022-23 Northeast refined cane sugar price for spot supplies is 62 cents per pound freight on board. This is 10 cents or 19 percent higher than this time last year.

For Calendar Year 2024, the prices offered are lower – between 57 to 57.5 cents per pound, but are relatively high by historic standards similar with the beet sugar price.

Support for the beet sugar price has also come from the recent uptick in the U.S. Number 16 nearby – May 2023 – raw cane sugar prices, which closed at 38.3 cents per pound as of March 9, a level not seen since early 2011.

Subsequent contracts also closed at relatively high levels – July and September at 38.3 cents and November through May 2024 at 37 cents.

The increase in the Number 16 price is likewise attributed to the higher trading volume following the less optimistic market outlook industry

seed in the ground, but we usually wait until Mother’s Day for the sugarbeet crop to be planted, so we still have some time for Mother Nature to cooperate,” he says.

Wyoming Sugar Company markets with United Sugars Corporation of Edina, Minn. According to Greear, the company has marketed 60 percent of their 2023 crop, and their selling price is very strong this year.

With a few factory improvements, addition of skilled employees and a good water year forecasted, Greear feels optimistic about the upcoming sugarbeet season.

“I think we’re in a good place for the sugarbeet industry for the next couple of years,” he notes. “The sugarbeet industry has built some communities around the state in

participants gathered from the International Sugar Colloquium and March WASDE.

Buyers likely increased bookings to lock in contracts early and hedge against supply uncertainty and potentially higher prices later in the year.

The Number 16, in turn, is being partly supported by the world Num-

particular and have been very valuable to Worland with sugarbeets being one of the few cash crops in the area.”

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. is a net importer of sugar. Sugar imported in to the U.S. comes from places like Mexico or countries with a tariff-rate quota, such as Brazil, Dominican Republic, Philippines and Taiwan.

“The sugar program managed by USDA is designed to be in place so the U.S. can continue to have domestic production of sugarbeets,” says Greear. “Many countries subsidize their farmers, whereas the U.S. doesn’t. It’s an interesting market, but what we try to do is to keep it managed in a way we don’t bring in too much sugar to drive out our domestic producers.”

ber 11 raw cane sugar nearby prices – March 2023, which has since expired – posting a sixyear high of 22.36 cents per pound amid expectations of lower production and exports from major producing countries such as India, Thailand and the European Union.

To view the most recent report, visit ers.usda.gov

and click on the “Topics” tab, then click “Crops” and “Sugar and Sweeteners.” Here one can find a variety of information on periodic and scheduled ERS publications and data on sugar and sweeteners. Brittany Gunn is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

CLAY CREEK ANGUS

Casino

April 2 Casper College 43rd Annual Lamb and Hog Sale, 11:30 a.m. Grace Werner Agriculture Pavilion, Casper. For more information, call 307-760-1315.

April 4 Wyoming Livestock Board Public Meeting, 10 a.m. Wyoming State Capitol Building Room W113, Cheyenne and via Zoom. For more information, visit wlsb.state.wy.us

April 8 Country Living: An Introduction to Small Acreage Living Workshop, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Buffalo Fire Hall, Buffalo. For more information and to register, call Amanda Hulet at 307-620-3021.

April 8 The Loveland Lions Spring Timber Dan Toy Show and Sale, First National Bank Exhibition Building, Larimer County Fairgrounds, Loveland, Colo. For more information, visit lovelandlionsclubs.org

April 14 Bureau of Land Management Free Off-Range Corral Tour, 1 p.m. OffRange Wild Horse and Burro Corral, Wheatland. For more information and to RSVP, e-mail blm_blm_wy_wheatlandorc@blm.gov.

April 15 Winter Adventure Day, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Casper Mountain Biathlon Center at McMurry Mountain Park, Casper. For more information, visit bit.ly/CASPERWAD2023 or e-mail caspertrails@gmail.com.

April 19 University of Wyoming Sheep Budgeting, Benchmarking and Marketing Workshop, 3-7 p.m. Lingle. For more information or to register, e-mail blee@ uwyo.edu or call 307-837-2000.

April 20 University of Wyoming Ranch Management and Agricultural Leadership Seminar, University of Wyoming, Laramie. To register, visit uwyo.edu/uwag/rmal or e-mail Anne DeMersseman at ademerss@uwyo.edu or call 307-766-3206.

April 21 Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Office of State Lands and Investments and Wyoming Water Development Office Public Meeting, 2 p.m. Wyoming Department of Environment Quality Conference Room 211, Cheyenne. For more information, call 307-777-6373, 307-777-7626 or 307-777-6941.

April 27 Casper Alcova Irrigation District Board Meeting, 2-5 p.m., 745 Connie Street, Mills. For more information, call 307-234-8690.

April 29 Small Pork Producers Conference, 9:30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Montana ExpoPark’s Family Living Center, Great Falls, Mont. For more information or to register, e-mail Rose Malisani at rose.malisani@montana.edu or call Montana State University Extension at 406-454-6980.

May 3 Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality 2023 Dead Animal Compost Seminar, 10 a.m. Moorcroft Town Hall, Moorcroft. To register, visit deq. wyoming.gov/shwd/solid-waste/ and click on the “Training” tab. For more information, call Craig McOmie at 307-473-3487 or Jody Weikart at 307-777-3501.

May 4 Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality 2023 Dead Animal Compost Seminar, 10 a.m. Torrington City Hall, Torrington. To register, visit deq. wyoming.gov/shwd/solid-waste/ and click on the “Training” tab. For more information, call Craig McOmie at 307-473-3487 or Jody Weikart at 307-777-3501.

May 4-5 2023 Animal Ag Alliance Stakeholders Summit, Arlington, Va. For more information, visit whova.com

SALES

April 4 Webo Angus Annual Turning Grass into Greenbacks Bull Sale, at the ranch, Lusk, 307-216-0090, 307-340-1182, 307-340-1499, weboangus.com

April 5 Sidwell Ranch & Frank Herefords Production Sale, Sidwell Barn, Columbus, Mont., 406-861-4426, 307-631-6012, sidwell-land.com

April 5-6 Leachman Cattle of Colorado Grass Time Sale, on smartauctions.co, 970568-3983, leachman.com

April 6 Arntzen Angus Ranch 47th Annual Production Sale, at the ranch, Hilger, Mont., 406-350-4000, 406-350-1612, 406-350-1728, arntzenangus.com

April 6 Bar 69 Angus 35th Annual Production Sale, Belle Fourche Livestock, Belle Fourche, S.D., 605-892-2875, bar69angus.com

April 6-7 Midland Bull Test, Columbus, Mont., 406-322-5597, midlandbulltest.com

April 7 Kammerer Livestock 17th Annual Bull Sale, St. Onge Livestock, St. Onge, S.D., 605-923-6381

April 8 Ludvigson Stock Farms Spring Herdbuilder Bull Sale, Weschenfelder Development Center, Shepherd, Mont., 515-450-3124, 712-229-3431, ludvigsonstockfarms.com

April 8 Carlson Equipment Annual Consignment Auction, Riverton, 307-8568123, carlsonequipment.com

April 11 Beckton’s 78th Anniversary Production Sale, at the ranch, Sheridan, 307674-6095, 307-674-8162, becktonredangus.com

April 12 Pass Creek Angus Ranch 49th Annual Bull Production Sale, at the ranch, Wyola, Mont., 406-343-2551, 406-679-3391, passcreekangus.com

April 12 Big Iron Harvesting Farm Auction, Winnemucca, Nev., 208-431-3405, 801369-4221, vantassellauction.com

April 13 McClun’s Lazy JM Ranch Angus & Polled Herefords Annual Production Sale, Torrington Livestock Sale Barn, Torrington, 307-534-5141, 307-5752113, 307-575-3519, mcclunranch,com

April 13 Reich Charolais Ranch 66th Annual Bull Sale, Belle Fourche Livestock Market, Belle Fourche, S.D., 605-892-4366, 605-580-2393

April 14 5L Red Angus 2022 Profit $eeker Bull Sale, at the ranch, Sheridan, Mont., 406-596-1204, 5lbulls.com

Big horn Basin

Worland, WY

SALES

April 14 Salmon Select 24th Annual Mule Sale, Lemhi County Fairgrounds, Salmon, Idaho, 208-756-2125, salmonselectsale.com

April 14 Sellman Ranch Annual Production Bull Sale, Crawford Livestock Market, Crawford, Neb., 308-430-4223, 308-430-3742, sellmanranch.com

April 14-15 A Ranch Horse Weekend 17th Annual Real Horse Invitational Sale, Yellowstone Boys & Girls Ranch Indoor Arena, Billings, Mont., 406-670-3400, realranchhorses.com

April 14-16 Calvo Red Angus Open House & Online Auction, via DVAuction, 605-8302210, 402-760-1274, calvofamilyredangus.com

April 15 Salmon Select 50th Annual Horse Sale, Lemhi County Fairgrounds, Salmon, Idaho, 208-756-2125, salmonselectsale.com

April 15 Best of the Big Horns Horse Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307-751-8969, 406-697-5882

April 15 Lee & Gayle Mausbach Moving – Liquidation Auction, Wheatland, 307532-4976, 307-534-5156, mcnameeauctioncompany.com

April 17 Colorado State University 37th Annual Yearling Commercial Angus Bull Sale, One Bar Eleven Ranch, Saratoga, 307-710-2938, 970-491-2722

April 17 Pharo Cattle Company Colorado Spring Bull Sale, Burlington Livestock Exchange, Burlington, Colo., 800-311-0995, pharocattle.com

April 22 Herring Angus High Country Bull & Ranch Horse Sale, Herring Ranch Sale Barn, Encampment, 307-327-5396, 307-329-8228, 307-329-7400

April 23 Huge Bird and Animal Auction, Dawson County Fairgrounds, Lexington, Neb., 308-222-0335, 308-457-9313

May 1 Finger Buttes Ranch Auction, Moose Lodge, Belle Fourche, S.D., 307-7609510, 406-697-3961, 406-853-1523

May 10 Amdahl Angus & Hereford Bull and Female Spring Production Sale, at the ranch, Rapid City, SD, 605-929-3717, 605-999-6487, amdahlangusandhereford.com

May 27 Full House Horse Sale, Newcastle, 307-746-5690, 307-684-0789, fullhousehorsesale.com

POSTCARD from the Past

Compiled by Dick Perue rrichardperue@gmail.com

Last Flight Home

On March 25, Gov. Mark Gordon and his support staff launched the Wyoming Veterans Welcome Home Day Statewide Tour at Saratoga’s Angus England Post 54 American Legion, home to more than 50 Veterans, family members and friends.

This was the first of four stops during the 2023 tour, saluting Cowboy State Veterans and celebrating the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War.

The governor, the first lady, the state adjutant general (AG) and the Veterans Commission chairman all flew into Shively Field, which the AG mentioned was named in honor of local World War II Fighter Pilot Lt. Jack Shively, who was killed in action. Which is another tale needing to be told.

During the AG’s talk, Air Force Veteran Dick Perue interrupted to mention one time when Lt. Shively was home on leave, he flew his plane under the river bridge. This remark sparked a memory from 80 years ago.

An article in the Sept. 16, 1943 issue of The Saratoga Sun noted, “Lt. Jack Shively of Luke Field, Ariz., flew here for the wedding . . .” – that of his sister Jane and Navy Officer John Glode.

A few days later, Lt. Shively hopped into his P-51 and returned to Luke Field.

This was the end of the news item for most folks. However, as an impressionable six-year-old child, here’s how I recall – with a few necessary additions

– my hero’s departure from Saratoga Airport on a sunny autumn day in midSeptember 1943.

Lt. Jack fired up his P-51 fighter plane, taxied to the dirt runway and took off west toward the Sierra Madres to avoid the bright rising sun, supposedly on his way to Arizona. But, not so, since he looped around to the east and then west to make a pass over the Bridge Street river bridge and his family’s Shively Hardware, thus buzzing the center of town, again to disappear in the Western sky.

Most folks started to return to their homes and businesses when the hum, and finally the roar, of the Packard V-1650 Merlin engine shook the silence of the still morning, as the Mustang approached from the south along the Upper North Platte River, barely clearing the tree tops of

Veterans Island, dropping down as to skim the riffles and a still pool before darting under the high steelspan river bridge.

Shooting out the other side of the bridge, Lt. Shively pushed the power to all 1,270 horses of the Mustang and headed skyward, performed a full barrel roll, flattened the plane out and then dipped each wing in a farewell salute before heading south at a cruise speed of about 275 miles per hour, before finally blending into the majestic mountains of the Snowy Range and never returning home.

Lt. Jack Shively was shot down and killed by an enemy fighter on June 3, 1944. His airplane crashed in Chinon, France, near the bridge of the town. . . but then that’s for another story when we next honor our Veterans.

Readers are warned this story is the recollection of a six-year-old from 80 years ago. The debate still rages whether Lt. Shively did or did not fly under the bridge. However, there is no debate the Army Air Corp fighter pilot flew into Saratoga and then buzzed the town before departing in his P-51. – Dick Perue

Present day skeptics claim the bridge is too low for an airplane to fly under. However, the old, 1884 steel-span bridge, shown here in this 1900 photo, was a long way above the water. We have superimposed a P-51 Mustang under the structure for effect. And, there were not any stages, horses, people or automobiles on the bridge when Lt. Shively pulled his stunt in mid-September of 1943. It is believed the reason he made the first pass over the bridge and town was to be sure there was nothing on the structure. The incident would not have been possible three months later, as the bridge collapsed under the weight of a log truck on Dec. 23, 1943 and became a tangled mass of steel on the ice. . . but, then, that’s another story. Photos from the Dick Perue/ Bob Martin collection. Historical Reproductions by Perue

MARKETS

Compiled from USDA Market News Service information and other sources

FOR THE WEEK ENDING March 31, 2023

FOR THE WEEK ENDING May 24, 2019

Greeley, CO

As of March 24, 2023

Compared to last week slaughter lambs steady to 10.00 higher, instances 15.00 higher. Slaughter ewes mostly steady to 5.00 lower. Feeder lambs not well tested. At San Angelo, TX 5,918 head sold. No sales in Equity Cooperative Auction. Superior video sold 950 slaughter lambs in New Mexico. In direct trading slaughter ewes and feeder lambs not tested. 4,049 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 140-170 lbs 136.00-162.00. Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 105-140 lbs 165.00-210.00, few 235.00-255.00; 155-185 lbs 120.00-180.00; 200-235 lbs 110.00140.00. South Dakota: wooled and shorn 110-1255 lbs 14537.001563.00, new crop 160.00-170.00; 161 lbs 160.00.

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 270.00-301.00, few 312.00; 60-70 lbs 270.00-292.00; 70-80 lbs 256.00-284.00, few 289.00; 80-90 lbs 230.00-270.00, few 274.00-275.00; 90-100 lbs 206.00-

241.00, few 254.00. wooled and shorn 70-80 lbs 258.00260.00; 84 lbs 238.00; 93 lbs 224.00.

Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 40-50 lbs 200.00-220.00; 53 lbs

215.00; 60-70 lbs 250.00-255.00; 70-80 lbs 240.00-260.00. hair 49 lbs 235.00; 55 lbs 270.00; 60-70 lbs 230.00-255.00, few

280.00; 70-80 lbs 240.00-250.00, few 275.00-300.00; 88 lbs

285.00; 97 lbs 250.00.

South Dakota: wooled and shorn 43 lbs 270.00; 50-60 lbs 250.00-

270.00, few 280.00; 60-70 lbs 245-260.00; 70-80 lbs 235.00-255.00, few 270.00; 90-100 lbs 200.00-220.00. hair 56 lbs 255.00; 76 lbs

220.00.

Billings: no test.

Slaughter Ewes

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

76.00-106.00, hair 85.00-108.00; Utility and Good 1-3 (medium

flesh) hair 112.50-131.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 100.00-102.00, hair

90.00-112.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) 80.00-81.00, hair

80.00-93.00; Cull 1 50.00-79.00.

Ft. Collins: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy)

90.00-126.00, hair 80.00-135.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 70.00-85.00; Cull 1 20.00-25.00.

South Dakota: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 45.00-60.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 55.00-85.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 60.00-90.00; Cull 1

18.00-50.00.

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

80-90 lbs 185.00-192.00; 102 lbs 168.00.

Billings: no test.

Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2 San Angelo: yearling hair 80-100 lbs 191.00-194.00/cwt; mixed age hair 80-110 lbs 137.00-153.00/cwt; hair ewes and lambs 120.00/head.

Ft. Collins: yearlings 129 lbs 149.00/cwt; young 125-130 lbs 83.00-90.00/cwt; young hair 86 lbs 100.00/cwt; ewes with lambs 235.00/family.

South Dakota: open yearlings 125.00/head; bred young 210.00-210.00/head, open 130.00/head; bred middle age 165.00-190.00/head; ewes and lambs 90.00-100.00/head. Billings: no test.

Sheep and lambs slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 37,000 compared with 36,000 last week and 38,000 last year.

Source: USDA AMS Market News, San Angelo, Texas

National Wool Review

As of March 24, 2023

Domestic wool trading had no confirmed trades reported this week. Prices reflect trades FOB warehouse in original bag or square pack, bellies out, some graded, and 76 mm or longer. No allowance made for coring, freight, or handling fees at the warehouse level to reflect net grower prices. Wools shorter than 75 mm typically discounted .10-.20 clean. Classed and skirted wools usually trade at a .10-.20 premium to original bag prices. Australian Wool Exchange

Del Price Change from 75-85 Percent

in U.S. Dollars Previous Sale of Australia

US

5 AREA WEEKLY WEIGHTED CATTLE PRICE

Hay Summary

As of March 30, 2023

Compared to last week all reported hay sales sold steady. Demand was moderate to good. Livestock owners continue to pick up hay from their local producers. Some hay getting shipped to out of state customers. Snowpack is in pretty good shape in several areas. Median for the state comes in at 122% this week with basin high of 158% and basin low of 88%. Last year the average was at 83% and at 95% for 2021. Most irrigation districts should have a good amount of water for this summer irrigation season.

Compared to last week bales of alfalfa sold steady to weak and grass hay sold steady. Ground and delivered alfalfa and cornstalks steady. Sun- cured and dehy alfalfa pellets steady. Demand was moderate to good. Many contacts stated phones not quite a busy this week as previous weeks. Many livestock owners are hopeful they have enough hay bought for the time being. Several reports of balers back into cornfields taking trash off before planting season starts in mid-April. As of March 30, US Drought monitor still shows much of the state in severe to extreme drought conditions. Some areas of the state had 8-10” of snow with many areas getting no moisture at all over the weekend.

Notice

Casper Alcova Irrigation

District

Change of meeting days and times. Board meetings will now be held on the second Thursday of each month from 2-5 p.m.

Scheduled board meetings will be April 27 & May 25, 2-5 p.m. at 745 Connie Street, Natrona County, Mills, WY 82644

LOVELAND, CO TIMBER

DAN TOY SHOW & SALE

APRIL 8, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., The Loveland Lions Spring Timber

Dan Toy Show and Sale of vintage, antique and collectible toys will be held Sat., April 8 at the First National Bank Exhibition Building, Larimer County Fairgrounds (The Ranch, 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland, CO). Admission $5. Early entry between 7- 9 a.m., $10. For more information contact Sherlyn Sampson, 970-663-9392, email sks80538@gmail.com or visit website at www.lovelandlionsclubs.org 4/1

Help

Help

Help Wanted

Editor Position Open

Join the team at the Wyoming Livestock Roundup to produce the state’s weekly news source for ranchers, farmers and the agribusiness community.

Job Description:

• Interview, write and proofread articles weekly, as well as special editions using AP style

• Help generate articles and content – must be able to keep content organized

• Update website weekly and help with social media content

• Must meet weekly and special edition deadlines

• Be able to work in a team and independently

• Willingness to learn InDesign, Photoshop and Mac operating systems

This is a full-time, entry-level position based in Casper, WY. Some overnight travel is required. An ag background is preferred

To apply, submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample and photography samples to andrea@wylr.net or Attn: Andrea, PO Box 850, Casper, WY 82602. Call 307-234-2700 with questions. Accepting applications until position is filled.

DEVILS TOWER FOREST

PRODUCTS INC., A LUMBER MANUFACTURER IN HULETT, WY, IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR AN EXPERIENCED, INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIAN WITH PLC WORKING KNOWLEDGE: Benefit package includes company paid medical and dental insurance (including dependents), life insurance, company-matching 401(k) retirement program, safety incentives, holiday pay and paid vacation. As an added incentive you will receive a $500 “signing bonus” after 180 days, attendance and safety conditions apply to signon bonus. Mandatory employment and random drug testing conducted. Starting wage DOE. Contact Joe Ortner at 307-4675252, you can also send your application with resume to joe. ortner@devilstowerfp.com. Online applications available at www.neimanenterprises. com. E.O.E 4/1

Rough Country Outfitters & Guides

Want a Wyoming adventure with full room & board, excellent seasonal income with gratuities? We seek a self-motivated, young-at-heart couple to serve as camp cook/camp tender in our private ranch lodges and/or backcountry camps. Join us April 15 - May 31 for the spring turkey and/or black bear camps & our fall big game camps Sept. 15 - Nov. 20, 2023 and beyond. Now hiring experienced hunting guides. Send resumes to Rough Country Outfitters

Attn: Deb Schell PO Box 973 • Glenrock, WY 82637 307-436-2304

GOTTSCH LIVESTOCK FEEDERS

EXPERIENCED CATTLE BARN MANAGER POSITION IN BEAUTIFUL SOUTHWEST

MTC LOGISTICS HAS PARTTIME DRIVER POSITIONS AVAILABLE FOR DRIVER

CLASS B, A CDL CASPER, WY: Must have clean driving record, no felony record and able to pass extensive background check. Class B license also required. Driver loads mail at the Casper Post Office and delivers to Powder River and Shoshoni. Ford Transit provided. Every Friday and Saturday and available Monday-Saturday to cover time off for other employees (advance notice given), $21/hour, approximately 13 hours per week for Friday and Saturday.

OTHER POSITION ALSO REQUIRES CLASS B LICENSE to cover time off in Casper, WY. Driver loads mail at the Casper Post Office and delivers to Mills, Evansville and downtown Casper. This position also covers time off for other employees (advance notice given). Pay $28.89/hour, includes every holiday (including Thanksgiving and Christmas). Holidays would involve approximately two hours total work. Transportation provided, straight truck. E-mail resumes to dingoboy6342@ yahoo.com or call Matt, 801641-4109 4/8

Auctions

HUGE BIRD AND ANIMAL AUCTION SUN., APRIL 23: Selling horses, ponies, goats, llamas, alpacas and birds of all types. Sale starts 9 a.m. Dawson County Fairgrounds, Lexington, NE. To consign or for more information, call 308-2220335 or 308-457-9313 4/8

Financial Services

ALL TYPES OF EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLE FINANCING. Great service!! Great rates!! Call Chuck Brown at C.H. Brown Co., WY LLC, 307-3223232 (office), 307-331-0010 (cell) or e-mail chuckbrown@ wyoming.com 4/1

AGRI-ONE FINANCIAL: Farm/ ranch and all commercial loans. RATES AS LOW AS 5%. We have been helping with all aspects of agricultural, commercial financing and management for years. LET US HELP YOU on a consulting level with management to increase profitability, deal with and fix credit problems and for all your financing needs. WE CARE AND HAVE WORKING PROGRAMS designed for the farmer/rancher and not the banker. Please call Steve, 303773-3545, or check out our website www.agrionefinancial.com. I will come to you and get the job done!! 4/22

Brands

REGISTERED WYOMING BRAND: LRC, LTH. Current through Jan. 1, 2031. $2,500 OBO. Contact Gene at 307-331-1049 4/8

REGISTERED WYOMING BRAND: LRC. Current through Jan. 1, 2031. $2,500 OBO. Contact Gene at 307-331-1049 4/8

REGISTERED WYOMING BRAND: LRC, LSH. Current through Jan. 1, 2031. $2,500 OBO. Contact Gene at 307-331-1049 4/8

FOR SALE: HISTORICAL WYOMING LIVESTOCK BRAND, LSC, LBH, $1,500. Contact Charles or Nancy Herbst, 307-856-3013 or 307-840-2683 4/8

FOR SALE: HISTORICAL WYOMING LIVESTOCK BRAND, LRC, BS, LTH, $2,500. Contact Charles or Nancy Herbst, 307-856-3013 or 307-840-2683 4/8

Dogs

4/1

WE HAVE A LITTER OF 8

GREAT PYRENEES LIVESTOCK GUARD DOGS: Ready to go April 6. They’ve been exposed to various types of livestock. Have sweet and loving personalities. $400/pup. For more information, contact Casey or Cristy Davis, 605-431-2067 or 605-206-0495. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 4/22

YOUR FAMILY AND PROPERTY PROTECTORS ARE WAITING!!

We have beautiful guardians just wanting and waiting to make you their priority!! Please don’t postpone your next best friend, companion and protector. $1,000. Have been raising these fantastic LGD for 48 years. For more information, call 406-207-7674 4/22

AKC ENGLISH SPRINGER

SPANIEL PUPPIES: DOB Feb. 9, ready to go now. Two liver/ white males, 2 black/white males. Will have first shots, dewclaws removed and tails docked. $500. Call 406-234-6996 or 307-2675792 4/8

IDAHO SHAG PUPS FOR

SALE: Out of working parents. Born Jan. 6. Have had shots and been wormed. They are already showing an interest in livestock. Located in Billings, MT. $350/ each. 254-592-5372 4/22

LLC Red Cloud, NE www.gottschcattlecompany.com

Come Join the Gottsch Livestock Feeders Family! Gottsch Livestock Feeders is looking for Cowboys/Pen Riders for their feedyard in Red Cloud, NE. The main focus of the Cowboy/Pen Riders are spotting, pulling, diagnosing and taking cattle to the hospital and shipping fat cattle. This person will need to be a team player who is seeking a long-term position. You will have the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the best in the industry. We offer a benefits package that includes health insurance, dental, vision, 401(k), health savings, life insurance and paid vacation. If you are interested stop by and fill out an application or visit our website at

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

MONTANA: Competitive pay and benefits. Must be knowledgeable of cattle breeds ● market values ● business minded ● able to build relationships. Contact 406-5860231, info@careersinmontana. com 4/15

BOOKKEEPER/INVOICING

CLERK NEEDED: Computer experience with Quickbooks preferred. Full-time hourly wage and benefits. ALSO, FARM HAND with equipment and haying experience. Pivot system operation a plus. Year-round employment for the right person. Wage is hourly with benefits, DOE. Call Kim, 307-3500350, Farson, WY 4/1

HOT SPRINGS COUNTY WEED & PEST DISTRICT IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF WEED AND PEST DISTRICT SUPERVISOR: The position is in Thermopolis, WY. Send letter of application, resume and 3 references by April 5 to: Hot Springs County Weed & Pest District, PO Box 543, Thermopolis, WY 82443. For additional information, call 307-864-2278 or e-mail hscwpcd@rtconnect.net. Hot Springs County Weed & Pest is an EOE 4/1

RANCH HAND: In search of experienced dependable individual/ couple for year-round position on a well-maintained northwest Nebraska cow/calf and yearling operation. Haying, feeding, fencing, equipment/facility maintenance. Identifying and doctoring of sick cattle and calving are a few of the necessary skills needed. Housing, work pickup and electrical provided. Family friendly work environment. Competitive wages depending on experience. For more information, call 308-430-5179, or e-mail resume to samanthaj. dyer@gmail.com. Mike Dyer, 308-430-5179 4/22

DRIVER NEEDED FOR LIVESTOCK HAULING: Part-time or full-time. Call 307-921-1544 4/8

FIVE RIVERS CATTLE FEEDING, the world’s largest cattle feeding company with feedyards in Colorado, Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, Idaho and Arizona, invites you to check out our current job openings at www.fiveriverscattle.com/careers Competitive pay and benefits, paid time off, 401(k) plan and a safety first culture is our mission 4/8

HOT SPRINGS COUNTY WEED & PEST DISTRICT IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF WEED AND PEST DISTRICT MOSQUITO COORDINATOR/RANGE MANAGER: The position is in Thermopolis, WY. Send letter of application, resume and 3 references by April 5 to: Hot Springs County Weed & Pest District, PO Box 543, Thermopolis, WY 82443. For additional information, call 307-864-2278 or e-mail hscwpcd@rtconnect. net. Hot Springs County Weed & Pest is an EOE 4/1

AIREDALE PUPPIES: AKC registered, good with children, good on the farm/ranch, great for predator control, hunting lines, large and healthy. Wormed and first shots. Senior and Veteran discounts. Located close by. Delivery available. Call 719-217-8054 4/1

PYRENEES PUPPIES FOR

SALE: Living with sheep. Lambs are bedding with pups. Working parents. Call 307-780-5025 4/8

AUSTRALIAN/ENGLISH SHEP-

HERD CROSS PUPPIES: Born Jan. 2. Vet checked, first shots, dewormed and dewclaws removed. From working parents. Call 719-469-3190. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 4/8

SANDHILL BORDER COL-

LIES: Working border collies for ranchers. Reds, blacks, merles, mainly short hair. Thirty years experience. Shots appropriate to age, dewclaws removed, wormed weekly. Pups and ready-to-start pups available. Prices vary. Call us (texts are better) to set up delivery, 701-770-2364 or e-mail sandhillbc@yahoo.com. Visit our Facebook page: Sandhill Performance Horses and Border Collies. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 5/6

Cattle

GOT DOGS??

We have LOTS of hunters and we pay top $$ to ranchers.

DCPC Varmint Hunts

Est. 1992

Call Dick • 406-366-3858

Angus

REGISTERED ANGUS AND HEREFORD TWO-YEAR OLD, fall yearling and spring yearling bulls for sale by private treaty, www.malsonangus.com. Call Josh, 208-739-0725 for more information 4/22

BULLS FOR SALE: Had a complete cow dispersal. Need to sell 7 Angus and 2 Hereford bulls. Two- and 3-year-olds (Marcy Cattle, M Diamond Lisco and Ochsner Roth genetics). Semen and trich tested. Call 308-765-0300 4/8

Limousin

2-Year-Old Registered Limousin Bulls

Joe Freund 303/341-9311

Joey Freund 303/475-6062 Pat Kelley 303/840-1848

Horses

Buck Brannaman

Horsemanship Clinic

May 12 - 14, 2023

Seven Down Arenas Spearfish, S.D.

Classes: FH & H1 w/ cattle $30/day for spectators. Contact Deb at 605-515-3995 or debshimon@yahoo.com

WANTED: Sugar Bars and non-Sugar Bars-bred saddle horses for the 21ST ANNUAL SUGAR BARS LEGACY SALE SUNDAY, SEPT. 17 Held in Sheridan, WY. Please contact Jim, 406-812-0084 or e-mail deerrunranch@gmail.com for consignment and sale information 4/1

IRONHORSE FOUNDATION

Warner Ranch Seed

Serving Fremont County, Wyoming and the surrounding areas.

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

Plant the best!

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

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: White 30’ disk; John Deere 1890 30’ airdrill (disk, 7.5” sp.); Morris 53’ airdrill; Lawson 12x30 double drum land areator; 3 John Deere 9600 combines; New Holland 1075 balewagon; CIH 8570 3x3 baler; Massey Ferguson 2190 4x4 baler; Freeman pull type 3 string balers; Vermeer R23 rake; CIH 1015 pick-up header; Modern Mill (mix mill) feed mill; Freightliner grain truck; Freightliner sleeper truck; IHC 80 bbl vac truck; Wilson 53x102 tri axle cattle pot; Merritt 48’x102” cattle pot; Cat 262D skid steer; Mobile Tech 9 yd. volumetric concrete mixer; Degelman 570 rock picker. Call 406-254-1254 4/1 2000 CASE 9007B EXCAVATOR: 4,500 hours, weighs 16,000 lbs., with thumb. Call for pictures and details, $19,000. 970-6201901 4/22

Call Today!

Family & Nurse

Cows

TRAINING ESTABLISHES A FOUNDATION OF RESPECT WITH HORSES FROM THE GROUND UP, helps horses with belligerent, reactive behavior and increases a horse’s performance under saddle. Horse trainer, farrier and clinician, Megan McKnight has 21 years of developed feel, timing and experience. Located in Laramie, WY. Call 307-338-8583. www. ironhorsefoundationtraining. com 4/22

Red Angus

YEARLING RED ANGUS

BULLS FOR SALE PRIVATE

TREATY: AI sons of 9 Mile Franchise and Collier’s Finished Product. Raised at elevation, grown out on roughage diet. Cow herd focus is on efficiency, maintenance and maternal traits. Call or text Aaron for EPDs, pictures and pricing, 307-388-2717. Volume discounts. Anderson Ranch Co 4/22

REGISTERED RED ANGUS

YEARLING BULLS FOR SALE, ready late spring. ALSO, one 2-year-old still available and ready to go now. Delivery available. For more information, call CLR Red Angus, Dan Robertson, 307431-1013 4/15

RED ANGUS HIGH-ELEVATION YEARLING BULLS FOR SALE IN NORTHEASTERN UTAH: Out of AI and bull bred sires. Will be trich, semen tested and fed for free until May 1. $2,000/head. Bar Lazy TL Ranch, David, 435828-1320, barlazytlranch@ gmail.com 5/27

SimAngus

SIMANGUS BULLS FOR SALE: 18-month-olds and yearlings.

Sired by TJ Cowboy Up, SAV Rainfall, WBF Iron Clad, TJ Stone Cold, TJ Big Easy, TJ Stability, TJ Chief, or sons of Gibbs Pirate and TJ Main Event. James Dilka/ Dilka Cattle, 970-396-8791, thedilkas@aol.com 4/8

FIND IT IN THE ROUNDUP

CLASSIFIEDS

YEARLING ANGUS BULLS: These bulls are grown, not fattened, will get out and cover cows. Many will work on heifers. We will deliver. Call Joe Buseman, 605-351-1535 4/8 Gelbvieh

NINE BAR NINE GELBVIEH

Yearling Gelbvieh Bulls Available:

1 Red Bull • 4 Black Bulls (Videos Available in Mid-March)

307-351-6453 ninebar9@hotmail.com

ROCK SOLID GELBVIEH: BULLS AND HEIFERS for sale PRIVATE TREATY. Using top of the line AI sires for calving ease and growth. Carlos & Trina Christensen, 208-6802001, Blackfoot, ID. www. rocksolidgelbvieh.wixsite. com/home To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 4/15

BROWN SWISS BRED HEIFERS FOR SALE: Will calve March, April and May. Bred to Brown Swiss bulls. Have had all shots. Poured with Ivomec on regular basis. TB tested and current health papers. Nice, gentle, outside cattle, in good shape and well fed. Delivery options available. For pictures or more information, call Larry W. Carlson, 605-224-6100 (home) or 605-280-3879 (cell), if no answer leave message. Pierre, S.D. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 3/25

Meat Processing

Newell, S.D.

Proudly under new ownership. 605-456-2230

Pasture Wanted

WANTED: DRAFT MULES, either a team or single mule, draft size. Needed for summer work, making hay, etc. Powell, WY. Call 307-254-9747 4/8

BEST OF THE BIG HORNS HORSE SALE, APRIL 15, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, 44 TW Rd., Buffalo, WY. Online bidding through www.cattleusa. com, register 3 days prior to sale. Contact Ellen Allemand, 307-751-8969 or Kay Lynn Allen, 406-697-5882. Visit us on Facebook for updates 4/1

Saddles & Tack

RIDE, WORK, ROPE AND PLAY!! Great selection of: Quality GLOVES, mohair CINCHES, wool saddle PADS and blankets. Over 300 BITS in stock!! HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! WE CAN ship!! Shop Moss Saddles, Boots and Tack, 4648 West Yellowstone Highway, Casper, WY; 307-472-1872. Our family serving yours for 50 years!! Check us out on Facebook or our website 4/1

Pasture Wanted

ISO YEAR-ROUND OR SUMMER GRAZING 2023

for 200-600 pairs. Full or self-care. In or around northern WY. Can provide financial and grazing references. Please contact Rick: 402-760-1274

SUMMER PASTURE NEEDED FOR 2023 AND BEYOND for 100 to 200 cow/calf pairs. Good references. Call 605-347-3403 or 605-499-9088 4/1

SUMMER PASTURE NEEDED for yearling cattle or cow/ calf pairs, any amount. Call 307-921-1544 4/8

PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. 701-523-1235 5/6

LONG-TERM, YEAR-ROUND LEASE OR SUMMER GRAZING LEASE FOR 30 TO 50

PAIRS: Southeast Wyoming, southwest Nebraska Panhandle, north central Weld County Colorado. Excellent references. Willing to discuss a work/trade situation. Calls only please, 303-233-0604 4/1

YEARLING PASTURE WANTED for 1,500 head steers/spayed heifers for 2023 and beyond. Take all or part, smaller places okay. CO, WY, OR and ID preferred. Competitive rates, reference available. Call or text Jon, 831-240-5795 7/1

Leatherwork

LS CUSTOM LEATHER: Belts, tack, cell phone cases and much more!! Contact Lester, 307631-1053, leave a message. Located in Riverton, WY 4/8

Sheep

MERINO EWES FOR SALE: CAMPBELL AND HANSMIRE GENETICS, 350 HEAD: Two to 6 years old, 165-170 lbs. Good body condition. Supplementing on pasture. 19-20 Micron. Wormed and vaccinated 3 times in 2022. Hamp/Suffolk bucks turned in Nov. 22, 2022. Five Akbash dogs. For more information, call 308-440-7999 4/1

Sugarbeet Shares

WESTERN SUGAR COOPERATIVE BEET SHARES, Lovell District, permanent or temporary transfers. Call 307-272-4384 for more information 4/22

GRASS SEED FOR SALE: Manifest wheat grass, Manska wheat grass, Cache Meadow Brome, good germination, $3.90/lb. Call Big Horn Seed Company, 307-202-0704 or 307-645-3322 TFN

Bryan Warner • 307-850-7668 (cell) Hay & Feed

GRASS HAY FOR SALE: 3x4 bales, 1,200 lbs., $250/ton. ALSO, 200 bales of certified weed-free hay. Lyman, WY. Call Kelly, 307-780-7027 4/8

HAY FOR SALE: Approximately 85 3x4 bales weighing approximately 1,140 lbs. Burlington, WY, $275/ton OBO. 307-272-0132 4/22

2022 LARGE ROUND

BALES: Net wrapped, 1,5501,650 lbs., tests done, nitrate free, Japanese and German millet, $130/ton. ALSO, large round bales of 2021 net wrapped and 2022 twine tied grass hay. Will deliver. Call 605-224-6100 (home) or 605280-3879 (cell), if no answer leave message 4/22

ROUND BALES: Best quality first cutting alfalfa, clean, green, good leaf, $245/ton. Lesser quality but still good first cutting alfalfa, $230/ton. Straight second cutting alfalfa, $265/ton. First cutting orchard/alfalfa mix, $255/ton, second cutting orchard/alfalfa mix, $270/ton. 1,500 lb. bales, NO RAIN FOR ALL TYPES, baled right. 120 miles north of Gillette, WY. Truck load quantities. Call or text 406-6724809 4/1

WE HAVE HAY FOR SALE!! Grass hay and cornstalks. Delivery available!! Call 307630-3046 4/15

SECOND CUTTING ALFALFA and CERTIFIED OAT STRAW for sale. For more information, call 307-754-5864 4/15

HAY FOR SALE: 2022 grass mix, millet and milo. ALSO, 2022 straw and older hay for grinding. All in net-wrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, 701-690-8116, please send a text if no answer or keep trying 4/15

GOOD AVAILABILITY OF ROUND AND SQUARE HAY AND STRAW BALES FOR SALE: Low delivery charge at cost. Volume discounts available. Call/text 1-204-209-1066 anytime for pricing 4/8

BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/ bale. ALSO, round bales. OATS, WHEAT AND BARLEY, $20/100 cwt. Greybull, WY area. Call 307-762-3878 or 307-202-0108, leave message 4/8

VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: Hay still available. Go to www.valleyvideohay.com or call Barry McRea, 308-235-5386 4/8

60 TONS OF THIRD CUT-

TING ALFALFA HAY FOR SALE, 4x4x8 big squares. Call 307-840-4055 4/1

Equipment

WANT TO BUY!! MORRIS

M-10 GRAIN DRILLS, 10’ 6” spacings, 20-30’ of drill, 2 or 3 units, more units would also be acceptable. Call Lloyd, 701226-4055 4/8

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: 95

John Deere round back combine, $6,200; Hesston 3 bale accumulator 4x4 big square, $3,900; 1999 4900 Hesston baler, $24,500; 2275 16’ Hesston pull type swather, $14,500. All machinery has been shedded. Call Ivan Policky, 307-6290974 4/1

Livestock Equipment

FOR SALE: Skid loader 6’ snow pusher. H&S 7+4 17’ chuckwagon with tandem 14 ton running gear. John Deere 714A and 716A chuckwagons with John Deere running gear and bunk feeding extensions, been shedded, nice condition. J&M 325 gravity box with 12 ton gear. Meyerink 12’ box scraper. Lorenz 16’x33’ 18 ton stack mover. All in very nice condition!! Call 605-999-5482 4/15

Heating Equipment

ELIMINATE ● RISING ● FUEL

COSTS: Clean, safe and efficient wood heat. Central Boiler Classic and E-Classic Outdoor Wood Furnace; heats multiple buildings with only 1 furnace, 25-year warranty available. Heat with wood, no splitting! Available in dual fuel ready models. www.CentralBoiler.com WE ALSO HAVE whole house pellet/corn/biomass furnaces. Load once per month with hopper. www.maximheat.com

A-1 Heating Systems. Instant rebates may apply! Call today! 307-742-4442. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds TFN

Rupp Hydraulic Calf Tables

Rupp Hydraulic Calf Tables

$5,250

• Handles Calves up to 300 lbs.

• Handles Calves up to 300 lbs.

• Operates off tractor, bale bed or remote hydraulic unit.

• Operates off tractor, bale bed or remote hydraulic unit.

Call Darin Coyle, Big Horn Livestock Services, Inc. 307-851-1634 • www.bighornlivestock.com

Call Kevin McClurg, Big Horn Livestock Services 307-751-1828 • bighornlivestock.com

Equipment Decals

Fencing

Turn

Sell

LODGEPOLE PRODUCTS, 307-742-6992, SERVING AGRI-BUSINESSES SINCE 1975!! Treated posts, corral poles, buck-and-rail, western rail, fence stays, rough-sawn lumber, bedding. SEE US at www.lodgepoleproducts. com and click our “Picking A Fence Post” tab to see why folks choose our posts!! TFN

PIPE FOR SALE!! 2 7/8, 3 1/2 tubing, 4” drill pipe, 4 1/2 casing, 5” casing, 7” casing. Rods 3/4, 7/8 and 1” located in Montana, can ship anywhere. Call Mike, 602-758-4447. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 6/17

OILFIELD PIPE: RPJ Enterprises, Inc. 2 3/8, 2 7/8, 3.5, 5.5, and 3/4” sucker rod is available. Used for fencing, corrals, cattle guards, etc. 2 3/8 and 2 7/8 are on average 31.5’ long per joint. 3.5” and 5.5” are 42+ lengths. Pierce, CO. Call for details 970-324-4580 8/26

Pipe

IRRIGATION EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: Two used Wade Rain wheel lines, new in 2000.

5” pipe, 5’ wheels, 40’ pipe. Well maintained. Includes inlet or center feed, hose, end plug and valve opener so irrigation ready. As is, you dismantle and haul. 1,720’ long, $9,000. 1,560’ long, $8,600. Two Nelson P200 Big Guns on carts for 6” ringlock pipe. Includes cart, $1,500/ each. Approximately 1/3 mile

A&M 6” ringlock Series 55 aluminum pipe. 6”x30’ pipe. As is, pipe stacked, ready to go $135/ each pipe. Call 406-600-4146, Bozeman, MT 4/22

Irrigation Systems

The choice is simple.

Easier On You.

Big Horn Truck and Equipment Manderson, WY rairdenjlw@tritel.net • 800-770-6280

Black Hills Development Land - Near Rapid City, SD, 782+/- acres, a transition property. Can be purchased in different combinations. Potential exists to access the entitlements of water, natural gas, high speed internet and electricity. Access & road infrastructure is excellent.

$7,895,100

Owl Canyon Ranch - 1,862 contiguous acres near Fort Collins, CO. Historically a working cattle ranch, valleys, rock ridges and formations along with lush native pastures, makes this offering as a transition property suited for prime for development or conservation.

$12,560,000

John Stratman • john@ranchland.com

303-912-8807

www.RanchLand.com

Property for Sale

COUNTRY LIVING ON THE EDGE OF TOWN, STERLING, CO: Newer ranch style home, 5 bedroom, 3 bath, many upgrades with an open floor plan, 3,800 sq. ft., lots of storage. Large barn with indoor riding arena, 6 heated stalls, wash bay, tack room, indoor hay storage, bathroom. Outdoor riding arena, 3 runs, 3 corrals, 3 loafing sheds, dog run/kennel, RV hookup. 42.25 acres, recently surveyed, 3 adjacent parcels available for sale. Call Steve Robinson, Real Estate Broker Associate 970-631-5023, A. Stephen and Company, Inc. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 4/22

ALDER CREEK PASTURE, BAKER CITY, BAKER COUNTY, OR: The Alder Creek pasture contains over 2,000 acres of native spring, summer and fall pasture. The rangeland is situated just east of Baker City. The property is in good condition and has good perimeter fencing. The prior owner developed a well for stock water making a reliable source for good stock water. The range is gently sloping, south facing slope for the most part. Variety of native grass makes it desirable for cows/calves or yearlings. If you are looking for early spring, summer or fall pasture, this is ideal. This the first time being offered at approximately $500 per acre for deeded and contiguous ownership, $1,095,000. Give us a call at 541-523-4434, Intermountain Realty, Inc., Greg Sackos, Principal Broker, James Dunlap, Broker www.intermountainland.com 4/22

WLSB schedules meeting

The State Fair Times

WSF Launches Everyday Ag, An Immersive Educational Experience For All

Among many new and exciting changes coming to Douglas for Wyoming’s premier summer event in August, the Wyoming State Fair (WSF) has announced the launch of Everyday Ag, an immersive educational experience teaching fairgoers of all industries and backgrounds about the impact and importance of agriculture in the everyday lives of people everywhere.

This innovative initiative is designed to inject education into every area of the fairgrounds, offering something for everyone who has the pleasure of attending.

“We are excited to launch Everyday Ag at WSF,” said Courtny Conkle, WSF general manager. “This initiative is a great way for us to showcase the importance of agriculture in our everyday lives and to provide a fun and educational experience for all who attend the fair.

We believe Everyday Ag will be a huge success, and we can’t wait for everyone to experience it.”

Immersive education

According to Conkle, the program consists of multiple components, several of which are focused on furthering fairgoers education in regards to agriculture. Educational aspects of the program include an agricultural education activity guide, a guided audio tour and commodity and species installations.

“All of these activities are designed with all ages in mind, with the goal of helping guests and exhibitors learn more about agriculture while visiting WSF,” she says.

Conkle explains the agricultural education activity guide will provide fairgoers with information about the different aspects of agriculture, from commodities to livestock, and includes activities to engage visitors in learn-

ing about different types of agriculture, the importance of farming and ranching and how food gets from the farm to the table.

Additionally, a guided audio tour will offer attendees a unique and informative way to learn about different species and different agriculture installations.

Commodity and species visual installations will also provide an experience for visitors to learn about different types of crops and livestock found in Wyoming and the impact they have on individuals’ everyday lives.

Hands-on activities

The Everyday Ag experience will also include hands-on activities for fairgoers to participate in, including a scavenger hunt, Judge with the Judge cards, a large mural and ag swag.

Conkle notes a scavenger hunt will be held in an effort to encourage visitors to explore the fairgrounds, while learning about agriculture along the way. Participants will be entered to win a cash prize if they complete the entire scavenger hunt.

The Judge with the Judge activity gives visitors a chance to learn about

what goes into judging livestock. Conkle shares livestock show spectators will be able to make their picks during each show and try their hand at judging livestock.

Additionally, a new Everyday Ag mural will offer a visual representation of the importance of agriculture, showcasing the many different aspects of farming and ranching, and lastly, ag swag will be available for visitors to take home as a reminder of their experience at the fair.

“Everyday Ag is designed to be an immersive and educational experience for all ages and industries,” Conkle states. “The initiative is a great way to showcase the importance of agriculture in our everyday lives and to provide a fun and engaging experience for visitors of WSF.”

WSF will be held Aug. 15-19 in Douglas. For more information about Everyday Ag and/or WSF, visit wystatefair.com

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

The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) has scheduled a public meeting for April 4 at 10 a.m. at the Wyoming State Capitol Building, 200 W. 24th street, in room W113.

Topics will include the approval of Nov. 28, 2022 minutes, a welcome for new members, a presentation for outgoing members, a director’s report, legislative updates, proposed brand inspector compensation, brand inspection recording updates, animal health updates, trace first coreone software presentation and rules out for public comment, which ended March 16.

These include Chapter 12 rules governing Brucella ovis and Chapter 14 presentation of official forms by licensed and accredited veterinarians.

During the meeting, WLSB will also review the following rules: Chapter two brucellosis management and mitigation, Chapter six brucellosis risk mitigation activities and compensation and Chapter 25 brucellosis quarantine mitigation expense reimbursement, U.S. Department of Agriculture animal disease traceability rule comment period, brucellosis reimbursement compensation, election of officers and other administrative board business and matters.

The public can attend in person or via Zoom at us02web. zoom.us/j/87366170684?pwd=MzFUZXFOL05KdXBlT3d kVnpPZnhyZz09, using the meeting ID: 873 6617 0684 and the passcode: 412155.

Resource guide published

On March 27, the U.S. Department of Agriculture

(USDA) Rural Development Under Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced USDA is launching a resource guide to help colleges and universities in rural areas find low-interest loans and grants to build or improve their facilities, infrastructure, equipment and educational programs.

The resource guide outlines loan and grant programs available to eligible colleges and universities. These programs can be used to advance community and economic development through three USDA Rural Development program areas – community programs, rural business-cooperative service programs and rural utilities service programs.

For additional resources, forms and program information, visit rd.usda.gov/

The first thing in life I remember wanting to be was a jockey, and the second thing was a professional basketball player.

Alas, I was too big for one and too small for the other. So, I figured being a cowboy would be a better fit.

I hate to admit this, but I’ve never had riding lessons in my life. I’ve never crossed an angry river on a horse, never rode a bronc in a rodeo and was never a member of the National Cutting Horse Association.

I learned to ride sitting astride a saddle in my grandpa’s “bunkhouse,” which wasn’t really a bunkhouse at all but a shed filled with old bits, spurs, saddle blankets and two saddles sitting on stands.

My favorite thing to do as a child was to go to my grandpa’s house where I’d head straight to his bunkhouse, mount up and play cowboy.

My grandpa coached me, “Keep your heels down, don’t jerk back on the reins and NEVER, under any circumstances, grab the horn.” Or as he called it, “reaching for the apple or squeezing the biscuit.”

My second favorite thing to do was ride the mechanical horse in front of the grocery store, and I’m proud to say neither the saddle stand nor the mechanized equine ever bucked me off, despite some really hairy predicaments.

When I went to the county fair, I always rode the horse on the carousel – not the ostrich, tiger, elephant or swan – so, at this point in my career, I felt like I could ride anything with hair, wool or feathers.

Oh, I’d been on real horses before – I have photographic evidence I rode before I could walk – but I was always in the arms of grandpa at a rodeo.

It wasn’t until I was a sophomore in high school that I got on real horses and was a real cowboy. My best friend in high school lived on his grandfather’s ranch, and every chance I got, I went there to haul hay in exchange for riding horses.

From the beginning, I was assigned Buck, a horse that never did just that. Buck was the horse they always assigned to dudes, small children, infirm old timers and me. I loved that old horse.

On a gentle horse like Buck, everybody is an accomplished equestrian, but simply polishing my pants on saddle leather

by Lee Pitts

didn’t make me any more of a cowboy than wearing spurs did.

It wasn’t until I got my first job out of college as a cowboy that I had to ride rank horses. I wouldn’t say any of the cribbers ever bucked me off, but there were a few times I had to make an unscheduled dismount to tighten my cinch.

I wouldnʼt necessarily call it “getting bucked off” either, when one of those renegades with lethal ten-

dencies took off at a lightning pace that would have won the All American in Ruidoso had he been there instead of a forest full of trees with low hanging branches, every one of which tried to knock me out of the saddle.

The whole time it was happening, I kept hearing the words of my grandpa, “Don’t jerk back on the reins, and NEVER grab the horn.”

I wouldnʼt say I was bucked off, it was more like I was scraped off.

If I ever had to ride one of those owlheads in the presence of my contemporaries, I always hoped a rattler would bite my mount so he’d die and I’d have a good excuse for walking back to headquarters.

Years later, when I had my own cow herd,

I always rode my horse Gentleman, who must have been a son of Buck, because he too, never did. But, one day Gentleman was busy trying to breed my neighbor’s Paint mare, so he lent me one of his outlaws.

Everything was fine until I tried to make him cross over a rock-strewn stream. When he balked, I may have tapped him a little with my spurs, and the next thing I knew, I was knocking a hole in my chest with my chin.

One minute I was soaring with eagles, and the next thing I swimming with the fish.

It was then I formulated Lee’s theory on how to never get bucked off –never climb aboard in the first place.