July 17, 2021 by Wyoming Livestock Roundup

Volume 33 Number 12 • July 17, 2021

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

A Look Inside Overfat calves impact the cattle industry..................... Page 5 Drought support tool available for producers................. Page 9 Cowboy poetry shares flavor of the West.................. Page 10 PRCA and WPRA announce standings following Cowboy Christmas.................... Page 15

Quick Bits Elk Meetings The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) is encouraging members of the public to attend one of the six upcoming meetings to begin Phase II of the public collaborative process on elk feedground management. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo. gov/Get-Involved/elkfeedgrounds.

Animal Loss

Executive order supports agricultural markets On July 9, President Joe Biden signed an executive order to promote competition in the American economy. A White House press release shares, “For decades, corporate consolidation has been accelerating. In over 75

percent of U.S. industries, a smaller number of large companies now control more of the business than they did 20 years ago, and this is true across healthcare, financial services, agriculture and more.”

The executive order includes 72 initiatives – spanning more than a dozen federal agencies – to address competition in the economy. Direct to agriculture, the order’s purpose is to empower family farms

and increase farm income by strengthening the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) tools in agricultural markets. Agricultural market focus “The markets for seeds, Please see MARKET on page 9

Research tour

Galloway Ranch hosts p i h s successful tour in Steward honor of award d e t a r celeb

Ten Sleep – Keith and Laura Galloway, along with their family, were honored July 14 for their dedication to improving their operation while conserving natural resources. The Galloways hosted the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA), as well as members of various state and federal agriculture and natural resource organizations, and were honored with the 2021 Environmental Stewardship Award. WSGA Executive Vice President Jim Magagna said of the event, “The tour at the Galloway Ranch was very suc-

cessful with very good participation from everyone interested in seeing how the Galloway family operates. What is particularly impressive is the dedication the family has to not only make the ranch more productive, but the changes they have made to water and fencing infrastructure to improve the natural resources.” In addition, the Galloway Ranch and family will be nominated for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s Environmental Stewardship Award in 2022.

Livestock and poultry producers who suffered losses during the pandemic due to insufficient access to processing can apply for assistance for those losses. The announcement is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative. Livestock and poultry producers can apply for assistance through USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) July 20-Sept. 17.

Gov. Council Gov. Gordon is one of nine governors who have been appointed to the bipartisan Council of Governors by President Biden. The council serves as the lead forum to strengthen partnerships between the federal government and state governments to better protect the nation from threats to homeland security and all types of hazards. The council was authorized and required by the National Defense Authorization Act in 2008.

Grain Survey The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will survey producers in 32 states, including Arizona, Colorado, Montana and Wyoming, for its Small Grain Crops County Estimates Survey. The survey will collect information on total acres planted and harvested and total yield and production to estimate acreage and production of barley, oats and wheat crops in the U.S.

Dedicated to conservation – The Galloway family hosted the Wyoming Stock Growers Association Environmental Stewardship Tour as recipients of the 2021 award. The Galloway family pictured from left to right, Melva, Nicole, Ethan, Willard, Keith, Laura, Rhett and Tyson. Dennis Sun photo

ShREC holds first field day since 2019 Just east of Sheridan, the University of Wyoming (UW) Sheridan Research and Extension Center (ShREC) provides dryland and irrigated land studies to facilitate research and education on agriculture, forage management, horticulture and viticulture. ShREC is one of four UW Research and Extension centers in Wyoming. On June 30, many local producers, as well as businesses, gathered at ShREC for tours of native plant species, cheatgrass control, cover crop studies and participants also had the opportunity to mingle with UW leadership. The staff at ShREC was extremely excited they were able to hold the first field day since summer of 2019. “It’s always an exciting time for us at the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources to put on these field days,” shared UW College of Ag and Natural Resources Dean Barbara Rasco, “We were very excited to interact with people directly,” said, ShREC Director and UW Assistant Professor Brian Mealor. “We try to do outreach, but Please see ShREC on page 4

State veterinarian appointed The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) announced July 9 that Dr. Hallie Hasel has been selected to replace retiring State Veterinarian Dr. Jim Logan. Hasel will take over the role on July 16. Hasel has been serving as the assistant state veterinarian for field operations for WLSB since July of 2020. A WLSB press released shared Hasel previously practiced veterinary medicine in Kansas for 15 years, followed by a lengthy career with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) Veterinary Services, including serving as the director of the Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program on the Texas/Mexico border for six years. Hasel graduated from the University of Missouri, specializing in foreign animal disease diagnostics and has extensive field and administrative experience in regulatory veterinary medicine, shares WLSB. “We look forward to working with Dr. Hasel and getting her introduced to Wyoming livestock and veterinary industry stakeholders,” the WLSB press release reads. “As state veterinarian, she will conduct the WLSB Brucellosis program, lead the Animal Health Unit and serve on the administrative team of the agency. The agency is in good shape with an experienced veterinary and technical staff capable of serving the livestock industry.” WLSB will soon begin recruiting a new field veterinarian to fill the assistant state veterinarian for field operations position. Please see WLSB on page 4

county fair series

County fair season underway County fair season is in full swing across the state. Youth exhibitors have been working diligently to get their livestock ready for the fair. For experienced showmen Conor Christensen and Rylee Helm, this time of year is what they have been working towards. Conor, a senior at Shoshoni High School, explained, “I always think it is fun to show off what you have been doing all summer long” Rylee, a 10-year 4-H member from

the Pinedale area, has taken what she has learned in 4-H and FFA, to continue to serve the Wyoming FFA Association as a state officer. These young individuals shared how they have prepared for their county fairs throughout the summer. Fremont County Fair Conor is taking three pigs and a steer to the 2021 Fremont County Fair. Eager to get his purebred Hereford steer

periodical

Please see FAIR on page 7

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

Agricultural Assets In Wyoming and across the region, it’s the start of county fair season. I like to think of this as a time of celebration for agriculture. This celebration is taking place in the show barns, show rings From the and the 4-H and FFA livestock aucPublisher tions. It is serious business and the Dennis Sun level of anxiety is a result of many months of hard work preparing for the county fairs. While not all of the competition consists of livestock, the livestock shows attract the most attention. It is important to remember this is a business for youth involved in these livestock shows. They need to acquire new animals for the next summer’s county fairs, buy feed and supplies and save some for college. In truth, it is a business that prepares these young people for the sometimes harsh world of being a grownup. They learn work ethic as a way to succeed at their goals. County fairs are also a social time for all. The youth, while busy with animals, do have some down time to enjoy friends and meet new ones. The parents have been planning and making sure everything is perfect to have time to visit. Grandparents have the most fun of all – they come to watch, visit with others and to brag on their perfect grandkids. It is a family ritual that happens every summer. County fairs are an introduction to life – they show hard work and a good attitude usually pay off. While in a show ring, youth exhibitors and their animal have to work as one. The youth also realize that no matter how much training and time spent, an animal is still an animal and one has to be prepared for the unexpected. That is life as grownups know it. The youth also realize the judge in the show ring has a job to do and as everyone and their animals walks into the show ring, they all have an equal chance to do well, but the judge is human and they have their likes and dislikes. They are not robots, but at that moment, they are running the show and deserve respect. While most youth don’t realize it, most judges have been in their shoes during their youth. Showing livestock at county fairs is an opportunity for youth, and some day they will look back at the experience and realize what it taught them about life and business, and they will figure out the fun and games were not the most important part. In my youth, I was a member of FFA, but never showed any livestock, so I’m not a creditable source on this subject. But I do realize, and have for a long time, what I missed. Before I became associated with the Roundup, I didn’t have a clue of the importance of showing livestock or the opportunities involved. I encourage everyone to read the Code of the West – this is what showing livestock teaches youth. We at the Wyoming Livestock Roundup wish all youth showing livestock success at the county and state fairs.

GUEST OPINIONS Carbon Markets and Conservation By Greg Doering The big story in agriculture today is how carbon is going to be the next cash crop for farmers and ranchers. There are a lot of headlines about how changing agricultural practices can remove carbon dioxide from the air and store it in the soil. While the science is sound, farming practices are just one component in the complex process of accumulation of carbon in the soil. Precipitation, soil type, carbon already present and other variables all factor into just how much of the element can be sequestered underground. What’s grabbing attention is a nascent market blooming where private companies are paying real money to farmers and ranchers who can document increasing stores of carbon in their soils. The idea is the ag producers get some money for changing their practices, while the private companies count the sequestered carbon against their own emissions. There are a variety of reasons why companies are at the forefront of creating this market, but the primary driver is capi-

talism. Environmentally conscious customers and investors are demanding goods and services that have less impact on the land, air and water. Companies are responding to these signals by turning to the original conservationists – farmers and ranchers – to lessen the environmental impact of modern life. Farmers and ranchers today are using technology and innovative practices to produce more than ever while using fewer resources. U.S. agriculture would have needed nearly 100 million more acres 30 years ago to match today’s production levels. This is especially true of livestock, which receive a lot of attention for greenhouse gases expelled, yet contribute just four percent – and falling – of overall emissions. The dairy industry is producing 48 percent more milk with per-unit emissions down 26 percent. Pork production has soared 80 percent while per-unit emissions have declined by 20 percent. Beef production is up 18 percent and emissions are down eight percent. Farmers and ranchers

today are using technology and innovative practices to produce more than ever while using fewer resources. These efficiencies are driven by simple economics. Livestock emissions are falling because inputs like land and feed are expensive, so producers have a natural incentive to make the most of their resources. In short, market forces are working as they should, and U.S. agriculture is lessening its environmental footprint in addition to offsetting the carbon emissions from other industries. For the most part, this has happened in the absence of government mandates, but that’s not to say government policy doesn’t have a role in further reducing greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture. No, the government shouldn’t tell farmers and ranchers how to do their jobs, but policy makers can certainly craft marketbased incentive programs to assist with the adoption of practices that enhance production and profitability on farms and ranches. Legislators also can

reduce regulatory barriers in state and federal programs and fund basic research to help farmers and ranchers achieve greater efficiencies and further enhance the sustainability of their operations. While the government can help facilitate the pace of adoption of proven practices, it should also recognize what works in one field isn’t always the prescription for the next. We have to trust farmers and ranchers, with decades and generations of land management experience, know the capacity of their ground. They’re proven innovators and problem-solvers in their own right, and they’re just as invested as the rest of us in successful and sustainable conservation all while continuing to provide a safe, affordable and ample supply of food for a growing population. Greg Doering is a writer and photographer at Kansas Farm Bureau. This column was originally published as part of the Kansas Farm Bureau Insight series, found at kfb.org/news/insight.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS Wildlife corridor supported Thanks to a generous gift from the Knobloch Family Foundation and a grant from Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund, another $100,000 and $125,000, respectively, is going to the I-25 Kaycee to Buffalo wildlife crossing project. Across Wyoming, thousands of animals die from roadway collisions annually, including deer, pronghorn, elk, moose, Bighorn sheep and mountain goats. This cost-effective transportation project will protect wildlife and allow for safe crossings between summer and winter range habitat. In announcing this grant, The WYldlife Fund Chairman Mark Wilson expressed the fund’s commitment to supporting Wyoming’s wildlife and roadway safety. The stretch of road on I-25 at Kaycee to Buffalo from mileposts 253-271 has the second-highest collisions rate with deer on a Wyoming interstate and limits the safe movement of mule deer seeking additional habitat. This shovel-ready project will utilize exclusionary fencing to funnel wildlife to six existing crossing structures, such as underpasses, bridges and culverts. This project will also add deer ramps, gates and cattle guards, as needed. The WYldlife Fund will route the Knobloch Family Foundation’s gift and the Outdoor Fund’s investment through the Wyoming Wildlife Natural Resource Trust Fund to be matched dollar-for-dollar. This will result in a total project gift of $350,000. The WYldlife Fund is a 501(c)(3), which unites people to advance Wyoming wildlife habitat, research and education. The newly established fund is a home for all lovers of wildlife and exists to inject funds on the ground to advance critical wildlife projects.

FFA director awarded Montana FFA Foundation Executive Director Gwynn Simeniuk was named Montana Young Professional Woman of the Year on June 11 at the Montana Young Professionals Summit in Sidney, Mont. Fostering relationships and growing both personally and professionally is no stranger to Simeniuk. Her time at the Montana FFA Foundation began in May 2017 as the program and events manager after she graduated from Montana State University with degrees in agricultural education and animal science. In January 2019, she was promoted to executive director. An Opheim, Mont. native, Simeniuk has demonstrated a strong, dedicated work ethic and embodies a progressoriented, difference-making individual. Personal and professional growth isn’t the only thing Simeniuk has helped sprout while at the Montana FFA Foundation. Using her talent and instinct for fundraising and development, she facilitated a 43 percent revenue increase in 2019 through an in-kind land donation and maintained the increase in 2020 by procuring a strategic multi-year grant to hire a director of development at the FFA Foundation.

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NCBA comments on proposal The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) noted the introduction of misguided legislation entitled the Farm System Reform Act by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA). NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane commented, “In the past week, Democrats in Washington have put forward two starkly different proposals for strengthening the future of American cattle farmers and ranchers. One of these paths, namely the recent announcement from Secretary Vilsack, offers practical, long-term progress for our producers. The alternative, introduced today in Congress, is the kind of broad, jumbled mess you get when you’re more focused on Twitter and talking points than the sound legislating rural Americans need.” He continued, “Ninety-five percent of cattle raised in the United States visit a feedyard. Feeding operations aren’t antithetical to small, family-owned farms and ranches – they’re part and parcel of the same, symbiotic supply chain that produces the most nutritious, sustainable beef in the world. Cattle feeders respond efficiently to meet a wide range of consumer demands, and that efficiency is one of the main reasons why the United States has had the lowest beef greenhouse emissions intensity in the world for 25 years. As our food supply chain is taxed by a growing number of mouths to feed at home and abroad, this efficient production system will be more vital than ever.” Lane concluded, “NCBA has long been on the forefront of issues like accurate ‘Product of the USA’ labeling, competitive and transparent markets and a more resilient supply chain. While it is positive to see some of these key producer concerns receiving attention from two new members of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees, we’re also frustrated to see them buried in such a sprawling, misguided package.”

WWPC partners with brewers Wyoming Weed and Pest Council (WWPC) along with the Wyoming Craft Brewers Guild are excited to partner on a fun initiative to help inform the public about the threat of invasive weeds and pests. Members of the Wyoming Craft Brewers Guild recently released a Fruited Wheat Ale collaboration brew and offered a limited-edition pint glass sponsored by Wyoming Weed and Pest Council and PlayCleanGo, a national education campaign focused on preventing the spread of invasive species. Invasive insects and plants cost the U.S. an estimated $40 billion annually in damages to trees, plants, crops and related management efforts. The Wyoming Weed and Pest Council and PlayCleanGo are committed to stopping the spread through awareness, education and community engagement. To learn more about the 2021 Fruited Wheat Ale collaboration and where you can grab a pint, visit wyocraftbrewersguild. com and click on the Events tab.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

ShREC continued from page 1 nothing compares to getting to walk through the field and answering questions producers might not have thought of by just reading about the project or research.” UW Invasive Grass Extension Educator Jaycie Arndt also shared her excitement for the event, noting, “This is the biggest opportunity we have for us to get out into the community to talk with producers, and missing it last year felt wrong.” Throughout 2020, ShREC was only able to operate and maintain 85 percent of research due to COVID-19. “We had a much smaller team and our opportunities for interns last summer was severely restricted,” explained Mealor. Native species reclamation ShREC, along with the

Bureau of Land Management, Wyoming Game and Fish, Natural Resources Conservation Service and other private entities, is working together to increase availability of native plant seed for reclamation purposes. There are two fields at ShREC being tested for reclamation purposes of prairie coneflower and blanket flower. These two native species are desirable in terms of wildlife habitat and restoration projects. Most of the plots at ShREC were direct seeded with foundation seeds of each species. “We have a partnership with Bridger Plant Material Center where we plant the species, get them growing and the agreement is we can have the seeds for whatever purpose we would like,” explained Assistant Research Scientist Beth Fowers, who

has been tasked with developing weed management options to improve reclamation. “In the years where they need more seed, we return the seed we collect and they are able to keep population of foundation seeds up and we are able to work with them.” Researchers are working on how to get the species to establish for reclamation purposes. Most plots are direct seeded, however they have found some species are more easily established if they are grown in a greenhouse and then transplanted. Cheatgrass control ShREC is one of the leading research sites for monitoring and controlling invasive grass species, including cheatgrass, ventenata and medusahead. Mealor shares, “Cheatgrass is one of the worst invasive species we have in the western U.S. and usually the most impactful.” In Sheridan, researchers started to observe the her-

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bicide Indaziflam on rangelands in 2015 and 2016 to control cheatgrass. A successful plot was treated once in 2016, sprayed again in 2019 and maintained its control up until last year, according to Mealor. “When dealing with an annual grass like cheatgrass, the key is to maintain control long enough to deplete the seed bank from those sites,” explained Mealor. Data on cheatgrass would indicate the seed bank lasts between five and 11 years, and will vary based on soil type and the amount of precipitation on the landscape. During the field day, the research team briefly explained resistance could be easily built up through a solid seedbank. At this point, they have seen no indication of resistance to Indaziflam yet, but is a situation they are starting to consider. Cover crop study In addition to reclamation and invasive grass con-

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“We try to do outreach, but nothing compares to getting to walk through the field and asking questions producers might not have thought of by just reading about the project or research.” – Brian Mealor, Sheridan Research and Extension Center trol, ShREC also looks into cropping in arid regions. One study in particular asked the question, “Will cover crops grow in our dry environment?” Researchers took a traditional alfalfa field and tried to fit cover crop management into an alfalfa rotation. They established two treatments: The first, a conventional system where alfalfa is typically followed by a cereal grain or something producers might be able to get a year’s worth of hay before returning to alfalfa and a more nontraditional approach, which was the use of cover crops for two years. “We chose hay barley for a one-year hay crop because it is typically good for forage and it can be hayed,” explained Assistant Farm Manager Tyler Jones.

At ShREC, no-till cover crop, no-till hay barley, tilled cover crop and tilled hay barley were compared. “Growing cover crops was productive in terms of amount of forage that was produced,” says Jones. “It produced a similar quantity of forage to hay barley and it was grazed by both sheep and cattle – they both greatly appreciated the forage – they weren’t picky and cleaned it up pretty well.” In addition, researchers found the no-till crops typically had more weeds in spite of the fact they were sprayed early on and tilled crops had significantly fewer weeds. Cameron Magee is an intern for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net

WLSB continued from page 1 “Dr. Logan leaves big shoes to fill as state veterinarian, but I have complete confidence in Dr. Hasel’s ability and vision to work alongside Wyoming’s producers in their efforts to protect their livestock from disease,” said WLSB Director Steve True. “We look forward to introducing her to the livestock producers of

the state and welcome invitations to meetings of producer groups to that end.” Hasel shared, “Dr. Jim Logan’s dedication and wisdom has set a precedent for the WLSB. I look forward to continuing the relationship he has established and moving our program forward with new technology.”

WyFB awards scholarships The Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation (WyFB) recently awarded $5,500 in college scholarships to young WyFB members. “Education of any type is important to our members,” said WyFB President Todd Fornstrom. “We are proud to honor these outstanding individuals with college scholarships to play a small part in helping them achieve their goals.” The Livingston-King Scholarship, valued at $1,500, is given in honor of former presidents of WyFB, Herbert D. Livingston and H.J. King, as well as Buddy and Norma Livingston, the parents of former WyFB President Perry Livingston. The Livingston-King Scholarship was awarded to Hailey Wehri of Newcastle. Wehri will be a freshman at Casper College this fall studying animal science. Her parents are Rick and Ann Wehri. The five Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation Scholarships are $500 each. The recipients are: Lindsie Farver of Saratoga, the daughter of Tabatha and Mike Farver; Elizabeth Lungren of Ten Sleep, the daughter of Luke and Gabhnel Lungren; Taylor Reynolds of Moorcroft, the daughter of Dustin and Heather Reynolds; Heather Hokanson of Cheyenne, the daughter of Neil and Dianna Hokanson; and Stratton Kohr of Gillette, the son of Marshall and Lynn Kohr. The three Continuing Education Scholarships are awarded at $500 each. The Continuing Education Scholarship recipients must be an entering college sophomore, junior, senior or graduate student. The recipients are: Sydney Bell of Cheyenne, the daughter of Bryan and Pam Bell; Dalton Butler of Hulett, the son of J.R. and Bobbi Butler; and Emily Keiter of Burns, the daughter of Dave and Lisa Keiter. WyFB Scholarship applications are due March 1 each year and are available at local county Farm Bureau offices or online at wyfb.org. “Congratulations to each of the recipients,” Fornstrom concluded. “We wish them the best in their continued education endeavors.” The Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation is the state’s largest general agriculture organization. The primary goals of the organization are to protect private property rights and help members achieve an equitable return on their investment. Visit wyfb.org for more information.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

CROSSWORD Wyoming Livestock Roundup Crosswords, created by Myles Mellor. Solution available in next week's Roundup. Mail your complete crossword to Wyoming Livesock Roundup, PO Box 850, Casper, WY 82602 for a special prize!

Across

Down

1 Wyoming county 6 Fatty ____ metabolism 9 List of suggested actions 11 A horse is one 13 Horse’s home 15 Put a seed into the ground 18 Steer clear of 21 Part of a ranch herd 22 Organic residues 23 Livestock raised only on pasture, grass or other forages, two words 25 Hawaiian island 27 Vegetative matter, fresh or preserved, that is gathered and fed to animals as roughage 29 Pig’s nose 31 Conditional word 32 Sound from a farm 33 Machine used to cut clods or debris on the surface of soil or to cover seed after planting, two words

1 Ewes and rams 2 Train 3 Overnight stay place 4 Promotional effort 5 Board room votes 7 Corn eater’s castoff 8 Expected any minute 10 Natural water sources 12 The day before an event 14 Managed 16 Rotates 17 Removed a cow’s tail 19 Cow’s 4th stomach 20 Period when an animal is on heat 21 Fall a bit 24 Measurements of agricultural land 26 Data 27 Provided nourishment for 28 Historic period 29 English knight 30 Male turkey

Cattle industry faces obesity, loss of performance in overfat calves Those involved in the beef production industry have seen many changes in the type and kind of cattle being raised. Most recently, obesity among cattle has risen. While producers continue to push for fat cattle, riding the line between fat and obese has become a bigger problem. “Calves are getting too fat too soon,” shares Faris Simon, host of the Chute Side podcast. “The problem is, once producers get calves past the point of being too fat, there is no coming back.” In the July 13 episode of the podcast, Simon explains, “When distilling this cattle project down, if producers stick to the basics of getting calves fat, they can have a lot of success.” Understanding that producers across the country have different expectations regarding fat cover, Simon outlines his thoughts, noting, “What I consider to be an ideal fat steer is one that is fat, one that handles soft over their ribs and one with tone over their loin.” Simon continues, “We want these cattle to be fat, but we don’t want them to be shelved off in their loin

and built with round white muscle.” Finishing market cattle in an appropriate range of size and condition has proven to be a challenge. Frame and feed While the cattle industry is always evolving, this change did not happen overnight. The major cause of heavier conditioned cattle is short, fast growing kind of cattle being raised. “By moderating cattle and making them chubbier in the last 10 years, I think we have bred some performance out of these cattle as a whole,” says Simon. With a change in cattle build, management practices must adapt, specifically in terms of feeding protocols. Simon goes into detail on how different feeding practices affect how cattle grow. He begins by saying, “At a basic level, if I have a calf gaining two to 2.5 pounds per day and it needs to gain three pounds per day, I need to feed it more.” However, Simon has noticed this thought process slows the growth of the calf’s body frame, leading them to deposit fat earlier. “I am a big believer that producers cannot

force gain onto a calf,” he explains. “The calf is going to gain how the calf is going to gain. People can only affect how this gain is put on.” “If a calf is set up to gain 2.5 pounds per day on 18 pounds of feed, doubling it to 36 pounds of feed is not going to create five pounds of gain per day,” continues Simon. “Even if producers do get four pounds a day – which I still think would be unlikely – the type of gain put on this calf and the way the animal will look is not desirable.” Unarguably, how much feed cattle consume is a large contributor to how they grow and put on fat. However, with the latest concern in beef production, the type of feeds cattle receive can make an impact on their growth and performance. Looking back on popular feedstuffs throughout the last couple of years, Simon shares, “There used to be high-protein options that were the reason for growth. Then, producers would come in with highenergy options at the end.” “Anymore, the feeds are higher-energy feeds: Producers are matching starch with fat and energy,

which creates body condition on calves the entire time,” he says, comparing old feed to the new feed. “We are seeing a lot of high-fiber feeds with a lot of energy and not a tremendous amount of protein anymore.” The lack of feed for growth, encourages market cattle to put on fat at an earlier stage but that comes at the expense of being smaller framed. While the industry has moved away from big, tall-framed cattle, short and fat cattle are not ideal either. Potential solution As an industry, producers are selling more smaller framed, fat cattle than ever before. This problem may stem from different types of management. “Once we get cattle to the weight that they are considered obese and look unhealthy, we shut down their growth and their gain dies,” Simon shares. “They do not get any more frame, and this is a management situation we need to be aware of as a cattle feeder.” Overviewing previous production practices, Simon explains, “Five or 10 years ago, the cattle industry had bigger cattle that needed more feed

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“Calves are getting too fat too soon . The problem is, once producers get calves past the point of being too fat, there is no coming back” – Faris Simon, Chute Side podcast and energy and started into feed on a leaner frame.” However, with a shift in genetics, the old practices were not sufficient in keeping cattle at a healthy condition. To help eliminate fat, Simon proposed exercise for cattle. “Sometimes we lose sight of the fact that cattle are designed to be out and about,” Simon shares. “When we get cattle into smaller facilities, they do not have a lot of room for exercise. When those cattle are not getting any exercise, and with these new factors, cattle get too fat too soon.” With cattle trends

detecting earlier maturing calves, extra laps around the pen could decrease obesity found in the industry. While not ideal, Simon is confident the industry has been moving in the direction of extremely fat cattle for a while. However, with correct feed and management practices, Simon hopes the cattle industry can correct excessive weight gain in cattle to realize correct weights for cattle frames. Savannah Peterson is an intern for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

S AV E T H E DAT E !

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

OBITUARIES

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

Charles “Buddy” Hirsig Aug. 20, 1937 – July 7, 2021

Charles “Buddy” Hirsig of Cheyenne passed away peacefully at the VA Hospital in Cheyenne on July 7. He was 83. Buddy was a muchloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. The Hirsig family first settled in Laramie County beginning in 1889 and founded the Hirsig Ranch in the early 1900s. Buddy was born in Cheyenne on Aug. 20, 1937, the son of Fred “Beanie” Hirsig and Isabelle “Sugar” Wilkinson Hirsig and was raised on the family ranch in Iron Mountain. Buddy and his sister Margy attended elementary school in Iron Mountain, making the eight-mile trip by horseback, weather permitting. Buddy graduated from Cheyenne High School in 1955. He attended the University of Wyoming (UW) – a cowboy by birth – it was only

fitting that Buddy was a member of the UW rodeo team. Wanting to serve his country, he left UW to serve in the United States Air Force. Shortly after his return, Buddy married Glenna Johnson, and they built their life at the Iron Mountain Ranch where they began their marriage of 63 years. They welcomed three children – Debby, Sandy and Tom. Together, the family embraced all aspects of ranch life, including their love for raising and showing fine horses. They thrived with the friendship and fellowship of the Iron Mountain ranching community. With a strong love of rodeo, Cheyenne Frontier Days (CFD) was a big part of being a Hirsig. From the time that CFD began, there hasn’t been a rodeo without a Hirsig in the arena. Buddy’s father Beanie was born and raised in Cheyenne and truly lived the Code of the West. It was only natural he was an early volunteer and builder of CFD. Buddy succeeded his father as the arena director for CFD in 1958. He held this volunteer responsibility for 36 years, missing only one performance due to an injury. Buddy’s son Tom suc-

ceeded him as arena director and currently serves as CEO and president of CFD, while his granddaughter Justene assists in the arena during the rodeo and is the fifth generation of Hirsigs in the arena. Buddy became a member of the CFD HEELS in 1958, and served on the Contestant’s/Rodeo Committee for 60 years. In recent years, he thoroughly enjoyed driving the “Cowboy Shuttle” at CFD, spending those days in conversation with the cowboys and their families, offering them rides in the golf cart to and from the arena. Buddy never knew a stranger and was a welcoming presence at the park. In her book “Riding the White Horse Home,” author and friend Teresa Jordan recounts a story from a branding in Iron Mountain. Buddy broke his ankle after his horse fell on him, but he kept working without complaint or taking a break. Only at the end of the day, when the work was done, did he receive treatment. This quality was something he carried throughout his life – always putting the needs of his family and friends above himself without a second thought. In their humble manner,

Buddy and Glenna explained what it means to be part of the Hirsig family in a submission for their CFD Hall of Fame induction, saying, “The Hirsig family legacy is not one to gain fame nor fortune, but of a love of the sport of rodeo. It is a family that recognizes and treasures the traditions of the old days and its memories, and diligently helps to keep it all alive.” Buddy was also an active member of Wyoming Stock

Growers Association and the National Western Stockman’s Association, Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame and American Quarter Horse Association. Buddy and Glenna happily supported the UW Cowboy Joe Club through the Steer-a-Year Program. He was preceded in death by his parents Beanie and Sugar, his daughter Sandy and his sister Margy. Buddy is survived by his wife Glenna, his children

Debby and Tom (Debbie) and his grandchildren J.T., Jordan and Justene. A celebration of life will be held on July 18 in conjunction with the Cheyenne Frontier Days Cattle Drive. Family and friends will gather at the new CFD Events Center, 1230 W. 8th Ave. at 11 a.m. Donations in Buddy’s memory may be made to the Old West Museum or the CFD Volunteer Crisis Fund at PO Box 2477 Cheyenne, WY 82003.

Richard Gardner July 19, 1925 – July 11, 2021

Richard E. Gardner, 95, of Pine Bluffs died peacefully on July 11, in the Torrington Hospital. Richard was born on July 19, 1925 to Myles and Ruth (Ernst) Gardner in Omaha, Neb. In 1944, he was drafted into the Navy, where he served before returning home to marry Mary Jean (Polly) Boyce on Jan. 14, 1950. They were married 64 years and together had five children. In 1955, Richard, his father and his brother LeRoy formed Myles Gard-

ner & Sons where they farmed and ranched together. Later, Richard and LeRoy became Gardner Brothers and worked side-by-side for more than 50 years. Richard lived a full life and was never as happy as when he was on his horse. He loved being on the farm and working the cows, rounding them up on the Terry Ranch and the forest, or even just a hot day in the tractor. He enjoyed roping and loved attending rodeos, especially the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas. He and Polly loved going to University of Wyoming football and basketball games, and they were long-time season ticket holders. Richard was also an avid bowler, and he missed when he was no longer able to bowl. Richard lived an incredible life and leaves behind many loved ones, friends and one heck of a legacy. Richard was preceded in death by both his parents, his

wife Mary Jean, brother Kenneth Gardner, sistersin-law Mary and Beverly Gardner, son Terry Gardner and son-in-law Rodney Paxton. He is survived by a large, loving family including brother LeRoy (Glenda) Gardner, sister Ellen (Donald) Strube, daughters Kathy (Wayne) Tatman, Sandra (Terje) Vangbo, Trudy Paxton, Brenda (Steve) Anderson and daughter-in-law Pam Wiggam, grandchildren Shawn (Sarah) Tatman, Todd (Tricia) Tatman, Marty Tatman, Amy (Patrick) Currie, Casey (Coelle) Gardner, Judy (Andrew) Cederholm, Jim (Ashley) Hottell, Ty Anderson, Kayla (Frank) Christensen, Kerby (Troy) Anderson and 19 great-grandchildren. A private family graveside service will be held. Memorials can be made to the Pine Bluffs Ambulance and/or the Pine Bluffs Roping Club.

BLM hosts horse events The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will hold two Wyoming wild horse and burro events in August featuring both untrained and trained horses. Approximately 25-35 untrained wild horses and burros will be available from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Wheatland Facility. Horses and burros at the Wheatland Facility are untrained and eligible for the Adoption Incentive Program. The facility is located at 1005 North Wheatland Highway in Wheatland. For the second event, join the BLM, the Wyoming Mustang Association and the Mantle Adoption and Training Facility at the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas for Wyoming

2021 SHERIDAN JULY 30 - AUGUST 9

COUNTY FAIR

Sheridan, Wyoming

& 4-H AND FFA SHOW

Starting Friday, July 30 with the Horse Show and ending Monday, August 9 with the Livestock Sale

Visit sheridancountyfairgrounds.com for a full fair schedule.

Mustang Days Aug. 20-22. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act, passed unanimously by Congress and signed into law on Dec. 15, 1971. To mark this anniversary, BLM is holding a series of events around the country highlighting the value of wild horses and burros as enduring symbols of our national heritage. Learn more at blm.gov/programs/wild-horse-andburro/50th-anniversary. For more information about the events and locations, visit blm.gov/whb or contact the national information center at 866-468-7826 or wildhorse@blm.gov.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

FAIR continued from page 1 in the show ring, he shared, “My steer is a home-raised steer from my grandparents. I help them with their cattle and this is my payment.” While there is history of raising cattle in the family, Christensen and his older sister Kodi have been in the pig showing business since they started 4-H. “My sister and I love them,” said Conor. “We joke that showing pigs is the only thing we are good at.” Conor is still chasing banners at the Fremont County Fair. Putting in hours upon hours of work into his steer and hog projects, he has found value in good feed and skin conditioners for his animals. “We are always researching new feeds to figure out new ways we can improve our feed. We have found home remedies for skin conditioning

to keep up with their skin health,” Conor explained. With his showing career winding down, Conor has been able to use his talents to help the next generation of showmen. He shared, “Since I have been doing this for quite a while, I like helping younger 4-H and FFA members with their projects.” After nearly a decade of showing livestock, Conor has learned many life lessons. When asked to share his most valuable lesson, he paused to rethink his experience. “You can have leadership in one hand and management in another, and I think it is all about how you look at it,” he shared. He continued, “I think money management, for me, has been the best lesson. You have to figure out how much money is available to spend and still have

money left over for anything else.” The Fremont County Fair is July 31-Aug. 7 in Riverton. Sublette County Fair Rylee will be busy with two market lambs, two market steers and a market heifer at the Sublette County Fair. She began her showing career with hogs, but made the transition to market sheep over a year ago after a friend got her hooked. “My friend had a goal to show every species before we graduated, so she started showing market lambs and I helped,” shared Rylee. “I fell in love with it and wanted to give it a try.” This new experience has kept her busy. Rylee spends countless hours in the barn getting her sheep ready for the fair. “Since I got my lambs in March, I have been working to set them up and walking them around to build their muscle,” she said. “I work their leg wool

by washing and brushing it to massage the hair follicles.” Approaching her last county fair, Rylee decided it was time to pursue her dream of showing beef. “I figured, since it is my last year, it is now or never,” she said. Although new to the project, Rylee understands the time and dedication beef animals take. Additionally, she enjoys learning about feeding and showing a new species.

“With my cattle, I set them up when I feed them so they get use to doing it,” she shared. “I work their hair and wash them, too.” While it is obvious Rylee is passionate about her 4-H and FFA projects, she found much more value in the youth organizations. Her two biggest take-aways from these programs are the life lessons she has learned and the people she has met. “FFA and 4-H teach youth how to work hard for the things they want,”

Rylee concluded. “You meet so many different people through both programs. The people you meet – not only the peers your age but also the industry leaders – have so much to teach because everyone’s experience is different.” The Sublette County Fair is in Big Piney is July 28-31. Savannah Peterson is an intern for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Training for the Fair – Rylee Helm has spent many hours in the barn washing and training her steer. She will be ready to show on July 30 at the Sublette County Fair. Courtesy photo

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Getting ready – Conor Christensen worked hard all summer with his calf to get it ready for the fair. He will show his purebred Hereford steer at the Fremont County Fair. Courtesy photo

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Taking a break – Conor Christensen takes a moment to play with his pig after a day of walking, feeding and conditioning to prepare for the Fremont County Fair. Conor will show his pig on Aug. 4. Courtesy photo

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Breeding&& Reproduction Reproduction •• Nutrition Animal Husbandry ••Management Breeding Nutrition•• Animal Husbandry Management Disease &&Parasites Pasture Management Marketing Disease Parasites•• Pasture Management• • Marketing Feeding • Wool Research • Industry Resources FeedingStrategies Strategies • Wool •• Research&&Development Development • Industry Resources Lambing/Kidding Cooking•• Guardian GuardianAnimals Animals • Breed Profiles Lambing/Kidding• Cooking •Breed Profiles

J u l y 2 0 21 Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021 J u l y 2 0 21 J u l y 2 0 21

BARNYARDS & BACKYARDS BARNYARDS & BACKYARDS BARNYARDS & BACKYARDS

Long term risk assessment using the Long term risk assessment using the Long term risk Multi-Temporal Risk Analyzer from RightRisk.org Multi-Temporal Risk Analyzer from RightRisk.org Multi-Temporal RightRisk.org Most successful agricultural businesses maintain a long-term Most successful agricultural maintain aalong-term focusMost even in challenging times.businesses Keeping major decisions and successful agricultural businesses maintain long-term focus even in challenging times. Keeping major decisions and planning focused on the long termKeeping is one way to decisions manage risk focus even in challenging times. major andand planning focused on the long term is one way to manage risk uncertainty and remain profitable. planning focused on the long term is one way to manage risk and and uncertainty and remain profitable. Major decisions in production agriculture are often long term uncertainty and remain profitable. Major agriculture are long in nature: investments in machinery and equipment, Majordecisions decisionsininproduction production agriculture areoften oftenchanging long term term in nature: investments in machinery and equipment, changing cropping practices or production methods, or adding achanging new in nature: investments in machinery and equipment, cropping practices or production methods, or adding a new cropping practices or production methods, or adding new enterprise. The changes these decisions involve take aseveral enterprise. The changes decisions involve take several enterprise. The changes thesetime decisions involve takevariability several is years to play out. Where these more is involved, more years totoplay more more variability is years playout. out.Where more timeisisinvolved, involved, moreevaluate variabilitythe is also possible. As a Where result, it is time important to carefully also possible. As a result, it is important to carefully evaluate the also possible. a result, it is important to carefully evaluate the alternatives andAs possible effects before making the decision. alternatives and possible effects before making the decision. alternatives and possible effects before making the decision. A partial budgeting approach is one way to evaluate these A Apartial budgeting approach isisone totoevaluate these partial budgeting approach one wayexpenses evaluate these decisions. This includes accounting forway all and revenues decisions. This includes accounting for all expenses and revenues decisions.with Thisthe includes accounting expenses and revenues associated proposed change.forInall doing so, it is often associated with the proposed change. In doing so, it is often associated with the proposed change. In doing so, it is often difficult to account for risk—especially with a long-term focus in difficult totoaccount with aalong-term focus difficult account forrisk—especially risk—especially withthat long-term focus in in mind. Many times, for the risk and uncertainty accompanies mind.Many Manytimes, times, theto risk and uncertainty thataccompanies accompanies mind. the risk uncertainty that these decisions tends beand included by conservatively adjusting these decisions tends to be included by conservatively adjusting these decisions tends to be included by conservatively adjusting the rate of return or interest rate(s) to account for the changing the rateofofreturn interest rate(s) account forthe changing the rate ororinterest rate(s) totoaccount for changing time value ofreturn money. The problem with this is that athe large share time value of money. The problem with this is that a large time value of money. The problem with this is that a large share of risk can go unaccounted for, such as variations in costs share and of riskcan cangotime. gounaccounted unaccounted for,such such as variations costsmay and not of risk for, as variations costs and inflows over Simply plugging in a lower rate ofininreturn inflowsover over time.Simply Simply plugging inaalower lowerrate rate ofchange return may may not not inflows time. plugging return provide an accurate picture of howinthe decision orof plays provide anaccurate accurate picture ofhow howthe the decision or change plays provide picture decision change plays out overan time, especially theofimplied variability inor the bottom line. out over time, especially the implied variability in the bottom line. out over time, especially the implied variability in the bottom line.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

UC Cooperative Extension piloting new drought decision support tool for ranchers Most ranchers in the West are well aware that the U.S. is in the second year of another significant drought. As of June 15, nearly 89 percent of the West is in moderate to exceptional

drought. California ranchers are coming off one of the driest rainy seasons in memory. While many producers have already started implementing drought plans,

The Drought Strategies Decision Support Tool can be found at ucanr. edu/sites/Livestock/files/352215. pdf and supporting spreadsheets can be found at ucanr.edu/sites/Livestock/ Drought/spreadsheets.

MARKET continued from page 1 equipment, feed and fertilizer are dominated by just a few large companies, meaning family farmers and ranchers now have to pay more for inputs,” reads the White House release. “Consolidation also limits farmers’ and ranchers’ options for selling their products, meaning they get less when they sell their produce and meat – even as prices rise – at the grocery store.” The first action sparked by the order is the direction to USDA to consider issuing new rules under the Packers and Stockyards Act to, “make it easier for farm-

ers to bring and win claims, stopping chicken processors from exploiting and underpaying chicken farmers and adopt anti-retaliation practices for farmers who speak out against bad practices.” Next, USDA is directed to consider new rules to define which meat products are able to hold “Product of USA” labels, an ongoing issue to ensure consumers have accurate and transparent labels and to support U.S. producers. In addition, the order commits $500 million to expanding processing capacity in the beef industry.

others are still considering their options. Based on lessons learned during the 2012-16 drought, we understand these decisions are difficult, but critical to the long-term viability of ranches. To this end, University of California Cooperative Extension (UC) Livestock and Natural Resources Advisors Grace Woodmansee, serving Siskiyou County, Calif., and Dan Macon, serving California’s Placer, Sutter and

Yuba counties, have created a Drought Strategies Decision Support Tool to help producers walk through specific strategies to deal with on-the-ground conditions. This tool will guide ranchers through developing their forage outlook for the next 12 months. It will also help producers relate their reactive strategies, like weaning lambs early or selling breeding-age females with ranch goals and proactive drought strategies.

In addition, the tool is intended to help ranchers establish a critical date by which they will take action. The tool is linked to a series of simple spreadsheets to help producers analyze the costs and benefits of several key strategies such as feeding hay, weaning early or selling livestock. Woodmansee says the tool was developed based on her research into rancher strategies during the 2012-16 drought. She notes, “We realized in talk-

ing to producers who managed through this drought that reactive strategies like supplemental feeding are related to proactive strategies, like resting pastures to conserve forage. We hope ranchers will use this tool and provide us feedback on how we can make it even more useful.” For more information, or to provide comments and feedback, contact Woodmansee at gwoodmansee@ ucanr.edu or Macon at dmacon@ucanr.edu.

Third, the order directs the USDA to develop a plan to “increase opportunities for farmers to access markets and receive a fair return, including supporting alternative food distribution systems like farmers’ markets and developing standards and labels so consumers can choose to buy products that treat farmers fairly.” Last, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is encouraged to limit equipment manufacturers from restricting the ability to use independent repair shops or compete repairs at home. Industry response In response to the executive order, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Govern-

ment Affairs Ethan Lane shared, “We thank President Biden and Secretary Vilsack for the leadership and swift action they’ve shown on some of the top issues impacting our producers, including ‘Product of the USA’ labeling, and grants to expand regional, independent processing capacity.” Lane continued, “The executive order is a vital step toward securing a steady beef supply chain and increasing opportunities for profitability for our producers.” U.S. Cattlemen’s Association (USCA) President Brooke Miller said, “USCA applauds President Biden for hearing the calls from cattle country regarding

increased consolidation in the U.S. cattle industry, and then issuing his own call for prompt action within his administration.” “This executive order comes just weeks after USCA Vice President Justin Tupper testified before the Senate Agriculture Committee on the detrimental effects of a U.S. cattle and beef industry controlled by just four major meatpackers, two of which are foreign-owned and operated,” Miller continued. “USCA’s testimony was loud and clear – the Big Four meatpackers have held their thumb on the scales for far too long, tilting the playing field to their advantage and forc-

ing more and more independent cattle producers out of business.” National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) Policy Director Eric Deeble noted, “NSAC commends USDA for it’s commitment of $500 million to help expand meat processing capacity by strengthening tools to empower small- and medium-scale operators. For far too long, we have witnessed how inadequate competition stifles economic growth and innovation throughout the agricultural supply chain.” Averi Hales is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Map highlights broadband needs A new digital map from the Commerce Department’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) provides more detail about broadband needs across the country than any other publicly available resource. Tapping into data aggregated at the county, census tract and census block level from the U.S. Census Bureau, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), M-Lab, Ookla and Microsoft, the map shows the many parts of the country reporting connection speeds that fall below the FCC’s current benchmark for fixed broadband service of 25 Mbps download, 3 Mbps upload. Farmers, ranchers and others who live in rural communities struggle everyday with poor connection speeds, which slow down their work on the business

end of the farm, schoolwork and their ability to download and share important documents – and so much more. “A reliable and speedy broadband connection is also critical to farmers’ use of precision agriculture to farm as sustainably and efficiently as possible. Without high-speed internet, farmers cannot collect key data or analyze it to determine the exact amount of fertilizer to apply, how much water their crops need or the precise amount of herbicides or pesticides they should use,” explained Ryan Yates, managing director of public policy at the American Farm Bureau Federation. NTIA’s new map can help officials determine where to focus government funding and public-private partnership efforts to enhance broadband.

August 1-7, 2021 August 1-7, 2021

Carbon County Fair “Raising the Steaks!” “Raising the Steaks!” Mud Volleyball

Mud Volleyball • Livestock Shows Livestock Shows Trucks • Rodeos Vendors • Food • Pancake Breakfast Concert • ParadeVendors Junior Livestock Sale • Demolition Derby Food Trucks

Visit Us at Rodeos

www.carboncountyfairgrounds.com Concert

For full schedule and details

Parade Pancake Breakfast

Visit Us at www.carboncountyfairgrounds.com

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

CALENDAR

SALES July 19-21

Submit your events to: Editor, Wyoming Livestock Roundup, P.O. Box 850, Casper, WY, 82602, or e-mail to roundup@wylr.net.

EVENTS July 9-17 July 16-25 July 21 July 23-Aug. 1 July 23-Aug. 1 July 23-Aug. 1 July 23-Aug. 1 July 24-Aug. 1 July 25-26 July 26-31 July 26-Aug. 1 July 27 July 27-31 July 28 July 28-31 July 28-Aug. 7 July 29 July 29-Aug. 7 July 29-Aug. 7 July 30-31 July 30-Aug. 8 July 30-Aug. 8

Aug. 10-11

Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo, Central Wyoming Fairgrounds, Casper. For more information, visit centralwyomingfair.com or call 307235-5775. Converse County Fair, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, visit conversecountyfair.com or call 307-358-5438. Double 8 Ranch 2020 Environmental Stewardship Tour, Elk Mountain. For more information, contact the Wyoming Stock Growers Association at 307-638-3942 or visit wysga.org. Cheyenne Frontier Days, Frontier Park, Cheyenne. For more information, visit cfdrodeo.com. Platte County Fair, Platte County Fairgrounds, Wheatland. For more information, visit plattecountyfair.org or call 307-322-9504. Teton County Fair, Teton County Fairgrounds, Jackson. For more information, visit tetoncountyfair.com or call 307-733-5289. Weston County Fair, Weston County Fairgrounds, Newcastle. For more information, visit westoncountyfair.com or call 307-746-9906. Crook County Fair, Crook County Fairgrounds, Sundance. For more information, visit crookcofair.com or call 307-283-2644. 16th Annual Thermopolis Cowboy Rendezvous PRCA Rodeo, Hot Springs County Fairgrounds, Thermopolis. For more information, visit thermopoliscowboyrendezvous.com. Washakie County Fair, Washakie County Fairgrounds, Worland. For more information, call 307-431-6318. Big Horn County Fair, Big Horn County Fairgrounds, Basin. For more information, visit bighornfair.com or call 307-568-2968. Elk Feedground Meeting, 6 p.m., Laramie Game and Fish Office, Laramie. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo.gov/Get-Involved/elkfeedgrounds. Park County Fair, Park County Fairgrounds, Powell. For more information, call 307-754-8855. Elk Feedground Meeting, 6 p.m., Rock Springs Public Library, Rock Springs. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo.gov/Get-Involved/elkfeedgrounds. Sublette County Fair, Sublette County Fairgrounds, Big Piney. For more information, visit sublettecountyfair.com or call 307-276-5373. Albany County Fair, Albany County Fairgrounds, Laramie. For more information, visit albanycountyfair.org or call 307-742-3224. Elk Feedground Meeting, 6 p.m., Casper Game and Fish Office, Casper. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo.gov/Get-Involved/elk-feedgrounds. Goshen County Fair, Goshen County Fairgrounds, Torrington. For more information, visit goshencounty.org or call 307-532-2525. Uinta County Fair, Uinta County Fairgrounds, Evanston. For more information, visit uintacountyfair.org or call 307-783-0313. Red Desert Roundup Rodeo, Sweetwater Events Complex, Rock Springs. For more information, visit rdrrodeo.com. Campbell County Fair, Cam-Plex, Gillette. For more information, call 307-687-0200 or e-mail eae73@ccgov.net. Johnson County Fair, Johnson County Fairgrounds, Buffalo. For more information, visit johnsoncountyfairgrounds.com/fair/ or call 307-6847357.

Big horn Basin LIVESTOCK AUCTION LLC

Worland, WY

Sale Barn: 307-347-9201 Danny Vigil: 307-388-0781

Broadcasting and Online Bidding Available At lmaauctions.com. Please visit to fill out an application and view auctions.

Authorized Dealer July 15 • 493 Hd.

Cows and Bulls Steady

EWE Durfee, Melissa - Lovell 1 BKF Ewe, 125# ...................$13000 Bell, Bill - Worland 1 Smut FC Ewe, 205# .............$7700 Hill, Gerald - Basin 5 BKF Ewes, avg. 186# ...........$7400 GOAT Mueller, Terry - Shell 1 Brown Goat .................... $200/Hd. 2 Brown Goats .................. $175/Hd. Hankinson, Roger - Worland 4 Spotted Goats ..............$17250/Hd. 3 Brown Goats ..................$5834/Hd. Anthony, Katherine - Ten Sleep 5 Boer Goats ..................... $144/Hd. KID Mueller, Terry - Shell 2 Spkld FC Kid .................. $130/Hd. 1 Spkld FC Kid .................. $130/Hd. LAMB Bell, Bill - Worland 6 WF Lambs, avg. 78# ..........$23500 Maser, Joan - Thermopolis 4 BKF Lambs, avg. 89# .........$23000 Mueller, Terry - Shell 10 Spkld FC Lambs, avg. 74# ...$23000 BULLS Rolling T Livestock - Powell 1 Blk Bull, 875# ......................$11000 Greet, Daniel - Ten Sleep 1 Blk Bull, 1960# ......................$9650 Haun, Bill - Worland 1 Blk Bull, 1775# ......................$9600 Ready, Merrill John - Thermopolis 1 BWF Bull, 1905# ...................$9600 LU Ranch, Worland 1 Blk Bull, 1980# ......................$9550 1 Blk Bull, 1955# ......................$9500 Durbin Creek Ranch - Thermopolis 1 Red Bull, 1840# ....................$9350 1 Hrfd Bull, 1935# ....................$9300 1 Hrfd Bull, 1885# ....................$9050 1 Hrfd Bull, 1780# ....................$9000 1 Hrfd Bull, 1915# ....................$8900 1 Hrfd Bull, 1710# ....................$8500 Brown, Matt - Thermopolis 1 Blk Bull, 2155# ......................$9100

Aug. 2-6

Rolling T Livestock - Powell 1 Hrfd Bull, 2170# ....................$9000 Greer, Lory Ross - Hyattville 1 Red Bull, 1695# ....................$8700 Greet Ranch, Inc. - Ten Sleep 1 Blk Bull, 1880# ......................$8400 Gooseberry Creek Ranch - Worland 1 Blk Bull, 1440# ......................$8250 Rio Bravo Cattle Co. - Colo. Springs, CO 1 Blk Bull, 1880# ......................$8100 COWS Jones, Randall - Otto 1 Blk Cow, 1660# .....................$7350 Bennett/M & M Trust - Manderson 1 Hfrd Cow, 1775# ...................$7325 1 Hrfd Cow, 1320# ...................$6350 Haun, Bill - Worland 1 Blk Cow, 1595# .....................$7250 1 Blk Cow, 1720# .....................$7200 3 Blk Cows, avg. 1525#...........$7200 2 RWF/Bk Cows, avg. 1558#..$7100 1 Blk Cow, 1910# .....................$7000 1 Blk Cow, 1540# .....................$7000 5 Blk Cows, avg. 1534#...........$7000 1 BWF Cow, 1570#..................$7000 1 Blk Cow, 1660# .....................$7000 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1643#...........$7000 1 Blk Cow, 1490# .....................$6800 3 Blk Cows, avg. 1492#...........$6750 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1460#...........$6750 1 Blk Cow, 1255# .....................$6700 1 Blk Cow, 1385# .....................$6700 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1345#...........$6550 1 Blk Cow, 1225# .....................$6300 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1220#...........$6200 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1330#...........$6200 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1300#...........$6200 Walker, Eric - Burlington 1 Blk Cow, 1645# .....................$7250 Thomas, Fred - Meeteetse 2 Blk Cow, 1843# .....................$7100 Friesen, Joshua - Cody 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1553#...........$7100 1 Red Cow, 1380# ...................$6500 Hessenthaler, Charles - Lovell 2 Blk Cow, 1585# .....................$7100 Nicholas Ranch - Fort Washakie 1 Blk Cow, 1655# .....................$6800 3 BWF Cows, avg. 1402# .......$6800 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1293#...........$6800 1 BWF Cow, 1315#..................$6750

Danny Vigil Northern Livestock Represenative 1 Blk Cow, 1405# .....................$6750 1 Blk Cow, 1620# .....................$6700 3 Blk Cows, avg. 1417#...........$6700 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1448#...........$6700 1 Blk Cow, 1395# .....................$6650 1 Blk Cow, 1270# .....................$6600 Baird, Jack - Thermopolis 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1363#...........$6800 Lyman Ranch Co. - Ten Sleep 1 Blk Cow,1355# ......................$6800 1 Blk Cow, 1615# .....................$6800 Johnsey, Bob - Worland 1 CharX Cow, 1435# ...............$6750 Greet Ranch Inc. - Ten Sleep 1 Blk Cow, 1190# .....................$6650 Love, Valerie - Thermopolis 1 Red Cow, 1335# ...................$6500 Herman Livestock LLC - Hyattville 1 RWF Cow, 1230# .................$6450 HEIFERS Greet Ranch Inc. - Ten Sleep 1 Blk Hfr, 765# ........................$12850 Hillberry, Dee - Thermopolis 1 Hrfd Hfr, 545# ......................$12500 HEIFERETTES Walker, Eric - Burlington 1 Blk Hfrette, 1350# .................$9200 2 BWF Hfrette, 1340# ..............$8950 1 Blk Hfrette, 1175#..................$8100 WS Livestock Inc. - Lander 1 BWF Hfrette, 1150# ..............$8600 PAIRS Bockman, Steven - Greybull 2 Blk Pairs........................$1300/Hd. STEERS Calvert, Nataline - Thermopolis 2 BWF Strs, avg. 738# ..........$14450

Aug. 16-17 Aug. 16-20 Aug. 23-24 Sept. 3-5 Sept. 4 Sept. 11 Sept. 13 Sept. 14 Sept. 14 Sept. 15 Sept. 16 Sept. 16 Sept. 17 Sept. 17-18 Sept 19

Northern Livestock Video Auction 17th Annual Summertime Classic, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com Superior Livestock Auction Video Royale XXIX, Winnemucca, Nev., 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com Cattle Country Video Oregon Trail Classic Sale, Gering Civic Center, Gering, Neb., 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com Western Video Market, Little America, Cheyenne, 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com Superior Livestock Auction Big Horn Classic XVII, Sheridan, 800-4222117, superiorlivestock.com Northern Livestock Video Auction Early Fall Preview, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com Powder River Quarter Horse Breeders Association 44th Annual Horse Sale, Futurity & Versatility Ranch Horse Show, Broadus, Mont., 406427-5420, prqhba.com Proffit Ranch 20th Annual Labor Day Horse Sale, Diamond X Ranch, Evanston, 307-723-5857, proffitranch.com Open Box Rafter Ranch 28th Annual Horse Sale, Rapid City, S.D., 605538-4450, rafterranch.com Wyoming Wool Growers Association Premier Ewe Sale, Douglas, 307-265-5250, wyowool.com 93rd Annual Wyoming State Ram Sale, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas, 307-265-5250, 307-351-1422, wyowool.com Western Video Market, Haythorn Ranch, Ogallala, Neb., 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com 8th Annual Montana Ewe Sale, Eastern Montana Fairgrounds, Miles City, Mont., 406-945-0404, mtsheep.org 96th Annual Montana Ram Sale, Eastern Montana Fairgrounds, Miles City, Mont., 406-210-2852, mtsheep.org Cattle Country Video Sandhills Roundup Sale, Cheyenne Frontier Days Event Center, Cheyenne, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com Northern Livestock Video Auction Fall Premier, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com 25th Anniversary Van Norman and Friends Production Sale, Elko County Fairgrounds, Elko, Nev., 775-756-6508, 775-934-7404, vannormansale.com 19th Annual Sugar Bars Legacy Sale, Sheridan County Fairgrounds, Sheridan, 605-347-8120, sugarbarslegacy.com

POSTCARD from the Past

Compiled by Dick Perue rrichardperue@gmail.com

Cowboy Poetry Preserves History A lot of history and flavor of the West, and especially Wyoming, has been preserved by those who lived it. Many a cowboy or sheepherder saved his thoughts with pencil and paper while others snapped pictures of what they experienced. One of those cowboy poets was Rusty Fryer, a cowboy, sheepherder, camp cook, bartender, gentlemen and local character who came to town to get a drink or two, raise hell and have a good time. He was born in Saratoga on July 26, 1897 and grew up on a ranch west of town. Rusty quit school when he was 14 years old

and went to herding sheep. It was during this time he found time to pen his poetry. With all the celebrations this summer, and the upcoming Grand Encampment Cowboy Gathering in Encampment the weekend of July 16-18, this poem seems appropriate. When Charlie Hit ‘Togy By Charles E. “Rusty” Fryer I hit the town of ’Togy On th’ mornin’ of th’ fair, An’ entered in the’ buckin’ More in fun than on th’ square. Then I knocked around all morning’ As I had nothin’ else t’ do, An’ when I felt my nerve

• Upcoming Sales • July 29 – All Class Cattle Aug. 12 – All Class Cattle Aug. 21 – Saturday Horse Sale at 1 p.m. Aug. 26 – Weigh-Up Special w/ All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat

“Saddling a Wild Broncho – Saratoga, Wyo.” is the title of this great photo taken in the early 1900s at the rodeo grounds east of Saratoga where fairs and rodeos were held for more than a century. Photo from the Bob Martin/Dick Perue collection. Historical Reproductions by Perue

a-slippin’, I would go an’ hoist a few.

Soon I heard th’ band a-playin’ As they headed for th’ track, So I went an’ throw’d muh saddle On th’ ol’ nag’s back. An’ we started for th’ fair grounds A happy lot of boys, I saw a couple o’ races An’ heard a’ lot o’ noise. When th’ judges says, “You punchers, Line up for th’ draw,” I got an ol’ gray mare ‘Bout as handsome as a squaw. But when I steps upon her Th’ crowd growed mighty still, An’ I saw th’ punchers grinnin’ Guess they know I’s goin’ t’ spill. So I waved my hat an’ hollered An’ I slapped her in th’ flank, I grabbed her in th’ shoulders With silver mounted shank. She left th’ chute a bawlin’ An’ made one jump plumb grand, I reached down for th’ safety An’ hit a-clawin’ sand. Th’ crowd than hollered “Rotten! Yohr ridin’s pretty cheap So I beat it t’ th’ mountains An’ went t’ herdin’ sheep.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

CRP signups available Agricultural producers and landowners can apply for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Grasslands signup now until Aug. 20. This year, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) updated signup options to provide greater incentives for producers and increase the program’s conservation and climate benefits, including setting a minimum rental rate and identifying two national priority zones. The CRP Grassland signup is competitive, and USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will provide for annual rental payments for land devoted to conservation purposes. “We are excited to roll out our new and improved CRP Grasslands signups,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “Bottom line, CRP now makes more financial sense for producers while also providing a bigger return on investment in terms of natural resource benefits. The Grasslands signup is part of a broader suite of tools available through CRP to integrate key conservation practices on our nation’s working lands.”

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

New UW Extension publication helps connect consumers, local food producers A University of Wyoming (UW) Extension publication promotes the local food movement across Wyoming, connecting consumers with producers, according to its authors. “Wyoming’s farmers’ markets, Community Supported Agriculture operations and other food ventures are open for the season, and this means plenty of locally produced products are available statewide,” said Cole Ehmke, UW Extension specialist in rural entrepreneurship and project coordinator. The 2021 Wyoming Specialty Crop Direc-

tory, which can be found at uwyo.edu/uwe/specialtycrops, has nearly 800 listings, including many for producers and the specialty crops they offer. Among their offerings are fresh vegetables and fruits, culinary herbs and spices, honey and homemade goods such as jams, jellies, salsas, barbecue and hot sauces, pickled and fermented vegetables, fruit pies and wine. “Our goal is to help residents and visitors alike find local sources for specialty crops and goods made out of these crops,” Ehmke said. “The directory shows how Wyoming

producers are developing a more resilient food system and producing a wonderful variety of products.” He added, “The producer-consumer connection is powerful, and the listings should engage everyone, whether they’re new to local food, deeply engaged in supporting local communities or visiting our state for the first time.” The directory was compiled by publication editor and co-author Robert Waggener. “Robert worked tirelessly to assemble listings for the 189-page guide,”

Ehmke said. Waggener’s work involved communicating with approximately 1,000 people across Wyoming and beyond. In addition to listings for producers and farmers’ markets, Waggener said, “The directory includes school and community gardens; local, state and national organizations and agencies which are directly involved with agriculture, including specialty crops; a list of resources to help producers, businesses, organizations and others build on the local food movement; and nearly 200 local photos.”

Many of the listings are essentially a brief story about someone having an idea to create a specialty crop food venture and then having the grit to get it started, said Waggener. “Purchasing locally produced food provides the opportunity to not only find tasty, fresh and healthy food, but to support a community and its entrepreneurs and residents,” he said. The directory includes a list of eligible specialty crops defined by the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Funding was provided by the USDA AMS’ Specialty

Crop Block Grant Program through the Wyoming Department of Agriculture. To request a hard copy, fill out the form at uwyo.edu/uwe/specialtycrops/, contact Ehmke at cehmke@uwyo.edu or call 307-766-3782. Ehmke said plans are being made to update the directory on an annual or biennial basis. This article was written by University of Wyoming Extension Senior Editor Dr. Steve Miller and is courtesy of the University of Wyoming. Miller can be reached at slmiller@uwyo. edu. For more information, visit uwagnews.com.

Development and origins of bits, horsemanship shared For thousands of years, horsemen have been using devices in their horse’s mouths for control and communication when riding or driving the horse – taking advantage of the interdental space between the horse’s incisors and molars. Reins attached to the bit enabled the rider or driver to have contact with the mouth and control of the horse. Some kind of

headstall, hanging from an area behind the ears serves to hold the bit in place. Bit types There are basically only two kinds of bits: The snaffle – with no shanks – and the curb – with shanks, plus the Pelham type which combines a snaffle and curb. There have been hundreds of different variations on these basic bit types. A double bridle, used

by some English riders, polo players and in some equestrian competitions like dressage, actually has two bits – a curb and a snaffle – in the horse’s mouth. Over the years, horsemen have created and modified the devices they put into the horse’s mouth to control him. The snaffle, the first type of bit invented, was originally used in chariot rac-

Bit types – There are many different types of bits for each stage of development in a horse’s training, as well as riding discipline. Courtesy photo

Snaffle bits – Traditionally, young horses are started in snaffle bits to get them used to cues from riders in a gentle way. Courtesy photo

ing before horses were actually being ridden. The snaffle is generally a straight bar resting on the horse’s gums in the interdental space with rings on each end of the bar to attach to the headstall and to the reins. Sometimes, a cheek piece was added to the rings to make it less likely that the bit could be pulled through the horse’s mouth. The Egyptians were using jointed snaffles by 1400 B.C. These bits had straight cheek pieces, sometimes with sharp spikes pointing toward the horse. Horsemanship of bits The type of bit used on a horse is not nearly as important as the horsemanship that accompanies it. When it comes to developing a good mouth on a horse – a mouth that is “soft” and responsive to the bit – there is no substitute for light hands, good seat and balance and the sensitivity to know how to interact with the horse. A “hard-mouthed” horse which pulls on the bit and is unresponsive to signals is usually made this way by misuse of the bit. Jerking on the bit or excessive pulling on the reins can damage the nerves of the gums the bit rests on, making the horse less sensitive to a finer touch. The straight snaffle is supposed to be the least severe bit, but if the bit is thin and narrow, it can cut into the horse’s gums if used harshly. A jointed or broken snaffle can bend in the middle and puts more pressure on the sides of the mouth when pulled on. A curb bit has shanks extending downward from the mouthpiece and reins are attached to the shanks. When the reins are pulled, it creates more leverage and the bit is tipped in the horse’s mouth; the raised port in the center of the mouthpiece tips downward and presses on the tongue and the curb strap or chain tightens against

“There are other bits that are mechanically elaborate. Are we better horsemen because of the elaborate bit, or are we trying to use it to make up for our lack of horsemanship?” – Dr. Bob Coleman, University of Kentucky the horse’s jaw. The Pelham combines the effects of both a snaffle and a curb with four reins. A pull on the snaffle reins puts a direct pull on the bars and sides of the horse’s mouth, just like a snaffle bit. On the other hand, a pull on the curb reins puts leverage on the tongue and tightens the curb chain or strap. A Pelham bit is ideal for transitioning a young green horse from the snaffle bit to a curb. Origin and development University of Kentucky State Equine Extension Specialist Dr. Bob Coleman has always been interested in the many different bits in use today and historically. He has been collecting bits for a long time and now has more than 400 different bits. Coleman says there are dozens of variations on the basic snaffle, and just as many varieties of curb bits. “The Texas curbs and the vaquero bits and spade bits are examples,” he explains. “It’s amazing how much steel we put into a horse’s mouth with some of those big spade bits. These bits look like they’d be uncomfortable for the horse or even brutal, but if they are designed properly and used appropriately, that extra metal is not a big deal.” The Spanish spade bit is probably the most extreme in elaborate craftsmanship, versus the Texas curb, which is very simple. “Those early bits may have been more simple because that’s what the blacksmith could make,” Coleman notes. He continues, “There are other bits that are mechanically elaborate. Are we better horsemen

because of the elaborate bit, or are we trying to use it to make up for our lack of horsemanship?” Some of the very simple bits may have been simple because there was also a lack of horsemanship, and the simple bit helped keep the horse from being hurt. “Some of the bits that have been around for thousands of years could be very harsh, including some of the medieval curb bits, and they were horrendous,” says Coleman. “I have half a dozen Texas curb bits with different shanks and they are so simple compared to some of the other curbs,” he shared. “A gentleman I often ride with uses a curb bit with jointed mouthpiece, short shanks and it’s very simple and works well. With this kind of bit, one can ride one- or twohanded because it works like a snaffle or a curb.” “Everyone is happy, especially the horse,” he adds. The important thing is not the bit, however, but the hands on the reins. This determines whether the bit is used harshly or appropriately. Even the most simple and mild snaffle bit can be painful for the horse if used harshly. Often, horsemen talk about “good hands,” but Coleman goes a step farther and says the important thing is actually a “good head,” to direct those hands and to keep the rider in tune with the horse at just the slightest touch of the reins to give signals through the bit. Heather Smith Thomas is a corresponding writer for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

Ranch Dirt By Michaela Mann

Welcome to the rodeo Not going to lie, this is my first rodeo and ya’ll are along for the bumpy ride. My name is Michaela, and I am the owner of D&D Beef. My husband Jared and I help run our family ranch, D&D Cattle Company, along with my parents Dan and Marilee Braesch and sister Courtney Suklaski, where we sell registered Angus and Red Angus cattle. We are a seedstock herd located in eastern Nebraska,

about an hour north of Omaha. Every year we have an annual production sale where we sell our yearling and age-advantaged bulls. I was fortunate to grow up raising cattle, a business that my father and grandfather started, and I am grateful to raise my kids in the same way – hopefully they choose to do the same. My grandpa started selling beef to friends and family over 50 years ago, a side business we have continued doing

when we had cattle available for harvest. Approximately two years ago, I started our branded beef business – D&D Beef – by accident. Dan, my father, called me asking me to put something online – you know, before everything was censored – about having some beef available for sale. The overwhelming response I received for our ranch-raised beef caught me by surprise. I was bombarded with e-mails and messages from potential customers wanting our ranch raised beef. With a two-year-old and six-monthold in tow, I decided to start our branded beef business without a second thought. Slow and steady wins the race, and this is exactly how D&D Beef was built. By selling not only online and shipping nationwide, I was able to utilize the local Omaha Metro

area and sell many quarter, half and whole beef shares. In hindsight, what I thought was slowing me down, as I could not meet the high demand of our beef, allowed me to grow at the proper pace. I was able to work out all the kinks of being a small business owner along the way, while continuing to adapt and adjust as time went on – a blessing in disguise I now know was needed. While marketing directly to consumers is not an easy feat, what I thought would “easy” turned out to be hard and vice versa. Isn’t this how it always goes? We can always expect the unexpected, but I am not complaining one bit. D&D Beef has provided an excellent resource for our ranch to sell our cattle with more profit going into our pocket and not the packers. Currently, the majority of our

business is quarter, half and whole beef shares, which is a great way to move a lot of beef. However, there is a large learning curve for new customers who have never purchased beef in bulk. The coordination it takes to walk customers through the process isn’t easy, but they are always so appreciative to be able to buy local and ranch direct. Customers enjoy talking to the butcher over their processing instructions, taking a trip to the butcher to pick up their beef and filling their freezers with a high-quality protein that will feed their families for months to come. Selling our beef directly to consumers who truly appreciate everything we are doing makes it all worthwhile. So why am I here? When I was approached

in regards to writing for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup, I had my hesitations. I have shared our ranching story on social media, at events, our website, etc. but my peers are not my main audience there – I am talking directly to consumers, who with many I am sharing a “behind the scenes” experience into ranching and how we raise our beef. What could I contribute to a publication that reaches farmers and ranchers? I hope to inspire, share and entertain with not only the daily happenings on our ranch, but also provide some insight into what a wife, mother, rancher and small business owner’s daily joys and struggles are – there is plenty of Ranch Dirt to go around! To see more from Michaela, visit danddbeef. com/ranch-dirt-and-all.

Wyoming cowboys make headway during Cowboy Christmas As the heat of the summer rodeo run is in full swing and Cowboy Christmas has wrapped up, Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) athletes are working their way into the top of the world standings. Several Wyoming athletes top the list as of July 15. In the bareback riding, Kaycee’s Cole Reiner

sits eighth in the world with season earnings of $48,062.87, and Seth Hardwick of Ranchester follows in the 24 hole with earnings of $21,131.28. Hillsdale’s own Brody Cress sits fifth in the world standings with season earnings of $53,554.65. Douglas cowboy Chet Johnson has earned $26,197.89 to fill the 22nd position on the leaderboards and Tanner Butner of Daniel fol-

lows in the 38th hole with $12,359.79. Wyatt Hageman of Jay Em has earned $11,120.95 to fill the 43rd hole in the world standings. Thermopolis cowboy Hawk Whitt has earned $13,595.65 and currently sits 47th on the bull riding leaderboard. Payden McIntyre of Douglas has earned $17,363.30 in the steer wrestling event to fill the 31 hole in the world standings.

In the team roping, Header Kellan Johnson of Casper has earned the 38th position with a total of $14,331.70. J.C. Flake of Laramie fills the 29-hole on the heeler’s side with season earnings of $16,543.31, followed by Casper’s Carson Johnson in 39th with $14,331.70 and Sid Sporer of Cody in 48th with $12,646.14. Another Kaycee cowboy, Reo Lohse, takes 22nd

in the steer roping with earnings of $13,887.39. Douglas’ Troy Tillard fills the 33rd position with $9,005.11. In the barrel racing, Gillette’s Amanda Welsh sits at the top of the leaderboard with earnings of $41,248.38 to place sixth in the current world standings. Another Gillette cowgirl, Margaret Poloncic, fills the 43rd hole with $13,820.83. The regular season

rodeos end Sept. 30, and the top athletes will be headed to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nev. to compete Dec. 2-11 in the Colosseum. To view the complete PRCA and WPRA world standings, visit prorodeo. com/standings. Averi Hales is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Events

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 33 No. 12 • July 17, 2021

It’s the Pitts by Lee Pitts

Why Bother? I have a friend who’s been married three times and he’s getting ready to say “I do” for a fourth. I say, why bother? I am reminded of the words of the great Southern Comedic Writer Lewis Grizzard who said that instead of marriage, just find a woman you don’t like and give her a house. Bolstering his argument is this statistic: In 1940, one in six marriages ended in divorce. Today, it’s one in every two. Amongst the millennial generation, being married is now considered an “alternative lifestyle,” and instead of “man and wife,” the proper terminology is now “persons living cooperatively.” This makes me wonder, is traditional marriage becoming an outmoded institution? I really must ask, were humans really meant to be

monogamous in the first place? Did you know only three percent of large mammals are monogamous? Female black bears detest males of their own species and only get together for one reason – and it’s not to raise the cubs. I used to raise a lot of rabbits and when I put the does and bucks together for a little intimacy, I always had to put the doe in the buck’s cage because, even though animals rarely kill their own kind, if I put the buck in the doe’s cage they’d fight to the death. Or was it the other way around? A realtor friend told me recently one of the hottest trends in housing in urban areas for couples are homes called “two-fers” with separate entrances, kitchens and bedrooms. I wonder if humans are like rabbits? Does the female involved

Visit leepittsbooks.org for more from Lee Pitts.

in this cooperative arrangement always have to go into the male’s bedroom, or if he dares enter the woman’s bedroom does a violent fight ensue? Ranchers know after every cow is bred, the bulls will separate themselves from the cows, live independently and have nothing to do with raising their calves. Sadly, we see this phenomenon all too often these days with men who leave the nest once the hard work of raising the kids begins. According to women, two of the biggest questions they have before “coupling” with a man is, “Who will get custody of the money?” and “Is this the man I want my children spending every other weekend with?” Scientists say animals like cattle are incapable of love and instead they just temporarily bond with another who looks and acts like they do because in the animal kingdom, “like marries like.” We are told domesticated animals’ emotions are simpler and cleaner than humans and love and hate stay separate in their brains. They either hate or like another being, whereas humans can love and hate the same person – and often do, based on divorce statistics. The current divorce rate

saddens me because I’ve been married only once in my life to the same wonderful woman for 47 years and can’t imagine life without her. I think we have a perfect marriage, despite the fact that my father was no role model in how to be a good husband. My parents separated at least three times and actually filed for divorce on three different occasions, the third one finally ending the train wreck. In hindsight, I think the marriage ended because my father couldn’t stand my mom when he was drunk and she couldn’t stand him when he was sober. Which, I might add, was an extremely rare occurrence. I got the impression they only stayed together because of the children – neither one of them wanted to get stuck with me. When I was a kid, divorces were much frowned upon and children of divorced couples were shunned in higher society. It took a lot more lawyerly work to get a divorce. There had to be a reason and blame had to be assigned in court. Usually, it was because the husband wasn’t being monogamous. But, boys will be boys, whether it’s bulls or boyfriends. It wasn’t like the Cherokee culture where a

woman could divorce her husband simply by tossing all his belongings out the front door. If this was all that was required to get a

divorce, my parents would not have reached their second anniversary and no one would be reading this column right now.

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RIVERTON LIVESTOCK AUCTION Tuesday, July 13 Market Report • 376 Head Sold Representative Sales COWS THERMOPOLIS 29 Cow, 1072# .....................................$74.00 SHOSHONI 6 Cow, 1459# .....................................$71.50 LANDER 4 Cow, 1537# .....................................$71.50 THERMOPOLIS 4 Cow, 1261# .....................................$70.50 HYATTVILLE 3 Cow, 1566# .....................................$70.25 THERMOPOLIS 5 Cow, 1249# .....................................$69.50 PAVILLION 2 Cow, 1422# .....................................$69.50 HYATTVILLE 2 Cow, 1292# .....................................$68.00 WOODRUFF, UT 3 Cow, 1240# .....................................$67.00 PINEDALE 1 Cow, 1670# .....................................$66.50 BULLS DUBOIS 1 Bull, 1105# ....................................$104.00 BIG PINEY 3 Bull, 1161# ......................................$99.50 PINEDALE 2 Bull, 1912# ......................................$98.50 BIG PINEY 3 Bull, 2023# ......................................$97.50 PINEDALE 1 Bull, 1850# ......................................$97.00 ARAPAHOE 1 Bull, 1845# ......................................$96.50

Early Consignments

DANIEL 1 Bull, 1920# ......................................$95.00 DANIEL 2 Bull, 2120# ......................................$93.00 FARSON 2 Bull, 1507# ......................................$90.00 PAVILLION 1 Bull, 1870# ......................................$87.50 STEERS & HEIFERS FARSON 31 Steer, 714#....................................$151.50 GREEN RIVER 4 Steer, 737#....................................$150.00 ARAPAHOE 2 Steer, 827#....................................$135.00 FARSON 6 Steer, 1005#..................................$120.00 FORT WASHAKIE 2 Heifer, 730#...................................$130.50 RIVERTON 3 Heifer, 778#...................................$130.25

TUESDAY, JULY 20 NO SALE

TUESDAY, JULY 27 ALL CATTLE CLASSES W/ SHEEP & HORSES START TIME 9:00 AM W/ SHEEP & WEIGH UPS Bill & Norma Yankee - 15 Blk Yrling Strs 750# Jess Oldham - 4 Hd 3-6 Yr Old Suffolk/HampX Rams

TUESDAY, AUGUST 3

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

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TUESDAY, AUGUST 10 ALL CATTLE CLASSES 4-H RESALE (NOON) START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, AUGUST 17

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL W/ SHEEP & HORSES START TIME 9:00 AM W/ SHEEP

NO SALE

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 5

TUESDAY, AUGUST 24

CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM

ALL CATTLE CLASSES W/ SHEEP & HORSES & 4-H RESALE (NOON) START TIME 9:00 AM W/ SHEEP & WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, AUGUST 31 NO SALE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 LABOR DAY FEEDER SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 COW SALE • START TIME 9:00 AM

All sales are broadcast live on the internet at www.cattleusa.com. Please register online to bid on livestock. Be sure to check out our country cattle listings at www.cattleusa.com

Contact: Riverton Livestock Auction (307) 856-2209 • Jeff Brown (307) 850-4193 • Tom Linn (307) 728-8519 • Mark Winter (580) 747-9436 • www.rivertonlivestock.com • Also watch our live cattle auction at www.cattleusa.com

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July 17, 2021

Articles inside

Cowboy poetry shares flavor of the West

Drought support tool available for producers