Roundup for 9.12.2020

Volume 32 Number 20 • September 12, 2020

®

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

A Look Inside Drought Monitor maps verified with the help of volunteer efforts............................ Page 4 Critical pollinators maintain healthy rangelands........ Page 6 Certified Angus Beef discusses good animal handling practices........................ Page 7 Agricultural sector impacts caused by COVID-19 is studied by multiple groups....... Page 15

Quick Bits Red Meat

U.S. pork exports have been largely determined by trade with China in recent months. Total exports of U.S. fresh, frozen and processed pork for the month of July were 190,243 metric tons, 0.4% lower than the previous year. Weekly data suggested there was a big surge in U.S. beef imports this summer. Total imports of fresh, frozen and cooked beef were 127,174 metric tons, 40.7% higher than a year ago.

WYDOT provides update on road conditions, budget options The Wyoming Stock Growers Association invited Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) Director, retired Maj. Gen. K. Luke Reiner, to provide an update during the general session of the 2020 Wyoming

Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show on Aug. 25 in Rock Springs. Reiner was appointed to the position by Gov. Mark Gordon in March 2019.

Current road conditions Reiner reported WYDOT

predicts statewide deterioration of highway conditions with current revenue projections. Highways tagged to be in good and excellent condition will decrease from 63 percent to 57 percent and highways tagged in poor condition

will increase from 19 percent to 30 percent by the year 2038, according to WYDOT. National Transportation Research Nonprofit (TRiP) reported in July 47 percent of Wyoming’s bridges and 76

Please see ROADS on page 7

Fall calving considerations UNL specialist discusses the importance of body condition in fall-calving cattle Due to widespread drought across the West, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Extension Cow/Calf Systems and Stocker Management Specialist Dr. Karla Wilke says it is imperative producers with fall-calving operations be especially mindful of their cows’ body condition.

Wilke discusses the topic in a UNL BeefWatch newsletter dated Sept. 1.

Body condition in lactating cattle Wilke notes body condition is critical in all lac-

tating cows as they move into the breeding season.

However, she points out it is even more important for fall-calving cows, since they could potentially face a long, hard winter in poor condition while still trying to meet the high-nutrient demand required by lactation.

“Lactating cows in peak lactation require nearly twice the energy of a dry, pregnant cow during traPlease see CALVES on page 6

Egg products The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced on Sept. 9 it is modernizing egg products inspection methods for the first time since Congress passed the Egg Products Inspection Act (EPIA) in 1970. The Egg Products Inspection Regulations final rule aligns the egg products regulations to be consistent with current requirements in the meat and poultry products inspection regulations.

Grain Prices Grain prices were mixed once more on Sept.

9. Soybeans emerged as the clear winner, closing out a 12th consecutive session of gains after USDA announced two more large export sales on Sept. 10.

Corn took a small setback, in contrast, on some light technical selling. Wheat was a bit more complicated, as Kansas City hard red winter wheat contracts scratched out modest gains.

COVID-19

Coronavirus cases in the U.S. rose by 35,222 to 6,363,276 cases as of Sept. 10, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.

The death toll increased by 1,174 lives to 190,873 deaths.

Fall-calving operations – While body condition is critical in all lactating cows as they move into the breeding season, Dr. Wilke says it is even more important for fall-calving cows, moving into a hard winter while still trying to meet the high-nutrient demand required by lactation. Averi Hales photo

Beef roundup Event dedicated to beef production deemed a success The first annual Rendezvous City Beef Roundup welcomed more than 100 people to the Central Wyoming College (CWC) campus on Aug. 29. The event offered an opportunity for Wyoming beef producers to share beef production processes with consumers, along with the joys and discomforts of producing locally raised beef in Wyoming.

Thankful for beef Event Organizer Tyler McCann kicked off the event with a thank you to producers for the hard work they put into raising their beef. McCann shared ranching is not for the faint of heart and is often a family feat.

Producers and consumers connected over the challenges and rewards of producing beef in Wyoming and shared perspectives on why the demand for locally produced beef has recently seen an increase.

“I had an older producer and generational rancher say he was just blown away and honored to have a roomful of people thanking him for producing beef for them,” said McCann.

Please see BEEF on page 4

Bison research expanded On Sept. 8, officials from South Dakota State University (SDSU), the National Bison Association and the National Buffalo Foundation formally launched the Center of Excellence for Bison Studies, a facility focused on research activities to improve bison herd health and production and the economic viability of both private and tribal bison producers. The center will be headquartered at SDSU’s West River Research and Extension facility in Rapid City, South Dakota.

Plans for the Center of Excellence began in May 2017 when leaders of the National Buffalo Foundation, the National Bison Association’s Science and Research Committee and Sinte Gleska University convened with SDSU researchers at the main campus in Brookings, South Dakota Participants at the session agreed on a number of research priorities, but recognized a coordinated effort was needed.

“We will be pulling together the leading experts in their fields to help us gain a better understanding of this animal and the ecosystems it lives in and to develop new resources for the people who raise bison,” said Dr. Kristi Cammack, the newly installed director for the Center of Excellence.

Dr. Bill Gibbons, director of the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station at SDSU and associate dean for research, added, “We realized in our 2017 meeting there were many unanswered questions regarding all aspects of bison, ranging from their role in the landscapes they occupy to their importance in Native American culture to their significance in agriculture. And, we recognized there are many qualified researchers interested in taking on those projects. What was missing was a unified commitment to bring together the resources to support the research.”

Please see BISON on page 16

COVID-19 and the cattle industry Colin Woodall, CEO of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, outlined COVID-19’s impact on the U.S. cattle industry when he spoke to Wyoming ranchers during the convention held Aug. 24-26 in Rock Springs.

When 2020 began, the outlook was a rosy one for the beef industry, Woodall told cattlemen during his presentation on Aug. 26, at the Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show at the Sweetwater Events Complex.

The beef industry was in a good place, including the aspect of rules and regulations and federal engagement, Woodall said. He referred to President

Donald Trump as one of the most cattlefriendly presidents the beef industry has ever seen.

The Trump administration rolled back between two and eight regulations for every one enacted, lessening the burden on beef producers and the industry as a whole, according to Woodall.

No one, however, was banking on COVID-19.

The journey hasn’t been an easy one, but COVID-19 “provided an opportunity to show what we’re made of as an industry and an association,” Woodall said.

When the pandemic hit, every other

periodical

periodical

Please see COVID on page 5

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

Should Have Asked A Rancher

Don Day, the weatherman out of Cheyenne, has been telling us weather extremes always balance out. Last weekend, there were numerous temperature readings of 100 degrees and over.

I thought to myself, “What is it From the going to take to balance this out?” Well, Publisher we found out, didn’t we?

Dennis Sun

As I write this column early in the week, with a yard full of broken branches, I realized Don Day was right again. Both events were extremes – hot and cold. Maybe we will see a normal fall with precipitation to balance out the ongoing drought.

I think both humans and animals can adapt to differing weather conditions. I recently found a study affirming this to be somewhat true. The study looked at how moose in Alaska and bison on Great Plains ranches are adapting to the warming of climate change. They found a warming climate may be a threat to these two species.

Most people realize climate change is real and has been since God made our world and rested on the seventh day.

Like COVID-19, climate change has been made political and some people have been pointing fingers at each other for the reason behind the ever-changing climate.

Dr. Jeff Martin and Dr. Dan Thompson completed this study to examine the effects of warming temperatures on big game.

Martin’s research measured heat flux in bison while Thompson studied body temperature regulation in moose.

They wanted to study these species to see how large game animals respond to warming temperatures.

Thompson worked as a wildlife biologist for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and used this study to complete research for his doctoral dissertation. Through this study he remotely assessed the thermal tolerance of moose on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska and how they regulate body temperature. I would guess, what Thompson found for moose could be true for other large game animals.

He found intensity and duration of hot weather affected the grazing of moose and the capacity of the animals to use physiological and behavioral responses. I imagine one could say the same about moose if they were being chased around by wolves and bears. That is life changing, too.

Martin also used his study to complete his doctoral degree. He used a thermal camera taking heat flux measures of bison, working with bison managers throughout the Great Plains from Texas to Saskatchewan, Canada.

Using measurements from images of hundreds of bison of multiple ages, he was able to track the growth of bison from 19 different herds over many growing seasons for his research.

He used the thermal images to study foraging changes in response to climate and how climate affects bison directly. He found there was slower growth during periods of higher temperatures, as bison have to work harder to regulate their body temperatures, causing them more stress.

Bison and moose have been around for a long time. They have learned how to adapt. Adaptation isn’t something new to ranchers. A lot of what the moose, bison and researchers learned, they could have gotten from some ranchers. We applaud their studies, though, as livestock producers can learn from academic studies as well.

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

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GUEST OPINIONS Allocation of Sale Price with the Sale of a Farm or Ranch

By Chris Nolt Allocating the sale price of a farm or ranch among the different types of assets involved in a sale is a necessary and often, a neglected task.

Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 1001(a) states a taxpayer realizes gain or loss on the sale or other disposition of property. It generally defines gain and losses to consist of the difference between the amount realized on the sale or disposition of an asset and the adjusted basis of an asset.

The basis of an asset is typically determined under IRC Section 1012, 1014 or 1015.

The sale of a ranch will typically involve the realization of gain upon the sale of a “mixed bag” of assets.

Some gain will need to be recognized as capital gain or ordinary income in the year of sale, while some realized gain might not need to be recognized due to the operation of IRC Sections 121, 664 or 1031.

This “mixed bag” of assets often includes a personal residence, fixtures such as outbuildings, barns, fences, wells, etc., personal property such as equipment, sprinkling systems, livestock, etc. and land.

Internal Revenue Code Section 1060 requires that the consideration received for such assets shall be allocated among such assets.

Of particular significance is the following requirement: The transferee and transferor shall agree in writing as to the allocation of any consideration or as to the fair market value of any of the assets, and such agreement shall be binding on both the transferee and

transferor unless the secretary determines such allocation or fair market value is not appropriate.

Inasmuch as most realtors are not also tax professionals, it is not uncommon for this important requirement to be ignored in the context of drafting and executing a Buy-Sell Agreement and associated documents.

This creates a problem for both parties in the context of preparation of tax returns, as Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations require both the seller and purchaser of a group of assets that makes up a trade or business must use Form 8594 to report such a sale if the purchaser’s tax basis – IRC Section 1012 – in the assets is determined by the amount paid for the assets. And, each party must attach Form 8594, reflecting agreed-upon allocated values, to his income tax return for the tax year in which the sale date occurred.

The IRS instructions to Form 8594 specifically state, that generally, both the purchaser and seller must file Form 8594 and attach it to their income tax returns when there is a transfer of a group of assets that make up a trade or business and the purchaser’s basis in such assets is determined wholly by the amount paid for the assets.

This applies whether the group of assets constitutes a trade or business in the hands of the seller, the purchaser or both.

However, individuals are not required to file Form 8594 if the following applies: A group of assets that makes up a trade

or business is exchanged for like-kind property in a transaction to which Section 1031 or 664 applies. If Section 1031 or 664 do not apply to all the assets transferred, however, Form 8594 is required for the part of the group of assets to which Section 1031 or 664 do not apply.

In the context of preparing Form 8594, an allocation of the purchase price must be made to determine the purchaser’s basis in each acquired asset and the seller’s gain or loss on the transfer of each asset.

Often, unless there is a definite reflection of value, such as a current appraisal, the values to be allocated to various assets is left to the negotiation and determination, in writing, of the parties and their legal representatives. For example, a seller will generally want high valuations applied to a personal residence – non-recognition of gain up to $500,000 in the event of a married couple – and land – taxation at capital gain rates.

Conversely, a buyer will want higher valuations applied to depreciable personal property and fixtures.

While county property tax valuations may be helpful in this regard, they often do not reflect current fair market values. When necessary, a qualified farm or ranch real estate agent or an appraiser is often engaged to assist in arriving at “correct” values.

The values agreed-upon in writing by the parties are typically acceptable to the IRS, unless so skewered as to not be representative of actual values, e.g., such might occur in the case of a

corporate seller with a large net operating loss deduction who agrees to an allocation of an inordinately high value to depreciable assets.

The seller will typically wish to see an asset value allocation as follows.

First, personal residence. For a married couple, up to $500,000 of gain realized upon the sale of a personal residence does not need to be recognized or reported on a tax return.

Next, raw land, which is generally taxed at favorable long-term capital gain tax rates.

Next are fixtures such as buildings, barns, etc.

In most cases, IRC Section 1250 does not mandate depreciation recapture on these types of assets, except to the extent there has been additional depreciation – depreciation allowances in excess of straight line deprecation.

Note, all such buildings placed in service after 1986 must have been depreciated using the straight-line method.

Next is personal property such as equipment, tractors and breeding livestock.

These types of depreciable assets are typically subject to IRC Section 1245 recapture. In such case, the amount of gain, based upon the allocated purchase price, treated as ordinary income is the lesser of (1) the total gain realized on the disposition of the assets or (2) the depreciation deduction previously taken with respect to the asset.

The IRC Section 1031 Exchange and IRC Section 664 Charitable Remainder Please see PRICE on page 14

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

NEWS BRIEFS Spillway repairs begin The Wyoming Area Office of the Bureau of Reclamation is preparing for contract construction work at Alcova Dam following the 2020 irrigation season. To accommodate the construction work, the reservoir will be temporarily lowered an additional 29 feet below the normal winter operating elevation of 5,488 feet, down to an elevation of 5,459 feet, which is below the level of the spillway crest.

“Completion of this project is important in order to ensure the continued reliability of the spillway structure,” said Wyoming Area Manager Carlie Ronca. “It includes replacing deteriorated concrete on the downstream spillway and stilling basin retaining walls, retaining wall caps and floor slabs in designated areas. Additionally, it will replace downstream spillway and stilling basin handrails and chain-link fence.”

Summer reservoir levels will not be affected and will remain at normal levels through the end of September. Spillway and stilling basin access work will start after Oct. 1 and is scheduled to be completed by March 31, 2021 to avoid the peak spillway discharge season.

During the month of October, Alcova Reservoir will be lowered 39 feet at an average rate of about 15 inches per day. In a normal year, the reservoir is lowered about five inches per day for a total of 10 feet.

The flows below Alcova and Gray Reef Dams during October will average 2100 cubic feet per second (cfs) through Oct. 20, and then be reduced to the normal winter flow rate of 500 cfs.

Alcova Reservoir is planned to be refilled to normal winter operating elevation in the last half of December. By Jan. 1, 2021, Alcova Reservoir will be restored to its normal winter operating range.

USCA offers concerns On Sept. 8, the United States Cattlemen’s Association (USCA) sent a letter to leaders at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Food and Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) over concerns associated with contaminated Mexican cattle, beef, lamb, poultry and swine.

According to Food Safety News, a total of 54 people from six municipalities have fallen ill after consuming meat contaminated with Clenbuterol, a beta2-agonist used as a food additive in some livestock feed to promote muscle mass and meat yield. The practice is illegal in the U.S. and Europe.

In the letter, USCA President Brooke Miller stated, “Allowing contaminated meat into our borders is unacceptable for a nation that prides itself on producing the highest quality, most sustainable and safest beef in the world. We ask APHIS and FSIS to seriously evaluate the public health risks associated with importing beef and meat from Mexico, including conducting an equivalence verification to ensure Mexico is still maintaining a regulatory food safety inspection system that is on par with the United States.”

Checkoff petition open Executive Director of the Wyoming Beef Council Ann Wittmann provided an update on the petition for referendum requesting the termination of the Beef Promotion Research Order, more commonly known as the Beef Checkoff Program, Aug. 25 at the Wyoming Stock Growers Association’s 2020 Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show.

The petition, launched by R-CALF USA, calls on Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue to conduct a referendum for a vote on the termination of the program. Perdue has the authority to do so, if requested by at least 10 percent of U.S. cattle producers.

“USDA determined petitioners need to acquire 88,269 signatures,” said Wittmann. “However, USDA has scrambled to figure out how many signatures need to be verified and what the guidelines are for online signature collection.”

While USDA has approved obtaining signatures online, it is necessary the online signature collection be a fair and transparent process.

“The position around the country is that it’s a cattle producers’ program – if they want a vote, let’s have a vote,” said Wittmann. “But, it needs to be transparent and honest.”

Petitioners have been reprimanded for dishonestly collecting signatures online through social media platforms, according to Wittmann.

“USDA wrote a letter to petitioners stating extra scrutiny during signature verification,” shared Wittmann.

Eligible cattle producers are defined as any cattle producer, regardless of age, who has owned, sold or purchased cattle from July 2, 2020 through July 1, 2021. Any signor under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian co-sign and nay person who signs the petition on behalf of a corporation or other entity must be authorized to do so. Any individual member of a group, who is an eligible person separate from the group, may request a referendum separately.

Interested parties may view or sign the petition from now until July 1, 2021 at weneedabeefcheckoffvote.com.

Snow affects plants

This week’s dramatic polar plunge across Wyoming is not only pummeling plants now, but individuals should also expect damage and dieback next spring, according to University of Wyoming Extension Horticulture Specialist Karen Panter.

“Annual plants will not survive the unusual low temperatures for this time of year, but some herbaceous perennials might,” said Panter.

She noted covered plants might survive, but the temperatures will be too cold for most, and plants in containers may manage if taken into a protected structure like a garage or shed.

Panter said leaves will freeze-dry on trees and shrubs, will probably turn brown and stay on plants longer than normal.

Frost may cause blackened leaf tips and possibly whole leaves and branches.

3

Black bear areas closed Black bear hunters are alerted the fall black bear season in hunt areas one and two closed at 2:30 p.m. on Sept.

5. The closed areas are located in the northern Big Horn Mountains.

The 2020 fall black bear hunting season closes for each hunt area or group of hunt areas when the female mortality limit has been reached or on Oct. 31, whichever comes first. The female limits are used to ensure overharvest of female bears does not occur. Black bear areas one and two have a combined quota of seven females this fall.

Additionally, black bear areas three and four, also in the Big Horn Mountains, are within one bear of the fall quota.

Bear hunters should call the Black Bear Mortality Limit Hotline at 1-800-264-1280 before going hunting to determine which hunt areas are open for hunting.

Information on hunt area closures and quotas is updated on a daily basis and is also available online at wgfd.wyo. gov/Hunting/Trophy-Game-Harvest-Limits.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

Volunteer efforts help UW Extension specialist verify Drought Monitor maps Wyoming’s Drought Monitor map for the last week of August looked like Mother Nature gave northern Johnson and southern Sheridan counties an affectionate red lipstick smack.

That, plus a kidney bean-shaped area from central Natrona County to southern Johnson County and a rainbow-shaped area arcing from southeastern Washakie County to land in Hot Springs County, represents the first time since October 2018 the state has had areas branded extreme drought.

Carbon County held that dubious distinction, said Windy Kelley, University of Wyoming Extension weather variability and agricultural resiliency specialist.

Wyoming drought Kelley has been meeting with state, federal and tribal organization representatives since June to compare draft drought map values with on-the-ground observations from Extension Educators, the Wyoming Agricultural Experiment Station and other agency partners.

Kelley, the regional Extension program coordi-

nator with the USDA Northern Plains Climate Hub, saw an ominous shift in late May in areas designated abnormally dry. Drought Monitor categories are none, abnormally dry, moderate drought, severe drought, extreme drought and exceptional drought.

About one to two percent of the state was abnormally dry in late April. By the end of May, over 25 percent was either abnormally dry or in a moderate drought, she said.

“We started to hear about some of the impacts and conditions particularly in eastern Wyoming rangelands associated with the dry conditions,” she said. “From that, we said, ‘Alright, let’s coordinate and ensure people know how to report on-the-ground conditions and impacts to ensure the Drought Monitor is accurate.’”

The Drought Monitor documents what has already happened and does not forecast conditions. Policy makers and others use the information to determine if, for example, agricultural producers might qualify for disaster response programs.

But, the map is a largescale representation. A drought in Wyoming may look very different than Florida, Kelley said, and even drought in eastern Wyoming is different than drought in western Wyoming.

Wyoming’s vast open expanses and low population also mean on-theground observations are not always available from every area.

“Could someone go to a spot on the map and question the drought category?” asked Kelley. “Certainly, because maybe we haven’t received observations specific to that location. But, based on the data available to us, combined with observations from the ground we do receive, I think the map is as accurate as possible without more information coming in from the ground.”

Kelley said the category designated for an area on the Drought Monitor map is relative to historical conditions.

For example, if current conditions are severe enough that only 16 years out of the past 100 have seen worse, then it is classified as a moderate drought.

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Alternatively, if the conditions have only been worse in four years out of the past 100, then it is classified as an extreme drought.

Kelley said Drought Monitor authors review up to 50 objective data sets weekly, in addition to observations submitted through the National Drought Mitigation Center’s Condition Monitoring Observation Report system. The Drought Monitor authors create the map for all 50 states and territories based on the convergence of evidence from the many indicators and observations, she said.

Analyzing precipitation Johnson County Extension Educator Blaine Horn has been clipping vegetative matter from 20 exclosures on a ranch south of Buffalo for the past 19 years. The exclosures are small, protected from grazing and other disturbances and reflect the amount of forage available. Almost all the grasses in the pasture are cool season, getting an early spring boost from winter precipitation, but by early July growth ends as the plants have reached maturity.

The timing of and how much precipitation received in early spring usually tells producers how much forage may be available for summer grazing.

“The idea is to try to get a trigger date in the spring,” Horn said. “It’s best for a rancher to have a drought plan – the earlier the better.”

Horn clips the grasses to the ground, collecting the

entire biomass, then dries and weighs what’s left.

Last year’s late summer/early fall precipitation boosted good grass growth into June, but Horn pulled up sobering precipitation numbers for April through August.

Area precipitation was 47 percent below average.

By month, April was 68 percent, May 38 percent, June 65 percent, July 22 percent and August 34 percent below average “Our plants are hurting, and even with good spring moisture they will not respond quite as well as they would if we’d gone through an average, or close to average, spring and summer,” said Horn, who provides updates to Kelley’s group.

The map shows extreme drought plaguing western Utah and northwestern and central Arizona as well as short- and longterm drought in western and southwestern Colorado.

Short-term drought has persisted less than six months, and long-term drought is typically greater than six months.

Rural regions are suffering, but urban areas are not immune from the effects, said Kelley. Increasing water temperatures coupled with less stream flow can affect fishing and other recreation. Paltry snowfall at ski areas could cause the industry to suffer, and water from mountain watersheds feeds urban domestic water systems.

“Oftentimes, as we are seeing in parts of the West,

BEEF continued from page 1 McCann shared he was pleased with the number of producers who participated in the event and is excited for the opportunity it provided to close the gap between producers and consumers.

Partnership with CWC Culinary students from CWC spent the day grilling samples of local beef, while speakers such as Tyler Lindholm, Les Barkhurst and Val Murray presented on topics relevant to the beef industry.

The new Mobile Meat Science Unit at CWC was also on display during the event.

CWC faculty explained the new meat science program to be offered at the college and their plans for the future Rocky Mountain Complex for Ag and Equine Sciences.

“It was certainly a team effort to bring this event to fruition,” shared Executive Director of the CWC Foundation Beth Monteiro. “Tyler McCann and his family were the real drivers of the day’s success, but

this could not have been possible without the help of folks like Eric and Tara Carr, our CWC foodservice, the other folks who work at the foundation and our wonderful faculty who spend the day sharing their excitement for their programs.”

Best beef crowned The event rounded out with the Beef Challenge, where local producers’ steak was ranked in a taste test based on texture, smell, tenderness and flavor to crown “The Best Beef in Wyoming.”

The winning beef producer was Wyoming Legacy Meats, based in Cody.

“I was shocked to see how serious people were about rating the steaks,” noted McCann. “People took so much care ranking them on the different categories, and they had an extremely difficult time choosing their favorite.”

Much is to be said about Wyoming beef producers as McCann shared Wyoming beef made its way to both coasts by Monday following the event. There were attendees from Chesapeake, Va., Seattle, Wash. and some

with drought comes wildfire, and if our mountains experience a wildfire within our watershed, it certainly can impact water quality,” she said.

The combined effects of drought and COVID-19 can affect mental health for those within and beyond production agriculture. Helpful resources are available at the Wyoming Department of Agriculture at bit.ly/wyoag-stress and the University of Wyoming Extension’s website, bit.ly/wyo-agstress-help.

“Rain and snow could relieve parched rangelands across Johnson County and the rest of Wyoming, but if next spring is dry, we need to be prepared,” Horn said.

“Getting prepared for it now will make it a lot easier when we have to make a move next spring, if destocking or whatever.”

“Navigating Drought in Wyoming” was developed

by UW Extension to help the agricultural community identify, prepare and negotiate drought impacts.

The free publication is available in PDF, HTML or ePub formats at bit.ly/ B1325.

The Drought Monitor Map is available at bit.ly/ wyo-drought-map and the National Drought Mitigation Center’s Condition Monitoring Observation Report System can be viewed at bit.ly/ drought-condition-reports.

This article is courtesy of the University of Wyoming Extension. More information can be found at uwagnews. com. from Wisconsin.

Sharing a dedication to beef “We even had a producer from Nebraska who wanted to participate in the challenge event, which we limited to just Wyoming producers this year,” said McCann. “They still decided to attend and bought tickets so they could see how they could have this kind of event in Nebraska to promote local beef.”

“This was two years in the making, and we think it will become a model for other states to follow,” said Eric Carr. “Wyoming is at the forefront of local food opportunities, and being a part of providing consumers with Wyoming beef is exciting.”

McCann shared many people have asked for the event to continue next year.

“People wanted to tour the facilities at CWC and wanted more information about what they’re eating and how it is processed,” McCann said. “We are already making plans to incorporate that feedback and those activities for 2021.”

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

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

COVID continued from page 1 agricultural organization in Washington, D.C., shut down its office. The NCBA, however, stayed open. Throughout the crisis, Woodall said its team worked with Congress and the administration.

“We at the NCBA made the case that COVID-19 was going to be all about the supply chain,” Woodall said. “No one else was talking about that. We said, we need to make sure the supply chain continues to function and beef continues to flow.”

The Trump administration made sure the NCBA’s priorities were being heard, Woodall said. NCBA officials went to those at the Department of Homeland Security and asked them to make sure both beef producers and the NCBA agency were designated as critical infrastructure in the U.S. That effort was successful.

When COVID-19 first hit, things looked pretty good for the beef industry, Woodall said. Photographs from across the country showed grocery stores where the beef cases were cleaned out. In those photos of empty meat cases, Woodall said there were full cases of Beyond Beef right next to them.

“It was a great opportunity to see what the consumer truly thinks,” he said.

Beef was selling so well at the time, it then became a question of how to get those shelves restocked.

“We needed trucks moving fast,” Woodall said.

The NCBA was able to work with President Trump and the Department of Transportation to get an exemption for hours of ser-

vice to ensure trucks could run as long as needed to restock shelves.

There was another interesting dilemma at the same time. Store shelves were empty, but in restaurants that had to close down, there were coolers and freezers full of beef that wasn’t being used.

It’s no simple task to take beef from a restaurant and sell it at a grocery store, Woodall said. Working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, industry officials were able to arrange for the product to be repackaged and transferred into retail cases.

Things were looking up. Then, COVID-19 started to break out at the packing plants. Some shut down for a couple of days while others were closed for a couple of weeks.

“That’s when the pinch really started,” Woodall said.

It was another problem with the supply chain.

The demand was still there, but meat packing plants couldn’t process the cattle. Once again, the critical infrastructure designation was used to convince the president an executive order was necessary to make sure the packing plants stayed open, and that helped things to begin to turn around, according to Woodall.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service provided guidance that showed there are ways to operate packing plants amidst a pandemic to protect the workers while keeping plants open, according to Woodall. He said steps, including

barriers and social distancing, have been taken to protect workers and prevent a resurgence in the plants.

Woodall said one thing that has helped during the pandemic is the fact the Environmental Protection Agency was persuaded to suspend routine inspections during the crisis, giving those in the industry one less thing to worry about.

In addition, COVID19 relief was provided in the form of the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP). It provides financial assistance to producers of agricultural commodities who have suffered price declines and added marketing costs due to the pandemic.

Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue gave the credit to NCBA for getting that done, according to Woodall.

Things looked pretty bleak for almost two months, but Woodall said the packing plants were able to get back up and running.

“Now we’re running at anywhere from 95 to 98 percent of where we were prior to COVID-19,” Woodall told convention goers.

Packer problems The NCBA’s relationship with meat packing companies has not always been smooth through the COVID-19 crisis, Woodall said.

There were questions as to why plants, especially the big four packers, were not being more forthcoming about what they were doing to mitigate COVID19 risk.

The NCBA sent President Trump a letter asking for an investigation into what was going on in the cattle market and with the packers. Six hours later, there was an investigation.

5

Woodall said this shows the relationship NCBA has built with the president himself and all the members of his administration, because typically it takes days and days.

The investigation is ongoing. The Department of Justice is involved and talking to packers, feeders, trade associations, retailers and all players within the beef supply chain, Woodall said.

The NCBA wants the investigation to be done thoroughly but also quickly.

“We can’t wait for a year for the results to come back on this,” Woodall said.

He said conclusions are needed in order to begin looking at whatever legislative changes need to come forward to address the issues found. There is also the possibility of prosecution.

In the meantime, Wood-

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all said the NCBA continues to engage with packers.

He said another issues is price discovery. Currently, the NCBA is working to determine whether or not folks are getting a fair price for their cattle, he said.

This article was written by the Rocket Miner’s Digital Media Manager and Photographer Lisa Romero and was originally published in the Rocket Miner on Sept. 1.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

Rangelands critical habitat for beef and bees to thrive Most often, rangelands are thought of as a forage resource for livestock production. However, pollinators found on rangelands including beetles, flies, wasps, butterflies, moths and bees, are also critical components for maintaining healthy rangelands.

In a University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) BeefWatch podcast, Beef Extension Educator Aaron Berger and Range and Forage Management Specialist Dr. Mitchell Stephenson discuss an article regarding the importance of rangelands to insect pollinators. UNL Sandhills Rangeland Monitoring Cooperative (SRMC) Project Manager Kayla Mollet and UNL Research Technologist Jessica Milby co-author the article titled “Pollinators and Nebraska Rangelands” with Stephenson.

Symbiotic relationships “Oftentimes as we focus on beef production, we focus on the grass, but there are a number of species out there important for our pollinator species,” says Stephenson.

SRMC conducted vegetation monitoring in the summer of 2019 and found 72 percent of the 94 plant species found in upland Sandhills pastures were

forbs and shrubs.

“Forbs and shrubs make up the majority of pollinator plant lists due to nectar and pollen rewards they offer to insects in exchange for pollination,” according to the article.

“Native plant communities provide shelter, food and refuge for a wide variety of beneficials.”

While pollinators depend on rangeland plants for habitat and sustenance, flowering forbs rely on pollinators for reproduction.

According to the article, a threatened flowering species, the western prairie fringed orchid, requires certain species of hawkmoth for pollination.

Native rangeland plants and pollinators are not the only species in the ecosystem that benefit from the presence of each other.

“Pollinators are an integral part of the food chain as many game bird species rely on their immature grubs for nutrition,” the article says.

Along with supporting wildlife, symbiotic relationships benefit all parties to help to sustain healthy rangeland soils.

Habitat requirements Rangelands around the world have seen declines in pollinator numbers over

the last few decades.

“Habitat fragmentation, climate change and pesticide use are all things contributing to the concerns and declines of rangeland pollinators,” says Stephenson.

Often, some of the best management practices for livestock grazing also benefit pollinators in the area. This makes ranching and rural communities a great place for pollinating insects to call home.

“Ranching communities provide a safe haven for a number of native pollinator insect species crucial to healthy rangeland ecosystems,” notes Stephenson.

While the specific habitat needs of each pollinator depends on species, general requirements include quality sources for nectar and pollen, water, nesting sites and wintering habitat.

“A well-managed rangeland can often have a lot of different habitat types for different insects as well as different forb species, which may be selected in higher abundance,” Stephenson says.

Grazing management “Promoting, maintaining and enhancing pollinator habitat can be incorporated into effective live-

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stock grazing management goals,” according to the article.

“I think rotating cattle grazing during the growing season and changing the timing on pastures will allow at least some of the pastures to have some of these forbs reach full maturity and go to the flowering stage where they can be utilized by these insects,” says Stephenson.

Along with rotational grazing, other management practices cater to pollinators with different habitat preferences. Many forb species tend to grow in recently disturbed areas.

“Some management practices such as patch burn grazing will have a relatively high disturbance, but if allowed to recover, will encourage forbs to come back in these areas,” Stephenson adds.

“We need to make

“Ranching communities provide a safe haven for a number of native pollinator insect species crucial to healthy rangeland ecosystems.” – Dr. Mitchell Stephenson, University of Nebraska-Lincoln sure we are seeing some of these flowering species,” says Stephenson on making grazing management changes. “Be sure to give pastures time to rest so these species can be enhanced.”

Herbicide recommendation In terms of treating noxious or other weeds, the article recommends remaining mindful of pollinator habitat, even as noxious weeds must be removed. As always, early detection and rapid response are the best weed practices.

“As much as possible, focus on targeted application and limit broad-scale application,” notes Stephenson. “There is a risk

CALVES continued from page 1 ditional weaning,” Wilke explains.

She further explains cows breed back best on an increasing plane of nutrition.

“Fall-calving cows will likely be bred back in November, since many operations start calving in August,” she continues.

“Therefore, unless they are grazing cool season annuals such as oats and triticale or brassicas such as turnips and radishes, it is not likely they will be on an increasing plane of nutrition at breeding.”

In addition, if forage quality is poor during calving, like it has been this year due to drought conditions, cows could potentially be very thin – below a five on a one to nine body condition scoring scale – which could negatively impact pregnancy rates, according to Wilke.

Forage considerations Wilke explains by calving in August, producers are able to take advantage of late summer grass as a forage resource

with ample protein and energy for their newly lactating cattle.

“However, hot and dry conditions this year have left many pastures not only short on dry matter tonnage, but also short on the nutrient density required to maintain the lactating cow,” states Wilke.

She notes producers who find their cows losing body condition but don’t have access to annual forages for grazing between calving and breeding should consider supplementation strategies or move their cows to a dry lot.

Fall calving considerations “Getting newborns off to a great start is always important and tends to be much easier in fall-born calves compared to early spring-born calves,” Wilke says.

However, she also notes changes in a typical routine or location may have unintended consequences.

“If cows are calved in confinement due to drought, it is still important to use the same management practices that are important in spring-

of taking out beneficial forbs that are necessary for pollinators to do well.”

Stephenson recommends knowing what is in pastures before applying herbicides.

“There is a cascading effect if we take out beneficial forbs,” he says. “It may not be worth it.”

“As a rangeland beef community, this is something very appealing as a whole because we can show that producers provide a lot of habitat on their land for something we benefit from as a society,” shares Stephenson.

Averi Hales is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net. calved herds,” Wilke says.

“For example, calves need a clean, dry place away from cows to rest. Additionally, in hot, dry conditions, a source of shade and water are important.”

Wilke also encourages producers to separate calves by age in twoweek intervals and to avoid comingling until the youngest calves are one month old.

“Even though pens are not likely to be wet like they would be in the spring, more confined conditions can lead to overcrowding which can give pathogens a chance to proliferate,” Wilke notes. “Therefore, producers need to vigilant in watching for pathogenrelated scours in calves.”

Lastly, Wilke suggests if producers need help developing diets and/or management strategies for fall-born pairs during drought years, they should contact their local Extension personnel.

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

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

By Morgan Marley

Senses and sense: To perfect a sport, think like a leader Humans developed over millennia to hunt and herd.

When it’s time to move animals, instincts send us out with a purpose, but sometimes little thought to how our aggressive behavior affects what we do.

Stepping into a cattle pen, we naturally act as the predator, manipulating where animals go. But good handling practices should turn us into leaders, says Dr. Kip Lukasiewicz.

The veterinarian now works through Production Animal Consultation to teach ranchers and cattle feeders across the country how to use their senses – sight, hearing,

smell and touch – to understand and guide animals.

Study the behaviors Rather than simply putting animals up front and pushing, a true communicator leads them through any facility or environment.

“I wish people could lose their voice and learn to directly communicate with their eyes, their position and their posture,” Lukasiewicz says.

The shoulder, rib and hip are pressure points applied through body language.

Response time is grounded in trust. Like a close friend, familiar cattle have a smaller

ROADS continued from page 1 percent of Wyoming’s interstate bridges are greater than 50 years old. TRiP also reports road conditions cost Wyoming drivers an additional $587 in extra fuel and maintenance costs each year.

“USA Today kicked out a report ranking Wyoming with the 10th worst roads in the nation, in terms of the percent of bad roads,” shared Reiner.

“The trend is probably not what we would wish for as a state and for those of us who run up and down these roads.”

Conditions connected to budget “There are 6,733 miles of road. An overlay costs around $1 million each mile, where completely replacing the road

costs between $1 million and $4 million,” explained Reiner.

“We can slap a patch on top of the road, but unless we deal with subgrade issues over the years, it is just a Band-Aid.” “If roads aren’t maintained, they will get worse,” Reiner said. “If we don’t spend $1 today, it will cost us a lot more in the future.”

“Chronically, we are $135 million short every year for maintaining assets in their current condition,” said Reiner. “I personally think this number is low.”

“The state took WYDOT off the General Fund,” Reiner shared. “That, and a reduction in federal mineral royalties as well as reduced revenue and

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flight zone and need more pressure to move. Less trust takes less pressure.

Disciplined learning Special-forces military teams train to understand what another person is thinking and what they will do in any situation to predict what will happen so there are no mistakes.

To work as a team, Lukasiewicz suggests new ranch hands watch and learn before stepping into the corral.

“A cow can focus on one or two people at a time,” he says.

Sorting pairs doesn’t take but two people. It helps ensure a quiet process that’s also efficient.

The USDA Meat Animal Research Center (MARC), with its 8,000-head cowherd and 6,400-head feedyard, is a testament to the benefits of a change in approach. In just six years working with Lukasiewicz, herd demeanor has changed dramatically, says MARC Livestock Man-

ager Chad Engle.

He’s seen a difference across the 28 cattle breeds at MARC, with fewer accidents and injuries, too.

“Lukasiewicz has evolved my thinking on training new employees,” Engle says. “The need for experience on a resume has been replaced by want to in the interview.”

Every win comes from disciplined action, and good stockmanship is no different.

“All professional athletes watch film of themselves,” Engle says.

“I consider myself a professional athlete at the end of the day.”

Visuals are still important to Lukasiewicz, whether it’s a drone shot above a facility or just watching cattle load out. How cattle behave as they move though pens or where they place their feet on unlevel ground tells what the animals need.

“By doing that, I designed a chute load-out with steps,” Lukasiewicz says. “The width and depth of the steps

gave more animal comfort as they were loading or coming off the truck.”

Being in the cattle business comes with high risk and investments.

“So make sure it’s right,” Lukasiewicz says.

The bottom line “Good health isn’t secured with just a needle and syringe. It’s our approach,” Engle says.

Weaning starts the day a calf is born in terms of how they’re handled and human interaction.

“It takes a skill that isn’t just born and natural,” he explains. “It takes being taught.”

Avoiding psychological pressure in stressful situations leads to more effective vaccine treatment.

“If we treat an animal, something went wrong in the system,” Engle says. “Not treating calves or having people get injured is hard to put a price tag on.”

When cattle have positive interactions with people,

it’s more fun for everyone.

“I hope cattle enjoy our interaction,” says Byron Ford, a rancher and feeder near Cairo, Neb. “When we learn to work cattle this way, they look forward to seeing us.”

It makes his role as caregiver easier, too. Prey animals are experts at hiding sickness, so when they’re more comfortable it’s easier to find those having a bad day, Ford says.

Making big changes requires leader buy-in, and the leader isn’t always atop some corporate ladder.

“Sometimes the team leader isn’t the smartest or most well equipped,” Lukasiewicz says. “But they are the person that is relatable and inspiring.”

It just takes the action of one person to show others the way.

Morgan Marley is a producer communications specialist at CAB. She can be reached at mmarley@certifiedangusbeef.com.

inflation were major impacts to the WYDOT budget.”

On average, the federal government shares half of road maintenance costs.

Reiner explained in Wyoming, the federal government shares closer to 75 percent of the maintenance costs while the state contributes around 25 percent.

Short budget considerations “The focus for us has been what we can do to help at the state level,” said Reiner. “I am often asked why WYDOT doesn’t just make more budget cuts.”

“The reality is, we have reduced our staff by 10 percent in the last 10 years. We are authorized to have 2,055 employees for 2020, and we currently have 1910 employ-

ees,” Reiner explained. “We closed some rest areas as well – some people think it was a good decision and some disagree.”

“Currently, WYDOT has delayed some capacity and mobility improvements because we don’t have enough money to maintain the assets we have,” said Reiner. “I don’t think we should be adding anything new.”

Projects under capacity and mobility improvements include lane expansions in Sheridan and Cheyenne, as well as additional passing lanes on Highway 59 between Douglas and Gillette and on Highway 20-26 between Casper and Shoshoni. All projects Reiner believes the state needs.

“We are trying to be very frugal and wise with the resources we have,” added Reiner.

Future budget options “As a state, we will raise around $175 million in fuel taxes,” Reiner shared.

“WYDOT will keep around $114 million, while the rest will go to counties and municipalities according to state statute.”

Reiner explained the efficacy of fuel tax to maintain roads is diminishing as the addition of electric vehicles and vehicles with increased fuel mileage fill roads.

“As we look into the future, we cannot rely on fuel tax,” said Reiner. “One option is to treat our roads as a utility. If we drive on it, we pay

for it.”

“Road User Charges (RUC) might be what it looks like to fund transportation systems in the future,” Reiner explained.

Since 2000, the average fuel mileage has increased by 25 percent in cars and 14 percent in pickups, according to WYDOT. “There is the option for adjusted RUC rates. We know heavy trucks cause more road damage than cars,” shared Reiner. “This is an option we have to look at and discuss in order to maintain our roads.”

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

Best Buys in Used Equipment TRACTORS/LOADERS Case IH MXM190, MFD, cab & air, front weights, low hrs,1 owner ................ ........................................................................................................... $95,000 Case IH 7140..................................................................................... $34,500 Case IH 2096, w/ cab, air .................................................................. $19,500 Case IH 1086..................................................................................... $14,900 Case IH MX170, MFD, w/ ldr, grpl ..................................................... $69,500 Case IH MX240, 4 WD, w/ duals ....................................................... $89,000 JD 420 Dozer, antique ......................................................................... $7,500 Hesston 880-5, low hours .................................................................. $14,500 MX120, 2 WD, w/ ldr.......................................................................... $49,500 Case 580 Extendahoe ....................................................................... $12,900

HAYING & FORAGE New Holland 855 Round Baler ............................................................ $4,900 2011 MF 2190 4x4 Baler w/ accumulator ........................$129,500; $119,500 Case 8465 Baler .................................................................................. $9,500

Hesston 4910 Baler w/ accumulator ................................................... $39,500 Hesston 4910 Baler w/ accumulator ................................................... $24,500 Hesston 4900 4x4 Baler w/ accumulator ............................................ $24,500 Hesston 5580 Round Baler .................................................................. $1,900 Case RS 561 Round Baler ................................................................. $19,500 Vermeer 605h Round Baler .................................................................. $2,950 Case IH 8870 Swather, 16’ head, 1 owner ......................................... $43,500 Case IH 8840 Swather, 16’ head ........................................................ $32,500 Hesston 6650 Swather, 16’ head........................................................ $10,000 New Holland 1030 Bale Wagon ............................................................ $2,900 New Holland 1047 Bale Wagon ............................................................ $7,000 New Holland Side Delivery Rake.......................................................... $1,950 New Holland 1475 Hydroswing ............................................................ $8,900 Case IH 8750 3-Row Corn Chopper w/ new knives, spout liner & gathering chains.. ................................................................... .........$15,000 Farmhand 10 Pack w/ John Deere Quick Mounts ................................ $2,950

MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT 2654 NDE Feeder Mixer ................................................................... $29,500 BJM 3914 Mixer Feeder, pull type ...................................................... $6,900 1994 Kenworth, w/ Knight 3070 Feed Box ....................................... $79,000 NEW 6 Bale EZ Ration Feeder, pull type ............................... Call for Pricing Verneer Round Bale Feeder ............................................................... $7,900 Hesston 4870 Bale Processor ............................................................ $5,900 JD 700 Grinder/Mixer ......................................................................... $3,900 Leon 808 Loader, bucket & grpl.......................................................... $7,900 Case IH 710 Loader ........................................................................... $4,900 International 2001 Loader................................................................... $2,900 14’ Chisel Plow ................................................................................... $3,900 Meyers 7’ V-Ditcher w/ wing extenders, pull type ............................... $2,500 Aerway 15’ Aerator, pull type ............................................................ $19,900 14’ International Disc .......................................................................... $2,900

6”x32’ Grain Auger, PTO driven ............................................................. $950 8”x50’ Grain Auger, PTO driven .......................................................... $1,950 Arrow Portable Loading Chute ........................................................... $3,600 Portable Pearson Chute on trailer ...................................................... $1,900 9 Shank V Ripper ............................................................................... $4,900 Ford Dump Truck ................................................................................ $9,500 Ford 700 Truck w/ stack retriever ....................................................... $9,500 9620 Buhler 8’ Snow Blower .............................................................. $4,950 Dynamo DP-7100 Generator .............................................................. $4,950 2,000 Gallon Fuel Tank w/ Stand........................................................ $1,950 Set of IH Duals 18.4 x 38 w/ clamps...................................................... $750 1 1/4” 6 Rail 20’ Continuous Fence Panels ...................................$105/each 1 1/2” 6 Rail 20’ Continuous Fence Panels ...................................$130/each

CARLSON EQUIPMENT 77 Zuber Road • Riverton, WY 82501 • (307) 856-8123 carlsonequipment@gmail.com

Visit our Web Site at: www.carlsonequipment.com

8

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

BARNYARDS &

Ag businesses can use free social media tools to connect with hungry customers Food shortages and panic at the grocery stores in response to the COVID‑19 pandemic have begun to change the way average grocery consumers think about sourcing their food.

As small ag producers know, there isn’t really a shortage of food, just a disconnect between how a small farm’s food reaches the average consumer’s table. Here’s the crucial question, “How do you let consumers know our thriving ag‑businesses can serve their needs where grocery stores fall short?”

To connect with these hungry consumers you must inform them small ag‑businesses exist and can fulfill their food demands. You have lots of great tools to do this, with social media being one of the most powerful (and free!) options.

Social media is an important marketing tool all small businesses can use to spread information about their products and mission. Facebook and Instagram are the most useful social media platforms for small businesses. Facebook owns Instagram, and you can link these two platforms so you can post from just one channel to create new posts on both accounts.

INCLUDE A PHOTO OR VIDEO Posts with visual components get more attention than just text. You don’t need to be a professional photographer to take great photos nor do you need an amazing camera. Use what you have and practice capturing moments. Here are some examples: • If you are a food producer of any kind, try posting recipes using your product along with an image of that dish.

• If you produce an improved product from your goods like soaps or textiles, post photos of these things in action.

• Experiment with live videos of you performing daily tasks! Take your followers out to feed the chickens with you, give them a virtual tour of your farm, introduce them to your employees.

If a live video is too much pressure, explore the stories feature on Facebook and Instagram where you can post lifestyle videos but still have the opportunity to edit it before it goes out to the public.

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATIONS •

ABOUT THE WYOMING SBDC NETWORK The Wyoming SBDC Network offers no‑cost advising and technical assistance to help Wyoming entrepreneurs think about, launch, grow, reinvent, or exit their businesses. In 2019, the Wyoming SBDC Network: • Helped Wyoming entrepreneurs start 108 new businesses, • Created or saved 3,402 jobs, and • Brought a capital impact of more than $24 million to the state.

The Wyoming SBDC Network is hosted by the University of Wyoming with state funds from the Wyoming Business Council and is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

•

Be consistent. Try making a content schedule for your business to make things easy! For example, commit to posting once a day on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Then plan what kind of posts you’ll make so when the day comes, coming up with ideas is easy.

• Monday — a recipe using your product along with a picture of the dish or someone making the dish • Wednesday — a picture of the farm or a task your business is focusing on that day • Friday — post about the farmers market you are attending this weekend or about the products you are taking to a retail store Use industry‑related hashtags. Tags help non‑customers find your posts if they are interested in the topic you hashtagged.

The best way to organize your tags is be sure one‑third of them relate to a broad audience, one‑third relate to a more specific audience, and one‑third relate specifically to your business.

• For example, a small producer that sells pasture‑raised chicken, eggs, and goat milk to their local community — Broad audience: #smallfarm #chickens #goatsmilk.

Specific audience: #farmfresheggs #nubiangoatmilk #pasturedpoultry.

Relates to you: #yourbusinessname #thelocalmarketyousellat #productname.

• Include a call to action encouraging customers to engage with your post or your business: • Share this post with a friend who would like this product.

• Find this product at your local food co‑op or visit us at the farmers market this Friday.

• Check out our website for more information about us.

Content is king in the social media world, so take some time to think of how you would like to share your business with your audience. Think about the values you want your customer to know about and decide how much of the process you want to share with your followers.

If you need assistance developing your content strategy or deciphering your mission, contact the Wyoming Small Business Development Center Network for marketing advice and coaching. The Wyoming SBDC Network’s team of regional advisers are ready to assist in creating a plan that grows your follower count and, in turn, your sales.

Maureen Johnson is the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) marketing coordinator with the WSBDC and can be contacted at (307) 343‑0925 or at mjohn125@uwyo.edu.

Miller moths are back from their summer mountain vacation As I write this in late August, “miller” moths, or more accurately the adults of the army cutworm, are migrating back to the lower elevations after spending the summer fattening up by feeding on alpine flower nectar.

Miller moths were very abundant this spring as they migrated to the mountains. I had lots of inquiries from citizens and news media asking why the millers were so numerous and such a nuisance this year. Weather conditions favorable for survival of the previous generation of miller moths and their offspring are the main factor that influences army cutworm year‑to‑year population changes.

We also had a dry spring in 2020 with fewer flowers for them to feed on in the rangelands. This concentrated more of the migrating millers into areas with irrigation, such as the landscapes in our towns where they could find food. During their migration to the mountains, the millers don’t hurt plants — they use a soft proboscis to feed on flower nectar.

During the fall migration, the millers will deposit eggs on bare soil associated with potential host

plants for their caterpillars to feed on in late winter and early spring. Along her flight path, a single miller moth can potentially produce up to 3,000 eggs before she eventually dies. The eggs don’t immediately hatch but will after being stimulated by fall precipitation.

After hatching, the tiny caterpillars feed on green vegetation for as long as temperatures at soil level are at least 45 F. When it gets too cold, the still‑small caterpillars will enter the soil to spend the winter insulated from extreme air temperatures. The caterpillars, now called army cutworms, can feed on a wide variety of plant species and inflict crop damage on alfalfa, small grains, sugarbeets, and pulse crop seedlings when they resume feeding in the spring.

Army cutworms have also been documented damaging rangeland. In the spring of 2008, approximately 10 square miles of rangeland north of Morrill, Nebraska, was infested with army cutworms.

The insects left behind only plants they couldn’t eat, such as thread leaf sedge.

Army cutworms feed at night or on heavily overcast days and hide during the day under plant debris, dirt clods, and in soil cracks making them hard to detect. If a population of army cutworms eats all the available food in an area, they live up to their common name and stage a mass migration, “marching” together like an army of insect soldiers.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

9

BACKYARDS

September 2020

UW Extension | Agriculture & Horticulture | USDA | NIFA

Pasture, Rangeland, Forage Insurance protects against sparce precipitation Pasture, Rangeland, Forage Insurance Rainfall Index (RI‑PRF) offers protection against revenue losses due to decreased forage production, based on a rainfall index.

The policy uses grid areas approximately 17x17 miles as part of the rainfall index determined by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and divided into eleven, 2‑month index intervals. Rainfall over the intervals is estimated using NOAA data.

Note that actual precipitation received at a specific location within the grid area does not influence coverage.

Production intervals selected must be non‑consecutive with no more than 70 percent of the resulting coverage in any one interval. For instance, where the April–May interval is selected, the next closest interval available would be June–July.

Coverage levels range from 70–90 percent of the county base value. Producers can select a productivity factor of up to 150 percent of the county base value as well. This feature allows individuals to better‑tailor coverage based on forage productivity and other factors.

Indemnities are paid where the insured value falls below the actual index value for the insured interval.

ESTABLISHING RI‑PRF COVERAGE Several resources provided by the Risk Management Agency (RMA) can assist producers to explore RI‑PRF coverage and determine how it may fit an individual operation. PRF support tools are at prodwebnlb.rma.usda.gov/apps/prf#. The tool is divided into four sections: Grid Locator, Historical

Indexes, Decision Support Tool, and Estimated Indemnities.

The Grid Locator allows the user to identify locations and subsequent grid ID numbers on a map or to look up locations by coordinates. Once the grid number is identified, users can select the Historical Index tab to display index values for each year back to 1948, as well as for each interval period. This offers historical trends for past precipitation and allows producers to compare their own historical data for similar time/interval periods.

The Decision Support Tool allows producers to select their production intervals and the desired level of coverage for an interval, keeping in mind intervals cannot be consecutive and total no more than 70 percent of the total value. The tool generates the estimated overall coverage along with producer premium costs, and allows comparison of different levels of coverage with that of previous years.

Consider Platte County producer Ben Burwell* who is seeking RI‑PRF coverage on 1,200 acres of non‑irrigated rangeland. Ben’s land falls in grid ID number 26500, with the historical index values back to 2009 (see image lower left).

These values are expressed as a percentage of normal; less than 100 equates less than average precipitation. April–May and June–July are the interval periods when moisture is crucial to Ben’s forage production. Remember that intervals cannot be consecutive. With the earlier spring moisture being most crucial, they choose the maximum coverage level for this interval, 70 percent, and the remaining 30 percent in the June–July interval.

Moving to the Decision Support Tool, we enter this interval selection, and the tool generates a county base value of $8.30/acre. For comparison purposes, Ben considers 2012 a dry year for comparison, so we enter 2012 for the sample year and maximum coverage (90 percent with a productivity factor of 150 percent). The resulting coverage totals $13,446 or $11.21 per acre, with a premium cost of $991 or $0.83 per acre, including subsidies. Using 2012 data gives in an estimated indemnity of $6,829 (or $5.69/acre).

FURTHER ANALYSIS

Grid Locator

Historical Indexes Because army cutworms are sporadically occurring pests, producers may not think about scouting fields for them every year, starting in March or April when we are still getting frosts. With so many miller moths migrating this year, even if they have poor egg survival, their army cutworm offspring may still be at economically damaging densities next spring.

Thus far, we know Mr. Burwell can purchase $13,446 in RI‑PRF coverage for $0.83/acre. This seems like a reasonable cost for coverage of losses associated with decreased precipitation. The next question to consider is how effective would this coverage be and what is the likelihood an indemnity will be paid?

Normal partial budgeting analysis, accounting for revenues and expenses, may not adequately answer these questions. The Risk Scenario Planning Tool from RightRisk.org allows decision makers to account for the inherent variability in the budgeting process. In the next installment, As few as two army cutworms per square foot in some crops can be economically damaging. Please mark your 2021 calendar with a reminder to scout crop fields and rangelands for this pest starting in March.

Detailed information for the management of army cutworms on the numerous crops they damage is at the High Plains Integrated Pest Management website

we will demonstrate how the RSP tool can help further evaluate RI‑PRF coverage and corresponding indemnity payments. * The Burwell operation is a case study example created to demonstrate RightRisk tools and their application. No identification with actual persons (living or deceased), places, or agricultural operation is intended nor should be inferred.

James Sedman is a consultant to the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics in the University of Wyoming College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and John Hewlett is a farm and ranch management specialist in the department. Hewlett may be reached at (307) 766‑2166 or hewlett@uwyo.edu.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION RI‑PRF is one of the most‑utilized crop insurance policies in Wyoming, with over $54,000,000 in coverage in the state in 2019.

It can be an important part of an operation’s risk management plan, covering losses due to drought. Visit your local crop insurance agent or www.rma.usda.gov for more information on RI‑PRF coverage. Visit RightRisk.org for further risk management educational resources on this and other subjects.

RI‑PRF SUPPORT TOOL AVAILABLE • • • •

Available at: https://prodwebnlb.rma.usda. gov/apps/prf# Allows users to locate their grid area using satellite maps Users can compare various coverage levels and historical rainfall data as far back as 1948 in chart or graphical view Users can view estimated indemnities and coverage

IMPORTANT DATES AND REMINDERS: • • •

RI‑PRF sign‑up for 2021 coverage deadline is Nov. 15 Sign‑Up for CFAP program has been extended to Sept. 11 Planting deadline for fall planted crops is approaching (check with your agent for exact date)

FOR MORE INFORMATION The Risk Scenario Planner (RSP) tool, from RightRisk.org and part of the RightRisk Analytics Toolbox, allows producers to use a partial budget format to examine potential risks and returns of a change in business strategy and assess the associated uncertainty of that strategy.

Simply point your browser to RightRisk.org and click the Resources tab to select Risk Management Tools to begin.

RightRisk.org also offers the Risk Scenario Planning Course available under the Courses tab. This course offers users an in‑depth explanation of the RSP tool and its application in evaluating several risk decisions.

https://wiki.bugwood.org/HPIPM:Crops. From the crop directory, pick those you are growing to find out more information about army cutworm or related cutworm species management.

Scott Schell is the University of Wyoming Extension entomologist and can be reached at (307) 766‑2508 or at sschell@uwyo.edu.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

CALENDAR

SALES Sept. 15

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

EVENTS

Sept. 16

Sept. 3-Dec. 10 University of Wyoming Extension Master Gardener Online Training.

Register at bit.ly/master-gardener-2020. For more information, contact Chris Hilgert at chilgert@uwyo.edu.

Sept. 14-15 Select Committee on Tribal Relations Meeting, 8:30 a.m. Online. For more information, visit wyoleg.gov.

Sept. 15 Wyoming State Ram Sale, Douglas, Wyoming State Fairgrounds. For more information, visit wyowool.com.

Sept. 15 USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Community Advisory Meeting, 2 p.m. GoToMeeting. To join the meeting, visit global.gotomeeting.com/join/579864637 or dial in at 224-501-3412 and use the access code 579-864-637.

Sept. 15-17 2020 Farm Progress Virtual Experience, Online. For more information and to register, visit huskerharvestdays.com.

Sept. 16 AQHA Region 2 Regional Championship, Rapid City, S.D. For more information, visit aqharegion2.com.

Sept. 16 Broadband Task Force Meeting. Zoom. To fill out a public comment form, visit wyoleg.gov/Committee/Testimony?CommID=2676.

Sept. 16-17 Women in Agribusiness Summit, Online. For more information and to register, visit wia.highquestevents.com/website/9814.

Sept. 16-19 North American Corriente Association National Convention, Gillette, Camplex. For more information, visit corriente.us.

Sept. 18-20 Idaho Salers National Tour, Lewiston, Idaho. For more information, contact Luke Lowe at 208-924-5106.

Sept. 19-Oct. 31 Green Acres Farm Corn Maze, Casper. For more information, visit GreenAcresCornMaze.net or call 307-797-8796.

Sept. 21 Wyoming Pork Producers Association Board of Directors Meeting, 6 p.m. Casper, Grace Werner Ag Pavillion, 125 College Dr. For more information, contact Jeremy Burkett at 307-630-6267.

Sept. 21-22 Sandhills Cattle Association’s 81st Annual Convention, Thedford, Neb. Visit sandhillscattle.com for more information.

Sept. 21-22 Wyoming Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Meeting, 8 a.m. Zoom. To provide public comment, visit wyoleg.gov. For more information, contact the Legislative Service Office Committee at 307-777-7881.

Sept. 22 USDA Office of Food Safety and Food Safety and Inspection Service Virtual Public Meeting, 9 a.m. Online. To register for the meeting, visit ems8.intellor.com?do=register&t=1&p=831058.

Sept. 23-24 Public Lands Council Annual Meeting, Online. Visit publiclandscouncil. org/?event=2020-plc-annual-meeting for more information.

Sept. 30 2020 Ag Lenders Conference, Salina, Kansas or online. To register for the event, visit commerce.cashnet.com/KSUagecon. For more information, visit agmanager.info/events/ag-lenders-conferences.

Oct. 6 Food Safety and Inspection Service Virtual Public Meeting, 12-4 p.m. Online. To register for the event, visit ems8.intellor. com/?do=register&t=1&p=831094. For more information, visit fsis.usda. gov.

Oct. 14 National Farm to School Network Meeting, 1-3 p.m. Online. To register for the event, visit us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Fz7M_ H65RRCj0qfEPKAACA.

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

Danny Vigil Northern Livestock Represenative

WE HAVE NITROGEN TO FILL YOUR SEMEN TANKS

Sept. 10, 2020 – 73 Head Cows Steady • Bulls Steady

BULLS Breeden, Clinton - Ten Sleep 1 Hrfd Bull, 2055# ..................................$9300 1 Hrfd Bull, 1950# ..................................$9050 Heart Mountain Cattle Co. - Powell 1 Blk Bull, 2090# ....................................$9250 Peterson, Donny - Buffalo 1 Blk Bull, 1720# ....................................$9200 Devries, Gerald - Thermopolis 1 Blk Bull, 1960# ....................................$8800 Otter Creek Grazing Assoc.- Ten Sleep 1 Blk Bull, 1735# ....................................$8750 1 Blk Bull, 1750# ....................................$8400 BRED COWS Pfeifer, Austin & Gina - Powell 6 Blk Bred Cows ........................... $1225/Hd. COWS Peterson, Hayden - Buffalo 1 BWF Cow, 1225# ................................$7400 Durbin Creek Ranch - Thermopolis 1 Red Cow, 1325# .................................$7050 1 Blk Cow, 1290# ...................................$7000 1 Blk Cow, 1600# ...................................$6900 1 RWF Cow, 1380#................................$6750 1 RWF Cow, 1505#................................$6700 Crum, Robert & Leslie - Meeteese 1 BWF Cow, 1325# ................................$6950 Heart Mountain Cattle Co. - Powell 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1308# .........................$6900 2 Blk Cows, avg. 1198# .........................$6800 1 Blk Cow, 1335# ...................................$6750 1 Blk Cow, 1390# ...................................$6600 Casdorph DBA M Bar Cattle - Worland 1 Blk Cow, 1115# ...................................$6750

Sept. 15

Needham, Charlie - Riverton 1 Blk Cow, 1355# ...................................$6700 1 Red Cow, 1090# .................................$6550 1 Blk Cow, 1135# ...................................$6200 Shepperson, Reno or Kiley - Shoshoni 1 Blk Cow, 1375# ...................................$6000 Squaw Creek Ranch - Cody 1 Blk Cow, 935# .....................................$5200 PAIRS Raines, Earl - Lovell 1 BWF Pair ................................... $1560/Hd. Crum, Robert - Meeteetse 1 Blk Pair ...................................... $1460/Hd. Squaw Creek Ranch - Cody 2 Blk Pairs..................................... $1350/Hd. Durbin Creek Ranch - Thermopolis 3 RWF Pairs ................................. $1250/Hd.

• Upcoming Sales •

Sept. 17 – Feeder Special with All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat Sept. 19 – Saturday Horse Sale @ 1pm Sept. 24 – Feeder Special w/ All Class Cattle Oct. 1 – Feeder Special w/ All Class Cattle Oct. 5 – MONDAY SPECIAL – BAWL OF THE FALL – Feeder Cattle Only Oct. 8 – Feeder Special w/ All Class Cattle Oct. 15 – All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat Oct. 17 – Saturday Horse Sale @ 1pm Oct. 19 – MONDAY SPECIAL – BAWL OF THE FALL – Feeder Cattle Only Oct. 22 – Weigh-Up Special w/ All Class Cattle Oct. 26 – MONDAY SPECIAL – BAWL OF THE FALL – Feeder Cattle Only

September 17, 2020 Consignments Leroy Shumway – 8 yearling steers & heifers, 750#, 30 steer calves, 550-600#, 12 weigh up cows • Lyman Ranch – 20 black yearling heifers, PTO, 975# • Blair Hillstead – 9 yearling black steers, 850# • Barry Fulmer – 23 black steers, calf shots, 875# • Don Johnson – 15 yearling red & black steers, 875#.

October 5, 2020 Consignments - 1st Bawl of the Fall Special, Feeder Cattle Only Bonita Ranch – 150 black steers and heifers, 475-525#, spring and fall shots • Sharon Welch – 50 Black Angus steers and heifers, 600#, spring shots.

Sept. 17 Sept. 17 Sept. 18-19 Sept. 19 Sept. 19 Sept. 19-20 Sept. 21 Sept. 26 Oct. 3 Oct. 3 Oct. 9-10 Oct. 11 Oct. 17 Oct. 24 Oct. 26

Western Video Market, Haythorn Ranch, Ogallala, Neb., 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com 92nd Annual Wyoming State Ram Sale, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas, 307-265-5250, 307-351-1422, wyowool.com 7th Annual Montana Ewe Sale, Eastern Montana Fairgrounds, Miles City, Mont., 406-945-0404, mtsheep.org 95th Annual Montana Ram Sale, Eastern Montana Fairgrounds, Miles City, Mont., 406-210-2852, 406-853-5239, mtsheep.org Cattle Country Video Sandhills Roundup, Goshen County Rendezvous Center, Torrington, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com 24th Annual Van Norman and Friends Production Sale, Elko County Fairgrounds, Elko, Nev., 775-756-6508, 775-934-7404, vannormansale.com 20th Annual WYO Quarter Horse, Arena, Ranch Broke Gelding & Production Sale, Hot Springs County Fairgrounds, Thermopolis, 307-864-5671, 307-272-0593, 307-921-1164, wyohorses.com Big Horn Basin Livestock Auction Horse Sale, Big Horn Livestock Auction, Worland, 307-431-1226, 307-272-3743, bighornbasinlivestock.com Sugar Bars Legacy 18th Annual Futurity & Horse Sale, Sheridan County Fairgrounds, Sheridan, 605-347-8120, sugarbarslegacy.com Northern Livestock Video Auction Fall Premier, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com Ranch & Haying Equipment Auction, Wheatland, 307-532-4978, 307-5345156, mcnameeauctioncompany.com Grand Hills Cattle Complete Dispersion Sale, at the ranch, Eaton, Colo., 970-215-5281, 785-672-3195, grandhillscattle.com 2020 Huskerland Breeders Production Sale, Buffalo County Fairgrounds, Kearney, Neb., 308-230-0455, 308-383-0039 Fall Classic Catalog Horse Sale and Futurity, Farmers and Ranchers Livestock Commission Co., Salina, Kan., 785-826-7884, 785-493-2901, 785825-0211 23rd Annual Fall Colt & Yearling Catalog Sale, Farmers and Ranchers Livestock Commission Co., Salina, Kan., 785-826-7884, 785-493-2901, 785825-0211 The NILE Gold Buckle Select Horse Sale, Billings, Mont., 406-256-2497, thenile.org Pharo Cattle Company Sale, Valentine, Neb., 800-311-0995, pharocattle. com J & L Livestock Montana Angus Female Bonanza XVII, PAYS, Billings, Mont., 406-861-5664, 406-200-1880

POSTCARD from the Past

Compiled by Dick Perue rrichardperue@gmail.com

“Saratoga 150 Years” preserved Author’s note: The following was originally written as an introduction for Elva Evans’ book “Saratoga 150 Years.”

However, being extremely modest, she wouldn’t include it in that publication. This is my personal account of Elva (Olson) Evans and her accomplishments over the past 80 years of our acquaintance and friendship.

She has kindly agreed to me writing and publishing the following. - Dick Perue.

Elva Evans’ interest in history was sparked at her parents’ ranch table where ranch hands and visitors told their stories.

That spark has caught fire in her latest effort, a newly released book enti-

tled “Saratoga 150 Years.”

After a lifetime of reading, writing and gathering research materials, 23 years of compiling “Reflections from Our Files” for the Saratoga Sun, plus historical preservation through founding and supporting the Saratoga Museum – serving as first museum director and initial president of the Saratoga Historical and Cultural Association – Elva decided to write a personal recollection of the history of Saratoga and the Upper North Platte River Valley.

Elva has always believed local history should be gathered, preserved and shared right up to the present. Beyond her obsessive collecting, local historians contend Elva’s most sig-

Three-year-old Elva Olson, right, riding with her older brother Kenny at the 4 Bar Ranch in the late 1930s. Photo from Bob Martin/Dick Perue collection, courtesy of Ken Olson. Historical Reproductions by Perue

nificant contribution to historical preservation, until now, was compiling and editing two volumes of pictorial history entitled “Early History of Saratoga and Vicinity” in 1976 and 1977.

“Saratoga 150 Years” is an easy read.

Elva’s flowing style takes the reader on a journey from the days of the Indian Bath Tubs at Warm Springs, later Saratoga, to today’s events at the Platte Valley Community Center. It is history personalized, fun to read, plus believable with a few clever twists and quips throughout.

Enhancing the history of her first book are 80 historical photographs provided by Dick Perue from the Bob Martin/Dick Perue collection, as well as 20 more illustrations and photos from various sources.

Elva was born on the 4 Bar Ranch west of Saratoga on March 18, 1934, educated in Saratoga schools, a graduate of University of Wyoming, taught school one year, married Valle Evans in 1955 and mother of four children, Julie, Kathleen, Kelly and John. She has lived on ranches and in town in the Saratoga area her long, joyful life, contributing to preserving its rich heritage and history as well as being a good neighbor, homemaker and business and civic leader.

Roundup readers will recognize many of the stories and photos in the book, since they have been published as a Postcard over the past decade.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

PRICE continued from page 2 Trust are powerful tax deferral strategies that can be used when selling farm and ranch property.

Even in the context of a complete or partial sale involving a 1031 exchange or charitable remainder trust, ordinary income recognition on the recapture of deprecation may occur.

Thus, it is important, even in this context, to negotiate the most taxfavorable allocation of asset value.

Chris Nolt is the author of the book

“Financial Strategies for Selling a Farm or Ranch” and the owner of Solid Rock Wealth Management, Inc. and Solid Rock Realty Advisors, LLC, sister companies dedicated to working with families around the country who are selling a farm or ranch and transitioning into retirement. To order a copy of Chris’s book, call 800-517-1031 or visit Amazon.com. For more information, visit solidrockproperty.com and solidrockwealth.com.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

15

Groups study impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on U.S. agriculture sectors This spring, following the onslaught of a pandemic that turned the world upside down, Texas A&M’s Department of Homeland Security, the Center of Excellence Cross-Border Threat Screening and Supply Chain Defense (CBTS), Arizona State University’s Department of Homeland Security Center of Excellence and the Center for Accelerating Operational Efficiency, partnered with researchers from Victoria University in Australia, examined the economic impacts of COVID-19 on U.S. agriculture sectors.

In a newsletter dated Sept. 8, Texas A&M AgriLife noted the researchers utilized a model of the U.S. economy, including quarterly data, to better understand the economic impacts of the pandemic. This model included a special emphasis on the major food and agriculture sectors.

“While certain the pandemic would have a significant impact on the U.S. economy, the researchers used this project to gain a clearer picture of the pandemic’s short and long-term impacts on the U.S. food and agriculture sectors in comparison to other critical sectors,” said Dr. Greg Pompelli, Texas A&M’s

CBTS director.

Research findings In July, the researchers completed their initial quarterly economic projections for the U.S. economy and agricultural sectors between March 2020 and February 2022.

Their findings estimate COVID-19 will reduce U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) over the next year by 11.9 percent, or $2.5 trillion, and reduce employment by 12.2 percent, or the equivalent of 19 million full-time jobs.

“However, the report also concluded that compared to most other sectors such as tourism, air transport, education, restaurants and lodging, the U.S. food and agricultural sectors will experience smaller economic impacts because they were not subject to shutdowns and reductions in aggregate consumer spending brought on by job losses,” noted Texas A&M AgriLife.

“As we all witnessed, COVID-19 and measures taken to slow disease spread harmed lives as well as the economic prospects of businesses and communities worldwide,” Pompelli said.

“The resulting recession had a relatively small impact on the overall demand for farm prod-

EXTENSION EDUCATION

By Anowar Islam, UW Extension Forage Specialist

Fescue Toxicity: Some Pros and Cons – Part II In my last article, I discussed some common syndromes of fescue toxicosis in cattle.

Fescue toxicity can also cause serious problems in horses, especially reproduction problems in mares. These include abortions, difficult birth known as dystocia, longer or prolonged gestation, thickness in placenta, death of foals, retained placentas, little

to no milk production known as agalactia and even in worse scenarios, mares’ death during foaling.

Fescue toxicity causes It was thought for a long time, although not proven, some alkaloids such as perloline could cause the syndrome.

Some scientists in 1977 at the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Georgia reported a fungus living inside the grass

ucts. Still, COVID-19 caused income declines in all food and agricultural sectors.”

Agricultural impacts In fact, the agriculture industry saw significant impacts early on in the year as cases of COVID-19 increased rapidly.

These included supplychain disruptions such as the closure of some meat processing facilities, supply and demand imbalances caused by school and restaurant closures, transportation problems and shortages of labor. Some producers even lost access to their traditional marketing channels, and consumers periodically had trouble finding products they desired.

These challenges led to increased retail prices. However, prices paid to producers declined and producers could not find a channel to sell their livestock or produce. In some areas, these problems forced producers to destroy or dispose of their agricultural products.

In fact, in April, Dairy Farmers of America estimated U.S. farmers were dumping as many as 3.7 million gallons of milk each day. And, in July, David Miller, chief economist for Decision Innovation Solu-

tions, estimated 800,000 hogs were euthanized as a result of market disruptions caused by the pandemic.

While some of these could not be fully captured by initial modeling efforts in their study, Pompelli said, based on their estimates, the researchers expected a 5.2 percent decrease in real U.S. farm income this year and projected a 0.76 percent decrease in 2021.

However, USDA’s latest estimate for real farm income, according to the Farm Sector Income Forecast for September 2020, shows an increase of 3.6 percent to $102.7 billion, the highest level since 2014.

Researchers from the study also found the economic impacts of COVID-19 were not uniform across agriculture.

The team estimated livestock operations would experience more negative effects, and USDA’s latest figures show animal product receipts in 2020 are down just over 8.1 percent. However, for crops, cash receipts are expected to increase 6.9 percent, according to the USDA. Government funding and the future In response to impacts felt across the agriculture

could be associated with the cause of the syndrome.

More research work continued to find out the cause of the syndrome. In grazing trials in Alabama, it was shown that excellent gains and no toxicity could be obtained on tall fescue free of fungus, i.e., endophyte-free tall fescue.

The fungus living within the plant is called endophyte.

This endophyte produces ergot alkaloids that could cause the toxicity syndromes and be highly toxic to livestock.

Animal responses In general, research shows beef steer daily gains on endophyte-free tall fescue are much higher, around 50 to 100 percent, than endophyte-infected tall fescue. Typically, the daily gain is 1.5 to two pounds per day on endophyte-free tall fes-

cue, compared to one pound or less on infected tall fescue.

Animals on endophytefree tall fescue are tolerant to heat, graze continually throughout the day, shed their winter hair coats in spring and are overall more active compared to animals on endophyte-infected tall fescue.

In addition, visible signs of fescue toxicity syndrome are higher with higher temperatures in endophyte-infected tall fescue than endophytefree tall fescue.

Beef cows also show serious negative response to fescue toxicity. These include thin and poor condition, caked with mud, spend more time in shade or water, reduced conception rate and reduced calf weight gains due to reduced milk production and consumption of toxic tall fescue.

“The resulting recession had a relatively small impact on the overall demand for farm products.

Still, COVID-19 caused income declines in all food and agricultural sectors.” – Dr. Greg Pompelli, Texas A&M AgriLife industry in the U.S., the federal government attempted to offset COVID-19 disruptions through the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP), designed to provide up to $16 billion in direct payments to farmers and ranchers affected by the pandemic.

In addition, USDA’s Farmers to Families Food Box program purchased $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meat to help Americans in need.

“Sadly, the COVID-19 recession will have important humanitarian and food insecurity implications, and, through reduced global consumer incomes, could affect U.S. agricultural trade prospects which will be critical to the recovery of major U.S. agricultural sectors,” researchers stated.

The researchers further noted that although they cannot predict if a second wave of the pandemic will impact

the U.S., their current projections align with other forecasts about the future of the United States’ economy.

“Although the U.S. economy will steadily recover, we found GDP and employment going into 2022 will remain about five percent below where they would have been in the absence of COVID-19,” they state.

In the next few months, the research team said they will re-estimate the economic impacts of COVID19. They will also work with the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute at the University of Missouri to examine the impacts the pandemic has had and is expected to have on major U.S. agricultural commodities and trade.

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup.

Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

It is reported milk production of beef cows when grazing endophyte-infected tall fescue can be reduced by 30 percent or more.

Tall fescue hay and seed infected with toxic endophyte can also cause poor performance of animals.

Generally, the toxic effect in tall fescue hay is about half the level in green grass but the effect may remain in stored hay for two years. Similarly, the stockpiled tall fescue infected with toxic endophyte can contain

toxins but the level of toxicity is much lower than fresh pasture.

I will continue discussion on fescue toxicity effects and its biology, so please keep an eye out for my future writings.

Anowar Islam is a professor and University of Wyoming Extension forage specialist in the Department of Plant Sciences in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. He can be reached at 307-766-4151 or mislam@uwyo.edu.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 20 • September 12, 2020

It’s the Pitts

by Lee Pitts

Family Secrets As a youngster I dreamed of making my living as a musician, and I certainly had Van Gogh’s ear for it. I showed early signs of musical promise when, as a seven-yearold, I could play our National Anthem by placing my palm in my sweaty armpit and jerking it up and down. In fact, that’s how I became known in the musical community by my nickname – Pittsy.

My family was very musical. My grandmother was the soloist for two different denominations on Sunday and sang for over half the funerals and marriages in town. She was also a great piano player and took organ lessons until the day she died from her cousin Byron, who I wrote a true story about early in my career.

Byron was not what you would call “outdoorsy” or “swarthy” by any means.

My grandpa called him a “sissy.” He got married later in life to a rancher’s widow who

could rope and ride with the best of them.

Naturally, she introduced Byron to the ranch life by inviting him to his first branding, and when he saw his first calf being castrated, he passed out cold. I think he’d have died if he saw a Basque sheepherder castrating a lamb with his teeth.

As for myself, I flunked out of piano school because my version of Yankee Doodle Dandy sounded more like Achy Breaky Heart performed by steel drums and a band of bagpipes. Whenever I played the piano, the number of lost dogs at the dog pound tripled and even tomcats covered their ears.

I gave up the piano and tried to teach myself to play the guitar, but my first love was the saxophone, all three variations – tenor, alto and bass. I started in the sixth grade, and in high school I was first chair saxophone in the school’s marching, concert

and jazz bands.

I was so serious about the saxophone I considered making a life for myself by becoming the sax man for a rock band, but I just didn’t have the hair for it. I also realized I wanted to eat.

Anyway, back to Byron.

He led two church choirs and made his living teaching piano and organ lessons. His playing provided the soundtrack for my grandma’s life.

One reason grandpa called Byron a sissy was because as a bachelor, Byron sewed his own clothes. That’s why I hesitated when grandpa asked me, “Lee, what’s your favorite part about leatherwork? Is it the tooling? The construction?”

“Grandpa I know you’re gonna think less of me,” I replied. “But, I enjoy the sewing best.”

Grandpa looked at me in disgust, with a look usually reserved for Byron. Now that I’ve admitted it to the world, I know many will also think less of me.

The fact of the matter is, I love to hand sew leather, and I have two sewing machines – an old treadle Singer I completely refurbished and a Tippman machine that will sew through three-fourths of an inch of leather. I really want a Cobra, which many of the top saddlemakers now use.

I come by my sewing skills honestly because my mother was an unbelievable professional seamstress, and for many years it was her sewing that paid the bills and put food on our table. Still, I was not proud of admitting to grandpa that I enjoyed the needle arts.

When grandpa went into the rest home, my aunt had an estate sale. As I was going through the debris of Grandpa’s life I found a small quilt

composed of one-inch squares of material perfectly sewn together with tiny stitches, about eight to the inch.

I asked my aunt, “Who made this beautiful quilt?

Such workmanship!”

“That’s your grandpa’s.”

“Wow, I’ve never seen it before. But do you know who made it?”

“I just told you. Your grandpa made it!”

“Whoa! Wait just one darn minute! Stop the presses.

BISON continued from page 1 Phil Baird, provost of Sinte Gleska University in South Dakota, noted, “Bison are once again coming back to tribal lands across the country. Being a part of the center will help tribal managers as they restore both cultural herds and grow tribal nation building herds.”

The Center of Excellence represents a significant milestone in the restoration of bison herds to North America, according to Dave Carter, executive director of the National Bison Association.

“Our knowledge on how best to manage our herds has evolved through a lot of trial and error, supplemented by

scattered studies at universities across North America.

The Center of Excellence will bring together academicians, ranchers and tribal bison managers in a collaborative commitment to help us be better stewards of our herds,” Carter said.

The 2018 Farm Bill authorizes the USDA’s National Institute for Food and Agriculture to recognize centers of excellence in research, Extension and education in the food and agricultural sciences.

The Center of Excellence for Bison Studies will be coordinated through SDSU, but will include active participation by researchers and extension officials from other land grant

You’re saying my grandpa sewed?”

Without waiting for an answer, I gathered up the quilt and immediately took it down to the geezer prison where grandpa was now encamped.

He took one look at it and immediately knew that I knew our family’s deepest and darkest secret – grandpa sewed!

My 94-year-old father figure pulled me aside and said, “Lee, I won’t tell if you don’t.” universities, including colleges and universities under the 1994 Tribal Land Grant Program.

Cammack will oversee the day-to-day operations of the center, under the direction of an 11-member board comprised of SDSU, National Bison Association and National Buffalo Foundation officials, bison ranchers and tribal representatives. The center will operate under a formal Memorandum of Agreement that has been established among SDSU, the National Bison Association and the National Buffalo Foundation.

For more information on the center of Excellence for Bison Studies, contact Cammack at 605-3942236.

RIVERTON LIVESTOCK AUCTION Tuesday, September 8, 2020 Market Reports • 1411 Head Sold

Representative Sales COWS RAWLINS 3 Cow, 1255# .......................... $62.50 2 Cow, 1415# .......................... $58.50 ALCOVA 3 Cow, 1130# ........................... $54.00 5 Cow, 1029# .......................... $49.00 BULLS HYATTVILLE 3 Bull, 908# ........................... $120.00 4 Bull, 1098# ..........................4110.00 RIVERTON 1 Bull, 1110# ...........................$110.00 HYATTVILLE 1 Bull, 1140# .......................... $109.00 1 Bull, 1165# .......................... $107.00 FORT WASHAKIE 1 Bull, 1840# ........................... $88.50 LANDER 1 Bull, 1370# ........................... $76.00 STEERS MILLS 7 Steer, 357# ......................... $172.50 ALCOVA 4 Steer, 311# ......................... $166.00 MILLS 15 Steer, 445# ......................... $161.50 LANDER 29 Steer, 640# ......................... $153.00 THERMOPOLIS 14 Steer, 789# ......................... $149.00 HANNA 14 Steer, 880# ......................... $133.00 ENCAMPMENT 7 Steer, 872# ......................... $132.00 SHOSHONI 6 Steer, 944# ......................... $127.00 FARSON 35 Steer, 978# ......................... $126.50 AFTON 19 Steer, 1006# ....................... $123.00 HEIFERS RIVERTON 41 Heifer, 716# ........................ $143.00 MILLS 16 Heifer, 408# ........................ $141.50 THERMOPOLIS 38 Heifer, 730# ........................ $137.50 RIVERTON 31 Heifer, 722# ........................ $136.50 68 Heifer. 750# ........................ $136.00 67 Heifer, 815# ........................ $134.75 67 Heifer, 826# ........................ $133.75 130 Heifer, 834# ........................ $133.00 KAYCEE 13 Heifer, 816# ........................ $131.50

SHOSHONI 6 Heifer, 871# ........................ $128.50 LANDER 38 Heifer, 909# ........................ $128.00 RIVERTON 2 Heifer, 717# ........................ $128.00 30 Heifer, 852# ........................ $127.25 62 Heifer, 864# ........................ $126.25 ARAPAHOE 4 Heifer, 897# ........................ $126.25 RIVERTON 63 Heifer, 916# ........................ $125.00 31 Heifer, 873# ........................ $125.00

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS CALVES & YEARLINGS Wyoming Honor Farm - 290 Blk Strs & Hfrs 500#. Comp vacc @ Branding. Fancy!

JF Ranch - 46 PTO Blk Yrling Hfrs 825-875#.

Fancy!

Jeremiah Miller - 15 Blk Strs & Hfrs 500#.

Comp vacc @ Branding. Green, no implants.

Kay Thornock & Sons - 8 Blk Ang PTO Yrling Hfrs 850# 4 Blk Ang Bred Hfrs. Bred to LBW Blk Ang bulls to calve April/May. Gary Horton - 11 Red & Blk SimAngus Strs & Hfrs 550-700#. Rec Vision 7 w/ Somnus @ Birth & Branding; Fusoguard in July. Hfrs are replacement quality.

Annette McDonnel - 10 Blk Ang Yrling Strs 800#. Fancy!

Scott & Jody Campbell - 10 Yrling Strs 900# COWS 21 Livestock - 25 Blk Ang & AngX Running Age Pairs. Summer calves @ side.

Montgomery Livestock - 42 Weigh ups 2 Running Age Pairs Jeremiah Miller - 16 Blk/BWF Running Age Bred cows. Bred to Reg Blk Angus Bull to calve March/April. Had all their spring shots and poured.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS Nichols & Jones - 335 Blk Strs & Hfrs 450500#. Comp vacc @ Branding & Precon (8/24). Fancy, high desert calves!

JM Livestock - 300 Blk Yrling Spayed Hfrs 800850#. Ran above 8,000 ft. Powerful yearling heifers!

Early Consignments Flagstone Ranch - 60 Red & Blk Strs & Hfrs 450-500#. Comp vacc @branding.

Mary Klaahsen - 20 Blk Strs & Hfrs 525-550#.

Rec Once PMH & Vision 7 @ Birth; Once PMH, Vision 7 & Pyramid 5 @ Branding; Vision 7 & Pyramid 5 @ Precon. Sired by Powder River Blk Ang bulls. Fancy set of preconditioned calves!

vestment & Connealy Arsenal. Cowherd Sitz genetics for multiple generations! Bull battery w/ high WW, YW & $Beef. Heifers will be replacement quality! Reputation, high desert.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20

CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL W/ SHEEP & HORSES • START TIME 9:00 AM W/ SHEEP & WEIGH UPS

CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM

Dick Ellis - 300 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 525575#. Rec Bovishield Gold 5 & One Shot Ultra @ Branding. High elevation. Great performing, powerful calves!

JM Livestock - 250 Blk, Red & small % CharX Yrling Strs 850-900#. High elevation. Nice yearlings!

Circle 4 Ranch - 120 Blk & small % Red, CharX Yrling Strs 700-775#. Run above 8,000 ft.

Nice, green yearling Steers!

Forgey Ranch - 40 Peewee Lambs 35#

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM Devries Livestock - 200 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 400-500#. Rec Pyramid 5 w/ Presponse & Vision 8 @ Branding. Fancy, high desert!

Kenny Whitt - 85 Blk Strs & Hfrs 500#. Comp vacc @ Branding. Nice, high desert calves!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 COW SALE • START TIME 9:00 AM

Storm King/JLC Ranch - 10 Red Ang 3-7 Yr old Bred cows. Bred to Red Ang bull to start calving mid Feb. Right out of Registered herd.

Very gentle. Good cows that can be registered.

4 Red Ang Hfrs 500#. Comp vacc. Bangs vacc. Also can be registered.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 13 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM

Martin Land & Livestock - 500 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 475-525#. Rec Vista Once SQ & 7-way w/ Somnus @ Branding. Sired by Sitz Blk Ang bulls. AI sons of SAV Resource, Connealy In-

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16 COW SALE • START TIME 9:00 AM

Osborne & Campbell - 220 Red Ang & Red AngX Strs & Hfrs 500#. Rec Alpha C & D, Once PMH @ Birth; 7-way, Once PMH & Pyramid 5 w/ Presponse @ Branding. Sired by Beckton Red Ang bulls & out of a very low maintenance cow herd.

Run @ 8,500 ft. High desert & green!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23 BRED COW SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS, BREDS @ NOON

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30 COW SALE W/ SHEEP & HORSES START TIME 9:00 AM W/ SHEEP & WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6 COW SALE • START TIME 9:00 AM

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM

W & M Thoman Ranches - 90 Hereford & HerefordX Strs 400# 50 Hereford & HerefordX Hfrs 345#. Rec Vision 8 @ Birth; Vision 8 & Pyramid 5 @ Branding. Sired by powerful Registered Hereford bulls. Fancy, high desert.

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

1490 South 8th Street East • Riverton, WY 82501 • (307) 856-2209