MAY/JUNE 2025
LONG-AWAITED WOLF PLAN CHANGES CALIFORNIAN TO LEAD LIVESTOCK MARKETING ASSOCIATION WORKING TO FIND COMMON GROUND THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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California’s livestock marketing leader
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Top Consignments will be Showcased at these Upcoming Specials in Addition to Our Regular Wednesday Sales ...
The parnell family
CALIFORNIA REPRESENTATIVES Jake Parnell ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,916-662-1298 George Gookin ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,209-482-1648 Bowdy Griffen ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 530-906-5713 Steve Bianchi ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,707-484-3903 Rex Whittle ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,209-996-6994 Mark Fischer,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 209-768-6522 Jason Dailey ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,916-439-7761 Brett Friend,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 510-685-4870 Kris Gudel ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 916-208-7258 NEVADA REPRESENTATIVE Tod Radelfinger ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 775-901-3332 WEDNESDAY WEEKLY SCHEDULE Butcher Cows ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,8:30 a.m. Cow-Calf Pairs/Bred Cows,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 11:30 a.m. Feeder Cattle ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,12 p.m.
CLM SPRING & SUMMER SPECIAL FEEDER SALES WEDNESDAYS: MAY 28 • JUNE 18 • JULY 9 Proudly Selling Cattle For and Contributing to Your Local California Cattlemen’s Associations for More Than 40 Years ...
SACRAMENTO-AMADOR-EL DORADO & CALAVERAS COUNTY CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION SPONSORED FEEDER SALES MONDAYS: MAY 19 • JUNE 9 Also Featuring Consignments from CCA Members in Contra Costa-Alameda, San Joaquin-Stanislaus, Madera, Fresno-Kings, Tahoe, Sonoma-Marin & Others
CLM ANNUAL FALL-CALVING FEMALE SALE NEW DATE FOR 2025:
Saturday, August 9, 10 a.m.
CALL NOW TO CONSIGN TO THESE WESTERN VIDEO MARKET SALES: May 22 – WVM Headquarters, Cottonwood, CA CONSIGNMENT DEADLINE: MAY 14
AUCTION MARKET 12495 E. STOCKTON BLVD., GALT, CA Office ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,209-745-1515 Fax ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,209-745-1582 Website/Market Report ,,,,,,,,,,, www.clmgalt.com Web Broadcast ,,,,,,,,,,,,,, www.lmaauctions.com 2 California Cattleman May/June 2025
June 13 – WVM Headquarters, Cottonwood, CA CONSIGNMENT DEADLINE: JUNE 4
July 14-16 – Silver Legacy Casino Resort, Reno, NV CONSIGNMENT DEADLINE: JUNE 26
August 18-19 – Little America, Cheyenne, WY CONSIGNMENT DEADLINE: JULY 31
Web Broadcast & Catalogs: www.wvmcattle.com
Your
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©JZ
Upcoming Sales May 22
Consignment Deadline: May 14 WVM Headquarters Cottonwood, CA
June 13
Consignment Deadline: June 4 WVM Headquarters Cottonwood, CA
July 14-16
Consignment Deadline: June 26 Silver Legacy Casino Resort Reno, NV
Watch all of our sales on
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May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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VOL. 108, ISSUE 5
CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION
MAY/JUNE 2025 WWW.CALCATTLEMEN.ORG
3841 North Freeway Blvd., Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95834 PRESIDENT
Rick Roberti, Loyalton FIRST VICE PRESIDENT
Mike Williams, Acton
SECOND VICE PRESIDENTS
John Austel, Boulevard Steve Lambert, Oroville Anthony Stornetta, Atascadero TREASURER
Beverly Bigger, Ventura EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Billy Gatlin
VICE PRESIDENT OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS
Kirk Wilbur
DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
UPCOMING EVENTS Feeder Meeting
May 21-22 | Hilton San Diego Bayfont
CCA & CCW Midyear Meeting + Cattle-PAC Fundraiser
Lisa Brendlen
Aug. 14 & 15 | Paso Robles Event Center
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
109th Annual CCA/CCW Convention
Katie Roberti
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
Dec. 3-5 | Atlantis Casino Resort | Reno, Nv
Maureen LaGrande
MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS COORDINATOR
Gracie LeCheminant
OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR
Katherine Dickinson
PUBLICATION SERVICES OFFICE & CIRCULATION
CCA Office: (916) 444-0845 Fax: (916) 444-2194 MANAGING MAGAZINE EDITOR
Stevie Ipsen | (208) 996-4922 stevie.ipsen@gmail.com
ADVERTISING SALES/FIELD SERVICES
Matt Macfarlane | (916) 803-3113 m3cattlemarketing@gmail.com BILLING SERVICES
Lisa Brendlen lisa@calcattlemen.org SERVING CALIFORNIA BEEF PRODUCERS SINCE 1917
Bolded names and businesses in editorial represent only current members of the California Cattlmen’s Association or California CattleWomen, Inc. For questions about membership status, contact the CCA office at (916) 444-0845. The California Cattleman (Publication #8-3600) is published monthly except May/June is combined by the California Cattlemen’s Association, for $20/year, or as part of the annual membership dues. All material and photos within may not be reproduced without consent of publisher. Periodical postage paid at Lubbock, Texas, 79402. Publication # 8-3600 National Advertising Group: The Cattle Connection/The Powell Group, 4162-B Carmichael Ct, Montgomery, AL 36106 (334) 271-6100. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: California Cattleman, 3841 North Freeway Blvd., Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95834
4 California Cattleman May/June 2025
TO HEAR A RECENT EPIDODE OF
SORTING PEN:
THE CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S PODCAST,
SCAN THIS CODE
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May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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CONTENTS ASSOCIATION PERSPECTIVES
8 CATTLEMEN’S COLUMN
Feeder Meeting educating regional cattle feeders in San Diego
12 BUNKHOUSE
Good to meet you: CCA has springtime meeting success
16 DUES DOLLARS AT WORK
California finally sees phase change in wolf management plan
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COUNCIL COMMUNICATOR California Cattle Council helps fund valuable wolf depredation research
42 NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE 50 YOUNG PRODUCER
The need to carry a big stick Industry advocate shares insight on finding your position and passion
52 CHIMES
CattleWomen spring meeting recap
6 California Cattleman May/June 2025
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8
30
SPECIAL FEATURES
20 30 WORKING AS ONE 40 FINDING COMMON GROUND LEADING THE WAY
A new future leader at LMA
40
Reps and consignors working together Beef industry stake holders come together to talk strategies and solutions
44
Park Ranch Meats provides producer and consumer opportunity
48
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK CoBank perspective on state of beef business
HARVEST TIME
READER SERVICES
34 AUCTION MARKET DIRECTORY BUYERS’ S’ GUIDE 56 BUYER 60 RANCH FAMILY ROUNDUP
44 48
Obituaries and new arrivals
62 ADVERTISING INDEX ON THE COVER For years, the May/June issue of the California Cattleman has featured cattle marketing. This month’s cover photo, taken by CCA Associate Director of Communications Maureen LaGrande was shot at Doug and Judy Parker’s Ranch at shipping time near Williams. To learn more about the Parker's marketing strategies, see the article on page 30.
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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CATTLEMEN’S COLUMN A YEAR TO REMEMBER
WHAT MAY LIE AHEAD IN THE SECOND HALF OF 2025 by CCA Feeder Council Chair Mike Sulpizio As we approach the halfway mark of 2025, it’s been a year for the record books! With record high fat/feeder cattle and retail beef prices, one question remains: Can beef demand keep up? I think it’s the question on all beef producers’ minds – especially the cattle feeder. As we approach the 2025 CCA Feeder Meeting in San Diego, this one issue will certainly be front and center with our line-up of speakers. The feeder meeting is a great place for all sectors of the California beef industry to come together and learn and discuss what we (more than likely) will be facing for the second half of the year. The high prices of cattle will dominate the majority of our discussions but more importantly, we have to ask, “Where do we go from here?!” Which is the question we will all have for our much-anticipated speaker Holden Ramey with CattleFax. With new tariffs in effect, what will the impact of China trade have on our beef industry in both the short and long term? The fundamentals of the industry seem to support where we are at, but as always, it’s the outside forces that seem to have the most impact in the short run. Whether it’s trade, avian influenza, or some black swan event. Hopefully NCBA’s Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane can help us understand what lies ahead in the “Trump 2.0” era! Hand in hand with prices and market volatility is the not-so-new mix of cattle types seen in California feedyards today. As the dairy-cross animal begins to occupy more pen space, what does that mean to the Holstein feeder, especially in the south? Holsteins have become a hot commodity, especially for feedyards who have made it their mainstay for years. What new markets will we need to have access to in order to be successful in feeding dairy crosses? Currently, in some parts of the state, access to a legitimate grid formula is challenging and most certainly the main focus when making a decision to take on more crosses. Blake Foraker, Ph.D., of Texas Tech will walk us through the “Evolution of Beef x Dairy: What We’ve Learned and What’s Next”.
8 California Cattleman May/June 2025
Beef prices and demand – as well as environmental issues feeders are facing – are a shared problem by the ranchers and dairymen within the state. Imperial Valley feeders have been working with CCA and the California Cattle Council to navigate a ground water compliance program (a new component of the Regional Water Quality Board’s general order), having relied heavily on the experiences of our Northern counterparts who have dealt with these issues in the past. Paul Sousa, director of regulatory and environmental affairs with Western United Dairies will give us an update on what to be looking forward to as we continue the rest of the year. Avian Influenza is yet another challenge facing the beef industry. Annette Jones, DVM, the California State Veterinarian and director of animal health and food safety services with CDFA will speak specifically to the basics, the impacts and the way out of this challenging situation. While some feeders haven’t had their animal herds directly impacted, the focus by Cal OSHA on employee safety has been significant. While every employer strives to keep their employees safe and healthy, addressing these new requirements within injury and illness programs for zoonotic aerosol transmission have become the “new normal” for all facilities. I look forward to seeing many familiar faces at this year’s meeting and hopefully many new ones. I feel our feeder council team has put together a great group of speakers to cover the many important and diverse topics we face, not only within the cattle feeding sector but industry wide within the state.
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TURLOCK LIVESTOCK AUCTION YARD THE GRASS IS ON! JOIN US FOR SPECIAL FEEDER SALES IN MAY AND JUNE! RD CONTRA COSTA- ALAMEDA & SAN JOAQUIN-STANISLAUS CATTLEMEN’S
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ANNUAL
Showcase Feeder Sales
SATURDAYS | MAY 24 & JUNE 7
ALSO SELLING CATTLE FROM THESE CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATIONS: MERCED-MARIPOSA, SANTA CLARA, NAPA-SOLANO, MADERA, CALAVERAS, TUOLUMNE, FRESNO-KINGS, SAN BENITO & MONTEREY
MAY MADNESS | TUES, MAY 13, 20 & 27
EVERY TUESDAY IN MAY IS A SPECIAL! CONSIGNMENTS FROM SMALL, MEDIUM AND LARGE PRODUCERS!
JUNE SPECIALS | TUES., JUNE 3 & 17 | 9 A.M. TLAY SPRING FEEDER SALES DEDICATED TO SHOWCASING CALVES AND YEARLINGS FROM CONSIGNORS OF 50 HEAD OR LESS.
TLAY STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE VACCINATION PROGRAM — HEALTHIER CALVES FROM YOUR RANCH TO OUR MARKET — ELITE LEVEL
5-way viral (modified live) 2X Clostridial 2X Mannheimia/Pasteurella 2X Dewormer Weaned 45 days 2nd shots given 30 days prior to sale
TURLOCK LIVESTOCK AUCTION YARD
PREMIUM LEVEL
5-way viral (modified live) 2X Clostridial 2X Mannheimia/Pasteurella 2X Dewormer Not weaned 2nd shots given 30 days prior to sale
WATCH LIVE AND BID ON LMAAUCTIONS.COM
209 634-4326 • 209 667-0811 10430 Lander Ave., Turlock, CA P.O. Box 3030, Turlock, CA 95381 www.turlocklivestock.com
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CALL TO CONSIGN CATTLE TO THESE UPCOMING EVENTS! MAY 22
WVM HEADQUARTERS
COTTONWOOD
JUNE 13
WVM HEADQUARTERS
COTTONWOOD
JULY 14-16
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CALIFORNIA’S CATTLE MARKETING CENTER MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR THESE UPCOMING SPECIAL FEMALE SALES... TLAY SPECIAL FEMALE SALE | TUES. JULY 1 FEATURING 300 FALL-CALVING HEIFERS AND COWS, INCLUDING 145 4-6 YEAR-OLD FALL-CALVING RED ANGUS COWS AND 170 FALL-CALVING 1ST CALF ANGUS AND RED ANGUS HEIFERS FROM MANGANTE RANCH. PLUS 50 BLACK BALDY FALL-CALVING 1ST CALF HEIFERS FROM OSMUNDSON RANCH!
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CALIFORNIA CATTLE PRODUCERS FEMALE SALE SAT., AUGUST 2 | 10 A.M. ANNUAL OFFERING OVER 1,000 REPUTATION FEMALES FROM DAL PORTO LIVESTOCK, JOHN GINOCHIO, LAWRENCE GINOCHIO, GILLILAND LIVESTOCK, ART ANDERSON AND MORE LOOK FOR DETAILS COMING SOON!
FOLLOW US ONLINE FOR WEEKLY SALE REPORTS AND NEWS ABOUT UP-TO-THE-MINUTE SALE DATES AT WWW.TURLOCKLIVESTOCK.COM OR ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! TLAY REPRESENTATIVES
JOHN LUIZ............................209 480-5101 JOHN BOURDET ................831 801-2343
MAX OLVERA......................209 277-2063 JAKE BETTENCOURT.........209 262-4019 CELESTE SETTRINI ...........831 320-1527 STEVE FARIA .....................209 988-7180 TRAVIS JOHNSON..........209 996-8645 MATT MILLER......................209 914-5116 JUSTIN RAMOS................209 844-6372 TIM SISIL ...........................209 631-6054 BUD COZZI ........................ 209 652-4480 May/June 2025 California Cattleman 11
BUNKHOUSE GREAT MEETING YOU
CCA SEES BIG SUCCESS IN SPRING MEETINGS & EVENTS by CCA Membership and Events Coordinator Gracie LeCheminant By the time you are reading this, I will be on maternity leave soaking in all the love from our baby girl, Dally Grace. Like most new parents, my husband and I feel like the luckiest people on the planet. We feel so blessed that we have the opportunity to raise her in the cattle industry and watch her grow as we grow our own herd. I will be back from maternity leave in midJune, but if you find yourself needing any information on membership or events, please don't hesitate to call the office at (916) 444-0845. Looking back on early spring, CCA staff and officers were quite busy as they traveled across the state visiting local associations for CCA’s Spring Tour Meeting run. In January, staff and officers made the trip up to Shasta and Tehama counties where they enjoyed meeting with CCA members in my neighborhood. After those tour meetings, I spent the week at the Red Bluff Bull and Gelding Sale. The Bull Sale is always a great opportunity to meet with each of you attending the event, but it’s also a great way to chat with individuals who have questions about what our association does. CCA President Rick Roberti, Loyalton, CCA First Vice President Mike Williams, Acton, and CCA Second Vice President Steve Lambert, Oroville, also joined me at the booth throughout the week along with past CCA Second Vice President Mike McCluskey, Red Bluff, where they got to engage with members and non-members alike. Although it was a long week, it truly is always such a fun time. Heading into February, staff and officers were once again on the road visiting the local associations of Butte County, Santa Clara County, San Joaquin/ Stanislaus, Monterey County and Humboldt/Del Norte. I heard a lot of great feedback from those who attended. We always appreciate the warm hospitality and the opportunity to meet with our local associations and provide updates on what is happening at the state and local levels that affect the cattle industry.
12 California Cattleman May/June 2025
In March, cowboy hats invaded the Sutter Club and Capitol Annex Swing Space as CCA members and legislators came together for CCA’s 44th Annual Steak and Eggs Breakfast. While this was only my second time planning and organizing the breakfast and lobby day, it will be one that I will never forget! This event continues to get larger year after year, and this year was no different as we had a great turnout of legislators, legislative staff, regulators and CCA members join us for the event. I truly appreciated the patience shown by CCA members during this year’s event, and hope that you take the time out of your busy schedules to join us again next year. During the lobby day portion of the day, I walked over to the swing space and sat in on a few meetings. Time and time again we were told how much legislators and legislative staff enjoy participating in our breakfast. As the coordinator ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
MIDYEAR HOTEL RESERVATIONS
ROOMS AVAILABLE AUG. 13 - 15 If you plan to attend the Midyear meeting, a room block is available at the Adelaide Inn. If you are attending both Midyear AND the Cattle-PAC fundraiser this hotel is a great option. To book your room for Midyear, please call (805) 238-2770 and ask for the CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION room block.
CATTLE-PAC HOTEL RESERVATIONS
ROOM AVAILABLE FOR ONLY AUG. 15 For those attending the Cattle-PAC Auction and Dinner Dance, CCA has secured rooms for Friday, Aug. 15 at the Best Western Black Oak. To make your reservations visit our website for the room block link.
SCHEDULE AT AT GLANCE
Thursday, Aug. 14: Full day of Midyear meetings & industry updates. Friday morning: Closing general session & board meeting Friday evening: Cattle-PAC Auction + Dinner Dance
REGISTRATION AND CATTLE-PAC TICKETS Visit CALCATTLEMEN.ORG/EVENTS for details and to soon register for Midyear and for the Cattle-PAC Auction + Dinner.
EACH TIME A PRO-LIVESTOCK, PRO-BUSINESS CANDIDATE IS ELECTED IN SACRAMENTO IT IS A WIN FOR THE RANCHING COMMUNITY. WITH YOUR SUPPORT OF THE 2025 CATTLE-PAC FUNDRAISER WE WILL SECURE MORE VICTORIES!
California Cattlemen’s Association Political Action Committee (Cattle-PAC, FPPC # 760980) Donations are voluntary, not tax deductable and cannot exceed $6500 from a person or company within a calendar year.
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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....CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
morning, we will have our closing general session followed by our board meeting. Also, don’t forget your dancing boots, because our Cattle-PAC Fundraiser will take place that Friday evening at the Paso Robles Event Center, the same location as CCA’s 2023 Cattle-PAC Fundraiser. Like always, our last event of the year will be CCA’s Annual Convention, which is set to take place at the Atlantis Casino Resort in Reno, Nev., Dec. 3-5. I am so excited for the second half of 2025 and look forward to continuing to serve you all as your membership and events coordinator.
of our events, it is always nice for me to hear what people enjoy and appreciate about the events we put on, especially when it comes to educating folks on what is truly happening in our industry. In the following weeks, Spring Tour Meetings picked back up with Fresno/Kings and Madera, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Fall River/Big Valley, Inyo/Mono, Contra Costa/Alameda, Tulare, Kern, Calaveras, Amador/El Dorado/Sacrament, and Tuolumne. The last few local associations to round out our 2025 Spring Tour were Plumas/Sierra, Glenn/Colusa, Sonoma/Marin and lastly will be San Diego Imperial at the end of May. Please don’t forget to call the CCA office to set your dates Anaplasmosis is an infectious parasitic disease in cattle, spread for our 2025 Fall Tour Meeting primarily by ticks and blood sucking insects like mosquitoes. The killed anaplasmosis vaccine protects cows and bulls of any age run. It is never too early to get on from infection and requires a booster given 4 to 6 weeks after the our staff and officer’s very busy inital vaccination. Find out below if you should order the vaccine! calendars. When it comes to my job, Do you so much time, effort, and care NO YES own cattle? goes into planning events for our members to enjoy. As a team, we truly try to put so much thought into picking out each meeting location, speaker, Do they dinner and meeting time so You don’t need it, graze in that all of our members can but should still areas where really enjoy themselves. This is YES Anaplasmosis support the no different with CCA’s Feeder is a California Meeting, happening May 21-22 problem? Cattlemen’s in San Diego. Something a little (Consult your local Association bit different about this event for veterinarian to find out) me was that almost all of the planning for this meeting took Do you want to prevent place before I left on maternity the effects of the disease leave. It truly is bittersweet including severe anemia, missing an event I spent a lot of weakness, fever lack of time planning and organizing, appetite, depression, YES but, at least I missed it for good constipation, decreased reason! I hope everyone enjoys milk production, the speakers, venue, reception jaundice, abortion and and dinner locations during their possibly death? time in San Diego. I’ll be at the next one, I promise! After I am back from maternity ORDER TODAY BY CALLING (916) 444-0845! leave and looking into the rest of Available in 10 or 50 dose bottles the year, CCA’s Midyear Meeting 10-40 doses: $8.75 per dose will be in conjunction with CCA’s 50+ doses: $7.75 per dose Cattle-PAC Fundraiser happening *10 dose minimum and $10 flat rate shipping SOLD ONLY TO CALIFORNIA CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION MEMBERS Aug. 14-15, in Paso Robles. We have planned for a full day of meetings on Thursday with a reception that evening. Friday
SHOULD YOU ORDER THE ANAPLASMOSIS VACCINE?
14 California Cattleman May/June 2025
NO
NO You don’t need to order it
SATURDAY MAY 17
Cattlemen’s Livestock Market Galt, CA | 1:00 pm
Featuring 60 lots of quality Angus genetics FALL BRED HEIFERS • FALL BRED COWS • SPRING PAIRS • HEIFER CALVES • ELITE PREGNANCIES
The Offering will include: • Fifteen (15) Fall bred heifers carrying the service of today’s name brand sires including BA7 Oaks Bold Ruler, Connealy Craftsman, HPCA Veracious, KA Kindred, and more! • Fall bred cows bred to sires like the $360,000 Boyd Bedrock, and the $30,000 Westwind Doc Holliday DJH239 that was the top-gaining bull from the Great Basin Bull Test.
BA7 Oaks Bold Ruler
• An elite set of over twenty (20) open heifers from both fall-born and spring yearling divisions sired by influential bulls including Basin Keystone 2021, HPCA Veracious, BAR Dynamic, ST Velocity 1048, and the $525,000 T/D Doc Ryan 049! • An impressive group of embryos frop top donors and exclusive performance sires including the $400,000 Spring Cove Grant 200K, the $295,000 Ellingson Prosper, the $60,000 Wilks Warrior 3715, and more!
Basin Keystone 2021
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Hertlein Cattle Co., Farmington CA
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Split Creek Ranch, Los Molinos CA
K Bar D, Redmond OR
Riverside Ranch, Fielding, UT
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JOHN DICKINSON 916-806-1919 JAKE PARNELL 916-662-1298 info@parnelldickinson.com LUKE PARNELL 805-431-1267 FOR SALE BOOK TEXT ADDRESS TO:
916-806-1919
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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YOUR DUES DOLLARS AT WORK NOT A MOMENT TOO SOON
CALIFORNIA CATTLE PRODUCERS FINALLY SEE NEXT PHASE OF WOLF MANAGEMENT PLAN by CCA Vice President of Government Affairs Kirk Wilbur In light of increased attention in recent months to the challenges presented by growing gray wolf populations – and amid enhanced scrutiny of state policy regarding the species – the April edition of California Cattleman overviewed CCA’s lobbying efforts regarding wolves since a wolf designated OR-7 first forayed into northern California in 2011. In the weeks since the publication of that article, however, gray wolves have only attracted stronger attention throughout the state. Sierra and Plumas counties have followed the lead of the Modoc County Board of Supervisors, with both counties declaring local emergencies due to public safety threats posed by gray wolves and requesting changes in state and federal law enabling sheriffs to remove specific gray wolves they deem to pose public safety threats. Wolves have also garnered increased media attention, partly in response to the local emergencies declared by Modoc, Plumas and Sierra counties and partly in response to a recent U.C. Davis report from Dr. Ken Tate and Dr. Tina Saitone quantifying the direct and indirect
16 California Cattleman May/June 2025
financial impacts of gray wolves upon livestock producers, which found that one wolf can result in between up to $162,000 per year in economic losses for the state’s cattle producers. The Los Angeles Times, the fifth-largest newspaper in the country, even profiled Prather Ranch, which has suffered chronic depredations from Siskiyou County’s Whaleback Pack. At the same time, there have been significant developments in state policy concerning gray wolves and CCA has enhanced its already-robust lobbying efforts on the issues, warranting additional reporting on the topic. CDFW Announces Transition to Phase 2 On April 2, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife announced that “California is now in ‘Phase 2’ of wolf management.” According to the Conservation Plan for Gray Wolves in California finalized by the Department in December of 2016, the state would move into the second of three phases of wolf management once the agency confirmed at least four breeding pairs of gray wolves in the state for two successive years. The agency confirmed a minimum of four breeding pairs in the state at the end of 2023 and a minimum of five breeding pairs at the end of 2024, officially triggering the transition to Phase 2 of wolf management under the Conservation Plan. It is worth noting that CDFW does not use the terms “pack” and “breeding pair” interchangeably. A “pack” is merely “two or more wolves traveling together,” whereas a breeding pair comprises at least one adult male and one adult female as well as
“at least two pups that survive until Dec. 31.” In its announcement of Phase 2, CDFW confirmed the Department would be undertaking two actions explicitly called for by the Conservation Plan for Gray Wolves in California: Initiating a status review of gray wolves and evaluating “legal pathways under the California Endangered Species Act and the Federal Endangered Species Act to potentially issue permits allowing for more aggressive forms of hazing in specific situations.” According to the Department’s Conservation Plan, the status review is an opportunity for the agency to examine California’s gray wolf population and the species’ “prospects for the future” in the state. It is also an opportunity for the Department to “evaluate appropriate [California Endangered Species Act] status” and to report those findings to the California Fish and Game Commission, which ultimately decides whether species remain designated as threatened or endangered under CESA. While CCA does not expect that the Department will propose delisting gray wolves or that the Commission will act to delist the species until at least Phase 3 of wolf management (i.e., once the state has at least eight breeding pairs for two successive years), the status review will include opportunities for public input and peer review, and CCA will use that opportunity to reiterate the Association’s stance that gray wolves are fully recovered throughout their range and ought to no longer be designated an endangered species within the state. It is not yet clear whether CDFW intends to update its decade-old Conservation Plan for Gray Wolves in California alongside its status review, but CCA has been actively lobbying for an update to that Plan to reflect lessons learned during the past ten years living with wolves in the state. Less is currently known about the Department’s plan to explore legal pathways under the state and federal ESAs “to potentially issue permits allowing for more aggressive forms of hazing in specific situations.” According to the Department’s press release, permitted hazing measures might be expanded to include “tools and techniques such as firearms discharging nonlethal ammunitions or the use of motorized equipment to follow or pursue a wolf to modify wolf activity.” Based on CCA’s initial conversations with CDFW, the Department may roll out these more aggressive hazing measures within the context of a Voluntary Local Program, under which enrolled ranchers would enjoy increased hazing authorization in exchange for implementing nonlethal deterrent strategies and managing habitat
for prey species. That VLP may initially be piloted regionally, for instance within the range of the Whaleback Pack, the state’s most chronicallydepredating wolf pack. In its April 2 announcement, CDFW also announced one major action not specifically identified in the agency’s Conservation Plan for Gray Wolves in California: releasing an online mapping tool empowering ranchers and others to monitor the locations of GPS-collared wolves. While some ranchers receive text messages from the Department alerting them to the presence of wolves near their pastures, not all cattlemen do. An online mapping tool would allow ranchers to identify risks of wolf depredation and increase their presence to deter such attacks. CDFW has not yet announced when the mapping tool will be made available.
CCA in Constant Contact with Agency Leadership
CCA staff spoke with CDFW Director Chuck Bonham the day before the Department’s April 2 announcement. In the weeks since the announcement, CCA has been in regular contact with Director Bonham and with leadership of CDFW’s parent agency, the California Natural Resources Agency, including Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot and Deputy Secretary for Biodiversity and Habitat Meghan Hertel. During those discussions, agency leadership has acknowledged that ranchers have valid and pressing concerns about gray wolves and have acknowledged the need to act rapidly to initiate new management actions under Phase 2. Leadership of CDFW and CNRA have also committed to ongoing communication and collaboration with CCA. CCA has also been in discussions with CDFW staff about the possible development of a Voluntary Local Program, and whether there is a role for CCA to play in administering that program for the benefit of cattle producers living and working in wolf country. Those conversations remain ongoing and productive. That said, management options available to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife remain limited and constrained so long as gray wolves retain their endangered status under both the federal Endangered Species Act, regulated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the California Endangered Species Act, regulated by the California Fish and Game Commission. CCA will keep members apprised of further developments in gray wolf management and the Association’s lobbying efforts to secure additional management tools for the species. May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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EFFORTS TO SAFEGUARD CATTLE INDUSTRY FROM NEW WORLD SCREWWORM
On April 26, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) announced support for U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins’ actions to protect the American cattle industry from the rising threat of New World screwworm. “The U.S. spent millions of dollars to eradicate New World screwworm from our borders in the 1960s but unfortunately, we are now facing this dangerous threat again,” said NCBA President and Nebraska cattleman Buck Wehrbein. “Screwworm is very destructive and could cost American producers millions of dollars a year if it reaches us. Americans have been investing in prevention efforts in Central America for decades, but we can’t stop this without Mexico’s participation. NCBA strongly supports Secretary Rollins holding Mexico to their commitments regarding screwworm eradication.” In November 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) was notified that New World screwworm was detected in Mexico. NCBA has been working closely with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to increase surveillance, inspection, and other measures to counter this pest. At the same time, NCBA has also been Cattlemans Assoc.qxp_Layout 1 6/9/23 12:36 PM Page 1 working with USDA to expand the use of the sterile
HDPE for Ranch Water Systems
insect technique, which requires the continuous release of sterile male screwworm files that breed with wild screwworms and result in no offspring, eradicating the species. Unfortunately, Mexican authorities have failed to uphold their end of the agreement by disrupting planes carrying these sterile male files, refusing pilots permission to land, and instituting customs duties on flight components, sterile flies, and sterile insect technique equipment. “We have received multiple reports that critical flights carrying these sterile flies have been denied permission to land, faced bogus paperwork issues, and been charged high customs fees. As a result, we have lost significant time and investment that has allowed these dangerous pests to spread unchecked into southern Mexico,” said NCBA Senior Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane. “In light of those reports, NCBA met with the Mexican Embassy earlier this week to deliver the message that the Mexican government needs to be a partner on eradicating screwworms to protect both animal and human health. It’s time for Mexican authorities to act and we appreciate Secretary Rollins standing with American and Mexican cattle producers who want to see this pest stopped dead in its tracks.”
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EVOLVING LEADERSHIP
LONGTIME CALIFORNIA MARKETING ADVOCATE SELECTED AS FUTURE CEO OF LIVESTOCK MARKETING ASSOCIATION by CCA Associate Director of Communications Maureen LaGrande
For the last 19 years, Forrest Mangan, Galt, has served as one of the region executive officers for the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) covering the western United States and Canada. Now, Mangan is preparing to take on the position of CEO for the Association. Mangan comes from a small ranching family in the foothills of Northern California and grew up taking livestock to the auction yards in Galt and Escalon. He went on to pursue a degree at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and upon his graduation, he stayed in San Luis Obispo for two years and served as the coach of the university’s livestock judging team. Wrapping up another judging season and looking for a new adventure, Mangan received a call from LMA Chief Executive Officer Mark Mackey regarding an open position. “Within a week, I was in Kansas City for an interview, and soon after, traveling the West meeting our auction members,” said Mangan. Since then, Mangan has continued to serve the western states’ livestock markets. In his early beginnings, he covered seven states, and as time has progressed, he now covers 11 states and Canada. With over 120 member auctions and livestock dealers in his territory, Mangan has stayed busy meeting with and advocating for market
20 California Cattleman May/June 2025
owners. LMA’s office is located in Overland Park, Kans., along with the majority of the staff. Daily, staff members work with the auction markets they represent. This work includes visiting their membership and providing them with services they need, whether that be legal issues, regulatory issues, employee training, business policies, technology support or insurance services. To ensure that their members receive the best advice and representation possible, LMA has various departments within their organization, including finance and administration, government and industry affairs, legal assistance services, risk mitigation, insurance services, membership services and region executive officers. Mangan shared that the office staff has continuously been there to back him as he has worked on the road. “I would have never been as successful without the support in the Kansas City office,” said Mangan. In addition to Mangan, there
are six other region executive officers who travel throughout the United States and represent auction markets within their territory. WHAT’S NEXT In early April, it was announced that after a thorough interview process, Mangan had been selected to fill the seat of retiring CEO Mark Mackey. Set to officially start the new leadership role in January 2026, Mangan and Mackey will work together over the next eight months to make sure that his transition into this new role will go as smoothly as possible. With Mangan’s position of region executive officer now transitioning, the quest for a replacement to fill his role has commenced. Once someone has been selected, Mangan will work with the new hire to train and share with them the ins and outs of serving the western states. “When I started at LMA, we had a team of region execs with tremendous, long-time experience,” shared Mangan. “I trained with them and over the years as new folks have come on board, we’ve tried to train our new region executives by sharing their same passion for the work.” Reflecting on his time at LMA, Mangan has gained many mentors and friendships, including Jim Carter, a past region executive officer, and knows that whoever is selected as the next region executive will have many opportunities for the same experiences as he. To ensure that the new region executive officer is ready to take on the position, Mangan will be traveling back and forth between Kansas and his current territory to train the new hire and is excited to be a resource to them throughout the process. “The opportunities in this role are beyond sales. As region executive officer the new hire will have the opportunity to be an advocate for livestock marketing and our industry,” said Mangan. “I’m looking forward to helping them develop the industry and member connections that make this work so fulfilling.” CONNECTING WITH CALIFORNIA AUCTION MARKETS Mangan represents the markets every single day and one of his tasks is preparing
those markets to be resources to producers. Recognizing that those who run auction yards have a deep understanding of what producers are thinking helps Mangan to better serve his territory. “Without the producers, auction markets wouldn’t exist,” said Mangan. “They work tirelessly for those producers to provide them with the best service.” When a producer calls their local auction market, they could ask a range of questions about animal genetics, weather, vaccination schedules, or weaning. From there, the auction yard owners can provide resources, recommendations, or point producers in the right direction of where to find information. Throughout his territory, and as a whole, a struggle Mangan has seen more frequently over the last 10 years is the decline of cattle producers. “Without action to address the continued loss of livestock producers, the future of livestock marketing businesses is at risk,” said Mangan. If we can address the struggles producers face and unite as an industry, we can fight for them and make the changes they need so that they can continue operating, ensuring that there is something left for the next generation to take over.” A few years ago, in an effort to better understand the struggles, thoughts, and issues that cattle producers were facing, LMA implemented the producer profitability initiative. This initiative brought reps to the auction markets that they represented for a sit-down forum with producers. ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 22
“Without the producers, auction markets wouldn’t exist. They work tirelessly for those producers to provide them with the best service.” — Forrest Mangan
Livestock Marketing Association
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
21
...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 “Our end goal is to be able to bring the facets of the industry together and bring specific matters to the table in Washington, D.C. that impact all of us,” said Mangan. In these forums, LMA alongside industry partners listened to producers, learning about what kept them up at night and hearing about the challenges that producers felt would impact future generations. In addition to sharing their thoughts, producers could also ask questions and interact with other producers who were experiencing similar issues. To learn more about LMA’s producer profitability initiative, visit their website at: www.lmaweb.com/Policy/producer-profitability. WHY SHOULD AN AUCTION MARKET BE A PART OF LMA? Membership in LMA is available to livestock auction markets throughout the U.S. and Canada as well as livestock dealers and an affiliate membership for businesses involved in the industry. LMA’s purpose is to serve as the voice and advocate for auction markets and the livestock marketing sector, whether that be for legal
assistance, legislative or regulatory issues, or utilizing their insurance program specifically created for auction markets. “We’re problem solvers, if markets have an issue, our job is to solve the problem and make their lives easier,” said Mangan. “We want market owners to be able to operate their yard and not have to worry about anything else.” SIGHTS SET ON THE FUTURE As Mangan’s start date for CEO approaches next year, a goal of his is to continue to make a meaningful difference for the Association’s members. As an Association, LMA is a memberled organization and having a strong staff ready to serve its membership is a key factor in the Association’s success. “We have this incredible staff,” said Mangan. “They know what we have to do, and in my role, I want them to know the ‘why’ of why we do it.” Being the voice and a strong advocate for the auction markets is what Mangan most looks forward to as he steps into this new role. “I’ve grown this love and passion for the industry and the Association. I want to continue to see it grow,” said Mangan. Are you a livestock auction market looking to learn more about LMA? Visit, www.lmaweb.com.
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YOUR COMPLETE MARKETING SERVICE
Mark your calendars for these Spring & Summer events...
MAY
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MAY
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MAY
Tulare County Cattlemen’s 'Off the Grass' Sale
Featuring many high quality bunches of local calves and yearlings. Most with 2 rounds of proper vaccinations as well as some large groups of NHTC-certified cattle.
Late Spring Special
Featuring a large run of calves & yearlings. Including many good-sized bunches of calves with 2 rounds of shots as well as NHTC certification.
Annual Parsons/Nock Memorial Sale
28
Offering a large run on most all classes. Featuring many high quality consignments from the tri-counties area.
JUNE
Early Summer Special
4
JUNE
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Featuring a good number of later calves & yearlings as well as some high-end weaned calves.
Annual Fall-Calving Female Sale
Join us Saturday, June 21 at noon as this annual event will be another good offering of very high-end fall-calving females. Many with foothill and anaplas vaccinations or exposure.
31st annual
CATTLEMEN’S SELECT BULL SALE Sunday Sept. 14 • 1 P.M.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL: RANDY BAXLEY, (559) 906-9760 OR JAMES GRANTHAM, (805) 610-0641 SALES EVERY WEDNESDAY! 733 North Ben Maddox Way | Visalia, CA 93292 | (559) 625-9615
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May/June 2025 California Cattleman
23
AUCTION MARKET
ADVOCACY
PACKER OWNERSHIP, TAXES FOCUS OF LMA’S D.C. FLY-IN from the Livestock Marketing Association
An outdated prohibition almost cost Heidi Nicholas her marriage. On paper, anyway. When the chance arose to buy Empire Livestock — a business with six livestock auction markets across New York — she seized it. Nicholas understood the markets’ vital role in the region and saw no one else stepping up to keep them running. But there was one major obstacle: her husband owned Nicholas Meat, a packing company in Pennsylvania. A Packers and Stockyards Act requirement, which predates modern livestock auctions, prohibits livestock market owners from owning packing companies. Even though Nicholas planned to purchase the auction markets with personal, non-marital funds — and had the documents to prove that — she faced pushback from USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Services’ Packers and Stockyards Division. At one point, she even told the authorities the couple would divorce if that’s what it took. That’s how strongly she felt. Eventually, she was able to complete the sale. But what about established auction market owners? Nicholas pointed out in many areas, there aren’t enough packers and processors to encourage competition or meet demand. Allowing markets to be part of the solution, such as opening a local locker or investing in a pooled funds regional packer, would support both markets and processors — while benefiting the producers who rely on these services. A solution was recently reintroduced in the 119th Congress. The Amplifying Processing of Livestock in the United States, or the A-PLUS Act, and Expanding Local Meat Processing Act (HR 1648 and SB 782), would allow livestock market owners to invest in small and regional packers. Supporting the bills was just one reason Livestock Marketing Association, or LMA, members gathered in Washington, D.C., March 24 California Cattleman May/June 2025
9-11. Throughout their annual fly-in, the group also advocated for key Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provisions to be extended before expiring. They also expressed thanks for Congress passing Livestock Dealer Statutory Trust in 2020, which improves recovery when livestock dealers default. ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
Bowdy Griffin, from Cattlemen’s Livestock Market in Galt and Jarod Cozzi and Justin Cozzi from Dos Palos Y Auction Yard participated in LMA’s D.C. Fly-in.
IN CALIFORNIA,
LIVESTOCK AUCTION MARKETS ARE THE LIFEBLOOD OF COMMUNITIES.
We provide jobs, a gathering place and bolster nearby businesses. We’re family businesses that give back to the community and invest in our youth. With multiple bidders for all classes of livestock, we deliver a competitive market for producers of all sizes. MAKE THE CHOICE TO MARKET YOUR LIVESTOCK IN CALIFORNIA. TOGETHER, OUR INDUSTRY AND STATE CAN PROSPER.
101 Livestock Market Inc. — Aromas, CA
Newman Stockyards LLC — Newman, CA
Cattlemen’s Livestock Market Inc. — Galt, CA
Ontario Livestock — Ontario, CA
Turlock Livestock Auction Yard Inc. — Turlock, CA
Dos Palos Y Auction Yard — Dos Palos Y, CA
Orland Livestock Commission Yard Inc. — Orland, CA
Visalia Livestock Market — Visalia, CA Visalia Stockman’s Market Inc. — Visalia, CA
Overland Stockyard — Hanford, CA
Western Stockman’s Market — McFarland, CA
Petaluma Livestock Auction Yard Inc. — Petaluma, CA
Western Video Market Inc. — Cottonwood, CA
Roundup Internet Livestock Marketing — Visalia, CA
DLR: B&T Cattle — Corona, CA
Escalon Livestock Market Inc. — Escalon, CA Euclid Stockyards Inc. — Ontario, CA EZ 2 Bid Auctions — Bakersfield, CA Farmers Livestock Market Inc. — Oakdale, CA Fresno Livestock Commission LLC — Fresno, CA
DLR: Avila Cattle Co. — Hanford, CA DLR: F. Loretz Inc. — Elk Grove, CA
Humboldt Auction Yard LLC — Fortuna, CA
Shasta Livestock Auction Yard Inc. — Cottonwood, CA
Mobile Cattle Marketing LLC — Galt, CA
Tulare County Stockyard Inc. — Dinuba, CA
DLR: Michelle Thrall — Hanford, CA
Modoc Auction Yard — Alturas, CA
Tulare Sales Yard Inc. — Tulare, CA
DLR: SAS Dairy — Hilmar, CA
DLR: Martin Livestock LLC — Ione, CA
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
25
...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 For first time participant Teto Medina Wallace, who is manager and lead auctioneer for Santa Teresa Livestock Auction in New Mexico, it was an unforgettable experience — and one he cannot recommend enough to fellow LMA members. “I came here with high expectations, but this has completely blown me away,” Medina Wallace said. “The quality of everything we’ve done and what I’ve learned… Just being in the halls of the heart and arteries of our nation has been something that has moved me tremendously.” Nicholas agreed. “I’m 66 years old and it’s the first time I’ve ever been to D.C.,” she said. “So, to be able to tour the Capitol and be in the agricultural committee room of the House of Representatives. It was so intriguing.” Additionally, the two participants enjoyed the
connections they made, both with policymakers and their fellow LMA members. Both were able to extend personal invitations to elected officials to visit their auction markets firsthand. They also had the rare opportunity to talk shop with other livestock marketers from 20 different states across the U.S. Wallace Medina said he was impressed by the group’s ability to come together and work toward common goals, even though their operations may have differences. LMA President Mike VanMaanen, who owns Eastern Missouri Commission Co., agreed. “I’m just so proud of the number of members who took time away from their busy schedules and families to come advocate for our industry on Capitol Hill,” he said. “We’re so much stronger together. The relationships built and maintained on the trip will make sure our industry’s interests are considered in federal policy decisions.”
CHECK YOUR MAILBOXES: SURVEY TO GUIDE FUTURE UNIVERSITY RESEARCH AND EXTENSION Feedback from ranchers is essential for universities to develop future research projects, educational workshops and classroom curriculum for the next generation. California Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) members will be receiving in their mailboxes a survey to understand how ranchers make herd health and management decisions. This project is made possible from the support of the California Cattlemen’s Association and the California Beef Cattle Improvement Association. “The information gathered from the beef producer survey will help the scientists, veterinarians, and educators across California understand the most important herd health problems cattle producers in the state are faced with. The survey will identify targets for producer education based on current needs and will help those who are engaged in producer education to better serve the ranching community,” said Gaby Maier, DVM, project team member with the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis. This research team includes: • Rachael Lyons, Ph.D., Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo • Zach McFarlane, Ph.D., Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo • Tracy Schohr, University of California Cooperative Extension • Bret Mcnabb, DVM, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis 26 California Cattleman May/June 2025
• Gaby Maier, DVM, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis • Kasey DeAtley, Ph.D., California State University, Chico The survey results will be anonymous and will only be reported as summaries. The research team will share their analysis (but not your individual response) in a future edition of the California Cattleman magazine and with cooperative extension advisors to guide future research and local extension seminars. “Several years ago, we received an excellent response from CCA members regarding bull management, and this time, we’ve broadened our focus to include overall herd health,” said Zach McFarlane, project team member. “We understand that ranchers often receive numerous surveys, but we hope that, with the support of our diverse project team—who has translated past survey results into policy briefs, educational resources, and new research—you’ll take the time to complete this survey.” If you have questions regarding this study or would like to be informed of the results when the study is completed, please contact Rachael Lyons at rhlyons@calpoly.edu or 805-756-2470. Click here to complete the survey NOW https://ucanr.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ d3Z1AbY2GaQUMsK The survey is also a senior project for undergraduate Cal Poly Animal Science Claire Saydah, under the supervision of Rachael Lyons.
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COUNCIL COMMUNICATOR CATTLE COUNCIL FUNDED RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS IMPACTS ON RANCHERS FROM EXPANDING WOLF POPULATION by California Cattle Council Executive Director Justin Oldfield There is not one issue that draws more emotion from ranchers currently than wolves. The population of wolves and wolf packs continue to grow across California with wolves present in rural areas up and down the state. Ranchers owning or operating land in and around the presence of wolves have experienced direct loss from depredation, a decline in herd health and body conditions, decreased weight gain, an increase in abortions or a decrease in the rate of conception, to name a few. Wolves remain listed as endangered under both the federal Endangered Species Act and the California Endangered Species Act leaving ranchers and local governments and law enforcement with a handful of non-lethal options to manage wolf/livestock interactions. Many of the impacts sustained by ranchers are well known to those in the industry but were also recently solidified by research conducted by the University of California, Davis. Experts Tina Saiton, Ph.D., and Ken Tate, Ph.D., led a multi-year study analyzing and recording actual impacts on cattle by wolves through motion activated field
28 California Cattleman May/June 2025
cameras, GPS collars, wolf scat analysis and the collection of cattle hair samples to measure cortisol and stress. This project was funded by the California Cattle Council, USDA Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Extension Program and the Russell L. Rustici Rangeland and Cattle Research Endowment. According to the researchers, the study found: • One wolf can cause between $69,000 and $162,000 in direct and indirect losses due to decreased conception rates and weight gain. • Total indirect losses so far from three packs in Northeastern California have resulted in $1.4 million to $3.4 million to ranchers. • 72 percent of wolf scat samples collected contained cattle DNA. • Cortisol levels in hair samples collected from cattle demonstrated a significant increase in stress. Further details on the study and its findings can be found by visiting the Cattle Council website at www. calcattlecouncil.org. Without a doubt, this issue continues to raise emotions and significant frustration from those impacted the most. As government and industry stakeholders continue to debate and refine a pathway forward, the Cattle Council will continue to highlight the challenges faced by ranchers through peer reviewed and published academic research. The Cattle Council remains committed to addressing and responding to critical issues at the forefront of the industry.
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ON THE MARKET Cattle producers, reps work together to attract buyers and bring best price compiled by Managing Editor Stevie Ipsen Featured on the cover of this issue of the California Cattleman is shipping day for the Parker Ranch. The headquarters of the ranch, in the foothills west of Williams, is home to lifelong cattle producers Doug and Judy Parker. In addition to the home ranch, the Parker family leases grazing ground south of Williams and owns two ranches near Klamath Falls, Ore., where they run cattle in the summer. With no shortage of work to do, the Parkers are grateful to have the full time help of son Cody and his fiancé Gaby on the operation as well as sons Chad and Ryan who aren’t far away when additional help is needed. Running cowherds in two calving seasons, the Parkers market their cattle on the video in the April and July sales and ship in May and August,
DOUG & JUDY PARKER
Q
How long have you marketed your calves to WVM? What time of year do you usually sell and ship?
A
We have marketed our calves through WVM since the day the company was formed. Judy’s father, Bob Griffith, worked with Ellington Peek to market his cattle prior to the inception of WVM. He found him to be fair and honest so it was a natural choice when WVM formed to continue the same path.
30 California Cattleman May/June 2025
respectively, with shipping depending on winter moisture and what the grass looks like in a given year. Longtime Western Video Market consignors Doug and Judy have worked with WVM Representative Todd Muller, Lakeview, Ore., since 2006. They consider Muller to be an integral part of their cattle marketing strategy as they offer their quality commercial Angus cattle to buyers across the country. Muller, who spent his post-college years working for the Peek Family at Shasta Livestock Market in Cottonwood has been a representative of Western Video Market since 2003. He says he is honored to work with roughly 70 ranching families in helping market their cattle on the video annually.
Q
What do you look for in a seedstock supplier?
A
We have gotten our bulls from Donati Ranch, O’Connell Ranch and Byrd Cattle Co., through their production sales in years past. We also purchased bulls from Tehama Angus Ranch in 2024 and buy a few bulls private treaty from local cattleman Herb Holzapfel. We rely on these local and reputable bull producers to raise a product that we know will work in our environment. We have some great operations right here in our area.
We try to go to the bull operations ahead of sale day and get an idea of confirmation and disposition along with the pedigrees we are seeking and then make a list in preferential order. We also don’t purchase replacement heifers as we prefer to keep that we want out of our homeraised heifers so it is also beneficial to know what kind of bulls we will need.
Q
What are the biggest benefits you have found from selling on the video?
A
WVM has been around a long time. They have always been fair and honest with us, which has built a very strong level of trust. Selling on a video market simplifies the entire process of selling. There is a much larger exposure to buyers from both within and outside of your area. There is a diversity in what each buyer might need at any time so there is a huge possibility that your cattle will fit someone’s niche. We have experiened less stress on our cattle by not hauling to and then from an auction facility, our commission is less on the video and the cattle remain comfortable in their familiar surroundings right up until they get on the truck to go to the feedlot. Another factor we have appreciated is that we haven't incurred the substantial shrink that we might see if they were being transported to an unfamiliar location, waiting to be sold and then waiting to be transported by a new buyer.
Q A
What do you see as the biggest job of your WVM Rep? How does Todd accomplish that? Consignors need their rep to know what the market is like, what buyers want and help
communicate that to the consigning producer while helping to find buyers. Todd has been an excellent rep. We rely so much on him to know what programs buyers want and what weights are most optimal to buyers, which sometimes influences which video sale we decide to sell on. Todd also contacts representatives for the feedlots to let them know when we have cattle coming up on the video that fit their program. Communication is a huge factor. We figure and re-figure to get the weights correct so we will be close when we actual deliver. This is very important to the buyer, who wants a certain weight to finish at the correct time for his feedlot to ship them before his next bunch arrives. Todd helps keep buyers happy in these regards, which also helps us attract repeat buyers who had a good experience with our cattle. Todd is always on time with shipping days and reminds us of anything we may have forgotten (i.e., brand inspections, health certificates, program paperwork, etc.). It’s nice to feel ready when he reads off our checklist.
TODD MULLER
Q
What do you most enjoy about representing cattle? How many customers do you serve for WVM?
A
The most rewarding part of repping cattle is the people. I have been blessed to work with some of the best people this country has to offer. The close friendships made with our customers and their families are priceless. I have the opportunity to market cattle for about 70 opperations. While that number can fluctuate over time, I have been at it long enough now that I am starting to do business with the next generation. Ellington always says he is proud of doing buisness with multi-generations, and I am starting to understand what he was talking about. ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 32
WVM Representative Todd Muller weighs Parker Ranch cattle at the ranch west of Williams on shipping day
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31
Q
What do you feel the biggest part of your job is as a rep for WVM?
A
I believe it is the job of the rep to know their client's cattle and know the buyer base that best fits what they are raising. Another important role of a rep is communicating with buyers and relaying the information back to the rancher. In addition, it’s importnant for the rep to stay up on the current market and trends to better inform their clients, allowing them to make decisions that best fit their operation.
HUMBOLDT AUCTION YARD, YARD , LLC Fortuna, California
FOUNDED IN 1968
AUCTION EVERY WEDNESDAY SPECIAL SALES AS ANNOUNCED
Q
What is some advice you would give to a new video sale consignor?
A
A proper vaccination program and preconditoning/weaning has never been more important. Some of first questions a buyer asks is: Are they weaned and how many rounds of shots do they have? There are a number of third party verified programs that ranchers can add to their cattle to help them fetch a higher price, and they have been consistently paying off. I always suggest to my clients that if they decide to go with these programs they need to commit to a minimum of 3 to 5 years to make sure they have had enough time to see a return on their investment. Quality genetics – no matter what breed you are raising – is essential. The end consumer is wanting a higher quality cut of beef and this all starts at the ranch and with the bulls they are selecting.
PROUDLY FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED! LEE MORA JUSTIN MORA (707) 845-7188 (707) 845-7388
603 S 3RD ST, FORTUNA CA 95540
Auction Yard
Q
What do you most enjoy about working with Doug and Judy? Why do you you and Parker Ranch make a good team?
A
I can't say enough good things about the Parker Family, they are a diversified family operation that cuts no corners. The quality and performance of their cattle are a result of their investment in progressive genetics and attention to detail. We have become close friends over the years and the trust we have in each other is what makes us a good team. I am grateful for their friendship and value the opportunity to work with them.
32 California Cattleman May/June 2025
REGULAR SALES FEBRUARY TO AUGUST: THE FIRST AND THIRD SATURDAYS SEPTEMBER TO JANUARY: EVERY SATURDAY for market reports or special sale information, follow us on facebook and instagram!
REED MARTINEZ (530) 640-0148• OFFICE (530) 233-3442 P.O. BOX 790 •HWY 299 W, ALTURAS, CA 96101
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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2025 CALIFORNIA CATTLEMAN
OFFICE........................................ (209) 745-1515 E-MAIL..................................... info@clmgalt.com WEBSITE.................................. www.clmgalt.com CONTACTS Jake and Molly Parnell, Owners.. (916) 662-1298 CATTLE AUCTION............................ Wednesday 12495 East Stockton Blvd. Galt, CA 95632 MEMBERSHIPS........ .NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA
OFFICE.........................................(209) 387-4113 WEBSITE............................www.dpyauction.com CONTACTS
16575 S. Hwy 33, Dos Palos, CA 93620
6001 Albers Road, Oakdale CA 95361
HUMBOLDT
AUCTION YARD, YARD, LLC
603 S. 3rd Street, Fortuna, CA 95540
Joel E. Cozzi............................................209 769-4660 Joel A. (Joey) Cozzi.................................209 769-4662 Jarod Cozzi..............................................209 587-6082 Justin Cozzi..............................................209 710-7906 Garrett Jones ..........................................209 710-7904 Doug Gallaway.........................................209 617-5435 Mike Vieira...............................................209 761-6267
AUCTIONEERS...................... .Jake Parnell, Brian Pachaco, Mark Fischer UPCOMING EVENTS CLM will feature large runs of calves and yearlings during special feeder sales and county cattlemen’s sales May 19, May 28, June 9, June 18 and July 9. Join us August 9 for our annual Fall Calving Cow Sale. Visit www.clmgalt.com for an up-to-date list of upcoming events and market reports.
CATTLE AUCTION..................Monday and Thursday MEMBERSHIPS............... NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA AUCTIONEERS.........Doug Gallaway and Garrett Jones UPCOMING EVENTS Help us celebrate 75 years in the business in 2025! Holding a special feeder sale Friday, May 23.
OFFICE.........................................(209) 847-1033 MEMBERSHIPS................NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA FAX...............................................(209) 847-4425 AUCTIONEERS......................................Clint Haglund CONTACT Easton Haglund............................(209) 988-5031 UPCOMING EVENTS Join us for auction sales every Monday and CATTLE AUCTION...........Monday and Thursday Thursday for dairy, beef and feeder cattle. See our ad on page 43.
OFFICE...........................................(707) 725-5188 FAX.................................................(707) 725-9822 E-MAIL......................humboldtauction@hotmail.com CONTACTS Lee Mora.........................................(707) 845-7188 Justin Mora......................................(707) 845-7388 CATTLE AUCTION.............................. Wednesday
34 California Cattleman May/June 2025
MEMBERSHIPS.......................... CCA, CLAMA AUCTIONEERS..................................Lee Mora .........................................................Justin Mora UPCOMING EVENTS The Mora family invites you to join them ringside every Wednesday in Fortuna. Celebrating 57 years in the auction business!
AUCTION MARKET DIRECTORY
FEATURING CALIFORNIA LIVESTOCK AUCTION YARDS WHO HAVE ADVERTISED THEIR SERVICES IN THE CALIFORNIA CATTLEMAN THIS SPRING.
CONTACTS Leland Mora................................. (707) 845-7188 Justin Mora................................... (707) 845-7388 Max Olvera................................... (209) 277-2063 Jake Parnell................................. (916) 662-1298 In partnership with Humboldt Livestock Auction, Turlock Livestock Auction Yard & Cattlemen's Livestock Market
Auction Yard 38595 CA-299, Alturas, CA 96101
MEMBERSHIPS........ .NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA
OFFICE...........................................(530) 233-3442 MEMBERSHIPS.......................... CCA, CLAMA CONTACTS Reed Martinez.................................(530) 640-0148 UPCOMING EVENTS Call us for dates on special feeder sales. See our ad on page 32. CATTLE AUCTION.........................February to August: first and third Saturdays; September to February every Saturday.
OFFICE...........................................(209) 862-4500 FAX.................................................(209) 862-4700 CONTACTS John McGill.....................................(209) 631-0845
2011 E, Stuhr Rd., Newman, CA 95360
ORLAND LIVESTOCK
UPCOMING EVENTS Join us at Petaluma Auction Yard for our summer feeder sale specials supporting local cattlemen's associations on June 14, June 28, July 26 and a fall bred cows and pair sale on August 23.
CATTLE AUCTIONS..........Tuesday and Thursday MEMBERSHIP....................... .CCA, LMA, CLAMA
OFFICE...........................................(530) 865-4527 FAX.................................................(559) 582-6261
CONTACTS Wade Lacque, Manager.................(530) 570-0547 Freitas......................................(530) 598-1233 COMMISSION YARD Dan Chris McKoen.................................(541) 801-8020 Eddie Ginochio................................(530) 040-5212 3877 Hwy. 99 West, Orland, CA 95963 Todd Muller......................................(541) 417-0192 Ed Bailey.........................................(530) 347-5051
AUCTIONEERS........................... John McGill UPCOMING EVENTS Currently accepting cattle for Tuesday and Thursday sales plus Western Video Market sales from Cottonwood on May 20 and June 8. For details see our ad on page 47.
CATTLE AUCTION............................. .....Thursday MEMBERSHIP....................... .CCA, LMA, CLAMA AUCTIONEERS................................ Wade Lacque UPCOMING EVENTS Call us for details. Also see our ad on page 41. Join us Thursdays at 9 a.m. for our regular beef sales. Also check us out on Facebook!
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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OFFICE...........................................(559) 582-0404 FAX.................................................(559) 582-6261 WEBSITE.................. www.overlandstockyard.com
10565 9th Ave, Hanford CA 93230
tular e county stockyar d
CATTLE AUCTION......... Monday and Thursday MEMBERSHIPS......NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA
CONTACTS Jason Glenn................................... (805) 550-9893 Doug Belezzuoli..............................(559) 816-2806 Ben Renteria...................................(805) 674-1505 Dustin Burkhart.............................. (661) 378-3504 Jim Sili.............................................(661) 340-6848
UPCOMING EVENTS Watch for our feeder specials May 19 and July 7 with our special bred cow sale June 5.
OFFICE...........................................(559) 591-0884 WEBSITE...............www.tularecountystockyard.com
BEEF SALES EVERY FRIDAY AT NOON WITH COWS AT 2 P.M. Join us for Special Feeder Sales in May and June. See our ad on page 43 for details.
CONTACTS Jon Dolieslager...............................(559) 358-1070 AUCTIONEER............................... Jon Dolieslager
9641 Ave. 384, Dinuba, CA 93618 OFFICE...........................................(209) 634-4326 FAX.................................................(209) 634-4396 WEBSITE.......................... www.turlocklivestock.com CONTACTS Max Olvera......................................(209) 277-2063 Steve Faria..................................... (209) 988-7180 BEEF SALE DAYS....Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 10430 Lander Ave., Turlock, CA 95381 OFFICE...........................................(661) 399-2981 FAX.................................................(661) 399-0177 WEBSITE......www.westernstockmansmarket.com
31911 Hwy. 46, McFarland, CA 93250
CONTACTS Dwight Mebane...............................(661) 979-9892 Justin Mebane.................................(661) 979-9894 Frank Machado...............................(805) 839-8166 Bennet Mebane...............................(661) 201-8169
OFFICE...........................................(530) 347-3793 WEBSITE..................................www.wvmcattle.com CONTACTS Jake Parnell....................................(916) 662-1298 Ellington Peek.................................(530) 347-3793 Col. John Rodgers..........................(559) 734-1301
MEMBERSHIPS....NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA AUCTIONEERS..........Max Olvera, Steve Faria and Jake Bettencourt UPCOMING EVENTS Join us May 13, May 20 and May 27 for our May Madness Special Feeder Sale! Plus June small producers specials on June 3 and June 17. for our Cattlemen’s Special Showcase Feeder events and May 10, May 24 and June 7 for our special feeder sales. See our ad on page 10 & 11 for details. BEEF SALE DAY.................................... Monday Butcher Cows at 10:30 a.m./Feeders at 12:30 p.m. MEMBERSHIPS...................... NCBA, CCA, LMA UPCOMING EVENTS Watch for large runs of calves and yearlings in May and June with bred cow sales June 9, July 14 and August 11. Visit us online for the most up-to-date information or see our ad on page 9 for details. MEMBERSHIPS.......... NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA AUCTIONEERS...................... .........Rick Machado, Max Olvera CATTLE AUCTION Join us or call to consign in upcoming sales May 22 and June 13 in Cottonwood and July 14-16 at the Silver Legacy in Reno, Nev.
PO Box 558 Cottonwood, CA 96022
VISALIA LIVESTOCK MARKET
733 North Ben Maddox Way, Visalia, CA 93292
OFFICE...........................................(559) 625-9615 WEBSITE...........................www.visalialivestock.com CONTACTS Randy Baxley..................................(559) 906-9760 Templeton recieving yard................(805) 434-1866 Buellton recieving yard....................(805) 588-3031 RECEIVING YARDS 4350 Ramada Drive, Templeton, CA 93465 2201 Jonata Park Road, Buellton, CA 93427
36 California Cattleman May/June 2025
MEMBERSHIPS.......... NCBA, CCA, LMA, CLAMA AUCTIONEERS...................... ... .......Randy Baxley CATTLE AUCTION Join us May 14, May 21, May 28, June 4 for our spring feeder “off the grass” specials. Also mark your calendars for June 21 for our Annual FallCalving Female Sale. See our ad on page 23 for details!
WESTERN VIDEO MARKET BUYERS & CONSIGNORS GATHER IN COALINGA AND COTTONWOOD Cattlemen and women met up at the iconic Harris Ranch Inn in Coalinga on April 10 and May 1in in Cottonwood for two spectacular Western Video Market events. Producers in attendance were optimistic as the grass in California had arrived on time in the midst of a historically high cattle market. The background of both Harris Ranch and Shasta Livestock provided plenty of nostalgia as the
The short, efficient, well-attended day at Harris Ranch yielded great results for consignors.
settings served as a good reminder to marketers, producers and buyers alike that the California beef business, despite the challenges, is full of goodhearted people and outstanding cattle.
Western Livestock Journal's Jared Patterson celebrates a great sale in Coalinga with Nevada rancher Chris Gansberg.
WVM Founder Ellington Peek Boston Ranch's Cindy and Marty with WVM Buyer Jeff Peck, New Williamson with O'Neal Ranches' Betsy Plymouth, Idaho at Harris Ranch. Cardoza (center).
Jared Patterson and Rod Wessleman The April Harris Ranch WVM also take bids on May 1 in Cottonwood. marked the 36th anniversary of WVM. Ellington Peek was able to catch up with many longtime friends.
Sale staff and WVM Board members Brian Ronayne, Justin Niesen, Col. Jake Parnell and J.C. Niesen at the mid-spring event.
Jared Thompson and Dean Thompson of Los Banos catch up with, Grimmius Cattle Company's Randall Grimmius (center).
WVM's Justin Niesen and son Jim got some business done while at Harris Ranch.
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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Todd Renfrew | Owner/Broker DRE#01838294 | NV20151620313
Farms • Ranches • Recreation • Timber • Vineyards • Luxury Estates • Homes & Cabins
$1M Price Reduction
AP Ranch
Buckeye Creek Ranch
$16,900,000
$14,949,000
14,000 ± Acres | Siskiyou County, CA • • • •
Carrying capacity of 500± mother cows Adjudicated water rights Water irrigates 1,400 ± pasture for grazing 7 homes, 6 barns, & various outbuildings
The Carroll Ranch $14,500,000
9,353.45 ± Acres | Colusa County, CA • • • •
3,068 ± Acres | Shasta County, CA
Currently leased out for hunting & cattle Can run 400 pair of livestock
• • Trophy blacktail deer, quail, dove, pig, turkey • 7,000 SF home, 4,000 SF lodge, barn, & arenas •
Currently runs 500 pair year-round An average of 3,000 tons of hay annually 145 acres of irrigated pasture under pivot Multiple homes & multiple barns
$1M Price Reduction
Constantia Ranch
5 Springs Cattle & Hay Ranch
$10,999,999
$6,850,000
4,872.24 ± Acres | Lassen County, CA • • • •
1,325± irrigated ac; 3,547± ac dry pasture 12 center pivots, 1 lateral Supports 100 pair of livestock 6 AG wells with VFD’s
$5,300,000
1,446 ± Acres | Shasta County, CA • • •
Davis Ranch $4,500,000
• • • •
Palomino Farms
Runs 200 spring calving pairs, 20 replacement heifers & 5 bulls 524 acres in hay; 220 acres of wild rice 5 Ag wells and multiple springs
875 ± Acres | Washoe County, NV • • • •
Emard Cattle & Hay Ranch $4,200,000
Historic O’Connor Ranch
630.93 ± Acres | Alpine County, CA
614 ± Acres | Modoc County, CA
300 irrigated acres; plus 50 sub-irrigated • Support 159 yearlings & 10 bulls seasonally • Great water rights • Open pastures & meadows
240 acres irrigated by 6 wheel lines • 273 acres of dry land farming and/or grazing • Unique riparian water right includes • grazing on the adjoining lakebed
38 California Cattleman May/June 2025
High-quality alfalfa & grass hay production 220.60 irrigated acres under center pivot 3.55 to 4.3 tons per acre of alfalfa yield 1,266+ acre-feet of underground water rights
$4,200,000
189.70 ± Acres | San Luis Obispo Co., CA Grazing lease & fenced for cattle 6 residences & 3 barns Centrally located 10 min from downtown San Luis Obispo & 15 min from the ocean
Price Reduction
Heinz Ranch
Pit River Cattle Ranch
$3,950,000
$3,695,000
10,129.82 ± Acres | Lassen County, CA • • • •
Honey Lake frontage Over a mile of Long Valley Creek There is a current cattle lease Summer/winter livestock pasture potential
Hat Creek Cattle & Hay Ranch $3,590,000
1,850 ± Acres | Lassen County, CA • • • •
Approximately 1,200 acres irrigated 400 pair + 100 yearlings May - early Nov Adjudicated water rights 150 ac farm ground irrigated by wheel lines
260.77 ± Acres | Shasta County, CA • • • •
Over a mile of the legendary Hat Creek 200 ac irrigated via diversion in Hat Creek Top-quality mountain hay Runs 110 pair for the season
Price Reduction
Reese Reservoir Ranch
Parker Creek Ranch
$3,250,000
$2,750,000
748.06 ± Acres | Shasta County, CA • • • •
Minutes to downtown Redding, CA Currently run cattle on the ranch 25-acre lake with great bass fishing Two creeks, four wells, numerous reservoirs
• •
• •
835.28 ± Acres | Tuolumne County, CA
Supports 100-150 pair seasonally
•
Two year-round creeks; Year-round ponds Water rights from both creeks
• •
981± ac of rangeland; 136± ac of irrig. pasture •
Antelope Valley Farm
Walker Trail Ranch
$2,095,000
$1,800,000
500 ± irrigated acres 5 Agricultural wells 4 Zimmatic pivots Strong poduction history of quality alfalfa
$2,725,000
1,117.23 ± Acres | Modoc County, CA
640 ± Acres | Lander County, NV • • • •
Espinoza Ranch
Clark’s Valley Ranch $1,200,000
1,050 ± Acres | Calaveras County, CA • • • •
6 springs & spring fed ponds Currently run cattle on the ranch Livestock troughs, fenced & cross fenced Well-equipped & landscaped headquarters
1,050 acres of bare land A little over 300 acres of flat rangeland Great for cattle Great recreational property
1,760 ± Acres | Lassen County, CA • • • •
Great summer rangeland Currently runs 150 pair for the season Cattle lease in place; year-to-year Water: multiple springs & pond
info@caoutdoorproperties.com | www.CaliforniaOutdoorProperties.com | 707.455.4444
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
39
COMMON
GROUND
INAUGURAL SUMMIT SEEKS TO PRESERVE AMERICA’S FOOD SECURITY In the face of mounting challenges, 40 leaders from across the livestock industry convened at the Common Ground Summit April 21–23 at the Brown Palace Hotel, Denver, Colo. Their shared mission: to safeguard rural communities, ensure America’s food independence and preserve a way of life central to the nation’s agricultural heritage. A Watershed Moment for American Agriculture Years of bridge-building culminated in this pivotal event, marking what participants described as a breakthrough for industry-wide collaboration. Attendees achieved unprecedented consensus on comprehensive policy priorities designed to fortify all segments of the livestock industry. These priorities address urgent threats— including regulatory burdens, labor shortages, tax challenges and barriers to entry for the next generation of producers—that jeopardize the sustainability of family operations and rural economies. Turk Stovall, a rancher and cattle feeder from Billings, Mont., who served as the summit’s moderator, highlighted the event’s importance. “The power behind the Common Ground Summit is these are real producers from across our country that represent a lot of different segments of the livestock industry,” he said. “This goes beyond any one organization. It’s all of us as cattle producers saying, ‘These are the things we really need—and we really need them now.’”
40 California Cattleman May/June 2025
Turning Challenges into Solutions The three-day summit tackled a stark reality: America risks losing its capacity to feed itself independently, a situation with profound implications for both national security and the agricultural sector. Through intensive dialogue, participants reached consensus on six critical areas for action: • Ag-Friendly Tax Policy – Extend and enhance key provisions like transfer tax exemptions, stepup in basis, and accelerated depreciation to support agricultural families. • Risk Management Tools – Improve programs like Livestock Risk Protection to better serve producers. • Access to Labor – Streamline and expand H-2 programs to address labor shortages. • Flexibility for Livestock Haulers – Exempt livestock haulers from restrictive Hours-ofService rules and the electronic logging device mandate. • Support for Young and Emerging Producers – Expand USDA loan programs, incentivize land transfers to younger producers, and foster interest in agricultural careers. • Innovation and Sustainability – Champion technologies and programs to enhance production efficiency and sustainability. Barb Downey, a rancher from Wamego, Kan., who took part in the inaugural event, agreed with Stovall. “I’m pleasantly surprised that we are
setting aside differences and moving forward on actionable items that we can work towards together,” she said. “You’ve got some really amazing people in this room, and we’ve all adopted the attitude that we’re going to work on what we can agree on and get that done.” And that “we’re all in this together” attitude will be the key to success, Greg Ibach said. The farmer and rancher from Nebraska previously served as USDA’s Undersecretary of Agriculture for Marketing and Regulatory Programs and as the Director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. “We seem to have more divergence of opinion on how things should take place, even within the beef industry,” he said. “Bringing together members of different organizations that sometimes diverge on policy opinions and trying to find some uniformity, I think, will help us be more effective in Washington, D.C. if we can go back with a unified ask, at least on certain topics.” A Call to Action Stovall said the group—and the industry as a whole—must strike while the iron is hot and invites others to join the charge. “As land goes out of production, as producers don’t come back to the farms, at what point do we wake up in the morning and we find out we
can’t feed our country, and it really becomes beyond a livestock industry issue?” Stovall asked. “It becomes a national security issue. And so right now is the most important time for us to be talking about these things.” The Common Ground Summit stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, charting a path forward for America’s livestock industry. For more information on this initiative, visit commongroundsummit.net. In a statement released by the group of attendees, they said, “Agriculture is not optional. America’s food chain is only as strong as our family farms and ranches. Our livestock industry is better together and must unify with one voice. As dedicated stakeholders in the livestock industry, we call upon our fellow livestock producers and all of agriculture to join us and stand united. The time has come to prove that our industry can and will align to drive meaningful and lasting change, safeguarding the future of America’s agricultural sector, rural communities and our nation’s food independence. Mulitple members of the California Cattlemen’s Association were in attendance at the summit, including: John Dickinson, Caldwell, Idaho; Joe Fischer, Auburn; Randall Grimmius, Hanford: Pat Kirby, Oakdale; and Col. Jake Parnell, Sacramento.
Our family business is continuously evolving with the times to help your family business succeed today and in the future! Providing competitive bidding for your livestock sales for 70 years!
SALES EVERY THURSDAY AT 9 A.M.
Find us on facebook for our market report and news about special sales and upcoming events! 3877 County Road 99W Orland, CA 95963 | (530) 865-4411 | Wade Lacque, Manager • (530) 570-0547 Dan Freitas Siskiyou (530) 598-1233
Chris McKoen Klamath (541) 891-8920
REPRESENTATIVES Eddie Ginochio Modoc (530) 640-5272
Todd Mueller Lakeview (541) 417-0132
Ed Bailey Lassen (530) 347-5051
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
41
NATIONAL STAGE USING THE STICK
PRESIDENT TRUMP, BEEF AND INTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONAL TRADE by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Chief Executive Officer Colin Woodall Teddy Roosevelt is one of my favorite former U.S. presidents, and I love reading about his life. In particular, I enjoy learning more about his time as a rancher in North Dakota. He famously said later in life that he would not have been president had it not been for his years in North Dakota. That is a ringing endorsement for our values and way of life. International relations and trade were also a significant part of his public life and presidency. As a member of the famed Rough Riders, he played a key role in helping win the Spanish-American War, thus increasing U.S. access to places like Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Philippines. In a projection of American power and goodwill, he sent the Great White Fleet to circumnavigate the globe and claimed our spot as an international power. While an effort to build a canal between the Pacific and Atlantic had been talked about for years, it was President Roosevelt who finally got the project going and the resulting Panama Canal changed the scope of international trade. Throughout all these actions, his approach of speaking softly and carrying a big stick was always top of mind. Now, under President Trump, the big stick is being wielded to once again change the scope of international trade. First and foremost, it is important to remember NCBA is supportive of international trade and has spent years working to open markets for our beef. May is beef month and Memorial Day weekend serves as the unofficial beginning of grilling season. However, the majority of Americans aren’t inviting their friends and families over for beef tongue. Tongue is just one example of the beef variety meats and offal that other countries and cultures
42 California Cattleman May/June 2025
crave and are willing to pay for, while our domestic customers aren’t. Trade has evolved over time, and we now send more than just variety meats overseas because once our international customers get a taste of our beef, they want more. Trade must be reciprocal, so that brings me back to the big stick. Tariffs are a big stick, but they can be an effective tool in getting the attention of your trading partners. The president is right to expect fair treatment from the nations who wish to do business with us. Our trading relationship with Australia is a prime example of a relationship that isn’t working. In the past 20 years, Australia has sold roughly $29 billion in beef to American consumers. During the same time frame, we haven’t sold a single dollar’s worth of fresh beef
to their consumers due to unnecessary trade restrictions being positioned under the guise of biosecurity. For several years, they’ve given us lip service about wanting to lift the restrictions they’ve had in place, but enough is enough. You can’t have a trade relationship that only works one way, and now we have a president who wants to help us address the imbalance. President Trump even called out the Australian beef issue during comments he made in the Rose Garden at the White House. Rather than come to the table to discuss the actions needed to fix the issue, Australians from the chief executive officer of Cattle Australia to their Prime Minister decided it was best to question the safety and quality of our beef. With “mates” like these, who needs to worry about enemies? The United States sets the gold standard when it comes to safety, and our production technologies are tested and proven. We simply want trade deals built on sound, evidencebased science. You might be interested in knowing that the leader of Cattle Australia was once the agriculture attaché at their embassy in Washington, D.C., and never seemed to have
a problem eating U.S. beef. Australia isn’t the only country guilty of using pseudo-science barriers. The European Union banned any beef from cattle receiving hormone implants many years ago. It was a politically motivated and protectionist move that we’ve also brought to the president’s attention. This is our chance to force these “partners” to answer for the way they are treating our beef. We maintain constant communication with the team at the White House to share data and our concerns about other countries. Yes, we still believe in trade and will continue to show the president how important trade is to our success, but let’s strike now to find ways to expand our access in existing markets while also finding new trade partners. Remember, President Trump believes in the art of the deal, and NCBA will work with him to find long-term benefit for you and our industry.
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READY TO HARVEST PARK RANCH CONTINUES TO SERVE COMMUNITY AND OPENS HARVEST FACILITY IN MINDEN, NEV. by CCA Associate Director of Communications Maureen LaGrande Getting beef from the pasture to the consumer’s plate is no easy feat. Today, a challenge many ranchers face is locating a facility that will harvest, age and package their meat. Many California producers have shared how difficult it is to find a one-stop shop for their needs and that many have to travel to multiple facilities before they have a finished product. Facing similar experiences as other producers, Park Ranch, located in Minden, Nev., opened a harvest and processing facility in February of 2024, ready to serve their community and fellow cattle producers for all of their processing needs. Park Ranch is a multigenerational operation run by David Park, “I’ve been in the ranching business all my life,” said Park who took over the family business in the ‘90s after he returned from college at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. In addition to the new processing facility, Park Ranch raises their own livestock and produces cattle feed for themselves and other ranchers. In 2020, David and the ranch’s executive manager Sarah Shannon were selling cattle for under a buck a pound during COVID. “We work hard for what we do, and during COVID it was challenging,” said David. “We wanted to see how we could vertically generate our business and sell Park Ranch Beef.” With this reality and wanting to find another outlet to bring in an
44 California Cattleman May/June 2025
income to the operation, both David and Sarah knew that they had to do something to help not only their business but other producers who, at the time, were facing the same struggles. Their original plan was to create a mobile meat slaughter unit, but as they began their research, they realized that the mobile unit would only be able to process 12 animals in a day. “That’s when we decided we were going to brick and mortar our own processing facility,” said Sarah. Moving forward with their plans, David and Sarah proposed their idea to the town and county commission to build the facility. After some discussion and approval, Park Ranch moved forward with building the custom meat plant in the back bay of a warehouse Park Ranch already owned. Working with an engineer to bring their vision to life, the construction of the facility was done in phases, coming together piece by piece four years later. After a USDA inspection and a few minor changes, the facility was up and running. “The kill floor has been up and running for six months and the processing floor for nine,” said David. “Honestly, I think we are doing pretty darn good in the first six months of operation.” Open to the public, Park Ranch Meats offers custom exempt and USDA processing and is working diligently to get the word out about their facility. “We are at about 25 percent
“WE ARE PROUD OF OUR PRODUCT, HARVEST OUR OWN CATTLE AND SHARE IT WITH THE COMMUNITY.” – David Park
Park Ranch Meats capacity,” said Sarah. Starting out, the facility Sierras and Central California. As the word of processed two to four animals a week but has their opening continues to spread, people most recently processed up to 15. Park Ranch’s are coming from farther away to bring meat processing facility itself can process their animals, with the facility gaining new up to 60 head a week and are ready to work customers each week. “In our customer base, with any producer that comes their way. “We we probably have about 25 customers having are just ramping up,” said Sarah. In addition their animals processed through us,” added to processing cattle, Park Ranch also offers Sarah. custom-exempt processing for hogs, lambs and For California cattle producers looking for goats. a place to process their animals Sarah shares, Now the executive manager of Park Ranch, “We are open for business, send us an email Sarah originally started out as an admin for the and we will get you scheduled.” For those who ranch doing all of their bookkeeping. “It quickly choose to use Park Ranch for their processing turned into me getting to do all the things,” needs, they are given a wide array of options said Sarah. Today, she helps with calving, tractor for how they would like their animals to be driving, and keeping track of the financials. “I processed. Customers can decide how long am the glue that holds everyone together and they want their carcasses aged, and any keeps them in line,” said Sarah. additional specifications they may have will Being in business for a little over a year be met by the Park Ranch team. Customers now, a challenge of running the facility has are also able to track the processing of their been finding employees who are skilled within animals from start to finish at the facility. the processing field. While at times staffing With the increased popularity of may be difficult for Park Ranch, the positive purchasing beef shares directly from the side of the business outweighs the struggles. rancher, Sarah shared that many of their clients “The people we do have employed here are have shared that their meat is already sold passionate and they take pride in their work,” before it is even picked up from Park Ranch’s said Sarah. David shared that one of his favorite facility. “People want to know where their parts of this venture is the challenge. “It’s fun to see the challenge not only for myself but for ...CONTINUED ON PAGE 46 my employees and how everyone here is dedicated to making the facility a success,” said David. Identifying a community need, the facility has not only brought jobs to its residents but has also given fellow ranchers a facility that they can use and meet all of their needs with less travel time compared to previously having to drive to Reno, Fallon or over the hill to California to get their animals processed. Reflecting on her job, Sarah shared that she enjoys that each day of work is different from the last, with no dull moments. “We are very tightknit, we are like family,” said Sarah. Park Ranch doesn’t stop at serving Nevada-based producers, their customer base also includes ranchers from the Some of the Park Ranch team: Don Harper, Sarah Shannon, northern part of California, the Eastern Garret Bunyard and David Park. May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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...CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45 meat is coming from,” said Sarah. With their sales increasing by the month, Park Ranch has tripled in sales since last February when they initially opened. Sharing the story of Park Ranch and all of the additional facets of the industry David is involved, is a draw-in to their customers. “David is a fifth-generation rancher, and customers always enjoy when they can meet the face behind Park Ranch Beef,” Sarah shared. Park Ranch is part of a closed-loop food system with Reno Local Food Group. What is a closed-loop food system? That means that once the grain is spent to brew the beer, Park Ranch hauls the spent grains out to their finish feed lot, and it is fed to the cattle. Once the cattle are harvested and processed, Reno Local Food Group then buys the meat from Park Ranch Meats to supply all their restaurants; Great Basin Brewery Sparks, Great Basin Brewery Reno, Great Basin Brewery Carson City, Great Basin Brewery Minden; Liberty Food and Wine; Cucina Lupo, Overland and Liberty Events Catering. Park Ranch’s meat can be purchased online and at the Great Basin Brewery retail shop in Minden. With their meat processing and direct-toconsumer businesses kicking off Park Ranch is looking forward to all that is to come in this venture. “We’ve learned so much over these last few years,” said Shannon. “What an amazing project it has been to be involved in from us writing it on a napkin to us here and doing it.” To learn more about Park Ranch and the processing facility, visit parkranchmeats.com.
Park Ranch Meats also harvests, processes and sells their own line of meats direct-to-consumer.
To learn more about Park Ranch’s facility or see a video of their closed loop food system, utilize these codes.
46 California Cattleman May/June 2025
Some of the Park Ranch team in their newly built harvesting facility.
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Keep fresh, clean water flowing with a low-maintenance, long-lasting Ritchie. Ritchie is a registered trademark of Ritchie Industries. © 2025 Ritchie. All rights reserved. 1 Bica, G. S., Filho, L. C. P. M., and Teixeira, D. L. (2021, April 28). Beef cattle on pasture have better performance when supplied with water trough than pond. Frontiersin Veterinary Science. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2021.616904
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2011 e stuhr rd. • newman, ca May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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POSITIVE OUTLOOK
COBANK SAYS Q1 PRODUCER VALUES START 2025 STRONG, GROWTH OUTLOOK REMAINS MODERATE by Brian Earnest, animal protein economist, CoBank
The intersection of increasing production U.S. cattle herd, the beef sector has been able to costs and the consumer’s willingness and ability maintain production to meet strong consumer to pay has been front of mind for livestock and demand. U.S. beef production through the third poultry producers. Calendar year 2024 data week of March was 6.03 billion pounds, up 1.1 reveals that U.S. per-capita consumption of meat percent year-to-date compared to 2024. Weekly and poultry rose 1.3 percent year over year to dressed cattle weights have pushed 3 percent to 228 pounds. Despite much higher price levels, 6 percent higher than a year ago, hitting a record this points to exceptionally resilient demand, 882 pounds./head in late January. prompting optimism ahead of grilling season. According to the 2025 USDA Cattle report, After a period of frenzied food service total cattle inventory fell 0.6 percent to 86.7 million “revenge spending” by consumers in 2022 and head, the lowest since 1951. The herd size of nearly 2023, we expected higher prices and weakening every category of cattle was smaller compared to wage growth in 2024 would pull them back into the year prior. the kitchen. New USDA-ERS data largely confirms Higher calf prices have given producers an that, as inflation-adjusted food away from home incentive not to cull open cows as quicky (Exhibit spending flattened mid-year 2024, and food-at2), and no state had a noticeable uptick in beef home spending grew by 2 percent year over year. heifer eplacements. This will further postpone the The burden of inflation does not fall only on beef cow rebuild until at least 2027 should extra the consumer, producers are still dealing with heifers be held back this year. elevated non-feed costs. The producer price Inexpensive feed costs and tight supplies have index for slaughter cattle, for instance, was up kept cattle in the feedlot for more days (Exhibit 3), an average of 17 percent during the most recent causing a surge in feeder cattle prices during the three months reported. However, the impact of falling cost of feed – always the biggest Exhibit 1. U.S. red meat and poultry export sales cost segment – has provided recent tailwinds record high calf prices to the industry: Corn prices retreated by 27 percent year over year, all hay prices were down 21 percent, and soybeans fell 21 percent in the most recently ended 12 months. With that, animal feeders and integrated processor performance has excelled. Nearly across the board, livestock and poultry market performance is improved. While barriers to animal protein trade have arisen over the last few months, with more likely ahead, U.S. meat and poultry exports held up through the end of 2024. U.S. red meat and poultry export sales rose 4 percent in 2024 to the second highest on record, at a value of $24 billion, as seen in Exhibit 1. Despite challenges and volatility in the
48 California Cattleman May/June 2025
first quarter. According to the CME Daily Feeder Cattle Index, feeder cattle prices have ranged $26-$52/cwt. higher compared to a year ago and reached a record $288/cwt in March. Packer margins remain squeezed, suggesting more cattle are staying on feed for longer and prices are continuing the upward trajectory. These conditions have pushed the all-fresh
retail beef price to new highs and set a record of $8.32/pound. in February, according to USDAERS. Lean beef is becoming scarcer as fewer beef and dairy cows are sent to slaughter, further accelerating the price growth for ground beef. In 2025, the U.S. will import more lean beef from countries like Australia and Brazil to help meet demand.
Exhibit 2. Continuing beef herd liquidation with record high calf prices
Exhibit 3. Cattle on feed make up more of the total cattle inventory
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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YOUNG PRODUCER LEARNING, PARTICIPATING AND PURSUING A CAREER WITHIN THE CATTLE INDUSTRY by Katie Stroud for the California Cattlemen’s Association Growing up on my family’s 4th-generation cattle operation in the Northeastern portion of the state, I knew I liked cows. Still, I had limited knowledge of what kinds of careers were available within the industry. Life moves a little slower in Adin, and while you’ll find plenty of bovine, the area consists primarily of cow/calf operations with little diversity. When I headed for college in the fall of 2011, I figured I had three options: return to the family place, hope the high school ag teacher job was open when I graduated, or go to vet school. Little did I know my world was about to get a whole lot bigger in a hurry. During my first semester at California State University, Chico, I was studying Animal Science and found myself asking a lot of questions. Do I even know where our calves go after they leave the ranch on the truck? How does the cattle market actually work? What all goes into getting that animal to the grocery store? It certainly seemed a lot more complex than the life I was exposed to as a kid. I quickly set a goal for myself to learn about every sector of the beef industry. This goal, while nonchalant at the time, ended up being the driving force behind many opportunities in the future. It led me to become involved in extracurricular activities such as the National Beef Ambassador Program, Chico State Young Cattlemen’s Association and the Chico State Livestock Judging Team. Through these experiences, I was able to
50 California Cattleman May/June 2025
take a deeper dive into the pasture-to-plate production cycle, build a solid foundation of livestock evaluation, and start traveling and touring different kinds of operations throughout the country. I took advantage of summers and school breaks to gain hands-on experience through internships, various jobs and even going home with college friends to see what their family operations were like. Every yes helped open my eyes a little more to this incredibly diverse industry. I was fortunate enough to serve two terms on the California Young Cattlemen’s Committee – once as publicity chair and another year as chairman. Not only did I love building relationships with peers from all corners of the state and walks of life, but perhaps my favorite part was getting a front row seat to all of the hard work the CCA staff and officer team puts into ensuring we can continue ranching in the state of California for years to come. It was an honor to be a small part of the association and help with the many events that take place throughout the year. You won’t find a more supportive group when it comes to involving the next generation. I’m forever grateful for the wisdom gained and guidance provided, and I cherish the time spent with the membership. As I was approaching the end of my junior year, I knew it was time to start thinking more seriously about the direction I wanted to go after college. Most of the work I was doing at the time fell under the realm of agriculture communications and public relations, with an interest in policy. Most of my peers were ending up in capital cities like Sacramento, Denver and Washington, D.C., and I started to feel more disconnected heading down that same path. Right before the career fair at the University Farm that spring, a feedlot company came and spoke to our beef production class. I had toured a feedyard before, but still had very little understanding of that sector. That presentation lit a fire in me and I quickly became enthralled with that line of work. When I called my dad seeking advice about my potential change in summer plans, he promptly
simplified the decision by asking, “Well, would you rather spend the summer in a cubicle or outside working with cows?” A few phone calls and four weeks later, I was headed to Southwest Kansas to work for Five Rivers Cattle Feeding. That summer changed the trajectory of my life, all because I went back to my basic goal I had set a few years prior. The hustle and bustle of the feedyard has a way of getting in your blood, and I ended up spending most of my twenties in the Midwest working in feedlot management. I could write an entire article alone on what I loved about that experience, but I’ll paraphrase by saying the knowledge gained in animal health, nutrition, procurement, risk management and leadership have proved to be invaluable time and time again. A few years ago, life brought me home to California and nowadays you’ll find me on the road doing verifications for program cattle with IMI Global. It’s been really neat to see how God has brought that range of experiences full circle by placing me in a position where I can combine my passion for production and heart for helping others. I feel extremely blessed to have the unique opportunity to see operations all over the west and meet the most genuine, hardworking people. Being invited to take a seat at someone’s kitchen table and learn about their business and family legacy is a privilege I do not take lightly. Ranchers have to wear many different hats, and any time I get to assist in navigating an ever-changing market and
find ways to bring added value to their operation is a great day. If I can offer any advice to young producers, it would be to stay curious and never lose your hustle. You become who you surround yourself with, so make sure you’ve got good people in your circle. Never be the smartest person in the room, ask lots of questions and pick people’s brains whenever possible. Spend time in other regions, environments and sectors. It will change the way you look at cows, your approach to the business, and ultimately make you a better cattleman in the long run. It’s okay to not have it all figured out yet; that’s really never something you arrive at. Just keep saying yes to opportunities to grow and learn, and eventually your goals and interests will refine themselves. I can guarantee that whatever you’re chasing after will take more work and grit than you can imagine, but never forget that you’re tougher than you think and you can do hard things. I often reflect on my younger self, who was so sure that if she wanted to live in her rural small town, her options would be limited. How cool to be able to look back now and watch the journey that has led to a career and a life that I never even knew existed. I hope my story has encouraged you to always be open-minded in the pursuit of your purpose. You never know what doors might open up along the way and where they will lead.
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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CHIMES RECAPPING THE SPRING MEETING OF CALIFORNIA’S CATTLEWOMEN by Molly Watkins for California CattleWomen, Inc. Debbie Costa’s first meeting as CCW President was held in Visalia in mid-April where Beef Promotion Chairman Cheryl Foster, Montague, presented an all-day program followed by an evening of laughs and fun at the Imagine U Children’s Museum, and Debbie presided over a well-executed board of directors’ meeting. The research of Gaby Maier, DVM, at UC Davis addressed the challenges for California’s beef cattle industry. Many California poultry and dairy cattle have been infected with H5N1, and more than 749 dairies have been affected in the state. She claimed the reason for the state outbreak was that the workers moved from dairy to dairy and acted as carriers for the disease. Sandy Fiack, board member for California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, shared several classroom presentation ideas and had everyone to make a brand from pipe cleaners. She asked each unit to sponsor a local teacher to attend the 2025 Ag in the Classroom Conference in Sacramento, Sept. 26-28, 2025. California Beef Council’s Annette Kassis, Director of Consumer and Brand Marketing, presented survey results about who and why consumers are buying beef. She reported that approximately 70 percent or more of survey respondents eat beef weekly in California. Surprisingly, the highest consumption is among San Francisco consumers. Makenzie Coveau, CBC Manager of Producer Education and Engagement, noted that this is the 75th anniversary of the California Beef Council. The Council will use Check-off dollars to produce a virtual field trip for K-5th-grade students on May 8, 2025. Dayna Ghiradelli, executive director of the Sonoma County Farm Bureau, discussed Measure J, which was defeated in the November 2024 election. Measure J would have placed strict limits on the size of individual animal farms. Animal rights groups campaigned on the argument that larger animal farms pollute the environment and are more likely to mistreat animals. With 82.48 percent voter turnout, Measure J was defeated. The CattleWomen had breakout displays from various Units. We learned about new ranching books from Ag in Classroom chair Marsha Stevens. Melanie Fowle-Nelson, Siskiyou Unit member, provided an “Ag Issues Lesson Plan” that can be used with high school ag students to bring
52 California Cattleman May/June 2025
awareness of industry topics typically not discussed in the classroom. Corey Gill, PGA member and fellow CattleWomen’s member, detailed how to host a golf fundraiser tournament. Alameda County has a “Beef Is King” Cookout Contest. CattleWoman, and local member Merry Carter reported that the contest is heavily advertised on social media and judges who are influencers and local celebrities repost the event activities. Shasta County shared their wonderful Beef Byproducts display, including posters explaining how fat, blood, intestine, and hides are transformed. The evening meal was held in the Imagine U Children’s Museum, designed to ignite the imagination and curiosity of all ages. That curiosity is evident in the Tulare County CattleWomen’s “Cattle County” display. With funding from the California Cattle Council, they created a pretend chute with a plastic calf that could be branded. The business meeting was held on Sunday morning, and the summer meeting will be in conjunction with the Cattlemen’s meeting in Paso Robles in mid-August.
California CattleWomen, Inc. Summer Event BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING FRIDAY, AUG. 15 • 8:30 AM — 11:30 AM PASO ROBLES PIONEER MUSEUM 2010 RIVERSIDE AVE PASO ROBLES, CA 93446
AGWEST FARM CREDIT SUPPORTS NEW PRODUCERS WITH $15,000 GRANT PROGRAM AgWest Farm Credit is accepting applications for the New Producer Grant program. The grant provides $15,000 in start-up funds to successful applicants and the deadline to apply is May 31, 2025. AgWest Farm Credit, a cooperative lending association dedicated to supporting agriculture, has launched the application window for the AgWest New Producer Grant program, designed to help motivated producers get started in agriculture. The grant provides $15,000 in start-up funds to successful applicants to support their agricultural ventures. Bill Perry, President and CEO of AgWest, said, “We’re committed to championing agriculture by empowering the next generation of producers. Through programs like the New Producer Grant, we foster innovation, growth and a pathway to long-term success for aspiring farmers and ranchers." PROGRAM DETAILS: Benefits: One-time grant of $15,000 Eligibility criteria: • Be a full- or part-time agriculturalist with two years or less of operational experience or have plans to start an operation within two years of the grant application date. • Have an operation located within AgWest Farm Credit’s territory. • Not be a current AgWest lending customer. Must be 18 years of age and either a U.S. citizen or a foreign national lawfully admitted for permanent residency or pursuant to certain visas.
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Application requirements: • Prepare a business plan, cash flow budget, application and a one-page essay describing how the grant will help achieve operational goals. • View three recorded webinars covering Financial Statement Basics at AgWestFC.com. English and Spanish resources are available to assist with completing the application components. Application deadline: May 31, 2025 Application link: Submit applications online at AgWestFC.com/new-producer-grant.
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May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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CCA COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR HONORED AS ONE OF COWGIRL MAGAZINE’S “30 UNDER 30” One of the faces shown in a “30 under 30” who’s who selection of western industry advocates is none other than CCA Director of Communications Katie Roberti. The full list of Wrangler COWGIRL 30 under 30 for 2025 was released in the March and April 2025 issue of Cowgirl Magazine, the publication which selects and recognizes these up and coming industry elites. Katie Roberti grew up on her family’s hay and cattle ranch in California’s Sierra Valley, fostering a deep appreciation for ranching life. Determined to preserve California agriculture, she earned a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Communication from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and a Master’s in Journalism from the University of Nevada, Reno. Katie’s career advocating for members of the California Cattlemen’s Association centers on using her multimedia skills to educate others about ranching families by sharing their stories. Her upbringing and education fuel her passion for advocating for agriculture and celebrating the ranching way of life. In addition to being featured in Cowgirl Magazine, Wrangler COWGIRL 30 Under 30, is presented by Cavender’s the Official Retailer, Charlie 1 Horse Hats the Official Hat, Durango Boots the
Official Boot, and Montana Silversmiths the Official Jeweler and Girl Talk host for COWGIRL 30 Under 30 with Corral Boots, Double D Ranch, and Old Gringo Boots. In early April, Roberti attended a weekend-long event and award reception in Fort Worth, Texas, alongside family and friends. The event recognized her efforts and those of her peers. On the mic at the event, Roberti shared sentiments about her love for the western way of life and the many career paths than can influence the preservation of agriculture and the culture of the American west.
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916.712.3696 • 916.803.2685 jj@barrangus.com
Join us Sept. 11, 2025 for our annual bull sale!
56 California Cattleman May/June 2025
BULLS, FEMALES, EMBRYOS AND SEMEN FOR SALE AT THE RANCH IN MONTAGUE
Lee Nobmann, owner Hunter Wheeler, manager (530) 520-8362 • hunter@dixievalley.com
Noah’s Angus Ranch Offering bulls at California’s top consignment sales!
LOOK FOR US AT LEADING SALES IN 2025!
Call today about private treaty offerings!
Nathan, Melissa & Kate Noah (208) 257-3686 • (208) 550-0531
Gerber, CA
RED RIVER FARMS 13750 West 10th Avenue Blythe, CA 92225 Office: 760-922-2617 Bob Mullion: 760-861-8366 Michael Mullion: 760-464-3906
Simmental – SimAngus™ – Angus
O’Connell ranch
• Calving Ease with Growth •
Thank you to our bull buyers!
O’Connell Aviator 7727
Hoffman Bomber 8743
VDAR PF Churchhill 2825
VDAR Mirror Image 6207
CONTACT US ABOUT SEMEN FROM THESE IMPRESSIVE SIRES...
SIRE: Musgrave Aviator MGS: R B Tour Of Duty 177
SIRE: VDAR Churchill 1063 MGS: VDAR Really Windy 4189
Registered Angus Cattle Call to see what we have to offer you!
H
Scott & Shaleen Hogan
R (530) 200-1467 • (530) 227-8882
SIRE: Casino Bomber N33 MGS: S A V Final Answer 0035 SIRE: W R A Mirror Image T10 MGS: BCC Bushwacker 41-93
Contact us year-round to learn about cattle available private treaty.
DAN & BARBARA O’CONNELL
Joe Sammis • (530) 397-3456
3590 Brown Rd, Colusa CA (530) 632-4492
122 Angus Rd., Dorris, CA 96023
O’NEAL RANCH You can take to the bank!
PERFORMANCE-TESTED EFFICIENT, QUALITY ANGUS BULLS NOW AVAILABLE!
h
— Since 1878—
JOIN US TUESDAY, 9 FOR2023 OUR ANNUAL THANKSSEPT. TO OUR BULL SALE AT THE RANCH NEAR MADERA! “PERFORMANCE PLUS” BULL BUYERS!
O’NEAL RANCH BULLS OFFER THE COMPLETE PACKAGE GROWTH • PERFORMANCE ADAPTABILITY • CARCASS Gary & Betsy Cardoza
(775) 691-1838 • honeranch@frontier.com HONERANCH.COM
PO Box 40 • O’Neals, CA 93645 (559) 999-9510
Offering top-performing bulls at California’s most premier consignment sales!
“Performance is our stock in trade” SANGER, CA|(928) 941-9419
STEPASIDEFARM.COM
SPLIT CREEK
ANGUS
Contact us about cattle available private treaty
old stage angus Registered and Commercial Genetics Semen and Embryo Sales | Meat Sales Myron Schotanus | (559) 804-4997 oldstageangus.com
and watch for us at the West’s best consignment events!
JEREMY & CATHY STRAND TEHAMA COUNTY, CA JEREMY: (530) 200-6146 | CATHY: 916-768-5019
WWW.SPLITCREEKANGUS.COM
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
57
51ST ANNUAL “GENERATIONS OF PERFORMANCE” BULL SALE
SEPT. 12, 2025 IN GERBER!
RED ANGUS MCPHEE RED ANGUS "As good as the best, better than the rest!" Annual Production Sale Sept. 27, 2025 in Lodi
(530) 385-1570
E-mail................................tehamaranch@gmail.com
Call us today for information on private treaty bulls or females. 14298 N. Atkins Rd • Lodi, CA 95240 Rita 209-607-9719 and Royce 209-712-8116 website: www.mcpheeredangus.com
HEREFORD
MORRELL RANCHES
HEREFORD
GENETICS
“THE BRAND YOU CAN COUNT ON” Call us about our upcoming consignments or private treaty cattle available off the ranch.
BARRY, CARRIE & BAILEY MORRELL Barry: (530) 682-5808 • Carrie: (530) 218-5507 Bailey (530) 519-5189 morrellranches@yahoo.com 5640 County Road 65 | Willows, CA
Top performance Hereford genetics —Horned and Polled—
A FAMILY TRADITION Angus and SimAngus Cattle John Teixeira: (805) 448-3859 Allan Teixeira: (805) 310-3353 Tom Hill: (541) 990-5479 www.teixeiracattleco.com | cattle@thousandhillsranch.com
JOIN US AT OUR ANNUAL PRODUCTION SALE SEPT. 8, 2025!
REGISTERED HEREFORD & ANGUS
Chris Beck, Manager • 618-367-5397 Bob Coker • 916-539-1987 visit us online at: www.genoalivestock.com
THE COLEMAN FAMILY TIM: (209) 968-7232 • KARA: (209) 613-6061
WWW.SIERRARANCHES.NET
SEEDSTOCK PRODUCER SINCE 1978 Registered Hereford Cattle, Angus Cattle & Quarter Horses Leading Angus & Ultrablack© Genetics Bulls and females available private treaty!
TUMBLEWEED RANCHES Greeley Hill, CA • La Grange, CA Stephen Dunckel • (209) 591-0630 www.tumbleweedranch.net twd@tumbleweedranch.net
ANNUAL BULL SALE: 9/4/2025 IN LAGRANGE FEMALE SALE: 10/11/2025 IN MODESTO
Annual Sale First Monday in March
42500 Salmon Creek Rd Baker City, OR 97814
Ranch: (541) 523-4401 Bob Harrell, Jr.: (541) 523-4322
OFFERING HEREFORD BULLS BUILT FOR THE COMMERCIAL CATTLEMAN Jim Mickelson (707) 481-3440
Bobby Mickelson (707) 396-7364
marciamick3@gmail.com www.sonomamountainherefords.com
P.W. GILLIBRAND Cattle Co.
Horned and Polled Hereford Genetics
Private treaty bulls available or watch for our consignments at Cal Poly!
OFFICE@VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM WWW.VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM
58 California Cattleman May/June 2025
Dwight Joos Ranch Manager P.O. Box 1019 • Simi Valley, CA 93062 805-520-8731 x1115 • Mobile 805-428-9781 dwight.joos@pwgcoinc.com Simi Valley, CA
pwgillibrandcattle.com
To lean more about AHA, contact Western Regional Field Representative Emilee Holt at 208-965-3130 11500 N Ambassador Drive, Suite 410 | Kansas City, MO 64153 | (816) 842-3757 | aha@hereford.org
BRANGUS
NUTRITION
California’s Leading Producers for Brangus, Ultrablack & Brangus Optimizers
Premium Livestock Feeds “PERFORMANCE THROUGH WWW.BARALEINC.COM ADVANCED (888) 258-3333NUTRITION” • Williams, CA Matt Zappetini 526-0106 • Mineral Mixes with(530) Ranch Delivery • mzappetini@baraleinc.com • Hi Mag - Fly Control - Rumensin - Custom Mixes • Performance Through • Complete Feeds and Finish Mixes • Advanced Nutrition
Call a breeder near you today for more information! BALD MOUNTAIN BRANGUS, SONORA (209) 768-1712
DEER CREEK RANCH, LOS MOLINOS (541) 817-2335
RUNNING STAR RANCH, LINCOLN (916) 257-5517
THE SPANISH RANCH, NEW CUYAMA (805) 245-0434
SUNSET RANCH, OROVILLE (530) 990-2580
GLASGOW BRANGUS, SANTA YSABEL (760) 789-2488
www.baraleinc.com • (888) 258-3333
Williams, CA Matt Zappetini (530) 526-0106 mzappetini@baraleinc.com
TUMBLEWEED RANCHES, GREELEY HILL (209) 591-0630
Ranch Deliveries Available with our Truck and Forklift!
ANIMAL HEALTH SPANISH RANCH Your Source for Brangus and Ultrablack Genetics in the West!
LAND COMPANY EST 1944
Reliable products you are looking for with the dependable service you need. Vaccines Mineral Medicines Supplements ...and more! Antonia Old • (209) 769-7663
Daniel & Pamela Doiron 805-245-0434 Cell doiron@spanishranch.net www.spanishranch.net
THD ©
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Rebecca Ross, DVM EAGER AND EQUIPPED TO TAKE CARE OF ALL YOUR HERD HEALTH NEEDS!
EXTENSIVELY UTILIZING ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION AND EMBRYO TRANSFER
Dr. Kasey DeAtley 530-898-5112 Travis Heffner Livestock Technician 530-898-6026
OWYHEE ANGUS RANCH - NEW 563± acres with pivot irrigation, a large shop, updated home, and borders public land. $5,755,000 (208) 345-3163 knipeland.com
Large Animal Veterinary Services
Purebred Angus & Red Angus Cattle
NEAR YELLOWSTONE PARK ASHTON, ID 2,119± acres with creeks, springs, cabin, great hunting, and recreation. Now $8,500,000, or part $4,250,000
SALE MANAGEMENT
antonia.old@animalhealthinternational.com
THE DOIRON FAMILY
REAL ESTATE KNIPE
We also offer custom formulations to meet your sp
We offer blends that contain: Molasses - Zinpro® Performance Minerals - Availa® 4 - Added Selen
M3 MARKETING SALE MANAGEMENT & MARKETING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY ORDER BUYING PRIVATE TREATY SALES PRODUCTION SALE RING SERVICE ADVERTISING
• PREGNANCY DIAGNOSIS • • BREEDING SOUNDESS • • PROTOCOL CONSULTATION • • EMERGENCIES AND MORE! •
M3CATTLEMARKETING@GMAIL.COM (916) 803-3113
PROUDLY SERVING NORTHERN & CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
(916) 605-6021 REBECCAROSSDVM@GMAIL.COM
Your operation could be listed here!
Agriculture Foundation Contact Ryan Person at (559) 326-8354 or by e-mail at rperson@csufresno.edu
Reach CCA members and magazine readers each month with this ad space! Contact Matt Macfarlane at (916) 803-3113 to learn more.
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
59
IN MEMORY RITA MARCH With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Rita Alice March. She passed away peacefully on March 25 with her daughters by her side. She joined her soulmate of almost 70 years. They are together again, enjoying the most amazing view. Rita was born on May 18, 1940 in Oakland to Roy and Mary Summerfield. She attended schools in the area and graduated from Pleasant Hill High School in 1958. During high school she met and fell in love with her forever Robert March, in 1955. After high school waiting for Dad to return from the Navy, she became a dental assistant. They married in 1960 and moved to beautiful Scott Valley the next day. This is where they would stay and raise their family. Mom was a city girl; she completely embraced and learned the ag/country life of living. She did not know pickles came from cucumbers. She left this world being known for her pickles that will never be replaced. She even shot a buck with her little rifle and no scope. They moved from the little house in Etna to the 5M ranch in 1972. Together fulfilling their dream. Mom had been working as a CNA at the hospital, but then became a fulltime mother and ranch wife. It included many pigs, cows, chickens, horses and huge ranch meals. She was awarded the 2014 Siskiyou County CattleWomen of the Year and in 2018 she was awarded the Siskiyou County Pioneer Beef Woman of the Year. She will be remembered for her baking, canning, gardening and the rainbow of color in her yard. Her cellar was a variety of color from her garden. The cellar was off limits until the first snow fall on Goosenest mountain. There was a jar of this and that snuck out without her knowing. Mom was involved in so much. She volunteered with hospice for years, was instrumental in the Native daughters, 4-H swine and cooking leader for over 18 years, helped with the calf riding during Etna rodeos, and her big passion the Siskiyou County Cattlewomen. And of course, her special group of Baggetts that would meet once a month for lunch. She enjoyed her oysters and glass of champagne at the Denny bar with her good friends. Mom wallpapered numerous homes in Siskiyou County and she was big into her genealogy. She took great pride into donating her bake goods for Auctions that would support the FFA, sports and gun organizations. Especially being famous for her tiramisu and trifle. Mom was a classy, sassy woman, always dressed
60 California Cattleman May/June 2025
to the T with matching shoes and a broch. She had the most amazing silver hair. Her genuine laugh and clapping with excitement will forever be remembered. Her love and zest for life was contagious. She loved to sing and dance. If a good song came on, you could not stop her from showing her moves. Her greatest joy was her family. She was proud of each and everyone of us. She would travel near and far to participate in our accomplishments. Always with a meal prepared. She did not want to miss one thing we did. Her life was truly full being a Nana and Nannie. Her world lit up talking about her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was our pillar, glue, teacher, coach, counselor and the best wife, mother, nana and nannie we could have ever been blessed with. She is survived by her children: Debbie March (Alan), Michael March, Susan Henninger (Larry). Her Grandchildren: Brandon McEwen (Shimal) Allison March, Levi White, Brit March(spencer), Todd Bartlett (Hailee) and Shelby Bartlett. Her Great Grandchildren: Elliott Bartlett, Scout Bartlett, Season Bartlett, Tristan Bartlett, Carson McEwen and Caleb McEwen. Her Sister Alice Herbertson (Lester). Brother-in-law Bill March (Marcie) and Sister-inlaw Janet. Numerous nieces and nephews. Special people Edward Bartlett, Lori March and Australian daughter Diane Morgan. She is proceeded in death by her husband Robert March, parents Roy and Mary Summerfield, sister Kathy and brother Eddie. Mom and Dad were proud of their beautiful home. We will have a gathering at the ranch in the future to celebrate our amazing parents and grandparents.
NEW ARRIVAL
DALLY LECHEMINANT Dally Grace LeCheminant was welcomed by parents CCA Membership and Events Coordinator Gracie and husband Chance LeCheminant on May 1 at 3:58 pm, weighing 6 pounds, 12 ounces and measured 21 inches long. Dally's parents are absolutely in love and feel so overwhelmed by their beautiful blessing of a baby girl!
KEN MCGARVA
D. MARK WILSON
Kenneth R. McGarva, born in Alturas on June 3, l939 to Peter and Phyllis McGarva passed away on March 26. Ken attended elementary school in Likely, at South Fork Elementary and graduated from Modoc Union High School in 1957. Following a year at UC Davis, he married Jackie Haise, in 1958. Ken worked on the family ranch in the South Fork Valley, all his life. Ken and brother, Duane formed a partnership and purchased the ranch from their parents in 1968. The ranch runs cattle on Federal permits; both BLM and Forest Service from Rye Grass Swale to Sears Flat; across Nelson Corrals country to Clarks Valley and up to Blue Lake in the South Warner Mountains. Duane retired in 1994, selling out to Ken and Jackie. Now the ranch is operated by their partnership. Son, Shane and his children, Jared and Richelle with their spouses, and daughter Rhonda Morris are all involved in the working of the ranch now. Ken served on the BLM Resource Advisory Council; served as a permittee, land owner and member on Cedar Creek Riparian Restoration Project; is past president and member of the Modoc County Cattlemen’s Association, California Cattlemen’s Association, National Cattlemen's Beef Assocaition and Modoc County Farm Bureau; President of the South Fork Irrigation District; Commissioner and member of Likely Volunteer Fire Department. He represented Modoc Co. Cattlemen on the Livestock Identification Committee of the CCA. Ken served on both the BLM and Forest Service Grazing Advisory Boards. Jackie, alongside her family, welcomed friends and family for a celebration of life in Ken's honor on April 18 at the Likey Fire Hall. Memorial contributions can be made to the Jr. Livestock Show Board, Modoc Co. CattleWomen Scholarships, Likely Pine Burrs 4-H Club, Likely Fire Department, Modoc County Farm Bureau Scholarships, plant a tree or buy a steak.
David Mark Wilson, born April 3, 1950, went to be with the Lord on March 31. Mark was married to the love of his life, Kathy (Young) Wilson. This past January, they joyfully celebrated 45 years of marriage. He was a devoted husband, a loving father to his two children, Danny (Tessa) Wilson and Lindy (Eric) Muff, and a proud Papa to his five cherished grandchildren: Etta, Lorna, George, Rory and Dixie. Mark treasured his family and was affectionately known as "Papa Mark." A Christian man of deep and abiding faith, Mark's prayers were thorough and fervent whether over meals or in meetings. He truly brought his cares before the Lord. He was a faithful member of Covenant Reformed Church of Sacramento. Mark had a lifelong passion for cattle ranching and spent several happy years running his grandfather's cattle ranch in Sloughhouse. Later, he worked in livestock pharmaceutical marketing before founding his own company, MWM Marketing, which distributed large animal pharmaceuticals across the western United States. He also served as President of the Amador-El Dorado-Sacramento Cattlemen's Association from 2006 to 2008. In 2000, Mark returned to the family farm and became Chairman of the Board at Wilson Farms in 2008. He led the farm with wisdom and strength. He will be deeply missed by his brother Ken (Michelle), his sister Sandra (Ed), and many nieces and nephews who fondly knew him as "Mean Uncle Mark" a nickname that reflected his big heart and even bigger sense of humor. Mark was instrumental in protecting Delta water rights. He was an outspoken opponent of the Delta Tunnel Project from the beginning, and it was deeply important to him that the water rights of the region be preserved. Mark was an active board member of the Omochumne-Hartnell Water District. Just one week before his passing, Mark attended a meeting to speak out on these issues an example of his unwavering dedication to the Delta. He was preceded in death by his parents, David and Erma Wilson. Mark will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, and the many communities he loved and served. However, his family rests peacefully knowing that he is now with his Lord and Savior.
To share obituaries, weddings and birth announcements, please contact the CCA office at (916) 444-0845 or e-mail: magazine@calcattlemen.org.
May/June 2025 California Cattleman
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Advertisers’ Index
Amador Angus Ranch........................................................................... 56 American Hereford Association �����������������������������������������������������58 Animal Health International ������������������������������������������������������������� 59 Bar Ale Premium Livestock Feeds ����������������������������������������������� 59 Bar KD Ranch.............................................................................................. 56 Bar R Angus.................................................................................................. 56 Buchanan Angus ..................................................................................... 56 Byrd Cattle Company............................................................................. 56 California Outdoor Properties ������������������������������������������������� 38, 39 Cari Manufacturing...................................................................................18 Cattlemen's Livestock Market ������������������������������������������������������������2 Chico State College of Agr ����������������������������������������������������������������� 59 Conlin Supply Company, Inc. ����������������������������������������������������������� 27 Dal Porto Livestock.................................................................................. 56 Diamond Oak Cattle .............................................................................. 56 Dixie Valley Angus............................................................................ 56. 63 Donati Ranch............................................................................................... 56 Dos Palos Y Auctio Yard �����������������������������������������������������������������������47 Farmers Livestock Market ������������������������������������������������������������������43 Freitas Rangeland Improvements �����������������������������������������������54 Fresno State Ag Foundation ������������������������������������������������������������ 59 Genoa Livestock.........................................................................................58 Harrell Ranches..........................................................................................58 HAVE Angus.................................................................................................. 57 Hogan Ranch............................................................................................... 57 Hone Ranch.................................................................................................. 57 Humboldt Auction Yard ���������������������������������������������������������������������� 32 Hygieia Labs................................................................................................. 29 Kessler Angus.............................................................................................. 57 Knipe Land Company............................................................................ 59 Livestock Marketing Association ��������������������������������������������������� 25 M3 Marketing............................................................................................... 59 McPhee Red Angus.................................................................................58 Mobile Cattle Marketing ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 19 Modoc Auction Yard................................................................................ 32 Morrell Ranches.........................................................................................58
62 California Cattleman May/June 2025
MRF Lands..................................................................................................... 53 Newman Stockyards...............................................................................47 Noahs's Angus Ranch............................................................................ 57 O'Connell Ranch........................................................................................ 57 O'Neal Ranch................................................................................................ 57 Old Stage Angus........................................................................................ 57 Orland Livestock Commission ���������������������������������������������������������41 Overland Stock Yard................................................................................ 22 P.W. Gillibrand Cattle..............................................................................58 Rebecca Ross, DVM................................................................................. 59 Red River Farms......................................................................................... 57 Ritchie / Lessing-Flynn Advertising Co. ���������������������������������950 Sammis Ranch............................................................................................ 57 Scales Northwest.......................................................................................54 Schuil Ag Real estate........................................................................51, 53 Sierra Ranches...............................................................................................5 Sonoma Mountain Herefords ����������������������������������������������������������58 Southwest Fence.......................................................................................49 Spanish Ranch............................................................................................ 59 Split Creek Angus..................................................................................... 57 Stellpflug Cattle ........................................................................................ 33 Stepaside Farm........................................................................................... 57 Tehama Angus Ranch...........................................................................58 Teixeira Cattle Co.......................................................................................58 Tulare County Stockyard ���������������������������������������������������������������������43 Tumbleweed Ranches...........................................................................58 Turlock Livestock Auction Yard ������������������������������������������������� 10, 11 Vintage Angus Ranch....................................................................58, 64 Visalia Livestock Market ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 23 West Coast Brangus Breeders �������������������������������������������������������� 59 Western Poly Pipe.....................................................................................18 Western Stockmans Market ����������������������������������������������������������������9 Western Video Market �����������������������������������������������������������������������������3 Westwind Ranch Angus ����������������������������������������������������������������������� 15 WSR Insurance..............................................................................................5
performaNce, growtH & carcass geNetics watcH for staNdout soNs of tHese breed-LeadiNg sires at tHis year’s caL poLy buLL test saLe oct. 5 iN saN Luis obispo! poss deadwood
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aaa: 20071781 basiN deposit 6249 X eXar moNumeNtaL 6056b
aaa: 19444025 Hoover No doubt X gar propHet
waNt Heifers Like tHese? buy diXie vaLLey buLLs! JoiN us for tHese upcomiNg opportuNities to put diXie vaLLey aNgus geNetics to work for you!
diXie vaLLey aNgus buLL saLe Sept. 19, 2025 | GaLt, Ca
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caL poLy buLL test OCt. 5, 2025 | San LuiS ObiSpO Lee NobmaNN, owNer, (707) 206-4115 HuNter wHeeLer, maNager, (530) 520-8362
A special “Thank You” from
VINTAGE ANGUS RANCH To a committed and long-time customers
JOE & CATHY MURRAY
commercial cow-calf ranchers in Stanislaus County “We have been buying Vintage Angus bulls since the mid-1990’s, buying just a few each year. We now use almost all Vintage Angus bulls in our program. When Vintage started feeding their own bulls at their Warnerville Ranch, the bulls became tougher, traveled better, and bred more cows. Most of our cows run year-round on dry feed and we always have big, high-quality calves. Our calves have been sold to the same buyer for the past 8 years. Last year’s 450 fall-born calves graded 45% prime and 53% choice. Vintage Angus has great customer service, they stand behind their bulls and will replace one if he gets hurt.”
– Joe Murray
32nd Annual
“Carcass Maker” Bull Sale Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025 LaGrange , CA
64 California Cattleman May/June 2025
JIM COLEMAN, OWNER DOUG WORTHINGTON, MANAGER BRAD WORTHINGTON, OPERATIONS MIKE HALL, BULL SERVICES (805)748-4717 2702 SCENIC BEND, MODESTO, CA 95355 | (209) 521-0537
WWW.VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM OFFICE@VINTAGEANGUSRANCH.COM