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The Line Rider is the official publication of the Idaho Cattle Association. It is published 10 times each year, in January, February, March, April/May, June, July/August, September, October, November and December.
THANK YOU IDAHO BEEF COUNCIL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Idaho Beef Council is guided by industry volunteer-leaders representing various segments of the beef industry. These individuals are nominated by their respective organizations and appointed by the Governor of Idaho to provide strategic direction and program oversight, ensuring a positive return-on-investment for Idaho beef producers’ checkoff dollars.
A special thanks to Ira Brackett and Don Gaalswyk whose terms ended June 30, 2024, for their service and commitment as stewards of checkoff dollars. Ira Brackett, a board member for the past decade, has been a pillar of the IBC. His tenure is marked by significant achievements, including the commitment to the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program, providing learning opportunities for all Idaho beef producers so that they are equipped with the knowledge to raise high-quality beef. Ira's leadership has also resulted in many strong relationships throughout the industry at a local and national level, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit the industry for years to come.
J.W.Wood
Steven Taylor - Chairman Auction Market Jerome, Idaho
W“ I personally have worked with women who could outwork, outrope, and outride just about anyone I know.
e can’t all be heroes, because somebody has to sit on the curb and applaud when they go by.”
–W ill Rogers
A little-known secret of my life is that I graduated from a small school in rural Oregon. The class ebbed and flowed through the years, but at graduation it was 11 young ladies with two of us boys. Going further back, my father graduated from the same school in 1969 with 7 young ladies and himself. So, it’s fair to say I have been surrounded by women all my life ...and I’m still learning (just ask my wife). Whether it be wives, mothers, sisters, daughters, aunties, grandmothers, friends, or neighbors, the women in our lives are real heroes; so you better be sitting down and applauding them any chance you get.
BY JERRY WROTEN ICA President
it, the boss. In my hometown, I can think of multiple ranch women who I would happily work for over their grumpy old husbands. I’ve also learned that’s what makes the women in agriculture great; they can make the best out of a tough situation.
I personally have worked with women who could outwork, outrope, and outride just about anyone I know. I feel a great gratitude for being born in a nation that gives everyone an opportunity to be our best selves. In early July, I had the privilege to announce several local ranch rodeos who host all women teams, and they are handy. I would say that was a pride-filled moment—to recognize that we live in a state and nation that enables women the opportunity to excel wherever they choose... and I have been places in this world where those chances are so very limited.
Across the great state of Idaho, I can guarantee there are women on family ranches who can do it all. They wake at 4am to get chores done, then cook breakfast and get the kids ready for school. Once the kids are out the door, they may move cows all day, build fence, mechanic on equipment, move water, make lunch, get more chores done, pick up the kids, make dinner and do more chores, at the very least. Trust me, these examples are simply just part of one day. Their roles can vary from mother, bookkeeper, accountant, mechanic, cowboy, fence builder, cook, truck driver and , let’s face
When it comes to Idaho cattle, the Idaho CattleWomen hold two spots on our Idaho Cattle Association (ICA) Board of Directors, and we are appreciative of the perspective, input and thought they bring to the board. We encourage non-members and members alike to become involved with the CattleWomen, as well as the ICA, to see what our volunteer leadership does to protect the Idaho cattle industry. In my past, I have had heroes in my life who have helped quite a bit to get me to this point and, to be direct, about 90% of them are the women in my life. So, like ol’ Will said way back when, I will happily cheer them on.
& Trade Show & Trade Show
NOVEMBER
11-13, 2024
Sun Valley, Idaho
Photo by Angela Vesco Photography
Membership drives us forward
Engagement and recruitment are crucial
As I write, Idaho Cattle Association (ICA) staff and leadership have just returned from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Summer Business meetings. The process to develop policy for the organization is important and also respected. As we sat in the meeting rooms in San Diego, I listened, once again, to debates on resolutions and directives that were either new policy, interim policy that was passed at the annual meeting in Orlando, or policy that was set to expire.
Our initial campaign demonstrated that simply making supporters aware of the work done by our association speaks for itself.
Although the number of new policies was not great at this particular meeting, we reviewed recommendations from the committee. I was reaffirmed in my belief that we are making progress on many items; from policies that had been resolved and needed no renewal, to policies that needed amendments to continue to make headway.
It is nice to hear/see that we as an association are making progress to Preserve, Promote, and Protect our industry. At these meetings, as we rolled through a brainstorming session, one of the questions that came up was related to the finances required to continue the necessary campaigns to serve our industry.
As we continue to build our association and grow the services and expectations we provide, we must continue to be diligent in our member recruitment, as well as how we spend those dollars in our mission. Increased membership is the key to these items, in my
BY CAMERON MULRONY ICA Executive Vice President
opinion. ICA has conducted a membership drive over the past year, reaching out to individuals identified as cattle industry members and/or supporters, and we will continue this after compiling a more extensive list.
Part of the mission of this campaign is to remind folks of our priorities and the work we are doing on behalf of the ICA members, not only here in state, but at the national level as well. The takeaway from that discussion is that, often, the best communication piece to keep cattlemen informed is face-to-face conversation. However, this does not always have to come from staff or leadership and does not require a sales pitch. Our initial campaign, completed by mail, demonstrated that simply making supporters aware of the work done by our association speaks for itself. As a result, industry members showed their support by contributing to an increase of over 20% in membership.
The ICA staff is working to develop an additional campaign to target those folks that saw our first mailing and maybe were a bit hesitant to sign on at that moment. Continued awareness of the priorities, opportunities and benefits have demonstrated that we are doing work supported by our membership.
The respect built for this association over the decades has created this interest in our industry, and with our work over the past couple of years, we have been able to reach some of the folks that are unaware, or undecided on membership. This success comes without needing to create a sales pitch.
You are our best tool to recruit and retain our members. I truly believe the work of the association speaks volumes and that the return is great for your investment in the ICA. I hope you feel the same, and if by chance you feel we need to do some work in an area, please let our board of directors know your thoughts.
I hope to see you in our travels and at events in the coming months.
Thursday, May 2
Consignment Deadline: April 17 Harris Ranch Inn & Restaurant Coalinga, CA
Thursday, May 23
Consignment Deadline: May 15
WVM Headquarters Cottonwood, CA
Thursday, June 6
Consignment Deadline: May 29
WVM Headquarters Cottonwood, CA
Natural resource happenings
A look
at the current political landscape
As our attention is drawn to the circus that is the 2024 presidential election, the work of government continues to creep along. For good and for bad, the legislative, judicial, and executive branches of the federal government are each cranking out work that impacts Idaho’s cattle industry. Here is a run-down of those issues.
EXECUTIVE BRANCH EFFORTS
The Biden administration continues to plow ahead in instituting regulations that advance their agenda. The public review and comment period for the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) sage grouse management plan closed in June. The administration continues to insist that they will stick to their aggressive schedule to have the plan finalized by this fall. As has been the pattern with this issue for the past twenty years, legal challenges are sure to follow. For our part, Idaho Cattle Association (ICA) submitted extensive comments detailing the benefits of continued livestock grazing to the species. We continue to maintain that the existing process is sufficient to manage grazing in sage grouse habitat through the agency’s land health standards process and no additionality is needed where grazing is concerned. This most recent plan made some inroads in acknowledging this, however there were other concerning elements included in the plan that we will continue to work to exclude from implementation.
We continue to watch with a wary eye for how the BLM will implement its recently finalized Conservation and Landscape Health Rule (aka Public Lands Rule). Across the spectrum, ICA, our state agencies, and various stakeholders
BY KAREN WILLIAMS ICA Natural Resources Policy Director
have multiple concerns with this rule, particularly as it elevates conservation as a use to allow for conservation leasing, threatens multiple use, and increases designations of Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC), which limit collaborative and flexible land management. We are being told that the agency is still working on its implementation guidance for this rule. As we wait, several states, including Idaho, have filed litigation against the rule and additional industry-led litigation, including the Public Lands Council (PLC), has also been filed.
The president’s green agenda has placed significant focus on renewable energy development, which has unfortunately led to the BLM’s encouragement, at a national level, of wind and solar development on public land in the West. This has brought an influx of energy companies and their development proposals to Idaho. ICA will continue to oppose any project that reduces livestock grazing AUMs or restricts their use in any way.
Moving across town from BLM, the U.S. Forest Service has released a proposal to amend its land
RANCHERS AND GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS ALIKE MOUNTED UP FOR THE GOVERNOR’S TRAIL RIDE.
management plans to protect old-growth forests. The plan is currently open for public review with the comment period closing on September 20th. The plan is scheduled to be finalized on January 1st, not coincidentally just ahead of the potential turnover in administration. Among other things, the plan would further restrict logging in areas that are considered old growth. Beyond the wildfire proliferation risks that this creates, we are also concerned that this proposal will limit the control of junipers. Juniper control projects have proven extremely beneficial in the high desert to restore watersheds and provide a multitude of benefits to wildlife species.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH LAGGINGS
As the administration has seemingly kicked into overdrive, attempting to achieve its goals ahead of the election, Congress continues to be mired in relative inaction. Idaho’s congressional delegation is doing a great job in attempting to rebuff the administration’s efforts that cause us harm, but they are only 4 out of 535.
Congress failed to act on the Farm Bill last year, and it expired in accord with its mandated review and renewal every 5 years. Many of the Farm Bill programs have continued to operate through granted extensions. We are now over halfway through 2024 and it appears highly unlikely that a Farm Bill will make any headway this year.
A couple of positive bills have been introduced that would bring welcome change to the management of grazing on public lands. The first, named the Ranching without Red Tape Act and introduced by Senator Risch, would expedite the ability of permittees to develop range improvements without additional agency approval. The second, the Operational Flexibility Grazing Management Program Act, codifies flexibilities from the BLM’s Outcome Based Grazing program to apply to all permittees and permit types. Hearings on both of these bills have occurred and our industry has been well-represented by the Public Lands Council, in advancing their cause. However,
the cold reality, with the current makeup of Congress, is that they are unlikely to reach the finish line this year.
One way Congress can take action, even in a stalemate, is through the Appropriations process. The House Appropriations Committee has passed the FY25 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies appropriations bill, which includes a number of our priority issues, thanks to their being shepherded by Interior Subcommittee Chairman Mike Simpson. These include language prohibiting ESA listing for greater sage-grouse, restricting funds from being used to implement the Lava Ridge Wind project, blocking implementation of the new ESA rules, and addressing ESA listings for the dunes sagebrush lizard, gray wolf, and grizzly bear.
JUDICIAL BRANCH JUXTAPOSITION
The Supreme Court, which comes as the crossroads of the legislative and executive branches, made headlines over the past month with its slate of decisions that were announced. Key among them, for our industry, was the Court overturning of the “Chevron” doctrine. This 40-year-old legal standard has directed courts to defer to federal agencies’ interpretation of unclear statutes. Federal lands grazing permittees have long been subject to administrative ambiguity. The decision will likely change the way Congress directs agencies to undertake activities and land management legislation will likely contain much more specificity in the future because in the past, bills tended to include a great deal of discretion for on-the-ground application. It will be interesting to see how this new decision of the Court will not only change future laws, but will be used to affect existing agency actions, such as the Public Lands Rule. Already, a solar project in Montana has been halted as a result of a challenge brought based on the Chevron decision.
STATE STOPGAP
While all of this is happening, here at the state level, we are doing our very best to protect our industry from burdensome federal laws and regulations. We are well positioned to do so with statewide elected officials and agency leadership who are both sympathetic to our issues and have backgrounds tied to our industry. All the concerning issues discussed above were the focal issues discussed at ICA’s annual Governor’s Trail Ride event that occurred in June. This event, which brings together ICA, the governor, and state and federal agency leadership in a unique setting, never fails to prove useful in forging relationships and working towards solutions to challenging issues. The event typifies ICA’s modus operandi to work through issues in a rational and consistent manner to preserve, protect, and promote Idaho’s cattle industry. Despite what happens, or doesn’t happen, in Washington D.C., this will continue to be our driving mission.
GOVERNOR LITTLE WELCOMES STAKEHOLDERS TO THE DISCUSSION PORTION OF THE TRAIL RIDE EVENT.
Keeping Idaho “cow country”
How to step up and defend the cattle industry
Hello fellow CattleWomen! I hope you all have your gardens planted and calves branded. My name is Tay Brackett, and I am your current CattleWomen Chair on the Idaho Cattle Assocation (ICA) Board of Directors. I live in Filer, Idaho, and help my husband, Jared, on our cow-calf operation, where we also feed yearlings for various custom programs. We don’t do this alone, however. We have a wonderful family including Matt and Anna Severe and their four kids who help alongside Clint and Pam Smith to keep all the mouths fed and hay stacked. My husband, ever the champion for this industry, has held various board positions in the beef world, so, when we met, I began travel-
You are the members who have the potential to become leaders and take up the mantle of keeping Idaho “cow country”.
ing along with him. We have been fortunate to be able to attend conventions for National Cattlemen’s from Nashville to San Antonio. From passing out beef swag at Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner 300 in Florida, to traveling with a group all the way to Japan and Taiwan advocating for the US beef market, I have learned a lot of things. My biggest takeaway is that NO ONE can tell our story like we can. For the ten short years I have been attending ICA meetings and conventions, I have been able to watch the industry change. ICA presidents have long steered this organization to confront the many challenges facing our industry; rising prices for commodities, labeling, battles to keep open ranges, and the most
BY TAY BRACKETT CattleWomen Council Chair
important fight: how to keep our industry going for the next generation.
These attacks on our industry demand strong leadership with a heart for the fight ahead, but also the wisdom to find common ground. As we see thousands come to Idaho for our great way of life, we also see some that would like to implement changes here that reflect the places they came from. Good or bad, these people are now voting for candidates they think will help in this endeavor. We, as an industry, have the best resource for keeping Idaho a cattle-friendly state by fostering leadership and support within our membership. You are the members who have the potential to become leaders and take up the mantle of keeping Idaho “cow country”.
In this endeavor, Idaho CattleWomen will be voting in our upcoming fall 2024 meeting on whether or not to become members of American National CattleWomen (ANCW). It’s my opinion that this membership will help foster new leaders within our association by presenting opportunities such as the Women in Ranching Education and Development workshop. This workshop helps women in ranching gain hands on experience with cattle handling & pen design, animal health hot topics, pasture management, genetic selection, fence repair and more. ANCW also offers the Collegiate Beef Advocacy Program, which is geared towards college-age young adults, with the end goal to develop beef advocates and leaders for the cattle industry. The program provides an outlet for students to use their unique strengths to connect with consumers and peers to promote beef. ANCW also provides resources for Ag in the Classroom with many sponsors, both on the national and state level. They provide tools for the classroom, including lesson plans, books, and hands-on learning about the cattle industry from preschool to graduation. Each of these programs
aim to educate members and consumers on beef production in America. As many of you know, less than two percent of the population is directly tied to agriculture. It’s even less when you count only beef producers. As a community, we are seen by the public as very trustworthy. Let’s continue to honor that fact by leaning out of our comfort zones, telling our stories and sharing facts about life on the ranch. So, I would encourage all of you to find your story and start telling it. We need to remind people that agriculture and ranching are very important if we want Idaho to continue to be the state we know and love. Here are only a few examples of what you can do: connect with Ag in the Classroom, allow children from a local school to tour your operation, or tell your story in reels on Instagram. Take that picture of your family branding, put it on Facebook, and explain how and why we do things. All of these moments captured forever on the internet tell the story of our resiliency, passion, and fortitude for our beloved industry. As a member of your board, I recommend running for board seats that you are passionate about and offering your skills. Run for the school board at home, support a politician that holds the same values as you do, go to industry banquets, and donate beef whenever you can to get the conversation started. We need all the help we can get to continue making Idaho “cow country”.
THE AUTHORITY IN LIVESTOCK HANDLING EQUIPMENT
COVER STORY
BY KIMBERLY WILLIAMS BRACKETT
Cowgirl Country: Idaho’s CattleWomen
Meet
some of the women that shape Idaho’s beef industry.
My earliest memories include working cows on the Berger Seeding BLM allotments near my family’s ranch in Hollister,” said Jodie Mink of Cambridge. “With the wind blowing and the dust flying, I learned quickly to sort cattle and make quick decisions. My parents and uncles allowed me to participate in everything, and I gained a love for animal agriculture.”
Mink attended the University of Idaho where she met her husband, Justin Mink. She received a degree in Animal Science and Business as well as a master’s degree in Agricultural
Education. “We spent a few years in Hollister working on the family’s ranch while I also worked for the University of Idaho out of the Twin Falls CSI office. We made the decision to return to his family’s ranch in 2005 and moved to Cambridge. Mink Land and Livestock is a commercial cow-calf operation that is entirely manned by family and utilizes federal lands on both Cuddy and Council Mountain. Our goal on the ranch is to produce the highest quality product while also taking care of some of the most beautiful landscapes in Idaho and making the daily decisions that will allow the ranch to be passed to the fifth generation of Minks,” said Mink.
With three sons and one daughterin-law: Jayden and Lauren, Jarret and Jace, “They all play a huge role in Mink Land and Livestock. After 15 years in the classroom as an ag teacher, I returned to the ranch to work with my husband, my father-in-law and great uncle three years
JODIE MINK WITH HER HUSBAND, JUSTIN, AND ONE OF THEIR SONS. THEY MAKE A GREAT TEAM WORKING COWS ON THE RANCH.
THE MINKS WITH ONE OF THEIR PRIZE-WINNING STEERS AT THE WASHINGTON COUNTY FAIR.
ago. I enjoy my days spent working with them.” Mink served on the Weiser River Cattle Association board for numerous years, many years spent with the Idaho CattleWomen scholarship and saddle committee, and currently serves as a director for the Idaho Beef Council. “The Beef Council allows me to be connected and make decisions to better the Idaho Beef Industry. I put off giving back to the beef industry on a state level until my kids were older. I think that if you have skills to promote your industry, you should take the time to give back. I enjoy answering questions and educating people about our industry and lifestyle. I especially enjoy working with youth and take any chance I get to stop and visit with kids.”
“I was inspired to give back by the ladies I watched when I was younger, as well as worked alongside; Julie Kerner, Laurie Lickley, and of course my mom, Rhea Lanting. I watched my mom serve on numerous national beef cook-off committees, Magic Valley CowBelles, Idaho CowBells and Idaho CattleWomen and spent so many nights watching her teach in women’s clubs; showing people how to break-down primal cuts and promoting our industry. The Idaho beef industry has so many women that are a force, we are truly blessed in Idaho,” said Mink.
“I was raised on my family’s cattle ranch based in Mayfield,” said Darcy Helmick. “Leadership opportunities came early when participating within 4-H, and I was born with a passion for livestock and range that only grew overtime.” Helmick currently works for Simplot Land and Livestock in Grand View, and lives with her family in
Bruneau. “My significant other, Cole Marney, and I have our daughter, Dottie Mae (will be 2 in August), and his two sons, Weston (9) and Tolley (7) to keep us busy when we aren’t working. We spend a lot of time horseback, doing what we can to help on the family ranch, helping our good friends and neighbors and participating in rodeo.”
Helmick has an Associate of Science in Business Management/Entrepreneurship from the College of Southern Idaho, a Bachelor of Science in Range Livestock Management from the University of Idaho, and a Masters of Public Administration with an emphasis in Natural Resource and Environmental Policy from Boise State University.
“I worked seasonally for Bureau of Land Management in Boise for seven years as wildland fire fighter, the fuels program and operations. After completing my bachelor’s, I went to work as a range specialist for the Idaho Department of Lands for one and a half years before moving into the private sector as a rangeland monitoring specialist for Simplot in 2010. In 2014, I was promoted into the land manager position when my predecessor, mentor and dear friend Chuck Jones retired,” said Helmick.
She said as the Land Manager for Simplot Land and Livestock it is her responsibility to manage all public land activities for Simplot entities. Helmick works with ranch managers and public land management agencies to manage grazing on public lands. She reviews, comments on, and participates in land planning documents impacting Simplot grazing operations. “I attend meetings and collaborate with agencies to protect and enhance wildlife and special status species habitat while maintaining viable ranching operations on public lands.” Helmick is
DARCY HELMICK SHARES HER PASSION FOR LIVESTOCK WITH HER FAMILY.
JODIE MINK IS CURRENTLY A BOARD MEMBER FOR THE IDAHO BEEF COUNCIL.
involved in five different Rangeland Fire Protection Associations, is a member of the Idaho Cattle Association, and serves as an Idaho representative for the Public Lands Council. She is the current chair of the Idaho Rangeland Resource Commission, and a graduate of Leadership Idaho Agriculture.
“Throughout my childhood I recognized very quickly my desire to have involvement in our family’s ranching operations and to play a role in ensuring the rangelands remained accessible to public lands grazers. Through my position at Simplot Land and Livestock I am able to work diligently with various partners to educate, communicate and participate in policy informing to ensure cattle stay on public lands. I value the opportunities I have been given by working for Simplot Land and Livestock and by being involved in the industry, and I hope that I have, and will continue, to harness my passion for ranching
in a meaningful way to ensure sustainable operations involving public lands into the future,” said Helmick.
From Heyburn, 94-year-old “Emma Jean Harrison was raised as a town kid, but upon her marriage to H.A. Harrison, she quickly ascended to farm/ranch wife status,” said Lori Harrison Idsinga, Emma Jean’s granddaughter. “In addition to raising her six kids and being an integral part of Harrison Herefords, she dedicated countless hours volunteering for the First Baptist Church, Minidoka County 4-H, Minico FFA, Idaho Junior Hereford Association, Idaho Cowbells, Magic Valley Cattlemen’s, and anywhere else her family was involved.”
“Throughout my childhood I recognized very quickly my desire to have involvement in our family’s ranching operations and to play a role in ensuring the rangelands remained accessible to public lands grazers.”
Darcy Helmick
Idsinga said “they moved from a small west Texas town named Clarendon to Idaho in 1957 as part of a land draw for World War II veterans. They homesteaded what is called the Kasota area and started their first beef herd in about 1962. Prior to that they had run dairy cows in Texas and Granny had sold
LEFT: HELMICK STANDING AT THE SIMPLOT OFFICE IN GRAND VIEW, WHERE SHE HOLDS THE POSITION OF LAND MANAGER. RIGHT: HELMICK WORKING ON THE FAMILY RANCH WITH DOTTIE MAE WATCHING OVER HER SHOULDER.
the cream for her grocery money, shipping it out from the train station every week.”
With a tremendous record of service to the industry, she was also a former Idaho CattleWomen Council chair and ICA committee leader. Harrison was President of the Idaho CattleWomen in 1998, on the ICA Board from 1996-2001, and
ran the National CattleWomen’s Cook-Off from 1990-91. She even served on the Beef Council. Idsinga said “I am sure there are others, but I can’t recall.”
Harrison isn’t currently active. “They sold their cow herd after granddad died in 2021. She would have sold the last calf fall of 2022,” said Idsinga.
LEFT: THE HARRISONS SHARED MANY HAPPY YEARS TOGETHER, WITH COWS TO KEEP THEM BUSY ALL THE WAY. RIGHT: WHEN EMMA JEAN MARRIED H.A. HARRISON, SHE BEGAN A LIFETIME OF INVOLVEMENT IN THE CATTLE INDUSTRY.
EMMA JEAN HARRISON HAS CONTRIBUTED A GREAT DEAL TO HER COMMUNITY OVER THE YEARS.
UPCOMING COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Members are invited to join any committee meeting of interest! September meeting focus will include applicable resolution discussion ahead of convention.
Cattle Health : September 23
Federal Lands : September 24
Marketing : September 25
Private Lands : September 26
Wildlife : September 27
Idaho Beef Council Welcomes New Board of Directors Officers, Bids Farewell to Distinguished Members
The Idaho Beef Council (IBC) is proud to announce its new Executive Committee positions which were voted on at the May board meeting in Boise and took effect July 1st, 2024.
This transition comes with a mix of excitement for the future and heartfelt appreciation for the two esteemed members leaving the board after fulfilling their terms, Ira Brackett and Don Gaalswyk. Their contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Council’s direction and success.
The IBC Board of Directors represents various sectors of the beef industry, each bringing unique expertise and perspectives.
ing opportunities for all Idaho beef producers so that they are equipped with the knowledge to raise high-quality beef.
Ira’s leadership has also resulted in many strong relationships throughout the industry at the local and national level, leaving a lasting legacy that will benefit the industry for years to come.
program, providing learn -
Ira Brackett, a board member for the past decade, has been a pillar of the IBC. His tenure is marked by significant achievements, including the commitment to the Beef Quality Assurance
The IBC Board of Directors represents various sectors of the beef industry, each bringing unique expertise and
(BQA)
An overview of changes within beef council leadership.
L-R: HANK HAFLIGER, JODIE MINK, DON GAALSWYK, IRA BRACKETT, STEVEN TAYLOR, BRUCE KERNER, J.W. WOOD, NOT PICTURED: WILLIE BOKMA, LYNN BACHMAN, JARED BRACKETT
STEVEN TAYLOR CHAIRMAN
J.W. WOOD VICE CHAIRMAN
JODIE MINK SECRETARY/TREASURER
perspectives. This diverse group will continue the IBC’s mission of en hancing beef demand and support ing ranchers and producers across the state.
Also new to the IBC Board are Hank Hafliger and Jared Brackett. Hafliger is a dairy industry representative and operates Cedar Ridge Dairy, LLC in Filer along with family members. He also is a board member with the Ida ho Dairymen’s Association.
Brackett is also from Filer and served as past president of the Ida ho Cattle Association. He has also served in various leadership roles including an officer position with the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotion & Re search Board (CBB).
Hafliger and Brackett join other Board members; Willie Bokma (Twin Falls), Lynn Bachman (Bruneau), and Bruce Kerner (Weiser).
“The unwavering commitment to the prosperity of Idaho’s beef industry is something each board member brings to their role, and we appreciate the collaborative re lationship we have as we meet the challenges ahead and seize opportunities for growth and development,” said T.K. Kuwahara, CEO of the Idaho Beef Council.
VISION FOR THE FUTURE
Looking ahead, the Board of Directors is committed to building on the solid foundation laid by its predecessors.
“The Idaho Beef Council is working on several exciting projects, helping to tell the Idaho beef story focusing on, sustainability, stewardship, and the great ranching legacy our state has,” said Taylor. “I am excited to see our BQA program expand and move forward; focusing on making it one of the premier programs in the nation, showing that Idaho cattle producers take best practice procedures seriously, instilling consumer confidence in the high-quality beef we produce,” he added.
As the IBC begins this new chapter, it remains dedicated to its core mission: supporting Idaho beef producers and ensuring that Idaho beef continues to be synonymous with quality and excellence.
Keeping Idaho farms safe and productive since 1968. Our employee owners are dedicated to ensuring you get the best tires and auto service.
WE PROUDLY SUPPORT
OCTOBER 15TH- DECEMBER 15TH OCTOBER 15TH- DECEMBER 15TH
Provide Optimal Space During Transport
Prioritizing productivity and efficiency in cattle transportation.
BY J. BENTON GLAZE, JR., PH.D.
Extension Beef Cattle Specialist
Animal, Veterinary and Food Sciences Department
University of Idaho
In 2021, a report was published that looked at examples of how the meat industry peripherally impacts the workforce and economy of the United States. Animal transportation was one area that was considered in the study. In 2019, 26,116,700 beef steers and heifers were harvested under federal inspection. The effort to deliver that amount of cattle to harvest facilities is a monumental task and may not be understood by most. According to USDA, a 53-foot long, multi-deck livestock trailer can accommodate approximately 38 1,400-pound beef animals. That means that in 2019, approximately 687,282 truck delivery events were needed to transport the steers and heifers from finishing facilities to harvest facilities. There is no question that transporting cattle is an integral part of the beef cattle industry. In addition to being hauled to harvest facilities, cattle are routinely transported to various ranch operations, grazing allotments, feeding facilities (e.g., grow yards, fin-
ishing lots), livestock markets, and occasionally to veterinary facilities.
Is it well documented that cattle that are handled poorly during transportation events have greater potential to become ill, exhibit higher levels of shrink, and show decreased performance in a variety of traits. Improper handling during transport can also result in negative carcass impacts such as dark cutters and bruising which can decrease the value of the animal at harvest. While most beef producers do not haul cattle to a harvest facility on a daily or frequent basis, they do have occasion to haul cattle between pastures, feeding/holding facilities, and marketing facilities. To optimize the productivity and efficiency of beef cattle, stress during transport should be minimized/eliminated. An area that beef producers can focus on to alleviate some of the stress related to cattle transport is trailer space and load density. In other words, beef producers need to make sure cattle have enough space as they are transported.
According to the 2022 National Beef Quality Audit (NBQA-2022), fed cattle (steers and heifers) transported to harvest facilities traveled an average of 152 miles and were on the trailers for an average of almost 3 hours. The average number of cattle per load was 36
and the number of compartments used on the trailers averaged approximately 3½. The size of the trailers used to transport the fed cattle to the harvest facilities ranged from 100 square feet to 715 square feet with an average of 444 square feet. The area allotted per animal ranged from about 6 to 32 square feet with an average of 12 ½ square feet.
Additional results from the NBQA2022 show that market cows and bulls transported to harvest facilities traveled an average of 305 miles and were on the trailers for about 6 hours. The average number of cattle per load was 27 and the number of compartments used on the trailers averaged 4. The size of the trailers used to transport the market cows and bulls to harvest facilities ranged from 3 to 451 square feet with an average of 380 square feet. The area allotted per animal ranged from about 9 to 221 square feet with an average of 25 ½ square feet.
Based on beef industry animal handling guidelines and audit guides, hornless cattle weighing 1,000 pounds, 1,200 pounds, and 1,400 pounds should be allotted 12 square feet, 15 square feet, and 18 square feet, respectively. The results of the NBQA-2022 suggest that not all cattle being transported to harvest facilities were allotted adequate space. Could that
also be the case when cattle are transported to various grazing and feeding operations and when cattle are moved due to various management protocols?
To assist producers in determining the proper amount of space required for cattle being transported, consider the information presented in Table 1. The table includes trailer dimensions, cattle weights, and recommended maximum number of
animals for specific trailer sizes. It should be noted that the presence of horns on cattle reduces the number of cattle to be loaded together on a trailer. As mentioned in the table, trailer stocking densities should be reduced by 5% for when hauling cattle with horns. Producers should keep in mind that just because another animal will fit on a trailer, does not mean it should. Overloading/underloading a trailer can result in safety and well-being issues for the animals and dangerous situations for animal handlers and drivers.
To learn more about Beef Quality Assurance (BQA), key BQA practices/protocols related to transportation, and/or to become BQA certified as a producer or transporter, contact the Idaho Beef Council (www.idbeef.org) or one of the Idaho BQA coordinators: Meranda Small, Extension Educator, University of Idaho Extension – Idaho County and Sarah Baker, Extension Educator, University of Idaho Extension – Custer County.
CAFO Improvement Fund 2024
Over the past two years, the CAFO Improvement Fund has obligated nearly $10 million dollars towards a total of 25 CAFO projects. Eight of these projects are 100% complete and operational. With the proven success of the grant program, our state legislature appropriated $2 million dollars for the fund in 2024. Although the 2024 funding is less than previous appropriations, we anticipate a highly competitive grant funding cycle. The fund is dedicated for environmental improvements to soil, water, and air quality with an emphasis on manure and nutrient management. Successful applications must specifically describe how the proposed project enhances current manure and nutrient management practices.
The CAFO Improvement Fund is a 60/40 cost share program, with a $400K cap per owner/partnership for the 2024 funding period. Cost share dollars can come from in-kind labor and/or equipment, NRCS grant funds, or cash on hand. Funds will be distributed by reimbursement of receipts following project completion. Previous awardees are encouraged to apply; however, priority will be given to new owner/partnership applications and owner/partnership applications that were not awarded in the previous funding cycles. Please note that if you applied in previous years and did not receive funding you must re-apply for the 2024 funding cycle.
This year, the grant application, including workplan and budget, must be submitted through a grant management platform called AmpliFund. To assist producers with the new software and to help answer questions related to the grant funds, a technical assistance webinar will be hosted on August 19th, 2024, at 1 pm ; a link to the webinar can be found here: https://shorturl.at/5KNZ0 It is high -
ly recommended that applicants download and complete the CAFO workplan before participating in the webinar or making an application.
The 60-day application period opens July 1st, 2024 and closes August 30th, 2024. The grant criteria, Amplifund link, and CAFO workplan can be found at the link below under the resources heading.
Once again, we are excited to offer grant funding opportunities to support CAFO operations. If you have questions regarding projects or the application process, please reach out to Valene Cauhorn (971) 571-9086 or vcauhorn@agpros.com or Megan Satterwhite (208) 4206795 or megan@idahodairymens.org.
Meet the IPLC/ICA Summer Intern!
A passion for agriculture
My name is Cassie Moody and I am the Idaho Public Lands Council & Idaho Cattle Association summer intern! I am from Middleton, Idaho, where I grew up spending time on my family’s dairy, showing livestock, and enjoying the Idaho outdoors. Through each of these experiences, I was exposed to both the joys and hardships of the agricultural industry and gained a deep appreciation for it. When I got to high school,
I quickly realized this was a passion of mine and something I would like to do for years to come.
I joined FFA, where my passion of advocating for agriculture was sparked. I served as an Idaho FFA State Officer in 2021-2022 and had the opportunity to advocate for agriculture directly with policy makers, as well as equip high school students with the leadership skills they need to be life-long supporters of the industry. I quickly realized this was a passion of mine and something I would like to do for years to come.
In the fall, I will begin my senior year at the University of Idaho where I am earning a degree in Agricultural Education with the goal of becoming a high school ag teacher. I am also a member of Sigma Alpha Professional Agricultural Sorority where I am currently serving as the president, as well as an ambassador for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. My time at the University of Idaho has been very impactful as it has allowed me
BY CASSIE MOODY IPLC/ICA Summer Intern
to get out of my comfort zone, make connections, and grow as a leader. I will forever be grateful to be a Vandal!
In addition to being a student at the University of Idaho, I also spent two summers as an intern for the U of I extension service in Owyhee County. This was an extremely formative experience where my passion for rangelands and the cattle industry truly blossomed. During these two summers, I spent many hours on the range performing field work for two research projects including a study focused on how cattle can manage fine fuels on rangelands through dormant season grazing and a project studying whether there is a genetic marker in cattle that make them more efficient on rangelands. While these projects weren’t always glamorous (they often involved clipping and collecting grass into hundreds of paper bags, counting the number of shrubs in a plot, or observing and recording cattle behavior), they were transformative for me. Not only was I fascinated by the relationship between the land and cattle, but there is truly nothing like being on the range at day break with the smell of sage brush all around you. Within these two summers, a whole new passion of mine was born. Protecting grazing rights, keeping rangelands thriving, and preserving the western way of life quickly became interests of mine and are what led me to this internship with the Idaho Cattle Association and the Idaho Public Lands Council.
This summer with ICA has been an excellent opportunity to further my knowledge of both the beef industry and public lands. My internship began with preparing comments in
response to the proposed amendments to the Bureau of Land Management’s Draft Resource Management Plan/Draft Environmental Impact Statement. This involved finding research on how grazing can be beneficial to sage-grouse populations, research defending ICA’s opposition of Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs), and summarizing information into a compelling argument that defends grazing on
TOP NOTCH FEED & FENCE
Navigating Land Transfer To the Next Generation
Succession planning for ranch security.
BY DAVID ANDERSON Program Manager, American Farmland Trust
My elders homesteaded our family ranch in the Lemhi Valley in the 1920s. There were winters when the snow was so deep that feeding the cows and sheep required horse-drawn sleds and their children struggled to get to school. Those snows produced an abundance of spring runoff that provided irrigation for the hay fields throughout the summer. My grandpa would have laughed at the idea of needing to buy hay.
One-hundred years later, ranch operations look a lot different. Some winters the snow doesn’t last on the ground between storms. A junior water right on the main ditch gets cut off earlier in the summer. Buying supplemental hay has become the norm. The sheep are gone, and the cow herd size has only recently recovered from the sell-off after the 2021 drought. Ranch income is just enough to cover operating expenses and my aunt and uncle, the current operators, had other jobs before retiring.
The situation at the family ranch is like so many others in Idaho and across the nation. Over 40 percent of US farm and ranch-
Strengthening the long-term viability of working lands through succession planning provides stability and peace-of-mind for families when shouldering the unpredictable pressures on their operations.
es are owned by people over the age of 60. Their children, my generation, left home primarily due to a lack of predictable and sustainable income for more than one kid. We are now facing the
challenge of what to do with these working lands and still have resources for our parents to retire with security.
The 2022 Census for Agriculture, released this past February, reported 144,000 acres of Idaho’s land in production were lost in just the past 5 years. When looking at that same data over the past 25 years, a significant amount of that loss has been smalland medium-sized ranches (<1000 acres). Like the family ranch, these operations are experiencing a multitude of pressures, including variable market conditions, skyrocketing operation costs, succession uncertainty, and most recently – “rural sprawl.”
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ic-driven migration of remote workers out of cities and into ranch country. Multi-million-dollar income from selling a suburban house in Sacramento, Portland, or Seattle will buy a lot of land with a new house in Idaho. Larger ranches are being fragmented and sold at an alarming rate. American Farmland Trust estimates that 10 square miles of working lands are permanently converted to other land uses, primarily residential, every year in Idaho.
So how do we navigate these challenges? If there is a desire to keep the land in production for a next generation, whether it’s family or someone looking to start new, then proactive succession planning is critical for a successful transfer of the land, operational assets, setting aside retirement income for the senior owners, and having the needed resources for the incoming generation to make the operation their own. At a recent Idaho Farm Bureau dinner, a couple at the table had just taken over their family farm in Aberdeen and I asked what land transfer resources they used. The response was “None… we couldn’t afford it; we figured it out on our own.”
A farmer or rancher can feel alone in this situation, and after a hard day in the field, simply choose to kick the can down the road. However, strengthening the long-term viability of working lands through succession planning provides stability and peace-of-mind for families when shouldering the unpredictable pressures on their operations.
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Organizations such as the Idaho Cattle Association (ICA) and Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, in partnership with land transfer service providers such as Idaho Farm & Ranch Center and American Farmland Trust, are getting the word out about do-it-yourself succession planning resources in Idaho that can save working landowners significant time and money. These resources include guidance on how to start the conversation with your family about succession, which is often the hardest part, templates and tools for defining and valuing both land and operational assets, and networking with attorneys, tax consultants, and estate planners when ready.
My family recently kicked off the succession conversation and to no surprise, we’re not all on the same page…yet. My elders were a scrappy lot that figured out how to scratch a ranch out of a lot of rock and sagebrush. That same will flows in the veins of my generation and we will figure it out. Give ICA a call, or me, and we will get you started in the right direction.
David Anderson is the Idaho Program Manager for American Farmland Trust. He can be reached at danderson@farmland.org.
Summer Round-Up 2024
A successful few days in Lewiston, ID.
ICA’s 2024 Summer Round-Up event has come and gone, and it is safe to say that it was full of great conversation, networking, and a mutual appreciation and love for the cattle industry. The mid-year two-day conference was held in Lewiston, Idaho, where members from every part of the cattle industry met to discuss important issues, attend educational sessions, and build connections.
The opening session of the event was titled “Markets and Marketing” and featured information from John Nalivka, president and owner of Sterling Marketing Group, and Angela Vesco, a specialist in Beef Cattle Marketing with Superior Livestock. Nalivka kicked off the session by offering an update on cattle markets, with a comparison to past years. This put the current market situation into context for producers, helping them gain a better understanding of what to expect. Vesco shared the advantages of implementing value-added programs into beef operations, and she specifically mentioned the potential for DNA testing as the next up-and-coming value-added program. Both speakers stressed the importance of updating sale catalog descriptions every year, as well as including genetic descriptions and value-added programs to best market cattle.
The Idaho Beef Council Session was next, presented by T.K. Kuwahara, CEO of the Idaho Beef Council, and Lara Weiler,
Executive Director of Marketing at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Kuwahara opened the session by updating attendees on how check-off dollars are being used and here in Idaho to further promote the beef industry. Some recent highlights include a feature with “The Traveling Spud”, a social media influencer who visited three Idaho ranches to tell their story, and a partnership with Dr. Phil Bass at the University of Idaho who educates consumers on how to use underutilized cuts of beef. Weiler then shifted the conversation to a national level by explaining what NCBA is doing to promote beef consumption, including consumer preference research, marketing campaigns, and more. She specifically highlighted the “Together We Bring More” campaign, which takes a story-telling approach to marketing beef for consumers.
FEEDER
The feeder session began with a report from the Idaho Beef Council on the Beef Quality Assurance program. There is a need for low literacy Spanish BQA trainings in feeder operations, and as a result, pilot programs are scheduled to take place at Boise Valley Feeders and Simplot Feedlots. Based on the results of these trainings, changes will be made as needed to improve the program. Next, ICA’s Executive Vice President, Cameron
Mulrony, shared information about the CAFO Improvement Fund subgrants that are available in Idaho and urged members who have an environmental stewardship project in mind to apply for them. Another main topic from the feeder session was presented by the brand department. They shared that fee changes will likely be needed to keep the department functional and running. Other conversations during the session included the EPA’s proposal to modify the NPDES permit, specifically the requirement for double-layer liners in ponds, and the WOTUS rule.
PUREBRED/COW-CALF
Purebred Council Chairman Arnold Callison hosted the joint meeting of ICA’s Cow/Calf & Purebred Councils. In this session, participants heard from key Idaho cattle industry partners including the Idaho Brand Board and Idaho Beef Council. Cody Burlile, Idaho State Brand Inspector, reported that the Idaho Brand Department is currently operating at a deficit which will require some changes to be made beyond the .06 per head increase that went into effect on July 1st. The Brand Board is currently considering its options and will meet with ICA and industry stakeholders over the coming months to create a proposal for the 2025 legislature that would address the shortfall.
Ira Brackett, whose years of service as an Idaho Beef Council (IBC) board member and chairmen come to a close this summer, provided an update on recent activities of the Idaho Beef Council in promoting our product both within the state of Idaho and across the globe. He also reported that IBC’s governing rules are scheduled to be reviewed by the legislature and through this process, the rules are likely to be merged into state statute.
Following these partner updates, ICA staff member Karen Williams presented information related to current industry issues, including the pending Endangered Species Act listing of the monarch butterfly and its potential impact to Idaho cattle producers. She also provided information regarding the U.S. Forest Service’s proposal to amend its land management plans to provide protection for old growth forests, which is currently open for public comments.
CATTLEWOMEN
The CattleWomen council meeting began with virtual guest Nikki Weston, President-Elect of American National CattleWomen (ANCW), who provided the history, background, and benefits of membership with ANCW. Like the NCBA, the ANCW promotes beef, educates the public, and shares the agricultural voice in legislative conversations. At the annual convention in November, the Idaho CattleWomen council will be voting on whether or not they should join the ANCW. The next item for the meeting was an update by Jodie Mink, the Idaho Beef Council Secretary/Treasurer.
She talked about the work that checkoff dollars are doing, both in the US and overseas. The last bit of business for the council meeting involved voting to start development of a new CattleWomen logo and voting to have the CattleWomen’s website incorporated under the ICA’s main website. Monday’s final session, “Both Sides of the Fence,” featured John Richards of Sawtooth Law Offices and Patxi Larrocea-Phillips, ICA’s Government Affairs specialist. They spoke about what constitutes a lawful fence, what open range means for both producers and the public, and the importance of having physical features to mark property lines. They also discussed herd districts, which turn land into a ‘fence-in’ versus a ‘fence-out’ area, and changes to the estray statute that protects open range. Richards and Larrocea-Phillips were able to clarify a wide range of fence laws that often feel convoluted, equipping producers with the confidence they need to protect both their property and cattle.
A social hour was held Monday night that provided an opportunity for networking and camaraderie, followed by the Cattle Baron’s Bash. At dinner, Dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at the University of Idaho, Michael Parella, spoke to participants about current happenings at Idaho’s land grant institution. He talked about new facilities that are in the works, including the Meat Science and Innovation Center on the Moscow campus and the Idaho Center for Agriculture, Food, and the Environment (CAFE) in Jerome. The night was wrapped up with the annual golf Calcutta auction, an exciting precursor to Tuesday’s golf tournament.
Tuesday’s events started off with an action-packed session by Tanner Beymer, a native Idahoan who serves as the Senior Director of Government Affairs at the NCBA. Beymer provided a description of the current political climate in D.C., especially in relation to the beef industry. He also touched on issues that NCBA is fighting, such as how lab-grown meat is labeled and plans for meeting the needs of producers in implementing EID tags. The bulk of the session centered around the proposed changes to the Packers and Stockyards Act. Beymer stated that the underlying theme of the changes is that “big is bad” even if your operation is just bigger than your neighbors. He also explained the issue with the “harm to competition” idea being rolled back, taking away the level playing field that was previously present, and handling everything on a case-by-case basis. Beymer informed the audience that this is a major issue and has the potential to create mass legal risk for packers, affect demand, and create several other problems for the cattle industry.
PUBLIC LANDS
The Public Lands Breakout Session opened with Marty Gill, who recently became ICA’s Federal Lands Chairman. In this role, Gill also represents Idaho on the national Public Lands
Council’s (PLC) Board of Directors. Gill works closely with Ron Cerri, a rancher from Orovada, Nevada who currently serves as PLC’s Secretary. Upon introduction, Cerri gave an overview of the breadth of issues that PLC is currently working on in Washington D.C. to protect public lands ranchers and promote continued livestock grazing on public lands. Chief among those issues are the BLM’s sage grouse management plan, their Conservation and Landscape Health rule, and renewable energy development. After the update on federal lands issues, the meeting turned its focus to state lands. Idaho Department of Lands (IDL) Director Dustin Miller was in attendance to offer the latest happenings within IDL regarding grazing on state lands. IDL’s grazing rules are currently undergoing a public review as part of the Governor’s process to regularly review all state agency rules. Director Miller also reported on pieces of legislation related to IDL that were approved during this year’s legislative session. Of primary relevance was legislation that was approved that excludes grazing leases from certain hearing requirements and provides that all state lands may be leased for a period of up to 40 years for grazing leases.
ISDA
The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) breakout session was led by ISDA Director Chanel Tewalt, who had various updates for participants surrounding EID tags, Brucellosis, wolf management, and more. Director Tewalt shared that Brucellosis rules are expected be released on the federal level and it is anticipated that they will not be as prescriptive as what is in place in Idaho now. She stressed the importance of the industry expressing their needs with the Brucellosis rules, so that feed-
back can be considered as much as possible. Much of the session was focused on Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) which has consumed a large portion of ISDA’s time this year. She explained the process of the disease coming to light and the lack of information that was coming from USDA APHIS, and how that has affected where we stand today with the disease. Other topics of conversation included the newly passed Rangeland Improvement Act that will allow for an industry-based range group to be formed, which will direct ISDA to apply for grants for range projects, taking some of the workload of grant applications and contracts off rancher’s plates, but still allowing them to actively participate. Director Tewalt’s take home message was that the work of ISDA is heavily impacted by the needs of the industry. As a result, ISDA needs feedback from producers and industry representatives to make the best decisions for Idaho agriculture and implement fair policy.
CLOSING SESSION
The final session of Summer Round-Up was presented by Todd Cranney, a managing partner and co-founder of Riverwood Strategies who has vast experience in successful political campaigns. Cranney highlighted that a wave of change was brought in by Idaho’s primaries, resulting in a possible shift in political climate here in Idaho. An enormous amount of money has been poured into this election, including more from outside of Idaho than we have ever seen. Other pertinent topics on the state scale included the change of senate leadership and the issue of legislators who lack knowledge and understanding of agriculture. On a national scale, Cranney reported that the RCP polls were indicating that former President Trump was at a slight advantage in the presidential race.
LEFT: MANY GOLFERS TOOK THE CHALLENGE OF TEEING OFF FROM ASTRIDE THE CATTLEWOMEN RAFFLE SADDLE! MIDDLE: THE SECOND-PLACE TEAM DISPLAYING THEIR BRAND NEW ICA CHARCUTERIE BOARDS. RIGHT: DARREN BRUHNS, COLE HEINSEN, JAKE LOVE, AND RUSS HEINSEN TOOK FIRST-PLACE, SHOWN HERE SHOWCASING THE 2024 BELT BUCKLES.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the presidential election will more than likely come down to a small number of states, with Pennsylvania expected to be one of the most important. Issues that are important to voters include the border, immigration, inflation, and the economy. These issues will likely be on the forefront of voter’s minds this November and heavily influence their voting.
GOLF TOURNAMENT & RANGE TOUR
After lunch, attendees could either participate in the annual J.R. Simplot Golf Tournament or attend the range tour. Those who opted for the range tour enjoyed a short drive to Moscow, where participants were greeted by faculty and staff at the University of Idaho (U of I) Beef Center. At this tour stop, participants learned about U of I’s Charolais herd and the student opportunities that are available at the center including employment and hands-on classes and labs. Next, the group participated in a virtual fencing demonstration that featured ear tag technology. This demonstration included all facets of virtual fencing: information on animal behavior, tag software, and the economics of implementing a technology like this into an operation. The third stop on the tour was the Vandal Brand Meats (VBM), where participants were able to tour the facility, view a carcass, taste VBM products, and learn about the new and im-
proved meat lab facility that is being constructed on campus. The final stop was at the Steer-A-Year Feedlot, where steers from the program were being fed a finishing diet in anticipation of quickly approaching harvest. Attendees learned about the Steer-A-Year program, how to get involved, and how the proceeds benefit students. This educational and engaging tour was a great way to wrap up the conference.
Back in Lewiston, the J.R. Simplot Golf Tournament was underway with fierce competition. The Pacific Office Automation team made up of Darren Bruhns, Cole Heinsen, Jake Love, and Russ Heinsen came out on top to earn the first prize belt buckles. The second-place team, earning charcuterie boards, was made up of Wade Prescott, Gwenna Prescott, and David McCann. The third-place team included Jerry Wroten, Michael Keady, Ben Hone, and Cameron Mulrony, and earned cooler bags. However, the tournament wasn’t all serious, as players were found teeing off from the Idaho CattleWomen Scholarship saddle. The tournament was a great way to mingle with one another in a fun atmosphere.
Thank you to all who were able to attend ICA’s 2024 Summer Round Up. For those that were unable to attend, we hope this article served as a helpful overview of the happenings at Summer Round-up. We hope to see you all at our annual convention in Sun Valley from November 11th through 13th!
GROWING HERDS & RELATIONSHIPS SINCE 1904.
Ag is our
business.
THE NRCS PROVIDES MANY PROGRAMS THAT CAN BENEFIT LIVESTOCK PRODUCERS IN THE STATE OF IDAHO.
Natural Resources Conservation Service at a Glance
What the NRCS has to offer.
YBY CARLY HAMILTON NRCS Idaho Public Affairs Specialist
ou may have heard of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) - but who are we?
NRCS is the USDA’s private lands conservation agency, working daily to assist farmers, ranchers and private forestry landowners to enhance, protect and preserve our natural resources. We work with individuals across Idaho to address natural resource concerns on their lands and to improve their operations.
Through voluntary and free technical assistance, along with a wide range of Farm Bill financial assistance programs, NRCS has options for everyone. Whether
you are beginning to experiment in the world of conservation or you’re finally ready to install that new, wildlife-friendly fence you’ve always talked about, NRCS can help you reach your goals.
NRCS’s financial assistance programs are far reaching. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program, also known as EQIP, is our broadest program and often is a producer’s first step into conservation programs. EQIP offers conservation practices that address a number of resource concerns including soil health, water
quality, water quantity and air quality. Utilizing boots-on-the-ground evaluation efforts, NRCS can assist in determining what specific conservation practices will help you reach your goals. If your vision takes a more long-term approach or you would like to maintain previously accomplished conservation benefits, the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) may be worth exploring. CSP helps landowners build on existing conservation efforts while strengthening their operations. Whether you are looking to improve grazing conditions, increase crop yields, or develop wildlife habitat, NRCS can design a custom conservation plan to help you meet those goals. If you are already taking steps to improve the condition of the land, CSP can help you find new ways to meet your goals.
In 2022, the President signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which represents the single largest investment in climate and clean energy solutions in American history. Through IRA, NRCS will administer more than $19 billion, over the next four years, to supplement oversubscribed financial assistance programs that help mitigate climate change. In 2023 alone, NRCS invested $2.8 billion into more than 45,000 contracts across the United States, and we’re not even close to finished.
Ready to get started with NRCS? Here are a few things you need to know. To be eligible for financial assistance programs like EQIP, you first must register your farm with the Farm Service Agency (FSA). Often, FSA and NRCS are located in the same USDA Service Center, making filling out paperwork that much easier. Part of registering your farm and determining
your eligibility includes an adjusted gross income (AGI) certification stating that your operation falls under the $900,000 annual limit. For more information about financial assistance eligibility requirements, contact your local FSA office or visit farmers.gov.
In Idaho, NRCS’s Fiscal Year 2025 application deadline for EQIP is October 8, 2024, and the application deadline
for CSP is February 28, 2025. However, applications can be submitted throughout the year. To apply, visit or call your local service center for more information. No sure where our nearest office is located? Visit nrcs.usda.gov/Idaho and use the Find Your Local Service Center feature or contact Montana MacConnell at the Idaho Cattle Association <montana@idahocattle.org>.
TAARON DAVIS
Young Cattle Producers Conference 2024
An educational experience for the up-and-coming producer.
The Idaho Young Cattle Producers conference (YCC) completed its eighth year, taking place in conjunction with Idaho Cattle Association’s (ICA) Summer Mid-Year meeting held in Lewiston, Idaho. Eight young cattle producers, representing regions from across the state and various segments of the industry came together for this three-day conference with the intention of expanding their knowledge of the Idaho cattle industry as a whole, while networking with seasoned producers. To start the conference off, participants heard from speakers representing each segment of the Idaho cattle industry, beginning with Eric Wittman of Wittman Farms in Lapwai. Eric shared his experience in navigating a family-owned operation that is both cattle and farming, and how their operation is implementing cover crops. Sammee & Pete Charriere, owners and operators of Ledgerwood Gelbvieh and Rafter C Reds of Pomeroy, Washington shared the process of building a seedstock operation and the importance of record keeping within the operation. Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke, Bedke Ranches of Oakley then spoke to the need to be willing to adapt and diversify an operation sometimes, whether that be adjusting grazing management or getting into a niche market. He also touched on family operations going through
Eight young cattle producers, representing regions from across the state and various segments of the industry, came together for this three-day conference.
succession planning and operational transition to ensure the next generation is prepared and willing to step into the role. To wrap up the Overview of the Cattle Industry in Idaho session, Rex Hoagland, Director of Cattle Procurement at CS Beef Packers based in Kuna, implored the young producers to remain focused on creating quality cattle while the national herd remains at a historic low.
The morning continued with a Marketing Panel to provide insight to participants on multiple marketing channels to consider when selling various types of cattle. On
YCC CLASS OF 2024 - LEFT TO RIGHT: RAQUEL WEMHOFF, MADISON WHITEHEAD, CODY LORENTZ, RYLANN HOPKINS, CAYDEN ZOLLINGER, TAYTHEN LARSON, DEREK BURT, AND
the panel was Ron Van Buren, sale barn buyer and cattle broker; Bill Marek, Western Video Market Rep; Pacen Marez, Beef Northwest procurement; and Kenneth Tasker, Tyson Foods procurement. Following each panelist further explaining their role within the procurement segment of the industry, participants had the opportunity to ask and discuss further marketing focused questions. A consistent theme across each representative’s response was the importance of implementing a solid vaccination protocol supported by quality mineral status at the ranch level. This was followed with the necessity of providing management documentation to ensure a better relationship between the operation and the buyer. Another valuable marketing tool mentioned was Beef Quality Assurance Certification, a program provided through Beef Check-off Dollars and Idaho Beef Council. IBC Chief Executive Officer T.K. Kuwahara expressed gratitude as to what producers do to create high quality beef and how important it is to continue ensuring consumers that beef is what should be for dinner. Monday finished out with participants attending ICA’s Opening General Session and dinner, providing them the opportunity to network with other industry members.
On day two, participants heard presentations on risk management and how to finance an operation. This was
given by Brett Wilder, University of Idaho Ag Economist and Bailey Storms from AgWest Farm Credit. Melanie Mosekian, representing the Idaho Rangeland Resource Commission, shared the need for members of the agriculture industry to take advantage of opportunities to educate the next generation of consumers, such as volunteering at a school event where the IROAM trailer will be used. Participants were then taken on an industry tour of the North-Central Idaho region, McCann Ranch & Livestock Co., Lewiston Livestock Market, University of Idaho AgBiotech, Beef Center and Vandal Brand Meats. During the final stop of the tour, Dr. Phil Bass, University of Idaho Associate Professor of Meat Science gave a meat cutting demonstration and explained the ability to get more out of a beef carcass through value-added cuts. Dr. Bass then served the participants dinner while they participated in a “Think on Your Feet” activity led by Idaho Cattle Association Board members Jerry Wroten and Eric Wittman with ICA Director of Communications & Industry Relations Morgan Lutgen.
77.38+/-ACRES– -HWY 20
Bellevue- $851,000
892.86 +/- ACRES –
Weiser- $1,399,000 *SOLD*
141.19 +/- Acres-Farm with 140.58+- TFCC water. Filer- $1,250,000 *SOLD*
86.16 +/- Acres– 1022 CAFO/Feedlot
Buhl- $1,980,000 *NEW PRICE*
716.01 +/- Acres– Farm w/IDWR water and 8 pivots
Hazelton- $7,400,000 *NEW PRICE*
The final day began with ICA’s Executive Vice President Cameron Mulrony and President Jerry Wroten who encouraged participants to not only become ICA members, but to seek out leadership opportunities as well as stay informed of policies that have an effect on the cattle and agriculture industry in Idaho. They also emphasized how vital they as producers will be in moving the industry forward into the future. Representation from Idaho Farm Bureau Federation spoke about additional resources and opportunities geared towards young and beginning cattle producers and farmers, and to consider involvement with the organization. Finally, Dr. Benton Glaze, University of Idaho Extension Beef Specialist, took participants through a hands-on practice of the management tool of bull selection and using EPDs before the presentation of completion certificates.
The success of this program is in great part due to the support of the many industry sponsors, including Simplot Land & Livestock/Western Stockmen’s, Agri Beef Co., Axiota, Merck Animal Health, Magic Valley Cattle Association, AgWest Farm Credit, Idaho AgCredit, Endovac-Beef, Zoetis, Idaho Angus Association, B & B Cattle Co., Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, and Idaho Cattle Association. Additionally, the work on an annual basis of planning and executing this conference is accomplished through the dedication of industry YCC Planning Committee members Elena Montemagni, Logan Peters, Sara Somsen-Fowler, Tianna Fife, Morgan Lutgen, Tyler Johnson, and UI Extension faculty Carmen Willmore, Sarah D. Baker, Benton Glaze and Meranda Small.
Idaho CattleWomen
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Allison Hubler is from Caldwell, Idaho. She graduated from the College of Southern Idaho with an associates in Agricultural Arts. She is transferring to Utah State University where she will study Agricultural Education.
Courtney Beene is from Rupert, Idaho and she wil attending the University of Wyoming this fall as a transfer student. She wil towards her BA in Agriculture Business.
Morgan Silflow i from Kendrick, Idaho and will the University of Idaho to purs double major in Agriculture Economics and Food and Nutrition.
Rylann Jones is from Idaho Falls, Idaho attending Brigham Young University where she will be studying Business Management and Agribusiness.
from Parma, Idaho and she is a Junior at the University of Idaho. She is studying Agriculture Science, Communications and Leadership with a minor in Marketing.
Hadley MacConnell is from Arco, Idaho and will be attending the University of Idaho where she will study Agriculture Science, Communications and
The CattleWomen would like to send a special note of thanks to all those who purchased tickets for the saddle. We appreciate your support!
WE APPRECIATE OUR SADDLE SPONSORS!
Mackenzie Malson is from Parma, Idaho and she is a junior at Kansas State University where she is majoring in Agricultural Economics and Global Food Systems Leadership with a minor in Business and Agricultural Communications.
Hattie Brechwald is from Kuna, Idaho and she is attending the University of Hawaii in the school of Tropical Agriculture. She will major in National Resources and Environmental Management.
Kaycie Theurer is from Buhl, Idaho she will be attending the University of Idaho where she will pursue a degree in Agricultural Education.
Jarret Mink is from Cambridge, Idaho and has transferred to University of Idaho to work towards his degree in Agriculture Economics.
EACH RECIPIENT RECEIVES A $1,000 SCHOLARSHIP
Julie Rae Kerner Memorial Scholarship
Julie Rae Kerner of Washington County was a longtime volunteer who believed in the 4 H program, she was a 4 H member in her youth, and an active parent volunteer before becoming a certified leader She served as a 4 H leader in Washington County for 13 years before losing her battle to cancer.
Julie made a significant impact in the lives of everyone she met. Not just because she serv on multiple boards, donated time and money to her favorite causes and managed her fami cattle ranch and feedlot business, but because she truly saw the best in all situations and treated everyone with kindness and respect Julie’s life focused on agriculture, family, community and faith
Over the years, Julie served in leadership role for the Washington County 4 H Leaders Counc as Treasurer, President, Vice President, award committee, livestock judging committee, audit committee, fair board representative, portfolio record book committee and willingly volunteer for anything else needed within the program Julie’s service brought out the best in everyone she worked with In addition to her service to 4 H, she also supported FFA, was a member of National Junior Hereford Association Board, Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, Weiser Hospital Board, Idaho Cattle Women’s Association, Weiser River Cattleman’s Association, Leadership Idaho Agriculture, Shamrock Club, Chapter
T PEO, National Hereford Association and St Agnes Catholic Parish Her grace and compassion will be greatly missed by all the organizations she served and the people whose lives she touched.
Julie was the 2015 DSA winner, 2015 Friend of the Fair and 2008 Outstanding Leader of the Year because she lived the 6 Pillars of Character that we strive to achieve in 4 H Overall, she was an amazing example of “Making the Best Better”
Jarret is from Cambridge, Idaho and he will be transferring to the University of Idaho in the fall.
The Idaho CattleWomen are pleased to continue to honor the legacy of Julie Rae Kerner, who passed away from cancer in 2017 Julie was an advocate for the cattle industry and was a dedicated, longtime member of both the Idaho Cattle Association and the Idaho CattleWomen Her kindness, her smile, and her deep passion for the cattle industry were present anywhere Julie went Although she may have left us, the spirit Julie carried never will We
My name is Elizabeth Shaw and I am from Parma, Idaho. I am a junior attending school at the University of Idaho. I am studying Agriculture Science, Communications and Leadership with a Minor in Marketing. Thank you so much for this incredible opportunity.
My name is Jarret Mink, and I am from Cambridge, Idaho. Thank you to Simplot for awarding me this opportunity. These funds will go to help me pay for college next year. I will be attending the University of Idaho to work towards my degree in Animal Science and Ag Economics. Thank you again to Simplot for this great opportunity.
Recipients Receive A $500 Scholarship!
New and renewed ICA members
Aaron Orr
AgRisk Advisors
AgWest Farm Credit
Allison Kinzer
Arimo Corporation - Arimo
Ensign Ranches
Bear River Zeolite
Ben & Amy Robertson
Benton Glaze
Bo Clark
Bob Harrell
Bob, Jerry & Hanna Wroten
Carl & Robin Lufkin
Carmen & Ben Stevens
Charlotte Armacost
Cory Weiss
Denis Matthews
Dennis & John Dau
DL Evans Bank
Don Pape
Don Scarrow
Doug & Lottie Mathers
Ed & Jeff Johnson
Elias & Anita Gonzalez
Eric & Jason Scheline
Futures West
Gary & Gerrie Dickard
Gary & Jackie Ingram
George Gersema
Gerald Martens
Graye Wolfe
Greg & Lori Idsinga
Gretel Kleint
Guy & Sherry Colyer
Holland & Hart LLP
HUB International
Jack Horton
Jackie Ingram
Janie Nirk
Joe & Tracey Kennedy
John Conner
Josh & Maggie Malson
Kellsie Peterson
Kent Mann
Kevin Thibault
Key-Lix Balanced Supplements & Minerals
Larry Whittier
Les Nunn
Marianne Lindsey
Max Firth
Melvin E. Seebeck, Jr.
North Valley Veterinary Clinic, Inc.
Oscar Evans
Phillip Bass
Producers Livestock Marketing
Rachael Melad
Rinker Rock Creek Ranch
Robert Olmstead
Ron & Judy Sale
Ron & Rick Zabel
Ron Jay Meyers
Roy Farmer
Sam Kerner
Scott & Gwen Whitworth
Scoular
Shane & Katrina Smith
Shaw Cattle Co
Stanley & Trish Dowton
Steve & Janna Herbst
Susan Goodrich & Gordon Sylte
Tanner Beymer
Terry McNellis
Trish Dowton
University of Idaho
Van Burtenshaw
Wayne & Carol Olesen
Zions Bank
EMILEE HOLT
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