We have had busy times for NM Cattle Growers’ in 2025 We typically are getting burned from both ends, but this year, so far, we were dropped in the furnace! A couple of years ago I was quoted in an article saying, “you do not know what you
can endure until you are dropped in the fire ” SHEESH, that continues to be the case! The great thing about it is that as long as you continue to get back up, you literally learn something new every day!
I was asked by a new friend the other day, “How do you learn to deal with the disappointment of working so hard in the legislature and everything that NMCGA is working on, just to get shot down on so much bad stuff?” I told him there are a few things that help:
I try to see things from all prospective’s and have an honest conversation, while working my best to get them to see my point of view So, in short, working hard to get others to understand how their proposed action will affect us.
Pray about EVERYTHING! Just as it says in Philippians 4:6, “Do not worry about anything, but pray about everything, and give your requests to God ” If I study enough about what I’m working on, my Lord will give me the words to say!
The last thing is if you do this enough and you take every loss we endure to heart, it will eat you alive You must be proud of the wins no matter how big or how small! If you view everything as an attack against yourself, it will make you so jaded and unrelatable!
Take a deep breath God has a plan for each of us, and there is a reason for everything! When you feel like you are being thrown in the fire, just remember that sometimes you have to burn the pasture to get rid of the brush Maybe you will rid yourself of something that you didn’t know was dragging you down!
“Ya’ll Have A Good’en”
MESSAGE FROM THE President-Elect
Why does Cattle Growers’ invest in having people present during each legislative session? Fair question Here are some reasons: First, we attend to promote the interests of our producers and the rural communities in which we live. That’s why we advocated during the 2025 session for large, food animal veterinarians in
underserved areas of New Mexico (SB 8), for grants for meat processors to satisfy rules for waste removal so they can stay in business and receive our cattle (HB 150), for a rule to protect producers from document requests that would disclose personal and confidential information the state veterinarian collects during a disease investigation (SB 56). It’s also why we supported a new set of fee caps for Livestock Board inspections, so we have a Livestock Board that continues to provide the level of service that we’ve relied on in the past (SB 101) Second and conversely, we attend to educate legislators about the problems with bills that are introduced that would raise our costs of production or be detrimental to the rural communities in which we live. Examples this session included working to defeat paid family and medical leave (HB 11), the imposition of a $17 minimum wage on our employees and children who work alongside us on the ranch (HB 246), a vast expansion of the mission of the Department of Game and Fish to include all wildlife species (SB 5), and a slew of environmental bills that will raise our costs of production (HJR 3, SB4, SB 21, SB 22) or our property taxes (HB 28, HB 294) On many occasions during the 2025 session, our voice for agriculture and rural New Mexico was the only one that legislators heard. We are livestock producers who get dirt under our fingernails and can speak to what actually happens in our operations and in our rural communities We don’t win all the initiatives or the battles, but it is not for lack of trying It is an honor to do this work on your behalf Sinceramente,
NMCGA UPDATE
NMCGA, in partnership with the NM Beef Council, is proud to announce that we will be hosting a Legislative Ag Day in May It is apparent from the 60-day session that we need to tell our story and educate new legislators while reaching across the aisle to make sure that agriculture’s interests are best served. The tour is in the planning stages, and if anyone would like to be a part of the program, please contact the NMCGA office
NMCGA hosted six meetings to address the Department of Energy (DOE) NIETC Thank you to all the county commissions and commissioners that helped to make the meetings possible. This proposed 5 to 15 mile wide corridor in Eastern New Mexico will impact every community along the eastside The comment period closes April 15th, and we continue to reach out to our leaders in Washington to address this issue
Mark your calendars for our Mid-Year Meeting on June 13, 2025, in Ruidoso, NM. The room block is open at the MCM Elegante in Ruidoso. Please make your reservations soon as the block is filling fast We have a great line-up of speakers to address a variety of topics as well as some family fun activities planned
Michelle Frost-Maynard NMCGA DEPUTY DIRECTOR
ROUNDUP CLUB
ANMCGAMEMBERSHIPPROGRAM
The Roundup Club is the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association member recruitment program that recognizes the work of members that show diligence and commitment to building a stronger organization How do you become a member?
By recruiting a new NMCGA Member by December 1, 2025 New Member must mention your name when paying dues
Grand Prizes
Grand prize drawing will be held once a year at the Joint Stockmen’s Convention For every new member you recruit, an additional entry will be put into the drawing
UPDATES FROM AROUND THE STATE
BECKY SPINDLE - VICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE
opefully spring showers astures and April flowers ss the state. With beef falling another 1% test USDA inventory
veryone is wondering if ow much Americans are s the tipping point before demand slows It looks like 2025 will be another interesting year for cattlemen With the tight supply and
ROY FARR - SOUTHWEST VICE PRESIDENT
The Southwest Regional Meeting will be held April 10, 2025, in Reserve, NM. We look forward to an agenda jam packed with educational material relevant to the area!
A huge thank you goes out to our friend ond for spearheading this event and to the businesses that sponsor I hope to see you all there!
JEFF DECKER - SOUTHEAST VICE PRESIDENT
o d g townhall meetings up and down the east side of the state to inform anyone who will listen about the NIETC
strong demand, the American Angus Association recently announced changes to the Certified Angus Beef specifications. As of the first week of March, the brand increased its Ribeye area specification from 10 to 16 inch acceptable range up to 17 square inches I expect other branded beef programs to follow On another note, our team did a fantastic job representing our interests at the legislature this year, and I look forward to a very informative and productive meeting in June
Recently, Fish and Wildlife moved a wolf that had been killing cattle in San Carlos to Silver City. The wolf then moved to Schneberger's where he killed two cows. We will continue to monitor the wolf situation across the state and push for meaningful compensation
I appreciate our NMCGA leadership and staff who have been representing us at the 2025 Legislative Session
NMCGA has been busy since my last letter in January We have had some extremely cold days this winter and I welcome the coming of spring. The executive board along with our wonderful staff have been and the changes it could bring to their operations Remember, the deadline for comments is April 15th If any of you have any questions, please contact me and I will be more than happy to answer or find the answer for you. I want to thank Bronson, Loren, and the rest of the gang for all their work in Santa Fe It is overwhelming
Since the first of the year the northeast, as well as the entire east side of the state, has been immersed in educational efforts on the DOE NIETC transmission corridor that runs the entire length of eastern New
Mexico, as well as a small portion of the Oklahoma panhandle and southeast Colorado. This corridor is from 5 to 15 miles wide Although there could be a need for a powerline, there is no need for a federal corridor with eminent domain rights, that threaten landowner rights, and local government rights If implemented will also affect landowner property values and potential ability for landowners to use their property in the corridor and to obtain operational loans. The downside of this goes on for longer than I have space to write.
I would like to thank Senator Pat Woods and Senator Pat Boone for introducing Senate Memorial 16 It condemns
the eminent domain in this corridor and the corridor in general Representative Jack Chatfield and others also have a strong letter addressing this issue
I would like to thank all of our staff for superhuman efforts in dealing with this issue and being on the forefront of all the issues that have faced our industry at the legislature in Santa Fe Tom Paterson has done a great and amazing job Bronson and Michelle, along with Abby and Jen, have too in helping him with all the issues
Finally, I would like to thank Jeff Decker, Southeast VP, with help from Bronson Corn and Loren Patterson for all of their efforts on the corridor in the southeast. We also had meetings in the northeast with the final one March 6 in Clayton. Again, Michelle, Abby and Jenny provided tremendous support for these efforts Bronson has put many miles and many hours into these meetings all over the east side
CLIFF COPELAND - NORTHEAST VICE PRESIDENT
DAVE KENNEKE - NORTHWEST VICE PRESIDENT
We sorted a few head of cows this morning. As I left the pens, about 25 Bluebirds took flight we have them yearround, but a flock like that means some are thinking of traveling North for different person, and by contacting our elected officials. YOUR INPUT HELPS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!
summer pasture--where did this crazy winter go? This past season has been one of extremes for many people I’ve had the pleasure to visit with extreme cold, wind, and extremely mild all in the same breath! Association leadership has been carrying the torch in Santa Fe for our industry and rural ideals Special thanks to all of you who have been supporting these efforts in
The days are getting longer, and many of us are already calving and preparing for irrigation! The weather forecast is typical- isolated showers, maybe some snow! We are firming up plans for a regional meeting in late April and will send that information out shortly The meeting will offer the opportunity to get your Beef Quality Assurance Certification in addition to other topics. Remember to please encourage your neighbors to join NMCGA and reach out to me with things that the Association might be able to assist you with in your operation Until then, keep praying for good moisture!
LOREN PATTERSON - IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
we had been aware of the earlier phases, the full impact of the corridor to our members and counties wasn’t known until we read the notice in the Federal Register Since we could not get any participation from the DOE at the town hall meetings, NMCGA could only go off the broad language in the Federal Register Docket. I hope everyone has submitted comments. Hopefully, we can mitigate this corridor from eminent domain back to individual property owners and their civil liberties
The New World Screwworm is still an active concern The border crossing at Santa Teresa is currently open but the volume of livestock coming into the state is very low Among internal issues in Mexico, the possibility of new
I gladly participated in several of the NIETC Corridor Town Halls and briefing the New Mexico Association of Counties. NMCGA was the only organization that raised the red flag on this government project Although tariffs, and the Screwworm, our markets should remain strong With the warmer weather and branding season, we should be vigilant to possible outbreaks. NMCGA Executive Committee presented a resolution to the Board of Directors at Santa Fe, giving our association direction as we move forward until Mid-Year Meeting when all membership can vote The resolution simply states we will work on encouraging talks with Mexico and Panama in developing action plans and facilities to create the irradiated male flies to drop in invested areas and establishing the barrier area enjoyed in years past. NMCGA staff continue to get the most out of our membership dollars. I am proud of the work they do for membership and amount of sponsorship coming in for our conventions and regional meetings If you go through Moriarty, please go by the office and visit I believe you will be surprised at all the office is working on in your behalf Pray Your Neighbor Gets Rain!
I think it is important to share this information from the Clovis newspaper.
Foreign ownership of U S agricultural land continues to be a complex and closely watched issue According to the
USDA's latest Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act of 1978 (AFIDA) report, 45 85 million acres of U S agricultural land were held by foreign investors in 2023 That represents a 1.58 million acre (3.61%) of total privately held agricultural land in the U.S. This is a 3.6% increase from 2022, and a 5 million acre (12.2%) rise since 2021 Canadian investors own the largest portion Forty
two states saw increases in foreign-owned ag land, led by New Mexico. This is primarily tied to new or expanded wind/solar energy investments Nearly half of all Chineseinvestor-held acreage is tied to the acquisition of a U S based meat processing company, Chinese investments in our land continue to decline As foreign investment in U S ag land continues to grow and diversify, it is critical to ensure economic and security risks I believe with our new leadership, this will be a priority. I am so grateful for the land we call home and hope to pass this on to our next generations to continue our way of life
RANDELL MAJOR - PAST PRESIDENT
Membership
membership benefits include: boots on the ground to protect the cattle industry, training, networking, the NMCGA Journal, exceptional hotel pricing at several New Mexico hotels, health and property insurance programs, and much more We encourage you to reach out to your neighbors and see if they are members Thank you for your continued support Revenue Streams
Leadership and staff are actively working to bring in new
NEW MEXICO CATTLE GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION
Your membership ensures the stability and long-term viability of the Association. Without members' dues, advocating for producers would not be possible NMCGA 2 0 2 5
CY LA
LINDA DAVIS YOUNG CATTLEMEN’S
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Class I (L to R): Lucas Long (Cimarron), Marissa Diles (Roswell), Bailey Tom (Pinehill), Mason Grau (Grady), Colten Grau (Grady)
sources of revenue and ensure we provide value to those who support us financially
Bottom Line
Our balance sheet remains strong. Current assets and total equity continue to rise year over year Our staff excels at managing costs, and leadership and staff are united in serving you efficiently and effectively
The Linda Davis YCLA joined NMCGA Staff and Leadership in Santa Fe to help advocate for the needs of NMCGA members and agriculture producers across the state in February. During their time in Santa Fe, the participants learned about the legislative process, toured the Roundhouse, lobbied for critical legislation, interviewed with KRQE News, testified on bills, and made many new connections.
Spring Weather Forecast
Brian Bledsoe, Meteorologist
The last time we chatted, I shared my thoughts about why our winter was looking much drier and warmer than average. Well, this is how we have fared for the past 3 months
The above map shows the precipitation anomaly from December 6th through March 6th Much of New Mexico has seen less than 15% of average precipitation Some areas of New Mexico has seen less than 10% of average precipitation. Here is a look at the total liquid (rain/melted snow/ice) we’ve seen during that time
To say that it’s been dry is a massive understatement The next map shows the climate district ranking for the same time frame.
What does that map mean? Well, it means that out of 133 years of data, the areas that have a 133 on them have never seen a drier December - February Even far east/northeast New Mexico that did receive better moisture have only had 4 drier December - February periods in that 133 year period Basically, it’s been bad and the wind that we’ve had lately is only adding insult to injury with blowing dirt and fire danger But, we’ve all seen this movie before
While the temperature anomaly hasn’t been as impressive as the dry anomaly, the winter has still been warmer than average for many areas
Most of New Mexico saw a top 20 warmest winter out of the past 133 years Southwest New Mexico saw one of the top 10 warmest winter out of the past 133 years. If we hadn’t had the moisture from a couple October and November storms, we’d be in terrible shape Even with that moisture, the situation isn’t good
So, what does the next three months have in store for us? Well, we are already entering the middle of March, and the overall pattern hasn’t changed much As I type this article, there will be some snow for some parts of the state, but it will largely fall in the north Areas farther south will strike out again While it isn’t out of the question that we could catch a big storm during the back half of March, the pattern doesn’t favor it Storm are coming through too far to the north to have a big impact on the state. With that in mind, let’s focus on April, May, and June
The latest seasonal forecast information arrived, during the past few days As you might have imagined, the forecast doesn’t look good
EURO Seasonal Model Precipitation Anomaly Forecast April-June
EURO Seasonal Model Temperature Anomaly Forecast April-June
The maps are not good. Both the latest EURO and NMME models favor drier than average and warmer than average conditions from April through June This scenario makes for significant fire danger issues throughout the spring This reminds me of what we dealt with in the spring of 2022 While I am not focusing on the monsoon at this time, my initial thought is this… Historically when the winter and spring are drier and warmer, the monsoon usually starts sooner and the signal is stronger That is exactly what happened in 2022 While it is still early and we have time to see if the pattern changes, I think there are going to be some problems for the next 3 months, with potential relief starting in June and continuing through August with the monsoon We’ll see how it plays out
A Culture of Loving the Land
By: Julie Carter
Marjorie Denally Lantana is a woman of the Navajo Nation, Bicenti Chapter, who has ranched all her life in the same place where she grew up The same tribal lands where her family before her lived, ranched and raised their families, in a small community north of Crown Point, New Mexico called Vicente She has a deeply rooted profound connection with her heritage and to the lands she cares for and a determined desire to pass that on to her children and grandchildren.
Having just turned “71 years younger” as she puts it, Marjorie embodies a blend of strength and nurturing, shaped by years of working her ranch -- hands calloused from general ranch work, her twinkling eyes sharp from watching the horizon, and a spirit attuned to the rhythms of nature. Her love for the land is more than practical; it’s spiritual, tied to the traditions of her people and wanting the best for the generations ahead of her Her resume puts on paper her passion for involvement in agriculture and ties the available progress of knowledge to her operation as well as those of her family and neighbors. She began that particular journey as the parent of 4Hers She was one of the founders of the first 4H club in Crown Point From 1998 to present she has served on the committee for the Navajo Nation Eastern Agency Jr Livestock show Since 2017, she has been an Eastern Navajo Fair Board member and is currently on the McKinley County and Tribal Extension Advisory Committee
“Being a voice for my people in agricultural is definitely important for my community,” Marjorie said “My passion for livestock was passed from my great-grandparents down through three generations to me raising quality and healthy cows and sheep My energy from ranching drove me to be a strong voice for all the producers, consumers, and young folks to be sustainable in in the agriculture industry ”
Continuing with her great desire to educate about the beef industry, Marjorie served on the New Mexico Beef Council from 2019-2024 She is also a member New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association since 1990 and serves on the board of directors and is Chair of the Cross Cultural Committee
Before having the time to give so much of herself to those many organizations, Marjorie was employed by the Navajo Nations as Contract Analyst, Community Involvement Specialist, and Senior Planner for the Eastern Navajo Agency “I started out as a receptionist and worked my way up,” she said She retired in 2014 after 37 years She also served from 2009-16 as an elected official with the local community chapters as Becenti Chapter Secretary/Treasurer, Vice President, President and Land Board
Marjorie was recognized at the New Mexico 57th Legislature First Session, 2025 House of Representatives for her many years of outstanding services to McKinley County and the Navajo Nation. “It was an honor to come before the House of Representatives in February at the Capitol,” she said with great pride
She has been a “solo” rancher since the passing of her husband Larry in 2004 Together they raised three children, Trina, Chambliss and Mikelle. All three received Bachelor Degrees in college and are now married with children “My kids and grandchildren are my life,” Marjorie says “They are my sweet family and I’m so proud of them And my oldest grandson is graduating this year and has been accepted at Texas Tech University I’m so very proud of him ” Her children and grandchildren help her often at the
Front row L-R: Joy Lantana (daughter in-law), Tatum Lantana (granddaughter), Marjorie, Whitley Silversmith (grandbaby), Kynlie Platero (granddaughter), Trina Platero(eldestdaughter),MikelleSilversmith(youngestdaughter)
One of eight children, Marjorie reminisced over a photo of her mother Loretta Cowboy Denally sitting on her horse in a squaw skirt with Hereford cattle around her. “My mom never wore pants,” she said. “We lived right where I live now When I grew up, women were doing men’s work I grew up doing a man’s job My mom was a workhorse She maintained our home and took care of sheep and cattle It was the 1950s and we never sat down We were always busy constantly weaving belts or saddle blankets, some for us to use and then my mother would sell some. My dad was a bus driver. We didn’t have running water or electricity Everything was harder then ” It was sometime in the 1980s before electricity came to the community and Marjorie shared that it has only been since 2014 that she had water coming through 12 miles of pipeline from Crown Point. She could finally connect her washer and dryer up for use. Prior to that laundry was taken to Farmington or Gallup to be done at the laundromat “There is still about 20 percent of our community that doesn’t have water except what they haul or catch in a cistern ” Loading up her three adored Corgis (Cowboy, Copper and Chops) in the ATV, Marjorie heads out to check on her
cattle “Mostly I go every other day,” she says “I have 5,000 a s and I manage
Typical Navajo Lands means water is sacred “We have a lot of open plains type pasture with an Artesian well in one, so I use that in winter because I don’t have to break ice in that pasture,” she said “And when it rains, it’s a blessing from the Creator. I am of the Waterflow Clan,” she said. “Perhaps I’m extra grateful ”
She goes on to describe the ponds that fill during the rainy season and the use of a windmill for additional water
“We used to have Herefords in the beginning, just a very few we put together Then we went to red Angus and realized the black Angus were so much more marketable. I look for the best bulls and am very proud of cattle we have now ” Like any rancher, a trip to a bull sale is the highlight of at least her week
The sprawling pastures, the quiet beauty of her homelan her own heartbeat. Her passion for cattle runs deep she knows their quirks, the needs, and takes pride in raising them well, a testame to her skill and patience She practical yet resourceful, wi a no-nonsense approach to the challenges of ranching, from drought to market shif Her family is her anchor; she fiercely loyal, passing down knowledge of the land and livestock as her ancestors di for her. She just does what needs done and let’s that speak to her devotion to the entirety of it all She is perpetually busy but always ready to speak with you, especially if it’s about the ag industry
In her, you see a living bridge between past and present, a steward of her culture, the agriculture industry and the rugged place she calls home.
NEW MEXICO CATTLE GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION
GRAND CHAMPION STEER RING A & B CHARLI RAMSEY
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION STEER RING B & 3RD OVERALL RING A: JILLIAN LOCKWOOD
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION STEER RING A & 3RD OVERALL RING: CALEB RAMSEY
4TH OVERALL RING B & 5TH OVERALL RING A: AUBREY HENSON 4TH OVERALL RING A:
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION HEIFER RING A & 3RD
OVERALL RING B: CHARLI RAMSEY
RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION HEIFER RING B & 4TH OVERALL RING A:
3RD OVERALL RING A & 5TH OVERALL RING B: JAKE WAGNER 4TH OVERALL RING B & 5TH OVERALL RING A: KODY WHITE
CATTLE SUPPLIES
The cattle-on-feed on February 1, 2025, was 11.716 million head and that is down 1% from the year prior Placements during the November to January period were just slightly below year ago levels The state of Texas experienced the biggest year to year decline and that was in part driven by the Mexican border being closed to feeder cattle imports
Fed cattle slaughter during the December to February period was 6.050 million head, and that is down 77,000 head from the year prior The few weeks during February fed cattle slaughter will be the lowest of the year, outside of holiday weeks This is very normal, as February is a slow demand time for beef, thus not as much beef is needed to meet consumer’s demand
Non-fed cattle slaughter was down 257,000 head compared to the year prior for the December to February period Looking forward to the second quarter of 2025, the projection is for non-fed slaughter to be down 100,000 to 150,000 head Improved margins for the dairy industry will be a big influence on the number of cows harvested in the spring of 2025
Ration costs at the feedyard have found their bottom and had a slight uptick from fall into the winter, the impact on cost of gains is between $.03 and $.05. This reflects higher corn prices going into the ration, look for ration costs to be flat into the spring feeding period.
Fed cattle carcass weights, both steer and heifers, remain will above year ago levels Cow carcass weights are also above year ago levels, all this added weight is keeping beef production declines in check despite a reduction in slaughter.
CATTLE PRICES
A 13% price increase from mid-November to midJanuary to the fed cattle market came as a big surprise This shift was driven by an improvement to leverage for the cattle feeder across all segments
The Kansas/Panhandle fed cattle price from
December to February had a range of $190 to $209. The leverage shift, albeit will be volatile, is a sustained shift as more packing capacity will become available in April of 2025 The range mentioned above is the targeted range for the March to May period The strength of the fed cattle market resulted in strength to all classes of cattle
The CME feeder index has pushed to $280/cwt and is now expected to find major support above $270/cwt. for the spring The topside could be as high as $285/cwt during this period
The calf market has followed a very seasonal pattern, with fall lows and then moving higher now into the spring. The top side of the calf market has been opened, as prices could trade to $370/cwt for highs in the early spring
The cull cow market was projected to add $30 to $35/cwt., for a utility cow price from the fall lows to spring highs and the market is well on its way of hitting that forecast, as the market has already experienced a $25/cwt increase
The improved drought conditions and strong calf prices equate to higher bred female prices That market will sustain values above $3000/head for the first half of the year, for bred stock
FACTORS TO WATCH
La Nina – A weak La Nina is the likely weather pattern into the winter and spring However, the data suggests an active monsoon season for this summer. This would be a huge relief for the entire state of New Mexico
The tariffs are in place, but it is too early to tell what impact, if any, they will have on the US consumer. The prospective plantings report will be on March 31, a three million plus increase in corn acres is expected for 2025
THIS CATTLEFAX REPORT SPONSORED BY:
Public Lands Council Spring Update
The year is truly underway and in Washington, D C , where a new administration and freshly-minted members of Congress are off to a fast start with key legislation for the 119th Congress In any new administration, confirmation of political leadership is among the first orders of legislative business PLC supported the confirmation of USDA Secretary Rollins, DOI Secretary Burgum, and EPA Administrator Zeldin, and our support for these strong leaders is already clearly warranted In the face of some challenging political dynamics and discussions about how to fund the government, and for how long, these leaders have provided the kind of principled, level leadership public lands ranchers need
Agency leadership have navigated some swift political waters in the first three months in office. The White House, and the Department of Government Efficiency, worked quickly to identify potential areas to reduce government waste and staffing inefficiencies. During the first weeks of the Trump Administration, these decisions came fast; in some areas, these decisions needed to be reversed as the impact of f hi work was realized For
example, early cuts to USDA impacted more than two-thirds of Wildlife Services’ staff and funding, due to the unique contracting status of many of the agency’s employees. PLC and our partners engaged with the administration to amend the strategy to ensure that ranchers would have active Wildlife Services’ trappers, pilots, and agents as the most vulnerable lambs and calves were on the ground PLC is also working to address existing and new vacancies in key USFS and BLM field offices through staffing discussions at the agency and development of new partnerships to build capacity
This agency capacity is important: PLC is in full support of streamlining regulatory expectations and right-sizing federal staff, but in the West, there’s a huge difference between the people dreaming up new regulatory burdens and the onthe-ground staff who provide assistance to permittees and communities While slimmer, the streamlined Washington Offices for many of the agencies are hard at work, too Spurred by the PLC-led litigation opposing the Biden BLM’s Public Lands Rule, Secretary Burgum has already taken steps to roll back the rule. USFWS has also heeded our calls to
address some of the most egregious changes the Biden administration made to the Endangered Species Act PLC has taken a two-pronged approach: we continue to work through regulatory changes, but we have been deeply involved in Congressional work to pass legislative reforms In March, Congressman Westerman (R-AR) introduced the Endangered Species Act Amendments Act of 2025, informed by years’ of work to address listing and delisting efficiencies and barriers that make it harder for ranchers to do basic, responsible management
PLC has a strong, grassroots policy book to advocate for producers from Ruidoso to Wenatchee, and every grazed acre in between, and we take seriously our role as supporter and defender of rural communities I am excited about what we’ll get done the next four years – and I’m glad we’ll do it together We have challenges ahead, too From the NIETC corridors and adversarial groups who want to remove grazing, we will face plenty of roadblocks in our work to secure a strong future for all of the permittees and lessees in the West
By: Kaitlynn Glover, PLC Executive Director
CowBelles’ Corner
emingly on its way out and Spring is peeking it’s head out, I like everyone else is praying for rain
The winter has had the New Mexico Cowbelles on the road a lot
First stop was San Antonio, TX to attend the American National Cattlewoman meeting during NCBA Cattle Con It was a great meeting, and we enjoyed meeting ladies from across the state who share our love of cattle and the beef industry
We then set off for Santa Fe to Ag Fest and shared “Our Story”
We had one of our youngest members Junior Cowbelle Kymberlee Orr along with her mom, President Elect Misti Orr helping us What a great event and opportunity to visit with legislators and other agriculture industry leaders
Santa Fe also was the third stop for NMCGA Board meeting and Legislative Dinner We as an organization are so thankful for the partnership of the NMCGA As the “new kid in town”, I am
grateful for the warm welcome I have received.
We have Eastern and Western District Workshops coming up March 29 in Artesia hosted by Yucca Cowbelles and April 2 hosted by Copper Cowbelles We are looking forward to seeing our locals Learning and having some fun is on the agenda
Registration information can be found on the website www newmexicocowbelles org
We will then be headed to Ruidoso in May for WALC to set up a booth And again, in June for Mid-Year Meeting
I better go start the washer and get my bags repacked
See y’all down the trail
Corrina Casler
NMCB President
NCBA Fights
Back Against Unscientific Attacks on Beef
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGAs) are a foundational document that informs federal nutrition policies and programs like the School Lunch Program Mandated by the 1990 National Nutrition Monitoring and Related Research Act, the DGAs are updated every five years in a joint process between the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) While the DGAs tend to only make the news when a new version is close to being completed, we are always “in cycle,” monitoring and engaging in the regulatory process to protect beef’s place on the plate Each document strives to balance sound science with practical policy advice for Americans, and is built out based on previous versions, comments submitted by the public, and recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee (DGAC)
The DGAC is comprised of 20 nationally recognized nutrition scientists, medical doctors and registered dietitians, who confer for a full year before submitting a scientific report to USDA and HHS with their recommendations USDA and HHS evaluate the committee’s recommendations and translate that information into the final guidelines over the course of the following year
Full DGAs will be released toward the end of 2025 NCBA has stayed engaged at every point in the process so far to advocate for beef stays at the center of the plate We have submitted formal comments, met with agency officials, recommended candidates for the DGAC, and organized a grassroots campaign with thousands of cattle producers who voiced their opinions Unfortunately, the DGAC works more transparently and fairly in some cycles than others This cycle, there were numerous lastminute changes made that resulted in blatantly unscientific attacks on red meat These changes include recommendations to decrease beef intake, increase beans, peas, and lentils
APHIS establishing New World Screwworm sterile fly barrier zone in Mexico
consumption and edit language to downplay the benefits of beef NCBA quickly mobilized to refute the unscientific and wildly out-of-touch report NCBA Executive Director of Nutrition Science and Registered Dietitian Dr Shalene McNeill reacted, saying “cutting back on beef isn’t going to Make America Healthy Again There’s irrefutable evidence about the valuable role of beef and its nutrients in promoting health We’ve had 40 years of Dietary Guidelines, and during that time, beef consumption has decreased, yet Americans suffer more from obesity and chronic disease than ever before Advising Americans to cut back on beef takes us even further in the wrong direction, putting our most vulnerable populations like women, children, teens and the aging at risk This advice detracts from the real and most basic challenges we face with eating healthfully ” Not only does this new version of the report not follow sound science, but it could also possibly be harmful to Americans – the exact opposite of the stated goals and requirements of the DGAs
Most Americans today already eat beef within DGA recommended levels for a healthy diet and any reduction is a solution in search of a problem Public health advice should be based on the best available science, but after 22 months of public discussion the DGAC ignored extensive scientific evidence about beef’s essential nutrients and the positive role it plays in health as a preferred protein in a variety of healthy diets for all Americans Their report is anti-meat, elitist and filled with language more suited for animal activists not respected experts NCBA has filed extensive comments and are currently working with our allies in Congress and the Trump Administration to
Move is designed to prevent the further northern movement of the pest to the U.S.
The U S Department of Agriculture’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced that it is adjusting its New World screwworm (NWS) sterile fly dispersal strategy to push this devastating pest away from the U S and back toward the previously established biological barrier in Panama. APHIS is shifting its dispersal efforts to Mexico the northernmost point of the outbreak using a scientifically proven eradication model The agency said it successfully implemented this approach in previous eradication efforts, and it remains the most effective strategy
APHIS identified two locations for sterile fly dispersal centers outside of Mexico to ensure program continuity Adjusting dispersal locations will ensure the greatest number of sterile flies are released in the critical areas, the agency said While sterile fly dispersal will shift north, APHIS said it remains committed toworking closely with Nicaragua, Honduras and regional partners to support on-the-ground outbreak response activities, including surveillance, animal health outreach and early detection efforts.
2025 Mid-Year Meeting
June 1-3, 2025 Ruidoso, NM
Three Questions to Ask Yourself When Preparing to Purchase Bulls
Answering these questions leads a producer to the traits that are economically relevant to their enterprise.
Written by: Maggie Malson
TABLE: 1
With bull buying season in full swing, it’s important for commercial cattle producers to have a game plan for making purchases. Matt Spangler, UNL Professor and Beef Genetics Extension Specialist, says there are three questions producers should ask themselves when evaluating bull purchases
What are my breeding/marketing goals?
Which traits directly impact the profitability of my enterprise? Are there environmental constraints that dictate the level of performance that is acceptable for a given trait in my enterprise?
Sire selection should focus on what is economical, Spangler says “This requires a true accounting of the traits that generate revenue or incur a cost within a specific beef cattle enterprise,” he says “Once the drivers of profit have been identified, sire selection should focus on the suite of traits that impact profitability ”
Answering these questions leads a producer to the traits that are economically relevant to their enterprise, which are called Economically Relevant Traits (ERT), meaning they are directly associated with a revenue stream or a cost
It’s important to note all traits that are not ERTs are indicator traits, or a trait that is genetically correlated to an ERT but not an ERT itself
To further illustrate this, Table 1 provides a list of currently available EPDs indicating which are ERT and their corresponding indicator traits
In the list of traits many weight traits (e g weaning, yearling, carcass) are listed as ERTs This is dependent on the
individual enterprise’s marketing endpoint
“If a commercial producer markets calves at weaning then weaning weight or sale weight, is the ERT,” Spangler says
“If a producer retains ownership through the feedlot phase and sells on a grid then carcass weight is the ERT ”
Spangler points out that from an industry perspective carcass weight is always the ERT, but individual producer goals might dictate alternate marketing endpoints and traits of emphasis
An example of an indicator trait is birth weight
“Selection to decrease birth weight in an attempt to reduce the prevalence of dystocia is practiced by numerous commercial bull buyers,” Spangler says
“However, birth weight does not have a direct revenue source or cost associated with it. The trait that does have a cost associated with it is calving ease or difficulty ”
Calving ease is related to the level of assistance needed during a calving event
“Although the two are related, the genetic correlation between calving ease and birth weight is only between -0 6 and -0 8, suggesting that birth weight only explains 36-64% of the genetic differences between animals for calving difficulty ”
Spangler emphasizes commercial producers should identify their breeding goals and thus the traits that are economically relevant to them
Wind, Dryness and Fire:
Windy seasoning is amongst us! Please be careful on welding, electrical or even early branding that might create a fire. Wind, dryness and fire do not mix! If you are working in these conditions please have a water rig available close by We don’t want you burning the world down Property/Building Increases:
Our insurance carriers have made us aware of property/building rate increases due to the fire, wind and hail losses that New Mexico has received Areas like Lincoln county are really tough to get a standard insurance company to write a property/building coverage policy. The counties that are on the far east side of the State are having problems as well due to the past hail claims Wind claims vary throughout the State too We are fortunate to have some companies that will write in these areas.
Auto Insurance:
Maintenance is always a plus in your business Changing the oil, replacing tires, and be cautious on how your units are running
Baling wire is not the answer to all the problems. Please try to keep your pickups and trailers up to date to prevent any mishaps Trailer lights and tire wear are always a problem
Spend a little time and fix a small problem before it becomes a big problem. Any trailers over 2,000 lbs on a commercial auto policy are required to be scheduled on your auto policy for auto liability Usually that premium is minimal
ATV’s:
There are a lot of ATV/UTV’s on ranches and they should be scheduled for liability. This is a minimal premium. We just need the year, make, model and VIN of the units If physical damage is requested we just need the cost of the unit
Scheduled Equipment:
If you have skid steers, backhoes, dozers, maintainers, tractors, loaders and attachments, please let us know and we can cover these items on the ranch policy If they are not scheduled they are not covered We cover what you give us a list of annually or call in to update
Cargo:
Equipment on a trailer or livestock in a trailer and is pulled by a covered automobile power unit is called cargo We can cover these items Let us know what amount you want and we can add it to the ranch policy.
About Us:
Since 1980, Insurance Services of New Mexico has been proudly serving New Mexico's ranching and farming community Our experienced staff, combined with a commitment to providing top-tier insurance coverage, has earned the trust of our customers and the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association We work for you Call us today and let us show you the difference
Sincerely,
-Jim Lyssy, President, Insurance Services of NM
Open Enrollment for health insurance and Medicare is officially closed You may be able to enroll in a health insurance plan if you experience a "Qualifying Life Event."
The most common Qualifying Life Events include moving to a new zip code, getting married, having a baby, getting divorced, and losing Medicaid coverage You must act within 30 days of the event in most cases to be able to enroll in coverage If you've experienced a Qualifying Life Event and need assistance enrolling in health insurance, please call Waypath Employee Benefits at 575-291-3689.
Sales Digest
Perez Cattle Company Complete Dispersal of Spring Calving Hereford Females Sale
Aug. 31, 2025 - Nara Visa, NM
DO YOU HAVE A SALE COMING UP?
Send in your sale dates to be included in the July NMCGA Journal sale calendar by May 15 to abby@nmagriculture.org
NMCGA will only include sales made known to them by the first of the month prior to the issue submitted by members of the association
CATTLE GROWERS’
CALENDAR
SPRING SCHOLARSHIP DEADLINE APR 1, 2025
AIM INTERNSHIP DEADLINE APR. 1, 2025
SW REGIONAL MEETING APR 10, 2025
NW REGIONAL MEETING APR. 22, 2025
NE REGIONAL MEETING APR. 24, 2025
HERITAGE BUCKLE DEADLINE MAY 9, 2025
MID-YEAR MEETING JUNE 1-3, 2025
Tequesquite Ranch
Townsend Brangus
USA Ranch
Westall Ranches
NEW MEXICO SALE BARNS
Roswell Livestock Auction
Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction
Valley Livestock Auction
Santa Teresa Livestock Auction
Clovis Livestock Auction
Five States Livestock
Cow House Auction
Dexter Livestock Commission
Landmark Livestock Auction
Albert, NM
Milburn, OK
575-673-2208
505-347-2550
575-638-5435
Carlsbad, NM
575-316-2071 Albq, NM
Roswell, NM
575-622-5580
Belen, NM 505-864-7451
Albuquerque, NM 505-877-0723
Santa Teresa, NM 915-843-0132
Clovis, NM 575-762-4422
Clayton, NM 575-374-2505
Kirkland, NM 505-801-8393
Dexter, NM 575-624-2697
Mesquite, NM 575-635-4173
Member Highlight: Phil and Judy Wallin
A Partnership Built on Hard Work and Tradition
, gg , y San Jon and Judy Cain of Truth or Consequences said their vows and started a partnership that grew beyond their wildest dreams. After graduating from NMSU, Phil accepted a position as an agriculture teacher in San Jon, returning home to help his parents, Leonard and Evelyn Wallin, on the family farm and ranch
Teaching wages were supplemented by watching wheat cattle in the winter and day-working in the summer, while Judy stayed busy raising their daughters, Amanda and Bobbie, born in 1978 and 1979.
From 1980 to 1990, Phil and Judy helped Judy’s family Ben, Jane, and Lewis Cain on their ranches near T or C before purchasing a farm in Moriarty For the next 20 years, they farmed 500 acres of alfalfa hay and raised bred heifers Phil, Judy, and their daughters worked side by side, rarely hiring outside help. Those years instilled a strong work ethic in Amanda and Bobbie, earning them asketball
Cain Ranch, bringing them back to southern New Mexico
They began retaining ownership of their cattle through slaughter, giving them more control and flexibility. Improvements included replacing windmills with solar pumps, upgrading 60 miles of pipelines, adding pens, and purchasing equipment like a semi-truck for hauling cattle to feedyards
Labor has remained a challenge, but they rely on their neighbor, Bo Marshall, and their daughters’ growing families. Amanda, Curtis, and their children, Bentlee and Barrett, are the core day-working crew, while Bobbie and her husband Kevin both chiropractors help keep the team strong Phil’s nephew, Cole Wallin, also joined the operation, running cattle at San Jon Kirkland Feedyard in Vega, Texas, plays a crucial role in their operation. Phil and Judy’s friendship with Perry and Robbie Kirkland dates back to the 1970's and has been key to their success Their partnership, combined with quality Bill King bulls, has earned multiple “Champion Carcass” and “Champion Pen” titles from Texas Cattle Feeders
When the girls left for college, Phil and Judy f challenges The passing of Judy’s parents led th out the heirs of the Bar Cross Ranch and the Le
Phil and Judy are proud and grateful for the life they’ve built, carrying on the traditions of both families. Like ranchers everywhere, they aim to produce the best and safest beef in the world, relying on organizations like New Mexico Cattle Growers for leadership and support
Left L to R: Amanda Creighton, Evelyn Wallin (90), Judy Wallin, Bentlee Creighton, Barrett Creighton
Right L to R: Barrett Creighton, Phil Wallin, Amanda Creighton, Judy Wallin, Curtis Creighton, Bentlee Creighton
Left
Back Row L to R: Kevin & Bobbie Atchley, Bentlee, Amanda, & Curtis Creighton
Front Row L to R: Judy Wallin, Kendall Atchley, Barrett Creighton, Phil Wallin, Kaitlyn Atchley
