NMCGA Journal - April 2025

APRIL 2025

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: PHIL AND JUDY WALLIN THREE QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF WHEN PREPARING TO PURCHASE BULLS CATTLEFAX REPORT

Contents April 2025

NMCGA CORNER

FEATURED ARTICLES

LEADERSHIP MESSAGE

02

NMCGA UPDATE

03

UPDATES FROM AROUND THE STATE

04

A CULTURE OF LOVING THE LAND

10

USDA APHIS OPENING SCREWWORM FACILITY IN MEXICO

18

THREE QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF WHEN PREPARING TO PURCHASE BULLS

20

LINDA DAVIS YCLA AT THE ROUNDHOUSE 06

NMCGA STEER AND HEIFER JACKPOT RESULTS

15

AFFILIATE ORGANIZATION UPDATES SALES DIGEST

23

NM BEEF COUNCIL BULLHORN

12

PLC UPDATE

17

COWBELLES’ CORNER

17

NCBA UPDATE

18

WEATHER SUMMER WEATHER FORECAST

08

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT PHIL AND JUDY WALLIN

Back Cover

INDUSTRY UPDATES CATTLEFAX REPORT

16

INSURANCE REPORTS

21

On the Cover: Charli Ramsey at the NMCGA Jackpot

The NMCGA Journal is published quarterly and dedicated to reporting facts relevant to the NM cattle industry. Content of this journal is reviewed rigorously; however, the opinions of articles do not reflect the opinion of the publisher. Price is $35 a year or it is included in NMCGA dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to PO Box 850 Moriarty, NM 87035.

MESSAGE FROM THE

Bronson Corn President 575-420-1375 Tom Paterson President - Elect 832-640-1152 Dave Kenneke NW Vice President 575-447-2366 Cliff Copeland NE Vice President 575-403-8123 Jeff Decker SE Vice President 575-399-4464 Roy Farr SW Vice President 575-838-6325 Becky Spindle Vice President at Large 505-252-0228 Shacey Sullivan Secretary Treasurer 505-239-5288 Loren Patterson Immediate Past President 575-937-5458 Randell Major Past President 575-838-3016

President

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,

Tom Paterson

April 2025

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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.

Thank you,

L L ee g g aa cc yy S Sp p oo n n ss oo rr ss !!

Michelle Frost-Maynard NMCGA DEPUTY DIRECTOR

ROUNDUP CLUB A NMCGA MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM 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.

Legacy Development and Management Hotels

ACCESS ALL YOUR MEMBER BENEFITS IN YOUR MEMBER PORTAL

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NMCGA Store Discounts

1-5 members recruited = 10% Discount on NMCGA store 5 or more members recruited = 20% Discount on NMCGA store

2025 Roundup Club Members No 2025 Roundup Club Members Yet!

UPDATES FROM AROUND THE STATE BECKY SPINDLE - VICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE As I write this, hopefully spring showers will bring green pastures and April flowers for all of us across the state. With beef cattle inventory falling another 1% according to the latest USDA inventory report, and prices very high, everyone is wondering if demand will hold strong, and how much Americans are willing to pay for beef, and what is the tipping point before demand slows. It looks like 2025 will be another interesting year for cattlemen. With the tight supply and

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.

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 Tracy Drummond for spearheading this event and to the businesses that sponsor. I hope to see you all there!

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.

JEFF DECKER - SOUTHEAST VICE PRESIDENT 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 holding townhall meetings up and down the east side of the state to inform anyone who will listen about the NIETC

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.

CLIFF COPELAND - NORTHEAST VICE PRESIDENT 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.

April 2025 04 NMCGA Journal

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 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

person, and by contacting our elected officials. YOUR INPUT HELPS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE! 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 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 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

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!

RANDELL MAJOR - PAST PRESIDENT 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 05

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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.

SHACEY SULLIVAN- SECRETARY/TREASURER Membership Your membership ensures the stability and long-term viability of the Association.

Without members' dues, advocating for producers would not be possible. NMCGA 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

YCLA

2025

NEW MEXICO CATTLE GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION

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)

NMCGA FINANCIAL FORCAST MEMBERSHIP

REVENUE

NET INCOME

COSTS

TOTAL ASSETS

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…

Continued on page 09...

April 2025

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...Spring Weather continued from page 08

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

NMME Model Precipitation Anomaly Forecast April-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

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NMME 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.

April 2025

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...continued from page 10

She has been a “solo” rancher since the passing of her cattle. “Mostly I go every other day,” she says. “I have husband Larry in 2004. Together they raised three 5,000 acres divided into four very large pastures and I children, Trina, Chambliss and Mikelle. All three received manage them on a rotational plan.”

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 ranch and Trina is her “lease partner.”

Typical to New Mexico ranchers, ranching in the 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 Front row L-R: Joy Lantana (daughter in-law), Tatum Lantana (granddaughter), realized the black Angus were so much more marketable.

Marjorie, Whitley Silversmith (grandbaby), Kynlie Platero (granddaughter), Trina I look for the best bulls and am very proud of cattle we Platero (eldest daughter), Mikelle Silversmith (youngest daughter).

Back row L-R: Chambliss Lantana (son), Colton Lantana (grandson), Jerrold Platero have now.” Like any rancher, a trip to a bull sale is the (son in-law), Travis Silversmith (son in-law), and Laryn Platero (grandson) highlight of at least her week.

One of eight children, Marjorie reminisced over a photo of The sprawling pastures, the scent of sagebrush, and the her mother Loretta Cowboy Denally sitting on her horse in quiet beauty of her homeland are as much a part of her as a squaw skirt with Hereford cattle around her. “My mom her own heartbeat. Her never wore pants,” she said. “We lived right where I live passion for cattle runs deep now. When I grew up, women were doing men’s work. I —she knows their quirks, their grew up doing a man’s job. My mom was a workhorse. She needs, and takes pride in maintained our home and took care of sheep and cattle. It raising them well, a testament was the 1950s and we never sat down. We were always to her skill and patience. She’s busy constantly weaving belts or saddle blankets, some practical yet resourceful, with for us to use and then my mother would sell some. My dad a no-nonsense approach to was a bus driver. We didn’t have running water or the challenges of ranching, electricity. Everything was harder then.” from drought to market shifts.

It was sometime in the 1980s before electricity came to Her family is her anchor; she’s the community and Marjorie shared that it has only been fiercely loyal, passing down since 2014 that she had water coming through 12 miles of knowledge of the land and pipeline from Crown Point. She could finally connect her livestock as her ancestors did washer and dryer up for use. Prior to that laundry was for her. She just does what needs done and let’s that taken to Farmington or Gallup to be done at the speak to her devotion to the entirety of it all. She is laundromat. “There is still about 20 percent of our perpetually busy but always ready to speak with you, community that doesn’t have water except what they especially if it’s about the ag industry. haul or catch in a cistern.”

In her, you see a living bridge between past and present, a Loading up her three adored Corgis (Cowboy, Copper and steward of her culture, the agriculture industry and the Chops) in the ATV, Marjorie heads out to check on her rugged place she calls home.

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MAY 2024

NEW MEXICO CATTLE GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION

GRAND CHAMPION STEER RING A & B CHARLI RAMSEY

GRAND CHAMPION HEIFER RING A & B JAKE WAGNER

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION STEER RING A & 3RD OVERALL RING: CALEB RAMSEY

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION HEIFER RING A & 3RD OVERALL RING B: CHARLI RAMSEY

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION STEER RING B & 3RD OVERALL RING A: JILLIAN LOCKWOOD

RESERVE GRAND CHAMPION HEIFER RING B & 4TH OVERALL RING A: DYLANE CARLISLE

3RD OVERALL RING A & 5TH OVERALL RING B: JAKE WAGNER

4TH OVERALL RING A: ALLY MARQUEZ

4TH OVERALL RING B & 5TH OVERALL RING A: AUBREY HENSON

4TH OVERALL RING B & 5TH OVERALL RING A: KODY WHITE

5TH OVERALL RING B: PHALLEN CHARLSTON

CATTLE SUPPLIES

December to February had a range of $190 to $209.

The leverage shift, albeit will be volatile, is a The cattle-on-feed on February 1, 2025, was 11.716 sustained shift as more packing capacity will become million head and that is down 1% from the year prior. available in April of 2025. The range mentioned Placements during the November to January period above is the targeted range for the March to May were just slightly below year ago levels. The state of period. The strength of the fed cattle market resulted Texas experienced the biggest year to year decline in strength to all classes of cattle. and that was in part driven by the Mexican border The CME feeder index has pushed to $280/cwt. and is being closed to feeder cattle imports. now expected to find major support above $270/cwt.

Fed cattle slaughter during the December to for the spring. The topside could be as high as February period was 6.050 million head, and that is $285/cwt. during this period. down 77,000 head from the year prior. The few The calf market has followed a very seasonal weeks during February fed cattle slaughter will be pattern, with fall lows and then moving higher now the lowest of the year, outside of holiday weeks. This into the spring. The top side of the calf market has is very normal, as February is a slow demand time for been opened, as prices could trade to $370/cwt. for beef, thus not as much beef is needed to meet highs in the early spring. consumer’s demand.

The cull cow market was projected to add $30 to Non-fed cattle slaughter was down 257,000 head $35/cwt., for a utility cow price from the fall lows to compared to the year prior for the December to spring highs and the market is well on its way of February period. Looking forward to the second hitting that forecast, as the market has already quarter of 2025, the projection is for non-fed experienced a $25/cwt. increase. slaughter to be down 100,000 to 150,000 head.

The improved drought conditions and strong calf Improved margins for the dairy industry will be a big prices equate to higher bred female prices. That influence on the number of cows harvested in the market will sustain values above $3000/head for the spring of 2025. first half of the year, for bred stock.

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 FACTORS TO WATCH reflects higher corn prices going into the ration, look La Nina – A weak La Nina is the likely weather for ration costs to be flat into the spring feeding pattern into the winter and spring. However, the data period. suggests an active monsoon season for this summer.

Fed cattle carcass weights, both steer and heifers, This would be a huge relief for the entire state of remain will above year ago levels. Cow carcass New Mexico. weights are also above year ago levels, all this added The tariffs are in place, but it is too early to tell what weight is keeping beef production declines in check impact, if any, they will have on the US consumer. despite a reduction in slaughter.

The prospective plantings report will be on March 31, a three million plus increase in corn acres is expected CATTLE PRICES for 2025.

A 13% price increase from mid-November to midJanuary to the fed cattle market came as a big THIS CATTLEFAX REPORT SPONSORED BY: surprise. This shift was driven by an improvement to leverage for the cattle feeder across all segments.

The Kansas/Panhandle fed cattle price from April 2025

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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 some of this 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.

CowBelles’ Corner

17

As Winter is seemingly 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 NMCGA Journal

April 2025

By: Kaitlynn Glover, PLC Executive Director

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

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 ensure this misguided report is tossed in waste bin where it belongs before the DGAs are finalized in late 2025.

APHIS establishing New World Screwworm sterile fly barrier zone in Mexico

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 to working closely with Nicaragua, Honduras and regional partners to support on-the-ground outbreak response activities, including surveillance, animal health outreach and early detection efforts.

April 2025

NMCGA Journal

18

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.

April 2025

NMCGA Journal

20

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.

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.

21

NMCGA Journal

April 2025

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

MEMBER SEEDSTOCK PRODUCERS

Sales Digest

4G Mountain Angus

Las Vegas, NM

915-490-1817

B&H Herefords Bar J Bar Hereford Ranch

Mesilla, NM

575-644-6925

A Lazy 6 Ranch

Perez Cattle Company Complete Dispersal of Spring Calving Hereford Females Sale Aug. 31, 2025 - Nara Visa, NM

Bill King Ranch

Bradley 3 Ranch

Brennand Ranch

Clavel Ranch LLC Copeland & Sons Corn Herefords

Cornerstone Ranch

Cox Ranch Herefords Grau Charolais

Henard Partnership

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

Hubbell Livestock Co. Int. Brangus Breeders Assn.

Hartzog Angus Cattle J-C Angus Ranch

Lack Morrison Brangus Lavender Brangus

Manzano Angus

McKenzie Angus Miller Angus

Perez Cattle Co. 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.

Red Doc Farm

Slash 3C Ranch T-4 Cattle Co.

Tequesquite Ranch

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

Townsend Brangus USA Ranch

Westall Ranches

NEW MEXICO SALE BARNS

Ribera, NM

575-421-1809

915-549-2534

El Paso, TX

505-220-9909

Moriarty, NM

806-888-1062

Memphis, TX

575-687-2185

Pinon, NM Roy, NM

Nara Visa, NM Roswell, NM

505-485-2591 575-403-8123

575-420-3630

Fort Sumner, NM 575-355-2803 Winston, NM

575-743-6904

Tatum, NM

575-649-5268

575-760-6336

Grady, NM

Quemado, NM Adkin, TX

505-379-8212

Moriarty, NM

575-482-3254

Clovis, NM

575-714-3094

Melrose, NM

Estancia, NM

Ft. Stockton, TX Floyd, NM

Nara Visa, NM Belen, NM

Las Cruces, NM Tucumcari, NM Milburn, OK Albq, NM

Carlsbad, NM

210-696-8231 806-825-2711

Farwell, TX

Albert, NM

505-469-1215

505-705-2856 915-637-3845

575-478-2398

575-633-2222 505-980-5093 575-649-5268 575-868-2475

575-673-2208 505-347-2550 575-638-5435 575-316-2071

Roswell Livestock Auction

Roswell, NM 575-622-5580

Valley Livestock Auction

Albuquerque, NM 505-877-0723

Clovis Livestock Auction

Clovis, NM 575-762-4422

Cattlemen’s Livestock Auction Santa Teresa Livestock Auction Five States Livestock

Belen, NM 505-864-7451

Santa Teresa, NM 915-843-0132 Clayton, NM 575-374-2505

Cow House Auction

Kirkland, NM 505-801-8393

Landmark Livestock Auction

Mesquite, NM 575-635-4173

Dexter Livestock Commission

Dexter, NM 575-624-2697

April 2025

NMCGA Journal

22

Member Highlight: Phil and Judy Wallin A Partnership Built on Hard Work and Tradition In 1975, in Aggie Land, two country kids—Phil Wallin from 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 college scholarships in rodeo and basketball.

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

Right L to R: Barrett Creighton, Phil Wallin, Amanda Creighton, Judy Wallin, Curtis Creighton, Bentlee Creighton

When the girls left for college, Phil and Judy faced new challenges. The passing of Judy’s parents led them to buy out the heirs of the Bar Cross Ranch and the Lewis

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.

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