THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NEW MEXICO FARM AND LIVESTOCK BUREAU®
#StillFarming Page 1
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
NMF&LB President’s Column TRACTOR SEAT DAYDREAMING
BY CRAIG OGDEN
A New World
I am somewhat speechless as I write this article. Our lives will never be the same again, at least for my generation. We are certainly experiencing some very interesting and disturbing times in the world today. COVID-19 has and will impact everyone in some form or fashion. No matter what you believe about how serious or not the virus is, the reality is that it is affecting us all. How long does this continue and what are the long-term ramifications resulting from society’s response during these times is what we are all asking. President Woodrow Wilson focused on World War I and not influenza or what is commonly called the flu. States and cities came up with their own policies, but 650,000 to 675,000 Americans still died. Worldwide estiOgden cont. on page 20
AFBF President’s Column BEYOND THE FENCEROWS
BY ZIPPY DUVALL
Farmers and Ranchers Rise to the Call
There is a lot beyond our control and still unknown as we face this crisis, but we can focus on and be faithful with the tasks at hand. For farmers and ranchers our calling hasn’t changed, though its importance hits closer to home in times like these: we are committed to rising every day to grow and harvest the food we all depend on. We can’t do that work alone, however. In the days, weeks and months ahead, agriculture will continue to depend on access to a skilled workforce to help with the work of planting, cultivating and harvesting our crops. For this reason, Farm Bureau is urging our nation’s leaders to classify farm workers as emergency Duvall cont. on page 22
NMF&LB CEO’s Column CHATTING WITH CHAD
BY CHAD SMITH
Providing Opportunities for our Members
In a desire to increase our outreach to members state-wide, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau is excited to announce our Summer Symposium series. These one-day conferences will feature several interesting sessions such as a presentation from the New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom team on building advocacy in your local schools and one on the importance of policy development as it guides our legislative efforts. Speaking of the legislature, did you know that every senator and representative throughout the state is up for re-election this fall? That’s why we’ve scheduled a candidate forum during the symposium lunches so that Smith cont. on page 22
On the cover: Chris and Steven Sichler prepare a field for planting. Photo courtesy of Paula Sichler.
Page 2
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
Farm Credit of New Mexico has been farmer and rancher owned since 1916. As a member, you’re an owner – and owners get their share of the profits. We’ve paid more than $119.5 million to our members since 2005, including $11.8 million in 2019. We provide loans, insurance, financial tools and an annual boost to your bottom line.
Call 1-800-451-5997 or visit www.FarmCreditNM.com
Page 3
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
Welcome to the NM Farm & Livestock Bureau Team Please help us congratulate Britney Lardner, our new NMAITC Coordinator! Britney was born and raised in New Mexico, graduating from Belen High School in 2009. She went on to pursue her growing passion for teaching and agriculture by graduating from New Mexico State University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Education & Extension. She then ventured over to Oklahoma State University to earn her Master of Agriculture degree in International Agriculture, graduating in 2015. For the next 4 years, Britney has dedicated her time to focus on her family back in Albuquerque, but still found time to volunteer with the Ag In the Classroom program as the Bernalillo County AGvocate. Britney is housed out of Albuquerque and is already off to a great start!
Contact Info: Britney Lardner at agclass1@nmflb.org Please also welcome Randy Bernhardt to the team as the new NM Ag in the Classroom Fund Development Consultant. Randy Bernhardt is the president of Bernhardt Consulting Co. He served as the chief administrative officer of the Progressive Agriculture Foundation from 1999 to 2013. While at the organization, Bernhardt was responsible for the organization's Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Alliance accreditation and Charity Navigator 4-Star, exceptional rating. He was senior vice president at the National FFA Organization from 1995 to 1999 and a regional director at the National FFA Foundation from 1992 to 1995. He has raised more than $34.5 million as a consultant and while working as a non-profit executive. Bernhardt has held the Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) credential since 2000. He earned a MS at the University of Illinois and a BS at Michigan State University.
Contact Info: Randy Bernhardt at 505-227-4090 rjbernhardt@aol.com
Watch for NMAITC Summer Workshops:
Page 4
•
•
NM Grow Workshops in Partnership with NRCS Are for Everyone! Learn how to establish your own raised bed garden, drip irrigation system, and a classroom hydroponic system. Trainings also provide important connections to curriculum and educational resources. Dates will be announced May 15th on our website at www.nmaitc.org under the “Happenings” tab!
•
NM Farm & Livestock Bureau Summer Symposiums will offer AGvocate Training Breakout Sessions to help build your education team and stock them with resources! We hope to see you there! *Friday, June 12- Santa Fe *Wednesday, July 8- Roswell *Thursday, July 9- Socorro *Friday, August 21- Silver City
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
County Farm Bureaus Are Making an Impact in 2020:
County Farm Bureau members are invaluable in helping their local educational community connect with NM Ag in the Classroom resources. We are off to a great start in 2020, with help from our dedicated members. San Juan County President, Gary Hathorn, was instrumental in setting up and attending teacher trainings at Blanco Elementary near Bloomfield, NM. The entire elementary staff including principal Lynda Spencer, participated in the trainings.
Rio Arriba County President, Donald Martinez, arranged a workshop that brought together four Rio Arriba Extension Agents and the Mesa Vista FFA Officer Team and ag teacher to strengthen ag literacy outreach in their community. Myles Culbertson and the Dona Ana County Farm Bureau worked jointly to prepare a special lunch meeting for superintendents of three school districts (Las Cruces, Hatch, & Gadsden) in their county. The meeting provided a great opportunity to network and see how powerful connecting community resources is to strengthen ag education.
The 2020 NM Ag Literacy Project is going strong! We have numerous FFA chapters and AGvocates that are prepared to deliver classroom presentations! All participating FFA chapters will be honored at the NM FFA Convention! Thank you to these volunteers for participating in trainings for the "First Peas to the Table" Project: NM FFA Summer Camp Officer Training NMSU Sigma Alpha Logan FFA Mountainair FFA Imago Dei Academy FFA Loving FFA Moriarty FFA Cobre FFA Deming FFA & SWCD Cliff FFA Valencia FFA Mesa Vista FFA Rio Arriba Extension Aztec FFA Shiprock FFA Hagerman FFA Roswell High FFA House FFA These volunteers have project materials: Corona FFA Coronado FFA Clovis FFA Crystal Goff- Lea County Extension Deveri Matthews- Roosevelt Co AGvocate Ft. Sumner FFA Bloomfield FFA
Contact Britney Lardner at agclass1@nmflb.org
Page 5
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
N e w M e x i c o G r o w P r o je c t G r a nt Ap p l ic a t io n I s N o w O p e n! W e a r e p a r t n e r in g w it h N R C S t o h e lp s c h o o l s g r o w y e a r- r o u n d w i t h a 4 X 8 r a i s e d b e d g a r d e n , d r ip ir r ig a tio n s y s te m & c la s s r o o m h y d r o p o n ic s y s t e m ! T h is g r a n t in c lu d e s e v e r y t h in g y o u n e e d f o r s u c c e s s f u l g r o w in g a n y w h e r e in N M , in c lu d in g tr a in in g a n d c u r r ic u lu m r e s o u r c e s .
U p c o m in g : Help teachers attend the National Ag in the Classroom Conference in June 23-26, 2020 in Salt Lake City, UT.
Grant Due By Saturday, May 2, 2020
Check out the amazing grant materials and link for easy on-line registration at our website www.nmaitc.org via the Awards/ Grants tab under Teacher Resources: https://newmexico.agclassroom.org/resources/awards.cfm "Students are very engaged in the NM Grow project. Not only are the student who signed up for the course enthusiastic, but also students who did not sign up are asking to participate."-Scott Meihack, Jemez Valley High School "I am in love with our hydroponic system. It is so cool! My kinders have learned about life cycles, living vs nonliving, seasons and soil. They are curious as to why dill the plant tastes like pickles." Amber Spence, Dexter, NM
N e w M e x ic o T e a c he r t o R e c e iv e National Teacher of Excellence in Teaching About Agriculture Award
Congratulations goes out to Cindy Lee our 2020 NM Ag in the Classroom Teacher of the Year as she will be receiving national recognition for the creative ways that she incorporates agriculture into her middle school science curriculum at Snell Middle School in Bayard, NM. Only eight of these awards are bestowed nationally each year in cooperation with USDA/NIFA, Farm Credit and National Agriculture in the Classroom. She will receive her award at the National Ag in the Classroom Conference in June. To Learn More Visit: https://naitcconference.usu.edu/
Thank you for your continued support in 2020:
Page 6
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
New Mexico Beef Council 2019 Annual Report Dear Beef Producer Nation, Greetings and salutations on a year full of seemingly unending challenges and opportunities! The opportunities seem to be simply a matter of thinking outside the box and going where the action is. In our fast paced world the answer seems to be in technology, social media and the diverse world of the Internet! The “Chuck Knows Beef” virtual beef assistant program and the “Nicely Done” beef program have plunged into this virtual world and sounded the trumpet for our industry. The impressive thing about this direction of this endeavor is that isn’t just meaningless “eye candy”, but gives the viewer context and substance that will stay with them, and provide a tool that they can utilize easily. This promotion and education are paramount in showcasing an amazing product that already stands on its own for quality, safety, health and happiness values. The Annals of Internal Medicine recently published research that rescinds the longtime recommendation to eat less red meat. A team of international researchers who reviewed more than 130 articles and a dozen randomized trials has concluded that the evidence linking red meat to cancer, heart disease, and mortality is flimsy. The media and various medical organizations immediately attacked the report. The need for the truth by our beef council’s and unbiased scientific research is needed more now, than ever! The challenges we face on a daily basis often keep us from the luxury of being able to maneuver in the fast paced world of today. Our goal, as your representative council, is to always bring your product, beef, and the efforts you put into raising and producing the products, to the forefront of the populations attention! While social media, technology, and a “right now” mentality are hard to reconcile in our world of longterm and sustainable production, and an unwavering quest for unmatched quality, we are challenged with the task to bring the two together! A Ziggy cartoon once stated, “We stand on the brink of “insurmountable opportunity!” I guess we need to “surmount up”! God bless and God speed. Matt Ferguson Chairman, New Mexico Beef Council
Directors FY 2018-19 Tamara Hurt, Chairman, Producer, Deming, 575-544-1191 Matt Ferguson, Vice Chairman, Producer, Carrizozo, 575-491-9025 Zita Lopez, Secretary, Feeder, Springer, 575-447-1117 Dan Bell, Producer, Corona, 575-849-4911 John Heckendorn, Purebred Producer, Moriarty, 505-379-8212 James Hill, Feeder, Mesilla Park, 575-993-9950 Susie Jones, Fluid Milk Producer, Veguita, 505-459-8732 Marjorie Lantana, Director, Crown Point, 505-864-5859 Kenneth McKenzie, Producer, Encino, 575-760-3260
EX-OFFICIO MEMBER Bill King, N.M. Cattleman’s Beef Board Representative, Moriarty, 505-220-9909
Page 7
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
State Assessment Passes Legislature, Provides Necessary Funds for NMBC The State Legislature passed new legislation in 2019 that reestablished the New Mexico Beef Council’s Council Assessment. This voluntary assessment will begin in the next fiscal year (July 2019). The NM Beef Council will use these funds to continue their important work increasing consumer demand for beef both domestically and internationally, conducting research, educating children about beef production, teaching the food industry how to prepare and market beef products and managing issues, like alternative meat, that can adversely affect producer’s ability to remain profitable and stay in business. Spring 2020
Promotion Programs DIGITAL ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN We continue to target Millennials with our digital and social media. Our digital advertising is divided into two campaigns – display ads and native ads. Display ads, like the one adjacent to this story, will appear on your favorite website, or game, or app, or information source. These ads, when clicked on by the user, direct them to the NMBC website where they will find recipes, food safety information and industry initiatives. Native ads appear as part of the editorial, or content, of the site that you’re perusing. The appearance of these ads change depending on where they appear to make them blend into the content of the page the user is viewing. The combined reach for these campaigns was 4.8 million impressions in FY18/19.
LINDA DAVIS HONORED WITH 2018 BEEF BACKER AWARD Most of us have a Linda Davis story. She’s been a figurehead of our industry for decades. Linda was instrumental in getting the Federal Beef Checkoff passed in New Mexico, she is past chair of the NMBC and has been inducted into the Cowgirl Hall of Fame. We appreciate her opening her ranch for our Gate-To-Plate BEEF Tour. Congratulations, Linda!
SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN Do you follow us on Facebook, or Pinterest or Instagram? If you do, you’re in good company with several thousand other New Mexicans. If not, then think New Mexico Beef Council next time you log on to check your activity. We have daily recipe posts and fun industry information that we share with NCBA, NM Dept. of Agriculture, NM Cattlegrowers and the NM CowBelles.
NM YOUTH RANCH MANAGEMENT CAMP NM Beef Council continues to work with NMSU Extension specialists, County Extension agents and members of the ranching community to host and present the Youth Ranch Management Camp. The college-level hands-on curriculum includes all things beef, marketing and economics, natural resources and range land management. 30 New Mexico teenagers enjoyed their week at the CS Ranch.
Public Relations Programs BEEF, BEER AND WINE The New Mexico Beef Council partnered with the NM Department of Agriculture as well as local wineries and breweries at the 2018 N.M. State Fair. NMBC distributed delicious Beef Appetizers and recipes, and talked with Fair attendees about pairing beef with their favorite New Mexico wine and beer. These “Happy Hours” ran both weekends of the Fair. We are grateful for our NM Cowbelles who helped serve.
TEAMS BEEF RUNS A MARATHON The NM Beef Council sponsored and provided two teams to run in the 2019 Shiprock Marathon. All the runners received packets of beef jerky and nutrition information in their registration bags. TEAMs BEEF competed with nearly 3,000 other runners and helped raise funds for NavajoYES, a program established by the Navajo Nation to promote community wellness and youth empowerment.
NEW MEXICO BEEF COUNCIL NMBeef.com ■ 505-841-9407 Dina Reitzel, Executive Director
New Mexico Beef Council Audited Financials July 1, 2018 - June 30, 2019
Sources Checkoff and Interest Uses Cattlemen’s Beef Board National Program Investments Promotion Programs (1) Consumer Information Programs (2) Producer Communication Industry Information Collections *Administration Cost Carry forward to Next Year Total Use
$1,210,809 $605,075 53,283 157,818 129,175 84,018 600 89,532 85,737 $5,571 $1,210,809
1-Advertising Media, Retail, Food service 2-Health Education, School Programs, Events *Administration costs after allocation to program development and implementation, as prescribed by the Cattlemen’s Beef Board
Page 8
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
Dear Fellow Producers, Cattle producers have their feet firmly planted in two worlds: The world of tradition, using knowledge and skills handed down through the years that help result in vibrant, healthy animals producing the best beef in the world, and the world of technology, using the most up-to-date information to help us manage our businesses, market our animals and stay abreast of our situations. Truth be told, most of us are probably more comfortable in the first world. After all, knowing and caring for animals comes naturally. Technology can be intimidating and moves so quickly these days that it’s just difficult to stay current. Stay current we must, however, especially when it comes to marketing beef. Consumers no longer get their information about beef from friends or the sales flyer in the weekly newspaper. The internet, social media, smart phones, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies are influencing how we must talk with and educate those who buy our products. Our Beef Checkoff is staying abreast of new technologies, using them effectively to reach both current and potential beef buyers. Thanks to your checkoff investments, we’re able to keep beef front-and-center with those who consume our product and those who market it. Research suggests we’re on the right track. A recent independent evaluation of the national Beef Checkoff found that for every dollar invested, $11.91 is returned to the beef communities’ profitability. That’s technology we can take to the bank. Yours truly,
Laurie Munns Hansel Valley, Utah Chairman, Federation of State Beef Councils
Riding Technology Into the Future Twenty-five years ago, having a website meant you were on the cutting edge of technology. No longer. Today a website is merely the foundation. In 2018 there were more than 1.8 billion websites globally, competing for the attention of consumers. The Beef Checkoff’s Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand has successfully attracted a following of consumers through many channels, including an updated www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner. com digital website, which answers questions consumers have about beef from pasture to plate. Since its relaunch more than 15 million people have visited the new website. But that’s just the beginning of the Beef Checkoff’s technological footprint.
smart speakers, such as the Google Home and Amazon Alexa. It can help the 70 percent of consumers who say technical support would help them when shopping for beef. Like the BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com website, Chuck Knows Beef represents a prime opportunity for the beef industry to utilize technology to help increase consumer demand, giving consumers confidence in selecting and preparing beef.
Maximizing Millennial Reach In 2014 Beef Checkoff advertising went 100 percent digital primarily to reach older millennial parents, who are more digitally connected. A
new “Keep Sizzlin’” collection of online beef advertising, for instance, shows beef being cooked by grilling, smoking, stir-fry, sous vide and cast iron. In addition to providing consumers with drool-worthy content, the ads lead consumers BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com, where they learn to prepare the perfect beef meal.
To keep up with the evolving marketing landscape a new tool called Chuck Knows Beef was introduced in 2019. Powered by Google Artificial Intelligence, Chuck Knows Beef is a guide to all things beef – recipes, cooking tips, cut information, production background – helping source its customized responses from content found on the BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com website. Chuck Knows Beef is based on the emerging trend toward
Page 9
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
New videos utilize the “Nicely done, beef” slogan and highlight the attribute consumers say distinguishes beef from other protein options: its great taste. Appearing on popular websites and social media platforms, Nicely Done advertising uses tongue-in-cheek humor and beef’s swagger to help position beef as the top protein. Nicely Done through social media, search or display ads have had more than 98 million video views, creating more than 4 million engagements, and resulted in more than 500 million consumer impressions.
Spring 2020
Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. has also made a significant impact on Facebook and Instagram. Thirteen Facebook Live videos, featuring recipes and cooking tips from checkoff culinary experts were produced and posted over the past year, with almost 65,000 views. These videos continue to live on the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. Facebook page. In addition, six Instagram TV videos were posted in 2019 reaching thousands more consumers. Technology also influences how the Beef Checkoff educates and motivates those who market beef. A test last year with Instacart, an online delivery service available to more than 80 percent of American households, demonstrated that Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. ads at digital point-of sale increased beef purchases among users and proving to retailers the program’s greater-than-average return on investment. Partnering with other third-party content sites can also be useful in addressing complex beef issues. For instance, the Beef Checkoff has worked with Quartz, Greenbiz and Nativo to ensure consumers see balanced information about how beef is both healthy and sustainable. Articles with these groups have garnered almost 8.5 million impressions. Technology is also helping improve international marketing. To share beef farming and ranching with audiences across the globe, Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. is making its virtual ranch tours available in Korean, Japanese, and Spanish. The 360-degree videos virtually transport the viewer to a U.S. ranch to show how cattle are raised and cared for. Originally created by NCBA as part of checkoff-funded Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. Rethink the Ranch outreach, the videos are giving audiences around the world a chance to experience U.S. beef production practices. The Beef Checkofffunded Beef Quality Assurance program has utilized technology to enhance success with cattle producers. More than 50,000 individuals have gone online to obtain BQA certification since 2017. Free online training and certification is accessible 24/7, making it a convenient option for busy farmers and ranchers. BQA certifications are also available at in-person training events. An estimated 80 percent of the U.S. fed beef supply is touched by BQA-certified operations.
U.S. Meat Export Federation Of course, current technology will not be a component of all Beef Checkoff programs, such as international programs that boost international beef demand. U.S. beef exports, in fact, reached a recordshattering $8.3 billion in 2018, a year-over-year increase of 15 percent. While Japan solidified its position as the leading international destination for U.S. beef, much of the year’s growth was driven by South Korea and Taiwan. 2019 has seen continued momentum for these two markets, with both achieving double-digit growth through the first half of the year. The U.S. Meat Export Federation, a subcontractor to the Beef Checkoff, uses checkoff support to promote the unique attributes of U.S. beef worldwide, including to key buyers in the Korean and Taiwanese foodservice sectors, where dry-aged U.S. beef is increasingly popular. In the United States, many other efforts not requiring enhanced technology – including personal and face-to-face interactions – reach both consumers and those who influence them, such as farm-to-fork tours for influencers, discussions with dietitians and health professionals, farm-to-fork tours for chefs and other influencers and dozens of other outreach efforts. Being on the front line in today’s marketplace, however, requires the beef industry to keep pace with the needs of consumers who buy its products. Thanks to beef producer investments in the Beef Checkoff, technology and beef can go hand-in-hand.
Cattlemen’s Beef Board Fiscal Year 2018 Expenditures
Promotion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$9,225,692 Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8,042,093 Consumer Information . . . . . . . . . . . . $7,345,798 Industry Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3,560,607 Foreign Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $7,640,567 Producer Communications . . . . . . . . . $1,179,898 Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$230,795 Program Development . . . . . . . . . . . . $295,075 USDA Oversight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $601,681 Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,811,956 TOTAL EXPENSES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $39,934,161 Audited Numbers
Page 10
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
NM-31790-16-2019SBCAnnualReport-Mag.indd 4
Spring 2020 11/15/2019 11:31:38 AM
8 AM
Member Benefits NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU ijIJƟéǂļŞČ
FORD Members get $500 Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2020/2021 Ford vehicle! Get big savings when you choose from the comfortable and capable lineup of Ford cars and trucks. www.fordfarmbureauadvantage.com for more details.
Page 11
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
CALICHE’S FROZEN CUSTARD 30% off with printed coupon. To print coupon go to www.nmflb.org and find this benefit under the Member Benefits tab.
WYNDHAM HOTEL Up to 20% off the “Best Available Rate” at participating locations. Call (877-670-7088)
Spring 2020
LINCOLN
ENTERPRISE
GRAINGER
Members get $750 Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of an eligible new 2020/2021 Lincoln vehicle! www.lincolnspecialoffer.com/farmbureau/nm for more details.
With the largest fleet in North America and a great selection of vehicles. We’ll Pick You Up® Visit www.enterprise.com and apply the code to receive discounts. Pin: NMF Discount: L34D077
Members can save up to 30% off the catalog prices on more than one million products. Count on Grainger to provide the supplies you need to get the job done! Call (800)202-2594 Account 855922068
JOHN DEERE Members receive special access to the John Deere’s GreenFleet TM Loyalty Rewards program, providing members with a free two-year Platinum 2 membership. www.deere.com/farmbureau
BENEFIT HUB SUNGLASS 15% off: Auto Glass Auto Glass Tinting Residential Glass Replacement Commercial Glass Replacement www.sunglassfarmington.com Show your membership card for discount.
Discounts & rewards on: - Local deals - Restaurants - Electronics - Tickets - Travel www.nmflb.benefithub.com
FARM BUREAU FINANCIAL SERVICES
AVIS From premium SUV’s to smart cars, we have the vehicle that fits your needs for up to 25% off. Go to www.avis.com to view our fleet and find #WhatDrivesYou. Call (800)422-3809 Discount A298800
Page 12
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
CRUNCH FITNESS All members receive a special on enrollment offer to jump start your fitness journey with Crunch Fitness. $0 Enrollment www.crunch.com Show your membership card for discount.
Work with just one Farm Bureau agent and one company you can trust. Farm Bureau Member’s Choice can help you protect your home, vehicles and other property with only one deductible per occurrence or accident, no matter how many covered possessions are involved. Visit www.fbfs.com
Spring 2020
HIGH DESERT OUTFITTERS Free bow and arrow rental with basic instruction for the first visit. Stop in and try archery for free today! High Desert Outfitters for all of your archery, muzzleloader and hunting needs. www.highdesert-outfitters.com
BUDGET Members now save up to 25% off budget base rates! Book your car today at www.budget.com/nmflb Discount Y775731
ORGAN MOUNTAIN SOLAR & ELECTRIC A New Mexico company delivering solar installations with over 20 years of diversified solar experience, including NABCEP certified sales and installation teams, certified project management and an installation team 100% of licensed electricians. Serving southern New Mexico within a two hour radius of Las Cruces. Members show current membership card for free offer. (575)288-1792
Page 13
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
FREE PRESCRIPTION DISCOUNT DRUG CARD - Save up to 75% on prescriptions - Everyone is elegible - Accepted at over 68,000 pharmacies nationwide - Card is pre-activated - No health restrictions - Covers many pet prescriptions - No limits on usage Visit www.nmflb.org/UNA
CHEEKY CHAPS BARBERSHOP Cheeky Chaps is an affordable, yet luxe, barbershop in Mesilla, NM. We are committed to providing an excellent client service experience with every visit and our goal is to provide a unique grooming experience for every customer. Everyone is welcome. - 20% off services - 10% off products www.cheekychapslc.com Show your membership card for discount.
CHOICE HOTELS Go to www.choicehotels.com to view participating hotels. Call (800)258-2847 Discount code 00209720
FARMESILLA FARMesilla is a farm to market store that specializes in all things New Mexico, from produce & skin care to beer & wine. 15% off all purchases excluding alcohol to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau Members. www.farmesilla.com Show your membership card for discount.
FARM BUREAU BANK Farm Bureau members can save big utilizing the services offered through an exclusive program with nationally, recognized Farm Bureau Bank. www.farmbureaubank.com
GUSTIN ENTERPRISES Boat & RV Storage Facility in Truth Or Consequences, NM. Discounts available to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members upon presentation of their current membership card. 10% off all rates. (575)740-4293
Spring 2020
IN-N-OUT LUBE & WASH
PACKING SERVICES & SUPPLIES
Free $5 car wash with full service purchase in Silver City, NM. Please show your membership card to be eligible. (575)538-5911
15% off: Mailing services including FedEx, UPS, USPS. Packing services and supplies. Fax, scan, notary, binding, copy services, large format, color and screen printing in Edgewood, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (505)284-2400
RUSK’S RUSTIC ROSE @ TRIPLE R RANCH 15% Off everything. Fresh or artificial floral arrangements, house plants, gifts. Custom orders available for weddings and event. La Plata, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (505)360-3482
JIFFY LUBE To receive special account pricing members should ask that their Jiffy Lube account be tied to the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau account.
WINDMILL RV PARK 10% off all rates. Discounts available to all New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members upon presentation of their current membership card. Williamsburg, NM. (505)803-3826
FORD 2-YEAR LEASE SWEEPSTAKES All current NMF&LB members are eligible to enter the Ford sweepstakes for a 2-year lease of a new Ford vehicle.
MOUNTAIN MUSIC 1/2 Price strings on Saturday or Sunday. Las Cruces, NM. Show your membership card for discount. (575)525-0603
VSP INDIVIDUAL VISION PLANS You now have easy access to affordable Individual Vision Plans from VSP®Vision Care. Here are some reasons to enroll: - Lowest Out-of-pocket Cost - You'll enjoy the lowest out-of-pocket cost in individual vision care, which could save you hundreds on your eye exam and glasses. Plus, you’ll have access to more than $2,500 in additional savings with VSP Exclusive Member Extras including laser vision surgery, contact lenses, and up to 60% savings on hearing aids from TruHearing®. Visit www.nmflb.org to learn more.
Use the FB Benefits app to search for member discounts in your area. Download by searching for “FB Benefits.” Visit www.nmflb.org for more information. Service and discounts are subject to change without notice. Page 14 • New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
New Mexico Agricultural Leadership Program Graduates Nine Leaders By Tina Wilson
The New Mexico Agricultural Leadership Program (NMAL) began in 2002 with a mission to develop knowledgeable, multicultural leaders in the agricultural, food, and natural resource industries of New Mexico. This professional development program for individuals 25 years and older is a premier step in the agricultural leadership spectrum. Our mission focuses on creating knowledgeable, multicultural leaders in the state’s agriculture, food, and natural resource industries. We enroll a select group of participants for an intensive, 18-month program, which exposes them to a variety of businesses, social settings, political environments and government agencies. They embark on a simultaneous journey of personal leadership growth through focused goal setting and reflection, and industry awareness through site visits and networking opportunities. As a result, our participants return to their homes, communities, and companies with a renewed energy to create change. Fueled by new perspectives, new ideas, and a reinforced sense of their leadership capacity, they are ready to tackle the challenges faced by New Mexico agriculture. New Mexico Agricultural Leadership Program recently held a graduation for nine graduates. The ceremony, held in Albuquerque, was the culmination of 18 months of study. Graduating members of Class 13 pictured below include (back row left to right) Joseph Griego, West Las Vegas Schools and HELP NM; LeeAnderson Jim, Navajo Agricultural Products Industry; Derek Romig, Dairy Farmers of America; Jeroen van der Ploeg, Mid-Frisian Dairy and Farms and (front row left to right) Martina Lewis, Navajo Agricultural Products Industry; Kelsi Cureton, Farm Credit of New Mexico; Dr. Marisa Thompson, NMSU Cooperative Extension Service and NMAL Coordinator Tina Wilson. Not show is Matthew Gonzales and Tiffany Rivera, both of New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau. Class 14 will begin in late July and applications accepted now through May 15, 2020. Further information and the application are located at https://aces.nmsu.edu/nmal/.
Page 15
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
Interview with Gail Cramer, Commissioner New Mexico Game and Fish
By Dalene Hodnett, NMF&LB Director of Communications and Media Relations Decisions made by the New Mexico Game and Fish Commission significantly impact agriculture. Here Gail Cramer shares her thoughts with us. 1. Tell us a little about your family ranch near Mayhill. Since before we were married, my husband Dave and I had the dream of owning some land somewhere in New Mexico, raising a few cattle, and working to make a place for our family to enjoy the outdoors for many years to come. We and our two sons lived very modestly in a small home in Farmington, saving every penny we could and working extra jobs to make this dream a reality. After 24 years, we found a piece of property 6 miles east of Mayhill that we could afford and that had everything we prayed for: a river flowing through it, national forest on two sides, and an abundance of wildlife. Two years later, we retired to Mayhill and began working our small ranch, raising a few cattle, and building a home with our own hands. While we have worked side-by-side for the past 14 years from pouring concrete to drywalling, Dave works every day on making the 4JC a truly special place. Mayhill is a wonderful community filled with real ranchers (not wannabes like us), who work hard every hour of every day. I respect them with all of my heart and have moved into a “family” who helps each other and relies on each other. We go to church together, fight fire together, and respond on medical calls together. If we see cattle on the highway, we stop and take care of them, seeing they get back home. It is a bond unlike any other. 2. Why do you value participation on the game commission? The NMDGF Commission has a huge scope of responsibility to the citizens of this state. Some come in with an agenda and do not look beyond that. I see my appointment to this position as one where I can do my homework, work with my constituents, listen to the experts in NMDGF, and take public comment to make the best decisions for the issue at hand. As a commissioner, one must balance the desires of numerous interest groups and yet do what is right for the wildlife and the true stakeholders. I value the fact that I have input that affects the preservation of wildlife populations for future generations and our grandchildren and yet find a balance with livestock owners and those in agriculture who rely on the land for a living. When I served as a commissioner from 1996-2000, I brought a perspective that was unique to that group. I have been a life time hunter, fisherman, hiker, and camper. I have hunted with bow, muzzleloader, and rifle. I taught bowhunter education for decades, but I also come with an administrative and teaching background. I have written and managed grants for government entities and nonprofits for 40 years. This time as commissioner, I come with a better appreciation and understanding of ranchers, farmers, and private landowners, along with how important they are to raising up the next generation of stewards of the land. 3. Stream access seems to be a perennial issue, what’s at stake? First, I want to be clear that I am only one vote on the NMDGF Commission, and my views are mine alone. This is such a complicated issue that 20 pages would not suffice. However, with that said, I am named as a member of the NMDGF Commission in two lawsuits on this issue: one from the New Mexico Wildlife Federation, New Mexico Back Country Hunters and Page 16
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
Anglers, and the Adobe Whitewater club, and the other suit is from the NMDGF Director on behalf of the Department. Thus, I cannot make any comments pertaining to New Mexico and this issue. I can give a little history of how this issue has affected Montana because that was the first state that opened stream access on private property. I contend New Mexico is not Montana with its 78 rivers (of which 43 are deemed navigable) and 169,829 miles of water, so it is difficult to make parallels. Montana has epic rivers like the Yellowstone, the Madison, the Missouri. The water that flows annually in the Montana rivers would cover the entire state of MT in 6 inches of water if allowed to spread out. Also note that Montana’s Constitution is different from ours. Montana is 35 years into this and is still deep in litigation. There has not been one day since the Montana Stream Access Law’s inception that there has not been some case or another in court. The fishing and hunting enjoyed in Montana watercourses across private land has come at a great price. When I was on the NMDGF Commission in 1996, I met with a group of Commissioners from Montana. After 12 years, all they could talk about was the cost to their Division of Wildlife and to the private property owners whose property values plummeted. A water course on private property was no longer viewed as an asset; it became a liability. Wildlife law enforcement staff had been cut to pay for gates and walk overs. When a person retired, their position was not filled so they could pay for printing of access maps and guides and to construct portage structures. The list was endless. The Montana DOT found that at times it had to acquire land and install pull offs at access points. Another concern for the members of the livestock community in Montana was the provisions and alterations to the fencing across water courses. New Mexico has fencing statutes already in place which are critical in the fight to eradicate Trich widely spread by trespass cattle. As a member of the NMDGF Commission, I am tasked with financial oversight of the Game and Fish Department, so all of these issues weigh heavy on my mind. NMDGF has some excellent working relationships with private property owners that have been cultivated from years of hard work between NMDGF and the landowners who provide critical habitat for many wildlife species. The NMDGF Open Gate program is highlighted in numerous publications across the United States as a successful way to allow the public to access private land. 4. What are the pros and cons of the proposed trapping rule changes? Many of the public will view the proposed setback rules from ¼ mile to ½ mile as safer for their pets and children. The cons for New Mexico trappers are that they already have some of the most stringent regulations in the nation and are required to check traps every calendar day. This is a hardship on the trapper, particularly when coupled with the one mile in and out to each trap. The elimination of lion trapping on private land may appear socially more palatable, but it takes one more tool out of the landowner’s toolbox in the protection of his/her property and livestock, and they will still have to seek another method to take care of the problem. 5. What are your thoughts on the commission’s MOU with the USFWS regarding the Mexican gray wolf? The MOU allows NMDGF to be at the table and to have input into wolf management. Prior to the MOU, New Mexico had very little input and was at the mercy of decisions made by Arizona Game and Fish and the USFWS. Our hope is that NMDGF will have a better knowledge of the numbers and location of wolves, quicker knowledge of wolf depredation cases, and a voice in wolf management in our state. 6. What can ranchers in the Gila expect from this development? NMDGF believes that the department will be able to respond quicker to problem cases in New Mexico and have the ability to better mitigate with the ranchers. Department personnel will have a better knowledge of the issues and will be able to share that information with the Gila ranchers. NMDGF will also communicate with wolf managers the New Mexico issues and concerns. Currently, NM has no advocate. Thank you Commission Cramer for your time and perspective.
Curious about the Game and Fish Commission and the topics they address? You can find a schedule of their upcoming meetings and the agenda items at their website http://www.wildlife.state.nm.us/commission/commission-calendar/
Page 17
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
New Mexico’s Wine Industry is Growing by the Barrel
By Madalynn Cole, New Mexico State University Communications Intern New Mexico has a long history of wine production within the American wine industry. Viticulture (from the Latin word for vine) is the cultivation and harvesting of grapes; it is essentially winegrowing. The process of winegrowing was introduced to New Mexico around the middle Rio Grande and surrounding areas in 1629 and has grown ever since. Wine production was brought to the state in the 1600s by Monks needing wine for Catholic ceremonies. Unfortunately, the wine industry in New Mexico declined in the latter decades of the nineteenth century in part due to flooding of the Rio Grande. Prohibition in the United States also forced many wineries to close, while others remained operational since they provided sacramental wine. In 1978, the New Mexico wine industry received significant support when a government- sponsored study encouraged winegrowers to grow New Mexican heritage grapes. New Mexico now has more than 60 wineries producing 900,000 US gallons of wine annually. The oldest continually-operated winery in New Mexico is La Vina Winery, whereas the oldest continuously-owned winery is La Chiripada Winery. And the St. Clair/ D.H. Lescombes winery is the largest winery in New Mexico; with over 180 acres of family-owned vineyards and 5 locations throughout New Mexico. According to New Mexico State University, there are three general types of grapes grown in New Mexico. They are the vinifera, American, and hybrids (which are a cross between vinifera and labrusca). Vinifera grapes, also called “wine grapes”, require mild climates with long, hot, dry growing seasons and moderate winter temperatures. To be grown adequately, they should only be grown in the southern and southeastern parts of the state. American grapes are cold hardy and do well in many areas of northern New Mexico, where elevations are higher. And the third group of grapes, the hybrid, are grown in areas not adapted to vinifera production, such as northern New Mexico. The hybrid grapes combine some of the hardiness and disease resistance of labrusca with the high fruit quality of vinifera. It takes up to three years from the initial planting stage to be able to harvest grapes. When the young vines are planted, they need constant care. Such as watering, pruning and protection from pests and disease. After all of the hard work and proper caring is done, fast-forward three years, the vineyard will produce bountiful bunches of Page 18
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
grapes after going through a stage called veraison. That’s the process where hard, green grapes transform into plump, juicy clusters. Veraison is an indication that the grapes are ripening and developing sugars. At last, it’s time to harvest. Although winemakers and vineyard managers don’t know the exact date of when to do so, they will measure the sugar levels in the grapes (called a Brix). A series of warm days can speed up the harvest since ripening happens faster in hot weather. The harvesting of the grapes often occurs in the early morning hours when the air is cooler because the winemakers don’t want the grapes to start fermenting before they arrive at the crush pad. The grape clusters are crushed to break open the berries, and to achieve a beautiful red wine color, the grape skins must remain in contact with the juice. After the grapes are crushed and pressed, they are stored in barrels to begin the fermentation process. The vines go dormant in the winter and are pruned before budding occurs. According to Wine Cooler Direct, “Proper pruning is essential to promote the right balance between the number of shoots and the number of buds, which will produce grape clusters. Too many shoots and not enough buds means that the vines will have too many leaves shading the fruit, making it hard for the clusters to ripen. Too many buds and too few shoots produce a similar problem — there’s so much fruit that none of it will ripen well.” Are you interested in trying a variety of New Mexican wines? Check out a local wine fest near you, several wineries bring some of their more popular wines and you can sample many at the same time.
Page 19
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
Ogden cont. from page 2 mates were between 20 and 50 Million. And so we must all take the necessary precautions and all take this seriously. Many of us have been to the grocery stores and have encountered the results of this pandemic but what many are not thinking about is how that food arrived on those grocery store shelves. Maybe this is what it takes to remind everyone where their food comes from and how important it is that the United States maintain a strong and viable agricultural sector. With growing concerns and uncertainty, farmers and ranchers must continue to have access to the resources necessary to be able to grow and harvest crops. Farmers and ranchers cannot afford disruptions that would ultimately have an impact on the global food supply. If we continue to deplete the supply and experience disruptions in trade, combined with the inability of our food producers across the US to access to those resources, how do we replenish our supply? Farmers and ranchers operate in a optimistic fashion that tomorrow or next year will be better, but right now the future is uncertain. We continue to see disruptions caused by COVID-19 and the uncertainty is concerning to our farmers and ranchers as well as all the citizens of our state. New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau continues to stay vigilant to mitigate the impact to our nation’s food producers so that the rest of the state and the world continues to have access to the required food, fuel and fiber. As many have watched all this unfold, a bi-partisan stimulus package has been passed and signed. The stimulus package helps agriculture through some of the provisions highlighted below: • Replenish Commodity Credit Corporation $14 billion • $9.5 billion to cover pandemic impacts to specific sectors (livestock, specialty crops, and local food systems) • Marketing loans will be extended three months to a full year. • Provides $15.5 billion to meet a surge in enrollment but not to increase benefit levels. • Another $450 million is earmarked for commodity assistance to food banks. • $15.5 billion for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program to cover an expected increase in demand as a result of the pandemic. • $8.8 billion for child nutrition programs. • $450 million for The Emergency Food Assistance Program, or TEFAP, which funds food distribution to food banks. • $100 million for additional rural broadband grants through USDA’s ReConnect program. • $33 million to the Food Safety and Inspection Service to cover the cost of temporary and intermittent workers, relocation of inspectors and overtime costs. • $4 million to cover the cost of repatriating Foreign Agricultural Service staff. • Farmers who donate commodities to charity could deduct up to 25% of their value from their income, an increase from the current limit of 15%. One thing is for certain, farmers and ranchers will keep working. The agriculture and food supply sector are deemed a critical infrastructure industry by the Department of Homeland Security and thus has a special responsibility to maintain normal work hours while following CDC guidance to protect the health of workers and others. I would like to say thank you to all my fellow farmers and ranchers for all that you do as we maneuver through these challenging times. I know we will weather this storm as we have continued to do time and time again. In past articles I have always mentioned volunteering and working with others. I feel it is going to take all of us, working together to get through these uncertain times. So now more than ever, Do justly, love mercy, walk humbly
Page 20
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
500
Farm Bureau members receive
$
BONUS CASH *
Our valued partnership highlights the great movement that we have together, and how farming and trucks have gone together for over 100 years.
2020 FORD SUPER DUTY ®
Don’t miss out on this offer. Visit FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com today! *Farm Bureau Bonus Cash is exclusively for active Farm Bureau members who are residents of the United States. This incentive is not available on Mustang Shelby GT350®, Mustang Shelby® GT350R, Mustang Shelby® GT500®, Mustang BULLITT, Ford GT, F-150 Raptor, Bronco and Mustang Mach-E. This offer may not be used in conjunction with most other Ford Motor Company private incentives or AXZD-Plans. Some customer and purchase eligibility restrictions apply. Must be a Farm Bureau member for 30 consecutive days prior to purchase and take new retail delivery from an authorized Ford Dealer’s stock by 1/4/21. Visit FordFarmBureauAdvantage.com or see your authorized Ford Dealer for qualifications and complete details. Note to dealer: Claim in VINCENT using #37408.
Page 21
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
24446_FD_8.5x11_2020_Q2.indd 1
Spring 2020 3/19/20 2:17 PM
Smith cont. from page 2 you’ll have a chance to meet your local candidates. Another valuable session addresses rural resiliency. In this time of fluctuating markets, unusual weather and trade uncertainty, our nation’s food producers are under a great deal of stress. Rates of suicide are increasing and we’re concerned for our agricultural neighbors. New Mexico State University’s Cooperative Extension Service will share how to communicate with and provide support to farming and ranching families experiencing stress. Participants will learn • Types of common stressors experienced by farming and ranching families • Strategies for managing stress • Signs of suicide risk, how to respond to people in distress, and where to refer people in distress • Communication strategies to use with farming and ranching families experiencing stress Thank you to the counties who have offered to host the free workshops and we hope to see you at a symposium near you. Watch for more details in emails and posts on our Facebook page. Symposium dates and locations: • • • •
Friday, June 12, Santa Fe County in the Extension Building at the Santa Fe Fairgrounds Wednesday, July 8, Chaves County, in the Farm Bureau Building at the Eastern New Mexico Fairgrounds Thursday, July 9, Socorro County, in the County Annex in Socorro Friday, August 21, Grant County, in the large auditorium at Western New Mexico University in Silver City
We are also excited to announce our own Communications Bootcamp. NMF&LB is partnering with Johnna Miller, Director of Advocacy and Media Training for the American Farm Bureau Federation, to bring you an exciting opportunity to build on your media communications. The event is open to all members and space is limited so please stay tuned for more information to reserve your spot.
Duvall cont. from page 2 workers on H2A guest-worker visa applications. We understand the Administration’s responsibility to act on behalf of our public health, and we must all do our part to protect the health of our families and communities. We can—and we must— find a way to safely secure access to the workforce agriculture needs to continue our critical work of providing a healthy, affordable food supply for our nation. We have been blessed with plenty when it comes to America’s food supply. Empty shelves can be frightening, but empty fields and barns would be devastating. Times like these should remind us all of the importance of ensuring our nation’s food security. While many retailers are scaling back and temporarily closing for public health, agriculture remains on call 24/7. As Americans everywhere rush to their local grocery stores, I am reminded of and grateful for the tireless hours farmers and ranchers put in all year long to supply healthy, affordable food to be processed and packaged so stores can restock grocery shelves, produce bins, and meat and dairy cases. We can also be thankful to live in a time when advances in technology allow us to continue our work and stay connected from a distance. But this national and global crisis, now more than ever before, is a reminder that a reliable broadband connection is a necessity for all, not a luxury to be enjoyed by some. Farmers must be able to stay connected across the supply chain. Students in rural America will need access to online classes as grade schools, high schools and universities shut down for the coming weeks, possibly months. And rural Americans of all ages will depend on access to telemedicine and counseling services to protect and promote well-being throughout this crisis. While the coming weeks will be long for everyone, our friends with no reliable broadband will face a greater challenge in connecting to critical information and services. Like you, I am praying for a quick end to this pandemic. I also have faith that great stories of service, of neighbors helping neighbors and communities working together (even from a distance) to protect one another will shine brightly across this country. As any farmer knows, only too well, not one of us was promised we’d never face tough times. But I do believe that the Lord gives us grace to face each day and to handle the tasks He has set before us. Let us each face this day with a heart to serve our neighbors, with endurance to finish the day’s work, and with courage to get up and do it again tomorrow. Page 22
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
fbfs.com
You care about the future. We care about you. We want you to know that our commitment to you is not changing during these uncertain times. We remain focused on providing the service you need, just as we have for more than eighty years. Our local agents are just a phone call or email away.
Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Company,* Western Agricultural Insurance Company,* Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company*/West Des Moines, IA. *Company providers of Farm Bureau Financial Services M232 (3-20)
Page 23
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
Spring 2020
Non-profit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID Las Cruces, N.M. Permit No.2093
2220 N. Telshor Las Cruces, NM 88011 ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED
NEW MEXICO FARM & LIVESTOCK BUREAU Since 1917 . . . a Leader in New Mexico
ISSN 0028-6192 2220 N. TELSHOR BLVD. LAS CRUCES, NM 88011 575.532.4700 • FAX: 575.532.4710 PUBLISHER: New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau New Mexico Farm & Ranch is published monthly. A yearly subscription is $24.00. New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau members receive a complimentary subscription with yearly dues. U.S. Postage PAID, bulk rate, PERMIT #31, Las Cruces, NM 88001. FORWARDING/ RETURN POSTAGE GUARANTEED, ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED. OFFICERS Craig Ogden President, Loving Larry Reagan 1st Vice President, Ft. Sumner Boe Lopez 2nd Vice President, Springer Chad Smith Chief Executive Officer Page 24
•
New Mexico Farm & Ranch
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Burl Brown, Des Moines Bud Deerman, La Mesa Crystal Diamond, Elephant Butte Jim Ellett, Hope Duane Frost, Claunch Travis Harris, San Antonio Don Hartman, Deming Gary Hathorn, Flora Vista Leon Hemann, McDonald John Jackson, Lake Arthur Deena Kinman, Elida Donald Martinez, El Rito Steve Myrick, Clovis Tommy Ortiz, Las Vegas Stewart Rooks, Gila Troy Sauble, Maxwell Casey Spradley, Cuba Tom Wilton, Ft. Sumner Anita Hand, Chair Women’s Leadership Committee Andy Ellett, Chair Young Farmer & Rancher Committee
REGIONAL DIRECTORS Benjie Segovia Valerie Huerta Director of Organization Tiffany Rivera Director of Governmental Affairs Traci Curry Director, Ag in the Classroom Britney Lardner Coordinator, Ag in the Classroom Francisco Hatay Marketing Coordinator Dalene Hodnett Director of Communications and Media Relations Cecilia Diaz-Johnson Bookkeeper Theresa Widner Director of Membership Services Eva Hernandez Executive Assistant Spring 2020