SUMMER 2026 NM Farm & Ranch Newsletter

NEW MEXICO Farm & Ranch

The official publication of New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau

Inside the Outside Gate

NM Women in Agriculture - Part 1 on Pg 5 NM Farm & Ranch

Summer 2026

Where loyalty is honored, not overlooked.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE COLUMNS NMF&LB President AFBF President NMF&LB CEO

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16 17 OTHER NMF&LB Memorial Scholarship 2026 Annual Meeting Save The Date 2027 Ag Fest Save The Date Membership Benefit

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NMF&LB Women in Agriculture

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County Corner

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International Year of the Woman Farmer ACE Summit

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Legislative Update

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Summer 2026

AFBF President’s Column The Zipline

By Zippy Duvall

Preparing Farm Bureau Leaders for the Future The challenges and opportunities facing agriculture today are constantly changing. Markets shift, new policies are proposed, and consumer expectations continue to evolve. Keeping up with everything that affects agriculture can feel like a full-time job on top of the one farmers and ranchers already have: producing the food, fuel and fiber America depends on.

That's why I'm proud that Farm Bureau is continuing to invest in resources that help our members stay informed, grow as leaders and prepare for what’s ahead. Earlier this month, we launched Farm Bureau Intel, a new resource designed to deliver timely, easy-to-understand insights on the issues shaping agriculture.

Duvall cont. on page 18

NMF&LB President’s Column From the President

By Larry Reagan

New World Screwworms It has been more than 50 years since the U.S. Department of Agriculture successfully eradicated New World Screwworm (NWS) from the United States and Mexico. Unfortunately, about two years ago, the pest reentered Mexico through its border with Panama and has been steadily advancing north ever since.

Throughout this progression, USDA has closely monitored the spread and kept those of us who stand to be most affected informed. The only proven method for eradicating NWS is the release of sterile flies. Because the pest has been absent from the United States for more than five decades, the only sterile fly production facility in operation was located in Panama, with the capacity to produce approximately 100 million sterile flies per week. Last month, a second facility began operations in Mexico, adding another 100 million flies per week.

Reagan cont. on page 21

NMF&LB CEO’s Column From the CEO

By Benjamin Segovia

Together We Can Strengthen Our Organization As we move through another busy and productive quarter, I want to take a moment to share several recent developments within New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau and to thank you for the continued commitment you bring to our organization, our county Farm Bureaus, and the future of agriculture in New Mexico.

Segovia cont. on page 21 Page 4 - NM Farm & Ranch

Summer 2026

Telling Agriculture's Story Through the Eyes of

Inside The Outside Gate

New Mexico Women

Women in Agriculture Stories compiled by Cheryl Butterfield and Britney Lardner

Art work created by Melody Summers, Collegiate Farm Bureau Member

As part of the International Year of Women in Agriculture, we are proud to highlight New Mexico women who are sharing the stories of agriculture and the families who live it every day.

Throughout the Summer and Fall issues of the New Mexico Farm and Ranch newsletter, we'll continue highlighting New Mexico women who have taken the extra step to become stronger advocates for agriculture by attending the American Farm Bureau Communications Boot Camp and sharing their unique stories. Their voices remind us that every ranch, every farm, and every family has a story worth telling.

Summer Issue Spotlights Melinda Jackson, Chaves County (2010) Kim Miller, Union County (2024) Carlina Harris, Socorro County (2023)

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FallI Issue Spotlights Casey Spradley, Sandoval County ( 2018) Macey McDonald, Curry County (2025) Heidi Humphries, Quay County (2015)

Melinda Jackson Melinda Jackson, a member of the Chaves County Farm and Livestock Bureau, grew up on a ranch north of Roswell, Melinda's roots in New Mexico agriculture run deep. "I was born on a ranch north of Roswell. By the time I was five, I had my own lambs. By first grade, I could drive, cook and feed my own lambs, but I had very few social skills. I was a pretty feral kid," she laughs.

"My sisters, brothers and I did everything. We raised sheep and cattle. I went to college thinking I'd get away from ranch work, and then I married a rancher. It's been a good life."

Inspired by a lifetime in agriculture, Melinda wrote a beautifully descriptive poem, Inside the Outside Gate, to help those "outside the gate" better understand the people, values, and experiences that define agriculture. She graciously shared the poem by reciting it in a special video that opens our New Mexico Women in Agriculture series. The introductory video pairs her powerful words with glimpses of her life on the ranch, inviting viewers to experience agriculture through her eyes. Watch for a second video in the fall issue to close our series, which will bring the imagery of her poem to life by highlighting the people, places, and traditions woven throughout her story.

John and Melinda Jackson

Recording with Melinda

Can’t Live Without: Cell phone with a camera— for identifying parts, GPS - finding directions to pastures, navigating town trips, and attending YouTube University.

Melinda’s poem is a fitting way to launch our celebration of the remarkable women who have helped shape New Mexico agriculture. Across our state, women have played an integral role in the history, strength, resilience, and innovation of our agricultural communities.

Best Farm Dog? Blue Heeler—hands down! The ultimate varmint, rodent, and snake patrol.

Click here to watch

Beach, Cruise or Mountain Retreat?

Mountain retreat. I've never been on a cruise, so the mountains win by default.

Inside the Outside Gate Page 6 - NM Farm & Ranch

Summer 2026

Red or Green?

Green - Always a bushel in the freezer.

Sunrise or Sunset?

Now it is Sunrise. It's a lot more enjoyable before the day's heat sets in.

Sweet or Unsweet Tea Unsweet tea

Fun Facts

Kim Miller For Kim Miller, Union County Farm & Livestock Bureau President and District I Board Director, agriculture has never been just a career choice, it has been a way of life from the very beginning.

"My journey in agriculture began the day I was born," she said. "My grandparents ranched, my parents did, and I married into a ranching family. I've never been out of it."

Growing up surrounded by agriculture made it difficult to imagine a future anywhere else. Even as a student, she knew where her heart belonged. "I remember when I was in the eighth grade, my English teacher asked what I wanted to be when I grew up," she recalled. "I didn't really know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted it to be something in agriculture."

Kim and Red Miller

Kim Vaccinating

That passion has never wavered. Rather than pursuing another path, she has dedicated her life to an industry that has shaped her family for generations.

"I've just never wanted to do anything else," she said. "I feel so fortunate to be able to do something in agriculture."

Her story is one shared by many in New Mexico agriculture, a lifelong commitment rooted in family, tradition, and a genuine love for the land. It's a passion that continues to inspire her every day and one she hopes will be carried forward for generations to come.

Click here to listen to

Favorite Piece of Equipment: Silicone gel for my syringes—it's one of those little things I wouldn't want to be without!

Best Farm Dog? There's no such thing as a bad ranch dog!

We've had all kinds over the years, and every one of them has earned a place on the ranch.

Red or Green?

Both! Make it Christmas.

Beach, Cruise or Mountain Retreat?

I honestly couldn’t choose - they all sound like a great getaway!

Kim’s Story

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Fun Facts

Carlina Harris Carlina Harris currently serves as President of the Socorro County Farm and Livestock Bureau and chairs the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau's Women's Leadership Program.

Working on her family's small farm at Polvadera, NM she learned the value of hard work at an early age.

Afternoons and weekends were spent alongside her family harvesting Chile, preparing the crop for market, and helping sell the harvest that supported their livelihood.

Carlina Driving the Semi

"Even though our farm wasn't large, it taught me everything I needed to know about hard work, responsibility, and the importance of agriculture," she said. "Those experiences instilled the values and work ethic of farming and showed me how important it is to help feed our communities and future generations."

Today, those same lessons continue to shape her life as she works alongside her husband and family on their sixth-generation farm.

"I've always had a passion for farming," she said. "It's something that was planted in me as a young child, and I want to continue that legacy so it can be passed on to future generations."

Her story reflects the dedication of countless women in agriculture who balance careers, families, and the demands of farm life while preserving New Mexico's rich agricultural heritage. Through long days, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to the land, she is carrying forward a family tradition that began generations ago and helping ensure it continues to thrive for generations to come.

Favorite Piece of Equipment: Tractor. We have to have it to do the work on the farm.

Best Farm Dog? I’m partial to Collies.

Coffee or Sunrise Chores?

Coffee Red or Green?

Red! Sunrise or Sunset?

Sunsets Sweet or Unsweet Tea Unsweet Tea

Click here to listen to

Carlina’s Story Page 8 - NM Farm & Ranch

Carlina & Travis Harris

Summer 2026

Beach, Cruise or Mountain Retreat?

Mountain Retreat

Fun Facts

2026 Memorial Scholarship Recipients The New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau has awarded its 2026 Memorial Scholarships to three exceptional students whose achievements reflect academic excellence, leadership, agricultural involvement, and a commitment to serving their communities. This year's recipients are Wyatt Curry of Roswell, Alison Poling of Des Moines, and Denny Turner of Texico.

Wyatt Curry, a graduate of Goddard High School, also earned an Associate's Degree in University Studies from Eastern New Mexico University while completing high school. An accomplished FFA and 4-H member, Curry excelled in state Career Development Events, served in chapter leadership roles, and volunteered with disaster relief efforts in Roswell. He plans to attend Oklahoma State University to pursue a career in large animal veterinary medicine.

Wyatt Curry

Alison Poling, a graduate of Des Moines High School, completed college coursework through Clovis Community College, Mesalands Community College, and West Texas A&M University. A two-time New Mexico FFA State Livestock Judging high-point individual, Poling also served in leadership roles in FFA, 4-H, National Honor Society, and Student Council while remaining active in athletics and community service. She plans to attend West Texas A&M University to study agricultural business and pursue a career in agricultural appraisal.

Denny Turner, a graduate of Texico High School, balanced academic success with leadership in athletics, FFA, and 4-H. A co-captain of the football team and New Mexico State 4-H President, Turner also represented New Mexico through the American Quarter Horse Association. He plans to attend Oklahoma State University and pursue a career in sports media with an emphasis on agriculture and equine events.

Alison Poling

The NMF&LB Memorial Scholarship program recognizes outstanding students who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement, and a dedication to the future of agriculture and rural communities in New Mexico. Congratulations to Wyatt, Alison, and Denny as they begin the next chapter of their educational and professional journeys.

Denny Turner Page 9 - NM Farm & Ranch

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Duvall ... continued from Page 4

Preparing Farm Bureau Leaders for the Future “Having reliable information is important. Knowing how to turn that information into action is just as important”.

AFBF President Zippy Duvall

Farm Bureau Intel covers three categories—markets, policy and consumer —to go beyond the headlines and explain what the latest developments mean for farmers and ranchers. Whether you’re trying to understand what’s driving commodity markets, how a policy proposal could affect your farm, or what consumers are thinking about food and agriculture, these insights from our staff experts are designed to help you make more informed decisions.

Growing the Next Generation of Leaders Having reliable information is important. Knowing how to turn that information into action is just as important. That’s where Farm Bureau University comes in. It gives members access to online courses they can complete whenever it fits in their schedule, whether that’s at the kitchen table after supper or during a break in the tractor. The courses are designed to help farmers and ranchers strengthen their leadership, communication and advocacy skills while balancing the demands of farm life.

For members who want to take their leadership a step further, Farm Bureau Campaign School provides nonpartisan training on what it takes to run for public office. At the request of state Farm Bureaus, our staff brings these workshops directly to farmers and ranchers across the country. Over the past four decades, thousands of graduates have completed the program, and 82% have gone on to win elected office. Those results are pretty impressive, but what excites me even more is seeing Farm Bureau members step forward and give back to their communities through public service.

These are just a few of the ways Farm Bureau is helping farmers and ranchers build the knowledge, skills and confidence to lead, both on the farm and beyond it.

Investing in the Future of Agriculture Farm Bureau’s greatest strength has always been our grassroots members. Every county leader or young farmer willing to step up makes this organization stronger. Preparing agriculture for the future isn’t just about solving today’s challenges. It's about investing in the people who will lead tomorrow.

The decisions that shape agriculture aren't made by chance. They’re shaped by informed, engaged leaders who are willing to step up and speak on behalf of farmers and ranchers. Helping develop those leaders today is one of the best investments we can make in the future of agriculture.

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Summer 2026

EVERY DRIVER SAVES 10% .

MOST SAVE MORE. Did you know drivers in New Mexico are saving an average of $326 per vehicle with our safe driving program, Driveology®1? Savings start immediately after you enroll, earning a 10% discount just for signing up2, and the safer you drive, the more you’ll save.

Contact your Farm Bureau agent or scan the QR code to learn more about saving on your auto insurance premium with Driveology.

Savings example based on results of customers living in New Mexico enrolled in the Driveology program as of 1/15/2026. Savings amount based on driving behavior 1

and other factors. Individual savings results may vary. 210% savings applied per vehicle at enrollment for select coverages. Discounts apply to the major coverages for your eligible and enrolled vehicles. Cannot be combined with the Low Mileage Discount. 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. PC236 (5-26)

New World Screwworms

Reagan ... continued from Page 4

According to USDA, approximately 500 million sterile flies are needed each week to effectively eradicate NWS. A new production facility in Texas is expected to provide the remaining 300 million flies per week, but it is not anticipated to be operational until sometime next year, although some estimates suggest it could be ready in as little as six months. Until then, there remains a significant shortfall in the number of sterile flies available for eradication efforts.

As a result, the flies continue moving north. Several cases have already been confirmed in Texas, with another reported in New Mexico.

President Larry Reagan District 2

This brings me to my primary concern. USDA APHIS depends on timely and accurate reports of NWS detections so that the limited supply of sterile flies can be deployed where they will have the greatest impact.

However, if livestock producers fear that reporting an infected animal will result in quarantines for themselves or their neighbors, many may choose not to report suspected cases. Instead, they may simply treat the animal and move on.

With today's veterinary tools and treatments, producers can often successfully treat screwworm infestations, and fatalities are uncommon when infections are identified early. For that reason, one of the most effective steps we can take at this time is to remove the continued threat of quarantine. Encouraging producers to report suspected cases without fear of unnecessary restrictions will provide USDA APHIS with the accurate information needed to target sterile fly releases and slow the spread of this devastating pest.

Together We Can Strengthen Our Organization

Segovia ... cont. from Page 4

While farmers and ranchers across our state continue the important daily responsibilities of managing their agricultural operations, NMF&LB staff remains actively engaged in advocacy efforts that support and promote agriculture at the local, state, and national levels.

CEO Benjamin Segovia

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Our Field Managers continue to work diligently with county Farm Bureau organizations to strengthen grassroots leadership by recruiting and engaging new board members from across the agricultural sector. They are also focused on building strong business relationships with Farm Bureau Financial Services (FBFS) insurance representatives to help increase membership and enhance the value of New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau participation.

Segovia cont. on page 22

Summer 2026

Together We Can Strengthen Our Organization

Segovia ... cont. from Page 21

At the same time, our programs—including New Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom, the Young Farmers and Ranchers Leadership Committee, and the Women’s Leadership Program—are actively promoting educational and leadership opportunities that encourage greater member involvement. These programs play a vital role in highlighting the United States food production system, which remains the most productive and abundant food system in the world.

CEO Benjamin Segovia

Like many organizations, we have faced challenges resulting from inflation and the impacts of natural disasters, including drought, wildfires, floods, and hailstorms. These circumstances have contributed to a decline in membership.

In response, NMF&LB staff is renewing its focus on the grassroots foundation that has always been the strength of our organization. We are encouraging members to share their stories and explain why they support and belong to Farm Bureau.

Farm Bureau exists to serve and support farmers, ranchers, and agribusiness professionals across New Mexico. Your voice, involvement, and commitment are essential to our continued success.

As CEO I consider membership growth to be everyone’s responsibility, therefore, I encourage each of you to reach out to your friends, neighbors, and family members and invite them to join Farm Bureau.

Together, we can strengthen our organization, grow our membership, and ensure that agriculture continues to have a strong and united voice for generations to come.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to New Mexico agriculture.

Federal agriculture policy continues to move at a rapid pace, with several developments that could have significant impacts on New Mexico producers.

By Josh Wood, NMF&LB Coordinator of Government Affairs The House Agriculture Committee recently introduced the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, legislation aimed at modernizing the H-2A agricultural guest worker program. The proposal would create a year-round H-2A visa option for sectors such as dairy and livestock, streamline the application process, strengthen workforce verification, and provide producers with greater flexibility to meet labor needs while maintaining worker protections. While the bill still faces consideration in Congress, it represents one of the most significant efforts in years to address long-standing agricultural labor shortages. (agriculture.house.gov) Another issue receiving increased attention is the rapid expansion of data centers across the United States. Driven largely by artificial intelligence and cloud computing, these facilities are creating new economic opportunities while also increasing demand for electricity, water, and land resources. States are beginning to evaluate how to balance economic development with infrastructure capacity, energy reliability, and impacts on local communities. As discussions continue nationwide, New Mexico remains well positioned to attract future investment, making it important to monitor how data center growth intersects with agriculture, water policy, and rural development. (MultiState)

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Membership

Benefits

New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau members receive $10 off monthly pricing of any FieldClock plan selected.

Visit JohnDeere.com/FarmBureau today to register! You will need your membership number to register.

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It is that time of year...

Nominations OPEN Teacher of the Year The Teacher of the Year application is available on the NMAITC website nmaitc.org. Scroll to the bottom of the webpage to apply or nominate a teacher by September 7, 2026,

Nominations Opening August 15

Farm Family of the Year FEBRUARY 16, 2027 Volunteer of the Year

Watch for an opportunity to nominate individuals/families deserving of these awards. Applications will be open on August 15th and available on the NMF&LB website.

NMF&LB Summer State Board Meeting ... work and play...

State Board Meeting Ag Literacy Project Bocci Ball Tournament NM Agriculture Conference

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FEBRUARY 16, 2027 Santa Fe Convention Center Santa Fe, New Mexico

Save the Date

More information to come. *Background graphic has partial AI generation.

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2026 Staff

Benjamin Segovia

Theresa Widner

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Trisha Alarcon

Cheryl Butterfield

Britney Lardner

Braden Mounyo

Katie Adams

Jesi Watson

Amanda Sparks

Shawn Agar

Traci Curry

Shae Devers

Ethan Wright

Josh Wood

BOOKKEEPER

DIRECTOR, COUNTY & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

DIRECTOR, AG IN THE CLASSROOM

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COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

FIELD SERVICES MANAGER

SENIOR PROGRAM COORDINATOR, NMAITC

MARKETING AND EVENTS MANAGER

FIELD SERVICES MANAGER

PROGRAM COORDINATOR, NMAITC

OFFICE ASSISTANT

FIELD SERVICES MANAGER

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COORDINATOR

Summer 2026

NEW MEXICO Farm & Ranch

2220 N. Telshor Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 88011

OFFICERS Larry Reagan President, Ft. Sumner Don Hartman st 1 Vice President, Deming Travis Harris nd 2 Vice President, San Antonio Benjamin Segovia Chief Executive Officer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STAFF

Trisha Alarcon Ron Baca, Aztec Bookkeeper Bud Deerman, La Mesa Traci Curry Jim Ellett, Hope Director of NMAITC Leon Hemann, McDonald Shae Devers Gary Hathorn, Flora Vista NMAITC Sr. Program Coordinator John Jackson, Lake Arthur Ethan Wright Russell Johnson, Columbus NMAITC Program Coordinator Deena Kinman, Elida Katie Adams Patrick Torres, Arroyo Seco Director of County and Leadership Macey McDonald, Clovis Development Jesi Watson Kim Miller, Grenville Amanda Sparks Tommy Ortiz, Las Vegas Shawn Agar Troy Sauble, Maxwell Field Services Managers Jamie Viramontes, Deming Cheryl Butterfield Leonard Valerio, Española Communications Manager Tina Wilson, Las Cruces Britney Lardner Tom Wilton, Ft. Sumner Marketing and Events Manager Carlina Harris, Chair Theresa Widner Women’s Leadership Committee Executive Administrative Assistant Joram Robbs, Chair Braden Mounyo Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee Office Assistant