Physical Location 809 First Street, Moriarty NM 87035 President, Antonio Manzanares
n New Mexico Federal Lands Council newmexicofederallandscouncil@gmail.com 3417 Avenida Charada NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107
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EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING
Publisher: Caren Cowan
Publisher Emeritus: Chuck Stocks
Advertising Representatives: Chris Martinez Melinda Martinez
Contributing Editors: Carol Wilson Callie Gnatkowski-Gibson Howard Hutchinson Lee Pitts
PRODUCTION
Production Coordinator: Carol Pendleton
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New Mexico Stockman (USPS 381-580)
is published monthly by Caren Cowan, P.O. Box 7127 Albuquerque, NM 87194
Subscription price: 1 year hard copy and digital access $50, Digital access $30 Single issue price $10, Directory price $30 Subscriptions are non-refundable and may be purchased at www.aaalivestock.com
58 This Tiny Fish’s Mistaken Identity Halted a Dam’s Construction by Jason Nark, New York Times
60 Cattle and Beef Markets Charge into 2025 by Derrell S. Peel, Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist
66 How to Help Maximize Profits With the Right Cow Size by Ron Scott, Ph.D., Director, Beef Technical Innovation, Purina
70 Are Prairies Disappearing to the Plow? by Nathan Descheemaeker
71 New Horse Protection Act Rule: More Harm Than Good?
An Editorial by Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller
72 The Right Winter Blanket for Your Horse From AQHA Corporate Partner Classic Equine
88 New Mexico High School Rodeo Association –Wacey Trujillo by Julie Carter
93 New Mexico Livestock Board Put State’s First EIA Rules in Place by Natalie Voss, paulickreport.com
98 New Mexico Junior High Rodeo Association –Taylor Armenta Story & Photos by Julie Carter
100 The Podcast for the Southwest Contributed by Patina Thompson
106 Protocols Ensure Safe Movement of Animals While Mitigating the Threat of New World Screwworm
109 Massive Land Grab Comes to New Mexico: Submit Comments
DEMAND THE BRAND DEMAND THE BRAND
ANNUAL BULL SALE
MONDAY, MARCH 31,
2025
1 p.m., MDT at the Five States Livestock Auction, Clayton, New Mexico 55 HEREFORD BULLS SELL Horned & Polled
Also selling a select group of Maine-Anjou & Maine Angus bulls!
Sons of these Copeland & Sons herd sires sell Monday, March 31st:
GREEN JCS MAKERS MARK 229G ET
AHA P44042074 {CHB} • Homozygous Polled
Boyd 31Z Blueprint 6153 x JDH Victor 719T 33Z
CED +11.1,
SR DOMINATOR 170H
AHA 44293014 • Horned BCC Dominator 619D x UU Turning Point
JCS CHISUM 9536
AHA 44036181 • Horned JCS 88X 5847 ET x UPS Domino 5216
+25,
H5 906 DOMINO 1107
AHA 44237705 • Horned H5 81E Domino 906 x CL1 Domino 5110C
Utilize the most proven database in the industry for traits that go directly to your bottom line and give you a marketing advantage. BULLS THAT TRULY MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
$RANCH
• All sale bulls’ averages rank in top 12%.
• Mothers calve every year in 45 days or they are gone.
• All sale bulls’ averages rank in top 15% for Fertility.
• All sale bulls’ averages rank in top 18% for Teat and Udder.
$PROFIT
• All sale bulls’ averages rank in top 5%.
• Balanced trait selection for Life Cycle Efficiency, moderate size, post weaning growth, carcass merit and low PAP.
$FEEDER
• All sale bulls’ averages rank in top 6%.
• Feed Efficiency Testing since 2010.
• Every bull feed efficiency tested.
by Bronson Corn NMCGA President PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Bronson Corn President Roswell
Tom Paterson President-Elect Luna
Dave Kenneke NW Vice President Cimarron
Jeff Decker SE Vice President Lovington
Roy Farr SW Vice President Datil
Cliff Copeland NE Vice President Nara Visa
Becky King-Spindle Vice President at Large Moriarty
Shacey Sullivan Secretary/Treasurer Peralta
Loren Patterson Immediate Past President Corona
Randell Major Past President
Our legislative session is now in full swing, and things are getting CRAZY! This year is such a pivotal time in agriculture in NM, and things aren’t getting any easier for us on a state level. We, as ranchers, need to rise together and show up in force. We must make our voices heard. The entire NMCGA team is working tirelessly to make your voices heard, and you would be hard pressed to find a legislator that doesn’t know who we are! We have a lot of respect in the Roundhouse because they know we will always shoot straight with them, but I guarantee you that your legislator would rather hear from you as one of their constituents than from us. When we send out our Call To Action emails, I beg of you to please help us to help you. We only send these out when we are in desperate need of help to get our legislator’s attention as to what they are doing and how its going to affect us all.
We are in uncharted territory in the cattle market at the time that I write this letter in January. Who would have ever imagined that we would see nearly $400 5cwt steers? We are able to take a breath knowing that for the first time in a long time we stand a chance to be able to pay down on some long-term debt. That being said, this is also a very scary time. As we have all seen in the past, it seems just as we start to see the light at the end of the tunnel something happens, and we are back in the same boat we just came out of! Luckily for us all, times have evolved to give us a sense of protection from huge fluctuations in the cattle market. There are several companies in NM that provide LRP (Livestock Risk Protection) insurance. This could be something worth looking into to help us capitalize on the current market levels to help you sleep better at night.
February 14th should be the universal day of love AKA Valentine’s Day, but this year it’s the final day to submit comments on the Department of Energy’s National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC). NMCGA is not opposed to energy development, but it must be responsibly done. If there are projects that you want to do on your private property, I am all in favor of you being able to do whatever you want on your property. BUTTTT…. NMCGA is completely against the federal government shoving a 5-15 mile wide easement that was obtained by the use of eminent domain! If we were just dealing with a transmission line being done through private industry that worked with the landowners to come up with a fair value to gain an easement to complete a project, then I say get with it. However, there is absolutely no reason for a 5-15 mile wide easement for a transmission line! This corridor travels the length of NM from north to south on the east side of our state. If you are in one of those counties, I hope that you were in attendance at the meetings put on by your counties, so the DOE knows how you feel about their proposed project.
We are definitely in a strange and scary time! What we can do is share our story, let our state leaders know how we feel, and tell them how the things they are doing or allowing to be done will affect us and our operations. We may only be around 1.5 percent of the American population, but we have a very strong voice, so let’s use it!
God Bless, and Ya’ll Have a Good’en!
“Ya’ll Have A Good’en”
Bronson Corn, NMCGA President
JUST THE FACTS ... & THEN SOME
by Caren Cowan, Publisher New Mexico Stockman
60 Days to Save the Horse Industry: APHIS HPA Rule Goes into Effect on April 2, 2025
On January 24, 2025, USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) temporarily postponed its final rule to amend the Horse Protection Act
(HPA) regulations for 60 days from February 1, 2025 to April 2, 2025.
APHIS published the final rule (89 FR 39194-39251) amending the horse protection regulations to provide, among other provisions, that the Agency will screen, train, and authorize qualified persons for appointment by the management of any horse show, horse exhibition, or horse sale or auction to detect and diagnose soring at such events for the purposes of enforcing the HPA.
Source: Western Justice
As the implementation date for the revised Horse Protection Act (HPA) looms over the horse industry, many people who are involved with horses find themselves wondering exactly how they will be affected. Simply put, the revised version of the HPA would make unnecessary, heavy-handed government overreach the norm, devastate all levels of horse show communities, and effectively cripple much of the equine industry in the United States.
New Rules to Follow
For example, as of April 2, 2025, horse event managers must:
• Notify APHIS no less than 30 days in advance of the event, also specifying whether or not they are hiring/requesting an inspector.
• Notify APHIS of any event updates 15 days prior to the event
• Police warm-up areas
• Allow free and uninhibited access by HPIs to records, barns, horse trailers, stables, stalls, arenas, and all other show or exhibition grounds.
• Verify identity of each horse entered at a show, exhibition, sale, or auction
• Maintain all horse show and exhibition records for 90 days and make available to inspectors
• Report any violations of the Horse Protection Act to the APHIS regional director within five days after conclusion of the event.
For horse owners, the rule revisions mean many things. If you show or exhibit horses in any way and/or offer horses through sales, here is a partial list of rules you will be forced to follow if the revised HPA is implemented:
• Anything that could make a horse sore, lame, or irritated are prohibited. Sore muscles from a focused training session or a small rub from an incorrectly fitted bell boot could be equated to intentional soring
• Any substance that could make a horse sore or have an inflammatory reaction is prohibited, including therapeutic liniment
• No substances may be used on the limbs of a horse, including skin and hair conditioners or fly spray
• Horse owners are not the only ones liable. Any participant with horses is subject to liability, including agents, haulers, trainers, vendors, supporters, and sponsors.
• Mandatory rest periods must be observed during shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions.
• Any information requested must be provided to inspectors on demand.
• Horses’ legs must be blemish-free, including dermatologic conditions such as irritation, moisture, edema, swelling, redness, epidermal thickening, loss of hair, or other evidence of inflammation.
• Horse inspections may include, but are not limited to, “visual inspection of a horse and review of records, physical examination of a horse, including touching, rubbing, palpating, and observation of vital signs, and the use of any diagnostic device or
instrument, and may require the removal of any shoe or any other equipment, substance, or paraphernalia from the horse when deemed necessary by the professional conducting such inspection.
• Horses can be detained by HPIs for 24 hours.
• Therapeutic treatments, including massage, chiropractic treatments, and PMF must be administered or overseen by qualified veterinarians
• Complete veterinary records must be kept and maintained for horses receiving therapeutic treatment of any kind
• Requirements for shipping and transporting horses.
• Any horse winning first place in a class is required to be re-inspected.
• Horses that receive a rub or blemish while competing are subject to HPA violations, even if the horse passed inspection prior to entering the ring.
Again, please note that this is not a complete list, and we encourage you to read the official full 129-page HPA document to understand the true weight of what is currently intended.
Court Rules Against Cattle in USFS
Cattle Killing Case
After two years of litigation, the US District of New Mexico ruled against livestock owners, the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA) and the Human Farming Association in their case against the US Department of Agriculture Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service, the US Forest Service (USFS) and several of their employees for the slaughter of livestock in the Gila National Forest.
The 241-page ruling is difficult reading. It is no wonder it took about a year for drafting. The ruling doesn’t bode well for livestock on federal lands.
Legislature
The New Mexico Legislature is moving into its third week. There is some good stuff moving with bipartisan support. That includes funding for veterinary techs to help cover the massive short fall of large animal vets in underserved New Mexico. In SB 8 Senator Pat Woods is asking for $5 million to address the problem. That bill has passed its first committee and is headed to Senate Finance.
Senator Wood is carrying a heavy load for rural New Mexico and not just for the livestock industry. He is working on medical care, insurance including health, state road funding, limiting land acquisitions and
much more.
The topic of the Game Commission is a hot one again this year. There is a new measure, SB 5, to change the name and focus of the Commission and the Department to form game to wildlife. There is a whole new fee schedule and a new way of appointing a Commission. There will be a State Wildlife Commission Nominating Committee to provide nominations to the governor. Members of this committee may serve into perpetuity.
Advisory non-voting members of the commission will be added from the Department of Agriculture, the State Land Office, Department of Tribal Affairs, and the
Outdoor Recreation Division. The changes go on. Every time I read it I find something new. However it is early in the Session and lots of things can change.
One of the bills that will have a huge impact on business in the state is the Paid Family Medical Leave Act, HB 11. This bill has run several years in a row. Legislators were defeated in the last primary because of their stance on this measure. It is an added tax that cannot be afforded but it looks like it is fast-tracked.
There are lots of passionate legislators working for us and we thank them. ▫
‘If You Like A Cheeseburger … You Should Be Able to Get Them’: RFK Jr.
by Frank Fuhrig, meatingplace.com
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., nominated by President Donald Trump to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, spent much of his Senate confirmation hearing on January 29, 2025 addressing his reputation for radical positions on vaccines and nutrition.
Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) asked Kennedy about the ongoing avian flu outbreaks in the poultry and dairy industries, raising his past call for “a break” in infectious disease research. “I intend to develop the appropriate resources to prevent any pandemics. That’s an essential part of my job,” Kennedy replied.
He denied Smith’s allegation that he has questioned the germ theory of infectious diseases. “What do you think is causing the avian influenza?” Smith asked. Kennedy answered: “I think it’s the H5N1 viruses,” he said.
Asked about nutrition, he said that “processed food” in school lunch programs was making children sick. “Most importantly, we need to deploy NIH and FDA to do the research to understand the relationship between these different food additives and chronic disease, so that Americans understand it and make sure that Americans are aware,” Kennedy said.
“I don’t want to take food away from anybody. If you like a McDonald’s cheeseburger and a diet coke, which my boss loves, you should be able to get them. If you want to eat Hostess Twinkies, you should be able to do that. But you should know what the impacts are on your family and on your health.” ▫
Chapters
Your Story Matters. Each and every one of us has a story to tell and they all matter.
How many of us have chapters in our book that we’d like to leave behind? Or ones we’d love to relive? The truth is though that if we didn’t have all the chapters our book wouldn’t be what it is supposed to be.
Highs and lows and all the in-betweens are what create us and our story. This year, we as a team hope to tell the New Mexico CowBelles Story well. Each of us bringing to the table different gifts and ideas but with one common goal. To use what our story is to make the NMCB story better.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as the 2025 President and I look forward to helping write some chapters in the book of this organization we all love so dearly.
Be looking for District Workshop Information very soon. Please also join us for our Monthly Zoom meetings the 2nd Thursday of every month at 7:00 p.m.
See you down the trail.
Blessings, Corrina Casler
NMCB President ▫
FRISCO COWBELLES November meeting covered an active agenda that included officer elections for the new year. That part was easy as last years’ lineup consented to be officers again. President Denise Howard; Vice President Carolyn Nelson; Secretary Tasha Donaldson; Treasurer Amy Robertson. There was discussion about replacing a plaque at the Glenwood Park about the history of the Gila Wilderness. When first set up livestock grazing was included. A guest at the meeting was the new administrator for (CLLA) County Livestock Loss Authority. Deborah Mahler. She explained the program and had sample applications about compensation available for livestock producers. Those that incurred costs using practices to prevent or minimize wolf interaction with livestock and conflict avoidance. There will be meetings around the county after the first of the year. Christmas dinner party was set up and decided to
have CowBelles buy the beef and members provide side dishes and desserts. January budget planning will include several events to keep the members busy. It will be good. Members were reminded to pay their 2025 dues if they hadn’t already. Margie McKeen (Frisco)
A blizzard delayed the first monthly meeting of 2025 of the POWDERHORN CATTLEWOMEN. Postponed until January 16, seven members met at the First Baptist Church in Fort Sumner to install new officers and plan the calendar for the coming year. 2025 Officers: Mary McClain, President; Judy Byrd, Vice-President; Carol Thorpe, Treasurer; Karen Kelling and Brenda Copeland, Co-Secretaries. Outgoing President, Ann Sleep, received turquoise earrings to thank her for her years of dedication. Prior minutes, treasurers report and 2025 budget were approved. Correspondence included Chamber of Commerce dues notice and invitation to their January 31st dinner at the Fort Sumner Community House. Powderhorn CattleWomen will be represented. Cards were signed for former members in need of cheering. Advertising tools such as license plates and napkins were discussed. A bundle of “Beef” license plates will be ordered. Since the old dinner-sized brand napkins are no longer available from NM CowBelles, the feasibility of printing new ones to benefit Powderhorn CattleWomen of DeBaca and Guadalupe County will be explored. The NM Beef Council has agreed to partner on beef for the Old Fort Days BBQ which Powderhorn has catered for years. This annual fund raising and beef promotion effort provides three $1,000 scholarships, disseminates beef information and cooking tips and provides a service to the community. Powderhorn CattleWomen meet every second Thursday of the month, except August, at ranch homes, Extension offices, churches and restaurants. Hostesses for the coming months were listed and programs suggested. The meeting adjourned to a potluck lunch with beef and bread provided by the hostesses, Joan Key and Mary McClain. Door prizes were donated by the new officers. Respectfully submitted, Karen Kelling
New Mexico CowBelles: Thank you to all who have submitted their news to Jingle Jangle. Please send minutes and/or newsletters by the 15th of each month to Jingle Jangle, Janet Witte, 1860 Foxboro Ct., Las Cruces, NM 88007 or email: janetwitte@msn.com ▫
Bill King - 505-220-9909
Spindle - 505-321-8808
BillKingRanch.com
Johnson Joins AHA as Commercial Marketing Representative
Trevor Johnson, Centerville, S.D., joined the AHA as a commercial marketing representative in early 2025. Johnson is a lifelong Hereford enthusiast and a southeast South Dakota native. He has a bachelor’s degree in agribusiness from Kansas State University (K-State), where he was also a member of the national champion meat animal evaluation team and involved with the Center for Risk Management Education and Research and the Beef Cattle Institute. Johnson completed two internships with Adams Land and Cattle, working in both the cattle operations and the corporate office.
He found a passion for the commercial cattle industry at a young age with help from the National Junior Hereford Association and programs like the Fed Steer Shootout. Upon graduation from K-State, Johnson returned to his family’s seedstock, feedlot and row-crop operation.
In his role with the AHA, Johnson will work alongside Association staff to advance the Hereford breed in the commercial sector through multiple outlets. From identifying and expanding marketing opportunities for feeder cattle and commercial females, to developing relationships with cattle feeders, order buyers and auction market representatives, Johnson will work to strengthen Hereford’s place in the commercial beef industry.
“It is an honor to work alongside Team Hereford in serving commercial producers utilizing Hereford genetics,” Johnson says. “As the cattle industry navigates changes such as the national cow herd inventory or emerging sustainability-based revenue streams, I am optimistic that the breed is well poised to find opportunity for producers and remain a leader. I look forward to building connections with and serving commercial producers and breeders alike.”
Additionally, Johnson will represent the AHA at video sales, sale barn feeder specials and other industry events.
“We are excited for the opportunity to work with Trevor to develop and grow opportunities within the commercial industry,” says Trey Befort, AHA director of commercial programs. “I look forward to having such a bright young mind with a passion for Hereford genetics as a part of the team.”
Harvie Ranching, Olds, Alberta, topped the Hereford carload bull show during the 2025 National Western Stock Show (NWSS). Colyer Herefords, Bruneau, Idaho, won the pen-of-three bull show, and Pérez Cattle Co., Nara Visa, New Mexico exhibited the grand champion pen-of-three females. Judges Steve Lambert, Oroville, Calif.; Cliff Copeland, Nara Visa, New Mexico; and
Ty Krebs, Gordon, Nebraska, evaluated the Hereford pen show in the historic Denver, Colo., Yards, consisting of three carloads, 20 female pens and 24 bull pens for a total of 156 cattle.
“I cannot say enough good things about these bulls,” said Krebs before the champion pen-of-three bulls were announced. “This has to be one of the deepest bull and heifer shows I have ever witnessed here in the Hereford breed.”
Harvie Ranching and their group of junior bull calves sired by Land Makers Mark 2072ET, NJW PMH Commitment 137J and KJ MHPH RW 364C Media 240J, took home top honors in the carload show. Their group measured an average weight per day of age (WDA) of 3.45, average scrotal circumference (SC) of 36.4 centimeters and tipped the scales with an average weight of 1,210 pounds.
Landgren Ranch, Bartlett, Nebraska, exhibited the reserve grand champion carload of bulls. Winning the spring bull calf division, the group was sired by Green JCS Makers Mark 22, UPS Entice 9365 ET, JDH AH Lincoln 106H ET and Land Slinger 2296 1046. Their group had a WDA of 3.82, average SC of 35.5 centimeters and weighed 1,174 pounds on average.
Colyer Herefords claimed the grand champion banner in the pen-of-three bull show with their champion junior bull calves. The winning entry, a group sired by Churchill W4 Sherman 215, weighed an average of 1,340 pounds, with a WDA of 3.52 and SC of 36 centimeters.
Coyote Ridge Ranch, La Salle, Colorado, took home reserve champion pen-of-three bull honors with the reserve champion pen of junior bull calves sired by NJW 202C173DSteadfast 156 and /S Long Haul 11443. The Coyote Ridge bulls measured an average SC of 35 centimeters, WDA of 3.62 and weighed 1,233 pounds.
Pérez Cattle Co. exhibited the winning pen-of-three females, a group of senior heifer calves sired by NJW 202C173DSteadfast 156 and RST Final Print 0016 with an average WDA of 2.42 and weight of 1,213 pounds.
GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas, and their pen of junior heifer calves were named the reserve champion in the pen-of-three female show. Their group sired by GKB Conair K102 ET weighed an average of 993 with a WDA of 2.77.
Clavel Herefords
The Darnells Continue a 132-Year-Old Family Tradition of Raising Good-Doin’ Hereford Cattle Jim, Sue, Jeep, Meghan & Jake Darnell
TEXAS/NEW MEXICO RANCH 5 Paseo De Paz Lane, El Paso, TX 79932 Jim 915-479-5299 Sue 915-549-2534
Email: barjbarherefords@aol.com
OKLAHOMA RANCH Woods County, Oklahoma
Final Hereford Champions Selected on the Hill
Hereford cattle took one last lap through the National Western Stock Show’s (NWSS) Stadium Arena Saturday, Jan. 18. Judges Tom and Tammy Boatman, Rockford, Ill., evaluated the 89-head female show and 50-head bull show. Throughout the NWSS, 365 head of Hereford cattle were exhibited.
Bull show
“It blows my mind that I have this opportunity; this being the last time we’ll be up here in this building,” Tammy said before the selection of the champion horned bull. “It’s a pretty special day for us … hats off to these breeders for bringing these bulls out here.”
C GKB Cimmaron 3125 ET, owned by Colyer Herefords, Bruneau, Idaho, and GKB Cattle, Desdemona, Texas, was named the grand champion horned bull and champion yearling bull. The winning entry is a Jan. 10, 2023, son of ECR 628 Advance 9490 ET. Buck Cattle Co., Madill, Okla., and Lindskov’s LT Ranch, Isabel, S.D., claimed reserve grand champion horned bull honors with Stellpflug All That ET, a Jan. 30, 2023, son of JDH AH Benton 8G ET. He was also named reserve champion yearling bull.
Brumley Farms, Orovada, Nev., and their champion senior bull, Stellpflug Gunsmoke 222 ET, a Feb. 11, 2022, son of JDH AH Benton 8G ET, topped the polled bull show. NJW 119E 142 Proud 35L, a Jan. 29, 2023, son of CRR 971 Levitate 142, exhibited by Hoffman Ranch, Thedford, Neb.; Hurricane Hefty Ranch, Stratford, Okla.; Buck Cattle Co.; and Ned and Jan Ward, Sheridan, Wyo., was selected reserve grand champion polled bull and champion yearling bull.
Female show
“This lineup right here, whether you’re a Hereford breeder or not a Hereford breeder; you better take a look. Look at what this breed can offer,” Tammy said before the
selection of the champion polled female. “This is amazing.”
Maddie Jenkins, Athens, Texas, and H BL TB Pixie L369 ET, took home top honors in the polled female show. Jenkins’ entry is a March 18, 2023, daughter of HL Stimulus 2108 ET, and was first named the champion spring yearling female. C BAR1 8089 Candy 3020 ET, a Jan. 2, 2023, daughter of ECR 628 Advance 9490 ET, shown by Sutter Danekas, Woodland, Calif., took home the reserve grand champion polled female and champion junior yearling titles.
In the horned female show, KD Lucky for You 363L ET, an April 20, 2023, daughter of BK BH Fast Ball F102 ET, shown by Fallon and Gunnar Gohr, Madras, Ore., was named the grand champion and champion spring yearling. GKB Cattle and Express Ranches, Yukon, Okla., claimed reserve grand champion polled female honors with GKB 1314 Cher M127 ET. The March 23, 2024, daughter of BR GKB Winchester 1314, also topped the spring heifer calf division.
In the polled cow-calf pair show, Peyton and Libby Pérez, Nara Visa, New Mexico, won champion with PCC New Mexico Lady 1107 ET, a March 20, 2021, daughter of JDH AH Standout 16G ET, and a November bull calf, by KSU Land Grant 153 ET.
Other awards
At the conclusion of the show, Libby Pérez was named polled premier exhibitor, and Buck Cattle Co. won polled premier breeder. Cruz Colyer, Bruneau, Idaho, claimed horned premier breeder and exhibitor honors. Pérez Cattle Co., Nara Visa, N.M., was the get of sire winner with a group by PCC 7009 173D Maverick 0183 ET.
Colfax County visit Cimarron and the Aztec Mill Museum “Crossing the Rayado”
ABERCROMBIE
Rancho de Santa Barbara
Coyote Ridge Ranch
USDA Orders Removal of Climate Change Mentions from Public Websites
by Will Steakin, ABC News
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has directed agency officials to review and remove content related to climate change from its public websites, according to internal emails obtained by ABC News.
The directive instructs web managers to identify, archive, or un-publish materials mentioning climate change by “no later than close of business on Friday (January 31),” according to the emails.
In an email sent Thursday, USDA Director of Digital Communications Peter Rhee detailed the process, requiring staff to “identify and archive or un-publish any landing pages focused on climate change” and track related content in an attached Excel spreadsheet for review.
“OC will review the submitted materials and make determinations on next steps,” Rhee wrote, referring to the department’s Office of Communications.
A separate email sent to website managers at the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) emphasized the urgency of the request.
“USDA and ARS OC are requesting you comply with the instructions below from USDA’s Office of Communications,” the email read, instructing ARS staff to submit their content audit by 3 p.m. ET Friday to meet the department’s deadline.
USDA officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment from ABC News.
According to the spreadsheet provided to website managers and obtained by ABC News, content is being categorized into three levels of urgency. Pages dedicated entirely to climate change are marked as “Tier 1,” while those where a significant portion of the content relates to climate change are labeled “Tier 2.”
Pages where climate change is mentioned in passing but is not the main focus should be identified under “Tier 3,” according to the spreadsheet.
“For each piece of content, include the title, link, and your recommendation on how the content should be handled,” the email reads.
Editor’s Note: Editorial opinion has been removed from this article.
Value of Feed Efficiency Tucumcari Bull Test Sale — Sat., March 8, 2025
VALUE OF FEED EFFICIENCY ASSUMPTIONS:
• Assuming these bulls (actual data from 2021 test) were steers in feedlot, grown from 700 -1400 lbs (700# Gain)
• Cost of feed $185/ton, 62% DM, yardage at $0.25/head/day
• Bull will sire 100 calves in lifetime, calf crop is 50% his genetics, 40% Heritability of FE
• Assumes a bull at 80% ratio for FE does not add any value, other bulls compared to him
• This does not include value of keeping females who are more feed efficient
This chart just shows the added value of keeping calves through the feedlot out of proven
Valentine’s Day is coming. It often brings to mind heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, roses, sometimes jewelry and everything that is deemed romantic in today’s society. For many of our consumers it means going out to a fancy dinner that we hope includes steak, prime rib or lamb.
In the almost 50 years of our marriage, we’ve had far more Valentine’s dinners at home than going out to eat somewhere fancy. We may be calving and can’t leave, or the weather might be bad enough that driving isn’t a smart thing. We also know the quality of the meal will probably be better than what we’d get eating out. Sometimes the neighboring wives and I would get together and make our own fancy Valentine’s dinner when the weather forecast looked grim for making a trip to town. We’d thaw out good steaks for the husbands to cook, decorate the table and make wonderful side dishes and desserts that couldn’t be found in restaurants.
I love classic recipes, especially from the wonderful old steakhouse menus. Creamed spinach was a great side dish if they made it right. I wrote an earlier column about it and then came up with this recipe. We spent Christmas with dear friends, and I brought it to accompany the prime rib and other delicious sides. It was an instant hit I am happy to report. I also made the recipe in advance and refrigerated it, stopping at the point where you top it and bake it. I only needed to sprinkle the topping on and bake it when we arrived.
Creamed Spinach Casserole
Ingredients
1/2 c. panko breadcrumbs
2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 (9-oz.) bags fresh spinach, or use frozen, see note below recipe
3 Tbsp. butter
2 cloves garlic, minced ½ cup finely chopped or grated onion
3 Tbsp. flour
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 c. whole milk
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. black pepper
Pinch of cayenne pepper
2 oz. room temperature cream cheese
1 1/2 c. shredded Gruyère cheese
MAJOR BEEFMASTERS
1/4 c. grated parmesan
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup of parmesan and the panko breadcrumbs; set aside.
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the olive oil. Add the spinach (in batches, if needed). Cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a mixing bowl and set aside.
Add the butter to the same skillet. Let it melt until it is bubbly and golden. Add the garlic, onion and flour and stir constantly with a wooden spoon for 2 minutes to make a roux.
Whisk in the cream, milk, salt, cayenne, and black pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, 5 to 7 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese until completely combined. Add the Gruyère gradually, making sure the cheese is completely incorporated before adding more. Stir in the last ¼ cup of parmesan. The mixture will be very thick, make sure it is well mixed.
Add the spinach with juices to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased or sprayed 8-by-8-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the parmesan cheese and panko mixture.
Bake until the casserole is bubbling, and the topping is golden brown, 30 to 35 minutes. Let sit for at least 10 minutes.
NOTE: you can use two 10-ounce bags of chopped, thawed spinach. Squeeze out all the moisture you can and omit the olive oil and cooking it. Just go to the next step and sauté the garlic and onions, and so on.
Herd Sire Wolfman ( L Bar 0501) Look
offspring
2024 Purebred Beefmaster Females were calved out in early May. Look for their Yearling Bull Calves for sale in the Spring of 2025.
by Deanna Dickinson McCall
by Lee Pitts
Playing Ketchup
Ilive on the edge of a small town whose only fast food is a Subway. The void has been filled by food trucks. I don’t know if they’ve come to your town yet but every day at lunch time there are at least two food trucks open for business and some days three in my town. These include food trucks named The Greasy Weiner, Hanna’s Street Tacos and La Taqueria. The trucks appear to be doing a land office business judging by the long lines of construction workers and nine-to-fivers on their lunch hour.
One of the good things about a food truck is that if you don’t like your present location you just up and move. I don’t know what’s in it for the people who own the parking lots where the food trucks set up shop but I’m sure they get at least a free taco or two as rental income. The food trucks are so popular that restaurants in the bigger towns
are playing catch-up, or is it ketchup, and are copying items invented by the food truck owners. For example, “street tacos” have found their way onto menus at fancy restaurants and my wife really likes them. They are about half the size of a regular taco and they can be made with fish, beef, pork even bison. The one thing I haven’t seen yet are food trucks that specialize in hamburgers and we really need one or two of them.
Whenever I see a food truck it reminds me of the old photos I’ve seen of cowboys gathered around the chuckwagon at a roundup only instead of cowboy hats the construction workers are wearing hard hats and there are no chaps and spurs. Since there is no seating provided the construction workers can be seen sitting uncomfortably on a curb or on their haunches. The advantages of a food truck are it costs about a third of what a restaurant meal would cost and it’s fast, so people on their lunch hour don’t have to worry about clocking in late when their lunch hour is over.
Food trucks really are modern day chuckwagons. Legendary cattleman Charles Goodnight invented the chuckwagon in 1866 when he got an old army wagon with extra durable iron axles and he put a box on the back that served as the cookie’s kitchen. They
became so popular that Studebaker, the only company I know of that made the transition from selling wagons to selling cars, sold their version of the chuckwagon for about a hundred bucks. They were called chuckwagons because the grub the cowboys ate was also referred to as chuck. The chuckwagon, which was sometimes also called “the crumb castle” by the cowpokes, was the center of activity during a branding and cowboys “put on the nose bag” and even took an afternoon siesta underneath the chuckwagon because it provided the only shade for miles around.
I don’t know why someone doesn’t launch a “chain” of chuckwagon food trucks that serve hamburgers and other beef items. Instead of a truck the chuckwagon would be a wagon designed to look like chuckwagons of yesteryear, with the addition, of course, of brake lights and turn signals. If one location was bad you could just hook up the chuckwagon to a vehicle and move it to a new location, no horses necessary.
My idea of a chuckwagon food truck could be a great “green” concept that environmentalists should love. Picture in your mind six burley construction workers ordering gigantic beef and bean burritos and chimichangas and then getting in their work truck with all the windows rolled up. In the cab would be an on-board methane digester that would turn the gas produced by the workers into fuel. It would be a totally enclosed enviro system and the gas produced would propel the workers far enough to get to them to the next chuckwagon where they could re-fill on beans again. I can even envision a hybrid version for people who don’t want to eat beans for every meal.
If Elon Musk ever caught wind of my concept I have no doubt that in a matter of weeks we’d have thousands of Tesla Taco Trucks at Tesla charging stations around the country, thus giving an all new meaning to the words “gassing up.”
Villanueva •
NEW CROP OF BULLS AND HEIFERS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION NOV 1 ST PICK THEM AND WE’LL GROW THEM OUT FOR YOU
GRAU GRAU RANCH RANCH
THEY’RE BETTER BECAUSE THEIR SIRES & GRANDSIRES ARE GRAU RANCH BRED
Grau Ranch bull sired the Grand Champion Carcass steer in San Antonio in the production division with 87 head entered. The calf was a purebred Charolais steer.
STATISTICS ARE:
Quality Grade: Prime plus
Yield Grade: 2.3
Ribeye: 16.5
Fat thickness: .4
Dressing %: 62%
The Calf was fed and entered by Andrew Louis Jones from Cal Farley’s Boys Ranch.
These kinds of calves weigh more and bring more money than the others.
KSVDL Urges Vigilance for Emerging Cattle Parasite
by Kansas Livestock Association, Feedlot Magazine University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The Kansas State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (KSVDL) wants livestock producers to be aware of a new red blood cell parasite, Theileria orientalis Ikeda, that has been found in calves imported to Kansas. The parasite causes theileriosis, which leads to anemia and other serious health issues in cattle. According to Gregg
Hanzlicek, KSVDL associate director and professor of diagnostic medicine and pathobiology, it has been present in the eastern U.S. for some time, but first was diagnosed in Kansas after affected calves were imported from the east for feeding in December 2024. The disease primarily is spread through multi-use needles and insects, with the Asian
longhorned tick identified as the primary vector. This tick, although not yet found in Kansas, has been detected in Missouri, Arkansas and a county in northeastern Oklahoma bordering Labette County. Blood-feeding flies such as horse, stable and deer flies (not horn flies) also are believed to be able to transmit the disease, said Hanzlicek.
The intracellular parasite destroys red blood cells, resulting in anemia, weakness, lethargy, yellowing of the mucous membranes, difficulty breathing, late-term abortions and, in severe cases, death. Reported death rates range from very low to 30 percent or higher.
All ages of cattle can become infected and show clinical signs. The disease cannot be spread through respiratory aerosols, breeding, reproductive fluids, etc. Multiple-use needles, including those used for injections, tattoos and ear tags, are the major ways this disease is spread within a herd.
According to Hanzlicek, the parasite is highly resistant to antibiotics available in the U.S. Therefore, testing all animals originating east of Kansas before importation is key to not bringing the disease into the state. There is a blood test available at KSVDL that will identify carrier animals. If a producer is importing a large number of head, Hanzlicek said testing a subset would be appropriate for determining if the parasite is present in the group.
PAP testing since 1991 at an elevation of 7500’ BVD, Fertility, PAP, Trich tested & Carcass Ultrasounded. Featuring bulls out of these A.I. and other Weaver Ranch Sires
To avoid spreading the disease within a herd, producers should use normal infection prevention procedures such as single needle use and cleaning and disinfecting tattoo and ear tag pliers. Additionally, it’s important to implement an appropriate fly, tick and lice control regimen.
More information on the parasite and testing can be found at www.ksvdl.org. KSVDL also has a webinar on this topic posted on www.youtube.com/ @KStateVDL
AWS Foundation Now Accepting Applications for $2.5 Million in Welding Scholarships
The American Welding Society (AWS) Foundation is pleased to announce that it is currently accepting scholarship applications for 2025 from welding students
across North America. The deadline to apply for AWS National, District, and Section Scholarships is March 1, 2025.
In 2024, the AWS Foundation awarded
Arizona Angus Invitational Sale AT
MARANA STOCKYARDS
scholarships to more than 1,200 welding students, providing financial support ranging from $1,000 to over $10,000 per recipient. These scholarships benefited students attending more than 400 academic and training institutions across all 50 U.S. states and three Canadian provinces.
The AWS Foundation’s scholarships support welding education at every level, from short-term training programs to degree-based learning. In 2024, 64 percent of scholarship recipients pursued technical school education, addressing the critical need for skilled welders in construction and manufacturing industries; 25 percent of scholarship recipients were female, far surpassing the industry participation rate of 5.6 percent.
“Skilled trades education is the foundation of a strong economy and thriving communities,” said Monica Pfarr, Executive Director of the AWS Foundation. “By investing in welding education, the AWS Foundation is playing a critical role in ensuring a pipeline of talented professionals who will drive the industry forward for years to come.”
Schools receiving the most scholarships in 2024 were:
121 - $350,000 – Ferris State University (Big Rapids, MI)
51 - $152,500 – Pennsylvania College of Technology (Williamsport, PA)
49 - $ 67,000 – Hobart Institute of Welding Technology (Troy, OH)
43 - $ 53,500 – Kentucky Welding Institute
33 - $ 36,000 – Western Welding Academy (Gillette, WY)
32 - $ 98,500 – Ohio State University (Columbus, OH)
26 - $ 28,500 – Tulsa Welding School (Jacksonville, FL)
25 - $ 80,000 – Brigham Young University-Idaho (Rexburg, ID)
24 - $ 24,000 – Missouri Welding Institute (Nevada, MO)
Scholarships are available to all students in welding and related fields; all are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to help fund their education. Applications are available at scholarship.
Six Big U.S. Banks Quit Net Zero Alliance Before Trump Inauguration
by Damien Gayle Environment Correspondent, The Guardian
The six biggest banks in the US have all quit the global banking industry’s net zero target-setting group, with the imminent inauguration of Donald Trump as president expected to bring political backlash against climate action.
JP Morgan is the latest to withdraw from the UN-sponsored net zero banking alliance (NZBA), following Citigroup, Bank of America, Morgan Stanley, Wells Fargo and Goldman Sachs. All six have left since the start of December.
Analysts have said the withdrawals are an attempt to head off “anti-woke” attacks from rightwing US politicians, which are expected to escalate when Trump is sworn in as the country’s 47th president in just under a fortnight.
Trump’s vows to deregulate the energy sector, dismantle environmental rules and “drill, baby, drill”, were a big part of his cam-
paign platform and are expected to form a key part of his blueprint for governing the US, the world’s biggest oil and gas producer.
Paddy McCully, a senior analyst at the campaign group Reclaim Finance, said: “The sudden exodus of these big US banks out of the NZBA is a lily-livered effort to avoid criticism from Trump and his climate denialist cronies.
“A few years ago, when climate change was at the front of the political agenda, the banks were keen to boast of their commitments to act on climate. Now that the political pendulum has swung in the other direction, suddenly acting on climate does not seem so important for the Wall Street lenders.”
Convened by the UN Environment Programme finance initiative but led by banks, the NZBA commits members to align their lending, investment and capital markets activities with net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 or earlier.
THOMPSON RANCH
Citigroup was one of NZBA’s founding members. A spokesperson for the bank said Citigroup’s decision to quit would allow it to “focus on addressing barriers to mobilizing capital to emerging markets in support of the low-carbon transition”.
“We remain committed to reaching net zero and continue to be transparent about our progress,” the bank said.
Addressing its withdrawal, JP Morgan said it would “work independently to advance the interests of our firm” and its customers and shareholders, while remaining “focused on pragmatic solutions to help further low-carbon technologies while advancing energy security”.
A spokesperson for Goldman Sachs said the bank was “very focused” on increasingly stringent standards and reporting requirements imposed by regulators, and insisted the bank had “made significant progress … on the firm’s net zero goals”.
Wells Fargo commented only to confirm its withdrawal from the alliance, while Bank of America and Morgan Stanley did not respond to requests for comment.
Toby Kwan, a senior manager at the Carbon Trust, said the banks’ withdrawals from NZBA could give them more flexibility over which sectors they decided to include in their targets and which pathway to align with, and less stringent timeframes to work to.
MILLER ANGUS
REGISTERED BLACK ANGUS CATTLE
CATTLEMEN ’S LIVESTOCK AUCTION
BELEN , NM MARCH 24TH, 2025
MILLER JET BLACK 060
AAA – 19792704
CED +12
New Mexico Angus Sale
Roswell, NM March 3rd, 2025
Ranchers Pride Sale Clayton, NM April 9th, 2025
– 18839538
+1.6 WW +85 YW +139 $B +146 MILLER C ONFIDENCE PLUS 715
A.I. SIRES: SS BRICKYARD S ARCHITECT 9501 POSS RAWHIDE BASIN SAFE DEPOSIT 9324
MILLER FOREMAN 813
AAA – 19179406
CED +5
FLOYD, NEW MEXICO (575) 760-9047 (575) 478-2398 BULLS AND FEMALES TESTED PI-BVD FREE ALL BULLS TRICH AND FERTILITY TESTED FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY
Miller Epic 923
AAA - 19504487
CED +2
+3.0 WW +82 YW +145 $B +160
by Jerry Schickedanz
Heads Up
The views and opinions expressed do not represent those of the Regents of New Mexico State University.
As I contemplated the ending of this calendar year, I have mixed feelings with the joy of family coming together to celebrate Christmas, a sense of personal accomplishment, yet sadness and anger at the current state of our society. I miss the America that I grew up in and feel a sense of
betrayal by the America that I love and cherish. I have a feeling of abandonment to all the ethical and moral standards that I grew up believing and living by.
I grew up believing in the system of governance that was based on “We the people.” I had a belief that teachers, medical doctors, law enforcement officers, parents, news broadcasters, cowboy heroes and many others were to be looked up to, admired and were someone to grow up to be like. This feeling of awe toward individuals and institutions began to change when I was asked by a professor “I want to know what you think, not what you believe.” This caused me to begin thinking about issues, opinions, motives. How did I transform from “all believing” to “all questioning” of my sur-
rounding life?
My ethics and moral beliefs began at an early age when I was walking down the street in town with my grandfather who came to America as a 15-year-old orphan from Germany with two brothers. He did not know the language but was determined to make a better life in America.
As we walked down the street, he was addressed in German by a bystander in the street. My Grandfather stopped and sternly said in his heavy German accent, “Speak to me in English, I am an American,” and we continued down the street. I have never forgotten that lesson in pride of who you are and what you stand for.
On another occasion he said, “Whatever you do, make your name and your word good”. I have tried all my life to live up to that standard, but the world around me now seems to have ignored this basic pride, standard of living, ethics and moral consciousness that I don’t recognize the America of today.
As I watch the evening news, I see short clips of the FBI arresting parents at a school board meeting as domestic terrorists for disagreeing with the school board on what is being taught in the school system. I see distraught parents complaining that the school counselors are advising their minor children on sex changes without notifying the parents. The few times I have visited a primary school classroom, the teacher was being disrespected and did not have disciplinary control of the students.
As I continue watching the evening news, I feel the bias and opinion of the news anchor in delivering the material. Gone are the days of Walter Cronkite who signed off each news cast with “and that is the way it is, today, February 27, 1968”. What he reported was what was actually happening on that given day, not some anchor giving his or her spin on the news. News anchors read the news without you knowing of their political views or leanings, they were believed, looked up to and honored.
It has been on the news for the last several years that the border has been closed. But when I go to the Customs and Border Protection website annual reports, I find that on an annual basis, more than two million per year have come across the border illegally in the last four years. The locals know that the border is not closed when we observe what is happening in the border towns where we live. When we have trouble believing in our own government, whether it be local, state or federal where do we turn?
I am not ready to give up on America, I am not going to leave for another country as I see something good over the horizon and I will do my part to make things better. ▫
< > Bull and Heifer Sale Bull Heifer Sale
Monday’ March 3’ 2025
ROSWELL LIVES TOCK AUCTION, ROSWELL, N.M. Sale time 1:00 p.m.
Bulls will be Graded & Tested For Fertility & Trich
* 70 REGISTERED ANGUS BULLS *
Cattle available for viewing, Sunday, March 2, 2025
All Bulls & Registered Heifers will have 50K or Angus GS Genetic Testing
TWENTY-FIRST NEW MEXICO ANGUS ASSOCIATION * PLUS*
a nice selection of Registered and Commercial Heifers
Registered heifers at the New Mexico Angus March sale in Roswell are eligible for the New Mexico Bred Angus Show at the New Mexico State Fair
Candy Trujillo 480-208-1410
Greg Carrasco 575-649-5268
A Tale of Three Careers
Celebrating the legacies of Top Administrators at NMDA
For decades, Deputy Director/Secretary
Anthony Parra, Division Director of Industry and Agency Programs Larry Dominguez and Agricultural Programs and Resources Division Director Julie Maitland dedicated themselves to service, leadership and impact at the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA). Though their paths were different, their shared commitment to excellence and innovation has left an indelible mark on the agency and the agricultural community it serves.
Anthony Parra: A career of dedication to agriculture and leadership
Anthony Parra’s life and career exemplify the spirit of resilience, adaptability and an unwavering commitment to the agricultural industry. Retiring in August 2024 as deputy
secretary of NMDA, his journey from a small farming and ranching community near Deming, New Mexico, to a prominent leadership role in state government is a testament to his dedication to serving both his local community and the broader agricultural sector.
This early exposure to farming and ranching inspired Anthony to pursue higher education in agriculture. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business and Finance, which set the stage for his future contributions to the industry. After a brief stint in retail welding supply sales, he returned to school to obtain a master’s degree in Agricultural Extension Education—a move that would shape the rest of his career.
Anthony began his professional journey as an agricultural extension agent at New Mexico State University (NMSU) in 1991. He quickly gained recognition for his innovative approach to community outreach, particularly through the NMSU 4-H rodeo program,
CONNIFF CATTLE CO. LLC
where he served on the 4-H Rodeo Board. His efforts empowered youth and strengthened rural communities, laying the groundwork for his leadership ethos.
For a year, Anthony worked as a cross-country truck driver, a role that broadened his understanding of the logistics side of agriculture. This experience was followed by a position in the College of Engineering at NMSU in 1994, where he contributed to a National Science Foundation grant program promoting minority participation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). This role marked the beginning of his leadership career.
Anthony stayed at NMSU to take on greater responsibilities, including serving as a business manager in telecommunications and later as director of business operations, where he managed procurement, IT infrastructure and business operations for the university’s telephone network. His leadership helped launch the Rio Grande Optical Network, a critical fiber optic initiative connecting state government and educational institutions across eastern New Mexico.
In 2012, Anthony became the deputy director of the NMDA after answering a colleague’s suggestion to apply for the role. His transition to NMDA marked a turning point in his career, allowing him to focus on his passion for agriculture at a state and national level.
Under his leadership, NMDA faced and overcame significant challenges. One notable instance was addressing a Forest Service decision in 2013 that affected livestock grazing permits in Corona. Leveraging NMSU’s expertise, NMDA’s team used scientific data to advocate for ranchers, ensuring their permits remained intact.
Anthony’s tenure at NMDA was defined by transformative initiatives:
Ї he bridged the gap between NMDA and NMSU, creating a mutually beneficial relationship that maximized resources and expertise
Ї he established a dedicated lab division, separating enforcement and testing responsibilities to improve efficiency and transparency. This included enhancing the chemistry, seed, petroleum and metrology services under NMDA
Ї he oversaw the streamlining of software systems, ensuring the agency’s operations aligned with modern standards
Ї he played a pivotal role in addressing
chile labor incentive programs and labeling, working closely with stakeholders to balance the governor’s directives with industry needs.
Anthony was known for identifying and mentoring talented individuals within the department, fostering a culture of excellence. He took pride in seeing the success stories of his colleagues, who thrived under his guidance. His ability to manage diverse teams and navigate intricate details made him an invaluable leader.
Beyond his role at NMDA, Anthony has remained deeply connected to the agricultural community. He serves on the Foundation Board for the New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau and the Board of Directors for the Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum. These positions have allowed him to contribute to preserving New Mexico’s agricultural heritage and ensuring its future.
Anthony’s career was driven by a singular long-term goal: to contribute meaningfully to agriculture across New Mexico and beyond. Through decades of service, he not only achieved this goal but exceeded it. As he transitions into retirement, his legacy will continue to inspire those who follow in his
footsteps, ensuring that agriculture remains a cornerstone of New Mexico’s economy and culture.
Larry Dominguez: A career built on trust and leadership
Dominguez’s career at NMDA spans more than 34 years, during which he held four distinct roles, each building on the last. His journey began as a state statistician, a position no longer existing at NMDA, where he honed analytical skills over three years. He then transitioned to Bureau Chief of NMDA’s Feed, Seed and Fertilizer (FSF) Section, a role now known as Assistant Division Director, leading an expansion of the bureau for four years and laying the groundwork for future successes.
Larry’s next leap was as Division Director of NMDA’s Agricultural and Environmental Services Division, where he served for nine years. At the time, the division housed four bureaus and two laboratories including the agency’s dairy bureau, and the state’s dairy
Northern New Mexico High Altitude Bull Sale
industry was experiencing unprecedented growth. Larry rose to the challenge, developing a robust program to meet the demands of the expanding industry—a task that was both challenging and rewarding.
His final role at NMDA has been as Division Director for Industry and Agency Programs, leading various programs and initiatives that are crucial to the success of NMDA and the state’s agricultural industry.
Before his time at NMDA, Larry worked in the feed industry after earning degrees in Animal Science (Bachelor’s) and Economics/ Agricultural Economics (Master’s). Interestingly, his entry into NMDA was somewhat unplanned—a decision made on a whim— but it became his calling. Once in public service, Larry felt a great responsibility to give his best to the agency and the industries it serves.
Larry’s accomplishments have been many:
Ї he built effective teams and hired strategically to manage increasing workloads
Ї his leadership in mentoring new staff and colleagues advanced NMDA’s capabilities
Ї his rapport with regulated industries and agricultural groups fostered trust and respect, transforming NMDA into a valued resource.
CONSIGNORS
M Hat Angus, Belen, NM
Vigil Angus , Espanola, NM
Cornerstone Ranch Inc.
Fort Sumner, NM
Hartzog Angus, Bovina, TX
Catalina Gomez, Las Vegas, NM
Walking Spear Land & Cattle Roswell, NM
Valigura Simmental, Estancia, NM
Diamond Cut Ranch, Chambers, Arizona
Salazar Ranches, Española, NM
His dedication extended beyond regular hours. He listened, responded and went above and beyond the expectations of his roles to earn industry stakeholders’ trust. His 18 years on the Water Quality Control Commission, which included periods as vice-chair and chair, exemplified his commitment to transparency and fairness and the rare occasion that a state agency other than the Environment Department chaired the commission.
In 2010, Larry received the Ayudando Siempre Allí Award from the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the industry. His mentorship of employees, coupled with his openness, patience and understanding, ensured a lasting legacy of leadership at NMDA.
Julie Maitland: From bakery to ag policy
Julie Maitland’s path to NMDA was as unique as it was impactful. Before her 25 years of service, she spent two decades in the bakery industry, working in Seattle and New
Larry Dominguez
York City. Her first career shaped her understanding of food and people, which later fueled her passion for policy and service in agriculture.
Joining NMDA in 1999 as a water resources and policy specialist, Julie quickly became a cornerstone of the agency’s efforts to effectively manage water resources. Her entrepreneurial spirit and imagination allowed her to approach challenges with creativity and passion.
Julie’s career has been marked by:
Ї a deep understanding of ag policy and its impact on people
Ї a focus on deploying resources to benefit New Mexicans through grant funding and tangible opportunities
Ї collaborative problem-solving that brought stakeholders together to achieve common goals
Ї the establishment and piloting of NMDA’s Healthy Soil Program, created under the 2019 Healthy Soil Act. Her leadership style emphasized teamwork and positive communication. As a manager, she found joy in analyzing her team’s thinking and helping them grow. She
believed in putting a positive light on complicated agricultural policies, ensuring they were understood and best utilized by industry.
Serving on the Water Trust Board as NMDA’s Secretary’s Designee since the board’s inception in 2002, Julie has been long committed to professional excellence, while her ability to balance strategic thinking with compassion made her a respected leader. Julie’s ultimate goal was to be of service—a goal she undoubtedly achieved.
A legacy of service: Anthony Parra, Larry Dominguez and Julie Maitland
Anthony Parra, Larry Dominguez and Julie Maitland brought diverse strengths and perspectives to the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA). Anthony’s visionary leadership and ability to unite teams across disciplines complemented Larry’s trust-building expertise and leadership style, while Julie’s innovative and collaborative approach drove progress.
Together, their shared dedication to serving New Mexico’s agricultural community created a powerful legacy that will continue to inspire NMDA employees for generations.
They leave behind more than remarkable careers—they leave lasting impacts on the people, industries and communities they served. Their stories exemplify the transformative power of commitment, creativity and service, shaping a legacy that will guide the future of New Mexico’s agriculture industry for years to come.
A word from New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte
“NMDA and the entire state of New Mexico are a much better place because of the leadership of these three individuals who gave it their all every moment of every day and served with a passion for agriculture that will definitely be missed,” said Witte. “True to their dedication, Anthony, Julie and Larry set the table for new leaders to follow and pick up where they left off – that is a true sign of dedication – and I am fortunate to have benefited from their leadership. I wish them all the best in retirement!” ▫
Julie Maitland
Lean Beef is A Heart-Healthy Choice for American Heart Month
February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health and the steps we can take to keep our hearts strong. One delicious and nutritious way to support heart health is by incorporating lean beef into your diet.
The Benefits of Lean Beef
Lean beef is a powerhouse of essential nutrients, providing highquality protein, zinc, iron, and B vitamins. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining muscle mass, supporting immune function, and promoting overall health.
Choosing the Right Cuts
When selecting beef, look for cuts labeled "loin" or "round," as these are typically leaner. Examples include sirloin, tenderloin, and round steaks. Ground beef that is 96% lean is also a great option. These cuts have less than 10 grams of total fat and 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat per 3.5-ounce serving.
Cooking Tips for Heart Health
To keep your meals heart-healthy, use cooking methods that don't add extra fat. Grilling, broiling, baking, and roasting are excellent choices. Avoid frying or using heavy sauces that can increase the fat and calorie content of your meals.
Delicious and Nutritious Recipes
BEEF STEAK & BLACK BEAN SOFT TACOS
Incorporating lean beef into your diet doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. There are plenty of delicious recipes that feature lean beef as a star ingredient. From hearty beef stews to flavorful stir-fries, and even tacos. Lean beef can be a versatile and tasty part of your heart-healthy diet.
Heart-Check Certification
The American Heart Association (AHA) has a Heart-Check certification program that helps consumers identify heart-healthy foods. Several lean beef cuts and recipes have earned this certification, making it easier for you to make informed choices at the grocery store. For additional heart check certified beef recipes ideas visit: www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com/recipes/collection/10080/hearthealthy-recipes
Winner, Winner
Sweetheart-Steak Dinner
This Valentine’s Day, the New Mexico Beef Council shared the love—with beef! We gave away a Grizzly Cooler filled with premium steaks to one lucky winner! Check out our social media pages to see how we shared the love with beef!
INGREDIENTS:
1 pound beef Bottom Round Steaks, cut 1/4 inch thick
1 cup salsa, divided
2 teaspoons chile powder
1-1/2 teaspoons ground cumin, divided
1 can (15 ounces) no-salt added black beans
8 small corn tortillas (5 to 6-inch diameter), warmed
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup diced red onion
2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro leaves
1 medium ripe avocado, cut into 8 thin slices
1 lime, cut into 8 wedges
COOKING:
1.
Combine 1/2 cup salsa, chile powder and 1 teaspoon cumin. Place beef Steaks and marinade in food-safe plastic bag; turn to coat. Close bag securely and marinate in refrigerator 6 hours or as long as overnight, turning occasionally.
2.
Combine 1 cup beans, remaining 1/2 cup salsa and remaining 1/2 teaspoon cumin in medium microwave-safe bowl. Mash with fork into chunky paste. Cover and microwave on HIGH 1 to 2 minutes or until hot, stirring once. Keep warm.
3.
Meanwhile, heat large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat until hot; remove from heat and coat with nonstick spray. Remove steaks from marinade; discard marinade. Cooking in batches, if necessary, place steaks in skillet (do not overcrowd) and cook 2 to 3 minutes for medium rare (145°F) doneness, turning once. (Do not overcook.) Remove steaks from skillet; keep warm. Repeat with remaining steaks.
4.
Spread bean mixture evenly on tortillas. Cut steaks into 4 pieces each and divide evenly among tortillas. Top beef with remaining 1/2 cup beans, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, cilantro, avocado and lime wedge, as desired. Fold tortillas in half to serve.
Camaraderie at Joint Stockmen’s 2024
The New Mexico Beef Council (NMBC) shared successes, challenges, and hopes for the future with industry partners and friends at the 2024 Joint Stockmen’s Convention. NMBC sponsored the Welcome Reception and was honored to host a retirement celebration for Dina Reitzel.
The NMBC had a booth presence and enjoyed meeting many convention attendees while handing out beef resources and lapel pins. There was a suggestion box at the booth to enter to win a Grizzly cooler full of beef promotional items including a Lodge cast iron skillet.
The NMBC team kicked off Thursday’s meeting sessions with a presentation on “What the New Mexico Beef Council Does for You”. Carollann Romo, NMBC Executive Director, explained how “BEEF” checkoff dollars work, and gave examples of where those dollars are spent. Don Waite, Senior Executive Director National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, spoke about partnerships and programs with the Federation and Qualified State Beef Councils. Kate Schulz, NMBC Dietitian, gave a beef nutrition update and Jayne Hartman, NMBC Digital Marketing, talked about the importance of social media in our industry today. Friday’s awards luncheon was special to the NMBC family as we thanked Marjorie Lantana for her years of service to the council and the industry. Sarah Fitzgerald and Cole Gardner presented her with an iconic NMBEEF License Plate framed print with recognition plaque. Marjorie thanked her family in attendance and her friends in the industry for her valuable experiences and opportunities that she had to promote beef during her service to the NMBC.
Jentz Promoted to AAA Chief Operating Officer
by Holly Martin, Communications Director
Adeep respect for the history of the Angus breed, paired with a passion for the future — Casey Jentz, recently named chief operating officer of the American Angus Association, will bring all this and more to his new role.
“Angus is the heartbeat of the beef industry,” Jentz says. “The people before us have done a great job of leading Angus and positioning the breed as a leader in the industry. We can build on that and push forward into the future.”
For more than 10 years, Jentz has served as an Angus regional manager in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan and Wisconsin. During that time, he worked directly with Association members helping them understand Association programs, marketing their cattle with Angus Media services and answering their questions.
In his new role, Jentz will be responsible for direction and strategy of several departments, including member and field services, communications, performance programs, commercial programs, and events and junior activities.
“We are thrilled to promote Casey to this new role,” says Mark McCully, chief executive officer for the Association. “Not only does he have years of experience working with Angus breeders in the field, but his knowledge of the Association and its programs will also be invaluable as COO. In particular, I love Casey’s unwavering commitment to the breed.”
It’s the Angus family that drives Jentz.
“The Angus business is a combination of great people and great cattle where great things can happen,” he explains.
Jentz is a fourth-generation Angus breeder who was a National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) board member from 2004 to 2006.
His daughter, Sydney, is following in his footsteps with her own excitement for the breed. This is her third year as an NJAA member, and his younger daughter, Savannah, is not far behind.
“There are a lot of things that get me excited with possibilities for the future,” he says.
Whether that’s seeing a great Angus cow, meeting a new member or seeing the future through the eyes of a junior, Jentz says he’s
eager to see what the future brings.
“I am really looking forward to continuing to work with the great members of this Association in a new way,” he adds.
Prior to working for the Association, Jentz was the general manager of a farm in Wisconsin and managed a multi-state sales territory for an animal health company.
Jentz will assume his new role March 3 and will continue to work sales and serve breeders in his region through the transition. He and his wife, Kayla, and their two daughters will be relocating to St. Joseph, Mo., in the coming months. A position for a new regional manager in Jentz’s territory has been posted on www.angus.org/careers.
“I am really looking forward to continuing to work with the great members of this Association in a new way,” Jentz said. ▫
Cattle
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Casey Jentz
West Virginia Announces Legal Win Against California Electric Truck Mandate
by Katherine Skeldon, Metro News
West Virginia Attorney General JB
McCuskey is among a coalition of 24 other state attorneys who are making big strides in a case attempting to force trucking companies to go electric.
The coalition, led by Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers scored a significant
victory against the California litigation after California’s Advanced Clean Fleets regulation attempted to impose an electric-truck mandate on fleet owners, operators and manufactures.
The coalition of attorney generals argued that the EPA and the state of California was going against their authority on states’ rights and disrupting the nation’s trucking industry. The EPA then withdrew the action.
AG McCuskey said in a statement that this is a big win for the trucking industry.
“This policy would have caused catastrophic job losses, increased costs, delayed shipments and would have devastated the demand for diesel, while putting a strain on the grid providing the energy that would be needed to power these electric trucks,”
McCuskey stated.
According to the West Virginia Trucking Association, the trucking industry in West Virginia supports over 34,000 jobs and transports more than 65,000 tons per day.
The association also states that more than 84 percent of communities in the state depend on trucks to move their goods.
McCuskey further stated that Governor Patrick Morrisey assisted in the effort.
“Governor Patrick Morrisey joined the coalition of incredible Attorneys General to oppose this ridiculous rule and I am proud to join Attorney General Hilgers of Nebraska and the other AGs to continue the fight with a pending lawsuit challenging this same regulation in court,” McCuskey said. ▫
Breeder Select Bull Sale
& OLD TIMERS
by Don Bullis, New Mexico Author donbullis@msn.com
Moriarty
Police Officer Shot from Ambush, Killed: 1967
merchant’s son. Wallace Wilson reported that a burglar alarm had gone off at the Moriarty Trading Company, a combination hardware, dry goods and feed store.
The alarm was the type that sounded at the merchant’s house, 250 yards away, and not at the store itself. Officer Montoya got out of bed, dressed, put on his police jacket and a pair of slippers, took his gun and badge, and headed out the door. He told his wife he’d be back in fifteen minutes.
remained near the store. The chief said he’d be there immediately.
Chief Davis found Officer Montoya lying on his back at the rear of his car, unconscious but alive. The officer’s service revolver was missing. Davis noted a bump on the back of the officer’s head and thought he’d been slugged. Montoya’s breathing seemed to stop and Davis did mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and got it started again.
Cattlemen’s Choice
A few minutes later, Wilson called the Montoya residence again. He said he’d seen two men and some activity at the store. He wondered if the officer had left yet. Mrs. Montoya said that he had. A short time later, Breeder
Help arrived and Officer Montoya was taken by ambulance to Bataan Memorial Hospital in Albuquerque. He was dead on arrival. An autopsy revealed that the officer had been shot in the back of the head with a small caliber, probably a .22, firearm. The
trading post. After that, it was agreed between Moriarty officers and State Police officers that they would call each other for backup before responding to burglary calls late at night. Officer Montoya did not make a call to the State Police dispatcher because the radio in his police car had been disconnected in preparation of it being installed in a new police car recently purchased by the city. His emergency red lights had also been deactivated.
State Police Sergeant Charles Anaya, the Torrance and Bernalillo County sheriff’s departments, and Chief Davis undertook a massive investigation. Wilson reported that he had seen two men run from the store and get into a car driven by a third suspect. Investigators found two piles of loot the thieves left behind. The method of operation used by the thieves was familiar to officers as it was similar to that used by a group of burglars recently arrested in Albuquerque on suspicion of about 50 residential and commercial burglaries all over New Mexico. Three suspects were soon identified: Carl Bell, 19, Ray Raney, 23, and Noah Oldfield, also 23. Raney and Oldfield were cousins. After further investigation, the three were arrested, and on February 24, 1967, Bell confessed. He admitted that the three men broke
into the store and when Officer Montoya arrived, Raney and Oldfield were outside while Bell was inside.
The officer caught Oldfield and ordered him to place his hands on the side of the police car so he could be searched. Bell saw what was happening from inside and shot the officer with a single action revolver loaded with .22 caliber short ammunition. The three then fled the scene. They took Officer Montoya’s gun, Bell said, because they feared he’d regain consciousness and begin shooting.
Bell showed officers where the murder weapon had been thrown from the car in Tijeras Canyon.
They found it hanging on a tree branch. Bell also helped officers locate other items that had been stolen from the Moriarty Trading Company.
In a plea bargain arrangement, Bell pled guilty to voluntary manslaughter and burglary and, according to a news report of the day, he served several years in prison. Charges against the other two thieves were dropped. More than 30 years later, in July 1999, Bell was back in trouble with the law. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Department, in a case involving a drug deal that went bad, charged him with two counts of first-degree
murder. That time, he was sentenced to more than a half century in prison.
Officer Montoya, 31, was the first Moriarty Police officer to be killed in the line of duty.
He began his law enforcement career as a military policeman in the U. S. Army. He served as police officer in both Mountainair and Belen before he joined Moriarty Department about a year before his death. He was survived by his wife, Jean, and a son, Cary, 9. He was buried at the Moriarty Catholic Cemetery.
Sources:
Albuquerque Journal, July 17 & 20, 1999
Albuquerque Tribune, February 16, 1967.
New Mexico’s Finest: Peace Officers Killed in the Line of Duty, 1847-2010.
Richard Alexander, Former Chief, Moriarty Police Department.
Bill G. Cox, “Just Get Them,” Official Detective Stories, issue and date unknown.
U BAR RANCH
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• Performance in the feedlot and on the range.
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CATTLE SALES: MONDAYS • HORSE SALES
BENNY WOOTON CELL 575-626-4754
SMILEY WOOTON CELL 575-626-6253
Producers hauling cattle to Roswell Livestock New Mexico Receiving Stations need to call our toll-free number for a Transportation Permit number before leaving home. The Hauling Permit number 1-800-748-1541 is answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Trucks are available 7 days a week / 24 hours a day
Roswell livestock Auction Receiving stAtions
ATTENTION RECEIVNG STATION CUSTOMERS,
To be able to schedule trucking, all cattle need to be permitted by 1:00 p.m.
LORDSBURG, NM
20 Bar Livestock Highway #90 at NM #3 – East side of highway. Receiving cattle for transport 2nd & 4th Sunday of each month. Smiley Wooton, 575-622-5580 office, 575-626-6253 cell.
PECOS, TX
Jason Heritage is now receiving cattle every Sunday. For information to unload contact Jason Heritage 575-840-9544 or Smiley Wooton 575-626-6253. Receiving cattle every Sunday.
VAN HORN, TX
800 West 2nd, 5 blocks west of Courthouse. Bob Kinford, 432-284-1553. Receiving cattle 1st & 3rd Sundays.
MORIARTY, NM
Two blocks east and one block south of Tillery Chevrolet. Smiley Wooton 575-622-5580 office, 575-626-6253 mobile. Receiving cattle every Sunday
SAN ANTONIO, NM
River Cattle Co. Nine miles east of San Antonio on U.S. 380. Receiving cattle for transport 2nd & 4th Sunday of each month. Smiley Wooton 575-626-6253.
ANTHONY, NM
108 W. Afton Road, La Mesa, NM 88044. Receiving Cattle 2nd & 4th Sunday of each month. Call in advance for details & consignments. Smiley Wooton 575-626-6253 or Genea Caldwell 575-543-5736
by Labradoodle Bennington, III
NALF Elects New Board of Directors
The North American Limousin Foundation (NALF) elected new members and officers for its board of directors during the annual meeting held in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on January 6, 2025. Those newly elected to serve the Foundation for three-year terms are Rod Reynolds, Sanford, Colorado, William Long, Afton, Iowa, Casey Fanta, Starbuck, Minnesota, and Kim Getz, Scherr, West Virginia
Austin Hager, Karlsruhe, N.D. was selected to serve as the NALF president. Bruce Lawrence, Anton, Texas will serve on the board as ex-officio. Joey Freund, Elizabeth, Colo., was chosen to serve as vice president. The remaining executive committee consists of George Hubbard, Welch, Okla., as secretary; Lance Sennett, Waynetown, Ind., serving as treasurer; and Rob Brawner, Morris, Minn., as member-at-large.
The additional breeders on the board of directors include: Bart Mitchell, Wauzeka, Wisc., Jay Wilder, Snook, Texas, Mark Haden, Rogersville, Mo., Trent Coleman, Charlo, Mont., Brian Duplaga, Grafton, Ohio, and Matt Spangler, Lincoln, Neb. ▫
Federal Bill Introduced to Limit Presidential Overreach
As Congress was sleeping Biden taxed citizens and used the money to purchase private land (over 25,000,000 acres). Now Congress is alert and working to end presidential power to confiscate land.
A bill to end the President’s authority to create National Monuments has been filed in the House and the Senate. The Ending Presidential Overreach on Public Lands Act removes Section 2 from the Antiquities Act of 1906 to give Congress the sole power to modify or revoke national monument designations. The bill was filed in the Senate by Mike Lee and John Curtis, both from Utah. The companion bill was filed in the House by Representatives Celeste Maloy (R-UT) and Mark Amodei (R-NV).
Wyoming is coming alive as governments are buying up Wyoming and taking millions of acres out of the tax base. The government confiscation of private land is at an all-time high. The more land owned by governments, the less tax base, forcing private citizens to fund more of public services like schools, roads, law enforcement.
The movement EVWR Committee started over a year ago is now a battle bigger than us. The nation is learning the government has no ability in the land acquiring business and needs to liquidate these “uneconomic remnants” in a prompt orderly fashion. ▫
Suffolk Ewe Grant Program
The United Suffolk Sheep Foundation will award up to twenty-five $1,000 grants to youth ages 8-17 to purchase a Suffolk ewe. The ewe grant program is designed to help youth get started in raising registered Suffolk sheep and is limited to youth who currently do not own Suffolks. The youth must pay the first $250 of the purchase price and the balance up to $1,000 will be paid by USSF.
This is an excellent opportunity for youth who are interested in Suffolk sheep. Youth must submit an application for the program by February 1. Full details on this great program and the application can be found at https://suffolks.org/ewe-lamb-giveaway. html.
Applications Open for American AgCredit’s Rural Roots Endowment
Agriculture lender American AgCredit, a member of the Farm Credit System, has opened up applications to their Rural Roots Endowment program.
Launched in 2023 after the merger between Farm Credit of New Mexico and American AgCredit, the newly formed association funded a $10 million endowment focused on investing in the long-term viability, sustainability, and profitability of agriculture in New Mexico.
In 2024, American AgCredit awarded grants to 23 New Mexico agriculture-related organizations totaling $204,000.
“The Rural Roots Endowment is focused on the future—a commitment to supporting farmers, ranchers, and our neighbors who live and work in rural America,” said Dr. Terra V. Winter, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer at the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico—who is
partnering with American AgCredit to manage the endowment. “It will support New Mexico agriculture’s success well into the future.”
Apply at www.communityfoundationofsouthernnewmexico.org/rural-roots/
What organizations qualify for the endowment?
American AgCredit designed the endowment to provide grants and direct funds to New Mexico agricultural organizations such as:
Ї Underserved populations of producers within New Mexico (support that goes to groups of producers that may be traditionally underserved minority populations)
Ї Direct producer support in New
Mexico (grants and direct funds to producers’ start-up, economic development, and/or conservation)
Ї Protecting New Mexico agriculture (giving to organizations working to protect the rights of ag producers)
Ї Fighting hunger in New Mexico (support to groups that support feeding New Mexico, such as food banks).
Ї New Mexico producer education (for items such a regenerative farming practices, organic, all-natural, local, or other programs that may assist producers to create further value for their operations)
Ї Ag education in New Mexico (support for groups that educate the general population about agriculture, such as ag in the classroom, pumpkin patches, etc.)
JANUARY — Wildlife; Gelbvieh; Joint Stockmen’s Convention Results
FEBRUARY — Beefmasters; Texas Longhorns
MARCH — Limousin; Santa Gertrudis
APRIL — Dairy
MAY — News of the Day
To
JUNE — Sheepman of the Year
JULY — Directory of Agriculture
AUGUST — The Horse Industry
SEPTEMBER — Charolais; Fairs Across the SW
OCTOBER — Hereford; NM State Fair Results
NOVEMBER — Cattleman of the Year:
Joint Stockmen’s Convention Preview: Angus, Brangus, Red Angus
DECEMBER — Bull Buyers Guide
Brush Up on Ear Tagging Techniques
by Scott Holt
Ear tags are essential tools for the cattle industry. By applying visual ear tags with unique identification of individual animals, cattle producers can better manage their herds, keep accurate records and make decisions for herd improvement. Electronic (EID) tags allow for digital recordkeeping and lifetime traceability of animals.
While ear tagging is a common practice in cattle production today, it’s a good idea to periodically refresh your skills – especially as new practices and technologies are introduced to make the process safer and easier. Ensuring proper and effective application of ear tags is essential for long-term tag retention and accurate identification, as well as reducing animal stress and risk of infection or injury.
To make the process easier on the animal and the caregiver, follow these recommendations for ear tag application preparation
and placement.
Prepare your tools
First, ensure you have enough tags and applicators on hand for the number of animals being tagged. When ordering additional tagging equipment, allow ample time for delivery in case of shipping delays.
Next, create an efficient and safe workstation, ensuring tagging equipment is in readiness so animals can be handled quickly and efficiently.
Taggers should be kept in good working order, with extras on hand. An old and rusty tag applicator may be difficult to squeeze or make a loud noise that could startle the animal. New, lightweight, ergonomic applicators are more comfortable, both for the animal and for the person doing the tagging.
Establish biosecurity measures
Use proper hygiene to help prevent spread of bacteria and viruses, such as bovine papillomavirus or bovine leucosis, from animal to animal.
To prevent infection, clean the ear area, wash hands and use gloves, clean the tagger with alcohol or other disinfectant, and place equipment on a hygienic surface to minimize transmission of unhealthy microbes.
Restrain animals properly
Keep animals restrained to help the tagging process go more smoothly, as well as protect the person administering the tag. If tagging calves, keep them away from the cow to prevent the mother interfering with the process. Calf crates may work well with calf/cow catchers to help. Gently position its head to allow access to the ears. Often the best way is to position the head between your legs, facing your head in the same direction as the calf’s.
Restrain older animals in a chute for tag application while vaccinating or handling other processing steps.
Know the right placement
Train workers on manufacturer’s instructions for loading the tag, pin and button into the applicator. A common mistake is applying the tag backwards, so double-check to ensure staff know how to load the tag properly into the applicator before catching the animal.
It’s important to place tags properly in the ears to prevent unnecessary pain. Make sure the ear is clean and clear away any debris or hair.
The bovine ear has two large veins running parallel to each other from the head to the tip of the ear. Avoid piercing these veins to prevent bleeding. Also avoid the cartilage ridges in the middle of the ear. If the ear tag goes through these ridges, it could cause infection or deform the ear.
Insert visual tags in the center of the ear and EID tags two-thirds of the way into the ear from the edge of the ear toward the skull. Tags that are applied too close to the tip of the ear may become snagged and pull out more easily. The part of the ear that is closer to the head has thicker cartilage. Therefore, a tag placed there may not fit properly, pinch the ear and be painful for the animal. See illustration for proper placement.
After application, rotate the tag to make sure it moves freely. Repeat this process for the other ear.
Continuously monitor
After tagging, keep an eye on the animal for several days and watch for any signs of infection or irritation. In the unlikely event of an infection, remove the tag and consult your veterinarian for treatment advice. Make sure the infection has cleared before reapplying the tag.
Extra attention to proper techniques can ensure quick and comfortable tagging, preventing animal setbacks while supporting your operation’s recordkeeping and traceability needs.
Monitoring
After tagging, keep an eye on the calf for several days and watch for any signs of infection or irritation. In the unlikely event of an infection, remove the tag and consult your veterinarian for treatment advice. Make sure the infection has cleared before reapplying the tag. Extra attention to proper techniques can ensure quick and comfortable tagging, preventing calf setbacks while supporting your operation’s recordkeeping needs.
Scott Holt is the Associate Director, North American Strategic Accounts, Merck Animal Health ▫
This Tiny Fish’s Mistaken Identity Halted a Dam’s Construction
Scientists say the snail darter, whose endangered species status delayed the building of a dam in Tennessee in the 1970s, is a genetic match of a different fish.
by Jason Nark, New York Times
For such a tiny fish, the snail darter has haunted Tennessee. It was the endangered species that swam its way to the Supreme Court in a vitriolic battle during the 1970s that temporarily blocked the construction of a dam.
Now a team of researchers argued that the fish was a phantom all along.
“There is, technically, no snail darter,” said Thomas Near, curator of ichthyology at the Yale Peabody Museum.
Dr. Near, also a professor who leads a fish biology lab at Yale, and his colleagues report in the journal Current Biology that the snail
darter, Percina tanasi, is neither a distinct species nor a subspecies. Rather, it is an eastern population of Percina uranidea, known also as the stargazing darter, which is not considered endangered.
Dr. Near contends that early researchers “squinted their eyes a bit” when describing the fish, because it represented a way to fight the Tennessee Valley Authority’s plan to build the Tellico Dam on the Little Tennessee River, about 20 miles southwest of Knoxville.
“I feel it was the first and probably the most famous example of what I would call the ‘conservation species concept,’ where
FIBERGLASS TANKS
people are going to decide a species should be distinct because it will have a downstream conservation implication,” Dr. Near said.
The T.V.A. began building the Tellico Dam in 1967. Environmentalists, lawyers, farmers and the Cherokee, whose archaeological sites faced flooding, were eager to halt the project. In August 1973, they stumbled upon a solution.
David Etnier, a dam opponent and a zoologist at the University of Tennessee, went snorkeling with students in the Little Tennessee River at Coytee Spring, not far from Tellico. There, they found a fish on the river bottom that Dr. Etnier said he had never seen before, and he named it the snail darter.
The fish became a “David” to pit against “Goliath” — because if it were to be protected under the Endangered Species Act, the dam’s construction would be blocked.
“Here’s a little fish that might save your farm,” Dr. Etnier told a local farmer, according to the book The Snail Darter and the Dam , by Zygmunt Plater, an emeritus law professor at Boston College.
Elected officials were eager to finish the dam, and grew increasingly frustrated.
“This two-inch fish, which surely kept the lowest profile of all God’s creatures until a few years ago, has been the bane of my existence and the nemesis of what I fondly hoped would be my golden years,” Senator Howard H. Baker Jr. of Tennessee said about the snail darter in 1979.
That year, Representative John Duncan Sr., a Tennessee Republican, also described the snail darter as a “worthless, unsightly, minute, inedible minnow.”
After the Supreme Court upheld the protection of the snail darter, President Jimmy Carter signed a bill that exempted the Tellico Dam from the Endangered Species Act. The dam began operating in 1979.
Jeffrey Simmons, an author of the study who formerly worked as a biologist at the T.V.A., discovered what appeared to be snail darters in 2015 on the border of Alabama and Mississippi, far from the Tellico Dam.
“Holy crap, do you know what this is?” Mr. Simmons said to a colleague in the creek that day.
Mr. Simmons knew it shouldn’t be there if it were truly a snail darter.
Ava Ghezelayagh, now at the University of Chicago, and colleagues conducted analysis of the fish’s DNA and compared snail darter physical traits with other fish. That led to confirmation that it was a match with the stargazing darter.
Dr. Plater, who also argued successfully for the fish in the Supreme Court case, took issue with the Yale study. He said the approach favored by Dr. Near and colleagues makes them genetic “lumpers” instead of “splitters,” meaning they reduce species instead of making more. He believes the findings also lean too heavily on genetics.
“Whether he intends it or not, lumping is a great way to cut back on the Endangered Species Act,” Dr. Plater said of Dr. Near.
Dr. Near said being described as a “lumper” was a pejorative in his world, and he added that most of the research he and colleagues had performed had resulted in speciation splits, including a 2022 study.
“The work strengthens the Endangered Species Act, because it shows how science can be revised with additional information and newer perspectives,” he said. “The methods we use in this study are leading to the discovery of scores of new species, many
of which are more endangered.”
Decades after the Tellico Dam battle, the fish formerly known as the snail darter is thriving. It left the endangered species list in 2020.
“This is still a success story,” Mr. Simmons said. “Its listing under the Endangered Species Act worked, regardless of what you
call this fish.”
While Mr. Duncan died in 1988, his son, former Representative John J. Duncan Jr., known as Jimmy, said his father would have felt vindicated.
“He felt the project should have never been stopped by that little snail darter,” he said.
A close up view of the Snail Darter fish small, brown, striped fish..
Photographs
Joe Howell/Knoxville
Cattle and Beef Markets Charge into 2025
by Derrell S. Peel, Oklahoma State University Extension Livestock Marketing Specialist
Cattle and beef markets rocketed out of the gate coming into 2025. With no post-holiday wavering, all cattle and beef markets moved higher in the first half of January – setting new record price levels to start the new year. This continues the trend of the last three years. Cattle prices began to move higher after 2021 and increased more sharply in 2023 and 2024.
Tucumcari
March 22, 2025 - Abiquiu, NM Cory, Pam & Chad DiPeso Roswell, NM
Chad: 520/678-9178
Cory: 520/508-6757
The U.S. calf crop peaked cyclically in 2018 at 36.3 million head and decreased for the last six years to a projected 33.1 million head in 2024. Figure 1 shows the average volume of stocker and feeder receipts including the general downtrend since the recent peak in early 2019 and indicates a continued tightening of cattle numbers.
The 5-market fed steer live price was $203.56/cwt. for the week ending January 17, up 17.3 percent from one year ago and up 85.9 percent from January 2021. Daily 5-market fed steer prices hit $200/cwt. for the first time ever on January 7 and reached as high as $205.37/cwt. on January 15. Higher fed prices are expected ahead.
The weekly Choice boxed beef price for mid-January was $333.51/cwt., up 17.7 percent year over year and up 58.2 percent
over 2021 levels. The rib primal price last week was $508.06/cwt., up 2.4 percent year over year and up 50.2 percent from the same week in 2021. The latest loin primal price was $393.99/cwt., up 4.9 percent over last year and up 49.7 percent from 2021. The end meats are stronger relative to the middle meats, with the chuck primal price last week at $303.91/cwt., up 33.2 percent year over year and up 60.5 percent since 2021. The round primal price currently is $302.66/cwt., up 36.1 percent from one year ago and up 65.9 percent from 2021.
The strong cattle and beef price trend coming into 2025 is expected to continue as cattle inventories and beef supplies tighten further in the coming months. However, while cattle and beef markets are very strong internally, external shocks from political uncertainty along with U.S. and global macroeconomic jitters may cause short-term shocks and short-lived market setbacks. Volatility is likely to accompany a bullish market expectation.
We Know Agriculture...
Mac Langford, President/CCO
Gordon Morris, Chairman of the Board/EVP
Colten Grau, Vice President
Convenience Stores Evolve to Become True Food Destinations
Convenience stores are intensifying their focus on foodservice offerings to drive foot traffic, in-store sales growth and frequency of repeat visits. Strong consumer interest in prepared foods, commissary and beverage options has led convenience stores, often referred to as c-stores, to compete much more aggressively with quick service restaurants and fast-food chains.
The focus on offering a wider variety of prepared and ready-to-eat food items is clearly paying off, as c-stores registered record sales in 2023. Those gains are largely attributable to in-store sales, which grew eight percent year-over-year in both 2022 and 2023 according to Circana, well ahead of overall inflation numbers for both food at and away from home. While sales appeared to soften in 2024, a Convenience Store News survey found two-thirds of c-store retailers predict total sales per store will grow in 2025. According to a new report from CoBank’s
Knowledge Exchange, the line between grocery stores, quick-service restaurants and c-stores will continue to blur, intensifying competition across the foodservice and retail grocery spectrum. C-store chains are increasingly viewing QSR and traditional fast-food chains as their chief competition and tailoring their food offerings to match if not exceed competitors’ menu options.
“Convenience stores have evolved from their gas-fueled beginnings to become true food and beverage destinations,” said Billy Roberts, food & beverage economist with CoBank. “Food service is the future for c-stores, and we expect they’ll continue to emulate their competitors with a greater variety of freshly prepared items, along with more attention to signature menu items and private label products.”
The emergence of c-stores as formidable destinations for prepared foods hasn’t gone unnoticed by major food manufacturers. Several leading food brands have taken the merger and acquisition route to enter the c-store channel. J.M. Smucker cites c-store distribution as an important reason behind its early 2024 acquisition of Hostess Brands. Similarly, Hormel Foods dramatically expanded its c-store penetration with its 2021 purchase of Planters and Corn Nuts brands.
Hormel has subsequently leveraged those newfound distribution relationships to bring more of its products to c-stores, including pizza toppings and bacon.
C-store kitchens are seeking quick and easily prepared products. Hormel is among the suppliers that has found c-stores to be something of a testing ground for new flavors and product concepts. For example, the key distinction of Hormel’s Bacon 1 isn’t necessarily flavor but ease for the operator. The fully cooked product heats quickly, enabling c-store operators to easily add bacon to a host of their menu options.
Customer loyalty programs are also playing a significant role in the success c-stores have had with food sales and repeat visits. Several c-stores have developed loyal followings on a near-nationwide scale. The 2024 Loyalty Trend Report from Paytronix finds at least 80 percent of c-stores’ loyalty program members in the top half of loyalty transaction visits per store every month.
“This enthusiasm for loyalty programs will be a tool that c-stores look to sharpen as they attempt to claim more traffic from restaurants, which have seen weak results of late,” said Roberts. ▫
Katie Ann Hammack, 50, Portales, passed away on January 1, 2025. She was born to Paul and Doris Hight in Lubbock Texas on November 22nd, 1974.
Katie was a Tucumcari High School graduate and attended New Mexico State University, where she met the love of her life, Chris Hammack. They were married on April 5th, 1994 in Tucumcari New Mexico. They dedicated their life and marriage to the cowboy way of life and serving God. Together they raised three daughters, Tayler Hammack, Bradie Hammack and Kayla Lee (husband, Garrett Lee). Katie or as her grandbabies called her, Maow, had two
grandchildren, Tessa and McKenzi Lee, daughters of Kayla and Garrett.
Katie was a devoted member of the Portales Valley Church of Christ. Her favorite place to be was in that church pew surrounded by her little family.
Katie is survived by her parents, Paul and Doris Hight. Her bothers, Ben Hight (wife, Megan Hight) and Clay Hight (wife, Bri Hight). Katie is also survived by her many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
Charles Good, 90, Elida, passed away on December 30, 2024 in Clovis. He was born August 31, 1934 in Kenna, New Mexico to the home of Margie (Moore) and Charles
“Stanley” Good. Charles grew up on the family ranch northwest of Elida. On Mar. 3, 1951, in Fort Sumner, he was married to Doris Freeman. She preceded him in death on September 7, 2007. On January 15, 2009 he was married to LaDoris Allison.
He was a lifelong rancher, and had operations in Roosevelt, Chaves, DeBaca and Lea counties. Charles made his home on the family ranch until 1982 when he moved to Elida.
Charles was an accomplished steer roper, and held the World Champion PRCA Steer Roping title in 1976. In 1979, his son, Gary won that same title, making them one of only ten father-son winners in rodeo history. He also won the Senior Steer Roping Championship in 1987, and again in 1991 and also 1996. He served as president for the Senior Steer Roping Association from 1996 to 1997.
42ndAnnual NMSU
Cattle Sale & Horse Expo & Sale
SALE in April 2025 HORSE SALE and OPEN HOUSE: April 26, 2025 FOR CATTLE INFO CONTACT Cattle viewing: ejs@nmsu.edu Angus: Eric Scholljegerdes 575-646-1750 ejs@nmsu.edu
• We will be offering 20 yearling Angus bulls that boast some of the lowest birth weigh EPDs in the industry along with some of the highest $EN
• Cattle are available to view in the pens next to the Bull barn off Knox Street and Stewart Street
• See Department website for animal data and pictures as it becomes available
• Open house starts at 9:00am NMSU Horse Center, 400 W. Union, Mesilla Park, NM
• Opportunity to visit with Equine program faculty and students and check out educational facilities, stallions, and learn more about our horse program
• One 3-year-broke Gelding, Six 2-year Geldings, Three 2-year Fillies, Two Broodmares …. Lots of color in this year’s sale
• Horse Sale preview 10:30am to 12:00pm
• Horse Sale will start at 1:00pm
FOR UPDATES
aces.nmsu.edu/academics/anrs
FOR HORSE INFO CONTACT Joby Priest 575/202-3646 priest@nmsu.edu
Besides his love for rodeoing, he was an avid hunter of lions and bears.
Charles was a devout Christian, and a faithful member of Central Christian Church in Portales. During his lifetime,
Charles served on several boards, including the Border Soil Conservation District Board and the Board of Directors for J. P. Stone Community Bank.
He was a devoted family man, and was
Private
Treaty Bulls out of Carefully Selected Genetics in the Brangus Breed!
extremely attentive to his children and grandchildren until the moment of his death. In fact, his granddaughter was at his side when he died.
Charles is survived by his wife, LaDoris Good, Clovis; his son and daughter-in-law, Gary and Rhetta Good, Elida; his daughter and son-in-law, Cindy and Pat Boone, Elida; four grandchildren, T. J. and Ashley Good, Chance and Angie Good, Sarah and Jeremy Ruiz and Cinco and Renae Boone; five great-grandchildren, Lacy and Ty Good, Callan Good, Teal Ruiz and Raelynn Boone; two brothers, Billy Frank Good, Abilene, Texas and Ike Good, Seymour, Texas; and a sister, Carolyn Hestand, Raton, New Mexico. Those desiring to make memorial contributions may send them to either the New Mexico Christian Children’s Home, 1356 NM 236, Portales, NM 88130 or the New Mexico Baptist Children’s Home, P O Box 629, Portales, NM 88130.
Iris R. Hewett, 89, Moriarty, NM passed away Christmas morning in Belen. Iris was born on July 28, 1935 in American Fork, Utah to August and Ella May (Thayne) Leplat. Her mother, Ella May, was born/ raised on a ranch outside Casas Grande, Mexico. Ella May was taught at a young age to handle a pistol by older brothers and the bandits that often camped on the ranch. These skills proved handy for Ella May on March 9, 1916 during Pancho Villa’s raid on Columbus, New Mexico where she was residing with her first husband, a U.S Cavalry Officer. Ella May’s second and final husband, August, was a full-blood Frenchman born in Madrid, New Mexico to immigrant coalminer parents.
A few years after August’s birth, the Leplat family relocated to Corrales, New Mexico and started growing grapes and making wine. At the age of nine, August began guiding a team of mules, a wagon, and a couple barrels of fine wine onward from Corrales to Madrid so the coal miners could quench the thirst when the company steam whistle blew on pay-day. August later owned a small trucking company in Utah where he met Ella May before their marriage and return to farm in Corrales.
Raised on the farm, blue-eyed Iris had a very close bond with her father, family lands, animals and learning. In the pre-school years, Iris would accompany August on his daily field work, usually locating under a nearby shade-tree to study school books borrowed from her beloved sister, Francis, and brother, August Emile. These older siblings often expressed concerns to the parents that Iris, as the youngest child, was ornery and annoying. But they loved her, nonethe-
less. In early grade school, Iris was often asked to use her linguistic skills to facilitate communication between the predominately English-speaking teachers and the Spanish speaking students. Iris made many life-long friends during these early school day interactions.
After graduating from Bernalillo High School, Iris attended beautician school and began working as a beautician while planning to shortly attend college on a scholarship awarded by The Ford Foundation. However, on a blind date, Iris met and fell in love with a “long-legged cowboy” named Billy D. Hewett.
Bill soon exchanged his cowboying job for employment on a construction crew with Mountain States Telephone Company. Iris did her part and built a family home in a small trailer-house that was pulled behind the couple’s car, or if luck was with them a telephone company truck, as they moved from town-to-town throughout New Mexico.
The birth of three sons followed: Marcus, Moriarty; Lelan (Gail), Mountainair; and Arlan (Kimberly), Hamilton, Texas. As Bill’s telephone company career matured, the family settled in Bosque Farms. Iris was also employed as a maternity nurse at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque.
After retirement, Bill and Iris relocated to Eastern New Mexico where they partnered on cattle, ranching, and arrow-head hunting expeditions with relatives and dear friends Jake and Wanda Autry. Bill and Iris eventually moved to Moriarty, partly to help with the family ranch near Mountainair.
Bill passed away in 2005 a few months after the couple celebrated 50 years of union. Iris gave son Arlan a mortal body on Christmas Day in 1960. Iris was a life-long practicing member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She was a feisty lady that tried to leave behind a legacy of pride and family with her sons, daughtersin-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.
The family gives special thank you to care-giver Debbie Henson and family in Belen, the caring team of Roadrunner Hospice, nephew Danny Hatch from Utah, and niece Evelyn Averhoff from Lubbock, Texas for their help during this time.
Norman Winfield Libby (Jr.), 78, died on November 26, 2024 in Clayton, New Mexico. He was born on January 1, 1946 to Norman and Esther Libby.
He was raised on the Libby Ranch by Rosebud/Bueyeros. Jr. graduated from St. Michael’s High School and New Mexico
State University. During his high school years, Jr. won many grand championships at the state level showing Hereford bulls.
He was a very successful cattleman and businessman. Jr. was a man of immense humor and wisdom, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones and sharing memories from his life.
Jr. is survived by his two sisters Tuda Crews and Mary Campbell; his wife of 49 years Wendy Libby, Libby Ranch; four daughters Lisa Davis, Leslie Libby, Morgan Sablotny, Megan Oberg; son Tres Libby; and their families totaling six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; as well as many cousins and close friends that loved him dearly.
There will be a memorial for Jr. at a later date.
Editor’s Note: Email caren@aaalivestock.com. Memorial donations may be sent to the Cattlegrowers’ Foundation, a 501(c)3, tax deductable charitable foundation serving the rights of ranch families and educating citizens on governmental actions, policies and practices. Cattlegrowers Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 7517, Albuquerque, NM 87194. The New Mexico Stockman runs memorials as a courtesy to its readers. If families & friends would like to see more detail, verbatim pieces must be emailed to us, & may be printed at 10¢ per word.
How to Help Maximize Profits With the Right Cow Size
by Ron Scott, Ph.D., Director, Beef Technical Innovation, Purina
Cow size has been on the rise for decades.
Cows today weigh 1.4 times as much as their predecessors in 1980. In fact, cow weight is rising 100 pounds every 10 years.1
Why has this occurred? Producers get paid for pounds, so “growth-bulls” are selected and the biggest heifers are retained. This has achieved positive outcomes as producers aim to maximize profit by increasing pounds of production and selling heavier calves each year. While this breeding and management strategy has shown its merits, on the output side of the equation, larger cows aren’t always as profitable as you might think.
Larger cow size can come with a larger price tag when you factor in higher inputs and reduced efficiency in pounds weaned. To maximize profit potential, finding the middle ground between the cost of raising larger calves and their value at sale time can be important.
Here are three tips to help you find the optimal cow size for your operation and manage it to improve efficiency:
1. Consider both inputs and outputs
It’s important to account for all profitability aspects when evaluating the right cow size for your operation.
On the input side, larger cows eat more than smaller cows, resulting in higher costs for feed and forage. The good news is that cows get slightly more efficient per pound as they grow. A 1,500-pound cow is 50 percent larger in weight, but her energy requirements are only approximately 36 percent greater than those of a 1,000-pound cow.2 However, the accuracy of this, in practicality, is debatable because of the “boss-cow” effect. Those bigger cows are the dominant cows, and they always will be first on the pecking order for feed resources. In other words, they take more than they need and that “extra” is taken away from the smaller cows.
On the output side, you’re selling bigger
animal & range sCienCes
ANIMAL & RANGE SCIENCES
The Department of Animal & Range Sciences is part of the College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences
calves and getting paid for their increased weight. However, it might cost more to raise those calves. With larger calves, you must respond to their nutritional needs, ensuring they can keep up and continue gaining weight.
Another consideration is that while cow size has been increasing, the percentage of weaning weight for calves hasn’t equally adjusted its ratio to make up for the larger size. Data from North Dakota State University shows that a 1,000-pound cow weans 48.5 percent of her body weight compared to 43.6 percent for a 1,400-pound cow.3 Essentially, calves born from larger cows aren’t as efficient as calves born from smaller cows.
Getting a complete picture of inputs and outputs can help you find the sweet spot when it comes to cow size for your operation to maximize profits.
2. Maximize forage resources
While cows have become larger, stocking rates have not kept up with genetic gain in cow size. Many producers are running the same number of cows on the same amount of acres as they always have.
Overstocking can be problematic because cows may not get the nutrients they need from forage. Traditional stocking rates are based on a 1,000-pound mature cow size, yet many cows surpass that threshold today.
Consider this: A 1,500-pound cow is 1.5 times larger than a 1,000-pound cow. This means the larger cow needs about 1.5 times more nutrients than the smaller cow. To meet her forage needs, you would need to increase your stocking rates by 1.5 times.
Adjusting stocking rates can ensure cows aren’t short-changed on nutrients and that pasture resources are used more efficiently. Since most producers can’t easily weigh their cows, it can be challenging to know how much to increase the stocking rates for your specific operation.
• The Chihuahuan Desert Rangeland Research Center (The College Ranch) –64,000 acre ranch just outside of Las Cruces
Students can major in Animal or Rangeland Resources and are provided with the very best of “hands on” academic instruction by our faculty. Fully equipped labs allow students access to cutting-edge research in: LIVESTOCKNUTRITION / GENETICS / PHYSIOLOGY / ENDOCRINOLOGY / MEATSCIENCE / WOOL / TOXICOLOGY / WATERSHED & RANGELANDECOLOGY / WEED & BRUSHCONTROL / PLANTSYSTEMATICS / GRAZINGMANAGEMENT
The Department also offers pre-veterinary studies –our graduates have a high acceptance rate into veterinary medicine programs. We offer graduate degrees at the Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy levels. The M.S. or Ph.D. in Animal Science can emphasize nutrition or physiology, and offers a Ph.D. in Range Science to study range management, range ecology and watershed management.
• The Corona Range & Livestock Research Center – 28,000 acre ranch & facilities in Corona, NM
• Student organizations, including a Block & Bridle Club, Pre-Vet Club, Range Club, Horsemen’s Association, Therapeutic Riding Club, & Judging Teams
• Clayton Research Center hosts research on shipping protocols, particularly evaluating the health and performance of newly received cattle, and nutrition and management from feedlot to slaughter
Dr. John Campbell –575/646-6180 / Dr. Dennis hallford –575-646-2515 http://aces.nmsu.edu/academics/anrs/
Consider investing in a digital or portable scale; this year is a great time to reinvest in your facilities with the added profits from the bullish cattle market. If an on-farm scale isn’t in the cards, consider weighing your herd on the trailer at a local cooperative when hauling your cows to pasture or eval-
uating cull cow weight using the weights listed on the sale bill.
3. Avoid nutrition gaps
While increasing stocking rates can help support nutritional needs, we can’t expect cows to get by on forages alone. Across the industry, particularly on the cow side, producers run the risk of not optimizing their profit potential by not fully meeting the nutritional needs of larger-sized cattle.
Bigger cows have more significant nutritional requirements. Meeting their increased nutritional needs can have cascading effects that could lead to improved profitability. Cows managed for optimal body condition scores at calving have been shown to rebreed with 88 percent or greater conception rates.4 And, by providing adequate nutrition to cows during each stage of gestation, you can better support the calf’s birth and weaning
weight, immune function, finishing growth and value to the herd if the calf is kept back. A cattle nutrition program that meets your herd’s requirements helps ensure your genetic investment can be fully maximized, regardless of your average cow size.
Free-choice tub, block or liquid supplements can help you more efficiently meet any nutrient gaps cows might face. Monitoring intakes can also help you manage forages and stocking rates. If cows are eating more of the supplement than the target, dig in and ask some questions. Do I have enough forages? Is the forage quality high enough? Do I have an accurate pulse on my cows’ nutrition requirements? Free-choice products help give you a barometer for your cattle nutrition program overall.
4
3
cow size for your operation and managing cows to help maximize efficiency may lead to greater profit potential.
1 National Agricultural Statistics Service. United States Department of Agriculture. 2019.
2 NASEM (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine). 1984. Nutrient Requirements of Beef Cattle. 6th ed. The National Academies Press.
Bigger cows can mean bigger costs, but also bigger profit potential. Finding the right
2025 Horse Sale and Open House
Standing at NMSU Spanky D Cat
AQHA Stallion sired by Palo Duro Cat (full brother to Sophisticated Cat), out of an own daughter of Docs Oak.
House 9am - 10:30am
Preview 10:30am - 12pm
at 1pm
and Pictures will be posted to NMSU Horse Farm on Facebook and on Animal and Range Sciences Website
Dhuyvetter, J. 2009. Focusing on cows in a high cost world. North Dakota State University. Accessed Aug. 21, 2024.
Rasby, R.J, Stalker, A, and Funston, RN. Body condition scoring beef cows: A tool for managing the nutrition program for beef herds. Accessed Aug. 21, 2024.
Great Reset: Tenth of English Farmland Needs to Be
‘Rewilded’ for Green Agenda, Says Gov’t Report
by Kurt Zindulkan, Breitbart
British government estimates have claimed that nearly a tenth of all English farmland will need to be ‘rewilded’ by 2050 to hit green agenda targets.
Projections in the government’s “land use framework” said that approximately 760,000 hectares, or around nine per cent of agricultural land in England, will need to “change away from agricultural land for environmental and climate benefits,” the Financial Times reports.
The government report said that to meet climate goals, an additional nine per cent of agricultural land would need to adopt so-called ‘sustainable’ farming practices.
The move could see the UK become even more reliant on foreign imports to meet its food supply needs, with the country already importing around 40 per cent of its food.
The report claimed a reduction in the amount of land dedicated toward food production could be mitigated by the use of technology and new farming practices to increase yields.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed said: “The primary purpose of farming will always be to produce the food that feeds the nation,” and that the framework report would help preserve “our highest quality agricultural land and make decisions about the long-term future of farm businesses”.
However, critics, such as the president of the Country Land and Business Association, Victoria Vyvyan, warned that the report could lay the groundwork for government “mission creep”. She cautioned that farmers could be told “what they are and aren’t allowed to grow, plant and rear on their land”.
“Whenever the state gets involved, its tendency is to only become ever more prescriptive,” Vyvyan said. “Today, the framework might be light touch, but tomorrow it won’t be.”
The head of the National Farmers Union (NFU), Tom Bradshaw, said that “it’s imperative this framework does not further restrict farmers’ ability to produce the nation’s food.”
“Above all, we need transparency, engagement and a government that is willing to listen. Only then will we get a land use framework that delivers for consumers, for the environment and for British agriculture,” he said.
Bradshaw also called for the government to introduce “targets for British food production” as it has done for the green agenda, as well as introducing trade protections and standards to ensure British farmers do not have to compete with imports that “would be illegal to produce here.”
The threat of further green attacks on the British farming industry comes as the sector has been struggling as a result of high inflation and soaring energy costs, in addition to recent flooding and heavy rainfall, which can disrupt the harvest.
Farmers have also expressed outrage over the left-wing Labour government’s plans to remove the inheritance tax exemption from many farms. Under the scheme, farms valued at at least £1 million (£2 million for married couples) will face a 20 per cent inheritance tax by 2026.
As many farmers operate on a thin profit margin, many have warned that the tax raid will force families to sell off parts of their land just to pay the tax when their parents die. This has led to large-scale protests throughout the country in recent months.
Similar schemes to shut down farms to meet climate goals have previously sparked widespread protests in Europe, notably in the Netherlands. At the behest of the EU, the previous government sought to forcibly shut down 30 per cent of the country’s farmland to reduce nitrogen emissions. The current populist-led government, which includes the pro-farmer BBB party, has sought to fight back against the climate diktats from Brussels; however, the dispute is ongoing. ▫
Cargill Shuts Down Another Plant
by Frank Fuhrig, meatingplace.com
Cargill is shutting down its Springdale, Arkansas turkey processing plant but will continue in the turkey business, the company has announced.
The closure is scheduled for August 1. “This was not an easy decision to make given the impact to the approximately 1,100 people who work there and local producers,” Cargill said in a statement. “However, it is the right move to make for the future of our turkey business.”
The company said it will honor contractual obligations to growers. “Turkey remains an essential part of Cargill’s protein portfolio,” the statement said. “We will shift much of Springdale’s production to our turkey processing plants in Missouri and Virginia and work to minimize supply disruptions to customers.”
The Cargill news is the second announcement in January of capacity reduction in the turkey industry, after Foster Farms said it would close facilities in May in Turlock, Calif., affecting more than 500 employees. Even before the latest plant closures, the USDA recently trimmed its outlook for 2025 turkey production, citing hatchery trends and ongoing culling in response to avian flu outbreaks.
Cargill will continue to operate more than 40 meat harvesting and processing facilities across multiple species. Built in 1965, the Springdale turkey plant’s production and distribution area is a combined 360,000 square feet. Springdale calls itself the “Poultry Capital Of The World.” ▫
Lust Angus will have 30 bulls selling in the Tucumcari Feed Efficiency Test Sale on March 8th, 2025. Additionally, we will have a dozen 2 year old bulls in the Wildorado Bull Sale on March 7th, 2025.
These two bulls sell at the Tucumcari Bull Test, along with 28 other Lust Angus Bulls, March 8, 2025. Additionally we’ll have a dozen 2-year-old bulls in the Wildorado Bull Sale on March 7th.
— Yearling Bulls For Sale Private Treaty —
Are Prairies Disappearing to the Plow?
by Nathan Descheemaeker
Recently the American Prairie Reserve (APR) sent out a letter soliciting donations to match a $100,000 donation from Sanjeev Mehra who serves as Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors of The World Wildlife Fund, and serves as a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.
The World Wildlife Fund co-founded the Global Roundtable for Sustainable Beef designed in part to align corporate finance and other powerful NGOs to decarbonize the American Beef Industry, which they acknowledge is already significantly more efficient than the rest of the world.
This explains why Sanjeev Mehra would contribute to APR’s initiative, because what better way to reduce beef emissions than by removing them from millions of acres of public grazing lands? APR’s original application in 2017 for BLM grazing allotments requested the removal of livestock as an option for a class of livestock for the permit once a single indigenous animal is stocked.
But do these lands need to be protected, and whom are they protecting these lands from?
Multi-generational ranching is the reason these lands are largely intact. The APR points to WWF’s plow print which claims the prairies are disappearing to the plow. But most of the APR’s targeted region is chiefly valuable for grazing and is not suitable for large scale farming.
Yet WWF’s 2023 plow print publication targets private lands with policy and claims that the “The destruction of grasslands across the Great Plains continues at an unsustainable pace,” and that “In total, 32 million acres have fallen to the plow since 2012.” APR points to this document as a justification for the need to protect these lands.
In spite of these claims that there is a significant loss of prairie grasslands and habitat to farming, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) data show a large decline in crop and pastureland, from 552 million acres in 1982 to 489 million acres in 2017.
This data shows a 63 million acre decline in cropland in the last 40 years, which apparently WWF did not consider. Surely an entity with $600 million in assets has access to this data. Much of this is predicated on a narra-
Cattlemens Livestock
tive driven by the environmental community that undeveloped land and wildlife are disappearing.
This narrative is used to justify programs that expand government land ownership and the regulation of natural resources. Referencing government data from the Natural Resources and Conservation Services (NRCS) and other agencies, Rob Gordon’s (former deputy secretary of the interior) comprehensive report — Lands and Habitat in the United States: A Reality Check — challenges this narrative stating: “Contrary to the familiar, agenda- driven narrative, development or conversion of natural landscapes to agricultural and urban use in the United States is not rapidly growing, nor are all U.S. species generally becoming ever more endangered.
Left unchallenged, misinformation regarding the environment provides undue support for those who wish to impose wrongheaded, economically harmful policies upon an already enormous government estate, to enlarge it even further, and to impose economically destructive and burdensome regimes on those private lands that escape. Americans should be generally optimistic about the state of our lands and wildlife.”
Many papers supporting APR’s initiative shed light on their approach. They are relying on wholesale policy changes within administrative law as much as “willing sellers.”
One reference is a 2019 publication in the Natural Resource Journal on APR’s grand scheme to rewild a massive area, James L. Huffman a PERC board member states: “If and when grazing lands become more available for conservation purposes, it will be important for the BLM and Forest Service to eliminate regulations and procedures intended to serve grazing management objectives” — James L. Huffman, “American Prairie Reserve: Protecting Wildlife Habitat on a Grand Scale,” 59 Nat. Resources J. 35 (2019) Donating to American Prairie Reserve is a donation in support of multi-national corporate and non-governmental environmental agendas to consolidate a vast region of lands subjecting state and local governments to a foreign and powerful influence.
As Isaiah 5:8 says — “Woe unto them that join house to house, that lay field to field, till there be no place, that they may be placed alone in the midst of the earth!”
NathanDescheemaeker and his family raise registered feeder calves in East-Central Montana, and he is a Research Specialist and Policy Analyst specializing in historical policy research, technical writing, and advocacy for property rights. ▫
New Horse Protection Act Rule: More Harm Than
Good?
An Editorial by Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller
The Biden Administration’s new Horse Protection Act (HPA) rule might sound like a good idea on paper, but let me tell you—it’s a disaster in practice. This rule isn’t about protecting horses; it’s about federal bureaucrats grabbing more control over an industry they clearly don’t understand. The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) new rule is so absurd that it makes using fly spray on a horse a potential violation. That’s not a joke—they can’t be serious!
The HPA was enacted in 1970 with good intentions—to regulate the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and to outlaw the showing, sale, auction, exhibition, or transport of sored horses. Soring is the intentional infliction of pain on a horse’s legs or hooves using chemicals, devices, or other harmful methods to force an exaggerated, high-stepping gait. This is common in competitive show circuits for breeds like Tennessee Walking Horses and racking horses.
Due to my heavy involvement in the equine industry, I know firsthand the importance of protecting this sector and these animals. But we’ve got to do it with practical, enforceable regulations. The new HPA rule will devastate the equine community, especially breeders, trainers, and horse owners in Texas and nationwide.
Anyone who’s ever owned a horse— whether for work, hobby, or show—knows we treat these animals better than most folks treat their favorite family members. For Texans, horses are more than just animals. They’re part of our families, our livelihoods,
and a driving force of our economy.
If the HPA rule change is implemented, horse owners will have many headaches. The rules would ban anything that might cause irritation. Even a minor rub from a bell boot or sore muscles from training could be labeled as intentional soring. Before long, every 4-H horse event, barrel race, cutting, rodeo, horse show, trail ride, reining event, and team penning could face burdensome regulations.
Event organizers would have to provide advance notice and hire USDA-approved veterinarians or vet techs to inspect every horse and re-inspect the class winner. Even something as simple as applying show sheen to a horse’s coat could result in disqualification.
This new rule doesn’t just target owners— they drag in haulers, trainers, vendors, and sponsors, making everyone liable. Horses would need to be blemish-free, undergo invasive inspections, and face strict shipping regulations. Even basic therapeutic treatments would require a vet’s oversight, and winners in the ring would face mandatory re-inspection. It is government overreach at its worst, and this isn’t even the complete list of what they’re pushing.
Soring is an issue that is largely specific to the state of Tennessee, so I question why the national equine industry must suffer under smothering regulations that overrule what should be dealt with at the state level. I’ll tell you. They are trying to rewrite the rules to expand the definition of “soring” so broadly that it could rope in nearly the entire horse industry. Animal rights extremists just won’t quit.
The new HPA rule is a direct result of their meddling. Believe it or not, the USDA’s lead veterinarian, Dr. Aaron Rhyner, had the gall to suggest that even the simple act of riding a horse could somehow be considered “soring.”
The USDA’s new rule forcing the equine industry to hire, train, and implement inspectors—that we have to pay for—at every event classified as a horse show is impossible. They don’t have the funding or resources. They also promise to hire qualified industry-experienced veterinarians, which we know is a role that is currently seeing staffing shortages already. What will they be forced to do instead? Send inspectors—most of whom lack fundamental knowledge about horses or rural life—to tell us how to care for our animals? Give me a break!
Here’s the bigger picture: This government overreach won’t stop with horses. If we don’t push back now, what’s next? Farmers, ranchers, and eventually, pet owners will all be in the USDA’s crosshairs. Today, it’s the equine industry. It could be your cattle, pets, or way of life tomorrow.
The bottom line is that these new rules won’t protect horses. They’ll devastate the equine industry, punish responsible horse owners, and destroy rural communities across the nation. Instead of promoting animal welfare, the USDA imposes senseless regulations that will do more harm than good.
It’s time to rein in these runaway bureaucrats and restore some common sense to Washington, D.C. It is my hope that the incoming Trump Administration will withdraw this new rule.
An eighth-generation Texas farmer and rancher, Sid Miller is the 12th Commissioner of the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA). A twenty-six-time world champion rodeo cowboy, he has devoted his life to promoting Texas agriculture, rural communities, and the western heritage of Texas. Commissioner Miller will be available for television, Zoom, and phone interviews. ▫
Choosing The Right Winter Blanket for Your Horse
From AQHA Corporate Partner Classic Equine
With a wide range of options and weights available, choosing the best winter horse blanket can be challenging. Luckily, the team at Classic Equine has compiled a list of the best winter horse blankets to keep your horses warm and comfortable this season.
Montana
The Scenario: As wintertime sets in the mountainous town of Missoula, Montana, Haley knows her quarter horse, “Bullet,” needs a quality blanket to withstand the harsh conditions. “Bullet” lives in his stall at night but is turned out to pasture during the day while she’s at work. With temperatures often diving below freezing and icy winds sweeping through the valley, “Bullet” can be found shivering on those particularly frigid days. Working in town from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m, she needs a durable blanket she can leave on all day and easily find him when she returns home at night.
Problems of the Past: Over the years, Haley has tried different blankets, but many didn’t withstand the brutal elements of Montana winters. Some were too thin, some couldn’t guard against moisture, and some were too restrictive, so it was not safe to turn “Bullet” out. Frustrated by this constant trial and error, Haley is looking for a solution. What Classic Equine Recommends for Haley: Classic Equine 10K and 5K Cross Trainer Blankets
Luckily, Haley works at a bank in town and gets to talk to customers every day— many of whom are horse owners. She’s been hearing great reviews about the new Classic Equine 10K and 5K Cross Trainer Blankets that just arrived at their local tack shop. Curious, she decided to try both: the 10K for the coldest days and the 5K for milder weather.
She found that the 10K blanket was the perfect fix for the coldest, bone-chilling weather. It’s filled with 300 grams of insulation and has a 1200 denier breathable ripstop
outer shell that’s all-weather resistant and waterproof. Not only that, but this blanket comes in a hooded and non-hooded option, shaped to naturally contour to “Bullet’s” body (making it great for turnout), and reflective Knight Vision™ safety strips that will help her find him at night.
Haley also bought the 5K Cross Trainer Blanket for slightly warmer days, above 30 degrees. It’s filled with 100 grams of insulation but still has all the same bells and whistles the 10K has. She opted to get both blankets in the hooded options because she wanted to be prepared for anything! Wanting “Bullet” to look his best, she was most excited about all the different color options they had!
Arizona
The Scenario: Wyatt heads south from Canada every winter to escape the cold and team rope with his buddies. He calls Wickenburg, Arizona his home this time of the year. His rope horse, “Red”, stays in a covered run, that has neighboring horses stalled on either side. Since this is a seasonal place, Wyatt doesn’t know much about the other horses, and if they are ones to bite, kick, or chew off manes. Winter temperatures stay about 60° during the day, and about 40° at night, with the occasional windstorm making it seem even colder.
With a few nights sometimes dipping into the 30’s, he’s looking for options that will protect “Red” from cold nights, windy weather, and the occasional rainstorm or frost.
Problems of the Past: Wyatt has tried many different blankets, unfortunately, most of them don’t hold up year after year. They are either not durable enough, don’t allow for movement, aren’t waterproof, or don’t have any size adjustments. He’s looking for a blanket that he can reuse year after year.
What Classic Equine Recommends for “Red”: Classic Equine 5K Cross Trainer Blanket and Windbreaker Turnout Sheet
While at a jackpot, Wyatt’s heeler showed up with a nice-looking horse with a polished coat, despite the rainy weather they’d been having. He told Wyatt he’s been using the Classic Equine Windbreaker Turnout Sheet most days during the winter. This sheet is perfectly warm enough to block the chill, while still being waterproof and breathable, keeping his horse’s coat clean and ready to go. Plus, it comes in hooded and non-hooded options to protect the mane and neck as well.
He also mentioned the 5K Cross Trainer Blanket for those chilly nights when temperatures dip below 30°. This blanket features 100 grams of insulation, a durable
ripstop outer shell, and Knight Vision™ reflective strips for added safety. It has adjustable straps on the chest and sides, and can even be wrapped under the belly for extra coverage—all available in various colors. It combines all the great features of the Windbreaker with the added warmth of insulation, and the best part? These blankets are designed for easy on and easy off, making them a breeze to use!
Texas
The Scenario: Joy is a loper for a big-time cutting trainer in Weatherford, Texas. She typically rides anywhere from 10-12 horses a day and is responsible for keeping them clean and ready to go for the next day, or a show. These horses live in covered stalls with no access to a pasture or uncovered run. She needs something that will draw moisture off and keep these horses warm while they dry after a bath or workout.
Problems of the Past: Joy has been avoiding intense workouts with these horses during the winter because of the sweat, and it’s too cold to wash them off afterward. She’s looking for a solution that allows her to work them fully without the hassle of dealing with the grime in the chilly weather. She wants to make sure they are clean and looking their best when her boss is ready to hop on and show. Everything she’s used in the past has gotten torn up, doesn’t work like it should, and has no room for size adjustments.
What Classic Equine Recommends for Joy: Polar Fleece Cooler and Full-Body Slinky
While picking up some feed at a local feed
store, Joy noticed the Classic Equine Polar Fleece Cooler on the shelves and decided to give it a try. She was pleasantly surprised when she tested it out and discovered its ability to wick moisture away after bathing, speed up the drying process in cold weather, and help keep her horses groomed and clean. This significantly reduced her prep time! She read that it features 380 grams of lush fleece fabric, removable straps, machine-washable material, hook-and-loop fasteners, and even a horn slit in case she ever needed to keep one saddled, while she rode another.
She also picked up a Full-Body Slinky. This product was a game-changer for show prep. With its unmatched rebound, it’s made from lightweight material that keeps your horse clean and sleek, so they are ready to show on a moment’s notice. The plush polar fleece around the muzzle, across the wither, and around the front of the shoulders makes for the perfect fit.
Always Remember
It’s important to think about your horse as you think of yourself when it comes to being outside in chilly weather. If you think it would be too cold to take a shower outside, then it’s likely too cold for them. Be sure and evaluate where you live to make the most informed decision for your horses. ▫
Mahindra Launches 11th Annual Military Salute Giveaway to Thank Our Military
Mahindra Ag North America (MAgNA) announced the return of an exciting tradition: the annual Mahindra Military Salute Giveaway. This year’s giveaway features a Mahindra 1120 tractor with a loader and mower, designed to honor the dedication and service of our military personnel.
In recognition of the sacrifices made by active and veteran U.S. military members, MAgNA is hosting this giveaway for all veterans, active-duty military, and reservists who can enter for their chance to win.
MAgNA officially launched during the Armed Forces Bowl, and qualifying participants can enter the giveaway through February 15, 2025, at mahindrasweeps.com. The winner will be announced on March 18 to commemorate National Ag Day.
The annual Mahindra Military Salute Giveaway is a key part of the company’s philosophy of driving positive change by honoring those who serve. Over the years, thousands of U.S. military personnel have been nominated to win a tractor or utility vehicle from Mahindra, the number-one-selling tractor brand in the world.
To learn more about the Military Salute Giveaway and nominate yourself or someone you know, please visit www.mahindrausa. com/sweepstakes/. ▫
New Mexico Cowboy to the Rescue
An airman stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) rescued a 79-year-old woman off a trail near Ashford, Washington, while hiking that trail with his fiancée and a friend.
The rescued hiker, Ursula Bannister lives in Tacoma and said her rescue by two “buff guys” off a trail on Mt. Rainier is “quite the story.”
Ursula told KOMO News that she makes a trek up High Rock in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest every year, to visit the place where she and her children spread her mother’s ashes.
This year, she could not find a companion to go with, so she decided to go alone.
“And your weather reporter said Wednesday the 28th (of August) would be perfect weather, so I decided that was my day,” Ursula said.
Ursula said she’s done the hike many times and since it is not part of the national park, there are always lots of people with dogs and without dogs, so she felt safe.
She hiked 1.6 miles, up 1,365 feet to the top, where she said she ate lunch and then decided it was time to head down.
“I really wanted to be back to Tacoma at 2
in the afternoon. It didn’t happen that way,” Ursula explained.
She said she missed a little bit of the main trail and ended up below it.
“I decided to cut over to the trail, through some bush. I went bushwhacking and my right foot found a critter hole,” she explained. “I don’t know if it was a marmot or an egret or fox or a kangaroo. I don’t know, have no idea, but anyway, I went down and I knew right away. My foot was broken.”
Ursula told KOMO News she fashioned a tourniquet for herself and tried to stand, but immediately fell.
“I realized that I could not move and I started crying for help,” Ursula said.
Within minutes, she said a young man came and started calling 911.
Any search and rescue groups would be hours away, so he stayed with her, and then others hiking by also helped, including a couple from Minnesota, who just happened to be an occupational therapist and a physical therapist.
Realizing that this couple had just one day to complete this hike, she told them to continue up to the top. They agreed and said they would find her on the way down.
“And they came with the news that there were two really buff guys up on top and they told them about my demise,” Ursula said. Those two men, happened to be Airman 1st Class Troy May, stationed at Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM) and his childhood friend Layton Allen.
“And they looked at each other and they looked at me and they said we can carry you out. And that was the beginning of a hike that can be very, very steep in places and very painful if you have a broken foot,” said Ursula.
“I was like well if we can get her down, we’ll carry her down,” Troy explained.
He said he was carrying her on his back, trying to step carefully so as not to inflict more pain than she was already in, but they needed a better plan.
“So we threw the backpack on the front so we could run her legs through. It kept it a little more stable that way and it was easier on me to get her down faster,” Troy explained. This was going well until Troy explained the pain he started feeling.
“There was a spot where my cowboy boots had actually rolled up and caused blisters on the bottom of my foot and there’s another dude that offered me his shoes,” Troy said.
Troy and Layton, who grew up together ranching in Melrose, New Mexico, were both wearing cowboy boots on that hike.
“That’s what I wore all day growing up, so I pretty much just go anywhere in them,” Troy explained.
Ursula said the other hiker who gave up his shoes for Troy, walked the trail in his stocking feet.
During this transition, Layton started carrying Ursula, to keep their progress moving down the hill.
“The rule was just to get her down there as fast as we could because we knew night was coming. It was gonna get colder the
longer she was there, the more swelling she would have,” Troy said.
The two men switched places again and after about two hours, they reached the parking lot.
“Honestly, the pain was getting worse and worse to the end so just telling her a few more steps we’ll be there and that’s how we got it,” said Troy.
They loaded Ursula into her car, so Layton could drive her to the hospital, and Troy and his fiancé Alex Miles met them there in their car.
Troy said they stayed with Ursula until her son arrived from Bainbridge Island.
The emergency room released her at 1 am and then she told KOMO News she had surgery a week later and is now in her second cast, unable to put weight on her right foot for at least four more weeks.
In between Ursula’s medical appoint
“What was really interesting is that Layton was the very first true cowboy that I have ever met. That’s really what he does in New Mexico. He herds cows,” Ursula told KOMO.
Ursula said this also reminded her that people are generally good.
“People are amazing. You know we might not agree politically we might not agree socially but we certainly agree on the human platform and people will drop whatever they’re doing to help somebody in need,” Ursula added.
“I definitely think that all of it getting orchestrated together on that day as it did was from higher above, but it worked out very well. There’s many people that could’ve done it, but I just happen to be the right time to do it that day,” Troy said. ▫
JANUARY — Wildlife; Gelbvieh;
FEBRUARY — Beefmasters;
MARCH — Limousin; Santa Gertrudis
APRIL — Dairy
MAY — News of the Day
JUNE — Sheepman of the Year
JULY — Directory of Agriculture
AUGUST — The Horse Industry
SEPTEMBER — Charolais; Fairs Across the Southwest
OCTOBER — Hereford; New Mexico State Fair Results
NOVEMBER — Cattleman of the Year; Joint Stockmen’s Convention Preview; Angus, Brangus, Red Angus
DECEMBER — Bull Buyers Guide
Auctioneering & Farm Equipment
SKAARER BRANGUS
CHAROLAIS
More pounds, more profit.
Charolais genetics deliver more pounds at weaning, with added red-meat yield and conversion. Contact your AICA fieldman for assistance in finding Charolais bulls, females, and to learn about CharAdvantage feeder calf marketing premiums. Visit www.charolaisusa.com to learn more.
DOUBLE BAR R RANCH, NOGALES, AZ — 110 deeded, w/12,224 NF Grazing land, runs 380 yearlong, Great improvements, high rain area. Priced at $3,500,000
SOLD SOLD
TYLER RANCH/FARM — York Az, 544 deeded with 173 irrigated, along with 14,000 state and Blm lease land. 300 head mother cows yearlong. Priced @$2,300,000
I have many qualified Buyers looking for Ranches. Give me a call If you are looking to Buy or Sell a Ranch or Farm in Southwestern NM or Southern AZ give us a call ... Sam Hubbell, Qualifying Broker 520-609-2546
The election is over and there is optimism in the ranch real estate and cattle markets. It is time to invest in a quality cattle ranch. The Sand Camp Ranch fits the bill with an excellent grass cover and above average very functional improvements. It has been blessed with abundant moisture and is in excellent condition. Located in southern Chaves County east of the productive Pecos River Valley. The ranch is comprised of 2,380 +/- deeded acres, 6,074 NM State Lease Acres, 23,653 Federal BLM Lease Acres and 480 acres Uncontrolled, 32,107 +/- total acres (50.17 Sections). Grazing Capacity set by a Section 3 BLM grazing permit at a realistic 405 Animal Units Yearlong. The ranch is watered by five primary wells and an extensive interconnected pipeline system. This ranch is ready to go, no deferred maintenance. Price: $3,672,000 This is one of the better ranches in the area. It is nicely improved and well-watered. You won’t find anything comparable for the price. Call or email for a brochure and an appointment to come take a look.
SCOTT MCNALLY, QUALIFYING BROKER • BAR M REAL ESTATE, LLC
5016 122nd STREET LUBBOCK, TEXAS 79424 • 806-763-5331
Sam Middleton 817-304-0504 • Charlie Middleton 806-786-0313 Jim Welles 505-967-6562 • Dwain Nunez 505-263-7868
HAPPY NEW YEAR SALES!
■ BERRENDA CREEK RANCH ARREY, NM — 51± section cattle ranch carrying capacity 231 AYL, Priced at $1,432,200 SOLD
■ CAPROCK MOUNTAIN — VAN METER RANCHES — LORDSBURG, NM — 75 +/- Sections carrying capacity is 546 AYL plus 5 horses. SOLD
■ SMITH RANCH — ROAD FORKS, NM — Cattle Ranch & Farm, 336± acres of farmland, 21 Sections 154 AYL Priced at $2,300,000 SOLD
■ PECAN TREE ORCHARD ON McCAN ROAD — DEMING, NM — 322 total acres, two irrigation wells 168 acres of mature pecan trees List price of $3,200,000 SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD
RANCHES/FARMS
*SOLD* 472+/- Acre Organic Apple Orchard offered in 5 Tracts
Tract 1 – 158+/- Acre with approximately 131 ac of trees, 24,075+/- s.f. of apple processing facilities, cold storage, retail center, two homes, & wells.
Farm - Apache Grove, AZ –335+/- total acres along the scenic Gila River. 120+/- acres of decreed water rights. Pivot and pastures planted in Bermuda. Owner runs 150 head. One bedroom apartment over garage/ office, 30’ x 150’steel barn, plus smaller steel barn, shop/ feed room/tack room, excellent corrals, with squeeze chute, calf table and scale. Must see! $2.5M
*SOLD* 1883.45+/- Acres, McNeal, AZ – Frontier Roads. Good access, 2 registered wells, dirt tanks, fully fenced. Current owner runs 80+/- head seasonally $941,725 Reduced to $847,552 Call Paul Ramirez 520-241-3333.
150+/- Acre Farm, Willcox, AZ – 120 Acre full circle pivot with two wells. Ideal location for hay, pecans, pistachios, wine grape cultivation or other crops. Good water, productive soil. Convenient access to I-10. $525,000
*SOLD* 305+/- Acres of Land
on Ash Creek Pearce, AZ –
Excellent potential for agricultural development, qualifies for organic farming, cleared of Mesquites in 2010, good prospect for pecans, wine grapes, corn, cotton, hay. FAA approved landing strip, two domestic wells, fenced and cross fenced. Ask about the solar options available with this property. $457,000
*SOLD* 98+/- Deeded Acre Farm, Bonita, AZ – Great farm in a picture-perfect setting! Two small pivots with 35 acres of water rights. 3 BR, 2 BA Shultz mfg home; 3-sided hay/machine shed, 1,560+/- s.f. shop, hay shed, Connex box, nice set of guardrail and steel corrals with crowding tub, squeeze and scale. 250 gpm irrigation well with 20 HP motor and 13,500+/- gallons of storage. Runs about 40 head of cattle. $750,000
*SOLD* 200-300 Head Cattle Ranch, Marana, AZ – 112.8 +/- Deeded ac; 150+/- ac of pasture, 3,700+/- ac of sublease, 14 +/- ac of farm fields, HQ on State Land. 2nd mfg home on deeded. 2 sets of good steel pipe corrals $1.9M
HORSE PROPERTIES/LAND
*SOLD* Auction 19+/- Ac, 3-BR, 2.5-BA, 2,220+/- s.f. Mountaintop Estate, Sonoita Hwy, Vail AZ –This estate comes complete with 360-degree wrap-around porches with million-dollar views of the surrounding mountains and city lights below. Open floor plan with soaring vaulted wood plank ceilings, granite countertops, solid wood doors, fireplace, all steel Kodiak
www.scottlandcompany.com
home with 900+/- s.f. detached 3-car garage. This property will sell at Auction starting November 3, 2024. The online only auction will continue through December 3, 2024 and will start closing at 5:00 p.m.
*REDUCED* Tranquil Desert Retreat with Home and Horse Facilities on 22+/- Acres, SW of Tucson, AZ – This 1,560+/- s.f. authentically western home on 22+/- acres comes complete with landscaped gardens, horse arena and pens, chicken coop, workshop and equipment shed and is the perfect get away for those wanting the convenience of services nearby but the privacy of being in rural AZ. $550,000 $495,000
*SOLD* Auction 10+/- Acre Country Estate in Scenic Sonoita, AZ – This country estate comes complete with a hilltop home, stunning mountain and grassland views, horse stable, large shop, orchard, chicken coop and water features and is the perfect sustainable property. This property sold as a result of our accelerated marketing program. Ask Paul Ramirez about that program today.
*SOLD * ONLIN E AUCTION , Pearce, AZ - Four offerings located in the grasslands at the foot of the beautiful Dragoon Mountains. Sold prior to Auction Lot 1 featured stunning, custom 3 BD, 2 BA territorial style home on 5.5 +/-. Sold Prior to Auction Lots 3, and 4 included 3 vacant, 1+ acre land parcels for a total of 3+/- acres each. Sold at Auction Lot 2 – 3- 1+/- acre lots for a total of 3+/- acres.
■ UNION CO., NM – divided into three tracts for rotational grazing of 1,822 ac. +/- enrolled in the new Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program & 120 ac. +/- of the property in the standard CRP program. GCRP can be grazed year-round each year. Excellent fencing, one mile of hwy. frontage together with all-weather roads on the remainder, equipped with almost new set of steel working pens with scale, a second set of almost new working pens, watered by subs on electricity with pipelines furnishing water for drinkers in each pasture. Gramma & buffalo grasses. Broker owned.
■ UNION CO., NM – Just out of Clayton, a large feedyard w/ four circles irrigated by ¼ mile sprinklers, six irr. wells & just across the hwy. an 800 ac. grass lease.
■ PRICE REDUCED! MULESHOE RANCH – 1,074.18 ac.+/grassland, great access conveniently located outside of Muleshoe, TX.
■ PRICE REDUCED! CHOICE 320 ac.+/-, irrigated farm, w/pivot sprinklers, irrigation wells & an older home which would be liveable or could be moved. Located on pvmt. in prime farming area of Castro Co., TX.
– 1,482.90 ac.+/- grassland (1,193.59 ac. +/- Deeded, 289.31 ac. State Lease), great location near all types of mountain recreation.
■ COCHRAN CO., TX. – 160 ac. +/- native grass, existing oil production. The tract is located roughly 21 miles north of Plains, Texas and 32 miles southwest of Whiteface, Texas. Mule deer in the area. Good small hunting, grazing ranch.
■ CASTRO CO., TX – 3 farms with good water, owner will sell and cash lease back: 1,319 ac. +/-, 2 half mile pivots; 1,715 ac. +/-, drip irrigated; 1,440 ac. +/-, drip irrigated.
■ KB RANCH – Kenney Co., TX – KB Ranch is a low fenced 802 +/- acre property that is surrounded by large ranches. The ranch has abundant whitetail and is also populated with turkey, dove, quail, hogs and varmint species. Axis are in the area and have been occasionally seen. The ranch lies approximately 9 miles south of Bracketville on TX 131 and is accessed by all weather Standart Road.
■ ANGUS, NM – 250 +/- acres with over a 1/2 mile of NM 48 frontage. Elevations from 6,800 to 7,200 feet. Two springs along a creek. Ideal for future development or build your own getaway home.
■ CLAYTON, NM – 44 acres located approx.. 2 miles south of Clayton, NM on Hwy 87 on the East side of the highway. This property has about ½ mile of highway frontage and would be great for residential housing, commercial development or addtl. RV development (adjoins the 16.75 ac. RV park).
■ CLAYTON, NM – 9 ac. +/- located on pvmt. behind a large convenience store on which has been partially begun infrastructure for an RV park. This property will also lend itself well as a large development such as new or existing businesses expanding their company.
■ DALLAM CO., TX – 480 acres in native grass in northeastern Dallam County. Possible wind potential.
■ PALO DURO CREEK TREASURE – 941 acres +/- in Randall Co. NW of Canyon, Tx. STUNNING VIEWS OVER LOOKING PALO DURO CREEK – Turn key cow/calf operation w development potential. Property includes: 3/3/3 ranch style home, 4 wells, large shop plus shed, enclosed livestock working facility w/hydraulic chute, livestock pens & shed, miles of 5 & 6 barbed wire fence & over 7000' of pipe fence. YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS THIS! Canyon School District.
Brad DeSpain
Paul Ramirez
GREAT WESTERN RANCH | QUEMADO, NM
Great Western Ranch offers 225,582± deeded acres, 279,219± leased acres, totaling 504,801± combined acres. A world-class, hybridized livestock and big game ranch that is well-watered and expertly managed. Approximately 790± square miles in size. $142,000,000
Lake Sumner Ranch is a diverse 19,907± total acre working livestock ranch situated between Fort Sumner and Santa Rosa. Set along the Pecos River and Lake Sumner, it provides wildlife habitat and a unique grazing operation with supplement income. $13,900,000
LAND OF ENCHANTMENT RANCH | LAS VEGAS, NM
Land of Enchantment Ranch offers 12,700± deeded acres of diverse topography and numerous canyons, is heavily wooded, and is adjacent to the Santa Fe National Forest. Located ten miles southwest of Las Vegas and an hour from Santa Fe. $13,250,000
WARREN FARMS | GAINES COUNTY, TX
Warren Farms is a 3,393± deeded acre farming operation in eastern Gaines County, with 13 center pivots irrigating 1,364± acres and 1,270± acres of dry cropland. All cultivated acres are certified organic with good cotton and peanut yields. $12,795,000
LAKE SUMNER RANCH | FORT SUMNER, NM
GUADLALUPE COUNTY
Located Southeast of Las Vegas and Northwest of Santa Rosa and joins the Pecos River. A small-medium sized Ranch that is in good condition and can be operated as a cow-calf operation or a yearling operation or a combination. It contains 7,483 (ALL) Deeded Acres or 11.69 Sections. Water is provided by four Wells and a pipeline water system with storage tank and many livestock water troughs. Fences are in good to new condition. The country varies from almost level to shallow mesas and to a major canyon which forms some natural boundary in the Northwestern part of the Ranch. The Northern Boundary is the center of the Pecos River for about 2.5 miles; which is fenced off so no grazing along the River is available. There has been a lot of Juniper and Pinon Trees pushed. The soils include sandy clay loams, clay soils and gravelly-rocky along the mesas. Building Improvements include a log home in good condition, a older corrugated barn and shop, corrals with a small scale and a brand new pro-panel-metal barn/airplane hanger with concrete floors. This Ranch provides lots of scenic views, both on the Ranch and the surrounding views of area mesas and Mountains. Santa Fe and Albuquerque are about 1.5 hours away.
MAXWELL PLACE, 39.65 +/- deeded acres, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom 2 story home. Property is off pavement with big views of the mountain range, mature cottonwood trees, 1 apricot tree, irrigation rights, domestic water meter, older well, barns, useable outbuildings, including root cellar compliment this property. 461 Elm Tree Rd. Maxwell NM 87728
$499,00
COLFAX COUNTY VIEW, 83.22 +/- deeded acres 5 bedroom 3.25 bathroom 3,174 sq ft heated and cooled modern home built 2002 and remodeled since, on hill located 3 miles east of the Colfax Tavern and Diner. Huge barn and many other features. 910 HWY 505 Maxwell NM 87728. $850,000
UTE PARK DREAM, 3 bedroom 2 bathroom 2,321 sq ft home built 2009 with amazing back covered porch and attached garage. 29665 HWY 64 Ute Park, NM 87729
$599,000 $549,000
MIAMI 80+/- ACRES, 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home with water shares,
roping arena, steel barn with shop. Other historic barns, Pipe corrals. Far enough off road to be private. Includes 80 shares of irrigation 2350 SHW 21, Miami NM 87729. $565,000
MIAMI DREAM, 14.70 +/- deeded acres. Approx 1,583 sq ft 2 bedroom 1 bath home. Real country living with barn wood siding, porches, recent remodel for remote workspace. Irrigation and horse facilities, 57 Wampler St., Miami, NM $370,000 $335,000
BAR LAZY 7 RANCH, Colfax County, Moreno Valley 594.38 +/- deeded acres, accessed off blacktop between Eagle Nest and Angel Fire. Historic headquarters. Currently used as summer grazing, pond and trees accessed off county road on rear of property as well. Presented “ASIS” New Survey, $4,000,000 $3,800,000 SPRINGER VIEW, 29.70 +/- deeded acres. Large house being remodeled, shop, trees, old irrigation pond. All back off highway with great southern aspect. 311 Hwy 56, Colfax County. $209,000 $205,000
United Country Real Estate Celebrates 100 Years of Innovation
Reaching 100 years in business is an extraordinary milestone reportedly achieved by less than half of one percent of companies. This year, United Country Real Estate proudly joins that elite group, marking a century of innovation and dedicated service in lifestyle, land and rural real estate.
Founded in 1925 as United Farm Agency in Kansas City, United Country Real Estate emerged from a simple but powerful idea: helping Americans fulfill their dream of owning land out in the country — in those rural areas often overlooked by residents of larger cities at the time. Company founder Roscoe L. Chamberlain revolutionized the way rural properties were advertised and marketed. At a time when information traveled slow, he developed a groundbreaking approach to connect small-town real estate experts with urban buyers. That approach began locally, but quickly expanded across states, regions and eventually nationwide.
Chamberlain’s efforts included the creation of America’s first national estate catalog in 1928, an innovation so impactful it earned a place in the Smithsonian Institution. Today, United Country thrives in what’s known as lifestyle and rural real estate, a segment of the industry that reflects working farms and ranches, mountain hunting retreats, country homes, waterfront properties and more.
The company has grown into a network of nearly 500 brokerage offices and 4,000 agents across the United States and in select international markets. Even after a century, United Country continues to lead the industry through advanced marketing tools, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive support for its affiliates.
“The heart of United Country’s success lies in its people and its property focus,” said United Country Real Estate President Mike Duffy. “From the very beginning, our affil-
iates and employees created a family-oriented culture rooted in collaboration, expertise and a deep commitment to serving our clients. Their passion has carried us through challenges like the Great Depression, multiple recessions, world wars and volatile markets, always propelling us forward.”
To honor its Centennial, United Country is hosting a yearlong celebration that includes a 100-Year Anniversary Convention in Kansas City in late February. The company will showcase its history through events, promotional campaigns and features that highlight its remarkable journey.
United Country remains dedicated to its founder’s mission. As more people seek refuge from urban life in favor of wide-open spaces and greater affordability, the company will continue delivering unmatched service and expertise in lifestyle, land and rural real estate.
“The challenges we’ve faced over the last century have shaped who we are,” Duffy said. “We’re stronger, more innovative, and more committed than ever to helping new generations find their freedom in the country.”
Rodeo Roundup
Association –Wacey Trujillo
by Julie Carter
She’s just a few weeks shy of turning 17, but Wacey Trujillo has her mental and physical competitive strategy fine tuned well beyond her years. The Abiquiu, New Mexico teen is setting the bar high for both high school rodeo Goat Tying and Breakaway Roping.
While New Mexico was in a January deep freeze, Wacey was in Hawaii for a week assisting Stacey Martin of Next Level Goat Tying with some clinics. Although Wacey has worked with Stacey for three years, this was her first time to the islands. “It was so much fun,” she said. “And we tied a lot of goats. There were 20 girls of all ages in each of the four clinics. Then we got some beach time and a little sightseeing.”
Wacey’s December was also memorable
Wacey Trujillo with just part of the loot from Las Vegas. Wacey’s 1.9 seconds breakaway run at the Socorro High School Rodeo.
as she had qualified for the Mike and Sherrylynn Johnson’s Vegas Tuffest Junior World Championships in two age brackets of Goat Tying and the 15 and Under Breakaway Roping. When the last goat was tied, she was named the 2024 World Champion 15U Goat Tyer, with a 4th in the first round, 1st in the 2nd round and 1st in the Hot Round. With that title win and some other checks, she managed to bring home $18,000.
Wacey’s level of competitiveness doesn’t just happen. It’s been built with intention, determination and endless hours of hard work. “My dad (Tanner Trujillo) always told me to outwork everyone,” she explained. “The was the main mindset and to put the
work in at the arena.”
Wacey won the Goat Tying at every Junior High rodeo all season of her 7th grade year, tying up the state championship. But it fell apart for her at Nationals. “When it didn’t go as I planned, I told myself, I will work even harder every single day.” Her strategy paid off. As an 8th grader, she again won the state Goat Tying title and went on to Nationals to win all three rounds and the National Championship title.
In her 8th grade year, Wacey was also the state champion Breakaway Roper. “I had a new horse and my freshman year I was just having trouble in the box with him. It just wasn’t clicking, I wasn’t getting anywhere. Then last summer Kyle Dutton and J.D. McKinley helped me out, and it’s been really good.” After the tune up/coaching for both horse and roper, Wacey, now a junior, won both days and the average at her first rodeo last fall in Socorro with a 1.97 and 2.47. She went on to win enough points through the fall that she will start the spring run of rodeos sitting at the top of the Breakaway and the Goat Tying standings. Wacey also competes in Team Roping with her cousin Stetson Trujillo as her heeler.
Wacey says she reads books, listens to podcasts and spends time imagining her runs in both events. “It’s a process,” she said. “Same routine every time, even when I visualize. I can smell and feel the dirt, feel what my horse is going to do.”
Just days after returning from Hawaii, Wacey lost her good goat tying horse River to a shattered right pastern. “She was the best ever. I won so much on her in the short time I had her. We are all sick.” Wacey said she’ll use Snip, who was her main horse until she got River and she has her old soldier Rooster, 22, if she needs him.
Wacey models an exemplary work ethic in all that she does. She practices daily with her cousins and a few friends who join them and they make it fun and competitive. “I think my mindset is my strongest trait, but it’s something anyone can do if they decide to,” she said. With that, Wacey was headed to practice pen as the thermometer had warmed up to 17 degrees and in Trujillo fashion, she would be joined by her cousins for a “get back at it” session. ▫
Norway’s Government Collapses Over EU Energy Policy
by Ketrin Jochecová, Politico Europe
The Norwegian government collapsed in late January after the Euroskeptic Centre Party left the two-party coalition after weeks of brawling over the adoption of three EU energy directives, local media reported.
Their exit leaves Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre’s center-left Labour Party to govern on its own for the first time in 25 years.
Norway, while not part of the EU, has to adopt the bloc’s laws as a member of the European Economic Area (EEA), unless it invokes a right of reservation. The agrarian Centre Party is strongly against the EEA agreement, which gives Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein access to the EU’s internal market.
Centre Party leader and Finance Minister Trygve Slagsvold Vedum said he could not accept the directives in the EU’s fourth clean energy package, which aims to increase renewable energy and encourage more energy-efficient infrastructure construction.
“We say that enough is enough, this is the limit. We are doing this to change Norwegian electricity policy and create a dynamic where we can take steps that can give us lower and stable electricity prices in Norway, and that we should not give up more power to the EU,” said Vedum.
Gahr Støre said that he wanted to keep the Centre party in the government. “This is not an outcome I wished for,” he said at a press conference.
“I wanted them to continue, and it has been important for me and the Labour Party to find a solution ... But the Centre Party’s demands would in reality mean no to all the EU’s new rules now and in the future,” he added.
The Labour Party said it is possible to introduce parts of the package without affecting Norway’s sovereignty.
Since the discovery of North Sea oil in 1969, Norway’s abundant energy resources have been the cornerstone of the country’s transformation into one of Europe’s wealthiest nations.
The Norwegian government has played a central role in managing this wealth. It holds a 67 percent majority stake in Equinor, the national oil company, which generates significant profits during periods of high prices, boosting government dividends.
New Mexico Livestock Board Put State’s First EIA Rules in Place
by Natalie Voss, paulickreport.com/
At an emergency meeting January 30, the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) voted to approve emergency rules defining the state’s response to equine infectious anemia (EIA) positives. According to a spreadsheet provided in response to a public records request, New Mexico saw 17 different outbreaks, some involving more than one horse, in 2024. Nearly all of those outbreaks dealt with racehorses, primarily Quarter Horses.
New Mexico’s state veterinarian, Dr. Samantha Holeck, indicated that up until the meeting, New Mexico had no rules specifically pertaining to EIA and made reference only to the USDA-APHIS uniform methods and rules document on the disease – a set of model rules and guidelines published in 2007.
The new, emergency rules define procedures for New Mexico state veterinarians who have a positive case reported to them, which will now include hold orders on horses who have an initial positive test, as well as hold orders on other potentially exposed horses as they await confirmatory testing. Horses with potential exposure include those housed near a positive horse, but may also include those with the same ownership that are kept at a different facility, according to Holeck. If a horse is positive for EIA on initial testing for a Coggins form, that result has to be confirmed by a USDA laboratory before the horse is officially positive for the disease.
“Something has to be done so these horses can’t be moved around,” said breeder Mark Brown, who said one of his fillies was among the positive cases in 2024. “Your state vet and her crew did a wonderful job of working with us to get a solution to that. She’s been having a hard time tracking these horses down that are moving around. People aren’t honoring the quarantines.”
Kansas Congressman & Senator Introduce Bill to De-list
Lesser Prairie Chicken
On January 21, 2025 U.S. Representative Tracey Mann (KS-01) led 14 of his colleagues in introducing legislation to remove the lesser prairie-chicken (LPC) from the threatened and endangered species list and to prohibit future efforts to relist the LPC. In November 2022, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized a rule to list the Northern Distinct Population Segment of the lesser prairie-chicken as threatened under the Endangered Species Act despite an increase in the lesser prairie-chicken population. Rep. Mann’s bill would reverse this rule. Senator Marshall introduced a companion bill in the U.S. Senate.
“America’s farmers, ranchers, and agricultural producers are the original conservationists of the land,” said Mann.
“For more than a decade, farmers, ranchers, private landowners, agricultural and energy producers have enacted voluntary conservation efforts to preserve the lesser prairie-chicken’s population.
Despite these efforts increasing the population by more than 15,000, President Biden’s U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ignored the facts and decided that the federal government is better equipped to manage these populations than local citizens. This bill is the first step in rolling back burdensome regulations from the previous administration that handcuffed Americans. I look forward to working with President Trump and the DOGE Caucus to roll back these senseless regulations and to get our country back on track.”
“In listing the lesser prairie-chicken, the Biden Administration prioritized the interests of radical environmentalists over rural
Aerial Rangeland Spraying, Wildlife Surveys, & Predator Control by
America. Kansas and surrounding states have contributed millions of public and private dollars to conservation efforts that are committed to preserving the lesser prairie-chicken,” said Senator Roger Marshall (r-KS). “This work resulted in increasing the population of the bird well before the unnecessary and heavy-handed decision to list it. Fortunately, with this bill, we can undo the burdensome government micromanagement of agriculture and industry in western Kansas and celebrate the voluntary, locally-driven conservation efforts.”
Reps. Derek Schmidt (KS-02), Ron Estes (KS-04), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Frank Lucas (OK-03), Josh Brecheen (OK-02), Don Bacon (NE-02), Gary Palmer (AL-06), Scott Perry (PA-10), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Brian Babin (TX36), and Keith Self (TX-03) joined Rep. Mann in introducing the legislation.
In May 2021, Rep. Mann criticized the listing of the LPC as endangered and threatened. After Rep. Mann pressured U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS), the agency extended the public comment period for citizens to submit feedback on the proposed rule. In November 2022, he blasted FWS final rule that ignored the facts of the LPC population and declared a proxy war on American agriculture and energy.
In February 2023, Mann led a bicameral Congressional Review Act to strike down the LPC’s listing on the threatened species list. The resolution passed in the U.S. House of Representatives in July 2023. Rep. Mann strongly condemned President Biden’s veto of the resolution and his refusal to listen to America’s agriculture and energy producers.
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Rodeo Roundup
University of Arizona
3/1/2025
- 3/1/2025
Charlie Buchanan (520)621-2211
Tucson, AZ
Central Arizona College #1
3/8/2025
- 3/8/2025
Joe Moody (520)431-1335
Casa Grande, AZ
Central Arizona College #2
3/9/2025
- 3/9/2025
Joe Moody (520)431-1335
Casa Grande, AZ
Cochise College #2
3/22/2025
- 3/23/2025
Lynn Smith (520)678-6702
Ft Huachuca, AZ
New Mexico State University 4/11/2025
- 4/12/2025
Brice Baggarley (509)834-8741
Las Cruces, NM
Grand Canyon
Regional #2
4/26/2025
- 4/27/2025
Joe Moody (520)431-1335
Payson, AZ
Grand Canyon
Regional #3 5/2/2025
- 5/3/2025
Jim Dewey Brown/ Joe Moody (520)431-1335
Prescott, AZ
Southwest Regional College Rodeos
Odessa College 2/27/2025 - 3/1/2025
Tom Kelly (406)679-1504
Odessa, TX
Ranger College 3/27/2025
- 3/29/2025
Llew Rust (918)320-9612
Sweetwater, TX
Western Texas College 4/3/2025 - 4/5/2025
Greg Rhodes (325)207-1219
Snyder, TX
Howard County Junior College 4/10/2025 - 4/12/2025
Justin Jenkins (432)213-5506
Big Spring, TX
Tarleton State University 4/24/2025 - 4/26/2025
Mark Eakin (254)485-8885
Stephenville, TX
Taylor Armenta
Story & Photos By Julie Carter
Since she was very young and on her first horse, Taylor Armenta’s dad instilled in her and her younger sister Tierra, “you are winners.” He told them that when they were small and in the lead line and says the same today when Taylor is lined up to run against hundreds of the best barrel racers in the county. With that, she not only knows she is a winner, she repeatedly proves it.
Taylor, 13, from Bloomfield, New Mexico., is the daughter of Russell and Audra Armenta. As an 8th grader, this is her first year as NMJHRA competitor where she’s added breakaway roping to her impressive barrel racing record. She will start the spring run of New Mexico Junior High Rodeos sitting 2nd in barrels and 3rd in breakaway. One of her proudest moments from the fall was winning her first breakaway average
buckle at the Ft. Sumner rodeos.
Taylor runs a big 16-hands tall chestnut she calls Thor. “He’s really special, like my baby,” she said. The tiny blonde said his personality is super sweet, that he demands belly scratches, “on both sides and he’ll make sure of that,” she laughs.
Taylor said he was sidelined for almost a year with a torn deep digital flexor tendon, presumably kicking the stall wall, a bad habit of his. But their comeback was her most memorable run this past year, where in Tucson at the Xtreme they ran a 14.614. She was the 2024 7th Highest Xtreme money winner with an impressive total of $33,612.
As a third a generation barrel racer, Taylor’s passion for the sport comes naturally to her. Running barrels is a thrill for her. It’s a family busi-
ness for the Armentas’. Audra keeps a constant eye out for possible additions to their horse roster and Russell keeps the girls mentally and competitively tuned.
“We are a team,” Audra said, and it’s the team that makes this all possible. When Taylor’s not competing, spending time with her horses and hanging out with friends and family is her favorite pastime.
Some of her career highlights include winning the NBHA Las Vegas Supershow and the Xtreme Million in Tucson, both of
Taylor and her main guy Thor.
which have been long term goals for her. She also won back-to-back Sherry Cervi races in 2022 and 2023. Taylor is currently cashing in on some of the big races in Arizona during the early months of 2025.
Handling pressure is one of Taylors’s strengths and she credits her dad for helping build that in her. “Before I enter the arena, I feel like I could fight a grizzly bear and win,” she said. Both parents agree that Taylor is very coachable and uses her mindset to get done what she came to do, and that’s win.
“We’ve been told that Taylor ‘breathes rare air’ and that she has something that can’t be coached,” Russell said. “But really, we’ve just instilled in her that we don’t show up to lose, we’re winners. I tell Taylor, if you don’t win, we won’t have to send you home. Those other competitors will send you home when they outrun you.”
Taylor, Thor and her other horse Biggs, as well as Charlie, a horse she’s campaigning for Byron and Mary Walker, took home $9,000 the last weekend of January at the Queen Creek Xtreme Barrel Race. It’s very evident that when Taylor puts together her mindset and her skilled horsemanship, she makes success happen.
The Armentas express continual gratitude to the Walkers for their trust in Taylor and to all of Taylor’s sponsors for making a young champion’s dreams keep coming true.
Custom Slaughtering & Custom Processing
The Podcast for the Southwest
Contributed by Patina Thompson
Amongst the digital media world, there’s a podcast unlike any other. A podcast that melds together the rich history of the Southwest, charming personality of the hosts, and provides vital weather and cattle reports for active agriculturists.
The brainchild of Paul Ramirez, Western Ag Life Media’s podcast combines the talents of a formidable trio that educates and delivers information in a casual and fun setting, with a digital podcast that’s easy to digest.
One piece of the trio is Matt Arendt. Matt is the “best thing that came out of California” according to Paul and offers a unique perspective of the cattle market. Matt grew up around horses, roping and rodeo, and got started at the ripe age of 13 with his very own bucking bull business.
While in high school, he took a job at the local livestock auction which sparked his passion for all aspects of the business. After earning an Agriculture Business and Animal Science degree at Oklahoma State University, Matt worked for various packers and buyers and is now in the cattle business buying and selling for himself and others.
Matt publishes a weekly newsletter, titled “Catching up with the Cattle market” that covers fat cattle trade, box beef cutout trends, cull cow and bull prices and feeder and stocker markets in the West.
The Western Ag Life podcast is not only a great tool to get Matt’s weekly report to the masses, Matt sees it as a necessity for agriculture producers in the Southwest and western U.S.
“Many producers don’t know the full picture of what happens each week in the cattle market, what sells and what doesn’t. Operators who want to continue to be successful need to know how it’s all tied together. The more education an operator can have, no matter where they are in the country, the better decisions they can make in buying and selling livestock”, said Matt.
A vital piece of the trio is held by Dr. Dean Fish. Dean was born on the Singing Valley Ranch (previously Thurber Registered Hereford’s) in Sonoita and credits his deep roots in agriculture not only to his family, but to
his involvement in 4-H as a youth.
After fifteen years of service as a Livestock Extension Specialist at the UA, Dean is back to managing the Santa Fe Ranch, the ranch he grew up on and his dad managed for many years, and operating Anchor F Cattle LLC.
Dean Fish is well known in the agriculture industry but one might say his natural talent for interviewing people is the heart of the podcast. Western Ag Voices highlights the stories of the people and characters that make up the rich fabric of the West.
These are individuals who took the risks, broke the rules and made waves in the name of agriculture, but Ag Life Voices is also seeking the hidden gems and stories that have yet to be told.
Dean “believes it’s important to preserve these stories for future generations, and to feed and foster the historical component of the west. We have lost too many of the stories from great people who have so much to tell and that we can learn from.” Western Ag Life Voices provides in-depth interviews, agriculture-based stories and serves to educate the public about the rich and plentiful food, fiber and folks of the West.
Western Ag Life Media’s founder Paul Ramirez is from one of the original ranching families in the Sulphur Springs Valley. Even though his family moved to Tucson when Paul was young for his father to pursue a
more stable job at the mines, Paul’s love for agriculture that was ingrained in his heritage never left him. In high school,
Paul jumped at the opportunity to join FFA and was the first student to earn the American Farmer Degree from Amphitheater High School in Tucson. While in high school, Paul worked at Nelson Livestock where Jack Nelson and Larry Hudecek mentored and molded him. Paul later worked for Shamrock Dairy, Arizona Feeds, found time to become an award-winning auctioneer, and is the lead agent for the real estate auction division of United Country Stockmen’s Realty.
version of Western Ag Life Media to get in front of consumers on a more consistent basis.
Paul’s intent is to be diverse in content, he explains, “topics and products will be all-encompassing, anything from reining horses, horse races, clothing, artists and artwork, auctions, real estate, livestock shows, floriculture to poultry. Any aspect of the agriculture community and western lifestyle is welcomed conversation.
Paul thanks his wife, Tina, for the concept behind Western Ag Life magazine which he founded in 2018 to communicate, educate and celebrate the people of the western lifestyle.
“Tina would be fascinated by the stories I would come home with after visiting with people at the sale barns and feed stores,” states Paul.
Tina urged him to share the stories to keep them alive. The popular paper format was published quarterly and led to the digital
The podcast is a hub for producers to connect with producers, support each other, and market services and products to a worldwide audience of agriculturists. Western Ag Life’s podcast is available on all major platforms. Heck, even Siri and Alexa know who we are!”
There are many great stories to be heard, just a click away, at Western Ag Life Media’s podcast. If you have a recommendation for an individual or stories that needs to be told, please email info@westernaglife.com. Sponsorship opportunities are available by visiting www.westernaglife.com. ▫
TSCRA Submits Second Amicus Brief on Landowner Rights Court Case
Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association submitted its second amicus brief supporting landowner ownership of groundwater in the Texas Supreme Court case Cactus Water Services LLC v. COG Operating LLC.
In the dispute, landowners contracted to sell produced water to a third party, but the oil and gas company argued they retained ownership under existing leases.
“For Texas landowners, ownership of groundwater is among the most essential private property rights,” said Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association President, Carl Ray Polk Jr. “Water makes ranching, agriculture and mineral production possible.”
The amicus brief urges the Court to uphold the longstanding principle in Texas that the landowner owns all the groundwater under their land, including groundwater
brought to the surface through the oil and gas process.
“Texas courts have consistently agreed that groundwater ownership is tied to the landowner. Any effort to erode this fundamental principle endangers private property rights and Texas agriculture,” Polk said. “Our members — Texas landowners and agricultural operators — rely on the certainty of the law to protect and uphold their private property rights.”
Background:
Beginning in 2005, Collier and Balmorhea Ranches, Inc. entered certain oil and gas leases with COG Operating LLC. The oil and gas leases did not convey any rights of ownership to the groundwater underlying the property, allowing only the extraction of oil, gas, and hydrocarbons and limited rights to use groundwater from a newly drilled well
to aid in the extraction and production process.
In 2019, Collier and Balmorhea Ranches leased the ownership rights to all water on and underlying the property to Cactus Water Services LLC. COG Operating LLC filed suit against Cactus Water, and both parties sought competing declaratory judgments regarding the ownership of the produced water.
In 2023, the El Paso Court of Appeals ruled that oil and gas producers have an ownership interest in produced water. As a result, Cactus Water Services LLC petitioned the Texas Supreme Court for review of the prior ruling, which is the current standing of the legal battle. ▫
JANUARY — Wildlife; Gelbvieh; Joint Stockmen’s Convention Results
FEBRUARY — Beefmasters; Texas Longhorns
MARCH — Limousin; Santa Gertrudis
APRIL — Dairy
MAY — News of the Day
JUNE Sheepman of the Year
JULY — Directory of Agriculture
AUGUST — The Horse Industry
SEPTEMBER — Charolais; Fairs Across the Southwest
OCTOBER — Hereford; New Mexico State Fair Results
NOVEMBER — Cattleman of the Year; Angus; Brangus; Red Angus; Joint Stockmen’s Convention Preview
DECEMBER — Bull Buyers Guide
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STICK HORSE SCRIPTURES
by Maureen T. McGinn
This book is a fresh perspective to the vital teachings of the Ten Commandments through the use of a “Stick Horse.” It is a tremendous “hands on” tool for bedtime stories, road trips and Sunday school classes.
The colorful book is designed to be used by parents, grandparents or any adult who cares about children and wants to pass on these timeless truths.
Maureen T. McGinn has loved, and worked with children for over 40 years. She worked as a children’s Pastor for 10 years, through vacation bible schools, backyard bible clubs and all variety of venues. She shares the significant truths of God’s word in a creative way in order to convey God’s truths to children early in their lives.
Hardcover books are $22.95 / Soft cover is $13.95 Books may be ordered at westbowpress.com
Kathy Winkler Capturing
Mitigating Threat of New World Screwworm
Protocols Ensure Safe Movement of Animals
On February 1, the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced the resumption of cattle and bison imports from Mexico. Imports are scheduled to resume within the next several days.
To protect U.S. livestock and other animals, APHIS halted shipments of Mexican cattle and bison in November 2024 after a positive detection of New World screwworm (NWS) in southern Mexico. After extensive discussions between representatives from the countries, APHIS and Mexico agreed to and implemented a comprehensive pre-clearance inspection and treatment protocol to ensure safe movement and mitigate the threat of NWS.
APHIS’ top priority is to protect American livestock from foreign pests. As part of the protocol signed between the countries, Mexico identified and prepared pre-export inspection pens in San Jeronimo, Chihuahua, and Agua Prieta, Sonora, which APHIS has now visited, inspected, and approved.
Cattle and bison will be inspected and treated for screwworm by trained and authorized veterinarians prior to entering the pre-export inspection pens, where they will again undergo inspection by Mexican officials before proceeding to final APHIS inspection then crossing at the Santa Teresa, New Mexico and Dougla, Arizona Ports of Entry, respectively. Cattle and bison approved for importation will also be dipped in a solution to ensure they are otherwise insect- and tick -free. The United States and Mexico are working closely to approve additional pre-export inspection pens and reopen trade through other ports of entry.
To support our efforts to keep NWS out of the United States, APHIS will continue working with partners in Mexico and Central America to eradicate NWS from the affected areas and to reestablish the biological barrier in Panama, which we have worked to maintain since 2006.
In the last two years, screwworm has spread north of the barrier throughout Panama and into Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Belize and now Mexico. This increase is due to multiple factors including new areas of farming in previous barrier regions for fly control and increased cattle movements into the region.
APHIS is releasing sterile flies through aerial and ground release at strategic locations, focusing on Southern Mexico and other areas throughout Central America. A complete list of regions APHIS recognizes as affected by screwworm as well as more detailed information on trade restrictions can be found on the USDA APHIS Animal Health Status of Regions.
LA Wildfires Bring Water, Forest Management Issues to the Fore
by Nick Smith, Healthy Forests, Healthy Communities
The tragic wildfires in Los Angeles have reignited national discussions about forest management, wildland firefighting, smoke pollution, and water.
Although these urban fires are not traditional forest fires, they underscore the critical need for effective vegetation management and robust water infrastructure and availability.
Wildfires require three elements: fuel, oxygen, and heat. While weather conditions and oxygen levels are beyond human control, managing the available fuel— such as overgrown vegetation—is within our capabilities.
Proactively reducing excess vegetation
through methods like forest thinning and creating fuel breaks can significantly mitigate wildfire risks.
These measures not only slow the spread of fires but also provide firefighters with safer and more effective opportunities to protect lives, homes, wildlife habitats, and water resources.
President-elect Donald Trump has criticized California’s forest management practices and water policies, suggesting decades of mismanagement have contributed to the severity of the fires.
Governor Newsom has defended his administration, emphasizing the state’s investments in firefighting and vegetation
management.
Critics, however, point to onerous environmental regulations and bureaucracy that have stymied efforts to increase the pace and scale of fuels reduction. They also say recent budget cuts have affected fire prevention programs, potentially exacerbating wildfire risks.
The Los Angeles fires highlighted challenges in water supply during emergencies. In Pacific Palisades, for instance, fire hydrants ran dry as the local water system was overwhelmed by the demands of firefighting efforts.
Beyond fire prevention, active forest management plays a significant role in water conservation. Overgrown forests consume substantial amounts of water, reducing availability for aquifers and downstream flows. The resulting wildfires can devastate watersheds and aquatic resources.
Researchers have found that over the period 1990 to 2008, fire-thinned forests saved 3.7 billion gallons of water annually in California’s Kings River Basin and a whopping 17 billion gallons of water annually in the American River Basin –water that would otherwise have been lost through evapotranspiration. These results illustrate that restoring forests through mechanical thinning or wildfire can also save California billions of gallons of water each year.
Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive policy reforms. The bipartisan “Fix Our Forests Act,” passed by the U.S. House of Representatives last year, aims to enhance forest health and resilience by expediting environmental analyses, reducing frivolous anti-forestry lawsuits, and increasing the pace and scale of forest restoration projects. This legislation reflects a growing consensus on the need for active forest management to mitigate wildfire risks and protect vital water resources.
The Los Angeles wildfires serve as a stark reminder of the inter-connectedness of wildfire management, vegetation control, and water policy. Proactive measures in forest and vegetation management are solutions- not only for reducing wildfire risks but also for ensuring adequate water supply.
This is why the federal government should continue its intense national discussions on these issues, and act quickly to mitigate future disasters.
Massive Department of LandEnergy Grab Threatens Eastern New Mexico
by Caren Cowan
The United States Department of Energy (DOE) is considering constructing three National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors (NIETC), including the Southwestern Grid Connector Corridor, which is currently proposed to span the entire length of eastern New Mexico and into eastern Colorado. The NIETC could threaten local government’s siting authority and impact private property rights.
According to the DOE, “a NIETC is an area of the country where DOE has determined that a lack of adequate transmission
harms consumers and hampers access to reliable and affordable electricity.” Within this corridor, private, for-profit, government financed transmission developers can build heavy industrial transmission infrastructure, dangerous battery storage for renewable energy or “alternative non transmission solutions”.
The NIETC gives transmission developers, backed by the DOE, “the ability to obtain right-of-way by exercising the right of eminent domain”. Along with this, the DOE would work on behalf of for-profit developers to get their preferred route regardless of the current or intended use of the owner’s land and regardless of the impact it would have on a land owner’s ability to continue a viable operation. Lastly, private land is specifically being targeted because it is easier to bypass the reviews federal, tribal or state land would require.
While this initial corridor is a minimum of five miles wide, the DOE is reserving the right to open 15 mile wide or larger corridors in the future.
lands, which may explain the route. DOE is focusing on areas where it believes NIETC designation may be most valuable at this time to unlock federal tools to accelerate transmission deployment.
To expedite and streamline this process, the Federal Power Act authorizes the Secretary of Energy to designate any geographic area as a NIETC if the Secretary finds that consumers are harmed by a lack of transmission in the area and that the development of new transmission would advance important national interests in that area, such as increased reliability and reduced consumer costs.
DOE is in Phase 3 of this project, which is focused on public engagement while refining the scope and geographic boundaries of the NIETC. Coming into Phase 3, the DOE reduced the number of potential corridors NIETC from 10 to three.
Potential National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC): Southwestern Grid Connector
Shaded Potential NIETC Geographic Area
The proposed route for the Southwestern Grid Corridor takes in 2,000,000 acres in New Mexico. The route goes down the Oklahoma state line and runs along the Texas state line.
There is less permitting necessary when DOE projects are done on private and state
Shaded Potential NIETC Geographic Area
The government’s rationale for NIETCs is that “Consumers are frequently harmed from a lack of transmission infrastructure, which can directly contribute to higher electricity prices, more frequent power outages from extreme weather, and longer outages as the grid struggles to come back online. While these needs are urgent, building and expanding electric transmission often requires several years of permitting, siting, and regulatory processes, especially if the
Potential National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor (NIETC): Southwestern Grid Connector
transmission line extends through multiple states and regions.”
DOE is aware of potential impacts to military testing, training and operations and will continue working with the DoD Military Aviation and Assurance Siting Clearinghouse to address these impacts as these potential NIETCs are further refined in Phase 3.
Funding and authority for the NIETCs came via the 2021 Infrastructure and Jobs Act, according to government documents.
DOE is currently seeking public comment on this proposed project. Specifically:
Ї DOE invites suggestions on environmental, cultural, or socioeconomic considerations or potential effects that DOE should consider during its review and analysis of its potential NIETC designations, including comments on whether any potential effects can be meaningfully evaluated. DOE additionally seeks input on whether each potential NIETC maximizes existing rights-ofway and avoids and minimizes, to the maximum extent practicable, and offsets to the extent appropriate and practicable, sensitive environmental areas and cultural heritage sites (FPA
section 216(a)(4)(G)).
While this DOE proposal came from the last Administration as part of the Green New Deal and there is a new sheriff in town, this action must be taken as the threat it is. This is a regulatory taking that could end up in court.
Failing a remedy through the process, landowners and their supporters could end up in court and they must have standing to do so.
All private landowners on the proposal are encouraged to submit a public comment urging the DOE to conduct a full analysis of the effects this project may have on your operation and community. Those not falling within the corridor are encouraged to support their fellow landowners with comments. That includes neighboring states who benefit from New Mexico economic activity.
The New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, along with local county commissions, is holding a series of Town Hall meetings across the potentially impacted areas in early February. The New Mexico Legislature is also addressing the issue from their perspective.
In the next phase—Phase 4—the final NIETC routes will be designated. Comments are due February 14, 2025. You may submit your comment using one of the following methods:
Environmental Information
Online: Submit your comment here: www. regulations.gov/docket/DOE-HQ-2024-0089 (Docket Number DOE–HQ–2024–0089— Potential Designation of the Southwestern Grid Connector National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor)
Email: Send to NIETC@hq.doe.gov with the subject line “DOE–HQ–2024–0089— Potential Designation of the Southwestern Grid Connector National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor”
Mail: U.S. Department of Energy, Grid Deployment Office, 1000 Independence Ave. SW, Suite 4H–065, Washington, DC 20585 (must be postmarked on or before February 14, 2025)
If you would like to read more information about the NIETC, you can visit the following websites:
Ї DOE NIETC Web Page: www.energy. gov/gdo/national-interest-electrictransmission-corridor-designationprocess
Ї DOE Guidance on Implementing the Statute to Designate NIETCs: www. energy.gov/sites/default/files/202312/2023-12-15%20GDO%20NIETC%20 Final%20Guidance%20Document.pdf
Editor’s Note: Special thanks to the Budd-Falen Law Office and Jonna Lou Schafer for their contributions to this article. ▫
Note: Any personally identifiable information included in your comment form or attachment (such as your address) may be publicly disclosed.
Re: Docket No. DOE–HQ–2024–0089— Potential Designation of the Southwestern Grid Connector National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor
The proposed Southwestern Grid Connector Corridor constitutes a “major federal action” requiring DOE to conduct a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The project will significantly impact environmental, cultural and socioeconomic values in my community and on my [ranch/farm/dairy/land/business]. A thorough and complete analysis through an EIS is necessary to ensure all impacts are properly evaluated.
[NEPA is an environmental law that requires the federal government to analyze the environmental effects of proposed projects. Before DOE can construct on one of the NIETCs, it must complete some level of environmental review. NEPA provides three levels of review:
1. Categorical Exclusion: Used if the proposed action will have no “significant effect on the human environment,” allowing the agency to forgo a detailed analysis (easiest for the agency)
2. Environmental Assessment (EA): Used when the action may have minor environmental impacts, requiring only a brief analysis of such effects
3. Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): Used when the project constitutes a “major” federal action “significantly affecting the quality of the human environment;” an EIS is a detailed and comprehensive report that evaluates environmental impacts, considers alternative options, and addresses other relevant factors (most challenging level of review for the agency)
We want to illustrate that the NIETC qualifies as a major action that will significantly impact the human environment, so that DOE will need to conduct the most thorough level of analysis.]
I am a [rancher/farmer/dairyman/landowner/businessowner] in County, New Mexico. The proposed Southwestern Grid ConnectorCorridorroutetraverses
[my land/community/county] This project will directly impact my operation by
[The routes are not set in stone and will likely be amended. Even if the project does not look like it will cross your property as the route is currently drafted, it is important to describe the impacts that it would have on your operation in the case the route changes. This is a good opportunity to provide input on the route.]
As a New Mexico -------------------------,
[rancher/farmer/dairyman/landowner/businessowner]
I offer the following comments for consideration in developing the Southwestern NIETC corridor:
[The following bullet points are merely ideas on what topics you may want to consider. Customize the list based on the effects you anticipate in your community and operation. Be as detailed as possible. We need to show that these effects are reasonably likely to occur and create measurable damages.]
Environmental Effects
Ї Reduced land availability for grazing or planting, especially during the construction phase, with ongoing maintenance impacts into the operation phase too
Ї Increased need for access roads
Ї Impacts on endangered species and critical habitat
Example: My ranch is located near lesser prairie chicken habitat. A transmission corridor would further endanger lesser prairie chickens and make it harder for my operation to comply with the already challenging endangered species regulations. If my own ability to develop and operate on my land is limited due to lesser prairie chickens, DOE should be subject to the same limitations and held to the same standards.
Ї Increased exposure to radiation from EMF (electromagnetic field) frequencies
Ї Harm to wildlife and wildlife habitats
Ї Disruption to bird and butterfly migration routes
Ї Soil disturbance and erosion
Cultural Effects
Ї Harm to state and/or national landmarks (Santa Fe Trail, Route 66, etc.)
Ї Disturbance to archaeological or historical sites
Ї Degradation of scenic value and local aesthetics
Ї Noise pollution from the buzzing sound
Ї Encroaches on local authority (siting, permits, limits county’s ability to set reclamation, decommissioning, height limitations, setback requirements, etc.)
Ї Changes the community’s character
Socioeconomic Effects
Ї Decreased land values
Ї Reduced marketability of property and fewer interested buyers
Ї Clouds property title (future sales are much more challenging when the land is subject to potential condemnation)
Ї Difficult to plant and conduct other agricultural operations around a transmission line
Ї Reduced grazing capacity
Ї Negative impact on hunting and ability generate income from selling tags
Ї Challenges in securing loans (by affecting mortgage agreements and diminished property values)
Ї Interference with existing easements
Ї Increased susceptibility to future condemnation for additional infrastructure and electric projects
Ї Economic shifts due to federal policy changes, such as President Trump’s moratorium on federal wind leasing in parts of the United States and the review of existing wind projects, which may reduce the need for the NIETC
For these reasons, there is no doubt that this project constitutes a major federal action that will significantly impact the environment, community, and economy in my community. Additionally, my local government better understands the specific needs of my community. DOE should respect our local communities and refrain from threatening my local government’s siting and decision-making authority.
[Additional
I urge DOE to conduct a full EIS and coordinate with New Mexico [ranchers/ farmers/ dairyman/ landowners/businessman], my local government in [County Name] County, and [Organizations or other people who represent your interests] throughout the remainder of the Southwestern Grid Connector Corridor project.
Sincerely,
[summarize effects]
Youth Las Vegas Recap
“Holy hot sauce, the kids that rodeo in and around New Mexico are all kinds of on fire!”
Congratulations to all of you. You are making us proud all over NM and the Southwest and I hope you all continue to work hard at what you love! This is the way to get there!
Before we run down the list, please know this is NOT everyone! Several of us try to keep track but there are a lot of different world junior events, and many do not post their standings. I rely on parents to keep me on track, but I always miss a few. Whether they are on this list or not doesn’t mean we are not over the top proud of their efforts… its just, paperwork, and not my strong suit! It is exciting to note that there are so many NM kids going that I can’t keep track of all of them!
If we have missed something, please feel free to share it with the New Mexico Stockman at caren.cowa1@gmail.com
Myles Nixon 16, Vegas Tuffest 15
Under tie down, 1st in 1st and 2nd round, World Champion
Jr Patriot won 1st in the 19 and under
Jorgia Nixon 17, 19 and under breakaway
Jr World tied for 4th, 5th and 6th 19u Rope for the Crown won the average and 4th in the shootout
Wacey Trujillo Vegas Tuffest 15 under Goat Tying World Champion, Wacey also competed in the 19 and under Goat Tying. She brought home
Hardy Osborn
Novice Saddlebronc Yeti World Finals, 2nd round 2
Channing Robinson Yeti Junior World Finals
9th grader from Las Cruces, NM. She competed in Pole Bending and Barrel Racing at the KK Run for Vegas/ Junior World Finals in Las Vegas, NV December 9-14. She finished Fourth in the Average overall in Pole Bending.
Jack Chase Novice Saddlebronc Yeti World Finals
Cade and Lane Peralta Vegas Tuffest and Yeti Junior World Finals
Teagan Trujillo Vegas Tuffest 15 and Under Goats Short Go
Colton Gonzales, Yeti Junior World Finals
Noah Gonzales, Yeti Junior World Finals
Channing Robinson Yeti Junior World Finals
Raley Valdez Vegas Tuffest
Keelin Faulkner Vegas Tuffest 19 and Under Breakaway
Elise Martinez Vegas Tuffest 12 and Under Goat Tying
Paislee Foster, 12 years old, Kirtland NM 12 and under Breakaway Vegas Tuffest 15 and under Breakaway Vegas Tuffest 12 and under Breakaway Jr World Finals
Riggin Foster, 10 years old, Kirtland NM 10 and under Breakaway Vegas Tuffest 10 and under Breakaway Jr World Finals ▫
$18,000 in purse money!
Brody Bisetti Age 13, Yeti Junior World Finals
Junior Saddle Bronc Reserve World Champion
Taylor Armenta 13, Yeti Junior World Finals and All In Barrel Race KK Run for Vegas and placed 4th in the showdown round at All In Barrel Race bringing home $6k for the trip.
Kaden Miranda, Novice Saddlebronc Yeti World Finals High Point ride, won round 1, 7th in average
Morgan Parra, Yeti Junior World Finals Pole bending and barrel racing “We are beyond proud as she trained Bucket, a grade, supposed to be a head horse, to run barrels and hang with the toughest of horses and riders.” From her mama, Aimee
Kai Presley and Cha-Cha, Junior World Finals 15 and Under Breakaway
Paige Trujillo 12 and under goats Vegas Tuffest 13th in average Short Go
Reed Trujillo Vegas Tuffest
Stetson Trujillo Vegas Tuffest
Lane Valenzuela, stock contractor. Lane and his dad took bulls to the Yeti Junior World Finals
Addison Kinser Kimes Million Dollar Breakaway(Scottsdale), Yeti Junior World Finals 19u breakaway, Vegas Tuffest 19u Breakaway, Masters Elite Youth Breakaway, and Jr Patriot Vegas 19u breakaway.
Pistol Barnes Vegas World Tuffest and Yeti Junior World Finals Tie Down
Eastin Rosales, Vegas Tuffest Taos, NM 15 and Under Tie Down
Logan Delinte, a Canadian native, a cowboy from birth and an occasional bucking horse rider, earned the Rookie of the Year title at the 29th World Championship Ranch Rodeo.
The 27-year-old was raised on a ranch in Saskatchewan, Canada, where he developed his love for horses and ranch rodeos. He learned from his father, watching him cowboy and compete in local events.
Special Events & Entertainment
COWBOY ROPING
Sat., Feb. 15 @ 2 p.m., Books Open 12 noon
• $5000 Added & Buckles
• Double Mugging & Team Tying
– 2 Man Team, $200 Entry
– 2 HD, Double Mug Run,
2 Loop limit and Team Tying Run, Head & Heel, Tie 3 legs,
3 loop limit
– Paying On Aggregate
– Limited to 100 Teams!
• BOOTHS/VENDORS
• CHUCK WAGON COOKOFF, $4,000 ADDED - PLATES SOLD
• “Roots of Rodeo”Specialty Act
• BUCK N CANCER FOUNDATION
$2,500 CASH GIVEAWAY
- SAT. NIGHT ONLY
• VALENTINE’S DAY DANCE
- Western Swing Hall of Famer, JODY NIX AND THE TEXAS COWBOYS -Friday Night9 p.m.-Midnight
• SATURDAY NIGHT DANCE
- Featuring The Justin Kemp Band, 9 p.m. - Midnight
– COWBOY ROPINGEntries Call 575-535-8888
– Vendor and Chuck Wagon Cook Off entry & info call Sunni at 575-799-7351
BRONCS
• Open Saddle & Ranch
$12,000 Added Each
• Women’s Ranch
$8,000 Added
• Jr. Saddle Bronc
$12,000 Added (2 age groups)
• Jr. Ranch Bronc $6,000 Added (2 age groups)
• Top 15 to the Semi-Final Round, 8 TO FINALS
• “Added Fee” for non-members ($100 Open, $50 Juniors
JACKPOTS (2 ROUNDS)
PBRA FINALS
QUALIFIER,WCRA ALLIANCE, JR WORLD QUALIFIER
FRIDAY, FEB 14
1st GO 7 p.m., check in 4-5
OPEN SB & RB – $1,500 added each / $150 entry
Jr SB & RB - 11-14 Age, $750 ADDED $80 ENTRY
15-18 age, $1,000 added / $100 entry
WOMENS RB - $1000 added / $100 entry
SATURDAY, FEB 15
2nd GO 10 a.m., check in 8-9 Entries same as Friday.
2 p.m. - Jr. Broncs Semifinals in conjunction with cowboy roping 7 p.m. PBRA Semifinals & Finals
$300 Entry for Open RB & SB / $200 Entry for WRB & JR
* Saddle Bronc entries through NextGen Rodeo App, all else call 575-535-8888.
* Entries Open - Jan. 10 and Close Jan. 31. LIMITED ENTRIES!!!
Stock Contractors: Vaquero Productions, Clark Rodeo Ranches, Dewitt Broncs, Those Guys Rodeo Co.
Delinte took a leap of faith when he moved to the lower 48 to Hobbs, New Mexico, to attend New Mexico Junior College on a rodeo scholarship. Though he got his start team roping, his teammates and friends convinced him to ride bucking horses for the rodeo team. Having long been interested in the event, he jumped at the chance.
But after riding broncs for some years, he retired his spurs with the exception of a few rides at the occasional ranch rodeo. His last bronc ride before this season was in 2019.
However, that bucking horse experience came in handy when Cody Kendall from Beachner Brothers Livestock in Kansas gave him a call and asked if he would want to be on their team—under one condition: he had to ride the broncs.
I told Cody, ‘I ain’t going to practice and it’s going to take me a few,’” Delinte recalled. “And he said, ‘That’s fine as long as you want to get on them.’ And I told him, ‘Well, I’m probably gonna fall off a few.’”
Delinte had attended the World Championships while in college and thought it was “pretty dang cool” but said competing this year topped it all.
“Being from Canada, I’d never seen anything like that,” Delinte said. “Being able to get in there and compete this year was kind of a dream come true.”
The nerves hit Delinte as the lights went down before the first grand entry.
“I was just super nervous riding down that tunnel and hearing everybody hooting and hollering,” he said.
His horse, who he calls Black Magic,
could also feel the nerves. At just under 4 years old, he’d only been to a handful of ranch rodeos, but after Delinte qualified while riding him, he thought it was only right to bring him.
“I took him to Medicine Lodge where we qualified and I thought, ‘Well I qualified on him; I ought to take him to the finals,’ and he handled it pretty good,” Delinte said.
The atmosphere caught up to Black Magic for just a moment during the stray gathering.
“I heeled that steer and drug him off and my saddle kind of slipped off to the side a little bit,” Delinte said. “When I stepped off of him, he started bucking when I was running to tie the steer.”
The rookie had quite a cheering section. His wife, Hagen, who is expecting, his parents, his in-laws, friends and family were all in attendance, cheering him on. You can imagine their excitement when Logan was called to receive the award.
Logan stressed that he and Hagen had won Rookie of the Year together.
“She really helped me win that deal,” he said. “She packed my bronc saddle all summer long, fed me, washed all my clothes after I’d get my head stepped on, got all the mud stains out of everything all the time. She won it just as much as I did, so it was pretty exciting for the both of us.”
Hagen and Logan are expecting their first baby in March, and they can’t wait to share the stories of this year’s championships with their child. Logan said his father-in-law even bought a WRCA shirt for the little one to wear.
“We’ll give it to her and tell her, ‘Hey, that was from the time your dad won Rookie of the Year there,” Delinte said.
His rookie year won’t be his only year. Delinte said he looks forward to hopefully coming back in the future and doing better each year.
“I’m so thankful for the WRCA and American Hats for the check and the hat,” he said. “That was awesome. I don’t know how I won it, but I sure am glad they picked me.”
As Logan and Hagen settle back into their life in Hutchinson, Kansas, riding colts, training rope horses, day working and preparing for the arrival of their baby girl, the 2024 World Championship weekend will stand out as a defining chapter—one they’ll share proudly with their growing family.
This article appears in the December 2024 issue of the Hungry Loop. ▫
The WRCA Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to working ranch cowboys and their family members who show an interest in continuing their education in a collegiate, trade or vocational program.
All scholarship applications must be postmarked by March 3, and the applications must be complete, including letters of recommendation and transcripts. So do not delay if you know a student who needs to apply!
Scholarship Qualification Guidelines: bit.ly/WRCA_Scholarship_Guidelines (this will open a pdf in a new window or begin a download)
Scholarship Applicaton: Request an application by phone 806-374-9722 or email kaycee@wrca.org
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