The Progressive Rancher - May/June 2022 by The Progressive Rancher

11 Editorial | Budd-Falen Law 12 Editorial | Let’s Talk Ag

28 NDA | Nevada Food and Ag Trade Report (2021 Q4)

29 USGS | Walker Basin Hydro Mapper available online

14 SRM | Water Outlook: Water Availability Via Snow Survey 30 2022 Churchill County Junior Livestock Show & Sale Results and Farm Bill Programs 18 NFB | Coping with Another 32 Public Lands Council | Capital Issues Year Of Drought 19 NFB | Scholarship Available! 20 NFB | Grassroots Newsletter

VIEW ADDITIONAL ARTICLES AT

34 Smith & Mason Valleys Water Rights & Groundwater Conditions PowerPoint

22 Idaho Rangeland Conservation 39 Churchill County Cowbelles Mongolian Beef Recipe Partnership Annual Meeting

www.progressiverancher.com For Info on these upcoming Educational Events at Cottonwood Ranch, please visit the PR website! PFC Riparian Workshop Facilitator: Dr. Sherman Swanson June 21 • 9am & June 22 • 4pm Range Plant Identification Workshop Facilitator: Gerald Miller July 7 • 10am & July 8 • 12pm Soil & Health Management Workshop Facilitator: Dr. Nicole Masters July 21 • 9am-4pm & July 22 • 8am-3pm SAGE GROUSE FESTIVAL at Cottonwood Ranch August 4th, 5th and 6th

Owner/Editor/Publisher – Leana Litten Carey progressiverancher@gmail.com Graphic Design/Layout | athena@athenart.com

Cover Photo Credit: Leana Litten Carey Photo of Addison Allegre at the 2022 CCJLS. 4H. Two Blue Ribbons. Published 8 times a year. View all issues at www.progressiverancher.com Readership reaches more than 30,000. The views and opinions expressed by writers of articles appearing in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor. Letters of opinion are welcome; submit via email. Advertising rates available upon request. Advertising does not imply editorial endorsement. Liability for errors or omissions in advertisements shall not exceed the cost of the space occupied by the error or omission.

Leana Litten Carey, Owner/Editor

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2 MAY/JUNE 2022

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

president ' s perspective I suppose it should be expected because of my advanced age, but it seems like I’ve lost an awful lot of people in the past couple of years. I recently traveled to a celebration of life gettogether for Hank Brackenbury. I met Hank and Joi back in the early ‘80s and they’re folks I’ve always thought a lot of. Hank was the consummate buckeroo, horseman and rancher but I will always think of him as a person who found value in folks, even when there wasn’t much - as was the case when we met when I was a young and dumb cowboy (I’ve at least gotten past the young part). This thought was expressed by others at the celebration of life as well. It seems we’re missing this in today’s world.

There’s a plethora of data that shows that even witnessing incivility, not even partaking in it, can harm interpersonal relationships, make people less productive, and make problem solving significantly less likely to happen. I’ve always been proud of our Association in that we’ve provided for civil discourse for our membership and the folks we do business with, in order to further our mission. We have a long line of officers and presidents who have set the example of positive interactions with folks that we definitely don’t agree with for the benefit of us all. We’re in some tough times and there’s likely more to come but we’ll take every opportunity to engage those that have influence over it. Hank, you will be missed. Rest in peace my friend.

Jon Griggs

Jon Griggs | President, NCA

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May 10, 2022 June 14, 2022 July 12, 2022 For info about our Team Roping, please visit FallonLivestock.com www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

by Martin Paris | NCA Executive Director | O: 775-738-9214

Spring Update I hope everyone is having a good spring season. Turn out time is in full swing on many ranches. Often times Mother Nature reminds us of who is in charge and this year is no different. As I write this column, 90% of Nevada falls under one of the 5 U.S. Drought Monitor categories. Looking back at this same time last year, drought conditions appear to be less severe but grueling, nonetheless. I am hoping some moisture falls and conditions are much better by the time this article circulates. Typically, this time of year NCA is in in Washington D.C. participating in the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and Public Lands Council Annual Legislative Conference where we meet with members of our Congressional delegation and other agency folks to discuss issues important to Nevada’s livestock producers. However, typical seems anything but that these days. Unfortunately, lingering COVID-19 restrictions in Washington D.C. made it nearly impossible to organize the event at this time, but the Public Lands Council was able to hold a successful Virtual Legislative Conference. During the conference we heard from USFWS Director Martha Williams, USFS

Chief Randy Moore, and BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning. We also had the change to discuss natural resources in the 117th Congress with several congressional representatives. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) continues to review the scoping comments received regarding an update to the 2015 and 2019 Sage Grouse Management Plans. There doesn’t appear to be a firm timeline on when a draft of the new potential plan will be available, but NCA continues to engage with BLM on the relevant science and actions required to achieve the desired outcome. BLM also continues to discuss a possible second look at the current grazing regulations. While the timing of release of new regulations is also unclear, it looks like it may be coming sooner rather than later. I’ll be sure to keep you all in the loop as new information comes forward, but NCA looks forward to continuing the push for more flexibility. As we all know, no two years or no two ranches are exactly the same. In many cases the current grazing regulations are the very thing that prohibit producers from being able to manage livestock grazing in a way that is beneficial to both the producer and our rangelands.

Bar O Ranch on Utah Border

The cattle industry is in a very critical time right now whether it be inflation, drought, wildfire, market issues, wildlife management, special land designations, etc.… The list seems to go on and on and can seem daunting at times. However, I remind myself that we are still here. Here as an Association, as producers, as people sustainably trying to feed an ever-growing population.

One of the few ranches available with winter range out the gate. The ranch as now offered has 909 deeded acres of which over 600 acres have irrigation water rights. Currently 3 pivots and several more ordered. BLM summer range on the Utah side, not a long drive. 3 homes and 4 shops. Approx. 300 AU. Price: $4,000,000. Will increase as new well and pivots come in.

As always, if we can be of help in any way give us a call and please check out our website at nevadacattlemen.org as we are constantly updating it.

If you’re looking to sell a farm or ranch, give me call!

Even when the deck seems stacked against us, I have confidence that between our Association, agency personnel, representatives, and other partners that we will come out the other side of these challenging issues on top. Coming out on top requires engagement and lots of it and that’s what NCA intends to do.

Chicken Ranch South of Wells 3796 + Deeded acres fenced an cross fenced with a stock water well and water from a permitted spring. The ranch has an approved irrigation permit for 130 acres and 3 phase power is readily available. There is a 100 acre parcel zoned Industrial with Rail access and access onto US. Hwy 93. Price: $2,277,559

Nevada Water Solutions LLC Water Rights / Resource Permitting Expertise

For additional information on these properties, go to: BOTTARIREALTY.COM

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paul@bottarirealty.com

1222 6th St. PO Box 368 Wells, NV 89835

4 MAY/JUNE 2022

Work: 775.752.3040 Cell: 775.752.0952 Fax: 775.752.3021 The Progressive Rancher

Thomas K. Gallagher, PE 775•825•1653 / FAX 775•825•1683 333 Flint Street / Reno, NV 89501 tomg@nevadawatersolutions.com www.progressiverancher.com

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Plant with a grain drill following second cutting on an older field alfalfa. Ready to graze in early September. “We planted GX80 following second cut alfalfa. If we had to do that over we would follow third cut. We grazed 400 head for two weeks on 20 acres” Cory Veterre - Greenriver, Utah

HERE’S WHAT RANCHERS ARE SAYING Casey Calvin - Monte Vista, CO We grazed lambs on GX80. They ate it all the way to the ground. Unbelievable! (See website for photos)

Crawford Cattle - Winnemucca, NV

Planted mid July, it was way over our heads. We were surprised as to how long we were able to graze. We also baled some of it. We’re buying again.

Roberti Ranches - Loyalton, CA We grazed pairs. They ate it all to the ground. We also baled it. The cows like it. We plant GX80 every year.

Coffin Butte Farm and Ranch - New Leitzigg, ND We planted 400 acres on dryland and fed out 800 pair. We grazed it from Oct 20 to Nov 24. The corn was 7-1/2 ft. tall. The program was a success!

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The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

Your Checkoff Dollars at Work By Makenzie Neves, Manager of Producer Education and Engagement At the Nevada Beef Council, we know how important it is to maximize the effectiveness of your dollar contribution to the checkoff. We are constantly working to leverage our budget to give you, the producer, the most return on your investment. One way we are able to do so is by taking advantage of national campaigns by working with the national checkoff and utilizing the other half of your beef checkoff dollar. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) is a contractor to the national Beef Checkoff program, and manages the Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. brand. One of the ways in which NCBA extends the beef brand messaging is by conducting foodservice and retail e-commerce partnerships on a national level with the 50 cents allotted by the checkoff. Recently, NCBA, on behalf of the national Beef Checkoff, partnered with the big box retail chain, Sam’s Club, to support retail beef sales for the 2021 holiday season. Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner. ads ran on Sam’s Club digital platforms-- including on their website, mobile app, and online holiday entertaining page. Nevada has a total of seven Sam’s Club stores in the state that were included in this nationwide e-commerce campaign. The campaign ran November 3 through December 22 2021 and reached a total of 3.1 million people across the country. It resulted in $8.7 million in incremental beef sales providing a $41.72 return on ad spend (ROAS). Campaign results also showed 8% of Sam’s Club shoppers were new to the beef category during the promotional holiday timing. The Sam’s Club campaign was a successful investment for the Beef Checkoff and Nevada beef producers. The Nevada Beef Council looks forward to the challenge of finding creative ways to invest Beef Checkoff dollars in the most economical and efficient strategies possible. Check out our website, nevadabeef.org, for more information about what the Beef Checkoff doing on your behalf.

6 MAY/JUNE 2022

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

LEMON-GARLIC BEEF TRI-TIP AND ROASTED POTATOES Roasting lemons brings out the natural sweetness of the fruit. Try this with a tender Tri-Tip Roast and hearty potatoes for a bright and flavorful meal. Ingredients • • • • • • •

1 beef Tri-Tip Roast (1-1/2 to 2 pounds) 2 large lemons, divided 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 teaspoons coarse grind black pepper 2 pounds fingerling or small red-skinned potatoes, halved or quartered if large 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon salt

Courtesy of Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner.

Did You Know?

Preparation Preheat oven to 425°F. Grate 1 tablespoon peel and squeeze 1 tablespoon juice from 1 lemon. Combine lemon peel, lemon juice, garlic and pepper in small bowl; reserve 1 tablespoon for potatoes. Press remaining lemon mixture onto all surfaces of beef Tri-Tip Roast. Cut remaining lemon into 12 wedges lengthwise; set aside. Place roast on rack in shallow roasting pan. Do not add water or cover; set aside. Combine reserved 1 tablespoon lemon mixture, potatoes, lemon wedges, oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt on rimmed sheet pan; toss to coat evenly. Roast beef in 425°F oven 30 to 40 minutes for medium rare; 40 to 50 minutes for medium doneness. Roast potatoes 25 to 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender, stirring once. Remove roast when instant-read thermometer registers 135°F for medium rare; 150°F for medium. Transfer to roast to carving board; tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10°F to reach 145°F for medium rare; 160°F for medium.) Carve roast across the grain into slices; season with salt, as desired. Serve with potatoes and lemon wedges. www.progressiverancher.com

Blood Health: Beef is an excellent source of iron. The iron in beef helps your body produce hemoglobin, a protein that helps your blood carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. Not consuming enough iron can put you at risk of iron deficiency anemia, meaning your body isn’t getting enough oxygen. You might feel tired, listless, weak, and mentally foggy. Eating beef can help prevent iron deficiency anemia in people who are at risk. Immunity and Healing: Beef is a good source of zinc, which the body needs to heal damaged tissue and support a healthy immune system. Children and adolescents also need healthy amounts of zinc to make sure they thrive and grow. Muscle function: Protein is essential for muscle health. It rebuilds the muscle tissue that is naturally lost in the wear and tear of daily life. Protein also helps you build more muscle and is especially helpful if you’re working on strength training. A single serving of beef supplies the recommended daily amount of protein, helping to prevent lost muscle mass. Losing muscle mass can make you feel weaker and may make it difficult to keep your balance, especially if you’re age 55 or older.

The Progressive Rancher

www.nevadabeef.org www.mybeefcheckoff.org MAY/JUNE 2022

BLM sage grouse changes, grazing rule coming soon “The Bureau of Land Management is working on changes to sage grouse protection plans and a new rule governing livestock grazing on federal land,” said Tracy Stone-Manning, the Bureau Director By Scott Streater Tracy Stone-Manning speaking at her confirmation hearing last year. Photo credit: Francis Chung/E&E News

E&E NEWS PM | Bureau of Land Management Director Tracy StoneManning told a ranching advocacy group today that the bureau will soon propose amendments to sweeping federal greater sage grouse plans covering millions of acres in an effort to save the bird. Stone-Manning, speaking at the Public Lands Council’s online annual legislative conference by Zoom, also indicated that BLM is nearing completion of a new rule governing livestock grazing on more than 150 million acres of federal lands. While Stone-Manning did not disclose specifics about the potential “amendments” to the sage grouse management plans, or details on the grazing rule, she did say that both are key components of an overarching effort by the Biden administration to make federal rangelands “resilient” to the effects of a warming climate and the ongoing drought plaguing much of the West. “We’re working really hard to develop a suite of policies and management actions to manage drought, provide flexibility of use, restore ecologic function and conserve really important resource values in the face of climate change and extreme drought,” StoneManning said. “You all know this much better than I do because you are on the ground facing it every day.” 8 MAY/JUNE 2022

The extreme drought will mark how BLM manages grazing and other activities on federal lands in the future, she said. The planned grazing rule follows efforts begun in early 2020 by the Trump administration to update the management of livestock and sheep grazing (Greenwire, Jan. 20, 2020). Stone-Manning assured the ranching group today that BLM is working to incorporate “flexibility” in the upcoming grazing rule that would allow the bureau to respond to rapidly changing rangeland conditions. She said the bureau will work with the ranching community to ensure the health of the lands while still allowing them to be used for grazing, recreation, energy development and other uses. “We recognize that actions taken to ensure the long-term sustainability of our public lands have the potential to create hardships for [the] folks who use public lands for your livelihoods, and folks who use it for recreational purposes,” she said. “Please know that we carry that and understand that in the foreground of our minds.” But she added: “We do, of course, also know that failing to act in the face of prolonged, extreme droughts is going to create even worse impacts to our public lands and greater hardships over the long term, for both the lands and the users of those lands.”

She said she is going to be “briefed internally here in the next week or so on both the grazing rule and the sage grouse amendments, and the next steps that we’re ready to bring forward. And as I’m briefed, I promise I will turn to you and share what we know and the approach we expect to take.”

“The 2015 plans are a solid foundation for avoiding the need to list the greater sage grouse,” Stone-Manning said. “Let me say it out loud over again: The last thing we want is to list the greater sage grouse, which is why we are all working so hard.”

President Biden’s fiscal 2023 budget request this week includes a request for $158.5 million for wildlife habitat management, most of which would go toward implementing conservation efforts for the greater sage grouse and the sagebrush steppe habitat the bird and hundreds of other species occupy (Greenwire, March 28).

“Yes, we are completely committed to it,” she said of working with the states. “We are talking one-on-one with governors about it, and we’re hearing them in their request that these [amendments] be state specific.”

Kaitlynn Glover, PLC’s executive director, told Stone-Manning during She said BLM is hiring a new senior- a question-and-answer session after level employee to serve as a “liaison her speech that ranchers are concerned specific to the ranching community” that BLM is not collaborating more on issues like rangeland health. “I’m closely on the potential amendments thrilled that help’s on the way.” with Western states, most of which have their own sage grouse protection On sage grouse, BLM last year plans in place. launched a new effort to potentially amend the Obama-era protection Stone-Manning pledged that the plans approved in 2015 to address revised plans will be “state specific,” in growing threats to the bird and its that they will recognize the different habitat over the past six years from geological and weather conditions climate change, persistent drought, in each state. She noted BLM has wildfires and the spread of invasive been consulting on the issue with the plant species (Greenwire, 11.19.21). Western Governors’ Association.

Part of that money would also support “reviewing and updating sage grouse management in land-use plans to address population declines, new science, and climate change and improve the resilience of long-term conservation strategies,” according to a BLM review of the budget request. The issue of sage grouse management in relation to the grazing is controversial, as grazing allotments sometimes overlap with grouse habitat. If bird populations decline, and the sage grouse were to be listed for protection under the Endangered Species Act, it could have a significant impact on ranching on federal lands.

The Progressive Rancher

GRAZING IMPACTS TO RANGELANDS Stone-Manning’s speech to the ranching trade group today comes as environmental advocates this month ramped up calls for BLM to better manage livestock and sheep grazing to protect stressed federal lands. The government watchdog group Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER) used BLM data to develop an interactive digital map that found 54 million acres of federal lands the bureau leased for livestock grazing failed land healthy standards for basic physical and biological factors (E&E News PM, March 14). www.progressiverancher.com

Glover dismissed the PEER analysis at the time as “wholly unscientific and disappointing.” She also did so after Stone-Manning’s speech. Western Watersheds Project, which opposes large-scale grazing on federal lands, later released an online report showing that BLM failed to conduct a environmental analysis before renewing more than half of the grazing permits it approved last year (E&E News PM, March 23). WWP said the likely result is degraded federal rangelands, including those that are home to sensitive wildlife species like greater sage grouse. Both PEER and WWP shared the results of their separate analysis with Stone-Manning. Stone-Manning was asked during the question-and-answer session about the reports and how BLM planned to address them.

of environmental reviews on permit renewals, as required by the National Environmental Policy Act. “The second study that was out there that talked about the stale NEPA on a bunch of our permits is true,” she said. “It is just not OK that everybody on this screen has permits, in some cases, that are 20 years old; it’s not OK.” But she said she wants to move past the “finger-pointing” on which stakeholders are most to blame for failing rangeland conditions. “Truly the good news is — and the shared value no matter who it is who’s talking about it— we all want for the future for these rangelands to be healthy, productive, that they have the ability to deliver that sustained yield that is truly our mission,” she said.

While Stone-Manning did echo BLM’s comments earlier this month that the bureau “disagreed” with some of the conclusions in the PEER report, she acknowledged the backlog

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The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

Bureaucratic Confusion Bureaucracies have always amazed me for the ways in which while doing their mandated functions they manage to confuse the public and at times conflict with each other while representing the views and implementing the policies of their governing entities. Does the right hand ever know what the left hand is doing? I imagine the agricultural news reporting on these bureaucratic activities is as confusing to you as it is to me at times. An example of this conflicting, confusing activity was recently reported in an obscure fashion by very few agricultural news outlets. You have heard the following statement or seen messages like it, I am sure. Critics like to report the news that what you and your cattle do every day is destroying the planet, ruining the atmosphere with the methane produced by those cows doing nothing else but spreading their evil emissions. In fact, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), composed of a group of United Nations scientists, has issued reports in the recent past blaming agriculture, and particularly animal agriculture, as major contributors to human-caused global warming. The reports usually say agriculture is responsible for about 14.5% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions and beef and cattle production contributes 65% of those emissions. But, there are also reports that exaggerate those numbers significvantly. Of course, these reports also fail to mention positive conclusions like the American success story. Here, beef and cattle production contribute a mere 2% of these emissions while utilizing marginal arable land unsuitable for crops at least part of every bovine’s life. And no doubt you have read or heard the transportation sector exceeds 29% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. I do not mean to pick on transportation because this sector is also making great strides to reduce emissions. However, you would think the UN scientists would highlight examples of how to do things right rather than blanket criticize. They should do this because if we are at a critical time, then action rather than criticism is needed. This leads me to the point of this month’s remarks. In March 2022, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) unanimously decreed 2026 would be the International Year of Rangelands and 10 MAY/JUNE 2022

Pastoralists (IYRP). Explicit in the announcement of this UN initiative was the acknowledgement that “healthy rangelands are vital for contributing to economic growth, resilient livelihoods and the sustainable development of pastoralism.” Over half of the world’s surface (about 54%) are rangelands. And I need not remind this readership our livestock converts vegetation which cannot be utilized by humans into healthy, inexpensive, highquality protein which helps to feed an increasingly hungry human population. It is estimated over 700 million people are suffering from hunger. Indeed, farmers and ranchers the world over who are the stewards of these rangelands play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity, protecting watersheds and sequestering carbon to more than offset the small contribution their livestock make to greenhouse gas emissions. It is not an exaggeration to say rangelands sustained by pastoralism form the largest carbon sink on the planet. In fact, recent science has concluded that grass root systems are more important for carbon sequestration than healthy forests. As the press release from the IYRP stated, “Pastoralism is a production system that requires little fossil fuel energy. It relies primarily on selfgenerating natural pastures…Thus, pastoralism can be a nature-friendly production system that optimizes the dynamic balance between production and sustainability under highly variable and changing conditions.” The stated goal of the IYRP is to put the rangeland point of view in a prominent role in policy debates regarding climate, poverty and hunger, biodiversity, and sustainable food systems around the world. We come now to my, and perhaps, your confusion about where the United Nations really stands when it comes to assessing the contribution animal agriculture makes to a warming planet and the solutions the scientists of the world are seeking to this global warming dilemma. On one hand, we have the erroneous claim by United Nations sponsored scientists animal agriculture is a major factor in climate change. Here is an example which leads one to question this assertion. At one point in time about 160 years ago it is estimated there were as many as 75 million bison in North America. The Progressive Rancher

Bison are ruminants as are deer, sheep and goats and elk. Thus, there was a significant total number of wild ruminants emitting methane in the mid-19th century. North America has a cattle population of around 90 million today and the numbers are declining. We can therefore conclude the methane emission today in North America is similar to where it was in the mid-19th century. What has changed since then? We humans have embarked on industrialization, not a large increase in animal methane emission. Methane has an atmospheric life of around 10 years. Carbon dioxide exists in the atmosphere for many, many centuries. Thus, one cannot compare the ruminant methane number to carbon dioxide emitted by man-made activities without being accused of comparing apples to oranges. On the other hand, we have the same United Nations sponsoring a group of scientists arguing for more emphasis on pastoralism to help feed a hungry world and sequester carbon to forestall rapid climate change. This necessarily means as many or more ruminants as are now on the earth to utilize those rangelands which we presume will be enhanced and made better by systematically and strategically managing the grazing of those rangelands. The model for such a system exists here in the United States because since the second world war American grazers have become increasingly scientific in their approach to utilizing these vast landscapes. Why aren’t the United Nations sponsored organizations crying doom and gloom advocating for methods proven to work? I do not want to come across as a pessimist but sometimes I fear our future is controlled by people who have just enough knowledge and experience to get things very wrong. Here is what I suggest. Keep doing what you are doing for the resource, for your livestock, for your ranches, and your families and that correct action will help light up the world of knowledge and the people who know nothing about what you do. The criticisms will eventually be ignored because they are not anchored in the truth. I’ll see you soon.

www.progressiverancher.com

300 East 18th St Cheyenne, Wyoming 82003 www.buddfalen.com 307/632-5105

Biden’s actions are causing our rising prices.

UPCOMING SALES May 26

OPINION EDITORIAL | By Conner Nicklas

In March of 2021, the national average price for a gallon of gas was $2.898. This March, that same gallon costs $4.322. Similarly, the average price for a pound ground beef in March 2021 was $4.21; this year, it costs $5.24. Other important products such as chicken, natural gas for heating homes, and wheat and corn products have also all seen dramatic cost increases. In fact, inflation has surged to a 40 year high of 8.5%. Simply put, the price to survive for an average American has skyrocketed. What is worse is that we currently have a presidential administration whose policies and actions are a direct cause of these price increases. And although President Biden recently said in a speech that he is doing “everything” within his power to bring down the price of gas and food and to fix the supply chain, his actions suggest otherwise. Consider the following examples: First, oil and gas development continues to be under attack. Last year the Biden Administration put a “pause” on all new oil and gas drilling leases. According to a study from the University of Wyoming, the federal lease moratorium restricted or prevented access to 2.9 billion barrels of potentially recoverable oil reserves on federal lands and the associated $12.9 billion in tax revenue. Then, on Good Friday, the Department of the Interior announced that it would be ending the moratorium on new onshore mineral leases. However, the conditions surrounding the lifted restriction make the announcement a hollow gesture. First, the proposed lease sales will only cover 144,000 acres of land on 173 parcels. These 144,000 acres are a fraction of what was originally proposed for lease prior to Biden’s moratorium. Second, the Administration is proposing to increase the royalty rate oil companies will have to pay the federal government from the traditional 12.5% to 18.75%. This would amount to a 50% increase. Couple this increased royalty rate to the many restrictions and red tape required to drill on federal land, it appears that the Biden Administration is attempting to essentially continue the leasing moratorium by making federal minerals unmarketable. Second, pipelines have also been discriminated against by the Biden Administration. On his first day in office, President Biden dealt the final deathblow to the Keystone XL Pipeline by revoking its cross-border presidential permit granted by President Trump. Had the pipeline been constructed, it would have delivered up to 900,000 barrels of oil daily into the American system. That additional 900,000 barrels of oil daily would have more than covered the oil deficit created by the recent Russian-Ukrainian War. President Biden has now announced that the Army Corps of Engineers will be reviewing whether it will revoke Clean Water Act Nationwide Permit 12. Nationwide Permit 12 allows pipeline companies to construct or repair their pipelines under a much more simplified and affordable process. Without this permit, pipeline companies could spend years trying to apply for individual Clean Water Act permits. Third, the Administration has avoided taking actions that could reduce the food supply shortages felt by many Americans. Earlier this month the Secretary of Agriculture announced that his Department would not take farmland out of conservation programs to boost grain production during the Russian war in Ukraine. To date, nearly 16 million acres of farmland are enrolled in these conservation programs. However, the Administration explained that allowing farming on those lands, even temporarily, would cause a “detrimental impact on producers’ efforts to mitigate climate change…” While these are tangible attacks from the Administration against the industries who keep Americans fed, clothed, and supplied with energy, what often goes unseen are the dozens of projects across the country that have never been attempted. These policies not only shut down existing projects, they hamper any incentive to explore for new energy sources, build new infrastructure, and produce more food. Now, every day Americans suffer the consequences of higher food and energy costs. Conner Nicklas is an attorney at Budd-Falen Law Offices licensed in Wyoming, Colorado, and Montana who specializes in representing local governments and landowners regarding natural resource and property right issues. www.progressiverancher.com

WVM Headquarters • Cottonwood, CA Consignment Deadline: May 18

June 9

WVM Headquarters • Cottonwood, CA Consignment Deadline: June 1

Check our website www.wvmcattle.com for consignment deadlines. WATCH & LISTEN TO THE SALE on the Web at:

The Progressive Rancher

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MAY/JUNE 2022

Let’s Talk Ag The cost of fuel is not just negatively influencing agricultural products, it is causing ripple effects across all areas of life that we call inflation. While inflation is definitely occurring, the increase in the price of goods and services will mostly not decrease. The costs of living and doing business will create this new balance. The business climate is also variable, as you add the war in Ukraine and the Covid-19 or post Covid-19 pandemic situation. The biggest question is if we are headed back to the early 1980’s and the farm financial crisis. This crisis, known as the largest farm crisis since the Great Depression, affected many farmers and ranchers with heavy debt loads. This combined with an oversupply of farm commodity and the Federal Reserve policies, resulted in a dramatic increase in farm foreclosures. Are we headed there again? Some economists don’t think so. The biggest difference is that there has not been, and there is not expected to be, a dramatic decrease in land values. This makes the scenario a little different from the past. However, we are still in a dynamic and uncertain situation, and we are being impacted by drought.

By Staci Emmn | Editorial

Producers make tough decisions every day. In today’s environment, they will be making even tougher decisions in how to manage their production, financial, market, legal and human risks. They are going to have to calculate break even costs of producing that steer or heifer, evaluate their working capital, and be creative about their market strategies. The cattle numbers for Nevada have not seen the decrease that most of us expected. The change in beef cows was the loss of about 1,000 head. Nevada maintained herds of 244,000 head as of January 2022 according to the USDA, National Agriculture Statics Service (NASS). See Figures below from USDA, NASS. There has been an overall decrease in cow inventories, which usually means higher feeder/ weaned calf prices. Washington State University economist, Shannon Neibergs, told us last week that the import competition from Canada and Australia is lower, while Brazil is higher. The big unknown is that dairies are increasingly breeding to beef bulls, which can have impacts on the markets. I first heard about this in our 2022 Cattlemen’s Update. It is definitely happening in Nevada.

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INFLATION IMPACTS The other thing that is happening is the Cattle Market Price Discovery and Transparency Act. This Act would change the NCBA Regional Silo Policy to include the entire continental US, as the Western area was previously excluded. There would be minimum cash sales by region, to be determined, and the West would have to aggregate different states like California, Washington, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Montana, and Oregon. An updated version of the bill was released in March 2022 and hearings and talks are continuing. The price discovery in cattle markets can be a heated debate in certain circles, as transparency and price discovery is important, but it would include additional government oversight. Overall, higher prices in agricultural goods sold are expected, but there are also higher costs of production. There currently are no insurance programs to insure a producer’s profit margins. I do encourage producers to keep their records as we are in a drought, which if impacted by fire, pests, and extreme events, could be helped by some producer assistance programs through USDA. Additionally, Farm Service Agency has some new programs that attach to the Livestock Feed Program (LFP). I encourage you to stay close to your USDA, FSA office.

SUBMIT EDITORIALS / SUGGEST ARTICLES Send submissions to: progressiverancher@gmail.com

The Progressive Rancher

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SMART REAL ESTATE FINANCING When it’s time to buy land, build new facilities or improve your operation, contact your local team at American AgCredit. We’re here to help you find the right financial solutions and grow your operation. Our deep roots in agriculture and unmatched expertise have made us a trusted partner to farmers and ranchers for more than 100 years.

Call 800.800.4865 today or visit AgLoan.com/Real-Estate A part of the Farm Credit System. Equal Opportunity Lender. www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

Water Outlook: NRCS Here to Help Navigate Water Availability Through Snow Survey and Farm Bill Programs By Jeff Anderson, Nevada NRCS Water Supply Specialist and Dusty Jager, Nevada NRCS State Rangeland Management Specialist Each year the USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) snow survey and streamflow forecasting program tracks water supply conditions to meet the needs of the public. Snowpack, precipitation, air temperature and soil moisture are monitored by the agency’s network of 90 SNOTEL (Snow Telemetry) weather stations distributed across Nevada and the eastern Sierra. Additionally, snow surveyors collect snow tube measurements at an additional 65 snow courses. These data are used by hydrologists at the NRCS National Water and Climate Center to produce seasonal streamflow forecasts to help water managers and water users plan for the coming summer. From January through May, SNOTEL data and streamflow forecasts are summarized in the Nevada Water Supply Outlook Report which seeks to inform customers how the water year is shaping up. Since 2018, this report has also included a Rangeland Conditions section produced in cooperation with the Nevada State Rangeland Management Specialist. Below are some ways the snow survey program can serve you: • Learn more about the Nevada snow survey by watching the new snow survey video: https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWm5TeASLY8

• Join the Nevada Water Supply Outlook Report subscription list: https://go.usa.gov/xz5Fk • Visit NRCS Nevada Snow Survey web pages to see current conditions: go.usa.gov/xz5F8 14 MAY/JUNE 2022

• Request or attend a snowpack and water supply presentation (opportunities are noted in the Water Supply Outlook Reports) • Request a custom SNOTEL webpage or data report to meet specific needs 2022 Water Supply Conditions Summary Based on October and December measurements, water year 2022 started with a boom, but since the start of January, precipitation totals have been trending strongly towards bust. A strong, earlyseason atmospheric river in October brought record rain amounts across Nevada for the month. SNOTEL stations in the eastern Sierra basins received 5 to nearly 20 inches of precipitation in October. Other parts of northern Nevada also did well with monthly amounts of 2.5 to 7 inches being measured. November was quiet with below normal precipitation, but storms returned in December and SNOTELs in the eastern Sierra measured a record increase in snow water for the month (Fig. 1a, 1b). January 1 snowpacks in the Sierra were over 200% of median. December snow accumulation in other parts of northern Nevada did not set records but were enough to produce an above normal January 1 snowpack. Unfortunately, from New Year’s through March, the storm track has mostly bypassed Nevada. Precipitation totals from January through March ranked as the driest on record at all SNOTEL sites in the eastern Sierra. Most sites throughout the rest of northern Nevada were also either driest or second driest for the three-month period. Most basins received more precipitation in October than during all of January, February and March combined (Figures 2a, 2b). With little precipitation since the start of the calendar year, snowpack and water year precipitation percentages which were so strong on January 1 could not keep pace with normal amounts and percentages fell. Basin snow water amounts reached 67-74% of the median peak amounts in the Sierra basins, and 62-68% of the median peak for the Northern Great Basin, Humboldt Basin, Clover Valley and Franklin River Basin, and Owyhee Basin. The Snake Basin and Eastern Nevada each ended up with peak snowpacks of 78%. The Spring Mountains were the The Progressive Rancher

only part of Nevada with an above median peak snowpack this winter. Snow peaked in the Spring Mountains on January 7 at 143% of normal, which was two months earlier than normal. April first is normally when basin snowpacks peak in terms of water content, but this year all basins had already experienced significant melt by that time. April 1 snowpack percentages were just 46-66% of median this year, compared to 60-125% last year. April 1 water year precipitation percentages are higher and near normal because they include the rain that fell in October. One bright spot this water year is that soil moisture under the snow has been above normal. October rains saturated soils and that moisture got locked in when the snow fell. Moist soils should help improve runoff efficiency this spring as the snow melts. This is especially true in the Sierra where winter streamflow has remained strong. Last year snow fell on dry soils and the spring runoff was inefficient because the dry soil soaked up snowmelt. Unfortunately, snowpacks are smaller than last year, especially in the Humboldt Basin and other portions of northern Nevada, so amount of snow to melt is unlikely to produce the volume of runoff needed to meet demands. April 1 NRCS streamflow forecasts for April-July runoff are only 12-72% of the new 1991-2020 medians. To put forecasts in perspective, most April 1 50% exceedance forecast volumes rank near to below the 20th percentile of historic observed flows. If conditions continue to be dry, the 70% exceedance forecasts are more likely and those rank well below the 10th percentile in some areas. April-July flows in the Humboldt Basin could be near record minimums if dry conditions persist. A table of all April 1 streamflow forecasts is available on the Nevada Snow Survey website, https://go.usa. gov/xznxS Continue reading to find out how the NRCS’ switch from stating data as a percent of median compares to previous years when streamflow forecasts were presented as a percent of average (Fig. 3, page 16). www.progressiverancher.com

New 1991-2020 Normals Starting this water year, the NRCS updated its 30year normals period from 1981-2010 to 1991-2020. The agency also made the median the official normal for all data types. Normals are used to represent data as a percent of normal. Changing normals impacts percentages and requires a recalibration. Most 1991-2020 medians for snow, precipitation and streamflow in Nevada are less than 19812010 normals. A smaller normal produces a larger percentage. Due to the boom-bust hydrologic cycle in the Great Basin, streamflow percentages based on median are larger than those based on averages. A forecast percentage near to above 100% of median may seem favorable, but the same volume expressed as a percent of average can easily be well below normal. Visit the Nevada and Eastern Sierra Normals Dashboard (https://go.usa.gov/xz5FX) and watch the 15-minute YouTube presentation for an overview about how changing normals impacts Nevada (Fig. 4, page 17). Rangeland Conditions Figures 1a, 1b: January 1 snowpacks across Nevada started off well above normal, but the lack of significant storms in January, February and March caused percentages to fall below normal in northern Nevada basins.

Figures 2a, 2b: Water year precipitation percentages were also well above normal on January 1. April 1 percentages remain closer to normal than snowpack percentages due to water year precipitation including October rain amounts. www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

The Great Basin and Mojave Desert have a winterspring dominated precipitation pattern, so plant growth starts early, usually in late January and early February while temperatures are cool and soil moisture is high. By mid-to-late June, most upland range species have produced and dispersed their seed, thus completing their life cycle. With the hot summer temperatures, the plants enter dormancy and leaves drop off or die back. Some of the shrubs in the Aster family produce flowers and seeds later in the summer (sagebrush- Artemisia spp., rabbitbrush – Ericameria spp.), but most of their stem and leaf growth occurs earlier in the year. Some shrubs and grasses have the ability to break dormancy with late summer rains and even flower again. Snow cover in northern Nevada is important for the shrubs because they typically have long, deep tap roots and shallow lateral roots. The slow melting of snow provides moisture deep in the soil profile and as the surface soils dry out, the roots start drawing moisture deeper in the profile allowing shrubs like sagebrush and rabbitbrush to complete their growth cycle. Nevada rangelands are no stranger to drought conditions. Last year, drought effects were felt across Nevada by ranchers both in rangeland production and reduced harvested forage on croplands due to the below normal reservoir levels and stream flows used for irrigation. By the end of last summer, drought impacts were extreme to exceptional across much of Nevada as shown on the September 28, 2021 US Drought Monitor Map. Thanks to record breaking October rains and an above normal New Year’s, winter snowpack drought status improved by January 1. Unfortunately, precipitation from January MAY/JUNE 2022

...continued from previous page through March was below normal and drought status this spring has begun to worsen as Nevada transitions back to the dry season (Figures 5a, 5b, page 17). The April 5, 2022 US Drought Monitor Map shows that all of Nevada is experiencing severe to exceptional drought conditions. Rangeland production in Nevada runs from approximately September to June, when the majority of moisture is utilized by rangeland plants. Above normal April through June precipitation could still help improve conditions on the range. You can assist the authors of the US Drought Monitor by submitting local drought observations. Local reports help the authors accurately reflect drought impacts across the state. Since some Farm Bill assistance programs are dependent on the US Drought Monitor, reporting how your operation is being impacted can help the entire agricultural community weather this drought. Observations can be submitted online at: https://droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx There is a new tool allowing producers to visualize and analyze vegetation data called Rangeland Analysis Platform (RAP). (See image top right page 17.) It is a web-based application that allows producers to examine trends at pasture, ranch, watershed and broader scales. When analyzing a grazing plan or executing a contingency grazing plan due to drought, RAP allows you to estimate the 16-day aboveground biomass production. There are other key features including tracking changes in annual herbaceous, shrub, tree vegetation cover along with bare ground. If you are concerned with annual invasives and the expansion, especially during drought years, this application takes a deep dive in to fire probability which is closely correlated to annual invasive abundance. Have you wanted to look at historical imagery of your operation or a field? That too is an available tool within RAP where you can check out side-by-side comparisons sourced from the United States Geological Service. Here is a link to the application: https://rangelands. app/ which has great tutorials on how to use the free service. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has a mission to improve the health of the nation’s natural resources while sustaining and enhancing the productivity of American agriculture. NRCS achieves this by providing voluntary assistance through strong partnerships with private landowners, managers, and communities to conserve, protect, restore, and enhance the lands and waters upon which people and the environment depends. The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers and non-industrial forest managers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits such as improved water 16 MAY/JUNE 2022

Figure 3: The above graphic compares April 1 forecast volumes for all five exceedances (color band) to median values (green bars) for select points. The 50% exceedance streamflow volumes are less than 1991-2020 medians across Nevada. The red bars represent the lowest historic observed April-July streamflow volume. Where the red bar overlaps the forecast exceedance range there is an increased chance that this year’s runoff could be record low. The Progressive Rancher

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and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, increased soil health and reduced soil erosion and sedimentation, improved or created wildlife habitat, and mitigation against drought and increasing weather volatility. This voluntary conservation program helps producers make conservation work for them. Together, NRCS and producers invest in solutions that conserve natural resources for the future while also improving agricultural operations. Through EQIP, NRCS provides agricultural producers with financial resources and one-on-one help to plan and implement improvements, or what NRCS calls conservation practices. There are natural resource concerns we call SWAPAH – soil, water, air, plant, animal and human concerns which we address through producer’s voluntary implementation of conservation practices. Applying conservation practices such as prescribed grazing plans, livestock water developments, and fences to better manage riparian areas ensure rangelands are resilient to impacts during drought years. If you would like more information on the EQIP program please contact your local NRCS office or visit the link: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/

Rangeland Analysis Platform (RAP) app is a web-based application that allows producers to examine trends, track changes, look at historical imagery, side-by-side comparisons and much more. https://droughtimpacts.unl.edu/Tools/ ConditionMonitoringObservations.aspx

Figure 4, at left: The Nevada NRCS has a Normals Dashboard webpage (https://go.usa.gov/xz5FX) to assist water users in understanding how the new 1991-2020 normals impact percentages for snow, precipitation and streamflow forecasts.

September 28, 2021

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Figures 5a (L) and 5b (R) US Drought Monitor By the end of last summer, drought impacts were extreme to exceptional across much of Nevada as shown on the September 28, 2021 US Drought Monitor Map... precipitation from January through March was below normal and drought status this spring has begun to worsen. The Progressive Rancher

April 5, 2022

MAY/JUNE 2022

Nevada Farm Bureau

Coping With Another Year of Drought By Doug Busselman | NFB, Executive Vice President Early in April the United States Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack sent a letter to Nevada Governor Steve Sisolak indicating that he had designated 13 counties in Nevada as primary counties for disaster. These counties were listed as counties for disaster due to drought under federal law. This also qualified four additional counties in the state for similar treatment because they were adjacent to those which were designated. The 13 counties included: Churchill, Clark, Elko, Esmeralda, Eureka, Humboldt, Lander, Lincoln, Lyon, Mineral, Nye, Washoe and White Pine. The four also covered are: Douglas, Pershing, Storey and Carson City. Producers in these counties should contact their local Farm Services Agency representative, if they haven’t already. With continuing years of less moisture than we need and other states going through the same challenge, things are NOT very cheery. Especially, for those who depend on surface water for irrigation of crops or water for livestock. Parched rangelands don’t produce sufficient forage and feeding hay is becoming less and less of an option as well. Nevada agriculture has weathered droughts before, but none of them were considered as pleasant characterbuilding experiences. Beyond the immediate and foreseeable crop production cycle ahead for 2022, the churning considerations of what might be in the works has as much, if not more, things to wonder about. Through a heavily rewritten bill, AB 356, the Nevada Legislature in 2021 assigned their Public Lands Committee the assignment of an interim study “concerning water conservation in this state.” The language of the legislation regarding the study stated: “The study must include, without limitation, an examination of: (a) The management of water resources in this State; and (b) Programs and policies to promote water conservation in this State that also protect and support existing water rights….” What direction this study might go, in advance of the 2023 Nevada Legislature is unclear. The Nevada Legislature’s Public Lands Committee is now a subcommittee of the Joint Interim Standing Committee on Natural Resources, which also could be considering possible water legislation for the next session. 18 MAY/JUNE 2022

Both the Public Lands subcommittee and the full Interim Natural Resources Committee will be shifting into higher gears over the next couple of months.

community cooperation/planning were identified as good and proper courses to follow in sustaining water resources and precluding future curtailments.

After their start up meeting on April 15th in Ely, NV, the subcommittee will hold their next meeting in Boulder City on May 23rd. The subcommittee is also scheduled to meet in Nixon, NV on June 27th.

Nevada Farm Bureau Thoughts On Water Conservation:

The Joint Interim Standing Committee on Natural Resources will have their fourth meeting of the interim on June 16th. They have offered a “Solicitation of Recommendations” seeking input on ideas for the committee to consider (possible legislation or possible resolutions for actions to be taken). Ideas sent to the full committee must be received no later than Friday, June 24th and must include: • Submit the recommendation in writing;

• Include your name, date and the organization you represent; • Explain in detail the policy you recommend;

• Include any background information explaining the recommendation; and

• Consider using the form that they have provided at the committee’s webpage (www.leg.state.nv.us/ App/InterimCommittee/REL/Document/26644) Along with possible legislative actions, Adam Sullivan, the Nevada State Engineer has been holding public meetings around the state over the past couple of months, with more meetings anticipated in the future. Most recently Smith Valley and Mason Valley (both in Lyon County) were meeting sites for the State Engineer’s informational meetings. Sullivan and his additional subject matter experts shared the background information that they have been tracking for the two primarily agricultural valley’s. Both areas are irrigated from waters of the Walker River system as well as by groundwater sources.

The current drought conditions and water situation was compared against the most recent drought conditions in 2012-2016. In both scenarios the current drought is having a bigger impact with a steeper decline in groundwater levels than experienced in the 2012-2016 period.

During the meetings, Sullivan assured there are no plans for using curtailment measures this year in either valley. He also clarified that conservation actions or not pumping/irrigating with the full duty of a water right would not cause the un-used water to trigger forfeiture actions. Conservation activities and local The Progressive Rancher

In a presentation to the interim Public Lands subcommittee meeting in Ely, Nevada Farm Bureau’s thoughts on the assignment for studying water conservation in the state were presented. The organization’s policy on water conservation states – Nevada Water Conservation Program: Nevada Farm Bureau supports appropriate management of agricultural irrigation water and conservation measures which provide for proper management of water resources which maintain the long-term ability of a water basin to not exceed perennial yield levels. Agricultural irrigation water use should not exceed the duties associated with a water right.

Attention needs to be directed at addressing overappropriated groundwater basins with solutions oriented to bringing water rights and water being pumped into balance with perennial yields. Ongoing monitoring reports need to be shared with water right owners in the groundwater basin to assist in a better understanding of the conditions and status of the groundwater basin. Conservation and irrigation efficiency by an agricultural water right owner is already addressed without government involvement because of the costs and economic self-interest of the water right owner who has significant investments associated with the infrastructure and operations of applying irrigation water for beneficial use.

Farm Bureau’s views on the protection of water rights were also noted, stressing that “The right to use water is a property right which should not be taken away from an owner without due process of law and just compensation at the highest valued use. Any government attempt to diminish the availability of water to serve these water rights constitutes a takings and should require just compensation.”

Nevada water law has a long and successful history in providing an effective means for dealing with the very critical resource of water. It has dealt with droughts in the past and should be followed in responding to the drought that we are currently enduring. Tweaks or changes to Nevada water law will not cause the drought to be easier.

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SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY! Nevada Heritage Foundation Scholarship We are excited to announce the Nevada Heritage Foundation Continuing Education scholarship is now open! This scholarship award is available to students currently enrolled in either a traditional or non- traditional post-secondary program and have completed at least one year of higher education. Preference will be given to students pursuing career goals in the Agricultural or Ag-Business industry. The successful candidate must be from a Farm Bureau member family and an interview may be required of the top individuals before the recipient is selected. Two scholarships may be awarded in the amount of $2000.00 and $1000.00. The full application can be found at www.nvfb.org or use the direct link: www.nvfb.org/articles/nevada-heritagefoundation-continuing-educationscholarship/ If you have any additional questions, please contact the Nevada Farm Bureau office at 775-674-4000, or by contacting Julie Wolf at wolfranch1nv@gmail.com

Application must be submitted by July 30, 2021 www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

Grassroots Newsletter

Nevada Farm Bureau Nevada Farm Bureau Offers Presentation To Public Lands Subcommittee On Friday, April 15th Nevada Farm Bureau shared a presentation with the Nevada Legislature’s Public Lands Subcommittee, offering background on Nevada Farm Bureau, an overview about Nevada agricultural production and the importance that water plays for the state’s farmers and ranchers. The Legislature’s Public Lands Subcommittee was assigned an interim study “concerning water conservation in this state.” The language of the legislation (AB 356) regarding the study stated:

“The study must include, without limitation, an examination of: (a) The management of water resources in this State; and (b) Programs and policies to promote water conservation in this State that also protect and support existing water rights….”

As the Subcommittee kicked off their first meeting, Doug Busselman, Nevada Farm Bureau Executive Vice President wanted to make it clear where the organization’s policy weighs in on the matter of “Conservation of Nevada Water”… New Development That Might Trigger Legislative Attention On April 19, 2022, District Court Judge Bita Yeager issued a ruling on the State Engineer’s Order 1309. The ruling pulls the footing out from under two rather significant points that the State Engineer had determined were the basis for the authority to manage the Lower White River Flow System in Southern NV. Point number 1 that came down with Judge Yeager’s ruling involves the State Engineer’s creation of a super-basin for combining multiple groundwater basins (seven existing basins) into a single jointly administered unit. The 8th District Judge said that since the state’s water law doesn’t give the State Engineer the authority to be reconfiguring water basins – there wasn’t authority for setting up such a super-basin to be managed conjunctively.

Point number 2 that came down with the ruling deals with conjunctive management. Again, Judge Yeager notes that legislative intent does not constitute a grant of the authority of the State Engineer to make decisions that are believed to be water management and then justify those decisions as being covered by the legislative intent. “In fact, there is no authority or guidance whatsoever in the statutes as to how to go about conjunctively managing water and water rights.” Judge Yeager wrote.

Nevada Water Conservation Program:

NFB supports appropriate management of agricultural irrigation water and conservation measures which provide for proper management of water resources which maintain the long-term ability of a water basin to not exceed perennial yield levels. Agricultural irrigation water use should not exceed the duties associated with a water right. Attention needs to be directed at addressing overappropriated groundwater basins with solutions oriented to bringing water rights and water being pumped into balance with perennial yields. Ongoing monitoring reports need to be shared with water right

Conservation and irrigation efficiency by an agricultural water right owner is already addressed without government involvement because of the costs and economic self-interest of the water right owner who has significant investments associated with the infrastructure and operations of applying irrigation water for beneficial use.

The Subcommittee will hold it’s next meeting in Boulder City on May 23. The subcommittee is also scheduled to meet in Nixon, NV on June 27th.

How this court decision will translate into possible legislative actions, aimed at addressing the way that current law only states “Legislative Intent.” It may cause a legislator or a group to promote the need for expanding on “Conjunctive Management” as a way to rescue the whole concept from the waste basket where it might be now? NFB Policy might also need to be adjusted in light of the present status, but there is reason to believe that our present policy still retains some very important relevance in dealing with whatever conversations might evolve. One of the present elements of Nevada Farm Bureau Conjunctive Water Management states – “We urge a full public discussion of what conjunctive management of water resources means and how combining separate sections of state law will be implemented. Long and established separations for surface and groundwater rights cannot be quickly combined without a complete vetting of how issues and impacts will be worked through. Top down edicts by the State Engineer’s office, without local, public engagement of those being affected is not acceptable.”

This point is a similar perspective that NFB policy on “Conjunctive Water Management” when it stated “We are very concerned over the lack of legislative direction and absence of specific parameters in regard to how ‘Conjunctive Management’ is going to be carried out.” 20 MAY/JUNE 2022

owners in the groundwater basin to assist in a better understanding of the conditions and status of the groundwater basin.

Ideas/Thoughts For Recommendations To Natural Resources Committee The Joint Interim Standing Committee on Natural Resources will be holding their next committee meeting on June 16th. This will be their fourth meeting of the interim session. Earlier in the process of this committee’s work they made an offer to anyone interested to offer recommendations on proposed bill draft request or something coming in the form of a recommendation for action to submit those proposals for consideration. A form was provided on the committee’s webpage to be used for submitting the recommendations you would like to be considered: https://www.leg.state.nv.us/App/InterimCommittee/ REL/Document/26644 The deadline for submitting recommendations is Friday, June 24th. If you have any suggestions or input to Nevada Farm Bureau, which you think we ought to submit. Please email doug@nvfb.org with that input for Farm Bureau to consider.

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

Nevada Farm Bureau Comments On NDEP Proposed Regulations The 55-page proposed regulation by the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) to rewrite the state’s antidegradation program and establish a system for nominations of “water of extraordinary ecological, aesthetic or recreational value” (EAW) drew these comments from Nevada Farm Bureau: https://files. constantcontact.com/ce74815a701/480ec5a2-37ad4c12-b1d6-4be5f6d94fe8.pdf Follow Up Meat Industry & Stakeholders Roundtable Set For April 29 In December the Nevada Department of Agriculture and NFB hosted a roundtable information session to discuss future opportunities for meat processing in Nevada. This included exploring possible avenues for a Nevada Meat Inspection program, similar to other state programs in the West which would allow for commercial meat sales within Nevada.

Earlier in April the Nevada Legislature’s Interim Finance Committee approved funding for the Nevada Department of Agriculture to develop a State Meat and Poultry Inspection program, using dollars from the American Rescue Plan.

Plans are for another roundtable session to be held at the Nevada Department of Agriculture headquarters in Sparks, NV on Friday, April 29, starting at 9 a.m.. There is also going to be an option for participants to tune in by Zoom, if you can’t attend in person. NV. A zoom link and phone number are provided below for those that cannot participate in person. If you have any questions, please contact Samantha Bellwood at sbellwood@agri.nv.gov or (775) 432-4263. Virtual Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89413386487 Meeting ID: 894 1338 6487 Phone: +1-669-900-9128 Phone Access Code: 894 1338 6487

Nevada Heritage Foundation Continuing Education Scholarship The Nevada Heritage Foundation is excited to announce the Continuing Education Scholarship is now open. This scholarship award is available to students currently enrolled in either a traditional or non-traditional post-secondary program and have completed at least one year of higher education. Preference will be given to students pursuing career goals in the Agricultural or Ag-Business industry. The successful candidate must be from a Nevada Farm Bureau member family and an interview may be required of the top individuals before the recipient is selected. Two scholarships may be awarded in the amount of $2,000.00 and $1,000.00. Applications must be received by July 30, 2022. Full application and details can be found here: www.nvfb.org/articles/ nevada-heritage-foundation-continuing-educationscholarship/ www.progressiverancher.com

Hats Off To Humboldt County For The 2022 Return Of Ag In The Classroom! Congratulations to the Humboldt County Ag In The Classroom Committee for their successful 2022 effort to bring Ag In The Classroom back to the third graders of Humboldt County! They held their event on March 22nd in the Winnemucca Events Center with 15 learning stations for students to visit.

Students were able to experience ultra-sounding of sheep (see the photo above) and x-raying the leg of a horse at the veterinarian station. They were able to learn about sheep production and products, got an in-depth lesson on potatoes, learned about dairy cows and dairy products, working stock dogs and poultry.

The Nevada Farm Bureau corn trailer provided a historical and interactive station about the history of grain and corn. Students were able to have handson learning at the tractor station and learned about mint and the many products made from it. At one station there was a description of how sod is grown. At another why and how fertilizer and herbicides are used and spread with a big spreader, which was provided by Simplot. Students visited the beef station and learned about the many uses of beef by-products. There were goats to see and learn about and a livestock demo station where students got to brush and have hands-on time with the animals at the station. In the weeks leading up to the event, third-grade teachers throughout the county received “teacher bags” filled with educational agriculture resources. The book, “How Did That Get in My Lunchbox,” along with an educator’s guide and various other ag related educational materials were provided in the bags.

After a two-year hiatus due to the Covid pandemic, the 2022 return of the event marked the 19th year it has taken place in Humboldt County.

Stay up-to-date weekly on current Ag News! Subscribe to the Grassroots Newsletter at www.nvfb.org The Progressive Rancher

In order to protect existing land uses from being harmed by a weaponized designation process, NFB called for language to be included in the regulation stating… “any land use which could be impacted by a designation of an Ecological Waters of Significance (EAW) should result with the proposal for an EAW designation to be disqualified as being incompatible.”

Western State Farm Bureaus Urge BLM To Continue To Gather Wild Horses With Motorized Vehicles Nevada Farm Bureau joined with eight other Western State Farm Bureaus to share written comments as part of the hearing that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is holding on whether to use motorized vehicles in the management of wild horses and burros. (Read comments here: https://files.constantcontact. com/ce74815a701/9ddec3fd-57d0-4f6b-a366201ec02131d9.pdf )

BLM’s virtual public hearing to deal with using motorized vehicles and aircraft in the management of wild horses and burros was held on Tuesday, April 26. It was a livestreamed hearing. The Western Farm Bureaus’ letter observed “On January 5, 2022, BLM announced plans to gather “at least 22,000 wild horses and burros form overpopulated herds, remove at least 19,000 excess animals, and treat at least 2,300 animals with various forms of fertility controls.” It continued: “With over three times the appropriate management level of wild horses and burros (estimated to be more than 86,000 animals in 2021), the only way for these plans to feasibly be implemented is through the use of motorized vehicles. Discontinuing the use of motorized vehicles or the use of aircraft in management of wild horses and burros would harm the ability to remove animals, transport horses from gathering sites to holding facilities to reduce overpopulation, as well as various related activities.” MAY/JUNE 2022

Idaho Rangeland Conservation Partnership 2022 Annual Meeting by Brenda Richards, IRCP Coordinator The Idaho Rangeland Conservation Partnership (IRCP) was formed in 2018 through a grant with Intermountain West Joint Venture, Bureau of Land Management, and other partners to bring together ranchers, conservationists, agencies, and other rangeland stakeholders to conserve and enhance the social, economic, and ecological values rangelands provide through shared learning. One of the key aspects of IRCP was to provide an annual meeting forum where stakeholders could engage with diverse perspectives, providing a place for open dialogue and cross-education on rangeland issues. Identifying opportunities, barriers, gaps, and working towards healthy rangeland solutions. All of this in an effort to support the vital working lands and working communities and abundant wildlife. One of the ways IRCP does this is through bringing people together at our annual meeting. IRCP’s first annual meeting was held in January of 2019 where more than 120 attendees to heard from panels on outcome-based land management; sustainability of the values rangelands bring to the social, economic, and ecological well being of the land, communities, and states; and information on the recreation component of rangelands. The conversations continued in 2020 at our annual meeting where we upped our attendance to over 175, and with panel presentations and breakout sessions.

This meeting included topics on Beaver Dam analogs; BLM’s outcome based grazing projects; and a panel presentations from diverse stakeholders on some of the issues around increase recreational use. Of course, with the COVID pandemic, we were forced to put our annual meeting for 2021 on hold but were very excited to be able to again host this event March 17 and 18, 2022, in Nampa, Idaho at the Idaho Fish and Game office. Over the past months we learned that travel restrictions can hinder some of our attendance, so we opted to hold this meeting as a hybrid version. IRCP’s focus has always been, and continues to be, showing the value of people coming together to share information, cross-education, and have robust discussions on rangeland topics. This year we still had good in person attendance but were also able to bring in meeting attendees via ZOOM and record the sessions. This year’s meeting opened with keynote speaker, Jared Talley, PhD, who gave an energetic and great presentation on “Collaborating Across Differences: The Situation/The Problem/The Solution”. Jared was the perfect speaker to prime the pump on how all stakeholders have better success working together towards working, sustainable rangelands, while delving into some of the challenges faced when bringing together different viewpoints, but how it is also possible to find common ground to work towards solutions.

Brenda Richards & Dustin Miller

www.IdahoRCP.org

IRCP Chairman, Josh Uriarte, who is the Terrestrial Species Manager and Policy Advisor for the Idaho Governor’s Office of Species Conservation, put together a great panel to present on “Sage-grouse 3.0 – Greater Than Grouse”. Panelists Matt Cahill, Sagebrush Sea Program Director for The Nature Conservancy; Brian Rutledge, formerly with Audubon Society; Brett Dumas, Director of Environment Affairs for Idaho Power; and Jarod Blades, Branch Chief of Resources & Science Idaho State BLM shared their perspectives on the sage-grouse issues considering what components of the sage-grouse plans have been working well, and what components need to be reconsidered in Idaho based on their experience and the group they represent. Panelists were also asked to offer ideas on what their organization’s vision was for sage-grouse in Idaho and across the range of sage-grouse habitats, and how they would envision reaching the right spot with this planning effort currently in place in the hopes of not having to come back and readdress the issue again in the near future. The panelists brought diverse perspectives from the large amount of time they have spent on the sage-grouse issue. Questions from the audience were entertained, and the discussion continued offering ideas and thoughts on the topic. Breakout sessions were then held with the in-person attendees and information and thoughts from those breakout sessions shared back with the entire group, concluding the first day of the meeting. On the second day, we opened with a unique opportunity to hear the Meridian FFA Agriculture Policy team. This dynamic team of young people presented to a group of about thirty meeting attendees coming in early to provide an audience for them to practice their presentation and receive feedback. The topic fit in perfectly with the day’s meeting topic as it centered around the two sides of Idaho’s newly adopted trespass law. The FFA Team did an outstanding job presenting both sides of a complicated issue in a “skit” type fashion and then stood for questions and asked for feedback on how they could improve the presentation for the upcoming Idaho State FFA contests. This was a great reminder of how lucky we are to have programs and opportunities bringing these passionate and knowledgeable youth to the table and mentor them with what our different organizations do. The scheduled meeting then continued with a timely panel presentation moderated by IRCP Steering Committee Member and US Fish & Wildlife Services employee Jason Pyron on “Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: How Can We Put It To Work for Idaho?”. Panelists included June Shoemaker, Idaho BLM Acting Associate State Director; Tawnya Brummett, Forest

22 MAY/JUNE 2022

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Supervisor Boise National Forest to share what BLM and FS see with the funds and how they are looking at being applied within the programs. The panel wrapped up with Darren Parker, State Director for Natural Resources for Senator Jim Risch, talking about what the Congressional intent is for these funds and how they can benefit Idaho’s lands and Idaho’s people by putting projects and people on the ground. Our session wrapped up with a continuation of the conversations around recreation and the issues faced with increase and challenges around the rangeland health, large increases in people in new areas, and the staffing and enforcement challenges agencies face. This panel was moderated by Brenda Richards, IRCP Coordinator, and was a continues the topics discussed at the IRCP 2020 meeting and from the IRCP Recreation Working Group that came out of that meeting. The presentation by Brenda, revolved around some key issues, challenges, and needs the IRCP Working Group identified and continued with IRCP Steering Committee Member and Executive Director of Idaho Rangeland Resources Commission, Gretchen Hyde, to sharing work IRRC has been doing in an effort to educate the public around recreating on rangelands and a survey they have been working on to gather information on this complex topic. We then turned to Haley Netherton-Morrison, Boise State University, who has been in charge of the survey and compiling the information to share some of the details and how people are viewing rangelands and recreation from very diverse viewpoints. Discussion and questions were held prior to the breakout sessions on this topic. After lively discussion, conversation, and cross-education during the breakout sessions, information was shared with the audience by a spokesperson from each group. It is clear this will continue to be a topic in many meetings of many different organizations and agencies, including local government, as there are many things to be discussed and addressed.

Opening Speaker Jared Talley

IRCP 2022 Annual Meeting Attendees

IRCP hopes to continue to be a place where people can come together to have these types of conversations around such a complex issue and bring people together to continue to work for locally led, collaborative solutions. Our meeting then adjourned, but it was apparent that meeting in person definitely brings networking and cross education opportunities as many of the attendees continued conversations well after the adjournment. IRCP looks forward to continuing to work on rangeland issues and will be planning to host our annual meeting for 2023 in January. The IRCP 2022 Annual Meeting sessions can be viewed by visiting the links below: Day One: youtu.be/rvdXvuUcouY Day Two: youtu.be/dZoDjxuwU6o www.progressiverancher.com

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MAY/JUNE 2022

Nevada Legislature Interim Finance Committee approves American Rescue Plan Act funding for food systems & food security investments The Nevada Department of Agriculture’s approved work program funding will continue to strengthen Nevada’s food systems and improve food security across the state The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) went before the Nevada Legislature’s Interim Finance Committee (IFC) on Thursday, April 7, 2022, to request and seek approval for use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for multiple work programs to continue to strengthen Nevada’s food systems and ensure food security for all. “Ensuring that all Nevadans have access to food is a critical priority for me and my administration,” said Governor Steve Sisolak. “With the approval of programs from lawmakers on IFC last week, the Nevada Department of Agriculture will be able to bolster the state’s food systems and infrastructure, which is important as we recover from the pandemic.”

Due to additional stress on the State’s food systems as a result of the pandemic, the NDA has administered over $469.9 million in federal and state allocated funds to improve food distribution and nutrition programs since March of 2020. The NDA quickly pivoted program funding processes for schools to continue meal services for students while they were closed and during distance learning, in addition to expanding support for food banks, ensuring they had the necessary funding to address the increase in individuals seeking food assistance. The NDA also supported the improvement of food inventory and distribution systems to provide easier access for Nevadans to buy locally produced food products and aided agriculture businesses to continue safely operating during the public health emergency.

24 MAY/JUNE 2022

“Creating resilient food systems that increase food security is part of our mission,” said NDA Director Jennifer Ott. “The additional funding from the American Rescue Plan Act will help ensure that our systems can supply food to our communities and expand economic opportunities for Nevada’s agribusinesses.” Funding requests put forth before IFC were proposed with the intent to strengthen existing food security efforts and allow the NDA to establish new programming:

State Meat and Poultry Inspection Program: The NDA received $55,123 for this fiscal year to initiate the development of a State Meat and Poultry Inspection Program to support local meat processing. An inspection program will diversify market opportunities, strengthen local supply chains and ensure an adequate and safe meat supply. Through a cooperative agreement with the USDA FSIS, the state will implement the inspection program to expand inspection services to facilities wishing to sell meat and poultry products within Nevada, including smaller establishments in rural locations. Home Feeds Nevada Agriculture Food Purchase Program: The Home Feeds Nevada Agriculture Food Purchase Program will help Nevada become more food secure, while creating economic opportunities for agricultural producers. The NDA received $2 million for Home Feeds Nevada from ARPA to purchase Nevada-grown, produced and processed foods that will be distributed through Three Square Food Bank and

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the Food Bank of Northern Nevada, to address food insecurity across the state.

ARPA Food Security Programs: The NDA received over $9 million to better serve Nevada’s food-insecure populations by investing in the needs of nonprofits engaged in food security and covering gaps exposed and exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, setting Nevada up for long-term recovery. Funding will go toward supporting infrastructure needs, like upgrading food storage capabilities and distribution channels and to support food purchases by nonprofits. Senior Nutrition and Wellness Program: The Senior Nutrition and Wellness Program received $400,000 toward nutrition services for food-insecure senior populations in Nevada. Funds will be used for the rebranding of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program to the Senior Nutrition and Wellness Program to increase program awareness and participation among Nevada’s income-eligible seniors, as well as for the purchase of fresh produce and other perishable supplemental food with increased nutritional value for food-insecure seniors in Nevada.

Additional information on all items presented to IFC on April 7 is available via Governor Sisolak’s press release (https://gov.nv.gov/News/Press/2022/2022-04-07_ CommunityRecoveryGrants/ ) or by visiting: https:// www.leg.state.nv.us/App/InterimCommittee/REL/ Interim2021/Meeting/24196?committeeId=1773

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Fitting & Showmanship Clinic prepares High Desert Grange youth to show at Competitions New summer camp aims to help American Indian youth get college ready Extension is hosting the first American Indian/ Alaska Native College Prep Camp this June Native American Indian youth make up a small percentage of students attending college and completing degrees. To help address this disparity, University of Nevada, Reno Extension is hosting a new, week-long summer camp for high school-aged youth and incoming college freshman to provide resources and support aimed at getting more of these students on a path to attend college and earn degrees. The American Indian/Alaska Native College Prep Camp will be held June 6 – 10 at the Nevada State 4-H Camp in South Lake Tahoe. The camp will have activities to help the youth build self-esteem and see that attending college is an attainable goal. It will expose the teens to Nevada tribal careers and provide them with information on preparing for the application process, obtaining financial aid and being successful at college life.

The camp will also feature speakers and presentations from colleges and departments across the University, including the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources and the College of Engineering, as well as the Experiment Station’s Desert Farming Initiative.

“The camp will help address some of the stresses that are causing American Indian students to not apply to college or complete degrees,” Daniel Coen, American Indian student coordinator for Extension, said. “A lot of these students come from a tight-knit community, so we want to help them and their families with the transition and changes that come with attending college.”

Agriculture and all its aspects, including livestock, Misters Mueller and Aliff raise and show Boer goats. is an integral part of northern Nevada and a focus of They also raise and train horses. Patrick is a judge for the American Boer Goat Association and travels the High Desert Grange in Fallon. It’s not unusual to see Grange members, young and country judging shows. Both David and Patrick put old, teaching one another the skills necessary to on similar clinics around the West to help individuals raising healthy, happy animals. Sharing knowledge is improve their showmanship ability and fitting skills. so important to High Desert Grange member Debra Fifty participants ages 7 and up, plus their families, Hoffmann, of Hoffmann Hill Farm in Fallon, that she came from Nevada, California, and Idaho to attend organized the High Desert Grange-sponsored Fitting the Fallon clinic. The Fitting Clinic fee was $60.00 and Showmanship Clinic for goats and sheep that was for those people who brought their animal and $40.00 held at the Churchill County Fairgrounds on March for those who did not. The Showmanship fee was 12th and 13th. The event was open to everyone. Youth $40.00. Fees covered the clinic and lunch. Lunch was and adults from Grange, 4-H, FFA, and Independent provided by the Nevada Goat Producers Association. Youth were invited to attend.

What is “fitting?” you might ask. Fitting means to wash, dry and clip the hair on an animal to prepare it for the show ring.

During these two days, presenters David Mueller and Patrick Aliff from Chestnut Springs West in California led participants through the hands-on lessons. Many people brought their own goats and sheep. Those individuals who did not were able to audit the event. Day one featured fitting techniques: how to clip the hair on female goats, known as “does,” for showing in breeding classes at fairs, etc. Day two focused on showmanship: how to present an animal in the show ring to bring out the best characteristics of the animal while maintaining control of the animal. When asked what inspired her to organize this learning opportunity, Debra shared her reasons: “I am one of the goat leaders for High Desert Grange. Each year I try to help the youth fit their animals for all the shows. I am just learning myself and wanted to bring professionals in to teach so youth can be more competitive in the show ring.” Helping Debra with this event were Snow Morrison, Donna Withers, Carolynn Chamlee, and Gloria Montero.

Putting on the event was easy for Debra once the date was set. Seeing the drastic improvement in the skills of the youth in such a short period of time was her greatest thrill. High Desert Grange will be participating in the Nevada Junior Livestock Show and the Churchill County Junior Livestock Show and Sale.

Debra has had requests to offer this clinic next year. Check the High Desert Grange website at the beginning of next year to keep informed; visit http:// www.grange.org/highdesertnv22/. Article by Suzann Gilliland Peterson

High Desert Grange Chapter 22 P.O. Box 5272, Fallon, NV 89407 775-427-8210 highdesertgrange22@gmail.com www.nationalgrange.org Photo: Patrick Aliff teaches at High Desert Grange Showmanship Clinic

Being at the Nevada State 4-H Camp set on the shores of Lake Tahoe, there will also be time set aside for some outdoor recreational activities and social interaction. The camp costs $170 per student, and includes food, daily camp fees and an event t-shirt. Registration closes June 1, and can be done online at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/unr-cabnr-americanindian-college-prep-camp-tickets-310122794627. The camp is funded by United States Department of Agriculture, the National Institute of Food and Agriculture Tribal Students, and the Native American Agriculture Fund. For more information, contact Coen at dcoen@unr.edu or 706-877-0197. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should notify Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at plessick@unr.edu or 702-257-5577 at least three days prior to the scheduled event. www.progressiverancher.com

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MAY/JUNE 2022

Extension and partners ready Nevadans for wildfire, smoke and ozone University of Nevada, Reno Extension kicks off Nevada Wildfire Awareness Campaign As much as Nevadans would like to see clear skies continue, those who have lived here the past several summers know what’s around the corner: wildfires. And, all that comes with them: smoke-filled skies, checking air quality before outdoor activities, and even possible evacuation orders. University of Nevada, Reno Extension’s Living With Fire Program and numerous partners across the state are kicking off the Nevada Wildfire Awareness Campaign this month to help Nevada communities prepare, with the ultimate goal of helping Nevadans stay healthy and safe.

“We’ve been doing a lot of work with our partners to produce some new information and to update recommendations in preparation for this summer,” said Jamie Roice-Gomes, Living With Fire Program manager. “We have some new resources available, including on how to live with wildfire smoke, and are kicking off this year’s campaign with a May 3 event in Las Vegas on reducing ozone and wildfire smoke impacts, and a May 4 event in Mount Charleston on evacuation and wildfire preparedness.” High ozone concentrations and dreaded smoky days, and nights The kick-off event on May 3 comes on the heels of the Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability issuing earlier this month a blanket wildfire smoke advisory in effect until the end of September. It’s the first time the county has issued a wildfire smoke advisory for the season, to accompany the ozone advisory the county usually issues. High ozone concentrations are a common concern during the Las Vegas summer due to factors contributing to its such as a larger population, more vehicles in use, almost constant sunshine, and even ozone coming in from Los Angeles.

“Concentrations are higher in urban areas, in general,” said Mae Gustin, University of Nevada, Reno professor of natural resources and environmental science, who has conducted research on ozone concentrations across the state. “There are things that people can do, like drive less, have their cars smogged and other things, to help reduce it. But, some of it is coming in from out of the area as well. Vegas is influenced by Los Angeles, and Reno gets it from Sacramento and San Francisco, for example. In my research, we even found that the ozone concentrations measured at Great Basin National Park were influenced by air coming from China and Asia.” Gustin says that when ozone is inhaled, it irritates the respiratory system and can cause inflammation and damage to the airway and lungs. Particulate 26 MAY/JUNE 2022

matter, generated from wildfire smoke, may result in cardiovascular effects such as cardiac arrhythmias and heart attacks, and respiratory effects such as asthma attacks and bronchitis. The May 3 presentation in Las Vegas will cover the ozone issue, as well as wildfire smoke impacts and how to reduce the impacts of both. “While most of the Las Vegas area isn’t at high risk of wildfires occurring, except Mount Charleston and a few other areas, Las Vegas residents certainly deal with the impacts of wildfires from outside the area, with the smoke blowing in and getting socked in to the Las Vegas Valley,” Christina Restaino, assistant professor and Living With Fire Program director, said.

Restaino said the presentation, which will also be available online, will provide information useful to the rest of state as well, especially in regard to smoke impacts and staying healthy during what will likely be another smoky summer throughout much of the state. Details of the event include:

Clean the Air: How You Can Help Reduce Ozone and Wildfire Smoke Impacts

When: May 3, doors open at 5:30 p.m., presentations run 6 – 7 p.m.

Attend in person: At University of Nevada, Reno Extension; 8050 Paradise Road, Suite 100, Las Vegas. Admission is free, and appetizers will be provided. Registration required at bit.ly/SmokeReadyVegasLive. Attend online (Zoom) at bit.ly/SmokeReadyVegas Presentations include:

• Ozone – Public Information Administrator Kevin MacDonald, Clark County Department of Environment and Sustainability • Wildfire Smoke Impacts – Manager of Advocacy and Clean Air Melissa Ramos, American Lung Association in Nevada • How to Reduce the Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke – Outreach Coordinator Megan Kay, Extension’s Living With Fire Program

Restaino said that Extension has also produced two new publications on coping with wildfire smoke, now available online: Living With Smoke is geared to helping Nevadans protect their own human health during wildfire smoke events (https://extension.unr.edu/publication. aspx?PubID=4626)

For those with animals that are not house pets, download Best management practices for livestock and equine during wildfire smoke events (https:// extension.unr.edu/publication.aspx?PubID=4394) The Progressive Rancher

Preparing for wildfire and evacuation, and the wildfire threat at Mount Charleston In addition, Extension has worked with its partners to update the Wildfire Evacuation Checklist, now also available online (https://extension.unr.edu/ publication.aspx?PubID=2977) for information on how to prepare ahead of time for evacuation, as well as what to do when actually leaving your home.

While wildfire evacuation orders aren’t likely in most of the Las Vegas area, the same can’t be said for the Mount Charleston area, about 40 miles west of Las Vegas. The popular hiking and recreating area in the Spring Mountains is also home to some Nevadans, and over the past decade, they have experienced their share of wildfires. One of the worst was the 2013 Carpenter 1 fire, which burned for eight weeks, consuming 28,000 acres and destroying six structures. Just last week, NV Energy shut off electrical power to almost 500 customers in the Mount Charleston area due to threatening wildfire conditions, including high winds and hot temperatures.

The effects of prolonged drought have already begun to be seen this spring, as two major wildfires have already occurred in the Southwest over the past couple of weeks. The first, the McBride Fire in Ruidoso, New Mexico, claimed the lives of an elderly couple and destroyed 207 homes. The second, the Tunnel Fire, just north of Tuscon, Arizona, caused more than 2,000 residents to evacuate and destroyed at least 25 structures last week.

To help residents of the Mount Charleston area prepare for wildfires and possible evacuation amid ongoing dry conditions, Extension has partnered with several agencies to host an information session May 4. While the event is geared toward residents of Mount Charleston, some of the information is applicable for residents in other areas of the state as well, such as preparing for evacuation, packing a go-bag, creating defensible space around the home, home hardening and more. In order to make the presentation accessible to more Nevadans, the event will be available online, as well in person at Mount Charleston. Details of the event include:

Evacuation and Wildfire Preparation

When: May 4, doors open at 5:30 p.m., presentations run 6 – 8 p.m.

Attend in person: At The Retreat on Charleston Peak, 2755 Kyle Canyon Road, Mount Charleston. Admission is free, and registration is not required. Appetizers will be provided. Attend online (Zoom) bit.ly/MtCharlestonWildfireReady

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Wells FFA Continues their Golden Legacy Contact: Claudene Wharton 775-784-7072 | whartonc@unr.edu

Early on the morning of March 15th, 21 members of the Wells FFA Chapter loaded onto a bus and headed west to Reno, giddy with excitement about attending the first in-person state convention in two years.

Presentations include:

This year the Wells FFA Chapter competed in ten team and individual career/leadership development events; the result was seven gold medal winners and three silver medal winners.

• Experiences From the Fire at Mount Charleston Lodge on 9-17-21 – Retired Chief Larry Haydu and Chief Brian O’Neal, Clark County Fire Department

In Meats Technology, Wells placed first high team with first high individual Madison Wachtel, second high individual Jackson Dahl, third high individual Carolina Johnson and fourth high i ndividual Morgan Noorda. In Farm Business Management, Wells placed first high team with high individuals 1-5 in order being Jackson Dahl, Lucas Peavey, Madison Wachtel, Jorie Wright, and Spencer Gale. The Novice Parliamentary Procedure team placed first with members Madison Wachtel, Carolina Johnson, Truman Kington, Jorie Wright, and Hannah Prescott, with Morgan Noorda as chairman. Noorda also received the Outstanding Chairman award. The Best Informed Greenhand team received first high team with first high individual Madison Dahl, second high individual Truman Kington, and fourth high individual Liz Rivera. Evelyn Walz, Callie Brodsho, Cristina Salazar and Gizelle Flores also competed. The Rangeland Management team was recognized for placing first place in the fall state contest. The team consisted of first high individual Jackson Dahl, second high individual Madison Wachtel, Carolina Johnson, Grant Kington and Truman Kington. Carolina Johnson competed in Extemporaneous

• Fire Behavior and Evacuation – Chief Jorge Gonzalez, Mount Charleston Fire Protection District

• Evacuation and Packing a Go-Bag – Sergeant Matthew Marlow, Las Vegas Metro Police Department

• Emergency Alerts and Evacuation – Deputy Chief Billy Samuels, Clark County Office of Emergency Management • Defensible Space and Home Hardening – Program Manager Jamie Roice-Gomes, Extension’s Living With Fire Program

• Public Safety Outage Management and Fuels Reduction – NV Energy Fire Chief Mark Regan

• Fuels Reduction and Shared Stewardship – Brett Waters, Nevada Division of Forestry; Raymond Dombroski, U.S. Forest Service – HumboldtToiyabe National Forest

Extension and its Living With Fire Program partners will be holding more presentations during the Nevada Wildfire Awareness Campaign, which runs through October. In early June, presentations on evacuation and wildfire preparation are planned for Elko’s Spring Creek community, as well as for Topaz Ranch Estates in Douglas County, where last year’s Tamarack Fire required evacuation of residents.

Speaking and earned first high speaker. Morgan Noorda competed in Employment Skills and was awarded with first high individual. Silver teams included Ag Technology and Mechanics, Environmental and Natural Resources, and Novice Floriculture. In Ag Mechanics, Lucas Peavey, Grant Kington, and Will Peterson all tied for fourth high individual. Wheeler Johns, Anton Mesna, Eathan Elton, and Jake Glascock also competed. The Environmental and Natural Resources team had members Will Peterson, Grant Kington, Hannah Prescott, Anton Mesna, Wheeler Johns, Jake Glascock, and Eathan Elton. The Ag Mechanics and Environmental and Natural Resources teams were coached by advisor Ryan Kindall. In Novice Floriculture, Carolina Johnson was awarded first high individual. Members Madison Dahl, Callie Brodsho, Cristina Salazar, Gizelle Flores, Liz Rivera and Evelyn Walz were also on the team. Three members were recognized from the Wells FFA Chapter for earning their State Degree, those members were Jorie Wright, Madison Wachtel, and Morgan Noorda. Three additional members were recognized for achieving their American FFA Degrees, the highest award possible in the organization. Aubrey Durant received her American Degree in 2021, and Mckenli Myers and Zion McKay will receive theirs in 2022. The Wells FFA chapter had a very successful and exciting trip to the State FFA Convention and are already getting ready to compete at the National FFA Convention in October.

The Novice Parliamentary Procedure competing at State. (Right to left) Truman KIngton, Hannah Prescott, Carolina Johnson, Jorie Wright, and Madison Wachtel debate as an assembly, with Morgan Noorda as chair.

Funding and support for these events has been provided by NV Energy; University of Nevada, Reno Extension and its Clark County office; the Bureau of Land Management – Nevada State office; the Nevada Division of Forestry; and U.S. Forest Service. For more information on the Nevada Wildfire Awareness Campaign and on how to reduce the wildfire threat, visit LivingWithFire.com or email Roice-Gomes at jamier@unr.edu. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should call or notify Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at plessick@unr.edu or 702-257-5577 at least three days prior to the scheduled event. Photo Background: Wildfire smoke blown into southern Nevada creates an eerie ambience and poor air quality over Las Vegas last August. Photo by Aurora Buffington.

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MAY/JUNE 2022

NEVADA FOOD AND AGRICULTURE TRADE REPORT 2021 - Q4

NDA

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) works with key trade partners, stakeholders and policy makers to ensure that the food and agriculture sector continues to see economic growth. To provide industry and key partners the most up-to-date information, the NDA issues quarterly trade reports in addition to the in-depth biennium report. For any questions related to trade or economic development within the food and agriculture sector, please contact NVtrade@agri.nv.gov. All data is from the U.S. Census Bureau, USA Trade® Online.

FIGURE 1: NEVADA FOOD AND AGRICULTURE EXPORTS BY YEAR AND QUARTER

FIGURE 2: NEVADA FOOD AND AGRICULTURE EXPORTS BY QUARTER

Algeria

Japan 2020

Expected trend

Korea, South 2021

$15,784,195

$12,778,430

$13,052,131

$10,023,555

$8,976,447

Mexico

$11,827,506

$5 million

$8,568,637

$10 million

2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Q1

$7,816,778

$15 million

$9,726,010

$360,632,223,

$348,087,642

$326,798,418

$20 million

$62,668

$100 million

$317,590,320

$200 million

$294,179,586

$256,188,584

$300 million

$329,056,463

$400 million

Canada

During the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2021 (October-December), Nevada’s food and agriculture exports softened. From 20152020 the average Q4 export was $85.7 million. Exports for Q4 of 2021 were $79.4 million. This fell behind historic export values, but elevated trade in Q1-Q3 finished 2021 above previous years’ export totals and continued the upward trend of agricultural exports year over year. Trade with Algeria saw increases in Q4 2021 versus 2020 due to strong dairy product sales.

$0 Quarter 3 Quarter 4

Coffee, Tea, Mate, & Spices

$14,101,591

$11,334,460

$5,470,650

$3,582,989

$4,034,692

$5,432,205

$13,531,133

$4,423,892

$5,000,000

$7,335,632

$10,000,000

$18,368,682

$15,000,000

$19,761,503

$20,000,000

$21,349,815

$25,000,000

$27,340,227

$30,000,000

$15,459,072

FIGURE 3: COMMODITIES BY QUARTER

Nevada’s top exported commodities this quarter remained coffee, tea and spices followed closely by dairy products. The largest increase from Q3 to Q4 was in food industry residues and waste; prep animal feed (up $1.4 million) with a decrease in coffee, tea, mate and spices (down $6 million).

Dairy prods; Miscellaneous Prep Cereal, Prep Edible All other Birds Eggs; Edible Flour, Starch Vegetables, Vegetables, agricultural Honey; Preparations or milk, Fruit, Nuts or Certain Roots commodities Ed Animal Bakers Wares Other Plant & Tubers Prods, Nesoi Parts

Read more in the 2021 Economic Analysis of the Food and Agriculture Sector in Nevada at agri.nv.gov/economic_development. agri.nv.gov 28 MAY/JUNE 2022

NEVADA OF AGRICULTURE TheDEPARTMENT Progressive Rancher

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https://webapps.usgs.gov/ walkerbasinhydromapper The Walker Basin Hydro Mapper provides a basin-wide perspective of real-time streamflow and stage as well as lake and reservoir storage capacity for the Walker River Basin in Nevada and California. This tool was developed to create a common operating picture for water users in the Walker Basin and to help monitor changes to instream flows associated with the Walker Basin Restoration Program. The IIILCIactive i Icy shows data from USGS stream, lake, and atmospheric stations and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) SNOTEL stations as well as current weather conditions. Lake and Reservoir stage and storage data along with descriptive information is provided for Rridgeport Reservoir, Topaz Lake, Weber Reservoir, and Nalker Lake. Historical and most recent total dissolved solids concentration data for Walker Lake is also provided in context with restoration goals.

Friday & Saturday June 10 & 11, 2022

at the Shelman Ranch in Burns, OR Extensive Sale Horse Preview Includes: Ranch Roping, Trail Class, Working Cowhorse, Calf Branding and Ranch Doctoring, Team Roping and Conformation. • Friday night BBQ • Horse Sale Starts at 2:00pm on Saturday • Selling 70+ head of Prospects & Finished Horses • Live internet viewing of the preview & horse sale

Call Cory for more info @ 208-539-1567

www.shelmanfamilyhorses.com www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

manship Market Be ck - Champion Show

Goats, 1st 2nd & 3r

Caitlyn Do

Kortnie Simper & her Grand Cham

pion Lamb

30 MAY/JUNE 2022

The Progressive Rancher

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Light Weigh Market Hogs 1st place – Maddie Keller SWINE BREEDING 2nd place – Grace Laca Swine Gilt 3rd place – Raygen Bartel Grand Champion - Kylee Simper 4th place – Avery Laca Reserve Champion - Blake Bernstein 5th place – Zachary Haase Swine Boar Medium Weigh Market Hogs Grand Champion – Travis Bradley 1st place – Garrett Bartel 2nd place – Jameson Barbee SHEEP BREEDING 3rd place – Rusten McKnight Lamb Ram 4th place – Cody Frey Grand Champion – Allie Fait 5th place – Eddie Morrow Reserve Champion – Colton Fait Heavy Weigh Market Hogs Young Ewe Lamb 1st place – Kylee Simper Grand Champion – Allie Fait Reserve Champion – Haley Hancock 2nd place – Haley Hancock 3rd place – Kalaya Downs Senior Ewe Sheep 4th place – Claire Barbee Grand Champion 5th place – Rylee Hammond Kenadee McKnight Super Heavy Weigh Market Hogs Reserve Champion – 1st place – Isabella Sorensen Caden McKnight 2nd place – Jackson Barbee BEEF BREEDING 3rd place – Kalvin Snyder Bull Calf 4th place – Thayne Hatch Grand Champion – Lonnie Adams Grand Champion – Kylee Simper Junior Heifer Reserve Champion – Haley Hancock Grand Champion – Lonnie Adams Reserve Champion – Lonnie Adams Best Home-Grown Hog 1st place - Isabella Sorensen Senior Cow 2nd place – Jameson Barbee Grand Champion – Haley Hancock 3rd place – Claire Barbee GOAT BREEDING 4th place – Jackson Barbee Buck – Chloe Kent 5th place – Jacob Sorensen Young Doe Grand Champion MARKET STEERS Kadence Wiessmer Reserve Champion Light Weigh Steers Kenslee Wiessmer 1st place – Ruby Hiskett Senior Doe Grand Champion Middle Weight Steers Karlie Simper 1st place - Stacie Bogdanowicz Reserve Champion – Zachary Haase 2nd place - Caitlyn Dock 3rd place – Clayton Hiibel DAIRY COW Heavy Weigh Steers Grand Champion – Dakota Vest Senior Showmanship – Dakota Vest 1st place – Rio Segura 2nd place – Addison Allegre DAIRY GOAT Super Heavy Weight Steers Dairy Goat Buck Grand Champion – Lonnie Adams Grand Champion – Zachary Haase Reserve Champion – Alyssa Gardner Reserve Champion – Rio Segura Best Home-Grown Steer Junior Dairy Goat 1st place - Lonnie Adams Grand Champion – Bailey Peixoto 2nd place – Addison Allegre Senior Showmanship 3rd place – Clayton Hiibel 1st place – Zachary Haase 2nd place – Garrett Gardner MARKET LAMBS Intermediate Showmanship Light Weight Market Lambs 1st place – Alyssa Gardner 1st place – Ava Bunyard Dairy Goat Junior Showmanship 2nd place – Kenadee McKnight Bailey Peixoto 3rd place – Abby Bird 4th place – Daniel Anderson Market Result 5th place – Addison Diaz Friday, April 22, 2022 Middle Weigh Market Lambs MARKET HOGS 1st place - Haley Hancock 2nd place – Reese Laca Super Light Weigh Market Hogs 3rd place – Caden McKnight 1st place – Stephanie Tidwell 4th place - Angel Arteaga 2nd place – Rhett Hammond 3rd place – Travis Bradley Heavy Weight Market Lambs 4th place – Sadoni Downs 1st place - Allie Fait

Thursday, April 21, 2022

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2nd place – Gianna Salisbury 3rd place – Alain Barerra 4th place – Trace McKnight 5th Gabe Houyoux Super Heavy Weight Market Lambs 1st place – Kortnie Simper 2nd place – Dana Buckmaster 3rd place – Colton Fait 4th place – Bailey Beebe Grand Champion Lamb Kortnie Simper Reserve Champion – Allie Fait Best Home Grown 1st place – Colton Fait 2nd place – Daniel Anderson 3rd place – Addison Diaz MARKET GOATS Light Weight Market Goats 1st place – Abby Bird 2nd place – Victory Heafner 3rd place – Zachary Haase 4th place – Kesley Sandberg Middle Weight Market Goats 1st place – Karlie Simper 2nd place – Kadence Wiessmer 3rd place – Riggin Stonebarger 4th place – Chloe Kent 5th place – Carley Dock Heavy Weight Market Goats 1st place – Madison Gregory 2nd place – Zoey McCartney Grand Champion Market Goat Karlie Simper Reserve Champion Market Goat Kadence Wiessmer Best Home-Grown Market Lamb 1st place – Kadence Wiessmer 2nd place – Chloe Kent SWINE SHOWMANSHIP Senior Swine Showmanship 1st place – Kylee Simper 2nd place – Haley Hancock 3rd place – Maddie Keller 4th place – Raygen Bartel 5th place – Kade Snyder Intermediate Swine Showmanship 1st place – Claire Barbee 2nd place – Hannah Montalvo 3rd place – Jackson Barbee 4th place – Allee MacKay 5th place – Kalaya Downs Junior Swine Showmanship 1st place – Owen Olsen 2nd place – Kalven Snyder 3rd place – Jameson Barbee 4th place – Garrett Bartel 5th place – Cody Frey BEEF SHOWMANSHIP Senior Beef Showmanship 1st place – Caitlyn Dock 2nd place Stacie Bogdanowicz 3rd place – Ruby Hiskett The Progressive Rancher

4th place – Dakota Vest 5th place – Dawson McKnight Intermediate Beef Showmanship 1st place – Rio Segura Junior Beef Showmanship 1st place – Addison Allegre 2nd place – Clayton Hiibel 3rd place – Anna Lewis SHEEP SHOWMANSHIP Senior Showmanship 1st place – Haley Hancock 2nd place – Dana Buckmaster 3rd place – Addison Diaz 4th place – Allie Fait 5th place – Angel Arteaga Intermediate Showmanship 1st place - Kortnie Simper 2nd place – Abby Bird 3rd place – Ava Bunyard 4th place – Gabe Houyoux 5th place – Bailey Beebe Junior Showmanship 1st place – Gianna Salisbury 2nd place – Colton Fait 3rd place – Trace McKnight 4th place – Autumn Thomas GOAT SHOWMANSHIP Senior Showmanship 1st place - Madison Gregory 2nd place – Rachial Wempner 3rd place – Zoey McCartney 4th place – Josh Gusewelle 5th place – Zachary Haase Intermediate Showmanship 1st place – Karlie Simper 2nd place – Riggin Stonebarger 3rd place – Abby Bird 4th place – Kadence Wiessmer 5th place – Victory Heafner Junior Showmanship 1st place – Kenslee Wiessmer 2nd place – Chloe Kent 3rd place – Drew Palanivelu POULTRY Grand Champion Breeding Poultry Kaylee Montalvo Reserve Champion Breeding Poultry Trace McKnight Grand Champion Meat Pen MacKenzie Schownmeier Reserve Champion Meat Pen Kody Wilson Grand Champion Turkey Taylor Sowersby Reserve Champion Turkey Payton Sowersby Senior Poultry Showmanship 1st place – Rachial Wempner 2nd place – Lucia Caride Intermediate Poultry Showmanship 1st place – Kalaya Downs 2nd place – Mackenzie Mills

3rd place – Ava Bunyard 4th place - Cameron Wilson Junior Poultry Showmanship 1st place – Chloe Kent 2nd place – Trace McKnight 3rd place – Kody Wilson 4th place – Lucas Holcomb 5th place – Mackenzie Schoenmeier Senior Turkey Showmanship 1st place – Talon Johnson Intermediate Turkey Showmanship 1st place – Taylor Sowersby 2nd place – Nala Jones 3rd place – Jaylee Vest Junior Turkey 1st place – Payton Sowersby CAVY & RABBIT SHOW Grand Champion Cavy Ellie Carrasco Reserve Champion Cavy Emma Carrasco CAVY SHOWMANSHIP Junior Showmanship 1st place – Emma RABBIT QUALITY Grand Champion Macady Bogdanowicz Reserve Champion Macady Bogdanowicz 1st place Mini Lop Macady Bogdanowicz 1st place Holland Lop Meirra Cavanaugh 1st place Mini Rex Macady Bogdanowicz 2nd place – Karlie Simper 3rd place – Kylee Simper 4th place – Kortnie Simper 1st place Mini Satin Chloe Kent 1st place Californian Macady Bogdanowicz 2nd Macady Bogdanowicz 3rd Chloe Kent Grand Champion - Mini Lop Macady Bogdanowicz Reserve Champion – Mini Rex Macady Bogdanowicz RABBIT SHOWMANSHIP Junior Showmanship 1st place - Chloe Kent Intermediate Showmanship 1st place Karlie Simper 2nd place – Kortnie Simper 3rd place – Meirra Cavanaugh Senior Showmanship 1st place – Kylee Simper Photos by Leana Carey Official Awards Photos will be in July 2022 Issue MAY/JUNE 2022

FROM THE DESK OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Typical spring work here in Washington looks less like shearing, branding, and turning out on summer pasture and more like dodging tourists, coordinating meetings with Members of Congress, and managing the bevy of requests that come through appropriations season.

CAPTIAL ISSUES A COLLECTION OF MONTHLY UPDATES FROM PUBLIC LANDS COUNCIL LEADERSHIP AND STAFF

THE PRESIDENT’S PUBLICATION With so many extreme groups and misinformed people attacking our industry regularly, it’s hard not to discouraged, and even a bit disgusted.

As we end the month, please remember to share the upcoming deadline for PLC’s Fiscal Year 2023 grant awards cycle with your academic partners. This year, PLC has identified rangeland health and biodiversity, impacts of catastrophic wildfire, and interactions between multiple uses as priorities in our Request for Proposals. The PLC Board only wants to fund the best of the best, so share far and wide!

We must remember: we’re working through temporary challenges in an industry that has fed our nation and others for hundreds of years. While dealing with these immediate issues we must work together to build the plan to achieve our 25-, to 50-, and 100-year goals. PLC cannot change the weather or direct the future of our industry. However, working together we can help develop the programs, policies, and legislation needed to grow our industry. We need you to weigh in by sharing with us the issues you are dealing with. We need to know how you, as leaders in the industry, are dealing with drought, fire, heavy snow & cold, and all the rest. Better than hearing from you would be if you would join us at our upcoming annual meeting in Cody, Wyoming. Your PLC team has been working on our annual meeting on August 24th – 26th in Cody. We will be meeting in Cody, WY from August 24th through 26th. This will be the first in-person meeting in two years, we have focused on making this meeting more than an informational meeting but an opportunity to get reacquainted with friends you haven’t seen, make new friends and learn about their families and ranches. This will be a great opportunity to hear directly from the decision makers in and out of government, it’s an opportunity to influence your future.

Niels Hansen PLC President

32 MAY/JUNE 2022

Many of you have upcoming meetings with your delegation, and I urge you to be prepared to discuss west-wide issues with them: the recent attack on the grazing industry by those who claim grazing is the cause, rather than the solution to western range health, the need to ensure state-based management of wildlife (including wolves, sage grouse, and more!), and the need to utilize grazing as both an incredibly important part of a sustainable rural economy and as a primary tool to manage western landscapes. Through COVID, we have been focused on ensuring we keep you up to date – and get the latest from you – on all of the pressing issues of the day. This year, we have the opportunity to revisit, restart, and reinvigorate projects that saw a ‘pause’ during COVID transitions. Coming soon: in-person meetings, new dues structures, and – with your help – new resources for academic, legislative, and litigation inquiries.

In my case I get disgusted and mad, but I try to remember that many - maybe even most - of the people have no knowledge of our industry or natural resource management. They get their information from self-proclaimed experts and assume it is correct. Because of this unfortunate fact, it is important that we work together to address the false and misleading statements about the benefits of good grazing.

Come join us as we work to protect the future of our industry.

In her new role, Sigrid has been leading the charge on PLC appropriations requests this year, to great effect. She’s been in touch with many of you to ensure your state priorities are represented in the federal process, but your role is just as important.

Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director, Public Lands Council Office direct: 202-879-9128 | Cell: 202-525-0789 | Email: kglover@beef.org

READ WHAT WE’RE SAYING ABOUT NEPA The Biden administration has implemented new changes to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as announced by the White House Council on Environmental Quality.

NEPA plays an important role in water, transportation, conservation, and public lands projects across the country, which is why these regulation changes are so important to PLC members. The restoration of three elements from an earlier NEPA bill directs federal agencies to evaluate all environmental impacts.

PLC and NCBA spoke out against the rule changes on April 19, shortly after their announcement.

“When it comes to federal regulations, ranchers are often caught in the middle of political whiplash, and this CEQ process is no exception,” said NCBA Executive Director of Natural Resources and PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover.

“Livestock producers and land managers need regulatory certainty and consistency. By returning to a pre-2020 standard, this rule returns environmental analysis to a failed model that industry and government have long agreed is woefully inadequate and inefficient. This failed model will stall important environmental projects, delay critical infrastructure improvements, and impede progress made as part of ongoing NEPA processes.” Read more about PLC’s take on the NEPA revisions here: www.ncba.org/ncbanews/news-releases/news/details/30079/biden-nepa-framework-compromisesenvironmental-economic-goals

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

FROM THE DESK OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

PLC JOINS AFFILIATES ON WOTUS SUPREME COURT BRIEF

Every place has its own quintessential signals of spring, and Washington, D.C. is no exception. The cherry blossoms jump to mind for millions of people, but for those of us working on agriculture and natural resources policy, April can only mean one thing: appropriations.

The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing the case Sackett v. EPA, which challenges the authority of the Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Water Act. This case has implications for cattle producers who have experienced shifting regulations under “Waters of the U.S.” (WOTUS). On Monday, PLC joined NCBA, the American National CattleWomen, the Beef Alliance, and the American Quarter Horse Association in submitting an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to adopt a limited, clear WOTUS definition that finally provides certainty for cattle producers. Check out one key quote from the brief below:

In our month-long sprint to submit appropriations requests, PLC has focused on two main buckets: legislative and regulatory outcomes that we can influence through funding, and outcomes we can influence through directive language from Congress.

An example of the former is funding for the BLM’s humane, non-lethal population control of wild horse and burro herds. Per our policy book, PLC is advocating strongly for an increase in funding for this program because taking aggressive action to reduce on-rage populations is an urgent need – not just for livestock, but for the health of native wildlife, forage, and over-taxed water supplies. An example of the latter is our efforts to direct agencies to open up more vacant allotments for grazing in times of drought and in areas where sheep producers need to mitigate contact with bighorn sheep.

As we all know, legislators from both parties on Capitol Hill can be spend-happy with your tax dollars. It’s important to note that some of our appropriations work is not about where we want federal dollars to be spent, but where we don’t want them. Our long-standing request on sage-grouse asks Congress to prevent federal funds from flowing to any implementation of a hypothetical future ESA listing of the greater sage-grouse.

Years of hyper-partisan politics and the normalization of last-minute omnibus spending bills at the end of the year have all but obliterated the normal process for appropriations, resulting in a lot of variation from office to office on how members handle requests and set their deadlines. On top of that, we have midterm elections approaching this fall and many members are already turning their focus to either defending a very tenuous Democratic majority or flipping seats for the Republicans. With a thin window of opportunity, the work your PLC team puts in year-round to build strong relationships on both sides of the aisle is key. We have also been closely coordinating with our partners at NCBA and ASI to ensure that we are maximizing the impact of our united voice in agriculture. If you have any questions about appropriations season or want to flag a policy issue that you’re hearing about in your state, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Kaitlynn at kglover@beef.org or Sigrid at sjohannes@beef.org.

“The Executive Branch has failed. Since the passage of the CWA, cattle producers have managed their operations through 13 iterations of “waters of the U.S.” definitions in a mere 50 years. On average, this means that farmers, ranchers, and other landowners experience a change in how features on their property are regulated once every 3.8 years – an untenable scheme that provides no foundation for meaningful business planning.” You can read the brief in its entirety here: tinyurl.com/PLC-SCB

TUNE IN: PLC ON THE LATEST EPISODE OF BELTWAY BEEF PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover was a guest on the Beltway Beef podcast to give an update on the work being done to ensure clear and consistent environmental regulations for cattle producers.

As the Biden administration undergoes processes to repeal and replace Waters of the United States (WOTUS) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) rules, NCBA is working to ensure that these rules facilitate an environment where farmers and ranchers can continue critical on the ground progress, instead of impeding it. Tune in here: https://soundcloud.com/beltway-beef/ncba-leading-the-chargefor-clear-consistent-environmental-regulations?

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: UPCOMING PLC COMMITTEE MEETINGS

All committees (except the Preference WG) will meet at 10 a.m. ET (8 a.m. MT/7 a.m. PT). May 4 Grazing Committee May 10 Recreation Working Group May 17 Wildlife Committee May 19 Ecosystem & Environment May 25 Multiple Use Committee Meeting agendas will be shared with committee members closer to meeting dates. Need a link? Contact jtedder@beef.org.

Sigrid Johannes, Associate Director, PLC Office: 202-879-9122 | Email: sjohannes@beef.org

ANNUAL MEETING

Registration is now open for PLC’s 2022 Annual Meeting in Cody, Wyoming! From policy committee meetings and general sessions with highimpact speakers, to awards banquets and plenty of opportunities for fun, you won’t want to miss the premier event of the year for public lands ranchers.

WE CAN’T WAIT TO... CATCH YOU IN CODY! Annual Meeting is officially open! After a three-year drought without being able to meet in-person, we’re ready to have everybody wrangled together. From taking care of business to having some Wild West fun, this is not an event you want to miss. You also don’t want to miss Early Bird pricing; register here before the price increases! Additionally, be sure to call and reserve a hotel room (with our Annual Meeting codes) before they’re all booked out. For any questions or help registering, please contact Justyn Tedder at jtedder@beef.org.

Wednesday, August 24 • Friday, August 26 • Cody, Wyoming Register here at your earliest convenience: tinyurl.com/CYIN2022

Hotel accommodations and further details can be found here on our website: https://publiclandscouncil.org/?event=2022-public-lands-council-annual-meeting

Justyn Tedder, Associate Director of Operations, PLC Office: 202-879-9135| Email: jtedder@beef.org www.progressiverancher.com

If you have questions, please email Justyn Tedder at jtedder@beef.org

Early Bird Registration Pricing Ends June 15, 2022!

The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

Nevada Division of

Water Resources Smith and Mason Valleys Water Rights & Groundwater Conditions View and Download the original PowerPoint Presentation here: tinyurl.com/WaterNVWalkerRiverPresentation SURFACE WATER IRRIGATION RIGHTS

Smith and Mason Valleys

1936 Walker River Decree

• Managed by Federal Water Master • “Natural Flow” rights based on priority

Water Rights & Groundwater Conditions April 11, 2022, 5:00 pm Smith Valley High School, 20 Day Lane, Smith, NV April 13, 2022, 5:30 pm Lyon County Administrative Building, 27 S. Main St., Yerington, NV

Presented by:

Nevada Division of Water Resources

NDWR STAFF

SURFACE WATER IRRIGATION RIGHTS

• Adam Sullivan State Engineer

Storage Rights

• Wyatt Fereday

• Bridgeport and Topaz Reservoirs • Managed by Walker River Irrigation District (WRID) • Based on annual storage allocation

Lead Water Resource Specialist

• Kip Allander Hydrogeologist

• Chad Walling

Drilling Regulation Manager

• AJ Jensby

Support Water Resource Specialist

GROUNDWATER IRRIGATION RIGHTS

OVERVIEW

• Walker River Surface/Groundwater Water Rights Relationship • Meter Reporting Order • Current Drought • Groundwater Conditions in Smith and Mason Valleys • Stream efficiencies in Smith and Mason Valleys • Well Drilling Activities • Online Resources 34 MAY/JUNE 2022

• Managed by State of Nevada Division of Water Resources (NDWR) • Primary groundwater (GW) rights: stand-alone • Supplemental GW rights: back-up to surface water (SW) rights – Decree or Storage rights • Limited to 4.0 acre-feet per acre from all sources – cumulative primary GW, supplemental GW, and SW

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

MASON VALLEY GROUNDWATER RIGHTS

OVER-PUMPING OF PERMITTED DUTIES, 2021

CURRENT CONDITIONS (AS OF APRIL 5, 2022)

SMITH VALLEY GROUNDWATER RIGHTS

Weber Last Year 94%

Snow Water Equivalent (inches)

Topaz

Last Year 27% Walker Lake Last Year 50%

2022

Bridgeport Last Year 35% 12

MASON VALLEY SURFACE VS. GROUNDWATER USE

Last Year

DROUGHT STATUS

Last Week

Moderate Severe Extreme Exceptional

The Drought Monitor indicates conditions have improved some this year 13

ORDER 1318: SELF-REPORTING GROUNDWATER USE • Smith & Mason Valleys • Requires monthly meter reporting • Domestic, Stockwater, and wells with total duty <5 AF exempt • meters.water.nv.gov

https://livingwithdrought.com/report-your-conditions/ 14

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The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

LONG TERM EFFECT OF PUMPING ON WALKER RIVER FLOW EFFICIENCY

GROUNDWATER MONITORING NETWORK

DURING IRRIGATION SEASON West Walker River through Smith Valley

Mason Valley

Gaining

• 106 monitoring sites

Walker River through Mason Valley

Flow efficiency is decreasing 3% per decade

Gaining

Smith Valley

• 37 monitoring sites

Flow efficiency is decreasing 5% per decade

Losing

Available at: water.nv.gov Source: Davies and Naranjo, 2022 NWRA presentation

SMITH VALLEY WATER LEVELS

FEEDBACK CYCLE OF EXCESSIVE PUMPING AND RIVER FLOW EFFICIENCY

Increased Flow Losses Average Smith Valley Water Level Declines (ft/yr) 2012-16 2020-22

5.0 7.4

Reduced Flow Deliveries

Increased Pumping 20

MASON VALLEY WATER LEVELS

LOSSES ON THE EAST WALKER RIVER SUMMER, 2021

Average Mason Valley Water Level Declines (ft/yr) 2012-16 3.4 2020-22 4.1

LONG-TERM WATER LEVEL DECLINES (1970 – 2020)

SMITH AND MASON VALLEYS GROUNDWATER AQUIFER

From Davies and Naranjo (USGS) 2022 NWRA Presentation: ‘Estimated effects of pumping on

• Decades-long decline in water levels • Smith Valley has greater declines than Mason Valley – More recharge from river & ditches in Mason Valley

groundwater storage And Walker River stream efficiencies in Smith Valley and Mason Valley, West-Central Nevada’

• Compared with 2012-15, the 2020-22 drought has seen similar water levels in Mason, but lower water levels in Smith • Declines in water levels are reducing the flow efficiency of the Walker River

Total volume removed from groundwater reservoir: • Smith: 5 Topaz Reservoirs • Mason: 6 Bridgeport Reservoirs

36 MAY/JUNE 2022

– Greater stream efficiency decline in Mason than Smith

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

SUMMARY AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

WELL RE-DRILLS & DEEPENINGS

• Smith and Mason Valley are highly susceptible to drought • Long term sustained drawdown is a greater concern than short term drought cycles • No curtailment this year, but may be necessary in future years • 2015-2016 as an example • Curtailment is avoidable

Domestic wells are increasingly being impacted

– Community planning – Voluntary reduction in pumping – Conservation

• Continue public outreach 27

WELL DRILLING ACTIVITIES

2022 ENFORCEMENT

WHEN A LICENSED WELL DRILLER IS REQUIRED

• Over-pumping • Supplemental usage

Well Drillers are licensed by both the Nevada Division of Water Resources and the State Contractor’s Board

• Meter/Reporting Order in effect • Increased field checks –

“Well Drilling” Defined (NRS 534.0175, NAC 534.245) Interpreted by the State Engineer to include, without limitation, the drilling, plugging, and rehabilitation of a well

– Meter verification, water levels

• Compliance is the goal, but fines and penalties may be assessed

“Rehabilitation” Defined (NAC 534.189) A material change to the design or construction of an existing well

– NRS 534.193 & NRS 534.320

WELL "DRILLING" ACTIVITIES

WHEN A LICENSED WELL DRILLER IS NOT REQUIRED "Reconditioning" (NAC 534.188) The process of revitalizing an existing well by various methods that do not cause a material change in the design or construction of the well: • • • • •

Chemical treatment Brush cleaning Surging High-pressure jetting Changing/lowering pumps

ONLINE RESOURCES

The Division of Water Resources does not regulate pumps

NDWR Water Levels Dashboard

Water.nv.gov >> Mapping & Data: • • • • • • •

Water Rights Webmap Hydrology Webmap Meters Database Water Level Database Well Log Database Pumpage Inventories Water Levels Dashboard

Nevada.usgs.gov >> • •

Questions?

IF THE WORK REQUIRES A LICENSED WELL DRILLER

• Ensure your selected driller is license by NDWR – Comprehensive list available on our website

• Confirm the driller submits appropriate documentation – Notice of Intent to Drill – Well Driller's Report (well log)

• Contact the Well Drilling Regulations section for questions • Watch out for scams 26

www.progressiverancher.com

https://webapps.usgs.gov/walkerbasinhydromapper https://maps.waterdata.usgs.gov/mapper/index.html

The Progressive Rancher

Contact Division of Water Resources 901 S. Stewart Street #2002 Phone: 775-684-2800 water.nv.gov

MAY/JUNE 2022 water.nv.gov l

@NevDCNR

38 MAY/JUNE 2022

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

Churchill County Cowbelles | Favorite Beef Recipes

By Leana L. Carey, President

MONGOLIAN BEEF STIR-FRY This is the BEST Mongolian Beef Recipe you will ever taste! It’s a super quick, easy and ridiculously delicious stir fry dish of tender beef coated in a slightly sweet and savory sauce. It was inspired by P.F. Changs Mongolian Beef recipe. Serve it over steamed rice and a side of sautéed or steamed veggies for a complete meal. You might want to make a double batch, because everyone is going to want leftovers! Prep Time: 5 min. Cook Time: 10 min. Total Time: JUST 15 MINUTES INGREDIENTS

• 2 New York Strip Steaks, thinly sliced (about 1-½ pounds)* • 3 tablespoons cornstarch • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tablespoon minced ginger • ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce • ⅓ cup water • ½ cup light brown sugar • 2 green onions sliced into 1 inch pieces • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds - optional • salt and pepper to taste • steamed rice for serving PREPARATION

1. Season sliced steak with salt and pepper. Toss steak in cornstarch until fully and evenly coated. Set aside. 2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon oil. Add garlic and ginger and sauté for 1 minute. Add soy sauce, water and sugar and bring to a boil until sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes. 3. Pour sauce into a liquid measuring cup and set aside.

4. Place skillet back over heat and add remaining oil. Add steak and sear until evenly browned on both sides, 1 to 2 minutes per side. 5. Pour sauce back into skillet and stir together with beef. Simmer and allow sauce to thicken, 1 to 2 minutes.

6. Toss in green onion and continue to cook for 1 more minute until sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a wooden spoon. 7. Pour over steamed rice and serve alongside your favorite steamed veggies.

Tips and Tricks for Success Coating the sliced beef in cornstarch is important because it helps to tenderize the beef. It also helps to thicken the sauce, allowing it to fully coat the beef. *Flank steak (sliced against the grain) is most commonly used to make Mongolian beef, although any quick cooking beef works great. We use New York strip steaks in our version, as flank steak isn’t always found at all grocery stores and New York strip steaks generally are. Both flank steak and NY strip steaks work really well for this recipe and we recommending whichever you’re able to find and prefer.

Sear the sliced beef in batches to avoid overcrowding in the pan. This will allow the beef to sear properly and prevent the slices from steaming.

Photos and recipe courtesy of: www.spoonforkbacon.com/mongolian-beef-over-steamed-rice/ www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

MAY/JUNE 2022

Presort Standard U.S. Postage PAID Permit #40 Tooele, UT

FORT RANCH 45th Annual Production Sale

Saturday • June 25, 2022 • 35 Miles West of Brigham City Prospects raised on 21,000 acres in the beautiful, rugged Promontory Mountains of Utah. Our foals are born and raised in the elements and on the mountainside. They have a rich history of being cow horses that excel on the ranch, in the arena, and in the show pen. We hope to see you at our annual production sale!

Saturday, June 25, 2022

FOR INFORMATION & CATALOG REQUESTS CALL:

Landon Hall

10:00 Sale Preview 11:30 Fort Ranch Sale Begins

or www.fortranch.com

Complementary lunch served throughout the sale

208-680-9041

Reference Sires: Quite A Boon

Kid Dunit

Peptoboonsmal x Meradas Little Sue

Dun It With A Twist x Melimelo Kid

Silver Savanah Moon

Smart Zee Lena

Once In A Blu Boon x Savanah Holli

Smart Little Lena x Zee Dualy

Cat Suep

Stylish Fever Prom

High Brow Cat x Meradas Little Sue

Cow Kwacker High Brow Cat x Kwackin

Dams include own daughters of:

Playboys Buck Fever x Telenastyle

Mitch Jacobs

2496 North 2375 East Hamer, ID 83425 208-662-5530 208-589-1951

Frank Vandersloot 2880 North 55 West Idaho Falls, ID 83402 208-528-6635

Bobalena Bob Bodee Boonsmal Cat Ichi CD Lights Dual Rey Gun Goes Boon Hickorydickory Doc High Brow Cat High Brow CD Little Pistol Badge Metallic Cat

Mr Peppy Olena Mr Skyline Peppy One Time Pepto Playdox Playin Stylish Quite A Boon Ricochets Sue Smart Little Lena Smooth As A Cat TR Dual Rey Zoom Zoom Shorty

Sale Terms: 1/3 down payment with balance to be paid in September when foals are weaned and picked up by their new owners. Foal guaranteed to be alive and sound or your down payment will be refunded.

The Progressive Rancher - May/June 2022

Articles inside

Public Lands Council Capital Issues

2022 Churchill County Junior Livestock Show & Sale Results

USGS | Walker Basin Hydro Mapper available online

NDA | American Rescue Plan

SRM | Water Outlook: Water Availability Via Snow Survey and Farm Bill Programs

UNR Extension | Prepare for Wildfire, Smoke & Ozone

NFB | Grassroots Newsletter

Idaho Rangeland Conservation Partnership Annual Meeting

NFB | Coping with Another Year Of Drought

NFB | Scholarship Available

Editorial | Let’s Talk Ag

NBC | Beef Recipe

NCA | President’s Perspective

NBC | CheckOff News

E&E News | Sage Grouse Changes / Grazing Rule

Eye on the Outside

Upcoming Educational Events

Editorial | Budd-Falen Law