The Progressive Rancher - JULY-AUGUST 2023

by Conner Nicklas | Opinion Editorial

When Does Your State’s Rights Violate My State’s Rights?

“A house divided cannot stand.” The Founding Fathers were wise. They understood that there were circumstances where the states could inflict economic warfare on each other. The Founding Fathers also understood that this nation could not survive economic warfare among the states. The Founding Fathers were also worried about large and wealthy states abusing smaller states and imposing their agenda on nonresidents. It was because of these concerns that the Founding Fathers created the Dormant Commerce Clause.

The Dormant Commerce Clause essentially prohibits states from making laws that would economically discriminate against the citizens of one state in order to benefit the citizens of another state. It has also been used to protect the industries of one state from being abused by another state. The nation was an agricultural country at its founding, and it was important to the Founders that commerce could be freely traded between the states.

Unfortunately, the Supreme Court appeared to have forgotten those principles and just gave California the right to control agricultural practices for the rest of the country. In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court upheld Proposition 12. Proposition 12 was a law made in California prohibiting pork from being sold in the state that is not being raised following very strict and economically unrealistic standards. California’s requirements would cost pork producers nationally hundreds of millions, if not billions of dollars to conform to, which will in turn increase the costs of pork for everyone (whether they live in California or not). The case ultimately turned in California’s favor because the Court ruled that California has a right to regulate industries within its jurisdiction and it is Congress’s role to regulate commerce and prevent abusive state laws. While a state certainly has a right to regulate the industries within its borders, the problem is that the effect of California’s law extends well beyond its borders. California hardly produces any pork, but the state holds a 13-percent share of the consumer pork market, making it “economically infeasible for many pig farmers and pork producers to exit the market.” So, if a pig farmer in Iowa wants to continue existing, that farmer will have to either completely change its practices or lose a large share of his market. According to the Court, so long as a law does not specifically discriminate against a Californian compared to a Kansan, then the law does not violate the Constitution. Ultimately, California’s law undermines our state boundaries and the sovereignty of those states by forcing individuals and businesses in one state to conduct their farming, manufacturing, and production practices in a manner required by the laws California. So, the Court’s ruling begs an avalanche of questions… do we really want to open this Pandora’s Box? When does your state’s rights violate my state’s right? Should a state be allowed to create laws that impose its moral values on its neighboring states? Should a state be allowed to deny market access to out-of-state industries for controversial policies? Should New York be able to create a state law banning the sale of goods produced by workers paid less than $20 per hour? Should Texas be allowed to prohibit the sale of goods produced by companies that pay for employees’ birth control or abortions. If the answer is that a state’s right to create its own laws trumps the right of an out of state worker to lawfully make a living in their own state, then perhaps we should do away with state borders because they will mean very little if we continue to go down this path.

president ' s perspective

"Prevention of wasteful use of a resource." That definition of conservation from my Oxford dictionary is what Rancher's must practice to stay in business. It's perquisite of ranching that we get to enjoy the wildlife that benefits from our conservation practices. The Bureau of Land Management recently proposed a rule towards conservation of our public lands. We should be all about that. We should be thrilled that conservation and all other recognized uses of public lands will be on equal footing, as livestock grazing often is not on equal footing with other uses. The proposal is concerning though. I could fill this entire publication with concerns, but to save some trees, I'll pare them down to three:

#1 Collaboration. We are to believe that the Federal Land Policy and Management act compels the BLM to roll out this rule in the fashion they did. It's mindboggling that a piece of policy of this scope only requires a short comment period of input.

#2 Unintended consequences. Also mind-boggling is the number of collaborative groups that exist in the West now. A thing they pretty much all have in common

NEWS RELEASE

is that they exist to try to figure out creative solutions to navigate the unintended consequences of policy. To be sure, obstructive groups that profit from litigating agencies see a lot of opportunity in this proposal and that will lead to unintended consequences that will lead to the opposite of this proposal and further tie the hands of our agency folks, and likely reduce all other access to our public lands.

#3 Capacity. The Bureau of Land Management hasn't the capacity to do the work they have in front of them right now. There are so many layers of policy they have to navigate that it's nearly impossible to get anything done.

This proposal may be the best example of why your membership in the Nevada Cattlemen's Association is so important. Rest assured; we will be putting all our resources on this one.

Jon Griggs President National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Contact: Kathryn Dyer

Nevada Range Program Lead

National Outcome Based Grazing Project Lead Office: 775-861-6647 | kdyer@blm.gov

BLM GRAZING RULE UPDATE

The Bureau of Land Management is adjusting its approach to updating the Grazing Rule in order to best achieve program efficiencies and outcomes for rangeland health. In the near term, the Bureau will shift its focus from advancing a rulemaking to considering updates to policy and guidance with the goal to help deliver much needed administrative improvements and inform any future rulemaking efforts. So, although the rulemaking process to update the Grazing Regulations has been paused, there is still tremendous ability to continue and expand on the current beneficial efforts such as Outcome Based Grazing and Flexibility in Grazing Authorizations, and Targeted and Prescribed Grazing. All of these current efforts are allowed under the 1995 Grazing Regulations, which are our current operative regulations and will continue to be in place until revised. So, let’s continue our great work together, and be ready to make the best regulations possible when they are able to be unpaused!

The Public Lands rule (conservation / leasing) is still going forward... Editor

by Martin Paris | NCA Executive Director |

O: 775-738-9214

2023 Scholarship Recipients

The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association Research and Education Committee is pleased to announce four scholarship recipients this year. The NCA would like to congratulate Jackson Dahl of Ruby Valley, NV and Madison Wachtel of Wells, NV for being selected as the 2023 NCA Scholarship recipients. We congratulate Anthony Barnes from Jiggs, NV and Kerstyn Countryman from Washoe Valley, NV for being selected as the 2023 MarvelAndrae Scholarship recipients.

The NCA annually awards a scholarship to a first-year college student beginning to pursue an education within the agricultural industry. This award is open to all Nevada high school graduating seniors planning to attend a junior or four-year university and majoring in an agricultural related field. The NCA also awards a second scholarship, the Marvel/Andrae Scholarship, which is targeted toward students either going into their first year of college or already enrolled in college and working towards a degree in agriculture economics, agriculture business, or the animal/meat science fields. We would also like to recognize Agri Beef for their support of the Marvel-Andrae Scholarship program. The NCA greatly appreciates our partnership with Agri Beef and thank them for their continued support of students pursuing careers in agriculture. Both scholarships are awarded to exceptional students who work hard, excel academically, and work to represent agriculture in a positive way. We thank all the students that applied for these scholarships and are confident that they will all be strong future advocates for our ranching and farming communities.

Nevada Cattlemen’s Association Scholarship Recipients

Jackson Dahl recently graduated from the Northeastern Nevada Virtual Academy and will be attending Brigham Young University, Idaho where he will be pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business. Jackson is actively involved in his family’s cattle ranch as well as the Ruby Valley 4-H Club and Wells FFA. He hopes to return to his family’s ranch upon completion of his Agricultural Business degree with an understanding of sound business practices that will guide his family’s operation for generations to come.

Madison Wachtel recently graduated from Wells High School and will be attending the University of Minnesota, Crookston later this fall to pursue a degree in Agriculture Education. During high school, Madison has been active in FFA, 4-H, and the American Quarter Horse Youth Association. While earning her degree, Madison plans to ride for the school’s Division 2 National Collegiate Equestrian Association’s western team. After earning her degree, she hopes to become a teacher and FFA Advisor.

Marvel-Andrae Scholarship Recipients

Anthony Barnes is currently attending Colorado State University where he is majoring in Animal Science and Agricultural Business. During his college career, Anthony has been a part of the CSU Livestock Judging Team and an active member of the Alpha Gama Rho Fraternity where he serves as the chapter’s scholarship chair. Anthony looks forward to returning to his family’s ranch after graduating utilizing the tools, knowledge, and networking gained during his college career to increase awareness among producers, consumers, and political leaders about the issues the agriculture industry is facing.

Kerstyn Countryman is currently attending the University of Nevada, Reno where she majors in Veterinary Science. Growing up on her family ranch sparked her passion for caring for animals. Kerstyn will be beginning the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program later this fall at Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Upon completion of her DVM, she plans to complete a few internships and a residency to become board certified in neurology and hopes to complete her Ph.D. so she can teach while completing research. Kerstyn ultimately plans to conduct neurological research on cattle to improve cattle management practices as well as clinical neurology on equine and small animals.

Congratulations again to Jackson, Madison, Anthony, and Kerstyn. We wish them the best of luck on their future endeavors! We’re very proud of them and are confident that they will continue to serve the industry well. We look forward to all that they will accomplish.

Anthony Barnes, 2023 Marvel-Andrae Scholarship Recipient

Jackson Dahl, 2023 NCA Scholarship Recipient

NDA announces Doug Farris as Deputy Director

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) has announced Doug Farris as the new Deputy Director for the department. served as the Division of Animal Industry Administrator from 2017 and has been serving as interim Deputy Director since March of 2023.

“I am happy to have Doug continue his service to Nevada and NDA in this new capacity,” said NDA Director J.J. Goicoechea. “His six years of experience leading the Division of Animal Industry will be a great asset to this role.”

Deputy Director Farris attended Lassen Community College to study agricultural business and was also a co-owner/operator of Farris Cattle Company. Doug previously worked for Lyon County and then became a State Trooper with the Nevada Highway Patrol in 2009. He joined the NDA as the Division of Animal Industry Administrator in 2017, overseeing the Law Enforcement Unit, Livestock Inspection, Veterinary Medical Services, Dairy/Food Safety, Predatory Animal and Rodent Control, and Commercial Feed programs.

“I am confident that the six years of experience Doug gained as the Animal Industry Administrator will propel him into a successful future as the Deputy Director,” said Director Goicoechea.

Dr. Mundschenk announced as new State Veterinarian

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) welcomes Dr. Peter Mundschenk, DVM, as the new State Veterinarian. Dr. Mundschenk will be joining the NDA from the Pima Medical Institute, and previously served as State Veterinarian for the Arizona Department of Agriculture.

“Dr. Mundschenk has a thorough background in veterinary medicine, disease management and regulatory enforcement,” said NDA Director J.J. Goicoechea. “We look forward to having someone with his skillset joining us at the NDA.”

Dr. Mundschenk received his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University. He has been a member of and served on various veterinary medical associations and committees. His background includes serving as a Medical Director for a veterinary hospital, Director of Regulatory Affairs for the California Veterinary Medical Association, Assistant State Veterinarian and State Veterinarian for the Arizona Department of Agriculture, and Lead DVM and Veterinary Technician Instructor for the Pima Media Institute. CONTACT:

Kerstyn Countryman: 2023 Marvel-Andrae Scholarship Recipient

Madison Wachtel, 2023 NCA Scholarship Recipient

Nevada Beef Council Partners with Reno Aces to Shine a Spotlight on Cattle Ranchers and Beef Producers

What’s better than beef and baseball? Beef, baseball, and beef promotion! The Nevada Beef Council (NBC) is running a promotional campaign with the Reno Aces Minor League Baseball team this season during home games at Greater Nevada Field from May through September, 2023. The five-month campaign focuses on two distinct but connected messages: the nutritional benefits of beef, and ranchers’ commitment to sustainability and animal care.

“The people of Nevada have questions about how ranchers do what they do, and how they care for their cattle,” said Annette Kassis, Director of Consumer and Brand Marketing at the NBC. “We’re using this opportunity to introduce Nevada baseball fans to a family whose ranching practices demonstrate what it means to care for their cattle and care for the land day in and day out, 365 days a year.”

The centerpiece of the campaign is a :20-second video featuring the family of Fulstone Ranch, a Nevada ranch recently named a regional winner of the 2022 Environmental Stewardship Award. The award annually recognizes outstanding stewardship practices and conservation achievements of U.S. cattle producers from across the nation. Regional and national award winners, like Fulstone Ranch, have been commended for their commitment to protecting the environment and improving fish and wildlife habitats while operating profitable cattle operations. The :20-second video—played without sound but with text-on-screen—appears on twelve video screens located throughout the concourse of the ballpark.

On the nutrition side, four digital kiosks in high-traffic areas are featuring a protein benefits infographic focusing on how high-quality lean protein can be part of a heart-healthy diet, protein’s role in strength, muscle-building, and recovery, and beef as a complete, high-quality protein. The infographic, which uses athletic performance to drive home the message, provides research-based beef nutrition topics in a format that is memorable and easy to understand.

Both the :20-second video on the concourse, and the infographic on the kiosks include the Nevada Beef Council logo and play on an approximate 9-minute loop throughout Reno Aces home games.

“We hope that by featuring a Nevada ranching family that has been nationally recognized for their ranching practices and stewardship, Nevadans will take a fresh look at who raises cattle in their state and what it takes to safely, carefully, and sustainably bring beef to their tables,” Kassis said. “Now THAT would be a home run.”

For more information about the NBC, visit www.NevadaBeef.org

HIGH DESERT GRANGE SHOWS

April 8 | High Rollers Jackpot, Fallon

October 7 | Old Timers & PeeWee

Goat & Sheep Show, Fallon

*Adults & Youth Ages 3-8 only*

High Desert Grange Chapter #22

P.O. Box 5272 Fallon NV 89406

775.427.8210

highdesertgrange22@gmail.com

highdesertgrange22

www.grange.org/highdesertnv22

BATTLE BORN STOCKTON WELL GRANGE SHOWS

February 4 | Cavy Cuddles & Bunny Love Show

February 25 | Horse Contest

Horse Judging & Hippology Educational Contests

May 7 | Easy Peasy Horse Show

June 3 | Battle Born Dairy Goat Show

October 15 | Spooktacular Horse Show

Battle Born Stockton Well Grange #29

P.O. Box 302 Silver Springs NV 89429 battlebornstocktonwellgrange29@gmail.com

BattleBornStocktonWell www.grange.org/battlebornstocktonwellnv29

CLASSIC CAJUN BEEF GUMBO

This stew has all the flavors of New Orleans. Beef Shank Cross-Cut and Smoked Beef Sausage are the stars of our take on this dish.

INGREDIENTS:

2 pounds beef Shank Cross-Cut

1 quart + 1/2 cup beef stock

1/2 cup canola oil

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup diced onion

1/2 cup diced celery

1/2 cup diced green bell pepper

2 tablespoons minced garlic

2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves

2 tablespoons hot pepper sauce

2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 package (12 oz) smoked beef sausage, sliced 2 tablespoons Creole Seasoning

Serving Suggestion: Hot cooked rice, sliced green onion, sliced pickled okra, sliced pickled jalapeño (optional)

DIRECTIONS:

Brown all sides of beef Shank Cross-Cut in 6-quart pressure cooker using sauté or browning setting, as desired. Add 1/2 cup stock to pressure cooker. Close and lock pressure cooker lid. Use beef, stew or high-pressure setting on pressure cooker; program 40 minutes on pressure cooker timer.

Cook's Tip: You may brown beef Shank Cross-Cut in large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat then add to pressure cooker. Meanwhile, heat oil in large heavy-bottom stock pot over medium-high heat until pot is almost smoking. Slowly whisk in flour until combined. Cook 2 to 3 minutes, whisking continuously until it turns a milk chocolate color. Reduce heat to medium; slowly add onions as oil mixture may splatter. Cook 1 to 2 minutes until oil mixture turns dark chocolate color. Add celery, bell pepper, garlic and thyme; cook 4 to 6 until vegetables are soft. Add hot sauce, Worcestershire and tomato paste; cook 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk in remaining quart of stock; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, add sausage and Creole Seasoning; simmer 30 minutes.

Roux is an equal mixture of flour and fat used to thicken stews and sauces. It's the base for many gumbo recipes. In Cajun cooking, roux is cooked until it reaches a deep, rich brown color that adds flavor and color to the finished recipe. Use quick-release to release pressure; carefully remove lid. Remove beef; discard cooking liquid. Shred beef into bite-sized pieces. Add beef to vegetable mixture; stir. Serve with rice, onion, okra and jalapeños, as desired.

Creeks and Communities: A Continuing Strategy for Accelerating Cooperative

Riparian Stewardship 2023 Trainings (updated)

Riparian proper functioning condition (PFC) assessment uses common terms, definitions, and methods to identify opportunities for positive change from reasonable investments, enhance local management, and solve problems by people most affected. Integrated Riparian Management uses PFC assessment to prioritize needs for adaptive management with monitoring for riparian objectives and strategies. Trainings are available to landowners, Federal, State, and local agency personnel, tribes, industry, conservation interests, and others. Instructors are from Nevada Creeks and Communities Team. There is no cost for classes.

PFC Assessment for Integrated Riparian Management

July 11-14, Rafter-7 Ranch, 92 East Walker Rd. Yerington, NV.

Request a reservation

PFC Assessment for Integrated Riparian Management

July 18-21, Alturas, CA. Modoc National Forest, 225 West 8th St

Request a reservation

PFC Assessment for Integrated Riparian Management

September 18-20, Elko, NV. Ramada 340 Commercial St

Request a reservation

You are welcome for the parts of the class you need or want (1-4 days).

Day-1 | 8:00 Registration, 8:15 AM start

Inside or Zoom for PFC instruction

Day-2 | 8:00 AM start – Outside or Zoom for PFC Assessments

Day-3 | 8:00 AM start – Inside or Zoom for Integrated Riparian Mgmt

Day-3 | PM and Day 4 – Outside or Zoom for assessing additional riparian areas. Zoom class will feature optional participantprovided case studies - PFC assessments or integrated riparian management assessment, priorities, objectives, management, monitoring, or adapting management for specific locations

Cottonwood Ranch Riparian/Creek Workshop

How to See a Creek, Tools for Improving Creek Functions, and Creating Your Story (How to show the improvements made)

September 12 & 13, Cottonwood Guest Ranch, HC 62 Box 1300, O'Neil Route, Wells, Nevada, www.cottonwoodguestranch.com Reservations for lodge, meals or camping & Questions: (775) 472-0222

PFC Assessment and/or Integrated Riparian Management

Coaching field sessions are available f or small groups such as ID or collaborative teams.

For PFC class signup or questions, contact: Sherman Swanson, 775-233-6221, swanson@unr.edu with name, affiliation, address, phone, email, interest, discipline, role or area of expertise.

For reference materials go to: www.tinyurl.com/NevadaBox AND www.blm.gov/learn/blm-library/ agency-publications/technical-references - Be sure to scroll down the page and expand the riparian area management section.

U P C O MI N G S A L ES

Monday • July 10 through

Wednesday • July 12, 2023

Silver Legacy • Reno, Nevada

Consignment Deadline: June 22, 2023

Internet Sale and DISH Network Sale

Monday • Aug 14 through

Tuesday • Aug 15, 2023

Little America • Cheyenne, Wyoming

Consignment Deadline: July 27, 2023

Internet Sale and DISH Network Sale

BLM | Public Lands Rule

I am wondering, like many others, about the latest efforts by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to regulate activities on the vast acreages in its jurisdiction. By now, most readers will have heard about the BLM’s proposed Public Lands Rule. I think the word proposed is misleading because in the webinar in which I participated, the in-person meeting I attended, and the materials I have read published by the BLM even where the word “proposed” is used I get the feeling this is a done deal and frankly I feel patronized. The definition of patronize is to “adopt an air of condescension toward”. In other words, if you were with me in attendance at one of three meetings nationwide in Reno you would have not been a participant where the BLM sought input from the public, but a recipient of the BLM point of view on this major rule.

You would not have been involved in a discussion. You would have been talked at, not talked with. The two speakers moderating the meeting spoke at length in the webinar and in Reno about how the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) of 1976 contained inherent authority for the BLM to add conservation to the list of multiple uses the BLM could manage on public lands.

My review of FLPMA reveals my skepticism about the inherent authority the BLM purportedly has to add conservation as a multiple use under FLPMA. Conservation is defined by Webster’s as “a careful preservation and protection of something”. Particularly, it is also the “planned management of a natural resource to prevent exploitation, destruction or neglect”. Interestingly, it is not defined in FLPMA. And it is not specifically listed as one of the principle or major uses. Those uses listed in the law include and are limited to: “domestic livestock grazing, fish and wildlife development and utilization, mineral exploration and production, rights-of-way, outdoor recreation, and timber production”.

There are references in FLPMA to protecting natural resources and the mandate for sustained yield in the use of public land into the future by the listed principle or major uses. However, conservation is not mentioned in FLPMA in this context. Seemingly out of whole cloth the rule creates a new tool - conservation leases and attempts to provide clarity to an existing management tool - Areas of Critical Environmental Concern (ACECs)

It is ironic the BLM sees a need to create a conservation rule. For almost fifty years FLPMA has been implemented by the agency without the need for a specific reference to conservation. ACECs have been designated where determined by the agency to be needed with public consultation. In the example of a grazing permit issued by BLM, there are significant conditions the permittee must abide by to continue the permit for the full term. Many of these conditions relate to sustaining the yield of the resource and conserving the resource values that will necessarily be impacted by the permitted use. These are the exact goals the BLM is expressing as the need for the new rule. Furthermore, these conditions in existing permits are the supposed rationale for this new rule according to what I heard and read from the BLM.

It begs the question- if there is inherent conservation authority in FLPMA and grazing permits, for example, already have conservation conditions that must

be adhered to for the permit to continue, why do we need this rule at this time when we have operated for almost fifty years without a conservation rule? There is no question in my mind that this rule will be promulgated. The impact on existing grazing permits and other permitted uses on public lands remains to be determined.

Using one example from the written materials available at the public meeting, a couple of questions were asked and answered. What is conservation leasing and will the rule impact an existing grazing permit?

The answer to the former question is the rule will not impact an existing permit because valid existing rights and other authorized uses are protected by the rule according to the BLM. The agency says the rule “would build on BLM and grazing permittee… efforts to maintain healthy public lands that can support grazing well into the future”. I guess we will just have to hold the agency to this promised protection of public lands and existing rights. I would suggest this statement be a predicate to every future meeting a permittee has with the BLM.

As to “conservation leasing” the BLM says they “would be designed on a case-by-case basis to carry out specific purposes”. The BLM also says: “If the BLM receives an application for a conservation lease that conflicts with an existing grazing permit…, that conservation lease would not be approved”. There certainly is more to the rule than these short quotes and I recommend the reader to check out the rule for themselves. For now, we must take a wait and see, proof is in the pudding attitude it seems to me because this rule is a done deal.

One other thing perplexes me about this rule. I have discussed this with others who share this concern. Those of us who deal with the BLM on a regular basis are sympathetic to the lack of adequate resources, money, manpower and sufficient time to fulfill statutory dictates the agency currently faces to do its job correctly. This is not just an idle concern. Decisions that should take days, weeks or months sometimes take years because the BLM is saddled with too many rules and regulations already. They now seek to add yet another regulatory burden on themselves.

Pay attention out there folks and hold the BLM’s feet to the fire.

I’ll see you soon.

Following Cortez Masto’s Push, Nevada Will Receive More Than $416 Million To Expand Broadband Access

NEWS RELEASE | Washington, DC

Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) announced that $416,666,229.74 in federal funding is coming to Nevada to expand broadband access in communities across the state through the Telecommunications and Information Administration’s (NTIA) Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program. Senator Cortez Masto helped to secure these funds through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and she worked to ensure Nevada would receive more funding by pushing the administration to update their National Broadband Map to accurately reflect the state’s broadband needs.

“Broadband access is essential for Nevada’s economy and our communities,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “This funding will help us close the digital divide in the Silver State and create new opportunities for business owners, students, and families. I pushed to ensure Nevada got more of the broadband funding

it deserved, and will continue fighting to ensure Nevadans have access to high-speed internet in every corner of the state.”

The BEAD program is a $42.4 billion initiative designed to help close the digital divide by expanding access to high-speed internet in underserved and unserved areas. This grant funding will be used to support planning, infrastructure development, and adoption programs to expand high-speed internet access to underserved and unserved areas of Nevada.

Through her Innovation State Initiative, Senator Cortez Masto has led in the Senate to improve broadband access and strengthen Nevada’s economy. In the last year alone for example, she has delivered more than $60 million in broadband funding for Nevada’s Tribal communities as well as residents in and around Lovelock and in Spring Creek, Elko County. In 2020, she passed her bipartisan ACCESS BROADBAND Act to ensure Nevadans in underserved urban and rural communities

have easier access to federal broadband programs. In response to pressure from Senators Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently updated their National Broadband Map, which will ensure Nevada receives the federal funding it deserves and needs.

RENO OFFICE

400 South Virginia Street, Suite #902 Reno, NV 89501

P: (775) 686-5750 F: (775) 686-5757

RURAL MOBILE OFFICE

Serving Rural Nevada P: (775) 225-1457

www.cortezmasto.senate.gov

Lifetime Pipe for Agriculture

Let’s Talk Ag

By Staci Emmn | Editorial

New Programs to Build Capacity in Nevada Food Systems

There are new programs being released to build capacity and provide technical assistance to producers involved in Nevada’s food systems. This is an exciting time for those of us working in Nevada agriculture. I am going to put my Extension hat on to discuss some of our new programs that we will be releasing in 2023. Everyone should be aware of our Beginning Farmer Rancher Certification Program that we facilitate every spring. We were able to work with about 40 participants this year from February through May. It was really amazing to see the interest in cow-calf production, poultry, apiculture, and specialty crops. I was also very impressed with our military veterans in the program. This program is more focused on business planning, financial management, and agriculture production. We will be holding the Small Farms Conference on August 25-26, 2023 at the Santa Fe in Las Vegas.

For the last 10 years, Extension has been working tirelessly in agriculture production education. We had not really paid attention to the entire food system, which is production, processing, distribution and marketing. With a new Extension Director and USDA, Agriculture Marketing Service (AMS) funding, we are embarking on some new programs. The University of Nevada, Reno Extension and Nevada Department of Agriculture are participating in the Southwest USDA Food Business Center. The Center partnership funded by USDA, AMS is to build capacity in the processing and distribution of Nevada Agriculture products. The four-state project (California, Nevada, Utah and Arizona) led by the University of California Extension system will begin July 1, 2023. We are looking forward to embarking on this 5-year project that will assist in building capacity in our meat harvest and processing infrastructure while also supporting Nevada’s specialty crop producers.

At this same time, we will be releasing a three-year meat harvest and processing workforce development program funded by the USDA, National Institute of Food and Agriculture. This multi-year project will be a pilot to see how we can get Western Nevada College (WNC) and the UNR College of Biotechnology and Natural Resource (UNR-CABNR) working together to provide a Meat Workforce Development Certificate Program through WNC; and a 12-credit transcript endorsement through UNR-CABNR. There is an established advisory board and the project team will be working closely with Nevada Department of Agriculture that is currently working toward a state meat inspection program. I am very excited about the potential for dual enrollment that could provide entry level ag coursework in Nevada high schools. Our new regenerative ag education program funded by Western Sustainable Agriculture and Research Education (WSARE) will also kick off this fall. We are starting to put the working group together. The first workshop will be held in Douglas County. There will be additional workshops in Elko County, Lincoln County and Churchill County the first year of this two-year project. Workshops will provide hands-on education with producers involved in regenerative ag/climate smart practices.

We have resubmitted grant proposals to resume our Nevada Risk Management Education Project and the USDA program access project. This will enable us to work across the state linking producers to Risk Management Agency insurance products and USDA programs such as Farm Service Agency and Natural Resource Conservation Service. Producers, please pay attention and get your crop reports in so that you can access the programs. If you were impacted by flooding, please get in to see your USDA service center as there are program you may be eligible for.

Other states have asked us to collaborate on large multi-state projects that will provide us with expertise that we may not have in Nevada. This includes a climate project on the Humboldt River with some research on alfalfa production, and an agriculture related workforce development project with communities impacted by the shortages of water in the Colorado River System. We are putting new teams together on what these projects may look like as they move forward toward a funding application.

Tuscarora Farm and Ag Land

give me call!

Wells Area Deeded Range with Irrigation Permit

3,796 deeded acres in 6 pastures watered by spring and stock water well. Irrigation permit on 130 acres. Well to be drilled this year. The well costs will be added to price of $2,277,559.

Ag land doesn’t often come up for sale in Tuscarora! Property consists of 563.9 deeded acres, 164 of which are under a center pivot. An additional 128 acres have surface rights out of Taylor Creek. Another 271.9 acres are in Native pasture. Big shop and several sheds plus set up for a camp or future home. Not far off paved road and country school. Price: $1,279,258.

For additional information on these properties, visit BOTTARIREALTY.COM

Paul D. Bottari

Broker, Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) NV Lic.# B 015476 Office: 775.752.3040

Cell: 775.752.0952 | paul@bottarirealty.com

530 S Shoshone Ave. • PO Box 368 Wells, NV 89835

Recipient of the 2019 Land Realtor of America Award*

*Given to just one person in the Realtor’s organization by the Realtors Land Institute (NAR branch specializing in Land, Farms & Ranches.

We are in year 2 of a 5-year project with Oregon State University’s Hemp Innovation Center. We hired a Ph.D. student with crop production expertise, Catelyn Bridges, out of UC Davis to assist us with our Hemp research in Churchill County this summer. Industrial Hemp trials will be planted in June and we will be running some survey research to identify high production areas in Nevada to investigate the potential for infrastructure in the processing and distribution of industrial Hemp products. There is a lot going on but it is all great stuff. We will continue to increase staffing levels as programs continue to grow. We have different program teams around the state, and hope to increase agriculture program coordinators in the southern part of the state with future funded projects. We have ordered our USDA inspection stamps for the mobile harvest unit and hope to have the Yerington site under USDA inspection soon. We are currently doing on-farm custom harvesting in the mobile unit. Please do not hesitate to contact any team member below with any questions regarding programs. A listing of staffing is below in program areas.

• Kaley Chapin: Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program Coordinator/Small Farms Conference, kaleys@unr.edu

• Jamie Lee: Program Officer for Mobile Harvest Unit & Meat Program, jamielee1@unr.edu

• Charmi Mitchell: Poultry and Regenerative Ag Program Coordinator, cpommerening@unr.edu

• Austin Yohey: Mobile Harvest Unit & Meat Program Butcher/Trainer, aroachyohey@unr.edu

• Dan Coen: Statewide Hoop House Coordinator, dcoen@unr.edu

• Joe Frey, Hemp Research-Fallon Hub, Joe@westernstateshemp.com

• Catelyn Bridges, Hemp Crop Expertise Research- Fallon Hub, catelynb@unr.edu

If you’re looking to sell a farm or ranch,

Churchill County Farm Bureau Ag Days

By Sonjia Johnson

Churchill County Farm Bureau coordinated a broad spectrum of stations for 4th grade students to learn about agriculture and issues facing farmers and ranchers at the April 27 “Ag Days”. Numa Elementary School, Oasis and Logos brought a total of about 350 students who were provided transportation to the Rafter 3C sponsored by the Nevada Dairymen. One young student commented that her favorite of all the stations was the “Bee Station” Apparently learning about the importance of bees to our farms and ultimately our food supply can be fun. It was made fun and impressionable by Lindsey Chichester, an Extension Educator from Douglas County.

The “Carson River Wranglers” station was staffed by Rebecca Feldmann from Dayton. The Wranglers educate people to maintain the river in a manner that will sustain the wild life, plants, and our ability to use the river far into the future.

From Beef we get far more than meat. Linda Huntsburger came from Smith Nevada and shared the wide range of Beef Bi-products from medicines to film.

One of the biggest concerns is “Farm Safety” and this applies to not only to those who live on the farms or ranches but also to our urban neighbors. Joe Frey, 5th generation Lahontan Valley farmer, talked to the students about the dangers and what to avoid and have their family and friends avoid.

The station about “Soils and Worms” was operated by Tami Lynn Bickel from “The Village”. Forth graders not only learned about keeping their soils healthy, each student planted his or her own seeds and were able to take them home potted. About 350 students really enjoyed getting their hands in the dirt. They either planted “cat grass” or “daisy” seeds.

Dan Orosco talked about the “Corn Chopper” from Hillside Dairy. He also stressed the importance of corn in the diet of milk cows.

Until you stand up next to some of the farm equipment you don’t realize the size. It is amazing. Commissioner Myles Getto brought his “combine” for the students to see.

The Lahonton Valley Cattlewomen, a 501.C3 nonprofit, invited long-time friend and retired Nevada Brand Inspector Richard Alegre to develop a presentation on "Why and How We Brand". As Richard is also the Beef Leader for Churchill's Grange Club, he was the perfect person to explain to 400 fourth graders the whys and hows of branding in his own cowboy language.

Other stations were provided by youth and families’ that shared their agriculture related experience. Cody Frey brought his young cow with her new calf and talked about his project. Pigs were brought and educated about by the Jim Barbee Family. Pete Homma brought kid goats so the students could pet them hence a petting zoo. Members of Grange and their leader Gloria Montero, from Lovelock, shared what they have learned with rabbits and chickens.

Mel Glover from the Churchill County Museum provided some history of the valley starting with Native Americans and let the students throw balls with an Atlatl. Students learned these were designed prehistory by tribes to make their spears be more powerful and go further.

The “nutritionist” for the Dairy Council, Libby Lovig, travels the state teaching students of all ages about having a balanced diet. We are glad to have her. She also arranged for the Dairy Council to provide ice cream for the lunch served to the students and teachers. The Mayors Youth Fund topped the day off with lunch.

Churchill County Farm Bureau members hope everyone has a safe summer!

Farm Bureau Ag Wagon presented by Woody Worthington of the NVFB and Chair of NV

Lindsay Chichester presented UNR Ext BeeKeeping and the importance of pollinators

Lahontan Valley Cattlewomen were thrilled to have Richard Alegre demonstrate the hows and whys of branding to the kids.

Granges Beef Club

Board of Ag

The Village Nursery

The kids loved seeing various kinds of Giant Farm Machinery

Churchill 4th Grade Students The Progressive Rancher

Breeding Class Results Name

Junior Breeding Gilt Colton Fait

Supreme Champion Breeding Hog Colton Fait

Grand Champion Breeding Ram Allie Fait

Grand Champion Breeding Junior Ewe Kortnie Simper

Grand Champion Breeding Senior Ewe Allie Fait

Supreme Champion Sheep Kortnie Simper

Grand Champion Junior Heifer Zac Lewis

Supreme Champion Breeding Beef Zac Lewis

Grand Champion Breeding Goat Chloe Kent

Grand Champion Junior Doe Kadence Wiessmer

Grand Champion Senior Doe Riggin Stonebarger

Supreme Champion Breeding Goat Kadence Wiessmer

Grand Champion Senior Dairy Cow Grace Laca

Supreme Champion Dairy Cow Grace Laca

Grand Champion Junior Dairy Goat Autumn Thomas

Grand Champion Senior Dairy Goat Rachial Wempner

Supreme Champion Dairy Goat Rachial Wempner

1st Place Senior Dairy Cow Showman Grace Laca

1st Place Senior Dairy Goat Showman Rachial Wempner

2nd Place Senior Dairy Goat Showman Garrett Gardner

1st Place Intermediate Dairy Goat Showman Alyssa Gardner

2nd Place Intermediate Dairy Goat Showman Bailey Peixoto

1st Place Junior Dairy Goat Showman Grayling Thomas

Best of Show Rabbit Lila Mae Montero

Reserve Best of Show Rabbit Macady Bogdanowicz

Grand Champion Poultry Bailey Peixoto

Reserve Champion Poultry Kalaya Downs

Showmanship Result Name

1st Place Senior Hog Showman Eddie Morrow

2nd Place Senior Hog Showman Kylee Simper

1st Place Intermediate Hog Showman Hannah Montalvo

2nd Place Senior Hog Showman Isabella Sorensen

1st Place Junior Hog Showman Owen Olsen

2nd Place Junior Hog Showman

1st Place Senior Beef Showman

2nd Place Senior Beef Showman

1st Place Intermediate Beef Showman

2nd Place Intermediate Beef Showman

1st Place Junior Beef Showman

2nd Place Intermediate Sheep Showman Kortnie Simper

1st Place Junior Sheep Showman Macady Bogdanowicz

2nd Place Junior Sheep Showman Colton Fait

1st Place Senior Goat Showman Rachial Wempner

2nd Place Senior Goat Showman Caitlyn Dock

1st Place Intermediate Goat Showman Karlie Simper

2nd Place Intermediate Goat Showman Kadence Wiessmer

1st Place Junior Goat Showman Chloe Kent

2nd Place Junior Goat Showman Drew Palanivelu

1st Place Junior Rabbit Showman Chloe Kent

2nd Place Junior Rabbit Showman Caoilainn Bryne

1st & 2nd Place Tie Intermediate Rabbit Showman Karlie & Kortnie Simper

1st Place Senior Rabbit Showman Jayden Green

2nd Place Senior Rabbit Showman Kylee Simper

1st Place Senior Turkey Showman Jayden Green

2nd Place Senior Turkey Showman Talon Johnson

1st Place Intermate Turkey Showman Jaylyn Dement

1st Place Senior Poultry Showman Kalaya Downs

2nd Place Senior Poultry Showman Kenadee McKnight

1st Place Intermediate Poultry Showman Lila Mae Montero

2nd Place Intermediate Poultry Showman Bailey Peixoto

1st Place Junior Poultry Showman Addison Allegre

2nd Place Junior Poultry Showman Chloe Kent Market Class Results Name

Grand Champion Market Hog Hannah Montalvo

Reserve Champion Market Hog Payton Sowersby

Grand Champion Market Steer Rio Segura

Reserve Champion Market Steer Louie Pellandini

Grand Champion Market Lamb Abby Bird

Reserve Champion Market Lamb Kortnie Simper

Grand Champion Market Goat Karlie Simper

Reserve Champion Market Goat Kadence Wiessmer

Grand Champion Market Rabbit Pen of 3 Lila Mae Montero

Reserve Champion Market Rabbit Pen of 3 Grayling Thomas

Best Rate of Gain for Lambs Kenadee McKnight

Best Rate of Gain for Goats Trace McKnight

1st Place Senior Master Showmanship Kylee Simper

2nd Place Senior Master Showmanship Allie Fait

1st Place Intermediate Master Showmanship Karlie Simper

2nd Place Intermediate Master Showmanship Kortnie Simper

1st Place Junior Master Showmanship Chloe Kent

2nd Place Junior Master Showmanship Addison Allegre

Best Dressed Junior Macady Bogdanowicz

Best Dressed Intermediate Carley Dock

Best Dressed Senior Jackson Barbee

1st Place Junior Information Poster Contest Piper Humphrey

2nd Place Junior Information Poster Macady Bogdanowicz

1st Place Intermediate Information Poster Contest Abby Bird

2nd Place Intermediate Information Poster Meirra Cavanaugh

1st Place Senior Information Poster Contest Caitlyn Dock

2nd Place Senior Information Poster Allie Fait

Post Show Awards Name

1st Place Junior Interveiw Payton Sowersby

2nd Place Junior Interveiw Addison Allegre

1st Place Intermediate Interveiw Karlie Simper

2nd Place Intermediate Interveiw Tie Abby Bird & Reese Laca

1st Place Senior Interveiw Allie Fait

2nd Place Senior Interveiw Tie Caitlyn Dock & Kylee Simper

1st Place Junior Record Book Addison Allegre

2nd Place Junior Record Book Tie Macady Bogdanowicz & Ellie Peixoto

1st Place Intermediate Record Book Karlie Simper

2nd Place Intermediate Record Book Abby Bird

1st Place Senior Record Book Kylee Simper

2nd Place Senior Record Book Caden McKnight

Grand Champion Beef Carcass Louie Pellandini

Reserve Champion Beef Carcass Caden McKnight

Grand Champion Hog Carcass Rusten McKnight

Reserve Champion Hog Carcass Elaine Lewis

Colton Fait

Rio Segura

Stacie Bogdanowicz

Alyssa Gardner

Clayton Hiibel

Addison Allegre

2nd Place Intermediate Beef Showman Louie Pellandini

1st Place Senior Sheep Showman

2nd Place Senior Sheep Showman

Ava Bunyard

Allie Fait

1st Place Intermediate Sheep Showman Abby Bird

Grand Champion Turkey Jayden Green

Reserve Champion Turkey Jaylyn Dement

Grand Champion Poultry Pen of 3 Bailey Peixoto

Best Home Grown Hog Jameson Barbee

Best Home Grown Steer Addison Allegre

Best Home Grown Lamb Colton Fait

Best Home Grown Goat Kadence Wiessmer

Best Cross Bred Steer Rio Segura

Best Rate of Gain for Steers Addison Allegre

Best Rate of Gain for Hogs Kalaya Downs

Grand Champion Lamb Carcass Allie Fait

Reserve Champion Lamb Carcass Colton Fait

Grand Champion Goat Carcass Karlie Simper

Reserve Champion Goat Carcass Trace McKnight

Grand Champion Junior All Around Addison Allegre

Reserve Champion Junior All Around Macady Bogdanowicz

Grand Champion Intermediate All Around Karlie Simper

Reserve Champion Intermediate All Around Abby Bird

Grand Champion Senior All Around Allie Fait

Reserve Champion Senior All Around Kylee Simper

DIAMOND VALLEY GRANGE FORMS IN EUREKA, NEVADA

By Suzann Gilliland Peterson

Eureka, NV is home to one of the newest Granges in the country, Diamond Valley Grange #31! Formally organized on May 23 at the Eureka County Fairgrounds, Diamond Valley Grange (DVG) is the 31st Grange in Nevada. The DVG #31 organization was facilitated by Gloria Montero and Carl Clinger, National Grange Deputies for Nevada. With a set of by-laws, officers, and insurance, this 501(c)(3) organization is ready to serve the Eureka community.

The National Grange of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry (the Grange) is one of the oldest organizations in America. Its focus is on family, community, agriculture, and beyond. The Mission of the Grange is to provide opportunities for individuals and families of all ages to develop to their highest potential in order to build stronger communities and states, as well as a stronger nation. It does this through Fellowship, Service and Legislation in chapters throughout the United States.

Fellowship. The Grange offers its members the opportunity to meet with and get to know their neighbors in a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. It provides a place where children, youth, and adults can grow, develop their talents and social skills, and learn leadership techniques.

Service. The Grange family provides its members with the opportunity to discover and solve community needs, give assistance to individuals in crisis, and network on a continual basis.

Legislation. The Grange supports a grassroots approach to state and federal legislative change by giving its members a voice in state and federal government forums.

Kim Archuleta, DVG Lecturer, was instrumental in making this Grange chapter a reality. When asked why DVG was formed, she replied, “To provide family and community activities, education, and support.” DVG Secretary Becca Kellett added, “To give more opportunities to youth in Eureka. We chose Grange so that families could join and participate together.”

Enthusiasm was high about creating a Grange chapter. Only six days separated the initial discussion about forming a Grange in Eureka to the inaugural meeting. Thirty people were in attendance, forty-three people became Grange members at that meeting, including eight registering as family units and ten as juniors.

Currently, DVG activities include general meetings, workshops, and educational opportunities. According to Adeline (Addie) Callaghan, President, “We are still

Welcome, Diamond Valley Grange!

Want to learn more about Grange? Visit nationalgrange.org

in the early days, but we have big plans – it’s highly dependent on what our community needs/wants. Youth and adult clubs, dances, potlucks, community service, and educational opportunities for people of all ages are in our future.” One of their strong interests is a Youth Livestock Program where eighteen youth are eligible to show their animal projects.

DVG Treasurer June Adkins is thrilled with the direction this chapter is heading. “We are so excited to bring more community outreach to our area,” she says. Kim added, “Eureka is the perfect place for a Grange chapter because of our isolated, rural location and our small agricultural and mining community.” Says Becca, “The sky is the limit. We’ve got so many big-hearted people all seeking to make our town grow!”

Diamond Valley Grange officers are:

• President – Addie Callaghan

• Vice President – Spencer Bateman

• Lecturer – Kim Archuleta

• Chaplain – Ashlee Frei

• Secretary – Becca Kellett

• Treasurer – June Adkins

• Greeter – Chloe Callaghan

• Steward – Rylee Callaghan

The next Diamond Valley Grange meeting is on Tuesday, June 13, at 6:00 PM at the Eureka County Fairgrounds. The meeting is open to members and non-members. Up for discussion is what activities to offer immediately and in the future.

For more information about Diamond Valley Grange, check them out on Facebook at facebook. com/diamondvalleygrangenv. For more information on Grange chapters in Nevada, contact Gloria Montero at 775-427-8210.

Elko County Brings the Classroom into Agriculture

by Rachael Buzzetti, Chair of the EACC

The Elko Ag in the Classroom Committee along with the Nevada Rangeland Resources Commission (NRRC) and the Elko County CattleWomen brought agriculture education to 25 teachers and more than 400 students in Elko County. The one day training for teachers in early March allowed them to bring their students to the Ruby Shadows Ranch to learn about all things in agriculture.

Teachers

Teachers from all over Elko County attended an 8-hour training in the spring to learn about how they can incorporate agriculture into their lesson plans. All Ag in the Classroom resources have been developed to meet the Nevada Academic Content Standards, so training and resources are designed to contextualize their curriculum in the areas of science, social studies, nutrition and career, and technical education.

For four days in May, first grade through high school students from throughout Elko County had the opportunity to visit the Ruby Shadow Ranch. There were about 100 students each of the four days and all had the chance to visit eight stations to learn more about agriculture. The Elko County CattleWomen taught about beef byproducts and how producers use everything but the “Moo” including: leathers, hides, hair, lubricants, and plastics. The NV Department of Agriculture Staff educated students about livestock branding and why livestock need to be identified. Students even got to stamp their names using brands symbols. They also learned about animal health, nutrition and gestation from local 4-H members. They learned about Bees, went on a hayride, got to walk through a cattle truck, learned about ranch safety, and even got to learn about different breeds of sheep and their habitat on the rangelands.

Nevada Agriculture in the Classroom is a shared responsibility

Bringing agriculture into the classroom (or in this case, bringing the classroom out to the ranch!) is a shared responsibility, and it wouldn’t be possible without the support, donations and time committed by volunteers from all over the community. Funding for this event was provided by the Ruby Shadow Ranch, Nevada Rangeland Resources Commission, Nevada Woolgrowers, Nevada Farm Bureau, Elko County CattleWomen, area ranchers, teachers, and many other generous members of the community to make the event possible.

The change in agriculture today is just a glimpse of what lies ahead. It’s why, more than ever, we are committed to being the partner you can trust, who understands your needs and delivers value to help you achieve your goals.

Wherever agriculture goes, we’ll be there, alongside you, as you lead the way.

Gemini Donation Elevates High Desert Grange Lego Robotics Club

By Suzann Gilliland Peterson

High Desert Grange would like to thank Gemini, Inc. for their very generous June 9th donation to the continuing success of the Lego Robotics Club.

“My company is all about community wellness and growing people. Growing people starts with the kids of the community,” says Ashley Cimone Peevy-Daily of Gemini, Inc. As the Flat Cut-out Metals Lead for the Gemini facility in Fallon and a member of their contributions committee, Ashley is responsible for seeking out opportunities for Gemini donations. This year she posted on social media looking for ideas from the community on where Gemini’s contributions could be utilized. High Desert Grange replied.

Having donated to other robotics programs near their other sites in the US, the High Desert Grange Lego Robotics Club was a highly rated choice. Ashley loves the fact that Grange kids are involved in the club. Additionally, High Desert Grange is involved in free outreach programs to the Fallon Youth Club and Logos Christian Academy.

Lego robotics may seem like simply a fun activity for youth. In reality, skills taught in the High Desert Grange Lego Robotics Club lay the groundwork for more complex concepts as students age and eventually choose a career. According to techtarget.com, “Robotics is a branch of engineering that involves the conception, design, manufacture and operation of robots. The objective of the robotics field is to create intelligent machines that can assist humans in a variety of ways.” It is an industry with a current need for people with skills and knowledge in every aspect of robotics. It has a wide open future, especially considering AI (artificial intelligence) uses robotics in every aspect of the AI world.

Gemini’s donation has allowed the High Desert Grange club to purchase new Spike Lego kits and seven touch screen laptops. Five specifically designed carrying cases made to hold four laptops per case were designed and donated by Gemini’s sister company Gemstar.

The National Grange of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry (the Grange) is one of the oldest organizations in America. Its focus is on family, community, agriculture, and beyond. The Mission of the Grange is to provide opportunities for individuals and families of all ages to develop to their highest potential in order to build stronger communities and states, as well as a stronger nation. It does this through Fellowship, Service and Legislation in chapters throughout the U.S. For more information on the High Desert Grange Lego Robotics Club or additional information about this Grange chapter, visit their website at www.grange.org/ highdesertnv22/ or call Gloria Montero at (775) 427-8210.

The Roughstock “Rodeo Camp” was held on June 13, 2023 at the Rafter 3C Arena. PRCA Athletes taught the fundamentals of Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding and Bull Riding. It was open to all levels of experience, ages 7 and up. This year they partnered with the Silver State Stampede and Smarty Bronc to add an Advanced Skills afternoon session for more experienced riders. If you are interested in information about next year's event or want to register, please contact skiverboots@gmail.com.

North side of the arena

Packed for dinner!

Ryan Mapston driving the new Smarty Bronc, RC Landingham coaching

Tanner Butner (black hat) and Mitch Pollock offer instruction

PRCA Champion Stetson Wright teaching young Algeria the ropes

PRCA Champion Mitch Patlock demonstrating proper techniques

On Wednesday night, June 14, Skiver Bootmakers along with the City of Fallon and Promega Feed presented the second annual Battle Born Broncs at the Rafter 3C Arena in Fallon, Nevada. Thirty saddle bronc riders and thirty bareback riders competed for a $50,000 payout at this elite Xtreme Broncs event Sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).

Some of the top cowboys in the PRCA world standings, including 7x World Champion Stetson Wright arrived a day early to coach at the Battle Born Broncs Rodeo Camp where students learned the fundamentals of Bareback, Saddle Bronc and Bull riding. This year, an advanced session was added for more experienced students who were able learn not only on teaching equipment, but also live animals. Completely free to students, the camp is funded by sponsorships from businesses and individuals who share our vision of continuing to grow the sport of rodeo. “The kids camp is great, this is what keeps the rodeo world going” said 4X NFR qualifier and $1M WRCA Triple Crown of Rodeo winner, RC Landingham. Nevada native and NFR qualifier Mitch Pollock said “To see we have future bronc riders here makes me really excited.” 50 students attended the camp in 2022 and in 2023, 85 students attended the camp.

In addition to bringing the top contestants in both the bareback and saddle bronc riding to Fallon, the top stock contractors were hired to bring an elite pen of bucking stock to compete on. Bradlee Miller captured the Bareback Riding title with 89 points on the Sankey Pro Rodeo horse, Shoutin’ Shoes for $7924 and Lefty Holman took the win and $7839 in the Saddle Bronc Riding with 90 points on Power River Rodeo’s Miss Valley. Each Champion received a Con Williams bronze given by event sponsors, A&K Earth Movers and Sizemore Construction and a pair of handmade cowboy boots given by Skiver Bootmakers. The prize money won in Fallon is significant as it’s added to the world standings and will help determine the top 15 cowboys who will compete at the 2023 National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas in December. Visit www.battlebornbroncs.com for more information.

BBB 2023 BAREBACK RIDING RESULTS:

Bradlee Miller, 89 points on Shoutin’ Shoes, Sankey Pro Rodeo | $7,924

(TIE) RC Landingham 87.5 points on Heads Up Hank, Powder River Rodeo

(TIE) Mason Clements 87.5 points on Two Buck Chuck, Powder River Rodeo

Rocker Steiner 86 points on Irish Eyes, Sankey Pro Rodeo

BBB 2023 SADDLE BRONC RIDING RESULTS:

Lefty Holman, 90 points on Miss Valley, Powder River Rodeo | $7,840

Ryder Wright, 87.5 points on Bet the Ranch, Powder River Rodeo

Tanner Butner, 87 points on Oh Toodles, King Rodeo Company

Cash Wilson, 87 points on Lunatic From Hell, Burch Rodeo

Above: Lefty Holman and Miss Valley, 90 points for the win in the Saddle Broncs

Below: Bradlee Miller and Shoutin Shoes, 89 points for the win in the Bareback Riding

Record Breaking Snow Accumulation Brings Opportunities and Challenges for Nevada

By Christopher Rose, James Komar and Jeff Anderson Natural Resource Conservation Service

Winter 2023 produced one of the biggest snowpacks ever measured across the Sierra Nevada, the Great Basin and the Colorado basin. The Carson and Walker basin snowpacks broke alltime records based on SNOTEL data back to 1981. Peak amounts were second highest in the Upper Humboldt, Lake Tahoe and Truckee basins, as well as in Eastern Nevada. The Lower Humboldt and Owyhee snowpack ranked third highest. The Upper Colorado Basin’s peak snow water tied 1997 for the best winter since 1986.

Each winter field staff from USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and cooperators from other state and Federal agencies venture out on skis, snowshoes, and snow machines to take readings and maintain equipment at the 85 SNOTEL (Snow Telemetry) weather stations across Nevada and the eastern Sierra. Snowpack, precipitation, air temperature and soil moisture are monitored at the stations and snow surveyors also collect snow tube measurements at an additional 40 snow courses. The data is used by hydrologists at the NRCS National Water and Climate Center to produce seasonal streamflow forecasts for the region’s water managers and water users. Water Supply Outlook Reports are also used by state and Federal agencies, Tribes, individuals, and organizations to make decisions regarding irrigation allocations and agricultural production, fish and wildlife management, municipal and industrial water supply, flood control, power generation and recreation. NRCS provides technical and financial assistance to farmers and ranchers that can assist them with becoming more resilient to extreme weather conditions including droughts and high-water years.

Water Supply Summary

This winter’s record-breaking snow accumulation finally relented in April allowing the snowpack to ripen and begin to melt. Snowpacks reached their maximum water content across Nevada’s basins between April 7-10 with amounts ranging from 169-382% of the normal peak amounts. April’s sunny skies and near record temperatures towards the end of the month ramped up snowmelt allowing a few of the lowest elevation SNOTEL sites across the state to melt out by May 1. By June 1, most

NRCS SNOTEL sites below 7,500 feet elevation in the Sierra and below 8,000 feet elevation in Northern Nevada had melted out. As of June 1, significant snow remains at higher elevations and melt will continue into June or July and perhaps even August at the deepest locations.

Water year precipitation on June 1 was 112-197% of median across Nevada. Most SNOTELs south of Interstate 80 have recorded October through May precipitation totals that rank above the 80th or 90th percentile compared to historic data.

Reservoir storage will be excellent this summer. In the Truckee Basin, Stampede, Prosser, and Boca reservoirs are all expected to fill once flood control operations are complete. Lake Tahoe’s water level could rise to within a few inches of its legal limit based on current forecasts but may not fill to its legal limit. In the Carson Basin, there is more than enough water to fill Lahontan multiple times. Mangers have drawn Lahontan down and excess water is being released into the desert. In the Walker basin Topaz and Bridgeport reservoirs will also fill once peak flows pass. In the Lower Humboldt Basin, Rye Patch Reservoir should also fill based on streamflow forecasts. In the Owyhee Basin, Wildhorse Reservoir is unlikely to fill based on streamflow forecasts. In the Colorado basin, since the beginning of April Lake Powell has risen over 37 feet and Lake Mead has risen over 8 feet. This is a storage increase of over 2.8 million acre-feet in April and May. The Colorado basin hasn’t seen a snowpack this large since 1997, but it would take a string of similar winters to refill these reservoirs.

Streamflow Forecasts

Nearly all streamflow forecasts for April-July period are more than twice median, and more than a quarter of the forecasts are for more than four times median. The median is the middle value of the 1991-2020 dataset. It represents a volume that is exceeded by half the years. The median is considered more representative of “normal” than the average since the median doesn’t get skewed upward by a handful of large years. A forecast for 300% of median means the total streamflow volume during the April-July period is expected to be

three times the median. Spring precipitation will play a big role in where this year’s volume ends up. NRCS streamflow forecasts are intended for water supply planning, they provide a total volume of runoff expected during the spring snowmelt runoff period. Snowmelt has already caused flooding this spring and high flows will continue. The NRCS seasonal forecasts are volumetric and do not provide guidance on peak discharge magnitude or timing. To track flooding potential, use the 5-day forecasts on the NOAA California-Nevada River Forecast Center website (www.cnrfc.noaa.gov) and click on the stream gage of interest.

FIGURE

standing above the top of the snow course marker at Willow Flat snow course in the Walker Basin. The April 1 measurement this winter was 425% of median, coming in at 91 inches deep and contained 37.4 inches of water content. This measurement blew away the previous record from 1969 which contained 29 inches of water content. Credit: Jeff Anderson

1 (above) Matt Cole, NRCS Snow Surveyor from Minden, Nevada,

FIGURE 1

FIGURE 4

FIGURE 2 (left, top) Willow Flat snow course marker in 2018 when minimal snow existed. Credit: Jeff Anderson

FIGURE 3 (left, bottom) Scott Fennema (left) and Dave Wathen (right) from the Truckee-Carson Water Master’s office after digging out the Ebbetts Pass SNOTEL precipitation gage on March 3, 2023. The gage is 16 feet tall. Credit: Jeff Anderson

FIGURE

FIGURE

Streamflow Forecasts ‐ State of Nevada Overview

May 1, 2023

Rangeland Conditions

The increase in precipitation this year has improved conditions on the range. As seen below, in 2022, all of Nevada was in the severe to exceptional drought category while this year, approximately 20 percent of the state, mostly in the south, is in any type of drought.

Plant green-up progressed across the state below the snow line. Native wildflowers had an amazing bloom at low to midelevations. The native shrub, desert peach (Prunus andersonii) provided a beautiful display of pink flowers in western Nevada. Other early growing shrubs such as bud sagebrush (Picrothamnus desertorum) and spiny hopsage (Grayia spinosa) are also in flower. Native perennial bunchgrasses (needlegrasses, squirreltail, basin wildrye) received much needed winter moisture across Nevada and had a slow start due to colder than normal temperatures. Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) set seed at lower elevations where moisture was available across the state and some hillsides stayed green longer than usual. For additional detail about what’s happening with vegetation, the Rangeland Analysis Platform (RAP) provides monitoring and context to evaluate current or past management strategies and develop new ones.

RAP allows producers to visualize and analyze vegetation data and see trends at pasture, ranch, watershed and broader scales. The web-based application can provide a 16-day aboveground biomass production estimate and track changes in bare ground and annual herbaceous, shrub, tree vegetation cover. Other features include assessing fire probability and annual invasive abundance, and comparison of historical imagery of an operation using side by side comparisons sourced from the United State Geological Survey. This link allows you to access the app and view tutorials on how to use the program https:// rangelands.app/.

NRCS assistance to increase resiliency of operations

As mentioned earlier, NRCS has a variety of tools available to farmers and ranchers to allow them to adapt to changing climate conditions while supporting their operations. Applications are accepted for all programs year round.

• Conservation Technical Assistance helps to analyzes natural resource concerns on the land and works with producers to develop objectives to address them.

• The Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) provides financial assistance to address the natural resource issues.

• The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) rewards good stewardship of the land.

See appendix for more information

Over the next three years, there will be an additional $30 million available in EQIP and CSP under the Inflation Reduction Act to help producers adopt practices designed to help them become more resilient to the changing climate.

To find out more about NRCS programs, visit www.nrcs. usda.gov/conservation-basics/conservation-by-state/nevada

To find your nearest local NRCS office, visit: https://offices.sc.egov.usda.gov/locator/app

FIGURE 5. (above) Chart shows May 1, 2023 NRCS Streamflow forecasts

FIGURE 5

How

youtube.com/ watch?v=gWm5TeASLY8

The 82nd Nevada Legislative Session might have had the highest number of legislative proposals dealing with water of any past sessions (there wasn’t any official search of the archives, but there were a lot of water bills this legislative session). Of the total of water-related legislative ideas on the table, there were a high number of very good ones, aimed at addressing some serious concerns facing Nevada. Unfortunately, most of these solid proposals didn’t make it through to enactment into law. In some cases, legislative concepts receive support from some and opposition from others. The results of these different perspectives aren’t always an end. Throughout the legislative process there are discussions to try to work through disagreements over policy. There’s give and take, as well as breakthroughs that build from the differences to form even better ideas. There are also times when those supporting a bill can out-maneuver opposition or overpower those on the other side to gain passage. Frequently those who oppose a bill have the advantage and the legislation doesn’t make it by not making it through the numerous hurdles that pop-up and keep it from going forward.

As we saw again in the 2023 Nevada Legislature, passing a bill to gain a change in law is not easy and there are times when even strongly supported legislative ideas don’t make it.

Perhaps one of the best examples of widely supported legislation that didn’t get passed is SB 176.

The purpose for SB 176 was to deal with Nevada’s growing number of over-appropriated and overpumped groundwater basins. It is estimated that of the state’s 256

The Good Ideas That Didn’t Make It

By Doug Busselman | NFB Executive Vice President

groundwater basins, 40 percent are over-appropriated, with more water rights allocated and approved than there’s water to meet those demands. There are also a growing number of groundwater basins which are dealing with over-pumping and declining water tables.

SB 176 proposed to establish a program where the State of Nevada would buy-back water rights, on a voluntary basis, in over-appropriated and over-pumped basins and retire the water rights that were purchased. Some might argue that the step of such a buy-back program is unnecessary, because under the provisions of a water right the most junior water permit can just be cancelled. Balancing groundwater basins with perennial yield can be achieved by curtailment on the basis of prior appropriations… first in time – first and right.

Others could make their case that the State of Nevada has a responsibility to deal with over-appropriations because of the State Engineer approving additional water rights beyond the amount of available water to meet those rights in a sustainable fashion. Saying “No” in the first place would have avoided the problem now.

At least in public testimony on SB 176, during the hearing held before the Senate Natural Resources Committee, no one made the case that the bill shouldn’t pass because the objective could be met by curtailment. Actually, there were no voices of opposition heard in that hearing.

Those appearing to testify spoke in favor of passage represented a broad spectrum of water interests with advocates of very different ideologies joining together to express the merits of taking this approach in addressing

a need that nearly all agree needs attention.

Numerous discussions outside of the legislative hearing room occurred to iron out differences and identify ways to work through the details of setting such a program out. The common agreement also provided for taking the necessary time to develop regulations and arrangements for implementing an operational program. It was understood that actual water right purchases from willing sellers could be something that would likely not take place as much as two years down the road.

The money question was something that was anticipated to be based on matching funds, with federal programs as well as private sector funding being used to stretch Nevada state appropriations for maximum results. It is also worth noting that there wasn’t any shortages of bills that Nevada Legislators spent money on this session…

Sponsor of the legislation, Senator Pete Goicoechea of Eureka noted that the intent for this program wasn’t to provide a golden parachute for those sell their water rights but would at least provide something of a softer landing for those who have made significant investments in their businesses where the water is being used.

SB 176 was re-referred to the Senate Finance Committee after passing from the Senate Natural Resources Committee. That took place on April 18th, with eons of time before the June 5th close of the 2023 Legislature. As an exempt bill there wasn’t any concern over deadlines, except for the end of the session.

There were no shortages of advocates who worked diligently to urge that the

Chairman of the Committee, Senator Marilyn Dondero Loop of Las Vegas, to schedule a hearing and advance the bill forward. As the session ticked down to a close there were emphatic request directed to the Chair for a hearing.

There wasn’t any reason offered for not holding a hearing or considering the bill, but Senator Dondero Loop didn’t and the SB 176 didn’t go any further.

Other good water bills, similarly, supported by a broad cross section of interests, also failed to pass for similar reasons. SB 112 – dealing with restricting assessments on agricultural water rights in designated basins and providing for improved transparency to require the State Engineer to report how the funds collected through the assessments he acquires have been spent – failed to move out of Senator Dondero Loop’s committee as well.

SB 180, a bill to establish advisory groundwater boards to work with the State Engineer in dealing with designated basins and helping to enhance input through local engagement, passed both the Senate and the Assembly without a single “No” vote. In spite of no opposition the bill died at the end of the Session because there was no resolution between the Senate and the Assembly of a simple amendment added in the Assembly to better clarify the formation of Boards where the boundaries of a designated basin crossed county lines.

There really isn’t a good reason why any of these good ideas didn’t become law. It seems it came down to those who were in charge of the 2023 Legislature didn’t want to allow these bills to pass – and they didn’t.

2023 Discussion Meet: New Year, New Questions!

By Brittney Money | Director of Communications

Who’s excited for the 2023 Nevada Farm Bureau Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Discussion Meet? We are looking for people to compete between the ages of 18 and 35. This is a great opportunity to become involved in the YF&R program.

The objective of the YF&R program is to surface, grow and develop young Farm Bureau members and provide them opportunities and experiences to strengthen their leadership and ensure effective Farm Bureaus. The program is also focused on personal growth in the following areas: public speaking, issue advocacy, business development, networking, service leadership, media training and telling the story of agriculture.

The Discussion Meet is a competitive event that simulates a committee meeting where discussion and active participation are expected from each participant. The competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. Participants build basic discussion skills, develop a keen understanding of important agricultural issues and explore how groups can pool knowledge to reach consensus and solve problems.

Each year the American Farm Bureau Federation YF&R committee releases a set of five questions that states use when they hold their annual Discussion Meets. The Nevada Farm Bureau has their annual Discussion Meet at the Nevada Farm Bureau Annual Meeting that will be held this November. The lucky winner will not only take home a cash prize, but will also move on to compete at the American Farm Bureau Annual YF&R Discussion meet that will be held January 19 through the 24 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

This is a great opportunity to meet people throughout the state of Nevada while making connections with people from other states as well. Again, we highly encourage you to think about competing in this year’s YF&R Discussion Meet if you are between the ages of 18 and 35. If you would like more information please feel free to contact Brittney Money at brittney@nvfb.org.

If interested the following questions will be the questions selected at random for the Discussion Meet at this year’s Annual Nevada Farm Bureau Meeting. Stay tuned for an exact date, but get a jump start on the competition by researching the following questions:

1.Production agriculture requires a lot of capital. Young farmers and ranchers face challenges gaining access to the capital they need to start or grow their operations. What tools are currently available, and what new programs could be introduced, to help young people access financial resources—and make sound financial decisions—to run their farms and ranches?

2.Working with elected officials, in all levels of government, is critical to advancing public policy that supports farmers and ranchers. How can Farm Bureau help elected leaders better understand the challenges of the agriculture sector and the importance of supporting the financial viability of America’s family farms and ranches?

3.What is sustainable agriculture and how can Farm Bureau help farmers and ranchers access market-based solutions that advance sustainability goals without restricting their ability to stock America’s pantries, help feed a growing population and maintain farm profitability?

4.Farmers and ranchers across the country are diverse in not only the goods they produce,

but also in the ways they raise and market them. Farm Bureau’s role is to broadly represent all producers. How can our organization further welcome and engage diverse agricultural communities and cultivate dynamic future Farm Bureau leaders?

5.Agriculture uses water for everything from growing crops, raising livestock and moving products to and from farms and ranches. Water issues are often hotly debated, are unique to each region and can pose significant challenges to growers. How can Farm Bureau help address water management challenges and seek long term solutions for farmers and ranchers?

We encourage you to look over the following questions and think about joining us this November for the Discussion Meet. If interested the American Farm Bureau Federation releases a series of Zoom meetings to get a better understanding of the Discussion Meet as well as tips and tricks on how to succeed. Follow a long on the Nevada Farm Bureau Facebook page for dates as soon as they are released.

We look forward to a great Discussion Meet!

Humboldt River Proposal For Conjunctive Management

Regular readers of this weekly newsletter will recall the number of times that Nevada Farm Bureau has requested input to the plans that the Division of Water Resources have for dealing with the Humboldt River System and moving forward with a conjunctive management program. The Division has requested proposed abstract ideas/ concepts to be submitted by July 7th. From the initial process of submitting a proposal those submitting abstract ideas will be notified by July 18thon whether the proposal that they have submitted will be included in presentation that will be included in public meetings that are scheduled to start Tues, August 1.

Based on NFB policy for conjunctive management, we have prepared a draft abstract proposal to possibly submit for consideration by the State Engineer’s office. We have met with the State Engineer’s office to discuss whether the capture models are capable of providing the necessary information to fit within the proposed abstract that Farm Bureau is considering.

We would greatly appreciate your feedback to the proposal. Visit tinyurl.com/DraftAbstract-CMHRB and take a look at what is being proposed. Your feedback can be provided by email to doug@nvfb.org or you are also welcomed to call and discuss your thoughts…phone (775) 870-3349.

House Committee Passes Bill To Scrap BLM Rule

On June 21st the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee passed HR 3397 introduced by Congressman John Curtis of Utah. HR 3397 basically directs the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to pull the plug on their proposed rule of inventing a new multiple use that they label as “conservation.” The committee’s passage came on a partyline 20-16 vote.

As a result of the committee action HR 3397 will move forward for possible passage by the House.

It is unlikely that the Senate version of the legislation, S. 1435 that was introduced by Senator John Barrasso of Wyoming, will be considered, but the action does send a strong message. According to one of the media reports that we’ve seen there have been over 150,000 public comments that have been submitted to this point.

Another Department of Interior Agency Announces Regulation Changes

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) aren’t the only agency crafting regulations to suit their vision of how the world should operate. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have announced a set of three regulation packages that they proclaim will “restore important protections for species, strengthen consultation and listing processes and reaffirm the central role that science plays in decisions that guide the protection and recovery of endangered and threatened wildlife.”

The three different regulation packages are being published in the June 22, 2023, Federal Register and with those publications the process will trigger a 60-day public comment period. This would bring the deadline for comments on these rules to August 21, 2023.

According to the agency’s news release, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service are jointly proposing two sets of changes to the implementing regulations with the intent to improve both agencies’ ability to fulfill their responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to protect and recover listed species. The third rule, addressing protections for threatened species is being proposed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Rule to improve the interagency consultation process – this proposal seeks to revise language, definitions and responsibilities that clarifies and further improves federal interagency consultation processes. We’re told that

this set of changes will revise the scope of reasonable and prudent measures in an incidental take statement to improve conservation outcomes.

Rule to clarify standards for listing, delisting, reclassifying species and revising some criteria for critical habitat designations – this proposal is mostly aimed at reinstating the prior language that the Trump Administration’s regulations put in place. The reversal is seeking to take out the references that the Trump Regulations had for possible economic or other impacts of determinations.

Rule to reinstate protections for species listed as threatened under ESA – this matter, for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, puts back the “blanket 4 (d) rule.” In their view, doing so will provide a base level of protection for all species listed as “threatened” while retaining the option for the Service to adopt a species-specific 4 (d) rule.

House Ag Committee Creates Working Group To Address H-2A Program Issues

The H-2A program doesn’t fall under the House Agriculture Committee’s jurisdiction, but because of the critical nature of the issue for farm labor issues, the leaders of the Ag Committee have named a 14-member working group to dig into find solutions for the labor problems that agricultural producers are dealing with.

Those named to the working group represent districts where things are especially challenging. The membership is evenly divided between Republican and Democrats. Congressmen Rick Crawford of Arkansas and Don Davis of North Carolina will co-chair the working group.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall commented on the House Agriculture Committee formation of a bipartisan Agricultural Labor Working Group to address pressing issues facing farmers.

“AFBF appreciates Chairman GT Thompson and Ranking Member David Scott for coming together to

investigate the labor challenges facing America’s farmers and ranchers. Labor is one of the biggest limiting factors facing agriculture, and farmers need a system that provides long-term stability. We are committed to engaging with the newly formed working group to address meaningful H-2A reform and a reasonable wage rate that enables farmers to continue meeting the needs of America’s families.”

The working group’s other Congressional members include: Yadira Caraveo of Colorado, Salud Carbajal of California, Lori Chavez-DeRemer of Oregon, Jim Costa of California, Jasmine Crockett of Texas, Monica De La Cruz of Texas, Doug LaMalfa of California, Nick Langworthy of New York, David Rouzer of North Carolina, Darren Soto of Florida, Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin and Gabe Vasquez of New Mexico.

AFBF President Weighs In On Proposed BLM Rule

Not only are Western State Farm Bureaus and others who are directly impacted by the proposed rule that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has invented getting engaged in the discussion of this controversy, but American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall has gone on record with his thoughts. Read his remarks here: www.fb.org/the-zipline/ ranchers-on-the-frontlines-caring-forpublic-lands

Attention now is on getting public input comments submitted for the 75day comment period that BLM has provided as the only opportunity to have a say. The email address to send your comment letter to is: via email to BLM_HQ_PRA_Comments@blm. gov. Please reference OMB Control Number 1004-0NEW and RIN 1004AE92 in the subject line.

EDITOR'S NOTE: The Editor thought the PR readers would like to know where the National Deputy Director of BLM came from and who signs her paycheck. Hmm. Interesting... www.blm.gov/bio/ nada-wolff-culver

School is out for kids in Nevada, but the need for food never ends. Through the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) helps children 18 and younger with access to food during the summer break. Through this program, children who depend on school meals can access nutritious meals when school is not in session, no questions asked. SFSP sites include schools, camps, parks, playgrounds, housing projects, community centers, churches, and other public sites where children gather in the summer. Parents, children and teens can find a meal site near them by visiting nvsummermeals.com, texting “Summer Meals” to 914-342-7744 or calling 1-866-348-6479.

Wishing you a happy and safe summer, -

Director Goicoechea

NDA welcomes new Deputy Director

The NDA has announced Doug Farris as the new Deputy Director. Deputy Director Farris has been serving as interim Deputy Director since March of 2023. Farris joined the NDA as the Division of Animal Industry Administrator in 2017 where he oversaw the Law Enforcement Unit, Livestock Inspection, Veterinary Medical Services, Dairy/Food Safety, Predatory Animal and Rodent Control, and Commercial Feed programs.

Dr. Mundschenk announced as new State Veterinarian

The NDA also welcomed Dr. Peter Mundschenk, DVM, as the new State Veterinarian. Dr. Mundschenk joined the NDA from the Pima Medical Institute, and previously served as State Veterinarian for the Arizona Department of Agriculture. Dr. Mundschenk received his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Washington State University.

Submit your agriculturerelated photos to our

2023 Annual Photo Contest

Our 2023 annual photo contest is back! The NDA wants to see how you picture Nevada food and agriculture for a prize of a Made in Nevada gift basket and a canvas print of your winning photo. We have a diverse range of food and agriculture in the state and the NDA wants to showcase it. The photo contest is open to anyone, regardless of skill level. Photos submitted must be of food, agriculture, agritourism or related subjects in Nevada. Deadline for submission is Sept. 1, 2023

Play, Clean, Go Awareness Week

Invasive species pose a major threat to our native wildlife and ecosystems, with nearly 50% of endangered or threatened species at risk as the result of the spread, according to PlayCleanGo.org. While often unintentional, people can spread invasive species on boots, tires, boats, firewood, pets, horses and more. Here are six easy steps you can take to do your part and stop the spread of invasive species:

Clean your shoes, clothes, packs, and pets before and after exploring and stay on designated trails.

Clean your horse's hooves and feed them weed-free certified hay before your adventure.

Clean, drain, and dry your watercraft and angling equipment to stop aquatic hitchhikers!

Don't Move Firewood! Buy it where you burn it, buy certified heat-treated firewood, or gather on site when permitted.

Before traveling to new areas, inspect and clean your trailers, off road vehicles, and recreational vehicles with water or compressed air to remove mud, plant parts, and hidden pests.

Visit PlayCleanGo.org for more info.

Report noxious weeds and stop their spread

Help us stop the spread of noxious weeds and commit to managing noxious weeds on your property. Noxious weeds can be destructive on our landscapes, displace many of our native plants and can pose a fire risk. Reporting is easy

and can be done through EDDMapS, or by emailing photos and location information to noxiousweeds@agri. nv.gov. Learn more at agri.nv.gov/ noxiousweeds/

Livestock scale inspections scheduled for Nevada

The NDA will be traveling across the state over the next few months to inspect livestock scales. Letters with inspection timelines will be sent out in advance close to the week of inspection. A reminder phone call will also be made by staff the week of inspection. Notice should allow enough time for scale owners to prepare for the site visit and ensure clear access to livestock scales and that scales are clean and ready to be inspected. A tentative inspection schedule is available at agri.nv.gov/wm

Join the UNR Extension workshop to learn about the importance of food safety in the meat industry

People who work in the meat industry can receive training on how to create a food safety plan by attending a workshop hosted by the University of Nevada, Reno, Extension. The workshop will address how to create a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan and a management system recommended by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

The HACCP for Meat Business workshop will be held at the Extension office in Reno, 4955 Energy Way from July 17-18. The cost of the workshop is $60 and lunch will be provided both days. Register at the workshop’s registration site by June 30. For more information, call 775-426-8299.

Home Feeds Nevada seeking producers—APPLY TODAY!

The NDA is looking for Nevada agricultural producers to apply for the Home Feeds Nevada Agriculture Food Purchase program. Through this program, the NDA will purchase nutritious foods that are grown, produced or processed in Nevada and distribute them through designated food banks. Program details and requirements for eligibility are outlined in the Request for Qualifications (RFQ).

Questions or comments regarding this program should be directed to Patricia Hoppe at pxhoppe@agri.nv.gov.

Explore Nevada’s Farmers Markets

June 21 marks the first official day of summer! This is the perfect time to head outdoors and explore Nevada farmers markets. Whether you’re searching for Nevada produced products such as seasonal fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, eggs or honey, you can find everything our state has to offer at agri.nv.gov/ NVFood.

Expand meat or poultry processing

The USDA has grant opportunities available for small meat and poultry processors looking to expand their facilities. As the NDA looks towards finalizing development of the Meat and Poultry Inspection Program, processors and those interested in processing can apply for $100,000 to $5 million for projects that will create and improve facilities that are currently operating and possess or plan to possess a Federal Grant of Inspection or inspection under a state meat and poultry inspection program. Visit usda.gov/meat for more information.

Lookout for the 2023 Livestock Assessment letters

Per NRS Chapters 575, 561 and 567, the NDA is required to collect certain taxes on livestock. Livestock include all horses, cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats located in Nevada. Owners of livestock are required by state law to declare their livestock yearly and pay a minimal per head assessment to help support the livestock inspection program. Although administered by the NDA, this program was put in place by livestock owners during the 1961 Nevada Legislature for the protection of their livestock and is funded by inspection fees and assessments. To keep the fees as low as possible, owners must declare and pay for their livestock. The 2023 assessment will cover the period from July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023. Additionally, delinquency letters will be sent out for the years of 2018 – 2022.

Job Opportunity

Project Manager | Virginia Range

Feral/Estray Horse Project (Sparks): For info: agri.nv.gov/uploadedFiles/ agrinvgov/Content/Home/Features/ vre_pm_job_posting.pdf

THE ROUNDUP

An analysis of western ranching politics brought to you by the PLC

IN THE LATEST NEWS....

BLM Rule: PLC leads livestock groups in opposition; Western Governors opposed Ranchers call on BLM to withdraw proposed conservation rule, Captial Press- A proposed rule that would allow the Bureau of Land Management to offer conservation-only leases was written without consulting ranchers and others who depend on the land. In a letter to Tracy Stone-Manning, BLM director, about 60 livestock groups said cattle and sheep producers have been partners with BLM in managing the 245 million acres of federal land in the West for generations. Yet, BLM neglected to engage them in the promulgation of the proposed rule and gave no indication it was proposing a new rule, they said. “Individually, each of the components of the proposed rule would have warranted substantive and detailed discussion. Together, they demand the BLM do the necessary work of engaging with stakeholders to avoid conflict and develop durable outcomes,” they said. BLM’s five public information sessions on the proposed rule have done little to compensate for the agency’s lack of advanced discussion. Instead of holding dialogues in places where federal grazing permittees and other multiple use stakeholder groups operate, the agency elected to host briefings in urban centers, they said.

Gov. Noem and Colleagues Oppose Proposed BLM Rule, News.SD-

Today, Governor Kristi Noem and five of her fellow Republican governors sent a letter to Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland opposing the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) proposed rule on “Conservation and Landscape

Health.” Governor Noem will testify on Capitol Hill regarding the same subject tomorrow, June 15th, at 8:00am CT. You can read the letter here. “This Proposed Rule, if adopted, could fundamentally alter the future management of BLM lands to the detriment of recreation, livestock grazing, mineral extraction, renewable energy production, and other common uses on BLM lands,” wrote Governor Noem and her colleagues.

“We oppose the Proposed Rule and urge the BLM to start over, withdraw its proposal, and instead focus its efforts on working closely with states, local governments, and stakeholders on rulemaking that will truly enhance active management and actual conservation of BLM lands within the framework of multiple use and sustained yield.” Tomorrow, Governor Noem’s testimony will focus on reminding the committee that our land is our greatest resource – and God isn’t making any more of it. She will point out that Washington bureaucrats do not know how to manage land better than the folks who have been stewarding it for generations. She will articulate how BLM’s proposed rule would devastate conservation and management efforts, harm wildlife, slow economic growth, and endanger public safety. Governor Noem was joined by the following Republican governors in issuing the statement: Utah Governor Spencer Cox, Idaho Governor Brad Little, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo, and Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon.

Multiple Use: BLM proposes massive fee cut for wind and solar on federal land.

U.S. proposes to formalize deep fee reductions for wind and solar on federal land, KDAL- A new regulation will formalize a roughly 80% cut in project fees for wind and solar energy developments on federal lands under a proposal by the Biden administration on Thursday as part of a strategy to boost renewable energy to fight climate change. The Interior Department’s U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) last year had lowered rent fees and lease rates for solar and wind by about 50%, using departmental authority, after developers complained they were too high to draw investment.

Thursday’s proposal from the Interior Department would deepen those fee reductions and enshrine the changes

in a formal regulation – making them harder to reverse under a future political administration. President Joe Biden wants to decarbonize the U.S. electricity sector by 2035, a goal that will require rapid deployment of large amounts of wind and solar energy. The BLM manages one in every 10 acres of land in the United States and Interior has a congressional mandate to permit 25 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy on federal lands by 2025.

Canadian wildfires open the door for PLC to advocate for producers; SW Oregon fires finally extinguished Canadian wildfires helped the Public Lands Council better advocate for U.S. producers, RFDTV- The haze from the Canadian wildfires is clearing out here in the U.S., but not before helping the Public Lands Council better advocate for farmers and ranchers in D.C. “Even though they weren’t American wildfires, it gave us a really good opportunity to talk about why this sort of ongoing discussion about whether it’s forest management or whether it’s climate change or whether it’s something else,” says Kaitlynn Glover, the Executive Director for PLC and NCBA. “Something needs to be done and there’s a lot of bipartisan agreement on certain pieces. It gave us a really great opportunity to talk about reduced forage or reduced fuel, right? The role that grazing can play in reducing that wildfire risk and even making sure that good fire doesn’t become bad fire across those millions of acres across the West.” Glover said sadly wildfires are always going to be a harsh reality our producers have to face, especially until we have more durable fixes.

Several fires extinguished in Rogue River-Siskiyou Nat’l Forest, Fox 26Several fires across southwest Oregon have been completely extinguished. The U.S. Forest Service said the Reeder, Rabbit, Ten, Wolf, and Sugarloaf fires in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest have all been declared as “out.” A new fire — the Boundary Fire — was found Tuesday in the High Cascade Ranger District. As of Wednesday morning, the half-acre fire was lined and in the mop-up phase. The Rogue River Siskiyou National Forest currently has regular staffing resources along with 12 additional engines, two 20-person initial attack crews, one dozer, and two

falling modules. “Please remain vigilant with fire prevention by thoroughly dousing campfires, avoid parking over dry vegetation that could ignite and do not allow your tow chains to drag on pavement,” the Forest Service said. “The fine fuels at the lower elevations are rapidly drying out. Thank you for helping prevent wildfires!”

Wildlife: Forest Service to run environmental review of grazing impact on bighorn sheep; Bill reintroduced in Congress to ban cyanide bombs; Sage grouse given endangered species protections in CA; Court case on lesser prairie chicken status in NM continues; 9th Circuit Court affirms USFS policy to close old logging roads to protect grizzly bears. In lawsuit settlement, USFS to reexamine grazing threat to bighorns, NCW Life- The U.S Forest Service must examine whether to close grazing allotments for domestic sheep in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. That’s the upshot of a settlement reached with wildlife conservation groups who sued the agency in federal court to protect wild bighorn sheep. Bacterial pneumonia that spreads from domestic herds has sickened wild herds like the Quilomene, which ranges from Malaga to Ellensburg. The plaintiffs argued the Forest Service continued to authorize domestic sheep grazing on allotments near bighorn herds despite knowing of the threat as far back as 2010. To settle the case, the agency agreed to complete a long-overdue environmental review, which could help decide whether to end that practice. This year, Fish and Wildlife adopted a new rule prohibiting domestic sheep and goats from certain sensitive areas of the bighorn range.

‘Canyon's Law’ bill bans M-44 ejector from public lands, Redheaded BlackbeltUnited States Representatives Jared Huffman (CA-02) and Steve Cohen (TN-09) and U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) re-introduced Canyon’s Law, legislation to ban from public lands the M-44 ejector – a spring-loaded device filled with sodium cyanide used to kill predatory animals and pest species. “Cyanide bombs are a cruel and indiscriminate device that have proven to be deadly for pets, humans, and wildlife – regardless of the intended target,”

said Rep. Huffman. “Families should be able to enjoy the outdoors without the fear of accidentally detonating these devices. They have no business being on our public lands, especially when there are far safer, proven methods to protect livestock, and our bill will bring an end to their use.”

Greater sage grouse given California Endangered Species Act protections, Courthouse News- The greater sage grouse, in a way, is a barometer for the health of the land. Its numbers have been dropping for years in California. Scientists have pointed to several reasons: habitat loss, land development, mining and climate change. It’s feared the bird’s subpopulations in the state could disappear. That’s why advocates for the greater sage grouse are praising a move Wednesday by the state’s Fish and Game Commission, which now provides California Endangered Species Act protections for the bird. “They are very uncommon in California,” said Ileene Anderson, a senior scientist at the Center for Biological Diversity. “They’re really a barometer for the health of the Great Basin Desert.” In 2022, the Center for Biological Diversity petitioned for the protections, which were recommended in April by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. That was followed on Wednesday by the bird’s elevation to candidate species. The move isn’t permanent. The Department of Fish and Wildlife will now perform a scientific review and return in about a year with a final recommendation. “It remains protected until the commission makes a decision to make it permanent or not,” Anderson said.

Environmental groups defend lesser prairie chicken's federal protections in New Mexico, Carlsbad Current Argus- Conservationists sought to defend federal protections for the lesser prairie chicken amid legal challenges filed by multiple states in its protected range, since the bird was listed as endangered earlier this spring. The bird, a rare grouse species historically known to live throughout the American West, was listed as endangered in March in its southern range in southeast New Mexico and West Texas and threatened in another area of northern Texas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Kansas. An endangered listing means a species’ extinction is believed imminent, and makes it illegal for land users to kill or “take” individuals under most

circumstances, while threatened status indicates an endangered listing could soon be warranted. The lesser prairie chicken’s population dwindled severely in recent years, imperiled by oil and gas, agriculture and other developments throughout the range, leading to the listing filed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This came after decades of debate on the bird’s recovery, impacts from local industries and the need to save it from dying out. Fossil and agriculture industry leaders opposed the listing as one that could stymie economic development, and the state leaders in Texas, Kansas and Oklahoma filed a lawsuit in April seeking to overturn the listing in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas Midland-Odessa Division.

U.S. appeals court reverses ruling against Forest Service road closures, Montana Public Radio- A federal appeals court has reversed a ruling that said the U.S. Forest Service violated the Endangered Species Act by harming grizzly bears. It’s not the last challenge to the agency’s policies for closing logging roads. The U.S. District Court in Missoula previously ruled that the Forest Service wasn’t doing enough to protect grizzlies through the agency’s efforts to block motorized access on decommissioned logging roads. But the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals rendered that decision moot because the Forest Service is using a new policy to guide how it closes roads. The Forest Service applauded the ruling, saying it vindicated the agency. But the Swan View Coalition, one of the plaintiffs in the original case, says the agency is still harming bears by improperly decommissioning roads and another lawsuit is underway.

Wild Horses: Wyoming's legislature is fed up with exploding wild horse population.

Winterkill Wiped Out Deer & Antelope Herds, But Wild Horse Population Is Exploding, Cowboy State Daily- Wyoming’s mustangs seem to have pulled though this past harsh winter well — maybe too well. There are more than twice as many on the range as the state is supposed to have, says a Bureau of Land Management official.

“We are not seeing the same level of mortality (among mustangs) that other ungulates are seeing,” according

to preliminary estimates of the winter death toll, said Kris Kirby, the associate state director of the BLM’s Wyoming headquarters. In parts of Wyoming, winterkill decimated mule deer and antelope herds. Meanwhile, there are an estimated 8,181 mustangs roaming across roughly 5 million acres in 16 herd management areas that the BLM oversees in Wyoming, she said. The agency’s target population is 3,725 horses. And there’s no telling when, or how, the BLM will get the mustang population down to the target number, she said during her testimony to the Wyoming Legislature’s Joint Select Federal Natural Resource Management Committee. The mustangs are a huge source of frustration for some in Wyoming, members of the committee said.

Mexican Wolves: Wolf relocated after straying from pack.

Mexican wolf relocated after traveling over 500 miles into New Mexico, KRQE- A female Mexican wolf has been successfully moved from New Mexico back to Arizona. The wolf had traveled too far away from her pack and was not able to successfully breed in alignment with the Mexican Wolf Recovery Plan. The wolf was born into Arizona’s Rocky Prairie pack in 2021. In 2022, she was given a radio collar for tracking purposes. Eventually, the wolf left her pack and traveled over 500 miles out of the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) and into New Mexico near Taos. The lack of wolves in the New Mexico area meant there was no chance for the female to breed and contribute to the Mexican wolf recovery efforts. The wolf was captured and moved to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (USFWS) Sevilleta facility to be paired with a mate.

WILDFIRE UPDATE

Number of new large fires or emergency response: 2

Number of active large fires: 7

Acres in active fires: 72,907

Fires contained: 0

*Updated as of June 15, National Interagency Fire Center*

Registration is now open for the 55th PLC Annual Meeting to be held September 5-7, 2023 in Pendleton, Oregon

“PLC Annual Meeting is where federal lands ranchers reflect on the past year and formulate policy for the year ahead. As an industry, we make the commitment to come together to build a strong policy outlook for federal land ranching, and make sure we’re all coordinated when facing attacks to our families and livelihoods,” said PLC President Mark Roeber. “I am excited to have our 55th Annual Meeting against the backdrop of the Pendleton RoundUp Rodeo. I can think of no better way to highlight the commitment to tradition, stewardship, and enduring history than to combine the 55 years of the Public Lands Council’s leadership and the century of culture and entertainment at the Round-Up.”

PLC is the only national organization dedicated solely to representing the interests and perspectives of cattle and sheep producers who utilize federal lands and grazing permits as part of their operations. Each year, the PLC Annual Meeting brings these producers together, and provides a forum for them to discuss current issues and emerging opportunities with federal agencies, industry partners, and Congressional leadership. This year’s conference combines policy priorities with the fun and excitement of the rodeo, as attendees craft policy solutions that will shape the future of the industry.

PLC Annual Meeting is an in-person event. PLC has secured hotel blocks for attendees in Pendleton. These hotel blocks will close August 4, 2023. Join PLC as we “Post Up in Pendleton” for another year of protecting public lands ranching.

For mor info or to register, visit publiclandscouncil.org/?event=2023annual-meeting&event_date=2023-09-05

NEWS RELEASE

June 16, 2023 | It was recently announced that the Department of Justice (DOJ) indicted Donald Trump for mishandling classified documents. I am deeply suspicious of the motives behind Donald Trump’s indictment, especially since the DOJ has not indicted President Biden for doing the very same thing.

It is a fact that President Biden also kept classified documents from his time serving as Senator and Vice President – both in his garage in Delaware and private D.C. office. And you will remember that Hillary Clinton had a computer server in her home with classified documents from her time as Secretary of State. Hillary Clinton even went as far to obstruct justice by wiping her server and smashing government devices with a hammer. Neither have faced any legal repercussions. I oppose this two-tier system of justice.

The American people are intelligent and see this ploy as the weaponization of the federal government against Joe Biden’s leading political opponent. It is obvious that the left is scared that Donald Trump will actually win this next Presidential election and believe that their only option to stop him is by having him arrested.

And it is also no coincidence that Donald Trump was indicted the day after the FBI was forced to provide Congress with a document exposing alleged Biden family corruption.

As you know, the DOJ is tasked with the enforcement of federal law and administration of justice in the United States. Sadly, it has become clear that a political virus has infected leadership at the DOJ and its subsidiary, the FBI.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer and Senator Chuck Grassley were recently approached by a whistleblower who said the FBI was

in possession of a document – an FD1023 form dated June 30, 2020 – that explicitly detailed information provided by a confidential human source who alleged that Joe Biden, while serving as Vice President, was involved in a criminal bribery scheme with a foreign national in exchange for certain actions. Allegedly, his son Hunter Biden was also involved.

Several weeks ago, the House Oversight Committee subpoenaed this unclassified FD-1023 document from the FBI. FBI Director Christopher Wray refused to admit that the FD-1023 record even existed and would not produce this document until the House Oversight Committee threatened to hold him in contempt of Congress.

To avoid being held in contempt, Director Wray eventually agreed to let Members of the House Oversight Committee view the form in a secure room. However, the Members were not able to take photos of the document or have a copy. Additionally, large parts of the document were redacted.

I do not sit on the House Oversight Committee, so I was not able to read this document or receive a briefing on the topic. However, I have heard from several colleagues on the matter, and this is what they have stated:

The confidential source who provided information about then-Vice President Biden being involved in a criminal bribery scheme is a trusted informant who has been used by the FBI for years and paid six figures.

The allegations within the document track closely with the thousands of pages of Biden family financial records recently obtained by the House Oversight Committee.

Now, the big question that comes to mind is what, if anything, have the

DOJ and FBI done to investigate these alleged crimes? They must allow the FD1023 to be made public, and they must show their work and be transparent. We can no longer give them the benefit of the doubt.

I don’t know whether or not these allegations made against President Biden and his son are true, but I do know for a fact that if these same allegations had been made about Donald Trump, the DOJ and the FBI would have investigated - and we would have known all about it. There has been a stark difference on how the DOJ and the FBI have treated Donald Trump, and how they have treated Democrats like Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton. And if you need evidence of this, look no further than Crossfire Hurricane.

To jog your memory, Crossfire Hurricane was the code name for the investigation undertaken by the FBI to probe whether Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign was conspiring with Russia to tip the outcome of the election.

A few weeks ago, Special Counsel John Durham released a long-awaited report on Crossfire Hurricane in which he denounced the FBI’s investigation into Trump. In Durham’s report, he found that the FBI “failed to uphold their mission of strict fidelity to the law” because it did not have sufficient evidence to launch an investigation in the first place.

Former FBI Director James Comey, former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, and former FBI Deputy Assistant Director Peter Strzok decided to investigate Donald Trump for colluding with Russia, even though the only evidence in their possession was the fake dossier created by the Clinton campaign team. And remember, Peter

Strzok made headlines when his texts promising to stop then-candidate Donald Trump were made public.

The Durham Report confirmed that FBI leadership pushed the investigation even when case agents expressed concerns throughout the investigation. These agents flagged faulty evidence, baseless allegations, and unsubstantiated accusations. FBI leadership largely disregarded these concerns.

As an attorney, I know that equality and impartiality are critical pillars of our legal system. Special Counsel Durham’s report exposed how the DOJ and FBI failed to maintain these values when they launched this investigation into Donald Trump without cause.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Overall, I would say that this has not been the DOJ or FBI’s finest decade. It is unfortunate that a small group of individuals at the top have jeopardized the reputation of some of our most important federal agencies, whose rankand-file members continue to serve our nation with honor and dignity. Sadly, recent developments have further shined a bright light on the many problems at the FBI and DOJ and reinforce the narrative that the rule of law in America only applies if you sit on the left side of the aisle.

Our country has multiple significant issues to deal with presently. This continuing obsession with the political ends justifies any means, regardless of the harm it may cause to our republic, is a sad commentary on our current state. The American people deserve better. Stay tuned on how the Oversight, Judiciary, and Appropriation Committees provide the much-needed corrective actions to those agencies, their personnel, and their budget.

Wells FFA Annual Banquet

By Cristina Salazar

Wells FFA 2023-2024 Reporter

On the evening of May 2, 2023, Wells FFA ended the year with the annual banquet, where we recognized all the FFA members that competed at state and thanked everyone who has supported us along the way. Everything went smoothly, our Conduct of Chapter Meetings 2023 state winning team honored us by opening ceremonies. They did amazing! Jorie Wright, the chapter president and MC for the night, welcomed all our guests and went through the agenda. Cameron Livingstone then gave the invocation. Finally the moment we were all waiting for, dinner! Meanwhile, special guests, administrators, and school board members were recognized and thanked for all their hard work and support to the FFA Chapter. Diving into the agenda, the 2022-2023 chapter officers led the honorary chapter degree ceremony, where Marlow Dahl, Stephanie Dahl, Heath Kington, and Melissa Kington were recognized.

The most emotional time of the night came. Graduating seniors Jackson Dahl, Jorie Wright, and Morgan Noorda escorted their parents to the front, and presented them with flowers. They took time to thank their parents for all of their love and support throughout their years in FFA and various other activities. It sure was a heartfelt moment for all.

From chaperoning trips, coaching CDE’s, and dedicating their time to support the chapter, these people were given an appreciation certificate to thank them and show them the gratitude the chapter has for these people. These people are administrators Tina Barger and Robert Woolsey, Laurel Wachtel, Jay Dalton, Dani Dalton, Audrey Spratling, Boyd Spratling, Myles Baldwin, Jolene Noorda, Sally Hylton, Paula Otto, Marianne Johnson, Jana Wright, and Emma Parsons. Shortly after, 7 members of the Chapter were recognized and awarded a scholarship pin for maintaining a 4.0 GPA throughout the year. These members were Carson Ballard, Cameron Livingstone, Grace Otto, Jake Glascock, Carolina Johnson, and Jorie Wright.

Once again, the chapter maintained their golden legacy. The students did extraordinary work in their competitive events at the 2023 State Convention. Madison Dahl and Carson Ballard presented us with the state report. The chapter sent teams and individuals to compete in 19 different CDE’s and LDE’s. First place teams were Meats Evaluation, Farm Business Management, Senior Parliamentary Procedure, Best Informed Greenhand, Poultry judging, Conduct of Chapter Meetings, Milk Quality and Products, Soil and Land Judging, Range Management, and

Novice Floriculture. Morgan Noorda placed 1st high individual in Employability Skills, and in Extemporaneous Speaking, Carolina Johnson placed 2nd high individual. Second place teams were Ag Sales and Livestock Evaluation. Third place teams were Agriculture Technology and Mechanics, Environmental and Natural Resources, and Karely Owen got 3rd high individual in Creed Speaking. The Horse Evaluation team placed 6th. State Degree recipient Carolina Johnson was recognized for her hard work, and Morgan Noorda was elected as the 2023-2024 Nevada FFA State President!

Like every year, the chapter thanks the advisors for the sacrifices they have made in order for the students to succeed. Don Noorda, Ryan Kendall, and Garret Hylton were called to the front. They were given a basket with something from each retiring officer along with a humorous inside joke. Shortly after, everyone gathered together to watch the chapter slideshow filled with amazing memories, funny moments, and

the success we have achieved throughout our year. Laughter wasn’t the only thing that filled the room, there was also a lot of tension. Especially from the chapter officer candidates. Nominating Committee Chair Morgan Noorda had the honor of presenting the slate of new officers, and relieving the tension in the room. The nominating committee results are as follows: Cristina Salazar is the 2023-2024 Wells FFA Reporter, Hannah Prescott is the 2023-2024 Wells FFA Secretary, Truman Kington is the 20232024 Wells FFA Secretary, and Carolina Johnson is the 2023-2024 Wells FFA President. The new officers were installed into their positions and we thanked the old officers for their dedication and hard work they have given to the chapter. Carolina Johnson and Hannah Prescott led closing ceremonies and concluded the Wells FFA annual banquet. The Wells FFA is now planning their traditional officer retreat and getting ready for the Nevada Summer Leadership Camp.

From left: Wells FFA newly elected officers Truman Kington, Carolina Johnson, Cristina Salazar, and Hannah Prescott.

2023 Churchill County FFA Chapter Banquet

By Riggin Stonebarger, Churchill County FFA

I believe in the future of agriculture…

As the year came to an end the Churchill County FFA chapter had their annual banquet. Parents of members, as well as the community came to recognize the success of our FFA members on May, 20th, at the Elks Lodge. During the banquet, candidates may be awarded degrees such as the Greenhand, Chapter, and State degrees. The Greenhand degree may be awarded to any freshman who has met all of the requirements of the application. The Greenhand degree was awarded to Riggin Stonebarger, Bailey Prinz, Allie Fait, Kylee Simper, Rylee Shroeder, Victory Heafner, and Clayton Ryon. The Chapter degree may be awarded to any sophomore and up that is running for president, and has met all of the requirements for the application. The Chapter degree was awarded to Dana Buckmaster, Madison Gregory, and Liam Few. The State degree may be awarded to any Senior that has received previous degrees. The State degree was awarded to Gavin McLean, and Caitlyn Dock!

The State Star Greenhand Production Award is an award that was awarded to one freshman within each state who has gone through an application process that consists of a resume, record book, an essay, and interview. It is awarded when this member is proficient in their Supervised Agriculture Experience. Allie Fait earned this at the 2023 Nevada FFA State Convention for her production with her sheep projects!

During the banquet there were new officer installations, and appreciation awards. Thank you to the 20222023 retiring officers: Caitlyn Dock (President), Addison Diaz (Vice President), Madison Gregory (Secretary), Jeramiah Prinz (Treasure), Liam Few (Reporter), Kara Herbert (Sentinel), and Dana Buckmaster (Historian). As we congratulate the 2023-2024 new officer team Caitlyn Dock (President), Liam Few (Vice President), Allie Fait (Secretary), Riggin Stonebarger (Reporter), McKinsey Ryon (Treasure), Kylee Simper (Sentinel), and Laci Peterson (Historian)!

The Churchill County FFA chapter would like to thank all of our community members and volunteers that have helped, and encouraged the Churchill County FFA chapter. If it wasn’t for these supporters, our chapter wouldn’t be where it is today. In agriculture the help and support from our community is a huge part to keep this program alive. Thank you to Norm & Sue Frey, Snyders Pinenut Livestock Supply, Zoetis, Holly, McPherson,Steve Johnson, Hank Wohle, Prinz Family, Dandelion Express, Elk Lodge, Churchill County Farm Bureau - Patty Julian & Carla Pomeroy, Kadee Buckmaster, Myles Getto, Joe Frey, Heather Benjamin, Churchill County FFA Advisory Board - Jim Barbee, and a Special Thank You - Christy Dock!

I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life!

Horse travel made easier with 6-month health certificate

Extended Equine Certificates of Veterinary Inspections available for interstate movement

The NDA is now accepting Extended Equine Certificates of Veterinary Inspection (EECVIs) available through GlobalVetLink. EECVIs allow for interstate travel for up to six months.

“In recent disease events, we have had difficulty tracing exposure in our equine population due to noncompliance with requirements for interstate movements,” said NDA Director J.J. Goicoechea, DVM. “With this more convenient option, we’re hoping more horse owners can stay in compliance, which, in turn, will protect the health and wellness of the horse industry throughout the state.”

Movement permits and certificates of veterinary inspections are required for all animal interstate travel to help prevent and track possible transmission of disease. Previously horses were required to get health certificates every 30 days. This new option for 6-month EECVIs will keep frequent travelers in compliance and allow for better animal disease traceability. Horse owners should work with their veterinarians to create an EECVI to submit to the NDA. Horse owners have online access to create their travel permits through GlobalVetLink.

UNR Ext Workshop puts meat safety front & center

July 17-18 event focuses on how to develop a plan to ensure food safety

Having the right plan in place is crucial to safely harvest, process and distribute meat products. People who work in the meat industry can receive training on how to create such a plan at a July 17-18 workshop provided by University of Nevada, Reno Extension.

Specifically, the workshop will address how to create a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan, a management system recommended by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration in which food safety is addressed through the analysis and control of biological, chemical and physical hazards from raw material production, procurement and handling, to manufacturing, distribution and consumption of the finished product.

This workshop will be held at the Extension office in Reno, 4955 Energy Way, and is part of Herds & Harvest, an Extension program that combines a series of workshops on different topics, and provides educational business management and mentoring skill building to support Nevada agricultural producers. The cost of the workshop is $60, with lunch provided both days.

Jamie Lee, program officer with the Extension’s Mobile Harvest Unit Project, said the workshop is ideal for specific meat industry careers.

“The workshop is best suited for the beginning farmer or rancher, farm-to-fork producers or anyone who is currently working in a meat processing plant,” she said. “Currently, the availability of Nevada meat processing services and its workforce are extremely limited. Our goal is to provide valuable information and assistance to support producer and workforce education.”

The July 17 agenda (9am-4pm) includes these topics:

• What is an HACCP plan, and why do you need one?

• Differences in custom, USDA and state inspections

• An introduction to food safety

• Understanding the science: what are the three hazards to analyze?

• Principles of implementation, validation and verification

The July 18 program, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., goes into greater detail on developing HACCP plans, and participants will create and review their own mock HACCP plan, discussing real-life applications and the best ways to evaluate the plan for effectiveness.

Workshop presenters include Lee and other industry and Extension experts.

Sanjideh said that the HACCP uses science-based controls to manage food safety at specific points in the food production process.

“These points are where hazards can be prevented, controlled, eliminated or reduced,” Sanjideh continued. “It’s a great food safety tool that’s focused on prevention.”

The HACCP workshop is supported by the USDA’s Western Region Meat and Poultry Processing Program, part of its Western Extension Risk Management Education Center. Register at the workshop’s registration site by June 30. Contact Lee at 775-475-4227 or jamielee1@unr.edu.

Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should contact Paul Lessick, civil rights and compliance coordinator, at plessick@unr.edu or 702-257-5577 at least five days prior to the scheduled event with their needs or for more information.

To register for this event, visit: HACCPforMeatBusiness.eventbrite.com

Jamie Lee, Program Officer, Mobile Livestock Processing Unit 775-426-8299 OR 775-475-4227

Nevada College of Engineering gets $4 million Army grant to establish water center

Nevada Center for Water Resiliency could establish Nevada as a leader in water reuse technologies

The College of Engineering has received a $4 million grant from the U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center to establish the Nevada Center for Water Resiliency, with the possibility of additional funds for subsequent research. The new center will research and test new technologies in water treatment, focusing on potable (drinking) water reuse from a variety of sources.

Led by Chemical & Materials Engineering Associate Professor Sage Hiibel and Civil & Environmental Engineering Associate Professor Eric Marchand, the center is the latest step in a longtime effort by the professors and their colleagues to find solutions for water-scarce communities. And Nevada — located in the heart of the arid American West — is the right place to develop new water reuse technologies, the professors say.

“As the driest state in the nation and one of the top 10 fastest-growing states, water resources in Nevada are stretched thin,” the professors wrote in their grant proposal Water Resiliency and Self Sufficiency: Advanced Technologies and Systems for Water Reuse. “As a result, communities in Nevada are eager to find novel ways to diversify the state’s water portfolio, and are at the forefront of water conservation and reuse strategies.”

The new center will organize under the University’s already existing Nevada Water Innovation Institute. Its research projects fall into four areas: advanced water reuse technologies, emerging contaminants, alternative water sources and resource recovery. In addition to Hiibel and Marchand, Engineering faculty involved in the center are Keith Dennett, David Hanigan, Rashed Khan, Krishna Pagilla and Victor Vasquez.

While the primary focus of the new center is to increase water resiliency of municipal water systems, a key secondary benefit has national implications. Because potable reuse of reclaimed water is not regulated at the federal level, there is no federal standard governing water reuse activities, creating

challenges for U.S. forces and federal agencies as well as regional governing organizations. Hiibel and Marchand propose that the center will facilitate communication between those stakeholders, including the Department of Defense, which oversees civilian works and military installations; the Environmental Protection Agency, which regulates drinking water; and the Department of Energy, which oversees water use for energy purposes.

Bridging that communication gap ultimately could lead to new water-reuse technologies and approaches that can be transitioned to real-world applications at a faster pace, according to Hiibel and Marchand.

“With this new center, Nevada is positioned to become a regional and national leader in water reuse technologies,” Engineering Dean Erick Jones said. “Congratulations to Dr. Hiibel and Dr. Marchand on this achievement, which will work to address one of the most pressing issues of our time — water scarcity.”

The new center aligns with one of the College of Engineering’s research pillars: equitable infrastructure, mitigating natural hazards, including water issues.

Multimillion grants to establish research centers aren’t won overnight: Hiibel, Marchand and their colleagues have been working for about a decade toward this latest development. It started with a 2012 project, A Fully Integrated Membrane Bioreactor System for Wastewater Treatment in Remote Applications, funded through the Department of Defense (DOD) and completed in 2018. The team followed up with a second DOD-funded project, “Portable Water Reuse System Driven by Waste Heat,” in 2018 that currently is wrapping up.

Along the way, the Water Reuse Consortium — comprised of Hiibel and Marchand in Nevada and their colleagues Dr. Andrea Achilli at the University of Arizona and Dr. Amy Childress at the University of Southern California — was organized and began its own integrated research on water issues. All three consortium partners applied for and received grants from the U.S. Army.

“Our military collaborators have seen how well we’ve done with the previous projects, so they are excited to build on that work with the consortium,” Hiibel said. Although each university in the consortium is working on different types of water issues, Hiibel and Marchand expect to benefit and to contribute to shared information and data.

“We still have the same challenges around water,” Hiibel said. “It’s very, very important to come up with new ideas and new ways to increase our water supply,” he added. Hiibel and Marchand’s proposal to the U.S. Army was divided into three phases, with a total proposed budget of $10 million over four years. The recently awarded $4 million covers the first phase — establishment of the new center and related research — which began in late May and will continue for the next 18 months.

If funded, Phases 2 and 3 will continue the current efforts and expand the research projects to be completed. But in addition to the current research, Hiibel and Marchand plan to increase the center’s scope of work by applying for additional funding from such organizations as the National Alliance for Water Innovation.

“We hope that we can build an infrastructure for Nevada to be a player on the national stage when it comes to these water reuse technologies,” Hiibel said.

Jack Sanders, owner, Sanders Family Winery; M.L Robinson, associate professor, horticulture specialist, UNR; Don White, master gardener, UNR Extension; Jill Moe, director, Nevada Farming Initiative

Article by Lorraine Blanco Moss Nevada Public Radio