ProgressiveRancherApMy2012

WE UNDERSTAND COMMITMENT.

In this Issue...

Nevada Cattlemen’s Association........................ pg. 3-4

For decades, Edward Jones has been committed to providing financial solutions and personalized service to individual investors.

Cow Camp Chatter, ..............pg. 5

You can rely on us for:

Eye on the Outside...........pgs. 8-9

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Convenience Locations in the community and face-to-face meetings at your convenience

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A Quality-focused Investment Philosophy

Obituary: Barbara C. Wolf...................pg. 11

A long-term approach that focuses on quality investments and diversification �

Highly Personal Service Investment guidance tailored to your individual needs

Call or visit today.

Sonny Davidson, AAMS® Financial Advisor .

2213 North 5th Street Suite A Elko, NV 89801 775-738-8811

Cattleman’s Connection Sale Report..........................pg. 10

Bulls for the 21st Century Sale Results.........................pg.. 12

Letters to the Editor.............pg. 17 Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo and Bull Sale.....pgs. 18-19 NVSRM........................pgs. 20-21 Range Plants for the Rancher.pg. 27 Pearls from the Past......pgs. 28-29 Edward Jones........................pg.29 Wounded Warrior

Financial Advisor

Horse Snorts & Cow Bawls ..........................pg. 13

2213 North 5th Street Suite A Elko, NV 89801 775-738-8811

Look Up...............................pg. 14

Coloring Contest..................pg. 31

Sage Grouse...................pgs.15-16

Equine Podiatry.............pgs 34-35

Jason B Land .

www.edwardjones.com

Elk Hunt...............................pg. 30

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The Progressive Rancher Owner/Editor/Publisher - Leana Stitzel progressiverancher@elko.net

Graphic Design/Layout/Production - Julie Eardley julie@jeprographics.com

Sage Grouse Photo: USFWS Website

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The Progressive Rancher is published monthly. The views and opinions expressed by writers of articles appearing in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor. Letters of opinion are welcomed by The Progressive Rancher.

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2 April | May 2012

The Progressive Rancher

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W

boards targeted by the Sunset Commission of the Nevada Legislature.

As alluded to above, the combination of term limits and re-apportionment has made the voice of associations such as ours all the more important. The ability to pick up the phone and call or walk into an office in Carson City or Washington and talk to agency directors, elected officials and key personnel is something NCA has worked hard on over the past few years. While we never gain as much as we would like, our efforts have resulted in wins that include changes to GIPSA, and Child Labor Laws. We are able to operate our tractors without a CDL, will start receiving annual scale testing, and continue to have strong Nevada water law, due in part to the efforts of this association, its staff, and our membership.

So many members of NCA continue to give of their time to serve on committees and boards that are vital to rural Nevada. While it is difficult to be away from our operations, families, and businesses, the time we spend serving the public, is well spent. It is all part of filling an increasing void in rural Nevada and rural America. More and more elected officials and agency personnel have no ties to agriculture or rural America at all, not even, “I spent summers on Grandma and Grandpa’s farm”. Our involvement will only become more and more important as the continued sift away from rural representation occurs.

With the size and diversity of districts today, it is imperative that representatives at the state and national level have a way to get information to and from the “ground level”. The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association will continue to serve as a conduit to provide information to rural Nevada and as a means of getting messages and critical data from the ground to those making decisions that affect us. In last month, NCA officers and staff had meetings with Congressmen, U.S. Senators, State Directors of NDOW, USFWS, BLM and others. Almost daily contact exists between key staffers of elected officials and in many cases weekly, if not daily, conversations with key lawmakers in Nevada occur as well. I am proud of the work our association has done and look forward to the work yet to come.

Many of us will be working a great deal on the issues surrounding Sage Grouse in the months to come. While Sage Grouse appears to be the biggest threat to many ranching operations in Nevada today, I am aware that many other issues exist and demand our attention. Leadership and staff of NCA continue to work on all issues and welcome input from everyone. I am certain there will be many more issues that arise in the coming months. If there is anything our office staff, our officer team, or me personally can do for anyone, please do not hesitate to call. We have been representing the rural communities of Nevada since 1935, and look forward to protecting the interests of everyone who depends upon and enjoys rural Nevada’s lifestyle for another 75 plus years. I want to thank all of the members that continue to volunteer their time to serve on NCA’s various committees, attend meetings, and ensure that our views are expressed. This association is the strong voice of leadership in rural Nevada because of all of your efforts.

UPDATE UPDATE

ith the close of filing to run for office on March 16th, it is once again time to take a look at politics. (As if the national media hasn’t been doing a good enough job) It seems that we are constantly inundated with reports in the media about the matter, especially in a year such as this with a presidential election looming, but do we fully understand what is happening to the political landscape in our own state let alone the country as a whole? As I looked over the recent filing for national, state and local offices, one thing became abundantly clear. Those of us rural Nevada/rural America have less and less representation with each election cycle.

The process of re-apportionment that occurs following each census is wrought with gerrymandering and quite possibly has done more to boost home sales in certain districts within Nevada than anything else in the last four years. As candidates scramble to secure their residence in a district or precinct that they feel will benefit themselves and possibly their party, the majority of us in rural Nevada wonder what it would be like to have a district’s boundaries within driving distance let alone across the street.

As an example of how re-apportionment can hurt rural Nevada, let us look at Nevada State Senate District 19. This seat has been the “rural Nevada” seat held by Dean Rhoades since before the last census and re-apportionment process.

Due to term limits (which further limit rural Nevada’s ability to have strong voices remain in government), Senator Rhodes will no longer be holding that seat, and that District will no longer be “rural Nevada”. District 19 now runs from the Idaho border, south through eastern Nevada bordering Utah before turning west across Nye and Clark County and running across to the California border. To put it in perspective, Pete Goicoechea (candidate for this seat) says, “The Senator will represent Jarbidge and Mt. Charleston in the same district.” The cities of Pahrump and Elko while both in Nevada; don’t have a lot in common other than that. This is what has become of “rural Nevada’s” seat.

Assembly District 35, which ran across most of Northern Nevada and was truly a rural district, has been taken south and is now a district in southern Nevada. While it is no surprise to any of us that the bulk of the population of the Silver State is in the south, it is alarming that our voices continue to be muffled by the elected official from urban areas. So what do we do from here? How do we get our voices heard in Carson City and Washington D.C.? The answer is simple, we continue to support the organizations that have advocated for us before and will continue to.

The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association has long been a voice for ranching in Nevada. That voice has, in recent years, been called upon to defend the rights and way of life of many rural Nevadan’s, not just ranching. Through the connections made in Carson City, Washington D.C., and elsewhere, NCA works to protect everything from water rights, to access on public lands for recreationists, sportsmen, and ranchers alike. We weigh in on bills pertaining to child labor laws and changes to trucking regulations. We were recently asked to support the building of health care centers in rural Nevada and will testify in support of many

J.J.

G oicoechea DVM

Nevada Cattlemen’s Association President www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 3

Nevada Cattlemen’s Association

By Desiree Seal, Nevada Cattlemen’s Association Executive Director

Spring in Full Swing for NCA

A

s I write this month’s article, it’s snowin’ and blowin’ outside and of course, everyone is calving. Well, as much as no one wants to be calving in bad weather, I think we can agree, we’ll take the weather so we have some moisture this year. So I hope the weather hasn’t been too hard on you.

It has been a very busy month at the office! The Fallon Bull Sale in February was a great success this year and the best sale in the State! We have just finished closing up everything from the Sale. A thank you, once again to all our consignors, buyers, sponsors and volunteers for your support this year.

This month also brought the development of a Subcommittee of Sage Grouse Issues, under NCA’s Public Lands Committee. The subcommittee was approved at the February Board of Directors meeting and met March 9. Membership from across the State came to the meeting to show their interest and concern. After much discussion and the appointment of chairs, the committee composed a position statement and clarified goals to achieve.

Goals included; urging membership to submit comment letters, documenting scientific research completed and making available to membership to help better educate members, documenting habitat work completed and work with membership to document known sage grouse populations in their area, and urging the involvement of the State of Nevada. The Chairs of this committee are Tom Barnes and Ken Conley. For more information or suggestions, please contact the committee chairs or the NCA office.

Also this month, a U.S. Congressional Field Hearing was held in Elko. The Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands (a Subcommittee of the Committee of Natural Resources) Chair Bishop (UT) called the hearing titled “Explosion of Federal

The harvesT is in Once again American AgCredit is paying record cash dividends to its members. $34.7 million for 2011, and more than $160 million since 2006.

How do we continue to thrive, even in tough times? By investing wisely — in farmers and ranchers like you.

Just like we’ve been doing since 1916.

eLKO

NCA Scholarship Deadline May 5

The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association is looking for graduating seniors interested in pursuing an education in an agricultural related field to apply for the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association Annual Scholarship.

The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association will be giving this year’s outstanding graduating senior a $1,000 scholarship to attend any junior college or four-year University to study in an agriculture related field.

The student must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and submit the following information. The deadline for all applications is May 5, 2012.

Please submit the following: • Completed application form.

• Copy of official transcripts.

• Three letters of reference from teachers.

• An essay on any current issue involving the beef industry. The essay must be 1000-1500 words, typed and include references cited.

The deadline for scholarship applications is May 5, 2012.

The heritage of Nevada is ranching. The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association believes the future of our industry lies in the education of the generations to come, as we explore new and innovative methods of sustainability. The scholarship application and requirements can be found at www. nevadacattlemen.org or by contacting the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association office at 775-738-9214.

Please mail completed application to: Nevada Cattlemen’s Association PO Box 310 Elko, NV 89803

renO (775) 825-7282 FaLLOn

Regulations Threatening Jobs and Economic Survival in the West.” The panel featured witnesses testifying about their concern regarding travel management plans and the water rights controversy on the forest in western states. President JJ Goicoechea presented a testimony representing NCA, NCBA and PLC concerning these issues. Although nothing was solved at this hearing, insight as to the interest of the Subcommittee was direct and it was quite clear, the Subcommittee members in attendance will be addressing the issues discussed.

These are just a few of the issues Nevada Cattlemen’s Association is currently addressing. We are also currently monitoring the progress of the NaCO lawsuit to bring wild horses to appropriate management levels, working with leadership to address revisions to the Endangered Species Act, addressing the concern of checkerboard lands and selling/buying of checkerboard lands, and preparing for the Public Lands Council and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Legislative Conference in April as well as other issues.

If you are not currently a member of Nevada Cattlemen’s Association, we encourage you to join. Become part of an association that is working to protect the future of ranching in Nevada. To learn more about the Association or to become a member, please call the office at 1-775-738-9214 or visit our webpage www.nevadacattlemen.org. We look forward to hearing from you! If you are currently a member, thank you for your continued support.

Without your membership, the Association’s voice could not be as strong as it is today.

(775) 423-3136

(775) 738-8496

Call today or visit agLoan.com A part of the Farm Credit System. Equal Opportunity Lender.

4

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2/7/2012Progressive 12:09:47 PM The Rancher

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COW CAMP

Chatter

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Artificial Insemination: Is it for your ranch?

u re r i c u lt

echnology should not be oversold. A successful artificial insemination (A.I.) program takes time, labor, the facilities to properly process cattle multiple times, livestock handling skills and cows in adequate body condition and postpartum interval. It is imperative to have an understanding of the estrous cycle and heat synchronization protocol. Time and effort is required for accurate heat detection. Unless you want 30% of your cows to be open you will still need a cleanup bull or a second round of heat detection and A.I. Following the process through diligently from the beginning when the decision to A.I. is first made to the end when the last cow is bred will yield the greatest success.

When considering artificial insemination it is important to have at least a basic knowledge of the reproductive cycle of a beef cow. The lactating mature cows in an A.I. program should have a minimum body condition score of 5 with a postpartum interval of 50 days or more. Cattle need to be on good feed and on the gain with long-term access to a quality mineral package. Lactating young, thin, second-conception and short-postpartum interval cows are all poor candidates for an A.I. program. Artificial insemination will not improve an already poor, natural-breeding program. As a rule any less than 3% of cows cycling daily at the onset of breeding indicates a low cyclicity rate of the herd.

Approximately 80% of the nation’s commercial cow herds calve in February, March, April and May with corresponding breeding dates of May, June, July and August. During this same time period cattlemen are busy with branding, fertilizing meadows, repairing fence and farm work. Fitting an A.I. program in to this time frame is challenging. During this labor-intensive breeding period, cattle are generally on pasture and away from facilities required for heat detection and A.I. It is not surprising that less than 6% of the nation’s mature cows are bred by A.I. Few commercial cattlemen utilize heat synchronization and A.I. on their yearling replacement heifers with only 16% of the nation’s heifers bred artificially. High accuracy

A.I. calving-ease sires can be selected for heifers versus a wider selection of high accuracy growth bulls for mature cows. In comparison to lactating cows, yearling heifers do not have a calf at their side which simplifies synchronization and the A.I. process. Yearling heifers often graze in pastures in close proximity to facilities capable of incorporating a synchronized, timed, or heat detection A.I. breeding program.

New technologies and estrous synchronization protocols reported by the Beef Reproductive task force (http://beefrepro.unl.edu/resources.html) have revolutionized artificial insemination. Many of these new technologies have made it possible for A.I. to be more widely used by commercial cattlemen nationwide. Artificial insemination conception rates and the costs associated with it are now within reach.

Synchronization resets the estrous clock on all females. Cattle not settling the first cycle have the opportunity to natural breed in 18 to 21 days. The end result is a large percentage of cattle calving in the first 35 days of the calving season. In a 35-day breeding period all cattle have had the opportunity to breed twice. Because of the resulting longer postpartum interval (and less dystocia with heifers) there is better breed back the following year with the next conception.

First-service conception rates on the average range from 40 - 60% with synchronization and scheduled/timed artificial insemination. A 60 - 80% first-service conception rate is attainable with synchronization, heat detection and A.I. Success is dependent upon how well you’ve followed through with the entire process. There are no short-cuts to success.

The potential to improve the genetic foundation of a brood cow herd utilizing a high accuracy A.I. sire compared to a low accuracy $4000 bull is without equal. The risks that are associated with owning a bull such as infertility, injury, maintenance costs, infection from a reproductive disease or death are non-existent with A.I. Nevertheless, artificial insemination is not an inexpensive undertaking. Single service semen costs for an A.I. sire range from $15 - $30/unit with an additional expense of $10 - $25/head for synchronization, heat detection aids and labor. With the economy of size these costs can be substantially reduced.

That’s enough for this month. A special thanks to my wife Jackie for her part in writing Cow Camp Chatter. As always, if you would like to discuss this article or simply want to talk cows, do not hesitate to contact me at 775-385-7665 or rtbulls@frontier.com.

RT Range-ready A.I. Sired Angus Bulls, Accelerated Genetics Semen, Custom Artificial Insemination & Ranch Management Consulting Ron & Jackie Torell ♦ 775-385-7665 ♦ rtbulls@frontier.com www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 5

Apply Now for Range Camp

Caliente, Nev., March 9 — Applications are now being accepted from high school students to attend the 52nd Nevada Youth Range Camp to be held June 17-23 at the U.S. Forest Service’s Big Creek Campground in central Nevada. Applications must be submitted

by Monday, April 30.

Nevada Youth Range Camp is a teenager’s best opportunity to learn about Nevada’s desert and mountain rangelands and diverse ecosystems, while experiencing them first hand. The Society for Range Management operates the week-long camp for 14-18 year olds from Nevada and eastern California. University of Nevada Cooperative Extension conducts the program with staff from various State and Federal agencies including University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Nevada Division of Forestry, Nevada Division of Conservation Districts, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Nevada Department of Wildlife.

Financial sponsors include Nevada Wildlife Federation, Nevada Conservation Districts, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited, and Nevada Society for Range Management.

Campers will have the opportunity to learn from range management professionals who are knowledgeable in the ecology and management of the Great Basin’s desert and mountain rangelands. Students learn basic surveying and map reading, identification and importance of rangeland plants, evaluation of sagebrush and woodland ecosystems, wildlife surveying techniques, evaluation of stream health, and many other topics related to rangelands. While the camp is educational, it also offers an enjoyable, outdoor experience with activities such as swimming, fishing, hiking, volleyball, horseshoes, campfires and photography.

Interested students must submit an application and letter of recommendation from an adult other than a parent or sibling. The cost to attend Range Camp is $180, which includes meals and camp activities. Applicants can be sponsored to attend Range Camp by contacting their local conservation district or other organizations. Forms and information can be found on the Nevada Youth Range Camp Web site at http://nevada.rangelands.org/ Range%20Camp.html or by contacting Kathryn Dyer (775) 885-6012 or kdyer@blm.gov.

Completed applications with enclosures can be mailed to NV Youth Range Camp, c/o Bureau of Land Management, attn. Kathryn Dyer, 5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV 89701; e-mailed to kdyer@blm.gov ; or faxed to 775-885-6147 (attn. Kathryn Dyer). If sent by e-mail, letters of recommendation must be on the adult’s official letterhead or must be a scanned copy of the adult’s letter and signature. Applications must be submitted by Monday, April 30. Approved applicants will be notified within two weeks.

Camp is held every June at the US Forest Service Big Creek Campground in central Nevada’s Toiyabe Mountain Range. The Toiyabes are one of Nevada’s most impressive mountain ranges with several peaks over 10,000 feet in elevation. June is an ideal time to be in the Toiyabes when numerous wildflowers are in bloom and the vegetation is green from the recent snowmelt.

WEED EXTRAVAGANZA, MAY 1 - 3

Decision Allows Farmers and Ranchers to Apply for USDA Assistance

The Elko County Cooperative Weed Management Area (CWMA), University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, Elko County Association of Conservation Districts, Northeastern Nevada Stewardship Group, and Nevada Department of Agriculture are sponsoring a “Weed Extravaganza,” May 1 - 3, at the California Trail Interpretive Center (Hunter Exit, 8 miles west of Elko, north of I-80). This workshop will include the 10th Elko County Weed Summit (May 1st, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.), Pesticide Applicator Training/Weed Identification and Management Workshop (May 2nd, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.), and optional Certification Exams (May 3rd, 7:15 a.m. – 11 a.m.) for those seeking restricted-use pesticide certification. Those wishing to take certification exams must pay $25 per test at the door on May 3rd. Participants are welcome to attend any or all of the sessions, according to their interests and needs.

The workshops on May 1st and 2nd are free to the public. However, those planning to attend on May 1st are encouraged to RSVP by April 24th to Candie Kevan at kevanc@unce. unr.edu so that an accurate head count for the hosted lunch can be obtained. For additional information, please contact Kent McAdoo (mcadook@unce.unr.edu, ph. 775-738-1251), with University of Nevada Cooperative Extension.

$12 Million in Community Facilities Funds Available to Rural Nevada Nonprofits, tribes, communities, eligible for funds for essential services

(Carson City – March 21, 2012) Rural Communities and nonprofits in need of essential public services like fire trucks, or to build senior centers or health care clinics -- take note: USDA Rural Development has nearly $12 million in funds available to assist.

Municipalities, tribes, and nonprofits in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less are eligible.

Community Facility loan rates are at record low levels and the term is flexible. For example a school bus could be financed for a 5-7 year term, and a fire station could be financed for 30 years. For instance, the Wells Family Resource Center used CF funds to put in new flooring, and the City of Caliente used CF funds to purchase two pumper trucks.

For FY 2012 USDA Rural Development has $11,868,125 in direct loan funds, $1.27 million in guaranteed loans, and $89,400 in grants available. There is also $64,900 available for Economic Impact Initiative grants for communities with an unemployment or underemployment rate of 19.5% or greater.

Call USDA Rural Development at (775) 887-1222, Ext. 104 to learn more. For detailed information you can also access the new Community Facilities Direct Grant and Loan Application guide online at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/SupportDocuments/Community%20Facilities%20App.pdf

6 April | May 2012

USDA Designates 2 Counties in Nevada as Primary Natural Disaster Areas.

Sparks, March 21, 2012 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture has designated 2 counties in Nevada as primary natural disaster areas because of damage and losses caused by wildfires that occurred during the period of September 30, through October 5, 2011. Those two counties are Elko and Humboldt. In accordance with 321(a) of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, Eureka, Lander, Pershing, Washoe and White Pine Counties are named as contiguous disaster areas.

In late November 2011, the local USDA Farm Service Agency finished loss assessments on all Nevada counties relating to natural disasters. As a result of these efforts, the assessments were forwarded to Governor Sandoval’s office and a request for drought designation was sent on December 22, 2011 to USDA in Washington, D.C. “I am pleased that USDA Secretary Vilsack approved my request for disaster designation of Nevada counties affected by wildfire in 2011,” said Governor Brian Sandoval.

Jim Barbee, Director, Nevada Department of Agriculture concurred. “USDA has a variety of programs to help eligible Nevada producers recover from adversity caused by natural disaster. In this economy every piece of the puzzle counts.”

Farmers in eligible counties have eight months from the date of the declaration to apply for loans to help cover part of their actual losses. FSA will consider each loan application on its own merits, taking into account the extent of losses, security available and repayment ability.

USDA Financial Assistance Available to Restore Lands Impacted by 2011 Wildfires RENO, March 21 -- The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is again offering funding to agricultural producers impacted by wildfires in 2011. “With the recent announcement by Governor Sandoval that USDA has approved his request for disaster designation of Nevada counties, I am offering financial assistance to help farmers and ranchers restore the lands damaged last fall,” said Bruce Petersen, Nevada state conservationist for the NRCS. Petersen stated that the 2011 fires severely impacted lands that provide critical habitat for several wildlife species of concern including sage-grouse, and negatively impacted livestock grazing operations dependent on these areas for forage.

Eligible conservation practices include fencing to protect sensitive areas, grazing management, erosion control structures, and rangeland seeding on both private and public land.

Applicants must meet eligibility requirements under the Farm Bill’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program. Payment rates for practices are based on a percentage, usually 75 percent, of the typical costs for installation of the practices. Beginning, limited resource and socially disadvantaged producers may be eligible for higher payment rates not to exceed 90 percent.

NRCS will coordinate treatment alternatives and activities with public land management agencies for applicants who include public lands.

For more information or to apply for funding, contact your local NRCS office or go online to http://www.nv.nrcs.usda.gov.

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

OFFICE: 775-423-7760 JACK PAYNE

Cell: 775-217-9273 Alt: 775-225-8889

Email: nevadalm@yahoo.com

Full-Service Cattle Sales & Marketing serving the Fallon, Nevada and Outlying Areas.

Sales Results from February 15 & 16, 2012 Regular Butcher Cow, Bull, Bred Cow and Feeder Sale Seller

City

# Head

Jim Estill Lovelock 2/2 Jim Estill Lovelock 1 Nagging Woman Ranch Winnemucca 1 Tom Madole Fallon 1 Sun Touch Solar Fallon 1 Randy Osterhoudt Round Mountain 1 Riverside Ranch Orovada 6 Sterling Lambert Fallon 2 David Piquet Winnemucca 22 Grass Valley Ranch Austin 3 Harry Brown Austin 8 Sun Touch Solar Fallon 4 Lavon Ropp Eureka 4 Stone Cabin Ranch LLC Tonopah 11 Jersey Valley Cattle Co Winnemucca 4 Kenneth Sam McDermitt 2 Trevor & Jake Wade Alamo 13 Gene & Jo Christison Golconda 4 Cecil & Lena Courtney Gerlach 6 Windy R Ranch Washoe Valley 1 Diane Powers Winnemucca 2 Roger & Nancy Johnson Golconda 13 Pinson Ranch Golconda 3 Seven Dot Cattle Co Golconda 7 Triple D Ranches Dyer 12 Dana & Chris Finlayson Winnemucca 4 James Sloan Fallon 3 Jim Estill Lovelock 8 Masini Ranch Yerington 4 Lavar Wade Alamo 2 Espil Sheep Co. Gerlach 7 Tom Madole Fallon 8 Truckee River Ranch Fallon 2 Sheryl Hicks Schurz 1 Kathie Minner Fallon 2 Michael & Claudia Casey Fallon 3 Troy Wilson Yerington 1 Bryant Norcutt Fallon 1 Deanna Porter Orovada 4 Mark Venturacci Fallon 4 John & Terry Cooper Oakdale 25 Peraldo Brothers Fallon 12 Sunrise Ranch Yerington 13 Walter Brinkerhoff Lovelock 5 Susie Jackson Gerlach 2 Wyatt Ferreira Dayton 2 Jesse & Emily Amaral Petaluma 4 D Dot Ranch Doyle 2 Aaron & Donnell Williams Fallon 5 Beth & James Thompson Winnemucca 2 Harriman & Son Fallon 3 Jake Casey Fallon 7 Badger Ranch Battle Mountain 28 Robert Depaoli Lovelock 3 Grass Valley Ranch Austin 7 Lavon Ropp Eureka 6 Five Fingers Grazing Assoc Paradise Valley 7 David Piquet Winnemucca 43 Gene & Jo Christison Golconda 14 Pinson Ranch Golconda 6 Seven Dot Cattle Co Golconda 19 Riverside Ranch Orovada 3 Scott Humphrey Milford 4 Beth & James Thompson Winnemucca 11 Bill Wadsworth Winnemucca 2 Tom Madole Fallon 11 Michael & Claudia Casey Fallon 3 Harry Brown Austin 8 Randy Osterhoudt Round Mountain 4 John Barnum Herlong 4 Susie Jackson Gerlach 5 Dana & Chris Finlayson Winnemucca 5 Ken Harmon Fallon 3 Mark Venturacci Fallon 5 Diane Powers Winnemucca 2 Jim Estill Lovelock 8 Sterling Lambert Fallon 5 Lance Thompson Winnemucca 2 Stone Cabin Ranch LLC Tonopah 33 Maureen Weishaupt Fallon 10 Sun Touch Solar Fallon 14

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Cow/Calf Bred Cow Bred Cow Bred Cow Bred Cow Bred Cow STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR STR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR

1113 1620 1670 1010 1190 1010 285 353 507 393 496 384 346 369 523 338 545 512 468 320 405 565 582 582 614 499 518 585 435 619 620 601 550 405 550 472 445 565 596 633 671 659 664 634 633 445 493 645 491 695 667 749 832 870 370 387 399 473 547 547 547 337 365 465 383 532 403 504 461 541 585 482 373 585 370 536 420 514 392 601 470

$1,100.00/hd $1,225.00/hd $1,200.00/hd $1,140.00/hd $1,130.00.hd $1,085.00/hd $204.00 $192.00 $191.00 $191.00 $190.50 $190.00 $187.00 $184.00 $184.00 $184.00 $183.00 $180.00 $180.00 $180.00 $180.00 $179.00 $171.00 $171.00 $170.00 $170.00 $170.00 $169.00 $168.00 $167.50 $167.25 $166.25 $166.00 $165.00 $162.00 $161.00 $160.00 $160.00 $160.00 $160.00 $158.25 $158.00 $157.50 $157.00 $153.00 $150.00 $150.00 $150.00 $150.00 $145.00 $145.00 $143.00 $136.50 $135.75 $197.00 $183.00 $177.50 $176.50 $174.00 $174.00 $174.00 $173.00 $173.00 $172.50 $172.00 $170.00 $168.00 $168.00 $167.00 $165.00 $163.00 $163.00 $163.00 $162.00 $161.00 $160.00 $160.00 $158.00 $157.50 $156.50 $156.00

Regular Sale Every Wednesday Small Barn at 10:30 am Cows at 11:30 am Feeder Cattle at 1:00 pm

CafĂŠ Open on Sale Days Stop by and have a Homestyle Burger

SaleS Feeder Sale in conjunction with our Regular Wednesday sale

April 4th & 5th

April 18th & 19th Butcher cows on Wednesday Feeder cattle on Thursday starting at 11 am

We have four cattle trains available for your cattle hauling needs.

We can haul approx. 80,000# of cattle per load either to our sale or in the country. Give us a call for pricing.

Thank You to all of our Consignors & Buyers Look for Weekly Market Reports at www.nevadalivestock.us The Progressive Rancher

Sales Results from February 15 & 16, 2012 Regular Butcher Cow, Bull, Bred Cow and Feeder Sale Seller

City

# Head

Desc.

Type

Weight

Price CWT

Aaron & Donnell Williams Trevor & Jake Wade Walter Brinkerhoff Windy R Ranch Nagging Woman Ranch Cecil & Lena Courtney Wyatt Ferreira D Dot Ranch Eve & Benz Tschannen Sunrise Ranch Triple D Ranches Kathie Minner Jesse & Emily Amaral Bryson Masini Masini Ranch Cleo & Jeniel Connell John & Terry Cooper Ken & Patty Julian Nat & Karen Lommori Nat & Karen Lommori Sunrise Ranch Cleo & Jeniel Connell Cleo & Jeniel Connell Espil Sheep Co. Espil Sheep Co. Don Osterhoudt Don Osterhoudt Raymond & Amy Callahan Raymond & Amy Callahan Raymond & Amy Callahan Richard Hucke Richard Hucke Jerry Johnson Jerry Johnson Jerry Johnson Tom Madole Truckee River Ranch Truckee River Ranch Ferraro Cattle Co Nagging Woman Ranch Tori Pomi Tori Pomi Tori Pomi Jim Estill Michael O'Daye Sun Touch Solar Evan Thompson Celeste Brown John Torvik Walter Brinkerhoff Randy Osterhoudt Roger & Nancy Johnson Perazzo Brothers Hillside Dairy Hillside Dairy Hillside Dairy Desert Hills Dairy Desert Hills Dairy Desert Hills Dairy Hi-Test Products Hi-Test Products Hi-Test Products Jeff Whitaker Jeff Whitaker Jeff Whitaker Pitchfork Ranch Pitchfork Ranch Pitchfork Ranch Jim Estill Nagging Woman Ranch Jersey Valley Cattle Co Harriman & Son Jose Alfredo De Olos Zamora Nat & Karen Lommori Diane Powers Sun Touch Solar Don Osterhoudt Walter Brinkerhoff Terrence Wright Stone Cabin Ranch LLC

Fallon Alamo Lovelock Washoe Valley Winnemucca Gerlach Dayton Doyle Fallon Yerington Dyer Fallon Petaluma Yerington Yerington Alamo Oakdale Fallon Wellington Wellington Yerington Alamo Alamo Gerlach Gerlach Round Mountain Round Mountain Reno Reno Reno Fallon Fallon Alamo Alamo Alamo Fallon Fallon Fallon Winnemucca Winnemucca Fallon Fallon Fallon Lovelock Reno Fallon Winnemucca Winnemucca Fallon Lovelock Round Mountain Golconda Fallon Fallon Fallon Fallon Yerington Yerington Yerington Fallon Fallon Fallon Fallon Fallon Fallon Yerington Yerington Yerington Lovelock Winnemucca Winnemucca Fallon

3 16 6 7 5 11 2 7 5 50 19 2 9 1 3 1 5 3 1 1 8 5 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

BLK MIX BLK MIX MIX MIX MIX MIX MIX BLK BLK BLK BLK CHAR MIX MIX MIX BLK BLK RD BLK RD RD BCHX BBF BBF BLK BCHX BLK RD BLK BLK CHAR BLK CHAR BLK BLK BLK RD BLK BBF WF BLK WF BBF MIX BLK BCHX BRDL BLK BLK RD HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN HOLSTEIN BLK BLK BLK BRDL BLK BLK CHAR

HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFR HFRTT COW HFRTT HFRTT COW HFRTT COW HFRTT COW HFRTT COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW HFRTT HFRTT COW COW HFRTT COW COW COW COW COW COW COW COW BULL BULL BULL BULL BULL BULL BULL

553 593 534 579 604 474 323 461 762 764 710 570 712 805 607 750 637 922 1070 1295 1108 944 1425 1145 1145 1035 1225 1190 1525 1400 1110 1340 915 985 910 1005 1320 1580 1425 1355 1405 1540 1420 1330 1135 870 1265 1185 1295 1175 825 1205 1020 1188 1570 1425 1028 1200 1495 1315 1500 1620 1790 1795 1690 2225 2140 2330 1990 1865 1890 1975

$152.00 $148.50 $145.00 $145.00 $143.50 $142.50 $142.00 $140.00 $137.50 $134.50 $134.00 $133.00 $130.00 $128.00 $126.00 $123.00 $122.50 $109.50 $91.50 $68.75 $86.50 $86.50 $71.25 $83.00 $76.00 $81.00 $73.75 $80.00 $78.00 $70.75 $85.50 $70.00 $81.00 $70.00 $65.00 $79.00 $76.00 $68.50 $75.00 $72.50 $72.50 $70.00 $69.25 $72.00 $71.00 $70.00 $68.00 $65.50 $65.00 $64.00 $62.00 $55.00 $85.50 $79.00 $67.00 $65.00 $75.00 $71.00 $67.25 $73.50 $73.25 $63.50 $69.25 $67.25 $66.25 $94.50 $91.75 $91.00 $92.00 $88.00 $87.25 $87.25

Reno

1

BLK

BULL

1785

$86.75

Wellington Winnemucca Fallon Round Mountain Lovelock Nixon Tonopah

1 1 1 1 1 1 1

BLK RD CHAR BLK BLK WF CHAR

BULL BULL BULL BULL BULL BULL BULL

1710 1625 1685 1715 1940 1400 1300

$85.25 $84.25 $82.25 $80.00 $75.00 $74.00 $73.00

April | May 2012 7

By Joe Guild

S

ome things are so logical and filled with reason they proverbially go in one ear and out the other without completely registering their meaning. Let me try an example on you I first heard as a boy so many years ago it is hard to believe I still remember it but for the fact it continues to be repeated on a regular basis.

“Why would we harm this land/ this resource? We grow our crops on it/ raise our livestock on its forage. If we mistreated it we would be harming our own livelihood. It would go against our best interests to do something to make this resource produce less than its optimum capability.”

Does this or something very close to this sound familiar to you? I would venture to say many of you have said words very close to this at some point in the past. And who wouldn’t say something similar to this if their motives for doing things were attacked by people who have no notion of the reasons certain things are done in a certain way, or there have been gross misrepresentations made by people or groups of people who want to destroy what you do with the property you own. This is a hint at the premise of why a person would say the words quoted above.

The basis for such statements is the very human tendency to protect, enhance or preserve their own property. A corollary to this is the profit motive. If it is your business to utilize your property by placing it into production, you do so with the incentive to make a profit which provides you with a livelihood. In other words, you don’t destroy your means of production because you won’t be in business anymore if you do. Producers of non-re-

“

Watering the

West

”

Office: (775) 738-2677

newable resources such as mining companies do deplete the resource, it is true, but they use part of their profits to develop more means of production and given modern environmental rules they do so with the least harm to the environment as possible.

However, this is a livestock magazine, so I am writing about the use of renewable resources to produce a product. If grass is my resource and I use it as forage for my livestock, why would I go out of my way to destroy the very thing I depend upon for my livelihood?

Well I wouldn’t and neither would you. Most ranchers seek to preserve, protect and enhance the natural resources they and their animals depend upon. I will concede there are some who don’t do this. However, over time, more and more ranchers understand either through education, practical experience or a combination of both there are more progressive, scientific ways to operate their ranches than the ways employed by their grandparents.

I also admit there have been abuses in the past and greed overtook rationality in some cases. Over a hundred years ago we saw an onslaught on the western ranges and a misunderstanding that the resource was more capable than it actually was. Thus, for instance, in the late 1880s the northern ranges were overgrazed, no provision was made for winter feed and after several very mild winters, tens of thousands of cattle died when a severe winter swept down from the arctic. Did northern plains ranchers repeat the mistakes which caused whole herds of cattle to die off? No, of course not. They learned what a reasonable carrying capacity was for their ranges and they raised hay for winter supplemental feeding. Now, these areas are more productive than they ever have been, and the resource upon which the ranchers depend for their livelihood is protected and sustainable.

Furthermore, every area of human endeavor has seen advances in the last hundred years. We have hand held communication devices and computers we can fit in a pocket, take a picture and send it from Tonopah to Tokyo in an instant. Then, we barely had a telephone, no slide rules and you needed a pack mule to carry a camera.

Do the critics of livestock grazing really believe there have been no advances in range science and natural resource production and protection in the last one hundred years? Do critics of big production agriculture really believe that plant and crop science advances have been made so the producers of food can harm mankind? Apparently, this is the case because, at least, in my experience, ranchers in the west who depend on the public ranges are the butt of continual criticism from uninformed or purposefully misleading environmental groups who want to end livestock grazing on land which might be in the public domain, but which in many cases is exactly the same kind of land held in private hands. We all know the agenda, but my real pet peeve here is the members of the public who put their own beliefs in the profit motive incentive and protection and enhancement of property rights on hold when, without thinking, they accept the notion that a rancher would harm his or her self interest by destroying their means of production.

We have all seen variations of the map which shows federal land ownership comparisons among the states. If you haven’t seen one lately, go to the U.S. General Services Ad-

IRISH BLACK CATTLE

Fax: (775) 738-2367

www.bosstanks.com 7861 E. Idaho St. • P.O. Box 70, Elko, NV 89803

Registered Bulls & females

Logan River Ranch,

Logan, Utah Lane Parker 435-757-4643 cel. www.Irishblackcattle.net

8 April | May 2012

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

ministration, Federal Real Property Profile for a real eye opener. According to this source, the average federal land ownership among the eleven western states excluding Alaska is over 48%. Nevada is the highest with 84.5 % in this diagram but estimates go as high as 89%, according to some other sources.

In a recent article in a respected natural resource oriented magazine, the federal government controls over 30% of the landmass of the United States. There are many arguments for questioning the constitutionality of this large federal ownership of so much land, but that is not the purpose of this column. Also, I would argue the federal government has a place in the protection of certain natural resource treasures against development such as the Grand Canyon, Yosemite and the Everglades. I am even in favor of some National Monuments but certainly not ones such as the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument with over 1.6 million acres set aside from any resource production.

Also, in that same article it was stated the BLM and Forest Service employ over 40,000 people managing some 446,000,000 acres of land. Many of you have experienced dealings with these folks which border on the irrational. Instead of a profit motive, and at times at the expense of decisions which are best for the resource, the federal land managers defy logic and respond to outside pressure and the threat of lawsuits to manage the resource. Decisions which a private party would make in a matter of days can take months or even years. To their credit, many of the personnel working for these agencies decry this irrationality but good bureaucrats must follow the system rather than a more logical, reasonable approach to solving problems A good current example is the attempt to come up with a plan to help restore the sage brush steppe to help prevent the sage grouse from being listed as an endangered species, the agencies can’t see the forest for the trees in front of their faces and accept the notion in their publications that grazing interference is a cause of sage grouse decline in the face of obvious facts. Some of these facts are that predation from ravens and other protected bird species and coyotes and cause much more harm than livestock grazing to the survival of the bird’s hatch. Another significant harm to the sage grouse is the west wide incursion of pinion/ juniper forests crowding out the traditional sage brush steppe because of the more than a century policy of the agencies to stop the normal wildfire cycle which kept these forests in balance with the rest of the ecological system.

Because of this fire suppression policy, wildfires on the grasslands now burn hotter and when they are through, the brush resource is gone and invasive species such as cheat grass take over for the next fire to burn even hotter. This is because the agencies have relatively inflexible rules about early season grazing which fails to account for the growth patterns of certain plants such as an annual like cheat grass versus perennial plants that need maturity before they are grazed. Moreover, the almost 50% reduction in livestock AUMs in the last 50 years has resulted in excessive fuel loads accumulating on the ranges which help to exacerbate the intensity and size of lightning and man- caused fires.

Much of the above, of course, is not news to ranchers who graze on the public ranges.

For instance, sheep ranchers see sage grouse in large numbers over some of their ranges because they are more actively involved in predator control especially in the areas where they lamb. With fewer coyotes and more hands on involvement with ewes who are more prone to giving birth to twins and even triplets than cows, even predators such as ravens are kept away just because of the presence of more humans. In such areas more sage grouse are seen because one of the chief causes of hatch mortality is taken out of the picture.

Therefore, common sense would tell the observer to do more predator control if the goal is to have more sage grouse. The myth persists that livestock are one of the chief causes of the decline of the sage grouse when the agencies admit negative impacts from grazing are way down on the list of factors far below invasive plant species and sage grouse predators.

So to bring us back to a cliché which adequately explains things, livestock producers (property owners with a profit incentive) and federal agency personnel are on the horns of a dilemma. The agencies should recognize that producers have no reason to harm the resource which provides their livelihood. They should ignore the misrepresentations of a very vocal minority and confirm on the ground what much of the science has already proven, properly managed grazing is a tool which can enhance and protect the whole resource, including in the instant case, sage grouse. Private property interests should be more vocal in asserting what logic and reason have proven throughout history; if allowed to exist in a relatively unfettered environment, the resources devoted to a profit making enterprise will be protected and sustained. I am not arguing for eliminating regulation, just a loosening of an overly restrictive and regulated business climate.

The public can have its “land”. I don’t think it is feasible or possible to go back to the policies which existed in this country prior to the passage of the Federal Lands Policy Management Act. So let’s have the pendulum swing a little bit back towards a more rational recognition of the part private property incentives can play in land management policies.

If we do this everyone, including the critics of federal lands grazing, might be pleasantly surprised.

I’ll see you soon. www.progressiverancher.com

Upcoming Sales

Thursday, May 3rd Cottonwood, CA Catalog Deadline: April 18th

Thursday, May 24th Cottonwood, CA WATCH & LISTEN TO THE SALE on the Web at:

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 9

Standing Room Only at 21st Annual Cattleman’s Connection Bull Sale

137 Yearling and fall yearling Angus Bulls averaged $4750 14 Registered Angus yearling heifers averaged $1761 30 commercial Angus yearling heifers averaged $1417

12 – 2 yr old JBB/AL Hereford Bulls averaged $3762 8– Fall yearling JBB/AL Hereford Bulls averaged $3150 20 – Spring yearling JBB/AL Hereford bulls averaged $3518 21 – Spring yearling JBB/AL Hereford Heifers averaged $1674.

Art and Stacy Butler of Spring Cove Ranch and John and Bev Bryan & James & Dawn Anderson of JBB/AL Herefords welcomed a standing room only crowd to their 21st Annual Cattleman’s Connection Bull Sale on Monday, March 12th at Spring Cove Ranch in Bliss, Idaho. Angus and Hereford bulls and females sold to progressive ranchers in Idaho, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska, Mississippi, Georgia and Durango, Mexico. Spring Cove Ranch celebrated their 93rd year in the Angus business and JBB/AL Herefords celebrated their 43nd year. The commitment that these programs have made to producing functional bulls for commercial cattlemen was recognized and rewarded.

John Bryan, JBB-AL Herfords

The high selling Angus bulls were: Lot 10, Spring TL Payload 1029 a 1-9-2011 son of SLL Overload T18 out of a B/R New Design 323 dam selling to Steele Land and Livestock of Anita, Iowa for $10,000.

Lot 93, Spring Cove TL New Worth 1021, a 1-14-11 son of SAV Net Worth 4200 out of a Kahn Broadband RA 94L dam selling to Lane Smith Farms, Purvis, Mississippi for $10,000.

Lot 154 Spring Cove TL Answer 0067, a 10-18-2010 son of Connealy Answer 59A out of a Hyline Right Time 338 dam selling to 333 Ranches, Jim Boyer, Elko, Nevada for $10,000.

Lot 26 Spring Cove Emblazon SB 1901, a 1-22-2011 son of CCA Emblazon 702 out of a Stevensons CE Deluxe 1914 dam selling to Rabbit Creek Ranch, Joe & John Key, Elko, Nevada for $9500.

Lot 64 Spring Cove TL Aberdeen 1016, a 1-4-2011 son of TC Aberdeen 759 out of a Mytty in Focus dam selling to Foss Angus Ranch of Terrebonne, Oregon for $9500.

Lot 53 Spring Cove TL New Day 1045, a 2-4-2011 son of B/R New Day out of a B/R Ambush 28 dam selling

to P Lazy J Livestock, Pete Scott, Elko, Nevada for $9000.

Lot 80 Spring Cove Warrior 1960 a 1-30-2011 son of Varsity V Warrior out of a Spring Cove Just In Time 925 dam selling to Rabbit Creek Ranch, Joe & John Key, Elko, NV. for $8000.

Lot 79 Spring Cove Warrior 1942, a 1-28-2011 son of Varsity V Warrior out of a Spring Cove OnTime 100B dam selling to Sheridan Ranch, Cordell Sheridan, Almo, ID for $8000.

Lot 7 Spring Cove TL WideLoad 1001, a 1-28-2011 son of SLL Overload T18 out of a EXAR New Look 2971 dam selling to Morgan Ranches, David & Ann Rutan of Jordan Valley Oregon for $7750.

Volume Angus bull buyers were 333 Ranch, Elko, NV, Craig & Jean Spratling, Deeth, NV, & Phillips Ranch, Jeff Phillips, Baker City, Oregon, and Rabbit Creek Ranch, Joe & John Key, Elko, NV. High Selling Angus heifer was Lot 160 Spring Cove Star 109 a 1-30-2011 daughter of SLL Overload T18 out of a “Prime Design “ dam selling to Ken Koehn of Buhl, Idaho for $2400.

High selling Hereford bulls were: Lot 226, ALSK Rib Eye 110, a 1-10-2011 son of “Rib Eye” out of a KJ SPH Revolution 872 G bred dam selling to Dan L. Forsea & Sons, Richland, WA. for $6750.

Lot 228, JBB 3027 Domino 115, a 1-14-2011 son of UPS Domino 3027 out of a F-R 552 Lad 20P dam selling to Dan L Forsea & Sons, Richland, WA for $6250 Lot 233, JBB/AL R294 Domino 127, a 1-17-2011 son of KCF Bennett 9126J R294 out of a EFBEEF Schular Proficient N93 dam selling to Dan L Forsea & Sons, Richland, Washington for $6000 Lot 203, AL Prince 024, a 1-22-2010 son of JWR 024P Sara’s Prince 153T out of a /S Endurance 2233 dam

10 April | May 2012

The Progressive Rancher

selling to Alan Oppio, Gooding, Idaho for $5000.

Lot 212, ALJA Chips A Hoy 072 a 3-7-2010 son of JWR 024P Saras Prince 153T out of a /S Cowboy Logic 4668 dam selling to Macon Cattle, Marty Bennett, Gooding, Idaho for $4250.

High Selling Hereford heifer was Lot 253, JBB Princess 162, a 2-15-2011 daughter of JWR 024P Sara’s Prince 153T out of a CJH Harland 408 bred dam selling to Barry Herefords, Madras, Oregon for $2100.

Volume Hereford Bull Buyer was Diamond A Livestock, Gooding, Idaho and volume Hereford Buyer was Maxine Haumont, Buhl, Idaho.

www.progressiverancher.com

Barbara C. Wolf 1929-2012

Barbara C. Wolf was born on February 16, 1929 to Ben & Martha Cooper in Culver City, Ca, in the San Fernando Valley. She graduated from Van Nuys High school in 1946. In 1947 she fell head over heals and married Howard W. Wolf From a “valley girl” to the Nevada sage brush and pinion pines, Barbara moved with her husband to Fallon Nevada in 1949. Howard and Barbara leased the Hoover place North of Fallon until 1950 when the couple purchased the Tarzan Rd ranch. They started a Commercial cattle operation, farm ground and breeding American Quarter horses. She was also dedicated to her Suffolk sheep flock. Barbara was the proud owner of her beloved cutting horse Heart Bar Kay or aka Katie.

Through out the years she was an active member in the Churchill County Cowbells, a 4 -H leader and seamstress. She enjoyed singing in the Methodist Church Choir, the Sweat Adeline’s Choir, Lahontan Valley Concert Choir and playing her piano. She was a rancher’s wife, mother, homemaker, grandmother, and a pioneer of the greatest generation.

The most loved and cherished thing in her life was her family.

Barbara Wolf will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Howard W. Wolf, children Kay Knudtson, Mary Lou (Paul) Grumstrup, Joanne (Marshall) Brown, Gayle Hybarger and Dan (Julie) Wolf. Grandchildren, Lori L Brown, Karsten & Ethan Grumstrup, Will Hybarger, Lisa Rigney, Brynn Slate, Ashley & Lena Wolf and 5 great grandchildren.

www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 11

THE HUMANE CHOICE. Period!

Bulls for the 21st Century Sale Report

Another quality ranch tool by Callicrate

F O R E A R LY C A S T R AT I O N . . .

Made in the USA

Over 200 people attended our Saturday evening seminar to listen to speakers Kyle Pfeiffer, Andi Reiber, and Paul Epstein all sending out a strong message about the need of producers to tell their story. Ranchers have a great story to tell and if we don’t get out and explain to consumers how beef is produced, that story will be told by HSUS, PETA, Western Watershed, and other animal rights or environmental extremists. The spectacular and very beefy hors d’oeuvres were the creation of Jerry Snyder and his dedicated chefs.

On sale day, over 300 people enjoyed a great Tri-tip BBQ by Doug and Loree Joses and their crew.

Brand New! High-Tech!

Complete Ligation Callicrate Tough!

Tops: High Selling Bull: #2603, Calving Ease Red Angus, Ron Paregien, Moore Creek Red Angus, Sired by Beckton Nebula P P707, $9750, to Bob Prosser, Bar T Bar Ranch, Winslow, AZ

Worth The Investment

High Point Bull: #2121, Calving Ease Angus, Mitch Cain, Wild West Angus, Sired by Riverbend Goodnight W504, $6500, to Bob Gallo, Faith Ranch, Modesto, CA

1-800-858-5974 www.CallicrateBanders.com

TWIN FALLS TRACTOR & IMPLEMENT CO. 1935 Kimberly Rd. • Twin Falls • 733-8687

800 293-9359

NORTHSIDE IMPLEMENT CO.

1922 S. Lincoln • Jerome • 324-2904

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SPRING HAY EQUIPMENT SALE New Holland 575 Baler – 14 x 16 Bale – 2008 Year.........................................$19,000.00 2 - New Holland 580 Balers – 16 x 18 Bales – 2003 Year – Your Choice .....Ea. $16,000.00

Sale Averages: 135 Bulls

$3406

16 Early Fall Bulls

8 Angus

8 Red Angus

$3891 $3350 $4431

26 Late Fall Bulls

17 Angus

4 Hereford

5 Red Angus

$3133 $3156 $3025 $3140

High Point Growth Angus: #2127, Carolyn Colson, Century Farm Black Angus, Sired by GAR EGL Protégé, $6000, to Fred Wilkinson, 93 Spring Bulls $3399 Orvada, NV

62 Angus $3448 #2109, Kristy Tomera, Sired by BCC

3 Balancer $2867 Matrix 6027-8024, to Tom Carpenter,

9 Charolais $2456 Yerington, NV #2005, Dennis Lopez, Diablo Valley An 8 Hereford $3863 gus, Sired by SS Objective T510-0T26,

11 Red Angus $3705 $5500, to Brian Kingdon, Horseshoe V Ranch, Taylorsville, CA #2629, Lawrence and Sheila Mendoza, Mendoza Red Angus, Sired by TR Julian LT151, $5500, to Richard Bass, Fallon, NV Champions: High Point Bull: #2121, Calving Ease Angus, Mitch Cain, Wild West Angus, Sired by Riverbend Goodnight W504, $6500

New Holland H8060 Swather with 15’ 5” Rotary Header – 2008 Year .............$82,500.00

High Point Growth: Angus, #2127, Carolyn Colson, Century Farm Black Angus, Sired

by GAR EGL Protégé

New Holland H8080 Swather with 18’ Rotary Header – 2008 Year .................$85,000.00

Champion Charolais: #2907, Fred Jorgensen, Sired by SR/NC Field Rep 2158 P

New Holland HW340 Swather with 15’ 5” Rotary Header – 2002 Year ............ $45,000.00

Champion Calving Ease Red Angus: #2603 , , Ron Paregien, Moore Creek Red Angus, Sired by Beckton Nebula P P707

New Holland H8040 Swather with HS 16” Sickle Header – 2008 Year............. $70,000.00 New Holland HW365 Swather with 15’ 5” Rotary Header – 2005 Year ............ $67,250.00 New Holland 1116 Swather with 16” Header – 1985 Year ............................... $10,850.00 2 Sets of New Holland 216 Unitized Rakes – Your Choice............................ Ea. $8,500.00

Champion Growth Red Angus: #2626, Lana Trotter, Trotter Red Angus, Sired by LJT Major 512 Champion Balancer: #2801, Cardey Ranches, Sired by Roadrunner Tracer 7713 Champion Hereford: #2706, Bell Ranches, Sired by CRR 719 Tulo 928

New Holland BB960 Big Square Baler – 5 String _ 2002 Year ......................... $45,000.00 Phiber 4102 Bale Accumulator – For above baler or sold separate ..................... $10,000.00

CALL US FOR USED TRACTOR PRICES!

New Holland is a registered trademark of CNH America LLC.

12 April | May 2012

FARM RAISED™

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

F

inally!!! We have wet! Just a beautiful wet rain and snow storm. And not really cold. The grass and weeds and flowers will just jump up and the livestock will go to chasing it and dropping weight! Ahh, spring!!!! Lots of grass, lots of fat cattle, enough snow to fill some ponds, do a little for the subsurface ponds! Life is good.

——— ❁ ——— Life even looks better with all the disenchantment with Congress, the President, and the Supreme Court. Maybe, we as a people will vote the entire above out and start a new slate. There’s a petition going around with some stiff proposals to congress people if they want to get reelected. None of which the people in office now will be happy with. After all, they aren’t in their position for the good of the country-only for themselves. They plan on being in that position for life!

Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t have political parties to worry about? If we could just vote on the person of our choice for what ever office? If the elected weren’t decided upon who had the biggest bank account but who could do the best job for the betterment of or nation? If we could work for ourselves instead of the government. Dream on, but it is a nice dream.

——— ❁ ——— Spring also brings on an onslaught of country auctions. They are so exciting! It seems as many people think so now. The auctions so far have been well-attended and the prices are no bargain. But the visiting is great!!! Too bad people have to lift items and put in their pockets while the auctioneer has the crowd’s attention. That’s just people and their greedy mentality. There’s some in every crowd!

——— ❁ ——— Got a few kid’s stories.

Little Kole on about to turn seven was upset about her coming birthday.

“But I don’t want to be an odd number!”

Cleo was to be spending a few days with the other grandparents. The trade off was made midway between the homes. Halfway back to grandparents home, Cleo had to stop and cry.

“I had to cry, the tears just wouldn’t stay in! They had to come out!”

Pete Mori was talking on the phone to his grand-daughter. They usually live close together and thus see each other every day. Now Pete was in Lovelock calving and missed seeing the girl. She had called to chat and to tell him she was going to a birthday party.

Horse Snorts

AND

Cow Bawls

by Jeanne King

Pete asks her, “What are you wearing? What dress?”

She goes into detail and tells him which dress. Keep in mind she is about 5 or so. Then they go on to shoes. Pete has to know what shoes she is wearing.

“Grandpa, my heels of course!” Like he should know!

Samme substitute teaches every so often. She enjoys the kids and just follows the lesson plans. She had a first grade class that was really unruly and noisy! She had filled every corner of the room with a desk to separate chatty kids. Several had gone to the office because she couldn’t get their attention enough to get through the lesson plans. One little boy stopped everything because he couldn’t get the knot in his shoelace untied.

This was a real catastrophe! Samme told him to wait as they had lots of work to get done and time was wasting!

As she was walking away with her back turned, she muttered under her breath, “Scissors?”

A little bit later, the same little boy came trotting up to her with the cut laces in his hand, proudly proclaiming, “Teacher, teacher, I got it!”

Hard not to laugh right there!

He then claimed he had lots of other shoes at home when Samme reminded him he had ruined the laces. But Samme felt bad about the incident anyway and went to the Dollar Store and bought a pair of laces to take to the school for the boy! Goes to show you –people only hear what they want to!

That’s all for now, folks. Let me know on those kid stories. They are light and entertaining. We need that in our lives!!!

•• Silver State Stampede to Celebrate 100th Anniversary of Rodeo in Elko

Seeking Old Photos and Programs

Help Elko celebrate the 100th anniversary of rodeo in Elko! The Silver State Stampede will be publishing a history of rodeo in Elko and is looking to copy old photos and programs from the Silver State Stampede and events or the Garcia Rodeo for the big celebration in July 2012. Any images will be scanned and returned to the owners. Credit will be given in the commemorative publication. Photos may be taken to J.M. Capriola, 500 Commercial Street or call Paula Wright, 7385816 or Jan Petersen, 778-5478 for more information.

This picture is the Silver State Stampede Rodeo Court from 1949: (top) LuAnn Hyde, Donna Barkull, Donna Glaser (front) JoAnn Murphy - Queen, Dave Dotta - Elko Mayor, Dakin Griswold, Virginia Marchbank.

•• www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 13

W

LookUP

Good Folks

by Pastor Diana Gonzalez

ebster’s defines good as honorable, enjoyable, pleasant, reliable, excellent, virtuous, devout, kind, dutiful, proper, and effective.

There’s a lot of good folks in cow country, isn’t there? As I visited some of the bull sales around Nevada, I got to see some of those beloved, solid citizens of Nevada’s cow country.

Some of those honest, trustworthy faces are getting some deep wrinkles and their grey hair has turned white (those that have hair!). Time marches on, doesn’t it?

To me, ranchers are the salt of the earth. Oh, there’s always some rats in every society (on the ark, there were at least two!), but most ranchers are as honest as they come. A handshake and their word is still a bond that they would never break no matter what.

One of my most treasured friends was like that, so it took me back, one time, when I was bragging about my friend to someone at church back in the 80’s, when they said, “Just because people are good doesn’t mean they are going to heaven.” While that struck me down deep in my heart, that’s true, isn’t it? We all need to be redeemed (bought back); no matter how good or bad we are, we all need Jesus. If we could get to heaven by just being good, there would have been no need for Jesus to die on that cruel Roman cross. And let’s face it, none of us are perfect and without sin. In fact, if we go back and look at the ten commandments (Exodus 20:1-17, Deuteronomy 5:6-21), we will probably find we’ve broken most if not all of them. No matter how much we’ve progressed in life, we’ve all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). So no matter how good we are, if we’ve broken even one commandment one time, we deserve God’s wrath, spiritual death, and eternal separation from God in a very hot place. But, praise God, I’ve got good news for all of us, Romans 5:8-11 – But God demonstrates His own love toward us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him (Jesus). For if while we were enemies (sinners), we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not PINENUT LIVESTOCK only this, but we exult in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom SUPPLY INC. we have now received the reconciliation. NAS is pleased to announce Romans 6:23 – For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift (IT’S the opening of their FREE!) of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. NAS That’s why, that’s why we celebrate Resurrection Sunday, commonly known as Easter, that’s why. Because of what Christ at did for us! Stop and think where this world would be if He had never come to earth in

new Fallon location 263 Dorral Way

Reno Highway across from A&K Earth Movers

You are invited to COWBOY CHURCH!

Stop by and see our new place, we look forward to seeing you!

PHONE: 775-423-5338 john@pinenutlivestocksupply.com

14 April | May 2012

human form. You think things are bad now; we’ve got no idea how awful things would be.

Well, Jesus doesn’t automatically save us because He bled and died for our sins, or because we are honest and upright, or because when we were kids we saw a Christmas play and believed it. No, Jesus makes salvation available to us, but it’s up to us to make the choice to ask (action) Him into our hearts and to ask Him to be the Lord of our lives and forgive us of our sins.

Romans 10:13 – Whoever will call (action) upon the Name of the Lord will be saved. NAS I John 1:9 – If we confess (action) our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. NAS I John 1:7 – …the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from sin. NAS The blood of Jesus, folks, a very high price that was paid by faithful Jesus for our redemption; a price that we couldn’t pay. That’s something we need to remember and be thankful for. So let’s not mock the cross, let’s choose Jesus, and let’s receive salvation and everything else He died to give us. (Isaiah 53:3-12, I Peter 2:24) Let’s be good people, yes, but let’s be good people headed for heaven through the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Romans 12: 9-21 – Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints (your local church), practicing hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. “But if your enemy is hungry, feed him, and if he is thirsty, give him a drink; for in so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. NAS So what about my good friend? My cowboy hero, my second dad? I was standing beside him when he stood up for Christ in response to the Gospel preached by a former rodeo clown back in the 90’s. My good friend became a good, saved friend and is waiting for me in heaven, praise God! Remember Good Friday and celebrate Resurrection Sunday. God bless you and keep you.

Read Luke chapters 22, 23 and 24.

Happy trails. May God richly bless you. We love you and would love to hear from you.

If you would like someone to pray with, or just have a question, please give us a call at (775) 867-3100. ’Til next time….

Are you having a Rodeo or Livestock event?

Give us a call.

1st Saturday of every month Standish, CA @ 6:00 p.m.

Hwy. 395 /A3 — Standish 4-H Hall

We would love to come to your event or ranch and host Cowboy Church for you.

Harmony Ranch Ministry 3767 Keyes Way Fallon, NV 89406

Tom J. Gonzalez Diana J. Gonzalez, Pastor threecrossls@cccomm.net

The Progressive Rancher

(775) 867-3100 Cell (775) 426-1107

Cowgirl Thinking She can deal with stress and carry heavy burdens. She smiles when she feels like screaming, and she sings when she feels like crying. She cries when she’s happy and laughs when she’s afraid.

Her love is unconditional. There’s only one thing wrong with her. She forgets what she’s worth! www.progressiverancher.com

NRCS Announces Innovative Landowner Partnership to Help Endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher and Greater Sage-Grouse RENO, March 30, 2012— Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar have announced a new $33 million partnership with agricultural producers and Tribes to use innovative approaches to restore and protect wildlife habitat for two at-risk species found in Nevada.

The endangered southwestern willow flycatcher is a small bird that resides along riparian areas on rivers and streams in the southern Nevada. Flooding, developSouthwestern Willow ment and invasive species have reduced the number of Flycatcher native willows that the bird relies on for its habitat and food supply. The greater sage-grouse, a large chickenlike bird that depends on sagebrush to survive, is declining from loss of habitat caused by wildfire, predation and other factors. It is found throughout northern Nevada.

“This new partnership effort focuses dollars and wildlife expertise on the recovery of targeted at-risk species whose decline can be reversed by conservation,” said Bruce Petersen, Nevada state conservationist for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Landowners will receive incentive payments of 75 Greater Sage-Grouse to 90 percent of the estimated cost for installing practices identified in a conservation plan developed with the landowner, according to Petersen. Landowners who apply conservation measures to protect the southwestern willow flycatcher and greater sage-grouse will be in a better posi-

BLM Northeastern Great Basin Resource Advisory Council Schedules 2012 Meetings

ELKO, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) will meet with the Northeastern Great Basin Resource Advisory Council (RAC) three times in Nevada in 2012: April 19, in Elko; July 19-20, in Ely; and Sept. 20, in Battle Mountain. All meetings are open to the public.

The RAC advises and makes recommendations to the BLM on public land management. Discussion items will include, but are not limited to, renewable energy development and transmission, the greater sage-grouse, BLM Battle Mountain district resource management plan, wild horse and burro program and recreation development plans.

Meeting times will be made public prior to each meeting. Each meeting will include a general public comment period that will be listed in the final meeting agenda that will be available two weeks prior to each meeting.

• April 19: California Trail Interpretive Center, Elko ◊ Eight miles west of Elko at I-80 exit 292, Hunter • July 19-20: BLM Ely District Office in Ely ◊ 702 N. Industrial Way, Ely, NV 89302 • Sept. 20: BLM Battle Mountain District Office in Battle Mountain ◊ 50 Bastian Road, Battle Mountain, NV 89820 The Federal Land Policy and Management Act directs the Secretary of the Interior to involve the public in planning and discussion of issues related to management of BLMadministered public lands.

The Northeastern Great Basin RAC is one of three such councils in Nevada that accommodates this community participation directive. Represented on the council are commercial and non-commercial users that include elected officials and state agencies, environmental, livestock, mining, Native American, and wild horse and burro.

For more information, contact Lesli Ellis, BLM Elko District Office, (775) 753-0386 or lellis@blm.gov. www.progressiverancher.com

tion to obtain regulatory certainty under the Endangered Species Act. “Private landowners and the NRCS are essential partners in conserving species and their habitats,” said Ted Koch, Nevada state supervisor for the US Fish and Wildlife Service. “We value the opportunity to work closely with landowners to ensure their efforts receive the support of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.”

Safe Harbor Agreements, Habitat Conservation Plans, informal agreements and other mechanisms will be used to provide regulatory certainty for landowners, lessening the confusion or conflict around legal protection and ensuring that landowners who implement conservation measures now can possibly avoid the potential for future land use limitations and substantial conservation expenses.

“The flycatcher and sage-grouse need healthy watersheds to thrive,” said Tim Viel, Nevada NRCS state biologist. “The intent of this partnership is to help protect and restore quality habitat for these species.”

Viel noted that there are numerous conservation practices that will make a significant difference toward recovery of these species and assist in protecting riparian habitats, restoring native plant communities, preventing catastrophic fires and applying appropriate range management techniques. These practices also have other benefits including reducing risk of wildfire, helping with flood control and improving water quality.

Interested producers and landowners can enroll in the Wildlife Habitat Incentive Program on a continuous basis at their local NRCS field office. Applications received before April 30 will be considered in the first ranking period. Applications within priority habitat areas will receive highest consideration. Maps are available on the Nevada NRCS Web site. For more information, visit the Nevada NRCS Web site at www.nv.nrcs.usda.gov, or contact your local NRCS office.

Plan to join the

Nevada Agricultural Foundation for their

Annual Meeting & Banquet Friday, May 11, 2012 This year’s banquet entertainment will include informative and entertaining information of concern to Nevada Agriculturalists.

Educational Assistance Award, Special Award and Grant recipients will be recognized.

For detailed information contact: Sue Hoffman, Executive Director by phone at 775/673-AGNV (2468) or by email at sue@nvagfoundation.org

Nevada Agricultural Foundation 775-673-2468

|

sue@nvagfoundation.org

P.O. Box 8089 Reno, NV 89507 | 2165 Green Vista Dr., Suite 204, Sparks, NV 89431

The Progressive Rancher

www.nvagfoundation.org

April | May 2012 15

Agencies Work Together to Conserve Sage Grouse

By Mark Freese

In January, the Nevada Department of Wildlife and the BLM along with other state and federal partner agencies jointly held a stakeholder update and engagement session on issues related to the Sage-grouse. The partner agencies expressed the need for a unified strategy between not only federal and state officials but also with private property owners and businesses.

Top on their agenda was protecting Nevada’s sage grouse to prevent the possibility of its listing under the Endangered Species Act. They expressed the need for working together to conserve sage brush habitat, fundamental to the survival of the sage grouse.

Leaders from the BLM, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, Nevada Department of Wildlife and other state agencies met in Carson City to share with stakeholders their ongoing efforts to protect sage grouse habitat in order to avoid its listing as a threatened or endangered species.

It’s not “business as usual,” according to Amy Lueder, Nevada’s state director for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. According to her, the BLM has an ambitious strategy to improve regulatory mechanisms within the next three years.

As outlined by Lueder’s presentation, these new or revised regulatory mechanisms are put in place through land use planning and policy. They aim to conserve and restore greater sage grouse and their habitats on BLM administered lands on a range-wide basis.

In addition, the goal is to ensure conservation measures and carried forward into future planning efforts on BLM land.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife continually works on projects to improve sage grouse habitat. “We conducted about twenty seven sage grouse specific habitat improvement projects since 2001, many of which were fire restoration projects,” said Shawn Espinosa, Upland Game Staff Specialist for NDOW. “We have treated a total of 71,000 acres.”

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the agency charged with implementing the Endangered Species Act (ESA). They determined in March 2010 that the greater sage grouse warranted protection under the ESA; however, listing at that time was precluded by higher priority actions.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service considers habitat loss and fragmentation to be the primary causes of greater sage grouse population declines. “There are numerous threats to the sage grouse, but the number one threat is loss of habitat,” said Ren Lohoefener, director of the Pacific Southwest Region for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Once you lose sagebrush habitat it’s very hard to get it back.”

The service has until September 2013 to determine if they will list the separate, bistate population of the sage grouse living along the Nevada-California border. They have a longer period to decide on listing the greater sage grouse, with a deadline to determine that population’s fate set for September 2015.

According to the service, conservation efforts have expanded throughout Nevada.

Federal and state agencies as well as many private landowners are incorporating and considering greater sage grouse conservation measures in current and future land management activities. The claim to be effective, these conservation actions require addressing immediate and long-term threats to the species.

“We can do it,” said Lohoefener. “We don’t want to list the sage grouse. To us, listing the sage grouse is failure.”

The Nevada Department of Wildlife continues its efforts to conserve both populations of sage grouse. “We don’t have responsibility for the regulation and enforcement of the Endangered Species Act,” said Ken Mayer, NDOW Director. “Our responsibility is for the conservation and management of the bird within the state.”

Wildlife (NDOW) was working on and has completed a Greater sage-grouse Habitat Categorization Map that will be used as a planning tool for the management of Greater sage-grouse and its habitat.

NDOW’s Greater sage-grouse Habitat Categorization Map is an analysis tool that incorporates the best available data (lek observations, telemetry locations, survey and inventory reports, vegetation cover, soils information and aerial photography) into a statewide prioritization of Greater sage-grouse habitat. “This mapping project strictly provides the biological data on the bird,” said NDOW Director Ken Mayer. “Our role, as is the case in all of our wildlife management endeavors, is to scientifically report on the status of the species.”

This tool provides resource managers with information to guide conservation and land-use planning efforts in the context of Greater sage-grouse management at the landscape-scale. According to Espinosa, “Important sage grouse habitats overlay fairly well with the distribution of sagebrush on the landscape.”

A second map was generated by the BLM to identify habitat on public lands managed by the BLM and the USFS. This map combines NDOW categories one and two to identify

16 April | May 2012

them as Preliminary Priority sage-grouse habitat. The NOD category three was used to create the Preliminary General Habitat.

These maps will provide information for the Greater Sage-Grouse Planning Strategy.

They will be used in the development of alternatives to be considered in the CaliforniaNevada Environmental Impact Study process to amend the BLM Resource Management Plans and USFS plans. The final Priority Habitat and General Habitat with resultant land use direction will be developed through this planning process scheduled to be completed September 2014.

The BLM is asking for even greater stakeholder involvement, including participation in scoping meeting, review and comments on draft the Environmental Impact Study (EIS) and a review of the final EIS. General comments on the NDOW Habitat Categorization Map should be directed to: sagegrouse@ndow.org. Those who would like to comment on the BLM map as part of the federal sage-grouse scoping process can submit information to: sagewest@blm.gov ; fax to 775-861-6747; or mail to Western Region Project Manager, BLM Nevada State Office, 1340 Financial Blvd., Reno, NV 89502 by March 23, 2012.

The Bi-State Distinct Population Segment is being evaluated under a separate process

Nevada BLM and USFS Greater Sage-Grouse Preliminary Habitat Map 9 March 2012

Preliminary Priority Habitat (PPH)

This preliminary map was developed by BLM and USFS. This map was derived from the NDOW Sage-Grouse Categorization Map and will be evaluated for further modification during the planning process. For additional information about this map please see "BLM and USFS Preliminary Habitat Map" white paper.

The NDOW Categorization map is available at: http://www.ndow.org/wild/conservation/sg/

The Progressive Rancher

Preliminary General Habitat (PGH) Areas to be completed Population Management Unit (PMU) Bi-State Distinct Population Segment Counties States 0

25

50

75 Miles

No warranty is made by the Bureau of Land Management as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of these data for individual use or aggregate use with other data.

www.progressiverancher.com

Letters to the Editor Note: The opinions expressed herein are strictly those of the author. The Progressive Rancher neither seeks or endorses these submissions, but allows all to voice their views.

Response to: Agencies Work Together to Conserve Sage Grouse Editor, I read with interest the letter entitled “Agencies Work Together to Conserve Sage Grouse” that you forwarded to me. It pushes government propaganda that recently has become standard talking-points regarding sage-grouse conservation. The underlying assumption is that sage-grouse are imperiled and drastic management changes must occur immediately or the US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) will list the species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) on or before the self-imposed September 2015 deadline.

The carrot dangled in front of us is the expectation that if we capitulate right now and agree to impose the conservation measures that the preservation agenda wants, we might avoid a listing when the FWS makes their final determination. How does agreeing now to implement the conservation measures that might be imposed later if the species is listed benefit anyone except those that would benefit anyway upon listing? Play their game by their rules, and they win no matter what happens.

Furthermore, the underlying assumption is wrong. Current populations of greater sage-grouse are estimated to be 70 to 107 times larger than the minimum effective population that safeguards the species against extinction, so it is not at risk for imminent extinction and does not legally qualify for listing as “endangered” under the ESA. Likewise, given the rate of decline estimated since 1985 of 1.4% annually, it would presumably take 300 to 330

years for the current estimated population to dwindle to the minimum effective population threshold, so greater sage-grouse are not at risk of extinction in the foreseeable future and do not legally qualify for listing as “threatened” under the ESA. Current populations are large enough and stable enough to prevent the species from legally qualifying for listing under either protection category established by the ESA. Thus, the Act’s provisions regarding conservation of ecosystems cannot be invoked because the purpose for such ecosystem conservation under the ESA is to protect habitat upon which endangered or threatened species depend, not to conserve habitat upon which species that are not currently imperiled depend.

To the extent that these agencies and conservation groups want to conserve or enhance greater sage-grouse habitat, they cannot forcefully impose such conservation measures based upon the requirements of the ESA because the threats to the species do not now rise to the level that it is “endangered” or “threatened” as defined by the Act. If these groups want to enter into voluntary agreements to implement sage-grouse conservation practices, bless their efforts, but if they want to compel ESA protections where such protections are not legally authorized, that strategy must be resisted with all the strength we have. Just my humble opinion.

Respectfully Submitted, Quinton J. Barr

Fumes From The Farm by Hank Vogler Well another notch on my time clock went by. I can’t say that it’s been all bad. I now know how precious time really is. The older I get, I find more skips in my reel to reel tape.

Had I have been Nixon’s secretary he may not have had to resign. People always urge you to get in touch with your kinder gentler side. One should learn to be more politically correct. Learn the art of compromise. Isn’t that nice?

Well for all of the people that I run into that appear to be cerebrally challenged, “dumber than a box of rocks,” I can only say that it is hard for me to see where compromise has helped the sheep industry.

We have gone from sixty million head in the United States to around seven million.

In Nevada we have gone from one million to seventy thousand. This great feat has been accomplished by compromising ourselves into oblivion. I guess we should feel good about it as we got what we compromised for. I wonder if Nevada and the average consumer are better for it.

We have Million acre fires. We have Synthetic clothes made from Arab oil that melt when they get hot and are not from a renewable source. We now have washable wool and wool that is comfort indexed so that old excuse of its scratchy is gone.

No matter what you do you will always have detractors? Nevada Big Horns Unlimited and their friends at the Nevada Department of Wildlife want the little bunch of sheep that are left gone. NDOW even put together a letter that says that if we will quit, they will help us go into other businesses like cows and such.

In Colorado the fact less scientists are blaming cows for big horn die offs. No www.progressiverancher.com

sheep in the area to blame so we have to have some demons to blame. You would think they would leave the rest of the domestic sheep alone. They need us for an excuse so they don’t have to look at the root of the problem.

We have made these people a ton of money by having a cheap shot excuse extorting money from the cerebrally challenged, “dumber than my dog,” folks to keep the cash flow to fight the good fight going.

In Biology 101 you learn that most parasitic organisms never completely kill the host species as the parasite will die too.

A whale fails to conceive off the California coast, it’s got to be because sheep are being grazed in the Great Basin.

Just think of all the flash emails that would have to be rewritten if there were no sheep in the Great Basin. If the greater Sage Grouse, the mule deer and the big horns continue to crash, what fact less science will be used? What would they tell their constituency,”Kool aid drinkers.” For a sheep man with the double recessive mutant gene to be in the sheep business, going into any other business, would be like trying to teach a duck how to ride a bicycle.

The sheep man’s number one problem has always been the same. Taking care of business is paramount. So you load up, drive all night, get to the meeting and say well if that is all they want, we’ll compromise. You get back home and go back to work.

The problem is many of the nemesis groups look at compromise as a sign of weakness. These folks will bide their time and come roaring back.

If you read history, most ancient wars were fought over territory and hunting grounds. Now that we have matured into

a kinder gentler politically correct society, we should all feel good about ourselves.

We love imported oil. We love Chinese double cheap knock offs, “junk,” Japanese cars, Korean steel, and now we are going to slowly but surely compromise ourselves out of production agriculture. Societies have always decayed from within. In Roman times it was a slogan that Roman citizens were entitled to free bread and circuses.

We only have about seven hundred thousand people involved in agriculture that gross over one hundred thousand dollars in agriculture products. Anyone involved in agriculture knows that grossing one hundred thousand dollars in agriculture production, you had better have a day job and your wife should too.

With the average age of a farmer reaching sixty five, a little flu epidemic could wipe out Americas food supply. The Soviet Union tried government controlled agriculture and their people never had enough production.

Until the fall of the Soviet communists, the largest grain crop ever recorded in Russia was in nineteen thirteen. Yes it was done with horses. After the collapse of Communism in the Soviet Union, they have now surpassed that nineteen thirteen record.

Our success in America has always been based on the fact that our laws protect property rights. We have the incentive to produce and reap the rewards of that production.

China can’t put the genie back in the bottle. They went from a society of subsistence agriculture to industrial production in one generation.

It is an amazement to watch history unfold. The part of the world that has leapt forward has gone away from central planning

The Progressive Rancher

and committee mentality to incentivized capitalism. We are the poster country for the last hundred years how well that works. We, for some reason are embracing collectivized logic. Committee rule has become habitual.

Elitists telling us every move we need to make. We have lost our way and our voice.

Yet we have got compromise, “run and hide mentality not to offend or be singled out,” down to a science.

If we as the greatest country on earth don’t get our collective spine back, the Eastern Bloc countries and the old Soviet Union will be the new frontier. Food is so cheap and easy to obtain in this country our people have no idea how fragile the system is. Regulation upon regulation has driven every other industry abroad.

Agriculture is the roots of the tree of success in America. The reason people have had their time freed up to pursue other things is that our production agriculture has always been incentivized with abundant production. No one has to worry beyond the super market for food. Compared to other countries it is cheap and whole some and voluminous in variety. Ninety nine percent of our population has been relieved of the worry of food production. Our borders are over run with people that want in.

I will close by giving the cowboys a little challenge. Look at what happened to the sheep industry. You were once rivals for the same feed. Look around; ask yourself if the art of compromise and the consequences of their actions will not put you on the same slippery slope. Count the number of ranches left in our nation. Look around at the empty chairs at your meetings and remember the ghosts of sheepherders gone by.

Hang and Rattle Hank April | May 2012 17

RANCH HAND RODEO WEEKEND A Five spectacular events round out Ranch Hand Rodeo weekend WINNEMUCCA, Nev.— The Ranch Hand Rodeo weekend certainly lived up to its reputation as Winnemucca’s biggest event.

Four very competitive events combined with the already hot Ranch Hand Rodeo from February 29 through March 4, and Winnemucca Convention and Visitors Authority Marketing and Sales Coordinator Michelle Hammond Urain said she couldn’t have been more pleased with the results.

“Everything turned out wonderful,” said Urain this week. “The entire weekend was a success and everyone, including participants and spectators, were very pleased.”

The Winnemucca Cow Dog Trial and Sale kicked off the competitions. Seventy-five canine athletes took to the arena in three classes. When it was all over, Kirk Winebargar with “Mutt & Axle” took first in the Brace Class. Pat Browning with “Jack” took top honors in the Ranch Class, and Loren Holmes and “Helga” were first in the Open Pro Class.

Additionally, eight dogs were consigned in the Winnemucca Cow Dog Sale. The top selling dog was “Felix,” which sold for $3,300 and was consigned by Rodney Hopwood and purchased by John and Sandy Luiz.

Another great event, the Winnemucca Stock Horse Challenge, crowned “Colenas Custom Pick” the Open Snaffle Bit/Hackamore champion. The horse is owned by Cari Norcutt and was ridden by Darrel Norcutt.

“Genuine Rednic,” owned by John and Sandra Friberg and ridden by Flint Lee took first place in the Open Two-Rein/Bridle, while “Lenas Smart Rondo,” owned by Ace Black Ranches and ridden by John Schutte took first in the Non-Pro Snaffle Bit/Hackamore. “Peptos Playboy,” owned by Ty and Ronda Van Norman and ridden by Ty Van Norman was tops in the Non-Pro Two-Rein/Bridle.

The Winnemucca Ranch, Rope and Performance Horse Sale also did its part for a stellar weekend. The overall average of 42 horses sold was $3,820; and the top 10 average of horses sold was $7,910. “Im On Bar Time”, consigned by Jake Telford, was the top-selling horse, drawing a price tag of $12,500 from buyer Tim DeLong.

The third annual Invitational Bull Sale was another draw for Western crowds. Urain said the sale, which drew 17 sellers across the West received rave reviews from both sides of the field.

“Our buyers were thrilled with the quality of our bulls, and our sellers were very pleased as well,” she said.

This year’s Volume Buyer was Bob Gordon of Winnemucca, Nevada. The High Selling Bull, “BC Mr Blend 1018,” which sold for $5,200, was consigned by Bianchi Ranches of Gilroy, California and purchased by Sunrise Ranch of Yerington, Nevada.

The overall average of bulls sold was $2,756. The Black Angus average was $2,846; the Red Angus average was $2,700; the Charolais average was $3,275; and the Gelbvieh average was $2,560. The composite average was $2,075. In all 44 bulls were sold.

A Western Trade Show was open from Thursday through Sunday, also at the Winnemucca Event Center.

Over 60 vendors participated with most reporting having done very well. “People were buying a lot,” said Urain, adding, “Our vendors were very happy.”

But the highlight of the entire weekend, of course, was the 23rd anniversary of the Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo. A calcutta got things started Saturday morning, March 3, with the rodeo competition following Saturday and Sunday, March 4.

This year drew 30 four-man/one-woman teams—22 from outside Humboldt County—whose mission it was to outdo the competition in seven events, including saddle bronc riding, team roping, trailer loading, women’s steer stopping, wild mugging, team branding and ranch doctoring. Each team competed in all the events; women had to compete in steer stopping and wild cow mugging.

Following fierce competition, it was the Jim Ranch of Owyhee, Nevada, that again walked away with first-prize winnings of $5,513 along with Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo Championship jackets.

Second place went to the Eiguren Ranch of Jordan Valley, Oregon, with winnings of $4,253. Third place and a $2,993 purse went to N Quarter Circle Ranch of Fallon,

while fourth place and $1,890 in winnings went to the Hairpin Ranch of Jackson, Montana. This year’s fifthplace winner was the Lucky 7 Ranch of Nampa, Idaho, with $1,103 in winnings.

Tim DeLong was the lucky winner of the calcutta and $5,310 after placing his money on the Jim Ranch team.

DeLong also bought the second-place Eiguren Ranch team and earned $4,097. Jack Norcutt bought the N Quarter Circle Ranch team and won $2,883, while Tim DeLong went for a third win with the Hairpin Ranch, taking home $1,821 more in winnings. Chris Bengoa purchased the Lucky 7 Ranch and took home $1,062.

Top winners in each event category were awarded silver buckles, while the person who scored the most points overall was named “Top Hand.” This year’s winner of the “John and Dutch Zabala Top Hand Award” was Mike Eiguren of the second-place Eiguren Ranch team. He was presented his silver buckle by local resident Ray Zabala.

Other event winners included: Saddle Bronc: Tie: Tim Maher, Maher Ranch, and Hyland Wilkinson, Lucky 7 Ranch , Score 73; Team Roping: Eiguren Ranch, Time: 21.44; Trailer Loading: Hairpin Ranch, Time: 18.12; Women’s Steer Stopping: Melinda McDaniel, Jim Ranch, Time 3.24; Wild Mugging: Flying 6 S Cattle Co., Time 58.760; Team Branding: Jim Ranch, Time: 3.48.47; and Ranch Doctoring: SRC Ranch, Time: 34.52.

Additionally, Larry Hill was named the “2012 Ranch Hand of the Year” Saturday before the competition kicked off while surrounded by his family members and friends.

“We had a great time,” said Urain of the weekend that drew well over 2,000 people to the Winnemucca Event Center. “It was busy and fun and exciting to see all those people coming into Winnemucca. It was good for them and good for our local community—a win-win all the way around.”

For more information on the 2012 Winnemucca Ranch Hand Rodeo Weekend and results, please visit www.ranchrodeonv.com or call the Winnemucca Convention and Visitors Authority at (775) 623-5071 or (800) 962-2638.

Cow Dog Trials Brace Class Champion – Kirk Winebarger with Mutt and Axle Ranch Class Champion- Pat Browning and Jack Open Pro Champion- Loren Holmes and Helga Cow Dog Sale Overall average of 3 dogs sold $2,300 Top selling dog – Lot 4 Felix Consignor: Rodney Hopwood – Kimberly, ID Buyer: John and Sandy Luiz – Modesto, CA

18 April | May 2012

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A WINNER ALL THE WAY AROUND Ranch Hand Rodeo 1st- Jim Ranch- Owyhee, Nevada 2nd- Eiguren Ranch- Jordan Valley, Oregon 3rd- N Quarter Circle Ranch - Fallon, Nevada 4th- Hair Pin – Jackson, Montana 5th- Lucky Seven Ranch - McDermitt, Nevada

Ranch Hand Rodeo Top Hand in honor of John & Dutch Zabala Mike Eiguren– Eiguren Ranch- Jordan Valley, OR Presented by Ray Zabala

Winning Team- Jim Ranch – Owyhee, Nevada Calcutta Winner- Tim DeLong Pictured: Sheree Tibbals, Steven Jim, Daxton Jim, Dalton Jim, Melinda McDaniel, Tim DeLong, Dirk Jim, Chris Bengoa and the announcer Pat Stanford in the background

Stock Horse Challenge Open Snaffle Bit/Hackamore Champion: Colenas Custom Pick – Owner: Cari Norcutt – Rider: Darrel Norcutt

Ranch, Rope & Performance Horse Sale

Open Two-Rein/Bridle Champion (winner of the Gene & Jody Christison Memorial Award for highest score): Genuine Rednic – Owner: Sandy and John Friberg – Rider: Flint Lee

Overall average of 42 horses sold- $3,820 Top ten average - $7,910

Non-Pro Snaffle Bit/ Hackamore Champion: Lenas Smart Rondo – Owner: Ace Black Ranches – Rider: John Schutte

High selling horse- Lot 26 Im On Bar Time - $12,500; Consignor: Jake Telford – Caldwell, ID; Buyer: Tim DeLong – Imlay, NV

Non-Pro Two-Rein/Bridle Champion: Peptos Playboy – Owner: Ty and Ronda Van Norman – Rider: Ty Van Norman Lot 26 Im On Bar Time - Consignor: Jake Telford, Buyer: Tim DeLong

Invitational Bull Sale Overall average of 44 bulls sold- $2,756 Black Angus Avg. - $2,846 Red Angus Avg.- $2,700 Charolais Avg.- $3,275 Gelbvieh Avg.- $2,560 Composite Avg.- $2,075 High selling bull- Lot 48 – BC Mr Blend 1018; Consignor: Bianchi Ranches – Gilroy, CA, Buyer: Sunrise Ranch – Yerington, NV Volume Buyer: Bob Gordon – Winnemucca, NV 2012 Overall Breed Champion & Champion Angus: Lot 33 KC Bob; Consignor K.C. Angus – Prineville, OR Kat Grashuis and Darrel Norcutt on Colenas Custom Pick winner of the Open Snaffle Bit/Hackamore www.progressiverancher.com

2012 Champion Charolais: Lot 48 BC Mr Blend 1018; Consignor Bianchi Ranches – Gilroy, CA 2012 Champion Hereford: Lot 57 BR Bubba 222; Consignor Bianchi Ranches – Gilroy, CA 2012 Champion Gelbvieh: Lot 68 JLSL Rex; Consignor Ledgerwood Gelbvieh – Clarkston, WA 2012 Champion Balancer: Lot 65 SGS Smit Focus Power 110x; Consignor Steve Smith Gelbviehs – Lehi, UT 2012 Champion Calving Ease: Lot 35 SDF Objective’s Rocker 816; Consignor Stardust Farms – Oak Run, CA

2012 Champion Red Angus: Lot 43 LSR Celebration X11; Consignor P Bar Ranch – Montague - CA The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 19

SOCIETY FOR RANGE MANAGEMENT Toads, Humans, Sage Grouse and the Endangered Species Act

By David Spicer, Rancher and Miner from Beatty, Nevada Society for Range Management literally wrote the book on Coordinated Resource Management (CRM) back in 1993. Today the groups that meet voluntarily to solve problems for resource management issues are called collaborative, which is a stakeholder consensus decisionmaking process.

Stakeholders are any interest with a stake in the consequences of the decision. In this process, the stakeholders make decisions by consensus, rather than by traditional voting and majority rule.

The original “CRM Guidelines” by Rex Cleary and Dennis Phillippi state, “The Society for Range Management believes that the issues of natural resource management are not about livestock, wildlife, fish, water, soil, and vegetation.

The issues are about people. The concept and philosophy of working together is the clarion point we emphasize. We must build partnerships out of all those interested and concerned about our natural resources. We must then create, from these partnerships, a master plan that is compatible and acceptable to all involved.”

20 April | May 2012

INTRODUCTION Following is Part One of a three part interview with David Spicer, a rancher from Beatty Nevada, who speaks of his experiences and actions when he faced the potential listing of an amphibian in his valley under the Endangered Species Act. He also owns and operates a mining company and formed the non-profit, STORM-OV, which is dedicated to keeping species from becoming endangered through cooperative programs and educational approaches. It stands for Saving Toads through Off-road racing, Ranching, and Mining in Oasis Valley. You can find out more on the web-site www.STORM-OV.org.

HOW AND WHY DID YOU FIRST GET INVOLVED WITH THE AMARGOSA TOAD? They have been a part of my life, all my life. I was raised here on our ranch in Oasis Valley and had a very fortunate upbringing. We grew everything we needed and lived off the land, selling the excess to community residents from a small dairy, selling hay and garden produce and doing custom butchering of our animals. The Amargosa toads were always in and around the dairy and under the lights in the yard, they’re nocturnal. It was pointed out to me on many levels by my parents and grandparents that we share this land with lots of other creatures and we should be thankful to them for the diversity they bring us.

I witnessed something while in high school during the mid 1970’s; The Ash Meadows Pup-Fish were put on the endangered species list.

Many of my classmates were children of the farmers of Amargosa Valley, where Ash Meadows is located. Those pioneers were working the land, producing products, raising their families in a valley that is such desert; it even has a huge sand dune right in the middle of it. I remember the anger, grief, hopelessness, and hatred that played out in our young high school minds. We watched and listened to late night discussions of our parents

and their friends. Bumper stickers showed up on everyone’s car announcing “KILL THE PUP-FISH”.

Those families fought hard against something they were never prepared to...their own government. They did not understand what use a hand full of fish was, all of them in existence wouldn’t even make a meal; how anyone could choose them over the cotton, mint, alfalfa, and produce they were growing. All of it was contrary to rational thinking.

Pressures continued to mount against the families of my friends. Federal law enforcement showed up and threats and rumors of law suits spread like wildfire. Talk of punitive damages charges collectively against all the farmers using water circulated around. One by one they gave up and left, abandoning the fight they couldn’t win....their homes, farms, and dreams swallowed up by this new Omnipotent Force called the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

A TALE OF TWO BIRDS I remember points in my life that defined me. I was fortunate to have mentors that could guide these moments into being the boundaries I now live my life by. One such time was out in our alfalfa field, I was about 10, and my grandfather had been teaching us kids about cutting hay. We grew and baled it ourselves for our dairy cows and winter feed for the beef cattle. We’d spent the entire day with him learning about the importance of crop yield. That every bale of hay was important, after all, it might be the last bit of food that carries the animals through winter until the spring grasses come. We left for a while, and when we got back to the field, the cutting was done. Grandpa met us out by the tractor, about the time we noticed something. He had missed a spot. Right in the middle of the field, there was an island of alfalfa 40’ wide and about 100’ long, at least a good bale’s worth. We were anxious to point this out…yet he said, “Come with me.” He walked us out to the strip of uncut hay and carefully guided us into the middle of it where he said, “Look,” and pointed down into the alfalfa. We couldn’t see it at first…this thing that had stopped the haying process… the whatever it was that compelled my grandfather to get off the tractor. He leaned over a little farther getting closer…then we saw them. Three little red spots opening ✔✔ Opposing Views and closing and they were cheeping loudly. They were meadowlark chicks in their nest complaining that it was ✔✔ Common Goals time to eat. My grandfather said as he looked at them, “I • Unwillingness to Change almost didn’t see them.” I remember thinking he must be testing us, pulling a trick on us to see if we had listened • Tradition to him earlier about farm yield. I told him, “Grandpa, • Lack of Cooperation it’s only a bird nest, we need that hay.” He put his arm around all of us grandkids and said, “Kids, that’s true, -- Peer Pressure and to us it’s only a bale of hay, to them, it’s their life.”

-- Frustration Those meadowlarks survived and lived out their lives.

Their children are still here today. I don’t hear one sing✔✔ Common Sense - Begin to Think ing that I don’t hear a thanks for that moment when I was ✔✔ Communication awakened some 40 years ago. I never looked at things the same way again. The smallest things became important.

The toad was simply part of this awareness of all things ✔✔ Cooperation - Coordination as I grew up here. ✔✔ Compromise - Concensus In stark contrast, decades later, other birds touched my life. I was out one day in the large breeding area of ✔✔ Conflict Resolution our Barn Spring restoration. This particular in-house • Conservation project was the actual demonstration that was the turning point for all of us. Its enormous productivity in new found • Shared values - Benefits water, breeding pools, and upland feeding zones, was more convincing than was necessary to the authorities Used by permission of the authors, Rex Cleary and Dennis Phillippi in justifying our physical remodeling of it. We had dug it

CRM

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out, removing vast amounts of silt, mud, and organic debris. We forever stabilized its abil- serve local needs and got involved with many exploration companies looking for gold, sility to produce water by installing a “rock cell” in it, (like a French drain), with an internal ver and uranium in our area as service contractors. Opened up old mining shafts, exploring manifold collection system and a final distribution pipeline able to serve more than one and sampling them for our clients. Set up a mineral exploration company, including permitarea. It is a wonderful spring, just percolating along, producing habitat for many creatures. ting, drilling, geologic evaluation and analytical analysis. We got technical and serious.

I opened up stone quarries and established a diamond sawing facility, providing That day though, I was not impressed with one that had shown up to eat my tadpoles. It was a kingfisher, rare to visit our area. He’d hover above my breeding pools, then drop like dimensional stone to the architectural markets. We now have diverse quarries providing a rock, snatching one of my potentially endangered toad tadpoles. Not Good! I couldn’t commodities to different markets. All of these activities established a property position on federal as well as private ground. We secured rights-of-ways, and have this, no way was I going to stand by and watch. I yelled and constructed miles of roads and power lines to serve our needs. threw rocks at him. He just moved to another pool. Worse yet a “I believe we need to go to This land position today lends itself to other uses. Through our friend showed up and the feeding frenzy began. I was witnessing business endeavors we developed relationships with many agenthe execution of the Amargosa toad. I ran to the house, grabbed basics. So many things have cies as well as the education and licensing that went along with my rifle and headed--full tilt--to save my defenseless buddies. my career pursuits. happened in this process, all of Those two birds looked like Grandma’s sewing machine, straight We also became aware of things in the bigger world beyond up-straight down, never missing a beat. I took aim....had one in my which guided us to where we the cattle guards at each end of the valley. I watched my ability to crosshairs, and was squeezing the trigger.....when all of a sudden it do business diminish and sometimes stopped by new federal laws. are today. Life’s experiences are hit me. It wasn’t their fault they were eating tadpoles.....that’s what It occurred to me that if the timber industry could be shut down by they do when that’s what to eat. I was witnessing a natural event, the best messages and contain the spotted owl that major mines with key resources vital to this one that goes on everywhere all the time. In fact these guys were country could also be held up by numerous environmental issues the finest lessons.”

Dave Spicer probably here because my efforts in increasing the population also and that if our grazing cattle were no longer welcome on public increased the food source for migrating birds. I had renewed an land; our denial and anger against these laws was a feeble defense. ancient pulse of life.......and I was about to kill it. I had become like the Endangered Species Act itself.......preservation of the species “At All Costs.” Needless I also knew that slowly but surely, these laws were creeping onto our private property to say, I stopped. I realized that my execution of these birds would have been the same thing and into our homes. The right to use our land as our grandfathers did pitted us against an the government did to the Ash Meadows farmers over the pup-fish. I just walked away omnipotent force, one that all of us don’t understand and certainly were never prepared to shaking my head. I knew this had to change. Scared me that I’d become so narrow minded. face. We knew we stood wrongly accused. This was a challenge to take on, a wrong that needed to be righted. So we set to it WHAT HAPPENED IN THE INTERVENING YEARS? We invited Nevada Department of Wildlife and USFWS to our property; told them When the petition to list the Amargosa toad as “endangered” by a Denver-based that the petition was way off on the total population…come and see. They actually told environmental group, combined with their threat to sue the US Fish and Wildlife Service me that they weren’t coming down to Beatty, out of fear for their safety for they had been (USFWS) hit the news, tempers flared in Oasis Valley with the memory of Ash Meadows. confronted by angry locals and been accused in the newspapers of conspiring with the litiOur town was ready to “Lock and Load.” We were not going to let anyone reduce our gant. They did not feel welcome at all. This was bad. I knew where the result of this would rights to use our land, private or otherwise – after all by God, - we live here. It would have lead; an inevitable listing of the Amargosa toad. A road our community could not afford been so easy to join this idea to just flat out deny there were no toads on my property – go to go down. I told them my company would charter a bus to pick them up, that a private somewhere else Mr. Regulator. No toads – No problems. tour awaited them, and that I would guarantee their safety. Maybe they were amused, or My problem was that I knew this would be a losing proposition. I couldn’t do the “Wild possibly their fears, imagined or real, were abated. Either way they came, a relationship West” thing, times had changed. Already taxes, insurance, regulations and commodity was established; trust began. We have been building on this since 1994; a lot of water has markets had conspired against us… our ability to support the farm diminished. We couldn’t gone under the bridge. I knew that if I demonstrated to the community, this developing produce enough products to support the added costs. The property simply did not have a trust in these government agencies, that they were our friends…not our enemies, we could large enough agricultural base to survive so we had to diversify. We started a gravel pit to change public perception.

The Society for Range Management (SRM) is “the professional society dedicated to supporting persons who work with rangelands and have a commitment to their sustainable use.” SRM’s members are ranchers, land managers, scientists, educators, students, conservationists – a diverse membership guided by a professional code of ethics and unified by a strong land ethic. This series of articles is dedicated to connecting the science of range management with the art, by applied science on the ground in Nevada. Articles are the opinion of the author and may not be an official position of SRM. Further information and a link to submit suggestions or questions are available at the Nevada Section website at http://nevada.rangelands.org/. SRM’s main webpage is www.rangelands.org. We welcome your comments.

Nevada Rancher Testifies on Realities of Federal Regulations — Public Lands Ranchers Face Siege of Regulations, Federal Land Grab

ELKO, NEVADA (March 13, 2012) – Fourth generation Nevada rancher J.J. Goicoechea told members of the House Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands that recent actions by federal land management agencies are diminishing water rights and restricting access to forage on federal lands. Goicoechea, who is a practicing veterinarian and current president of the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association (NCA), testified on behalf of NCA, the Public Lands Council and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association during a field hearing in Elko, Nev., titled Explosion of Federal Regulations Threatening Jobs and Economic Survival in the West.

Goicoechea said a major challenge for ranchers across the West is dealing with the U.S. Forest Service on the issue of privately held water rights. The crux of the problem, he said, is that the agency is in many areas implementing a new policy of denying permits for privately owned water improvement development and maintenance unless the agency is granted partial ownership of the water right. He said the agency’s continued unwillingness to www.progressiverancher.com

allow water improvements places the health of the range at risk, threatens ranchers’ ability to retain the water rights and ultimately results in the federal government taking private property.

“The agency’s continued action presents a major threat not just to the resource but to ranchers. These actions create the prospect of losing our water rights.

Nevada water law states that the water must be put to ‘beneficial use.’ In the case of stock water, that use is for watering livestock. If the water cannot be used to water livestock, it will no longer be a valid right,” Goicoechea said. “The fact that the Forest Service would facilitate the loss of personal property rights in this manner flies in the face of the principles upon which our nation was founded; in my view constituting a federal regulatory taking of private property.”

Goicoechea also urged the lawmakers to work with ranchers and the federal land management agencies to enact meaningful reforms to the Endangered Species Act, The Progressive Rancher

an act he said has resulted in a less than two percent species recovery rate over the past 40 years. He said ranching should be considered part of the solution to prevent the listing of the greater sage grouse on the Endangered Species List.

“Listing the sage grouse as endangered would have such far-reaching and potentially devastating impacts across the West that the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service have embarked on a sage grouse conservation initiative, unprecedented in its size and scope, in an attempt to preempt the bird’s listing,” he said. “But will the cure be worse than the illness? Unfortunately, the agencies’ plans fail to recognize that grazing is responsible for retaining expansive tracts of sagebrush-dominated rangeland, stimulating growth of grasses, controlling the spread of noxious and invasive weeds and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire. These services can only be provided by ranches that are stable and viable. The best strategies for agencies to employ are those that work for ranchers and sage grouse alike.”

April | May 2012 21

Small Farms With Direct Sales Often Engage in Other Onfarm Activities

(RENO, NEVADA – March 2, 2012) Small farms (those with less than $50,000 annual sales) accounted for about 85% of all farms reporting direct sales of food to consumers in 2007 (about 116,000 farms). Within this group, direct sales accounted for over 35 percent Small farms with direct food sales often engage in other onfarm activities

of total farm sales, on average. Bundling other farm income generating activities (separate from basic commodity production) with direct food sales appears to be an important strategy for small farms. For example, 49 percent of all small farms engaged in organic production also reported direct sales to consumers, as did 33 percent of all small farms participating in community supported agriculture, and 28 percent of all small farms that produced value-added goods on the farm, such as processed products. Small farms appear to exploit complementarities between these activities and direct-sales ventures. For the other onfarm activities, the link with direct sales does not appear as strong. For example, only 8 percent of all small farms operating agritourism enterprises also sold directly to consumers. This chart is found in the ERS report, Local Food Systems: Concepts, Impacts, and Issues http://www.ers.usda.gov/Publications/ERR97/ERR97.pdf , ERR97, May 2010.

Men Sentenced for Felony Poaching, Hefty Fines to be Paid

Two Reno men pled guilty to killing two bull elk without a valid tag Monday at the 4th Judicial District Court for Elko County stemming from an incident that occurred in November 2010.

Marty Hall, 45, and Larry Hall, 65, each pled guilty to a gross misdemeanor of killing or possessing a bull elk without a valid tag. The men had shot two bull elk in the original incident more than a year ago.

Marty Hall was assessed a $1,000 fine, a civil penalty of $2,500, $200 meat storage fee, and he forfeited a 2003 Yamaha Kodiak ATV. Larry Hall was also assessed a $1,000 fine, a $5,000 civil fine, a $2,000 civil forfeiture and $200 meat storage fee.

“This was a complex case to investigate and ultimately solve, but we take any big game poaching very seriously,” said Rob Buonamici, chief game warden with NDOW. “This is a serious crime, and these men knew better.”

The original incident took place on Nov. 6, 2010, when Marty Hall and Larry Hall were hunting with a party with three other men, Frank Koski, 86, John Koski, 50, and Andrew Koski, 48, near Wilson Creek, just south of the Idaho state line. At least 16 witnesses observed the group of men as they engaged in suspicious activities that left two bull elk shot, with one left to rot in the field. Marty Hall eventually confessed to shooting one of the bull elk, despite not having a tag. The suspects then used a legally obtained bull elk tag to transport one of the two poached elk, with a trophy 6x4 antler rack, back to Reno. The second elk, a large 6x6 bull, was left to rot.

Nevada, Colorado and Idaho game wardens spent several days collecting evidence and gathering witness statements. From the statements and evidence collected, five search warrants were issued by Nevada District and Colorado Court Judges. DNA evidence from the crime scenes and residences showed that the elk meat in possession by Frank Koski and John Koski matched that of the poached elk at the scene.

After several months, an Idaho Game and Fish scent detection dog recovered a rifle that was hidden by Marty Hall. Forensics showed that the bullets fired from the weapon matched the bullets found in the Elk. “We had 16 witnesses to certain aspects of this case who we are thankful for coming forward with information,” said Game Warden Fred Esparza who investigated the case.

“This case is a statement of how our hunting community is intolerant of poaching.”

The other people involved in the crime had already pled guilty to several violations.

Nov. 14, 2011 both John Koski and Frank Koski entered a plea of “no-contest” to gross misdemeanors of possessing an elk without a valid tag. The men were each assessed a $1,000 fine, a $2,000 civil penalty, and a $25 court assessment fee. On July 25, 2011 Andy Koski plead guilty to hindering a game warden and paid $632 in fines and assessments.

The total fines, penalties and assessments for all the charges totaled about $18,632, plus the forfeiture of an ATV. Sportsmen and members of the public can report wildlife violations to Operation Game Thief at (800) 992-3030. To learn more about game wardens and wildlife in Nevada visit NDOW on the web at www.ndow.org.

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BLM Completes Assessments of Warm Creek/Snow Water Lake Permit Renewals “From Bovine to Equine?” What Next?

ELKO, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management, Elko District, Wells Field Office has completed a Draft Standards and Guidelines for Rangeland Health assessment for the Warm Creek and Snow Water Lake allotments and is releasing the assessment for public review.

The assessment is the first step in evaluating the allotments and the renewal of the grazing permit for livestock within the Snow Water and Warm Creek Allotments. The draft assessment also identifies a proposed alternative submitted by Tommy LLC, the current permittee, to convert authorized livestock on the allotments from cattle to domestic horses.

Following the public review of this draft assessment, the BLM will evaluate the proposed change in kind of livestock, carrying capacity, the proposed changes to the grazing system, and possible additional range improvement

projects and/or redevelopment of existing range improvement projects in in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The permit renewal, along with any changes to permitted use on these allotments, would be implemented through a grazing decision following NEPA analysis.

The permittee purchased the base properties associated with these two allotments in December 2010 and the Wells Field Office issued a grazing permit for domestic cattle at that time. In July 2011, an application was submitted to change the kind of livestock authorized on these two allotments from cattle to domestic horses, together with a proposal to change the grazing system on these allotments.

No Federally managed wild horses or burros will be authorized on either allotment.

The BLM is seeking input from members of the public interested in livestock grazing management on the Snow

Water Lake and Warm Creek Allotments in developing management strategies and alternatives that are in conformance with the Wells Resource Management Plan and that will continue to make significant progress towards attaining the Standards and Guidelines for Rangeland Health. All comments must be received by the Wells Field Office by close of business on Monday, April 9, 2012. Comments may be mailed to the above address, faxed to (775) 753-0255, or e-mailed to: BLM_NV_ELDO_WarmCreekRanchGrazing@blm.gov Comments received may be used to develop alternatives to be considered in the preparation of an analysis and disclosure of impacts to the human environment to be prepared in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act .

To review the assessments, please visit our website at www.blm.gov/rv5c under ‘What We Do’ – ‘Grazing.’

Elko District BLM Wraps Up Rehabilitation Work

ELKO, Nev. – The Bureau of Land Management, Elko District is wrapping up the first phase of Emergency Stabilization and Rehabilitation work across the District.

Weather conditions this winter have been ideal for BLM crews to complete nearly 100,000 acres of seeding treatments across the landscape aiding the recovery of areas burned during the 2011 wildfire season. The seeding treatments include both rangeland drills and aerial application. Nearly 500,000 pounds of seed was planted in this effort to help stabilize soils, prevent the invasion of weeds, such as cheatgrass, and to help promote the recovery of habitat for sage-grouse, mule deer, pronghorn and many other wildlife species.

Elko District worked in cooperation with many agencies to complete these treatments.

Newmont Mining Corporation contributed more than $1 million toward treatment costs in a cooperative agreement with BLM to treat private and public lands on the Chukar Canyon and Indian Creek Fire areas.

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) provided matching funds of $250,000 in a project proposal allowing an additional $250,000 of Ruby Pipeline Mitigation funds to be used on private land rehabilitation treatments on the 2011 fires within the Elko District.

Also assisting in rehabilitation efforts was Nevada Muley’s, a non-profit group dedicated to preserving mule deer habitat in Nevada, who provided the use of a dozer in treatment efforts.

Working cooperatively with local and state agencies, approximately 17,000 acres of fire-damaged lands have been drill seeded this winter using both contract and BLM work.

The majority of seeded acres used a mixture of native grass and forb species. In cheatgrass prone areas, a mixture of desirable non-natives such as Siberian wheatgrass and Russian wildrye were used to help compete with the invasive annual grass.

“In addition to the drill seeding efforts, over 80,000 acres of the 2011 fire-burned areas were aerial seeded by helicopters and fixed-winged aircraft,” said Tom Warren, Operations Manager, Elko District, BLM. “This work was completed through the use of an El Aero

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Services helicopter and the Elko Helitack crew, as well as Morris Ag Air.” Nearly 100,000 pounds of sagebrush seed was aerially applied across areas of sagegrouse, mule deer and pronghorn habitat. Other aerial efforts focused on seeding drainage bottoms with a mixture of grasses and forbs in areas that experienced a high burn severity. Approximately 120,000 pounds of aerial watershed seed mix was applied across important watersheds, some of which support Lahontan cutthroat trout, a federally listed threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. These streams included Indian Jack Creek, Little Jack, Coyote and Beaver Creeks, which are tributaries to Maggie Creek and represent some of the most important interconnected populations remaining in the range of the species.

“Additional rehabilitation efforts this fiscal year will include a volunteer event on March 31,” said Warren. “This planting effort will take place on the Izzenhood Fire where sagebrush and bitterbrush seedlings will be planted by hand. This event is coordinated with the assistance of the Nevada Muley’s.”

Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Tom Warren of the BLM at (775) 753-0355. Two more seedling plantings will take place in March by BLM crews on the Salmon and Tijuana John fire areas with sagebrush and bitterbrush seedlings. About 700 acres of drill seeding on the Indian Creek Fire is planned as ground conditions allow.

As the seeding treatments wrap up, the second phase of ESR begins. This phase includes maintenance and protection of seeded areas. This maintenance includes the construction of temporary fences around portions of the burn in order to ensure recovery of native vegetation as well as protect the public land user’s investment of the seedings.

In addition, aggressive noxious weed detection surveys and treatments will be conducted across the burned areas to prevent any potential weed infestations occurring as a result of the fires. BLM weed crews will work through the summer treating weeds through an integrated approach using both chemical and mechanical methods.

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 23

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Alfalfa Producer Grows Power in the Desert Hydro-power in the desert? It might seem like an untheir winter energy generation credits are paying for their likely power source, especially in Nevada, the driest state summer irrigation costs. in the nation, but in the last three years a number of small Diana Van Norman is pleased at the outcome. “Rett hydro-powered generation systems have been installed on Jesse does the front work and keeps track of all the fundrural Nevada streams. ing sources,” Diana Van Norman said. “We couldn’t have USDA Rural Development, NV Energy, the Nevada done it without him.”

Office of Energy, and even the Department of Treasury His customers say he make terms like “elevation have partnered together to support alternative energy efdrop”, “rebate incentives” and “energy credit” underforts while reducing dependence on foreign oil. standable, along with knowledge of Nevada water law.

The Van Norman family operates two of the smallHis understanding of available funding sources has been est hydro-power generation systems in the state, a 15 kw important to those seeking ways to invest in alternative water-powered turbine on Schmid Creek Spring, and a 37 energy too. kw turbine on Mill Creek Spring, both located on the Van Only agricultural customers and tribal entities are Norman’s Burn Creek Ranch near Tuscarora. eligible for the NV Energy hydro rebate program, which In this remote area, Diana and Dan Van Norman and was established for small (under 1,000 kw) systems that their family raise alfalfa and beef. As energy costs for irare sized appropriately and engineered to meet expected rigation went up, the Van Normans began to explore ways energy thresholds. to cut costs.

NV Energy project coordinator Matt Newberry says After the Van Normans attended an alternative enthe Van Norman project matches the company’s goals to ergy seminar by NV Energy and USDA Rural Developincentivize alternative energy systems. “This is a robust ment, the move to install two hydro-turbines “went like hydro-power incentive program in the driest state in the clockwork,” she says. “We had a feasibility study within a nation,” Newberry said. “It benefits the customer directly week,” she said. “It was fantastic.” which is what it is meant to do, and it also helps with develRett Jesse, with Nevada Controls LLC, provided oping the alternative energy industry in the state.” the Van Normans a free assessment, which reviews flow, Newberry said that the 2011 Nevada State Legislature pressure, pipeline permission requirements, and access to set a goal of not less than 5 MW of small hydro systems power lines. As a result, the Van Normans got a good idea between now and 2016. Although NV Energy solar and 15kW Schmid Creek of whether the hydro-power source would generate suffiwind power incentives are already oversubscribed, the Spring plant in operation cient energy to offset their irrigation costs. They have since hydro-power rebate program remains open for incentive found that they can earn enough energy credits from NV applications.

Energy in the winter to pay for their irrigation costs in the All total, the Van Normans were able to access the summer, a real benefit for an alfalfa rancher!

State Office of Energy’s Alternative Energy Revolving Rett Jesse has completed three hydro-power projects funded under the Rural Energy Loan Fund for construction costs, $55,000 from the Rural Energy for America Program for America Program over the last 3 ½ years. His business has grown to support the alter- of USDA Rural Development for construction and pipeline costs, the NV Energy Program native energy demand, and his business now provides jobs for five staff, in addition to the for hydro-power incentive rebates, and a tax rebate under the Department of Treasury 1603 three original partners. program.

“Working with USDA and NV Energy, the program has gone smoothly,” Jesse says. He “I definitely would recommend this program to someone else,” Diana Van Norman credits his partners in fabrication and electrical engineering with making the systems work. said And work they do! The Van Norman’s new spring-fed hydro power systems were More information on the NV Energy hydro-power incentives is available online at engineered to produce about 230,000 kwh/year, providing for an estimated $12,000 in cost www.nvenergy.com/renewablesenvironment/renewablegenerations/hydrogen/index.cfm savings annually. The Van Normans have entered into a net metering agreement with NV For more information on the Rural Energy for America Program, visit the USDA Rural Energy, where they earn credits for the energy they produce on Mill Creek Spring. To date, Development website at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/nvreapprogram.html

Moving Toward a Bio-Based Economy

(RENO, NEVADA – March 5, 2012) Today, a college football player may just as likely get a facemask full of soy turf as natural grass. In the past five years, industrial uses of U.S. soy have increased 50 percent. During that time, many major college and professional sports programs have adopted a soy-based artificial turf over labor-intensive grass or the petroleum-based turfs of yesteryear.

This is, in essence, how a bio-based economy takes shape.

There are more than 3,000 companies producing more than 20,000 bio-products made from grasses, grains, oilseeds, and agricultural waste, rather than petroleum. The products are common things like detergent, bed linens, ink, fertilizer, and disposable cutlery. These cutting-edge innovations will help us break our dependence on foreign oil while helping to build a new industry of competitively-priced, American grown and made products. In fact, making these items employs about 100,000 Americans—many of them in rural communities—by fusing two important economic engines: agriculture and manufacturing.

At USDA, we think there is incredible potential for this industry to grow, innovate and create economic opportunity. So we have taken action to expand markets for these products. One year ago, we created a bio-based product label called USDA BioPreferred that will soon be featured on more than 500 products you can buy at a local grocery store or pharmacy. We hope the label becomes a powerful image of American ingenuity, much like our USDA organic label. Ten years have passed since USDA launched the organic label. www.progressiverancher.com

Today, you see the organic seal on thousands of fruits, vegetables, meats or other goods at the local market, and more than two-thirds of Americans buy organic.

Last week, President Obama announced steps to encourage the federal government to dramatically increase our purchases of bio-based products. Bio-based cleaning goods and construction materials like carpet pads and insulation are grown and made in America, as are lubricants, paints, oils and paint removers used in aircraft, motor vehicles, and by the military.

As the federal government encourages use of these cost-competitive alternatives, it will mean more contracts for American businesses and more American manufacturers creating good, middle-class jobs. Of course, these options exist thanks to the ability of our farmers to drive many other sectors of the economy, including manufacturing and transportation.

Over several decades now, U.S. agriculture has become the second most-productive sector of our economy. American farmers apply the latest in technology, achieve a nearly unparalleled level of productivity, contribute to a homegrown supply of renewable energy, and are responsible for 1 out of 12 jobs here in the United States. Our farmers feed people around the globe and yet still produce enough food to keep our grocery bill among the lowest in the world. In other words, no challenge is too great for America’s farmers.

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 25

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26 April | May 2012

Barrick Pledges $1.2 million to GBC Foundation

Acknowledging the need for substantial private investment in higher education in rural Nevada, Barrick Gold of North America has pledged $1.2 million over three years to Great Basin College Foundation’s VISION 2020. The funding is directed toward enhancements to the college’s vocational programs, student housing and an expansion of training programs at the college’s Winnemucca campus.

“Our business in Nevada continues to grow and we must support programs that allow us to recruit, retain and develop our people,” said Gary Halverson, President of Barrick Gold of North America. “We see Great Basin College as an important partner in our growth and as an essential asset to the communities of rural Nevada.” Barrick has a long history of support for GBC, funding many building projects, equipment purchases and hundreds of student scholarships since the late 1980s. Many Barrick employees also serve on the various advisory boards that oversee GBC programs, planning and fundraising.

“We are overwhelmed by Barrick’s commitment to the students and mission of Great Basin College, and by their considerable generosity,” said John Patrick Rice, Executive Director of Great Basin College Foundation. “We have a long and valuable relationship with Barrick. We are deeply appreciative of their continued support,” he said.

Barrick’s contribution is the culmination of a rigorous planning process with GBC Foundation. “We met with Barrick over the course of several months discussing their needs and how we could fulfill them,” Rice explained. After a number of meetings, Rice said the Foundation presented a proposal for several options that would help Barrick increase its productivity.

The scholarship initiative will add substantially to the $150,000 in scholarships the Foundation already awards annually. Funding for Institutional Sustainability creates flexible resources for the institution that can provide matching resources for grants, or respond to an emergency capital need at the college. Rapid changes in the need for health care professionals in a number of areas will be addressed through the Health Sciences initiative.

Finally, changes in technology or the diversification of the region’s economic base will be answered with the Emerging Opportunities initiative. The fund will serve as venture capital as GBC continues to respond to the evolving workforce demands in the region.

The Progressive Rancher

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Range Plants for the Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

F

Nebraska Sedge

or this issue I discuss another plant or group of plants that are common to the riparian zone in Nevada. These are members of the genus Carex commonly called sedges. Sedges constitute a challenging, species rich genus of between 1100 and 2000 species worldwide with about 533 species in North America and 61 species in Nevada. Sedges are widely distributed, but best developed in wet to moist regions of the North Temperate Zone and the Arctic.

Though they represent only a small percentage of the land in the western United States and the world over, riparian areas provide essential habitat for many wildlife species as well as forage for domestic livestock. Riparian vegetation acts as a buffer between the stream and adjacent upland areas. In the Great Basin, riparian areas represent an oasis of biodiversity within a vast area of arid uplands. They are useful for stabilizing stream banks and filtering sediments.

Of the 61 Nevada species I will emphasize Carex nebrascensis or Nebraska sedge. This species is a native perennial erect grass-like plant with annual water requirements between 10 and 65 inches. Nebraska sedge occurs from the lower valleys to the spruce-fir zone, its determining factor being water rather than elevation.

They tolerate poor drainage, prolonged saturation and periodic flooding. They are highly adapted to clay or fine-textured soils and have poor drought and salinity tolerance.

This is a loosely to densely tufted sedge, 8 to 36 inches tall. Culms are coarse, sharply triangular, brown to reddish-tinged at the base.

Leaves are alternate, flat, slender and elongated, up to ½ inch wide, smooth or sometimes roughened along the edges. Leaves are often light green or bluish-green colored; sheaths are yellow-brown.

This common, broad-leaved, usually glaucous, low-elevation sedge is characterized by strong perigynium (a small specialized bract that surrounds the achene or seed in Carex) veins. The achenes are typically small, dry indehiscent fruits with a thin wall surrounding a single seed. The terminal staminate (male) spikes are relatively narrow, brownish or purplish-black to reddish brown in color with a hyaline margin and lighter center. The lateral spikes are pistillate (female), 1/3 to 1½ inches long, with purple to brownish-black scales. The lowest spike is subtended by a leafy bract as long as or longer than the inflorescence. Perigynia are 30-150 to a spike, red-dotted with beaks 0.5-1mm. The achenes are about 1.5mm.

© 2003 Steve Matson

This species has numerous long rhizomes that are stout, brown or straw-colored, and scaly. Plants form small and occasionally large clumps with the previous year’s leaves remaining at the base of the plant. Nebraska sedge reproduces by rhizomes and seed production, although seedling establishment is rare.

Shoots from rhizomes are produced throughout the growing season and into late fall. They reproduce from seed and rhizomes although reproduction by seed is rare. They flower from May to July.

Leaves, stems, seeds, fruits, and other plant parts fall into the stream and provide food for aquatic wildlife. During floods, riparian vegetation, including sedges, reduce the velocity of floodwaters, which allows the water to infiltrate into the soil slowly.

Some associated species include rushes Juncus spp., reedgrass Calamagrostis spp., timothy Phleum spp., bluegrass Poa spp., hairgrass Deschampsia cespitosa, Meadow foxtail Aopecurus pratensis, saxifrage Saxifraga spp. willow Salix spp., honeysuckle Lonicera spp., cinquefoil Potentilla spp, Rabbitfoot beardgrass Polypogon monspeliensis, and Redtop Bentgrass Agrostis stolonifera.

Nebraska sedge can increase under grazing as competing vegetation is removed, and may persist by rhizomes in overgrazed wetlands. However, many authors have commented on the decline of riparian vegetation with livestock overgrazing. Nebraska sedge

The Progressive Rancher

is sometimes used for restoration of degraded wetlands and for roadside plantings. Commonly found in small sunny riparian areas and other wetlands in otherwise very dry habitats some of which are alkaline in nature. Due to the habitat in which it occurs, Nebraska sedge can be damaged through excessive overgrazing and the trampling associated with it on wet soils.

Nebraska sedge is a valuable forage species, highly palatable to cattle and horses, and moderately palatable to sheep and mule deer.

Sedge dominated communities in wet meadows require careful management of livestock to maintain the thrift and productivity of these stands of vegetation. Because it is a common riparian species, Nebraska sedge is an important indicator of the effects of grazing in riparian areas. Heavy, repeated summer and fall grazing, or season-long grazing, will often result in Nebraska sedge being replaced by more grazing resistant species such as Kentucky bluegrass.

Since these riparian areas are so productive each rancher should be well acquainted with the sedges and their management.

Occasionally I include a reference. For those of you who may develop and interest in sedges this is a very good reference with excellent photographs. Field Guide to the Sedges of the Pacific Northwest 2008 by Wilson, Barbara, et.al., and is available from the Oregon State University Press.

Sheri Hagwood @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

Dave Powell, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org

USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Hurd, E.G., N.L. Shaw, J. Mastrogiuseppe, L.C. Smithman, and S. Goodrich. 1998. Field guide to Intermountain sedges. General Technical Report RMSGTR-10. USDA Forest Service, RMRS, Ogden.

By Paul T. Tueller, Ph.D., CRMC

April | May 2012 27

This was a Nevada Historical Essay Competition entry written by Chandra Rhoads in 1984 when she was an eighth grade student at Independence Valley School near Tuscarora, NV. This piece along with those of several other students was recently retrieved from the school archives. As when confronted with a tray of wonderful desserts, I couldn’t choose just one, but due to the generous support of our editor/publisher, you, the reader, will be given the opportunity to partake of these delicacies on a monthly basis until the supply is depleted. By that time, hopefully new authors will emerge to restock the tray for your continued enjoyment. —Linda Bunch

E

What’s In A Name?

Chandra Rhoads Cahill

ver since I was a small child growing up on the Packer Ranches in Independence Valley, names such as the Breweries, the Suttle Place, Packer Canyon, Manuel’s, and the Roseberry had been a part of my everyday vocabulary. These are all names for different fields or units of the present-day (Ed. Note: 1984) Packer Ranch. Until recently, I just took them for granted, not realizing that they all had their stories to tell.

It was not until one day last fall when my grandpa, Willis Packer, and I were fixing fence in the Suttle Field that the stories began to unfold. As I looked around at the proud old vacant Suttle barn, the remains of the burned down house, and the sketches of what used to be corrals, I asked Grandpa, “Who used to live here? Who built that beautiful barn over there? Little did I know that the answers to these questions and the many that followed would constitute a living history, not only of our ranch, but of much of Independence Valley.

The phenomenon of the Packer Ranch is not unique. Over most of the state of Nevada, if one were to trace the history of the larger cattle operations, he would find them made up of early homesteads which due to the nature of the land and/or hard times, had been sold or abandoned.

The Packer Ranch (in 1984) consists of two main units –the Fairchild Ranch and the Quarter Circle S*.

In 1943 Willis and Lois Packer purchased the Fairchild Ranch from Mr. and Mrs. Tracy Fairchild. The ranch included the following fields: Adams Field, Todd Field, House Field, Pleasant Valley Field, Packer Canyon Field, and the Suttle Field.

In 1877 Tracy Fairchild moved to Tuscarora from South Fork and took up residence at what became known as the Fairchild Home Place several miles southwest of the town of Tuscarora. His family soon became prominent residents of the area. In 1877 they started the two newspapers of Tuscarora for that time which were the Daily-Times Review and the Tuscarora Mining Review. At the same time Mr. Fairchild saw the need for a dairy, so he started his own. In 1905, Mr. Fairchild decided he wanted to turn to a different kind of life, so he went into politics. He served as a Nevada State Assemblyman from 1915-1921 and as State Senator from 1925-1930. During their fifty-three years in Independence Valley, the Fairchilds acquired several smaller holding which became known as the Fairchild Ranch.

The Adams Field was homesteaded by a man named Adams who lived in a dugout nearby. In later years the Fairchilds purchased this field to add to their holdings.

The Todd Field which lies directly east of the Adams Field was first homesteaded by Mr. Todd, a very interesting man. He liked to drink and gamble and had thus accumulated a debt of $550 at a bar in Tuscarora. Later as he was playing cards and had no more credit, he lost his entire ranch to a Tuscarora bartender. The Fairchilds then purchased it from the bartender.

George Hamm, who was a short-legged drifter, lived in a small cabin about a mile outside the Todd Field. He made his living selling opium to the Chinese in Tuscarora. He didn’t believe in working, but he did believe in easy money. This is how Hamm Creek got its name.

In the years between 1870 and 1880, Chinese laborers would chop and haul sagebrush and wood to Tuscarora for the mining mills and camps. One of their favorite canyons was behind the Packer Ranch and was called Packer Canyon. This name came from the Chinese packing out the wood, not from Willis and Lois, as many people assume today. Also in this canyon is a beautiful spring near which the Chinese developed a large

28 April | May 2012

vegetable garden and sold vegetables to people in Tuscarora. They were very protective of their garden, and it is rumored that “if you did not have slant eyes, you couldn’t get within a mile of the garden”!

The first homestead on the Suttle Ranch was made by Warren Shoecroft in 1865. It was also one of the oldest stage stops between Elko and Tuscarora. Henry Brown who owned and ran race horses built the Suttle barn which is still standing today. He also built a race track which is east of the barn and is still vaguely visible. On Sunday afternoons after church, neighbors would come and race their horses.

In 1899 the George Suttle family bought Henry Brown’s holdings which became known as the Suttle Place. My great-grandma, Irene Metzler, was raised there. In 1927, the Suttles sold out to their relatives, the Fairchilds.

In 1966, Willis and Lois Packer purchased their second ranch, the Quarter Circle S Ranch. The Quarter Circle S consisted of the following: the Roseberry, the Breweries, Manuel’s, Wilson, Young, Plunkett, Phillips, McCann Creek, 6-Mile and the Trembath Ranch.* In 1900 Newt Phillips bought Frank Clane’s squatters’ right on McCann Creek which he had previously leased. He then entered the livestock industry. During the height of the mining activity in Tuscarora, Newt Phillips supplied horses and oxen for the freight teams serving Tuscarora.

Between 1900 and 1937 the Phillips expanded their ranch by acquiring the Plunkett, Roseberry, Young, and Brewery Fields which became known as the Quarter Circle S Ranch.

An old man by the name of Tom Plunkett owned the Plunkett Field. He later ran a dance hall in Tuscarora; however, before he ran the dance hall, he sold the field to Newt Phillips.

Across the road from the Plunkett Field lies the Young Field which was owned by Will Young. He had also acquired the Wilson Field from Fred Wilson. The Wilson Field was a livery stable when the mines in Tuscarora were going big. Today a family of hawks takes up annual residence in the big trees where the house once stood.

Another property purchased by the Phillips was the Roseberry Fields. They were homesteaded by Sile Roseberry. The Roseberry’s later moved to Tuscarora.

The two Brewery Fields were owned by the Altube Brothers who also owned the Spanish Ranch. They were called the Brewery Fields because there used to be a brewery there of which the foundation remains today. The county road now separates the Ellison Brewery Field and the Packer Brewery Field. When the Altubes sold to the Ellisons, the Phillips bought the two southern fields which are now part of the Packer operation.

In 1937 the Phillips Ranch had become a 2,000 head outfit with, unfortunately, a lot of financial chaos due to the Depression. The Henderson Banking and Mortgage Corporation then took over the ranch. In 1938 Howard Doyle and Norman Blitz of Reno bought the ranch. In 1944 Bing Crosby put Tuscarora and Elko in the limelight when he purchased the Quarter Circle S from the Doyles.

Crosby increased his operation by purchasing Manuel’s Field from Manuel Antone.

Antone is remembered by a lot of people for his acrobatic ability. He could stand flat-footed on one side of the bar and jump over the bar to break up a fight on the other side. Manuel also had a summer cabin up the canyon from where I live on McCann Creek.

In 1948 Lauren Montgomery purchased the Quarter Circle S and in 1956 purchased the Trembath Ranch from Nona Trembath. This ranch at the mouth of Taylor Canyon was originally homesteaded by Taylor Postelwaite in about 1860 and is one of the oldest homesteads in Independence Valley. It is from Mr. Postelwaite that Taylor Canyon got its name.

He buried his wife and daughter on the hill above the ranch, and the markers can still be seen today. The Altube brothers started ranching at the Trembath just down from Taylor Canyon in the 1880’s. When the Ellisons bought out the Altubes, the Trembath Place went with the deal. In 1929 at the beginning of the Depression, the Ellisons, needing money,

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sold to Nona and Ben Trembath.( ed note: Chandra’s sister Shammy Rodriguez now lives here with her husband and children.)

The 6 Mile Ranch was purchased by Bing Crosby from an old man named Suey Jack. My grandpa tells of a time when he and some other men were at his house. There was a beer behind the stove for everyone. All of the men had one except for Jack. He had refused.

My grandpa was only a young boy, but he remembers the incident very clearly as it surprised him.

The purchase of the Quarter Circle S Ranch included McCann Creek which runs by my house and supplies water for the Quarter Circle S fields. It was named for an old man named McCann who as my grandpa recalls was a “real character”.

As I’ve questioned, researched, listened and told the stories of the homesteads and fields that constitute the Packer Ranch, I know now why each of these names are a part of my everyday vocabulary.

I also learned something else. The land in Nevada was once said not to be fit for civilization; I now better understand what was meant by this statement. Due to the selfishness of the land and the changes in the economy, many homesteaders were cut short from their dreams.

In order for a rancher to produce a hay crop or a calf crop, he must work twice as hard as in areas where there is more cooperation from the land and the seasons. A ranch has to be quite large in order to be successful at all. Then you are still taking a chance. The small outfit can’t survive on its own without outside help.

As you have seen, the Packer Ranch was not purchased at one time in a neat, self-contained unit. Rather it is the result of the neverending battle in Nevada agriculture: land vs. man. The names tell the

story. (*In 2012, ownership of the units which comprised the Quarter Circle S Ranch in 1984 is now dispersed among several owners: Dean and Sharon Rhoads, Van Norman Ranches, Van Norman Quarter Horses, and Randy and Linda Bunch.)

Bibliography Interviews with Willis Packer, Dean Rhoads, Sharon Rhoads, and Randy Bunch. April, 1984.

Patterson, Ulph, Goodwin. Nevada’s Northeast Frontier. Western Nevada Printing and Publishing, Sparks, NV, 1969.

Hulse. The Nevada Adventure. University of Nevada Press.

Reno, Nevada, 1965.

(Chandra Rhoads Cahill, daughter of Dean and Sharon Rhoads, was born and raised in Independence Valley where she attended the Independence Valley School through eighth grade. She now ranches with her husband Joe in Adel, Oregon. Their daughter Rachel is in second grade and attends a one-room school in Plush, Oregon.)

Financial Focus Presented by Sonny Davidson and Jason Land, Financial Advisors, Edward Jones in Elko, Nevada 2213 North 5th Street, Suite A | 775-738-8811

Are You Prepared for Long-term Care Costs?

L

ike everyone else, you hope to remain physically and financially independent your entire life. And you may well achieve this goal. Nonetheless, the future is not ours to see, so you’ll want to prepare yourself for as many contingencies as possible — one of which is the high cost of long-term care.

As you may know, long-term care primarily refers to nursing home expenses, but it also includes services provided in your own home. In either case, though, it could be expensive.

The national average rate for a private room in a nursing home was more than $87,000 per year in 2011, according to the 2011 MetLife Market Survey of Long-Term Care Costs. The same survey found that the average private-pay hourly rates for home health aides and homemaker companion services were $21 and $19, respectively.

With luck, of course, you won’t need to worry about these types of expenses. But consider this: People who reach age 65 have a 40% chance of entering a nursing home, according to a study by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And about 10% of those who enter a nursing home will stay there five or more years.

Clearly, if you take no steps to prepare yourself for the potentially devastating costs of an extended nursing home stay, you could be jeopardizing the assets you’ve worked so hard to accumulate.

Even worse, if you run through your money, you might end up creating a financial and emotional burden for your grown children.

Unfortunately, many people assume that a federal or state www.progressiverancher.com

government program will help them pay for their long-term care expenses. However, Medicare pays only a small portion of nursing home costs, and to be eligible for Medicaid, you would likely have to divest yourself of most of your financial assets. Consequently, you’ll probably need to find another way to pay for long-term care.

Fortunately, there are investment or protection vehicles designed specifically to help you meet long-term care expenses. Your financial advisor can help you pick the option that’s most appropriate for your individual situation.

Having the ability to pay for long-term care is obviously important. But other issues may also enter the picture. For example, if you need to enter a nursing home, you may be suffering from a physical or mental disability that might prevent you from handling your own affairs. This impairment could prove disastrous to your finances — which is why you can’t afford to take that type of chance. Instead, consult with your legal advisor to determine if you can benefit from a durable power of attorney — a document that lets you delegate your financial decisions to a relative, close friend or anyone else you might choose.

None of us like to think about spending time in a nursing home or needing round-the-clock care in our own homes. However, life is unpredictable. But even if you can’t avoid the need for long-term care, you can take steps to help reduce the financial strain it can cause you and your family.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

The Progressive Rancher

Allie Bear Real Estate

Spializing in hunting, ranching, and horse properti Cattle Ranch in beautiful Clover Valley - just 10 minutes South of Wells. 1200 fenced acres that includes 900 acres of lush meadows and 100 acres of alfalfa. Current 5000 acre private grazing lease, could be assumable to new owner along with a 5 month USFS grazing allotment. Produces 300 tons of excellent quality alfalfa hay from wheel line and underground irrigation. The meadows produce 800 to 1000 tons of hay and are irrigated from free flowing creeks. Lots of equipment comes with this gorgeous property. $3,500,000

Thompson Farm Productive farm south of Winnemucca. Two pivots run by one good well, new stands of alfalfa with high yields, shop, scale, home & older second home. 320 acres with 245 acres water righted.

Cattle Ranch South of Eureka, Nevada 8301000+ head cattle operation, family owned for generations. 4851 deeded acres, irrigated meadow land, rangeland in undulating and mountainous native land. Approximately 134,865 acres of US Forest Service and 807,594 acres of BLM grazing land.

Fallon Farm 21.87 acres with 3 1/2 acre ft water rights and 800 ft cement ditches. 15 ac currently produce 15 acres of alfalfa production plus 4.5 acres of pasture. Hay shed. 2 covered stud corrals and outdoor riding arena. 40’x60’ shop w/insulated storage and tack room,covered saddling area with hitching rail. Completely refurbished 2 bedroom, 2 bath home & 1 bed/1 bath apartment, 5680 Harrigan Road Diamond Valley Farm, Eureka County UNDER CONTRACT.

Bear Ranch East of Elko. Over 3 Full Sections private; including BLM and Meadow Ground. Good for Cattle Operation. Ranch House/Headquarters NOT included. $1,700,000.

Lamoille Ranch 31.39 acres w/water rights! Beautiful home with spectacular views of the Ruby Mountains. Garage; chicken coop; barns; corrals; pens and fenced pasture are great features for this Lamoille Property! $595,000 Accepting offers!

Antelope Peak Large Ranch outside of Wells, NV. 5000 deeded acres and 5000 BLM acres! Cow/calf ranch w/summer grazing and winter hay. Features a Large 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home; shop, several outbuilding; corrals; and much more for an efficient cattle operation. Enjoy the beautiful ponds; grass fields and mountains on this Nevada Ranch Sandhill Feedlot 397 acres divided into 9 parcels.

28 large pens, 10 small pens. Approx. 3,500 head feedlot. Perfect to put together cattle for California grass.

Quarter Circle J Bertolino - Hamblin Ranch – National Forest Tucked away in Beautiful Peavine Canyon, NV. Property Features stream and pond; is a great get-away from City Life. Home with meadow views; several outbuildings! $325,000

Paradise Valley Ranch original sandstone house.

Easy access to Hinkey Summit and surrounding mountains. Fenced and landscaped yard, plus 900+ acres of working ranchland and complete facilities w/BLM permits too! Surrounded by miles of open, completely rural countryside. $1,500,000 Deerhorn Ranch UNDER CONTRACT

Flying M Ranch 23,000± deeded acres + great winter permit. Lots of solar potential. 23+ miles of Humboldt River Frontage. Excellent & old water rights.

Andreola Alfalfa Farm - Austin, NV. 1900 acres - Equipped w/ ten center pivot irrigation, planted oats and then alfalfa crops, all are in good condition and upgraded as needed. Main residence is a 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, attached 12’x12’ utility room and office w/ large covered decks on front and back.

Property features Guest house, gazebo, and greenhouse.

View comple listings at:

www.ARanchBroker.com

775-738-8535 Allie Bear

Broker/Realtor 775-777-6416

Realtors: Dawn Mitton Mike Sallee Ken Heinbaugh

April | May 2012 29

Landowner & Sportsmen Work Together on Wounded Warrior Elk Hunt

USMC Sergeants Dylan Gray (left) and Andy Frasure (right)

30 April | May 2012

March 15, 2012 - - Nevada Outfitters and Guides Association (NOGA) honored a Nevada U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) sergeant with a free fully guided bull elk hunt, donated by the Winecup Gamble Ranch located in Northeastern Nevada. USMC Sgt. Dylan Gray, of Wellington, was the project’s Wounded Warrior honoree. Gray served three of his six military years as a scout sniper in Iraq.

Gray’s close friend and USMC spotter, Sgt. Andy Frasure, was also honored by NOGA. He and Gray were in a Humvee in Iraq in 2007 when it struck an anti-tank mine, resulting in the partial loss of both of Gray’s legs. Frasure, who suffered a concussion in the accident, helped save Gray’s life by administering first aid and getting him evacuated quickly. Gray and Frasure now work at the USMC mountain training camp near Bridgeport, Calif.

NOGA’s project chairman and Master Guide, Dwight Lindquist, of Wells, Nevada, initiated NOGA’s Wounded Warrior Project, because he wanted to do something to “give back to those who have laid their lives on the line to protect us.” Under Lindquist’s enthusiastic guidance, NOGA’s project not only met its goal of raising $10,000 in cash to be donated to nonprofit Homes For Our Troops. The project also received over $8,000 in gifts, hunting supplies, and personal items given to Gray and Frasure.

Lindquist led NOGA’s Wounded Warrior Hunt in November 2011 on the Winecup-Gamble Ranch in with the help of guides Mike Morrison and Dave Boyles. “The Winecup-Gamble ranch, were partners on this project right from the beginning and donated an expensive elk tag to Gray as well as ranch access to hunt,” said Lindquist. Gray successfully harvested a large bull elk on the week-long hunt with the help of Frasure as a spotter.

Elko Gun World and the Elko County Commissioners donated a Remington Sendero 7mm rifle to Gray. Optics manufacturer Leupold Stevens, another partner provided a high quality scope for Gray’s rifle. Leupold also donated a valuable spotting scope to Frasure in appreciation of his service to the country and his help saving Gray’s life in Iraq. Aaron Davidson, president of Gunwerks and host of the TV series “Long Range Pursuit” on the Sportsman TV Channel, donated substantial upgrades on the Remington rifle that Gray described as “amazingly accurate.”

“This was our first year doing the Wounded Warrior Elk Hunt and we were proud to show that landowners, guides, and local businesses can all work together in honoring one of our troops with a hunt of a lifetime,” explained Lindquist. “We are hopeful that we will be able to continue this program in the future. We’re extremely grateful to all who donated their time, money, and gifts to this worthy project.

It just feels good to be a part of this effort, and I hope everyone involved feels the same,” said Lindquist.

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher Coloring Contest Tear out or copy this page, color it and mail it in. Sponsored by Bill Nicholson and Jeanne King.

Age Groups: 5-7, 8-10, 11-12.

Mail your artwork to: The Progressive Rancher, 1188 Court St., #81, Elko, NV 89801. Include your name, address and age on entry.

April | May 2012 31

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

NEVADA STALLION STAKES & Elko County NRCHA Show

Working Cowhorse Aged Event August 25-26 ★ Elko, Nevada Stallion Nomination Deadline: July 1 Nomination fee: $200.00

Late nominations will be accepted until August 1 with an additional $100 late fee.

★ ★ NOMINATED

STALLIONS ★ ★

Twist of Docs Fate

Gary & Candace Wines

★

★ ★ NRCHA Sanctioning Pending ★ ★

Entry forms available at www.elkocountyfair.com

Show entry deadline: August 1 For more information, contact: JJ Roemmich 775-397-2769 or elkocountyfair@hotmail.com

Elko County Fair: August 24 - September 3

www.elkocountyfair.com

32 April | May 2012

The Progressive Rancher

www.progressiverancher.com

MARKET REPORT

Ship ’Em To

LLON A F

March 20, 2012

Weight

TOP OFFERINGS Steer

Heifer

300-400 140.00-198.00 131.75-147.00 400-500 158.00-185.00 134.00-158.00 500-600 150.00-179.00 115.00-135.00 600-700 126.25-141.00 110.00-134.00 700-800 122.00-151.00 123.25-140.00 800 & Over 107.00-141.00 100.00-113.00 Lite Holstein (under 600#) 75.00-93.00 Heavy Holstein (over 600#) 70.00-80.00 Single, Small Framed or Plainer Cattle 15.00 to 20.00 less than top offerings

BUTCHER COWS & BULLS

Livestock Exchange, Inc. Sale Every Tuesday at 11:00 am Selling All Classes of Livestock: • Cattle • Horses • Sheep • Goats • Pigs

ANNOUNCES

Special Horse Sale PENDING: Call For Further Information

Saturday, May 5th, 2012 at 11:00 AM Mares, Studs, Geldings, Mares and Foals Approximately 500 Head Horses are not broke to ride or halter broke, Selling loose Call after April 20th, 2012 for Further Information We would like to say thank you to all of our consignors and buyers, for your continued support.

Breakers (Fat Cows) Boners (Med Flesh) Cutters (Lean) Holstein Cows Butcher Bulls Shelly (Thin) Bulls Shelly Cutters (Thin) Young Feeder Cows Heiferettes Holstein Bulls Feeder Bulls Cutting Bulls Preg Tested Cows (3-4-5 yr. old solid mouth) Pairs (solid mouth) 3-6 yrs Pairs (broken mouth)

60.00-63.00 68.00-81.50 50.00-57.50 50.00-65.50 80.00-90.50 40.00-52.00 20.00-40.00 50.00-65.00 75.00-85.00 70.00-80.00 60.00-65.00 80.00-95.00 NT NT NT

TODAY’S COWS Top Cow Top 10 Cows Top 50 Cows Top 100 Cows Top Butcher Bull Top Holstein Cow Top 10 Holstein Cows

Avg. Wt 1240 1375 1225 1225 1905 1660 1300

Avg. Cost 81.50 68.50 66.27 60.00 90.50 65.00 63.50

CALVES-SHEEP-GOATS-PIGS-HORSES Beef Calves (HD) Dairy Calves Feeder Lambs Fat Lambs Ewes (CWT) Bucks (CWT) Small Goats (under 65 lbs.) (HD) Large Goats (over 70 lbs.) (HD) Weaner Pigs Feeder Pigs Top Hogs Butcher Sows Horses (under 1100 lbs.)

Horses (over 1100 lbs.)

60.00-275.00 2.00-35.00 185.00-199.00 140.00-165.00 35.00-71.00 45.00-68.00 20.00-110.00 95.00-185.00 45.00-70.00 60.00-130.00 55.00-60.00 20.00-40.00 8.00-15.00 18.00-26.00

MARKET TRENDS: Feeder Cattle sold steady with very active and strong buyer demand on same kind and quality, and depending on fill. We are seeing feeder cattle prices and demand get higher every week. The market just keeps getting better and better due to short supply.

Remember: We have trucks available for your hauling needs, pasture to pasture or here to the sale yard.

Call us with your consignments, it pays.

Fallon Livestock Exchange, Inc.

For more marketing information, or to arrange trucking needs: Call Monte Bruck, Manager at

775-867-2020

775-426-8279

2055 Trento Lane • Fallon, Nevada 89406

See you and your Friends at Ringside Soon! www.progressiverancher.com

The Progressive Rancher

April | May 2012 33

Equine Podiatry

by Stephen E. O’Grady, DVM, MRCVS

Commentary: Derek Poupard and I recently attended a veterinarian/farrier conference given by Gene Ovnicek at Rochester Equine Clinic in Rochester, New Hampshire. The seminar focused on the new balance trimming (Four-Point Trim). This method of trimming stems from research done on wild horses.

When wild horses’ feet were evaluated, it was consistently observed that one-third of the length of the solar surface of the foot was anterior to (toward the toe) a spot just behind the apex of the frog and two-thirds of the length was posterior to (behind) this point. It was also observed that these horses had thick, callused soles; that the toe was rolled, with the breakover point about an inch in front of the frog and that the heel of the foot usually extended back to the widest part of the frog.

These are characteristics we would all like to see on the feet of our domestic horses.

While our horses don’t generally live with the same footing conditions as wild horses, many of the principles of this study may be applied to their feet.

The Four-Point Trim attempts to create or restore the conformation of the domestic horse’s foot to that found in wild horses.

Although I don’t believe that all horses need to be trimmed with the Four-Point Trim—good hoof health has been created and maintained through proper horseshoeing for centuries—this type of trimming may be another therapeutic option available for many pathologic problems, including the all-too-common long toe/underrun heel syndrome.

To successfully trim or shoe using the Four-Point Trim or natural balance technique, a thorough knowledge of the theory and mechanics of the procedure is essential.

— Stephen E. O’Grady, DVM, MRCVS

34 April | May 2012

T

The Fundamentals of the Four-Point Trim

he technique that has recently come to be spoken of as the four point trim has provoked a diversity of responses from veterinarians, farriers and horsemen alike. It is not so much the objective behind the technique that sparks discussion, but the ethos that surrounds it. Dr. Ric Redden of The International Equine Podiatry Center, Versailles, Kentucky was outspoken in carrying his theories to their furthest possible application when speaking at the Bluegrass Laminitis Symposium in January. “This has given me a new meaning in caring for the horse,” said Dr. Redden, “as well as a sense of pride in my work.”

What are the fundamentals of this apparently new development in equine foot care? The aim of the technique is to cultivate a long foot with a short toe as opposed to the ‘long toe, low heel’ which appears to manifest itself in today’s thoroughbred. Indeed, according to Dr. Bill Moyer, another speaker at the Lamnitis Symposium, “We have bred the feet off thoroughbred horses.”

The intensity of the debate surrounding the four point trim does not correspond to the complexity of the technique ; as Dr. Redden says, “There is no work involved in the four point trim.” The method involves pulling breakover back to within 3/4 to 1 inch of the apex of the coffin bone (P3) and the angle of the hoof in alignment with the horse’s pasterns (P1 and P2). “By relieving what is in front of the apex,” insists Dr. Redden, “you relieve pressure on the bones. Allow the breakover to be in a mechanical position and, provided that it is well conditioned, load the sole.

In this way, you eliminate the handicaps that prevent the horse’s foot growing.” The heel is trimmed to the effect that its angle is at the widest part of the frog and thus there are four weight bearing points of the foot: two about 3/4 inch in front of either side of the apex of the frog and two the same distance from the back of the foot. The toe is finished by being rolled or squared and a shoe can be fitted.

It is tangible results which give credence to any technique and this is no exception. Dorothy Crowell (nee Trapp) cites the four point trim as the reason for Molokai’s sustained high performance at top level after the World Games in The Hague: “ I have no doubt in my mind that it was this technique that enabled him to get as far as Atlanta. The length of his cannon bones, pasterns (P1 & P2), and toes conspired to cause considerable heel pain. The longer the toe, the more the heel collapsed and was susceptible to pain. I consulted Doug Hannum, therapist for the American team at both The Hague and Atlanta and he suggested the four point trim. My farrier became accustomed to the technique and continued to use it. When Molokai was shod before the Olympics, the official farrier reverted to a more conventional technique and the horse was withdrawn suffering from heel pain. Having seen and ridden with the results of the four point trim, I would certainly suggest it to be an effective means of therapy to increase the longevity of the performance horse, in particular the typically toedout Thoroughbred with underslung heels.” What is of considerable interest is that Mrs. Crowell, like many other horse owners and farriers, now employs the four point trim universally rather The Progressive Rancher

than as a means of ‘corrective shoeing’ owing to the positive effects on one horse. “If I had Olympic aspirations for a young horse now, I would start him off with the four point trim from an early age. Obviously with an old child’s pony or trail riding horse, there would be no great need to change a healthy foot just for change’s sake. A high quality competition horse, though, requires high maintenance foot care and this is a big factor in this technique’s favor. I cannot see how, if performed properly, the four point trim can have an adverse effect on the soundness of a horse.”

Dr. Redden feels that his theory may be generically applied and unequivocally states that “all horses in training, regardless of breed, can be fitted with a four point shoe, modified to meet the breed requirements.” He continues, “When I am told by horse owners that their horse has been crippled by the four point trim, I tell them that it is not the technique to blame, but the person who has been shoeing their horse. I can outline the technique, but I cannot teach skill.” It is the dogmatism of its staunchest exponents that incites much of the scepticism that surrounds the use of the four point trim. Dr. Robert Hunt of Hagyard-DavidsonMcGee in Lexington issues warning against blanket statements: “What has come into today’s terminology as the four point trim is a technique to employ in moderation and in appropriate circumstances such as when a horse has excessive toe length and underslung heels, misshapen feet, cracks down the dorsal aspect or a ‘chronic laminitic’ appearance.” Dr. Hunt also points out that each horse should be considered separately: “This technique has some very good points, but that should not mean that the farrier or veterinarian should stop treating each horse as an individual.

It would be erroneous to think that some horses are not more sensitive than others and that a horse cannot be made lame by the toe being bruised from the sometimes aggressive nature of this technique. It must be understood that any time an inflammatory response is incited, it is potentially dangerous and can perpetuate a laminitic reaction. I would be wary of excessive sole loading: the sole should be a secondary weight bearer and should not be left susceptible to bruising.”

John Bates, a farrier at Keeneland and central Kentucky horse farms, is largely in accordance with Dr. Hunt’s views i.e. he does not discount the four point trim, but stresses that he would prefer to look upon it “as an option rather than as the one and only technique.” Mr. Bates continues: “The four point trim as an everyday method of shoeing seems to be a very drastic procedure whereby the shape of the toe is reduced thus leaving the horse more susceptible to bruising up the toe. The danger of the current trend lies in the many horse owners who are rushing to have their horses’ feet trimmed with this method on the basis that Olympic riders have been known to use it.”

What has sparked off this “current trend”? Initially, it was suggested that this technique was based on research carried out on wild horses. A study of these horses showed their feet to have developed in an unconventional pattern, in spite of the fact that they had not been trimmed or shod. The hooves were short and the toe squared, there were four weight bearing points of ground www.progressiverancher.com

contact and the quarters were unloaded, hence the four point trim. There are of course fundamental differences to consider between feral horses (the research models) and performance horses. Their environment differs: the mountainous, sandy public rangelands are likely to differ from horse farms in Kentucky. There is also a disparity in nutrition, exercise, physiology and, most significantly, shoeing. Wild horses are not shod and therefore this research does not account for the fitting of a four point shoe. “The wild horses used for research,” says Mr. Bates, “are running barefoot over a rougher terrain and their feet are likely to grow into a different shape from performance horses.” Dr. Redden now prefers to base his use of the four point trim on experience and the fact that he has had “consistently favorable results”.

Was this research really necessary to substantiate the four point trim and win over its doubters or is it that the technique is, as Dr. Hunt says, “The rebirth of an old concept”?

Certainly the basic objective of the technique - the long foot and short toe - is not far removed from the principles of what Dr. Hunt describes as “a good, basic trim to facilitate the lever action at the toe.” Indeed, Mr. Bates indicates that the principles of the four point trim have been in use as long as he can remember: “What is called the four point trim is not an entirely new concept - during my apprenticeship, eight years ago, the method was talked about as a remedial method of shoeing in certain cases where the point of breakover required correction.”

Dr. Hunt elucidates: “The four point trim is effectively a descendant - it follows the same principle of the age old rocker toed shoe and, latterly, the world class racing plate.

People are now trying to dazzle the horseman with what is supposedly a new technique and apply it to every horse and every situation, however inappropriate. If the horse has good integrity wall, use it; if it has a good healthy heel, leave it alone. By similar token, it is not a cure for every ailment relating to the foot. It would, for instance be very unwise to four

point trim a horse with a case of acute laminitis. The most significant development to have hit the horse industry in terms of hoof care was the study carried out in the mid-1980s which changed the centuries old conception of the correct angle of the hoof from 45-50 degrees to 50-55 degrees. In term of balancing the feet, this development is far more pertinent than anything that may have been said recently about the four point trim.”

The upshot of the publicity surrounding the debate is that it has unquestionably raised the public profile of the hoof. In essence what Dr. Redden and others are aiming for is the end of the ‘long toe, low heel’ and the four point trim has promoted this. Dr. Hunt asserts that: “The fact that it has brought people’s attention to the dangers of the ‘long toe, low heel’ syndrome is by far the biggest plus of the technique.” As a farrier, John Bates feels that the four point trim has “raised awareness of the importance of the foot.” The debate lies in whether this much touted technique is actually a new concept or whether it is simply revisiting old ideas.

There is also the question of whether it is, Sonny Davidson as Mr. Bates puts it, “part of a toolkit, rather

Call or Stop By!

GOOD LUCK

STATE FFA COMPETITORS

than a cure-all.” What cannot be in doubt, however, is that the current discussion initiated by the four point trim has rightly placed equine foot problems to the forefront of the horse owner’s attentions.

Jason B. Land

2213 N. 5th St. , Elko, NV 89801 775-738-8811, 800-343-0077 www.edwardjones.com

Grass ROOT Cutting Horse AsSociation Inc. Steptoe Valley Farm: Nice Alfalfa and Grass Hay Farm in beautiful country! Approx. 1000 acres with around 700 acres of water rights. Six wells pump water to 5 center pivots and a field flooded or ready for wheel-line hookup.

Nice manufactured home for a residence. $3,000,000.

Price Reduced to $2,750,000. Can add grazing land!

Over 650 deeded acres on the Humboldt River near Elko and adjoining the new Port of Elko Industrial Park. Over 300 acres of Surface water rights out of the Humboldt River, lots of sand and gravel, adjoins I-80 and has access at Exit. Price: $1,200,000. May be a good fit with the Elko Co. 10,705 deeded acres with BLM permit offered below Elko County 10,705 Deeded acres with BLM permit and 50% of the mineral rights. Only $1,391,650. Existing income from minerals lease and grazing lease. This may be the best 401K ever and an excellent target for a 1031 Exchange!

Mason Mountain Ranch Great summer ranch with 3782 deeded acres plus small BLM permit Plus 2 landowner Elk Tags! Located approx. 75 miles North of Elko . Runs approx. 300 pair for the summer. Approx. 89 acres of meadows irrigated with water stored in Reservoir/fishing hole which also acts as Red Band Trout hatchery. Home and outbuildings for a good cow camp. Phone but no power.

Price: $1,595,000.

Antelope Peak Ranch Elko Co. Over 5,000 deeded acres plus two adjoining BLM permits. Priced at $2,800,000.

Including equipment. Ranch has 5 pivots and two irrigation wells plus large spring. Being managed to run 600 head.

Nice setting at foot of Mtn. plus several ponds with fish.

Z Bar Ranch: Clover Valley Ranch: Offering is changed to include most of the irrigated lands and one home for the reduced price of $1,513,750. One of those ranches at the foot of the Mountains that everyone would love to own is now available. This ranch consists of 2,490 deeded acres of which approx. 557 acres are irrigated. Creek water to run one pivot and several wheel-lines plus flood water. An irrigation well supplies another pivot and a 50 acre grain field.

With this option the ranch has 1 home and a calving barn and seller will allow joint use of some other improvements until other facilities can be built.

P

Tent Mountain Ranch, Starr Valley, Nevada. Price reduced by $700,000! 3435 Deeded acres at the foot of the majestic East Humboldt Range the Northern extension of the Ruby Mountains. Several perennial Streams flow through the ranch and wildlife are a daily part of the scenery. Improvements are good with a large home approx.

5,000. sq.ft, plus a second modular home and beautiful Mountain Cabin. Barn with water, hay barn, and other storage. Access onto paved road. Actually 18 legal parcels and parcel pricing would start at $1,200 AC. Price: $3,800,000.

Indian Creek Ranch: White Pine County , Nevada Super hunting property surrounded by Public lands and has plentiful Mule Deer, Antelope and Elk. There is a large Spring arising on high ground that could provide pressure for hydro power, or gravity flow domestic or irrigation water.

Price: $395,000.

Clover Valley Farm: 160 acres with a new center pivot.

Price: $250,000.

Paul D. Bottari, Broker

Work: 775-752-3040

paul@bottarirealty.com

1222 6th St., P.O. Box 368 Wells, NV 89835 www.progressiverancher.com

G

IN D N E

Home: 775-752-3809 • Fax: 775-752-3021

•

2012 Cutting Show Schedule Twin Falls, Idaho

March 10-11

Arrow E Arena

April 14-15

Arrow E Arena

May 12-13

Silver Tree

June 9-10

Tentative

July 14-15

House Creek

Aug. 18-19

Tentative

Sept. 15-16

Tentative

Oct. 13-14

Arrow E Arena

Show Classes Saturday Classes B Open Cutting Horse B Non-Pro B $10,000 Non-Pro B 3 Year Old Horse Practice B $3000 Novice Horse B $2,000 Limited Rider B $1,000 Novice Cutting Horse B Youth

Entry Fees: $55 Entries will include: Riders Name Horse Owner’s Name, & Horse’s Registered Name A copy of Registered Horse Papers is requested to be presented at the first show.

Class points are year-end calculated for awards. No jackpot payouts

To enter, contact: Show Secretary Jodie Schiermeier Email: jodieryan_4@msn.com Phone: (208) 539-7707

www.bottarirealty.com The Progressive Rancher

Sunday Classes B $500 Limited Rider B $500 Novice Horse Novice Rider B Open Ranch Horse B Non – Pro Ranch Horse B $250 Novice Ranch Horse B $250 Novice Ranch Horse & Novice Rider

For more information: Dan Carter, GRC President, (208) 731-1655 or Rob Schutte, GRC VP, (208) 250-5568

WWW.GRASSROOTCUTTERS.ORG April | May 2012 35

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit # 3280 Salt Lake City, UT

80

The Fort Ranch welcomes TED ROBINSON 7 Time NRCHA World Champion

Saturday

d June 23r 2012

35th ANNUAL PRODUCTION SALE Doc Quixote Colonel Freckles Doc Oak Young Gun

Mr Peppy Olena Doc’s Rondo Doc’s Hickory Playin Stylish New for 2012

COW KWACKER High Brow Cat x Kwackin

Spots Hot Son Ofa Doc CD Lights

Doc Ray Olena Cat Ichi Holey Sox Jr.

New for 2012

SMART ZEE DUALLY Smart Little Lena x Zee Dually

High Brow Cat Dual Rey Peppy San Badger Freckles Merada

TR Dual Rey Haidas Little Pep Hickorydickery Doc Doc’s Dulce Bar

RICOCHETS SUE

Smart Lil Rocochet x Meradas Little Sue by Freckles Merada

New for 2012

BET ON BENION Bet On Me 498 x Sangelina

New for 2012

SUES DUAL PEP

Dual Pep x Meradas Little Sue by Freckles Merada

QUITE A BOON

Peptoboonsmal x Maradas Little Sue

by Freckles Merada

LITTLE PISTOL BADGE

Young Gun x Little Peppy Holly by Peppy San Badger

Buckskins, Red Duns, Blacks, Roans, Palominos, Grullas, Sorrels, and Bays with Plenty of Chrome Sale Terms: 1/3 down payment with balance to be paid in September when foals are weaned and picked up by their new owners. Foal Guaranteed to be alive and sound or your down payment will be refunded.

SATURDAY, JUNE 23rd 2012 AT THE RANCH IN PROMONTORY, UTAH

Eric Duarte - Auctioneer 541-533-2105 www.duartesales.com

Ted Robinson - Pedigrees 805-649-9028 www.tedrobinsoncowhorses.com

36 April | May 2012

The Progressive Rancher

FOR INFORMATION & CATALOG CONTACT: Rick Ellis 208-681-9829 435-471-7411 Brian Anderson - Trainer

www.progressiverancher.com