Got along pretty good yesterday considering the number of cattle. Hard for buyers to make loads on these smaller summer sales. Everyone is talking about how high the market is, yup and it needs to be because cattle producers input costs are soaring.
Confidence in the market still seems extremely low. Feels like producers are depressed they didn’t get in on more cattle before the spike. Now their afraid if they jump in like they did in 2014 they’ll get slammed with another 2015. I’m personally very bullish on the market. I think they been wrong on the national cow numbers for awhile now and they been padding the difference with imports. With the southern border closed and a 75% tarrif on Brazil they are going to have a tougher time pretending there’s enough cattle in America.
Lots of focus on exports right now, I’m of the opinion maybe we should feed America first. Most consumers I visit with complain about the downturn in the quality of beef in recent years. Because the packers and retailers are legally allowed to lie about the original origin of beef, the consumers think the quality of American beef has declined. The consumers don’t know that’s Australian/Brazilian brush fed beef they are eating. The other factor is the age of these cattle we are forcing into the system in the name of “efficiency”. Angus Association and Beef on Dairy are pushing these calves harder and harder to be finished at a younger age. Tests have proven older animals are nearly double in nutrional value yet we are clubbed over the head with the 30 month rule to process cattle before they have reached full flavor and nutrient density.
We have a meeting with a small group of independent ranchers from the west to meet USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins in DC here in about 10 days. Our focus is on public land grazing but hoping for the opportunity to talk about our broken beef system and this unbelievable wolf situation as well.
Next feeder sale Friday September 19th. Let us know if you have questions about the market. Also would appreciate your input on how you would like to see things changed on grazing policy. Thank you for your support and look forward to hearing from you through messenger, FB comments or at 775-217-9273.
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Cattle ranchers begin preparing for fall work well in advance, as it's one of the busiest and most critical seasons of the year. Fall is usually the time for weaning calves, shipping cattle to market or feedlots, pregnancy-checking cows, vaccinating, and preparing for winter.
While you prepare I hope you remember to support our local feed stores.
September parents start to settle into a routine with the children who have been back to school.
Horse sale season is wrapping up. It
has been a good market for those who raise horses too!
As always, I pray your family is healthy, your livestock are gaining well and your fields are full of lush feed.
Nevada is dry and wildfires rage on in many parts of the western states. I pray our firefighters and cowboys remain safe and full of knowledge to extinguish the flames.
I hope you enjoy this edition! - Ashley
• Pg 6- Tribute to Jerry Chapin
• pg 10- Rodeo Clown -Dalton Morris
• Pg 13- Judicious Antibiotic Use
• pg 18- Partyline Cookbook Recipes
Photo by Ashley Buckingham- Fall brandings have begun! Helping the Harper family at the 4R Racnh. Paradise Valley, NV
Mary Gabica Bengoa
September 14, 1927 - August 15, 2025
On August 15, 2025, Mary Gabica Bengoa, A.K.A. Mom, Grandma, Amuma, Tia, peacefully passed away surrounded by family in Winnemucca, Nevada.
Mary was born on September 14, 1927, in Winnemucca, Nevada. Mary was the youngest child of Basque immigrants, raised on the Rock Creek Ranch in Orovada. Stories of her youth included spending time in the house with her mom, where she learned how to cook, crochet, and sew. She was very fond of telling stories about how it was on the ranch as her parents raised her siblings and her cousins.
Mary attended Humboldt County High School in Winnemucca. She was an usher at the movie theatre on Bridge Street, earning money to buy dresses for school. Mary was Captain of the volleyball team and President of GAA her senior year. After graduating, she attended beauty school in San Francisco, California.
On June 9, 1946, Mary married the love of her life, Christopher Bengoa, at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Winnemucca, Nevada. Chris & Mary co-owned, operated, and lived at the Kings River Ranch with Chris’s brothers and their families, all in one house, until they sold the ranch in 1992. They raised their children on the ranch, lived in Winnemucca during the kids' junior/high school years, and followed them as they went to college, married, and raised families of their own.
As a ranch wife, she and her sisters-in-law took turns cooking for the family and ranch crews. Six, noon, and six were mealtimes, and that trestle table sometimes fed 20+ people. If you left the ranch hungry, that was your own fault. Mary taught her kids first through third grade in the granary converted to a schoolroom on the ranch. Years later, she taught Sonny, Cody & Sandy kindergarten. She was very active in the Kings River Valley Homemakers Club. As a 4-H leader, she taught cooking, sewing, leather, knitting, crocheting, arts & crafts, and enjoyed judging at the Humboldt County Fair. With her family ranching and rodeoing, she sewed western shirts. If we only knew how many…Grandpa, her kids, her grandkids, and employees. Red satin shirts were made for Dutch Zabala and Ted Ugalde, pretty fancy bareback riding attire. Her granddaughters had shirts with matching hair-ties that she made and matching boots that the girls just “had” to have. Shirts and fashion moved on, but she left handiwork, whether it’s crocheted afghans or embroidered pillowcases, there are hours of love in each. One time, Delbert calculated that she made a tablecloth with five miles of thread. Starting with her sons, through her grandkids, and on to her great-grandkids, she spent many hours in the bleachers, cheering for them.
Whether it was a rodeo, football game, or basketball game, her family knew where to find her. She was pretty biased; her “kids” were always the best. If she couldn’t make it in person, she was waiting by the phone for an update. If you have been to her house, you got to see the walls covered in photos and newspaper clippings of all of “her kids”. She was very proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; not only their academic & athletic accomplishments, but that they are truly good kids. In 1993, Mary moved to Winnemucca and continued to live by herself until the spring of 2025, and the age of 97. She loved hearing from family and friends. We lovingly called her house GNN, Grandma News Network. If something was happening, she knew about it. Once Facebook arrived, it helped keep her in touch with friends and family across the West once she got that tablet thing figured out.
One of her biggest adventures was a trip to the Basque country with Cody & Lisa. Mary was able to meet many family members and see the homes of her parents. Her family in the Basque country were amazing hosts and tour guides. She was very proud to be Basque. She was one of the founding members of the Winnemucca Basque Club, serving meals at the festival for years. Not only did she have her kids dance, but later enjoyed watching her great-grandkids dance and share her Basque pride.
You could never go hungry around her. If she knew you were going to stop by, she would have your favorites: maple bar – Uncle Chris, ice cream – Rusty, cereal – Chase, Rocky Road – Danielle, mixed nuts – Joel, and the best rice pudding ever – Lisa. Smoothies or milkshakes delivered by Tiffany, Sandy, or Ceci were always a hit. She appreciated Danielle getting her driver’s license as she delivered a “fancy coffee” on Fridays. Each year, many of the great-grandkids would all have Pizza Night for Halloween at her place. She looked forward to the costumes and seeing them all having a big time.
Friends knew and appreciated Mary’s big heart, quick wit, and sense of humor. Friends of her kids and grandkids called her Tia, Grandma & Amuma. She truly loved and cared for everyone, even the refs, as you could find her at the Say When after a game with some of them. She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel & Constancia Gabica; brother, Joseph (WWII); husband, Chris Bengoa; brother, Daniel (Juanita); sister, Felicia; brother, Raymond (Donna); daughter-in-law, LaRena Smith Bengoa; grandson, Cody Bengoa; son-in-law, Delbert Ratliff; and numerous nephews & nieces. She is survived by her daughter, Ceci Ratliff; sons Chris (Pepi) & Cleto (Sandra) Bengoa; grandkids, Lisa (Greg) Scott, Sonny (Mary) Bengoa, Will (Amy) Ratliff, Tiffany Bengoa, Sandy (Jeremy) Lutz, Rusty (Carmen) Bengoa, Kelsey (Jessie) Bengoa; great grandkids, Sean & Sam Bengoa, Justin & Danielle Scott, Teá & Joel Bengoa, Chase & Reese Lutz; Camilla Bengoa & Mia Barrera; Brand & Landry Bengoa; step-granddaughters, Keri (Curtis) Robinson, Alena Millhouse; step-great grandkids, Blaze & Brock McDaniel & Kinsley Robinson; nieces & nephews; and many others that she considered family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to LaRena Smith Bengoa Run, Ride or Walk for the Cure (c/o Natalie Maher, PO Box 435, McDermitt, NV 89421) Mary appreciated the family and caregivers who helped her with her recent health issues.
GOIAN BEGO, Rest in Peace
Special to the Nevada Rancher
On June 9, 2025, the northern Nevada ranching and cowboy community lost a special member. Jerry Chapin was a well-known and respected member of the greatest generations of cowboys.
Anativenorthern Nevadan, Jerry was born into one of the oldest pioneer ranching families in the area on October 24, 1938, to Ed and Alice McKnight Chapin. He grew up on ranches in northern Nevada, including the Saval Ranch at Northfork, the Hot Springs at Golconda, and the Cord Ranch at Jiggs. His whole family were all respected ranchers and horsemen. As the youngest of 5 brothers, Jerry had many mentors.
Jerry’s father died when Jerry was just eleven years old while they were living at the Cord Ranch, but his family continued to work there for two more years. Jerry and his mother, Alice, moved to the Rancho Grande in Northfork and then the Osino Ranch to work for W.H. Moffat.
Jerry grew up on the back of a horse helping his family on the ranch. During high school, Jerry worked at the Elko Stock Yards while also riding many outside horses for the public. He followed his brothers, Charlie and Harold, to the 25 Ranch in Battle Mountain where he fine-tuned his cowboy skills with some of the best cowboys in the country.
While they were kids, Jerry and Harold loved to ride anything that bucked from milk cows to mustangs. As they got older and better, this became a major part of their lives. Jerry started rodeoing in the 1950’s and continued into the 1960’s winning many championships. He won the Nevada Cowboys Association saddle bronc title 5 times and the All-Around cowboy title once. In the ‘50’s & 60’s, the Reno Rodeo had a special bronc riding for Nevada cowboys. Jerry won this event 3 times and retired the trophy. At one of these rodeos after Jerry won the bronc riding, multiple world champion cowboy Casey Tibbs offered Jerry the chance to travel with him on the professional circuit. But since Jerry had a job and a young family, he declined the offer.
Jerry married Patty Smith in 1958, and they had three sons, Kevin, Kyle, and Kelly. Jerry, Patty, and their sons worked on several ranches around Nevada before moving to the YP Ranch where Jerry was the cow boss and assistant manager for nine years. While at the YP, he had cowboys of all ages and backgrounds who worked with him. These included Canadians, Europeans, Australians and South Americans. Jerry had a special relationship with Native American cowboys from northern Nevada and especially from Owyhee. They all worked for him at some time, and he was like a brother and father figure to some. He considered them some of his best help. He treated them all with dignity and respect regardless of their cowboy skills.
In 1975, Jerry made the hard decision to leave the YP and the Owyhee Desert to accept the manager position at the Muleshoe Ranch in Bat-
tle Mountain where he remained for the next 41 years. He became a staple of the community and enjoyed helping with high school rodeos mentoring any young cowboy who asked for advice. He also liked to help the neighboring ranches with cow work. These ranchers appreciated having his knowledge and skills to help get the job done smoothly. During his time at the Muleshoe Ranch, he served as a deputy brand inspector for the Nevada Department of Agriculture for 48 years. He was also presented with the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association for 100,000 Miles in the Saddle award.
In 2001, Jerry lost his wife Patty after 43 years of marriage. In 2006, he married Karla Jones, and they shared a love of horses and ranch life together for the rest of his life.
When Jerry retired from the Muleshoe in 2016, he continued to be a part of the ranching community by helping friends and neighbors, including his grandson Chase who had taken over the managing duties at the ranch. In recent years with ongoing health challenges, Jerry still maintained a connection to the ranching and rodeo community with his brand inspections, catching up with friends and family by phone, and the Cowboy Channel.
Jerry loved all animals, especially every horse and dog he ever met. Although he was famous for his bronc riding skills in and out of the arena, he had a patient and quiet way with horses, cattle, and men. Jerry was an old school cowboy; he could look at a piece of country and know how many cattle it would handle and how long they could stay. When in a rodear, he had an innate ability to pair up cows and calves. He was always quiet and smooth.
Jerry was honest and generous to a fault, a giver throughout his life. He set a prime example and left a high bar for his sons, grandchildren, and all the young men and women whom he mentored.
As a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, mentor, cowboy, and above all a human being, he was gentle soul. He was loved by all who were fortunate to know him. He will bemissed by many.
BY MARTIN PARIS, NCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Nevada Cattlemen’s Association Announc-
es 90th Joint Annual Convention and Trade-
Celebrate with us the 90th Annual Nevada Cattlemen’s Association Convention and Tradeshow.
Our convention will be in Elko this year on November 13 –15.
Please be sure to check out our website at www.nevadacattlemen.org for more information as things begin to take shape. We’re looking forward to another productive convention this year with some great speakers and good topics.
The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association is eager to announce this year’s convention. The 90th Annual Nevada Cattlemen’s Association Convention and Trade Show will be held on November 13-15, 2025, at the Elko Conference Center in Elko, NV. As NCA members around the state gather in Elko, we will celebrate a lifetime of traditions, revise and review policies, receive industry updates, and take the opportunity to enjoy our friends and neighbors.
At the convention members of the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association, guest speakers, and vendors who provide services to the beef cattle industry will join together to celebrate the Nevada livestock industry. NCA staff and officers are working hard to provide you with a memorable and educational experience.
The forms for exhibit booths and sponsorships have been sent out. If you did not receive one of these forms and wish to, please contact us or check out our website at nevadacattlemen.org to download a copy. The Nevada Cattlemen’s Association
Dog Days Are Over
By Hanes Holman, NCA President
As I write this article, the Dog Days of Summer are drawing to a close, and as you read this article, Fall will be in full swing. I personally like the fall time of year the best. Getting to see the fruits of our labor pay off is rewarding and satisfying. As cow-calf producers, we’re in the fourth quarter of ranching with one more big push to get over the line and start the game over for one more year. It seems like it has been a long, hot, dry summer, so I personally am looking forward to a little cool down!
At NCA, we have been working on some issues with private property rights. It seems some misinformation and personal “assumptions" have encouraged vandalism and trespass across the West, and that is something that every private property owner in Nevada should be concerned about. We are actively working to defend our rights and seeking counsel on how to proceed. There will be more on this topic in the future because it is not going away, but that is all I can say at the moment.
Now I have got to give a plug for everyone to come to the NCA Annual Convention on November 13th, 14th, and 15th in Elko, Nevada. We are going to have twp General Sessions: one on trespass and what to do when we have encounters, and one with agency updates to get informed on what our partners are up to. We will also have a CattleFax industry update breakfast. Everyone should be interested to see what the market outlook is, so you don’t want to miss it. The big question is how long the market will stay high. I, for one, sure want to see what CattleFax projects! If that isn’t enough excitement, we will also have a great trade show, our committee meetings, and voting on policy to guide the organization.
Put it on your calendar and get your tickets early because you really don’t want to miss this Convention!
Cheers, Hanes Holman
would like to thank all of our convention sponsors and exhibitors; they help make our event a success.
NCA’s policy committees will meet prior to the convention to discuss new issues or resolutions to be proposed and will also review expiring resolutions. These meetings are the initial step in setting the Association’s policies that help guide staff, officers, and members in responding to the various issues that impact Nevada’s cattle industry. Participation in the resolution process is a great way to get involved and have your voice heard. For more information on each committee or suggestions on any new or expiring resolutions, please contact the NCA office.
Registration for the convention and a tentative schedule will be available on our website here soon. Members will also receive a registration packet in the mail. If you are interested in attending and would like more information, please call the office at 1-775-738-9214, email convention@nevadacattlemen.org, or check out our website nevadacattlemen.org. Our website is constantly updated with the latest information. We look forward to seeing you all at the convention!
Nevada Agricultural Foundation Announces Scholarship Awardees
The Nevada Agricultural Foundation (NAF) is pleased to announce its scholarship awardees for the 2025-2026 academic year.
The following students are first-time recipients of NAF awards:
Adriana Amaya, Elko – William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Gabrielle Coombs, Washoe Valley - William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Dusty Clark, Gardnerville - William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
William DeLong, Winnemucca – American AgCredit Educational Assistance Award
Madison Gregory, Fallon - William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Joshua Gusewelle, Fallon - Lawrence Belli Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Laura Marshall, Eureka – William Denevi Premier Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Tyler Miller, Lovelock – Roy & Donna Phillips Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Braden Sorensen, Fallon – Jack Pursel Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Hailey Valley, Elko - William Denevi Premier Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Whitney Walters, Genoa – Clark J.
Guild Jr. Foundation Educational Assistance Award
The following students are recipients of renewed NAF awards:
Ella Bidaurreta, Winnemucca – William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Melanie Burnett, Carson City – William Kelly Golden Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Zianna Christian, Reno – Dale Bohmont Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Paris Collins, Paradise Valley – William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Kenleigh Jensen, Lund - William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Cole Lemons, Reno – Nancy & Alan List Family Scholarship Fund
Ian Livingstone, Ruby Valley - William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Gabriella Miinoletti, Eureka – Dale Bohmont Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Devin Moura, Lovelock - William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
McKenli Myers, Deeth - William Denevi Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Louise Neff, Ruby Valley – William Kelly Golden Memorial Educational Assistance Award
Zoe Smith, Eureka – Kent McAdoo Legacy Scholarship
Preparing for Fall Work
make informed culling decisions.
As the fall season approaches, cattle ranchers begin a series of important tasks to ensure the health of their herd and the efficiency of their operations through the colder months ahead. Preparation in the fall is critical, as it sets the stage for winter and the upcoming calving season in many operations.
One of the top priorities is evaluating forage availability. Summer pastures may begin to decline in quality, so ranchers assess whether there's enough grass left or if they need to begin supplemental feeding with hay, silage, or protein blocks. Stockpiling forage or purchasing feed early helps avoid higher prices later in the season.
Health management is another key focus. Fall is a common time for vaccinations and deworming, especially for respiratory illnesses that tend to increase in cooler, damp weather. Pregnancy checks are often done during this time so ranchers can plan for spring calving and-
Weaning calves is also typical in the fall. Once weaned, calves may be sold, moved to a backgrounding program, or kept for future breeding. Weaning also allows cows to recover body condition before winter.
Ranchers inspect and repair fencing, water systems, and shelters or windbreaks to ensure animals remain secure and comfortable during fall and winter storms. In colder climates, making sure water sources are freeze-proof becomes essential.
Finally, fall is a key time for financial planning and marketing. Ranchers monitor cattle markets, determine the best time to sell, and set budgets for winter feed and supplies.
By tackling these tasks early, ranchers reduce stress on their cattle and ensure their operation remains productive, sustainable, and ready for the challenges of winter.
By Heather Smith Thomas
Dalton Morris
Rodeo Clown and Barrel
Dalton Morris was born and raised in Odessa, Missouri. His father and grandfather were both trick riders in rodeos, doing things like jumping on and off a galloping horse, climbing under its belly, etc. “My dad also rode bulls and bucking horses but I didn’t want to do any of that. My older sister was a barrel racer, so I grew up around all of those activities and horses. I decided to become a rodeo clown,” he says.
“When I was young, my family on my mom’s side had started the Hometown Rodeo in Odessa. One day when I was about 3 years old I was helping my mom take tickets at the gate, and a rodeo clown pulled in. I wandered off and followed him to his truck. He put some clown makeup on me and some old baggies and a wig, and I decided that I was going to go out there and be his little helper!”
From that experience, he never looked back. “After helping that clown I went to youth rodeos around Missouri and Kansas, fighting sheep instead of bulls. My sister was barrel racing, so any rodeo she went to, I went along. I’d put makeup on and do acts. By the time I was 15, however, it didn’t seem so cool anymore, so I
took a little break. Then I got going again and at age 16 I started booking some regional rodeos in Missouri and Kansas and a couple finals rodeos. I then went up to Minnesota and Wisconsin and kept doing clown acts. In 2018 I was accepted for my full PRCA card,” says Morris.
He has now been to three different countries and almost all 50 states. I do clown acts for PRCA, the PBR, and work a lot of free-style bullfighting. I thoroughly enjoy it. It’s kind of cool being able to keep the family legacy going.”
He’s been a rodeo clown for 27 years—ever since he was three—and it has taken him to Canada and he also performed for royalty in the Middle East. This will be the second time he’s been invited to the rodeo
at the Eastern Idaho State Fair in Blackfoot. “I went there first in 2019, and I think that was the first year that they won the Small Market Rodeo of the Year award. Powder River Rodeo Company is the one that hired me for that rodeo and I fell in love with everyone on that committee. They are kind of like family to me now,” he says. “It’s exciting to be able to go from one end of the country to the other and make new friends.
He’s had some exciting times in the arena, as well. “My job as the rodeo clown is equivalent to being the cheerleader of the rodeo. Whenever there is a gap in the action, I am filling that gap. We are all working with unpredictable and wild animals, so we never know what’s going to happen, and sometimes unexpected things must be dealt with.”
Some of the things that happen in the chute— before the bull or bronc comes out bucking, can be dangerous for the rider or the people helping. “A bull could lean on a guy’s leg, or we want to make sure we get the horse out of the bucking chute the right way—to be fair for both the animal and the cowboy. If it takes a few minute to get these things straightened out, before they can open that chute gate, that’s my time to jump in and do comedy,” says Morris. That way there’s no dull moments; the audience is still engaged with what’s going on in the arena and still on the edge of their seats in attention.
“I’ll also jump up into the crowd and steal popcorn from old ladies, or dance and get everybody clapping. I also do an intermission act; it may be a comedy act or a trick-roping act. Throughout the rodeo there’s a few spots where we take a break to let people in the back pens catch their breath. I’ll go out during those times and do comedy.”
The bull riding is when everything gets serious. There are several bullfighters and their job is to protect the cowboys. “Whenever the rider gets
off, they jump in front of the bull to distract him so the cowboy can get away. I am the barrel man; I’m in a padded barrel out in the arena. It’s my job to create an island of safety for the cowboy. If a bull rider bucked off or got off in the middle of the arena, he’s got to run 100 yards to a fence. I can pick up my barrel and run to that rider and get in the barrel—between the bull and the rider. That way the bull can hit me and be distracted and keep hitting the barrel, and the cowboy can get away safe,” says Morris.
“I’m an adrenalin junkie, and these scary moments give me that adrenalin high. If I wasn’t a barrel man I’d probably sky dive! I love working the barrel and I’ve had some close calls. A couple times I’ve had a bull try to stick his head in the barrel with me. So far a bull hasn’t gotten his head far enough into the barrel to pick it up, but it recently happened to a buddy of mine; the bull got his whole head in the barrel and picked it up while my buddy was in the barrel. He was up in the air and the bull was holding him up there. I haven’t had that happen but I’ve had bulls get their nose or their horns in there with me,” says Morris.
Nowadays with the free-style bullfighting the Spanish-bred fighting bulls are really aggressive. Just as the bucking bulls are bred to buck, the Spanish bulls are bred to fight. “They really come after you. A couple years ago, in two different instances, I had a bull knock me and keep hitting me, and hit me into and through one of the out-gates—clear out of the arena. The next thing I knew, I was in the back pens, in my barrel! The gate guys were able to stop the bull before he got clear into the back pen with me.”
The rodeo stock have a lot of different personalities. Morris feels that bulls are like people. Some people have a bristly attitude and some people don’t. Some bulls just do their job and buck and
after they are done you can walk up to them and pet them, while others try to go after the rider when he comes off. “All they want to do is fight!”
For his comedy acts he doesn’t use animals like rodeo clowns did in the past. “I used to have some baby goats that I’d do a comedy act with, and there are still a lot of clowns who do animal acts, but since I fly a lot it’s difficult to do that. As one older rodeo clown told me once, it’s not about the big props or the animals—as long as the comedy is there.” As long as it’s funny and the audience is entertained and focused on the clown, that’s all that matters.
He stays very busy all summer. “This is the time of year we call Cowboy Christmas. I’ve been on the road since May and I won’t go home until October. I flew back to Missouri in late July for a show, but flew back to Montana right after that. Rodeo season only comes once a year so we really have to hustle—going from one rodeo to the next,” he says.
Morris is on the road constantly, since he often drives as well as flies. “I’ll spend a week in Blackfoot, Idaho and then that Sunday I’ll do laundry and on Monday I’m driving to wherever I am going next. I spend a lot of time behind a steering wheel.”
He’s only done a few rodeos in Idaho--at Blackfoot, Rexburg, and Lewiston-- but spends a lot of time in the West, doing rodeos in several states including California, Utah and Montana. The rodeo contractors book him quite a while in advance. “I am booking right now (first of August) for next year. Some people wait until December through February; that’s the heaviest time of booking,” says Morris. One guy called him in early August wanting him to spend a week up in Canada next year. He doesn’t always know all the places he’ll be going until the bookings are done, but it’s always interesting.
Five legendary cattlemen and horsemen were honored with induction into the Buckaroo Hall of Fame during ceremonies held Aug. 29–30 at the Winnemucca Convention Center.
George Wilkinson
George Wilkinson was born at the Little Meadow Ranch near Mcdermitt, Nevada in 1930. He started riding horseback when he was four years old. When he got older and started breaking his own colts to ride, a man his dad hired named "Chico" helped teach him how to start the young horses. They would use a snaffle-bit first and graduated on up to the two-rein and then straight up in the spade bit. While spending a lot of summers with the Lucky Seven Ranch and Oregon Canyon Ranch buckaroo wagon crew he rode horseback every day. They branded calves, gathered steers and occasionally rounded up wild horses on the desert country of northern Nevada and southern Oregon. His first saddle was made by N. Porter and has been handed down for use by the younger generation. During his lifetime of riding horseback George has worn out three other saddles, all slick forks with 3/4 rigging made by Mittleider Saddle Co. of Meridian, Idaho. They started out being basket weave tooled but ended up being worn smooth and
thin. George states that during his time at Little Meadow Ranch in southern Oregon it was one of the last cattle ranches that didn't own a gooseneck horse trailer. He preferred to ride and do the cattle work on horseback.
Bill Kane
Bill Kane was born in Elko, Nevada in 1942 to Tom and Liberty Kane. Bill grew up in the South Fork area near Lee, Nevada in Elko County. He started colts for various ranches while still in high school. He rode horseback to school in his younger years everyday rain or shine. After high school he worked breaking horses for the Marvel's at the 25 Ranch near Battle Mountain, Nevada.
Then while riding colts for Ellison Ranches at the Spanish Ranch, Stanley Ellison offered Bill the cow boss job, a position he held for the next 27 years. He became well respected for his honesty and hard work there. He showed stock horses at the Elko County Fair for many years. Smarty Pants, a horse he'd started
George Wilkinson
Bill Kane
What Every Producer Should Know About Judicious Antibiotic Use
Judicious use of antibiotics is tremendously important for the future of beef and dairy production.
“If we’re going to preserve the effectiveness of the limited number of antimicrobials that we have in the cattle industry, using them appropriately to minimize the development of antimicrobial resistance is vital,” said Pat Gorden, DVM, PhD, professor at Iowa State University, and specializing in dairy production medicine and clinical pharmacology.
Utilizing antibiotics responsibly also supports the long-term success of cattle operations, and helps reinforce consumer trust in our industry.
“Keeping cattle healthy is always the goal,” stated Nathan Meyer, DVM, PhD, Boehringer Ingelheim. “When antibiotics are used judiciously, it improves the lives of cattle, producers and consumers.”
Using antibiotics judiciously requires implementing these fundamental herd health practices on your operation:
Maintain a veterinarian-client-patient relationship
The foundation of responsible antibiotic use begins with establishing and maintaining a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR), which is required to access prescription antibiotics.
With a VCPR, your veterinarian can be a true partner in supporting your herd’s health. It can help them gain a better understanding of your herd and be more aligned with your operation’s goals.
“Before a disease occurs, your veterinarian can help develop protocols for receiving cattle, or moving cattle through an operation that can minimize the stress and the risk of disease,” noted Dr. Gorden.
Then, when treatment is needed, your veterinarian can provide more timely and accurate treatment advice. “Your veterinarian can help identify the correct animals that need treatment, and recommend when to implement metaphylaxis protocols,” related Dr. Meyer.
A strong VCPR allows you to work with your vet-
erinarian to build more effective protocols, preventing problems before they start, and ensuring long-term success for your herd.
Maximize antibiotic efficacy
A key strategy to judicious antibiotic use is accurately identifying which cattle need treatment.
“Making sure we identify sick cattle quickly and treat them soon after detecting signs of illness is very important,” said Dr. Meyer. Tools like digital sensors, stethoscopes and rectal thermometers can help improve the odds of finding sick animals. However, it still ultimately comes down to the human eye to properly identify illness, so it’s important that anyone working with the animals is trained to recognize the signs early.
Once an animal has been identified for treatment, the right antibiotic should be selected. “For instance, if you’re treating bovine respiratory disease [BRD], a broad-spectrum antibiotic might be advised,” shared Dr. Meyer. “The macrolide class of antimicrobials is broad-spectrum, meaning they treat the four primary BRD pathogens. So, choosing the correct antibiotic is
CONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Lifetime Pipe for Agriculture & Mining
crucial, based on what you’re observing for clinical illness.”
Following the treatment protocols and label recommendations is also a must. This includes withdrawal periods, dosage and post-treatment intervals.
“Where we could improve is accurately knowing the weight of cattle, so we deliver the right dosage,” Dr. Gorden pointed out. When determining the correct dosage, try to weigh cattle individually to get an accurate weight, or, at a minimum, use a weight tape.
Once cattle have been treated, keep thorough records on each individual animal to better adhere to withdrawal periods and know what to do if additional treatment is required.
“Frequently monitor records to see what’s chang-
ing,” continued Dr. Gorden. “If you’re typically seeing a certain prevalence of a disease, and it suddenly increases, that’s an indication that something changed. Unless somebody’s looking at those records on a regular basis, an issue may not be found until it’s too late.”
Management matters
Strong management practices are imperative to preventing disease and reducing the need for antibiotics. Implementing tactics such as biosecurity, low-stress handling, limiting overcrowding, housing in well-ventilated buildings and providing a clean environment are just a few ways to help minimize stress and disease risk.
“Cover the basics, like trying to minimize stress by purchasing high-health cattle if they’re on the beef side,” said Dr. Gorden. “Taking care of nutrition on the dairy cattle side is hugely important to grow those
animals at a faster rate, but at the same time, feed the immune system so it’s ready to help fight off any infections that may come.
Vaccinations are another way to prepare cattle for a battle with disease and reduce the need for antibiotics. “The cornerstone to any herd health plan is prevention,” asserted Dr. Meyer. “We want to build immunity through vaccination to have a good herd health status. Whenever cattle are challenged, they normally mount a strong immune response. The key is prevention, so vaccination must precede the challenge to have maximum effect.”
Work with your veterinarian to create protocols that help optimize the health of your herd and reduce the need for antibiotics. Visit CattleFirst.com for more details on how to support your herd’s health.
Then while riding colts for Ellison Ranches at the Spanish Ranch, Stanley Ellison offered Bill the cow boss job, a position he held for the next 27 years. He became well respected for his honesty and hard work there. He showed stock horses at the Elko County Fair for many years. Smarty Pants, a horse he'd started for Willis Packer and then purchased later on became one of his best cow horses. Every time he rode Smarty Pants at a show he usually won. Bill Kane is still a respected name in the buckaroo world in northern Nevada today.
Charlie Van Norman
Charlie Van Norman was born in northern California in 1917. His father, Otto was a buckaroo at the H. Moffat Ranch, Elko County, Nevada in 1938. Charlie visited him there that winter at age 21. He fed cows through
the winter and when spring arrived at the H. Moffat Ranch in 1939 and the buckaroo wagon was pulling out Charlie was on it. Following in his father's footsteps and becoming a buckaroo and horseman in northern Nevada. He and his wife Della, who was a Elko area rancher's daughter began raising their own registered stock horses on their ranch in Independence Valley, near Tuscarora. Thier families' reputation for raising top ranch tested cow horses still carries on today. Charlie also served in the military during World War II from 1940 to 1945. He made the rank of Captain and was awarded the Bronze Star.
Walt Leehmann
Walt Leehmann was born at Lake County Oregon in 1919. He started riding and breaking horses to ride at a young age. His son Robbie remembers watching him start colts in the round corral at Alkali Ranch in northern Lake County along the southern border of Harney County, Oregon. The ranch and range permit was 70 miles from anywhere out on the vast desert country. This is where Walt ran about 1800 head of cattle. The horses he would break to ride got ridden extensive miles tending to the cattle. The long rides were beneficial to the training and making good saddle horses. It was said by many that Walt Leehmann had a lot of horse sense. He was awarded Lake County Horseman of the Year in 1975. He served in the Army Calvary Division and was at Omaha Beach during D-day WWII. Walt and his wife Jean raised
five children and made sure they got to do things like participate in 4H and FFA,
Claude Barkdull
Claude Barkdull was born in Farmington, Utah in 1908. His grandmother was a sister of E.P. Ellison, founder of the famed Ellison Ranching Co. in northern Nevada. In the early 1920's Claude got his start in the ranching and cattle business at the newly acquired Spanish Ranch located in the Independence Valley, north of Elko, Nevada. He became the buckaroo boss there for many years before eventually becoming ranch foreman. His stay at the Spanish Ranch lasted for some 35 years. He loved all aspects of ranching, particularly riding horseback and working the cattle. He was considered an excellent horseman and cattleman.
Claude Barkdull
Charlie Van Norman
Walt Leehmann
Theinvitation said, “Ranch Attire,” and the added note for guest..”we will be playing games”. I assumed this meant jeans, boots, and a pearl snap. I must add, this was for the rehearsal. The venue was a open barn, a rock house and a beautiful groomed pasture. However, once the bride, and her bridal party started arriving, I discovered we were not from the same “ranch”. They were stinking adorable with the cutest cowboy boots, summer dresses, hats, and dolled up! Wow! If I wore that on the ranch, I’d be tattered from catclaw and whitebrush. Those pretty boots, would not be so pretty anymore. That hair…perfect in place. My ranch hair often looks like…,I lost my hair tie chasing a cow through the creek bottom, when I tore through a cedar. I did however curl it up pretty for the occasion. Pull it together Norma!!! They should have made an asterisk on the invitation for me. See further instruction for “ranch attire, Norma”
You’d think after all these years as a pastor’s wife, I would have my life together by now but that is not the case. However, I looked much better for the wedding, wearing a dress a friend had given me and my everyday
boots because honestly, shopping is pretty much non existence way out west, in this isolated part of Texas. There’s only one other time I have felt extremely under dressed. That was when a good friend asked me to take pictures at her wedding. It was a small, personal wedding party. Only including family and one or two friends. The wedding would take place in the church foyer, an informal event. Church foyer doesn’t scream formal, it screams, have a cup of coffee and a donut. She brought her dress into the church and tucked herself inside the ladies restroom. She came out glamorous, sophisticated, classy. I had never seen her like this before. We had gathered cattle together several times, well she looked like me and all our other ranch wife friends. She really was a beautiful bride. Her fiance also looked dapper, the guest cleaned up real nice as well. I settled in, camera in hand ready to take some great shots. I felt good about my best Levis and a frilly blouse. But here’s where things get sticky. She takes my hands, looks into my eyes and says, “Will you be my matron of honor?” How could I say anything but “Yes, of course, I’m honored to”. I looked down and thought, why couldn’t you just bring a dress, again, a noticeable fail on my part.
But I had forgotten my rule!
It’s something I’ve done through the years, so I’m prepared either way. We are having a low key, very basic wedding…great..I’ve got jeans for that. We are dressing up but not over the top for a casual Sunday wear outfit. You bet! We are looking like models for Cowgirl Magazine. WEll, I don’t have anything for that but I will try my best. But now and then ya’ll…I just forget to pay attention. I forget I need to bring three options.
If I do this one simple thing. Pull up to the event, scope out the crowd. Let me rephrase…scope out what the ladies are wearing, evaluate at least ten outfits and make the best decision possible from the three options I brought and change in the back seat, ducked down so nobody sees me. Step out like I’m the rockstar that I’m not and look like I have it all together. Problem solved.
If I don’t do this one simple thing, chances are I will get asked to take drink orders. “I’ll take a Dos Equis” says the twenty two year old in cowgirl attire, manicured nails, perfectly tanned with the whitest boots I’ve ever
seen. Fresh salon hair, a hat with not one smudge of dirt or windmill grease to be found. Pretty sure she’s never worked cattle, nor, adorned the biggest plastic sleeves available to mankind to stick her hand up a cow to feel around for a calf. Funny thing is, I will get her the drink and wait to see her face when I kiss the pastor after the wedding is over. It’s the best kick. I know, a little twisted but sometimes I need the boost.
Yes. There is Amazon and I have ordered a few things. That is, when I’m organized enough to think a few weeks ahead. I’ve had some success with it. But when it goes wrong, it goes very wrong and then there’s chasing down the UPS man the day before the big event to see if he possibly has my package. Now I gotta pray I didn’t eat too many enchiladas between the time I ordered and when it arrives. This is a fine science. Skip the chips and salsa on Monday, add a salad on Tuesday. Stay away from cobbler on Thursday and pray there’s no potluck at church! I’m just praying, “True to Size” means. I true..ly prayed over my tacos.
Now the third option is to shop, on the way, to where we are going. That is typical down here, near the border of Mexico, nothing else around. It’s not unusual for us to go grocery shopping three hours away in a bigger town. However, when it comes to shopping for clothes, that can get tricky and you know when you “NEED” something, ever single store you go into has morphed into the worst bluelight special you’ve ever seen. The pile that is typically your size, has turned into a random stack of kids clothes, mens underwear, and some top only a size 2 is gonna look good wearing.
You find nothing, absolutely nothing that is even close to wedding worthy and you’re stuck buying maternity and a belt to make it look like you’re into extra baggy.
Although, you try and find that perfect outfit, in the two hour window you’ve allowed yourself, “on the way”. The traffic, is liquid feed slow, no molasses truck slow. The shop you are counting on because it’s literally the last stop before you and your husband have an all out brawl, he is nearly to the breaking point. Cue the heavy rain and the heavy smoke from the ‘04 Caddy that is your “town car” because it’s the only vehicle road worthy for the trip.
Here’s the reality though, I honestly want to look nice for someone’s special day. I can’t imagine my grandmother showing up to a wedding wearing jeans or pants. I can’t imagine a ranch wife showing up in anything less than her very best. But honestly, my grandmother, nor the classy ranch women I know don’t go overboard. In the best they have, they shine. Not the newest thing, nor the most fashionable thing but the best they have. Their confidence in not teetering on the opinions of others. They are satisfied, thankful, excited for the bride, anxious to hug necks of family and friends.
Those older ranch women are the most fashionable women in the world to me. But it’s a beauty that cannot be bought. It’s the clothing that Christ tells us to put on. This is what I notice about them, the scriptures they hold onto and their confidence in Christ…not physical clothing but spiritual clothing.
The confidence that comes through Christ is not the world confidence. It doesn’t count on the flesh, it doesn’t worry about what to wear. It is beautiful in the believer that puts her trust in Jesus. In salvation, in His character traits to diminish the value of worldly things and increase our thoughts on what pleases Him. There is nothing that compares.
Hope you grab for this outfit everytime!
Thank you for reading
The Cowboy Pastor’s Wife
His Clothing:
1. He Clothes Us With Garments of Salvation: I will rejoice greatly in the LORD, My soul will exult in my God; For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness, As a bridegroom decks himself with a garland, And as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10
2. He Clothes Us With a New Self: Put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth. Eph. 4:24
3. He Tells Us To Put On The Full Armor Of God: Clothes to..”Stand firm therefore, having belted your waist with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,” Eph. 6:10-17
4. He Tells Us To Be Clothed With These Attributes: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience…” Colossians 3:12-17 goes on to tell us to forgive one another, as the Lord forgave us. Also to love one another, which binds us together in unity.
5. And, Finally Put On Confidence. This is the scripture that started it for me, nearly seventeen years ago when I become a Cowboy Pastor’s Wife. Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. Hebrews 10:35
Cookbook Feature
Exerpts from Cookbooks Available for Purchase
Peaches are typically ready to harvest between late June and early September, depending on the variety and your local climate. The key to knowing when to pick is fruit ripeness, not just the calendar date. Check peaches regularly as harvest time nears—usually every 2 to 3 days—because they ripen quickly once they start.
Signs of ripeness include a deep yellow or golden color on the skin, with no green around the stem. The fruit should feel slightly soft when gently squeezed and give off a sweet, fragrant aroma. You can also perform a taste test—if it’s juicy and sweet, it’s ready.
To harvest, grasp the peach in your hand and gently twist and lift. A ripe peach should separate easily from the branch. Be careful not to pull or yank, as this can damage both the fruit and the tree. Always handle peaches gently to avoid bruising.
Harvest during the coolest part of the day, typically early morning, to preserve fruit quality. Place peaches in shallow containers rather than deep buckets to prevent crushing. Once picked, store them in a cool place or refrigerate if not eaten within a day or two for maximum freshness.
UNR- Studying Cover Crops to Boost Soil Health and Drought Resilience
RENO, Nev. – Human activities such as intensive farming and overgrazing are degrading soil nearly 1,000 times faster than natural processes. If this trend continues, global food production could drop by 10% by 2050, with some regions facing losses of up to 50%.
In the dry landscapes of Nevada and across much of the West, where thin, fragile soils are the norm, this crisis could hit harder and faster, threatening rangelands, farms and the ecosystems that support them. Recent studies place Nevada among the most at-risk states.
In 2020, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, launched a nationwide study to identify cover crops, plants often grown between cash crop seasons, to help restore soil health. These crops add nitrogen and organic matter, reduce erosion, improve water storage, and pull carbon from the air, helping to fight climate change.
Subsequently, agronomists at the University of Nevada, Reno began an independent study to find the best ways to grow cover crops in Nevada’s dry climate. Their research focused on testing multispecies mixes, an approach rarely tried in dryland areas such as Nevada.
“Most cover crop research has looked at one or two species, but we wanted to go further,” said Juan Solomon, associate professor in the Department of Agriculture, Veterinary & Rangeland Sciences and researcher at the University's Experiment Station. “Used correctly, diverse mixes can help regenerate soils and support sustainable agriculture, especially in dry regions such as Nevada. But
this is just the beginning, we need to keep exploring combinations that work best for this region.”
In an article published in the journal Heliyon, the research team from the University’s College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources, including Solomon as the project’s principal investigator, lead author and doctoral candidate Akwasi Opoku, College Dean William Payne, and environmental sciences doctoral student Anuoluwapo Ogunleye, outlined top-performing cover crops and growing practices for Nevada. Key findings include:
• Feed quality: Legumes such as faba bean and winter pea had the highest protein levels, but mixed species cover crops may better support livestock diets due to having a more balanced protein-to-energy ratio.
• Timing for clearing cover crops: Delaying the clearing of cover crops just before planting cash crops boosted biomass but also raised the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, slowing residue breakdown and delaying nutrient release. Clearing the cover crops early is recommended to improve nutrient availability for the next crop.
• Soil biology: Microbial biomass rose significantly in the second year, pointing to potential long-term soil health gains. The yellow sweet clover had the strongest effect on soil biology and may be especially valuable in species mixtures.
• Top biomass producers
Above ground: A mix of oat, faba bean and winter pea; and oat as a single crop
Below ground: A mix of annual ryegrass, faba bean and yellow sweet clover; and ryegrass as a single crop
Nutrient contributions:
Carbon absorption: Was highest in sweet clover and winter pea monocultures
Nitrogen fixation: Was highest in faba bean monoculture
Protein concentration: Was highest in legume monocultures
“Cover crops aren’t a silver bullet, but they’re a key tool in the toolbox,” Solomon said. “Used correctly, they help regenerate soils and support sustainable agriculture, especially in dry regions such as Nevada,
Conducted at the University’s Experiment Station, the researchers tested cool-season crops grown both as single species and in mixed plantings. They measured above- and below-ground biomass, feed quality and how much carbon and nitrogen accumulated in plant tissue. They also evaluated impacts on soil fertility, including changes in organic carbon, nitrogen levels and soil biology indicators such as microbial activity, respiration and earthworm presence.
“Strong top growth and deep roots are a win-win for farmers,” said Opoku, who studies under Solomon and Dean Payne. “Top growth supports forage and soil cover, while roots improve water infiltration and soil structure, key traits for both immediate productivity and long-term resilience.”
A farmer’s best friend: University-backed cover crop research helps Nevada growers raise better forage
University agronomists have been working closely with CONTINUES ON PAGE 22
University of NV Reno
Are lab-grown dairy proteins truly identical to natural dairy? New study raises questions
University of Nevada, Reno research finds key differences in animal-free dairy proteins that may impact gut microbiome diversity
For centuries, nature has been humanity’s primary source of protein. But today, alongside fields, farms and seas, laboratories are joining the list, an innovation that is likely to reshape the future of food.
By combining traditional fermentation and modern biotechnology, scientists are using genetically modified yeast that acts like tiny factories to produce lab-based proteins similar to those found in milk. A growing number of food startups now use these proteins in products such as dairy-free ice cream and plant-based burgers, often promoted as “identical to” or “one-to-one replacements” for dairy proteins.
However, a recent study led by researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno raises questions about how similar they really are. Led by Matthew Bolino, a doctoral candidate in biochemistry and Steven Frese, an assistant professor in the Department of Nutrition at the University’s College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources, the research found key differences between lab-made whey protein and the kind that comes from cows.
The study showed that while both versions share a core protein component, the synthetic one had fewer types of protein and different sugar structures, known as N-glycans, which may affect how the proteins interact with gut bacteria.
“Functionally, they behave like whey and taste like whey,” said Frese, who also conducts research as part of the University’s Experiment Station. “But at the molecular level, they are decorated differently, and those decorations, called post-translational modifications, appear to influence how our gut microbes respond.
The analysis found that both proteins were mostly made up of β-lactoglobulin, the main protein in cow’s milk whey. But the cow-derived version also included a wider variety of proteins, such as β-lactalbumin, albumin and casein. In contrast, the yeast-derived whey was nearly 98% β-lactoglobulin, with very little diversity. When tested in a lab “mini-gut,” cow’s milk whey supported a more diverse mix of gut bacteria, while the yeast-derived version led to lower microbial diversity.
“Lower diversity isn’t necessarily bad,” Frese said. “But what matters is that we now know these proteins are not identical in how they interact with our biology. That is a conversation the food and nutrition industry needs to have.”
The findings were published June 26 in Microbiology Spectrum, a journal of the American Society for Microbiology. The research team included scientists from the University of Nevada, Reno, as well as from Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Hacettepe University and Karabük University, all based in Turkey.
Preparing students for real-world results through mentorship and research
Bolino, who served as lead author on the study, conducted lab experiments comparing how the two proteins affect gut microbes, work that builds on his doctoral research into how subtle molecular differences in food influence the gut microbiome.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have contributed to a study of this scale, working alongside such a multidisciplinary and international team of scientists,” Bolino said. “The experience not only deepened my scientific skills but also taught me the value of diverse perspectives.”
To understand how structural differences in whey protein might affect the body, the researchers conducted a three-part study: analyzing protein composition, examining the sugar structures attached to the proteins and testing microbiome responses.
The team analyzed purified samples of store-bought cow’s milk whey protein and commercially available synthetic whey at the University’s Proteomics Center. They broke the proteins into smaller pieces and used mass spectrometry to identify them. This confirmed that while both samples were mostly β-lactoglobulin, the cow-derived whey contained a more diverse mix of proteins.
Next, the team collaborated with glycan chemistry experts in Turkey to study the sugar molecules attached to the proteins. Using advanced mass spectrometry, a technique that
identifies subtle chemical changes in proteins by analyzing their molecular weight and structure, they examined the protein’s post-translational modifications and found that yeast-derived proteins had fewer and structurally different glycans, which could affect how the body processes them. Finally, to test how these proteins affect gut microbes, the researchers used a fecal fermentation model developed at the University. The lab-based system simulates human gut conditions by introducing proteins into cultured fecal samples representing different gut microbiomes. Across all samples, cow’s milk whey supported a more diverse and beneficial mix of gut bacteria, while the yeast-derived version led to lower microbial diversity.
“This research wasn’t about saying one protein is better than the other,” Frese said. “It was about understanding whether they are truly interchangeable. If we are going to introduce novel proteins into the food supply, we need to understand how they behave once they are in the body.”
Behind the breakthrough: multinational team and support Other members of the research team from the University of Nevada, Reno included Juli Petereit with the University’s Nevada Bioinformatics Center and Chandler Zundel, a recent graduate of the Nutrition Sciences Program in the Department of Nutrition. International collaborators included Hatice Duman and Sercan Karav from the Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics at Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University; Izzet Avci and Bekir Salih from the Department of Chemistry at Hacettepe University; and Hacı Mehmet Kayili from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Karabuk University.
This research was funded by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS) of the National Institutes of Health. Additional support came from the University of Nevada, Reno’s Department of Nutrition; College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources; Experimental Station; and Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation.
PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
August 18, 2025
CONTACT
Kayla Walker, GGMC Production programs@rangelands.org (406) 930-1466
Mastering the “Paddock Between Your Ears”
Speaker on Rotational Grazing Discussion Panel Cover Hindrances to Implementation
By Kayla Walker
For Good Grazing Makes Cent$
It wasn’t fencing, water, or public land regulations as perhaps anticipated. Instead, three experts on a “rotational” grazing panel agreed that a paradigm shift or mindset change is the largest hindrance to implementing an intensified grazing management plan.
During a livestreamed, virtual discussion organized and hosted by Good Grazing Makes Cent$, ranchers from California, Montana, and Texas shared their expertise and outlook on “Solving the Number One Hindrance to Intensive Grazing.”
The Dream
CONTACT
Kayla Walker, GGMC Production programs@rangelands.org (406) 930-1466
I love a good rodeo, and there is something epic about the big shows,
But the ranch rodeos are my favorite,
Laid back, lots of laughs, & dads competing with their kids,
Mastering the “Paddock Between Your Ears” on Rotational Grazing Discussion Panel Cover Hindrances to Implementation
“The overall tendency of people to not want to change, I’ve heard of it described as the biggest challenge is the paddock between your ears,” Roger Indreland, owner and operator of Indreland Angus near Big Timber, Montana, said.
Dan Macon, UCCE Livestock and Natural Resources Advisor from California, agreed noting that some who do start often fall back to the way “it was always done before.”
By Kayla Walker For Good Grazing Makes Cent$
“In the people I work with, paradigms are the biggest obstacle. If your paradigm is that this is too much work, the first wreck you have will confirm that it’s too much work and you’ll go back to what you were doing,” Macon said. “That’s a challenge that’s more dibicult to overcome than infrastructure or finding labor.”
The announcer knows everybody, maybe a little too well,
They’re all crossing their fingers they won’t be the butt of the jokes he’ll tell,
Beer cans in the arena, A single vest being passed around behind the chutes,
fencing, water, or public land regulations as perhaps anticipated. Instead, three a “rotational” grazing panel agreed that a paradigm shift or mindset change is hindrance to implementing an intensified grazing management plan.
And Emry Birdwell, a Texas rancher who has been practicing what he refers to as “time managed grazing ” since the eighties could testify to that. He noted “going broke several times trying.” But as he learned the trade and “played the game” of staying ahead of grass, he has been able to double and even triple his carrying capacity on the Birdwell & Clark Ranch.
The whole crowd is chatting, catching up on the year’s news,
There are babies sitting on saddle horns, grandpas holding them there,
Frybread and grilled
onion smells hanging in the air,
Trucks and trailers all unlocked, icechests unattended,
The fastest team branding time remains uncontested,
The fella in the water truck is targeting innocent passers by,
And a $100 bid in the calcutta in this economy is high,
Theres a band at the bar this evening and a raffle for the high school rodeo team,
When I was a kid that wanted to be a cowboy, this was the dream.
Poem by Randi Johnson 2022 The Cowboys Daughter.
livestreamed, virtual discussion organized and hosted by Good Grazing Makes ranchers from California, Montana, and Texas shared their expertise and outlook on the Number One Hindrance to Intensive Grazing.”
R
B ottari & A ssociates Realty
tendency of people to not want to change, I’ve heard of it described as the challenge is the paddock between your ears,” Roger Indreland, owner and operator
Indreland Angus near Big Timber, Montana, said.
Macon, UCCE Livestock and Natural Resources Advisor from California, agreed noting who do start often fall back to the way “it was always done before.”
people I work with, paradigms are the biggest obstacle. If your paradigm is that this work, the first wreck you have will confirm that it’s too much work and you’ll go what you were doing,” Macon said. “That’s a challenge that’s more dibicult to than infrastructure or finding labor.”
650 acres on the Humboldt River with over 300 acres of surface water rights. Just East of Elko approx. 13 miles. Has access onto the Ryndon Exit. With the new conjunctive management of water by the state, this should add future value to this property.
Price: $950,000
Offering a to sell a 50-100% interest in the Deeded Fish Creek Ranch with all the Ag use to the buyer. Lots of irrigation water from springs that arise on the ranch. Mine owner wants to reserve some water rights and Sage Grouse Credits. 2597 deeded with approx. 1000 water righted out of the springs, 5 homes plus multiple other barns, shops and outbuildings. Full line of equipment and multiple pivots.
Birdwell, a Texas rancher who has been practicing what he refers to as “time grazing ” since the eighties could testify to that. He noted “going broke several trying.” But as he learned the trade and “played the game” of staying ahead of grass, been able to double and even triple his carrying capacity on the Birdwell & Clark
Price: $3,000,000 to start depending on % interest.
Nevada farmers through the College’s Extension and Experiment Station units to promote regenerative farming. This partnership between science and agriculture is bringing new life to soils that have suffered decades of degradation.
One such success story comes from Joe Frey’s family farm, which has seen it all. Nearly a century after Frey’s grandfather first practiced regenerative farming before World War II, the operation shifted with the times, embracing pesticides and chemical inputs that reduced soil organic matter from 5% to just 1%.
Today, Frey grows small grains, including rye, wheat, barley, triticale and oats, as cover crops instead. He aims to plant 30 to 40 species in a single field, focusing on diverse mixes that include nitrogen-fixing legumes such as clovers and alfalfa. His system supports both grazing and hay production.
Since adopting regenerative practices, Frey has rebuilt soil organic matter, bringing it from 1% to 5% in five years, while cutting input costs by about $480 per acre each year and raising hay quality by two points in total digestible nutrients. He credits cover crops for regulating soil temperature, retaining moisture and attracting beneficial earthworms, key indicators of healthier soil. He has also observed that cattle grazing these fields maintain weight, produce healthier calves and naturally fertilize the land, reinforcing the regenerative cycle.
“It’s been a slow progression, considering how badly the soil was degraded by years of pesticide use, intensive tillage, grazing and monocropping,” said Frey, who also
serves as a crop researcher with Extension.
A vocal advocate for the approach, Frey shares his results informally with other producers and challenges conventional practices that prioritize short-term yield over long-term resilience. Earlier this year, he led a preconference workshop on regenerative agriculture at Extension’s Small Agriculture Conference, walking participants through how he rebuilt his soil using diverse cover crop mixes integrated with grazing.
Related research: how cover crops in high tunnels can boost yields, save water
NEW LISTINGS:
Cross L Ranch, Railroad Valley, Nevada
*3,314 deeded acres *Water Rights *Winter and Summer Range *339,266 acres of BLM to run cattle on *1500-1800 tons per year (to feed and sell)
*Cattle and Equipment Included *several home for the help and new home for ranch manager
$12,000,000
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Wildhorse Ranch, North Elko County, Nevada
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While Solomon’s team focuses on field trials, a parallel study at the University’s Desert Farming Initiative, a unit of the Experiment Station, is testing cover crop performance in high tunnels, or hoop houses. Led by Felipe Barrios Masias, an associate professor in the University’s Department of Agriculture, Veterinary & Rangeland Sciences, the two-year project is funded by the Nevada Department of Agriculture and evaluates five treatments to support sustainable vegetable production. Researchers are examining planting and when to clear cover crops, soil moisture retention, nutrient availability, and effects on tomato yield and health.
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cropping systems. Results will be shared through workshops, conferences and the Nevada Farm Network to drive on-the-ground implementation.
Why do many Nevada farmers remain hesitant to adopt cover crops?
Despite promising research and growing interest, cover crop adoption among Nevada farmers remains limited. Barriers such as seed costs and irrigation challenges continue to slow cover crop adoption.
To help overcome these barriers, federal initiatives such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Stewardship Program, both part of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, offer technical and cost-sharing financial assistance to help farmers and ranchers identify and implement practices that can lead to cleaner water and healthier soil. The University works closely with the Service on shared goals to benefit the state.
“NRCS is here to help farmers overcome resource obstacles that improve soil health and reduce pollution and implement practices that reduce carbon sequestration,” said Christopher Rose, partnership coordinator with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Nevada office. “We work directly with producers to identify their resource concerns and develop practical conservation plans.”
This is Nevada’s first comprehensive study of high tunnel cover crops and may help improve the effective use of water when combined with precision irrigation, while also rebuilding microbial health.
Desert Farming Initiative Director Jill Moe highlighted the study’s applied focus, “We’re not just collecting data; we’re developing actionable strategies for Nevada’s agricultural community,” she said.
The research aims to bridge science and practice, offering evidence-based guidance for incorporating cover crops into fruit and vegetable
In addition to direct assistance, Rose and his team have supported research at the University on salt- and drought-tolerant plants. They have also backed cover crop education, outreach and presentations through support and participation in events such as Extension’s Nevada Small Farm Conference and the Nevada Beginning Farmer & Rancher programs, and workshops held by other organizations. Producers interested in developing a conservation plan to help solve on-farm resource concerns can get more information at Natural Resources Conservation Service Nevada and farmers.gov websites. Once a conservation plan is in place, they can apply for financial assistance with the help of an agent to help install the recommended practices.
Long-term studies aim to tailor cover crop timing and selection for Nevada farms
As conservation support becomes more accessible in the state, the researchers say long-term adoption hinges on continued learning and locally adapted solutions.
“Our soil is a living resource, and we can’t afford to keep extracting nutrients without replacing them year after year,” Solomon said. “Cover crops are one step toward building soil resilience, but to fully understand their impact, we need time, funding and multiple seasons of trials, not just one or two.”
Photo Cutline: The University’s Experiment Station on-field and high tunnel cover crop research is conducted at the Valley Road Field Lab led by Associate Professor Juan Solomon. Photo by Akwasi Opoku.
Top Consignments from throughout California and Nevada will be Showcased during These Upcoming Special Sales mFeed for All Consignments Originating in Nevada
UPCOMING CLM SPECIAL WEDNESDAY FEEDER SALES
September 10 & 24
October 15 & 29
November 12 & 26
December 3 & 17
FALL ANGUS BULL SALES AT CLM
Join Us On the Seats or Online for these Bull Sales:
Saturday SEPTEMBER 13
Arellano Bravo Angus Bull Sale
Tuesday SEPTEMBER 16
Thomas Angus Ranch California Bull Sale
Friday SEPTEMBER 19
Dixie Valley Angus Fall Bull Sale
UPCOMING WESTERN VIDEO MARKET SALES
September 16 – Haythorn Ranch, Ogallala, NE Catalog Online: www.wvmcattle.com
October 17 – WVM Headquarters, Cottonwood, CA Consignment Deadline: October 9
