Test your ag knowledge with this month’s crossword puzzle Page 5
Tips offered for growing a successful vegetable garden in Wyoming Page 6
Monetary gift to UW supports future of Wyoming ranching Page 8
Postcard from the Past recalls an old fishing tale Page 10
In the 22nd snow report for Water Year 2024, the state’s snowpack telemetry data reads 106% of median, with a basin high of 169% and a basin low of 0%. Last year, the state was at 114% and at 95% in 2022. The report and a map displaying basin snow water equivalent percentages of median for the state may be found at wrds.uwyo.edu/wrds/nrcs/ nrcs.html
The 2024 Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show, hosted by the Wyoming Stock Growers Association, will take place June 5-7 at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. Interested individuals are reminded early-bird registration ends on May 31, after which prices will increase. For more information or to register, visit wysga.org or call 307-638-3942.
Hay stocks on Wyoming farms and ranches, as of May 1, totaled 515,000 tons, an increase of 171% from stocks of 190,000 tons on hand last year, according to the May 1 Agricultural Yield Survey conducted by the National Agricultural Statistics Survey’s Mountain Regional Field Office. Hay production for 2023 totaled 2.55 million tons, 6% higher than production in 2022. Disappearance from Dec. 1, 2023 through May 1 was 975,000 tons, compared with 1.11 million tons during the same period a year earlier.
County-level estimates for 2024 sheep and cattle inventories are now available, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. The estimates, based primarily on surveys conducted with farmers and ranchers in January, can be accessed at nass.usda.gov/ quick_stats/. For state specific questions, contact Wyoming State Statistician Leslee Lohrenz at 800-392-3202.
On May 1, U.S. Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-PA)
shared competing proposals for the 2024 Farm Bill.
Stabenow unveiled the Rural Prosperity and Food Security (RPFS) Act, a farm bill proposal containing more than 100 biparti-
san bills, including the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), designed to boost federal support for farmers and rural communities while protecting conservation and climate funding.
According to Stabenow, the RPFS Act will strengthen access to the farm safety net, enhance local and regional food systems, fully protect nutrition assistance and
The Campbell County Rockpile Museum invited the public to a free two-day event celebrating all things sheep at the Third Annual Powder River Basin Sheepherders Festival held in Gillette May 10-11, where attendees gathered to commemorate the rich culture of sheepherding in the West.
The event allowed attendees to learn about the Scottish, Basque, Peruvian, Nepalese and American sheepherders’ cultures, and the Rockpile Museum gave visitors a glimpse of local history.
During the event, the museum opened its doors to the public for free, and visitors were given the opportunity to tour the local museum and several outdoor exhibits.
On April 27, the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame (WCHF) State Board of Directors selected 23 individuals to induct into the WCHF Class of 2024.
The inductees will be honored during the 11th Annual WCHF Induction Ceremony, held Oct. 11-12 at the Ramkota Hotel in Casper. The ceremony is open to the public.
The hall of fame
According to the board’s May 2 press release, regional committees across 10 different areas of Wyoming researched and scored over 50 nominations, then sent their top picks to the WCHF State Board of Directors, which selected this year’s class.
“Formed for historical, cultural, literary and educational purposes, WCHF’s chief goal is to preserve, promote, perpetuate, publish and document Wyoming’s working cowboy and ranching history through researching, profiling and honoring individuals who broke the first trails and introduced the culture to this state,” reads the release.
“WCHF plans to collect, display and preserve the stories, photos and artifacts of such individuals and anything else which will honor and highlight their contributions to our history,” it continues.
Class of 2024
Inductees selected from Region One include Campbell County’s Steve Bossman of Oshoto and Matt Avery and George Amos, both of Gillette, as well as Crook County’s John Jack Shelldorf of Sundance and Weston County’s Matilda “Tillie” Mae Bock Sewell of Osage.
Selected from Region Two was Platte County’s Alva Miller of Chugwater, and from Region Three, Albany County’s
The tour included the Homestead Shack and Ranch Blacksmith Shop. The museum also has two rural schoolhouses on its grounds, as well as a caboose, boxcar, windmill and horse-drawn farm equipment.
“This year’s event was very successful, and I would like to thank Heather Rodriquez, museum educator, for taking over this challenging event and for all of her hard work navigating all of the details,” Museum Director Robert Henning stated. “The event exceeded our expectations.”
Cultural dinner
“The museum hosted a cultural lamb dinner the
Please see SHEEPHERDERS on page 4
UW judging team has successful season
The University of Wyoming’s (UW) collegiate meat judging team competed at four regional contests this spring. At every contest, the team had at least one top five team finish and at least one individual top 10 finish.
This year’s team includes students Leah Allen from Steamboat Springs, Colo.; Jordan Anderson from Centre Hall, Pa.; Kristy Benjamin from Boulder; Kaitlyn Brandenburg from Council Bluffs, Iowa; Aida Hester from Hot Sulphur Springs, Colo.; Assistant Coach Tessa Maurer from Arvada, Colo.; Joe Mills from Peyton, Colo.; Stella Ordahl from Savage, Minn.; Emi Ramirez from Steamboat Springs, Colo.; Hailey Rasmussen from Estes Park, Colo.; Koy Stanley from Midland, Texas; Sarah Turner from Cheyenne and Sam Waller from Basalt, Colo.
Among other successes, the team tied for fifth place at the National Western Meat Judging Contest in Denver.
At the Fort Worth Stock Show in Texas, the team placed fourth overall, and Joe Mills won first in the placings division with a perfect individual score.
At the South Plains Contest in Hereford, Texas, the
At the end of 2023, secretive plans were constructed to outlaw the use of slaughterhouses and prohibit fur sales in the city and county of Denver.
In November, it was confirmed two ballot measures – Prohibition of Slaughterhouses and Prohibition of Fur Products – introduced by Pro-Animal Future (PAF), received enough signatures to make it on the 2024 ballot.
In 2024, Denver voters will be asked to vote on both measures led by PAF, an organization which builds political movements to end factory farming.
“Created by the U.S.-based animal rights organization Pax Fauna, PAF is a collective of voters, volunteers and small
donors building a political movement to end factory farming and is a 501(c)(4) political organization,” reads their website.
PAF is comprised of volunteer animal rights extremists in the Denver area with a handful of actual employees. The organization relies on recruiting volunteers to gather petition signatures in an effort to change laws in Denver.
“PAF’s initiative to ban slaughterhouses in Denver is only the opening barrage in the group’s crusade to eliminate all slaughterhouses in America,” states Protect the Harvest. “The group hopes momentum from its Denver effort will encourage other cities to ban slaughterhouses and want
Lately, people have been asking me if the price of meat is going to keep getting higher. I have to be honest and tell them there are no signs of most meat prices going down, especially beef. National cattle numbers are still too low, and demand for U.S. beef, both domestic and abroad, is high. And remember, grilling season is just starting, which almost always raises prices somewhat.
I was lucky to find a current report from the Texas A&M University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences on meat prices – beef, pork and chicken – for the summer and the rest of the year.
The Texas A&M University Food Price Predictor study uses current market trends, predictive models and historical data to develop a detailed projection of future meat prices.
The Texas A&M authors analyzed market data using statistical models to predict price changes for meat. The study focused on ground beef, Choice chuck roasts and sirloin steaks, all pork chops and boneless chicken breasts.
The food price predictor shows a small increase in beef and pork prices and a decrease in chicken breast prices. From September 2023 to February 2024, ground beef was up 0.45 percent and chuck roast was up 4.68 percent, while pork was down 3.93 percent and boneless chicken breast was down 2.93 percent.
The report says from May to October, 100 percent ground beef will be up 0.1 to 0.7 percent or $5.13-$5.19 per pound. Choice chuck roast will be up 0.7 to 1.3 percent or $7.21-$5.19 per pound. Choice sirloin steak will be up 0.1 to 0.6 percent or $11.72-$11.78 per pound. Pork chops will be up 0.1 to one percent or $4.24-$4.28 per pound, and boneless chicken breast will be down 2.93 percent or $4.06-$3.91 per pound.
The report said, “Price expectations are averaged across the U.S. The report notes retail prices are heavily influenced by retail location, price discounting and other market variables.”
The anticipated slight increase in beef prices, particularly for ground beef and Choice chuck roast can be attributed to the seasonal surge in demand and reduced beef production.
The trend in lower chicken prices is largely due to efficiencies gained in poultry production, increasing production and lower feed costs.
The slight uptick in Choice sirloin steak prices is a response to a shift in consumer preferences toward higherquality cuts brought on by an improving economy and reduced beef supplies. I have noticed more restaurants are pushing sirloin steaks instead of ribeye steaks because of the price.
The modest increase in pork chops prices is because of summer increases in demand and supply levels staying the same.
Greater profitability and lower feed costs should keep chicken supplies plentiful.
And don’t forget lamb as a protein source. Always buy U.S. lamb for its quality, serving size and fresher taste.
There are a number of factors which could change these predictions. We need to realize despite our president telling us inflation is down, it is really high, especially in grocery stores.
Just remember, meat price changes are usually caused by the economy, inflation, numbers of animals processed, cost of feeding the animals, the value of the dollar and consumer demand realizing meat is the best protein source in the world.
In Wyoming, we have always relied on access to America’s public lands for our way of life and our livelihood. It is essential for energy and mineral development, ranching and agriculture, hunting and fishing, hiking and climbing and so much more.
Unelected, unaccountable Washington, D.C. bureaucrats are now jeopardizing Wyoming’s access to this land. They want to hijack Wyoming’s decisionmaking surrounding public land management and transfer it to climate zealots.
The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) new Rock Springs Resource Management Plan (RMP) is one example of Washington, D.C.’s outrageous attacks on Wyoming’s public lands. This misguided plan, which was proposed last year, would block multiple use across three million acres in southwest Wyoming.
It is essentially a land lockdown, turning thousands of acres of federal land in Wyoming from multiple use into non-use. This is exactly what radical environmentalists have been demanding.
Both of us questioned Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland about the Rock Springs RMP in the House and Senate Natural Resources committees. Haaland’s cluelessness about the Rock Springs RMP was remarkable.
During the House committee hearing, Haaland was asked directly about whether she had heard of the Rock Springs RMP.
Stunningly, she replied, “No, I have not.”
The next day in the Senate, Haaland was pressed further about this outra-
geous proposal. She dodged the questions.
In both hearings, Haaland displayed an unacceptable lack of familiarity with the Rock Springs RMP and the problems it presents for Wyoming. We told Haaland she may not be familiar with this proposed rule, but the people of Wyoming certainly are, and we strongly oppose it.
The Rock Springs RMP is a classic example of government regulators snatching failure from the jaws of success. It was intended to
Gov. Mark Gordon announced Wyoming has filed two lawsuits challenging new rules from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which target Wyoming’s coal and natural-gas fired power plants.
Wyoming joined a coalition of 24 states challenging the Biden administration’s recently released power plant regulations. The states argue the new rule exceeds EPA’s authority and ignores the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2022 decision vacating Obama-era greenhouse gas limits for power plants.
The suit asks the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit to review and declare the regulations unlawful.
On May 8, Wyoming and 22 other states filed a lawsuit challenging another EPA rule which would require certain air emissions from coal-fired plants to be reduced drastically, with no corresponding health benefits and with great costs to Wyoming and its industries.
“The Biden administration’s EPA seems determined to use unlawful rulemaking to continue its attacks on Wyoming’s core industries,” Gordon said. “The only goal appears to be destroying Wyoming’s fossil fuel industry by further burdening our power plants, increasing costs to consumers and threatening the stability of our nationʼs electrical grid.”
On May 29, the University of Wyoming (UW) Extension Sheep Task Force will host a free workshop on managing parasites from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Fremont County Extension Office in Lander.
The hands-on workshop is designed specifically for producers to ensure they have the most recent researchbacked information on protecting their herds.
Workshop topics will include FAMACHA training, targeted grazing, predator management and an operation tour.
For more information or to register, visit tiny.cc/ STFFAMACHA or contact Micah Most at 307-6847522 or McKenna Julian at 307-783-0570.
The Wyoming Wildland Fire Interagency Briefing will take place on May 31 from 9:30-10:15 a.m. at the Wyoming Forestry Division’s maintenance and fabrication shop in Cheyenne.
Speakers will include Wyoming State Forester Kelly Norris, Gov. Mark Gordon, Sublette County Fire Warden Shad Cooper, Wyoming Bureau of Land Management Director Andrew Archuleta and U.S. Forest Service’s Chris Campbell.
For more information, contact Melissa DeFratis at melissa.deFratis1@wyo.gov or call 307-777-6434.
U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Postmaster General Louis DeJoy agreed to pause the planned changes to the mail delivery network which would have closed the Cheyenne and Casper processing and distribution centers following repeated calls from U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY).
USPS agreed to temporarily pause reforms which would have left the Cowboy State without a single processing and distribution center and forced mail being sent from one Wyoming community to another to be sent to Colorado or Montana for sorting.
“I am encouraged USPS finally listened to the people of Wyoming’s concerns and halted its disastrous plans to recategorize the Cheyenne and Casper processing and distribution centers,” said Lummis.
“Folks across the Cowboy State rely on timely mail delivery for their medicine, to pay their bills and to communicate with one another. I hope USPS continues to think about the true impacts this restructuring would have on our country’s most rural communities before downsizing any of our state’s processing facilities,” she added.
For producers concerned about discolored wheatgrass in pastures and fields, University of Wyoming (UW) Extension has released a free digital publication on how to identify and treat black grass bug infestations.
Especially in Eastern Wyoming, black grass bugs can cause significant damage to cool season grasses, severely reducing the nutrient content of livestock forage and preventing seed formation.
“This insect species can become a serious pest of wheatgrass pastures which are important either for spring grazing or later harvesting for hay,” says Scott Schell, UW Extension entomologist and co-author of the new publication.
These small, cold-tolerant insects emerge in early spring and feed on the intermediate and crested wheatgrasses common in Eastern Wyoming. The discoloration and poor growth caused by their feeding is easily mistaken for damage caused by drought or frost.
The new publication presents various options for control, including grazing practices, mowing, prescribed burning and chemical treatment. Depending on when the infestation is detected, or whether the goal is to prevent a future infestation, recommended strategies may vary.
To view the new publication, visit bit.ly/black-grassbug-wy. Contact Schell at sschell@uwyo.edu or 307-7662508 with questions.
The Wyoming State Geological Survey (WSGS) has a new website, featuring a modern look and easier access from a mobile device. The website, which can be found at main.wsgs. wyo.gov/, is the result of a public survey in 2023 which indicated how the site is used.
“While our website may look different, its objective remains unchanged and this is to share Wyoming’s unique geology,” says Dr. Erin Campbell, WSGS director and state geologist. “The website is one of the main ways we engage with residents, visitors, educators, industry, government and anyone interested in our state. We hope these improvements benefit those interactions.”
The new website remains a work in progress, and the WSGS welcomes public feedback. Send suggestions to Christina George at christina.george@wyo.gov.
team earned second place in the lamb judging division.
In their final spring competition at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Aida Hester achieved a perfect score in the specifications division.
“This group is exceptionally in tune with team camaraderie. They’re continually setting goals together and building a family and network that is also very competitive,” said Head Coach and Coordinator McKensie Phillips.
Meat judging students can judge at a collegiate level for a year, starting with the spring semester from January through March and concluding
night before the festival, featuring a culinary delight,” Rodriguez explained. “The dinner told a story of cultural cuisine from around the world, featuring five courses, each from a different country.”
The first course, an American lamb appetizer, was presented by Kelly Barlow, who spoke about the CC Wool
with a second season in the fall. Contests evaluate both individual performance and overall team performance.
In each division, students are assessed on their ability to accurately judge the quality of different cuts of meat.
For the past two years, the UW meat judging team has achieved success in both individual and team competitions and maintained large teams of 10 to 12 students. Last year’s team was the only American team to be invited to Australia’s Intercollegiate Meat Judging Association Wagga Conference.
“We plan to come back very strong in the fall to
Grower’s, their history and the Lamb-O-Rama, held in downtown Gillette in the 1960s.
“Fifth-generation sheep rancher, blogger and employer of Peruvian sheepherders Marie McClaren from Kemmerer described Peruvian sheepherders to the 66 guests,” Rodriguez stated. McClaren shared a few
2024 team – Pictured is the University of Wyoming’s 2024 Meat Judging Team at the Fort Worth Stock Show including, from left to right in the back row, Assistant Coach Tessa Maurer, Joe Mills, Stella Ordahl, Hailey Rasmussen, Jordan Anderson, Sam Waller, Koy Stanley and Coach and Coordinator McKensie Phillips. Pictured from left to right in the front row are Leah Allen, Aida Hester, Emi Ramirez, Kaitlyn Brandenburg, Sarah Turner and Kristy Benjamin. UW Ag News photo
finish out the second half of the season,” Phillips concluded.
Maya Kate Gilmore is a
fun stories about Peruvian culture and cuisine as the second course was served, which was Peruvian lamb skewers.
The Billings Caledonian Pipes and Drums entertained guests before they enjoyed a delicious Scottish Shepherd’s Pie.
“We opened the large bay doors, and music echoed
FEEDERS
Dallas Talbott of Laramie and Norman Hanks of Garrett, as well as Laramie County’s Ronald McDonald of Burns.
Converse County’s Byron Eugene Wollen of Douglas was selected from Region Four, and Johnson County’s John Gammon of Buffalo was selected from Region Five.
Nominees hailing from Region Six include Park County’s George Brown of Cody and Washakie County’s Samuel Reed Hampton of Worland.
reporter and editor of UW Ag News. This article was originally published in UW Ag News on May 10.
across the building. By the time the nostalgic music ended, there was not a dry eye in the room,” Rodriguez said.
“It was a magical moment for all of us.”
The next course celebrated Mexico with a spicy Mexican lamb stew, while Rodriquez spoke about Mexican herders and arborglyphs.
“In Southern Wyoming, Mexican herders – often from New Mexico – would carve
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Three individuals from Fremont County were selected for Region Eight, including Richard Ellis and Charles Randall “Tuffy” Van Patten of Lander and Carl Riley of Riverton, as well as Hot Springs County’s Jim Dowdy of Thermopolis. Uinta County’s Ida Kaye Harvey Sadlier of Robertson was the sole nominee from Region Nine, while five individuals were selected from Region 10.
in Aspen trees as a way to denote their time herding,” she mentioned.
Following Rodriquez was David Romtvedt, a Basque historian, musician and American poet, who played his accordion and talked about Basque culture while event attendees enjoyed a piece of Basque cheesecake.
“To end the cultural dinner, we all tried Pacharan, a liqueur from Spain, which was flown in specially for the occasion,” Rodriguez concluded. “It was a delightful evening, and we are very thankful for all of those who attended and the Prime Rib Restaurant for preparing the delicious meal.”
Activities
Honoring the history of sheepherding in the Powder River Basin, the museum hosted a variety of activities.
The sheepherding event allowed guests to relive history in a sheep camp, offering a variety of food, music, art and cultural activities, including sheep and dog demonstrations.
“Each year we have grown – from only having two wagons our first year to nine this year,” Rodriguez stated. “The growth and support behind the event have been amazing. This year we were thrilled to have Mike Miller, along with a group of friends and family, trail approximately 160 head of sheep to the event grounds.”
The six-mile trek from the L-W Sheep Camp west of Gillette to the Rockpile Museum delighted the community as they watched Miller and his border collies move the herd through the city.
“We have received great feedback and have expanded activities each year. This year we estimated about 600 individuals attended,” Rodriguez added.
Celebrating sheep in style
Artist Anna Anderson from Calico Farm Fiber Arts was also at the event and held a class in which participants created their own sheep or highland cow out of wool fiber.
“It’s a pleasure to introduce individuals to the world of fiber art,” Anderson said. “I am extremely lucky to have fallen into it by chance years ago.” Anderson’s fiber hobby
They include Sublette County’s John Budd and Gary Lozier of Big Piney, Kevin Campbell of Bondurant and Steven James of Daniel, as well as Teton County’s Norman Rezin “Bill” Tanner of Jackson. No individuals were selected from Region Seven. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
turned into a business more than 12 years ago with the rescue of six Pygora fiber goats.
“I knew nothing about shearing or how to utilize the fleece,” she added. “However, shortly after rescuing the herd, my neighbor gave me a spinning wheel and introduced me to fiber arts. I fell in love with it and soon began the Wooly Rescue for fiberbearing animals.”
Anderson continues to rescue fiber animals in need, as well as an occasional horse or dog needing a home.
Recently, she and her family moved to Montana and are in the process of setting up their ranch.
Anderson enjoys traveling across the West spreading the joy of fiber art and joined the Gillette festival as a vendor with her mother and sister. In tow was their 11-day-old mini-Nigerian goat, Pip, who was a crowd-pleaser.
Another vendor attending the event was local Fiber Artist Shelly Ketcheson of Wright who started her business Wicked Tint Yarns in 2019 and has been dying fiber ever since.
“I have explored all forms of fiber arts, but what I keep coming back to are weaving and dyeing yarns,” she said. “The exploration of color and how colors interplay with one another fascinates me.”
Ketcheson specializes in naturally-dyed yarn, knowing exactly what changes to pH will yield different colors.
“The Lamb Lady” Gwendolyn “Gwen” Kitzan from Kitzan Family Farms, LLC, located near Nisland, S.D. attended the event.
Kitzan Family Farms, LLC sources local, delicious, nutritious and sustainable South Dakota lamb and lamb products.
“Being fourth and fifth generation farmers, we take care of the land so we can pass it along to the sixth generation,” Kitzan said. “We offer whole lambs, mutton, lamb cuts, sheep pelts, frozen meals, soaps, lotions and lip balms. We make a point to use the whole animal.”
Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
be the product of 12 years of hard work by local communities, local stakeholders, land managers, ranchers, conservationists and energy producers.
Instead, the Biden administration ignored more than a decade’s worth of practical, Wyoming solutions. In its place, it substituted a punishing Washington, D.C. mandate which could severely restrict mining, oil and natural gas development, recreation, grazing and most other economically viable activities. Wyoming has more than 18 million acres of BLM land. We have been managing, developing, grazing, producing energy from and respecting these lands for
to send a strong message across the nation.”
Protect the Harvest is an organization with a mission to inform and educate Americans about the activities of animal extremist groups, anti-agriculture groups and other non-governmental organizations who threaten agriculture, animal welfare, agricultural traditions and way of life.
Banning slaughterhouses
According to Denver’s Office of the Clerk and Recorder, the following title was accepted, and the ballot measure states, “Shall the voters of the city and county of Denver adopt an ordinance prohibiting slaughterhouses, and in connection, beginning Jan 1, 2026, prohibiting the construction, maintenance or use of slaughterhouses within the city and requiring the city to prioritize residents whose employment is affected by the ordinance in workforce training or employment assistance programs.”
The ordinance targets facilities which process meat defined as live-
stock under Colorado law, including beef, lamb, poultry, pork, etc.
If the measure passes, Superior Farms, Inc., the largest lamb processor in the U.S., will be impacted by the change, as it is located within Denver city limits.
Years ago, several livestock production facilities operated just across the river from the Denver Stockyards where cattle and lamb were fed, then walked over the bridge into the packing plant.
Superior Farms, Inc., an employee-owned lamb abattoir, has been in business for decades and employs around 170 workers. It is the only slaughterhouse inside the city, although several other processing plants for beef and pork operate inside the city limits of Denver, as well.
Rick Stott, chief executive officer of Superior Farms, Inc., discussed the proposed initiative with MEAT+POULTRY during the Annual Meat Conference held in April.
“The goal of the peo-
a very long time. We know how to responsibly manage them so our grandchildren can enjoy them.
Biden’s BLM ignores these facts as well as the law by pushing forward with a radical agenda.
Sadly, the problem of overregulation does not end with the Rock Springs RMP.
Another example of President Biden’s onslaught of regulatory overreach is
ple who are proposing this is to eliminate animal ag in the state of Colorado. That’s their stated goal. They took it off of their website for now, but this is what they want to do,” Stott states.
“Superior Farms, Inc. is the only lamb company with a nationwide footprint that services national retailers.”
He continues, “If the plant shuts down, not only would jobs be eliminated, about one-half of Superior’s lamb suppliers would have to find another packing plant to go to, making it devastating for the American lamb industry.”
Passing of the ballot measure in November would cost the city of Denver $70 million to compensate the company for forced closure.
In a statement released by the National Western Stock Show (NWSS) Board of Directors, “The proposed ban is a direct attack on agriculture, not only statewide but nationally, and we are deeply concerned this is a beachhead for the industry. The ripple effect could embolden a similar statewide effort.”
In 2022, the Colorado Department of Agricul-
the BLM’s sweeping Public Lands Rule. This rule, which was recently finalized, will do great damage to Wyoming’s communities and economy.
Ranchers who graze their cattle, energy producers who power our nation and everyday Americans who enjoy the use of our public lands will pay the price for Biden’s all-out war on our Wyoming and Western way of life.
ture reported Colorado was home to 430,000 sheep and lambs of all classes and is second in the nation for wool production, second for market sheep and lamb production and third for overall sheep and lamb production.
The sheep industry in Colorado makes up a good portion of the state’s $5 billion livestock industry.
The measure would also require the city to help slaughterhouse workers with workforce training and employment assistance programs, but it is unclear how many employees might be affected if it is approved.
“This is not just about us,” Stott says. “This is about the entire protein industry. If they can do this in the Cowtown of Denver, then they can probably do it in Omaha, Neb. They can do it in Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland, etc. – all of the towns that are very liberal and have packing plants.”
Banning fur sales
The second measure states, “Shall the voters of the city and county of Denver adopt an ordinance concerning a prohibition of fur products, and in connection, beginning
Wyoming remains the gold standard for the responsible use of our public lands, while also being one of the largest energyproducing states in the country. We intend to keep fighting against the Biden administration’s mandate madness, which aims to fundamentally transform this great Republic one regulation at a time. We will continue to introduce legis-
July 1, 2025, prohibiting the manufacture, distribution, display, sale or trade of certain animal fur products in the city and providing limited exceptions to the prohibition.”
The potential law would go into effect in 2025 and give exemptions for secondhand fur and Indigenous fur trading. Boulder, Colo. passed a similar measure in 2021.
The fur ballot initiative would only “target the continued factory farming and trapping of animals for luxury fashion sales,” according to Pro-Animal Future Spokesperson Phoenix Huber.
But, NWSS says the nofur initiative would affect a broad range of products, including coats, handbags, wallets, shoes, gloves, rugs and cowboy hats. As a result, many NWSS vendors would be unable to attend and sell their goods at the show or anywhere else in Denver.
The NWSS Board of Directors has authorized funds to be invested into stopping both ballot measures this November.
Other state initiatives
lation to reverse these rules and replace them with a balanced approach which puts Wyoming, not Washington, D.C, in the driver’s seat.
U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) can be reached by visiting barrasso.senate. gov and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) can be reached by visiting hageman.house.gov. This opinion column was originally published in Cowboy State Daily on May 13.
The moratorium is set to expire at the end of this year, but Voters For Animal Rights are working to keep the prohibition in place. Across the country in California, not only did the state recently pass Proposition 12 and ban fur sales in 2023, it is currently proposing a ban on octopus factory farming. It also has ballot measures in Berkley, Calif. and Sonoma County, which would ban factory farms within the city and county.
While Berkeley, Calif. currently does not have factory farms, if the measure passes, a horse racing track will be shut down. These initiatives are a step to ban industrial animal agriculture, which can be replicated elsewhere if passed and have a ripple effect throughout the entire country.
Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
The state of New York has similar legislation prohibiting the opening of new slaughterhouses within 1,500 feet of residences throughout New York City, which has been in place since 2008.
A Wyoming ranching couple’s $2.5 million gift to the University of Wyoming (UW) will empower the university’s Ranch Management and Agricultural Leadership (RMAL) Program, fueling impactful change and supporting future leaders in ranch management and agriculture statewide.
The transformational gift was given by Art and Catherine Nicholas, Wyoming ranchers and investors who own Wagonhound Land and Livestock near Douglas. It creates the Wyoming Ranching Excellence Fund at the UW College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources (CALSNR) and was doubled to $5 million by a state matching investment from the Wyoming Legislature.
“Wagonhound Land and Livestock is thrilled to partner with UW with our investment in the RMAL Program,” says Andrea Nicholas Perdue, chief executive officer (CEO) of Wagonhound Holdings. “As stewards of the land and advocates for sustainable agriculture, we are excited to contribute to the cultivation of future leaders in the industry.”
The Wyoming Ranching Excellence Fund will support students, faculty, program ambassadors, industry engagement, a yearly Ranch Managers Summit and more.
The RMAL Program Initially launched in 2021, the multidisciplinary RMAL Program provides future generations of ranchers and agricultural producers with in-depth, hands-on programs to honor the tried-
and-true, while developing technologies of tomorrow –steeped in history, yet leading the way to the future.
Since its inception, the RMAL Program has received significant private support.
“I am honored and excited UW is the recipient of such an impactful gift which will promote the success of our faculty, students and communities working in ranch management and agriculture,” UW
President Ed Seidel says. “We are beyond grateful to Art and Catherine for their generosity.”
The nature of ranch management and agricultural leadership today requires professionals to have an integrated understanding across a broad array of disciplines while demonstrating strong interpersonal skills allowing for effective teamwork, collaboration and development and retention of talent – all of which are addressed in this program.
The program provides a practical, real-world, multidisciplinary education to Wyoming’s students and professionals in ranch management and agricultural leadership. It seeks to integrate classroom learning with practical experience and to connect students with producers and industry professionals.
The program also facilitates an annual seminar series called Ranching in the West.
“This generous gift from Art and Catherine burns the Wagonhound brand on UW’s RMAL Program in perpetuity,” says Kelly Crane, interim dean of UW CALSNR. “This
partnership provides the capacity and incentives to deliver a truly exceptional ranch management program at UW.”
Students within the program learn animal science, rangeland management, agricultural business and economics, agricultural communication, organizational leadership and political science. They also are prepared as employees, managers and leaders through courses which address communications, conflict, ethics, collaboration, human resources, policy and much more.
The program draws on courses in existing UW departments as well as program-specific courses, such as public policy and regulatory considerations for ranch and rangeland management, integrated ranch and rangeland problemsolving and planning and leadership and collaboration strategies to address contemporary challenges in agriculture.
“This collaboration underscores our, and UW’s, commitment to innovation, education and the continued prosperity of Wyoming’s agricultural heritage,” Nicholas Perdue says.
The program meets the needs not only of students, but also members of the larger community within the state who are engaged in ranch management and agriculture. It offers professional development for current ranch managers and agricultural leaders, a bachelor’s degree in ranch management and agricultural leadership and graduate degrees and advanced certifications.
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Friday - June 7 Qualifying Round 9:30 AM 5:30 PM Awards Banquet
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The curriculum is guided by experts – ranch owners, agency professionals, agribusiness leaders, industry executives, elected officials, academics and UW alumni.
Each level of education – certification, bachelor’s or master’s degrees –is designed to incorporate workforce development, practical experiences, research-based technical knowledge, real-world problem-solving and making connections with industry leaders throughout the West.
For example, students working on their bachelor’s degrees complete three internships with government agencies, working ranches, nonprofits, private organizations and/or associations important to Western livestock agriculture. Complementary programs
UW also offers many other ways for ranching and agricultural professions to meet, network and exchange information and best practices which complement the RMAL Program.
For example, the Ranching in the West Seminar Series is held at community colleges throughout the state. The series includes a one-day leadership summit and is attended by professionals and students alike. The series offers insights into how Wyoming ranches, businesses and agencies are dealing with real-world challenges.
“With this gift, we also embrace the challenge to ensure our program reflects the Wagonhound ranch’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation and success,” Crane says.
These seminars are
open to both UW students and the public and offer a preview of topics to be addressed in the undergraduate program, including public land partnerships, energy development, family-run businesses and water management.
The idea for the RMAL Program began in 2018 at the UW Partnership Summit which took place at the Wagonhound ranch. Its goal was to enhance the relationships between UW and Wyoming ranchers and land managers so UW could be more responsive to the needs of the industry.
It was a venue for UW leaders to listen to the contemporary challenges and opportunities facing ranchers and ranch managers.
This program also builds on the RMAL Center launched in 2021 with funding from Farm Credit Services of America and the state of Wyoming.
“Art and Catherine’s gift, matched by the state, stands as a testament to the enduring commitment to excellence in ranching and agriculture,” says John Stark, president and CEO of the UW Foundation.
“Thanks to this partnership, we will cultivate a legacy of leadership, sustainability and prosperity for generations to come.”
Wagonhound Land and Livestock Wagonhound Land and Livestock is a 300,000-acre ranch raising Red Angus and Quarter Horses, located south of Douglas on Wagonhound Creek. The ranch also includes farm, outfitting and guest operations.
The Nicholases have owned the ranch since 1999. Their brand, which dates back to territorial days, is the quarter circle,
bar, quarter circle. The couple has an expansive Western art and book collection, and they support the Traditional Cowboy Arts Association.
Art serves as a director emeritus on the board of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and the investment committee of the American Quarter Horse Association. Catherine is a director of the American Quarter Horse Foundation and serves on the board of the Cowgirl Hall of Fame. They both have a background in investing.
Art grew up on a cattle ranch in Nebraska and, while in the Navy, he moved to San Diego, Calif., where he earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from San Diego State University. He has over 40 years of experience in investing, co-founding NicholasApplegate Capital Management and serving as chairman and CEO. Before this, he was a portfolio and bank manager.
Catherine has over 30 years of experience as an investment analyst and portfolio manager. She founded Nicholas Investment Partners, which is advised by Art. Previously, she served as global chief investment officer for Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration, cum laude and her Master of Business Administration in finance, both from the University of Southern California.
The Nicholases also have supported the UW rodeo team and the American Heritage Center. This article was originally published by UW News on May 14.
develop the food and farm system, all while rejecting harmful policies which would undercut local and state authority and restrict the Secretary of Agriculture’s authority to respond to emergent agricultural needs.
“The foundation of every successful farm bill is built on holding together the broad, bipartisan coalition of farmers, rural communities, nutrition and hunger advocates, researchers, conservationists and the climate community,” Stabenow states.
By investing in nutrition assistance and incentivizing farmers to boost access to fruits and vegetables in their communities, Stabenow says the bill will help more working families make ends meet and improve the overall quality of life for people who live in rural communities.
Like the House proposal, the Senate overview is accompanied by separate title-by-title summaries, including bipartisan bills put forth during this Congress.
Summary
The RPFS Act would improve the quality of life in rural communities by strengthening rural healthcare, childcare and education. It would also create well-paying jobs, expand access to high-speed internet and lower costs for families and businesses.
Additionally, the RPFS Act supports increasing the commodity crop reference prices by at least five percent, which triggers payments under the Price Loss Coverage and Agriculture Risk Coverage programs.
The bill supports protecting producers, consumers and the economy from devastating animal disease by increasing funding for early detection, rapid response and recovery from animal disease outbreaks, including highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The Senate’s proposal mirrors the House bill, which recommends perma-
minority institutions. The bill would ensure the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program reflects the realities of how Americans buy and prepare food by continuing the five-year reevaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan and keep kids fed by building on significant investments to end childhood hunger through appropriations bills.
Such appropriation bills include the American Rescue Plan, Access to Baby Formula Act, Keep Kids Fed Act, Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act.
Stabenow’s proposal strengthens the farm and ranch stress assistance network, supporting farmers’ mental health and managing stress as they navigate one of the riskiest businesses in the world.
The RPFS Act builds on the historic progress made for rural communities, families and farmers in addressing the climate crisis through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the Inflation Reduction Act, the American Rescue Plan and others.
Comments
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane says the organization is pleased with the House Ag Committee’s version of the 2024 Farm Bill, stating Thompson’s summary focuses on voluntary conservation programs, animal health provisions and
investments in food security which support broader national security.
Lane notes, “The Senate Ag Committee’s framework released by Stabenow lacks producer input and includes many provisions which could be harmful to livestock producers.”
Ranking Member John Boozman (R-AR) says the release of the majority’s framework was a welcome development, and he remains optimistic real progress on the farm bill can still happen in this Congress.
Boozman says Republicans will continue to solicit input from stakeholders as they consider ideas in Stabenow’s bill.
American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall commented on the release of the overview of the 2024 Farm Bill, stating, “AFBF appreciates the House and Senate Agriculture committees’ progress to enact a new, modernized farm bill this year.”
He continues, “We’re encouraged to see both proposals acknowledge programs farmers and ranchers across the country require for additional investment in the face of falling commodity prices and increased inflation. And, both proposals recognize the important role farmers and ranchers play in protecting our land, water and air through voluntary, working lands conservation programs.”
Conclusion
The House Committee on Agriculture and the
Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry’s framework for the 2024 Farm Bill emphasizes enhancements to the farmer safety net and reallocates IRA conservation funds to the conservation title of the farm bill.
It also includes updates to the nutrition title programs, increases funding for export promotion and seeks to limit states’ ability to impose conditions or standards on animal agriculture production.
However, the Senate’s approach emphasizes improvements to the farmer safety net and maintains the 2018 Farm Bill’s approach to nutritional assistance.
The Senate’s farm bill includes introducing a specialty crop insurance subtitle, supporting domestic biofuels and biobased product manufacturing.
However, the House farm bill proposal clarifies state and local governments cannot impose, directly or indirectly, as a condition for sale or consumption, a condition or standard on the production of covered livestock unless the livestock is physically located within such state or local government, which takes aim at Proposition 12.
Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
On May 10, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will pay milk producers with highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) affected premises to improve biosecurity in order to reduce the spread of the virus and will compensate them for lost milk production in affected herds.
H5N1 had been transmitted by wild birds to poultry, until late March when it was discovered in dairy herds. USDA immediately began to restrict the interstate movement of dairy cattle and require a negative test of cattle which move interstate. State governments have also taken action.
In a call to reporters with Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra, Vilsack said USDA’s top priority is to contain avian influenza and work with producers, public health officials, the industry and other federal agencies to share knowledge.
He said USDA is working on a vaccine for both poultry and cattle
to stop the spread of the virus.
Vilsack emphasized both milk and meat are safe, and Becerra said the risk to the public from the outbreak remains low.
Both USDA and HHS are engaged in trying to keep farm families and farm workers safe.
An HHS official said farm workers will be paid $75 if they agree to be tested and to participate in an interview about what occupational experiences might predispose them to the disease. The official noted previous studies have shown workers who engage in the culling of poultry might be vulnerable.
The assistance represents a value of up to $28,000 per premises to support increased biosecurity activities over the next 120 days.
In addition, USDA will compensate producers with positive herds for loss of milk production, using funding available from the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees and FarmRaised Fish Program and work with states to limit movement of lactating cattle.
High Plains Showcase
Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024
UW Marian H Rochelle Gateway Center • Laramie, WY
Deadline: Friday, June 14th, 2024
Oregon Trail Classic
Tuesday, August 6th & Wednesday, August 7th, 2024
Weborg 21 Centre • Gering, NE
Deadline: Saturday, July 13th, 2024
Frontier Fall Roundup
Thursday, September 12th, 2024
Goshen Co Rendezvous Center • Torrington, WY
Deadline: Friday, August 23rd, 2024
As temperatures rise and the threat of a hard freeze passes, many Wyoming residents may begin planning their vegetable gardens.
Although gardening in Wyoming comes with a host of challenges, growers can still produce delicious veggies with proper planning and care.
Selecting and starting crops
One of the main challenges of growing vegetables in Wyoming is the state’s short growing season and moderate summer temperatures. Therefore, it is important for growers to select crops suited for this environment.
According to the University of Wyoming’s (UW) Gardening Vegetables in Wyoming guide, written by UW Extension Horticulture Specialist Karen Panter, Wyo-
ming growers should choose vegetables with a short maturation period or those developed in the northern U.S. and Canada.
These include radishes, leaf lettuce, head lettuce, spinach, cabbage, onions, cauliflower, beets, carrots and peas.
Panter notes seeds can be started indoors until the danger of frost has passed, then seedlings can be transplanted outdoors when temperatures start to rise.
“A gardener can gain a few days or even weeks of growing time by setting out transplants at the normal time for outdoor seed planting,” she explains. “Transplanting inevitably causes some slowing of plant growth, but it is temporary. Most plants recover quickly and resume growing if they are given
“Harvesting should be done frequently and at the proper stage of vegetable maturity. It is often the most rewarding part of vegetable gardening, but a common mistake is allowing produce to become overmature, losing the best flavor or appetizing texture.” – Karen Panter, University of Wyoming
good care.”
Plants that do not recover well from transplanting if their roots are damaged in the process include sweet corn, cucumbers, melons, squash and pumpkins.
Location and protection
When transplanting seedlings outside, growers should select a garden environment that will favor growth of their vegetables.
Panter recommends locating a garden on a gentle slope facing south, southeast or southwest so soil will warm up more quickly.
“Choose a spot in full sun,” she says. “Vegetables planted on the south side of a building often mature sooner because of the reflected heat from the building and possible protection from the wind.”
In Wyoming, it is critical to protect gardens from the notorious wind, so gardens which are not located next to a building may need a different kind of windbreak. This may include a fence, trees or shrubs, which should be downwind from the garden equal to 10 times the height of the windbreak.
Panter reminds growers to avoid placing their garden
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too close to trees or shrubs whose roots will compete with vegetables for water and nutrients.
Because Wyoming weather is often unpredictable, growers should also incorporate a plan for frost protection. This may include a fabric cover, clear plastic covers placed over wire hoops or portable cold frames.
Garden preparation
Before transplanting seedlings into the outdoor garden, growers should first prepare soil.
“Organic matter is usually lacking in native Wyoming soils,” admits Panter. “Pre-plant incorporation of a high-quality, well-composted organic matter will lighten heavy clay soils, improve soil structure, allow better water penetration, allow air to reach root systems and provide essential nutrients.”
She further notes organic matter helps sandy soils improve water holding capacity and aids soil microorganisms, which helps make nutrients more available for plants.
To incorporate these benefits, growers may consider mulching with an organic matter source such as grass
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clippings, sawdust, straw, peat moss, wood chips, leaves, quality compost and even newspaper.
“Organic mulches should be applied only after the soil has warmed up in the late spring or early summer, otherwise, the soil temperature will not warm up enough for proper plant growth,” Panter explains.
“When using organic materials, spread a two- to three-inch layer around the plants in mid-June. Keep it in place through the growing season,” she adds. “Additional fertilizer will probably be needed, especially nitrogen, because using these materials may cause nutrient deficiencies to develop in vegetable plants. So, always fertilize when organic mulches are used.”
Panter notes Wyoming gardeners should pay particular attention to fertilization of their gardens, regardless of using organic mulch or not, and she recommends conducting an early-season soil test to determine which nutrients and how much fertilizer will be needed.
Planting tips
After adequate planning and preparation, growers can finally start transplanting seedlings into their outdoor garden.
While doing this, Panter reminds them of a few considerations.
First, she notes perennial vegetables, such as rhubarb and asparagus, should be planted along one side of the garden so they are out of the way of tilling and other soil
preparations. She also recommends planting tall plants, like corn and tomatoes, on the north side of the garden so they don’t shade smaller crops.
“Try to group plants by the length of their growing period,” she says. “Separate quick crops from those requiring a full season to mature. Early-maturing crops can be planted in the same row or between rows of latermaturing crops.”
“For example, radishes can be planted in the same row with transplanted cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli. Lettuce may be grown where tomatoes, peppers and corn will be planted later,” she adds.
Crops should be spaced according to their seed labels, and it is good practice to leave enough room between rows to walk and kneel during the growing season.
Once plants begin to grow, Panter encourages gardeners to partake in proper watering, regular weeding, frequent pest monitoring, proper fertilization and frequent harvesting.
“Harvesting should be done frequently and at the proper stage of vegetable maturity. It is often the most rewarding part of vegetable gardening, but a common mistake is allowing produce to become overmature, losing the best flavor or appetizing texture,” Panter concludes.
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
May 17-19 7 Triangle 7 Cattle Co., LLC Artificial Insemination Clinic, Akron, Colo. For more information, visit 7triangle7.com or call 970-481-3921.
May 17-19 Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show, Sheridan. For more information, visit leathercraftersjournal.com
May 18 Wyoming State Fair Volunteer Days, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, contact the Wyoming State Fair Office at 307-358-2398.
May 18 Public Dart Tournament, Fort Caspar, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, visit wystatefair.com
May 21 USDA Beginning Farmer and Rancher Veterans Webinar Series, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Zoom. For more information or to register, visit nrcs.usda.gov/events/ usda-beginning-farmer-and-rancher-veterans-webinar-series-1
May 21 Neighborhood Watch Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Wright Town Hall, Wright. For more information, contact the Campbell County Sheriff’s Office at 307-682-7271.
May 25 National Junior Angus Association and Angus Journal Photography Contest Deadline. For more information or to submit photos, visit angus.org/ njaa/home/contests
May 25 Wyoming Food Bank Distribution, 9-11 a.m., Grandstands Parking Lot, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, visit wystatefair.com
May 28 University of Wyoming Extension Breeding Days, Campbell County. For more information, contact Kim Fry at kim.fry@campbellcountywy.gov or 307-682-7281.
May 29 University of Wyoming Extension Breeding Days, Fremont County. For more information, contact Chance Marshall at cmarsha1@uwyo.edu or 307-332-1018.
May 29 University of Wyoming Extension Sheep Task Force Managing Parasites Workshop, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Fremont County Extension Office, Lander. For more information or to register, visit tiny.cc/STFFAMACHA or contact Micah Most at 307-684-7522 or McKenna Julian at 307-783-0570.
May 31 Wyoming Wildland Fire Interagency Briefing, 9:30-10:15 a.m., Wyoming Forestry Division Maintenance and Fabrication Shop, Cheyenne. For more information, contact Melissa DeFratis at melissa.defratis1@wyo.gov or call 307-777-6434.
Bower, Keith - Worland 1 Red Cow, 1320# $13500 1 Red Cow, 1160# $12500 Hamilton Ranch Inc. - Hyattville
1 Blk Cow, 1355# $13450
1 Blk Cow, 1520# $13000
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1200# $12650
1 Blk Cow, 1520# $12600 Swing, Bryce - Worland
1 Blk Cow, 1090# $13300
1 Blk Cow, 1420# $13200 Pierce, Karl - Deaver
1 BWF Cow, 1165# $13300 1 Blk Cow, 1235# $12350 Mueller, Terry - Shell 1 Blk Cow, 1165# $13150 Pierce, Sr., Kenny - Deaver
3 Blk Cows, avg. 1170# $12900
1 Blk Cow, 1230# $11050 TD Farms, Inc. - Worland
3 Blk Cows, avg. 1120# $12850
3 Blk Cows, avg. 1173# $12550 Orchard Ranch LLC - Ten Sleep
1 DairyX Cow, 1660# $12800 K Triangle LLC - Thermopolis
2 Blk Cows, avg. 1255#$ $12700 Friday, Sandford - Arapahoe
1 BWF Cow, 1365# $12600 Sage Creek Land & Cattle - Worland
1 Blk Cow, 1690# $12600 Donley, Janell - Worland
1 SimX Cow, 1525# $12550 Brubaker Sheep Co. LLC - Ten Sleep
1 Blk Cow, 1370# $12500 Lungen, Luke - Worland
1 Red Cow, 1425# $11800
Nye, Barry - Cody
1 Blk Cow, 1040# $11700 HEIFERS Orchard Ranch LLC - Ten Slep
17 CharX Blk Hfrs, avg. 570# $28600 Mills, Irene - Thermopolis
4 Red/Blk Hfrs, avg. 665# $24900
Pascoe, John - Powell
5 Hrfd Hfrs, avg. 709# $21250
May 31
June 1
June 3-8
Wyoming State Fair Endowment Fund Golf Tournament, 8 a.m., Three Crowns Golf Course, Casper. For more information, contact sarah.raiserco@ gmail.com.
Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame Nomination Deadline. Winners will be presented with a belt buckle and a poster during the 2024 Wyoming Ag Hall of Fame Picnic, held in conjunction with the Wyoming State Fair. For more information or to fill out a nomination form, visit wylr.net, e-mail roundup@wylr. net or call 307-234-2700.
2024 Wyoming High School State Finals Rodeo, Sweetwater Events Complex, Rock Springs. For more information, call 307-351-1327.
June 4 Natrona County Predator Management District 2024 Budget and Board Meeting, 6 p.m., Wyoming Wool Growers Association Office, Casper. For more information, e-mail ncpmd1@charter.net.
April 29-May 20 Dooley Auction Firearms, Ammo, Coins and Collectibles Online Auction, 406-696-0412, dooleyauction.com
May 25 15th Annual Full House Horse Sale, Newcastle, 307-746-5690, 307-6840789, fullhousehorsesale.com
June 3
June 10-11
HEIFER CALVES
Devries, Raymond - Thermopolis
15 Blk Hfr Clvs, avg. 454# $29000
21 Blk Hfr Clvs, avg. 535# $27800
Greer, Lory - Hyattville
3 Blk Hfr Clvs, avg. 522# $25200 HEIFERETTES
Hamilton Ranch Inc. - Hyattville
1 Blk Hfrette, 885# $20000
E Spear LLC - Riverton
2 Blk Hfrettes, avg. 968# $18500
Johnstone, Jesse - Ten Sleep
2 Blk Hfrettes, avg. 1073# $18000
Sage Creek Land & Cattle - Worland
1 Blk Hfrette, 1140# $15800 Lewton, Kent - Ten Sleep
2 Blk Hfrettes, avg. 1225# $15400 STEERS HP Livestock - Burlington
2 BWF Strs, avg. 1070# $19900 Orchard Ranch LLC - Ten Sleep
6 Red Strs, avg. 1276# $17600 STEER CALVES
Yetter, Tim - Thermopolis
3 Blk Str Clvs, avg. 407# $33900 Barnard, Joel - Lovell
2 Red Str Clvs, avg. 415# $32250
3 Red Str Clvs, avg. 493# $30700 Devries, Raymond - Thermopolis
4 Blk Str Clvs, avg. 399# $31700 12 Blk Str Clvs, avg. 494#
Urlacher Angus Spring Bull Sale, Bowman Auction Market, Bowman, N.D., 701-824-4129, urlacherangus.com
Superior Livestock Auction Corn Belt Classic, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com
June 15 46th Annual Wyoming All Breed Gaited Horse Sale, Park County Fairgrounds, Powell, 307-272-3743, 307-431-2109, henyauctionwy.com
June 15 Big Country Select Horse Sale, Garfield County Chamber Arena, Jordan, Mont., 406-853-0974, facebook.com/bigcountryselecthorsesale
June 20-21
July 2
July 8-10
July 8-12
Northern Livestock Video Auction Early Summer Special, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com
Cattle Country Video High Plains Showcase Sale, UW Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center, Laramie, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com
Western Video Market, Silver Legacy Casino Resort, Reno, Nev., 530-3473793, wvmcattle.com
Superior Livestock Auction Week in the Rockies, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com
As one sage said years ago, “In springtime, a young man’s fancy turns to thoughts of love.”
To which I add, “Ah spring, when an old geezer’s mind wanders to flashes of ‘trout on!’”
While doing more research, I came across this Postcard from many years ago and had to pass it along to our newer readers. For you old folks, you probably can’t remember back that long anyway and hopefully will enjoy this fish tale again.
Last year at this time, residents in my hometown were fighting to keep the place from being washed away by the mighty Upper North Platte River.
This year, if you’re trying to float the river, it’s fish awhile, drag the boat, fish awhile, drag the boat.
The Platte and
Encampment rivers and surrounding streams have forever been the lifeblood of this valley. Not just for agriculture, but for recreation and domestic use as well.
Float fishing for trout is tops among dudes as well as locals.
Folks here often combine their regular jobs with that of being river guides. Such was the case of a local hydrographer. He not only measured and regulated irrigation water, he also ran a guide service and was known for his wild tales about both.
When asked about the difference between a hydrographer and a water commissioner or ditch rider he reported, “About $400 a month more.”
Folks still relate one of his greatest float/fishing escapades.
On a beautiful day in
July, the guide was floating a couple of paying know-it-all dudes down the river for a day of trout fishing. The dudes were inexperienced and fishing was slow at the start.
Jerry was rowing to all of the hot spots, but the fishermen were unable to cast into the holes or catch the willows or hang up on the bottom.
Of course, the highpaying clients soon started to complain about poor fishing and the skills of the oarer.
Jerry was working hard, putting on minnows, rowing to all the holes, showing them where to cast, untangling lines and clearing hooks of moss or debris, but to no avail.
After lunch and a few beers, catching started to improve. After each decent cast, it was “trout on.” As fishing improved so did the disposition of the anglers.
A great afternoon on the river was developing, and in a gleeful shout one dude asked, “I wonder what the poor people are doing today?”
To which the guide replied, “Rowing this bleenkity-blankity-blinking boat.”
by Perue
Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Torrington
Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Greeley, CO
National Sheep Summary
As of May 10, 2024
Compared to last week slaughter lambs mostly steady to 30.00 lower. Slaughter ewes mostly steady to 5.00 lower. Feeder lambs not well tested. At San Angelo, TX 7,333 head sold in a one day sale. No sales in Equity Cooperative Auction. In direct trading slaughter ewes and feeder lambs not tested. 4,831 lamb carcasses traded with no trend due to confidentiality. All sheep sold per hundred weight (CWT) unless specified. Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 2-3 San Angelo: wooled and shorn 130-140 lbs 216.00-222.00. Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 120-125 lbs 200.00-282.50; 155-170 lbs 197.50-225.00.
South Dakota: wooled and shorn 120-155 lbs 206.00-213.00. Billings: wooled and shorn 120-150 lbs no test. Equity Coop: no sales. Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 1-2 San Angelo: hair 40-60 lbs 250.00-279.00, few 282.00; 60-70 lbs 240.00-270.00, few 274.00; 70-80 lbs 240.00-269.00, few 275.00; 80-90 lbs 238.00-268.00; 90-100 lbs 210.00-252.00, few 258.00; 100-110 lbs 220.00-246.00. wooled and shorn 46 lbs 252.00; 50-60 lbs 255.00-268.00; 60-70 lbs 260.00-270.00; 70-80 lbs 248.00-268.00, few 282.00; 80-90 lbs 246.00-258.00; 90-110 lbs 230.00-240.00, few 268.00. Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 68 lbs 275.00; 70-80 lbs 265.00285.00; 80-90 lbs 275.00-285.00; 90-100 lbs 275.00-290.00; 100-110 lbs 230.00-255.00. hair 41 lbs 260.00; 59 lbs 272.50. South Dakota: wooled and shorn 50-60 lbs 260.00-285.00; 60-70 lbs 255.00-285.00; 70-80 lbs 231.00-240.00; 80-90 lbs 210.00-230.00; 90-100 lbs 212.50-228.00; 100-110 lbs 214.00-223.00. hair 70-80 lbs 210.00-226.00.
Billings: no test.
Slaughter Ewes San Angelo: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 80.00-102.00, hair 80.00-102.50; Utility and Good 1-3 (medium flesh) 110.00-126.00, hair 100.00-126.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) hair 80.00-96.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) 75.00, hair 70.0080.00; Cull 1 50.00-68.00.
Ft. Collins: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 130.00-160.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 90.00-97.50; Utility 1-2 (thin) no test; Cull 1 no test
South Dakota: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 70.00-95.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 80.00-110.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 60.00-75.00; Cull 1 55.00-65.00.
Billings: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) no test; Utility 1-2 (thin) no test; Cull 1 no test.
Feeder Lambs: Medium and Large 1-2 San Angelo: 50 lbs 254.00. hair 39 lbs 272.00; 40-50 lbs 268.00274.00; 50-60 lbs 250.00-258.00.
Ft. Collins: 30 lbs 315.00; 50-60 lbs 250.00-265.00.
South Dakota: 33 lbs 355.00; 40-50 lbs 315.00-330.00; 50-60 lbs 305.00-315.00. hair 36 lbs 175.00.
Billings: no test.
Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2
San Angelo: young hair 80-145 lbs 140.00-150.00/cwt.
Ft. Collins: no test.
South Dakota: yearlings 215.00/head.
Billings: no test. Sheep and lambs slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 34,000 compared with 36,000 last week and 34,000 last year.
Source: USDA AMS Market News, San Angelo, Texas
National Wool Review
As of May 10, 2024
Domestic wool trading had no confirmed trades reported this week. Prices reflect trades FOB warehouse in original bag or square pack, bellies out, some graded, and 76 mm or longer. No allowance made for coring, freight, or handling fees at the warehouse level to reflect net grower prices. Wools shorter than 75 mm typically discounted .10-.20 clean. Classed and skirted wools usually trade at a .10-.20 premium to original bag prices.
CO
Wyoming Hay Summary
As of May 16, 2024
Compared to last week all reported hay sold steady. Demand was very light . Few, cattlemen getting a load of hay to feed until they can go to summer grass. Per NASS, May 1, hay stocks totaled 515,000 tons and increase of 171 percent from the stocks on hand for the same period in 2023. Hay production for 2023 totaled 2.55 million tons, 6 percent higher than in 2022.
Nebraska Hay Summary
As of May 16, 2024
Compared to last week all reported hay sales sold steady. Demand remains light but a few buyers continue to purchase some hay. Limited hay producers in the east laid some alfalfa on the ground this week. Few, dehy producers thinking they might start cutting end of this week or next week depending on the 10-day outlook on weather. Alfalfa weevils are plentiful this growing season with some damage starting to show up in the fields. Some talk the producers not spraying for weevils will try to sell there alfalfa as green chop. Per NASS, on their May crop production report hay stocks are at 950,000 tons up 79 percent from last year.
-
Source:
AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain
The Natrona County Predator Management District is holding its 2024 Budget/Board Meeting on Tuesday, June 4th, beginning at 6:00 p.m. This meeting will be held at the Wyoming Wool Growers, 811 N. Glenn Road, Casper. All producers, Wyoming Game and Fish representatives, Wildlife Service representatives and the public are invited to participate. The purpose of this meeting is to review the 20242025 proposed budget submitted to the Department of Audit and Animal Damage Management Board (ADMB). For additional information, please contact the NCPMD office at ncpmd1@charter.net.
RANCH HAND WANTED: Cow work/calving, irrigating, haying, fixing fences. Wages based on experience. Call 307-250-8475 5/25
HELP WANTED, VALLEY FOODS, SARATOGA, WY: Experienced meat cutter needed. Please contact us via e-mail with your qualifications at valleyfoods9024@ hotmail.com 5/25
EMPLOYMENT WANTED: Worked livestock and sale barn experience, managed sale barn, purchased livestock and more. Call 620-430-6719 6/8
MONTANA, INCLUDING
and
in the areas of Agriculture and 4-H/Youth Development. Complete information and application instructions at www.montana.edu/extension, click on “careers.”
5/18
BIG HORN REDI MIX IS LOOKING FOR A MIXER/ END DUMP DRIVER FOR ITS POWELL, WY PLANT: Applicant must have a Class A or B CDL with a clean MVR and must pass a pre-employment drug test. Position is full time, Mon.-Fri. Benefits include 100% employer-paid insurance (medical, dental, vision, life) and paid vacation after one year. Pick up an application at 355 E. North St. in Powell, WY or request one by e-mail at bhrmoffice@rtconnect.net 6/1
AKC BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG PUPPIES: All first shots, microchipped and vet checked. $500. Call or text 605-680-2571. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 5/25
AIREDALE TERRIER OORANG PUPPIES: AKC registered, will be large, calm, protective dogs. Great farm/ranch protectors from mountain lions, bears, coyotes, vermin... For more information, call 307-219-2217 or 719-2178054 (cell) 6/8
REGISTERED PEMBROKE WELSH CORGI PUPPIES FOR SALE: They will be 8 weeks old on May 23 and ready to go to their new homes. Asking $750. Text or call 701-260-1207. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 5/18
BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG PUPPIES: These adorable puppies are AKC registered, microchipped and up-to-date with shots and wormer. Parents are fully DNA and genetic health tested. Males and females available. Shipping and flight nanny available, $2,500, Whitewood, S.D. Call 605-6418272. Visit us on Facebook at Black Hills Bernese Mountain Dogs. To view photos, go to www. wylr.net in the classifieds 6/1
AKC REGISTERED PEMBROKE WELSH CORGIS: I have 3 adorable male pups left from my Christmas litter. They are show quality, healthy, loving and robust young dogs. Parents are genetically tested clear for major problems. They have been raised in my home and are very loving and well mannered. They get along with other dogs and are very social. Vaccinated, dewormed, dewclaws removed and tails docked to show ring standards. $1,500 with full breeding rights or $1,000 as pets. Will trade for horse quality hay or useable farm equipment. Call Sonya Gangstead at 541480-9567 or e-mail me for pictures and pedigrees at brokersonya@gmail.com. Located in Roundup, MT 6/1
AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERDS RAISED ON THE PUPPY CULTURE PROGRAM AND CANINE COMPANIONS FOR INDEPENDENCE PROTOCOLS: We specialize in placing puppies for emotional support and service dog work, as well as with families and individuals who love the Australian shepherd breed! See our website for details, including pictures of our available puppies www. panhandleaustralianshepherds.com. Call 208-892-4186. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 5/18
AGRI-ONE FINANCIAL: Farm/ ranch and all commercial loans. RATES AS LOW AS 5%. We have been helping with all aspects of agricultural, commercial financing and management for years. LET US HELP YOU on a consulting level with management to increase profitability, deal with and fix credit problems and for all your financing needs. WE CARE AND HAVE WORKING PROGRAMS designed for the farmer/rancher and not the banker. Please call Steve, 303-773-3545 or check out our website, www.agrionefinancial.com. I will come to you and get the job done!! 5/18
MOUNTAIN CUR PUPS: Eight weeks, 2 males, 3 females. Parents are on hand and used for hunting, camping, around the farm and companions. Acclimated to kids, chickens, goats, cows and horses. First shots and fully weaned, available April 1. Located in Cody, WY, $400. Feel free to make an offer. Call Jon, 307-2023345. To view photos, go to www. wylr.net in the classifieds 5/18
WANTED RECIP COWS: Must be open!! Two to 6 years old, Red Angus or Angus-based cows. For more information, call Corie Mydland, 406-855-5598 (cell), Trans Ova Genetics 5/18
TWO-YEAR-OLD BULLS FOR
SALE: We have a good selection of moderate frame, easy fleshing two-year-old Angus, a, Red Angus, Hereford/Angus and balancer bulls for sale. Many are low birthweight bulls that are suitable for use on heifers. All bulls have been semen tested and have passed a breeding soundness exam. Visit www.jauerangus.com/ private.html or call Kurt, 712253-8710 for more information 6/8
ANGUS BULLS FOR SALE: Calving ease, growth and good carcass data. AI sired, docile. Delivery available. Earhart Farms, Powell, WY, 307-2728876 6/1
SPENCER & SONS ANGUS: Offering yearling Black Angus bulls. Sons of Sterling Pacific, Schiefelbein Showman 338, Powerball and Crawford Guarantee, plus grandsons of Bomber. Thirty-one years AI breeding. Reasonably priced. Fromberg, MT. Call 406-425-3814 5/18
YEARLING ANGUS BULLS: These bulls are grown, not fattened, will get out and cover cows. Many will work on heifers. We will deliver. Call Joe Buseman, 605-351-1535 5/25
REGISTERED BLACK ANGUS YEARLING AND 2-YEAR-OLD BULLS: For sale private treaty. Performance and fertility tested. Delivery available. REPLACEMENT HEIFERS available. TRANGMOE ANGUS RANCH, Glendive, MT. Call 406-6873315, 406-989-3315 or 907232-6093 6/29
200 BLACK 3-YEAR-OLD PAIRS: Full vaccination program. Ran at high elevation last year. Calves are out of Vermillion or SimAngus bulls. $3,400/pair. Call 307-7092375 with any questions. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 5/25
200 BLACK HEIFER PAIRS: All ran at high elevation last year in Cora, WY. Full vaccination program. All calves out of Vermillion bulls. Calves tagged to match. $3,200/pair. Call 307709-2375 with any questions. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 5/25 FOR SALE PRIVATE TREATY: REGISTERED YEARLING ANGUS BULLS. Sired by some of the best genetics in the breed as well as our top-end herd bulls. NEVER BEFORE offered. Deep set of CALVING EASE heifer bulls and POWERFUL cow bulls available. Semen tested and up-to-date on summer kick-out vaccinations. Ready to go to work for you. Selling on first come, first served basis. Volume discounts apply. Free delivery available. MILLER ANGUS FARMS, Estelline, SD. Kody, 605-690-1997 or Brady, 605-690-5733. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 5/25
REGISTERED ANGUS BULLS, BRIDGER, MT • Some suitable for heifers • Performance data available • Sires Include • Iron Horse • Thedford • Movin On • Winding River Angus, Louis & Kathy Dubs, 406-652-7515, 406-208-8643 or e-mail windingriverangus@gmail.com 5/18
RED ANGUS HIGH-ELEVATION YEARLING BULLS FOR SALE IN NORTHEASTERN UTAH: Out of AI and bull-bred sires. Will be trich, semen tested and fed for free until May 1. $2,500/head. Bar Lazy TL Ranch, David, 435-828-1320, barlazytlranch@ gmail.com 6/30
RED ANGUS 2-YEAR-OLD
FORAGE BULLS FOR SALE: Bulls for heifers and cows. Smaller framed, efficient, easy fleshing, good dispositions. Not fat, but in great shape and ready to go to work. Have been worked with dogs, on foot and horseback. Raised in rugged, rough, steep, rocky, high elevation country. Red Fork Red Angus, Ken & Cheri Graves, Kaycee, WY, phone 307-7382247, cell 307-267-0724, email gravesredfork@rtconnect.net 5/25
SIMANGUS BULLS FOR SALE: 18-month-olds and yearlings. Sired by TJ Chief, Tehama Tahoe, TJ Big Easy, TJ Flatiron, MR SR Highlife, EWA Peyton or sons of TJ Main Event and SAV Rainfall. Call James Dilka/ Dilka Cattle, 970-396-8791, thedilkas@aol.com 5/18
SAMANTHA CAMPBELL REGISTERED HEREFORD BULLS
Open house Saturday May 25 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 28698 WCR 74 Eaton, CO 80615 For more information, contact: Kristy Campbell 970-405-6093
REGISTERED BLACK YEARLING LIMOUSIN BULLS FOR SALE: Performance tested. Contact Nolz Limousin, Mitchell, S.D. Call, 605-9997035, visit www.nolzlimousin. com 6/8
BOOT UP for the COLLEGE NATIONAL FINALS RODEO with 20% $AVINGS ON BOOTS!! HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! WE CAN ship!! Shop Moss Saddles, Boots and Tack, 4648 West Yellowstone Highway, Casper, WY; 307-472-1872. Our family serving yours for 50 years!! Check us out on Facebook or our website 5/18
Need a new sheep camp or the old one restored? Call us at 785-734-2663.
camps are handcrafted with hand-forged iron work. We also offer wooden wagon wheel restoration, wheelwright services.
2023 ALFALFA AND ALFALFA/GRASS MIX HAY, 3x3 bales, barn stored. ALSO, SOME FEEDER HAY and BARLEY STRAW available. Call 307-350-0350, Farson, WY 5/25
2023 HAY FOR SALE: First and second cutting, grass/ alfalfa mix. ALSO, milo, oat and corn stover hay. All in netwrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, ask for Clint, 701290-4418, send a text if no answer or keep trying 5/18
CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW FOR SALE, 3x4 bales. Cody, WY. Call 307-899-1952 TFN
SHORTHORN BULLS FOR SALE PRIVATE TREATY: Yearlings up to mature bulls available. Developed conservatively so they hold up. Remember a red Shorthorn bull on your homozygous black cows will give you black calves. Shorthorns are excellent maternal cattle that produce quality beef. FrancisMillvale Shorthorns, Gene and Roberta Francis Family, 701-331-2403, e-mail francis.millvale@gmail.com. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 6/8
SAMANTHA CAMPBELL REGISTERED HEREFORD BULLS:
Open house Saturday 25 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 28698 WCR 74 Eaton, CO 80615. For more information, contact Kristy Campbell, 970-405-6093 5/18
January/February Dorset sired ewe lambs out of Rambouillet ewes. Weaned 60 days, tails docked and have been vaccinated with CDT twice. Asking $350/head or $300/head if you take them all. Will sell in groups of five. Call Case Rundel 785-443-0590
ARE YOU IN NEED OF A NEW HERDER CAMP OR A PERSONAL RANGE CAMP FOR YOUR FAMILY? Contact us at Western Range Camps and see what we can build for you. We specialize in quality, handcrafted camps built to your specifications. Contact us today to design the camp just right for you. Western Range Camps, 435-4625300, heidi@wrcamps.com, 1145 S. Blackhawk Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647 5/18
PIGS FOR SALE, located in Powell, WY. For more information, call 307-2711014 8/3
CERTIFIED WEED-FREE
PURE ALFALFA HAY: Small squares, all covered. First, second and third cutting available. Will load trucks and any open trailer. OATS: Combine run. Will auger into truck, trailer or large totes/ag bags. STRAW: Small squares available. Located between Powell and Cody, WY. Call or text Knopp Farms at 307-254-0554 6/22
VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: Hay available. Go to www.valleyvideohay.com or call Barry McRea, 308-2355386 5/25
BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/ bale. ALSO, 5x6 round bales, $125/ton. GRAIN/OATS, $20/ cwt. Greybull, WY area. Call 307-762-3878 or 307-899-4714, leave message 5/18
HAY FOR SALE: Grass, alfalfa and grass/alfalfa mix hay. ALSO, OAT HAY AND STRAW. Small squares, 3x3s, 3x4s and round bales. Delivery available!! Large quantities still available. Call today for best price, 307630-3046 5/18
2015 WILSON 53’ TRIPLE AXLE CATTLE POT: Air ride suspension, 11’ nose, crank up nose deck, virgin tires. Can text pictures. For more information, call 605-680-1444 6/8
GOOD WORK TRUCK, 2001 FORD F-250 WITH OMAHA UTILITY BED, 7.3 Powerstroke, 169,300 miles. Recent engine work, call 307-254-1088. $12,000 OBO, located in Powell, WY 5/18
REGISTERED TEXAS LONGHORNS: Brush clearing, lowmaintenance cattle, trafficstopping colors, fascinating to watch, great pedigrees. Gentle pairs, steers, heifers, solid and colorful bulls. Raise for excellent beef, fun to show, simple handling. Herd package discounts available. Westhaven Ranch, 209-274-9917, e-mail swestmoore@gmail.com, website www.westhavenlonghorns.com To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 5/25
POLLINATED SEED CORN out produces hybrid for silage and grazing quality grain, $67/bushel +S/H. Call 217857-3377 or cell/text 217-3434962, visit website www.borriesopenpollinatedseedcorn. com 5/18
PASTURE WANTED: I am looking for a ranch lease or summer pasture lease for 250-500 pairs. Call Joe, 605830-2210, jrcredangus@yahoo.com 5/18
PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. Call 701-523-1235 5/25
LS CUSTOM LEATHER: Belts, tack, cell phone cases and much more!! Contact Lester, 307-631-1053, leave a message. Located in Riverton, WY 5/18
650 TONS GRASS/ALFALFA IN LARGE ROUNDS, baled green but cut slightly mature; 150 LARGE ROUND BALES GRASS/ALFALFA/CHEATGRASS, grind or build windbreak.... Will deliver!! For sale by Cheyenne, WY area producer. Call 307-630-3768 6/8
GOOD QUALITY OAT HAY: 3x4 bales, barn stored, $90/ton, tests available. ALSO, grass hay or alfalfa, barn stored, $125/ ton. Lusk, WY. Call Paul Hicks, 970-203-5019 6/8
ROUND BALED GRASS HAY FOR SALE: Cody, WY area, 1,000 lb. net-wrapped bales, $50/bale. Call, don’t text, Anthony at 307-254-2645 6/8
HAY FOR SALE: 3x3 and round bales. Call 605-8400015 5/18
ROUND BALES: QUALITY
GRASS HAY FOR SALE, bales weigh approximately 1,400 lbs. each, Laramie, WY. Call 307760-8429 5/18
FOR SALE: John Deere 7000 4RW corn planter. 2016 Volvo semi (daycab), D13 Detroit engine 435 HP, Volvo I-Shift automatic transmission, 309,000 miles, air slide 5th wheel, very clean and nice. H&S 7+4 17’ing extensions and tandem 14 ton running gear. Two John Deere 716A chuckwagons with John Deere running gear and bunk feeding extensions, been shedded, nice condition. Phoenix H14 42’ rotary harrow. 10’x24’ heavy duty bale hauler. John Deere 2155 diesel tractor, wide front, fenders, 3 pt., nice acreage tractor. Lorenz 16’x29’ stack mover. 12’ box scraper. All in very nice condition!! Call 605999-5482 6/1 FOR SALE: 7140 International Magnum tractor. 9600 John Deere combine with 930 30’ grain header and a 893 8 row 30” corn header. 20’ Krause offset disc (new blades in front). ALSO, 8 feeder pigs. Contact Greg Keller at 406-679-1136 5/18
LEGEND FENCING: Specializing in livestock fences. Call 307887-2855 for a free estimate. Serving Southeast Idaho and Western Wyoming 5/18
Delivery and Truckload Prices Available Big Horn Livestock Services, Inc. 307-851-1634 • www.bighornlivestock.com 5’ High 7 Rail
LEGEND FENCING: Specializing in livestock fences. Call 307887-2855 for a free estimate. Serving Southeast Idaho and Western Wyoming 5/18
MONTANA RAILROAD SERVICES: Railroad ties, switch ties and other railroad materials for fencing and landscaping. Best pricing and quality in the region. Call 406-962-3514, Silesia, MT. Located 10 miles south of Laurel, MT (off of Clarks River Rd., the old highway). Visit our website www.mtrrservices.com 5/18
LODGEPOLE PRODUCTS, 307-742-6992, SERVING AG-
RI-BUSINESSES SINCE 1975!!
Treated posts, corral poles, buck-and-rail, western rail, fence stays, rough-sawn lumber, bedding. SEE US at www. lodgepoleproducts.com and click our "Picking A Fence Post" tab to see why folks choose our posts!! TFN
PIPE FOR SALE!! 2 7/8”, 3 1/2” tubing, 4” drill pipe, 4 1/2” casing, 5” casing, 7” casing. Rods 3/4”, 7/8” and 1” located in Montana, can ship anywhere. Call Mike, 602-758-4447. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 9/21
OILFIELD PIPE: PRICE REDUCED!! RPJ Enterprises, Inc. 2 3/8” and 2 7/8” is available. Used for fencing, corrals, cattle guards, etc. 2 3/8” and 2 7/8” are on average 31.5’ long per joint. Pierce, CO. Call for details, 970-324-4580 7/27
The choice is simple.
Good time management is essential to farming success. That’s why more farmers are turning to T-L center pivot irrigation systems. Hydrostatically powered, T-L’s simple design gives you the low maintenance time, cost, safety and reliability to let you manage your farm instead of calling electricians or replacing gearboxes. Simplify your complex world and make irrigation easier on you.
Big Horn Truck and Equipment Manderson, WY
QUARTER MILE WHEELINES: 5’ tall, 5” aluminum pipe with movers. Five (used) $5,400 each, Gallatin Valley, MT. Call 406-551-0879 6/1
CODY, WY PROPERTY FOR TRADE OR OUTRIGHT SALE:
8.5 acres in Diamond Basin on Big Sky Road. Seven acres with water rights. Half is developed with pasture, new fencing and gated pipe. There are 3 dwellings in process. Sewer system in place, water tap is paid for, 700 feet of line is in place and hooked up to all three locations. The bunkhouse is about finished. In the other 2, concrete is done, rough plumbing in the ground, sewer in place, ready to be framed. Have 7/16 and 5/8 sheeting OSB, trusses, windows, doors, door knobs, some 12/2 wiring. Lots of 2” rigid styrofoam. Walking path to BLM, under Carter Mountain, pond and gravel road. I have to stop building to have a couple of surgeries. Good opportunity for a builder. Outright sale as is $670,000 or will trade for about anything of equal value in Basin, Greybull, Shell, Powell, Cody, WY areas. Farm ground, older house, shop, etc. Call and visit for more details, 307-578-6345. ALSO, have 2 city lots in Shadow Mountain Subdivision 6/8
66.856 ACRES, JUST NORTHWEST OF RED LODGE, MT BORDERING THE GOLF COURSE: This property is presently agriculturally zoned, current use is hay and pasture and it is fenced and cross fenced. Enjoy views of several mountain ranges and lots of water, including Spring Creek frontage, mature trees and lush grass. Could be zoned commercially, allowing for development of a number of homesites and/or other commercial ventures. This property is simply loaded with possibilities. Access is off Willow Creek Road. DNRC Right Nos. 43D 216331-00 and 43D 200020-00, Pryde Ditch and West Fork of Rock Creek. $2,300,000. Property to be shown by appointment only and listing agent shall accompany all showings. Sellers ask that prospective buyers respect their privacy. Call Bill at 406-698-9266 for a tour of this parcel TFN
APPROXIMATELY 1,400 FEET, 8” ALUMINUM GATED PIPE, with trailer and butterfly valves. ALSO HAVE 2 IRRIGATION PUMPS, one with 10 HP motor. $4,000 OBO. Call 307-575-1122 5/25
Red Angus 42nd Annual Bull Sale
Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor March 28, 2024 Schuler Red Angus, Bridgeport, Neb. Auctioneer: Lex
Top Sellers Red Angus
Lot 1 – Schuler Schuler Professional-3387 – Price: $15,500 DOB: 3/20/23 Sire:
Wedel Cornerstone 0224H Dam’s Sire: Schuler Amplify 6206D EPDs: BW: -3.8, WW: +79, YW: +132 and Milk: +33 Buyer: DK Red
2,170 ACRES OF PRIME AGRICULTURAL NON-IRRIGATED FARMLAND: Soils consist primarily of silt and sand loams. Located east of Hawk Springs, WY along the Wyoming/Nebraska state line. Professional care is dedicated to optimizing soil health. Divisible into smaller parcels to meet your investment needs. No improvements. $1,900,000. 4,752± DEEDED ACRES, LAGRANGE, WY: A top-end grass ranch with 10 wells optimized for maximum cattle production of 250 cows. Includes a stunning brick 5 bed, 3 bath home. Livestock barn with hydraulic chute, tube, concrete and pens. Shop and Steel pens for calving and concrete bunk space. Elk, deer, antelope. $4,900,000. 3,316± DEEDED ACRES consisting of improved meadow grass and lush hard grasses. Run 250± cows through 12 pastures. Outstanding condition. Nice home plus excellent corrals and calving facilities. Natural tree-lined draws for livestock protection. Hawk Springs, WY. WAS $5,100,000 NOW $4,700,000!! Pictures and video at www. buyaranch.com. Call Casey Essert, Land Broker, 307532-1750 5/18
Angus, North Dakota Lot 40 – Schuler Transporter-L606 – Price: $13,000 DOB: 2/18/23 Sire: 5L
Transporter 4916-25F Dam’s Sire: WFL Retail Cut F8107
EPDs: BW: -3.5, WW: +77, YW: +124 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Blew Partnership, Kansas Red Composite Lot 136 – Schuler Red 44 HLGR One-L730 – Price: $14,000 DOB: 3/22/23 Sire: GW Hilger One 454H Dam’s Sire: Schuler Red 71 Amped D303 EPDs: BW: -3.7, WW: +91, YW: +147 and Milk: +28 Buyer: Kenansville Cattle Company, Florida
THE DLX RANCH: Located near Baker City, OR the DLX is noted as one of the most productive and finest ranches around. It is well balanced and contains 17,000 deeded acres with 4,000 acres of irrigated meadows and cropland. Native and improved rangeland provides good spring and summer pasture. The ranch is well improved with nice homes, excellent livestock working facilities and is noted for its production and ease of operation and management. Abundant water and over 6 miles of the Powder River running through the ranch provide for not only production but unbelievable waterfowl and upland game bird habitat. The ranch also provides good populations of elk and mule deer. Situated in the heart of the Baker Valley, the ranch enjoys very scenic mountain views and is very private yet only a short drive to Baker City, OR. Currently operated as a commercial cow/calf operation with a permitted feedlot. The ranch would also make an ideal yearling or combination operation. It is rare to find this quality of a ranch and particularly a property that is a going concern. This is a first-time offering and we look forward to hearing from you. $32,500,000. Livestock and rolling stock available by separate treaty. Please give us a call for further information, Greg Sackos, 541523-4434 (office) or 208-5980267 (cell), Intermountain Realty, www.intermountainland. com 5/18
AMISH BUILT CABIN WITH SEPARATE SHOP/HOME ON 141 ACRES: Adorable 679 sq. ft. cabin, with one bedroom and a full bath, island with electric cooktop, woodstove and gas backup heat, electric HW and fully wired. The shop/home is 1,500 sq. ft. on the main, with additional 480 sq. ft. of loft. Four bedrooms, full bath, smooth concrete floor, well insulated and heated with propane. Wiring installed in the shop/home. Borders 1,000’s of acres BLM land. Located in Roundup, MT. $795,000. Call 541-480-9567, Sonya Gangstead, Broker, Realty Pros Inc., e-mail brokersonya@gmail.com 6/1
OREGON RANCH, Baker City, Baker County, OR. The Alder Creek pasture contains over 2,000 acres of native spring, summer and fall pasture. The rangeland is situated just east of Baker City, OR. The property is in good condition and has good perimeter fencing. The range is gently south facing slope with a variety of native grass. FIRST-TIME OFFERING at just over $500 per acre for deeded and contiguous ownership, $1,095,000. Please give us a call for further information, Greg Sackos, 541-523-4434 (office) or 208-598-0267 (cell), Intermountain Realty, www.intermountainland.com 5/18
WILL PICK UP SCRAP IRON: On-site processing and removal. Receive $$$ top dollar $$$ For your junk!! Call for details: Pacific Steel and Recycling, 307-234-6006. Casper/ Central Wyoming 5/18
COLT MODEL 1911 NAVY, 45 caliber pistol In good condition. Call 402-6577141 5/18
Miscellaneous 48V SOLAR HOUSE POWER 5KW, EXPANDABLE TO 12 KW: Panels, battery, controller and accessories included. BMI STEEL GUITAR (early 1980s) and FENDER Twin Reverb (late 1970s, black with silver screen) Amp. $2,300. 50 GALLON HEATING STOVE, 6” stack, $250, with leveling cooking top, $400. Lovell, WY. Calls only, no texts, 307-250-9663. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 5/18
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) fire crews will conduct prescribed fire operations west of La Barge between mid-May and July as part of a multi-year project. Fire operations will begin only when conditions are favorable for a safe and effective burn on public lands managed by the Pinedale Field Office.
Prescribed burns will take place in two distinct project sites.
The Burdick prescribed fire project is located approximately 13 miles west of La Barge on the east face of Miller Mountain, south of the La Barge Creek drainage. Within this area, 398 acres of slash and standing conifer are targeted to burn. The Deadline Ridge prescribed fire project is located approximately 12 miles northwest of La Barge, on the east face of Deadline Ridge. The BLM has targeted 493 acres of slash and standing conifer to burn on this ridge.
This prescribed fire is part of the Wyoming Range Mule Deer Habitat Project, which was developed as part of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Wyoming Range Mule Deer Initiative in 2011.
The project will reduce hazardous fuels and improve vegetation conditions in crucial mule deer winter range, transition range and fawning ranges. Prescribed fires improve vegetation conditions by stimulating new aspen growth and reducing conifers that are encroaching on native aspen stands.
For more information, contact High Desert District Fire Management Officer Mark Randall at 307-367-5350, Fuels Specialist Ross Dary at 307-367-5317 or visit the Pinedale Field Office located at 1625 West Pine Street in Pinedale.
For more information about BLM Wyoming, visit blm.gov/wyoming
by Lee Pitts
“What is the difference between a cowboy and a buckaroo?” one might ask.
A Great Basin buckaroo drives a beat-up old pickup truck with a fully-tooled $5,000 saddle resting comfortably in the bed. He wears silver spurs made in Elko, Nev. in the vaquero tradition, meaning silver is hanging all over them. His horse is decked out with a hackamore, Santa Ynez-style reins, bosal and headstall made by Luis Ortega, hanging on to a spade bit made by Mark Dahl.
A cowboy, on the other hand, drives a brand-new pickup truck with a $125 beat up, old saddle thrown in the back and his Chihuahua spurs have no maker’s mark. They do have wide heel bands and look like they were horseshoer rasps in a previous life. Thereʼs no silver adornment because it wouldn’t last two minutes in the brush of South Texas.
A cowboy’s gear is built for functionality, not for beauty.
It’s been said the cowboy can gather two pastures while the buckaroo is still
decorating his horse. But to be fair, the buckaroo, with all of his or her horsehair, latigo and rawhide contraptions, might just be, as a class, unrivaled in the making of a cow pony.
I’ve been collecting old bits and spurs for half a century and have learned how to craft all of the old tools of the cowboy trade by fixing up old spurs, saddles and anything else made of leather.
A restauranteur who inherited a valuable pair of old G.S. Garcia spurs came by my place several years ago and wanted to know how much I’d charge for a pair of spur leathers with silver conchas and buckles to match the engraving on the spurs.
If I recall correctly, I quoted a price of $350, and the guy blew a gasket. One would have thought I killed his dog or had a sordid affair with his wife.
I thought he was gonna stroke out on me.
I tried to explain to make each concha I’d use a silver dollar, worth $25 apiece at the time. I’d also use a silver dollar to make each fancy buckle, which would
also be heavily engraved. So, one can see before I’d even begun to pound or engrave I’d already be out $100.
To make the actual spur leathers, I’d use only the best Herman Oak leather which would add another $50.
I’d use a four-step process to get the new leather looking old, which requires an assortment of expensive finishes. I also had to tool and sew them, burnish the edges and solder backs to the conchas to mount on the spur leathers.
Long story short, the guy took his business elsewhere.
Years went by and the restauranteur was back in my shop with the same old spurs, hanging on to what I presume were spur leathers.
By committing what I think should be a felony, someone had assaulted the spurs with a wire wheel to remove all of the beautiful old patina which devalued the spurs by about 90 percent.
It seems the restauranteur had taken his business to a guy who sharpened knives for a living and had heard from someone how a new, lucrative career awaited him in the uncrowded restoration field.
The leathers were made with inferior leather, probably tanned in urine in Mexico. The stitches were frayed and nothing was tooled. But, the restauranteur said the knife sharpener had stressed the conchas had been made out of
The Board of Directors of the International Brangus Breeders Association (IBBA) has initiated a search for the position of executive vice president. Dr. Darrell L. Wilkes, the current IBBA executive vice president has announced his plans to retire.
IBBA is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas and serves members in the U.S. and several other countries. The association provides a complete suite of services typical of a full-service breed association.
Shiloh Hall, Brangus breeder from Oklahoma and current IBBA president, said, “We are enjoying a strong
upward trend in demand for Brangus and Ultrablack seedstock. We have experienced growth in membership and registrations. Our genetic trends are all strongly positive and our own research has proven Brangus-sired feeder cattle can compete with the best cattle in the business in the feedlot and packing plant. We want this positive momentum to continue and seek applications from highly-qualified candidates to lead IBBA’s professional staff and serve its members.”
For more information or to apply, visit gobrangus.com
the finest German silver.
Now, in addition to a set of spur leathers, conchas and silver buckles, the restauranteur asked if I could restore the shiny spurs to their former glory. I told the guy it would now be $750 for everything, hoping it would scare him off.
When he once again objected to my price, I mentioned the higher price of silver. He interrupted and asked if I could just reuse the German silver the knife sharpener had insisted was the very best.
I took great pleasure in asking him, “You do know
there is actually no real silver in German silver, don’t you?”
The restauranteur looked like I’d just barfed in his Bouillabaisse.
After he finished choking and was able to breathe again he said, “Sure. Who doesn’t know that?”
