Roundup for 6.15.24

Wyoming

Bison

BLM Wyoming provides update at Joint Ag meeting

The Joint Agriculture, State and Public Lands and Water Resources Committee held a meeting at Western Wyoming Community College in Rock Springs on

Quick Bits

Crop Reports

Agricultural producers should make an appointment with their local Farm Service Agency office to complete crop acreage reports before the applicable deadline after planting is complete. July 15 is a major deadline for most crops, but acreage reporting deadlines vary by county and by crop. For more information, visit fsa.usda.gov

Military Meat

On June 7, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) condemned a Department of Defense (DOD) sponsored research grant which will fund the development of lab-grown meat products by manufacturing company BioMADE. NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs Ethan Lane states, “It is outrageous DOD is spending millions of taxpayer dollars to feed our heroes like lab rats. U.S. cattle producers raise the highest-quality beef in the world, with the lowest carbon footprint, and American troops deserve to be served this same wholesome, natural meat – not ultra-processed, lab-grown protein cooked up in a chemical-filled bioreactor. This misguided research project is a giant slap in the face to everyone who has served our country. Our Veterans and active-duty troops deserve so much better than this.”

Ranch Tour

Albany County CattleWomen will host their annual Ranch Tour on July 20. The tour is free to the public and includes a day of exploring historic ranches in Albany County. For more information, visit wyaccw.com or wyoachs. com/ranch-tours. Reservations and payment arrangements can be made by calling Sandra Eike at 307-7605590 and must be made in advance by July 1.

June 10-11.

On the first day, Wyoming Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Director Andrew Archuleta and Deputy State Director Brad

Purdy provided an update on the Rock Springs and Buffalo resource management plans (RMP), sale of land to PacifiCorp and wild horse management.

Statewide RMPs “To go back a little bit, the Rock Spring RMP was initially brought up in 2011, and the purpose was

Wyoming agencies provide updates, discuss partnerships during WSGA summer convention

The Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) hosted the 2024 Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show June 5-7 at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas.

In addition to annual committee meetings and awards ceremonies, the program featured a multitude of speakers,

including representatives from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Wyoming Beef Council (WBC), the University of Wyoming and the Wyoming State Fair (WSF), who provided updates while sticking to the convention’s theme of “Building Partnerships: Challenges

Governor’s address – Gov. Mark Gordon discussed the challenges faced by Wyoming and other states across West during a dinner banquet at the 2024 Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show, held June 5-7 at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas. WYLR photo

Madden brothers inducted into LMA Hall of Fame

Torrington Livestock Markets Owners and brothers Lex and Shawn Madden will join other industry icons in the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) Cattle Marketing Hall of Fame as two of the four Class of 2024 inductees.

The Madden brothers, alongside Hedgers Edge Owner Andrew Gottschalk and LMA Chief Executive Officer Mark Mackey, will officially be inducted into the hall of fame on July 26 at the Boot Hill Casino and Conference Center in Dodge City, Kan.

During the annual Cattle Marketing Hall of Fame ceremony, LMA recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to competitive marketing and true price discovery.

LMA is North America’s largest membership organization dedicated to supporting, representing, communicating with and advocating for the entire livestock marketing sector.

How it started

Born and raised in Lusk, the Madden brothers gained experience early on, as their father was a self-taught auctioneer who owned and operated two sale barns located in Lusk and Wheatland.

Together, the brothers started their marketing career in the early 1980s while working for L.W. Maxfield at Torrington Livestock Commission Company.

“In 1988, we leased and operated Stockman Livestock south of Torrington. Then in 1989, we partnered with the Maxfield brothers,” Shawn explained. “They owned Torrington Livestock Commission Company, and we merged

WSGA presents cattle industry awards NHSFR qualifers

During the 2024 Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show, held June 5-7 at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds in Douglas, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) honored multiple individuals for their contributions to the cattle industry.

Cattlemen’s Club celebrates 25 years

On June 6, convention attendees gathered for a luncheon to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Cattlemen’s Club.

“The Cattlemen’s Club was established in 2000 as a way for WSGA members to enhance their support of the organization through annual donation proceeds by selling a heifer or steer calf, in addition to maintaining regular WSGA dues,”

Wyoming high school rodeo athletes to compete at national finals

Wyoming high school rodeo athletes wrapped up their regular rodeo season during three performances in Buffalo over Memorial Day weekend, then gathered in Rock Springs for the Wyoming High School State Finals Rodeo June 3-9.

The top four in each event will return to Rock Springs July 14-20 to vie for a prestigious national championship title during the National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR).

Rough stock, roping and steer wrestling

After two consecutive first- and second-place round wins, only two bareback riders qualified for the national finals.

Tuker Carricato of Saratoga ended the week in the first-place slot with a total score of 156 on two rides, followed by Green River’s Jacob Cook with 142 points. A pair of Gillette cowboys will compete for a national championship in the saddle bronc riding as well.

Earning a total score of

explained WSGA First Vice President Reg Phillips. “It has evolved to become a critical source of revenue for the association, and in 2023, it brought in over $48,000.” Phillips recognized the club’s charter members and honored them for their 25 years of contributions, including Tom and Kay Wright, Jim and Terry Wilson, Joe and Tracy Thomas, Rob and Leslie Hendry, Niels and Barb Hansen and Anna Helm.

First Lady thanks ranchers for donations Later in the day, Gov. Mark Gordon and First Lady Jennie Gordon joined convention attendees for a dinner banquet,

Ever since land was owned in America, it has been traded, sold and bartered for. It’s just what we do with land. Others settled in and have kept their lands for generations. It is a freedom we have in America.

Except for during the Great Depression, the past years seem to have large numbers of ranches and farms for sale, due to a number of different reasons associated with any business.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2022 Census of Agriculture found there were 1.9 million farms and ranches in the U.S. This was down from 2017 and was the smallest number since 1950. The census showed over the last 25 years the number of farms and ranches has declined 14 percent.

A recent article from Drovers Magazine said, “Nowhere are the effects of consolidation more prevalent than the beef industry. Seventy-nine percent of producers own fewer than 50 beef cows and represent just 25 percent of the U.S. herd. Include all producers with fewer than 100 cows and the results are stunning – 89.5 percent of beef cow numbers represent just 33.5 percent of the nation’s herd, with an average herd size of 20 cows.”

In our region, it is a little hard to fathom having only 20 cows. I can’t see anyone making a living with only 20 head, so we know they may be hobby ranchers, have an outside job or have the cows to qualify for lesser ag tax on their land.

Drovers said, “This means 60.5 percent of America’s beef cows are in herds of 100 head or more – 58,115 ranches – with an average size of 195 cows. And, the 6,972 ranches with 500 head or more have 6.3 million cows, 22 percent of the total, and an average herd size of 905 head of cattle.”

The 2022 census data showed the average herd size of all beef cow operations was 47 percent head, up from the 43.5 head average in 2017. The 2022 census breaks the number of producers into six groups according to size, with fewer than 500 cows. All six of these groups saw a decline in number of ranches.

The 2022 census showed the opposite was true in the three groups with more than 500 cows. With 5,408 ranches, the census found 870 more ranches reporting 500 to 999 cows, which was 16 percent more than in 2017. The 1,000to 2,499 cow category was at 1,358 ranches, an increase of 156 ranches or 11 percent. Ranches with 2,500 or more cows, the largest category reported, saw a four percent increase from 198 ranches in 2017 to 206 ranches in 2022.

The census found the two largest categories – the 1,000 to 2,499 head and the 2,500 head or more – have added 275,912 cows to their herds since 2017, a 10 percent increase.

This shows me, in our region, the number of ranches are decreasing and the number of cattle on these ranches are increasing.

As we realize with cattle at higher prices, because of lower numbers brought on by widespread drought and slaughter of heifers, cattle numbers are going to stay lower for the next year or so.

GUEST OPINIONS

As summer slowly heats up and families around the state begin turning on their air conditioning and fans, they do so with no small amount of trepidation. Electricity prices, like so many other things individuals are paying more for these days, have been hard to afford for far too many of us, especially our elderly and disadvantaged.

But even with rising costs, there is no denying the importance of energy as a driver of health and wealth for our state and our nation.

The same energy which powers our factories and mega-marts also powers lifesaving equipment in our hospitals and urgent care centers, as well as our emergency dispatch and call centers. Nothing any of us does in our daily lives can be done without energy. And yet, the issue divides us.

Wyomingites do not require seasonal cooling and warming – or in the case of some states, blackouts – to remind us of the importance of energy. We

By Amy Edmonds

see it as we drive, work and play. We see it in the ebb and flow of men and women going to work in our mines, natural gas fields and refineries each day.

These jobs feed Wyoming families and enliven our communities with an economic cascade of benefits. The taxes Wyoming receives from energy extraction and production fuel our public schools as well as many other government functions.

From coal to natural gas to wind, solar, sequestration and beyond, Wyoming’s energy is the most important economic driver of our state, and we need leaders who focus more on diversification and less on political pandering.

The recent proposal by the Biden administration to effectively shut down coal extraction by 2041 in the Powder River Basin, the heart of Wyoming’s coal country, is another troubling example of the kind of pandering we don’t need in the quest to solve America’s energy issues.

This damaging new federal directive prompted Gov. Mark Gordon to respond by stating, “This is not about making a wellinformed decision. It is about President Joe Biden’s partisan, vindictive and politically-motivated war on America’s abundant, cheap, efficient and consistent energy sources – one which holds practical and achievable goals to remove carbon dioxide from our atmosphere. This administration touts its preference for ‘best available science’ yet only chooses to highlight the science that advances their job- and career-killing agenda.”

He continues, “As governor, I am profoundly disappointed our nation’s highest executive leadership has chosen to ignore innovation and opportunity to grovel at the feet of coastal elites. The issues we face globally right now are too important and too urgent to dither away with incoherent policies and wrongheaded initiatives. As with the other attacks on Wyoming’s fossil fuel

industries, the attorney general is actively pursuing options to challenge these destructive decisions.”

Gordon is right to continue defending Wyoming’s energy sector, including our coal producers, but let’s keep in mind he is also right to defend and promote all forms of energy production in Wyoming.

Let’s look at what Wyoming energy, like coal, means for our state and our nation.

Wyoming mines around 41 percent of the nation’s coal, and we produce 12 times more energy than we consume. We are the second largest overall energy provider in the nation, the eighth largest crude oil producer and the 10th largest natural gas producer, according to the U.S. Energy Information Agency.

According to the Wyoming Mining Association, Wyoming has over 1.4 trillion tons of coal resources in seams in the Powder River Basin. Estimates Please see ENERGY on page 5

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HPAI detected in Wyoming

The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) and the Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA) have received confirmation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory of the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a dairy cattle herd in Wyoming.

The detection was first identified in samples received by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory. This is the first confirmed case of HPAI in a dairy farm in Wyoming.

“WLSB encourages all dairy producers to closely monitor their herd and contact their herd veterinarian immediately if their cattle appear symptomatic,” said Dr. Hallie Hasel, Wyoming state veterinarian. “The primary concern with this diagnosis is on-dairy production losses, as the disease has been associated with decreased milk production. The risk to cattle is minimal and the risk to human health remains very low.”

Symptoms of HPAI in cattle include a drop in milk production, loss of appetite, changes in manure consistency, thickened or colostrum-like milk and low-grade fever. Producers are encouraged to practice good biosecurity on their farms such as limiting visitors and excluding any wild birds or animals from the dairy.

Dairies are required to ensure only milk from healthy animals enters the food chain. Additionally, the pasteurization process of heating milk to a high temperature ensures milk and dairy products can be safely consumed, as confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control. There is currently no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply or this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health.

The WDA and WLSB have been and will continue to coordinate with federal and state partners to monitor this emerging issue.

Wool sales increase

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) has hosted two reverse trade missions in the past month, resulting in the sale of more than 400,000 pounds of grease wool from several states, including a variety of wools ranging from fine to coarse.

Buyers from China were in the U.S. recently, while a buyer from Italy visited a couple of weeks ago as part of the program to expand sales of American wool.

“These trade missions play a vital role in promoting American wool, educating buyers and facilitating introductions to the U.S. exporters, warehouses and growers,” said ASI Director of Wool Marketing Rita Samuelson. “Most importantly, they result in the purchase of American wool during challenging conditions.”

ASI partners with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service to fund this program and develop market access for American wool worldwide. This collaboration helps create multiple competitive markets, ensuring broader reach and increased opportunities for American wool in the global marketplace.

Through this program, ASI identifies potential buyers, builds relationships and brings interested buyers to the U.S. to learn about the variety of wools produced within the country. With three reverse trade missions already completed, additional trips are a possibility later this summer.

Senators pen letter

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) and U.S. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) recently led a bicameral letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) demanding the agency roll-back its ban on purchasing or deploying M-44 sodium cyanide ejector devices.

M-44 devices are used by farmers and ranchers – mainly sheep and goat producers – for predator control. These devices are a valuable management tool and protect herds from coyotes, foxes and feral dogs. The Environmental Protection Agency has continuously approved the use of these safe and effective devices by state agencies in the past.

The agency included language prohibiting the use of M-44 devices by third parties in the USDA’s Fiscal Year 2024 Appropriations Package signed into law earlier this year.

“American ranchers are the foundation of our food and economic security, and we must promote policies which protect their viability. It is estimated if Texas and Wyoming ranchers could better control predation, it could result in over $100 million in farm gate sales,” the members wrote.

“In Wyoming alone, predator losses amounted to 47.3 percent of all sheep and lamb deaths. The continued production of M-44 devices is well within the law and is important to ensure ranchers have access to this safe and effective predation tool,” they continue.

Cosigners of this letter include U.S. Sens. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Steve Daines (R-MT) and Ted Cruz (R-TX).

Barrasso introduces bill

U.S. Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) and U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR), member of ENR and chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, introduced the Operational Flexibility Grazing Management Program Act to support ranchers who rely upon federal lands to graze their livestock.

This legislation aims to improve the management of grazing activities on federal lands by granting livestock operators increased flexibility to promptly adapt and respond to changing on-site circumstances, such as drought or wildfires. This will enhance their capacity to oversee ranching operations which are economically viable and promote the health of rangelands and wildlife habitats.

“Grazing is an integral part of keeping Wyoming’s rangelands healthy. Ranchers need more flexibility to adapt and respond to on-the-ground threats like drought and wildfires. This will both support our ranching communities and encourage better management of our federal lands,” states Barrasso.

“Our bill gives ranchers the tools they need to best manage the grazing activities of their livestock. I’m pleased to be working with Wyden to advance this critical reform,” he adds.

Senators urge road repair

U.S. Sens. John Barrasso (R-WY), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Crapo (R-ID) and Reps. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) and Mike Simpson (R-ID) sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg urging the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide necessary federal assistance to the Wyoming Department of Transportation as it works to repair Teton Pass following a catastrophic landslide that wiped out a section of the highway.

“We stress the urgency of restoring travel for more than 7,000 daily drivers between the greater Jackson area of Wyoming and Victor, Idaho. The highway closure jeopardizes livelihoods and impacts a significant portion of the workforce – around 15 percent – who routinely commutes to Jackson from Idaho,” said the senators and representatives.

Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon issued a disaster declaration to ensure the state has access to emergency federal funding to repair the highway, which serves as a crucial connector for not only employees and residents between Idaho and Wyoming, but is also critical for tourism as it connects Idaho to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park.

Fundraiser announced

The Trailing of the Sheep Festival will present its annual fundraiser, themed “Starry Starry Night,” on Aug. 29 at 6 p.m. at The Argyros Performing Arts Center in Ketchum, Idaho.

Guests will enjoy an evening of entertainment, food, drinks and auctions to support the Trailing of the Sheep Festival’s mission to gather, celebrate, present and preserve the history and cultures of sheepherding in Idaho and the West.

Guests will also be invited to participate in silent and live auctions, a mystery raffle and more.

Only 200 seats are available, and tickets are on sale now. VIP tickets are $225 and include an Opari gift, VIP seating and premium wine. General admission tickets are $150.

Tickets can be purchased at trailingofthesheep.ejoinme.org/ StarryNightTickets

NEWS BRIEFS

Bookmark and Beyond

Each year, to showcase their understanding and appreciation of Wyoming’s essential resources, second- through fifthgrade students from across the state create bookmarks illustrating a Wyoming resource message through Wyoming Agriculture in the Classroom’s Bookmark and Beyond program.

Approximately 10 winning designs are printed and distributed around the state.

For coming weeks, the Roundup will share photos of the 2024 Bookmark and Beyond finalists.

Applications available

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is now accepting applications for Composting and Food Waste Reduction pilot projects for Fiscal Year 2024. The cooperative agreements, using remaining funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, are jointly administered by USDA’s Office of Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (OUAIP) and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

Selected projects will develop and test strategies for planning and implementing municipal compost plans and food waste reduction plans and are part of USDA’s broader efforts to support urban agriculture.

USDA’s OUAIP – led by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) – will accept applications on grants.gov until Sept. 4. Projects must be two years in duration with an estimated start date of June 1, 2025.

“Uneaten food makes up approximately four percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions,” said Terry Cosby, chief of NRCS.

Wyoming student awarded

Layne Burnett of Carpenter was one of three students selected to receive a 2024 Dairy MAX scholarship of $2,500. The Dairy MAX scholarship program honors dairy farmers’ commitment to their communities and giving back to the next generation.

Burnett grew up on her family’s dairy farm in Carpenter. As a senior at Texas Tech University, Burnett plays an active role in numerous clubs, organizations and committees.

Even while balancing her classwork and extracurricular activities, Burnett remains involved in her family’s dairy farm. She contributes by managing the farm’s data tracking programs and financial records. She is currently studying agricultural communications and plans to use her skills to serve the dairy industry.

A total of 17 scholarship applications underwent an in-depth judging process. To be eligible for the Dairy MAX scholarship, students must reside in the Dairy MAX region, be a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student currently enrolled in college and be a child of a dairy farmer, child of a dairy farm employee or an FFA and/or 4-H dairy show participant.

“Investing in the youth of the dairy industry is important to Dairy MAX and fundamental in progressing the industry as a whole,” said Todd Green, vice president of industry image and relations at Dairy MAX. “The Dairy MAX scholarship program allows the organization to support the next generation and encourages these young people while they are working to advance their education. We are honored to have these three students represent Dairy MAX and the industry.”

The 2025 Dairy MAX Scholarship application will open in January 2025. To see a full list of eligibility requirements and for more information about applying, visit DairyMAX.org/Dairy/Scholarships

Fire devastates Ohio

According to a June 10 article in AgDaily, one man suffered serious burn injuries and at least 43 horses died in a fire on June 8 which burned a 100-horse training barn used by two performance horse trainers in Logan County, Ohio.

Assistant Fire Chief Jason Johns reported firefighters from Logan, Hardin and Union counties in Ohio responded to a barn fire at Brant Performance Horses. The barn was 60,000 square feet with stalls, an arena and living quarters for employees.

Owners Brandon and Cathy Brant have been training horses since 2007 for reining competitions. The couple estimates about 85 percent of their business was lost in the fire.

A trainer, Eric Priest, who operates Priest Performance Horses at the facility, was inside the barn trying to save his clients’ horses when he was injured by the fire. According to the Columbus Dispatch, Priest suffered second-degree burns to his arms, back and head from running into the blaze. He was taken to the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center to receive treatment.

As news of the fire spread, multiple fundraisers started in support of the training barns, trainers and their clients. While GoFundMe says it take steps to prevent scammers, and the majority of fundraisers appear to be legitimate, it’s important to verify fundraisers before making donations.

Emergency declaration issued

Gov. Mark Gordon has issued an executive order (EO) declaring an emergency in response to the catastrophic failure of Wyoming Highway 22, Teton Pass, where multiple mudslides have led to a catastrophic structural failure of the roadway at milepost 12.8.

The declaration will help the state access additional resources from the Federal Highway Administration to begin the substantial repairs required.

“We are closely monitoring this ongoing situation, and Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) personnel are working diligently to develop a long-term solution to rebuild this critical roadway,” Gordon said. “I recognize the significant impacts this closure has to Teton County residents, regional commuters and the local economy.”

“WYDOT remains on site decisively engaged on fixing the road and restoring connectivity to the Teton Valley. Safety is our utmost priority, and we ask recreationists and curious residents avoid the area until it can be stabilized,” WYDOT Director Darin Westby added.

The emergency declaration states current conditions affecting highway integrity and structural stability continue to deteriorate, and efforts to reduce further damage must begin immediately. It also states the closure “endangers the health, safety, economy and resources of residents of Wyoming.”

The EO directs the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security and WYDOT to “take all appropriate and necessary actions, including but not limited to, coordination of state and federal resources” to respond to the incident.

There is no estimate on a repair completion date for the roadway at this time. WYDOT will issue ongoing updates as they are available.

BLM seeks public input

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public input to inform the development of an environmental assessment for the gather and removal of nearly 5,000 excess wild horses over a three-year period from areas designated as the Great Divide Basin, Salt Wells Creek and Adobe Town herd management areas (HMA).

The removals, which follow a 2023 land use planning decision, would help protect land health and resolve management conflicts in the area.

On May 9, 2023, the BLM issued a land use planning decision to cease management of public lands for wild horses in the Great Divide Basin, Salt Wells Creek and a portion of Adobe Town. The BLM made this decision to resolve ongoing management conflicts between private and public land sections within the checkerboard land pattern of ownership.

Under BLM’s management practices, horses currently found within those former HMAs are now considered appropriate for removal.

The environmental assessment will analyze potential impacts associated with the gather and removal from these areas. It is likely multiple removal operations would occur over multiple years to fully remove wild horses from the designated areas.

Proposed removal operations could begin between Oct. 1 and Sept. 30, 2025.

The 30-day scoping period will conclude on July 8 at 4 p.m. For questions, e-mail BLM Wyoming State Office Public

Layne Burnett Courtesy photo

People’s Choice Award Winner – Created by Brooks Barker, fourth grade, Uinta Meadows Elementary, Evanston

Bookmark and Beyond Finalist – Created by Rylee Attwood, fifth grade, Oregon Trail Elementary, Casper

OBITUARIES

Arnold Ray "Arnie" Altaffer

Aug. 10, 1946 – June 4, 2024

Arnold Ray “Arnie” Altaffer, age 77, of Moorcroft passed away on June 4 at the Veteran Affairs Black Hills Healthcare, Fort Meade Hospital at Fort Meade, S.D.

He was born on Aug. 10, 1946 to Larena (Blake) and James Altaffer in Gil-

lette. He was the youngest of three brothers and one sister. His childhood and school years were spent on the family ranch northeast of Moorcroft, where he learned to help with haying, livestock, machinery and critter control. His family also instilled in him a lifelong love of music.

He went to a rural Crook County school for four years, then to the Moorcroft schools until he graduated high school in 1964. He helped his mom on the ranch before working in the “Oil Patch” around Lynch. In 1967, he received notice from Uncle Sam. He entered the U.S. Army in July 1967 and spent all of 1968 in Vietnam during the

Aug. 25, 1942 – June 6, 2024

John Cody Thompson was born Aug. 25, 1942 in Chadron, Neb., the oldest son of John Russell Thompson and Mary Jo Norman Thompson.

Russ and Mary Jo relocated to Niobrara County shortly after Cody’s birth,

ENERGY

settling for a short time at Jireh and then choosing the Indian Creek area to raise their family.

Cody began his formal education at the Indian Creek School and graduated from Niobrara County High School in 1961. Following graduation, and not being one to rest on his laurels, Cody enlisted in the Wyoming Army National Guard, attaining the rank of sergeant.

Following basic training in California, he was accepted to the University of Wyoming on a full academic scholarship and was a member of the Farm House Fraternity. He graduated in 1968. He still found

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give Wyoming more than 165 billion tons of currently recoverable coal with today’s technology.

This coal contains a low sulfur composition, has a very low production cost given its location and sits near a rail system giving it immediate access to easy transportation across the U.S.

Coal use has been slowly decreasing, in no small measure because of political agendas, but also because of technologies like fracking which have produced lower-cost natural gas – something Wyoming’s energy sector also produces.

But coal is still needed by Wyoming and a myriad of other states like Texas, Missouri, Illinois, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Nebraska, Kansas, Michigan and Iowa that burn it. Coal is still the third-largest energy source in the country, and while coal-fired power plants are slowly fading out, they are not gone. The need for coal is

Tet Offensive. He walked “point” most of his time there and became a squad leader.

After his Army discharge in 1969, he continued his education at the University of Wyoming (UW) in Laramie. As well as studying, he worked driving a cement truck for Yeoman Construction and playing in a country band on weekends. He had many fond memories playing with The Spoilers at The Cowboy Bar and other venues.

In Laramie he reconnected with a Crook County girl, Penny Tschetter. They were a couple from late 1969 until December 1974 when they made it official. Following his graduation in business and finance from UW in 1973, he worked for P&M Construction learning the house building trade.

In the fall of 1975, he began work for the Federal

time to ranch, rodeo and work the feedlots and sale barns in Laramie, Lusk and Torrington.

In November 1967, he married Donna Dobson. To this union three children were born – Ty, Sara and Amanda.

Cody utilized his skill and knowledge in cattle by filming for Torrington Livestock Cattle Country Video for many years. He was a member of the Elks Lodge #1797 and an honorary member of Harmony Lodge #24. In recognition of his dedication to his community, Harmony Lodge #24 honored him as Person of the Year in 2023.

On May 16, 2003, Cody married his “perfect partner” Cheri Himes Keller in Lusk.

A man of character and integrity has strong moral

expected to continue well past 2041.

But one need only look through Biden’s energy policies to find ideas that won’t meet the need for reliant, clean, efficient and low-cost energy in the U.S. Rather, his plans contain a lot of political rhetoric pandering to voters, unhelpful ideas like clean energy projects to advance social justice issues, such as the Justice 40 Initiative. While plans to upgrade our aging transmission lines are important, it is clear there are far too many politics being played at the expense of long-term plans to prepare for America’s expanding energy needs. All of this is relevant to Wyoming and our energy producers.

While the shutting down of the Powder River Basin may be a victory for some who would like to end all coal use today, the reality is very different for those millions of people dependent upon Wyoming energy far beyond tomorrow.

Land Bank. He and Penny moved to Casper, and in 1977, began their family. Their daughter Natasha Elaine was followed by son James Albert in 1979.

Arnie stayed with the Federal Land Bank as it transitioned to Farm Credit Services of America. He filled several different roles with them over 36-plus years. He retired in the spring of 2012, and he and Penny moved to rural Moorcroft close to where they grew up.

In retirement he helped with the Pine Ridge Community Church. He mowed grass and hayed his and the neighbor’s acreages to help minimize fire danger, which led him to become a volunteer firefighter with Crook County Zone 16. He spent many hours helping with fires and traveling many miles to fires all over the county.

He was a life member

principles and is honest, dedicated to their values and beliefs and whose conduct reflects their high ethical standards. Cody could be relied upon to do what was right, even when no one was watching. He was a man who had opinions, knew his own mind and was confident and at ease in society.

Cody played hard and worked harder. He shared his vast experience with many young people and mentored any who were willing to work shoulder to shoulder with him. Two such young men – Josh Keller and Danny Himes – were fortunate to benefit from Cody’s patient tutelage, but he did not accept lapses of commonsense.

Cody was generous to a fault. Not many were successful at declin-

From those on the right who wish to outlaw wind energy or carbon sequestration projects and those on the left who want to eliminate coal and use our energy sector as some kind of social justice experiment, we see extreme positions which are dangerous and idiotic.

These extremes in energy positioning help no one and only serve to further divide the nation politically.

Wyoming’s future as an energy producer will be secure if we stay focused on defending our legacy while looking to the future toward innovation and diversification. But we will only achieve this if we elect leaders who see the importance of all of it and aren’t narrowly focused on using energy to play politics. There’s too much at stake to do otherwise.

Amy Edmonds is a former state legislator from Cheyenne and can be reached at amyinwyoming@icloud.com. This opinion column was originally published by WyoFile on June 5.

of the UW Alumni Association, the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. and the National Rifle Association. He had a membership in the Texas Trails Museum and the Rockpile Museum.

Previously, in Casper, he had been a member of the NREF and the Nic. Additionally, he was active in the Chamber of Commerce and Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. He volunteered as a Boy Scout Leader and a youth soccer coach.

He loved to hunt and was a lifelong hunter and shooter. He also enjoyed camping and hiking with his family and friends. He hiked and explored in the Southwest, and he hiked the Grand Canyon at least 10 times, including rim-torim hikes.

He and Penny and other friends loved adventure road trips, whether

ing an offered adult beverage, preferably Charter in a short glass with lots of ice. He accepted all as they were but would not tolerate disrespect.

Cody is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Harry Leif Thompson and his son-in-law Barry Travnicek.

He is survived by his wife Cheri; brothers Thomas Joe (Dixie) Thompson and Frank Link (Deb) Thompson; sister Roxanne (Roy) Sharp; son Ty (Roxanne) Thompson; daughters Sara Travnicek and Amanda (Jeff) Cotton; step-daughter Jennifer (Dick) Penfield; step-sons Jacob (Meri) Keller and Joshua (Kendra) Keller; grandsons Hunter Thompson Dockery, Tyler Charles Cotton, John Jacob Cotton, Colt William

local or to Alabama and Florida. Arnie loved music and played guitar. He was proud of his family and his rural heritage. His volunteer firefighting and service on the FAB were very important to him. He is survived by his wife Penny of 49 years; daughter Tasha (Jim) Archer of Burns; son James (Rebecca) Altaffer of Cairns, Australia; grandchildren Jackson, Stephen, Nicholas and Ella Archer; Jeremy and Hugo Altaffer; sister Eleanor Franklin of Stevensville, Mont., as well as several sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews and nieces.

Funeral services were held on June 14 at the Moorcroft Town Center in Moorcroft. If anyone wishes, memorial donation may be made to Crook County Fire Zone 16, Pine Ridge Community Church or UW.

Travnicek, Blake Dylan Travnicek, Cody Dale Travnicek, Trigg Russell Thompson and Tripp Lewis Thompson; granddaughter Camryn Kay Thompson; great-granddaughter Ivy Taylor; great-grandson Travnicek, who will arrive in November; step-grandsons Mathew Penfield, Grady (Lynae) Penfield, Alec John Penfield, Kash Keller and Kane Keller; step-granddaughters Nicole (Dustin) Bicknell and Kinsey Keller and step-great-grandson Lennox Luther Penfield. Services were held on June 12 at the Niobrara County Fairgrounds. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Niobrara County Fairgrounds Foundation, the Elks Lodge #1797 or the organization of your choice.

USDA to conduct survey

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) will collect responses to the Conservation Practice Adoption Motivations Survey over coming weeks.

Survey recipients may respond securely online at agcounts.usda.gov, by phone or mail. A representative for NASS may call producers to set up an interview to assist in the completion of the questionnaire.

In late June, NASS will mail the survey to 5,000 farmers and ranchers in the Mountain Region States of Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming. There are two versions of the survey this year – one requesting information on grazing conservation practices and one for forestry conservation practices. Data from both versions of the survey will be released on Oct. 28. All NASS reports are available online at nass.usda.gov/publications/ All information reported by individuals will be kept confidential, as required by federal law.

For more information, contact Wyoming State Statistician Leslee Lohrenz at 800-392-3202.

(Avery)

John Cody Thompson

where the First Lady honored operations involved in the Wyoming Hunger Initiative.

“We have two different beef programs through our initiative – the Beef for Backpacks program and livestock donations through Food from the Farm and Ranch,” Gordon stated. “We have some amazing people who have donated to both of these programs, and we are going to honor them tonight.”

Those honored include the Baker family, Keith and Wendi Lankister, Shawn and Lisa Daly, Fred and Sabrina Smith, Jay and Linda Butler, Aaron Clausen, Andy and Kay Moore, Kelle Moore and Brace and Linda Rharmy, all of Douglas; Gerry and Gwen Geis, James and Jamie Tarver and Darci Edwards of Gillette; Jack and Diana Berger of Saratoga; Silver Spur Ranches of Encampment; Malik and April Hegge of Casper; Gordon Ranch of Kaycee; Walton Ranch of Jackson; Joe and Karen

Rankin of Shawnee; Martha Hellyer of Lander and Rocky Mountain Agronomy Center, LLC of Riverton. WSGA recognizes friends of the industry

On June 7, WSGA took its turn honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the beef industry during the association’s Annual Awards Luncheon.

Each year, WSGA partners with the Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA), Wyoming Game and Fish Department and Audubon Rockies to recognize cattlemen whose natural resource stewardship practices contribute to the environment and enhance productivity and profitability with the Environmental Stewardship Award.

This year, S&W Livestock, LLC of Arvada was the Environmental Stewardship Award winner.

Established by the Spellman and Woods families in 2013, S&W Livestock, LLC has actively participated in educational events and programs focused on soil health, rangeland monitoring, invasive weed management and alternative forage systems over the years.

to the environment with the Environmental Stewardship Award. This year, S&W Livestock, LLC of Arvada was the award recipient. WSGA photo by Summer Intern Shelby Sinclair

WSGA also presented their Guardian of the Grasslands Award, which recognizes an individual who has sacrificed time and effort into preserving Wyoming’s agriculture industry, as well as the Outstanding Rangeland Professional Award.

This year’s Guardian of the Grasslands awardee was WDA Director Doug Miyamoto, and Mark Shirley was the recipient of the Outstanding Rangeland Professional Award.

To wrap up the ceremony, WSGA presented two college students with the

Flying Diamond K Ranch 4 Blk/Bwf/Red/Hereford Cow Pairs, 3-7 yr olds, Tagged to Match, (Note: the Red Hereford Pair can be Registered for an Additional #200.00) ****2 Blk Hereford Bulls, 2 yr olds, Bulls can be Registered with an Additional $200/per Bull. Trich Tested

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Jeff Ward – Laramie, WY 307-399-9863***Tam Staman – Crawford, NE 308-631-8513

Justin Smith - Lusk, WY 307-340-0724***Chris Williams - Greybull, WY 307-272-4567***Hunter Dockery - Lusk, WY 307-340-1202 Nolan Brott - Lusk, WY 307-216-0033 ***Ben Kukowski - Kaycee, WY 307-217-1472*** Scott Redden - Burns, Co 970-596-3588

Clifford P. Hansen Memorial Scholarship, given in remembrance of Sen. Clifford Hansen and established through contributions received in memory of Hansen and other departed WSGA leaders.

the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

This year, the scholarship was presented to Lily Crago and Meredith Halweg. Hannah Bugas is

Guardian of the Grasslands Award – The Wyoming Stock Growers Association presents their Guardian of the Grasslands Award each year to an individual who has sacrificed time and effort to help preserve Wyoming’s agriculture industry. The 2024 Guardian of the Grasslands awardee is Wyoming Department of Agriculture Director Doug Miyamoto, pictured right. Jack Berger, pictured left, presented the award. WSGA photo by Summer Intern Shelby Sinclair

Outstanding Rangeland Professional – Mark Shirley was the recipient of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association’s 2024 Outstanding Rangeland Professional Award. Pictured from left to right are Scott Sims, Mark Shirley and Jack Berger. WSGA photo by Summer Intern Shelby Sinclair

Clifford P. Hansen Memorial Scholarship honorees – Students Lily Crago and Meredith Halweg were this year’s recipients of the Clifford P. Hansen Memorial Scholarship. Pictured from left to right are Pat Cullen, Jack Berger, Kelly Crane, Lily Crago, Meredith Halweg, Reg Phillips, Jim Magagna, Joe Crofts and Vance Broadbent. WSGA photo by Summer Intern Shelby Sinclair

Cattlemen’s Club Charter Members – This year, the Cattlemen’s Club celebrated its 25th anniversary, and during a luncheon on June 6, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association recognized the club’s charter members. Pictured from left to right are Tom Wright, Rob and Leslie Hendry, Anna Helm, Joe Thomas, Niels Hansen and Jim Wilson. WYLR photo

National Park Service releases bison management proposal for Yellowstone National Park

National Park Service (NPS) proposes a major shift in its strategy for managing bison in Yellowstone National Park (YNP), which could mean larger herds, expanded hunting opportunities beyond park borders and more bison transfers to Tribal governments.

On June 6, the NPS released its final environmental impact statement (FEIS) for managing bison in YNP.

According to the NPS, the proposed plan allows the NPS to manage bison based on new scientific information and changed circumstances, explore ways to increase the transfer of bison to American Indian Tribes and continue working closely with Tribal Nations and agency partners in management.

“Managing bison is a balancing act between having enough bison to support a healthy population and some migrations out of the park, but not too large of a population that could lead to mass migrations and cause brucellosis transmission to livestock, harm people or damage private property,” NPS wrote on its website.

NPS notes the plan is committed to the YNP’s

the two sale barn companies to form Torrington Livestock Markets.”

“We would not be where we are today if it wasn’t for the Maxfield family,” Lex stated. “They have been very good to us and gave us the opportunity to learn and grow in the cattle marketing industry.”

Later, in 1999, Torrington Livestock Markets marketed enough cattle to become the nation’s largest independent livestock market, and in 2002 the Madden brothers became the sole owners of the operation.

Shawn said, “Lex and I have been business partners for nearly four decades, establishing other entities throughout the years.”

However, he added, “In July 2017, I stepped away from Torrington Livestock Markets to travel, spend

objectives of the Interagency Bison Management Plan (IBMP), which includes maintaining a wild, free-ranging bison population, reducing the risk of brucellosis transmission from bison to cattle, managing bison who leave YNP and enter Montana and maintaining Montana’s brucellosis-free status for domestic livestock.

Alternatives

The NPS’s FEIS considers alternatives to managing bison with varying population ranges and management activities.

Alternative One would continue management of bison pursuant to the existing IBMP, which was approved in 2000.

NPS states, “This alternative maintains a population range between 3,500 to 5,000 bison after calving, similar to the last two decades.”

The plan allows for continued hunt-trap coordination, which balances population regulation in YNP by using harvest and hunting opportunities outside of the park. It also allows for increasing the number of brucellosis-free bison relocating to Tribal lands via the Bison Conserva-

tion Transfer Program (BCTP) and work with the state of Montana to manage the already low risk of brucellosis spreading from bison to cattle.

In Alternative Two, the preferred alternative, bison would be managed within a population range of about 3,500 to 6,000 animals after calving, with an emphasis on using the BCTP to restore bison to Tribal lands and Tribal treaty harvest and public hunting outside of the park to regulate numbers.

In this plan, the NPS would shift away from transfer for processing as a primary population management tool and establish 5,200 bison in early winter as a population assurance threshold.

When there are more bison, NPS would manage for a decreasing population, where the post-calving population is smaller than the early winter population and would first rely on harvests to reduce numbers but would resume shipments for processing when necessary.

Under Alternative Three, NPS would rely on natural selection, bison dispersal and public and Tribal harvests in Montana as the primary tools to

time with family and pursue other adventures in real estate, but I am still involved in the ag industry.”

Continued success

Today, Lex runs Torrington Livestock Markets with his partners Chuck Petersen and Lander Nicodemus.

The operation boasts Wyoming’s largest livestock market, offering cattle for sale daily via several marketing options including live auctions, video auctions and private treaty sales.

Torrington Livestock Markets draws cattle from a nine-state region, including Nebraska, Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Idaho, South Dakota and Montana.

During the fall, Torrington Livestock Markets offers multiple sales and sells up to 18,000 head per week.

For more information on the Yellowstone National Park Bison Management Plan, visit parkplanning.nps.gov/ projectHome.cfm?projectId=94496.

regulate numbers, which would likely range from 3,500 to 7,000 or more animals after calving.

The past and the future

Since 2013, bison numbers have ranged between 4,400 and 5,900 after calving, but numbers are likely to increase with less intrusive management.

According to Park Services, research indicates there is sufficient forage in the park to sustain about 10,000 bison during summer months and 6,500 during the winter, although large variations in weather and grass production from year to year add complexity to this estimate.

Near these estimates, foraging efficiency and bison condition should decrease, and more bison should migrate to lowerelevation areas in and outside of the park.

However, groups like the Montana Stockgrowers Association have long pushed to limit bison presence outside of the park, arguing risks associated with brucellosis transmission, fence

“It takes a village to run the operation,” noted Lex. “On sale days, we have up to 60 employees working. They make it possible for us to be successful, and we owe them many thanks.”

He continued, “There are no words that can express the debt of gratitude we have for three groups of people – the sellers for trusting us, buyers for supporting us and our employees for supporting us.”

Although well deserved, their induction into the Cattle Marketing Hall of Fame caught the Madden brothers off guard.

“We were surprised and honored to be selected to the LMA Cattle Marketing Hall of Fame Class of 2024,” both brothers humbly stated.

Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

damage and forage loss should preclude the park and other decision-makers from taking a more hands-off approach to bison management.

The park’s new plan preserves its ability to “take more aggressive management actions” in coordination with other federal, state and Tribal partners working under the existing IBMP if the risk of bison mingling with livestock increases.

In a press statement, National Parks Conservation Association Senior Yellowstone Program Manager Michelle Uberuaga describes the plan as an “important next step” which is science-based and will allow bison to thrive in Yellowstone.

“We applaud the park’s commitment to expanding Tribal cultural herds and will continue to work to ensure bison are managed in the same manner as other wildlife in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, including ending the annual ship to slaughter program. The

plan is grounded in the best available science and commits to flexible management strategies which will allow bison to thrive within Yellowstone,” states Uberuaga.

According to Montana Free Press , Gov. Greg Gianforte’s (R-MT) Press Secretary Katilin Price states, “The plan is not based in science, fails to incorporate any comments from our agency professionals and reflects a total disregard for the rulemaking process. In coming weeks, the governor will be submitting a formal response.”

The notice of availability of the FEIS was published in the Federal Register on June 7, initiating a required 30-day wait period.

At the conclusion of the wait period, NPS will sign and publish a record of decision, detailing the selected action.

Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Both Madden brothers claim WLAC title

In June 1963, the Livestock Marketing Association (LMA) held the first annual World Livestock Auctioneer Championship (WLAC) to spotlight North America’s top livestock auctioneers and to salute their traditionally important role in the competitive livestock marketing process.

The contest was held at hotels until 1967, when it traveled to its first LMA member market, and since then the WLAC has been held at member markets around the U.S. and Canada.

“The championship consists of three stages – the qualifying event, semifinals and the finals – held each June in conjunction with the LMA Annual Convention,” reads the LMA website. “Contestants competing for the world champion title must be 18 years old, employed as a livestock

auctioneer and sponsored by a livestock auction or dealer businesses.”

LMA is the proud sponsor for the event, bringing North America’s top livestock auctioneers together in a competition to showcase their professionalism and promote the auction method of marketing.

According to LMA, the largest number of entrants in the contest to date was in 1981 when they received 105 auctioneer entries.

In addition to being inducted into the LMA Hall of Fame, the Madden brothers each won the WLAC, making them the only brothers to win the title.

Lex won in 1998 at the Central Missouri Sales Company in Sedalia, Mo., and Shawn won three years later in 2001 at the OKC West Livestock Market, Inc. in El Reno, Okla.

Skinner’s Magic Show by Lee Pitts IT'S THE PITTS

It’s getting really hard to find good help in agriculture, especially milkers, shepherds and cowboys.

It’s getting so hard in the dairy industry dairymen are now using robots and teaching cows to milk themselves. That’s right, dairy cows are voluntarily entering enclosures because they’re getting some cow candy as a reward, and while they’re standing there eating, a robot attaches a milking machine which milks them three times per day.

Dairymen might have found a way to relieve

During the 2024 Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show, hosted by the Wyoming Stock Growers Association, Budd-Falen Law Offices, LLC Senior Partner Karen Budd-Falen provided an update on the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) to convention attendees.

According to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), enacted in 2021 as part of the National Defense Authorization Act, the CTA requires certain legal entities to register with FinCEN and to disclose their ultimate, natural person beneficial owners.

The CTA was enacted to help prevent and combat money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, tax fraud and other illicit activity, while minimizing the burden on entities doing business in the U.S., but the FinCEN’s final rule became effective on Jan. 1.

“The CTA was designed to combat money laundering and other financial crimes by requiring a broad range of entities to disclose personal information about their owners and persons who exercise control to the FinCEN, a bureau of the U.S. Treasury,” Budd-Falen stated.

Under the CTA Act, reporting companies are required to comply and file their initial reports by Jan. 1, 2025.

Reporting companies must provide four pieces of information – name, date of birth, address and the identifying number and issuer from either a non-expired driver’s license or a U.S. passport issued by the state.

According to the American Bar Association, penalties for not complying with

their labor headache, but the sheep and beef industries haven’t been so lucky, although I got a glimpse of the answer 45 years ago.

Bull sales were really different a half century ago than they are now. Instead of 500 bulls in one sale, a producer might have 70 bulls to sell and it took three hours to do it.

Then, along came World Champion Auctioneer Skinner Hardy who owned an auction market north of Bakersfield, Calif. He had a yearly allbreed bull sale in which he’d sell as many as 650

the CTA possibly include a fine of $500 per day, up to $10,000 per violation, with the possibility of up to a two-year term in prison.

CTA court case

The CTA Act was designed to enhance the federal government’s ability to combat financial crimes and has recently faced significant legal challenges.

Six weeks after FinCEN released its final rule, plaintiffs Isaac Winkles and the National Small Business Association brought suit in the Northern District of Alabama against the U.S. Treasury.

“An Alabama federal court’s ruling has temporarily enjoined the enforcement of the CTA as to the plaintiffs in the case, sparking a series of legal debates and appeals,” Budd-Falen explained.

The March 1 ruling by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama ruled the CTA is unconstitutional because it cannot be justified as an exercise of Congress’ enumerated powers.

Budd-Falen stated, “It’s a good policy to remove bad actors, but it’s not enough to allow Congress to violate constitutionally guarantee rights.”

According to case documents, the court held the plaintiffs did have standing and the legislative powers cited by the government do not provide sufficient authority for the CTA but the plaintiffs argue the CTA violates the first, fourth and fifth amendments. However, the court did not address these arguments.

Budd-Falen noted while the objectives of the CTA may be well intentioned, the act imposes excessively

For more information on the Corporate Transparency Act, visit fincen.gov/ news/news-releases/us-beneficialownership-information-registrynow-accepting-reports.

bulls in one afternoon.

To get all of the bulls sold, Skinner did something radically different –instead of taking five minutes per bull, he sold one every 31 seconds. As a ring man I knew I’d never gone that fast before on anything without wings and a fuselage.

After the sale, the auction crew knew we’d been a part of something new and exciting, but we never envisioned four decades later production sales from Montana to Texas would sell as many as 5,000 head of cattle in one afternoon.

Word spread rapidly about Skinner’s sale, and the next year we had sale committees from across the country at ringside to see Skinner’s magic show. Because Skinner was also a highly-sought-after purebred auctioneer, across the country he sped them

on states’ rights to regulate legal entities within their borders and encroaches upon the privacy rights of U.S. citizens.

“In this case, the second point they argued focused on the Commerce Clause. The CTA Act does not mention the word ‘commerce’ once, and this is a regulation that’s simply gone too far being justified on the Commerce Clause,” she said.

Judgement

In reaching its decision, the district court first held no authority exists for Congress under the Necessary and Proper Clause to carry out foreign affairs powers because those powers do not extend to “purely internal affairs” and the act of incorporation is an arena traditionally reserved for state regulation.

As to the Commerce Clause, the district court found the CTA does not regulate channels and instrumentalities of interstate commerce on its face nor does it regulate commercial or economic activity.

The mere act of incorporation, according to the district court, is insufficient to permit regulation under the Commerce Clause, and according to the court, it would be “a substantial expansion of federal authority to permit Congress to bring its taxing power to bear just by collecting useful data and allowing taxenforcement officials access to this data.”

However, on March 4, FinCEN issued guidance in response to the court’s opinion, stating they will comply with the court’s order as long as it remains in effect.

Across the country, another party in the Northern District of Ohio has filed a similar lawsuit, but this one seeks a nationwide injunction against the enforcement of the CTA.

Closer to home Lingle resident and Business Owner Tony Gou-

up too and the “magic of momentum” was born.

And who would’ve ever guessed selling bulls faster would result in higher prices. I think it was because the buyers didn’t have time to chew on their pencil, ask their buddy for advice and wonder if their wives would approve.

I had my own reasons for wanting to go fast that day. I knew a bowl of Joan’s berry cobbler awaited me at the end of the sale, and I had to drive five hours to a sale the next day.

As the announcer for a large video auction company for 20 years, I know video sales would have never been possible if we hadn’t sped up the pace because we had to buy satellite time which was very expensive.

I’ll never forget the time we sold our first lot

for $1 million and it took all of 30 seconds to do it.

And those ZX Ranch cattle topped the market.

The real reason we were able to sell bulls this fast was because Skinner had a great crew in what is often referred to as the “back end.” These were the cowboys on horseback, swinging gates and getting the cattle to and from the sale ring so the front end was able to sell them fast.

These folks are the unseen heroes in any successful auction, and Skinner had the best. His secret was a yard man named Ron Evans and his mostlyfemale crew who worked every Monday in exchange for paltry wages and a chance to ride their horses.

After the sale I remember sitting in the coffee shop gobbling down Joan’s cobbler when some exhausted members of

Skinner’s cowgirl crew came in for a quick cup of coffee before heading back out to load up the bulls.

To show my gratitude for what they’d done that day, I bought them all a bowl of Joan’s cobbler and congratulated them on a job well done. To a person they all looked at me funny.

“What? Did I say something wrong?” I asked.

To which their leader replied, “No, it’s just Iʼve been doing this for 25 years and this is the first time this has happened.”

“What, you’ve never had a free bowl of Joan’s cobbler before?” I asked.

“No, I never got a compliment before,” she said. I learned a lesson that day and one which could cure any labor problems we might have in the future – sometimes the best cowboys are cowgirls.

lart feels the CTA widely oversteps its bounds in terms of entitled freedoms of small business owners, while requirements to be submitted by January 2025 are unconstitutional.

According to an article in the June 7 Torrington Telegram, written by Jess Oaks, Goulart owns and operates Lingle’s Mustardseed Livestock, LLC and has joined a federal lawsuit with five other small corporation plaintiffs throughout the nation in hopes of bringing an end to something he feels will have detrimental long-term consequences.

“It’s designed in such a way where they decide if we are compliant, and if they decide we are not compliant we have to start all over and are looking at serious fines and sanctions. One of the things I have heard several attorneys speaking about with these things is they

don’t even know what to tell their clients because it is so vague and poorly written,” says Goulart in the article.

“It’s the smallest of corporations and the smallest businesses they are going after. All of this is an effort to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing, but if I don’t agree to provide the government with certain information I feel is none of their business, I will be looking at fines which could possibly destroy me and even land me in prison,” he continues.

Other plaintiffs involved in the lawsuit include Texas Top Cop, Inc.; Data Comm for Business, Inc.; Russell Straayer; the Libertarian Party of Mississippi and the National Federation of Independent Business.

On April 30, Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH) introduced the Repealing Big Brother Overreach Act

alongside 11 other colleagues and support from Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY).

This legislation repeals the CTA Act and provides American business owners, specifically small business owners, relief from burdensome reporting requirements and excessive penalties.

According to Davidson, “FinCEN is violating the personal privacy of American business owners by forcing them to disclose sensitive information. The CTA must be repealed, and Congress must ensure the federal government fits within the Constitution. This is why I’m introducing this legislation and asking my colleagues to join me to pass it.”

Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Karen Budd-Falen provides CTA Act update at WSGA convention

Morning discussion – On the morning of June 6, Karen Budd-Falen discussed the Corporate Transparency Act at the Wyoming Stock Growers Assocation Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show in Douglas. WSGA photo by Summer Intern Shelby Sinclair

The Wyoming Basin and Water Supply Outlook, released on the first day of each month, analyzes snowpack, precipitation, streamflow and reservoir storage across the state of Wyoming.

The report assesses the water supply outlook for the entire state of Wyoming, as well as individual basins including the Snake River, Madison Headwaters, Yellowstone River, Wind River, Big Horn River, Shoshone River, Powder River, Tongue River, Belle Fourche River, Cheyenne River, Upper North Platte River, Lower North Platte River, Laramie River, Sweetwater River, South Platte River, Little Snake River, Upper Green River, Lower Green River and Upper Bear River basins.

On June 1, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) released the report for June 2024.

Snowpack and precipitation

In the report, NRCS notes snow water equivalent (SWE) across the state of Wyoming as of June 1 was 132 percent of median.

The Tongue River Basin reported the highest SWE at 380 percent of median, while

Water supply outlook released for the month of June

the Yellowstone River Basin reported the lowest SWE at 91 percent of median.

Over the past month, areas in Wyoming have received varied precipitation, with the Wind River Basin reporting the highest precipitation at 148 percent of median, and the Upper North Platte River Basin reporting the lowest amount of precipitation at 19 percent of median.

Streamflow yields

From June through September, median streamflow yields across all Wyoming basins – except the Cheyenne River, Green River and Little Snake River basins –is forecast to average 108 percent of median.

Streamflow yields for these three exceptions are expected to respectively average 55 percent, 90 percent and 120 percent of median for the months of June and July.

Additionally, both the Snake River and Yellowstone River basins should expect to see streamflow yields at 95 percent of median, while the Shoshone River Basin will likely see yields at 96 percent of median.

NRCS estimates yields for the Laramie River Basin, Wind River Basin, Tongue

Brown and Butters selected for the 2024 WAIC Educator of the Year Award

Cami Brown and Sarah Butters have been selected as the Wyoming Agriculture in the Classroom (WAIC) 2024 Educators of the Year. Brown and Butters currently teach third grade at Mountain View Elementary School in Mountain View.

Both educators are active in their school, local community and WAIC programs. They have been involved with writing, revising and teaching WyoWonders – formerly the Wyoming Stewardship Project.

Utilizing lessons from WyoWonders, these teachers instill the values of stewardship and resource management in their students.

Brown was raised on a ranch so stewardship in agriculture is near and dear to her heart.

Mountain View Elementary Principal Bill Erickson remarked, “Cami has consistently provided engaging lessons which has instilled a sense of stewardship, pride and a love of the great state of Wyoming in the students she teaches.”

Butters also serves in a variety of roles in both her school and district.

Erickson commented, “Sarah seeks out professional development to ensure she is continually using best practices and proven methods for her students. This is also reflected in the work she has put into the WAIC program.”

As the 2024 Educators of the Year, Brown and Butters will both be awarded a cash prize of $2,500 through WAIC. The award is funded by the Vermillion Ranch, the Wyoming Livestock Roundup, Mantha Phillips and Mike and Mary Beth Evers.

River Basin, Big Horn River Basin, Sweetwater River Basin, Powder River Basin and Upper North Platte River Basin will be at 103 percent, 106 percent, 112 percent, 113 percent, 115 percent, 116 percent and 117 percent, respectively.

The agency also forecasts streamflow yields in the Lower North Platte River Basin to be 125 percent of median.

Reservoir storage

During the past month, reservoir storage across the entire state was 101 percent of median.

Reservoirs in the Lower North Platte River, Belle Fourche River, Wind River, Upper Green River and Big Horn River basins reported numbers below median at 87 percent, 94 percent, 95 percent, 95 percent and 96 percent, respectively.

Both the Cheyenne River Basin and Lower Green River Basin reservoirs were at 100 percent of median, while Snake River Basin reservoirs, the Buffalo Bill Reservoir on the Shoshone River and Upper North Platte River Basin reservoirs reported numbers

WYLR photo

Clint Snook • 307-290-4000 Cheyenne Seymour • 605-641-0638

Another big run of summer time weigh-ups, selling on a steady market. Thank you and we appreciate your business! Austin Snook • 307-290-2161

"From the ring, to the video, and in the country, we market your livestock the competitive way."

Market Report • June 12, 2024

COWS/COWETTES/HEIFERETTES

HOAGLAND FAMILY TRUST, BANNER WY

1 BLK-COW 1655 143.50 WT 2,374.92

TIM & JACKIE REIMLER, BUFFALO WY 1 BLK-HFRTTE 1175 164.00 WT

1

1 BLK-COWETTE

2

1

ROGER ST. CLAIR, BIG HORN

2 BLK-COW 1680

TURKEY

STEERHEAD

1 BLK-COWETTE 1190 163.50 WT 1,945.65

LAWRENCE E. & MARY L. BARBULA, SHERIDAN WY

1 RED-COW 1420 141.50 WT 2,009.30

HAY CREEK SURFACE, WRIGHT WY

4 RED-COW 1224 151.00 WT 1,847.86

2 RED-HFRTTE 985 183.50 WT 1,807.47

1 RED-COW 1285 137.00 WT 1,760.45

POWDER RIVER RANCH INC, ARVADA WY

5 BLK-HFRTTE 845 207.00 WT 1,749.15

3 BLK-HFRTTE 890 214.00 WT 1,904.60

5 BLK-HFRTTE 1000 192.00 WT 1,920.00

CODY REA, BANNER WY

1 RED-HFRTTE 1020 188.00 WT 1,917.60

FADDIS-KENNEDY CATTLE CO, SHERIDAN WY

1 HERE-COW 1415 135.50 WT 1,917.32

J & P LIMITED LIABILITY C, CASPER WY 12 BLK-COWETTE 1155 164.50 WT 1,900.66

1 BLK-COW

above median at 105 percent, 107 percent and 112 percent, respectively.

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@ wylr.net.

Courtesy photo

Getting Started in Ag:

Enterprise Risk Analysis

Enterprise Diversification and Risk Management

Risk and uncertainty are always part of the landscape in production agriculture. Risk manifests itself in many forms: unstable prices, rising input costs, production issues, labor shortages and weather, to name just a few examples. New and beginning producers have several options for managing this risk: purchasing insurance, developing marketing plans and strategies for the outputs, or taking other steps to improve outcomes and/or increase the chances for improvement. Another option for managing risk is diversifying to include one or more alternative enterprises. It is definitely best not to have all of your eggs in one basket. Farming and ranching should always be viewed as long-term businesses; diversification can help reduce risk and increase profitability over the long term. Enterprise diversification generally means managing multiple enterprises within the same overall business. Diversification can take many forms, such as raising crops to feed existing livestock, taking on custom machine work to augment income, or running a completely different business, like a bed and breakfast enterprise. Multiple enterprises offer the chance to spread production risk and lower costs by complementing other activities. For example, diversification might involve raising your own hay for livestock instead of purchasing it.

While a diverse enterprise mix is often necessary for many Wyoming farms and ranches, it is important to evaluate the activities as part of a comprehensive risk management plan. This ensures that resources and capital are being put to their most productive and profitable use. It is important to understand how each of these enterprises fits into the overall business picture. Producers tend to

evaluate the operation as a whole instead of examining each individual enterprise—and all of its associated revenues and expenses—on its own.

When completed correctly, enterprise analysis can provide a measure of each enterprise’s profitability and overall contribution to net income. Enterprise analysis shows how each enterprise compares to other enterprises, and its breakeven values. These metrics provide opportunities for the proactive manager to identify where to cut costs and watch for developing risks.

Enterprise Risk Analysis Course

The comprehensive course Enterprise Risk Analysis , available at RightRisk.org, is designed to give participants a broad understanding of the planning and overall risk management involved in enterprise analysis. The course includes an interactive self-study module, a recorded webinar with presentation slides and a question-and-answer session, and an e-book to accompany the self-paced course. The course also includes two case studies demonstrating how enterprise analysis can be applied in a broad range of situations.

Enterprise analysis includes estimating net returns by enterprise, which can help managers gather accurate information about the relative profitability and resource use by each enterprise. Accurate enterprise analysis can help managers make informed decisions about how to allocate resources across the business. For example, a producer with both a cow-calf enterprise and an alfalfa hay enterprise may think that the two complement each other. However, depending on the resources used—such as time, labor and capital utilized by the hay enterprise—it may be more cost effective to buy the hay.

For some operations, defining what constitutes an enterprise is relatively simple. For example, a farming operation that raises three or four different crops has easily defined enterprises. However, a combination crop and livestock operation with a diverse mix of activities such as raising feed, grazing aftermath or backgrounding cattle may not be as easy to sort out.

Another challenge in enterprise analysis is accurately accounting for non-cash items. This includes feed transferred to another enterprise, depreciation, and other expenses, in order to correctly allocate them to each enterprise. The

James Sedman is a consultant to the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics in the University of Wyoming College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources, and John Hewlett is a farm and ranch management specialist in the department. Hewlett may be reached at (307) 766-2166 or hewlett@uwyo.edu.

ERA course includes a segment intended to guide participants to a better understanding of how to define and break out their enterprise mix.

Risk is defined as future events for which the outcome is uncertain. Risk management should be proactive in nature; this allows the manager to address potential issues before they become problems.

ERA course users learn the five main sources of risk in an agricultural business and how to identify risk in their own situations. The course discusses strategic risk management, with a specific focus on the enterprise level. As described in the course, the risk management process is circular in nature; it is important to frequently monitor and review strategies, objectives and results in order to effectively manage risk in each enterprise.

The risk management process includes steps for establishing the context—internal and external—for each enterprise, as well as objectives and risk criteria. The internal context covers the internal environment within which the business seeks to achieve its objectives, including risk preference and biases. The external context includes the external environment, especially stakeholders and their concerns. Once risks are defined, strategies to evaluate and manage those risks can be compared and implemented.

Enterprise Analysis with the Enterprise Risk Analyzer (ERA) Tool

The Enterprise Risk Analyzer (ERA) tool from RightRisk.org is designed to streamline the enterprise analysis process and make it easy to understand. The tool complements the ERA course by allocating farm and ranch expenses and income accurately across

Often producers use information for prices and yields based on imperfect information. As a result, the decisions made using these sorts of assumptions can be seriously flawed. The ERA tool helps to reduce this inherent uncertainty by using a range of values to estimate the most likely outcomes. The user then enters all 1040-Schedule F data into the tool to begin the process of

all enterprises and providing performance analytics. Users first identify the individual enterprises in their business and then allocate expected yields and associated prices.

The ERA tool accounts for the inherent risk involved with projecting prices and yields by requiring the user to enter a range of expected values—maximum, minimum and most likely—in a forward-looking framework.

allocating expenses to each enterprise. Once the relevant information is entered, the ERA tool generates results in tabular and graphical outputs, providing net income and breakeven analysis. These results are divided into yield and price analysis, as well as overall revenue and expense analytics by enterprise. The ERA tool also generates probability curves showing the likelihood of selected outcomes.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit RightRisk.org to check out the Enterprise Risk Analysis (ERA) course and tool. The ERA tool helps producers accurately identify and categorize income and expenses by enterprise. It also explores how changes in those factors may affect their overall business plan. The ERA course page includes links to webinars, an e-book, presentations and self-study materials. The ERA tool and course are just two of the many interactive budgeting and analysis resources found in the RightRisk Analytics toolbox. These resources cover a wide range of risk management topics, such as enterprise budgeting, machinery costs and forage risk analysis.

Example ERA Tool Results Output

and Opportunities.”

WSF has a bright future

Following a breakfast buffet and an opening ceremony on June 6, WSF General Manager Courtny Conkle addressed opportunities for and challenges faced by WSF.

“I am so excited about your theme this year because I think it is so relevant,” Conkle began. “I appreciate the opportunities we have available and the direction we are heading, but I think we also need to be humble enough to admit there are some significant challenges we face.”

When it comes to discussing partnerships, Conkle noted the most important place to start is the foundation – both literally and figuratively. She mentioned there is a group working with the WSF Board of directors to form a 501(c)3, which will launch this summer, pending Internal Revenue Service approval.

“Getting this nonprofit formally launched will be the true foundation for the future of partnerships at the state fair,” she said. “It gives us so much opportunity in the sense we will be able to do grant writing on behalf of the state fairgrounds and we will be able to have a branch for charitable contributions, so it is something we are really looking forward to.”

Conkle explained WSF recently received an additional 19.1 acres, increasing the grounds’ acreage to 137 acres, which houses 60 structures. WSF staff is responsible for all of the repair, retention, regular maintenance and replacement of these structures, as well as grass irrigation, landscaping, etc.

From Ag Hall – the oldest standing structure on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds, finished in 1915 – to the new equine building, which was erected in 2009, WSF has over 100 years of diverse infrastructure, which Conkle notes presents a unique set of challenges.

However under the guidance of the governing board and the use of a utilitarian master plan created in 2020, over 40 projects have been completed on the state fairgrounds, with another 13 projects currently underway and 50 more set to be tackled over the next few years.

“The biggest challenge is the time it takes – it takes about two years to complete a project – but we are always turning and burning, and we are trying to complete 10 to 15 projects a year, depending on the scope,” Conkle said.

She continued, “But, the future is bright for the state fair. It is a preservation of history and heritage, and it also has the ability to be an economic driver, which is not

something we have ever tried before in over 119 years of existence.”

With this, Conkle explained the interim event season on the Wyoming State Fairgrounds has skyrocketed. In 2023, the grounds hosted 479 event days.

Another highlight is the success of the WSF Endowment, which far exceeded its goal of $500,000 by June 1.

“Last year, we had the opportunity to raise a half a million dollars, but there were two catches – we had until June 2024 and it was all or nothing,” Conkle said.

“Prior to this, the largest single initiative WSF ever had was a biennium fundraiser spearheaded by Wyoming Department of Agriculture Director Doug Miyamoto to raise $100,000, and it was no small feat.”

As of June 6, Conkle noted WSF raised over $671,000 for the endowment, $500,000 of which will be matched by the Wyoming Legislature.

“There were hundreds of people who made this happen from across the state and beyond. It is a really good indicator that what we do matters and people want to be on the right side of history for this,” she concluded. WSGA looks at possibility of statewide checkoff

After Conkle’s presentation, the Wyoming Stock

Growers Land Trust, WBC, Wyoming CattleWomen, Young Producers Assembly and WSGA provided their annual reports, and Karen Budd-Falen, a senior partner at Budd-Falen Law Offices, LLC, discussed beneficial ownership reporting.

WSGA Executive Vice President Jim Magagna and WBC Executive Director Ann Wittmann took to the stage to give an update on a directive passed at last year’s summer convention regarding a statewide beef checkoff.

“Some of you may recall during our convention at this time last year, WSGA passed a directive which stated WSGA officers and staff were directed to begin discussion on a statewide beef checkoff of up to one dollar,” Magagna explained.

He continued, “Wyoming had a state checkoff long before we had a federal beef checkoff. I believe it was 25 cents at the time. Then when the federal checkoff was passed, we used the authority in state statute to increase it to one dollar and collect it all through the federal checkoff.”

Although discussions of a statewide checkoff have been brought up for some time, Magagna said after the directive was brought forward, he and Wittmann began seriously looking into what a state checkoff would entail, all while involving other industry stakeholders.

Wittmann commented, “One of the most important things to note about having a state checkoff is the only thing it offers besides what is happening right now on the national level is the opportunity to market, develop, maintain and expand beef products processed, produced or manufactured in the state of Wyoming. But, we would still have all of the same opportunities as far as promotion, education and research go – all of those things are authorized in state statute.”

She further noted things are bleak when looking back at the history of trying to make changes to the existing checkoff.

In June of 2010, a resolution was passed for the WBC to assess producer support for a state checkoff, according to Wittmann. However, the council was not able to gather a statistically significant amount of evidence through the Producer Attitude Survey because an inadequate amount of producers actually responded to the survey.

What WBC was able to gather showed 35 percent of respondents were in favor of a state checkoff, and of the 35 percent, 56 percent were willing to pay 50 cents while the other 44 percent were willing to pay up to a dollar.

“It wasn’t compelling information,” Wittmann stated.

Wittmann and Magagna believe if they pushed for a state checkoff today, they would run into these same challenges, and they said it would be critical to gather more information before moving forward.

Governor discusses statewide challenges

The second day of the convention wrapped up with WSGA committee meetings, a Cattlemen’s Club Lun-

cheon and a dinner banquet, attended by Gov. Mark Gordon and First Lady Jennie Gordon. During his address, Gordon touched on the challenges the state of Wyoming is facing as a whole. He mentioned a “blizzard of things,” including the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan (RMP), the Buffalo RMP, the administration’s attack on energy and natural resources and ongoing issues with the Endangered Species Act, just to name a few.

He also noted at the beginning of the year Wyoming had 33 lawsuits filed, and this number has jumped to 50 plus.

“As I talk to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, Western states are all dealing with a host of challenges, but we are going to step up and meet those challenges,” he stated.

“We need to stand together because Wyoming has the answer to so many policy decisions. Our hope is by demonstrating the excellent management and husbandry practices we have here and the fact we can work together with our institutions to deliver excellent results will be recognized by others and we can all stand together.”

In the midst of an election year, Gordon concluded his speech by encouraging WSGA members and the ag community as a whole to pay good attention, to stand together and to continue demonstrating excellent leadership.

Check out next week’s Wyoming Livestock Roundup for updates from the last day of the WSGA summer convention.

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

WJHA hosts annual field day

The Wyoming Junior Hereford Association (WJHA) held their Annual Field Day Show on June 8 at the Albany County Fairgrounds in Laramie. Austin Reizenstein of

Eaton, Colo. and Blake Fabrizius of Nunn, Colo. evaluated the cattle exhibited by junior Hereford breeders from across Wyoming and Colorado.

LEFT: Reserve Champion Cow/Calf Pair – Exhibited by Kaylynn Weber, Shoshoni

Pictured from left to right are Junior Showmanship Champion Kaylynn Weber of Shoshoni, Intermediate Showmanship Champion Sarah Birdsall of Torrington and Senior Showmanship Champion Samantha Campbell of Eaton, Colo.

Photos by Curt Cox

Champion Bred and Owned Female – Exhibited by Sara Harfst, Sheridan

Reserve Champion Bred and Owned Female – Exhibited by Saige Ward, Laramie

Champion Bred and Owned Bull – Exhibited by Samantha Campbell, Eaton, Colo.

ABOVE: Reserve Champion Bred and Owned Bull – Exhibited by Saige Ward, Laramie

RIGHT: Champion Owned Female – Exhibited by Sara Harfst, Sheridan

Reserve Champion Owned Female – Exhibited by Saige Ward, Laramie

ABOVE: Champion Steer – Exhibited by Tayor Malcolm, Saratoga

LEFT: Reserve Champion Steer – Exhibited by Karlee Freese, Lander

BELOW: Champion Cow/Calf Pair – Exhibited by Sara Harfst, Sheridan

June 16 55th Annual Jordan Xtreme Bronc Match, 2 p.m., Jordan, Mont. For more information, follow @JordanXtremeBroncs on Facebook.

June 17 Uinta County 4-H Horsemanship Clinic, 6 p.m., Uinta County Fairgrounds, Evanston. For more information, call 307-783-0570 or e-mail skrieger@uwyo.edu.

June 17-18 Wyoming Water Association and Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts Upper Green River Basin Project Tour, Pinedale. For more information, visit wyomingwater.org or conservewy.com

June 17-20 Wyoming Society of Range Management’s 28th Annual Wyoming Resource Education Days, Pathfinder Ranch, Casper. For more information or to register, visit forms.gle/UQzMCY8zxhR4Wf7X8/

June 17-22 2024 National Rambouillet Show and Sale and National Junior Show, Animal and Plant Sciences Center and Arena, Tarleton State University, Stephenville, Texas. For more information, contact Robbir Eckhoff at rambouilletassn@ gmail.com or 409-256-3687 or Lee Munz at tsumunz@yahoo.com or 254-3796857.

June 19-20 Idaho Wool Growers Association and Western Range Association 2024 Range Tour, Etcheverry Sheep Company, Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. For more information, visit idahowoolgrowers.org

June 20 U.S. Department of Agriculture Conservation Outcomes Webinar, 12 p.m., online. For more information or to register, visit nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-outcomes-webinar?utm_campaign=0514wildlifeconserv

June 21 Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse and Burro Adoption Event, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Wheatland Off-Range Corral, Wheatland. For more information, visit blm.gov/whb/events, call 866-468-7826 or e-mail wildhorse@blm.gov.

June 21-22 Platte River Rodeo, 7 p.m., Buck Springs Arena, Saratoga. For more information, call Randy Arnold at 307-329-5769 or Cathy Cox at 307-710-7208.

June 21-22 Thermopolis Cowboy Rendezvous PRCA Rodeo, 7 p.m., Hot Springs County Fairgrounds, Thermopolis. For more information, visit thermopoliscowboyrendezvous.com

June 22 The Warmup Jackpot, Casper. Register at showman.app

June 22 2024 Donkey Creek Festival, Big Lost Meadery and Brewery, Gillette. For more information, visit donkeycreekfestival.com

June 24 Wyoming State Fair Endowment Auction, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., online. For more information, contact the Wyoming State Fair Office at 307-358-2398.

June 25 Governor Led Town Hall Meeting, 1-4 p.m., Technical Education Center, Gillette College, Gillette. For more information, visit governor.wyo.gov

June 25 Cattle U 2024, Manhattan, Kan. For more information or to register, visit cattleu.net/

June 28-29 Flaming Gorge Days, Green River. For more information, visit flaminggorgedayswy.com

June 30-July 7 Silver State International Rodeo, Winnemucca Events Complex, Winnemucca, Nev. For more information, visit ssir.us

Creek LLC - Ten Sleep

1 Blk Bull, 2115# $15650 Hessenthaler, Brandon

1 Blk Bull, 1965# $15650 Vigil, Michael - Manderson

1 Blk Bull, 1575# $15250 Jackson, Tom - Worland

1 Blk Bull, 1620# $14800 Russatt Ranch Inc. - Basin

1 Blk Bull, 1650# $14550

E Spear Ranch LLC - Riverton

2 Blk Bulls, avg. 1540# $14550 Horton, Darrell - Greybull

1 Blk Bull, 2040# $14400 307 Wilderness LLC - Crowheart

1 Blk Bull, 1535# $13900 Mendez Brothers - Otto

1 Blk Bull, 1445# $13000 Love, Valerie - Thermopolis

1 XBred Bull, 1185# $12500 Griemsman, Steve - Worland

1 CharX Bull, 1550# $10600 COWS Thurgood, Bruce - Thermopolis

1 Blk Cow, 1190# $15350

1 Blk Cow, 1540# $13400

1 Blk Cow, 1430# $13350 Lungren, Luke - Worland

1 Blk Cow, 1610# $14450

2 Blk Cows, avg. 1590# $14450 Schlattman, Dean - Greybull

1 Red Cow, 1670# $14450

1 Blk Cow, 1510# $14300 Lyman, Dwight - Ten Sleep

2 Blk Cow, 1473# $14350 Greer, Lory Ross - Hyattville

1 Red Cow, 1680# $14350 Hoyt, Mark - Basin

1 Blk Cow, 1580# $14250

1 Blk Cow, 1505# $13650

1 Blk Cow, 1620# $13000 Emerson, James - Worland

1 Blk Cow, 1485# $14250 Cross, Neil - Powell 1 Blk Cow, 1620# $14050 Spear D Ranch Inc. - Basin 1 CharX Cow, 1470# $14050 McKim, Cannon - Basin 1 CharX Cow, 1720# $14000 Crowfoot Ranch, Inc. - Worland

2 Blk Cows, avg. 1435# $13900

1 Blk Cow, 1280# $12200 Love, Valerie - Thermopolis

1 Red Cow, 1320# $13850 River Valley Land & Livestock - Lovell

1 Blk Cow, 1540# $13800

1 Blk Cow, 1445# $13000 Larsen Ranch Co. - Meeteetse

1 Blk Cow, 1540# $13700 1 Blk Cow, 1505# $13700

1 Blk Cow, 1420# $13000 Hedges, Dillon - Lander

1 XBred Cow, 1150# $13700 Starbuck Ranch LLC - Ten Sleep

1 Blk Cow, 1475# $13650

1 Blk Cow, 1650# $13000 Baird, John - Thermopolis

1 Blk Cow 1390# $13600

1 Blk Cow, 1320# $12750 Johnstone, Alex - Ten Sleep

1 BWF Cow, 1415# $13500 Blackstar Cattle Co. - Hyattville

1 SimX Cow, 1460# $13500 Annand, Kelly - Greybull

1 Blk Cow, 1550# $13450 Shumway, Leroy - Thermopolis

1 Blk Cow, 1235# $13400 Bischoff, Tyrell - Lovell

1 Blk Cow, 1325# $13400

1 Blk Cow, 1230# $11500

Twitchell, Samuel - Lovell

1 Blk Cow, 1135# $13400 Greer Land & Livestock - Hyattville

1 Red Cow, 1345# $13400 1 Red Cow, 1285# $13400 Griemsman, Steve - Worland

1 BWF Cow, 1455# $13250

2 Blk Cows, avg. 1233# $13250

2 BWF Cows, avg. 1323# $13150

1 CharX Cow, 1505# $11550

Shumway, Clay - Thermopolis

2 Blk Cows, avg. 1195# $12950 Cross, Neil - Powell

1 Blk Cow, 1520# $12750

Hoffman, Ronnie - Thermopolis

1 BWF Cow, 1240# $12750

Shumway, Eddie Lee - Thermopolis

1 Blk Cow, 1210# $12700

1 Blk Cow, 1410# $12600

Pennoyer & Son - Thermopolis

1 Hrfd Cow, 1275# $12650

July 4-5

July 5-13

July 6-14

Willis, Travis - Powell

1 Hrfd Cow, 1520# $12650

Durbin Creek Ranch - Thermopolis

1 Hrfd Cow, 1495# $12550

Bjornestad Land & Cattle - Manderson

1 Blk Cow, 1395# $12400

Calvo, Joe - Burlington

1 Blk Cow, 1075# $12100

1 Blk Cow, 1200# $11600

Deede, Frank - Byron

2 Hrfd Cows, avg. 1080# $12000

Horton, Darrell - Greybull

1 Blk Cow, 1645# $12000

Mercer, Asa - Hyattville

1 Red Cow, 1190# $11400 HEIFERETTES

L U Ranch - Worland

9 Blk Hfretts, avg. 894# $21000

Pennoyer & Son Inc. - Thermopolis

1 BWF Hfrette, 975# $18600

Schlattman, Dean - Greybull

1 BWF Hfrette, 1000# $18000

Crowfoot Ranch Inc. - Worland

2 Blk Hfrettes, avg. 1048# $17500

Calvo, Joe - Burlington

1 Red Hfrette, 1115# $17500

BHR LLC - Dallas

1 Blk Hfrette, 1015# $16000 PAIRS

Starbuck Ranch LLC - Ten Sleep

3 Blk Pairs $2500/Hd.

Emerson, James - Worland

2 Blk Pairs $2250/Hd. STEERS

Aagard, Mike - Burlington

1 Blk Str, 695# $29000

Greet Ranch Inc. - Ten Sleep

1 Blk Str, 840# $24250

Thompson Cattle Co. - Billings

3 Mxd Strs, avg. 1000# $21700 STEER CALVES

Shumway, Leroy - Thermopolis

2 Blk Str Clvs, avg. 580# $29200

June 27 – All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat

July 11 – All Class Cattle July 25 – All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat Aug. 8 – All Class Cattle

Aug. 22 – All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat

Ten Sleep Rodeo Weekend, Ten Sleep. For more information, visit tensleeprodeoassociation.com

Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo, Casper. For more information, visit centralwyomingfair.com

Laramie Jubilee Days, Laramie. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit laramiejubileedays.org

July 9 Uinta County 4-H Horsemanship Clinic, 6 p.m., Uinta County Fairgrounds, Evanston. For more information, call 307-783-0570 or e-mail skrieger@uwyo.edu.

July 10-20

National High School Finals Rodeo, Sweetwater Events Complex, Rock Springs. For more information, visit nhsra.com/nhsfr/

July 12-14 2024 Wyoming Sheep and Wool Festival, Hot Springs County Fairgrounds, Thermopolis. For more information, visit wyomingsheepandwoolfestival.com

June 7-26

June 20-21

June 29-30

July 2

July 8-10

July 8-12

July 27

Dooley Auction Equipment Online Auction, 406-696-0412, dooleyauction.com

Northern Livestock Video Auction Early Summer Special, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com

RT Claypoole Auction, 198 Breeze Street and 351 Yampa Avenue, Craig, Colo., 970-756-9353, rtclaypooleauction.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

South Dakota Sheep Growers Association Premium Yearling Ewe Sale, Magness Livestock Auction, Huron, S.D., 406-581-7772, sdsheepgrowers.org

A headline in the June 14, 1918 issue of the Riverton Chronicle asks the above question, then goes on to report the following story:

Back a year or so in the distance, someone suggested a national celebration of Father’s Day, but father doesn’t seem to have as many boosters as mother, who even has the chief executive on her side to aid in making a big thing of the fete.

The Cheyenne State Leader has this to say about Father’s Day: We forget whether or not we have a Father’s Day in this country. If such a day was celebrated last year, it was all done so quietly it did not make any impression on us, but why not have a Father’s Day with a big rally in the parks?

Prizes could be given in contests, such as an endurance contest in holding the baby, a speed contest in transferring money from the pay envelope to the wife, a dish washing contest, a speed contest in putting up screen doors and a rug beating contest.

Another article concerning Father’s Day appeared in the May 8, 1913 issue of the Cheyenne State Leader. In part, it reads: Father’s Day

No one, unless he be the rent man or assessor, appears to take much interest in dad. About the only way for him to win attention would be to contact bubonic plague or run amuck with a gun.

Mother’s day has been celebrated for several years with more or less enthusiasm – yes, even éclat –

but it remained for Boston to take up a Father’s Day and try to establish it on a foundation of sentiment and public regard.

The occasion was a fizzle. There was no more vociferation or enthusiasm than there would have been at a chess tournament. A hurrah could not have been found with a search warrant.

The world wastes little sentiment on father. He works six days a week and rakes the yard, cuts the grass, plants the spring garden, beats the rugs and does other light chores around home on the seventh. Really, it would be hard to grow sentimental over a father with his sprouting two-days’ beard and melancholy droop to his trouser knees.

So far as his day is concerned, give him four bits for a front seat at the ball game or a fish pole, can of bait and a round trip ticket to the nearest trout stream – together with assurance the wife and kiddies are all right – and he will have his day, returning with a smile on his face and a coat of tan on his neck ready to commit an assault and battery on any “cold vittles” lying around loose. – Denver Times

Danny Vigil • Owner and Northern Livestock Represenative Layne Weber • Field Rep & Auctioneer • (307) 331-2222 A father and son enjoy a successful and happy Father’s Day of fishing in the Upper North Platte River which flows through Saratoga. The nation’s first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910 in the state of Washington. However, it was not until 1972 the

US #1 Pinto Beans

Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Torrington

Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Greeley, CO

National Sheep Summary

As of June 7, 2024

Compared to last week slaughter lambs mostly steady to 15.00 higher. Slaughter ewes mostly steady to 10.00 higher. Feeder lambs not well tested. At San Angelo, TX 13,586 head sold in a two day sale. Western Video sold 925 feeder lambs in Oregon, 400 replacement ewes in California and 280 slaughter ewes in Nevada. In direct trading slaughter ewes and feeder lambs not tested. 3,226 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 115-160 lbs 192.00-200.00. Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 120-145 lbs 207.50-245.00. South Dakota: wooled and shorn 120-140 lbs 193.00-226.00. 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 224.00-250.00, few 262.00; 60-70 lbs 226.00-258.00, few 265.00-266.00; 70-80 lbs 230.00-262.00, few 266.00-280.00; 80-90 lbs 238.00-268.00, few 270.00-272.00; 90-100 lbs 222.00-265.00; 100-115 lbs 220.00-264.00. wooled and shorn 48 lbs 230.00; 50-60 lbs 246.00; 60-70 lbs 230.00-254.00; 70-80 lbs 236.00-256.00, few buck lambs 268.00; 80-90 lbs 248.00-258.00, few buck lambs 294.00-315.00; 90-100 lbs 253.00-258.00, buck lambs 290.00310.00; 108 lbs 248.00, 100-115 lbs buck lambs 294.00310.00. Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 60-70 lbs 240.00-245.00; 70-80 lbs 255.00-257.50; 80-90 lbs 235.00-285.00; 90-100 lbs 240.00280.00; 100-110 lbs 212.50-295.00; 110-115 lbs 240.00-277.50. hair 70-80 lbs 250.00-265.00; 92 lbs 207.50; 108 lbs 260.00; 110-120 lbs 260.00-265.00.

South Dakota: wooled and shorn 40-50 lbs 275.00-285.00; 50-60 lbs 250.00-280.00; 60-70 lbs 235.00-265.00; 70-80 lbs 225.00-255.00; 80-90 lbs 220.00-230.00; 90-100 lbs 210.00239.00; 100-110 lbs 212.00-217.50; 110-120 lbs 215.00224.00. hair 50-60 lbs 190.00-225.00; 70-80 lbs 205.00220.00; 98 lbs 200.00. Billings: wooled and shorn 88 lbs 246.00; 100-110 lbs 240.00252.00. hair 57 lbs 245.00; 60-70 lbs 245.00-247.50; 90-100 lbs 242.50-246.00; 111 lbs 247.50. Slaughter Ewes San Angelo: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) no test; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 80.00-108.00, hair 84.00-108.00; Utility and Good 1-3 (medium flesh) 107.00-138.00, hair 110.00-128.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 82.00-106.00, hair 85.00-118.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) 74.00, hair 70.00-88.00; Cull 1 50.00-62.00. Ft. Collins: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 80.00-125.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 80.00-127.50; Utility 1-2 (thin) no test; Cull 1 no test. South Dakota: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 71.00-100.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 80.00-105.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 59.00-90.00; Cull 1 60.00-65.00. Billings: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 89.00-96.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 89.00-96.00, hair 81.00-93.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 79.00-93.00, hair

76.00-83.00; Cull 1 50.00-60.00. Feeder Lambs: Medium and Large 1-2

San Angelo: hair 40-50 lbs 243.00-247.00; 55 lbs 230.00.

Ft. Collins: 50-60 lbs 235.00-250.00.

South Dakota: 28 lbs 400.00; 30-40 lbs 320.00-355.00; 50-60 lbs 297.50-315.00; 70-80 lbs 238.00-243.00; 80-90 lbs 234.00236.00; 100-105 lbs 212.00-214.00; 113 lbs 193.00. hair 39 lbs 285.00; 44 lbs 245.00.

Billings: 54 lbs 250.00; 60-70 lbs 258.00-267.00; 70-80 lbs 248.00257.50; 80-90 lbs 240.00-257.00; 90-100 lbs 242.50-250.00; 100-110 lbs 245.00-253.00; 116 lbs 234.00. hair 55 lbs 250.00; 64 lbs 244.00. Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2

San Angelo: yearling hair 75-95 lbs 170.00-190.00/cwt; young hair 100-145 lbs 136.00-152.00/cwt.

Ft. Collins: no test.

South Dakota: yearlings 155.00/head.

Billings: no test.

Sheep and lambs slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 36,000 compared with 30,000 last week and 33,000 last year.

Source: USDA AMS Market News, San Angelo, Texas

National Wool Review

As of June 7, 2024

Domestic wool trading had 953,655 lbs of confirmed trades reported this week. Some trades are not shown due to them not meeting confidentiality criteria. 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.

Source: USDA- CO Dept of Ag Market

Wyoming Hay Summary As of June 13, 2024

First real test of the new crop hay market this week with no comparable sales for a market trend. Demand was mostly light. Some producers in the Eastern side of the state are putting up new crop alfalfa. Hay producers in the central and western reporting areas are planning on harvesting first cutting next week. Tonnage so far looks like a normal year. Few, reports of weevils in different areas of the state. Some producers have applied spray and others have opted not to. Cost of spraying is rather high this year and with decrease in hay prices many can not make it cost effective.

Compared to last week ground and delivered hay sold

First, test of the market this week on new crop

website at Call Brandon Furr at 402-257-7769 or 402-746-2222 for more information.

BID OPENING: CARTER COUNTY PREDATOR BOARD WILL BE TAKING BIDS FOR THE AERIAL CONTRACT FOR AERIAL HUNTING SERVICES TO BE PROVIDED FROM JULY 1, 2024 THROUGH JAN. 31, 2025 Bidders shall: Complete all required billing and documentation. Furnish all machinery and labor including aerial gunners. Work with county board and ground trappers. Have 150 horse power or greater aircraft. With the sealed bid, bidder shall provide proof of current independent contractor’s license with insurance and workers compensation or waiver from the Montana Department of Livestock. Provide proof of aerial hunter permit from the Montana Department of Livestock. The contract is for 7 months and 200 hours. Bidders must mail sealed bids to the Carter County Predator Board, C/O Stacey Ashbrook, PO Box 353, Ekalaka, MT 59324 or hand deliver sealed bids to Stacey at the Carter County Courthouse by 12 p.m. on June 24, 2024 Bids will be opened by public meeting on June 26, 2024 Bids that do not comply with this process will be rejected. The Carter County Predator Board has the right to refuse any and all bids. For questions call David Wolff at 406-975-6340 6/2

LOOKING FOR FULLTIME RANCH HAND IN NORTHEASTERN COLORADO: We are 30 minutes away from the towns of Holyoke and Wray, CO and Imperia,l NE. We have springcalving cows and fall-calving cows. We are looking for someone to help with checking cows, calving, preparing circles for planting, sprinkler repairs, haying, moving and vaccinating cows, fixing barbwire fence and putting in hot wire fence. We work pretty long hours 6 to 7 days a week from spring through fall. House and work pickup provided! References required! Looking to fill as soon as possible. Call Kim at 970520-2513 6/29

WANTED RELIABLE, HARDWORKING INDIVIDUAL NEEDED TO LIVE ONSITE AND CARE FOR A BEAUTIFUL 40 ACRE HORSE PROPERTY IN PARKER, CO: Responsibilities include daily turn out for 4 rescue horses, stall cleaning, feed set up, keeping supplies stocked, running tractors for mowing, plowing and manure spreading, keeping fence lines safe, gates in good operating condition and more!! Fully furnished 1 bedroom apartment in exchange for predetermined number of work hours. This is a long-term position. Option for additional work and pay available. Please e-mail resume to linda@ experienceavatarnow.com. For questions, leave message, 720-320-9681 6/29

RANCH HAND/GROUNDS

KEEPER: Full-time position at a family-owned ranch near Cody, WY and located in the Shoshone National Forest. Position entails lawn care, irrigation, heavy equipment operation, carpentry, equipment maintenance, building maintenance and overall residential and agricultural property maintenance. Experience is welcome but will train the right candidate. The ideal candidate will be reliable; have a strong work ethic; be able to perform individually and with a team; be a self-starter and, enjoy working outdoors. Benefits include health, with optional dental and eye; paid-time-off and 401(k) with employer matching contribution. For the right candidate housing on property is also available. Salary based upon previous experience. Send resumes to cg1@ colliergroupoffice.com or call 307-587-6275 for questions 6/29

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 preemployment 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 6/29

SIGN-ON BONUS!! Full- or parttime DRIVERS NEEDED FROM WORLAND TO CASPER, WY: Nighttime hours, $30/HOUR TO START. Must have CDL, pass background check and clean MVR. E-mail resumes to dingoboy6342@yahoo.com or call Matt, 801-641-4109 6/15

HOUSEKEEPER: Full-time position(s) at a family-owned ranch near Cody, WY and located in the Shoshone National Forest. Position entails keeping facilities and common areas clean and maintained; vacuuming, sweeping and mopping floors; cleaning and stocking restrooms; notifying managers of necessary repairs; collecting and disposing of trash; dusting; and light outdoor cleaning and maintenance. Experience is welcome but will train the right candidate. The ideal candidate will be reliable; have a strong work ethic; be able to perform individually and with a team; be a self-starter; and must be able to lift 25 pounds. Benefits include health, with optional dental and vision; paid-time-off; and 401(k) with employer matching contribution. Salary based upon previous experience. Send resumes to cg1@colliergroupoffice. com or call 307-587-6275 for questions 6/29

HELP WANTED, VALLEY FOODS, SARATOGA, WY: Experienced meat cutter needed, will train the right person. Please contact us via e-mail with your qualifications at valleyfoods9024@hotmail. com 7/20

FARM/RANCH HAND WANTED: Looking to hire general labor to help in maintaining irrigation and haying equipment. Will also help with small cow/calf operation. Full-time and seasonal positions available. Call 307-351-4175 for more information 6/22

RT CLAYPOOLE AUCTION

SERVICE 2 DAY LIVE MACHINE SHOP AND LUMBER YARD PUBLIC

AUCTION IN CRAIG, CO at 198 Breeze St. and 351 Yampa Ave. JUNE 29-30: We will start at the machine shop on Breeze St. on Sat. 10 a.m and the lumber yard on Yampa Ave. on Sun. 10 a.m Items include Case backhoe, Grove scissor lift, Ford vans, chevy truck, box truck, 6 forklifts, boom lift, semi box trailers, gooseneck trailer and several other large pieces of equipment. The machine shop is fully loaded with several vintage machining and milling pieces in excellent condition and hundreds of machining and fabrication pieces. The lumber yard has tons of various building supplies and misc. items. See website for full list and pictures, www. rtclaypooleauction.com. Call 970-756-9353 6/22

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!! 6/15

Services

BRAND FOR SALE: LSC LBH. Dues paid to January 2025. Does not come with irons, $5,500.

HISTORIC REGISTERED WYOMING BRAND FOR SALE: RSC, RSS, RSH, renewed to Jan. 1, 2025, comes with irons. Asking $4,000. Call 307-714-2484 6/29

WANTED RECIP COWS: Must be open!! Two to 6 years old, Red Angus or Angus-based cows. For more information, call Corie Mydland, 406855-5598 (cell), Trans Ova Genetics 6/15

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 kickout 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, S.D. Kody, 605-690-1997 or Brady, 605690-5733. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 6/22

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 6/22

AKC REGISTERED BERNESE MOUNTAIN DOG AND F1 STANDARD BERNEDOODLE

PUPPIES: These adorable puppies are 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 605-641-8272. Visit us on Facebook at Black Hills Bernese Mountain Dogs. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 6/29

AKC REGISTERED PEMBROKE WELSH CORGIS: I have 2 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. Five panel negative genetic tested. 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 541-480-9567 or e-mail me for pictures and pedigrees at brokersonya@ gmail.com. Located in Roundup, MT 6/29

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, 435828-1320,

REGISTERED BLACK ANGUS YEARLING AND 2-YEAROLD BULLS: For sale private treaty. Performance and fertility tested. Delivery available. REPLACEMENT HEIFERS available. TRANGMOE ANGUS RANCH, Glendive, MT. Call 406-687-3315, 406-989-3315 or 907-232-6093 6/29

COMMERCIAL BLACK

Vehicles & Trailers

Livestock Equipment

Livestock Equipment

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, 435-462-5300, heidi@wrcamps.com, 1145 S. Blackhawk Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647 6/15

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 7/6

Longhorn

THREE LONGHORN PAIRS FOR SALE with month old calves at side. $1,500/pair. 307259-5900 7/6

WEANER PIGS FOR SALE, located in Powell, WY. For more information, call 307271-1014 8/3

600 TONS 2023 GRASS/ ALFALFA IN LARGE ROUNDS: Cut slightly mature but baled green!! Will deliver!! For sale by Cheyenne, WY area producer. Call 307-6303768 7/6

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 7/6

LOTS AND LOTS OF HAY FOR SALE!!! 1,350 lb. round bales, net wrapped. Grass/alfalfa mix, native grass, brome grass, straight alfalfa. ALSO, triticale and barley hay. Sheridan, WY area. Come and get it!! For pricing call the ranch, 307737-2680 or 702-501-4243 (cell) 7/6

HAY FOR SALE: 3x3 and round bales. Call 605-8400015 6/15

VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: Hay available. Go to www.valleyvideohay. com or call Barry McRea, 308235-5386 6/22

2023 HAY FOR SALE: First and second cutting, grass/alfalfa mix. ALSO, milo, oat and corn stover hay. All in net-wrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, ask for Clint, 701-290-4418, send a text if no answer or keep trying 6/15

HAY FOR SALE: Grass and alfalfa hay. ALSO, OAT HAY AND STRAW. Small squares, 3x3s, 3x4s and round bales. Delivery available!! Call 307630-3046 6/15

PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. Call 701-523-1235 7/6

Lease

LARGE RANCH NEEDED: Generational family ranching business seeking large ranch for lease. Turnkey management services available: Robust ecological stewardship, ranch owner personal needs, upgrading ranch infrastructure to support intensive grazing programs. For contact information visit www. ranchlands.com 6/22

& Tack

BOOT UP FOR SUMMER!!

$AVE on BOOTS: HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! SOMETHING for EVERYONE!! Great SELECTION of GIFTS for all OCCASIONS!! 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 6/15

2012 DODGE RAM 1500: 132,500 miles, new engine professionally installed with 15,000 miles, 1 year left on 3 year warranty. Excellent condition, 1 owner, always garaged, $17,000. Can text pictures. Call 307-2501987 6/15

FOR SALE: 1995 FREIGHTLINER FLD 132, 3406 B CAT, 100 miles on overhaul, 64” sleeper, 9 speed. Loaded with all options. Ready to go to work. Asking $30,000 OBO. Have other stuff to go with it. For details call Don, 719-7432330 6/15

2019 KUBOTA RTV x1140: Diesel engine with 2,500 hours. Hydraulic tilt bed, power steering, 4x4. Converts from 2 to 4 seats. $11,000. Call/text Matt, 307-257-4216 for more info/pics. Located in Gillette, WY. Delivery is an option. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 7/6

Trailer Services/ Repairs

24' Free Standing Panels

5’ High 7 Rail

5’6” High 8 Rail

Delivery and Truckload Prices Available Big Horn Livestock Services, Inc. 307-851-1634 • www.bighornlivestock.com

Trailer Services/ Repairs

Equipment

FOR SALE: 9600 John Deere

MONTANA RAILROAD SERVICES: Railroad ties, switch ties and other railroad materials for fencing and landscaping. Best pricing and quality in the region. Call 406962-3514, Silesia, MT. Located 10 miles south of Laurel, MT (off of Clarks River Rd., the old highway). Visit our website www.mtrrservices. com 6/15

LEGEND FENCING: Specializing in livestock fences. Call 307-887-2855 for a free estimate. Serving Southeast Idaho and Western Wyoming 6/15

FOR SALE!! NEW HOLLAND OR MACDON DOUBLE HARD GERMAN GUARDS, low back $17 or high back $18. Rowse mower, hay conditioner or swather. We have used them for years and are proven. Free shipping if buy 2 boxes. Call Leo Vilhauer, 605-216-8033 Leola, S.D. or Deon Vilhauer, 701-527-5432 Bismarck, N.D. To view photos, go to www. wylr.net in the classifieds 7/6

HESSTON 4590 SMALL SQUARE BALER: Excellent condition, $13,000. THREE WHEEL HAY RAKE, $800. E-mail wachobdoug@gmail. com or call 307-413-0767 6/15

NEW HOLLAND 560 ROLL BELT BALER, bale count 178 bales, in shop every night, $55,000. 2001 MACDON 9250 SWATHER with 922 auger head, 1,771 hours on tractor, 1,384 hours on head, $43,000. Area fields are being subdivided. Call 307-674-9092 6/15

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

LS CUSTOM LEATHER: Belts, tack, cell phone cases and much more!! Contact Lester, 307631-1053, leave a message. Located in Riverton, WY 6/15

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 6/15

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 307-2540554 6/22

CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW FOR SALE, 3x4 bales. Cody, WY. Call 307-899-1952 TFN

1991 KENWORTH T600 60 series with 1987 BEALL 40’ BELLY DUMP TRAILER. Very good condition, ready to work. ALSO, 1978 CHEVROLET TITAN, Cummins, 10 speed, in very good shape. Call 406-8605448 6/15

GOOD WORK TRUCK, 2001 FORD F-250 (single cab) WITH OMAHA UTILITY BED, 7.3 Powerstroke, 169,300 miles. Recent engine, transmission, clutch work, $11,500 OBO, located in Powell, WY. Call 307254-1088 6/22

FOR SALE: New Holland 7’ pull type sickle mower. Rowse 3 pt., 9’ mower. Rowse 3 pt., 7’ mower. Rowse 16’ v-rake. Gramip 9 wheel finger rake. Sitrex 7 wheel finger rake. Big square 4 tine bale spear with push off and Euro mount. New Holland 195 manure spreader with double apron chain, slop gate, big flotation tires. Richardton 700 silage dump box with auto roof opener. IHC 656 tractor, gas, wide front. Danuser 3 pt. post hole digger with 12” bit. John Deere 7000 6 row narrow, 3 pt. mounted 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’ chuckwagons with bunk feeding 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. 10’ HD box scraper with tilt. All in very nice condition!! Call 605-9995482 6/29

Combine with 930 30’ grain header and an 893 8 row 30” corn header. A 20’ Krause offset disc (new blades in front). 24’ Model 630 John Deere tandem disc and an International 22’ roller harrow. ALSO, feeder pigs. Contact Greg Keller at 406-679-1136 7/6

MASSEY FERGUSON 30

INDUSTRIAL TRACTOR with loader (color yellow). New radiator, fan, fan belt, hoses and injector pump. Good rubber. $5,500. ALSO, 2019 CANAM OUTLANDER XT 650 four wheeler, 1,400 miles. Lots of extras: Winch, hand warmers, water cooled. Like new. Always kept inside. $7,500. Call 307899-3597 6/29

WANT TO BUY!! FORD DIESEL 4000 SELECT-O-SPEED row crop tractors, complete, running or not running. Call Lloyd, 701226-4055 6/15

GRAHAM HOEME CHISEL

PLOW: 12’, 12 double spring shanks with cylinder and hoses, $2,750. 24-FOOT JOHN DEERE 1100 CULTIVATOR 3 pt. hookup, $3,250. INTERNATIONAL 5100 12’ single disc drill with small seed box, $3,750. Call 307-6749092 6/15

LODGEPOLE PRODUCTS, 307-742-6992, SERVING AGRI-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

Property for Sale

QUARTER MILE WHEELINES:

5’ tall, 5” aluminum pipe with movers. Five (used) $4,900 each, Gallatin Valley, MT. Call 406-551-0879 6/29

WE 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 6/15

MONTANA RANCHETTE: 3,100 sq. ft. home, 30 acres, irrigation, horse set up with barn and living quarters, Billings, MT $2.15M. FARM GROUND MONTANA: 120 acres, $360,000 and 240 acres, $720,000, unrestricted, off county road, electric and internet, north of Laurel, MT. WEST END BILLINGS, MT: Seven acres, unrestricted, off Neibauer Rd., 2 wells +irrigation, trees, private, $495,000. WEST END BILLINGS, MT: Log home, on 10.7 acres, irrigation water, 2,240 sq. ft. shop, +2 garages, $589,000. Call Lorie Trump, Landmark of Billings, MT, 406-860-2902 7/6

AMISH BUILT CABIN WITH SEPARATE SHOP/HOME ON 141 ACRES IN ROUNDUP, MT: 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. $795,000. Call 541480-9567, Sonya Gangstead, Broker, Realty Pros Inc., e-mail brokersonya@gmail. com 6/29

2,170 ACRES OF PRIME AGRICULTURAL NONIRRIGATED 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. 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, 307-532-1750 6/22

a total of 8.29 seconds.

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 6/15

NORTHEAST OREGON, 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, 541-523-4434 (office) or 208-598-0267 (cell), Intermountain Realty, www. intermountainland.com 6/15

120 on two rides, Owen Thomson finished first in the average, while Garrett Pace ended second thanks to his first-place 69-point ride in round two.

With 151 points, Brenson Bartlett of Cheyenne took first in the average and will make an appearance at the NHSFR, followed by Owen Monfeldt of Cody in second with 80 points and Kolby Smith of Sheridan in third with 63 points.

On the roping front, partners Dylan Thar of Douglas and Braxton Burford of Mitchell finished first in the team roping average with a total 16.01 seconds on two head. They were followed by Cam Johnson of Buffalo and Cael Espenscheid of Buffalo with 17.78 total seconds.

Partners Cade Thar of Rozet and Hazen Camino of Buffalo were third with 24.16 seconds on two head,

followed by Yoder’s Hadley Thompson and Asa Pixley of Sundance with a total of 40.19 seconds in fourth place.

With a total of 22.46 seconds, Gillette’s Talon Larson won the average and punched a ticket to the NHSFR in the tie-down roping, followed by Burford in second with a total of 22.75 seconds, Austin Pixley of Sundance in third with a total of 24.22 seconds and Jim Coxbill of Laramie in fourth with a total of 28.96 seconds.

In the breakaway, Thompson topped the leaderboard again, running a total of 5.22 seconds on two head, followed by Rhame Hicks of Gillette in second with a total of 5.88 seconds. Big Horn’s Bleu Butler finished the event in third place with a total of 7.49 seconds on two head, while Gradie Pendleton of Manila finished fourth with

Three cowboys made the cut in steer wrestling, including Ian Dickinson of Rock Springs in first place with a total of 15.26 seconds, Connor Weese of Farson in second place with 29.34 seconds and Cole Kreikemeier of Jackson in third with 30.83 seconds.

Cow horse and cutting

In the reined cow horse event, Worland’s Sydnee Roady finished first in the average, scoring a total 435 points.

A one-point difference landed Josie Waite of Morrill in second place, followed by Cooper Justus of Parkman in third with 432.1 points and Baliegh Lane of Huntley in fourth with 429.5 points.

Lane will make an appearance at the 2024 NHSFR in the girls cutting as well, finishing second in the average with a total score of 217, two points behind Gillette’s Adeline Norstegaard in first place with a score of 219.

Fellow Gillette cowgirl Kaitlyn Snyder will also compete in the cutting, finishing third in the state finals average with a score of 211.5. Karly Peterson of Buffalo rounded out the top four in the event with a score of 211.

Brother’s Keyton and Cody Hayden of Gillette swept the boys cutting event, finishing in the firstand second-place positions, respectively. Only a half of a point separated the two – Keyton on top of the podium with 215 points and Cody in second with 214.5 points.

A score of 205 points earned Porter McCumber of Thermopolis a third-place finish behind the Hayden brothers, and Brady Boller of Weston claimed the fourth-place position in the event with a score of 204 points.

Other women’s events

In one of the weekend’s closest competitions, Abagail Olson of Sheridan took home the win in barrel

For more information on the Wyoming High School State Finals Rodeo and the Wyoming High School Rodeo Association, visit wyhsra.com. For more information on the National High School Finals Rodeo, visit nhsra.com.

racing with a total time of 34.73 seconds, followed by Buffalo’s Kamry Davis with a total of 34.92 seconds and Kloe Nichols of Boulder with 35.54 seconds.

Thompson punched her ticket to the finals in two more events, finishing fourth in the barrel racing average with a total time of 35.62 seconds and second in the goat tying average with a total time of 15.25 behind Morgan Watts of Eden with a time of 14.74 seconds.

Gillette cowgirl Rickie Jo Rourke ended the week in the third-place position in goat tying with a total time of 16.69 seconds, followed by Kasey Carr of Jackson in fourth with a total time of 16.93 seconds.

Talli Engel of Rozet

was the 2024 Wyoming State High School Finals Rodeo Pole Bending Champion with a total time of 43.16 seconds, and Stacy Ruggles of Laramie claimed the second-place slot with a total time of 44.14 seconds.

Pole bending will be the second event Peterson makes an appearance in during the national finals, finishing third in the average with a total time of 45.01 seconds, followed by Caitlin Moore of Wright in fourth place with a total time of 45.03 seconds.

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@ wylr.net.

to replace the 1997 Green River RMP,” Archuleta explained.

“We released the document in 2023, and the public comment period ended on Jan. 17. We held public meetings and worked with the Wyoming Governor’s Task Force to address the proposed management decisions and to gather large concerns, which we will address as we work through the final proposal,” he added.

Archuleta noted the BLM received over 35,000 comments on the RMP and is currently in the process of responding to them all.

“We are committed to addressing all of those comments, and you will see them directly addressed through the new alternative,” he stated.

Archuleta further noted BLM is looking at releasing a final RMP around the end of July or in early August. A 30-day appeal period and 60-day governor’s consistency review will follow its release, and the official rule will come out sometime around November.

“Wyoming is losing faith,” commented Sen. Bob Ide (SD-29). “Nobody believes anybody is really listening back in Washington, D.C. They have their agenda and priorities, which are not the same as Wyoming’s priorities.”

Archuleta responded, “I can tell you, your voices are being heard. Me and my staff are doing our best to deliver the message from Wyoming, as well as local and state governments upwards. You will see in the Rock Springs RMP that those comments have been heard and addressed.”

Sen. Cheri Steinmetz (SD-03) asked how policy would change in the case of a new administration following the 2024 election.

Archuleta explained it depends on where at in the process a project is but amendments can be made if a new administration so desires, which can alter the decision in any manner.

PacifiCorp sale

Next, Archuleta noted Wyoming BLM is working on a noncompetitive direct sale of 307.5 acres of public land in Sweetwater County to PacifiCorp.

He mentioned the notice of realty action was published in the April 18 Federal Register, and the sale would allow PacifiCorp to gain ownership of property adjacent to the Jim Bridger Power Plant. The sale will be finalized over the course of the next few months.

Additionally, Archuleta explained the property will still be subject to BLM regulations and provisions in the Federal Land Policy and Management Act.

Following a question from the committee regarding what PacifiCorp plans to use the ground for, Purdy stated, “PacifiCorp has been purchasing some parcels over time, so there have been multiple purchases in this area. I think PacifiCorp was already using the land for transmission lines and rights of way, they just found it would be easier to purchase the parcels from the BLM, which have been identified in the RMP as available for disposal as long as PacifiCorp was willing to pay fair market price, which they were.”

Purdy believes the property will continue to be used

for company transmission lines or rights of way.

Wild horse management

Lastly, Archuleta provided an update on the hot button topic of wild horse management, noting the nationwide population currently sits at around 73,500 animals with 65,000 in offrange corrals, while the state of Wyoming is home to nearly 9,500 wild horses, 2,200 of which are being cared for in BLM facilities.

Last year, BLM placed over 8,000 horses through adoption, sales and transfers nationwide.

“We are really trying to beef this up,” Archuleta stated. “The largest number of horses BLM has ever removed off of the range in one year was 20,000 horses, which is our goal for this year and next. It is a lofty goal and an expensive one because if we are going to remove 20,000 horses off of the range, we need to be able to place 20,000 horses.”

With this, Ide raised the concern of how much taxpayer money it costs to care for gathered horses. Purdy noted, according to BLM figures, it costs an average of $22,500 per animal, if they remain with the BLM for their entire life.

Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) Executive Vice President Jim Magagna added, “In 2023, the cost to taxpayers was $108.5 million. As we continue to gather horses and adoptions don’t keep up, this figure is going to rise annually, but it is not just added cost to taxpayers, it tends to come out of the overall horse budget so the more that goes into caring for horses in captivity, the less that goes into gathers, which seems to be a dilemma.”

With this, Archuleta noted BLM has two gathers

scheduled in Wyoming in 2024 – one north of Lander in July and one at the White Mountain Herd Management Area (HMA) in the fall. The agency also completed a bait gather at the McCullough Peaks HMA near Cody, where they removed about 42 horses.

Magagna voiced he doesn’t believe adoptions will solve the problem, but does agree something needs to be done to increase adoptions.

“I am fascinated by an analysis done by the Property and Environment Research Center, and one of their recommendations is to increase the payout to an individual who adopts a horse from $1,000 to as much as $3,000 a year for three years,” he said.

Additionally, Magagna encouraged the BLM and Joint Ag Committee to consider legislation to provide compensation to private and state trust landowners for loss of forage consumption caused by wild horses and burros.

“We keep coming back to the Wild Horse and Burro Act, which provides

PINEDALE

if horses get on to private lands – state trust lands fall within this category – and if the landowner requests removal of those horses, the BLM should do so,” he said.

“But, to date, the only way this has had any success in Southwest Wyoming is through litigation – not because BLM doesn’t follow the law, but because they don’t have the resources to do so,” he added.

Magagna continued, “From the perspective of a private landowner, I see value in a law stating horses should be removed, and if they cannot be removed, they should be entitled to some compensation until their removal.”

Sen. Larry Hicks (SD11) agreed and proposed, if nothing else, for the BLM to consider documenting forage lost to producers and the state of Wyoming.

“It seems to me, in those cases, the state should bill the BLM for animal unit months, no different than in the reverse situation,” Hicks said. “I know it would be nothing more than an exercise, but it is an accrued

exercise which documents the economic impact associated to the state and those permittees. And, quite frankly, I think it is something we ought to look at.”

Magagna noted WSGA would be in support of this initiative.

To wrap up the converation, Sen. Dan Laursen (SD19) asked Archuleta what BLM is doing regarding reproductive control.

“We have a pretty active reproductive control program depending on the herd and HMA,” Archuleta explained. “In areas where we are near the appropriate management levels (AML), we can use reproductive control to maintain them, but it isn’t as successful in HMAs far above the AML.”

Check out next week’s Wyoming Livestock Roundup for updates from the second day of the Joint Agriculture, State and Public Lands and Water Resources Committee meeting.

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

1 Cow, 1215# $153.00 BOULDER

2 Cow, 1290# $150.00 PINEDALE 1 Cow, 1295# $149.00 THERMOPOLIS 4 Cow, 1592# $145.75

HEIFERETTES

BIG PINEY

6 Heiferette, 1005# $221.00

MANILLA, UT

7 Heiferette, 1067# $209.00 LANDER

1 Heiferette, 1090# $202.50

8 Heiferette, 1108# $199.00 BULLS

PAVILLION

1 Bull, 2010# $168.50

MANILLA, UT 2 Bull, 2232# $166.50 FORT WASHAKIE

1 Bull, 1870# $165.00

MANILLA, UT

1 Bull, 2125# $164.50

LANDER

1 Bull, 2230# $164.00

MANILLA, UT

LANDER

1 Cow, 1100# $151.00 PINEDALE

2 Bull, 2070# $163.50

1 Bull, 1970# $162.00

RIVERTON

2 Bull, 2000# $161.00

1 Bull, 2025# $160.50

THERMOPOLIS 1 Bull, 1935# $160.00

2 Bull, 1962# $159.00

PAVILLION 1 Bull, 1980# $158.00

ARAPAHOE 1 Bull, 2215# $151.00 STEERS

MANILLA, UT 3 Steer, 573# $322.50 AFTON 2 Steer, 630# $309.00

MANILLA, UT 4 Steer, 722#

Steer, 757#

847#

Steer, 957#

TUESDAY, JUNE 18

TUESDAY, JUNE 25

Rangeland resources – During the Joint Agriculture, State and Public Lands and Water Resources Committee meeting, held June 10-11 in Rock Springs, Wyoming Bureau of Land Management Director Andrew Archuleta provided an update on wild horse management, a hot button topic for the agriculture industry which competes for rangeland resources with feral horses and burros. WYLR photo