Postcard from the Past recalls sheep wagons being fitted with mountain gear Page 10
Lee Pitts hands out the first-ever “Bumpies” awards Page 16
Correction
An article titled “Wyoming Sheep and Wool Festival: Annual gathering offers inside look at sheep industry” published in the July 19 edition of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup included a misspelled name. The Wyoming Wool Grower’s Association Amigo Award was presented to Wyoming Wildlife Services State Director Jared Zierenberg, not Jaren Zierenberg.
Conference
The Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) Water Quality Division is holding the Second Annual Wyoming Water Quality Conference at the University of Wyoming Conference Center in Laramie on Oct. 15-16. For more information, visit deq.wyoming.gov
Top Sale
Northern Livestock Video held their annual Summertime Classic July 21-23 in Billings, Mont., where 168,000 cattle and 31,000 sheep were sold to a large nationwide and Canadian crowd. The market was sharply higher with record-breaking prices across all three days. Northern’s next auction is the Early Fall Premier, set for Aug. 18-19. For more information, visit northernlivestockvideo.com
Horse Event
The 2025 Meeker Mustang Makeover is scheduled for Aug. 22-23 at the Rio Blanco Fairgrounds in Meeker, Colo. The two-day event will feature unique competition, $25,000 in prizes, vendors, music and food. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit meekermustangmakeover.org
Rendezvous
The annual Glenrock Sheepherders Rendezvous is scheduled for Aug. 22-24 at the Glenrock City Park, featuring sheep wagon displays, sheep dog trials and more. For more information, visit @GlenrockSheepherdersRendezvous on Facebook, e-mail glenrocksheepherdersrendezvous@gmail.com or call Rhonda Dilts at 307-3515375 or Rita Redig at 307262-0513.
Rural communities left without news after abrupt shutdown
Over a dozen small town newspapers across five states were abruptly shuttered on Aug. 6 when their Illinois-based parent company, News Media
Corporation (NMC), suddenly ceased operations.
Eight Wyoming newspapers and a Nebraskabased publication were among those closed,
resulting in layoffs of roughly 30 employees and leaving numerous rural communities without their long-standing hometown news outlets.
Statewide shockwave
Among those affected were beloved community institutions such as the Pinedale Roundup and
SUMMER SICKNESS
Experts offer advice for identifying, treating and preventing pasture pneumonia in calves
For many ranchers, the stressors of calving and branding seasons are in the rearview mirror come summertime. As attention turns to putting up hay and preparing for winter, it is easy to adopt an out of sight, out of mind approach to managing cow herds.
However, experts remind producers to remain wary of health conditions plaguing cow herds in summer.
As seasons change, it’s important to have a plan for recognizing, treating and preventing a common seasonal illness – pasture pneumonia. What is pasture pneumonia?
Pasture pneumonia – also referred to as summer
pneumonia – is a respiratory illness commonly affecting pre-weaned calves on pasture. It is caused by a combination of viral, bacterial and environmental stressors and can be fatal if not addressed quickly.
Indicators of pasture pneumonia in calves can include depression, isolation, inappetence, cough and nasal and ocular discharge, as well as fever and difficulty breathing, according to a June 2023 University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) BeefWatch article written by Veterinarians Drs. Halden Clark and Becky Funk, along with UNL Extension Educator Aaron Berger.
Please see SICKNESS on page 5
On Aug. 1, the U.S. Senate confirmed Wyoming native and former Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) Director Brian Nesvik will take the helm of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS).
The announcement comes five months after President Donald Trump nominated Nesvik for the position, which was advanced in a narrow, party-line vote in April before languishing for months.
However, in a recent turn of events, Democratic Sens. Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) joined the Republicans in 55-to-41 vote confirming Nesvik as the next FWS head.
Longtime leadership
A native of Cheyenne, Nesvik graduated from the University of Wyoming before spending nearly 30 years with WGFD, in which he served as the agency’s director from 2019 until his retirement in September 2024.
During this time, Nesvik dealt with a host of hotbutton issues, including updated sage grouse protections, management plans for overpopulated elk herds and multiple endangered species issues, including those surrounding
A recent Denver ad campaign has generated pushback for its advice on climate change.
The campaign rests on three snappy pillars with a message imploring Denver residents “do more, do less, do something” in the fight against climate change. A tip to “eat less meat” has stirred outcry from several Coloradans, including government representatives, agricultural producers and other industry stakeholders.
Many claim the foundational research driving the campaign is outdated and the call to eat less meat is ignorant of the role livestock production plays in Colorado’s history, economy and culture.
Legislation introduced
LFFC Act fights food insecurity on local level
On July 29, the Local Farmers Feeding Our Communities (LFFC) Act of 2025 was introduced to the House Agriculture Committee.
The bipartisan bill aims to bolster agricultural growth, fight food waste and strengthen food security at the local and regional levels by connecting local producers with communities in need, and it has garnered support from several legislators, producers and agricultural groups.
According to a summary provided by the National Sustainable Agriculture Committee (NSAC), the LFFC Act creates a pathway for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to enter into cooperative agreements with states and Tribal governments to purchase unprocessed or minimallyprocessed local food from small, mid-sized, beginning or Veteran fishers, farmers and ranchers to distribute to organizations.
Shortly after the LFFC Act’s introduction on Aug. 1,
The campaign
The campaign is a product of the City and Council of Denver’s Office of Climate Action, Sustainability and Resiliency (CASR). The tagline encourages residents to “do more, do less, do something” about climate change by rethinking habits contributing to pollution and waste.
Among the campaign’s tips for doing less is a call to “eat less meat,” which has enraged many across Colorado’s agricultural sector.
A July 14 press release on denvergov. org refers to the campaign as an ambitious behavior-change initiative rooted in
WYLR photo
Brian Nesvik
Courtesy Photo
For all those involved in the business of providing beef to consumers for their dinner, prices for their product has never been higher.
Beef producers and feedlot operations are cautiously happy with these beef prices, as they realize commodity prices can go south at anytime. On the other hand, they have to deal with record-high input prices. And, when realizing money isn’t money until it is in your pocket, it is nice to have some extra to save or spend on improvements.
Meatpackers are closing some processing facilities because of low numbers of cattle and are having to import lean beef and trimmings in record tons to keep the ground beef inventory strong for Americans.
For beef producers, calf and yearling prices have had a strong summer reflective of video cattle sales, as there have been record prices at most of the sales.
According to CattleFax, “Looking specifically at results from the latest Superior Livestock video sale, five-weight calves for fall delivery had averaged almost $433 per hundred pounds. This is 22 percent above last year’s values and, so far this season, these calves have averaged almost $450 per head above last summer. Switching to feeder cattle sales this week, steers in the 800-pound weight group averaged $334 per hundred pounds, compared to $255 per hundred pounds last year.”
Studies show there are hardly any signs of heifer retention on ranches, which would be the signal ranchers are keeping their heifers to increase their herds. Around 25 percent of calves and yearlings at the video sales so far have been heifers, most of which will be fed out and processed for beef products.
I’m hearing feeders are making money, but the number of cattle placed in feedlots for finishing before slaughter has fallen to its lowest level since 2017. This steep drop in feedlot placements is a sure sign tight supplies of beef will continue in coming months and could further limit beef availability and put upward pressure on beef prices.
Bloomberg News highlighted some broader market implications, saying, “The severe cattle shortage in the U.S., the world’s largest beef producing country, is pushing cattle costs sharply higher. This surge in costs has eliminated billions in profits for the meatpackers and has resulted in record-high beef prices for consumers at grocery stores.”
The most recent Consumer Price Index reported retail beef prices hitting new record highs has prompted many questions on when we might see lower beef prices. But as long as we see tighter beef supplies and good consumer demand – both in the U.S. and abroad – prices will remain high.
Usually, beef prices and different cuts of beef have seasonal wholesale market price trends which suggest prices could decline from recent highs.
As of July 1, there were 94.2 million cattle and calves in the U.S. – the lowest mid-year inventory since 1973. These numbers have to change drastically for long-term lower beef prices at the grocery stores.
We hope to see everyone at the Wyoming State Fair Aug. 12-16. It is going to be a good one.
GUEST OPINIONS
What Is My Attitude?
This is a question we should all ask ourselves regularly. It is key to our own satisfaction, as well as to our relationships with others – family, friends, business associates, government bureaucrats and even our livestock.
Our attitude is influenced by many, often challenging external factors. Nevertheless, each of us is responsible for the attitude with which we face those challenges.
Attitude can be challenging in unique ways for career government employees. They feel bound to adhere to the perspectives of the political “bosses” currently in power.
Frequent career moves often preclude the establishment of personal relationships, with constituents expected to follow their directions.
Particularly in the 21st century, their attitudes have been driven by regulations, manuals, handbooks, policies and fear of litigation. These pressures leave little room for a positive attitude of partnership, collaboration and
By Jim Magagna
mutual respect.
It is largely for these reasons government employees who reflect this positive attitude, of which there are many in Wyoming, stand out.
Today I am optimistic this can change. At the federal level, individuals who are being placed in positions of authority are demonstrating a commitment to a return to this positive attitude.
At the recent National Cattlemen’s Beef Association meeting in San Diego, we heard from key representatives of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS).
Flexibility, deregulation, active collaborative management, targeted grazing and beginning rancher initiatives were some of the encouraging words that punctuated their remarks.
I am feeling these same changes in attitude in direct conversations I have had recently with agency personnel. Numerous other releases would indicate this change in attitude is taking
place in other agencies throughout the government.
This change in attitude will be enhanced by changes being proposed in a host of regulations and policies including BLM grazing regulations, Endangered Species Act regulations, sage grouse plans, the Conservation Rule, the USFS Handbook, old growth timber management and several resource management plans.
The Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) is engaged both directly and through our national organizations in each of these efforts.
How do we assure this new attitude becomes the established way of doing business, not just a blip in the radar of government overregulation? Each of us plays a critical role in answering this question.
First, we must change our own often justifiable attitude government “regulators” are just an obstacle to our success in the ranching business.
CURT COX, Director of Livestock Field Services • 307-630-4604 • curt@wylr.net
CALLI WILLIAMS, Livestock Field Services Rep. • 605-695-1990 • calli@wylr.net
Box 850 • Casper, WY 82602 Wyoming Livestock Roundup (USPS # 005-774) is published weekly by Maverick Press, Inc. P.O. Box 850 • Casper, WY 82602 Periodicals postage paid in Casper, WY Fax: 307-472-1781 • E-mail: roundup@wylr.net
From the Publisher Dennis Sun
Applications open
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) has opened applications for organizations to apply for Antelope Hunt Event licenses. Organizations can submit applications to the department from Aug. 1-31.
Wyoming state statutes provide up to 160 licenses to be available for up to two antelope hunt events each year. Antelope Hunt Event licenses are offered to organizations for up to a three-year period.
WGFD requires applicants detail hunt areas and license types; number of licenses requested; their history, background and mission, as well as their financial plan to benefit wildlife, conservation and the community with funds raised from the Antelope Hunt Event.
Submitted applications will be brought before the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission for consideration at the November 2025 meeting. The commission may revoke an organization’s opportunity to receive Antelope Hunt Event licenses if any information provided on their application is incorrect or no longer valid.
For more information or to fill out an application, visit wgfd.wyo.gov/sites/default/files/2025-08/Antelope%20 Hunt%20Event%20Application%202025.pdf
USDA seeks comments
On Aug. 1, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the opening of a 30-day public comment period for stakeholders to provide feedback on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) reorganization plan, as outlined in the secretary’s memorandum issued on July 24.
The reorganization proposal reflects President Donald Trump’s commitment to relocate federal agencies beyond the national capital region, reduce bureaucracy and strengthen USDA’s presence in key agricultural regions across the country.
As part of the plan, USDA will consolidate operations, close the South Building and relocate approximately 2,600 Washington, D.C.-based positions to five regional hubs in Raleigh, N.C.; Kansas City, Mo.; Indianapolis; Fort Collins, Colo. and Salt Lake City.
USDA is conducting the reorganization under its authority established in the Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1953 and The Department of Agriculture Reorganization Act of 1994. The secretarial memorandum delegates authority to the deputy secretary and underscores USDA’s focus on efficiency, geographic diversity and long-term sustainability.
All stakeholders, including USDA employees, members of Congress and agricultural and nutrition partners are encouraged to provide feedback by e-mailing reorganization@usda.gov.
The comment period is open through Aug. 26.
NBA moves headquarters
A new chapter is on the horizon for the National Bison Association (NBA).
Beginning Aug. 1, the office will be based out of Rapid City, S.D., in a move which marks only the second relocation in 30 years and the first out of the state of Colorado.
NBA began its tenure in Denver in 1995, eventually moving the office out of the historic National Western Stock Show yards to Westminster, Colo. where it has been based since 2002.
While the office location will be moving north, the Denver area will continue to host the NBA’s Winter Conference and Gold Trophy Show and Sale in January 2026.
The NBA Board of Directors voted unanimously in 2024 to move the office to its new location, and the NBA and Center of Excellence (COE) for Bison Studies at South Dakota State University (SDSU) have been working together since then to facilitate the transition.
While NBA’s roots will always be in Colorado, the organization has evolved to operate in a largely virtual manner, with staff now based in four states. This remote approach to staffing allows the NBA to hire top talent, while expanding NBA staff to different parts of buffalo-country, with current employees in Colorado, Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota to better serve membership with more local resources.
Initially announced in January 2025, the office location change is part of a memorandum of understanding signed with the COE. The new NBA office will be located within the SDSU West River Research and Extension Center, where the COE is also housed.
WBC meeting set
The Wyoming Beef Council (WBC) will meet via video conference on Aug. 14 to review Fiscal Year 2025 year-end financials and proposals for the upcoming financial audit. The meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m.
The mission of WBC is to benefit Wyoming’s beef community and economy by heightening domestic and international beef demand. Council members ensure responsible and effective allocation of checkoff funds to improve the marketing climate for beef and beef products.
A copy of the agenda and a link to the meeting can be obtained by contacting WBC Executive Director Ann Wittmann at 307-777-6399 or ann.wittmann@wyo.gov.
Fire ban in effect
Due to extreme fire danger across southeast Wyoming, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) is implementing an open fire ban on all Wyoming Game and Fish Commission-owned and administered lands within Albany, Carbon, Goshen, Laramie and Platte counties effective immediately.
The fire ban applies to all 14 Wildlife Habitat Management Areas (WHMA) and 43 Public Access Areas within these five counties, including popular camping and fishing spots like the Laramie Peak WHMA, Table Mountain WHMA and the portions of Glendo Lake and Saratoga Lake under WGFD management.
Prohibited activities during the fire ban include building, maintaining, attending or using any fire, campfire, charcoal grill, coal or wood-burning stove and/or smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, at a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.
Lighting fireworks is always prohibited on commissionowned lands.
For more information, contact the Laramie Region Game and Fish Office at 307-745-4046.
WNV confirmed in Wyoming
A horse in Johnson County tested positive for West Nile Virus (WNV) – the first confirmed case in a horse reported to the Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) this year.
WNV is spread by mosquitoes when they feed on infected birds and then bite people and horses. Horses cannot spread WNV directly to humans, and horses do not spread WNV directly to other horses.
Cases of WNV in equine can range from mild to severe, and clinical signs include muscle tremors, incoordination, stumbling, weak limbs, inability to stand, convulsions and impaired vision.
Horses with WNV often require supportive veterinary care, and treatments vary depending on the severity of the case.
There is no cure for WNV, so WLSB highly recommends vaccinating equine for WNV to prevent the disease. It is also important to eliminate water-holding containers, where mosquitoes can breed.
WLSB recommends removing old tires; covering or drilling holes in barrels, buckets or tubs stored outside; turning over wheelbarrows when not in use; using sprays on a horse to repel mosquitoes; using fans to help deter mosquitoes; bringing horses into barns at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active and attaching and maintaining screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out of horse barns.
For more information, contact WLSB at 307-7777515 or lsbforms-applications@wyo.gov.
Platte Valley man remembered with statuette
The Platte Valley lost two legends in the last few years –“Teense” Willford and his largerthan-life personality, and Jerry Palen, the world-renowned artist and humorist.
Fortunately, the two teamed up together several years ago when Jerry decided to carve a maquette of Willford singing and playing guitar.
In 2021, Jerry and his wife Ann Palen and Platte Valley Arts Council President Stacy Crimmins entered a “wouldn’t it be great if” conversation while admiring the clay study of Willford that Jerry finished.
Unfortunately, Jerry passed away before the conversation could be completed, then Willford passed away. Later, Ann reached out to Crimmins and finished the conversation, noting, “The arts council could cast and sell bronze statuettes of Willford as a fundraiser.”
A few months later, the Platte Valley Arts Council has commissioned a limited-edition run of bronze statuettes and are offering these unique sculptures for sale to admirers and fans of Willford and Jerry.
An artist’s proof of the bronzes was on display for inspection during the “POPPY” Art Quilt Exhibit at the Platte Valley Community Center July 3-5.
Pre-orders and payments can be made during the show and through e-mail inquiries until November 2025.
Only 30 bronzes will be sold at the price of $2,000.
Once payment is received, an order will be placed with the foundry and delivery will be made in about three or four months.
The Platte Valley Arts Council will use sale proceeds for their scholarship program, as well as supplemental funding to the Saratoga and Encampment schools’ art, music, drama and speech/
debate programs.
For more information on how to purchase a statuette, visit plattevalleyarts.com or contact Crimmins at plattevalleyarts@ yahoo.com.
OBITUARIES
Teddy “Ted” Joe Edwards
July 5, 1946 – July 30, 2025
Teddy “Ted” Joe Edwards, a lifelong rancher and beloved family man, passed away on July 30 at the Sheridan VA Eagle Living Center in Sheridan surrounded by loved ones.
Born July 5, 1946 in Gillette, Ted lived a life rich with experience, dedication and a profound love for the land he worked and the family he cherished.
In 1964, Ted graduated from Campbell County High School ready to embrace the world. His journey took a significant turn when he was drafted to the U.S. Army in 1965. A remarkable chapter in his life unfolded as he survived a harrowing military flight crash in Ardmore, Okla. on April 22, 1966. In 1967, he was honorably discharged from military service from Fort Benning.
It was in Tennessee, while in the Army, he met the love of his life, Sheryl Renae Bryant. They were married April 12, 1968, building a partnership built on love and shared values.
In 1971, Ted and Renae established their roots on their ranch south of Gillette. Ted’s commitment extended beyond ranching. In fact, for 27 years he served as a member of the Weed and
Pest board in Gillette and held positions on the Predator Board as well.
Ted’s spirit thrived in the outdoors, where he found joy in coyote hunting and fishing. He loved caring for cows and sheep and was sure to lend a helping hand wherever needed.
Ted was preceded in death by his parents Guy and Ruth Edwards, as well as his sister Laura Waterhouse, an infant sister and his brother Gary Lee Edwards.
A cherished husband, father, brother and grandfather, Ted is survived by his wife, Sheryl Renae Edwards, daughter Becky (Brent) Tennant and sons Buzz (Dawnlynn) Edwards and Tommy (Jodi) Edwards, as well as 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren who brought him immeasurable joy. He is also survived by his siblings Dave (Eva) Edwards, Linda Edwards, Rich (Debbie) Edwards and Terria (Mike) Stone, who remember his unwavering support and vibrant spirit.
Ted leaves behind a legacy which reflects the values of resilience, dedication and love. His life story is a tapestry of memories woven with the laughter of his family, the beauty of the land he adored and the enduring friendships he cultivated.
A funeral service was held on Aug. 7 at the Gillette Memorial Chapel. Memorials may be made in Ted’s name to benefit dementia awareness and the Sheridan VA Eagle Living Center, 1898 Fort Road, Sheridan, WY 82801. Memorials and condolences may also be expressed at gillettememorialchapel.com
Horse racing kicks off
Sweetwater Downs will offer the highest purses for horsemen in the track’s history for its 2025 race meet starting on Aug. 16. The $1.9 million in purses is a 40 percent increase over 2024.
Horsemen have responded with a record number of stall applications for the seven-week meet, and track officials are expecting more than 1,000 horses to ship into the Rock Springs facility in coming days.
Once again, year-end championships for Thoroughbreds and Quarter Horses will be determined at the final race meet of the season on the Wyoming racing calendar. The annual John Schiffer Memorial Race will continue as a season highlight on Sept. 6.
The racing season will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new paddock just after noon on opening day. The paddock has been completely overhauled for the 2025 meet and will feature a new walking ring, giving fans an up-close look at the horses before they enter the racetrack.
New this season is the addition of Track Announcer Liam Molinaro, who has a unique ability and passion for calling races. He most recently called races at Gulfstream Park in Florida.
With general admission at just five dollars, including a free program, Sweetwater Downs offers great value for those seeking family-friendly entertainment in southwest Wyoming from Aug. 16 through Sept. 28. Gates open at noon on Saturdays and Sundays, with the first race starting at 1 p.m.
Races will also be held on Aug. 22 and 29 and Sept. 5 and 12, with a post time of 4 p.m. Fridays will feature a happy hour from 4-5 p.m.
For more information, visit horsepalace.win/liveracing
Special project – Pictured is Ann Palen, wife of the late Jerry Palen, with the bronze artist proof of Teense Willford. Courtesy photo
SICKNESS
Pasture pneumonia primarily occurs in late summer or early fall, but an outbreak can happen at any time given the right combination of factors.
According to the Kansas State University (KSU) Beef Cattle Institute (BCI), stressors such as dust, temperature swings between afternoon highs and nighttime lows and close contact with other calves can increase the risk of pasture pneumonia.
Prevention and treatment plans for pasture pneumonia consist primarily of proper vaccination and nutrition measures.
Recognizing the signs
Symptoms of pasture pneumonia can be easy to overlook, but there are several physical and behavioral hallmarks which could indicate an outbreak has taken hold of a herd.
A report by BCI notes, because cattle grazing pastures are not typically monitored on a daily basis, an early sign of pasture pneumonia may be finding dead calves in the midst of other calves exhibiting symptoms like rapid breathing, sluggishness and fever.
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension Veterinarian Dr. Russ Daly further emphasizes signs of respiratory disease do not always include breathing problems, although such symptoms may become more obvious when trailing cattle.
Daly points to sluggishness, droopy ears and difficulty keeping up with the herd as good indicators pasture pneumonia may have taken hold.
According to Clark and Funk, depression and isolation are two more common behavioral symptoms observed in affected calves. The two experts also note calves with pasture pneumonia may exhibit signs of nasal and ocular discharge in addition to a shrunk-up abdominal appearance.
Treating the symptoms
With early detection, pasture pneumonia is generally curable. Common treatment options include vaccination and reducing environmental stressors.
“Calves exhibiting signs of pneumonia should be treated with injectable antibiotics to combat bacterial causes of respiratory disease,” comments Dr. Bob Larson in a 2023 BCI report. “If treated early
enough in the disease process, many calves are likely to recover. However, calves with advanced lung damage may not respond to treatment.”
Larson further notes the infection can be viral and therefore immune to antibiotic treatment. In such cases, treatment turns to reducing environmental stressors and isolating the infected animal to decrease further spread.
Pathogens most often associated with pasture pneumonia include bovine coronavirus and bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), according to a KSU veterinary diagnostic report titled “Bovine Summer Pneumonia” written by Drs. Giselle Cino, Pankaj Kumar, Kelli Almes and Gregg Hanzlicek.
“If the pneumonia is caused by a virus such as BRSV, antibiotic treatment will not be a directly effective treatment,” Larson notes. “In addition to antibiotic treatment, young calves with pneumonia should be protected from weather extremes, dusty conditions and poor forage. This may require moving them and their dam to a new pasture or grass trap.”
Preventing an outbreak
The most effective safeguard against losses from pasture pneumonia is prevention. Preventing pasture pneumonia begins long before turnout with a proper vaccination routine and nutrition program.
As stated by the Intermountain Farmers Association, preventative vaccines train the calf’s immune system to recognize and fight viruses and bacteria encountered later in life. Therefore, vaccinating young calves in the springtime before putting them out for summer can aid in the fight against pasture pneumonia.
Researchers also highlight good colostrum management, mineral supplementation and attention to energy and protein nutrition as important aspects of preventing pasture pneumonia. This means prevention starts far before turnout in some of the earliest hours of a calf’s life.
Clark and Funk note colostrum intake is a crucial part of the first 24 hours after birth, delivering important antibodies which decrease throughout the following months.
They also highlight attention to energy and pro-
tein intake as critical functions of supporting immune function and disease resilience. As pasture quality decreases in late summer and early fall, attention around supplemental nutrition may need to increase.
Key takeaways
Focusing on overall herd health by providing adequate nutrition, timely vaccination and proper environment can reduce the risk of pasture pneumonia in beef calves.
If an outbreak does occur, experts recommend veterinary consultation, vaccination and continued monitoring of symptoms as treatment options.
Although outbreaks of diseases like pasture pneumonia are not always avoidable, having the tools to recognize and treat the symp-
toms can help minimize losses.
Identifying symptoms, administering treatment and developing a prevention
plan for pasture pneumonia can help ranchers ensure healthy and happy calves all summer long for years to come.
We must embrace those who are willing to change their attitude as key in our success through our collaborative management of our natural resources. We should assist them in recognizing this new attitude as a more satisfying way to have a career in government to help in assuring they will maintain this attitude even should the political spectrum swing back toward a more regulatory climate.
In summary, your attitude can influence their attitude. Jim Magagna is the executive vice president of WSGA and can be reached by visiting wysga.org
community research and behavioral science with goals to unite Denver residents in the battle against climate change.
The same source reports the campaign reflects a growing sense of urgency in the Denver area regarding climate change, citing 2024 data from the Yale Program on Climate Change Communication which shows 84 percent of Denver County residents believe global warming is happening, compared to a national average of 21 percent reported in the same study.
“Denverites already care deeply about climate change, and we know solving this crisis requires bold action,” says Elizabeth Babcock, CASR executive director. “But history shows major change often starts with people. When individuals act together, we have the power to shape markets, influence policy and accelerate progress. This campaign is about showing every Denverite their actions matter and when we move together, we move the needle.”
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston says he believes the campaign makes it easier for community members to take easy, everyday actions to help meet shared climate goals.
“Every day I see Denver-
ites come together to support our city, and climate action is no exception,” says Johnston. “Together, we can do more of what helps, less of what hurts and work together to make Denver a better place, not just for us but for our kids and grandkids who will call our city home for generations to come.”
Despite the campaign’s intent to unite residents, many claim it has done the opposite, causing division by polarizing producers against politicians and widening the gap between urban and rural Coloradans.
The reaction
Colorado’s agricultural sector is a major component of the state’s economy and generates approximately $47 billion annually, according to a March 2024 brief by the Colorado General Assembly. In January alone, the National Western Stock Show generates hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue for the Denver area.
Several industry stakeholders and agriculturists have called the campaign ignorant in terms of history, science and culture.
In an undated letter addressed to Johnston and cited by Jeff Rice in a report for The Fence Post, Colorado state Sens. Barbara Kirkmeyer and Byron Pelton denounced the cam-
paign, labeling it “tone deaf” and insulting to Colorado agriculture. The letter garnered additional support from 15 other legislators, according to the same Fence Post article.
“As elected representatives from Colorado’s rural communities, we are deeply frustrated and disapprove of the city and county of Denver’s decision to fund a $3 million campaign encouraging residents to eat less meat as a climate strategy,” the letter reads. “This campaign, promoted under the misleading banner of sustainability, represents not only a tone-deaf approach to climate policy but a direct insult to the people and industries who feed our city, our state and the world.”
Prowers County Commissioners Ron Cook, Roger Stagner and Ty Harmon also issued a formal resolution condemning the campaign.
The resolution cites agriculture as the economic backbone and cultural foundation of Prowers County and rural Colorado and credits the industry with sustaining livelihoods, stewarding the land and feeding the nation.
“Colorado has a proud, multigenerational tradition of ranching and livestock production which contributes significantly to the state’s economy, local food security and healthy communities,” the resolu-
tion says. “Launching antimeat campaigns is not only ignorant, but insulting to the generations of ranching families who built and sustained this state from its earliest days to the present.”
The document also notes the ill timing of the campaign, which comes just shy of Colorado’s 150th anniversary of statehood. In closing, the Prowers County Commissioners offer formal opposition to the campaign, as well as “any similar efforts which criticize the livestock industry or undermine the livelihoods of Colorado’s ranchers and agricultural producers.”
In a column for The Denver Gazette, Fence Post Assistant Editor Rachel Gabel echoes many of the same sentiments, claiming the campaign is founded on misinformation and calling
inclusion of livestock production in the conversation around climate change arbitrary and ignorant.
“Colorado protein producers have embraced efficiencies and new methods to put sustainability at the top of the list of priorities, not because it was forced upon them, but because doing right by the land and livestock is an investment in their success,” Gabel writes.
“Colorado would benefit from understanding agriculture’s role in feeding the world, stewarding the land, providing habitat for 900plus species and keeping the economy statewide and in the rural communities where stock trailers often roll through town.”
“Cattle producers are able to produce more product with fewer inputs thanks to better genetics, better
nutrition and technology,” Gabel continues, citing statistics which note emissions from beef cattle contribute only two percent of total greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S.
“Though it seems to remain an easy target, modern cattle production is more efficient and packs a much smaller environmental impact than in previous generations,” Gabel concludes.
Following pushback from the media and public, the City of Denver has removed some of the more controversial messages from the campaign’s website, including the call to eat less meat. Several billboards still stand.
Grace Skavdahl is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Adobe Stock photo
Torrington Telegram , both of which have been in operation for over 120 years and the Lusk Herald , which is the longestrunning publication in Wyoming, established four years before the territory’s statehood in 1886, as well as Evanston’s Uinta County Herald , Wheatland’s Platte County RecordTimes , the Guernsey Gazette , the Bridger Valley Pioneer and the Kemmerer Gazette
According to several sources, staffers were blindsided, with some learning of their termination via phone call or by an e-mailed separation letter.
In an Aug. 6 article by Greg Johnson, Pine -
dale Roundup Managing Editor Cali O’Hare tells Cowboy State Daily she received her layoff notice at 8:34 a.m. while at work on Aug. 6, along with instructions not to print the upcoming issue of the paper. Johnson further reports employees weren’t given any notice and were left without clarity on whether they will receive their final paychecks.
An Aug. 7 WyoFile article by CJ Baker and Rebecca Huntington notes a memo sent out by NMC Chief Executive Officer J.J. Tompkins states the company had explored “every possible avenue” to continue operating but ultimately reached a point
where it was no longer feasible.
Tompkins specifically cites financial challenges, an economic downturn affecting the industry, revenue loss and increasing expenses, as well as a recent collapse in plans to sell NMC to Carpenter Media Group of Alabama, as reasons why the company went out of business. Growing news desert
The immediate closures still came as a shock to employees and readers alike, who, since the announcement, have expressed deep sadness and frustration.
In a Platte County Record-Times Facebook post, Wyoming Group Publisher Rob Mortimer states, “The announcement has come as a shock to us. While current eco -
Grocery summit set
The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Cooperative Development Center and the Nebraska Grocery Industry Association are hosting the Third Annual Grocery Industry Summit to explore solutions to challenges facing the grocery business, particularly in rural communities.
The summit invites store owners, wholesalers, vendors, policymakers and community leaders from across the state to learn from each other and industry experts as they develop strategies to strengthen
local food access.
Sessions on legal and regulatory issues, nextgeneration ownership, rural sustainability, cooperative business models and innovation and technology will be held during the summit.
A key theme will be the importance of collaboration between store owners and their communities, and a highlight of this year’s summit will be a panel discussion with members of the Rural Grocery Cohort, comprising small-town grocers who have worked together over the past
year to share experiences and identify solutions to common challenges.
Technology will also be a major focus, with presentations on tools like walk-out or cashierless checkout systems, which can help ease labor shortages while improving efficiency.
The 2025 Grocery Industry Summit will be held from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Aug. 21 at the Younes Conference Center South in Kearney, Neb.
For more information or to register, visit nebgrocery.com
nomic trends were being navigated, we were moving forward and adjusting our business model to today’s economy, and we did not expect the sudden closure.”
He continues, “I am devastated by the loss of such a crucial and valuable resource. Nine communities no longer have a newspaper. We wish we could have said a proper goodbye.”
The move has also brought about concerns these closures could turn entire counties – including Sublette, Uinta, Niobrara, Goshen and Lincoln – into news deserts, where meaningful local journalism will become scarce, if not entirely absent.
“This is devastating for me, devastating to our colleagues and especially dev-
astating for my colleagues in other parts of the state,” O’Hare tells Cowboy State Daily. “There are a lot of communities that will essentially become news deserts.”
Additionally, in a statement made shortly after the announcement, Gov. Mark Gordon states, “The abrupt closure of the papers is devastating, both to the residents of these Wyoming communities and to the employees whose hard work ensured they were well informed on local issues.
The loss of these publications, which covered local government, community events and schools and their sports teams, leaves a void that will not be easy to replace.”
Many agree the absence of newspapers will strip communities
of vital civic functions that keep towns governed transparently.
Despite this, O’Hare and others involved in the industry have expressed determination to keep community journalism alive through nonprofit or digital models, even as they grapple with the loss of income, benefits and institutional support.
Meanwhile, statewide and national media associations are emphasizing the need for new strategies to prevent the further spread of news deserts, whether it be via legislation, community ownership or modern business models.
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Website launched
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Working Lands for Wildlife and the Intermountain West Joint Venture are proud to announce the launch of coniferencroachment.com – a new educational website designed to empower land managers with proven strategies to tackle one of the most pressing threats to sagebrush rangelands – conifer encroachment.
Driven by the latest science and shaped by on-theground experience, the Conifer Encroachment Education Project provides practical, management-focused resources to help land managers defend and restore core sagebrush areas.
According to the Sagebrush Conservation Design, conifer encroachment is the second-leading cause of sagebrush loss across the American West, where each year 350,000 acres of high-quality sagebrush range are overtaken by encroaching trees like pinyon pine, juniper, Douglas fir and ponderosa pine.
The new site offers clear explanations of what conifer encroachment is and where it’s happening, insights into how it affects both people and wildlife, science-based solutions for reducing conifer encroachment, eye-catching visuals and maps to support planning and communication, curated resources for designing and implementing effective treatments and guidance on balancing sagebrush restoration with conservation of historic woodlands.
Registration open
The 2025 Angus Convention is Kansas City, Mo. bound.
This fall, cattle producers of all types will head to the Midwest metropolis known as the “Heart of America” with a shared purpose – to connect with fellow cattlemen and women, expand industry knowledge and take part in conversations that drive breed progress.
This year’s condensed schedule, set for Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, is an effort to better meet the needs of producers who have asked to reduce the time commitment to attend the annual event. The new schedule will also make it easier for all convention goers to be in the same hotel-event venue space.
The Kansas City Downtown Marriott will host the main stage events, Angus University sessions, cocktail hours and the newest addition – the Industry Showcase.
Located just outside the main ballroom, the Industry Showcase will offer cattle producers a chance to connect with industry partners between sessions. This change will save travel time between event spaces and allow attendees to focus on what’s important – meaningful conversation.
For more information the three-day event or to register, visit angusconvention.com
One Big Beautiful Bill Act provides wins for U.S. pork amid export challenges
Depending on where one sits, President Donald Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was indeed truly beautiful or really ugly.
No piece of legislation is perfect for everyone, and no one gets everything they want, but the National Pork Producers Council lauds the OBBBA for delivering on some of the industry’s priorities. Wins for the industry
Protecting the nation’s food supply and keeping the swine herd healthy are at risk when one speaks of the potential of foreign animal diseases (FAD) reaching the U.S.
Resources to prevent FADs such as the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank, the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, the National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program and the National Veterinary Stockpile were preserved in the final bill Trump signed into law.
While FADs continue to be a concern, another risk looms domestically, as the feral swine population continues to spread across the nation.
This legislation maintains resources for the Feral Swine Eradication and Control Pilot Program established in the 2018 Farm Bill. Feral swine continue to wreak havoc on agriculture, ecosystems and human and animal health.
Studies have put the costs of damage caused by feral hogs at $2.5 billion
annually, but according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, efforts to curb the feral swine population have protected crop revenue to the tune of $40.2 billion. Since 2014, 12 states have eradicated feral swine.
Once the health of the U.S. swine herd has been secured, maintaining and expanding demand for the nation’s pork supply is a necessary part of the equation, and this legislation maintains funding for the Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program.
Both programs build export markets for U.S. pork and other agricultural products. The OBBBA also funds $285 million for a new Supplemental Agricultural Trade Promotion Program to support critical market access.
Tariffs hit red meat
In these times of the moving targets of tariffs, U.S. red meat exports are
lower as a result.
According to the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), May exports of pork and beef were lower, largely due to declines in destination China.
As spelled out by USMEF President and Chief Executive Officer
Dan Halstrom, China’s total tariff rate on U.S. pork peaked at 172 percent in April and early May, and the rate for beef was 147 percent.
May exports totaled 224,162 metric tons of pork, down 11 percent from a year ago, and value fell 10 percent to $646.5 million. These are the lowest monthly totals since September 2023.
Bright spots for pork exports were Mexico, Central America and Colombia, which showed year-over-year growth, and destination Cuba saw record-large shipments.
Even with those gains, China remains the wildcard for U.S. pork and, in a statement, Halstrom
stresses the importance of developing other markets.
“The situation with China obviously had a severe impact on May exports, underscoring the importance of diversification and further development of alternative markets,” Halstrom says. “The need for progress in the U.S.-China trade negotiations is extremely urgent because tariffs could soar again on Aug. 12. This deadline is already impacting exporters’ decisions about whether to continue producing for the Chinese market. On the bright side, amid all of this uncertainty, demand for U.S. red meat remains robust in many key regions.”
The U.S. hog industry and pork trade have a lot of moving parts that could turn what’s big and beautiful today into a big ugly tomorrow.
Kevin Schulz is the editor of The Farmer. This article was originally published by The Farmer on July 14.
Adobe Stock photo
By Paul Dykstra
CAB Market Update
The pace of cattle harvest slowed even more during the week of July 21, with 549,000 head total – down 14,000 head from the week prior. A mechanical issue at one major plant pulled the head count lower on July 21, yet abundant harvest capacity did not pick up the slack by July 25, which has been the truncated harvest day in most recent weeks.
After an early July pullback to the $224 per hundredweight (cwt) average, fed cattle prices uncharacteristically ratcheted higher for three weeks, culminating in a $238.80 per cwt steer average for the week of July 21.
Live cattle favor seasonal expectations
At the beginning of July, the nearby August live cattle contract started at $212 per cwt, apparently favoring seasonal expectations leading to a major cash market break developing through the month. Since quite the opposite has occurred in the cash market, the August contract has had to hustle to catch up to the reality of the fundamentals.
Thus, the August contract, as of July 29, traded at $229 per cwt, still below the market average but in-line with the southern cash trading range of $230 per cwt last week.
Packer leverage has been impossible to find as spot negotiated trade remains unfazed in the wake of handfuls of cutout price cuts throughout the past three weeks. The National Comprehensive Cutout has dropped 19 cents per pound, or five percent, since the beginning of July, while spot fed cattle values increased 6.6 percent.
Cutout values are expected to continue on a slightly lower trend for a few weeks as the market finalizes a reset coming off of the sharp summer highs.
Ground beef demand
has been a bit softer lately as buyers watch round primal prices weaken. Rib values were stronger during the week of July 21 but short loin, strip loin and sirloins continued sharply lower retreats from record early July price points.
Trends entrenched
The July 25 U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Cattle Inventory and Cattle on Feed reports made for a big day in updating cattle supply forecasts for the near future.
June 2025 feedlot placements were eight percent lower than June 2024, greatly missing the average analyst expectations which predicted just a 2.5 percent reduction.
The production sector is more attuned to the impact of the stoppage of Mexican feeder cattle imports and a domestic feeder and calf supply down 0.4 percent, according to a CattleFax estimate, from the July 25 report.
Downstream beef buyers – distributors and grocers – must adjust their price expectations to remain on trend at recent levels with an upward bias.
Since early July, the national Comprehensive Cutout price has declined five percent from $388.64 per cwt to $369.20 per cwt – 17 percent above a year ago. This classic July downturn shouldn’t be mistaken for weakening demand or a shift to a lower trading range for beef.
Instead, this normal seasonal dip should be followed by an increase ahead of Labor Day, followed not long after by fourth quarter holiday demand surge.
These are historic patterns, subject to unforseen developments impacting the market.
Certified Angus Beef (CAB) brand supply trends will continue to see the push and pull of cattle manage-
ment responding to tight cattle supplies.
Estimates for this year’s corn crop suggest an exceptionally large yield, continuing downward price pressure. This, coupled with freshly printed record replacement feeder cattle prices, will work to entrench the modern feedyard motivation to push days on feed to new heights with carcass weights following along to new records.
The latest average fed cattle carcass weights are 23 pounds heavier than a year ago and 46 pounds heavier than two years ago. Feedyard and packer margins are assisted through the increased weight per head.
In this scenario, excessive external carcass fat is problematic on many pens of cattle, but economics have lately been overriding this downfall.
With even tighter cattle supplies ahead in 2026, consumer beef demand remains key to pulling the beef supply chain through the narrowest of the cycle supply lows. So far, higher prices have not diminished traditional CAB cutout premiums.
The magnitude of inquiries for the most premium, CAB brand Prime product from retail end users has been impressive lately, at even more impressive price levels. Yet, with expected
further tightening of fed cattle harvest throughput into next year, the proportion of quality carcasses meeting brand standards is keenly important.
The industry cannot grow the pie without the ingredients, and the customer needs every carcass the supply chain can create.
A parting supply chain bright spot from the Cattle Inventory Report shows a slight increase in the beef cow herd this year – CattleFax estimates an increase of 0.9 percent – and a relatively even, yet slightly smaller beef replacement heifer number compared to a year ago.
With cow/calf economics looking bright near term, the capital investment in replacements – i.e. opportunity cost in retention – is ever-growing.
Paul Dykstra is the director of supply management and analysis at CAB. He can be reached at pdykstra@certifiedangusbeef.com.
Ranchers have to compete with feeder cattle prices whether buying replacements or opting to retain them. This means decisions on expansion are very much individualized from producer to producer and likely won’t result in an “all-in” turnaround in heifer retention.
"From the ring, to the video, and in the country, we market your livestock the competitive way."
August 6, 2025
Yearlings in high demand, steady Weigh Up market. More Yearling Specials coming up. Thank you and we appreciate your business!
1 BLK-COW 1350 165.50 WT 2,234.25 CHARLES HANCOCK, BASIN WY
1 BLK-COW 1520 160.00
CALENDAR
EVENTS SALES
Aug. 12 Cowboy Cornhole Tournament, 11 a.m., Event Tent, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information or to register, visit form.jotform. com/251774419743162
Aug. 12 2025 Nebraska Soybean Management Field Days, 6-8 p.m., Lonnie and Scott Bohn Farm, Ravenna, Neb. For more information or to register, call 402624-8030.
Aug. 12-16
Wyoming State Fair, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, visit wystatefair.com
Aug. 13 2025 Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame Picnic, Riverside Park, Douglas. For more information, call the Wyoming Livestock Roundup Office at 307-234-2700.
Aug. 13 2025 Nebraska Soybean Management Field Days, 6-8 p.m., University of Nebraska-Lincoln Haskell Ag Lab, Concord, Neb. For more information or to register, call 402-624-8030.
Aug. 13-14
Stockmanship and Stewardship, Canyon, Texas. For more information, visit stockman-shipandstewardship.org
Aug. 14 2025 Nebraska Soybean Management Field Days, 6-8 p.m., Rick Meyer Farm, Weeping Water, Neb. For more information or to register, call 402-624-8030.
Aug. 14 Wyoming Beef Council Video Conference, 7:30 p.m., online. For more information, contact Ann Wittmann at 307-777-6399 or ann.wittmann@wyo.gov.
Aug. 14-17
Women in Ranching Education and Development Series, Laramie. For more information or to register, visit ancw.org/wired
Aug. 15-16 Coyote Days 2025, Niobrara County Fairgrounds, Lusk. For more information, call 307-334-9930.
Aug. 16 Wyoming Fire Service Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, 10:30 a.m., Wyoming Fire Academy, Riverton. For more information, visit wsfm.wyo.gov
Aug. 18 Wyoming State Board of Control Third Statutory Meeting, 9:30 a.m., National Museum of Military Vehicles, Dubois. For more information, Cheryl Timm at 307-777-6899 or cheryl.timm@wyo.gov.
Aug. 20 University of Nebraska-Lincoln Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory Open House, 8 a.m., Whitman, Neb. For more information and to RSVP, visit go.unl. edu/gslopenhouse
Aug. 21 2025 Grocery Industry Summit, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Younes Conference Center South, Kearney, Neb. For more information or to register, visit nebgrocery.com
Aug. 22 Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust Conserved Ranch Tour, 9:30 a.m.1:30 p.m., Jaw Bone Gluch Ranch, Laramie County. For more information or to RSVP, contact Sarah Kauer at sarah@wsglt.org or 307-772-8751.
Aug. 22 Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust 25th Anniversary Celebration, 5-8:30 p.m., Cheyenne Frontier Days Event Center, Cheyenne. For more information, visit wsglt.org or call 307-772-8751.
Aug. 22-23 2025 Meeker Mustang Makeover, Meeker, Colo. For more information, visit meekermustangmakeover.org
Aug. 22-24 Sheepherder’s Rendezvous, Glenrock City Park, Glenrock. For more information, visit @GlenrockSheepherdersRendezvous on Facebook, e-mail glenrocksheepherdersrendezvous@gmail.com or call 307-351-5375 or 307-262-0513.
Aug. 23 Inaugural University of Wyoming Extension Ag and Art Tour, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Laramie County. For more information, visit bit.ly/ag-art-site or e-mail wyagandarttour@gmail.com.
Aug. 29-30 Click Thompson Rodeo Photography Workshop, Fort Worth, Texas. For more information or to RSVP, call 817-823-2675 or e-mail clickthompson@ gmail.com.
Aug. 29-31 Up In Arms LLC Flea Market and Gun Show, The CAM-PLEX, Gillette. For more information, call 208-420-2295.
Sept. 4-6 Stockmanship and Stewardship, Springfield, Mo. For more information, visit stockmanshipandstewardship.org
Big horn Basin
LIVESTOCK AUCTION LLC
bighornbasinlivestock.com
Worland, WY
Call to Consign Cattle Sale Barn: 307-347-9201 Danny Vigil: 307-388-0781
Visit Cattle USA for broadcasting and online bidding – auctions.cattleusa.com
• Upcoming Sales •
Sept. 4 – Weigh-Up Special w/ All Class Cattle
Sept. 11 – Yearling Feeder Special w/ All Class Cattle
Sept. 18 – All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goats
Sept. 25 – All Class Cattle
Sept. 29 – Monday • The Bawl of the Fall Feeder Special
October 2 – Weigh-Up Special w/ All Class Cattle
October 9 – All Class Cattle
October 13 – Monday • The Bawl of the Fall Feeder Special October 16 – All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goats
October 23 – Weigh-Up Special w/ All Class Cattle
October 27 – Monday • The Bawl of the Fall Feeder Special October 30 – All Class Cattle
Construction on the scales is coming along!
We will be tearing out the indoor ring to put in ring scales the months of July and August. Due to the construction, we will not be having any live auctions during these months.
We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. If you have livestock that you need to market during these months, please contact Danny Vigil at 307-388-0781 or the office at 307-347-9201. We will start with our first Thursday sale on September 4, 2025. We appreciate your understanding.
Aug. 11-12
Aug. 12-13
Aug. 18-19
Aug. 18-22
Aug. 23
Aug. 23
Western Video Market, Little America, Cheyenne, 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com
Cattle Country Video Oregon Trail Classic, Gering Civic Center, Gering, Neb., 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com
Northern Livestock Video Auction Early Fall Preview, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com
Superior Livestock Auction Big Horn Classic, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com
Memory Ranches Third Annual Foal Sale, at the ranch, Wells, Nev., 208412-6156, 208-695-0399, memoryranches.com
Colorado Horse Sale, Adams County Fairgrounds, Brighton, Colo., 970-7448989, coloradohorsesale.com
Aug. 23 27th Annual Come To The Source Horse Sale, Laramie, 970-231-8384, cometothesource.com
Aug. 23-26
Aug. 24
Aug. 30
Aug. 30
Aug. 30
Sept. 9
Lauing Mill Iron L Ranch 20th Annual QH Production Sale, online auction only, prohorseservices.com, 605-347-6193, 605-280-0698, 605-280-0398, lauingmillironlranch.com
RQHBA 25th Annual Horse Sale, Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, Belle Fourche, S.D., 605-347-1964, 605-639-9482, rqhba.com
Proffit Ranch 24th Annual Labor Day Horse Sale, Diamond X Barn, Evanston, 307-723-5857, proffitranch.blogspot.com
Sundance Select Horse Sale, Crook County Fairgrounds, Sundance, 307302-2090, 307-281-2273, 662-538-5110, sundanceselecthorsesale.com
97th Annual Wyoming State Ram Sale, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas, 307-265-5250, wyowool.com/ramsale
Sept. 10 12th Annual Montana Ewe Sale, Eastern Montana Fairgrounds, Miles City, Mont., mtsheep.org
Sept. 11
Sept. 11
Sept. 12-13
Sept. 13
Sept. 15
Sept. 16
Oct. 11
Oct. 22
Nov. 2
Nov. 13
100th Annual Montana Ram Sale, Eastern Montana Fairgrounds, Miles City, Mont., mtsheep.org
Cattle Country Video Frontier Fall Roundup, Cheyenne Frontier Days Event Center, Cheyenne, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com
Van Norman and Friends 29th Annual Production Sale, Elko County Fairgrounds, Elko, Nev., 775-934-7404, vannormansale.com
Open Box Rafter Ranch Quarter Horses 32nd Annual Production Sale, Rapid City, S.D., 605-538-4450, rafterranch.com
Northern Livestock Video Auction Fall Premier, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com
Western Video Market, Haythorn Ranch, Ogallala, Neb., 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com
Colorado Horse Sale, Montrose County Fairgrounds, Montrose, Colo., 970744-8989, coloradohorsesale.com
Micheli Cattle Company Bull Sale, at the ranch, Ft. Bridger, 307-747-7786, 307-747-3897, micheliranch.com
Triangle J Ranch Harvest Select Female Sale, at the ranch, Miller, Neb., 308-627-5085, 308-457-2505, 308-293-9241, trianglejranch.com
Stellpflug Cattle Company Fall Bull Sale, Hoffman Ranch Facility, Thedford, Neb., 307-351-1712, stellpflugcattle.com
Nov. 20 K2 Red Angus Fall Female Sale, K2 sale barn, Wheatland, 307-331-2917, k2redangus.com
POSTCARD from the Past
Compiled by Dick Perue rrichardperue@gmail.com
Sheep Wagon Gets Mountain Gear
In previous Postcards we’ve outlined the history of the sheep wagon, also known as the original “home on wheels,” invented in Wyoming. Here’s more of the story.
Faithful readers over the years might notice this is a repeat of a Postcard from the Past published in the Wyoming Livestock Roundup in 2010. I’m so old, I don’t remember stealing it from some publication, so I hope longtime readers enjoy it again and new readers learn more about Wyoming’s historic sheep industry.
In an article by Agnes Wright Spring published in the December 1940 issue of Wyoming Stockman Farmer and Wyoming Industrial Journal touted as “Wyoming’s only agricultural publication,” it was reported: About 18 years after the first Candlish sheep wagon – invented in 1884 – was put into use, the Schulte Hardware Company of Casper employed Marshall Buxton to make sheep wagons. Buxton
had, for some time, been a buffalo and wild game hunter.
The special “mountain gear” manufactured by the Bayne Wagon Company of Kenosha, Wis. was used for mounting the Schulte bodies.
These wagons had seat boxes, a stove, a table and cupboards for supplies. The box was held together by double doors strong enough to support the weight of a man. The top was a combination of linoleum, blankets and canvas.
When a wagon was first completed, the new canvas bagged over the top and looked like a terrible job, but after a rain, it drew up “tight as a fiddle string.”
The original Schulte wagon cost $248, plus the cost of the Bayne running gear, which varied from $65 to $195. A wagon with hardwood finish, good for a lifetime, could be furnished for around $1,200.
The Schulte company has continued to make sheep wagons for 40 years and is now turning out, on order, a new type for around $600 – an all-metal, flat-bottomed wagon which is streamlined in every detail and is insulated with cellatex. It is mounted on rubber tires….but, then, that’s more sheep manure for our next Postcard.
A sheepherder, surrounded by his flock and dog, rides out a snow storm in a canvas door sheep wagon about 1900 in this M.G. Houghton drawing which appeared in a prospectus book promoting Wyoming’s industry. From Bob Martin/ Dick Perue collection.
Danny Vigil • Owner and Northern Livestock Representative Layne Weber • Field Rep & Auctioneer • (307) 331-2222
Compared to last week Ft. Collins: Feeder lambs had no test and slaughter lambs traded 5.00-10.00 higher and ewes traded too lightly tested to develop trend. Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 1-3 San Angelo: wooled and shorn 50-60 lbs 262.00-270.00; 6070 lbs 280.00.
Billings: Good 2-3 84.00-90.00; Good 3-4 86.00-90.00; Utility 1-2 84.00-95.00 Sioux Falls: Good 2-3: 85.00-100.00; Good 4-5: 100.00; Utility 1-2: 75.00-95.00. Ft. Collins: Good 2-3 120.00-175.00; Good 3-4 140.00142.50.
Feeder Lambs: Medium and Large 1
San Angelo: 30-40 lbs 230.00-250.00; 40-50 lbs 220.00240.00
Sioux Falls: 40-50 lbs 255.00; 50-60 lbs 290.00; 70-80 lbs 240.00-250.00; 80-90 lbs 230.00. Equity Coop: No test. Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2 San Angelo: No test.
Ft. Collins: No test.
Sioux Falls: Young bred for fall 189 lbs 110.00 per cwt. Billings: Medium and Large 1-2 Young Open 110-125 lbs 125.00-160.00.
Sheep and lamb slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 32,000 compared to 33,000 last week and 35,000 last year.
Source: USDA AMS LPG Market News, San Angelo, Texas
Compared to last report: Trade activity and demand light. No market trend available due to a lack of comparable trades. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor’s High Plains Summary for July 29, 2025, on this week’s map, improvements continued from Kansas to North Dakota after another week of scattered shower activity with light-to-moderate accumulations. During the past 30 days, drought-related conditions have improved significantly in northern Kansas, eastern Nebraska, southeastern and southwestern South Dakota, and southwestern North Dakota as evidenced in a variety of drought monitoring products including streamflows, soil moisture, and vegetation health indicators. However, conditions have degraded in other parts of the region, including central South Dakota and northern North Dakota. For the week, average temperatures were generally above-normal average (1 to 6 degrees F) across the region, with eastern portions experiencing the largest departure, while far western portions of the Dakotas observed temperatures 1 to 4 degrees F below normal. The next available report will be Thursday, August 14, 2025.
Mountains & Northwest
St. Onge No
CLASSIFIEDS
Public Notice: Wyoming Pork Producers Association and the National Pork Board
The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2026 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place at 6:00 p.m., Aug. 24, 2025 in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Wyoming Pork Producers Association at the Grace Werner Ag Pavilion, 125 College Dr., Casper, WY. All Wyoming pork producers are invited to attend. Any producer, age 18 or older, who is a resident of the state and has paid all assessments due may be considered as a delegate candidate and/or participant in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving that the hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted. For more information, contact Jeremy Burkett (State Executive for Wyoming Pork Producers Association), 125 College Dr., Casper, WY 82601, (307) 630-6267.
NOTICE: Publication in this newspaper does not guarantee the legitimacy of any offer or solicitation. Take reasonable steps to evaluate an offer before you send money or provide personal/financial information to an advertiser. If you have questions or believe you have been the victim of fraud, contact the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Unit, 109 Capitol Building, Cheyenne, WY 82002, 307-777-6397 TFN
Help
Wanted Help Wanted
TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED!
Red Cloud, NE
Prairie Dog Hunting
PRAIRIE DOG PROBLEMS?
No problem, let us come up and shoot as many as we can with NO CHARGE to you !! Two to 4 of us will travel to Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho and Oklahoma to rid you of all we can. You must have plenty of prairie dog towns to keep us busy all day for a few days to make our time and expenses worthwhile. We just love to plink and this is the best way we can have fun and serve our hard working ranchers and farmers!! Please contact me for time and dates at alnpar@cox.net or leave message at 520-6780041 8/16
Ranch
for Lease BULLS FOR SALE: Registered yearling and 2-year-old Black Angus range bulls for sale private treaty. Good selection for heifers and cows. From popular sires and industry leaders. Semen tested and ready to go. CLAY CREEK ANGUS, 307-762-3541, www. claycreek.net TFN
CUSTOM FEEDING AND FINISHING FOR CATTLE AND SHEEP. Cactus Hill Ranch Company, Fort Collins, CO. Contact AJ Nelson, 970372-8273 9/27 FAITHFUL FEEDERS: Heifer development, backgrounding, and grass calf prep. Billings, MT. Call Ryan, 406-696-0104 4/11 PARK COUNTY, WY RANCH NEAR CODY, WY IS AVAILABLE FOR A LONG-TERM LEASE: The ranch has over 50,000 acres and supports an irrigated hay base with BOR water rights. Carrying capacity is 700 animal units year-round with hay production. Willing to split the hay ground and grazing. Please e-mail Honora Beirne (hbeirne@acpg.com) and Melanie Giliati (mgiliati@ acpg.com) for details 8/16 Events
17TH ANNUAL OLD WEST
COWBOY, INDIAN, ANTIQUE, GUN AND COLLECTABLE TRADE SHOW: Civic Center, Hulett, WY. Aug. 15-17, BUY, SALE, TRADE! Free appraisals and admission. New vendors welcome. Dealer table $30. Call 307-467-5668 or 605892-5324 8/19
UP IN ARMS, LLC FLEA MARKET AND GUN SHOW AUG. 29-31 Gillette, WY at the CAMPLEX. Open to the public. Fri., Aug. 29, 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Sat., Aug. 30, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., Aug. 31, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Giving away a .22 pistol Sunday at 2 p.m., must be present to win, 21 years of age and able to pass background check. Buy, sell, trade. Adults $6, children 12 and under free (when accompanied by an adult). For more information, contact Lisa, 208-420-2295 8/23
COYOTE DAYS 2025: The largest gathering of predator control and fur harvesting experts in the world. Twenty instructional demos on all aspects of the industry. Come learn about an outdoor activity that can be very rewarding. Aug. 1516, Niobrara Co. Fairgrounds, Lusk, WY. Vendors, drawings, banquet, fur fashion show and more. For more information, call 307-334-9930 8/9
www.gottschcattlecompany.com Come Join the Gottsch Livestock Feeders Family! Gottsch Livestock Feeders is looking for Cowboys/Pen Riders for their feedyard in Red Cloud, NE. The main focus of the Cowboy/Pen Riders are spotting, pulling, diagnosing and taking cattle to the hospital and shipping fat cattle. This person will need to be a team player who is seeking a long-term position. You will have the opportunity to work with and learn from some of the best in the industry. We offer a benefits package that includes health insurance, dental, vision, 401(k), health savings, life insurance and paid vacation. Retention bonus offered to full-time employees. Incentives paid out at 6 months and 1 year of employment. If you are interested stop by and fill out an application or visit our website at Call Brandon Furr at 402-257-7769 or 402-746-2222 for more information.
CORRECTIONS AGRICULTURE CROPS PROGRAM
WE’RE HIRING!! LOOKING TO FILL THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS AND ARE WILLING TO TRAIN: MEAT CUTTER, SLAUGHTER FLOOR OPERATIONS AND WRAPPERS. Located in Dayton, WY about 20 miles from Sheridan, WY. Starting pay is dependent on experience. We are starting between $20-$30/hour and will train you. If interested in any of the positions, please call 307-655-2551. You can also stop into our plant to apply or for more information, Valley Meat Co., 297 Hwy. 343, Dayton, WY 82836. If you have any questions about the positions, please feel free to send us an e-mail at sam@ valleymeatco.com. Thank you and looking forward to your application!! 8/16
Services
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!! 8/9
Seeking a motivated individual to assist in day-to-day operations of our working ranch. The role supports the current foreman and works alongside to ensure smooth and efficient operation of livestock, haying, equipment and facility management. Applicant must have a strong agricultural background and a hands-on approach to problem solving and daily ranch work. The position is long term and offers a clear path to increased responsibilities, pay and leadership over time. Location of the ranch is remote. Housing is provided and on a school bus route. Position open immediately. Please send resume with references by mail or email to: PeeGee Ranch, 1251 Lower Powder River Road, Arvada, WY 82831, pgranch@ rangeweb.net. Call 307-7362461 8/9
SUPERVISOR: Are you a seasoned ag leader wanting to make a real difference? Join Wyoming’s Department of Corrections as a Corrections Agriculture Crops Program Supervisor in Riverton, WY. You’ll manage everything from seed planting to harvest, supervise inmate workers and teach essential life and vocational skills while supporting livestock feed programs and sustaining farm equipment operations. Three to 4 years’ experience in agriculture/farming or bachelor’s in ag. Knowledge of crop science, irrigation and farm equipment. Strong leadership and safety awareness. Rewarding opportunity to contribute to public safety and inmate rehabilitation. $24.78/hour plus full benefits: Tuition reimbursement, retirement, health care. Riverton, WY, Wyoming Honor Farm. Learn more and apply www.governmentjobs.com/careers/wyoming/ jobs/4943010/correctionsagriculture-crops-programsupervisor-2025-01356 Grow with us, help cultivate futures, both in the field and beyond. #WyomingJobs #Agriculture #Reentry #PublicService #LeadershipOpportunity 8/30
COYOTE HOUND PUPPIES out of proven hunting parents. Protect livestock from predators and also make loyal companions, first shots. Call 719469-3190 8/30
LIVESTOCK GUARD DOG FOR
SALE: Spayed female started on sheep, out of great working mother with proven predator control. She is Akbash/Komondor. Sire is Akbash/Pyrenees/Anatolian. Blue Lady was born July 4, 2024. UTD on shots. Ready to go, with the flock now. $1,000. Near Moore, MT. Call 406-374-2406 8/16
MINI SHEEPADOODLES: Mom (mini sheepadoodles) first generation AKC Old English sheepdog/ AKC toy poodle. Sire of this litter is a 5 lb. AKC toy poodle. Perfect little lap babies. Small, healthy, home raised beautiful babies. UTD on shots, vet checked, microchipped, pellet box trained. $900-$2,000. May be able to help with delivery. Call 307-272-3180. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 8/16
Horses
RANCHERS QUARTER HORSE BREEDERS ASSOCIATION
SALE AUG. 24: Located at Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, Belle Fourche, S.D. Selling 81 head. Yearling Futurity $3,000 added. Featuring a yearling in-hand trail class!! All 2024 foals eligible to win in 2025. Ranch Horse Futurity, added money, open to 2- and 3-year-olds sold through the sale. Invitational saddle horse session, have 21 riders and 7 yearlings. Online bidding available day of sale with pre-approval through Tri-State Livestock at www.thestockshow.hibid.com/auctions/ current. For more information, call Clete Schmidt, 605-6410669 or Susan Riesland, 605639-9482, www.rqhba.com “The Sale Where You Can Buy With Confidence” 8/16
Saddles & Tack
Joe Freund 303/341-9311
Joey Freund 303/475-6062 Pat Kelley 303/840-1848
GET READY FOR STATE FAIR AT MOSS SADDLES, BOOTS AND TACK!! Ride with pride, LARGE selection of TOP brand names and QUALITY tack!! $AVE on BOOTS: HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! WE CAN ship!!
GERDES HAMPSHIRES HAS 32 REGISTERED PUREBRED HAMPSHIRE RAMS: Born in the winter of 2025. Our rams are big framed, fast growing with plenty of depth, muscle and bone. These are wether producing type Hampshires without excessive leg length but possess tremendous thickness of loin and leg. Rams are sired by stud rams purchased from leading Hampshire sheep breeders at national sales and are sired by sons of Unicorn, UFFDA and Jackalope. For more information, call or text Darrell Gerdes of Madison, S.D. at 402-760-0104. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 8/30
McGilvray Farms
Call us at 785-734-2663. Our camps are handcrafted with hand-forged iron work. We also offer wooden wagon wheel restoration, wheelwright services.
See you at The Glenrock Sheepherder’s Rendezvous August 22, 23 & 24!
HAMP/SUFFOLK CROSS, POLYPAY/DORSET CROSS
RAMS FOR SALE: These rams are big boned, heavy muscled and high performing. They are not tall frame sheep. We sell all across the Midwest. Call DJ, 605-929-0337 8/16
WEANER PIGS FOR SALE, located in Powell, WY. For more information, call 307271-1014 1/17
TRITICALE SEED READY FOR FALL PLANTING: High yield, makes excellent forage and cover crop. Can be grazed in the fall and winter and hayed in the spring. Call 308-4303457, for pricing and delivery. Phone calls only 8/30
LARGE ROUNDS OF GRASS AND ALFALFA HAY FOR SALE. Net wrapped, delivered in semi loads. ALSO, custom hauling with a 53’ step deck trailer. Call 605-770-6453 8/30
TONS AND TONS OF HAY FOR SALE!!! Alfalfa, alfalfa/ grass mix, straight grass (crested wheat and native grasses), winter wheat, 1,300-1,350 lb. net-wrapped round bales. Deliveries are available if needed or come and get it. Sheridan, WY area. Call the ranch, 307737-2680 or 307-751-2068 (cell) 8/30
HAY FOR SALE: Alfalfa, mix and grass. Rounds and squares. Call 605-670-9242 8/9
HAY FOR SALE: 2025 first and second cutting grass/alfalfa, first and upcoming second cutting alfalfa. ALSO, 2025 and 2024 haybet barley, low nitrates. 2024 first and second cutting alfalfa, grass/alfalfa. 2023 first and second cutting alfalfa, milo and grass/alfalfa. 2022 first and second cutting alfalfa. GRINDING HAY also available. All in net-wrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, ask for Klint, 701-290-4418, send a text if no answer or keep trying 8/23
90 NET-WRAPPED ROUND BALES, 1,500 lbs. grass/alfalfa mix, 2024 crop, $125/ton. Located in Cody, WY. Calls only, 307-899-3737 8/23
2025 HAY AVAILABLE: Round bales and small squares. Grass/ alfalfa mix and alfalfa. ALSO, have certified grass and alfalfa. Located in Powell, WY. Call JK, 307-254-8201 8/16
VERY NICE FIRST OR SECOND CUTTING ALFALFA FOR SALE: Located in the Sterling, CO area. Call 970520-7775 8/16
VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: Representing 40 of the best growers in eastern Wyoming and western Nebraska. Call now for your summer/fall needs, Barry McRea, 308-2355386, www.valleyvideohay. com 8/16
CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW FOR SALE, 3x4 bales. Cody, WY. Call 307-899-1952 TFN
ROUND-BALED GRASS: 2024 crop $30/bale, need to move. ALSO, 2025 crop 1,000 lb. netwrapped bales. Cody, WY area. Call, don’t text, Anthony at 307-254-2645 8/16
BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/ bale. ALSO, 5x6 round bales, $125/ton. GRAIN OATS, wheat and barley, $20/cwt. Greybull, WY area. Call 307762-3878 or 307-899-4714, leave message 8/9
2006
Trucks & Trailers
8/30
2012 FORD F-650 FLATBED: 6.7L Cummins, Allison automatic. Good condition, 18’ flatbed, Vanair PTO driven air compressor, 161,000 miles. Best offer. Golden, CO. Call Eric at 720-312-9582. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 8/30
Equipment
2023 KIOTI RX7320: Power shuttle with creep, 73 HP, 3 remotes, live hydraulics to the front, fluid in tires, block heater, 92 hours and Bluetooth stereo. $48,500. For more details, call 307-388-3300 8/9
FOR SALE: WATER TRAILER with (4) 1,500 gallon water tanks, 3 cones, 2 pumps, 50 ft. hose, electric start. ALSO, International 1256 tractor and John Deere 4520 tractor. Call 701290-2504 8/9
2025 CERTIFIED GRASS HAY SMALL SQUARE BALES: Barn stored, $10/bale, 71 lb. average. 2025 GRASS ROUND BALES, net wrapped, $200/ ton. 2025 ALFALFA ROUND BALES, net wrapped, $210/ton. 1,300 lb. average on rounds. No rain on any. ALSO, some 2024 net-wrapped grass and alfalfa bales available. Bales handled with skid steer 8 pack and tractor with bale spear. Powell, WY. Call 307-254-4865 8/9
CERTIFIED WEED-FREE PURE ALFALFA HAY: Small squares, averaging 70-80 lbs. each. 2025 first cutting available for $225/ton. ALSO, 100+ tons of 2024 hay with weather damage. Would be good cow hay or great for compost. $50/ton. Will load trucks and any open trailer. MONIDA OATS: $16/cwt. Combine run. Will auger into truck, trailer or large totes/ag bags. Located between Powell and Cody, WY. Call or text Knopp Farms for details, 307-2540554 8/16
CERTIFIED ORGANIC ALFALFA/GRASS MIX HAY: No chemicals, 3x3 squares and round bales. Adrian Troyer, Byron, WY. Call 307-631-4104 12/27
Motorcycles
FOR SALE BY OWNER: Harley Davidson, 2012 Triglide, FLHTCUTG, 4,007 miles, excellent condition, $17,500. Located in Wapiti, WY, 412-8491676. evenings 6-9 p.m. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 8/30
1960 JOHN DEERE 95 COMBINE, round back, 16’. All new belts, stored inside, overhaul on engine. $2,500. Call Ivan, 307629-0974 TFN
LODGEPOLE OUTDOOR FURNACES, 307-223-2046. Your authorized Central Boiler Dealer. Get your outdoor wood furnace today!! $2,000 tax credit on qualifying models!! Efficient wood heat. Heat multiple buildings. Invest in your heating, don’t just pay for it!! See us at www.cb.lodgepoleproducts. com!! 8/9
CASE 1070 TRACTOR: 5,000 plus hours, with Du-Al loader and grapple. $12,500. Calls only, 307-899-3737 8/23
2015 GRAIN AUGER 14122 FARM KING: Less than 100,000 bushels ran through it. The flighting and tube on this auger are twice as heavy as a Westfield. Hydraulic swing out, $40,000 would consider any reasonable offer. ALSO, 2001 FREIGHTLINER CLASSIC, long hood C15 Cat engine less than 100,000 miles on complete overhaul at Butler machinery, 18 speed tag axle, new steering tires, drive tires over 60%, wet kit with 4 remote tower in cab. Day cab, would be willing to pull engine and sell separately, $60,000 for complete truck. If interested in engine or want more details, call 605-228-0471 8/9
2009 JOHN DEERE 6430 TRACTOR: 2,850 hours, MFWD, 16 speed powerquad, L.H. reverser, 18.4R34 tires, with John Deere 673 loader, 7’ bucket, excellent condition. $79,500. 2011 JOHN DEERE 6430 PREMIUM TRACTOR: 1,540 actual hours, MFWD, 24 speed autoquad, L.H. reverser, 18.4R38 tires, many options, with 2015’ John Deere H340 selfleveling loader and 8’ grapple bucket. ONE OWNER. Like new.
EQUIPMENT
FOR SALE, RETIRING: John Deere 5300 tractor, diesel, front end loader, pallet forks and back blade, $24,000. 2020 Can-Am 570 Outlander 4 wheeler, $5,900. 2011 Ford F-450, 4 door, diesel 6.7, 4x4, 108,000 miles, $29,500. Dodge Ram 3500 4 door 4x4, 6.7 diesel 127,000 miles, $34,900. Ford F-450 dump truck, 4x4, diesel, 61,000 miles, $24,900. 2005 Buick LeSabre, looks and runs like new, $2,900. Lincoln Town Car, 1 owner, 130,000 miles, loaded, immaculate, $7,900. 2018 PJ gooseneck 14’ low profile dump trailer, $7,900. Flatbed, hydraulic tilt deck, 2010 trailer, $3,900. Chevrolet dump truck, 1955, 6400 model, exceptional condition, $4,500. Gooseneck stock trailer, 16’, good condition, $2,500. Gooseneck stock trailer, 12’, older, $1,500. 1992 Ford F-350 service truck, 4 door, diesel, 135,000 miles, $4,500. Big Tex flatbed, bumper pull, 16’ trailer, $2,500. PJ bumper pull 20’ flatbed trailer, $4,700. Stihl ms460 chainsaw, $795. John Deere high volume, quick detach bucket, 7’x3’, new, $900. Call 307-219-2217 or 719-2178054 (cell) 8/9
FOR SALE: Lorenz 16’x29’ 17 ton balemover. Tonutti 7 wheel finger rake. Rowse 9’ pull type mower. Rowse 9’ 3 pt. mower. H&S 14 wheel high capacity vrake. New Holland H7460 16’ pull type discbine. J&M gravity box with 12 ton gear and truck tires. 2024 AGT mini excavator H13R with tracks, new machine, $5,000. Ford 7N tractor with wide front, runs great. John Deere 3975 silage cutter with 3RN green cutter head. Burns portable calf creep feeder. Burns portable loading chute. For-Most cattle working chute with palp cage and automatic headgate. 2016 Mack semi with MP7 engine and automatic transmission. 2020 Freightliner, automatic transmission, DD13 engine, 178” wheelbase, 407,673 miles, runs and drives nice. Miller Pro 5100 18’ chuckwagon with bunk feeding extensions and tandem running gear. H&S 7+4 18’ chuckwagon with bunk feeding extensions and tandem 14 ton running gear. 12’ HD box scraper with tilt. All in very nice condition!! Call 605-999-5482 8/24
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE, FARMER RETIRING: John Deere 71 Flex 8 row corn planter on a 24’ stackable bar. AC Model 1300 30’ ripper with rakes. A 20’ Krause offset disc (new blades in front). 24’ Model 630 John Deere tandem disc. Safety pull with a bull hitch. 2003 IHC 9400I Eagle semi fifth wheel truck, Cat engine, 26’ end dump trailer with roll tarp. 1997 Kenworth T800, Detroit engine, 20’ box with hoist, roll tarp, both beet and grain end gates. John Deere front suitcase weights. IHC front suitcase weights. Contact Greg Keller at 406679-1136 8/16
$107,500. Call 651-338-6861. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 8/16
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
HYDRAULIC SQUEEZE CHUTE with 8’ alley and 16’ round tub. PORTABLE LOADING CHUTE
Saint Ignatius, MT, delivery available. For more information and pricing, call 406-531-1036 8/30
MONTANA RAILROAD SERVICES: Railroad ties, switch ties and other railroad materials for fencing and landscaping. Best pricing and quality in the region. Call 406-9623514, Silesia, MT. Located 10 miles south of Laurel, MT (off of Clarks River Rd., the old highway). Visit our website www. mtrrservices.com 8/9 MANUFACTURER OF HEAVY DUTY CONTINUOUS FENCE: Corral panels, farm gates, free standing panels and more. Call for
and
grizzly bears and wolves.
In addition to his longtime leadership regarding wildlife, Nesvik also served in the Wyoming Army National Guard since 1986, where he acted as commanding general and assistant adjutant general, holding the rank of brigadier general.
He served as a commander of two deployments to Operation Iraqi Freedom in Baghdad in southern Iraq and Kuwait and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal in 2005 by the U.S. Army for his service.
In his new role with FWS, Nesvik will oversee conservation of the nation’s fish and wildlife and their respective habitats on public lands.
During his confirmation hearing in March, Nesvik voiced his immediate priorities would be centered around furthering the Trump administration’s America First agenda by improving the agency’s interactions with the public, simplifying regulations, accelerating technology permitting and relying more on “education, voluntary compliance and verification.”
Support and opposition
As expected, Nesvik’s confirmation stirred up some controversy. His move to national director was widely celebrated by many throughout the West, yet garnered pushback from several conservation groups.
Those in opposition cited his “poor handling of a wolf torture incident” in Sublette County earlier this spring and his “track record on grizzly bear management.”
In an Aug. 1 statement, Stephanie Kurose, deputy director of government affairs for the Center for Biological Diversity, says, “In voting for Nesvik, Heinrich and Rosen –the only two Democratic senators to join Republicans – just voted to accelerate extinction. Nesvik is a yes-man who will rubber-stamp Trump’s antiwildlife agenda, no questions asked. Instead of upholding FWS’s mission of protecting endangered species, he’s going to clear the way for their demise.”
Bradley Willians, deputy legislative director for wildlife and lands protection at the Sierra Club, further comments, “Trump and Congressional Republicans have put the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in their crosshairs, and Nesvik is ready to take the shot. His tenure as head of the WGFD prioritized trophy hunts and weakened protections for imperiled species over scientifically-sound wildlife management. One of the FWS’s most important roles is upholding the ESA and, given his experience, it’s not clear whether Nesvik will be able to fulfill this duty. Unfortunately, it appears wildlife will pay
the price.”
Seemingly, support for Nesvik’s confirmation rings louder than the objections.
In an Aug. 1 press release, Gov. Mark Gordon notes there has “never been a more qualified” man for the position and that Nesvik will be a strong advocate for issues close to home.
“His on-the-ground experience in Wyoming will lend oversight to the essential analysis of how federal policies apply to the day-to-day wildlife management within states,” Gordon states. “I am eager to continue working with Nesvik on ESA reform, delisting of grizzly bears and more.”
Sen. Cynthia Lummis also voiced support, stating, “Nesvik is a breath of fresh air who will excel in his new role leading FWS. As demonstrated during the confirmation process, Nesvik brings a proven and impressive track record from Wyoming, where he effectively collaborated with federal, state and local partners to achieve important conservation goals. I am proud to support Nesvik and pleased the Senate has confirmed him as the new director of the FWS.”
Additionally, groups like the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA), Public Lands Council (PLC), The Wildlife Society, Theodore Roosevelt Conserva-
tion Partnership, National Audubon Society, Ducks Unlimited and Safari Club International have offered their endorsement.
“While the Trump administration is making huge progress reforming the ESA and alleviating other regulatory burdens, ranchers need a permanent FWS director, and this afternoon the Senate confirmed a qualified, experienced leader,” says NCBA Executive Director of Natural Resources and PLC Executive Director Kaitlynn Glover. “Nesvik has led western engagement on complex wildlife and natural resource issues, and we expect he will continue to be a decisive leader in Washington, D.C.” She continues, “Nesvik is uniquely qualified for this role having previously served as the director of the WGFD and honed his leadership skills while serving in the National Guard with overseas deployments in Iraq and Kuwait. NCBA and PLC thank the Senate for diligently working to swiftly confirm nominees and reduce uncertainty for producers across the country and congratulate Nesvik on his confirmation to lead such an influential agency.”
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
USDA issued a press release announcing its intent to purchase up to $230 million in fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables from American farmers and producers to be distributed to food banks and nutrition assistance programs across the country.
The announcement has been received positively as a remedial step in repairing issues caused by recent USDA funding cuts to Local Food Purchase Assistance Programs (LFPA) and Local Food for Schools programs.
“USDA is proud to play a role in not only connecting smaller, local farmers to families but doing its part to Make America Healthy Again,” says U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. “This is yet another action by President Donald Trump to improve the livelihoods of the American people, ensuring American
agriculture will be strong, secure and resilient for generations to come.”
Legislative provisions
The bipartisan LFFC Act was introduced by 12 legislators representing 10 different states.
The LFFC Act was spearheaded by Reps. Robert Bresnahan (R-PA), David Valadao (R-CA), Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Josh Riley (D-NY), with additional support from cosponsors Tony Wied (R-WI), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Zachary Nunn (R-IA), Nikki Budzinski (D-IL), Jim Costa (D-CA), Eugene Vindman (D-VA), Alma Adams (D-NC) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA).
According to the bill’s official text, the act would allow states, through USDA, to establish cooperative agreements connecting producers with local food
distribution organizations to increase access to healthy, fresh and minimally-processed foods like seafood, meat, milk, cheese, eggs, fruit and poultry.
The products would then be distributed to community food assistance programs such as shelters, schools and food banks. Per the bill’s text, producers must be located within 400 miles of the delivery destination of the food.
The proposed legislation also mandates at least 25 percent of the total annual value of products purchased through the agreement come from small-sized and mid-sized producers, beginning farmers and ranchers and Veteran farmers and ranchers.
These agreements would support local producers and local food security by expanding economic opportunities and ensuring the distribution of fresh and nutritious foods.
The bill aims to help
strengthen local food systems, support agricultural growth and make fresh food more available to people in need while assisting producers in expanding their businesses.
Support and next steps
The legislation has garnered immense support across the American agricultural sector. Several have called the LFFC Act a commonsense solution to food insecurity, praising its pledge to connect local farmers to local communities.
“It doesn’t get more commonsense than fighting hunger by supporting local farmers,” says Riley. “This is about putting food on the tables of people who need it most and investing directly in the family farmers who power our rural communities.”
Other supporters highlight the proposed legislation as a remedial step in addressing recent USDA funding cuts to food banks and food assistance programs.
“When Trump’s USDA abruptly ended the LFPA and Local Food for Schools programs, it pulled the rug out from under farmers, food banks and schools across the country,” says Pingree. “These were proven tools for strengthening local food supply chains, supporting small producers and getting healthy, locally-grown food to hungry families.”
“Our bipartisan LFFC Act restores and improves on this successful model,” Pingree continues. “It’s a practical, communitydriven solution that invests in our nation’s farmers, builds regional resilience and fights hunger.”
The LFFC Act has also been endorsed by several agricultural groups, including Feeding America, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, the National Farmers Union and the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC).
In a July 30 press release,
the NSAC applauded the legislation’s practical approach to addressing local food insecurity, calling it a method of providing critical access to fresh local foods while supporting a wide range of family farmers.
“The introduction of the LFFC Act demonstrates clear bipartisan, bicameral support for investing in local and regional supply chains nationwide,” says NSAC Policy Specialist Hannah Quigley. “Allowing states and Tribes to make food purchases at the local level simply makes sense – it is efficient, keeps food dollars local and families get fresh food they actually want.”
While widespread support is a good sign, the fate of the legislation is not yet final. The LFFC Act currently awaits further debate. Grace Skavdahl is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this
to
OBITUARIES
Lois “Lorene” Jackson
April 7, 1939 – July 31, 2025
Creek Memory Care Center in Cheyenne. She was welcomed to the world by Alva and Faye (Rhoades) Miller on April 7, 1939 in Wheatland. Lorene was born with the wind in her hair on the back of a horse as she helped her parents working on many ranches in Platte County. She particularly loved being at the Gus and Ruth Miller Ranch. At the age of three, she was bitten by a rattlesnake while she was running home from Gus and Ruth’s house.
Throughout her life she proudly showed the scars of this adventure.
As a teenager, she returned to the Miller Ranch in the summers where she was fondly known as “Butch.” Pappy (Gus) would let her ride his horse when working cows – something others on the ranch didn’t get to enjoy.
When Lorene was nine, her brother Keith joined the family. Lorene was a second mother, a mischievous companion and a loving big sister as they grew up. She and Keith, along with their dad, broke many saddle horses and teams.
Many stories can be told of chasing antelope and rabbit hunting in the tall grass.
Lorene started school in a one-room schoolhouse at the Moffat Ranch through the fourth grade and then moved to live with her grandparents in Chugwater to attend school, graduating in 1958.
She was not particularly fond of school, but honed her musical talent, briefly taking piano lessons from Mrs. Margret Staats and playing a saxophone in the school band.
After high school, Lorene worked in Cheyenne for 10 years until she married Dan Jackson in 1967. She and Dan then began building their life of 58 years together east of Chugwater.
Dan and Lorene were
eventually joined by their son Craig and daughter Roxanne as they raised beef cattle and farmed dryland wheat. Well into her 80s, Lorene could be found riding her four-wheeler checking cows, taking care of her sheep and fixing fence alongside Dan.
Along with ranching, Lorene’s passion was music. She was, for the most part, a self-taught pianist and accompanied countless musicians for school programs, festivals and special events. She was also a longstanding member of the Chugwater Valley Church and Music Club.
A memorial service will be held on Aug. 15 at the Chugwater Valley Church, with Pastor Ron Moore officiating.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Chugwater Valley Church, 120 3rd Street, Chugwater, WY 82210 or the Prairie View Community School Music Program, 406 5th Street, Chugwater, WY 82210.
Lorene loved working with kids and gave many students a love for the piano and saxophone. She is proceeded in death by her parents Alva and Faye Miller. She is survived by her husband Dan; their son Craig (Lisa) Jackson; daughter Roxanne (Cary) Uhrich; brother Keith Miller and grandchildren Ethan, Hadley and Isaac Uhrich.
RAGETH FARM
Byron, Big Horn County, Wyoming
1,199± total acres; 913± productive acres irrigated by 10 pivots with immaculate improvements and extensive senior water rights.
Reduced to $7,450,000
Mark McNamee at (307) 760-9510 or Ken Weekes at (307) 272-1098
TERRY RANCH STOOPS DRAW UNIT
Ranchester, Sheridan County, Wyoming
520± deeded acres with direct access off Hwy 14. Rolling hills and stock reservoir.
$5,200,000 Clark & Associates at (307) 334-2025
CROW CREEK RANCH
Broadus, Powder River County, Montana
Approx 20,0000± total acres; 10,000± deeded, 10,000± State lease and/or BLM. Live water is abundant, excellent improvements.
to $11,700,000 Clark & Associates at (307) 334-2025
MULESHOE RANCH
Torrington, Goshen County, Wyoming
4,304± total deeded acres includes 420± irrigated acres under 3 pivots. Nice ranch headquarters with new improvements.
$6,750,000
Cory Clark at (307) 334-2025 or Michael McNamee at (307) 534-5156
BLUFFVIEW FEEDLOT
Wheatland, Platte County, Wyoming
50± acres with well maintained home and shop. 1,850 ft of bunk space with 14 pens, processing barn and large shop.
BROKEN ANVIL MIDDLE RANCH
Lander, Fremont County, Wyoming
2,100± total acres; 627.14± deeded acres 1,193± BLM acres & 280± State Lease acres.
$2,950,000
Cory Clark at (307) 334-2025 or Mark McNamee at (307) 760-9510
LUMMIS PASTURE
Yoder, Goshen County, Wyoming
1,400± deeded acres of grass with 2 wells and Boxelder Creek traveling through the property. Updated perimeter fencing. Has not been grazed in 2025, ready for turnout.
$1,540,000
Ryan Rochlitz at (307) 286-3307
BYRON PIVOTS
Lois “Lorene” Jackson, age 86, passed away on July 31 at Cottonwood
THE PITTS
Bumpies by Lee Pitts
As a lifelong road agent, I am excited to introduce an allnew awards show honoring the best bumper stickers going down the road. It is fitting then that the very first “Bumpie” is for the Driving Category, and the nominees are:
Honk if you love peace and quiet.
If everything is coming your way, then you’re in the wrong lane.
Don’t like my driving? Then get off the sidewalk.
Horn broken, watch for finger.
If you drink, don’t park. Accidents cause people.
And the first ever Bumpie goes to “Hang up and drive.”
Our next category is The Battle of the Sexes, and the nominees are:
This truck belongs to me. Everything else belongs to her.
Not all women are fools. Some are single.
A woman without a man is like a fish without a bicycle.
Men are idiots, and I married their king.
Women who want to be equal to men lack ambition.
And the winner is “Sometimes I wake up grumpy. Other times I let him – or her – sleep.”
Judging by the plethora of bumper stickers about
chainsaws and diesel engines, it’s fitting we have a category for the environment, and the nominees are:
Hate the dams? Squeeze your oranges by hand.
Beautify America. Shoot a greenie.
Save the humans.
Taking home the Bumpie is “Earth First. We’ll screw up the other planets later.”
In the Idiots Shall Inherit the Earth Category, the nominees are:
The gene pool could use a little chlorine.
He who laughs last thinks slowest.
Four out of three people have trouble with fractions.
The lottery is a tax for people who are bad at math.
The Bumpie in this category goes to “I souport publik edukashun.”
The National Rife Association of America is sponsoring this lifetime achievement award for the best bumper sticker relating to guns, and the nominees are:
Keep honking. I’m reloading.
I still miss my ex, but my aim is improving.
Gun control isn’t about guns, it’s about control.
And the Bumpie goes to “Cover me, I’m changing lanes.”
The subject of children
has always been a popular one amongst bumper sticker aficionados, going all the way back to the “Baby On Board” placards. This year’s nominees for best bumper stickers about children are:
Be nice to your kids, they’ll choose your rest home.
Child in trunk.
Insanity is hereditary, you get it from your kids.
And the Bumpie goes to “Your kid may be an honor student, but you’re still an idiot.”
In the Life and Death Category, the nominees are:
We are born naked, wet and hungry. Then things get worse.
I’m retired. I was tired yesterday, and I’m tired
again today.
Work is for people who don’t know how to golf.
Procrastinate later.
Trust in God, but lock your car.
Goodbye tension, hello pension.
God grant me patience. And I want it now!
And the Bumpie goes to “If at first you don’t succeed, DO NOT try skydiving.”
Things got pretty nasty in competition for the Most Politically Incorrect sticker, such as:
Eat well. Stay fit. Die anyway.
I’m not an alcoholic, I’m a drunk. Alcoholics go to meetings.
Cat, the other white meat.
Liberals want misery spread evenly. Jesus is coming. Look busy.
It was a close race, but the Bumpie goes to “Vegetables aren’t food. Vegetables are what food eats.”
It’s true, we already covered driving, but the subject of tailgating deserves its own Bumpie, considering the number of bumper stickers that deal with it. For example:
I don’t brake.
I brake for no apparent reason.
Caution! I brake for tailgaters.
And the Bumpie goes to “If you can read this, then you are in range.”
The final Bumpie goes to
the best bumper sticker seen in the last 12 months.
Between talking on their phones, trying to figure out what personalized plates mean and reading bumper stickers, today’s driver barely has time to drive.
And because next year will be a mid-term election year, there will be an avalanche of fresh bumper stickers.
Voters are going to want to remove their “Kamala For President” stickers if they haven’t already done so. This is why my choice for the best all-around bumper sticker of the year is “What this country needs is a good five cent bumper sticker remover.”
TUESDAY, AUGUST 12
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
BOULDER
4 Cow, 1431# $161.50 BAGGS 2 Cow, 1377#
Cow, 1465# $161.00
TUESDAY,
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7
By Paul Dykstra
By Lynn Harlan
Gordon releases statement on federal sage grouse plan
On March 14, Gov. Mark Gordon released a statement on the public draft of the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) multi-state Greater Sage Grouse Management Plan.
The governor has worked alongside the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Wyoming Department of Agriculture, Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality, Wyoming Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, Wyoming County Commissioners Association and the Sage Grouse Implementation Team, to aggressively advocate for Wyoming’s interests in the matter for the past year and a half.
Now that BLM has published their plan, Gordon will continue to work with these agencies to provide comments on the state’s behalf.
Gordon commented, “This was long-awaited, and given Wyoming’s leadership on sage grouse management, I have been concerned about how well the BLM would respect stateled efforts. While more analysis of this is needed, the first pass shows the BLM picked a preferred alternative which will allow for detailed comments specifi
cally addressing Wyoming’s concerns, including that the preferred alternative does not propose Areas of Critical Environmental Concern on top of our state identified core areas.”
“I appreciate the efforts of Wyoming agencies and counties to provide comments and suggestions to BLM through the cooperative agency process,” he added. “Our leadership on this matter has shown state-led efforts are effective, as evidenced by Wyoming having more sage grouse than any other state. Since this plan could have a disproportionate effect on Wyoming citizens and industries, any proposed BLM actions which do not align with the core areas established through our state-led process will be closely scrutinized.”
“Wyoming maintains primary management authority of most wildlife, including sage grouse, and deference should be given to our management processes, population assessments, identification of core areas, prudent use of no surface occupancy restrictions in mineral and oil and gas development and stewardship areas,” he concluded.
EXTENSION EDUCATION
By Jaycie Arndt, UW Extension Educator
BY RON RABOU
By Windy Kelley, Northern Plains Regional Climate Hub
