Wyoming Livestock Roundup for 12.30.23 by Wyoming Livestock Roundup

Happy New Year!

Volume 35 Number 36 • December 30, 2023

The Weekly News Source for Ranchers, Farmers and the Agribusiness Community • www.wylr.net

A Look Inside Advancements in beef grading technology made by USDA............................ Page 4 Cheyenne Livestock Expo show results provided.............. ..................................... Page 5 Beef industry’s environmental benefits proved through Canadian research....... Page 8

Judge in corner crossing case misunderstood trespass law A federal judge erred in interpreting a new Wyoming law he used, in part, to rule corner crossing is not trespassing, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) says.

The industry group, along with the Wyoming Wool Growers Association (WWGA), argued in a recent amicus brief Wyoming lawmakers did not intend the 2023 bill titled “Prohibiting

travel across private land for hunting purposes” to authorize the contentious method of accessing public land. The new law – an amendment to existing statute – allows Wyoming

Game and Fish Department (WGFD) wardens to cite hunters for trespassing if hunters “travel through” private property on their excursion. Please see WSGA on page 6

Highland cattle prove to be a unique and efficient breed....... ................................... Page 11

LOOKING AHEAD TO Quick Bits

2024

Ag Summit The 13th Annual Women’s Agriculture Summit, hosted in memory of Tracy Alger and sponsored by the Johnson County CattleWomen, will take place Jan. 13 from 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. at the Hampton Inn and Suites in Buffalo. For more information or to register, contact Jenna Foss at 307217-1818 or Tressa Lawrence at 307-217-1226.

Meeting

Experts look back on 2023 and release agricultural projections for the new year This past year was a rocky one for agriculture. From record high prices to arguably more ag-related policy passed in a single year than ever before, it seems producers, business owners and other industry stakeholders were constantly defending their livelihood. 2023 ag highlights The beginning of the year saw some exciting advancements in technology when the world’s first agriculture-focused satellite, EOS SAT-1, was launched from Cape Canaveral, Fla. A few days later, the American

Farm Bureau Federation and John Deere signed a memorandum of understanding ensuring farmers and ranchers had the right to repair their own farm equipment. January wasn’t as rosy for the poultry sector, which suffered a devastating hit from the worst breakout of highly pathogenic avian influenza the U.S. has ever seen. Since early 2022, U.S. producers lost more than 50 million laying hens, which was evident when grocery stores couldn’t get eggs on their shelves. Please see 2024 on page 15

The Fremont County Cattleman Annual Meeting and Banquet is scheduled for Jan. 27, starting at 12:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided. Following the business meeting, there will be a social hour at 5 p.m. and a prime rib dinner at 6 p.m. with live music by Barcode 307. The meeting will also include a silent auction and door prizes. For more information or to buy dinner tickets, which will be available until Jan. 20, call Jay Klaahsen at 307-217-2110.

Risk Programs On Dec. 18, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced agricultural producers can now enroll in the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price Loss Coverage programs for the 2024 crop year. As of Dec. 18, producers can enroll and make election changes for the 2024 crop year. The deadline to complete enrollment and any election change is March 15, 2024.

For Sale

The storied and historic Pitchfork Ranch of Meeteetse has been posted for sale by a real estate company in Thermopolis, with a list price of $67 million, making it the most expensive listing in the state right now. The ranch spans a total of 96,000 acres, including 13,886 deeded acres, dispersed between state and Bureau of Land Management leased land and two U.S. Forest Service permits covering 44,984 acres.

WYLR photo

Improving profitability Producers encouraged to benchmark herd performance The Colorado State University (CSU) Department of Animal Sciences hosted the 28th Range Beef Cow Symposium Dec. 13-14 at The Ranch Events Complex in Loveland, Colo., highlighting a variety of industry speakers who delivered valuable, cutting-edge information on beef cattle management strategies, ranging from consumer drivers of sustainability to feeder calf marketing. Guest Speaker Matt McQuagge studied animal science at the University of Florida before attending CSU where he earned his master’s degree and is currently completing his PhD in beef systems, focusing on profitability indicators in Colorado cow/calf and stocker operations. Benchmarking is the process of conducting a comparative analysis of cow/calf businesses with the averages of the benchmark herds. Creating benchmarks “We need to define benchmarking,” stated McQuagge. “Benchmarking can exist either on an internal standpoint or an external standpoint, and today Please see PROFIT on page 4

Weather outlook provided Producers from across the West gathered in Loveland, Colo. to hear from national and international industry experts at the 28th Annual Range Beef Cow Symposium at The Ranch Events Complex Dec. 13-14. The biennial event is sponsored by the Cooperative Extension Service and animal science departments of the University of Wyoming, South Dakota State University, University of Nebraska and Colorado State University. Guest speaker Brian Bledsoe, lead weather consultant at Brian BledsoeWX, LLC and KKTV chief meteorologist, provided symposium attendees with a review and outlook of national weather. For the past 20 years, Bledsoe has been assisting farmers, ranchers and other interested parties on how to utilize long-range and short-range weather forecasting for business risk management. Bledsoe noted, “I’m a forensic scientist. I look at all of the evidence I have at my disposal and all I have learned and taught to help producers understand and make important decisions.” Pacific decadal oscillation “I talk a lot about the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), which is a climatic event covering vast areas of the Pacific Ocean over large periods of years, and currently, we are seeing some warm spots in the Indian Ocean. Overall, the Pacific Ocean is in a very cold phase right now,” Bledsoe stated. The PDO has positive and negative phases, and climate impacts during a PDO event can go hand-in-hand with impacts from El Niño or La Niña and can wax and wane Please see WEATHER on page 8

Water risks threaten agriculture Recently, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) published a document entitled “Scarcity and Excess: Tackling Water-Related Risks to Agriculture in the U.S.,” which notes the nation’s agriculture industry is at risk from climatic extremes and groundwater over extraction. “Water is essential for growing the food and fiber society depends on. Water availability directly influences agricultural productivity, food security and ecosystem health,” reads the report. “Depending on a region’s climate, crop water needs may be met by natural precipitation, irrigation or a combination,” it continues. “Adequate water supply is essential for germination, growth

and development of crops, affecting their yield, nutritional value and resilience to pests and disease. Furthermore, water plays a vital role in maintaining soil health and optimizing nutrient intake.” Because agriculture is so reliant on water, EDF notes the industry is particularly susceptible to water-related risks from scarcity and excess. Adverse impacts To begin, EDF’s document outlines the adverse effects of water scarcity and excess. EDF notes water scarcity, as a result of dry or drought conditions and/or human interventions, negatively impacts

periodical

Please see WATER on page 9

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

Looking Forward To 2024 As I look back on 2023, I have bittersweet memories from an agriculture point of view. I guess one could say this about most years, but 2023 had numerous extremes, some of which I’ll remember for the rest of my days. I’m just thankful agriculture had From the some good to help ease the pain of the Publisher Dennis Sun bad extremes. Agriculture will always remember the winter of 2023, as 90 percent of ranchers and farmers in the region had never witnessed anything like it before. Even some who remembered the Blizzard of 1949 said last winter was worse. At various times, the severity of last winter shut down all operations where ranchers and farmers couldn’t even get out of their yards to feed their livestock. Statistics show over 15,000 head of livestock were lost last winter just in Wyoming. No one knows the actual loss of livestock, and the same can be said for the loss of wildlife and the damage caused by huge snowfall. The cost of last winter had to be the greatest of all time. Everyone has a horrible story to tell, and just when you think you have heard the worst of it, you’ll realize you haven’t. The summer of 2023 was good for most and will be remembered for a long time as well. The amount of grass over the rangelands and meadows was unheard of, and the forage stayed green into September. The rains over the summer and fall wiped out a three-year drought over most of the region. The summer season was a great payback from Mother Nature for the drought and hard winter. We will remember 2023 for its high cattle prices from last spring through summer and fall where they dipped some, but were still higher than they had been in some time. The year 2024 looks to be higher for cattle, which is good news for prices – producers are receiving what their cattle are really worth. While beef exports were down in 2023, they were still strong worldwide. Wool and lambs were higher, but all of the imported lambs into the country put a damper on fat lamb prices. Yields were good for farmers with grains and hay. Most crops didn’t need irrigated until late June because of all the moisture we received. On a negative note, with inflation and supply issues, inputs were at a record high and really hurt agriculture. These costs and higher interest rates were tough to deal with daily. I can’t think of anything good coming out of the White House. From endangered species regulations and unreasonable policies towards federal lands, there are some producers who are at risk. No one knows the damage this will cause agriculture in the future. Agriculture has been blamed by extremists on the climate change front, but despite the hype coming out of the recent climate change conference, livestock and food were not in the final draft. Food security is important to all consumers and most trust America’s farmers and ranchers to provide a product which is nutritious, safe and sustainable. Alternative meat is losing its shine. People just don’t want to eat glorified dog food. We will always remember 2023. There was plenty of good to go with the not so good.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup Reporting the News by the Code of the West

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

GUEST OPINIONS

Wyoming Needs To Be Bullish About Energy By Gov. Mark Gordon Loading an unwilling bull into a trailer can be daunting, even if it is for its own good. Bulls tend to be testy, and their size presents a special challenge. My dad’s approach involved roping the bull, dragging it to the trailer, attaching a block and tackle and then – after a good deal of cussing and a lathered-up saddle horse or two – we might wrench it into the trailer. We never hurt a bull, but we had some impromptu rodeos in the process. It didn’t always work, especially if the bull was distracted by somebody’s yappy dog or a party of big-hat bystanders yelling, “You’re doing it all wrong!” Having witnessed this spectacle a couple of times, my sister suggested we try a method she had read about in

Western Horseman – simply by using pressure and release, Ray Hunt claimed he could load any bull in a trailer in the middle of any pasture without panels, ropes, hot shots or cussing. We were doubtful, but we gave it a try. The technique worked. No lathered horses, loud unhelpful critics or yapping dogs. Wyoming energy is valuable I am proud of my efforts to protect our Wyoming mineral industries from misguided federal policies and to promote the Wyoming jobs, families and communities they support. To be clear, I have spoken and will continue to speak to audiences inside and outside of Wyoming with the message Wyoming provides energy of all types, and our future – America’s and the world’s – depends on all types of energy.

I won’t back down. Our industries are too important, those jobs are essential to our economy, and our energy leadership is something we need to maximize in order to keep our industries relevant and strong. In contrast to standing idly by or squawking, “You’re all wrong,” as we witness our most valuable industries decline and the jobs they provide vanish, rest assured I will continue to forcefully advocate for the kinds of technological advances like enhanced oil recovery that benefit from carbon capture and provide a path forward for our industries to thrive. For the record, no matter one’s views on climate, all of our energy is valuable. New technology can make it better and more abundant. It is time for Wyoming to press her established lead-

Torrington Livestock Market • Selling 80 Angus 10 Maine, Maine Angus and SimAngus Bulls

Featured AI Sires: Exclusive, Ashland, Patriarch, Growth Fund, Incentive, Barricade, Surpass, Thedford, Architect, Spectrum Owned Herd Sires: DB Iconic G95, B/D Rice Payday 7027 and WAR Albion H191

All Bulls Have Been PAP Tested at 7,280’ by Dr. Tim Holt 90% CALVING EASE BULLS WITH EXPLOSIVE GROWTH GENETICS 48 YEARS RAISING REGISTERED ANGUS CATTLE

Delivery Available • Performance Data Available • Volume of Heifer Bulls Free Wintering Available • Negative for PI-BVD • Sight Unseen Guarantee • Phone Bids Welcome

All Angus Bulls Have Been DB Iconic G95

800-967-1647 • www.wylr.net

DENNIS SUN, Publisher • Cell: 307-262-6132 e-mail: dennis@wylr.net

Subscription Rates: 1 year: $60; 2 years: $90; 3 years: $130 Postmaster: Send address changes to: andrea@wylr.net Wyoming Livestock Roundup • P.O. Box 850 • Casper, WY 82602 Member: Wyoming Stock Growers Association Wyoming Wool Growers Association Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation • Wyoming CattleWomen Livestock Publications Council • National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Fremont County Cattlemen's Association Green River Valley Cattlemen's Association Wyoming Angus Association Converse County Stock Growers Association Carbon County Stock Growers Association

Please see ENERGY on page 9

32ND ANNUAL BULL SALE NEW SALE DAT Monday, January 22, 2024 E!

Phone: 307-234-2700

HANNAH BUGAS, Managing Editor • hannah@wylr.net MELISSA ANDERSON, Editor • melissa@wylr.net CANDICE PEDERSON, Production Coordinator • candice@wylr.net JODY MICHELENA, Advertising Director • jodym@wylr.net DENISE OLSON, Classified Sales Manager • 307-685-8213 • denise@wylr.net ANDREA ZINK, General Manager • andrea@wylr.net 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

ership on energy, the environment and private property to her advantage. Wyoming is a place where jobs, careers and opportunities should flourish rather than languish. Defending Wyoming energy from recent threats Over the past decades we have seen coal mines go through bankruptcy. In one case, the operator literally walked away, leaving workers standing at a locked front gate. We have seen companies rise and fall in the oil and gas sector. Our uranium industry, which once played a critical role in our economy, was brought to its knees when Russia was able to produce cheaper ore with fewer restrictions. Remember Jeffrey City, the Gas Hills and Shirley Basin?

CED: +5 BW: +1.1 WW: +88 YW: +155 M: +27 Marb: +1.83 RE: +.67 $W: +77 $C: +334

DOUG & CAROLYN BOOTH

7618 Road 41, Torrington, WY 82240 (307) 532-5830 www.BoothFamilyAngus.com

Tested A young sire of iconic proportions! A son of the rare and highly regarded Stunner, Iconic offers the same great phenotype with additional growth and carcass merit. Iconic is a unique blend of physical excellence and outstanding EPDs, making him an easy mating for so many breeding programs. One of the most exciting young sires in the breed, Iconic defines Cow Sense & Science!

DUDLEY & JENNIFER BOOTH 4156 Road 82, Torrington, WY 82240 (307) 532-6207 dbooth@scottsbluff.net

Stop In Anytime – Visitors Always Welcome

Visit our website at www.boothfamilyangus.com

Females for Sale Privately Every Fall

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

NEWS BRIEFS WSGS pamphlet published

A unique geologic wonder which attracts visitors to Sinks Canyon State Park is a river that seemingly disappears into a mountainside only to reappear down the canyon. While the “Sinks,” where the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River vanishes, and the “Rise,” where the water resurfaces, are fascinating, the park holds more geology to discover. The Wyoming State Geological Survey (WSGS) details some of this geology in a new informational pamphlet. The Sinks Canyon State Park pamphlet is one in a series depicting geology in Wyoming’s state parks. Also available are pamphlets about the geology of Bear River, Boysen, Buffalo Bill, Curt Gowdy, Edness K. Wilkins, Glendo, Guernsey, Hot Springs, Keyhole and Seminoe state parks. Sinks Canyon State Park is on the eastern slope of the Wind River Range near the city of Lander. The range was formed during a large mountain-building event about 75 million years ago, which tilted the rocks at Sinks Canyon into their current orientation. River erosion carved out the canyon and exposed the rock units visible today. All WSGS state park information pamphlets are available as a free printable download. Pamphlets can also be picked up at the WSGS Office on the University of Wyoming campus in Laramie or ordered at sales.wsgs.wyo.gov/.

New program unveiled Equisure, part of the Amwins Underwriting Division, has launched a new livestock insurance program offering animal mortality, disease and transit coverage for several types of livestock-related risks, providing clients with continuous access to extensive expertise in the livestock insurance space. With over 30 years of experience protecting animal husbandry specialty risks, Equisure notes the firm is recognized as the preferred insurance provider deeply attuned to the needs of the animal agriculture industry and understands the constant risks farmers and ranch owners face in the world of livestock management. “We understand livestock are important and valuable investments and protecting insureds against sudden loss helps keep farms and ranches running smoothly,” said Diane Lesher, president at Equisure. “Our team remains focused on protecting our insured’s investments one hoofprint at a time, by providing customized livestock insurance coverage securing their herd’s future as well as the future of their business.” This new program is available nationally, and eligible accounts include dairy farms, beef feedlots, cattle, sheep, llamas, horses, poultry and swine operations, zoos, aquariums and safari parks, genetic facilities – embryos and semen storage and transport, livestock auction markets or packers, high-valued individual animals for breeding or showing and transit of livestock by air, sea or road.

Honorees inducted

To celebrate and honor the contributions of individuals who have gone above and beyond for the Angus breed, the American Angus Association created the Angus Heritage Foundation in 1983. At the 2023 Angus Convention in Orlando, Fla., three couples and one individual were inducted into the Heritage Foundation for their innovation, service and leadership. Over the past 130 years, the Business Breed has proven itself an industry leader. Inductees of the Heritage Foundation define the type of breeders who built this reputation with their drive, ambition and forwardthinking attitudes. From the start of their operations, these individuals set out on a mission to improve the Angus breed and the cattle industry. Each remained resilient while navigating the ever-changing beef industry and its challenges. The 2023 inductees include Phil and Ruth Abrahamson of Lanesboro, Minn.; Jerry and Sharon Connealy of Whitman, Neb.; Ben and Darla Eggers of Mexico, Miss. and the late Doug Parrett of Champaign, Ill.

Lummis applauds nomination On Dec. 20, U.S. Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) applauded President Joe Biden’s nomination of the Honorable Kelly H. Rankin to become a U.S. District Judge for the Federal District of Wyoming. “Judge Rankin has honorably served the state of Wyoming for decades and has dedicated his life to public service, first as a deputy county attorney and most recently as chief U.S. magistrate judge for the district of Wyoming. I am confident he will continue to uphold the Constitution as a U.S. district judge for Wyoming,” said Sen. Lummis. “I look forward to supporting Judge Rankin’s nomination when it comes before the Senate for a vote.” In October 2021, Lummis joined Sen. John Barrasso in sending a letter to President Biden urging him to nominate Rankin to the federal court. Rankin currently serves as the chief U.S. magistrate judge for the district of Wyoming, a position he has held since 2012. Previously, he served as criminal chief in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the district of Wyoming. He also worked for Wyoming Gov. Dave Freudenthal as counsel, as the U.S. attorney and an assistant U.S. attorney. He began his career in the Lincoln County Attorney’s Office and also spent time in the Park County Attorney’s Office. Rankin received his law degree from the University of Wyoming (UW) College of Law and has a Bachelor of Science from UW.

Comprehensive review published The State Engineer’s Office Surface Water Division completed a comprehensive review of the Water Supply and Yield Analysis Report, submitted by WWC Engineering on behalf of West Soda, LLC for the proposed Project West Facility in Sweetwater County. WWC Engineering estimates the project will require a maximum of approximately 4,922.97 acre-feet of water per year, which is equivalent to a continuous diversion of 6.8 cubic feet per second (cfs). The projected life of the mine is 25 to 35 years, with an additional two years for construction and two to four years for reclamation. However, if additional mineral leases are acquired by West Soda in the future, the mine could run for 75 years with a potential for longer operation based on mine expansions in the future. It is the opinion of the State Engineer’s Office a sufficient quantity of water for the project has been adequately resourced and the project should proceed with development of the Project West Green River Intake and with acquiring other necessary permits to allow the project to move forward. The Project West Water Supply and Yield Analysis Report, published October 2023, and the State Engineer’s Preliminary Opinion, published December 2023, in its entirety, are available on the State Engineer’s Office website at seo.wyo.gov/home/news-press-releases. The State Engineer’s Office will accept written comments on the preliminary opinion through midnight Jan. 17, 2024. Comments can be submitted to State Engineer’s Office and Surface Water Division, 122 West 25th Street, Herschler Building, 2W, Cheyenne, WY 82002 or e-mailed to jed.rockweiler@wyo.gov.

NRCS announces funding Farmers, ranchers, land trusts and landowners will want to plan ahead and sign up early for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) conservation funding. Jackie Byam, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) state conservationist in Wyoming, announced 2024 funding is available through the Agriculture Conservation Easement Program’s Agricultural Land Easement and Wetland Reserve Easement, Agriculture Management Assistance, Conservation Stewardship Program, Environmental Quality Incentives Program and Regional Conservation Partnership Program. Applications for these programs are being taken at all USDA service centers in Wyoming. All eligible applications received by Jan. 19, 2024 will be evaluated and ranked for funding in 2024. Farmers may contact their local USDA Service Center to get started on producer eligibility and planning. Byam reminds producers who are interested in practices which may require permits, such as irrigation or streambank restoration, to begin planning and seeking permits as soon as possible. For more information, visit nrcs.usda.gov/.

Best Buys in Used Equipment TRACTORS/LOADERS Case IH MXM190, MFD, cab & air, front weights, low hrs,1 owner $95,000 Case IH 2096 w/ cab, air �� $19,500 Case IH MX170, MFD w/ ldr, grpl �� $69,500 Case IH MX240, 4 WD w/ duals �� $89,000 Massey Ferguson 4243 w/ ldr, 1840 hrs�� $39,500 2019 Bobcat 870 Skid Steer, new tracks, 1370 hrs �� $79,000 JD 420 Dozer, antique �� $7,500 MX120, 2 WD w/ ldr�� $49,500 Oliver 1800 Tractor �� $7,900 Ford 4000 Tractor �� $7,900 International 1486 �� $17,000 JD 332 Skid Steer w/ tracks,diesel �� $29,500 JCB Backhoe, 4 WD, extendahoe, diesel�� $29,500

MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT Lakeland Wagon Portable Bunk Feeder, 6’x24’�� $7,500 2654 NDE Feeder Mixer �� $29,500 New EZ Ration 6 Bale Feeder, pull type��Call for Pricing 2620 Haybuster Feeder �� $7,900 1994 Kenworth w/ Knight 3070 Feed Box �� $79,000 Peecon Feeder/Mixer Wagon �� $29,500 Case IH 5 Bottom in Furrow Plow �� $9,500 New Artsway 166 6 Bottom Onland Plow �� $39,000 Brillion 30’ Roller Harrow �� $54,000 Leon 808 Loader, bucket & grpl�� $7,900 Dual Loader �� $1,950 236 MF Front End Loader �� $1,950 14’ Chisel Plow �� $3,900 Case IH 345 Vibrashank�� $7,950 International 21’ Vibrashank �� $3,960 Krause 955A 25’ Disc �� $7,900 14’ International Disc �� $2,900 JD 10’ 3 PT Disc �� $2,950 10’ IH Disc �� $1,950 10’ EZEE-On Disc �� $1,950

Mitsubishi MS180 Trackhoe ��$39,500 Kobelco Trackhoe ��$49,500

HAYING & FORAGE New Holland 855 Round Baler ��$2,950 Hesston 4910 Baler w/ accumulator ��$39,500 Hesston 4910 Baler w/ accumulator ��$24,500 Hesston 4900 4x4 Baler w/ accumulator ��$24,500 Hesston 5580 Round Baler ��$1,900 Case RS 561 Round Baler ��$19,500 Case IH 8840 Swather, 16’ head ��$32,500 Vermeer 2800 Rake��$24,500 New Holland Stackwagon, pull type......................................................$950 Miskin 7 Yard Scraper �� $4,500 7’ Rotary Mower �� $1,950 Rhino 950 3-Way Hydraulic Blade �� $7,900 Leon Dozer Blade, 12’ �� $1,950 New JCT 72” Angle Broom Skid Steer Mount....................................$2,000 New JCT 72” Tiller Skid Steer Mount��$1,800 Unused JCT 72” Rock Grapple Bucket Skid Steer Mount................. $2,900 Unused JCT 72” Grapple Bucket Skid Steer Mount...........................$2,000 New Greatbear YS-86” Hydraulic Snow Plow 86” for Skid Steer.......$1,900 Unused AGROTK Pallet Forks 48” for Skid Steer�� $850 6”x32’ Grain Auger, PTO driven............................................................$950 22” or 30” Morman Creaser, 9 row w/ markers �� $4,950 Ford 700 Truck w/ stack retriever �� $9,500 IH 4700 Truck w/ flatbed and forklift attachment �� $9,500 Set of IH Duals 18.4 x 38 w/ clamps�� $750 Bradco Aster 9000 Skid Steer Post Pounder�� $4,900 New Arrowquip Hydraulic Cattle Chute ��Call for Pricing 1 1/4” 6 Rail 20’ Continuous Fence Panels ��Call for Pricing

CARLSON EQUIPMENT 77 Zuber Road • Riverton, WY 82501 • (307) 856-8123 carlsonequipment@gmail.com

Visit our Web Site at: www.carlsonequipment.com

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

PROFIT continued from page 1 I will focus on external benchmarking. This means comparing single ranches and performance metrics to industry standards or key performance indicators.” The goal of benchmarking is to identify strengths and weaknesses or areas not performing as well, compared to others in the industry, which gives producers an opportunity for improvement through some different techniques. “There are a few challenges associated with benchmarking in the cow/ calf industry. First, the beef cattle industry exhibits a very strong seasonal pattern,” McQuagge explained. “No operation is the same from year to year,

and every opportunity is different, meaning no two operations will be exactly alike or have the same resource, creating external benchmark challenges.” Another challenge can be the operations accounting systems, but utilizing a standardized performance analysis (SPA) program can help cow/calf producers reduce their cost of production and improve their production and marketing efficiency. The objective of SPA is to help cow/calf producers achieve goals effectively by analyzing their production and financial performance. Producers complete an in-depth financial and production analysis of their cow herd using the

standard methodology. T.R.A.C. program Total Ranch Analysis for Colorado (T.R.A.C.) was developed as a statewide collaborative partnership with CSU Extension personnel, cattlemens’ associations and beef producers. “Participating ranches provided in-depth financial, production and management analysis of the ranch, using a standardized methodology. The T.R.A.C. members visit with producers, listen to their unique successes and challenges and collect an array of production and financial data,” McQuagge noted. “Data collected was then analyzed to determine critical production, financial and integrated measures, creating a customized report with benchmarks which provided

a unique opportunity to identify areas to reduce cost of production and improve production and marketing efficiency,” he continued. The goal of the program was to provide ranchers with the most accurate analysis possible by using accrual adjustments, including noncash expenses – depreciation – and allocating overheads based on animal unit months. Uncovering profits and loss “The results I am reporting on today will cover operations across Colorado for Fiscal Years 2018-20, with an average herd size of 420,” McQuagge said. “All in all, cow/calf producers in the region are doing very well in terms of their production efficiencies.” The program bench-

marks over 20 different production, financial and cost of production key performance indicators (KPI), and through the KPI analysis, it discovered one driver of profitability is overhead costs, McQuagge noted. Many producers have too much stuff, and depreciation is often the biggest contributor. McQuagge added, “The keys to profitability are not to focus on maximizing production parameters, but to think about optimizing them.” “For example, reviewing the KPI, which analyzed the cost of a weaned calf, we used the same methodology to calculate cow cost to calculate cost per hundredweight of weaned calves, but instead of dividing the total cow/calf enterprise

expenses by the beginning fiscal year number of breeding females, those expenses are divided by the total amount of weaned pounds produced by the ranch,” he stated. “However, research has shown a correlation between lower weaning weights and more profitability. While counterintuitive, this means producers need to focus on optimizing resources, not just maximizing pounds,” he concluded. The types of KPIs used in T.R.A.C. and SPA documents are universal, and producers from other states can use those in their operations. Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

U.S. Department of Agriculture brings technology to beef grading “If you were to do a word count on all of the speakers, I think marbling would be the biggest,” said Bucky Gwartney, PhD and international marketing specialist with the U.S. Department of Agricul-

ture’s (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Which makes sense, since he was talking to Wagyu breeders and Wagyu is a breed known for exceptional marbling.

Torrington Livestock Markets PO Box 1097 • Torrington, WY 82240 307.532.3333 Fax: 307.532.2040

www.torringtonlivestock.com

“This intramuscular fat (IMF), or marbling, really drives our grading programs. It’s one of the main factors in quality grading, and the importance of this has really grown over the years,” he

told producers during the recent 2023 World Wagyu Conference in San Antonio, Texas. Adding marbling scores But, this remarkable Wagyu characteristic pro-

Lex Madden 307-532-1580 Chuck Petersen 307-575-4015 Lander Nicodemus 307-421-8141

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2024 - FEEDER/CALF SPECIAL

WEANED CALVES Greg & Peggy DesEnfants 184 Mostly Blk/Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 500-700#k Weaned since Oct. 15, Running out on Pasture supplement w/Hay, Branding Shots: Vista Once SQ, Vision 7, Weaning Shots: Vista Once SQ, Vision 7 Doug, Kim & Cole DesEnfants 116 Blk/Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 625-750#, Weaned since Oct. 15, Bunk Broke, Been on a High Roughage Grower Ration, Branding & Pre-cond. Shots (Sept. 18): Vision 7 w/Spur, Bovi-Shield Gold One Shot, Nasalgen C 3 Land & Livestock 99 Blk few Bwf (1Rd) Strs & Hfrs, 450-550#, Weaned on Oct. 20, Running out on Meadows supplemented with Long Stem Hay/Grass Mix, Complete Modified Live Vac. Program, Multimin, Poured, No Implants, Steers are Knife Cut, Running at 6500-7000’ Mike Hornecker 80 Blk Strs & Hfrs, 550-600#, Weaned on Oct. 5, Hay Fed, Branding & Pre-cond. Shots: 7-way, Nasalgen 3 PMH Bruce & Barb Kilmer 67 Blk few Bwf Strs & Hfrs, 450-50#, Weaned 60 days, Running Out; Grazing on Wheatgrass supplemented with some hay, Branding Shots: Nasalgen 3-PMH, Pre-cond. Shots: Nasalgen 3-PMH, Ultrabac 7, Multimin, No Implants, Noi Replacements Kept, April/May Calves, Calves are Slick Ron Flakus 60 Blk few Red Strs, 500-650#, Weaned 70 days, Running out with some Hay, Bunk Broke, Branding Shots: Alpha 7, Nasalgen 3, Pre-cond. Shots: Ultrabac 7, Triangle 5, One Shot Pasteurella, Weaning Shots: Ultrabac 7, Vista 5 MLV, One Shot Pasteurella, Ivomec, Safeguard Dewormer, Booster Shots: Vista 5 MLV, One Shot Pasteurella Cody & Anne Waite 50 Blk Strs & Hfrs, 650-700#, Weaned 60 days, Bunk Broke, Been on a light Grower Ration, Branding and Pre-cond. Shots: 8-way, Vira Shield 5, Steers are Knife Cut

FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 ~ ALL CLASSES MONDAY, JANUARY 8 - BRED COW SPECIAL

COMPLETE OR PARTIAL DISPERSALS Jim & Collen Blocker 71 Blk few Bwf Cows, Complete Dispersal, Mx Ages, Bred to McClun Polled Hereford Bulls , CF: March 1, Bangs Vac. BRED HEIFERS JP Werner & Sons 300 Red Angus Hfrs, 1100#, AI’d to 5L Top Gun, Cleanup with Low Birth Weight Red Angus Bulls, UltraSounded (on Oct. 18): AI’d Breds to CF: March 5, for 21 days, Bull Breds: 1st cycle: March 26, 2nd Cycle: April 25 for 30 days, Shots: Vibrio/Lepto, Vira Shield 6+VL5, 1st Shot of Guardian, Poured w/Cleanup, Home Raised Greg Flitner 138 Blk Heifers, 1000-1050#, Bred to T Heart PAP Tested Blk Bulls, Ultra-sounded for 7 day Increments: CF: 31 head (purple tags): March 15 for 7 days, 18 head (purple tags #2): March 22 to 28th; 27 head (purple tags #3 or white ear tag with 3 notches): March 29 for 7 days; 62 head (No ear tags); April 5 thru May 30; Bangs Vac, Shots: Ultra Bac 7, Scour Guard, Triangle 5, Poured with Clean-up II, 1-iron, Running out on Barley Regrowth, Running at 10,000’ Mark & Justus Pettit 125 Blk Hfrs, AI’d on May 6 to CF: Feb. 15, AI’d Bred to Cherry Creek Commander J218M, Clean-up with Bulls from Walter Cheery Creek Angus Bulls; PAP Tested, Shots: Vira Shield 6+VL5, Scour Boss 9 Poured w/Dectomax, Heifers originated from Clark Canyon Ranch in Montana as Calves, Summered at 8400#, Great set of 1st Calf Heifers Jason & Molly Folot 124 Blk Hfrs, 1100#, AI’d Bred to ABS DickoCK 7246, Ultra-sounded to CF: March 5, Bull Breds to CF: 37 head—March 5, 24 head—April 15; 6 head—May 5, Shots: Vision 7 Somnus w/Spur, Cattle Master 4 VL5, Originate from Tillard Bros. as heifer calves, Not rebranded Jon & Molly Keil/Muleshoe Ranch 8 Blk Hfrs, 900#, Bred to Lucky or MR Angus Blk Angus Bulls, CF: Mx, Shots onOct. 20th: Cattlemaster, Staybred, Valbazen, Poured w/Clean-up, First Shot of Scour Guard James & Marquita McNees 5 Blk/Hereford Hfrs, Bred to Blk Bulls, CF: May Matt Parlip 2 Rwf/Blk Hfrs, Bred to Low Birth Weight K2 Red Angus Bulls, CF: March/April, Shots: ScourGuard, Poured w/ Clean-up

TORRINGTON LIVESTOCK AREA REPS

Michael Schmitt - Torrington, WY 307-532-1776*** Ty Thompson – Lusk, WY 307-340-0770 Cody Thompson - Lusk, WY 307-340-0150***Zach Johnson Lingle, WY –307-575-2171 Jeff Ward – Laramie, WY 307-399-9863***Tam Staman – Crawford, NE 308-631-8513 Justin Smith - Lusk, WY 307-340-0724***Danny Nicodemus – Cheyenne, WY 307-632-4325 Chris Williams - Greybull, WY 307-272-4567***Hunter Dockery - Lusk, WY 307-340-1202 Nolan Brott - Lusk, WY 307-216-0033 ***Ben Kukowski - Kaycee, WY 307-217-1472*** Scott Redden - Burns, Co 970-596-3588

www.torringtonlivestock.com

duces a conundrum – the marbling photos USDA graders use to sharpen their eyes every day before going out on the line to grade beef carcasses were developed 40-plus years ago and cattle weren’t as genetically predisposed to high-quality Prime carcasses back then. In fact, Gwartney noted photos weren’t made for the top two marbling scores in the Prime grade – abundant and very abundant. The conundrum thickens when considering the percent IMF for those two top marbling scores are 21 percent to 24 percent at the 12th rib and many Wagyu carcasses easily exceed this requirement. So, USDA is in the process of adding those top-end pictures to the marbling photo lineup, Gwartney explained. Moving toward instrument grading At the same time, USDA continues to move toward more and more instrument grading. In fact, about 60 percent of beef grading now is done or aided by technology. “This is going to grow,” Gwartney said. “Graders still have the ultimate authority to look at every carcass, make the decision and override the technology if they’re not in agreement. But right now, we’re committed to using instrument grading. We have to have technology, especially as we get to those really high levels of marbling.” However, he told Wagyu breeders USDA doesn’t believe it should add new marbling scores. “Instead, I think we need to rely on technology to give us objective measures of IMF that we can use and validate,” he said. Beyond this, he told convention attendees USDA began a pilot program early in 2023 to provide virtual grading to small packing plants, which was good news for Wagyu breeders since many operate farm-to-fork branded beef businesses and rely on small packing plants to process their cattle. Beef grading is a voluntary service provided by USDA and paid for by the

producer or the packing plant. If a plant is only processing a few head a week, it’s too expensive to pay a grader for travel plus the hourly rate. Inspection, on the other hand, is a separate procedure. “Everybody has to have product inspected for health and wholesomeness – if they intend to offer it for sale – when cattle are harvested,” he explained. Since beef inspection is a regulatory program, it’s paid for with taxpayer money. “Small plant growth has been tremendous,” he said. “So how can we extend our services to small plants in a meaningful and valued way?” The answer – with technology. Enter camera grading. But, challenges abound. “We’ve got to get the image and any other data uploaded so someone can see it in an efficient way and then be able to get the grade back to the producer or processor so they can apply the grade stamp – and the value it defines – and then market and merchandise the product,” Gwartney said. This means USDA must get the technology right. “The final thing, which is critically important, we’ve got to be able to have trust in the system,” he stated. With traditional beef grading, whether a camera is used or not, a human grader looks at every carcass. In a small plant, it’s all virtual. “So we’ve got to make sure we have trust in the system, have security and transparency,” he said. But, Gwartney noted he’s confident it can be done. “We’ve done quite a bit of virtual correlation and virtual grading,” he told Wagyu breeders. “We’re very confident if we have a good image, we can apply a very good grade.” Burt Rutherford is the director of content and senior editor of BEEF Magazine and can be reached by visiting beefmagazine. com. This article was originally published by the American Wagyu Association on Dec. 19.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

Youth exhibitors see tough competition at Cheyenne Livestock Expo Youth livestock exhibitors proved tough competition in the show ring at the Cheyenne Livestock Expo, held Dec. 13-26 at the Archer Event Center in Cheyenne. Over the course of the 13-day event, various livestock judges sorted through classes of top-notch cattle, hogs, lambs and goats, crowning the top five in every class. Cattle show results On Nov. 14, the Junior Breeding Heifer Show kicked off the two-week expo, with Livestock Judges Taylor Graham and Miles Shout, both of Oklahoma, sorting the classes. Dunk FTS Franny 227K, a Maintainer heifer exhibited by Tyson Fox, was crowned supreme champion, and J6 Caitlyn 685, a Lim-Flex heifer exhibited by Ben Spencer, was the reserve champion. Also on the leaderboard were Brenna Benes’ Percentage Simmental heifer ACMD Neytiri 212K in third place, Avery Kimble’s Angus heifer Lazy JB Miss Whitty 2606 in fourth place and Hannah Fox’s MaineAngus heifer MINN Katie 206K in fifth place. Fox took home another grand champion prize in the Open Breeding Heifer Show with Dunk FTS Franny 227K, followed by ACDM Neytiri 212K in second place, Lazy JB Miss Whitty 2606 in third place, J6 Caitlyn 685K in fourth place and NRJC Shameless 36L, a Main-Anjou heifer exhibited by Gateway Genetics, in fifth place. On Nov. 15, Judges Brent Murphy of Missouri and Dan Fawcett of South Dakota sorted classes of bulls. In the Open Bull Show, the Angus division winner, Stellpflug Highway 2016, exhibited by Lazy JB Angus, was crowned supreme champion, and Beshka Morelli’s American Highland bull, Howling Springs Barron the Bull, was the reserve champion. Finishing in third was Andrew Odden’s Charolais bull OCR Donnie K119 TW. In the fourthplace position was Chesney Doubet’s horned Hereford CCD Kingsman 3K ET, and rounding out the top five was McConnel Hogan’s Simmental bull M/H Codenine 23L. Odden also topped the leaderboard during the Pen Show, taking home champion honors with a pen of Charolais bulls. Lazy JB Angus exhibited the Reserve Champion Pen and Ben Spencer had the Third Overall Pen with his Red Angus bulls. On Nov. 18, Miles Toenyes of Illinois named the top five prospect breeding heifers, starting with Jody Mead, who exhibited the Supreme Champion Prospect Breeding Heifer and Adam Alfs, who exhibited the Reserve Champion

Prospect Breeding Heifer. The two leaders were followed by Ryan Carlson in third place, Jake King in fourth place and Riley Witt in fifth place. Jenna Craft judged a lineup of prospect calves the next day, crowning King as grand champion and Cash Pratt as reserve champion. In third place was Colton Kroeker, followed by Pratt in fourth and Dylan Stone in fifth. The Market Steer Show also took place on Nov. 18 and was judged by Toenyes. Vienna Sells topped the leaderboard, exhibiting the Grand Champion Market Steer, and Violet McQuate exhibited the Reserve Champion Market Steer. Pratt stood on the podium again, receiving honors for exhibiting the third-place steer, King had the fourth-place steer and Megan Harris ended the day in the fifth-place position. Additionally, Raelyn Northington exhibited the Grand Champion Market Heifer and Knox Sells exhibited the Reserve Champion Market Heifer. Rounding out the cattle show was the Catch-A-Calf Contest, won by Garrett Scholz, followed by Madison Engel. Lamb show results Small livestock shows took place at the end of the week, starting with the Breeding Ewe Show on Nov. 25. Livestock Judge Kylar Lee of Oklahoma gave Landrie Sutton the “grand champion slap.” Sutton was followed by Tyson Miller in the reserve champion slot, Eidos Klein in third, Cale Deseive in fourth and Trent Mauck in fifth. The Market Lamb Show, judged by Chase McPhaul of Texas, was held the following day. Cade Simpson made an impressive showing, taking home both champion and reserve champion honors, as well as exhibiting the fourth-place lamb. Jericho Pino made the podium, exhibiting the third-place lamb and Tayah Winden rounded out the top five. Goat show results The Breeding Doe Show also took place on Nov. 25 and was judged by McPhaul. A doe exhibited by Echo Bartels was crowned Champion Breeding Doe, and Cayson Brathland exhibited the Reserve Champion Breeding Doe. Alaina Barger was next in the lineup with the thirdplace doe, Paislee Mette exhibited the fourth-place doe and Bryleigh Isabelle exhibited the fifth-place doe. In the Market Goat Show, Lee led the class with a goat exhibited by Dylan Stone and Bartel was reserve. Jana Stearns finished the day in third place, followed by Brathland in fourth and Derek Van Asselt

in fifth. Hog show results The expo wrapped up with the Market and Breeding Hog Show on Nov. 26, and Judge Kelton Mason of Texas sorted through a lineup of tough classes. Cambryn Gratz took home honors for exhibiting the Grand Champion Market Hog, and Ridge Kayer was crowned reserve champion. Dawson Dever was next in the lineup, finishing the day in third place, followed by Rylee McDaniel with a fourth-place finish and

Landen Charles with a fifthplace finish. Charles also topped the podium with the Champion Breeding Gilt and Brathland made the leaderboard yet again with the Reserve Champion Breeding Gilt. Luke Charles followed with a third-place finish, Kirbee Mulder finished in fourth and Hannah Seger rounded out the class in the fifthplace position. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

For more information on the Cheyenne Livestock Expo, visit cheyennelivestockexpo.com.

The Weekly News Source for Wyoming’s Ranchers, Farmers and AgriBusiness Community

Call 307.234.2700 to receive a 6-week complimentary subscription!* *For new subscribers only

JP WERNER AND SONS JANUARY 8 - TORRINGTON LIVESTOCK MARKETS Selling 300 home-raised Red Angus Heifers out of closed herd

30+ years of A.I. genetics High elevation summered at 7,500 ft. +

300 Red Angus Heifers, 1,100#, AI’d to 5L Top Gun, cleanup with Low Birth Weight Red Angus Bulls 200 head AI breds to calve: March 5 for 21 days.

Bull Breds 75 head March 26 for 21 days 25 head April 16 for 30 days

JJ Werner - 307-717-4790

1721 Walker Creek Rd, Douglas, WY 82633

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

WSGA continued from page 1 The law, however, defines traveling through as “physically touching or driving on the surface of the private property.” Previous ruling Those words seemed clear to Chief U.S. District Judge Scott Skavdahl when he ruled against Elk Mountain Ranch Owner Fred Eshelman earlier this year. “The plain language of the recent amendment to this statute applies to corner crossings, as they occurred in this case, where defendants did not touch the surface of plaintiff’s land,” Skavdahl wrote. Seventy-nine legislators voted for the measure this year, with 14 against. “Moreover, the statutory changes plainly demonstrate the Wyoming Legislature’s intent to ensure such corner crossing does not constitute a criminal act,” Skavdahl wrote. Corner crossing is the act of stepping from one piece of public property to another at a common corner with two pieces of private land, all arranged in a checkerboard pattern. Four Missouri hunters did this at Elk Mountain Ranch in Carbon County in 202021, accessing thousands of acres of public land without stepping on Eshelman’s pri-

vate property. Eshelman sued the men for trespass in civil court, lost and is appealing to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver, where WSGA is backing him. The hunters say federal law prevents Eshelman from blocking their passage to public land. Judge Skavdahl ruled passing through the airspace above private land at checkerboard corners in Wyoming is not trespassing. Not guilty A Carbon County prosecutor in 2021 charged the Missouri hunters with trespassing, but a jury found them not guilty. Eshelman sued the four in civil court for trespassing and lost the case, which he is now appealing. In siding with Eshelman, WSGA claims the legislature did not intend to legalize corner crossing through the 2023 amendment to WGFD trespass statutes. “The district court erred in its presumption regarding the intent and the purpose of the Wyoming Legislature related to the corner crossing issue,” WSGA Attorney Karen Budd-Falen wrote in her amicus brief. “This statute was passed to eliminate

a striking inconsistency between Wyoming criminal statutes.” “The words about physically touching or driving on private property were added to the bill to ensure there was no argument the newly passed legislation was an attempt to usurp or comment on the district’s and this court’s jurisdiction in the present case,” BuddFalen wrote. The clause in question “was not a statement by the Wyoming Legislature about this litigation.” To this end, WSGA Executive Vice President Jim Magagna, who also represents WWGA, signed a declaration regarding the bill he lobbied for. BuddFalen filed it as part of her brief. This declaration states his industry “felt this amendment bill was being done in response to an inconsistency in the existing law, not in response to the ‘corner crossing’ litigation.” Lawmakers made this clear, WSGA contends, with a caveat. This caveat states the standard of “physically touching or driving” applies only to “the purposes of this subsection,” which was to further empower WGFD wardens. Legislators sought the amendment, WSGA maintains, because game war-

dens otherwise could charge hunters with trespass only if they hunted on private property. This left county sheriffs with the task of policing hunters who trespassed on their way to hunt, fish or collect shed antlers, a job wardens could better undertake because of their presence in the field. Magagna lobbied for the bill while expressing doubts about its wording. “Why are we, in this case, only protecting a part of the landowners’ property rights rather than the entire property rights?” he asked the Joint Judiciary Committee as it was marking up the bill in September 2022. “In the court of public opinion, we’ll be seeing this language used as further evidence the state really does not support protecting landowners’ right to the reasonable amount of space above their property,” Magagna told lawmakers. “Perhaps we just have to deal with those issues.” Every small landowner Budd-Falen wrote the case is about the common man, not just about multimillionaire Eshelman, a North Carolina pharmaceutical magnate who owns the wildlife-rich 22,045acre ranch. Some 6,000 acres of public land are enmeshed in the checkerboard pattern of ownership and inac-

GHG strategies released A new resource outlines best practices for the U.S. sheep industry to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The resource summarizes findings in a landmark environmental footprint study by Michigan State University. Many of the suggested practices align with the Lamb Crop Best Practices developed to improve on-farm productivity and profitability. Reducing lamb loss, breeding ewes earlier and optimal nutrition practices are all areas

where producers can maximize productivity while reducing GHG emissions. Additional strategies to minimize GHG emissions include proper fertilizer use, improved manure management, the use of renewable resources and adopting new grazing opportunities. The full report and the summary can be downloaded at lambboard.com or by emailing rae@americanlamb.com.

Senators make demands Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) joined Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) in sending a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), urging the agency to create a pathway for air regulators to account for smoke from prescribed fires under the Clean Air Act. Prescribed fires are a proven method to help protect communities in Wyoming and throughout the West from out-of-control wildfires. These burns also help prevent heavy smoke,

as a prescribed burn creates a smaller amount of smoke compared to a large wildfire. On Nov. 8, the EPA, the Department of the Interior, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance collaboration to protect communities from the negative impacts of wildfire smoke. Complex and technical regula-

tions continue to limit the use of prescribed fires, which produce far less smoke than wildfires and can be planned when wind is blowing away from communities. Senate Western Caucus Members Dan Sullivan (R-AK), John Barrasso (R-WY), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Jim Risch (R-ID), John Thune (R-SD) and Roger Marshall (R-KS) joined Daines and Lummis in sending the letter.

Weston Garrett • 605-210-1629 Austin Snook • 307-290-2161 Casey Sellers • 307-217-2614 Taylor Snook • 307-290-2273 Jim Forbes • 307-351-5932 Craig Deveraux • 307-746-5690 Tye Curuchet • 307-351-8666 Dan Catlin • 406-671-7715 Daniel Escoz • 307-217-1440 Clint Snook • 307-290-4000 Kade Kinghorn • 307-620-0525 Cheyenne Seymour • 605-641-0638 Auctioneer: Curt Westland • 605-210-3329 Office • 307-684-0789

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

• January - February Sale Schedule • January 3 - NO SALE • January 10 - Bred Stock and Weigh-up Cattle Special • January 13 - Rafter T Angus Bull Sale January 17 - Feeder Cattle and Replacement Heifer Sale with All Classes of Cattle • January 20 - Redland Angus Bull Sale January 24 - Regular Weigh-up Cattle Sale • January 27 - Little Goose Angus Bull Sale • January 31 - NO SALE! February 2 - TJS Red Angus Bull Sale • February 7 - Regular Weigh-up Cattle Sale • February 9 - Powder River Angus Bull Sale February 14 - Bred Cow Special with Weigh-up Cattle • February 21 - Tipton Hereford Bull Sale and Feeder Cattle Special February 22 - Open Consignment Horse Sale • February 24 - Kretschman Angus Bull Sale • February 28 - Regular Weigh-up Cattle Sale

To view the consignment lists visit our website: www.buffalolivestockwyo.com

Backing landowners’ rights – Jim Magagna strolls through the sagebrush after a morning of helping unload sheep at his ranch on July 3. Mike Koshmrl photo

cessible to the public under any definition corner crossing is trespassing. But, corner crossing is currently legal in the Wyoming checkerboard following Skavdahl’s ruling earlier this year. His decision affects ranch and property owners who don’t own vast tracts like Eshelman’s, Budd-Falen wrote. “This case is not just about a large, out-of-state, landowner, but also about every small landowner who also operates a ranch in the checkerboard,” she wrote. “This case is also not just about ‘innocent’ hunters enjoying wildlife in Wyoming, but the district court’s ruling which allows any member of the public, regardless of their intentions, to trespass on private lands or in private airspace.” Budd-Falen also argued

Skavdahl’s decision “leaves private property and ranching operations at great risk.” The land grants by Congress which created the checkerboard pattern to fund construction of the Union Pacific Railroad “do not reserve an implied or express easement for public access,” she wrote. “The Unlawful Inclosures Act of 1885 the hunters relied on in their successful defense, does not apply in this case,” her brief reads. “Congress created the checkerboard system that has created this case today,” Budd-Falen wrote. “And, it should be up to Congress to fix it.” Angus M. Thuermer Jr. is the natural resources reporter for WyoFile. This article was originally published in WyoFile on Dec. 19.

SALE REPORTS Shipwheel Cattle Company 15th Annual Bull Sale Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor Dec. 13, 2023 Clear Creek Ranch, Chinook, Mont. Auctioneer: Kyle Shobe 102 18-Month-Old Angus Bulls Avg. $8,603 Top Sellers Lot 1 – Shipwheel Dreamer 2636 – Price: $16,500 DOB: 4/21/22 Sire: Shipwheel Dreamer 8522 Dam’s Sire: Sitz Far & Wide 6908 EPDs: BW: +3, WW: +61, YW: +108 and Milk: +34 Buyer: Scott Knutson, Helena, Mont. Lot 24 – Shipwheel Rainmaker 2613 – Price: $16,000 DOB: 4/28/22 Sire: Basin Rainmaker 4404 Dam’s Sire: S A V Resource 1441 EPDs: BW: +2.2, WW: +63, YW: +117 and Milk: +29 Buyer: 9 Bar F Ranch, Martinsdale, Mont. Lot 4 – Shipwheel Essential 2621 – Price: $15,000 DOB: 4/28/22 Sire: Shipwheel Essential 9536 Dam’s Sire: Connealy Packer 547 EPDs: BW: +1.5, WW: +60, YW: +112 and Milk: +31 Buyer: Robert and Erica Ebling, Geral-

dine, Mont. Lot 8 – Shipwheel Rainmaker 2514 – Price: $14,000 DOB: 4/20/22 Sire: Basin Rainmaker 4404 Dam’s Sire: S A V Raindance 6848 EPDs: BW: +4.7, WW: +79, YW: +143 and Milk: +35 Buyer: Robert and Erica Ebling, Geraldine, Mont. Lot 30 – Shipwheel Dreamer 2523 – Price: $14,000 DOB: 4/11/22 Sire: Shipwheel Dreamer 8522 Dam’s Sire: Bruin Torque 5261 EPDs: BW: +3.1, WW: +68, YW: +124 and Milk: +25 Buyer: HC Cattle, Columbus, Mont. Lot 31 – Shipwheel Real Deal 2689 – Price: $14,000 DOB: 4/30/22 Sire: Duff Real Deal 19115 Dam’s Sire: WMR Timeless 458 EPDs: BW: +0.1, WW: +55, YW: +88 and Milk: +17 Buyer: Steve Whipple, Cambridge, Neb.

Check Us Out On Facebook! facebook.com/WyoLivestockRoundup

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

eart H of

SALE REPORTS

Cross Diamond Cattle Company

BY AMANDA RADKE

Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor Dec. 11, 2023 Cross Diamond Cattle Company Sale Facility, Bertrand, Neb. Auctioneers: Charly Cummings and Joel Birdwell 225 Coming Two-Year-Old Red Angus Bulls Avg. $8,983 364 Commercial Bred Heifers Avg. $2,925 50 Commercial Bred Three-Year-Old Cows Avg. $3,300

What The Heart Of Rural America Means To Me I just wrapped up my final speech for 2023, and what an absolute honor and humbling whirlwind of travel it has been. Fifty-two speeches. Twenty states. Tens of thousands of people reached, and thousands of children’s books shared from coast-tocoast. I’ve spoke in barns at production sales, at school libraries, in mega convention centers, on the top of trailer beds and in dive barns on rural main streets. If someone calls, I do my best to go speak and serve my audiences with information to help empower them to be their own best advocates. Inspired by the incredible folks I’ve met on the road, I started a podcast called “The Heart of Rural America” to highlight and share their stories. And with every interview, every handshake, every deep conversation after a speech, every e-mail and message I’ve received and every invite to the next event, I’ve learned one important thing about what the heart of rural America actually represents. To me, the heart of rural America is made up of families – moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas and a slug of young kids who give hope and purpose to these hardworking families as they grow their businesses, build their legacies and square up to the challenges of production agriculture. To me, the heart of rural America is made up of eternal optimists. No, they aren’t naive to the external forces which seek to eliminate this way of life, strip us of our private property rights, regulate us out of business and take away food choice at the grocery store with their twisted ideologies related to animals, land, food and people. Despite all of this, these folks are still optimists. They have to be. This isn’t an easy life. It’s not a life without great risk and financial investment. It’s not a guaranteed profit driver. Nor is it a life that is safe and secure. Yet, these eternal optimists love the challenge of it all. The risks they take can lead to great rewards. The volatility of the weather and markets keeps them on their toes, and it may get them down at times but they know they have community to back them up and encourage them to keep going. And, what I’ve found is a large commonality in the heart of rural America – the well of optimism runs deep because it’s rooted in faith, because at the end of

the day, it’s hard not to see God’s handiwork in a beautiful sunset painting the sky across the prairie, while cattle graze, birds chirp and the bees and butterflies bounce from wildflower to wildflower in the grass. And, it’s hard not to see God in the laughter of a child as they ride along in the buddy seat of the tractor during harvest season, or in the warm embrace of a father who is proud of the work their children have done, or in the loving way a mother tends to her family, her work, her home and anything else she is called to do to keep the wheels humming on the farm and ranch. To me, what I see in the heart of rural America is grit, a no-quit attitude and a resolute determination to succeed despite the odds. I see families who understand the shared goal they have and are willing to throw all of their weight into it to make their dreams become reality. To me, what I see in the heart of rural America are honest folks with integrity, where a handshake is your bond and your word is worth its weight in gold. To me, what I see in the heart of rural America are communities who love their families, friends and neighbors and are willing to help others when the need arises. To me, the heart of rural America is what makes this nation strong. There’s an undeniable passion for the land, natural resources and livestock, but there is also a true love for serving others and making sure the world has access to the essentials of life – food, fiber and energy. And at the end of the day, it’s these people in the heart of rural America who push me to keep at it on the road. With every speech, I don’t ask my audiences to agree with me. I don’t ask them to think the way I do. My only goal is to empower them, to share ideas and inspiration, to lay out the challenges and threats to our way of life and to give them the tools they need to fight for their futures and advocate for this way of life for future generations. There’s much work yet to be done and I’m anxious to dive into it in 2024, but for now, I just want to extend a humble “thank you” for the opportunities to share my message through my speeches and my children’s books. My deepest respect and admiration goes out to each and every one of you, and I sincerely look forward to connecting with more of you on the road in 2024! God bless!

Buyer: Right On Cattle Company, Mark and Jodi Nelson Family, Bertrand, Neb. Lot 2 – CRS Diamnd Authority 2058 – Price: $28,000 DOB: 4/22/22 Sire: HXC Authority 7794E Dam’s Sire: LSF Wide Spread 0052X EPDs: BW: -3.3, WW: +59, YW: +99 and Milk: +25 Buyer: Right On Cattle Company, Mark and Jodi Nelson Family, Bertrand, Neb. Lot 5 – CRS Diamnd Merit 208 Price – $28,000 DOB: 4/8/22 Sire: CRS Diamnd Merit 8211 Dam’s Sire: CRS Diamnd Julian 5238 EPDs: BW: -2.3, WW: +66, YW: +105 and Milk: +24 Buyer: Right On Cattle Company, Mark and Jodi Nelson Family, Bertrand, Neb. Lot 10 – CRS Diamnd Reinvented 2042 – Price:

Top Sellers Lot 29 – CRS Diamnd Level Best 2262 – Price: $37,000 DOB: 5/9/22 Sire: Red SSS Big Shot 703G Dam’s Sire: 3SCC Domain A163 EPDs: BW: -2.9, WW: +69, YW: +112 and Milk: +23 Buyer: Right On Cattle Company, Mark and

Jodi Nelson Family, Bertrand, Neb. Lot 1 – CRS Diamnd Likable 2086 – Price: $32,000 DOB: 4/23/22 Sire: Beckton Likable D654 N4 Dam’s Sire: 5L Hard Rock 2188-09X EPDs: BW: -2, WW: +67, YW: +111 and Milk: +25

$25,000 DOB: 4/21/22 Sire: CRS Diamnd Rebourne 9100 Dam’s Sire: 26C EPDs: BW: -2.7, WW: +71, YW: +110 and Milk: +33 Buyer: Gilroy Land and Cattle, Dalton and Alliance, Neb. Lot 160 – CRS Diamnd Tornado 2190 – Price: $20,000 DOB: 4/30/22 Sire: Orton Spartacus F5 Dam’s Sire: CRS Diamnd Compass 4044 EPDs: BW: -2.6, WW: +64, YW: +101 and Milk: +30 Buyer: Adolph Red Angus and Freedom Hills Ranch, Mt. Carroll, Ill. Lot 91 – CRS Level Best 2261 – Price: $20,000 DOB: 5/9/22 Sire: Red SSS Big Shot 703G Dam’s Sire: 3SCC Domain A163 EPDs: BW: -2.1, WW: +69, YW: +107 and Milk: +22 Buyer: Anthony Red Angus, Ryan, Okla.

Subscribe to the Wyoming Livestock Roundup for $60 per year by calling 307-234-2700

KEN HAAS ANGUS 43rd Annual Right Combination Bull Sale

Tuesday, January 16, 2024

1:00 PM (MST) • Ranch LaGrange, Wyoming Featuring 98 Yearling Angus Bulls (73 Calving Ease), 2 Sim Angus Growth Bulls and 5 Elite Heifers TOP ANGUS SIRES:

Crouch Congress • G A R Ashland G A R Home Town • KCH Fireball 730

96% OF SALE BULLS QUALIFY FOR CAB Something only 1 in 4 bulls nationally accomplish!

Pink: Top 5%National Angus Breed Blue: Top 10%National Angus Breed Orange: Top 15%National Angus Breed Yellow: Top 20%National Angus Breed Yellow Lot Numbers: Calving Ease Bulls Blue Lot Numbers: Growth Cow Bulls

KC HAAS RIP 874

Sire Crouch Congress • BD 2/8/23 • Reg #20676470 BW 1.2 • WW 86 • YW 142 • SC 1.56 • PAP -.08 • CW 71 MARB 1.09 • RE .92 • $F 116 • $G 78 • $B 194 • $C 313

>Žƚ η dĂƚƚŽŽ

ϭ Ϯ ϯ ϱ ϳ ϴ ϵ ϭϬ ϭϲ ϭϳ Ϯϰ ϯϮ ϱϵ ϲϬ ϲϱ

ϵϭϴ ϱϴϴ ϴϳϰ ϬϮϭ ϴϮϰ ϭϱϳ ϭϰϭ ϳϬϱϱ ϴϯϮ ϵϱϴ Ϭϭϭ ϲϰϴϯ ϵϬ ϭϯϯ ϵϬϴ

ϵͲ&Ğď ϭϭͲ&Ğď ϴͲ&Ğď ϮϭͲ:ĂŶ ϱͲDĂƌ ϱͲ&Ğď ϭϴͲ&Ğď ϳͲ&Ğď ϴͲ&Ğď ϴͲ&Ğď ϭͲDĂƌ ϯͲ Ɖƌ ϮϴͲ&Ğď ϭϭͲDĂƌ ϭͲ Ɖƌ

ZĞŐ EŽ͘

W t

^ŝƌĞ EĂŵĞ

t W

Ěũ tE zt W W DŝůŬ t DĂƌď Z ϮϬϱ W W ^ W W W W W W

ϮϬϲϳϲϰϳϮ ƌŽƵĐŚ ŽŶŐƌĞƐƐ ϲ ϴϬ ϭ͘ϳ ϵϬϭ ϮϬϲϳϲϰϲϯ ƌŽƵĐŚ ŽŶŐƌĞƐƐ ϭϭ ϳϮ Ϭ͘ϯ ϵϬϴ ϮϬϲϳϲϰϳϬ ƌŽƵĐŚ ŽŶŐƌĞƐƐ ϵ ϳϰ ϭ͘Ϯ ϴϬϯ ϮϬϲϳϲϱϲϬ ' Z ,ŽŵĞ dŽǁŶ ϭϮ ϳϴ Ϭ͘Ϭ ϴϬϵ ϮϬϲϳϲϱϲϱ ' Z ,ŽŵĞ dŽǁŶ ϲ ϴϱ Ϯ͘ϱ ϴϲϬ ϮϬϲϳϲϱϰϱ ' Z ƐŚůĂŶĚ ϵ ϳϬ ϭ͘ϭ ϳϴϰ ϮϬϲϳϲϱϰϬ ' Z ƐŚůĂŶĚ ϭϭ ϳϮ ϭ͘ϯ ϳϴϳ ϮϬϲϳϲϱϳϬ ' Z ,ŽŵĞ dŽǁŶ ϭϭ ϳϴ Ϭ͘Ϭ ϳϭϭ ϮϬϲϳϲϱϲϲ ' Z ,ŽŵĞ dŽǁŶ ϵ ϳϱ ϭ͘ϳ ϳϰϯ ϮϬϲϳϲϱϲϵ ' Z ,ŽŵĞ dŽǁŶ ϭϬ ϴϬ Ϯ͘Ϭ ϳϲϯ ϮϬϲϳϲϲϬϭ < , &ŝƌĞďĂůů ϳϯϬ ϭϭ ϳϳ ͲϬ͘ϵ ϳϳϯ ϮϬϲϳϵϵϰϱ y Z DŽŶƵŵĞŶƚĂů ϵϵϬϯ ϵ ϳϰ Ϯ͘ϱ ϴϲϲ ϭϮ ϲϱ ͲϬ͘Ϯ ϲϵϱ ϮϬϲϳϳϲϱϵ ' Z ,ŽŵĞ dŽǁŶ ϲ ϳϱ ϯ͘ϯ ϳϱϮ ϮϬϲϳϲϲϭϰ Dƌ :d ,ŽŵĞ dŽǁŶ ϭϭϮ ϮϬϲϳϲϲϬϰ < , &ŝƌĞďĂůů ϳϯϬ ϭϬ ϱϱ Ͳϭ͘ϭ ϳϵϮ

ϳϱ ϳϳ ϴϲ ϲϮ ϴϰ ϴϬ ϴϮ ϱϱ ϳϲ ϲϵ ϲϱ ϴϱ ϲϱ ϳϴ ϴϯ

ϭϯϭ ϭϯϭ ϭϰϮ ϭϮϭ ϭϱϱ ϭϰϬ ϭϰϬ ϭϭϮ ϭϮϳ ϭϯϬ ϭϭϴ ϭϱϯ ϭϮϮ ϭϯϱ ϭϰϵ

ϭ͘ϳϭ Ͳϭ͘ϭϲ Ϭ͘ϲϲ ͲϬ͘ϳϲ ϭ͘ϱϱ ͲϬ͘ϭϯ Ϭ͘ϱϰ Ϭ͘ϰϰ Ϭ͘ϲϭ ͲϬ͘ϰϵ ϭ͘Ϭϵ ͲϬ͘ϰϴ Ϭ͘ϵϮ Ϯ͘Ϭϱ ϭ͘ϱϳ ͲϬ͘ϴϭ Ϭ͘ϲϰ Ϯ͘Ϯϴ Ϭ͘ϭϭ Ͳϭ͘ϳϰ ϭ͘ϲϴ ϯ͘ϴϴ Ϭ͘ϰϱ Ϭ͘ϯϰ ϭ͘ϯϭ ϭ͘ϯϰ ϭ͘Ϭϳ ͲϮ͘ϵϬ ϭ͘Ϯϱ ϱ͘ϯϲ

Ψt

Ψ&

Ψ'

ϭ͘Ϭϰ Ϭ͘ϴϯ Ϭ͘ϵϭ ϭ͘ϭϮ Ϭ͘ϵϬ Ϭ͘ϳϯ ϭ͘Ϭϳ Ϭ͘ϳϭ ϭ͘ϭϬ ϭ͘ϰϵ Ϭ͘ϵϰ Ϭ͘ϵϰ Ϭ͘ϳϰ Ϭ͘ϵϬ ϭ͘ϮϬ

ϲϳ ϳϴ ϴϭ ϲϱ ϳϭ ϳϳ ϴϮ ϱϭ ϲϲ ϱϴ ϴϮ ϲϭ ϱϴ ϲϴ ϴϱ

ϭϭϬ ϴϱ ϭϭϲ ϭϬϵ ϭϮϯ ϭϬϰ ϭϬϵ ϭϬϮ ϭϬϲ ϭϭϱ ϵϳ ϭϯϲ ϭϭϴ ϭϮϯ ϭϬϵ

ϭϬϬ ϵϬ ϳϴ ϵϴ ϵϰ ϴϰ ϳϰ ϭϬϳ ϵϭ ϭϬϭ ϭϬϳ ϴϱ ϳϴ ϭϬϭ ϭϬϴ

ϮϭϬ ϭϳϲ ϭϵϰ ϮϬϳ Ϯϭϳ ϭϴϴ ϭϴϯ ϮϬϵ ϭϵϲ Ϯϭϲ ϮϬϰ ϮϮϭ ϭϵϲ ϮϮϱ Ϯϭϲ

ϯϭϰ ϯϬϲ ϯϭϯ ϯϯϭ ϯϮϲ ϯϮϯ ϯϭϯ ϯϭϯ ϯϮϮ ϯϯϮ ϯϯϴ ϯϯϰ ϯϮϱ ϯϲϭ ϯϰϯ

Ϯϱ ϲϬ ϭ͘ϰϯ Ϯϳ ϱϭ ϭ͘ϯϯ Ϯϰ ϳϭ ϭ͘Ϭϴ ϯϭ ϲϬ ϭ͘ϯϱ ϯϬ ϳϵ ϭ͘ϯϮ Ϯϲ ϲϮ ϭ͘Ϯϲ ϯϬ ϲϳ Ϭ͘ϵϴ Ϯϳ ϰϱ ϭ͘ϲϵ ϭϳ ϱϱ ϭ͘Ϯϰ Ϯϱ ϲϯ ϭ͘ϯϬ ϰϱ ϱϴ ϭ͘ϲϳ ϭϴ ϴϯ ϭ͘ϭϴ ϲϱ ϭ͘ϭϮ ϮϬ Ϯϱ ϳϮ ϭ͘ϱϬ ϯϰ ϳϭ ϭ͘ϱϮ

Compare Compar e our our our KCH KCH Bulls BuBulls lls tto o heNational N National ational Angu Angus sA Average verage Compare KCH to tthe the Angus Average

Preview Bulls Prior to Sale at Ken, Ken &Heather Heather Haas & Kendall Haas

Ken Haas Angus

StateHwy Hwy 151 4766 4766 State 15, LaGrange, WY 82221 LaGrange, Wy 82221 307-834-2356 All Bulls 307-834-2356

www.kenhaasangus.com www.kenhaasangus.com genomically tested

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

Canadian beef research makes improvements, confirms industry’s environmental benefits Fostering long-term improvements in the beef industry is one of Canada’s beef goals for 2030, and thanks to research and Extension efforts, Canadian beef producers are improving their operations by making them more environmentally sustainable. The Canadian beef industry is working to improve water and soil quality, support the health and safety of those throughout the supply chain, enhance beef quality and incorporate technology to strengthen producers’ bottom lines, according to the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB). By setting these goals, the beef industry aims to build government and public support for beef production and provide a clear message on the benefits of an environmentally sustainable beef industry. One of the goals created by the CRSB is to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 33 percent, increase carbon sequestration by 3.4 million tons per year and maintain 35 million acres of grassland currently used by beef producers, while enhancing 68 percent of wildlife habitat

capacity. Producers reduce environmental footprint In a recent research study conducted by the University of Manitoba’s Animal Science Department, Professor Dr. Kim Ominski and her colleagues found in 2011, Canadian beef production needed only 71 percent of the breeding herd and 76 percent of the land required to produce the same amount of liveweight for slaughter as in 1981. At the same time, for each kilogram of beef, Canadian cattle producers have reduced GHG emissions by 15 percent, lowered water use by 17 percent and decreased ammonia emissions by 20 percent. Ominski cited improvements have occurred in animal productivity, including reproductive efficiency, weaning weight and carcass weight, as well as crop yields, including barley grain, barley silage, corn grain and corn silage, which has improved productivity and allows more beef to be produced from fewer cattle, less feed, land and water and reduces emissions per kilogram of beef. The 2011 research

est Comme The Great

For more information on Canadian beef producer research, visit beefresearch.ca. study published in 2015 concluded, “These landscapes play a critical role in maintaining carbon stocks and biodiversity. They are important for cattle and provide habitat for many plant and animal species, including wildlife.” Supporting the movement Producers have always wanted to leave the land better for the next generation, but now through research, they have a better idea of what is happening with the environment and how they can make it more resilient. According to CRSB Chair and Rancher Ryan Beierbach of Saskatchewan, Canada, producers are more willing to provide habitat now, and their attitudes toward the environment are the most significant changes he has witnessed over the past quarter century in Canada’s beef industry. Canadian beef producers are proud of the fact they are the guardians of the environment, and through this continued

rcial Black Angus Sale in A

merica

42,850 CATTLE SELL! The Best of the North

research, they have a better understanding of how grass grows and how to manage it. Through Ominski's research, producers have learned about soil and microbes, how cattle interact with it and the land’s ability to sequester carbon, improving production so producers can graze more cattle while managing the overall system to be drought resistant. The Beef Cattle Research Council supports research and environmentally sustainable projects by bringing practical research results and solid production advice to ranchers for improvement and to help producers collaborate with local governments to offset some of the financial costs. The Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off has supported the research and provides Extension work, which makes a big difference in getting producers to understand more about rotational grazing and water quality.

Adobe Stock photo

Spreading the word Ominski’s research revealed byproducts of the food processing sector, which may be sent to the landfill, could be utilized by producers to create high-quality protein. Manitoba, Canada has one of the most extensive pea processing facilities, and the byproducts are a perfect feed for ruminants, which can be converted to milk and meat. Sustainability metrics are complex to measure but challenging to communicate to the public. Through continued research, scientists can generate science-based information they can provide to consumers so they can make food choices that

WEATHER continued from page 1 approximately every 20 to 30 years. If both phenomena are in the same phase, their associated impacts can be amplified or just the opposite – the associated impacts on global climate may be reduced.

“Looking back in history, I have gone past 1950 and cannot find a single year matching up with what we have going on right now,” he added. “Utilizing metrics suggests this El Niño does not have the staying power it should have and will see

JANUARY 8 • 2024

Start Time: 8:00 AM MST Billings LiveStock Commission Co. • Billings, MT

• 28,865

• 10,950

• 1,575

• 820

• 310

• 330

STEERS

REPLACEMENT HEIFERS

BRED COWS

HEIFERS

BRED HEIFERS

The Diamond Ring sale will, as always, feature Diamond Ring Ranch owned cattle along with thousands of cattle consigned to Northern Livestock Video Auction from many of the top ranches and backgrounders in the North Country. Th e

COW/CALF PAIRS

Feeding steers and feeding heifers for immediate and later delivery including the famous diamond ring steers. Breds and pairs approx 2:00 pm. FOR INDIVIDUAL LOT DETAIL AND VIDEO GO TO WWW.NORTHERNLIVESTOCKVIDEO.COM The majority of the cattle are Angus, although we have several consignments of outstanding crossbreds in the sale.

All cattle deliver between January 11 - May 15, 2024.

LIV

The sale will be broadcast on Dish Network Channel 998.

f Northern Ca Best o ttle!

EST O

TIO CK VIDEO AUC

The sale will also be on NorthernLivestockVideo.com

Go to NorthernLivestockVideo.com to view the consignments and all information.

Bid Line on Sale Day: 406-245-0889 BUYERS MUST BE PRE-REGISTERED You must have a buyer number to bid

To Register Before Sale Day Call 866-616-5035 Northern Livestock Videos Timed On-Line auctions begin Jan 11 and run through May. Call 866-616-5035 for more information or to consign.

Will Ecord

(406) 853-3473

203 Diamond Ring Road • Terry, MT 59349

Joe Goggins - Mobile: 406-861-5664 • Home: 406-373-6844

FOR SALE OR RENTAL 2021 JOHN DEERE 6155R TRACTOR JD 5093E TRACTOR 2016 KUBOTA MX5200D TRACTOR 2022 BOBCAT T770 SKID STEER 2008 BOBCAT T250 SKID STEER 2023 CAT D6 DOZER CAT320 EXCAVATOR 2022 BOBCAT E60 MINI EXCAVATOR 2023 CAT 420 BACKHOE 2023 CAT 906 LOADER 2018 CAT 930M LOADER 2000 CAT 950G LOADER 1995 MACK + 2022 SILAGE/MANURE TRAILER 2022 FRIESEN TRAILER AIR COMPRESSOR CAT REACH FORKLIFT (TELEHANDLER) ELECTRIC SCISSOR LIFT 2023 SA CARGO TRAILER 6X10 NEW PULLED 1500 MILES $7,000.00 2008 GOOSENECK STOCK TRAILER 53’ 4 COMPARTMENTS GROUND LOAD $39,500.00 1998 DONAHUE 40 FOOT GOOSENECK W/ BEAVERTAIL $10,250 2006 NORRI GOOSENECK 20FT $6,500 2 – 2001 REITNOUER STAINLESS STEEL TRAILERS 48’ SPREAD AXLE CLEAN & WELL CARED $16,500 each 2006 REITNOUER STAINLESS STEEL TRAILER 48’ SPREAD AXLE CLEAN & WELL CARED $17,500

Call us today! 307.856.1254 10749 N. Hwy 789, Riverton, WY 82501

are right for them. The information obtained through the research study is equally important for producers, as it allows them to exhibit what they have learned by producing more food with fewer resources. Because the beef production system is complex, researchers must continue to work with producers to develop practical and cost-effective management best practices and through continued research, it can influence government programs while improving policy development. Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net. itself out by February.” Bledsoe remarked, “The European weather model shows in March the Pacific Ocean will still be warmer than average, but by the time we head into June, we will go backwards. The transition into 2024 may be the single most seasonal weather forecast metric there’s going to be.” Madden-Julian oscillation The Madden-Julian oscillation (MJO) is a tropical disturbance which propagates eastward around the global tropics with a cycle on the order of 30 to 60 days and has a wide range impact on the patterns of tropical and extratropical precipitation, atmospheric circulation and surface temperature around the global tropics and subtropics. There is evidence the MJO influences the El NiñoSouthern Oscillation cycle. It does not cause El Niño or La Niña, but can contribute to the speed of development and intensity of El Niño and La Niña episodes. “For the past three winters, the MJO has been locked clear over in Australia and Indonesia and can’t cycle across the Pacific, resulting in dry conditions,” Bledsoe explained. “Right now, it looks like the MJO will favor the remaining phases for most this El Niño, which is a good sign for the south and south-central U.S. to receive moisture. Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

WATER continued from page 1 ag productivity by putting an early end to the growing season, permanently removing agricultural uses of land due to overuse or impacting water quality and nutritional value, which results in pasture loss and crop failure. On the other hand, excess water is caused by heavy and/ or prolonged precipitation or as a result of adverse soil and land management. “Climate changes and land use, together with channelization, levee construction and urban floodplain development along large rivers, have driven worsening problem of excess water over the last century,” EDF states. The organization further notes excess water can lead to waterlogging and flooding, both of which impact crop production. According to EDF, adverse effects on agricultural production caused by these two stressors has been worsened by climate change in recent years. “Climate change is creating more severe weather patterns, yielding more frequent and persistent droughts, as well as precipitation events of greater intensity,” the report reads. “Further challenges arise from weather whiplash, in which there is a rapid transition from drought to floods or floods to drought,” it con-

CattleC Country C Video

tinues. “Weather whiplash is expected to become more frequent and extreme because of climate change.” Additionally, EDF’s report notes the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Risk Index estimates the ag industry in the West and Midwest suffers combined annual losses of $2 billion from drought and riverine flooding. Case studies To dive into this issue even further, EDF conducted five case studies in different regions of the U.S – one in the Pacific Northwest, one in California, one in the Southwest, one in Kansas and one in the Midwest. Across the four states of Nevada, Arizona, Utah and New Mexico, producers in the Southwest grow everything from livestock and hay to high-value grocery crops like lettuce and perennial crops like wine grapes. “Due to the aridity of the region, irrigation is critical for crop production in all four Southwest states,” states the report. “The main water source in the Southwest is high-elevation snowpack runoff, which serves lower-elevation farms and communities.” However, the report also notes this snowmelt runoff is predicted to decline in coming years due to climate

change, which would stress agriculture in the region by reducing water available for irrigation. According to EDF, this will increase heat stress, leading to increased crop failure; reduce livestock feed supply and decrease forage quality; shift hardiness zones and make it hard for existing crops to grow. In the case study done on the Midwest – one of the most intensive crop production areas in the world, producing one-third of the world’s supply of corn – EDF found both water scarcity and excess will affect crop yields and yield variability. “The projected high mean temperatures will affect crop production, especially for corn and especially in the south part of the region,” EDF states. “In addition, a warmer growing season translates to more days of high heat stress, which slows down crop growth and can result in crop reproductive failure and even death, again affecting yields.” “Increased precipitation is likewise expected to lead to yield declines,” the report continues. “Waterlogged soils prevent plants form absorbing needed oxygen, leading to reduced growth or plant death.” Mitigation strategies In an effort to mitigate these issues, EDF’s report also mentions the organization is working with partners and stakeholders to advance

www.cattlecountryvideo.com

WINTER CLASSIC PRODUCTION SALE

science, develop new tools and implement policies and programs. “Policies and programs which foster adaptation and resilience are needed at the nexus of agriculture and water to ensure there are sufficient water resources to meet human and ecosystem needs for future generations,” EDF states. “This will include critically evaluating agroecological tradeoffs, such as which crop types and water management practices are most suitable in a given geography in light of population growth and climate change,” EDF continues. Specifically, efforts highlighted in the report include encouraging land and crop management changes such as land repurposing, climate resilient crop production and soil health practices; improving infrastructure through onfarm water recycling and natural infrastructure for flood resilience; developing technology and decision-support tools such as OpenET and the Groundwater Accounting Platform and implementing policy and funding mechanisms through smart groundwater governance and financing solutions to support climate-smart agriculture investments. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

ENERGY continued from page 2 In over a little more than a decade, coal-generated electricity has fallen from nearly 50 percent of America’s overall generating capacity to somewhere near 18 percent. These are not hopeful trends for the industries which support Wyoming’s standard of living. Is there an urgency to protect these industries? 100 percent. If Wyoming doesn’t stand by them and innovate, we will lose them. This is why an allof-the-above approach is urgent. Are there new industries entering the state? Yes. Are we abandoning traditional fossil energy? Categorically no. They remain an essential part of any energy mix. What we are doing is pointing out coal, oil and gas hold a solution to the growing calls to produce more energy and reduce carbon dioxide in our atmosphere. Whether warranted or not, climate concerns have shaped opinions affecting both the regulatory framework and market acceptance for the energy Wyoming produces. No one has taken the threats to our industry more seriously than me. I am and always have been a steadfast defender of Wyoming’s

Bulls born k raised where corn don’t grow! Powder River Angus Spotted Horse, WY

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2024 - 10:00 AM MT Goshen County Rendezvous Center Torrington, Wyoming FEATURING 9,979 Total head including 1,605......................................Yrlg Steers 969........................................Yrlg Heifers 4,542....................Weaned Steer Calves 2,763....................Weaned Heifer Calves 100.....................................Calves

interests of private property and of free enterprise. We have used the courts, congressional testimony and now the bully pulpit to defend our fossil production and ancillary industries. Nevertheless, attacks on those very industries persist. I will continue to use every opportunity to promote Wyoming’s industries, protect the jobs – new and old – they provide and promote the innovation and entrepreneurialism our people are famous for. We need to get our bulls to spring pasture – even the chippy ones – they have a job to do. We can cuss, rope and try to whip this effort forward, but there is the chance we could cripple or even kill it. Or, like Ray Hunt suggests, we can find an alternative – and possibly more effective – way to assure our kids can look forward to a flourishing, familiar Wyoming. In the Wyoming I grew up in, when there was work to do, my sister and I were expected to get the job done, not just bellyache about it. And right now, we have our work cut out for us. Mark Gordon is the governor of Wyoming and can be reached by visiting governor.wyo.gov.

Selling

PRA Bulldogger - First Calf Crop Sells!

110+ Range-Ready Pap-Tested ANGUS BULLS

Feb. 9, 2024

Buffalo Livestock Auction, Buffalo, WY

U2 Coalition ALSO FEATURING SONS OF SAV Rainfall 6846 • ColemanTriumph Tehama Testament J304 • Square B Atlantis

POWDER RIVER ANGUS cattle are grass oriented. We want performance off grass in our cattle, with maximum performance gained from breeding generations of superior dams. Our bulls are developed on long stem grass hay and a high fiber pellet, with fertility, good feet, and longevity always at the top of our mind. They’re rangeready, Pap tested ANGUS bulls that have been developed in rugged country. Learn more at: www.PowderRiverAngus.com

Sale Day Bid Line: 307-575-5005 Broadcast on YouTube @ CattleCountryVideo View Sale & Bid Online @ www.cattleusa.com Preview Lots on www.cattlecountryvideo.com

NEAL & AMANDA SORENSON (307) 680-7359 or (307) 680-8266 nasorenson@rangeweb.net www.PowderRiverAngus.com

Cattle Country Video • Torrington, WY www.cattlecountryvideo.com

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

CALENDAR

SALES Jan. 27

Submit your events to: Editor, Wyoming Livestock Roundup, P.O. Box 850, Casper, WY, 82602, or e-mail to roundup@wylr.net.

Dec. 25- Jan. 1 Jan. 6-8 Jan. 6-21 Jan. 9 Jan. 9-10 Jan. 10 Jan. 10 Jan. 10-13 Jan. 13 Jan. 19-27 Jan. 27 Jan. 31-Feb. 2 Feb. 1 Feb. 2-3 Feb. 7-8 Feb. 12

EVENTS

Jan. 28

The Wyoming Livestock Roundup Office will be closed in observance of the holiday. We wish all of our readers a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Stockmen in the Stockyards at the National Western Stock Show, Denver, Colo. More information coming soon. National Western Stock Show, Denver, Colo. For more information, visit nationalwestern.com. Nebraska Extension Cow Clinic, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Beatrice 77 Livestock Sales, Beatrice, Neb. To register, contact Wayde Pickinpaugh at wayde.pickinpaugh@unl.edu or 402-335-3669. 2024 Nebraska Ranch Practicum, Whitman, Neb. For more information or to register, visit nebraskaranchpracticum.unl.edu, e-mail Troy Walz at troy.walz@ unl.edu or call 308-872-6831. Wyoming Rural Business Development Grant Program Webinar, 2 p.m., Zoom. To register, visit zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_rLYDELvkQoGsaPlYTZ8TFw. Nebraska Extension Cow Clinic, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., North Platte Stockyards, North Platte, Neb. To register, contact Randy Saner at randy.saner@unl.edu or 308-532-2683. American Sheep Industry Association Annual Convention, Denver, Colo. For more information, visit sheepusa.org. 13th Annual Women’s Agriculture Summit, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Hampton Inn and Suites, Buffalo. For more information, contact Jenna Foss at 307-2171818, Tressa Lawrence at 307-217-1226 or Heidi Stoltz at 307-736-2602. 2024 Clear Out West Taste of Cowboy Cruise. For more information, visit cruise-vacations.ca or call 855-530-0131. Fremont County Cattleman Annual Meeting Banquet, 12:30 p.m., Lander Community and Event Center, Lander. For more information or to purchase dinner tickets, call Jac Klaahsen at 307-217-2110. CattleCon24, Orlando, Fla. For more information and to register and reserve housing, visit convention.ncba.org/. Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame 15th Annual Banquet, Orlando, Fla. For more information, visit cattlefeeders.org. Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation’s Young Farmer and Rancher Conference, Farm Bureau Center, Laramie. For more information, visit wyfb.org. 48th Annual Fremont County Farm and Ranch Days, 9 a.m.-2:45 p.m., Fremont Center, Riverton. For more information, contact Chance Marshall at cmarsha1@uwyo.edu, call 307-332-1019 or visit wyoextension.org/fremontcounty/. Ranching in the West Seminar Series: Ranching Collaboratively, Casper College, Casper. For more information and to register, visit uwyo.edu/uwag/rmal.

SALES Jan. 9

Cattle Country Video Winter Classic Production Sale, Goshen County Rendezvous Center, Torrington, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com Rafter T Angus Annual Bull Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307736-2415, 307-299-4569, raftertangus.com Ken Haas Angus 43rd Annual Right Combination Bull Sale, at the ranch, LaGrange, 307-834-2356, kenhaasangus.com Redland Angus Annual Range Calved-Range Raised Age Advantaged Calving Ease Production Sale, Buffalo Livestock Auction, Buffalo, 307-2508625, redlandangus.com Douglas Booth Family Angus 32nd Annual Bull Sale, Torrington Livestock Market, Torrington, 307-532-5830, 307-532-6207, boothfamilyangus.com Bullis Creek Ranch Spring Production Bull Sale, at the ranch, Wood Lake, Neb., 402-376-4465, bulliscreek.com Marcy Livestock 63rd Annual Angus Bull and Female Sale, Gordon Livestock Auction, Gordon, Neb., 308-430-2005, marcylivestock.com McConnell Angus Bull & Female Sale, at the ranch, Dix, Neb., 308-2355187, 308-230-0430, 970-215-3204, mcconnellangus.com

Jan. 13 Jan. 16 Jan. 20 Jan. 22 Jan. 22 Jan. 25 Jan. 26

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

Big Horn Basin Livestock recently had a fire in the building, but we are cleaning up and are expecting to be open for the January 4 sale. We appreciate your support!

Wishing Everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Jan. 4

Jan. 27

Jan. 29 Feb. 1 Feb. 1 Feb. 2 Feb. 3 Feb. 8

Little Goose Ranch Seventh Annual Production Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307-751-1535, 307-751-5793, 307-673-0049, littlegooseranch.com 21 Angus 30th Annual Top Cut Bull Sale, at the ranch, New England, N.D., 701-579-4221, 21angus.com Triangle J Ranch 34th Annual Bull Sale, at the ranch, Miller, Neb., 308-4572505, 308-627-5085, trianglejranch.com APEX Cattle Annual Heterosis Headquarters Bull, Bred Heifer and Fall Pair Sale, Dannebrog, Neb., 308-750-0200, sales@apexcattle.com K2 Red Angus and Friends Winter Bull & Female Sale, K2 sale barn, Wheatland, 307-331-2917, k2redangus.com Ridder Hereford Ranch Annual Bull and Heifer Sale, at the ranch, Callaway, Neb., 308-836-4430, 402-450-0431, ridderranch.com TJS Red Angus 16th Annual ‘Red Truck’ Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 406-639-9112, tjsredangus.com Beartooth Angus Second Annual Sale, Swift River Ranch, Billings, Mont., 406-794-1287 Booth’s Cherry Creek Angus 51st Annual “Progress Through Performance” Bull Sale, at the ranch, Veteran, 307-534-5865, 307-532-1805, 307532-1532, boothscherrycreekranch.com

A Wyoming Newspaper’s New Year’s Issue A front page article in the Jan. 1, 1924 issue of a Laramie newspaper proclaims: The Republican-Boomerang is very proud of its issue today, the first one for the year 1924. This big New Year’s issue has gotten out at this time, because it was felt conditions warranted it. Never before in all its long and eventful history have things looked as good for the future welfare and prosperity of Laramie and its surrounding territory as they do right now. This is not only the opinion of this newspaper, but likewise of the men and women of this town who have been here longest and are most familiar with local conditions. This paper is an attempt to chronicle some of the things that will contribute to make 1924 a record year, and if you read it thoroughly and carefully, we think you will agree never was an outlook brighter. Following are excerpts from an editorial in the issue: A Happy New Year! The Republican-Boomerang wishes all of its readers a Happy New Year. May 1924 bring to each and every one of you a large measure of health

and prosperity. The feeling is everywhere apparent that never before in the history of Laramie and Albany County were conditions more favorable for advancement all along the line. Perhaps it was the proving of the Rex Dome Oil Field which served to emphasize this fact, but it should at once be stated this field, and the older one at Rock River, are only one element in the prosperity coming upon this region. On all sides, and in every direction, are the indications of the dawn of a new era in our history. Not alone is the wealth in oil, platinum and other minerals; in agriculture and stock raising; in manufacturing and the growth of the railroads; in timber culture and the utilization of the products of the forest, going to contribute to this fortunate outcome, but also such things as the scenic beauties and wonders which lie at our doors to such a great extent and variety, but which up to this time have not had sufficient advertising and exploitation; the capitalization of our marvelous summer climate; the great growth of the university – all of these things seem

just at this time to have presented themselves in such a way as to make our future surer than ever before. All that is now needed is faith in ourselves and our destiny and an united and determined purpose to make this part of Wyoming one of the best known and one of the most prosperous and desirable regions in which to live. To help to bring about this desired end, this paper pledges itself with all of the forces and resources it can command. Everything that will help to promote the welfare of Laramie and Albany County in any way shall have all the influence and assistance we can possibly bring to bear upon it. May 1924 be a year of big things for all of us in every way. The newspaper, which can be viewed at wyomingnewspapers.org, was crammed full of articles, photos and advertisements touting the items mentioned in the editorial. To paraphrase an advertisement in the paper, I wish you thus: Cold type and warm sunshine In expressing to our readers and friends the hope this may be the happiest holiday season you have ever enjoyed, I am compelled to use cold type because there is no other way to reach all. But, I wish I might walk up to each and every one of you, take your hand, look you in the eye and say right to your face, “HAPPY NEW YEAR!” – Dick Perue

• Upcoming Sales •

– Monday • Weigh-Up Special Jan. 11 – All Class Cattle Jan. 15 – Monday • Feeder Special Jan. 18 – Bred Cow Special w/ All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat Jan. 25 – All Class Cattle Feb. 1 – All Class Cattle Feb. 7 – Wednesday • Durbin Creek Ranch Hereford Bull Sale, 1 p.m.

Feb. 12 – Monday • Feeder Special Feb. 15 – Bred Cow Special w/ All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat Feb. 17 – Saturday • Redland Redbank Ranch Black Angus Bull Sale, 1 p.m. Feb. 22 – Monday • Weigh-Up Special Feb. 29 – All Class Cattle

Danny Vigil • Owner and Northern Livestock Represenative Layne Weber • Field Rep & Auctioneer • (307) 331-2222

Cabin in the Sierra Madre Mountains, as pictured on a holiday greeting card sent to friends and family in the 1920s. Photo from the Dick Perue/Bob Martin collection. Historical Reproductions by Perue

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

Highland cattle prove to be a unique and efficient breed Highland cattle are an ancient breed originating in the Scottish Highlands and Western Islands of Scotland and is the oldest registered breed of livestock in the world. There were originally two types of Highland cattle – a smaller island type, usually black, and a larger mainland type, usually red or brown. In 1884, a breed society was established and cattle were imported into Canada in the 1880s, then to the U.S. in the late 1890s. The American Highland Cattle Association was formed in 1948. Montana operation Cheryl and Tom Larsen have been raising Highland cattle for many years on their ranch near Alzada, Mont., located near the Wyoming and South Dakota borders. “Tom’s father bought his first Highland cattle in 1948,” Cheryl explains. “He was a founding member of the American Highland Cattle Association and helped import some from Scotland.” “He was interested in this breed because he saw some during World War II while he was stationed in England with the 101st Airborne, before they jumped at Normandy. They had a furlough for the men and went to Scotland, which is when he saw those cattle,” she shares. Cheryl notes Tom’s father thought Highlanders would be well suited for the harsh climate of eastern Montana, so when he returned from war he became acquainted with Baxter Berry, a South Dakota rancher who raised Highland cattle. “They got together with several other people to form an association and start importing more cattle,” Cheryl says. She continues, “At this time, Hereford was the popular breed, and people thought he was crazy to want Highland cattle. At first, it was hard to sell them, so he crossed them with Shorthorns, which was a fantastic cross.” However, the breed has

become increasingly more popular and easier to sell. Because people with small hobby farms want something exotic, Cheryl says it isn’t hard to sell heifers. Today, Tom and Cheryl are slowing down and cut their herd of 300 cows down to 150. “We are getting older and trying to slow down,” says Cheryl. “Our grandson helps us so we can keep going.” A hardy breed Cheryl notes this wouldn’t be possible if Highland cattle weren’t such easy keepers. Easily recognizable by their iconic shaggy coat, Highlanders are hardy enough to withstand extreme weather. This shaggy coat is double layered and the longest of any other breed of cattle in the world. The outer, coarser coat is oily and sheds water readily, and underneath is a downy undercoat. The breed is well suited to conditions in the Highlands, where there is a lot of rain and strong winds. Although most British and European cattle cope relatively well with low temperatures, Highland cattle are the most cold tolerant. In addition to withstanding cold temperatures, Cheryl shares Highland cattle don’t need any pampering. “They don’t need grain. In fact, feeding too much grain will ruin their feet – laminitis,” she states. “They can survive in the wild in Alaska without any care and do really well. They can also protect their calves from predators.” “We don’t have to get up in the night to check on them for calving. They can do that by themselves,” she adds. “This saves us a lot of sleep and labor. Our vet told us if everyone raised this kind of cattle, he’d be out of business.” Cheryl also shares, “We sold some Highland-Longhorn cross cattle to a friend of ours in Ashland, Mont. who was having trouble with mountain lions getting his calves. His cows were polled

Withstanding extreme weather – Highland cattle are known for their long, shaggy coat of hair, which is double-layered and the longest of any other cattle breed in the world. This makes the breed able to withstand extreme weather conditions. Pictured is Tom Larsen feeding hay to his herd of highlanders. Cheryl Larsen photo

so he got some horned cattle from us.” This rancher spent nights sleeping in the pasture in his pickup to keep an eye on his cows during calving season, but one day he left and went home for breakfast. “When he came back, he saw blood in the snow where one of the cows we’d sold him had calved. He was afraid the mountain lion had killed the calf. He drove closer and discovered the calf was fine, but there was blood on the horns of the cow,” says Cheryl. “He saddled a horse and went back to track the cat. He found the mountain lion gutted and dead. These cows can definitely protect their calves.” Other favorable characteristics Being tough and hardy isn’t all the breed has going for it. Cheryl notes they produce high-quality beef which tends to be leaner than most because they are insulated by thick, shaggy hair rather than by subcutaneous fat. The Larsens have seen this firsthand. Cheryl shares, “There was a guy who used to buy our calves and sell meat to a big packing plant which later went out of business. He bought all of our calves and fed them out, and they graded Prime or Choice. We

Tough and tender – In addition to being a tough and easy-keeping breed, Highland cattle produce highquality beef, which the Larsens have witnessed firsthand. Cheryl Larsen photo

got premium prices during the time because the packing plant didn’t care what color they were – the only thing that mattered was the quality of the meat.” “After another company bought them out, the new company discounted our calves on color so it didn’t work as well,” she adds. Highland cattle are medium in size and efficient. A mature cow weighs about 1,000 pounds, and bulls weigh up to 2,000 pounds when fully mature. Cheryl explains the main difference between a High-

land bull and some of the other beef breeds is Highlanders don’t have as much muscling on their hindquarters, but the rest of the animal gets pretty big. Crossbreds get even bigger. “We had a HerefordHighlander crossed steer that was our daughter’s bum calf,” she said. “He grew up as a pet and she broke him to ride. When he got old, he weighed 2,600 pounds.” Because they are so big, gentle, smart and easy to train, some people have trained Highland steers to use as oxen. Highland cattle

are sometimes crossed with other breeds to have the benefits of both breeds. “Most bulls don’t last as long as a Highland bull will, breeding cows for 15 to 18 years, and the cows last even longer,” Cheryl concludes. “For them to last this long in our environment is really something because winters are cold and the forage isn’t always the best.” Heather Smith Thomas is a corresponding writer for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@ wylr.net.

2024 Winter cattlemen’s edition FEATURING WESTON COUNTY To advertise, contact Jody at 307-234-2700, 800-967-1647 or email jodym@wylr.net. Advertising Deadline: January 5, 2024 Insert Date: January 20, 2024

wylr.net 800-967-1647 307-234-2700

2 12

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December December 30, 30, 2023 2023

CLASSIFIEDS

307-234-2700 • 1-800-967-1647 • Fax: 307-472-1781 • E-mail: jodym@wylr.net or denise@wylr.net Website: www.wylr.net. Weekly Deadline: Wednesday, 12:00 p.m.

Notice

Services

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

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!! .......................... 12/30

GOING, GOING, GONE Help Wanted RANCH HAND/COWBOY POSITION AVAILABLE: Southeast Washington on the Snake River. Contact Bill Browning at 509-990-4950 (cell) or 509245-9269 (home) .............1/13

Financial Services

C a l l To d a y to Advertise

Services

Help Wanted

The University of Wyoming is seeking an Assistant Farm Manager at the Sheridan Research and Extension Center. The University of Wyoming is an equal opportunity/affirmative action institution. For qualifications, additional details, and to apply please visit https://eeik.fa.us2.oraclecloud.com/hcmUI/ CandidateExperience/en/sites/CX_1/ job/234074/?utm_medium=jobshare

WEAVE Got Your Back!

$3,000 SIGN-ON BONUS ~ WELCOME TO THE TEAM!

What We Offer: • Competitive Pay

• Referral Bonus

• PTO and Paid Holidays

• Semi-Annual Bonus

• Semi Annual Bonus • 401(k)

• Safety Allowance

Solar Water Pumping Systems Water Well Services • Well & Pipeline Design Submersible Pump Specialist

Auctions

Torrington Livestock Markets 307-532-3333 www.torringtonlivestock.com

• Health & Life Insurance

• Employee Discount Programs

If interested, apply at www.weaveind.com or call 406-927-4396

Services

FOR SALE: 100 FANCY, BLACK BRED HEIFERS SORTED FOR APRIL CALVING. Bred to 100% registered Black Angus, PAP tested, calving-ease bulls. Currently weighing 1,050 lbs. and grazing regrowth meadows at Laramie, WY 7,400’ of elevation. Ranch raised, medium frame, deep bodied heifers with gentle dispositions. Bunk broke. Dog, four wheeler and horse friendly. From long time Wyoming heifer development program, X Bar Cattle Co. Please call or text 307760-3837 ............................... 1/6

2-Year-Old Registered Limousin Bulls

FOR SALE: 200 registered and commercial Black Angus BRED HEIFERS, 1 group of F1 baldy bred heifers. Three groups AI bred to elite calving-ease sire: MAF Triumph O415 (Musgrave Exclusive 316 son 2022 highselling calving-ease bull) as well as GAR Ashland and SAV Raindance. Two groups pasture bred to “sleep all night” low birthweight, calving-ease Black Angus bulls sired by Sitz Logo 6197. AI bred: Group #1 due March 15. Group #2 due April 9. Bull bred: Group #1 due April 15 for 14 days. Group #2 due May 1 for 21 days. Vaccinated and poured/dewormed. Available FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED. Delivery and volume discounts available. MILLER ANGUS FARMS, Estelline, S.D. Kody, 605-690-1997 or Brady, 605-690-5733 .....................TFN

Red Angus

(307) 436-8513 • Cell: (307) 267-1022

Warren Transport is looking for Truck Drivers! Family friendly with flexible scheduling, bonuses, benefits and competitive wages. We are an established company with multiple branches and a multitude of options to fit your individual needs!

Limousin

FOR SALE: 60 HEAD COMING 3-YEAR-OLD BRED COWS, that already have 1 calf under their belt. Bred to PAP tested, registered, front end Angus bulls for March calving. Medium frame, deep bodied, 1,200 lbs. Good mothers, quiet and easy to be around. Ranch raised and running at Laramie, WY up to 7,400’. Will sell any quantity. We have videos and photos available. Call or text FMI, 307-760-3837.... 1/6

Scott Blakeley, Owner ppr@pronghornpump.com www.pronghornpump.com

LOCAL CDL TRUCK DRIVERS NEEDED

Angus

Brands WYOMING BRAND FOR SALE: LHC, LHS, LSH. Niobrara County origins. In the family since 1919. $4,000. Call 406-853-0527, if no answer leave message ...12/30

Angus

FOR SALE: ONE IRON HIGH ELEVATION RED ANGUS BRED HEIFERS. Summered at 9,000’, currently running at Laramie, WY. Home-raised, fancy, deep bodied heifers weighing 1,000 lbs. 55 AI bred to 9 Mile Franchise and Bieber Energize to calve first week of March. 100 bull bred for March 15 for 30 days. 75 bull bred for April 15 for 10 days. Bred to 100% PAP tested, low birthweight Red Angus bulls. FMI, price and videos, please call 307-760-3837 ................... 1/6

Angus

BULLS FOR SALE Registered Yearling and Two-Year-Old Black Angus Range Bulls for sale Private Treaty. Good selection for heifers and cows. From popular sires & industry leaders including Spur, Rito 707, Encore and others. Semen tested & ready to go. www.claycreek.net

Clay Creek Angus • 307-762-3541 FOR SALE: Twenty first-calf Black Angus AI heifers, to calve March 1-April 15. Call Joe 970629-0757, Meeker, CO ... 1/13

Pasture

WYOMING BRAND FOR SALE: LSC AND RSH. Asking $4,000 OBO with one set of irons. Call Tena Cook, 308-615-0004 .................... 12/30

ONE LOAD, FANCY, BLACK BRED HEIFERS: One iron, bulls turned out May 20, all first-cycle bred, start calving approximately March 1. Bred to LBW Black Angus bulls. Preg checked Nov. 2. Vaccinated, wormed and Bangs. Located at Gillette, WY. Call 406-8531835 .............................. 12/30

FALL GRAZING AVAILABLE FOR 300+ HEAD OF CATTLE: Three or more months, Cody NE. For more information, call 605-488-0301 .....................1/6

Cattle

Ranch/Pasture Lease Wanted

Twenty-Four Years of Predictability

SPRING PRODUCTION BULL SALE January 22, 2024 • 1:30 p.m. CST

At the Ranch • Wood Lake, Nebraska Selling 65 Age Advantage Coming 2-Year-Old Bulls and 4 Commercial Bulls Red Angus • Limousin • Lim-Flex Bullis Creek Ranch • bulliscreek.com • 402-376-4465

C h e c k o u t w y l r. n e t

S U B S C R I B E TO THE ROUNDUP

Joe Freund 303/341-9311 Joey Freund 303/475-6062

Pat Kelley 303/840-1848

Hereford TWO-YEAR-OLD HEREFORD BULLS: Canadian registered. Fertility checked. View photos at www.workingherefords.com. Estermann Herefords, 308-3404159 or 308-963-4473 .. 1/13 EIGHT COMING 2-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN HEREFORD BULLS: Pasture and hay raised with longevity in mind. These are not the kind that melt. Moderate birthweights, good pigment. Tested prior to delivery with vaccinations and deworming made current, will deliver for the cost of fuel only. Purchase 3 bulls or more saves $25/head. $2,135/head. Call 307-851-2426 or e-mail ruralandsf@yahoo.com ........ 1/6

Charolais REGISTERED CHAROLAIS COWS, COMPLETE DISPERSION: August and September calvers, 50 day breeding season. Bred heifers to 10-year-olds, from DeBruycker Charolais genetics. Call 307899-6335......................... 1/13

Ranch/Pasture Lease Wanted DO YOU WANT TO RETIRE AT THE TOP OF THIS MARKET AND KNOW YOUR LAND IS IN GOOD HANDS? Regen, LLC is a business that provides for ranchers/ landowners the service of professional ranch management. We work to understand your needs on your ranch and provide a professional management team tenancy where you no longer need to worry about the work, get paid competitive rent and can keep the ranch legacy intact. Instead of selling, please consider renting the ranch to our team. We are a family business, based in Wyoming and with expertise in all arrangements of federal, state and deeded land and work every day to accomplish our mission. We steward land with regenerative principles, where animals thrive by connecting rich heritage to vibrant futures. Call Sage, 307-351-4875 or e-mail at saskin12@gmail. com .............................. 5/11

SELL YOUR COWS AND COMBINES WHILE THE MARKET IS HIGH. Secure reliable income during retirement while keeping land in your family. EVALUATING NEW LEASES AND PARTNERING WITH NEW LANDOWNERS UNTIL APRIL 1. Minimum 7 year lease since we will invest in livestock water development and add pivots to flood irrigated ground. Call/text 307-429-8878.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

3 13

Pasture Wanted

Swine

Hay & Feed

SUMMER PASTURE NEEDED for small or big numbers, yearlings or cows. Call 406853-1835 .................... 12/30

WEANER PIGS FOR SALE, located in Powell, WY. For more information, call 307271-1014 ...................... 1/20

ROUND BALE GRASS FOR SALE, FOB Powell, WY. Call 307-254-5115 or 406-4801248 ........................... 12/30

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

Seed

LOOKING FOR SUMMER PASTURE JUNE-SEPTEMBER 2024 AND BEYOND in eastern Wyoming for 100-130 pairs plus bulls. ALSO, we have winter pasture available for 100 head December-March on cash lease or will trade for summer pasture. References available. Call 307-331-4489 ..........12/30 PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. Call 701-523-1235 ........ 1/13

Horses YOUNG RUNNING BRED HORSES FOR SALE: One weanling, 2 yearlings, two 2-year-olds. ALSO, a couple older geldings, one 4-year-old and one 7-year-old. If interested call or text 307-567-1598, if calls don’t go through send a text with your call back number so calls can be returned ..............12/30

Saddles & Tack HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM MOSS SADDLES, BOOTS AND TACK!! We appreciate all your past patronage and look forward to serving you and yours in 2024!! $AVE on BOOTS: HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! WE CAN ship!! Shop Moss Saddles, Boots and Tack, 4648 West Yellowstone Highway, Casper, WY; 307-472-1872. Our family serving yours for 50 years!! Check us out on Facebook or our website........................1/6

Leatherwork LS CUSTOM LEATHER: Belts, tack, cell phone cases and much more!! Contact Lester, 307-631-1053, leave a message. Located in Riverton, WY ................................ 12/30

Sheep

LAMB SCAN

SHEEP & GOAT ULTRASOUND

TODD REINESCH 605-680-4719 25317 364th Avenue Kimball, SD 57355 rchoice@midstatesd.net

Need a new sheep camp or the old one restored? Call us at 785-734-2663. Our camps are handcrafted with hand-forged iron work. We also offer wooden wagon wheel restoration, wheelwright services.

ARE YOU IN NEED OF A NEW HERDER CAMP OR A PERSONAL RANGE CAMP FOR YOUR FAMILY? Contact us at Western Range Camps and see what we can build for you. We specialize in quality, handcrafted camps built to your specifications. Contact us today to design the camp just right for you. Western Range Camps, 435-462-5300, heidi@ wrcamps.com, 1145 S. Blackhawk Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647 ..................................12/30 THREE YEARLING RAMBOUILLET RAMS: Fine wool, open faced, B. ovis negative. Jim McDonald, 307-856-1802 .......... 1/6

Larry’s Seed with Legend Seeds has corn, grain, corn silage, soybeans, alfalfa, sorghum, sunflowers and canola Renova Seeds: Cover Crops, alfalfa, forages, pasture mixes, grass, forage barley and oats. Yield Master Solution Biological Division: Envita allplants nitrogen fixing. Nutriquire for phosphrus and potassium enhancement. Wyoming Division Larry French 307-272-9194 Larryjfrench1950@gmail.com Montana Division Jeremy Robertus 406-853-8554 triangle6livestock@outlook.com

1173 Road 4 • Powell, WY 82435 Hay & Feed

Hay & Feed

ALFALFA HAY FOR SALE

325 TONS MILLET: Round bales, net wrapped, tested safe, good quality. Hillsdale, WY area, $135/ton. Call 307-421-3658 or 307-421-5587 .....................1/6

(406) 600-4146

APPROXIMATELY 150 TONS OF SANFOIN/ORCHARD GRASS MIX HAY FOR SALE: Both first and second cutting available, 4x4 squares, $150/ ton. Located west of Powell, WY, can load. Call 307-202-0532, please leave message ........ 1/6

1st and 2nd Cutting Tarped 3x4 Bales Also Clean Wheat Straw Bozeman, MT

GOOD QUALITY OAT HAY: 3x4 bales. Barn stored; $175/ton. Outside; $150/ton. ALSO, SECOND CUTTING ALFALFA, really good, green, horse quality, 3x4 bales, barn stored $185/ton. Tests available, Lusk, WY. Call Paul Hicks, 970-203-5019 .......................1/13 600 PLUS TONS OF 2023 GRASS HAY: Rounds and 3x4, $175/ton, Encampment, WY. Call 307-321-1444 ............TFN 800 TONS NICE, green grass/ alfalfa mix (80/20); 600 TONS MIX with rain and/or weeds (cow/grinding hay); 300 TONS GRASS HAY, green; 1,000 TONS TRITICALE HAY, mostly green, some with rain; SEVERAL LOADS MILLET HAY, nice!! All types, mostly round bales, some 3x4/4x4. Delivery available. Please call 307-630-3768. Marketed by the Cheyenne, WY area producer ...................1/20 LOTS AND LOTS OF HAY FOR SALE!!! 1,350 lb. round bales, net wrapped. Grass/alfalfa mix, native grass, brome grass, straight alfalfa… Sheridan, WY area. Come and get it!! For pricing, call the ranch, 307-737-2680 or 702-501-4243 (cell)....... 1/20 FIRST CROP ALFALFA WITH A LITTLE GRASS: No rain, tarped. Nice green hay, 3x3 and 3x4 bales. Approximately 300 tons. Carpenter, WY. Call 307630-3937 ..........................1/20 HAY FOR SALE: 3x3 and round bales. Call 605-840-0015 .. 12/30 HAY FOR SALE: Alfalfa/grass (80/20), large round net-wrapped bales, $185/ton, 150 tons first cutting, protein 15%, 190 tons second cutting, protein 18%. ALFALFA/GRASS (50/50), large round net-wrapped bales, $180/ ton, 17 tons second cutting, protein 12%. ALFALFA HAY, large round net-wrapped bales, $180/ ton, 149 tons first cutting, protein 11%, 64 tons second cutting, protein 12%. All hay lab tested. Tests available. Have ability to arrange transport trucks, market price. We will also participate in trucking costs. Call 307-217-0386, e-mail earlkmadsen@gmail.com. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds ................. 1/13

ALFALFA HAY FOR SALE: First, second and third cuttings, round bales, net wrapped. For more information, call Mark, 308-726-5665 .....................1/6 HAY FOR SALE: 2023 millet, first cutting alfalfa/grass mix, second cutting alfalfa. 2023 oat/pea mix and grass mix. ALSO, cornstalk bales. All in net-wrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, 701-690-8116, send a text if voicemail is full or keep trying ............................. 12/30 HAY FOR SALE: 300 tons left of first crop hay with protein ranging between 19.7% and 22.4%, baled mature, but not rained on, bales weigh between 1,500 -1,650 lbs., $160/ton. 400 tons of second crop hay with protein around 21%, baled without rain damage, bales weigh around 1,650-1,800 lbs., $180/ton. 100 tons left of chop hay with 22% protein, contains a few weeds (curly doc) but mostly hay, no rain damage, $140/ton. ALSO, 140 tons of straw left, bales weigh approximately 1,100 lbs., certified weed free, $75/ton. All bales are 4x4x8 in size. Location between Lovell and Powell, WY. Contact 307-272-3712 ........ 1/6 CUSTOM HAY HAULING. Cal, 701-690-8116, send a text if voicemail is full or keep trying......... 1/6 LARGE ROUND BALES OF TEFF GRASS HAY FOR SALE: Net wrapped, was not rained on, top quality. $150/ton, price negotiable for large quantities. Trucking available. Call 308430-3457 if interested .....12/30 FOR SALE: Barley straw, 3x3x8 bales, $60/ton. Located at Cody, WY. Call 307 899-6335 ...12/30 BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/ bale. ALSO, 5x6 round bales, $125/ton. GRAIN/OATS, $20/ cwt. Greybull, WY area. Call 307-762-3878 or 307-899-4714, leave message ...............12/30

2023 ALFALFA AND ALFALFA/GRASS MIX HAY, 3x3 bales barn stored. ALSO, SOME FEEDER HAY and BARLEY STRAW available. Call 307350-0350, Farson, WY .......1/6

COW AND BARN STORED HAY FOR SALE: Grass, grass/ alfalfa mix and alfalfa hay. ALSO HAVE WHEAT HAY, oat hay and straw. Small squares, 3x3s, 3x4s and round bales. Delivery available!! Large quantities still available. Call today for best price, 307-630-3046 .................. 12/30

2023 FIRST CUTTING ALFALFA: Large net-wrapped round bales, located in Cody, WY. Can load. Call for price, 307250-2329........................... 1/6

ROUND BALED GRASS HAY FOR SALE: Cody, WY area, 1,000 lb. net-wrapped bales, $60/bale. Call, don’t text, Anthony at 307-254-2645 ....1/13

Livestock Equipment

Equipment

1,000 TONS LARGE ROUND GRASS BALES: No rain, bales weigh approximately 1,300 lbs. each, $125/ton. Call Pete Bertolino at Roberts, MT, 406-425-1351 ........12/30

Fire Extinguisher The most POWERFUL FIRE EXTINGUISHING TECHNOLOGY is here!! FIRE PRO Extinguishers feature a concentrate used for over 30 years by fire departments, race tracks and the military. This formula is a non-toxic, powerful cooling liquid with foam and requires no maintenance!! Economical, do-it-yourself refill kits are also available. Choose the best for your equipment today!! For more information, call Arlen Coblentz at 307-8509663 ...............................1/13

Vehicles & Trailers 1978 CHEVROLET TITAN, Cummins, 10 speed, in very good shape. 1991 KENWORTH T600 60 series with 1987 Beall 40’ belly dump trailer. Very good condition, ready to work. Call 406-8605448 ........................... 12/30

Equipment

JACKSON AG

Derek Jackson • 307-532-0338 • CHUGWATER, WY

WANTED: HERCULES 4-CYLINDER ENGINE OR PARTS. Model OOB. Used on John Deere #5 combine. Call 308-380-0500 ............. 12/30

Fencing

TWO 6,000 GALLON FUEL TANKS WITH PUMPS. Call or text 406-679-1136 ......... 1/13 EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: Agco 7444 4x4 baler; New Holland 1075 balewagon; Massey Ferguson 2190 4x4 baler; Freeman pull type 3 string balers; Vermeer R23 rake; 3 John Deere 9600 combines; CIH 1010 25’ header; CIH 1015 pick-up header; Challenger MT655C tractor; Komatsu WA500 loader; CIH MX150 loader tractor; New Holland 145 bi-directional tractor; White 30’ disk; John Deere 960 26’ cultivator; New Holland 357 grinder mixer; Modern Mill (mix mill) feed mill; IHC grain truck; Freightliner sleeper truck; WS sleeper truck; Kenworth crane truck, 18 ton, 82’; WS 90 bbl vac truck, Pete 80 bbl vac truck; IHC 80 bbl vac truck; Wilson 53”x102” tri axle cattle pot; Cat 262D skid steer; Mobile Tech 9 yd. volumetric concrete mixer; Degelman 570 rock picker. View equipment at www.bigskyeb.com. Call 406-254-1254 ............... 1/13 FOR SALE: H&S 7+4 18’ and 16’ chuckwagons with bunk feeding extensions and tandem 14 ton running gear. Meyer 18’ chuckwagon with bunk feeding extensions and 14 ton gear, very nice. John Deere 714A and 716A chuckwagons with John Deere running gear and bunk feeding extensions, been shedded, nice condition. For-Most cattle working cute with automatic headgate. 1998 John Deere 4700 self-propelled sprayer, 4,946 hours, 750 gallon aluminum tank, 90’ booms, outback auto steer, without back guidance systems, 2 sets wide and narrow tires and rims. Lorenz 13’x29’ stack mover. Heavy duty 12’ box scraper with tilt. 24’ portable ground hay feeder. Red Devil 8’ snowblower with hydraulic spout. All in very nice condition!! Call 605-999-5482 ............... 1/13

Call Keegan • (208) 775 - 0135

LODGEPOLE PRODUCTS, 307-742-6992, SERVING AGRIBUSINESSES SINCE 1975!! Treated posts, corral poles, buck-and-rail, western rail, fence stays, rough-sawn lumber, bedding. SEE US at www.lodgepoleproducts.com and click our “Picking A Fence Post” tab to see why folks choose our posts!! ....................... TFN

Pipe PIPE FOR SALE!! 2 7/8”, 3 1/2” tubing, 4” drill pipe, 4 1/2” casing, 5” casing, 7” casing. Rods 3/4”, 7/8” and 1” located in Montana, can ship anywhere. Call Mike, 602-758-4447. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds ...................4/20 OILFIELD PIPE: PRICE REDUCED!! RPJ Enterprises, Inc. 2 3/8”, 2 7/8”, 3.5” and 3/4” sucker rod is available. Used for fencing, corrals, cattle guards, etc. 2 3/8” and 2 7/8” are on average 31.5’ long per joint. 3.5” is approximately 42+ lengths and sucker rod is 25 ft. Pierce, CO. Call for details, 970-324-4580......... 2/10

Fencing Used guardrail for sale!! Great for fencing! Thrie-beam & W-beam; 20” & 12” wide panels by 13.5’ long. Truckload quantities available; delivered to your location.

E-mail your ad to denise@wylr.net Pipe PIPE FOR SALE!!

2 7/8”, 3 1/2” tubing, 4" drill pipe, 4 1/2" casing, 5" casing, 7" casing. Rods 3/4", 7/8” and 1" located in Montana, can ship anywhere. Call Mike • 602-758-4447

MORE ADS ON THE NEXT PAGE

14 4

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December December 30, 30, 2023 2023

Irrigation

Irrigation Systems

The choice is simple.

Easier On You.

Big Horn Truck and Equipment

Manderson, WY rairdenjlw@tritel.net • 800-770-6280

Killebrew Irrigation

Your one stop shop for all irrigation needs Lander, WY • (307) 332-3044 • Reinke center pivot sales and field design • Parts for most major irrigation systems • Underground and Surface PVC pipe and fittings • Pumps and Motors • Phase Converters

VIEW OUR CLASSIFIEDS O N L I N E AT w w w. w y l r. ne t

Property for Sale

CALL FOR YOUR SUBSCRIPTION TO THE ROUNDUP TODAY 800-967-1647 OR 307-234-2700 WILKES RANCH is a great opportunity to own a thriving crop and cattle ranch in Goshen County, WY. Includes a nice home, livestock barn and center pivot. This property is well-equipped to support optimal crop and hay production, as well as efficient cattle rotation. Located near Hawk Springs, WY. $800,000. Pictures and video at www. buyaranch.com. Call Casey Essert, Land Broker, 307532-1750 .................... 12/30 OREGON RANCH, Baker City, Baker County, OR. The Alder Creek pasture contains over 2,000 acres of native spring, summer and fall pasture. The rangeland is situated just east of Baker City, OR. The property is in good condition and has good perimeter fencing. The range is gently south facing slope with a variety of native grass. FIRST TIME OFFERING at just over $500 per acre for deeded and contiguous ownership, $1,095,000. Give us a call at 541-523-4434, Intermountain Realty, Inc., Greg Sackos, Principal Broker, James Dunlap, Broker, w w w. i n t e r m o u n t a i n l a n d . com ............................ 12/30

Property for Sale

Property for Rent

Hunting & Fishing

66.856 ACRES, JUST NORTHWEST OF RED LODGE, MT BORDERING THE GOLF COURSE: This property is presently agriculturally zoned, current use is hay and pasture and it is fenced and cross fenced. Enjoy views of several mountain ranges and lots of water, including Spring Creek frontage, mature trees and lush grass. Could be zoned commercially, allowing for development of a number of homesites and/or other commercial ventures. This property is simply loaded with possibilities. Access is off Willow Creek Road. DNRC Right Nos. 43D 216331-00 and 43D 200020-00, Pryde Ditch and West Fork of Rock Creek. $2,300,000. Property to be shown by appointment only and listing agent shall accompany all showings. Sellers ask that prospective buyers respect their privacy. Call Bill at 406-698-9266 for a tour of this parcel ................... TFN

ARIZONA!! RESORT LIVING LOCATED IN SURPRISE, AZ, THE SUN CITY GRAND!! Boasting three pools, fitness centers, golf, etc.!! This beautiful home on the golf course has modern living with all new furnishings. Two bedrooms, plus office, great and formal living and dining rooms. Just minutes from endless restaurants and shopping! Lanai with your personal waterfall facing the greens!! Pictures upon request. $2,500 monthly/5 months minimum. Wyoming owned!! Call Wendy at 307-751-1017 ....1/6

JAN. 11-13: PETSKA FUR WILL BE BUYING ALL RAW/ DRY FUR DEER/ELK HIDES AND ANTLER, IN THE FOLLOWING TOWNS AND LOCATIONS: JAN. 11: Ft. Bridger 3:30-3:50 p.m., Cash Store; Evanston 4:30-5:15 p.m., Prairie Inn. JAN. 12: Kemmerer 7:20-7:40 a.m., Ham’s Fork Station/Sinclair; Cokeville 8:30-8:50 a.m., Flying J Truck Stop; Afton 9:50-10:20 a.m., Afton Country Village; Thayne 10:40-10:50 a.m., Farmer’s Feed (drive thru); Etna 10:50-11 a.m., Etna Trading Post (drive thru); Alpine 11:30 a.m.-12:10 p.m., Grey’s River Saloon; Hoback Jct. 12:40-1:10 p.m., Hoback Market/ Exxon; Bondurant 1:40-2 p.m., Elkhorn Bar (drive thru); Bondurant 1:55-2:10 p.m., Post Office (drive thru); Daniel 2:30-2:50 p.m., The Den; Pinedale 3:10-3:40 p.m., Gannett Sports; Big Piney 4:15-4:30 p.m., Public RR Visitor Info. lot; La Barge 5:15-5:30 p.m., All American Fuel (drive thru); Fontenelle 6 p.m., (drive thru, call Greg on this day only); Green River 7 p.m., Hitching Post. JAN 13: Green River 7:30-7:50 a.m., Hitching Post; Rock Springs 8:20-9 a.m., WY Wool Warehouse; Wamsutter 10-10:10 a.m., Wamsutter Conoco (drive thru); Rawlins 10:50-11:20 a.m., Trails West Meat Processing; Saratoga 12:15-12:45 p.m., Saratoga Feed & Grain (drive thru); Elk Mountain 1:30-1:40 p.m., Conoco on I-80 (drive thru, call Greg); Hanna 1:55-2:05 p.m., Hometown Market (drive thru); Medicine Bow 2:202:40 p.m., JB’s (drive thru); Rock River 2:50-3 p.m., Rancher’s Supply (drive thru); Laramie 3:50-4:50 p.m., West Laramie Fly Shop. For more information, call Greg, 308-750-0700 or visit www.petskafur.net ................................. 1/6

Have Property to Sell? Advertise here! Buildings 2019 ALASKA STRUCTURES 40’x120’ GTX, Category II, enclosed fabric structure. $185,000 OBO. Call 719-6497837, Cody, WY. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds ...........................1/6

Hunting & Fishing JAN. 15-16: PETSKA FUR WILL BE BUYING ALL RAW/ DRY FUR DEER/ELK HIDES AND ANTLER IN THE FOLLOWING TOWNS AND LOCATIONS: JAN. 15: Pine Bluffs 3:45-4 p.m., Sinclair; Burns 4:15-4:30 p.m., Antelope Truck Stop (drive thru, call Greg); Cheyenne 4:50-5:10 p.m., Home on the Range Processing (drive thru). JAN. 16: Cheyenne 7:20-7:50 a.m., Tractor Supply; Chugwater 8:45-9 a.m., Stampede Saloon (drive thru); Wheatland 9:45-10:15 a.m., Wheatland Travel Plaza; Guernsey 10:50-11:10 a.m., Crazy Tony’s; Fort Laramie 11:15-11:20 a.m., Ft. Laramie Bar/Grill (drive thru); Lingle 11:30-11:50 a.m., Ty’s Pit Stop; Torrington 12:1012:40 p.m., Insight Precision Arms; Scottsbluff, NE 1:50-2:20 p.m., Murdoch’s (north side). For more information, call Greg, 308-750-0700 or visit www.petskafur.net ............1/6

BCRC notes drought is not just a summer challenge In a Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) webinar dated Nov. 15, Cattle Producer Jesse Williams of Whiskey Creek Ranch in Alberta, Canada and Western College of Veterinary Medicine Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences Professor and Veterinarian Dr. John Campbell share critical insight on how to ensure a cow herd can best withstand severe or prolonged drought. Prairies are experiencing a common occurrence – drought. Drought conditions result in feed shortages, forcing producers to make critical decisions which can impact productivity and profitability. Drought conditions can cause short-term impacts on feed quality and quantity, while also causing residual effects through the next several years of production. Maintaining body condition “During a drought, feed resources are the limiting factor, and producers have some tough decisions to make around finding feed or culling the herd to ensure cattle maintain a proper body condition score,” says Campbell. “While it might seem tempting to allow cows to drop a condition score, it can cause long-term issues such as reproductive wrecks in the fall,” he adds. “Plus, it is cheaper to maintain cows in good condition than to add condition later when feed

sources are limited.” Another option to reduce a cow’s stress level, which will allow them to stay in better shape, is to consider early weaning or creep feeding. “The cow will sacrifice her own energy reserves to take care of the calf,” says Campbell. “Early weaning can create challenges with marketing or feeding smaller calves, but a dry cow will consume threequarters of the feed a lactating cow with a calf will require.” Weaning sooner than expected can allow producers to stretch feed resources further and help get cows back in better condition for the following year. Cattle health problems Cattle can experience vitamin A deficiencies brought on by drought conditions since the best source of this vitamin is beta-carotene, a pigment in green plants that animals convert to vitamin A. According to Campbell, vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin for cattle, and it plays a crucial role in their vision, kidney function, nervous system and reproductive system. “Cattle can store up to four months of vitamin A in the liver if they eat fresh green forage all summer,” Campbell adds. “However, utilizing a mineral mix will help cost-effectively supplement cattle and ensure they are getting enough vitamin A.” Campbell continues,

“In drought conditions, cows are going through a significant portion of their pregnancy without access to green grass, causing problems in both cows and calves, as they don’t receive an adequate supply of colostrum.” Another common vitamin deficiency resulting from drought is vitamin E. Vitamin E complements the antioxidant functions of vitamin A and helps maintain the integrity of keratin, protecting eyes and boosting immunity. Deficiencies and toxicity Drought conditions also affect water quality. “Water, which may have been acceptable for cattle consumption, may become toxic as summer progresses and evaporation lowers water levels in dugouts, while concentrating mineral levels,” states Williams. Sulfates are a common mineral component present in most water sources, and they can interact and bind with copper, making water unavailable to animals, which can result in copper deficiency. Campbell continues, “There are two main causes of copper deficiency in cattle. First, they are not receiving adequate levels of copper, and second, copper is being bound up in the rumen by other minerals such as sulfates, molybdenum or iron.” Copper deficiency can create low growth rates, impaired fertility, anemia and hair color changes.

“Cattle can also suffer from another trace mineral deficiency – selenium – an essential trace element for ruminants,” Campbell explains. “It is required in cattle for normal growth and fertility and helps prevent other health disorders such as calf scours.” “Another health issue caused by drought conditions that cattle may experience is nitrate toxicity, which can cause oxygen starvation, weakness, tremors and sudden death,” he adds. “Drought-stressed crops which cause nitrate toxicity include barley, canola, sugarbeet tops, flax and sorghum,” he continues. “This can become a problem when grazing or feeding annual crop residue. If cattle ingest plants containing high levels of nitrate, nitrite will accumulate in the rumen.” He notes, “Crops like canola may be diverted to silage during drought, so when feeding alternative forages, utilize feed testing to reduce risk of toxicity and ensure cattle’s nutrient needs are met.” Plan ahead to reduce challenges Feed testing is even more critical with salvaged crops. With many places declaring agricultural states of emergency, producers may have access to alternative feeds like canola, lentils or peas that they would not usually have. These products can be beneficial in extending the

Adobe Stock photo

For more information on drought challenges and solutions, visit beefresearch.ca. grazing season or providing stored feed, but they can also come with issues such as high sulfur levels. “It’s all about adaptation of your animals,” says Williams, “With respect to grazing or feeding alternate crops, giving animals seven to 10 days to transition onto these salvage crops will help their rumen adjust to the different fiber source and can help prevent issues with toxicities.” She adds, “Both water quality and quantity can change rapidly during a drought and frequent water testing and investing in infrastructures, such as portable watering or remote monitoring systems, can help prevent nutrition issues.” “Make plans now for possible shortages next year and know your forage varieties to handle better grazing pressuring during a dry year,” Williams

explains. “Don’t forget – litter matters. Litter has an insulating factor which moderates soil temperature and can help capture small amounts of rainfall.” When conditions become dry, producers often look for ways to reduce stocking rates on pasture to balance cow needs with forage availability. She concludes, “It may be tempting to graze pastures shorter than normal, but leaving litter is more important. It will speed up pasture recovery in the long run and help prevent further deterioration.” Keeping some of these points in mind may help prevent short-term decisions from having longlasting effects on the herd. Melissa Anderson is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

2024 continued from page 1 According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, this caused the average price of eggs to soar as high as 60 percent. April and May were a bit of a rollercoaster for the industry. On April 3, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) published a proposed Public Lands Rule to establish conservation as an equal priority in its multiple-use doctrine, initiating a wave of controversy and dividing public lands users across the West. Also in April, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) launched their $3.1 billion climate smart initiative. The month of May brought a few notable ag policy decisions. On the downside, California’s Proposition 12 was upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. However, the industry saw a huge win when the court issued a favorable decision in Sackett vs. the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) case, requiring the EPA to revise their definition of the ever controversial Waters of the U.S. The BLM found itself in the spotlight again in August upon announcing the Rock Springs Resource Management Plan, which

was not met with a favorable response from Sweetwater County or residents of Wyoming in general. Throughout the year, a tight cattle inventory resulted in continuous record-high beef prices, although beef exports slowed from their record highs in 2022. Pork exports were strong, increasing 5.7 percent year-over-year, according to USDA, although prices were lower on average than the previous year, and the sheep and lamb industry faced unprecedented challenges throughout the year, with prices in rapid decline. Looking forward to 2024 With another year of highs and lows in the rearview, many are looking forward to the new year, and experts have started to release their projections for what the ag industry will see in 2024. According to CoBank’s 2024 Year Ahead Report, released Dec. 14, the U.S. economy has remained steady despite “an unrelenting series of shocks over the last three years.” “Higher interest rates, a strong U.S. dollar and resiliency of the U.S. economy have weighed heav-

ily on agricultural commodity prices,” states the report. “But, the bigger problem for farm margins heading into 2024 is the elevated cost of production.” “Global grain and oilseed stock inventories are tight by historic measures and the northern hemisphere will likely have a strong El Niño weather pattern during the growing season for the first time since 2015,” CoBank continues. “The dollar should continue its recent decline and global demand should return to its long-term growth trend.” Animal protein and dairy Because beef cow numbers continue to fall, tightening supply and raising prices, USDA projects red meat consumption will be down nearly 1.8 percent in the coming year, with Americans consuming an average of 224 pounds of meat in 2024. CoBank notes this shrink in supply will cause packers to struggle through the new year. “However, profitability for the U.S. livestock sector should improve modestly in 2024, as lower feed costs and steadfast domestic demand offset weak global export conditions,” CoBank shares. “Tighter cattle numbers, flat pork supplies and dampened broiler availabil-

Cull cow numbers reported According to Josh Maples of Mississippi State University, nationwide beef cow slaughter has been 11 percent lower in 2023 than it was in 2022. However, slaughter totals are still above the five-year average from 2017-21. Beef cow slaughter levels in 2022 were exceptionally high and were a key reason for the lower beef cow and calf crop totals in 2023. An interesting statistic for 2023 is since Sept. 1,

beef cow slaughter is only down six percent compared to the same period in 2022. Beef cow slaughter data is reported regionally. Region Six, comprised of Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas, is the largest in terms of total head for 2023. Year-to-date beef cow slaughter for this region is reported at 840,700 head, a 17 percent decline from the 2022 level. Since Sept. 1, beef cow

SALE REPORTS Bobcat Angus 19th Annual Production Sale Reported By: Curt Cox, WYLR Field Editor Dec. 15, 2023 Western Livestock Auction, Great Falls, Mont. Auctioneers: Joe Goggins and Greg Goggins 145 Angus Bulls Avg. $5,911 25 Older Registered Bred Angus Cows Avg. $2,534 677 Commercial Bred Heifers Avg. $2,608 113 Young Commercial Bred Cows Avg. $2,728 One Ranch Gelding $12,500 Top Sellers Bulls Lot 27 – Bobcat FairN-Square K198 – Price: $17,500 DOB: 8/30/22 Sire: Myers Fair-N-Square M39 Dam’s Sire: WK Bobcat EPDs: BW: +1.5, WW: +75, YW: +138 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Glennie Ranches, Two Dot, Mont. Lot 9 – Bobcat Pacific L11 – Price: $13,500

DOB: 2/15/23 Sire: Sterling Pacific 904 Dam’s Sire: Sitz JLS Game Day 9630 EPDs: BW: +2.2, WW: +81, YW: +144 and Milk: +28 Buyer: 3C Cattle, Stevensville, Mont. Lot 29 – Bobcat Satisfaction K201 – Price: $13,000 DOB: 8/30/22 Sire: Schaack Satisfaction Dam’s Sire: Vermilion Spur B024 EPDs: BW:

slaughter is 11 percent below 2022 levels. Cull cow prices have been above 2022 levels for most of the year – driven in part by tighter supplies of cull cows. Cull prices have increased in recent weeks despite this being a time of year when prices would seasonally decrease. Dry conditions, high input costs and strong cull cow prices are a few factors contributing to relatively high culling levels in 2023. -0.5, WW: +75, YW: +130 and Milk: +30 Buyer: Glennie Ranches, Two Dot, Mont. Lot 3 – Bobcat Doc Ryan L2 – Price: $13,000 DOB: 2/8/23 Sire: T/D Doc Ryan 049 Dam’s Sire: EXAR Denver 2002B EPDs: BW: +2.3, WW: +79, YW: +135 and Milk: +26 Buyer: Kevin Nelson, Richland, Mont. Lot 1 – Bobcat Pacific L1 – Price: $12,000 DOB: 1/22/23 Sire: Sterling Pacific 904 Dam’s Sire: Apex Klondike EPDs: BW +2.1, WW: +78, YW: +137 and Milk: +21 Buyer: Kevin Nelson, Richland, Mont. Lot 66 – Bobcat Power Surge K112 – Price: $11,000 DOB: 3/13/22 Sire: Carter Power Surge Dam’s Sire: EPDs: BW: +3.3, WW: +78, YW: +143 and Milk: +28 Buyer: Triangle Cattle Company, Carter, Mont.

ity would normally be seen as supportive to margins, but all segments have been fighting rising costs of production,” CoBank continues. “With expansion plans on hold due to the high-cost environment, the industry’s focus on efficiency and technology is expected to intensify and risk management will remain paramount.” According to USDA, steer prices in the leading five cattle states – Nebraska, Texas, South Dakota, Kansas and Oklahoma – will average $185 per hundredweight (cwt) in 2024, up from $177.30 in 2023. The department also projects the farm-gate price of hogs will climb by $1.75 per cwt, but prices for broiler chickens and eggs will fall. As far as trade goes, CoBank further notes U.S. animal protein will remain competitive in global markets but open access to markets is critical. According to CoBank, although dairy demand faces some uncertainty, dairy product sales are expected to grow in 2024, led by sales of cheese, butter and yogurt. “However, this growth will be at a slightly slower pace, as U.S. consumers will be pressured by reduced household savings, growing credit card debt and higher

interest rates,” CoBank says. “If global dairy demand picks up, the U.S. is poised to fill orders, as the other major dairy export regions all show signs of static milk production growth,” CoBank continues. “Lower feed costs and improved cow productivity should spur additional U.S. milk production.” Grains, farm supplies, biofuels CoBank points out the renewable diesel boom and smaller U.S. soybean harvest of 2023 will drive an expansion of soybean acreage in 2024, reducing acres available for other crops. USDA agrees, projecting an increase in soybean planting of 3.7 million acres and a reduction in corn and wheat planting of a combined five million acres in the new year. “With normal weather and yields, the soybean crop could be the largest ever at 4.475 billion bushels,” USDA explains. “Upland cotton would expand by 1.6 million acres.” In its 10-year baseline projections, USDA forecasts crop prices in 2024 to average $4.50 per bushel for corn, $11.30 per bushel for soybeans and $6.30 per bushel for wheat. “The biofuel sector at large carries the momentum of historically large profit

margins into the new year,” CoBank states. “Both ethanol producers and soybean crushers are benefiting from rising demand for biofuels.” “The grain and oilseed price outlook hinges largely on the value of the U.S. dollar, conditions of wheat in Russia and harvests of corn and soybeans in South America,” adds CoBank. Power and energy Additionally, CoBank’s report notes global conflict and political friction in the Middle East and Eastern Europe have created significant uncertainty in the power and energy sector. “Complicating matters further, global suppliers are reconciling the prospect of an accelerated energy transition with the realities of today’s fossil fuel-dependent economies,” CoBank shares. “Nevertheless, oil prices have fallen five percent in the fourth quarter as the economy slows and inventories rise. But, it is unlikely the current market calm will persist.” “The World Bank asserted if conflict-driven market disruptions escalate, oil prices could potentially blow past $150 per barrel in 2024,” the report concludes. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

RAFTER T ANGUS ANNUAL BULL SALE, JANUARY 13, 2024 1:00 PM MST | Buffalo, Wyoming | Buffalo Livestock Marketing

ANGUS BULLS guaranteed to produce POUNDS THAT PAY COMMITTED TO PROVIDING COMMERCIAL CATTLEMEN IN THE GREAT PLAINS REGION WITH ANGUS PERFORMANCE-BASED BULLS BRED FOR PRODUCING POUNDS THAT WILL PAY. OFFERING 100+ BRED FEMALES! 65 AI BRED COMMERCIAL ANGUS BRED HEIFERS AND 42 F-1 CROSS THREE-YEAR-OLD COWS

RTA Sharps 367 / AAA# 20779809 Coleman Rock 7200 x S A V Supercharger 6813

OFFERING 60 ANGUS BULLS BUILT ON PERFORMANCE AND PROVEN COW FAMILIES!

RTA Resilient 3013 / AAA# 20779840 Sitz Resilient 10208 x S A V Resource 1441

VIEW BULL SALE VIDEOS AND OUR ONLINE SALE CATALOG NOW! WWW.RAFTERTANGUS.COM

Enter to Win!

Visit our website, www.raftertangus.com to request a sale catalog today! ENTER TO WIN A $500 SALE DAY CREDIT by requesting a catalog, and register to bid at the sale or online to double your chances to win! A winner will be announced on sale day.

RANGE DEVELOPED BULLS, NO CREEP FEED • FIRST BREEDING SEASON GUARANTEE SALE VIDEOS ONLINE MID-DECEMBER AT RAFTERTANGUS.COM

Kale, Kim, Galen & Zane Kretschman 307-736-2415 / 307-299-4569 / raftertangus@gmail.com 721 Middle Prong Road Gillette, WY 82716 Sale broadcasted on DVAuction.com

R E Q U E S T A C ATA L O G O N L I N E O R C A L L U S TO D AY !

www.raftertangus.com / 307-736-2415

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 35 No. 36 • December 30, 2023

IT'S THE PITTS by Lee Pitts

King Of The Wild Frontier As a child, I wanted to grow up and be just like David “Davy” Crockett. Many a day was spent with my trusty BB gun and coon skin cap hunting for “bar” in the backyard. When he was alive, I used to go out of my way to stay at a hotel owned by Fess Parker, simply because he was the “King of the Wild Frontier.” Although, I never pictured Crockett in the hospitality trade.

So, one can imagine my disappointment when I read the book, “Davy Crockett’s Own Story,” that Crockett’s hat was not made of coon skin but of fox. And heaven forbid, he spent just as much time being a politician as he did hunting for bear. I know these are facts because the book was written by Crockett himself, and he would never lie to me. What Crockett was really

good at was storytelling, and after reading some of his tall tales, I aspire to be like him now more than ever. After getting to know Crockett, I like the man even more than the myth. We tend to think Crockett ate nothing but bear grease and wild turkey, but he liked eating beef and he often shot for them. No, he didn’t shoot other people’s cattle – he contested for their beef. “In the latter part of summer, when their cattle got very fat, some of the folks desirous of raising money on one of their fatted beeves would advertise on a particular day a first-rate beef would be shot for,” recalls Crockett. Each shooter would buy chances at the beef. Each

chance cost a quarter and entitled individuals to one shot at a target. The owner of the beef would sell enough chances to pay for the beef. Two non-shooting woodsmen were selected as judges, but as Crockett remarked, “Many a judge was like a handle on a jug – all on one side.” Every shooter took however many shots he’d paid for. The person who was fifth closest to the X on their target received a front quarter of beef, as did the fourth place finisher. The third and second closest to the mark each took a hindquarter. Guess what the grand prize was. “The shot that drives the center or comes closest to it got the hide and tallow, which

is considered first choice,” explains Crockett. “The sixth closest to the mark got the booby prize – the lead in the tree against which we shot.” Crockett was a good shot, but perhaps not as great as his reputation. When the citizens of Philadelphia made a present to Crockett of his beloved rifle, Betsy, they asked him to display his marksmanship in a shooting match with Philadelphia’s finest. In the first round, Crockett won as expected. But in the next round, a local marksman put his lead right through the center of the target, and afterwards, Crockett missed the target entirely. The crowd was aghast, but Crockett employed a little trick he probably learned in

politics. He went to the target and sneakily shoved a piece of lead into the bullseye while he was pretending to examine the target. Then he explained to the crowd, “I think if you will examine the target, you will find two lead balls in that hole.” Sure enough, when the officials dug out the bullseye, they found two pieces of lead, and the legend of Davy Crockett was preserved. Crockett was a decent fellow who had to work hard to catch up to his growing reputation. He likened fame to what a fellow named Pat said as he fell from a tall church steeple, “This would be mighty pleasant now, if only it would last.”

Endangered Species Act threatens pesticide use Todd Baughman, Oklahoma State University Extension weed scientist, says herbicide resistance is the number one troubling topic producers cite at grower meetings. “It’s at the top of their list of issues we have to address,” Baughman said at the recent Texas Plant Protection Association Annual Meeting in Bryan, Texas. Resistance, however, challenging as it is, might not be the issue keeping weed scientists awake at night in the near future. “I would surmise the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and how it could affect pesticides is way more important than herbicide resistance,” Baughman said. A key sticking point, and one that frustrates Baughman and others closely tied to crop protection programs, is the lack of communication between those who write the

regulations and those who understand how those regulations affect agriculture and other industries. He cited several instances where pesticides were restricted without regulators conferring with knowledgeable scientists and agencies most closely aligned with the need for restrictions and the impact these regulations would have on product use and ability to manage pests. Baughman acknowledged the need to protect species. “I think it’s important to realize we have a history of wanting to preserve species in the U.S., and it didn’t just start with the ESA,” he said. “We can look back to 1900 when the first law was enacted to start protecting certain species. So, it has a long history in our country. I think we should be proud of that.”

ESA regulation confusion The regulations and the process of creating them has gotten more confusing. “We should want to protect species,” Baughman said. “I hope nobody in this room would disagree with this point.” He noted the law most people are familiar with was not the first Endangered Species Preservation Act. One dates back to 1966, and one in 1969 was enacted to seriously start protecting species. “The one we’re most familiar with, the one we’re following the regulations of now, was signed in 1973 by Richard Nixon,” Baughman shared. “This law was passed with bipartisan support, which I would say is definitely unusual in today’s political climate. Legislators agreed this was an important issue,” he added. According to Baughman,

regulations include more than protecting specific species. “Those laws include critical habitat, which will come into play as we move forward with this issue,” he said. He further noted the ESA provides protection for endangered species. “The ESA’s goal is to protect threatened or endangered species and their habitats. However, the part that gets ignored is the phrase ‘without placing unnecessary burden on agriculture and pesticide users,’” he pointed out. Recently, through lawsuits, the ESA has served as a means “to vacate registrations and restrict the use of various pesticides.” Baughman said the most publicized action was the 2022 “vacation of the use of registered dicamba products – Engenia, Xtendimax and FeXapan – in dicamba tolerant cotton and soybeans.

“This caused much consternation because it occurred during the growing season after tolerant crops had already been planted. A continuing concern among applicators and crop producers is this law could be used to jeopardize use of pesticides in the future,” Baughman stated. “Additional concerns are district courts are setting law through these judgements.” Where’s the science? What is also concerning, according to Baughman, is decisions from these courts are made with inadequate understanding of the science involved in creating, testing, registering and using these products. “Those decisions will affect future registration and reregistration of pesticides, as well as ‘potential loss or increased regulation through labeling and language restricting use,’”

Baughman said. “These decisions could make pesticide application difficult, if not nearly impossible, in large-scale production agriculture. This ultimately should concern anyone involved in agricultural production,” he continued. Baughman also noted he is encouraged the ESA has worked with agriculture to sort out some of the questionable restrictions. He also encouraged consultants, producers and others who work with or depend on crop protection products to be aware of pending restrictions. “Follow legislation. Be alert to the debates going on and take advantage of the public comment opportunities,” he concluded. “Agricultural has to be more involved in the process.” Ron Smith is an editor for Farm Progress. This article was originally published in Farm Progress on Dec. 18.

RIVERTON LIVESTOCK AUCTION Tuesday, January 2 • No Sale Early Consignments FRIDAY, JANUARY 5 COW SALE • START TIME 9:00 AM BREDS @ NOON LAST FRIDAY SALE! BRED COWS Double D Ranch- 20 Blk Ang Bred ST Cows. Bred to SO Cattle Blk Ang bulls to calve March & April. High desert cows!

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS, LOAD LOTS @ 10:30 AM EARLINGS Brad Carlson- 25 Blk PTO Yrlng Hfrs 850# CALVES Arapahoe Ranch- 500 Blk AngX Strs & Hfrs 400500#. 100% all natural. High elevation. No hormones. IMI Global certified. Sired by Diamond Peak & small % Colyer Hereford bulls. Very high quality! JF Ranch- 215 Blk Ang Strs 500-550# 200 Blk Ang Hfrs 500-550#. 50 Blk Ang Bulls 500-550#. All calves are weaned and rec complete vacc @ branding & weaning. Poured @ weaning. Been weaned on Long stemmed hay and pasture. Fancy, high elevation & Reputation!! Brad Carlson- 300 Blk Ang & AngX Strs 500-600#. Rec Pyramid 5, Once PMH & Vision 7 w/Somnus @ branding & Precon (11-1). Weaned a long time. Bunk broke. Knife cut. High Desert! Emmi & Waldo Tarango- 200 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs

500-600#. Rec Once PMH Pasteurella, Express 5 & 7 way w/Spur @ branding. Rec Express 7 w/Pasteurella & 7 way w/Somnus & wormed @ weaning. Weaned 45 days+. Fancy, high elevation calves! Brook Miller- 175 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 500600#. Rec Pyramid 5, Once PMH & Vision 7 w/ Somnus @ branding & Precon (11-1). Weaned a long time. Bunk broke. Knife cut. High Desert! Jason & Laura Lozier- 140 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 550-625#. Rec Vista Once SQ & Vision 8 w/ Somnus @ branding & weaning(11-1). Weaned on Pasture & Hay. Sired by Lucky 7 Angus bulls. High elevation! G&E Livestock- 132 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 500600#. Rec Inforce III & Ultrachoice 8 @ branding, Ultrachoice 8, Bovishield Gold, Safeguard & Clean-Up @ weaning. Sired by Riverbend bulls. Weaned 50+ days. High desert, high elevation. Jim Eaton- 120 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 550600#. Rec Nasalgen & C&D @ branding, Vista Once SQ & Vision7 w /Somnus on Nov 13th @ weaning. No implants. Knife cut. Hay fed. High desert & fancy! C&D Livestock- 120 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 425-475#. Comp vacc. Long time weaned. Fancy! Jerry Farwell- 95 CharX Strs & Hfrs 650-700#. Comp vacc @ branding & weaning. Weaned 60 days. Bunk broke. Nice calves! Huxtable/McKee Ranch- 70 Blk Ang Hfrs 600650#. Rec Vista Once & Vision 7 @ branding & Precon(9-19) + Nasalgen & Ivermectin. Weaned 90 days. High desert & Reputation! Steve & Trudy Slagowski- 60 Blk & few BWF(F1) Hfrs 500-600#. 10 Blk Ang Strs 500#. All calves have Rec 2 rounds of Vista Once SQ & Vision 8. Weaned 90

days, hay fed, mineral tubs, bunk broke. Sired by Diamond Peak Blk Ang bulls & Durbin Creek Herefords. High Desert! Armstrong Ranch- 60 Red/RWF/Blk Strs & Hfrs 400-650#. Rec Vista Once SQ & Vision 7 w/Somnus @ branding & weaning(10-25). Been out on grass meadows & hay fed. Anipro Mineral program. Reputation, high desert, high performance calves! Jay Rodewald- 54 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 500-600#. Rec Vision 7 w/Somnus + Spur, Vista 5 & Once PMH IN @ branding & Precon. Safeguard @ weaning (10-31). Sired by good Blk Ang bulls. Bunk Broke. Knife Cut. No Hormones. Nice calves! Jim Yoder- 45 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 500600#. Rec Vista Once, Nasalgen & Vision 8 @ branding. Weaned 60 days. Bunk broke. Mineral program all summer. Gary Barney- 29 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 500-700#. Rec Vista Once SQ & Nasalgen @ branding & weaning. Poured this fall. Weaned 60+ days. High desert!

TUESDAY, JANUARY 16 BRED COW SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS, CALVES @ 10:30 BRED COWS Scot Weber - 30 Blk, BWF & Hereford 4-8 Yr old Bred Cows. Bred to Fisher Hereford Bulls to start calving 3-1 for 45 days. Rec Pinkeye, Multi Min & Safeguard @ preg check. High elevation. Bred up close! Complete Dispersal!

TUESDAY, JANUARY 23 ALL CATTLE CLASSES START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS, BREDS @ NOON

TUESDAY, JANUARY 30 ALL CATTLE CLASSES W/ SHEEP & HORSES START TIME 9:00 AM W/ SHEEP & WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS

All sales are broadcast live on the internet at www.cattleusa.com. Please register online to bid on livestock. Be sure to check out our country cattle listings at www.cattleusa.com

Contact: Riverton Livestock Auction (307) 856-2209 • Jeff Brown (307) 850-4193 • Tom Linn (307) 728-8519 • Mark Winter (580) 747-9436 www.rivertonlivestock.com • Also watch our live cattle auction at www.cattleusa.com

1490 South 8th Street East • River ton, WY 82501 • (307) 856-2209