Check
Disease
Wyoming wind projects cause rifts in communities
Two potential wind projects slated to place turbines on state and private property in eastern Wyoming are causing division in small communities.
In April, the State Board of Land Commissioners approved the application for wind energy leases on four-
Quick Bits
Rodeo Set
The Ten Sleep Rodeo Association will host the 80th Annual Ten Sleep Fourth of July Rodeo this year on July 4-5. The celebration will kick off on July 4 at 10 a.m. with the Ten Sleep Parade, followed by a rodeo performance at 1:30 p.m. and a street dance at 8 p.m. On July 5, slack will start at 10 a.m., followed by a rodeo performance at 5 p.m. and a street dance at 8 p.m. For more information, visit tensleeprodeoassociation. com or call 307-251-7693.
Angus Tour
The 52nd Annual Montana Angus Tour is set for Sept. 30-Oct. 2 in Butte, Mont. The tour includes stops at Stevenson’s Down T Angus, Mile High Ranch, Fort Logan Ranch, Timber Line Ranch, Veltkamp Angus, VanDyke Angus, Kimm Angus, Headwaters Livestock Auction, Thousand Hills Angus, Hamilton Angus, Armstrong Angus, Hollow Top Angus, Sitz Anus, KC Ranch, Elmose Angus, Montana State University, Circle L Angus, Toyne Angus, Centennial Livestock and Reminisce Angus. The Copper King Hotel and Convention Center will serve as the event’s host hotel. For more information or to register, visit mtangus.org
NFR Open
Professional rodeo champions from the U.S. and Canadian circuits, plus national champs from Mexico will gather in Colorado Springs, Colo. July
8-12 for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) Open at the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo. Payouts are over $1 million, and the competition will be fierce. Evening performances will take place Tuesday through Saturday, and matinee performances will be held on Friday and Saturday. Grounds open at 10 a.m. for matinee performances and 4 p.m. for evening performances. Tickets are available online at pikespeakorbust.org
to-one votes, with Secretary of State Chuck Gray casting the dissenting vote.
Following this vote, a Glenrockarea rancher filed litigation against the board. Public meetings are highlighting the chasm between the potential for increased revenue and environmental
and viewshed concerns.
Wind projects in Wyoming
Both projects are proposed by Acciona, a Nordex shareholder based in Spain, and Nordex Green Hydrogen, a turbine manufacturer, which
BEEF INDUSTRY OUTLOOK
CattleFax expert shares insight into what lies ahead for the U.S. cattle
Unwavering demand for U.S. beef, record-high prices for live cattle and indications of a herd rebuild have market experts optimistic about the future.
During the 2025 Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show, hosted by the Wyoming Stock Growers Association June 2-4 in Laramie, CattleFax Director of Global Meat Analysis and Research Mike Miller dived into what lies ahead for the U.S. cattle market.
“Overall, our industry is very healthy. Hopefully, we can continue some of this momentum so 2026 is a bit better than we planned for,” he stated.
Herd rebuild
In line with the resounding message CattleFax
market
experts have shared across the nation, Miller noted there are several indications the U.S. cattle herd may be rebuilding following its 70-plus year low.
First, he pointed out drought has been one of the biggest reasons producers were downsizing, but he believes the U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) looks better than it’s looked for the past couple of years for “beef country.”
“The southeast part of the country is in pretty good shape, and it’s home to about 25 percent of the nation’s cattle,” he said. “Then we’ve got about two-thirds of all mama cows in the country located in the South
Please see OUTLOOK on page 4
Skavdahl joins Roundup team
The Wyoming Livestock Roundup team is excited to welcome Grace Skavdahl to the role of editor.
Originally from Nebraska, Skavdahl grew up on her family’s cattle ranch near Agate Fossil Beds. A fifthgeneration rancher, she spent her childhood riding horses and learning the tools of the family trade alongside her two younger brothers and an abundance of cousins.
Skavdahl attended elementary school at a one-room country schoolhouse and was one of six students in her high school graduating class.
Skavdahl attended college in Providence, R.I., earning a bachelor’s degree in English with honors in nonfiction writing from Brown University in 2023. She competed with the Brown Equestrian Team throughout college, adding Hunt Seat Equitation and a bit of show jumping practice to her riding resume.
Skavdahl spent two additional years on the East Coast after graduation, working with Brown Athletics as a sportswriter and videographer. She has also worked with the National Western Stock Show, College National Finals Rodeo and Professional Bull Riders.
Outside of work, Skavdahl enjoys spending time with horses and baking recipes passed down from her mother and
Disease Management
Congress introduces new FAD control legislation in light of rising concerns
As reports of foreign animal diseases (FAD) draw closer to the U.S. border, Congress is taking a proactive approach to protecting the American animal agriculture industry.
On June 11, U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson (R-TX) reintroduced the Foreign Animal Disease Prevention, Surveillance and Rapid Response Act of 2025 to the House, with support from coleaders Don Bacon (R-NE), Don Davis (D-NC) and Jim Costa (D-CA).
An amendment to the Animal Health Protection Act, this legislation will reauthorize animal disease prevention and management programs crucial to combatting the threat of FAD outbreaks.
Influence and objectives
The Foreign Animal Disease Prevention, Surveillance and Rapid Response Act of 2025 would provide essential long-term funding for infrastructure aimed at preventing, controlling and eradicating FAD. Programs like the National Animal Health Laboratory Network, the National Animal Disease
COUNTY FAIR FEATURE
For so many across the Cowboy State, the annual county fair is a fun and exciting time to celebrate agriculture and the Western way of life. For competitors like Brylee Rodgers, it’s also an opportunity to see countless hours of hard work and preparation finally pay off.
A native of Casper, Rodgers originally got involved with showing through a family friend who wanted her to exhibit a steer for them.
This will be Rodgers’ seventh year showing at the Central Wyoming Fair.
She will be exhibiting six animals in total across three divisions and has been working with her 4-H and FFA breeding ewes, market steers and breeding heifers since last September.
Keeping busy
Caring for six show animals and making time for competitive travel in addition to the daily duties of ranch life is a full-time job in itself, but Rodgers prefers things this way.
“I wouldn’t know what I’d be doing if
Kadra Marie Photography
Just hearing the words “endangered species” frightens many in the business of production agriculture across the West.
It isn’t because of the species itself – unless it is a predator – but once the species is listed, restrictions and baggage under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) cause concern for farmers and ranchers.
Throughout the years, I’ve visited with some individuals who helped write the ESA, which was approved by Congress in December of 1973. They say they don’t recognize the act today because of all the changes brought on by lawsuits and court judges.
I think the original intent was to help species recover and get them off the list, but while many listed species have seen recovered numbers and habitat, they are still deemed “endangered,” such as the grizzly bear and wolf.
One species of great concern for ranchers and farmers across the West is the sage grouse, which many against production agriculture or energy want to list as endangered. Sometimes I think this has more to do with controlling lands than protecting the bird.
Recently, producers caught a breath of fresh air when a study was published by the University of Idaho, which found, “Moderate cattle grazing on public lands does not reduce sage grouse nest success, according to a newly published 10-year study. The findings suggest sage grouse and cows can coexist on the same land in southern Idaho.”
Many western states have land similar to southern Idaho, so this makes a lot of western ranchers happy, as we were told not to graze on lands when sage grouse are nesting.
“Nesting success and insect biomass don’t seem to be affected by low to moderate levels of cattle grazing,” says Courtney Conway, University of Idaho professor of wildlife sciences and the leader of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit.
The idea for the extensive sage grouse and cattle grazing research project was brought on by opposition to spring cattle grazing on federal lands in the early 2000s and a lack of science to inform the debate.
The decade-long research project wrapped up data col lection in August 2023, and the full study is now published and publicly available.
The 10-year study was funded by the U.S. Forest Ser vice, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, USGS and the Bureau of Land Management.
Before the study, federal land managers were making decisions without a lot of science to back these decisions.
Before decisions were made, ranchers had been grazing sage grouse nesting areas with cattle and sheep for years, and sage grouse numbers were high. There are, of course, other factors involved, but one still can’t discount the high numbers of sage grouse at the time.
Some radical environmental groups will publicly denounce the study, but they really don’t have science behind them.
We applaud Congress for currently trying to change the ESA, but we realize there are some who are against chang ing it. Maybe this study will help get the act changed.
GUEST OPINIONS
Checkoff-Funded Storytelling Builds Consumer Trust by Closing the Gap Between Producers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Today, fewer than 1.5 percent of U.S. residents make their living by farming or ranching. This is a far cry from when my husband’s ancestors first homesteaded Potmesil Ranch in the Nebraska Sandhills and my grands and great-grands farmed the fertile soil in Illinois.
My husband Scott is the fifth generation here, managing our Angus
By Becky Potmesil
cow/calf operation with a focus on genetics, leading to easier calving and lower birth weights but higher weaning weights.
Like the generations before us, we pay close attention to temperature, weather patterns, rainfall, the onset of cool and warm-season grasses, bird migration and other ecological events.
DENNIS
But it’s not just about observing the land, it’s about preserving it. We avoid overgrazing, rotate pastures, lease land in dry years and supplement our cattle’s feed as necessary to reduce pressure on our native grasses.
Our goal is always the same
We’ve kept handwritten records for decades because we know the land tells a story, if you’re paying attention.
From the Publisher
Dennis Sun
BLM seeks comments
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public comment on a preliminary environmental assessment for the proposed Quarter Circle 7 land exchange in northern Campbell County. The public comment period ends on June 23.
The BLM and Quarter Circle 7 Ranch propose to exchange approximately 1,268 acres of private land for up to 1,491 acres of isolated and scattered BLM-administered parcels. If approved, the exchange would unlock access to more than 2,000 acres of public land nominated by the public through the Dingell Act, creating an approximately 8,500-acre contiguous block of public lands.
The BLM provided a 45-day public scoping period in 2022 to gather early input.
Many of the identified federal lands currently provide little or no public access, making these lands difficult to manage and providing little value to the public. Consolidating federal lands and removing isolated federal inholdings from private lands would improve both the BLM’s and the private ranch’s abilities to manage these lands.
To review the environmental assessment and submit comments, visit eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2019435/570
Comments may also be submitted by e-mail to BLM_ WY_Buffalo_WYMail@blm.gov or by mail to BLM Buffalo Field Office, Attn: Quarter Circle 7 Land Exchange, 1425 Fort Street, Buffalo, WY 82834.
For more information, contact the Buffalo Field Office at 307-684-1100.
ICE raids continue
According to a June 17 Northern Ag Network article, despite recent comments by President Donald Trump indicating a pause on immigration raids at farms and other labor-intensive worksites, federal agents were instructed to continue enforcement operations at agricultural businesses, hotels and restaurants.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids recently hit California farms and a meat processor in Nebraska, arresting at least 70 workers.
Although the White House told ICE to avoid ag and hospitality raids, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security later reaffirmed enforcement, with officials stating there would be “no safe spaces” for those undermining ICE efforts.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins reportedly played a role in urging restraint, and ag groups welcomed Trump’s earlier remarks. The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) and the National Council of Agricultural Employers both praised the president’s recognition of the sector’s labor needs.
AFBF President Zippy Duvall said, “Farmers cannot care for crops and animals without the contributions of dedicated employees.”
He emphasized current programs like the H-2A Visa Program are broken, urging Congress to fix the “farm labor crisis” or risk leaving produce unharvested and food prices rising.
Meanwhile, the Department of Labor announced a June 25 webinar to guide producers on ag labor law compliance, including H-2A and migrant worker protections.
Still, groups like United Farm Workers remain skeptical, noting enforcement in farmworker communities continued despite the president’s comments. The White House maintains “anyone present in the U.S. illegally is at risk of deportation.”
BLM approves gather plan
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has approved plans for how the agency will manage the gather and removal of wild horses from the Adobe Town Herd Management Area in south-central Wyoming.
This gather will remove approximately 1,675 excess wild horses. The area includes nearly 348,000 acres of mostly public lands managed by the BLM, intermingled with some private lands. Recent infrared aerial surveys have shown wild horse populations exceed the established appropriate management level of 259 to 536 wild horses in the area. Removal operations are planned to begin in the summer or fall of 2025. This multi-year gather plan will also allow for similar actions in future years when the BLM determines populations exceed appropriate levels.
Upon arrival at designated holding facilities, the horses will be checked by a veterinarian and readied for the agency’s wild horse adoption and sales programs.
BLM staff and contractors will use the best available science and handling practices for wild horses while meeting overall gather goals and objectives in accordance with the Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program.
For more information, contact the Rawlins Field Office at rawlins_wymail@blm.gov or 307-328-4200.
BLM seeks input
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Wyoming State Office opened a 30-day public comment period to receive public input on plans to include 99 oil and gas leases, totaling 84,010.8 acres in Wyoming in a December 2025 sale.
The comment period ends on July 17.
The BLM completed scoping on these parcels in May 2025 and is now seeking public comment on the parcels, potential deferrals and the related environmental analysis. The BLM will use input from the public to help complete its review of each parcel.
All parcels included in a federal oil and gas lease sale include appropriate stipulations to protect important natural resources.
Information on current and upcoming BLM leases is available through the National Fluid Lease Sale System. BLM lease sales are held online through EnergyNet.
The parcels BLM is analyzing, as well as maps and instructions on how to comment, are available at eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2037704/510
Website offers new resources
The Secure Beef Supply (SBS) website, found at securebeef.org/, has been redesigned to better serve the growing number of users seeking both updated and classic biosecurity resources.
Thanks to funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) led a collaborative effort to increase awareness of SBS and foot-and-mouth disease.
In 2023, an advisory group was formed to guide this initiative, incorporating feedback from nearly 50 stakeholders including producers, veterinarians, state officials, Beef Quality Assurance representatives, state coordinators, Secure Food Supply (SFS) coordinators and SBS trainers. Their input shaped the website’s reorganization to feature a more intuitive layout, simplified language and streamlined navigation. Users can now easily access more than 100 resources, including enhanced daily biosecurity tools.
The website overhaul was executed by Iowa State University’s Center for Food Security and Public Health and Dr. Danelle Bickett-Weddle of Preventalytics, with support from NCBA. To ensure alignment with other SFS commodity groups – pork, milk, sheep and wool – updates were coordinated and implemented with consistency and transparency.
Grazing benefits confirmed
On June 13, the University of Idaho released the finalized results of their 10-year study looking into the impacts of grazing on Greater sage grouse populations.
The study concluded cattle grazing does not negatively impact Greater sage grouse and can only benefit the species through building robust habitat, increasing forage and reducing invasive grasses which lead to catastrophic wildfires.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Idaho Cattle Association, the Public Lands Council (PLC) and the Idaho Public Lands Council have all highlighted the benefits of grazing and pushed back against anti-grazing myths for decades, making this landmark study a point of reference moving forward for anyone questioning the benefits of grazing on wildlife.
“America’s public lands ranchers knew livestock production has supported sage grouse populations since our ancestors started ranching in the 1800s, but we never had the comprehensive, long-term data to back up what we all took as common knowledge. This study finally proves what ranchers have been saying all along – livestock grazing benefits wildlife, native grasses and the overall landscape,” said PLC President Tim Canterbury.
“This study also shows the work and expertise of local stakeholders, including university researchers and federal grazing permittees, is crucial for conserving wildlife populations. Ranchers appreciate the decade of research conducted by the University of Idaho to reiterate the benefits of public lands ranching,” he added.
Public meetings set
Three public meetings will be held in the Laramie Region to gather public input and answer questions regarding the proposed changes to Chapter 52, Take of Nongame Wildlife from within Wyoming, and Chapter 71, Commercially Guided Fishing Boats of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) regulations. Meetings will take place on July 1 at 6 p.m. at the Laramie Regional Office in Laramie; July 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Platte Valley Community Center in Saratoga and July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Laramie Regional Office in Laramie.
The public is encouraged to attend and submit comments.
Written comments must be received by 5 p.m. on July 31 for the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission’s review before its Sept. 9-10 meeting in Lander. Draft regulations are available at wgfd.wyo.gov or at the Laramie Game and Fish Office.
Comments can be submitted online, at a public meeting or mailed to WGFD, Attn: Regulations, 3030 Energy Lane, Casper, WY 82604.
OUTLOOK
and North-Central Plains, which is where we’ve had some localized drought. But based on where we are at this spring, I think there is a little bit more optimism.”
“Drought has really had the most significant impact on our ability as an industry to shift gears and start to grow, and when we’re talking about expansion, more so than anything – in many cases – it just means restocking back to old numbers,” he added.
With this, Miller said it is still important to understand how long drought conditions appear to improve because the decision to restock or expand is “not just a six-month decision.”
“Even when these monitors improve or look like they are improving, we still have to keep in mind there are a tremendous number of cows around the country in areas still impacted by some level of drought, and this is part of what’s really keeping us from truly expanding,” he explained.
Another indication Miller mentioned is cattle on feed and slaughter numbers are down. Both are signs restocking and expansion may be starting to take place.
“We are seeing fewer heifers being placed, and we’re seeing fewer heifers as a percentage of the total coming out in the sale receipts from auctions across the country,” he said.
Although the signs are there, Miller noted restocking and expansion will take some time. CattleFax anticipates beef cattle numbers as of Jan. 1, 2026 to be the same as they were on Jan. 1 of this year, then they will start to grow around 2027-28.
“Now keep in mind, a lot can happen. We can have a spike in corn prices. We can have drought take back over, especially in the central part of the country, but based on everything we see today, we are doing everything a market tends to do in this part of the cycle,” Miller stated.
Cattle supplies
With placements running well below year-todate levels and trade restrictions at the Southern Border in place, Miller noted supplies are “extremely tight.” He explained cattle on feed numbers are about a percent and a half below last year’s levels, with the decline most noticeably felt in the Texas region.
“We’ve got way more empty pen space in Texas than we’ve had at any time in the last several years, and a big part of this is the fact Texas is the biggest user of feeder cattle and calves coming across from Mexico,” he said. “They don’t have any other place to get inventory from in the short term – they pulled cattle really hard out of the Southeast, but they’ve done about as much as that as they can – so availability is an issue.”
“And, there is some real concern, feedyards might have to close, which wouldn’t be good for anyone in the country,” Miller added.
Additionally, he noted, over the past couple of years, cattle have tended to stay on feed longer, which is causing widespread disruption to what was a “very normal seasonal pattern” in the cattle market.
“We’ve always talked about an April or early May kind of high, but this has been adjusted and now it occurs in late May, early June and sometimes even late June,” he said. “I would anticipate next year, unless something is dramatically different, we would have a late May, early June cattle high.”
He continued, “This year, the overall supply
looks relatively flat as we go through the early part of the summer. We have to get into fall before we start to get concerned, so our job as a feeding industry is to not get behind this summer and not end up with a front-end supply.”
According to CattleFax, packers are responding to this more abnormally than they anticipated. Instead of ramping up slaughter to 40 hours from the normal 32 to 36 hours, they are going to stay at 36 hours for the foreseeable future.
Because supplies are down, Miller further noted there has been no indication from packers that there will be a discount placed on
heavy cattle.
“There’s always a little bit of discounting that goes on when cattle get way too big, but for the most part cattle feeders can make them about as big as they want,” he stated.
Imports and exports
On the trade front, Miller noted exports have actually been better during the first quarter than originally anticipated, and the situation with China is currently top of mind.
“The big thing from an export standpoint is we don’t have access to China right now,” he stated. “On an annual basis, China is worth about 400 million pounds a year, so it’s a big market –one of the top three markets for U.S. beef throughout the world.”
In addition to tariff wars taking place between the two countries, Miller also noted earlier this spring, China let all of their export certificates for beef, pork and chicken expire, and while pork and chicken are back in business, beef is not.
“In our view, we’re a bargaining chip,” Miller explained. “For all intents and purposes, we’re just going to assume we’re not going to ship a lot of product in Calendar Year 2025.”
With this, he noted exports in Japan have slightly rebounded the past couple of years and trade with South Korea has been good.
Also, despite President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs, the industry has con-
tinued to see huge amounts of imports so far this year.
“We are the hottest market in town, and countries are shipping us product,” Miller said. “We are probably going to end up importing between 10 to 15 percent more beef than we did a year ago.”
Cattle prices
Miller wrapped up his presentation by mentioning the extremely high price of feeder cattle, with reports of calves selling for as much as four dollars per hundredweight.
“Prices are high, they are high everywhere, and they are going to be high for the foreseeable future,” stated Miller.
“For cows, it’s the same thing. Utility cow prices are going to remain really high as we go through the balance in the next couple of years,” he added.
With this, Miller mentioned moisture and subsoil conditions in the Corn Belt might be of concern, and corn prices have the potential to trend a little bit higher.
“I don’t think there’s anything to be really concerned about from a corn price standpoint,” he concluded. “I think it’s going to be relatively tame, but it’s something we need to monitor and pay close attention to as we go through the year.”
Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Preparedness and Response Program, the National Veterinary Stockpile and the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank would all benefit from the proposed legislation.
The act features a threepronged approach to combatting FAD, incorporating prevention and surveillance in addition to rapid response to ensure producers have multiple avenues to remain informed, alert and safeguarded against threats posed by potential outbreaks.
“As the representative of one of the largest animal agriculture districts in the country, I know how essential it is to ensure the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has the tools necessary to stay ahead of FAD outbreaks, not just react to them,” says Jackson.
Fellow Texan agriculturists have been quick to echo their support for the proposed legislation. As one of the leading producers in animal agriculture, Texas producers know funding for preventa-
tive and prescriptive methods of combatting FAD is of vital importance.
“Increased investments to enhance disease surveillance, secure beef supply plans for cattle feeders and an expansion of the vaccine bank for FAD will significantly increase resiliency of the U.S. cattle and beef production supply chain,” argues Robby Kirkland, chairman of the Texas Cattle Feeders Association (TCFA). Relief for rising concerns
The proposed legislation comes at a pivotal point in time, as concerns of FADs like the New World screwworm (NWS) and African swine fever (ASF) encroaching upon American soil continue to mount.
It was reintroduced exactly one month after U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced the suspension of livestock imports through U.S. ports of entry along the Southern Border, in response to an outbreak of NWS in Mexico.
“With the threat of NWS
CHECKOFF continued from page 2
leave the land better than we found it. And I know most other ranchers feel the same way. I read somewhere farmers and ranchers not caring for the environment would be like carpenters destroying their tools, and I agree.
This is why the “Voices of the Outdoors” video series from “Beef.It’s What’s For Dinner,” funded by the Beef Checkoff, really caught my attention.
This series explores the commitment to land stewardship beef producers, outdoor enthusiasts and conservationists share.
As a member of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) and co-chair of the Beef Checkoff’s Consumer Trust Committee, I was eager to see how these seemingly disparate groups could come together over their mutual passion for nature.
“Voices of the Outdoors” shows how beef producers like us care deeply about the land, and it does so by pairing us with outdoor enthusiasts – hikers, climbers, hunters and even surfers – who love the land in their own way.
These individuals ultimately leave with a better understanding of how beef production can go hand in hand with careful, sustainable land management. They and the series’ viewers learn how cattle grazing actually contributes to environmental conservation by preserving open spaces, protecting wildlife habitats, mitigating wildfires and sequestering carbon.
Ranchers and outdoor enthusiasts may not always see eye to eye, but the series shows how we can come together over the mutual desire to keep open spaces healthy and beautiful.
Some producers may ask, “Why does
SKAVDAHL
grandmother. She enjoys reading and writing away from the office as well, especially narrative nonfiction, memoirs and poetry collections. She is always open to book recommendations and hopes to one day publish her own book about ranching in rural America, featuring her family’s history in Sioux County.
moving closer to our southern border and the USDA being required to halt live animal imports from Mexico, proactive investment is critical to protect our agricultural producers, our rural economies and our food supply,” Jackson remarks.
Texas Farm Bureau President and bill shareholder Russell Boening also notes the timeliness of the proposed legislation.
“Investing in animal health programs to prevent FADs such as NWS, foot and mouth disease and ASF is of critical importance,” he argues. “Increased international movement of livestock and humans pose a greater risk than ever before of introducing or spreading animal diseases, and with detections of NWS just 700 miles south of the U.S.-Mexico border, the need for this legislation is more dire than ever.”
Shareholders show support
In addition to the TCFA and the Texas Farm Bureau, several other associations have voiced their support for this animal health legislation update.
the Beef Checkoff fund a video series like this?”
My answer is because it’s exactly the kind of content that builds consumer trust. Many people may not go online to specifically find information about beef production or environmental stewardship, but they might be served this kind of content on YouTube or Instagram because of an interest in farming, horses, recycling or cooking.
When they see “Voices of the Outdoors,” it may spur more positive feelings about beef production and encourage them to choose beef over other proteins.
It’s been estimated the vast majority of Americans have little to no firsthand knowledge about how their food is produced. This lack of understanding creates space for misinformation and negative assumptions, but when we show who we really are – land stewards, animal caretakers, people who live by the weather and work by the seasons – we start to close the gap.
The “Voices of the Outdoors” video series helps people see the bigger picture of what we do every day, and in my view, it’s a strong example of how our checkoff dollars can be used to build trust –through storytelling that connects with consumers who might have little personal connection to agriculture.
Efforts like this, alongside other vital checkoff programs, help ensure beef remains relevant, respected and a top choice at the meat counter.
Becky Potmesil of Alliance, Neb. is a member of the Cattlemen’s Beef Board (CBB) and the Beef Checkoff’s Consumer Trust Committee. This opinion column was originally published by CBB on June 10.
Additional shareholders include the American Sheep Industry Association, American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Livestock Marketing Association, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Milk Producers Federation, National Pork Producers Council and National Turkey Federation.
“Enhancing the nation’s animal health infrastructure is vital for improving our ability to prevent, prepare for and respond to FADs,” stresses AVMA President Dr. Sandra Faeh. “The proposed legislation would direct critical resources to key federal programs which play a crucial role in safeguard-
ing food security and public health by enabling swift action against serious animal disease outbreaks.”
“The AVMA fully supports this bill and urges Congress to pass the bipartisan Foreign Animal Disease Prevention, Surveillance and Rapid Response Act of 2025 to ensure these essential protections are in place,” Faeh continues. Grace Skavdahl is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
“Working with the Wyoming Livestock Roundup will be the perfect opportunity to combine two of my greatest loves – ranching and writing,” Skavdahl says. “My time on the East Coast was an invaluable experience, but I am confident now more than ever the agricultural community is where I feel called to be. I am thrilled to be returning to
my roots and look forward to learning at the Wyoming Livestock Roundup.”
Roundup Publisher Dennis Sun comments, “All of us at the Roundup feel very fortunate to have Grace working with us. With her ranching background and college experiences, she will be an important asset to our readers.”
Help welcome Grace Skavdahl to the Wyoming Livestock Roundup by e-mailing grace@wylr.net.
Adobe Stock photo
While the futures markets of late allow pig farmers the opportunity to price some profits, the caveat remains that producers need to keep their herd healthy to get hogs to market.
Although many issues of the day were open for discussion during the annual World Pork Expo, held in early June in Des Moines, Iowa, several centered on disease concerns – new and old.
Known health issues plague U.S.
Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) continues to plague the U.S. pig farmer, costing the industry more than $1 billion in lost production each year.
Producers used to be able to set their calendar by PRRS, as it would tradition-
Disease concerns take center stage at World Pork Expo
ally emerge in herds around Oct. 15, but now it appears the viral disease knows no season.
Reports of PRRS uncharacteristically increased in April and May of this year. Typically, PRRS cases start to decline this time of year.
PRRS continues to present new variants, and this latest scourge is the 1-4-4 L1C.5 variant.
Leaders on the swine herd health front, with assistance from producers and their herd veterinarians, can play a big role in preparing the industry for PRRS.
The Swine Health Information Center (SHIC) disseminates information on all health issues facing pigs, including where PRRS is breaking. Knowing how and where PRRS exists can help producers
create an action plan.
Producers also report recent spikes in porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), noting, “This feels more like 2014 than any year we’ve had since then.”
This refers to when PEDV came onto the scene in late 2013 and prolonged through 2014.
Strengthened biosecurity measures implemented throughout the industry at the time appeared to curb PEDV cases, even though the virus is endemic in the country. Although a risk for biosecurity fatigue exists, research and anecdotal experience prove ampedup biosecurity measures are helpful in the fight against any disease.
New threat emerging SHIC was created in the wake of PEDV to tackle
current swine health issues while also keeping the industry aware of what’s on the radar, and currently on SHIC’s radar is the New World screwworm (NWS), which was detected in Mexico in November, even though the U.S. had been negative for many years.
In May, it was detected in Veracruz, which is within 700 miles of the U.S. Southern Border. This prompted the U.S. Department of Agriculture to suspend imports of live cattle, horses and bison through U.S. ports of entry along
the border. Why is NWS a concern for U.S. pig farmers? NWS is a parasitic fly which lays eggs and larvae in mucous membranes and open wounds. Most concerning of a potential NWS invasion into the U.S. is it affects any warm-blooded animal, including livestock, wildlife and even humans.
Research also continues to investigate the potential of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus, which has shown to make the leap from fowl to pigs.
As with PRRS, PEDV
and any other viral or bacterial infections that may impact swine herds, the good working relationship between producer and veterinarian cannot be stressed enough.
Knowing the animals in a herd and observing them is imperative to ensuring healthy hogs make it to market, allowing producers to take advantage of pricing opportunities.
Kevin Schulz is the editor of The Farmer. This article was originally published in The Farmer on June 9.
WSGA elects new leadership
During the 2025 Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show, held at the University of Wyoming Conference Center in Laramie June 2-4, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) welcomed a new leadership
team for the 2025-26 term.
New leadership includes Reg Phillips at the helm as president, Mike Lohse as first vice president, Jill Tregemba as Region Two vice president and Joe Rankin as Region Three vice president.
Several individuals will continue to serve in various roles, including Galen Chase as Region One vice president, Vance Broadbent as
Region Four vice president, Joe Crofts as Region Five vice president, Nate Kane as president of the Young Producers Assembly and Jim Magagna as executive vice president.
Outgoing officers include former President Jack Berger, Region Two Vice President Pat Cullen and Region Three Vice President Leif Hanson.
Industry gathering – The World Pork Expo offers an annual opportunity for the global swine industry to gather at the Iowa State Fairgrounds to check out new products and technology, as well as meet to discuss topics and issues important to producers. Kevin Schulz photo
Passing the torch – Outgoing Wyoming Stock Growers Association President Jack Berger passed the torch to Reg Phillips who will serve at the helm of the association for the 2025-26 term. WYLR photo
As herds are being turned out on pasture, most calves will get an immunity boost for select diseases through a vaccination program.
However, as Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Beef Specialist Chris Clark explained, “Arguably the most common health nuisance on pasture – pinkeye – doesn’t
Prevent cattle from getting pinkeye after pasture turnout
have an easy vaccine solution with consistent efficacy. In part, this is because pinkeye is complicated, involving multiple bacterial strains and risk factors.”
The solution is prevention and early intervention. Prevention points
The cornea provides a protective layer over the eye, and when it is healthy,
“As with all health challenges, work closely with a veterinarian to develop a plan for dealing with cases. Before using any medications, talk with a veterinarian about safety and legality for use in the eye, required dosing schedules and required withdrawal times.” – Chris Clark, Iowa State University Extension
bacteria cannot attach. Irritants which damage the cornea allow bacteria to colonize and infection to occur. Common pasture irritants include UV light, seedheads and dust.
Flies also contribute to cornea irritation, but the primary role in regard to pinkeye is carrying the bacteria from one animal to the next and facilitating transmission. Because flies can travel long distances, the adage “your fly control program is only as good as your neighbor’s” bears truth.
By taking preventative steps in one’s herd, fly populations can still be significantly reduced. Multifaceted approaches are the most effective.
Multiple macronutrients and micronutrients are essential for an effective immune response. A wellbalanced mineral program is important in keeping the herd healthy.
Mineral supplements can become costly, so a solid understanding of mineral levels in available feed and water can help reduce some costs without sacrificing animal performance.
Early intervention
Check cattle regularly, and watch closely for early signs of infection. Once clinical signs are observed, initiate treatment as soon as possible to minimize complications and severe cases.
Treat cattle with systemic antibiotics labeled for pinkeye and be diligent in following label directions.
Weigh animals to ensure appropriate dosing.
Use good injection site practices to ensure optimal drug absorption.
Adjunct therapy such as eye patches, stitching eyelids shut and subconjunctival injections are sometimes used in addition to systemic antibiotics. Evidence is somewhat inconsistent regarding efficacy of these practices.
Eye patches have been shown to speed corneal ulcer healing, but for best results, leave a spot open to facilitate drainage and airflow when applying. Pinkeye increases sensitivity to UV light, so shade can be helpful for animal comfort.
Pain associated with pinkeye may warrant the use of an anti-inflammatory as well. Topical ointments and sprays are also sometimes used.
“As with all health challenges, work closely with a veterinarian to develop a plan for dealing with cases,” Clark said. “Before using any medications, talk with a veterinarian about safety and legality for use in the eye, required dosing schedules and required withdrawal times.”
Sherry Hoyer is a com-
Iowa Pork
Center and Iowa Beef Center and Chris Clark is
Iowa State University Extension
Prevention and intervention – It is important to focus on prevention and early intervention to address pinkeye in cattle. Iowa State University photo
I wasn’t busy,” she laughs.
Rodgers says every day around the ranch comes with “a long list of stuff” to get done. In addition to caring for her show animals every day, she helps her dad Mike Rodgers work cattle and train horses, squeezing in rides between washes and feeds.
“It’s a rush to get everything done in the mornings and the afternoons, but the middays are slower,” she notes.
Her days at home typically start at 6 a.m. and end around 9 p.m., packed with ranch duties and a meticulous feeding, washing, exercise and grooming program for each of her show animals.
Rodgers’ daily schedule doesn’t slow down when she is on the road. In fact, show days are even more jam-packed, including double washes, fullfitting, equipment set-up and breakdown and routine feeding, in addition to the time actually spent in the show ring.
The buzz of show days has become routine for Rodgers and her younger
sister Maddy who shows sheep and cattle as well.
The duo has traveled to Utah, Nebraska, Montana and all throughout Wyoming on the show circuit. Some of Rodgers’ favorite venues include the Wyoming State Fair in Douglas and the Powder Basin Classic in Gillette.
No matter where they are, Rodgers emphasizes keeping animals comfortable and safe is always the number one priority.
Building a legacy
Rodgers has built an impressive show legacy from humble beginnings.
“My very first animal I started with was a commercial Hereford I pulled out of our shipper pen,” says Rodgers. “Her name was Izzie, I still have her today – she’s out in the pasture with a calf.”
Rodgers usually keeps her breeding heifers each year to go back into her personal herd, which also includes registered Shorthorns and Simmentals.
She sells her market steers at county fair and reinvests the profits into her business Rocky Ridge
Cattle Company.
“Heifers are more my thing than the steers because they can stay and have calves,” she says. “Their legacy kind of lives on.”
Rodgers has plans show a legacy calf this coming fall, but currently her
Austin Snook • 307-290-2161
Taylor Snook • 307-290-2273
Craig Deveraux • 307-746-5690
Dan Catlin • 406-671-7715
Clint Snook • 307-290-4000
Cheyenne Seymour • 605-641-0638
most successful animal is a breeding heifer named Fergie, purchased from South Dakota in an online sale.
“She’s helped me win showmanship classes, and she’s been overall supreme breeding heifer or in the top end of it all at a couple of
Kyle Kallhoff • 605-881-1526
Casey Sellers • 307-217-2614
Jim Forbes • 307-351-5932
Tye Curuchet • 307-351-8666
Daniel Escoz • 307-217-1440
Kade Kinghorn • 307-620-0525
"From the ring, to the video, and in the country, we market your livestock the competitive way."
June 18, 2025
Solid run of summertime Weigh Ups. Pairs still holding strong. Thank you and we appreciate your business!
the last shows we’ve been to,” Rodgers says. “She’s a sweetheart and a blessing in disguise.”
Rodgers appreciates the opportunities showing, selling and breeding have given her to build her confidence and her cow herd.
“Being able to have responsibilities and show off something I put a lot of my time into is great,” she says.
Starting somewhere Rodgers is quick to emphasize the deep impact showing has had on her life. She believes getting involved with programs like 4-H and FFA is “really
good for younger kids” and recommends the experience to anyone with an opportunity to get involved.
“Don’t be afraid to start,” Rodgers says. “We all start somewhere – you just have to be able to put in the effort and know wherever you start, you can only get better from there.”
“If you don’t try it, then you don’t know how your life might change because of it,” she concludes.
Grace Skavdahl is the editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.
Jackpot prizewinners – Brylee Rodgers, pictured right, and Fergie won Champion Breeding Heifer and Champion Intermediate Showman at the Powder Basin Classic in Gillette. Courtesy photo
Junior Hereford exhibitors from across Wyoming and northern Colorado came together on June 13 in Cheyenne at the Event Center at Archer on the Laramie County Fairgrounds to participate in the 2025 Wyoming Junior Hereford Association (WJHA) Field Day.
Kari Brumley of Orovada, Nev. was on hand to evaluate the showmanship contests and bred and owned females before handing the microphone off to Matt Copeland of Nara Visa, N.M. to judge the owned females, bred and owned bulls and steer shows.
Champion Bred and Owned Heifer – SCC Pay It Forward 2443 ET, exhibited by Charlea St. Louis, Yoder, Colo.
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned Heifer – DHB 104 2056 Laura 4055, exhibited by Sam and Sarah Birdsall, Torrington
Champion Owned Heifer – KJ TWJ 907E Chateau, exhibited by Samantha Campbell, Eaton, Colo.
Champion Cow/Calf Pair – 4T Sandy 9095, exhibited by Wynn West, Sheridan
Reserve Champion Cow/Calf Pair – HR Miss Historic L5, exhibited by Maddy Rodgers, Casper
Reserve Champion Owned Heifer – UPS Miss Gunsmoke 40021, exhibited by Chloe Collins, Buffalo
Champion Bred and Owned Bull – SLC MR Maxwell MLL6, exhibited by Samantha Campbell, Eaton, Colo.
Reserve Champion Bred and Owned Bull – West Ike 5095, exhibited by Wynn West, Sheridan
Champion Registered Hereford Steer – Exhibited by Peyton Tatman, Sheridan
Reserve Champion Registered Hereford Steer – Exhibited by Cora Freese, Lander
Champion Hereford Influenced Steer – Exhibited by Evander Spencer, Kaycee
Reserve Champion Hereford Influenced Steer – Exhibited by Stetson Decker, Gill, Colo.
June 24
EVENTS SALES
June 20-26 2025 National Junior Limousin Show and Congress, Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agriculture Center, Perry, Georgia. For more information, visit nalf.org
June 21-27 2025 Grand Ole Gelbvieh Junior Classic, Lebanon, Tenn. For more information, visit gelbvieh.org/juniors/agja-events/junior-classic
June 23 Fourth Annual Wyoming State Fair Endowment Auction, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., online. For more information, visit wystatefair.com/endowment/
June 24-25 University of Wyoming Extension Rancher’$ EDGE Program, 1 p.m., Thermopolis. For more information or to register, visit wyoextension.org/ranchmanagement/?page_id=7
June 26-28 American National CattleWomen Region Five Meeting, Black Butte Ranch Resort, Sisters, Ore. For more information, visit oregoncattlewomen.org
June 26-28 Stockmanship and Stewardship, Watertown, S.D. For more information, visit stockmanshipandstewardship.org
June 28 Inaugural University of Wyoming Extension Ag and Art Tour, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Park County. For more information, visit bit.ly/ag-art-site or e-mail wyagandarttour@gmail.com.
June 28-July 5 2025 National Junior Angus Show, Expo Square, Tulsa, Okla. For more information or to register, visit angus.org/
June 30 University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Analyzing Stocking Rates for the Modern Cow Workshop, 10 a.m., Mid-Plains Community College, Valentine, Neb. For more information or to register, contact the Sheridan County Extension Office at 308-327-2312 or the Cherry County Extension Office at 402-376-1850.
July 1 University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Analyzing Stocking Rates for the Modern Cow Workshop, 8 a.m., Cody Community Building, Cody, Neb. For more information or to register, contact the Sheridan County Extension Office at 308-327-2312 or the Cherry County Extension Office at 402-376-1850.
July 1 University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Analyzing Stocking Rates for the Modern Cow Workshop, 12:30 p.m., Gordon Community Building, Gordon, Neb. For more information or to register, contact the Sheridan County Extension Office at 308-327-2312 or the Cherry County Extension Office at 402-376-1850.
July 1 24th Annual Angus Foundation Golf Tournament, The Canyons at Blackjack Ridge Golf Course, Sand Springs, Okla. For more information, visit angus.org/ foundation or call 816-383-5100.
July 1 Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Meeting, 6 p.m., Laramie Regional Office, Laramie. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo.gov
July 4-5 80th Annual Ten Sleep Fourth of July Rodeo, Ten Sleep. For more information, visit tensleeprodeoassociation.com
July 4-12 Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo, Casper. For more information, visit centralwyomingfair.com
July 7 Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Platte Valley Community Center, Saratoga. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo.gov
July 8 Wyoming Game and Fish Department Public Meeting, 6:30 p.m., Laramie Regional Office, Laramie. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo.gov
July 8-11 Western Association of State Departments of Agriculture 2025 Annual Meeting, Whitefish, Mont. For more information or to register, visit web.cvent. com/event/WASDA
July 8-12 Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo, Colorado Springs, Colo. For more information, visit pikespeakorbust.org
July 9 Bureau of Land Management Wyoming Resource Advisory Council Meeting, location TBD. For more information, visit blm.gov/get-involved/resourceadvisory-council/near-you/wyoming
July 9-13 Wyoming Quarter Horse Association 2025 Cowboy Summer Classic, Pepsi Equine Center, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, visit wqha.org
July 11 Sustainable Sheep Grazing in the Intermountain West Free Public Workshop, Buffalo. For more information or to register, visit wyowool.com/grazingworkshop or contact Alison Crane at alison@wyowool.com or 307-265-5250.
July 11-12 2025 Cow Country Rodeo, 7:30 p.m., Manila, Utah. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit flaminggorgecountry.com/cow-country-2024/
July 11-13 Wyoming Sheep and Wool Festival, Johnson County Fairgrounds, Buffalo. For more information, visit wyomingsheepandwoolfestival.com
July 11-19 Converse County Fair, Douglas. For more information, visit conversecountyfair.com
July 12-18 University of Wyoming Sheep Program Sheep Innovators Exchange, New Zealand. For more information or to apply, visit bit.ly/4gF2Lm2 or e-mail woolinitiative@uwyo.edu.
July 15-16 Wyoming Game and Fish Commission Meeting, Ramkota Hotel and Convention Center, Casper. For more information, visit wgfd.wyo.gov
Big Horn Basin Livestock Auction will be having their last summer sale this coming Thursday, June 26.
We will be tearing out the indoor ring to put in ring scales, the months of July and August. Due to the construction, we will not be having any live auctions during these months.
We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. If you have livestock that you need to market during these months, please contact Danny Vigil at 307-388-0781 or the office at 307-347-9201. We will start with our first Thursday sale on September 4, 2025. We appreciate your understanding.
Rocky Mountain Gravel Online Auction, 208-431-9300, 208-595-8561, bigmountainauctions.com
June 28 James Skiver & Associates Estate Auction, online and onsite bidding, 21191 I-76 Frontage Road, Hudson, Colo., 970-356-3943, k-wauctions.com
July 1
July 7-11
July 7-13
July 11-12
July 14-16
July 21-23
July 24
July 26
Cattle Country Video High Plains Showcase, UW Marian H. Rochelle Gateway Center, Laramie, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com
Superior Livestock Auction Week in the Rockies, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com
Colorado Horse Sale Saddle Horse Sale, online at coloradohorsesale.com, 970-744-8989
Mile High Summer Classic Sale, Adams County Regional Park, Brighton, Colo., 970-381-3649, 970-381-3547, joshwhiteauctions.com
Western Video Market, Silver Legacy Casino Resort, Reno, Nev., 530-3473793, wvmcattle.com
Northern Livestock Video Auction Summertime Classic, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com
Stellpflug Cattle Company “New Frontier” Female Sale, at the ranch, Guernsey, 307-351-1712, stellpflugcattle.com
South Dakota Sheep Growers Association Premium Yearling Ewe Sale, Magness Livestock Auction, Huron, S.D., 406-581-7772, sdsheepgrowers.org
July 28-Aug 1 Superior Livestock Auction Video Royale, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com
Aug. 12-13
Aug. 18-19
Aug. 18-19
Aug. 18-22
Aug. 23
Aug. 23
Aug. 23-26
Aug. 30
Aug. 30
Sept. 9
Sept. 11
Cattle Country Video Oregon Trail Classic, Gering Civic Center, Gering, Neb., 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com
Western Video Market, Little America, Cheyenne, 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com
Northern Livestock Video Auction Early Fall Preview, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com
Superior Livestock Auction Big Horn Classic, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com
Memory Ranches Third Annual Foal Sale, at the ranch, Wells, Nev., 208412-6156, 208-695-0399, memoryranches.com
Colorado Horse Sale, Adams County Fairgrounds, Brighton, Colo., 970-7448989, coloradohorsesale.com
Lauing Mill Iron L Ranch 20th Annual QH Production Sale, online auction only, prohorseservices.com, lauingmillironlranch.com, 605-347-6193, 605280-0698, 605-280-0398
Proffit Ranch 24th Annual Labor Day Horse Sale, Diamond X Barn, Evanston, 307-723-5857, proffitranch.blogspot.com
Huskerland Horse Sale Extravaganza, Burwell Livestock Market, Burwell, Neb., 308-383-0039, dvauction.com
97th Annual Wyoming State Ram Sale, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas, 307-265-5250, wyowool.com/ramsale
Cattle Country Video Frontier Fall Roundup, Cheyenne Frontier Days Event Center, Cheyenne, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com
POSTCARD
from the Past
Water Barrel on Wheels
Handy device for use in the garden and orchard
Here is the sketch of a handy wheel barrel, suggested by a Prairie Farmer correspondent. He writes he finds this arrangement handy about the garden, orchard or farm buildings.
It is useful whenever a man desires to fill a barrel and move it without help. For instance, in carrying water to the garden, one man is able to do as much with this cart, practically, as might be done with a horse, barrel and stone boat.
A good idea of the method of construction may be secured by referring to the cut. At a point just above the middle of the barrel, a hanger projects. This is the small side of an “L,” the longer side being flattened out and bolted to the side of the barrel. This hanger is set in the top side of a “T.” The main portion of the “T” forms the basis for the attachment of the handle sides while the other prong extends downward and bends outward for the axel.
The handles may be made in any method convenient, but those in the cut show a good plan. At the ends, a handle is mor-
tised in, while the middle is supported by the two curved braces bolted together in the middle, of which projects the rear rod of the ground support.
The above comes from the Dec. 19, 1907 issue of
The Saratoga Sun Weather and crop summary
The weather during the week in Wyoming was favorable for the growth and development of irrigated grains, hay, beets, potatoes and other crops, and it permitted the almost uninterrupted pursuit of alfalfa harvesting, which is now generally advanced. Light local showers were numerous, but amounts of precipitation were insufficient to benefit crops noticeably, so reports a June 1916 issue of The Saratoga Sun.
A farmer in south-central Wyoming harvests a huge crop of purple – or blue – potatoes with the assistance of his trusty dog. In the early 1900s, farmers tried planting crops, including lettuce, asparagus, celery, turnips, beets, sugarbeets and potatoes, etc., which grew well, but proximity to markets prevented much success in selling the produce. Now most of the irrigated ground in the area grows alfalfa and native hay with some grains. Photo from the Bob Martin/Dick Perue collection. Historical reproductions by Perue
Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News,
Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Greeley, CO National Sheep Summary As of June 13, 2025
Compared to last week Slaughter lambs 50-90 lbs. 11.00-20.00 lower and feeder lambs not well tested and slaughter ewes evenly steady. All sheep sold per hundred weight (CWT) unless otherwise specified. Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 1-3 San Angelo: wooled and shorn 50-60 lbs 255.00-265.00 6070 lbs 252.00.00-260.00; 70-80 lbs 250.00-266.00. Billings: No test.
Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 70-80 lbs 235.00-250.00; 80-90 lbs 220.00-250.00; 90-100 lbs 300.00; 100-110 lbs 235.00; 110-120 lbs 220.00-300.00.
Sioux Falls: 60-70 lbs 225.00-240.00; 70-80 lbs 225.00250.00; 80-90 lbs 225.00-245.00; 90-100 lbs 236.00-246.00; 100-110 lbs 222.00-238.00; 120-130 lbs 195.00-225.00; 130140 lbs 210.00-228.00; 140-150 lbs 210.00-225.00. Equity Coop: No test. Slaughter Ewes San Angelo: Good 2-3 90.00-130.00.
Billings: No test.
Ft. Collins: Good 2-3 80.00-130.00; Good 4-5 80.00-120.00. Sioux Falls: Good 2-3 85.00-100.00; Good 4-5 60.00-100.00; Utility 1-2 55.00-135.00. Feeder Lambs: Medium and Large 1 San Angelo: 40-50 lbs 212.00-240.00.
Billings: No test.
Ft. Collins: No test.
Sioux Falls: 40-50 lbs 287.50-300.00; 50-55 lbs 285.00290.00; 60-70 lbs 256.00-275.00. Equity Coop: 90-100 lbs 223.50. Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2 San Angelo: No test.
Billings: No test.
Ft. Collins: No test.
South Dakota: No test. Sheep and lamb slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 37,000 compared to 38,000 last week and 43,000 last year.
Source: USDA AMS LPG Market News, San Angelo, Texas
Source: USDA- CO Dept of Ag Market News Service, Greeley, CO
Nebraska Hay Summary As of June 18, 2025
Compared to last week new crop alfalfa sold steady on a thin test. Old crop alfalfa going to grinding sold 10.00 lower. Old crop grass hay and ground and delivered products steady. Dehy and sun-cured pellets steady. Early reports on first cutting alfalfa off from a typical year. Some contacts thinking around 30 percent less. Dryness, weevil, cool weather along with hail has really influenced the tonnage in several fields. If the producer applied water and sprayed for weevil tonnage nearly spot on for a normal year’s production. Some spotty rain showers in various areas of the state. Drought monitor not as severe as previous weeks but very hot and windy conditions are on the horizon and it would take long for areas to deteriorate.
Central Nebraska
Alfalfa Ground (Delivered) 120-130
Alfalfa - Premium Standing 65
Prairie/Meadow Grass - Premium Small Square 8/bale Prairie/Meadow Grass - Good Large Round 100 Rye Grass Standing 65 Eastern Nebraska
Alfalfa Pellets 17% Dehyd 330 Pellets 17% Suncured 250-260
Alfalfa - Premium Large Squares 3x4 145
Alfalfa - Good Large Round 115 Platte Valley Nebraska
Alfalfa Ground (Delivered) 135 Pellets 17% Dehyd
Source: USDA AMS Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Kearny, NE
Colorado Hay Summary
As of June 12, 2025
Compared to last report: Trade activity and demand light. No market trend available due to a lack of comparable trades. Farmers continue to wait for hay stands to dry up so they can put 1st cutting down in areas that received rain, with higher elevation hay stands 1-2 weeks out. The U.S. drought monitor has the state at 59.57% D0-D4 category versus 37.76% D0-D4 category from this period last year. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor’s High Plains Drought Summary for June 10, 2025, the High Plains experienced a mix of drought improvements and degradations over the past week, driven by rainfall. Kansas saw the most widespread improvements, especially in the southern and eastern regions, where many areas received over two inches of rain, leading to significant one-category upgrades. However, north-central Kansas received less precipitation, and drought conditions there either persisted or worsened. Nebraska also benefited from recent storms, with helpful rainfall improving conditions in the central and southeastern parts of the state, though some areas now show signs of short-term moisture surplus. Colorado had a similar split. While much of
the central and eastern regions received beneficial rainfall and saw improvements, the northwestern and southwestern corners remained dry and experienced drought deterioration. Wyoming followed an east- west divide as well: rain improved conditions in the central and eastern areas, but the west remained dry, resulting in further degradation. Long-term moisture deficits and below-average snowmelt runoff continue to be a concern across western parts of both Colorado and Wyoming. In South Dakota, the southwest corner received 1 to 3 inches of rain, leading to localized improvement, while the rest of the state remained mostly unchanged. North Dakota saw little change overall, with limited but sufficient moisture keeping conditions stable. Due to the Federal Holiday, the next available report will be Friday, June 20, 2025.
- Premium
Forage Mix-Three Way - Premium Small Square 10/ bale
Forage Mix-Two Way - Premium Medium Square 3x3
Prairie/Meadow Grass - Premium Small Square 10/ bale
Source: USDA-AMS Dept of Ag Market News Service, Greeley, CO
NOTICE: Publication
PEEGEE RANCH NEAR ARVADA, WY IS LOOKING FOR A FULL-TIME FARM/RANCH EMPLOYEE: This position is open immediately. Applicant must be self-motivated, reliable and responsible with knowledge of haying and farming. Mechanical skills are a must. Farming duties include swathing, baling and raking hay, etc. This is not a cowboy position, but applicant will need to assist in all aspects of cattle work as well. Those duties include calving heifers, feeding hay, branding and gathering, etc. Nearest big town is 60+ miles and nearest K-12 school is 30+ miles away (location of the ranch is remote). Housing is provided and on a school bus route. Please send resume with references by mail or e-mail to: PeeGee Ranch, 1251 Lower Powder River Road, Arvada, WY 82831, pgranch@rangeweb.net. Call 307-736-2461 7/12
WE’RE HIRING!! LOOKING TO FILL THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS AND ARE WILLING TO TRAIN: MEAT CUTTER, SLAUGHTER FLOOR OPERATIONS AND WRAPPERS. Located in Dayton, WY about 20 miles from Sheridan, WY. Starting pay is dependent on experience. We are starting between $20-$30/hour and will train you. If interested in any of the positions, please call 307-655-2551. You can also stop into our plant to apply or for more information, Valley Meat Co., 297 Hwy. 343, Dayton, WY 82836. If you have any questions about the positions, please feel free to send us an e-mail at sam@ valleymeatco.com. Thank you and looking forward to your application!! 7/5
LOOKING FOR A RANCH HAND IN NORTHEASTERN
WYOMING: House and utilities provided. Wage DOE. Call 307660-3112, can send resume to donita@theamericanranch. net 6/28
HEREFORD SEEDSTOCK OPERATION NEAR CHEYENNE, WY LOOKING FOR FULL-TIME RANCH EMPLOYEE. Duties include: Calving, extensive AI program, calf wintering and extensive fencing and corral repair. Plenty of cattle work but not a lot of riding. Housing and utilities provided and good schools on a bus route within 20 miles of home. Salary and DOE. Please send resume and references to jaberryherefords@msn.com or call 307-634-5178 6/28
WASHAKIE COUNTY IS SEEKING APPLICANTS FOR A FULLTIME EQUIPMENT OPERATOR WITH THE ROAD AND BRIDGE DEPARTMENT. CDL is required. For more information, please contact Road and Bridge Superintendent Stuart Bower at 307-388-4848 7/12
ALL TYPES OF EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLE FINANCING. Great service!! Great rates!! Call Chuck Brown at C.H. Brown Co., LLC, 307-322-3232 (office), 307-331-0010 (cell) or email chuckbrown@wyoming. com 6/21
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!! 7/12
CONSTRUCTION BY OATES ENTERPRISES: Offering custom welding and dirt construction: Livestock pens, feeders, pipe fencing, road work repair, pad building, excavation for mechanical into homes and businesses, pond reclamation, NRCS registered vendor. Free estimates, www.constructionxoe.com. Call Levi Compton at 254-433-3434, Casper, WY. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 7/19
AKC BERNESE MOUNTAIN
DOG PUPPIES: All first shots, microchipped and vet checked. Ready for their new homes now!! $500 OBO. Call or text 605-6802571. To view photos, go to www. wylr.net in the classifieds 6/28
CAUCASIAN SHEPHERD PUPS FOR SALE: Four females and 3 males, ready mid-July. Take care of your wolf and predator problems. Protect your family, property and livestock with this Russian sheep dog. Call 406210-4807 6/21
YEARLING ANGUS BULLS:
These bulls are grown, not fattened, will get out and cover cows. Many will work on heifers. We will deliver. Call Joe Buseman, 605-351-1535 6/28
MYDLAND ANGUS RANCH: Yearling Angus bulls. Performance tested, EPDs available. Home raised. Call 406-5913404 or 406-855-5598 6/21
REGISTERED BLACK ANGUS
YEARLING AND 2-YEAR-OLD BULLS: For sale private treaty. Performance and fertility tested. Delivery available. REPLACEMENT HEIFERS available. TRANGMOE ANGUS RANCH, Glendive, MT. Call 406-6873315, 406-989-3315 or 907232-6093 6/28
SHORTHORN BULLS FOR SALE PRIVATE TREATY: Yearlings up to mature bulls available. Developed conservatively so they hold up. Remember a red Shorthorn bull on your homozygous black cows will give you black calves. Shorthorns are excellent maternal cattle that produce quality beef. Francis-Millvale Shorthorns, Gene and Roberta Francis Family, 701-331-2403, e-mail francis. millvale@gmail.com. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 6/21
PARK COUNTY, WY RANCH NEAR CODY, WY IS AVAILABLE FOR A LONG-TERM LEASE: The ranch has over 50,000 acres and supports an irrigated hay base with BOR water rights. Carrying capacity is 700 animal units year-round with hay production. Willing to split the hay ground and grazing. Please e-mail Honora Beirne (hbeirne@acpg.com) and Melanie Giliati (mgiliati@ acpg.com) for details 7/12
BEST LAST CHANCE SALE!!
LYTLE RED ANGUS is offering via private treaty yearling bulls from their grazing developed herd of consistent, efficient and proficient cows. Bulls have passed breeding soundness exams and are ready to work for you!! Visit www. lytleredangus.com or call Zeb, 605-441-7658. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 6/28
RED ANGUS 2-YEAR OLD FORAGE BULLS FOR SALE: Bulls for heifers and cows. Smaller framed, efficient, easy fleshing, good dispositions. Not fat, but in great shape and ready to go to work. Have been worked with dogs, on foot and horseback. Raised in rugged, rough, steep, rocky, high elevation country. Red Fork Red Angus, Ken & Cheri Graves, Kaycee, WY, phone 307-7382247, cell 307-267-0724, email gravesredfork@rtconnect.net 6/21
STANDING 4-YEAR-OLD HAFLINGER STUD: Fee $250. Small draft style, blonde, docile, great for work, packing, riding and driving. Located south of Buffalo, WY. For more information, call Daniel Yoder, 307217-9737 6/21
FIVE-YEAR-OLD SADDLE MULE: One brand and imprinted, 16.2 hands tall, broke to ride, pack and drive. Sweet disposition. $10,000 or will consider reasonable offer. He will sell himself!! Call 406-860-0106 or 307-899-3700 7/5
ORIGINAL DOCTOR’S BUGGY FOR SALE: Dark green body, red interior, black top. Top folds back to make into a convertible. Oak wheels with rubber on them. A1 condition. Was made by W.A. Heiss Coach Company in Mifflinburg, PA, company was in business from 1884-1920. Single horse shaft, always stored inside. Worland, WY, asking $4,000. Call 307-347-2095. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 6/21
SILVER STATE INTERNATIONAL RODEO JUNE 30-JULY 7: Winnemucca Events Complex, Winnemucca, NV. $20,000 ADDED money. ALL STAR TEAM: Each state will pick 5 contestants to represent their state. The team with the most points will win $1,500 cash. Prizes include: Cash prizes, saddles for event winners and buckles for 2nd-4th and go round prizes, 1st-3rd. For more information or to register online, visit www.ssir. us, call Kathy, 775-217-2810 or e-mail silverstate10@yahoo. com. Check us out on Facebook 6/21
$AVE on BOOTS, BOOTS, BOOTS!!! HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! Large SELECTION of quality TACK at reasonable prices. WE CAN ship!! Shop Moss Saddles, Boots and Tack, 4648 West Yellowstone Highway, Casper, WY; 307472-1872. Our family serving yours for 50 years!! Check us out on Facebook or our website 6/21
CUSTOM FEEDING AND FINISHING FOR CATTLE AND SHEEP. Cactus Hill Ranch Company, Fort Collins, CO. Contact AJ Nelson, 970-372-8273 7/5
FAITHFUL FEEDERS: Heifer development, backgrounding, and grass calf prep. Billings, MT. Call Ryan, 406-696-0104 4/11
LS CUSTOM LEATHER: Belts, tack, cell phone cases and much more!! Contact Lester, 307-6311053, leave a message. Located in Riverton, WY 6/21
CERTIFIED WEED-FREE
PURE ALFALFA HAY: Small squares, covered. 2023 first cutting available for a reduced price. 2024 first, second and third cutting available. Will load trucks and any open trailer. MONIDA OATS, $16/cwt. Combine run. Will auger into truck, trailer or large totes/ag bags. Located between Powell and Cody, WY. Call or text Knopp Farms for details, 307-254-0554 6/21
ROUND-BALED GRASS: 2024 crop $40/bale. 1,000 lb. netwrapped bales. Cody, WY area. Call, don’t text, Anthony at 307-254-2645 8/16
CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW FOR SALE, 3x4 bales. Cody, WY. Call 307-899-1952 TFN
BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/ bale. ALSO, 5x6 round bales, $125/ton. GRAIN OATS, wheat and barley, $20/cwt. Greybull, WY area. Call 307762-3878 or 307-899-4714, leave message 7/12
LOTS AND LOTS OF HAY FOR SALE!!! Alfalfa, alfalfa/grass mix, straight grass (crested wheat and native grasses), winter wheat, 1,300-1,350 lb. netwrapped round bales. Deliveries are available if needed or come and get it. Sheridan, WY area. Call the ranch, 307-737-2680 or 702-501-4243 (cell) 7/5
GOOD RIVER BOTTOM
GRASS HAY AVAILABLE:
Large round bales, approximately 1,200 lbs., $50/each. Near Medicine Bow, WY. Can load. Approximately 400 bales. Please call 605-580-0493 7/5
HAY FOR SALE: 2024 big rounds of second and third cutting alfalfa, 47 bales of third cutting, bales average 1,440 lbs., $100/bale, 37 bales of second cutting, bales average 1,200 lbs., $75/bale. Discount when buying 10 bales or more. Hay is located in Frannie, WY. Contact Keri Merrill, 307-389-3377 6/28
CERTIFIED ORGANIC AL -
FALFA/GRASS MIX HAY: No chemicals, 3x3 squares and round bales. Adrian Troyer, Byron, WY. Call 307-6314104 12/27
90 NET-WRAPPED ROUND BALES, 1,500 lbs. grass/alfalfa mix, 2024 crop, $125/ton. Located in Cody, WY. Calls only, 307-899-3737 6/28
VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: Representing 40 of the best growers in eastern Wyoming and western Nebraska. Call now for your summer/fall needs, Barry McRea, 308-235-5386, www.valleyvideohay.com 6/21
HAY FOR SALE: 2022 first and second cutting alfalfa. 2023 first and second cutting alfalfa, milo and grass/alfalfa. 2024 first and second cutting alfalfa, grass/alfalfa. ALSO, haybet barley and forage oat hay, low nitrates, good protein, call for feed analysis. GRINDING HAY also available. All in net-wrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, ask for Klint, 701290-4418, send a text if no answer or keep trying 6/21
BENNY HERNANDEZ IS IN THE AREA AND HAS PLENTY OF HELP TO CLEANUP AND HOE YOUR CROPS. Call 307431-7160 6/21
VAN BEEK HARVESTING:
WHEAT HARVESTING WANTED, 2025 and beyond. Two John Deere 780 combines with supporting equipment, Pollock, S.D. Call 605-848-1080 6/21
LIVESTOCK TRAILERS FOR SALE!! 2013 4-STAR STOCK TRAILER, 8’x40’, 3 axle, 2 cut gates, Sure Step rubber floor, excellent condition, $40,000. 2021
WILSON CATTLE TRAILER, 53’ long, dual-dual lift, plank nose decking floor 75% to 80%, 22.5 tires 75%, half doghouse, 10’ nose, 15’ tail, ready to go to work, excellent condition, $72,500. 2022 EBY LIVESTOCK TRAILER, hog friendly, like NEW condition, 3/4 doghouse, 22.5 tires, winter kit with toolbox extruded post, stainless steel nose and rear, extra light package, black skin, trailer has been sitting for a year, does have salvage title, $80,000. Located in Blomkest, MN. Delivery available. Call 320-905-4490. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 7/12
2018 LAKOTA LIVING QUARTERS/STOCK COMBO TRAILER, 13’ living quarters with one slide-out, 16’ stock quarters, 4’ tack with saddle rack. New tires and new batteries, charcoal color. Like new. Everything works. Ready to go, $62,500 OBO. Call for pictures 307-680-1561 6/28 Trucks
FOR SALE: New Holland 1441 pull type discbine. Sitrex 9 wheel finger rake. Rowse 9’ pull type mower. Rowse 9’ 3 pt. mower. Rowse 14 wheel high capacity v-rake. 2024 AGT mini excavator H13R with tracks, new machine, $5,000. Ford 7N tractor with wide front, runs great. Meridian 240 seed tender with hydraulic remote control, roll tarp, Honda motor, excellent condition. John Deere 7000 8RN corn and bean planter. John Deere 3970 silage cutter with John Deere 3RN head. 2020 Freightliner, automatic transmission, DD13 engine, 178” wheelbase, 407,673 miles, runs and drives nice. Miller Pro 5100 18’ chuckwagon with bunk feeding extensions and tandem running gear. H&S 7+4 18’ chuckwagon with bunk feeding extensions and tandem 14 ton running gear. 12’ HD box scraper with tilt. All in very nice condition!! Call 605999-5482 6/28
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 7/26
FOR SALE: WATER TRAILER with (4) 1,500 gallon water tanks, 3 cones, 2 pumps, 50 ft. hose, electric start. ALSO, International 1256 tractor and John Deere 4520 tractor. Call 701-290-2504 7/12
915 JOHN DEERE RIPPER ON A CADDY. $8,500, good condition. Call 970-520-1320 7/12
BOBCAT CT 230 FOR SALE: 30 HP, 294 hours. Comes with loader, 60” dirt bucket, 7’ King Kutter 3 pt. back blade, 6’ King Kutter 3 pt. landscape rake. Located in Rapid City, S.D. area, $16,000. Call 701-590-2922. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 7/12
1960 JOHN DEERE 95 COMBINE, round back, 16’. All new belts, stored inside, overhaul on engine. $2,500. Call Ivan, 307-629-0974 TFN
FOR SALE: 2005 JOHN DEERE 6420 TRACTOR, with 640 self-leveling loader and round bale spear, 2,950 hours. Call 307-745-5517 7/5
ORIGINAL ROUND BALER BELTING FOR ALL MAKES: Save $100s. Free shipping, www.balerbelts.com. Call Hammond Equipment, 334-627-3348 10/25
Equipment
CASE 1070 TRACTOR: 5,000 plus hours, with Du-Al loader and grapple. $12,500. Calls only, 307-899-3737 6/28
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE, FARMER RETIRING: John Deere 71 Flex 8 row corn planter on a 24’ stackable bar. AC Model 1300 30’ ripper with rakes. 9600 John Deere combine with 930 30’ grain header and an 893 8 row 30” corn header. A 20’ Krause offset disc (new blades in front). 24’ Model 630 John Deere tandem disc. Safety pull with a bull hitch. John Deere front suitcase weights. IHC front suitcase weights. Round John Deere wheel weights. Contact Greg Keller at 406-6791136 6/21
CALL FOR ANTIQUE TRACTORS/ENGINES/MACHINES to Antique Tractor Pull July 19 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Gillette, WY. For more information, call 307-6825723, Rockpile Museum 7/12
LODGEPOLE OUTDOOR FURNACES, 307-223-2046. Your authorized Central Boiler Dealer. Get your outdoor wood furnace today!! $2,000 tax credit on qualifying models!! Efficient wood heat. Heat multiple buildings. Invest in your heating, don’t just pay for it!! See us at www.cb.lodgepoleproducts. com !! 6/28
LODGEPOLE PRODUCTS, 307-742-6992, SERVING AGRI-BUSINESSES SINCE 1975!! Treated posts, corral poles, buck-and-rail, western rail, fence stays, rough-sawn lumber, bedding. SEE US at www.lodgepoleproducts. com and click our “Picking A Fence Post” tab to see why folks choose our posts!!
OILFIELD PIPE: PRICE REDUCED!! RPJ Enterprises, Inc. 2 3/8”, 2 7/8” and 4.5” is available, pricing is coming down. Used for fencing, corrals, cattle guards,
MANUFACTURER OF HEAVY DUTY CONTINUOUS FENCE: Corral panels, farm gates, free standing panels and more. Call for pricing and delivery, Rocky Ridge Welding, Nevada, MO, 417549-1077 8/9
2012 FORD F650 FLATBED:
6.7L
www.zimmag. com Irrigation systems are COMPLETE with custom sprinkler package, SORTED, BUNDLED and ready to ship ● 2020 Zimmatic 8500 8 tower 1,296’ ● 2013 Valley 7000 7 tower 1,336’. Call 402-910-3236
Irrigation Systems
Good time management is essential to farming success. That’s why more farmers are turning to T-L center pivot irrigation systems. Hydrostatically powered, T-L’s simple design gives you the low maintenance time, cost, safety and reliability to let you manage your farm instead of calling electricians or replacing gearboxes. Simplify your complex world and make irrigation easier on you.
Inductees announced
The Livestock Marketeers hosted their 60th Annual Hall of Fame Banquet on May 29.
This year’s event was held at the American-International Charolais Association in Kansas City, Mo., and the 2025 inductees were Jack Hedrick of Signal Mountain, Tenn. and Greg Clifton of North Richland Hills, Texas.
Hedrick grew up on two notable Hereford ranches – the Circle M Ranch in Senatobia, Miss. and Col. E. Brooke Lee’s Silver Springs Farms in Damascus, Md. and Columbus, Miss.
While in Columbus, Hedrick met his wife of 44 years, Mary Helen Hedrick. From 1975-78 he worked with Bill Maerli from Cuba, Mo., fitting sale and show cattle nationwide.
In the fall of 1978, Hedrick joined National Cattle Services in Elgin, Okla. In the fall of 1988, he started his own
company, JDH Marketing Services LLC, providing sale management, consulting and ring service across North America.
Clifton was born in Clarence, Mo. and graduated from the University of Missouri in 1980. Soon after graduation, he went to work for the American Yorkshire Club through 1985.
From 1985-89, Clifton served as a fieldman for the Weekly Livestock Reporter based in Fort Worth, Texas. In 1989, he began his career as a purebred livestock auctioneer and sale manager, a career he is still passionate about to this day.
Hedrick has provided professional auctioneer services for elite operations across the nation.
The Livestock Marketeers Banquet is held each summer in conjunction with the Marketeers Classic Golf Tournament.
Lee Pitts IT'S THE PITTS
by
Bad Dog
Well, the greenies really stepped in it this time, and it wasn’t a cow pie – it was doggie doo.
It’s one thing to claim cows are terrible because their burps and farts are supposedly causing hurricanes and drouths. After all, cows are only raised by 0.01 percent of our population so they are easy to pick on without any backlash.
But dogs are another story. In articles carried in the liberal Guardian, Mother Jones and the journal Pacific Conservation Biology, man’s best friend was referred to as an “environmental villain.”
With at least one dog in one-third of American homes, it makes no sense to tug on dog’s environmental leash, especially when a national poll found only four percent of the American public disliked dogs.
So to suggest dogs are wreaking havoc on the environment should make Americans reconsider all of the bad things the greenies have been saying about cows. After all, it’s hard to picture a pram riding Yorkie or a kissy-wissy Lab slobbering all over its owner as environmental evils.
The article in The Guardian said dogs are responsible for “extensive and multifarious environmental impacts, disturbing wildlife, polluting waterways and contributing to carbon emissions, new research has found.”
The Guardian article is largely based on an Australian review of existing studies which argued “the environmental impact of owned
dogs is far greater, more insidious and more concerning than is generally recognized.”
The Aussie review highlighted the impacts of the world’s “commonest large carnivore” in killing and disturbing native wildlife.
“In Australia, attacks by unrestrained dogs on little penguins in Tasmania may contribute to colony collapse, modeling suggests,” it read.
The Australian study also said, “Insecticides from flea and tick medications kill aquatic invertebrates when they wash off into waterways. Dog feces can also leave scent traces and affect soil chemistry and plant growth. The carbon footprints of pets is also supposedly significant. A 2020 study found the dry pet food industry had an environmental footprint of around twice the land area of the United Kingdom, with greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to the 60th highestemitting country.”
Referring to the dog’s carbon paw print, the lead author of the review said, “The research did not intend to be censorious, but to a certain extent, we give a free pass to dogs.”
The Australian review also said, “Researchers attributed the extent of the environmental impacts to the sheer number of dogs globally, as well as the lax or uninformed behavior of dog owners.”
It further suggested, “Maybe, in some parts of the world, we actually need to consider some slightly more robust laws, and dog exclu-
sion zones might be more suitable in some areas.”
Tell this to the little old lady or man in the grocery store clinging to their service animal.
Regarding this attack on dogs, Author Noah Stanton said, “This latest absurdity serves as a stark reminder –for the radical environmental left, no aspect of traditional life is off limits. Their quest for control, cloaked in the language of saving the planet, inevitably clashes with personal liberty and good oldfashioned commonsense.”
The backlash has been worse than a pit bull’s bite.
Gabriella Hoffman, energy and conservation director for the Independent Women’s Forum Center, said on Fox News, “This isn’t really about dogs. It’s about an ideology that sees human activity, even the simple joy of owning a pet, as inherently harmful. It’s the same old playbook. First, they came for cows and people said nothing. Now they want to sacrifice dogs to save the planet? Not a winning message by the net-zero crowd, whose track record is notoriously bad. They came for reliable energy, then affordable cars, then meat and dairy and now, they’re scrutinizing our loyal pets. See the pattern?”
Commentator Ana Kasparian said, “Is there any enjoyable part of life these insufferable kill joys won’t attack? The attack on dogs isn’t just random, it fits a pattern many of us conservatives have seen coming.”
New York Post Columnist Jon Levine imagined how a convention of greenies might have planned their losing strategy.
“How can we win back voters?” they ask. “I know. Let’s cancel dogs.”
Finally, Columnist Tim Carney summed it up perfectly, asking, “Did a cat write this?”
New World screwworm bill introduced
Rep. Monica De La Cruz (R-TX) introduced the New World Screwworm Preparedness Act to direct U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins to conduct a study and report strategies to enhance preparedness and response capabilities against potential outbreaks of New World screwworm (NWS).
The legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives and referred to the House Agriculture Committee on June 6.
The 11 co-sponsors of the bill include Texas Republican Reps. Brian Babin, Chip Roy, August Pfluger, Tony Gonzales, Lance Gooden, Dan Crenshaw, Michael McCaul,
Roger Williams, Troy Nehls, Jodey Arrington and Brandon Gill.
De La Cruz said in her statement she has backed additional efforts to eradicate NWS, including urging USDA to establish a sterile fly facility at Moore Air Base in Hidalgo County, Texas.
The Strengthening Tactics to Obstruct the Population of Screwworms (STOP Screwworms) Act, introduced in the House last month, would authorize funding for USDA to establish a sterile fly production facility on U.S. soil.
The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association (TSCRA) supports both the STOP Screwworms Act and the New World Screwworm Pre-
Research team receives grant to combat herbicide-resistant weeds in soybeans
A national research team led by Michigan State University (MSU) has received a $500,000 grant from the United Soybean Board (USB) to develop new diagnostic tools for herbicide-resistant weeds in soybeans.
The award currently covers one year but can be extended for up to three years.
Eric Patterson, an assistant professor and weed geneticist in the MSU Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences (PSM), leads the project which will cover most of the soybean-growing region of the U.S.
Additional MSU team members include Erin Hill, a weed diagnostician with MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostics; Erin Burns, an assistant professor in PSM and Christy Sprague, a professor in PSM.
The multistate project also brings together partners from Kansas State University (KSU), Mississippi State University, Penn State University, Purdue University, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, the University of Arkansas, the University of Illinois, the University of Missouri and the University of Wisconsin. HERMON
For decades, the primary method of weed eradication has been chemical control with herbicides, but growers and researchers are seeing increased levels of resistance in several weed species.
Patterson said the primary culprit is an overreliance on a limited number of herbicides.
work of herbicide resistance experts at universities representing the eastern, southern and northcentral soybean-growing regions to develop new technologies to rapidly detect resistance and track its spread,” Patterson said. “Ultimately, we’re working to establish a broad and collaborative weed science workgroup to facilitate knowledge exchange and the development of decision-support tools for local and regional weed management.”
Research hubs HERMON is composed of five complementary objectives which will take place at partner universities.
Researchers from MSU, Arkansas, Mississippi State and Missouri will develop standardized greenhouse diagnostic protocols for resistance detection.
Farmers across the U.S. rely on land-grant universities for resistance diagnostic services and recommendations, but MSU is currently the only university in the country offering a comprehensive greenhousebased herbicide resistance screening service through the Plant and Pest Diagnostics program.
Penn State, Illinois and Texas A&M AgriLife Research will work to uncover new resistance mechanisms to also develop rapid diagnostics.
Partners at Arkansas, Mississippi State, Purdue and Wisconsin will investigate resistance to soilapplied residual and foliar herbicides in Amaranthus sp., the most common weeds in soybeans.
Soil-applied residual herbicides are deployed prior to weed emergence, while foliar products target weeds once they are present in the field.
Prior research has focused primarily on foliar herbicides for resistance diagnostics, but more information is needed on soil-applied residual products because they are often recommended for management. Researchers also want to understand the relationship between both types of herbicide resistance in weed populations.
paredness Act.
“The growing threat of the NWS demands swift, coordinated action,” TSCRA president Carl Ray Polk, Jr. said in a statement in response to the new bill.
“Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association fully supports this legislation, enhancing U.S. preparedness and response to the NWS threat. This legislation is a critical step toward ensuring USDA’s overarching strategy is being communicated to Congress. We are grateful for the leadership of De La Cruz and others who are working to safeguard our cattle industry. We remain committed to working alongside our state, federal and industry partners to protect America’s beef herd.”
According to a 2014 study supported by USB, herbicide-resistant weeds cost U.S. soybean growers more than $2 billion annually. Since then, populations of these weeds have proliferated across the country with almost every major crop, boosting this figure substantially when considering all of agriculture.
The new project is called Herbicide Resistance Monitoring Network (HERMON) and is broadly aimed at developing rapid diagnostic tools for resistance detection, increasing screening capacity and improving chemical management recommendations.
The work is rooted in Extension with an overarching goal to deliver effective strategies directly to soybean growers.
Patterson, whose research program is supported in part by MSU AgBioResearch, said the team anticipates the new project will generate significant economic returns for soybean farmers.
“HERMON will coordinate the efforts of a net-
The piecemeal approach has led to each university using a unique methodology with varying criteria which may not consider new resistance mechanisms.
To solve this issue, the team is proposing to position MSU as a northern diagnostic hub for species such as waterhemp, ragweeds and marestail; Mississippi State as a southern hub for grasses and Arkansas for Palmer amaranth, which is possibly the most damaging weed for U.S. soybeans.
These hubs will coordinate regularly, sharing reference seed and novel cases of resistance for more intense study.
“Standardizing our diagnostic protocols is essential to delivering the most consistent and reliable information to farmers,” Patterson said. “These hubs would allow us to cover the entirety of the soybean-growing regions across the country.”
Scientists from Penn State and Purdue will lead the creation of rapid testing for known resistance mechanisms, while collaborators from MSU,
Finally, KSU is leading efforts to disseminate research findings and educate growers about resistance management. This will be done through a variety of platforms, including a Weed Science Society of America panel discussion, direct farmer meetings, questionnaires and a short video online seminar series which teaches the basics about resistance, diagnostics, management and general weed science.
A portion of the funding will support training opportunities for six graduate students and two postdoctoral researchers across the entire network. These scientists will go on to become experts in resistance management within industry, academia and government positions.
“Training the next generation of weed scientists is a foundational element of the project,” Patterson said. “Equipping them with the skills to meet the needs of U.S. growers now and into the future will be vital to the success of our agriculture industries.”
Originally formed in 1888 as the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station, MSU AgBioResearch oversees numerous oncampus research facilities, as well as 15 outlying centers throughout Michigan. To learn more, visit agbioresearch.msu.edu
Adobe Stock photo
South Dakota State University offers summer grilling safety tips
Spring in the West comes with a variety of weather, from snowstorms to 70-degree days, and with the taste of warmer weather comes the itch to get out and grill.
Many families’ grills have been put away since the first blizzard and have stayed cold for a few months.
Before firing up the grill this season, consider a few reminders on grilling and food safety.
Clean the grill
After sitting dormant for several months, grills could use a good cleaning.
Pull the grates out and remove the heat plates and the grease trap. Using a grill brush, remove debris from these parts and inspect them.
If there are a lot of rust spots or areas of corrosion, one should consider replacing the parts. Areas of rust allow food to stick to the grill and can also transfer rust onto food.
Individuals can use a grill degreaser to clean parts with more stuck-on food residue, but be sure to follow label directions.
If cleaning the grease trap makes one’s stomach turn, consider purchasing a liner or line the trap with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier. Once interior parts are cleaned, wipe down the side trays and lid handle to ensure clean surfaces to work with in the future.
One of the most common and easy ways to do a quick cleanup on a grill is to use a grill brush. However, if the grill brush is a few years old, it is important to
inspect the bristles. If they are flattened or caked with debris, they aren’t as effective as the bristles on a clean brush.
Also, make sure the bristles are intact. Cheapermade brushes have a tendency to lose their wire bristles, which can get stuck on the grate and end up in food, which is a safety issue.
When in doubt, get a new brush.
Thaw meat products safely
Never set meat out to thaw on the countertop or in the sink. Allowing meat to sit at room temperature for extended periods of time gives potentially harmful bacteria time to grow and multiply.
There are three accepted methods to thaw meat products safely – refrigerator, microwave and cold water.
Using a refrigerator is the preferred method when it comes to preserving meat quality. However, it can take a few days for meat to thaw in the refrigerator, so it is not the ideal method for those planning to use the meat in the same day.
Also, make sure to store raw meat products in the lowest portion of the refrigerator to avoid cross contamination from leaking packages.
Always keep ready-toeat food away from raw meat.
Another common way to thaw meat safely is to use a microwave. This is by far the quickest method, but it should only be used in certain circumstances.
By exposing meat to heat, it gets to be within the
temperature danger zone very quickly, so it should be cooked thoroughly immediately after microwaving. Additionally, the microwave can begin to cook the meat, which would result in a poorer-quality product.
Another way to safely thaw meat is by submerging it in cold water and changing the water out every 30 minutes. Place the meat in waterproof packaging – disposable plastic food bags work well – and remove as much air as possible before submerging to avoid water seeping into the product and making it watery.
The speed of this method depends on the size of the cut being thawed. Pieces of meat less than one pound can be thawed in less than one hour. Larger cuts can take several hours.
It is extremely important to use cold water in this method. Warm or hot water may thaw meat faster, but it also allows meat to be in the temperature danger zone of 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit for too long, potentially allowing bacteria to grow.
Additionally, hot water may start to cook the meat, resulting in a lower-quality product.
Avoid cross contamination
As with any other method of cooking, avoiding cross contamination should be at the forefront of one’s mind while grilling.
Remember to wash hands thoroughly and often, especially before and after handling raw meat and before handling ready-toeat food. Also pay attention to things that get touched
when putting raw meat on the grill.
Is the hand putting burgers on the grill the same one used to close the grill lid or open the patio door?
Other things to pay attention to are countertops where meat was prepared, ensuring hands were clean when grabbing seasoning containers and making sure to put cooked meats on a clean plate or tray when they are done grilling. Cook meat to appropriate temperature
From pressing on the top of a steak to cooking chicken until the juices run clear, a lot of theories exist on how to tell if meat is cooked thoroughly, but the only surefire way to know if a piece of meat is cooked is to use a meat thermometer.
Ground meat – hamburgers – should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit and whole muscle cuts – steaks and chops – can be safely consumed at 145 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pork products should also include a three-minute rest before eating, although steaks and chops would also benefit from rest before eating. This will prevent juices from purging out and making meat dry.
Raw poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Christina Bakker is the South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension meat science specialist and an assistant professor. This article was originally published by SDSU Extension on June 25, 2024.
Tool combats New World screwworm
A resurgence of the deadly New World screwworm (NWS) has prompted the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to suspend all imports of live cattle, horses and bison from Mexico.
The parasite, whose larvae feed on the living tissue of warm-blooded animals, has been detected in southern Mexico, raising alarms about its potential spread into the U.S. NWS, once eradicated from the U.S. in the 1960s, poses a significant threat to livestock and wildlife. Infes-
LETTERS
tations can be fatal to a full-grown cow within one to two weeks if left untreated.
The USDA has emphasized the severity of the threat, noting a similar outbreak in 1976 affected over 1.4 million cattle in Texas alone.
In this critical time, Doramectin has proven to be a vital tool in combating NWS infestations as it effectively disrupts the parasite’s lifecycle by targeting larvae at multiple developmental stages.
“Doramectin targets parasitic lar-
Submit your letters to: Editor, Wyoming Livestock Roundup
P.O. Box 850, Casper, WY, 82602, or e-mail to roundup@wylr.net.
We reserve the right to edit letters.
It is the policy of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup that we do not print letters attacking individuals, groups or organizations within the Wyoming agricultural community.
Dear Friends and Supporters, On June 20, I will be stepping away from my role as executive director of the Wyoming Stock Growers Land Trust (WSGLT). This shift will allow me to spend more time with my family and dedicate more of my energy to caring for the land that sustains us. It has been an honor to be a part of this organization’s history. I am deeply proud of what we’ve accomplished during my time in
vae at multiple stages, killing them before they can continue their development or reproduce,” said Dr. Pete Hann, technical services veterinarian and parasitologist at Aurora Pharmaceutical. “Doramectin breaks the cycle and gives producers the upper hand in protecting their herds.”
Producers in affected areas are urged to monitor cattle closely for signs of NWS and to consult with their veterinarians about incorporating Doramectin into their parasite control protocols.
this role – from shepherding the organization into its 25th year, to conserving over 300,000 acres of agricultural lands and laying the groundwork for an inspiring future with 30 families across more than 100,000 acres in the next few years. These milestones are not just numbers. They represent the passion, dedication and vision of a remarkable community, and with this level of work and commitment comes the need for rejuvenation. I leave with immense gratitude for the relationships built, the lessons learned and the legacy we’ve created together. Though I am stepping away from my formal role, I
remain a steadfast supporter of this mission and look forward to seeing the organization thrive.
With deep appreciation and warmest regards, Jessica Crowder Cheyenne
July 26
Sundance Rodeo Club Youth Rodeo
Sundance Rodeo Club Team Roping
July 29
Ranch Rodeo
July 29 - Aug. 2
Adventure Zone Inflatables with Pirates Rebellion
July 30-31
Story Time with Miss Tonia
July 31
Youth Rough Stock Rodeo
Aug. 2
Junior Livestock Sale
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together make up Acciona and Nordex Green Hydrogen (ANGH) based in Chicago. This company is working in cooperation with Focus Clean Energy, which has developed over 1,700 megawatts (MW) of wind projects in Wyoming including Boswell Springs, with current projects –Two Rivers and Lucky Star – under construction in Albany County.
The Sidewinder H2 wind farm is planned about 10 miles west of Lusk on 120,110 acres, of which 23,290, or 19.4 percent, is state land.
Expected to use 352 MW of energy sited on state trust land, subject to state approval, Sidewinder H2 would create 201 permanent jobs and represents a $7 billion investment. It would be estimated to produce 1,000 MW of wind energy.
Pronghorn H2 is planned to place 45 turbines east of
Casper over 46,000 acres, with 30 percent of the area state-owned land. This project would include a capacity of up to 110 MW of electricity and be about one-third the size of the Sidewinder H2 project.
It’s estimated this project would generate $365,750 for the state annually and $31.5 million over the course of the 40-year lease.
Office of State Lands and Investment (OSLI)
Assistant Director of the Trust Management Division Cody Booth said last month wind projects in the state currently generate $1.2 million in annual revenue for Wyoming.
Hydrogen plant
Booth said unlike other wind leases, the power produced is expected to support a hydrogen plant, rather than entering the grid. Hydrogen produced by the plant, which isn’t
located on state land, will be synthesized into aviation fuel and transported to Denver International Airport.
The rates, he said, were negotiated in accordance with this expectation.
Once producing power, the lease will be charged $4,750 per MW hour of nameplate capacity.
The Pronghorn H2 project is expected to place 14 turbines on state lands specifically.
According to Booth, the turbines are expected to have a capacity of five MW hours, making the annual revenue approximately $365,750.
For perspective, he said the current active wind leases generate $1.5 million in revenue.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has reviewed the project, and Booth said Pronghorn H2 intends to abide by them.
Since February, Booth said OSLI has received approximately 21 writ-
LIVESTOCK AUCTION
TUESDAY, JUNE
ten comments, “the vast majority” of which express opposition to the project. The primary concerns cite impacts to recreation, water resources, wildlife, environmental, viewshed disruption and decreased home value.
Booth said the comments about water usage were primarily in reference to the hydrogen plant itself, which will not be built on state trust land.
Boulder, Colo.-based Paul Martin, lead developer and counsel, along with Holland and Hart’s Cindy DeLancey, addressed the OSLI board at the April 3 meeting and asked the proposal be approved.
Gray, a member of the OSLI board, asked Martin about the existing market demand to go through the hydrogen process to produce aviation fuel.
Martin said the hydrogen-based fuel would be sold to airlines on a voluntary basis based on the airline customers’ – primarily businesses who wish to tell their customers they’re working to reduce their carbon footprint – requests to lessen the carbon footprint of air travelers.
“It’s not driven by an economic purpose,” Gray said. “It’s driven by this group who wants to go along with this woke, bogus narrative about climate change, and they want to be
able to advertise something that’s going to make them look good in their minds.”
Gray said the project isn’t “creating any economic benefit.”
State Treasurer Curt Meier disagreed, claiming the economic benefit to Niobrara County is a doubling of tax revenues.
Gray retorted, arguing, rather than taking a resource to create wealth, the resources are being used to comply with a political narrative outside of what is mainstream in Wyoming.
Martin said there are three grazing leaseholders within the footprint of the project and turbines are planned on only one. This leaseholder is the only private landowner in Con-
verse County whose land is included in the footprint of the project.
The Duncan Ranch was initially included in the footprint of the Sidewinder H2 project, but has since been removed.
Converse County Rancher Mike Stephens’ land borders the Pronghorn H2 wind project planned near Glenrock and has filed a lawsuit against the OSLI board, alleging they failed to follow proper procedures when it approved a lease on a vote of four to one in April.
Rachel Gabel is a longtime agriculture writer and the assistant editor of The Fence Post Magazine. This column was originally published in The Fence Post on June 6.
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