July 11, 2020

Volume 32 Number 11 • July 11, 2020

®

The Weekly News Source for Wyoming’s Ranchers, Farmers and AgriBusiness Community • www.wylr.net

A Look Inside Wyoming Livestock Board sees big changes.......... Page 2 Certified Angus Beef provides a recent market update....Page 4 Converse County Fair continues Wyoming’s second week of county fair festivities.... Page 14 Annual forage benefits discussed by Extension Educator Jeremiah Vardiman..... Page 15

Quick Bits

NAFTA traded in for USMCA On July 1 the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) went into effect.

American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) President Zippy Duvall says, “The launch of the USMCA

brings optimism to the country’s farmers and ranchers at a time they need it the most.”

“On the back of a struggling farm economy and on the back of the COVID-19 pandemic, this is welcom-

ing news – improving what has been a long and successful agreement for U.S. agriculture,” says AFBF Chief Economist John Newton.

Replacing the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the

USMCA will rebalance trade between the U.S., Canada and Mexico, according to the Office of the United States Trade Representative.

Trading partners “Canada and Mexico

Please see USMCA on page 5

BEEF AND CATTLE MARKETS

Tour canceled

Some sectors in the industry looking up, others still face disruption

Due to recent spikes in COVID-19 cases around the state, the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA) made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Environmental Stewardship Tour, scheduled for July 16 in Elk Mountain. WSGA plans to reschedule the event at a later date.

There have been many different factors affecting the beef and cattle markets recently, making it difficult to track individual sectors. Some sectors of the industry still seem to have a dark cloud looming above, while others are seeing brighter days.

Cattle slaughter approached year ago levels in recent days, after weeks of severe disruption,

and wholesale beef prices retreated to more normal levels as well. However, there are still numerous disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the industry.

Slaughter cow prices – a bright spot Due to the market uncertainty and turmoil driven by COVID-19, the new dynamics of Please see PRICES on page 6

U.S. Drought For the contiguous 48 states, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed 25.77% of the area in moderate drought or worse, compared with 25.52% a week earlier. Drought now affects 32,522,590 people, compared with 29,095,152 a week earlier. For the 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, the U.S. Drought Monitor showed 21.62% of the area in moderate drought or worse, compared with 21.42% a week earlier. Drought now affects 35,439,725 people, compared with 32,013,046 a week earlier.

A bright spot – While many sectors of the beef industry continue to face COVID-19 disruptions, slaughter cow prices are one of the few bright spots for cattle producers. Andrea Zink photo

COVID-19 The U.S. surpassed the three million caseload mark on July 8 as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to rage across the country. Coronavirus cases in the U.S. rose by 59,046 to 3,055,144 cases as of July 9, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center.

The death toll increased by 829 lives to 132,309 deaths.

Notice of Loss The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced they will provide additional flexibilities for producers to file on acres with failed crops or crops that were prevented from planting because of extreme weather events.

USDA’s Farm Service Agency is adding these flexibilities for Notice of Loss on both insured and uninsured crops to enable service centers to best assist producers.

Seeking assistance WWGA submits several CFAP recommendations for sheep industry In a Wyoming Wool Growers Association (WWGA) newsletter published July 6, WWGA notes the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) hasn’t been a big help to sheep producers impacted by the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the association has been hard at work pushing for additional help for the industry.

“We have been working with the governor’s office and the Joint Ag Committee in the hopes of developing an agriculture-specific relief package for Wyoming’s agriculture community, including a specific provision for sheep ranchers which will be available by fall when the impact of the decline in market prices is expected to be felt by Wyoming agriculture producers,” says WWGA. Establishing a working group As part of their initiative, the association has established a working group to develop recommendations on how to provide assistance to Wyoming sheep producers.

WWGA explains, “The working group developed recPlease see WWGA on page 14

Direct Act introduced U.S. Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX) introduced the Direct Interstate Retail Exemption for Certain Transactions (DIRECT) Act during the first week of July. The legislation will allow state inspected meat to be sold across state lines through e-commerce, allowing small producers and processors more options to directly market to consumers.

“As a result of COVID-19, meat processing plants across the country have been forced to close or slow operations, and as a result we’ve seen a renaissance in small processors,” said Johnson. “Many states have inspection standards that are at least equal to what the federal government requires. This bill cuts through red tape and allows producers, processors and retailers to sell stateinspected meat and poultry direct to consumers through online stores across state lines.”

“America’s meat industry has been hit hard by financial challenges resulting from the coronavirus pandemic,” added Cuellar. “The bipartisan legislation will open up new markets for meat producers and processors by allowing meat inspected by the state to be sold online and across state lines. As a senior member of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Appropriations, I will continue to fight for the men and women who work every day to keep food on our table during these unprecedented times. I want to thank Congressman Dusty Johnson for his commitment to supporting our meat industry.”

The DIRECT Act will amend the retail exemption under the Federal Meat Inspection Act and Poultry ProdPlease see DIRECT on page 4

Top considerations for direct marketing beef Anticipated food shortages across the country as well as consumers’ increasing desire to know where their food comes from has sparked marketing beef directly off the ranch to consumers to rise in popularity.

As more producers look to direct marketing of their beef, experts at Kansas State University discuss considerations for ranchers to keep in mind during a Cattle Chat podcast presented by the Beef Cattle Institute.

Kansas State Veterinarians Bob Larson and Brad White, Agricultural Economist Dustin Pendell and Kansas State Beef Cattle Extension Specialist

Bob Weaber share their ideas on how to successfully market from the ranch.

Develop a plan The experts all agree developing a business plan is critical to the sustainability of direct marketing. Understanding price structure and determining if producers want to sell their beef in individual cuts or by the carcass are important decisions to be made with caution.

“If I sell a half of beef to someone, they will pay the processing charges, and they get all the yield,” shares Weaber. “But, if I am selling meat by the

periodical

periodical

Please see BEEF on page 7

2

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

Times are Changing

One of the major issues for consumers these days is finding a good source of affordable beef, pork or lamb to meet their family’s needs. People have always relied on trips to the grocery store, but as many know, availFrom the ability and cost have turned some Publisher away.

Dennis Sun

The alternative for most is to buy a finished or processed animal from a producer. We are seeing more producers finishing animals, and consumers are really eating it up. They know the local people who raised the animal, and they know it is the fresh meat they want. The demand is there.

However, this comes with some negatives, such as the wait on getting it processed at a small processing plant and finding a freezer to store it in at home. The demand for this meat has really exceeded supply.

There is plenty of meat, but getting it processed is an issue. I don’t think any of us can say this trend will go away. It fits exactly what the consumer wants for their food today. And it is up to those producers to have the facts on the meat to satisfy consumers’ questions.

Producers have a great product and it is easy to stand behind.

The big question is, how do we get small to medium processing plants in the region?

As the Wyoming Business Council’s study of small processing plants showed, it is not going to be easy or cheap.

A Bloomberg article said, “Small slaughterhouses aren’t a quick fix. There’s plenty of hurdles to opening small slaughterhouses, including location, livestock and labor.”

There have been some small slaughterhouses opening up and some colleges are training meat cutters to work in those plants, but labor will always be an issue with processing plants.

“To start a plant to process 300 to 400 head of cattle a day, we would need to be able to lose $4 million to get to profitability,” states the article.

That’s a lot of money. It is going to be hard to compete with the large packers. It is like making cars or any other product, one has to be big to be profitable. They said in 2019, the 12 largest plants accounted for 52 percent of the total cattle slaughter. This tells us small plants will never replace the big ones.

Last week, according to CattleFax, there were 923,700 head of cattle processed. A year ago, there were 567,700 head of cattle processed. While those numbers are huge, cattle producers are having a hard time staying profitable.

Hopefully this will be fixed in the near future.

There is room for small to medium processing plants, but it is going to be expensive. The consumer is willing to pay more for their meat, and the producers will have to supply a year-round, quality product.

We can do it, but it means change and extra work. If there is money to be made, producers will adapt. Younger producers are viewing this time as an opportunity. The good part is America still wants to eat meat, especially hamburger, and we can supply those products.

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

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GUEST OPINIONS Wyoming Livestock Board Sees Big Changes and Faces Challenges Head On

By Steve True, Wyoming Livestock Board So far, 2020 has been a year of change and challenges, many of which we face as a nation or state.

Some are geographical in nature, as drought and neardrought conditions occupy much of the western grazing lands, and markets face challenge and upheaval.

The redeeming factor is the agriculture industries have been facing challenges and change for decades, even centuries, and have always met the challenge head on.

We at the Wyoming Livestock Board would like to take this opportunity to apprise the state’s producers of the changes and challenges we face as an agency for the industry.

Celebrating 240 years of experience We would first like to let you know of continuing change to the face of our Brand Inspection Unit.

We want to celebrate the retirement and service to the state’s producers, of nine brand inspectors totaling nearly 240 combined years of brand inspection experience. These inspectors have decided to call it a day, and we will sorely miss their knowledge and experience.

Thank you is not nearly enough regard for the work and dedication these gentlemen have supplied to our industry and the State of Wyoming. If you see these folks, please say thank you and offer your respect.

Those retiring include

Gary McColl of Park County after serving 48 years, District Supervisor Ron McDonald of Laramie County after serving 38 years, Rusty Sturgeon of Goshen County after serving 35 years, Greg Bybee of Laramie County after serving 33 years, Dick Baker of Niobrara County after serving 28 years, Kevin Behunin of Uinta County after serving 26 years, Brett West of Niobrara County after serving 17 years, Calvin Clayton of Sheridan County after serving nine years and Keith Eisenbraun of Campbell County after serving four years.

Again, the knowledge, experience and industry savvy these men represent leave boot prints that will be nearly impossible to fill.

On the positive side, we have had the opportunity to meet outstanding applicants for each position, and have filled most of the positions. Please reach out to the office at 307-777-7515 for contact information for our new brand inspectors in these areas.

Welcoming new members We would also like to congratulate Roger Newkirk of Albany County, with 31 years of experience of his own, as our new District Supervisor for District Four.

We are also excited to introduce Dr. Hallie Hasel, DVM, as the new Wyoming Assistant State Veterinarian of Field Operations. Hasel has been following the cat-

tle trails since she received her DVM from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1992.

Hasel joined the Wyoming Livestock Board in June 2020, after chasing cattle fever ticks as director of the USDA Cattle Fever Tick Eradication Program for six years along the southern border of Texas.

Prior to eradicating fever ticks, Hasel followed the wagon tracks in western Kansas as owner of Hasel Veterinary Services, then as a field veterinary medical officer with USDA Veterinary Services.

Adversity in agriculture provided challenges throughout her career. She followed Midwest droughts and blizzards to hurricanes and heat waves in deep South Texas.

Hasel has collaborated with several federal agencies, including U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and the USDA Agriculture Research Service, developing projects to aid the livestock industry.

She served as an Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) veterinarian in conjunction with the APHIS and Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse and Burro Partnership.

Legislation brings changes Legislative action in the past two sessions brought forth new changes in the Brand Renewal process.

These changes include the following.

First, the delinquent

period for a brand, which has not been renewed has been increased from one year to two years.

Second, if a brand is due for renewal or if people wish to reactivate a delinquent brand, they can now choose to renew the brand for an extended amount of years. This new legislation allows the brand owner to renew the brand for 10, 20, 30 up to 100 years in 10-year increments.

The cost for the first five increments is expected to be the current renewal rate of $330 for each 10-year term. The proposed discounted cost for the second five increments is $200 per each 10-year term.

One will be able to access this change and choose the number of 10-year increments on their upcoming renewal notice.

Third, one may modify the active term of their brand. For example, John Doe has a brand up for renewal in 2021. He has another brand recorded in the same legal name, which is due for renewal in 2027.

John wants to have both his brands come up for renewal at the same time.

He may request to move the 2021 brand forward into the 2027 renewal period. John will pay a prorated fee for the period 2021 to 2027, then pay the full fee for renewal of both brands in 2027. This can only be done during a renewal period or to reactiPlease see CHANGE on page 6

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

3

NEWS BRIEFS WHA show announced

The Wyoming Hereford Association (WHA) is pleased to announce their annual show on Aug. 13 at the 2019 Wyoming State Fair in Douglas. Each year, the WHA honors an individual or family who has made an impact on the industry. This year, the WHA will be recognizing Si West, who dedicated 63 years of his life to raising Hereford cattle.

According to Si’s daughter Tammie, Hereford cattle meant everything to her father, and what’s more, “He considered his fellow Hereford Breeders to be his dearest and most special friends.”

WHA is proud to honor Si for the considerable mark he left on the Hereford breed.

There will be 17 classes offered with just under $7,500 in prize money for class, division and overall winners at the show. In addition, a buckle will be up for grabs for the Supreme Champion animal.

Esteemed national Judge Dave Allan of Texas, will be judging with longtime WHA supporter Dick Hiser coordinating the show.

Entry fees will be $50 per head, and entry forms can be found on the Wyoming State Fair website. All entries should be sent to Cindy Stillahn, WHA secretary/treasurer, at 3902 CR 203 Cheyenne, WY 82007.

The show will begin at 10 a.m. on Aug.13. Animals can begin settling in at the fairgrounds Aug. 11 with first bedding provided.

For any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Gene Stillahn at 307-421-1592, Cindy Stillahn at 307421-3912 or e-mail wyhereford.assn@gmail.com.

Governor supports bid Gov. Mark Gordon and members of the State Loan and Investment Board (SLIB) have unanimously supported the submission of a bid to purchase Wyoming land with a goal of returning additional revenue to the state.

The non-binding bid is another step towards the purchase, and is not final. The bid will now be submitted to Occidental Petroleum for the purchase of land and minerals, and may include the entirety of the land offered or a portion.

The board’s vote requires additional public meetings prior to final approval of any purchase, the highest possible return and a report detailing non-confidential aspects of the transaction. The non-binding bid authorized by the SLIB is confidential at this time to protect the integrity of the bid process and to allow the board to submit a bid.

“This is a unique and substantial opportunity to invest in Wyoming-based, revenue-generating assets,” Gordon said.

“We owed it to the people of Wyoming to properly evaluate its potential, listen to their concerns and weigh carefully whether this investment would benefit Wyoming’s portfolio.

That is our fiduciary responsibility to our state – to make sure we get the highest rate of return for the citizens of Wyoming.”

Resource launched

Vaccine bank initiated The United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced the initial purchase of vaccine for the National Animal Vaccine and Veterinary Countermeasures Bank (NAVVCB) on July 8. APHIS will invest $27.1 million in a foot and mouth disease (FMD) vaccine, which the agency would use in the event of an outbreak to protect animals and help stop the spread of disease.

“While we are confident we can keep FMD out of the country, as we have since 1929, having access to vaccine is an important insurance policy,” said Marketing and Regulatory Programs Under Secretary Greg Ibach. “Vaccines could be an important tool in the event of an incursion of the disease in the U.S, but their use will depend on the circumstances of the incursion and require careful coordination with the affected animal industries.”

The NAVVCB is one component of a three-part program established by the 2018 Farm Bill to comprehensively support animal disease prevention and management. The new U.S.-only vaccine bank makes a much larger number of vaccine doses available have through the North American Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccine Bank.

APHIS will continue to participate in the North American Foot and Mouth Disease Vaccine Bank, and this new program adds to the nation’s level of protection against this devastating disease. In the event of an outbreak, animal health officials would decide when, where and how to use the available vaccine, based on the circumstances of the outbreak.

More information about these programs is available at aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/farmbill.

ESA re-examined

The Fish and Wildlife Service must re-examine its decision to lift Endangered Species Act protections for Greater Yellowstone grizzly bears, a federal appeals court announced on July 8.

A Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel upheld a lower court’s determination that the service’s 2017 delisting rule glossed over the effect of the move on remaining bears, ignored the best available science and failed to commit to recalibration in the event of a new population estimator.

The rule removed safeguards for more than 700 bears and cleared the way for the first grizzly hunts in the contiguous United States in decades.

“Because there are no concrete, enforceable mechanisms in place to ensure long-term genetic health of the Yellowstone grizzly, the district court concluded the 2017 Rule is arbitrary and capricious in this regard,” wrote Senior Judge Mary Schroeder.

SUMMER HAY & GATOR SALE

The Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA) has launched a web resource focused on supporting Wyoming producers with agriculture related stress and mental health.

“Agriculture and the people involved in this industry are the backbone of our state,” said Doug Miyamoto, director of the Wyoming Department of Agriculture. “We recognize this industry is difficult and these can be challenging times for our producers, so we gathered and compiled a wide variety of information on this page as a resource to assist in the well-being of our Wyoming producers.”

“Resources on this site will help with stress management, financial challenges, interpersonal difficulties, legal issues and many other needs our producers may have,” said Miyamoto. “We hope those who need it use these resources to help themselves, or someone they care for, so we can continue the great agriculture tradition of lending a helping hand to our neighbors and communities in times of need.”

Visit agriculture.wy.gov/about-us/ag-stress to see the Wyoming Ag Stress page and all of the resources available.

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4

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

By Paul Dykstra

Market Update In the past few weeks the fed cattle market has brought to fruition the results many suppliers have been bracing for. The slippery descending slope from record cutout values has developed into a further weakening of fed cattle prices.

Packer profits have also adjusted much lower from record levels seen just weeks ago, but are estimated in a very positive range above $200 per head. Feed yard leverage is a non-factor and feeders continue to push an overfinished cattle inventory into the processing funnel as much as they’re able to at lower prices.

The dynamics described previously have followed a predictable pattern laid at our feet by the packing sector’s shutdowns in May. Less predictably, and much more exciting, is the fact that packers posted the giant 680,000 head harvest total last week. This was achieved with weekday totals around the 95,000 head range, 85 percent of which were fed cattle.

The Independence Day holiday had packing firms reducing or eliminating processing late last week, presumably to a varying degree depending on the company. This being the case, we assume packers prepared for the holiday production void with a push to build supplies ahead of time.

One fact we don’t want to overlook is the simple fact packers have proven capable of not only large weekly production but of daily head counts on par or larger than a year ago. This is precisely the cure the trade needs.

Carcass cutout values have been locked in a downward pattern as the boxed beef trade searches for more practical price points on several items.

The end meats have undergone all of their necessary adjustments already with most of those subprimals priced just above a year ago. Some items, such as Certified Angus Beef (CAB) briskets at $2.50 per pound, wholesale, are currently discounted below a year ago.

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Ribeyes and strip loin prices continue to drift lower as they’ve remained at unrealistic levels for a longer duration. This is partially a seasonal effect with late spring grilling demand and the return of foodservice buying keeping those prices elevated.

They’ll continue to lower with larger production volumes and the dog days of July upon us now.

Consumers have yet to see lower beef prices as distributors recently continued to pass the cost of their recent inventory, bought weeks ago at higher prices, down the line to retail.

Outlook for retention and numbers USDA will release the biannual cattle inventory report in three weeks, but let’s take a cursory look at the 2020 factors influencing the size of the beef cowherd.

Economics drive cattlemen’s decisions to retain or sell females, and we’re seeing sizable shifts in cow/calf economics this year.

Feeder cattle prices since mid-March have fallen well below a year ago and futures-implied prices for the second half of the year don’t indicate a major breakthrough.

Thus, little incentive will exist for producers to allocate more resources toward growing the cowherd.

Weather patterns are important as well, as they determine availability and price of feed. The June 25 drought index shows a concerning and increasingly large portion of the western U.S. being affected by abnormally dry to extreme drought.

Six of the top 10 beef cow producing states in the country are implicated in this dry pattern. We’ll likely see the result in fewer replacement females kept later in the year and deeper and/or earlier culling of cows already underway.

With projections aside, let’s take a look at some concrete evidence. U.S. beef cow numbers started the year at 31.3 million head, about one percent lower than January 2019.

Through mid-June the beef cull cow harvest has averaged about 60,000 head weekly, 2.3 percent larger than a year ago, despite the severe April and May decline during the worst of the pandemic, when packers were unable to operate at full capacity.

Summer video auctions As we turn the calendar to July, the summer video cattle auctions will begin in earnest. Video auctions in the month of June normally feature fewer consignments, but they have historically produced some of the highest prices compared to subsequent months in past years.

Demand for yearlings and calves looks excellent at this time and both brick and mortar auction markets and video sale results thus far show buyers are bidding at and above a breakeven.

Input costs will vary, but a person may use an 80 cents per pound cost of gain figure in a breakeven projection today. Recent sales have shown 600pound steers are valued near $150 per hundredweight (cwt) or $900 per head.

Adding 800 pounds of

gain at 80 cents per pound generates another $640 per head cost in the feed yard for a total of $1,540 per head.

The April 2021 live cattle contract traded at $109 per cwt, suggests a $1,526 per head sales value of the finished steer delivered in early October. The projected total input cost is $14 per head higher than the April futures implies the breakeven.

With this said, buyers appear to be bidding with limited risk tolerance at this level.

We also know there is more inherent value in the higher quality cattle with a herd health program matching up with intentional genetic selection.

The commodity breakeven calculations above don’t account for superior feedlot performance or carcass quality.

Average CAB carcass

premiums have historically added around $40 per head with the top of the range reaching $100 per head in the most positive extreme.

Readers may be well informed that marbling achievement across the industry is such that the Choice and Prime carcass percentages are record high. Yet, next spring when supplies should be more normalized we expect to see the quality spreads widen seasonally.

Several factors in the beef complex are likely to be much different as we project out that far. If we bet against quality as a price determinant then we’ll remove the potential opportunity from the table at the outset. We wish the best of fortunes to both buyers and sellers this season.

E-mail questions to pdykstra@certifiedangusbeef.com.

DIRECT continued from page 1 ucts Inspection Act to allow processors, butchers or other retailers to sell normal retail quantities – 300 pounds of beef, 100 pounds of pork and 27.5 pounds of lamb – of State Inspected Meat online to consumers across state lines, allow new directto-consumer options for producers, processors and small meat markets and maintain traceability of sales easily accessed in the event of a recall.

The act will also allow retail sales to consumers, minimizing the risk for further processing in export, keeping equivalency agreements with

trading partners intact and allow states operating under the Cooperative Interstate Shipping system to ship and label as they are currently.

“This is a step in the right direction, and it offers American lamb producers throughout the country new markets and methods to add value to their operations,” said American Sheep Industry Association President Benny Cox. “The American sheep industry thanks Reps. Johnson and Cuellar for their efforts to open new marketing avenues for American lamb.”

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

USMCA continued from page 1 were our top two trading partners in terms of the total economy,” says Newton.

According to AFBF, Mexico was the largest overall trading partner for the U.S. in 2019, followed by Canada. In terms of agricultural trade, Canada was the lead trading partner, directly followed by Mexico.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue says, “America is located in the greatest neighborhood on earth, with Canada and Mexico as some of our top trading partners.”

“In 2019, our nation exported more than $40 billion worth of agricultural products to Canada and Mexico, including billions of dollars worth of corn, soybeans, pork, beef and processed foods, as well as agricultural heavy equipment,” Perdue continues.

USMCA benefits The new trade agreement is expected to increase U.S. agriculture exports by $2 billion, which should

result in a $65 billion increase to gross domestic product (GDP).

Key achievements of the USMCA include expanded market access for American dairy, poultry and egg products, cooperation on ag biotechnology, fair treatment of grading wheat and classing milk across borders, as well as commitments to avoid trade-distorting policies and transparency.

Per the agreement, Canada will provide new market access for U.S. dairy and poultry products and eliminate the program allowing U.S. dairy to be undersold.

Canada also eliminated their tariffs on whey and margarine.

“USMCA makes trade with Canada more fair on the wheat front, dairy front and poultry front,” Newton explains.

Canada has also agreed to grade U.S. wheat imports more fairly, treating imported wheat as if it were domestic.

There will remain no tar-

5

iffs on agricultural products traded between the U.S. and Mexico. The agreement also states Mexico and the U.S. will share non-discriminatory grading standards for ag products.

The modernized trade agreement also contains science-based rules for sanitary and phytosanitary measures to protect the agricultural industry and other natural resources from animal or plant pests from trade. Further modernization includes sharing information related to agricultural biotechnology, such as gene editing.

Comments on USMCA Multiple groups praise the passage and initiation of the USMCA in favor of NAFTA, while others argue more could have been added for the benefit of American producers.

“USMCA helps all of America’s diverse agricultural industries,” says Perdue. “This new and improved deal secures greater access to markets and lowers barriers for our agricultural products.”

“There are a lot of improvements in this trade

agreement that could make U.S. agriculture more competitive in our top markets,” shares Newton.

“As with all trade agreements, there are some areas that still need attention,” Duvall also shares. “We will continue to work with the administration to level the playing field for fruit and vegetable growers facing increased competition from Mexico.”

National Beef Cattlemen’s Association (NCBA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Colin Woodall shares, “USMCA gives us certainty of being able to maintain our

“In 2019, our nation exported more than $40 billion worth of agricultural products to Canada and Mexico, including billions of dollars worth of corn, soybeans, pork, beef and processed foods, as well as agricultural heavy equipment.”

– Sonny Perdue, United States Department of Agriculture relationships with Canada and Mexico, which are two of the top five markets for our product.”

Woodall explains NAFTA was good for beef producers.

Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA says, “The

USMCA makes no changes at all for the largest sector of American agriculture, the U.S. cattle industry.”

Averi Reynolds is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Free mobile app available Gov. Mark Gordon, in partnership with developer ProudCrowd, has made available a free mobile app to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The app, Care19 Diary, is available now for mobile phones and already is in use in North Dakota and South Dakota.

Once the app is downloaded, users are assigned a random ID number and the app will create a diary of where an individual has visited throughout the day. The ID number of each individual contains no personal information besides location data. Individuals are then encouraged to review the diary to ensure the tracking of locations is correct, adding visits that may have been missed or deleting others that may have been suggested in error. A user can clear their history at any point as well.

If a person tests positive for COVID19 in the future, they can use the phone diary to help contact tracers to protect others who may have been in contact with

them. Another option for a user is to consent to share the information about locations they’ve visited with the Wyoming Department of Health to support the critical contact tracing process, but privacy is protected.

“In implementing this app Wyoming joins North and South Dakota as a leader in the response to COVID-19,” Gordon said.

“Govs. Noem and Burgum have already implemented this entirely voluntary program. Here in Wyoming, the more citizens who choose to voluntarily participate, the more effective our fight against COVID19 will be. The information this app gathers can save lives. Embracing this technology is one more way we can show we’re all in this together.”

Care19 Diary is now available in the Apple App store and the Android Play Store. An additional app, Care 19 Alert is expected to be available later this month.

For more information about the Care19 apps, visit covid19.wyo.gov.

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6

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

PRICES continued from page 1 the slaughter cow market, which has resulted in higher slaughter cow prices, has been one of the few bright spots for cattle producers in recent months.

According to BEEF, slaughter cow prices averaged $57.84 per hundredweight (cwt) over the past six weeks of available data, a 19.5 percent increase from the same period in 2019.

“The cull cow markets are most directly related with ground beef demand,” explains Josh Maples, agriculture economist at Mississippi State University. “Since the emergence of COVID-19 in the U.S., retail sales of ground beef have been significant.”

Dairy cow vs. beef cow slaughter Maples goes on to note, in 2019, the split for total federally-inspected cow slaughter was about 50/50 between beef and dairy cows, but points out the seasonal patterns of beef and dairy cow slaughter are a little different.

“Dairy cow slaughter typically declines from the first of the year to a seasonal low in June and July,” he says. “Beef

cow slaughter varies too, with production cycles and declines in the summer, but is typically a little more consistent than dairy through the spring and summer months before peaking as the winter months approach.”

Specific to 2020, Maples says processing plant disruptions resulting from COVID-19 cases showed beef and dairy cow slaughter faced different reductions.

“The worst week for beef cow slaughter capacity was in late April, when slaughter was 19.5 percent below the same week a year ago,” Maples explains. “Total dairy cow slaughter didn’t show this same level of reduction, but instead declined from week to week for most of the spring, which occurred alongside the typical seasonal decline.”

He further notes the number of beef cows processed increased through May and into June, and for the first two weeks of June, beef cow slaughter was up 6.7 percent compared to the same two weeks a year ago.

“Similar to what occurred in calf and feeder cattle sales, at

least some of this increase may likely be due to sales delays caused by producers’ decisions to wait or by auction slowdowns,” Maples explains. “The relative strong prices, combined with the low beef cow slaughter in April, provides rationale for the increase in beef cow slaughter in late June.”

“Beef cow slaughter year-to-date is up about two percent, while dairy cow slaughter is down two percent,” he states.

“Together, year-to-date total cow slaughter is about the same as a year ago.”

When looking ahead, Maples says lower calf prices could drive increased beef cow culling later in the year. However, dairy slaughter is near the seasonal low point and rebounding milk prices likely may prevent significant dairy cow culling.

“While the supply picture is becoming a little clearer, ground beef demand will continue to be key for support of beef cow cull prices,” he concludes.

Beef exports face challenges Despite the uptick in cull cow prices, keeping U.S. beef exports moving during this time is as important as ever, but the export sector is still facing challenges.

According to Scott Brown, University of Missouri livestock economist, there are some key issues to keep in mind regarding future beef exports.

“The three markets of Japan, South Korea and Mexico have accounted for more than 60 percent of U.S. beef exports in recent years,” explains Brown. “While the sharp upward spike in wholesale beef prices has affected shipments to all markets since early May, different dynamics among these three markets during the first part of 2020 highlight some of the issues that could be in play for some time moving forward.”

Dollar value hurts exports One of these issues, according to Brown, is the dollar value hurting exports with Mexico.

“While the U.S. dol-

CHANGE continued from page 2 vate a delinquent brand.

Brand owners with brands in the upcoming renewal will be sent an informational mailer on the details. Watch for more information in the near future.

Board meeting scheduled The board will meet via teleconference on July 16 at 7 a.m. At this time they will discuss enacting Emergency Rules for

Chapter Nine Brand Inspection/Recording Fees and Chapter 21 Rerecording Rules in order to address the legislative changes.

The enactment of Emergency Rules would allow the agency to implement the changes for the upcoming renewal period, while Permanent Rules would be moved forward to start the process for public comment and review.

The board will also dis-

lar strengthened against most currencies in late March when COVID-19 was dominating headlines, it has returned to near-year ago levels in many cases, but not against the Mexican peso,” he explains “The U.S. dollar has continued to be 10 percent to 20 percent stronger, making a situation due to a difficult consumer economy in Mexico even tougher,” Brown adds.

“Expectations for beef exports to Mexico have been further damaged by the pandemic.”

Export market optimism While beef exports to Mexico may be on the downslide, Brown is optimistic about export markets in Japan and South Korea.

According to Brown, beef exports to Japan from February to April were 62 million pounds above year ago levels, an increase of 33 percent. He also notes April shipments were the highest since October 2003.

“With the U.S. on equal footing with its competitors regarding tariffs, there is

continuing optimism Japan will be a strong market for U.S. beef,” Brown says.

Brown also notes South Korea has been a growth market for much of 2020.

He explains, “With Australia continuing to rebuild its cattle numbers, beef production there is expected to fall sharply.

The U.S. and Australia supplied more than 90 percent of beef imports for South Korea in recent years, and with Australia facing much tighter supplies ahead, the prognosis for increased beef trade with South Korea is positive now that U.S. prices have returned to more normal levels.”

Brown continues, “Although there are bright spots in some segments of the U.S. beef industry, some of the same economic issues looming over future U.S. export demand will affect shipment levels, limiting upside movements in cattle prices.”

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

cuss moving forward with Emergency Rules and Permanent Rules for Chapter 25 Brucellosis Quarantine Mitigation Expense Reimbursement. Again, Emergency Rules will allow the board to implement procedures for the fall testing season, while allowing for public comment and review on the Permanent Rules.

The board has also seen change, as at our previous meeting on June 18, as board officer elections were held.

Previous Vice President Mark Eisele of Chey-

enne is the new livestock board president and Shaun Sims of Evanston was elected as vice president. Remaining a member of the board but stepping down from terms as president of the board is Todd Heward. Thanks to Todd for his work as president and continuing board duties.

Thanks to all livestock board members for their commitment to the livestock industries of the state.

Be well and hope to see you all soon!

Showmen excel at Central Wyoming Fair ®

State Fair Tent

The Central Wyoming Fair (CWF) kicked off Wyoming’s county fair run in Casper this week under big top tents set up in the rodeo arena.

Brother and sister Brady and Payton Dona

had a successful run at the CWF. Both siblings showed hogs, steers and sheep this week in Casper.

Brady, 12, was the Grand Champion Intermediate Sheep Showman, along with earning the coveted

title Overall Grand Champion Market Lamb. Brady was also successful in the hog show with the Champion Division 2 gilt and in the market beef show with his steer, winning third place in the division.

Payton, 10, was the Grand Champion Junior Sheep and Beef Showman as well as the Reserve Champion Junior Swine Showman. In the market lamb show, she had two class winners and a third place.

Her steer was the Division 3 Reserve Champion.

Brady and Payton, and their parents, Jim and Erin Dona, raise sheep outside of Glenrock. Both siblings say their favorite part of showing is getting to spend time with their animals and working with them to tame them.

Averi Reynolds is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

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Grand Champion – Brady Dona, 12, a five-year showman, poses with his Grand Champion Overall Market Lamb. Courtesy photo

Showmanship winner – Payton Dona, 10, a two-year showman, was Grand Champion Junior Beef and Lamb Showman and Reserve Champion Junior Swine Showman. Courtesy photo

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

From the Kitchen Table

By Lynn Harlan

Mouse in the Maytag

The marathon of June is over and we survived.

June is the month we gather, dock, trail and load trucks to get all the ewes and lambs to the mountain pastures by the Fourth of July.

We were all dispirited on June 1, a 90-degree day with unrelenting wind.

There was little moisture

in May, and June wasn’t any better. The wind and heat parched the grass in our southernmost pastures in Natrona County. It was looking grim.

Mother Nature took pity and gave us some cooler days to get docking done.

Our daughter and her ablebodied high school crew

BEEF continued from page 1 cut, the pricing model is substantially more complex. Finding a home for the less desirable cuts of meat can be a real challenge and, frankly, can make or break the deal.”

Pendell urges beef producers considering direct marketing to think about what could lend their operation to a niche market. Marketing platforms that have the potential to increase premiums or access to specific markets include grass-fed and

antibiotic-free beef.

Producers also need to consider processing schedules and plan in advance with the processor.

“Processors are scheduling months out because of increased demand,” Pendell says. “Many processors also are aware of inspection regulations and laws on selling products.”

Open communication “If producers are thinking about selling beef to consumers, they

7

persevered. It was decided Bob and I would do the trail after all. We would head out with 1,100 ewes and their single lambs and trail all the way up to our summer headquarters – an 18 day trail.

I joined the band around day six. We were still docking, so someone would herd the ewes in the day and another would make the move at night, into the morning.

We were traveling on the 33 Mile Stockdrive.

There are water stops about every five to seven miles, which is about how far ewes and lambs can travel in a day.

It had been years since we trailed to the mountain, and we’ve never been

on a trail this long. We had a pickup, a camper trailer with a four-wheeler trailer hooked behind it. There was also another four-wheeler, four dogs, a bunch of full gas cans, food and drinking water.

Despite cripples and unmothered lambs at the back, as well as ewes that didn’t know where they were headed, we inched our way to the lush verdant grass at the top of the mountain. The mountain warmed up and got some rain at the right time. It was glorious.

There were magnificent moments that made it all worthwhile – the early morning vistas with the band spread below us on tall, rich feed. It was hard work, though, for a couple

need to make sure to communicate with customers ahead of time and have a value structure in place as part of the business plan,” White says.

Pendell adds, “Sometimes consumers assume a direct purchase is cheaper, but it usually isn’t.”

“Making sure the producer and the consumer agree on the benefits of the interaction is key,” says Pendell. “The type and the timing of the product are important to communicate for both parties.”

“One of the first challenges is to find customers who are also going to

be repeat buyers,” shares Larson. “Establishing a good relationship with frequent communication is important in retaining and gaining business.”

Producers can also provide education to their customers about how the beef was raised and share the reasons why.

Conclusions A summary of considerations provided to producers for direct marketing beef to consumers include planning for carcass utilization and pricing strategy, developing a relationship with the processor, identifying relevant regu-

of old sheepherders.

We spent hours gathering ewes that had run back looking for their lambs, herding the sheep during the day when they didn’t want to and making the evening move when we felt like it should have been cocktail hour.

We had supply drops and helpers show up a couple of times, and we spent two days in the bottom of the Middle Fork of the Powder River.

It was hard to leave some spots on the trail because there was water and feed plentiful for the summer. But we forged on and got them in their summer pastures, and then we returned to our real lives.

My real life – a laun-

dry room full of crummy clothes. A day or so after getting off the mountain, I was able to face the task. I left some soaking one morning in the washer with the lid up, came back later, shut the lid and the wash cycle started.

Later, while reaching in for wet clothes to hang on the clothesline, I picked up what I thought was a grey sock. It was a clean, washed and Cloroxed mouse!

He had moved in while we were on trail, and was feasting on the granola bar on the dryer. Guess he got thirsty and went for a drink.

I’ve never washed a mouse before, and my dilemma was if should I re-wash the load or not. Oh heck, it was only Bob’s underwear!

“If producers are thinking about selling beef to consumers, they need to make sure to communicate with customers ahead of time and have a value structure in place as part of the business plan.” – Brad White, Kansas State University lations in the area, meeting customer demand in terms of timing and product type, preparing to communicate frequently with customers and most importantly, developing a business plan.

Pendell urges, “Producers need to educate themselves before enter-

ing one of these direct marketing ventures.”

He shares many Extension websites have good information on direct marketing.

Averi Reynolds is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

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8

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

Livestock Risk Protection: Livestock Risk Protection: Evaluating coverage with the Risk Scenario Planning Tool Evaluating coverage with the Risk Scenario Planning Tool This will result in a positive indemnity payment only if the index

Wyoming cattle producers John and Cindy Robb* in a previous installment looked into how Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) might Wyoming cattle producers John and Cindy Robb* in a previous work to limit at least some of the price risk in their operation. installment looked into how Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) might They decided on a 21-week contract at 96 percent coverage work to limit at least some of the price risk in their operation. for their 100 of on steer calves weighing 600 They head decided a 21-week contract at 96 pounds. percent coverage This LRP contract had a total insured value of and a for their 100 head of steer calves weighing $77,964 600 pounds. premium of $2,967.

Thiscost LRP contract had a total insured value of $77,964 and a Thepremium main question for the Robbs with this policy is its overall cost of $2,967. effectiveness.

Wequestion might ask, “What is the The main for the Robbs withlikelihood this policyofisan its overall indemnity payment We thatmight would cover premium costs?” Aofpartial effectiveness. ask, “What is the likelihood an indemnity wouldthe cover premiumthe costs?”

A partial budget analysispayment can helpthat answer question; Risk Scenario budget analysis can helpaddresses answer thethe question; the Risk Scenario Planning (RSP) tool properly associated risks.

Planning (RSP) tool properly addresses the associated risks.

RSP Tool Setup

Setup TheRSP RSPTool tool from RightRisk.org helps users evaluate the The RSP tool from RightRisk.org helps users evaluate inherent risk involved in the partial budgeting process.

The the tool inherent risk involved in the partial budgeting process.

The tool is set up like most partial budgets, with four categories (added is set up like most partial budgets, with four categories (added returns, reduced costs, added costs, and reduced returns) returns, reduced costs, added costs, and reduced returns) resulting in estimated net revenue value. Instead of choosing just resulting in estimated net revenue value. Instead of choosing just one value for items that that maymay vary,vary, such as as price in in this analysis, one value for items such price this analysis, the tool allows users to examine a range of values (maximum, the tool allows users to examine a range of values (maximum, minimum, and most likely) and and the the effect on on thethe budget bottom minimum, and most likely) effect budget bottom line. line.

Problems arisearise whenwhen using set set values in the budgeting Problems using values in the budgeting process wherewhere they they do not for for variability (risk).

The RSP process do account not account variability (risk).

The RSP tool helps indicate a range of values a single guess) tool helps indicate how how a range of values (not(not justjust a single guess) can affect the budget decision account uncertainty. can affect the budget decision andand account for for thethe uncertainty.

Budgets Analysis Tool Tool Budgets andand Analysis For our example, we in two budget categories: For our example, we inputinput datadata in two budget categories: added returns and added costs.

Under added costs, enterthe the added returns and added costs. Under added costs, wewe enter LRP premium of $4.945/cwt on 600 cwt ($2,967 total).

LRP premium of $4.945/cwt on 600 cwt ($2,967 total).

We account for a potential indemnity payment under the We account for a potential indemnity payment under the added returns section. The coverage price is $130/cwt, and we added returns section. The coverage price is $130/cwt, and we assume the index price in September will be the same ($130/ assume the in September will be the same cwt).

Weindex enterprice the indemnity as a function of both the($130/ index price cwt). We enter the indemnity as a function of both the index price and the coverage price (coverage price minus the index price). and the coverage price (coverage price minus the index price).

price is lower than the coverage value. Expected actual calf sales This will result in a positive indemnity payment only if the index and corresponding expected cash price are entered at $130/cwt price is lower than the coverage value. Expected actual calf sales as well. and corresponding expected cash price are entered at $130/cwt asThe well.Robbs’ net return would total $75,033 (calf sales of $78,000 minusnet thereturn LRP premium $2,967),(calf assuming The Robbs’ would totalof$75,033 sales ofthe expected at the of theofcontract and the no $78,000 prices minus the LRPend premium $2,967),period assuming indemnity payment.

(See expected prices at the endPartial of the Budget contractchart periodbelow.) and no How do payment. we account uncertainty the below.)

LRP index price and indemnity (SeeforPartial Budget in chart calf How sales?

Thisaccount is where value ofinthe comes into do we for the uncertainty theRSP LRPtool index price and calf sales?

Thisthe is where value of RSP tool comes into play.

Suppose Robbsthe forecast a the maximum value of $140/cwt play.a Suppose Robbs forecast a maximum valueindex of $140/cwt and minimumthe value of $115/cwt for the ending value. We and a minimum value of $115/cwt for the ending index value.

We can also factor in the uncertainty of the price received for steers can also factor in the uncertainty of the price received for steers in September, with a maximum of $140/cwt and a minimum of in September, with aRUN maximum $140/cwt a minimum of $120/cwt.

Clicking causesofthe tool to and generate a probability $120/cwt.

Clicking RUN causes the tool to generate a probability distribution, based on the values we entered. The resulting graph distribution, based on the values we entered. The resulting graph describes the range and likelihood of net revenue outcomes, describes the range and likelihood of net revenue outcomes, given the various possible combinations of values entered. given the various possible combinations of values entered.

The distribution reveals a 50 percent probability of the The distribution reveals a 50 percent probability of the strategy netreturn returnofof$76,152 $76,152 less, with strategy generating generating aa net oror less, with a a maximum returnofof$84,798 $84,798and andminimum minimum $70,368. maximum possible possible return of of $70,368.

(See chart below.) below.)Stated Statedanother another way, there a 50 (SeeProbability Probability chart way, there is ais50 percent the net netreturn returnwill willbebejust just over a thousand percent probability probability the over a thousand dollars LRP price priceprotection protectionininplace, place, compared dollars higher higher with LRP asas compared to to theexpected expected value without the withoutitit($75,033). ($75,033). *The Robb Robb operation operation isisaacase created to to *The casestudy studyexample example created demonstrate RightRisk tools and their application.

No identification demonstrate RightRisk tools and their application. No identification withactual actual persons persons (living or or agricultural with (livingor ordeceased), deceased),places, places, agricultural operation is intended nor should be inferred. operation is intended nor should be inferred.

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

LRP Overview LRP is designed for LRP•Overview producers • LRP livestock is designed for (fed and feeder livestock producers swine, and (fed cattle, and feeder lamb) to cover cattle, swine, and lamb) to coverin price declines declines in price

• •

•

•

Contracts available

Contracts available of from 70-100% fromexpected 70-100% ending of expected ending value of cattle value of cattle

•

Contract lengths

Contract lengths range from 13 to range from 13 to 52 weeks 52 weeks

• Indemnities Indemnities are are paid where paid where actualactual ending values ending values are are lowerlower than than the the coverage coverage valuevalue

•

Values are set a by a • Values arebyset CMECME indexindex

•

TotalTotal number of of • number insurable livestock insurable livestock varies by species varies by species

•

Ending value has Ending value has no bearing on cash no bearing on cash price received

•

price received

Determining the Robbs’ net return, assuming the expected prices at the end of the contract period and no indemnity payment.

Determining the Robbs’ net return, assuming the expected prices at the end of the contract period and no indemnity payment.

For further information

Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) is just one of the many risk management options available to Wyoming producers.

For further information Almost all crops and livestock have a policy that can Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) is just one of the many mitigate some of the risk involved with production. risk management options available to Wyoming producers.

Visit rma.usda.gov or a crop insurance agent for more Almost all crops and livestock have a policy that can information.

mitigate some of the risk involved with production.

RightRisk Analytics Visit rma.usda.gov or aToolbox crop insurance agent for more The Analytics Toolbox includes the RSP tool and several information.

Using the Risk Scenario Planning tool to determine possible net returns at various probability levels.

Using the Risk Scenario Planning tool to determine possible net returns at various probability levels.

other risk analytics tools covering a wide range of RightRisk agricultural riskAnalytics managementToolbox questions and issues, The Analytics Toolbox includes RSP toolcost, andand several including budgeting, forage leasing,the machinery whole otherfarm risk budgeting. analytics tools covering a wide range of Toagricultural view or download the toolbox: questions and issues, risk management •including Logon to RightRisk.org. budgeting, forage leasing, machinery cost, and •whole Under thebudgeting.

Resources Tab, select Risk Management farm Tools.

To view or download the toolbox:

• •

Logon to RightRisk.org.

Under the Resources Tab, select Risk Management Tools.

BACKYARDS BACKYARDS

July 2020

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

9

July 2020

UW Extension | Agriculture & Horticulture | USDA | NIFA

UW Extension | Agriculture & Horticulture | USDA | NIFA

Risk management, planning Risk management,cash cash flow flow planning for agricultural for agriculturalbusinesses businesses may be a good time to look into using options or Wyoming Small Business Development may to behedge a goodyour timerisks to look using options Wyoming Smalladvisers Businesswork Development futures forinto marketing cattle.orIf Center (SBDC) Network with many futures to hedge your risks for marketing cattle.

If Center (SBDC) Network advisers work with many prices happen to go up in the near future and your business clients with cash flow and other financial prices happen to go up in the near future and your business clients with cash flow and other financial business purchases a favorable position, you will be management processes. business purchases a favorable position, you will be management processes. sitting good if prices take a tumble with economic While that can be foreign to many folks, especially sitting good if prices take a tumble with economic While that can be foreign to many folks, especially uncertainty late in the year or going into the next new businesses, agricultural businesses tend to be uncertainty late in the year or going into the next new businesses, agricultural businesses tend to be however, I would encourage good atgood understanding the seasonal nature of their year; however, I would encourageyou youtotowork workwith with aa at understanding the seasonal nature of their year; professional if you are not familiar with this form cash flows and the challenges that timing of revenue professional if you are not familiar with this form of of cash flows and the challenges that timing of revenue investing or risk management. and expenses can create.

That dynamic has been investing or risk management. and expenses can create. That dynamic has been even more given given the current COVID-19 evenunpredictable more unpredictable the current COVID-19 Consider marketing options Consider marketing options pandemic. pandemic.

Planning nownow to to make sale Planning make saledates datesfor forcalves calvesflexible flexible Closures of some plantsplants and other Closures of meat some packing meat packing and other is another consideration.

If fall is another consideration.

If fallcalf calfprices pricesare arelow, low, led many to wonder, “What market market factorsfactors has ledhas many to wonder, “What can Ican I perhaps perhaps having a plan keepthem themlonger longermakes makes having a plan to to keep do to potentially my risk?” do to potentially reducereduce my risk?” sense.

Marketing is going extremelyimportant, important, sense.

Marketing is going toto bebeextremely Livestock producers andcrop row farmers crop farmers Livestock producers and row oftenoften so watch so watch closely. much influencedby bythe thenews news closely.

SoSo much is isinfluenced the timing difference between income accountaccount for the for timing difference between income these days, and we all have 24/7access accesstotobreaking breaking these days, and we all have 24/7 and expenses by ausing of credit a lender. and expenses by using line aofline credit from from a lender. news such previously mentionedmeat meatplant plant such as as thethe previously mentioned The idea being to borrow money on the line to pay news closures.

The idea being to borrow money on the line to pay expenses when they are due, then pay the loan back closures.

While we hope the worst of the closures is behind expenses when they are due, then pay the loan back While we hope the worst of the closures is behind when they sell livestock or a crop, hopefully with us, pay attention and be ready to act accordingly. when they sell livestock or a crop, hopefully with us, pay attention and be ready to act accordingly. enough extra for some profit.

Considering options ahead of time will likely be enough extra for some profit.

Considering ahead of time will quickly. likely be Analyze, cut unnecessary risks beneficialoptions and allow movement more Analyze,While cut paying unnecessary risks beneficial and allow movement more quickly. attention to operating expenses is Economic Injury Disaster Loans Whilealways paying attention operating expenses is a good idea,to now is an especially important Economic Injury Disaster Loans Economic The Small Business Administration’s always atime good idea, now is an especially to analyze everything and see ifimportant you can cut The Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is another time to some analyze everything and seeitems. if youYou canmight cut source Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is another of those unnecessary opportunity for agricultural producers to consider. some ofa those unnecessary You might source less expensive optionitems. or postpone a planned opportunity for agricultural producers to consider.

While EIDLs traditionally have not been available to purchase for another time. The bottom line is a less expensive option or postpone a planned ag EIDLs producers, an exception for COVID-19.

While traditionally have was not made been available to business owners must know their line cost is structure, and purchase for another time.

The bottom EIDLs are 30-year, 3.75 percent interest to ag producers, an exception was made for loans COVID-19. every operation different! business owners mustisknow their cost structure, and help with working3.75 capital needs,interest and payments EIDLs are 30-year, percent loans toare As theyissay, cash is king, something even more every operation different! deferred for onecapital year. The online application can be help with working needs, and payments are important in times of greater uncertainty.

As they say, cash is king, something even more found for at www.sba.gov.

Be advised that EIDLcan loans are deferred one year.

The online application be are of a small ag uncertainty. business looking for still available, but the Small Business Administration important Ifinyou times greater found at www.sba.gov. Be advised that EIDL loans are ways to manage your cash flow challenges, this cautions that funds may soon be depleted.

If you are a small ag business looking for still available, but the Small Business Administration ways to manage your cash flow challenges, this cautions that funds may soon be depleted.

These loans are underwritten and funded directly loans are of underwritten and funded not directly

by These the SBA Office Disaster Assistance, through by the SBA Office of Disaster Assistance, not a local lender. Contact your local Wyoming through SBDC a local lender.

Contact your you localthrough Wyomingthis SBDC Network adviser to assist application Network adviser to assist you through this application process and answer any questions you may have process and answer any questions you may have about this program. Contact information is at about this program. Contact information is at www.wyomingsbdc.org. www.wyomingsbdc.org.

The Wyoming WyomingSBDC SBDCisiswaiving waiving registration The registration fees for webinars and webinar recordings to help fees for webinars and webinar recordings to help entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic. entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Informationisisatatwww.wyomingsbdc.org/training. www.wyomingsbdc.org/training.

Information Bruce Morse Morseisisthe theWyoming Wyoming SBDC regional director for Big Bruce SBDC regional director for Big Horn, counties.

He can be be Horn, Hot HotSprings, Springs,Park, Park,and andWashakie Washakie counties.

He can reached at at bmorse1@uwyo.edu. reachedatat(307) (307)754-2139 754-2139or or bmorse1@uwyo.edu.

About Network Aboutthe theWyoming WyomingSBDC SBDC Network

The Wyoming SBDC Network offers no-cost The Wyoming SBDC Network offers no-cost advising and technical assistance to help advising and technical assistance to help Wyoming entrepreneurs think about, launch, Wyoming entrepreneurs about, launch, grow, reinvent, or exit theirthink businesses.

In 2019, grow, reinvent, or exit their businesses.

In 2019, the Wyoming SBDC Network: the Wyoming SBDC Network: • Helped Wyoming entrepreneurs start 108 • new Helped Wyoming entrepreneurs start 108 businesses, new businesses, • Created or saved 3,402 jobs, and • Brought Createdaor savedimpact 3,402ofjobs, • capital moreand than million to the state.

• $24 Brought a capital impact of more than

$24 million to the state.

The Wyoming SBDC Network is hosted by the University of Wyoming with stateisfunds from The Wyoming SBDC Network hosted by the the Wyoming Council and is funded partthe UniversityBusiness of Wyoming with state funds in from through a cooperative agreement the U.S. Wyoming Business Council and with is funded in part Small Business Administration.

through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Direct-marketing beef to consumers Direct-marketing beef to consumers could boost sagging profits

could boost sagging profits

This year has been a “different” one for folks in Wyoming, including our cattle producers.

Live cattle prices have remained lower than usual, and including the profitability This year has been a “different” one for folks in Wyoming, our cattle window has been tight, especially for smaller operations.

The value of retail producers. has remained evenlower though liveusual, cattle prices have been somewhat Live beef cattle prices have strong remained than and the profitability disappointing. window has been tight, especially for smaller operations. The value of retail This situation has some producers trying new things and getting creative beef has remained strong even though live cattle prices have been somewhat with marketing their products. For example, instead of selling all of their calves disappointing. like usual at lower prices, some producers are opting to retain ownership of a This small situation hasofsome producers newthem things and getting creative portion their calves.

Theytrying will feed to finished weights, have them with marketing their products.

For example, instead of selling all of their calves processed, and market them directly to consumers themselves. like usual at lower prices, some producers arebut opting to retain a This process means increased costs, capitalizing onownership higher profitofmargins small portion their calves.

They will feed themthey to finished weights, have them for theirofproducts is also possible.

Perhaps can make up some of their processed, market thembydirectly tothe consumers themselves. profitand losses this year skipping middle man and selling their own products the consumer for acosts, better but price.

This idea is a new one,margins and it has This directly processtomeans increased capitalizing onnot higher profit challenges, but possible. it is possible if you have good plan.up some of their for theirits products is also Perhaps they acan make There several factors the to consider if youand are going sell your beef. profit losses thisare year by skipping middle man sellingtotheir ownown products Know your market and know what makes your product unique.

You have to directly to the consumer for a better price. This idea is not a new one, and it has have something that convinces people your product is worth buying instead of its challenges, but it is possible if you have a good plan. going with a marked-down deal on a big store’s meat shelves.

You can find a There are several factors to consider if you are going to sell your own beef. niche they will pay for by understanding what is important to your target market.

Know your market and know what makes your product unique. You have to You can market your product as locally grown, exceptional quality, grass-fed,

have something that convinces people your product is worth buying instead of going with a marked-down deal on a big store’s meat shelves. You can find a niche theyMore will pay for by understanding enterprise resourceswhat is important to your target market.

• Thisyour resource discusses thegrown, do’s and don’ts of direct marketing your You can market product as locally exceptional quality, grass-fed, beef. — bit.ly/direct-marketing-beef Extensive resources for those considering food ventures.

More enterprise resources — bit.ly/food-ventures Value added enterprise considerations.

• This• resource discusses the do’s and don’ts— of bit.ly/value-added-wyo direct marketing your •

• •

beef. — bit.ly/direct-marketing-beef Extensive resources for those considering food ventures.

— bit.ly/food-ventures Value added enterprise considerations. — bit.ly/value-added-wyo

all-natural, etc. However you decide to establish your brand, make sure it jives with what’s important to your target audience.

Understand your limitations.

The Wyoming Foodyour Freedom Actmake allows sales all-natural, etc. However you decide to establish brand, sure it jives of state-inspected meat directly to consumers but not to restaurants, grocery with what’s important to your target audience. stores, or across state lines without from Freedom a certifiedAct USDA facility.

Understand your limitations.

The inspection Wyoming Food allows sales Retaining animals will require additional costs per animal in the form of pasture, of state-inspected meat directly to consumers but not to restaurants, grocery time, and resources. Ensure the extra costs won’t outweigh the potentially added stores, or across state lines without inspection from a certified USDA facility. value. Another priority is you will need reservations with your packer to get your Retaining animalsThis will can require additional in the and formplans of pasture, beef processed. be more difficultcosts than per one animal might expect, time, and resources.

Ensure the extra costs won’t outweigh the potentially added should be confirmed well in advance. Options in Wyoming are still limited. value.

Another priority is you will need reservations with your packer to get your Have a plan on how you will sell or package your beef and for what price. Will beef This can than or one might expect, plans you processed. sell it as a whole beefbe or more divide difficult it into halves quarters?

Or, will and you sell should confirmed advance. in Wyoming mixedbe boxes of beef?well Willinyou label theOptions packages or how do are you still plan limited. to tell your Have a plan onAsk howyourself you willthese sell or packageand your beefsure andyou forhave whata price.

Will products’ story? questions make plan on how you yourbeef products. you sell it package as a whole or divide it into halves or quarters? Or, will you sell This process will require time andthe hustle to accomplish.

Finding buyers mixed boxes of beef?

Will you label packages or how do you plan to should tell your also startstory? well before the beefthese is ready.

Direct-sale mayhave be limited products’ Ask yourself questions andopportunities make sure you a plan on in Wyoming, so keep number of retained animals realistic so you can get your how you package yourthe products. products sold.

Also have a plan venues to to sell the product Finding (farmersbuyers markets, This process will require timefor and hustle accomplish. should social media, etc.). also start well before the beef is ready. Direct-sale opportunities may be limited Formulating a sound business plan is very important. Reference articles that in Wyoming, so keep the number of retained animals realistic so you can get your detail marketing at a farmers markets and telling your products' story. Understand products sold. Also have a plan for venues to sell the product (farmers markets, the do's and don'ts of direct-marketing your beef and protecting yourself from social media, etc.). liability.

Lastly, utilize your local resources. UW Extension offices and Small Formulating a sound Centers business is very important. articles that Business Development areplan located throughout the Reference state and have detail marketing at a farmers markets and telling your products' story.

Understand experienced professionals available that can help you develop your business plan the your beef and protecting yourself from fordo's free and or atdon'ts a very of lowdirect-marketing cost. liability. local UW ifExtension Small PlanLastly, to haveutilize lots ofyour extra beefresources. in your freezer you don’t offices do your and homework.

Business located throughout state have But if youDevelopment can put in theCenters effort, itare could be worth it during the a year like and 2020!

experienced professionals can help youbased develop your County business Chance Marshall is a Universityavailable of Wyomingthat Extension educator in Fremont and plan forserving free or at a very low cost. northwest Wyoming. He can be reached at (307) 682-7281 or at cmarsha1@uwyo.edu.

Plan to have lots of extra beef in your freezer if you don’t do your homework.

But if you can put in the effort, it could be worth it during a year like 2020!

Chance Marshall is a University of Wyoming Extension educator based in Fremont County and serving northwest Wyoming. He can be reached at (307) 682-7281 or at cmarsha1@uwyo.edu.

10

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

CALENDAR

SALES July 13-15

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

EVENTS July 13-14 July 15 July 16 CANCELED July 17-26 July 20 July 21-25 July 22-25 July 21-Aug. 1 July 23-Aug. 1 July 24-July 31 July 24-Aug. 1 July 24-Aug. 1 July 24-Aug. 2 July 24-Aug. 2 July 25-Aug. 1 July 25-Aug. 1 July 25-Aug. 2 July 27-Aug. 2 July 27-Aug. 3 July 30-Aug. 8 July 30-Aug. 8 Aug. 1-8 Aug. 1-8 Aug. 11-15 Aug. 24-26

July 20-22

Joint Appropriations Committee Meeting, 8 a.m. Online. Visit wyoleg. gov to livestream the meeting.

Natrona County Conservation District FY 2021 Budget Hearing, 6 p.m. USDA Service Center. For more information, call 307-261-5436, ext.

4 or visit nccdwyoming.com.

Wyoming Livestock Board Meeting, 7 a.m. Teleconference. To dial in, call 1-877-278-2734 and use code 533126.

Wyoming Environmental Stewardship Day, Elk Mountain, Double 8 Ranch. Visit wysga.org for more information.

Teton County Fair, Jackson, Teton County Fairgrounds. Visit tetoncountyfair.com for more information.

Wyoming Agriculture and Natural Resources Mediation Board Meeting, 10 a.m. Zoom. For more information, contact Lucy Pauley at 307777-8788 or lucy.pauley@wyo.gov.

Park County Fair, Powell, Park County Fairgrounds. Visit parkcountyfair. com for more information.

Sublette County Fair, Big Piney, Sublette County Fairgrounds. Visit sublettecountyfair.com for more information.

Albany County Fair, Laramie, Albany County Fairgrounds. Visit albanycountyfair.org for more information.

Uinta County Fair, Evanston, Uinta County Fairgrounds. Visit uintacountyfair.org for more information.

Weston County Fair, Newcastle, Weston County Fairgrounds. Visit westoncountyfair.com for more information.

Niobrara County Fair, Lusk, Niobrara County Fairgrounds. Visit niobraracounty.org for more information. SUBJECT TO CHANGE. Platte County Fair, Wheatland, Platte County Fairgrounds. Visit plattecountyfair.org for more information.

Campbell County Fair, Gillette, Cam-Plex Event Center. Visit ccgov.net for more information.

Johnson County Fair, Buffalo, Johnson County Fairgrounds. Visit johnsoncountyfairgrounds.com for more information.

Fremont County Fair, Riverton, Fremont County Fairgrounds. Visit fremontcountyfair.org for more information.

Washakie County Fair, Worland, Washakie County Fairgrounds. Call 307-347-8989 for more information.

Crook County Fair, Sundance, Crook County Fairgrounds. Visit crookcofair.com for more information.

Big Horn County Fair, Basin, Big Horn County Fairgrounds. Visit bighornfair.com for more information.

Sheridan County Fair, Sheridan, Sheridan County Fairgrounds. Visit sheridancounty.com for more information.

Goshen County Fair, Torrington, Goshen County Fairgrounds. Visit goshencounty.org for more information.

Laramie County Fair, Cheyenne, Laramie County Fairgrounds. Visit laramiecountyevents.com/fair for more informaiton Carbon County Fair, Rawlins, Carbon County Fairgrounds. Visit carboncountyfairgrounds.com for more information.

Lincoln County Fair, Afton, Lincoln County Fairgrounds. Visit lincolncountyfair.info for more information.

Wyoming State Fair and Rodeo, Douglas, Wyoming State Fairgrounds.

Visit wystatefair.com for more information.

WSGA Wyoming Cattle Industry Convention and Trade Show, Rock Springs, Sweetwater Events Center. Visit wysga.org for more information.

Big horn Basin

Worland, WY

Sale Barn: 307-347-9201 Danny Vigil: 307-388-0781

LIVESTOCK AUCTION LLC

July 18

July 22 July 25 July 27-31 Aug. 4-5 Aug. 15 Aug. 17-18 Aug. 17-21 Aug. 24-25 Aug. 28-29 Sept. 5 Sept. 4-6 Sept. 8 Sept. 12 Sept. 15 Sept. 17 Sept. 18-19 Sept. 20 Sept. 21 Oct. 3 Oct. 9-10 Oct. 11 Oct. 26

Western Video Market, Nugget Casino Resort, Reno, Nev., 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com Horse Sale, Big Horn Basin Livestock Auction, Worland, 307-431-1226, 307-272-3743 Northern Livestock Video Auction Summertime Classic, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com Big Iron Auctions Unreserved Online Auction, Frontline Land Co., LLC, Torrington, 800-937-3558, bigiron.com South Dakota Sheep Growers Association Premium Yearling Ewe Sale, Magness Livestock Auction, Huron, S.D., 406-581-7772, sdsheepgrowers.org Superior Livestock Auction Video Royale XXVIII, Winnemucca, Nev., 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com Cattle Country Video Oregon Trail Classic, Gering Civic Center, Gering, Neb., 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com Horse Sale, Big Horn Basin Livestock Auction, Worland, 307-431-1226, 307-272-3743 Western Video Market, Little America, Cheyenne, 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com Superior Livestock Auction Big Horn Classic, Sheridan, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com Northern Livestock Video Auction Early Fall Preview, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com 2020 League of Legends Invitational Horse Sale, Heart K Land & Cattle Company Arena, Livingston, Mont., 406-381-2347, turnerperformancehorses.com Proffit Ranch 19th Annual Labor Day Horse Sale, Diamond X Ranch, Evanston, 307-789-2474, proffitranch.com Powder River Quarter Horse Breeders Association 43rd Annual Horse Sale, Futurity & Versatility Ranch Horse Show, Broadus, Mont., 406427-5420, prqhba.com 92nd Annual Wyoming State Ram Sale, Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas, 307-265-5250, 307-351-1422, wyowool.com Open Box Rafter Ranch 27th Annual Horse Sale, Rapid City, S.D., 605538-4450, rafterranch.com Western Video Market, Haythorn Ranch, Ogallala, Neb., 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com Cattle Country Video Sandhills Roundup, Goshen County Rendezvous Center, Torrington, 888-322-8853, cattlecountryvideo.com 24th Annual Van Norman and Friends Production Sale, Elko County Fairgrounds, Elko, Nev., 775-756-6508, 775-934-7404, vannormansale.com Sugar Bars Legacy 18th Annual Horse Sale, Sheridan County Fairgrounds, Sheridan, 605-347-8120, sugarbarslegacy.com Northern Livestock Video Auction Fall Premier, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com Grand Hills Cattle Complete Dispersion Sale, at the ranch, Eaton, Colo., 970-215-5281, grandhillscattle.com Fall Classic Catalog Horse Sale and Futurity, Farmers and Ranchers Livestock Commission Co., Salina, Kan., 785-826-7884, 785-493-2901, 785-825-0211 23rd Annual Fall Colt & Yearling Catalog Sale, Farmers and Ranchers Livestock Commission Co., Salina, Kan., 785-826-7884, 785-493-2901, 785-825-0211 J & L Livestock Montana Angus Female Bonanza XVII, PAYS, Billings, Mont., 406-861-5664, 406-200-1880

POSTCARD from the Past

Compiled by Dick Perue rrichardperue@gmail.com

Broadcasting and Online Bidding Available At lmaauctions.com.

Please visit to fill out an application and view auctions.

Danny Vigil Northern Livestock Represenative

Authorized Dealer

WE HAVE NITROGEN TO FILL YOUR SEMEN TANKS

July 9, 2020 – 137 Head Cows Steady • Bull $1 to $2 Lower BULLS Jacobson, Wade - Sun River 1 Blk Bull, 1995# ...............................$9500 1 Red Bull, 1925# .............................$9100 1 Red Bull, 1830# .............................$8850 Doyle Ranch Inc. - Hyattville 1 Blk Bull, 1790# ...............................$9400 Philp Sheep Co. - Shoshoni 1 Blk Bull, 1885# ...............................$9350 1 Blk Bull, 2075# ...............................$9250 1 Blk Bull, 1710# ...............................$9200 Whitlock, Robert - Lander 1 Blk Bull, 1965# ...............................$8950 1 Blk Bull, 2010# ...............................$8700 COWS Redland, Adam & Briana - Manderson 1 Hrfd Cow, 1380# ............................$6800 1 Hrfd Cow, 1410# ............................$6350 1 Hrfd Cow, 1410# ............................$6150 Johnstone, Casey - Ten Sleep 1 Blk Cow, 1360# ..............................$6750 1 BWF Cow, 1515# ...........................$6100 1 RWF Cow, 1710# ...........................$6050 Coble, Steve - Burlington 1 Blk Cow, 1260# ..............................$6700 1 Blk Cow, 1160# ..............................$6250 Pitch Fork Ranch LLC - Meeteetse 1 Blk Cow, 1380# ..............................$6650 Griemsman Livestock - Worland 1 Blk Cow, 1375# ..............................$6600

1 Hrfd Cow, 1225#` ...........................$6600 1 BWF Cow, 1330# ...........................$6500 1 Blk Cow, 1260# ..............................$6450 1 Blk Cow, 1350# ..............................$6400 1 Blk Cow, 1210# ..............................$6400 1 Blk Cow, 1250# ..............................$6400 1 Blk Cow, 1290# ..............................$6400 1 Red Cow, 1400# ............................$6300 1 Blk Cow, 1390# ..............................$6300 1 Blk Cow, 1415# ..............................$6200 1 Blk Cow, 1290# ..............................$5600 Hoffman, Ron - Thermopolis 1 Blk Cow, 1250# ..............................$6400 Whitlock, Robert - Lander 1 Blk Cow, 1260# ..............................$6350 Herman Livestock LLC - Hyattville 1 Blk Cow, 1370# ..............................$6250 1 RWF Cow, 1340# ...........................$5800 1 Hrfd Cow, 1525# ............................$5700 Smith, George - Ten Sleep 1 BWF Cow, 1740# ...........................$5850 Broken Back Ranch Co. - Ten Sleep 1 Blk Cow, 1450# ..............................$5850 Redland, Kendrick - Worland 1 Blk Cow, 1855# ..............................$5750 1 Blk Cow, 1410# ..............................$5750 July 18 July 23 Aug. 6 Aug. 15 Aug. 20

– – – – –

• Upcoming Sales •

Saturday Horse Sale at 1 PM All Class Cattle, Sheep and Goats All Class Cattle Saturday Horse Sale at 1 PM All Class Cattle, Sheep and Goats

The Old Town Pump An advertisement in the Aug. 8, 1924 issue of the Greybull Standard and Tribune promoted the inspiration for this week’s Postcard from the Past. It reads: The old town pump, operated by hand power, is an almost forgotten institution. To many it is wholly or almost unknown. And yet, it was the sole source of water for many a town when this region was a part of the Old West.

When goaded to

action by a series of energetic pushes and pulls on the handle, its rusted throat usually gave vent to a racket much like the braying of a donkey. The pump usually was located in the town square, near the general store.

Eventually people began to pipe water to their homes, and the town pump was abandoned. But it had served its purpose in more than one way. It was the forerunner of public utilities, such as our present-day water systems, our telephone, gas, street

railway and electric institutions.

We would still be tugging at the handle of the old town pump, puttering with oil lamps and ignorant of the conveniences of gas and the telephone, if it wasn’t for those great people-serving organizations such as the Wyoming Gas Company.

At one time almost every Wyoming town had a town pump and many tales about them. Here are a couple: One of the town’s features was the town pump, centered at the intersection of the two main streets. An old history of the county recalled that it drew water from a deep well that even in dry seasons never failed to provide water for thirsty horses.

In the middle of the village stood the town pump, which welcomed the tired traveler or the doctor riding home from a midnight house call. A single tin cup hung from a nail, which was used by all the village people. School children would fill pails from it on their way to school and travelers would stop and water their horses there.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

WWGA continued from page 1 ommendations based on Ag Committee discussions in early June. The recommendations would provide a stipend to producers to address a loss of income resulting from the COVID-19 restrictions by covering a portion of the costs associated with sheep production that are not already addressed by CFAP.” They explain the working group has a two pronged approach intended to create a one-time stipend to offset some of the costs of harvesting wool in 2020 and to provide some relief for the annual cost of raising breeding ewes in Wyoming.

Wool considerations “Wool sales are a key component in the cash flow of a sheep operation,” states

WWGA. “They help pay the costs associated with harvesting wool, including shearing costs, wool bags and the transportation and storage of wool.”

The association goes on to explain COVID-19 brought an already slow wool market to a virtual halt, removing this vital cash flow from sheep operations.

Although wool is included in CFAP as an eligible commodity, WWGA notes the cut-off date eliminated much of Wyoming’s 2020 clip from this eligibility.

Therefore, many producers in the state haven’t been able to sell their 2019 or 2020 wool harvests.

To compensate for this, WWGA proposes a business

relief stipend, which would cover a portion of the wool harvest cost for producers.

“As suggested by the Ag Committee, we evaluated stipends of 20, 25 and 30 percent of the average price of wool per pound in 2019, which USDA NASS indicates was $2.70,” explains WWGA. Therefore, the respective amounts would be 54 cents per pound at 20 percent, 68 cents per pound at 25 percent and 80 cents per pound at 30 percent.

“Based on the average fleece weight in Wyoming in 2019 at 8.8 pounds, we estimate the total cost for this portion of a proposed wool harvest stipend to be between $1.2 million and $1.75 million,” says WWGA. Lamb production recommendations WWGA notes with a

loss in lamb market, the lamb backlog has grown rapidly, affecting market recovery. They point out COVID19 shut down orders not only damaged markets and reduced income for ranchers, it also added additional costs to raising sheep.

These costs include providing additional feed for lambs held for slaughter, as well as potential for a greater loss of livestock resulting in the loss of an adequate labor force to address health needs and predator losses.

“COVID-19 related travel restrictions prevented many ranchers from getting laborers during the critical season of lambing and summer grazing,” states WWGA. “In addition, other production costs have increased, including transportation costs due to limited truck drivers as well as delays and backorders

for equipment parts affecting production activities.”

Therefore, under the lamb production portion of their proposal, WWGA proposes another business relief stipend based on the inventory of breeding sheep, older than two years of age, which would help to fill the gap left

by CFAP and the loss in revenue resulting in COVID-19 shutdown orders.

“Based on USDA NASS numbers, Wyoming has 265,000 breeding sheep, and research from the University of Wyoming indicates the average annual cost to run one ewe in Wyoming is $100,” says WWGA. Given this revenue loss, WWGA proposes a stipend of $25 per head, which would equal 25 percent of the cost of running a ewe every year.

“We estimate this portion of the relief program to run

about $6.625 million, which is 25 percent. If the percentage is reduced to 20, the cost would be approximately $5.3 million and if increased to 30, it would be 47.95 million,” the association explains.

If adopted, WWGA estimates the total cost of this program to be between $6.5 and $10 million.

Recommendations accepted Following the proposal, WWGA notes the Ag Committee accepted their recommendations favorably.

“While it remains to be seen if an ag specific program will be established, we recently learned the Ag Committee included the sheep industry in their proposal to the governor,” says WWGA. Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup.

Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

Converse County Fair continues county fair fun Amid coronavirus concerns, youth livestock shows and county fairs must go on.

Converse County Fair kicks off Wyoming’s second week of county fair festivities starting Saturday, July 11.

“We are super excited to have a county fair this year in light of the COVID-19 concerns,” says Converse County 4-H Educator Hannah Swanbom.

While the Wyoming State Fairgrounds is busied by youth participating in the Converse County Fair, the Himle family can be found preparing four siblings’ worth of livestock projects.

The siblings, Chance, 17, Mayce, 15, Katelynne, 10 and Brecon, 9, all manage their own feeding programs and showing finances. Between the siblings, they plan on bringing four cattle and three sheep to the fair.

Mayce Himle says, “I’ve learned a little about every animal. I’ve shown steers, sheep and pigs. I even tried a goat one year.”

Mayce, who will be a sophomore this fall, is competing

in the CowBelles Supreme Cow Contest this year along with showing a market steer and two market lambs.

Mayce plans on pursuing a career as a veterinarian.

“I like showing in the round robin and showing steers the most,” says Brecon.

At the 2019 Converse County Fair, Brecon’s steer won the ultrasound contest.

This year, Brecon is showing his steer, Jasper.

“My favorite thing about Jasper is his color and that he is nice,” says Brecon.

The Himle siblings thanked their grandparents, Jim and Lorrie Werner, for letting them take their first calves off of the ranch and helping them get their start in showing.

The 4-H Dog Show, Cat and Pocket Pet Show open the Fair on Saturday, July 11, followed by 4-H and Static Interview Judging and the 4-H Fashion Show.

On Sunday, July 12, spectators can catch barrel racing at 9:30 a.m. and a jackpot roping at 6 p.m.

Get more information on the Converse County Fair at conversecountyfair.com.

2020 SHERIDAN

COUNTY FAIR

The 4-H and FFA Horse Show starts at 7 a.m. on Monday, July 13. The Converse County Fair hosts a Family Fun Night on Tuesday, July 14 starting at 6 p.m. with events such as mutton busting and pig wrestling.

Wednesday, July 15 starts with the Dairy Cattle and Dairy Goat Shows at 8 a.m. followed by the Market Goat Show, the Sheep Show, the Rabbit Show and the Swine Show. The 4-H and FFA Poultry Show starts Thursday, July 16 at 8 a.m., followed by the CowBelle Supreme Cow Contest and Beef Showmanship, the Market Beef Show and the Breeding Beef Show.

The Converse County Fair rounds out the week with 4-H and FFA Round Robin Showmanship starting at 8 a.m. The Junior Market Sale will start at 4 p.m. at the Show Center followed by the Buyer Appreciation Dinner and a live band at 7:30 p.m.

“We invite folks to join us for our market sale Friday, July 17,” shares Swanbom. Buyers can also participate in the sale through DV Auction at dvauction. com.

JULY 24 - AUGUST 3 Sheridan, Wyoming

Averi Reynolds is the editor for the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.

“I’ve learned a little about every animal. I’ve shown steers, sheep, and pigs. I even tried a goat one year.” – Mayce Himle

2019 Winner – Brecon Himle, 10, with his Champion Ultrasound winning steer at the Converse County Fair. Courtesy photo.

& 4-H AND FFA SHOW

Starting Friday, July 24 with the Horse Show and ending Monday, August 3 with the Livestock Sale

Visit sheridancountyfairgrounds.com for a full fair schedule.

Learning Experience –Mayce Himle, 15, loves showing animals and learning about how to regulate and manage feeding her show livestock. Courtesy photo

Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

EXTENSION EDUCATION

By Jeremiah Vardiman

Benefits of Annual Forages Annual cereal forage crops are receiving new interest and use by forage producers, especially in Montana.

Why should forage producers consider cereal forages in their cropping system?

Incorporating a cereal forage into a forage operation can provide certain benefits, such as crop flexibility, field improvements, forage yield during off years, and probably most important, breaking pest cycles affecting perennial forage production.

Wheat, oat and rye were utilized on large acreages in the early 1900s prior to power farm implements, according to Montana State University’s Forage Program. After power farm implements, cereal for-

ages were used at low levels for five decades. Starting in the early 2000s, Montana producers have been planting around 300,000 acres of cereal forages per year. Interest and use of cereal forages are also increasing in Wyoming and North Dakota.

Cereal forages are divided into three distinct categories: Winter cereals including wheat, barley, triticale and spelt, spring cereals including barley, oat, triticale, wheat and emmer and warm season crops including millet, sundangrass, sorghum and corn.

All are annual crops.

Montana research indicates winter cereals are consistently more productive than spring cereals. However,

NCBA welcomes legislation On July 2, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced the Requiring Assistance to Meat Processors for Upgrading Plants (RAMP UP) Act, which provides federal incentives to improve beef processing capacity.

Introduced by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Colin Peterson (D-MN), Reps. Frank Lucas (R-OK), Jeff Fortenberry (R-NE), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Glenn Thompson (R-PA), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), David Rouzer (R-NC), Jim Costa (D-CA), Robert Aderholt (R-AL) and Angie Craig (D-MN), the RAMP UP Act will bolster market access for cattle producers and keep store shelves across the country stocked with wholesome and nutritious beef products.

“The COVID-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruptions to beef processing which were devastating to cattle producers,” said NCBA Vice President and Minnesota Cattlemen’s Association Past President Don Schiefelbein. “The RAMP UP Act addresses these supply chain issues by ensuring cattle ranchers and farmers have robust access to new markets regardless of where their livestock is processed. We are grateful to Chairman Peterson and Rep. Lucas for their leadership and attention to this critical issue.”

The RAMP UP Act authorizes federal grants up to $100,000 for existing meat processors to become federally inspected. If enacted, the RAMP UP Act would ease this burden on processors and benefit cattle producers by opening new markets for the beef they produce.

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spring cereals, predominantly barley, are slightly higher in forage quality and are typically utilized more. In dryland production, winter cereals tend to capitalize on winter and spring moisture better than spring cereals, which lends to them being consistently more productive.

Winter cereals usually reach harvest maturity 10 to 21 days ahead of spring cereals.

Cereal forage crops provide flexibility in a crop rotation with only one year of production that can be utilized for hay, silage or a grazing operation. This allows for field improvements, such as leveling and balancing soil fertility to occur at least twice – prior to and after the cereal crop – before moving back into a perennial forage.

Forage cereals also provide decent forage production, one to three tons per acre dryland hay and three to four tons per acre irrigated hay, during the off-year when perennial forage fields are being renovated. Cereal forages, in

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particular winter wheat and spring barley, have found a great niche in renovating old alfalfa hay fields.

Typically, awnless forage varieties are the most desirable for forage production because unlike awned grain varieties, awnless mitigates the concern of abscesses and injury when fed to livestock. In addition, forage varieties can be grown to a later maturity date than grain varieties, which increases the forage quality.

Developmental harvest stages are targeted for four days after heading for grain varieties and 10 days after heading for forage varieties.

Research in Montana, North Dakota and Wyoming indicate hooded awnless spring barley varieties Haybet, Hays, Westford, Bestford and Stockford, produced good yields, between three and four tons per acre on irrigated fields.

The popular winter wheat variety Willow Creek has averaged 2.5 tons per acre, range was 1.25 to 3.1 tons per acre on dryland, along with

good forage quality at 14 percent crude protein in research trials in Montana and Wyoming.

The potential for accumulated nitrates, which can reach toxic levels for livestock, is a major concern when raising cereals for forage. Feeding forages with high nitrate levels, 5,000 ppm or greater, can cause abortions and death in cattle and sheep. Nitrate concentrations are typically higher in vegetative growth and decreases as the crop develops in maturity.

Research from Montana has found oats are consistently higher in nitrates than other cereal forages. This same research demonstrated nitrate levels decreased significantly from the boot stage to the milk stage of development.

This shows the importance of harvest timing to the correct developmental stage to achieve the highest yield and quality of cereal forage, while also producing a safe forage for livestock.

Nitrate accumulation

can also occur during stressful growing conditions, such as drought or frost, no matter the developmental stage.

Nitrate accumulations could also occur in fields that have high or excess nitrates in the soil because of a previous alfalfa stand or heavy fertilization. The worst scenario for lethal nitrate levels would be the combination of growing cereal forages in a high nitrate soil compounded by stressful conditions and early harvest timing.

Whether purchasing or growing cereal forages, make sure to have the forage tested for nitrate levels to assure their safety. When cereal forages are properly managed, they can be a good yielding and quality forage that allows flexibility in crop rotations, improvements to the field and getting a handle on pest pressures.

Jeremiah Vardiman is a University of Wyoming agriculture and horticulture Extension Educator. He can be reached at jvardima@ uwyo.edu.

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Wyoming Livestock Roundup • Volume 32 No. 11 • July 11, 2020

It’s the Pitts

by Lee Pitts

Not-Rights If I was a lawyer, which thankfully I’m not, I’d file the largest discrimination case in history on behalf of the 10 percent of the population who are left handed. Full disclosure, I’m not a lefty. Is there a bigger class of victims today than the southpaws who have to conform to a right-handed world? I think not. They don’t even have their own bathrooms, for gosh sakes!

I’d form an organization called the “NotRights” but the big question is who to sue. Usually lawyers go after the

deepest pockets, and that would be the U.S. government, but they’re already in debt $25 trillion. They also have an army of lawyers. Even if the NotRights won, they’d never get their money.

If we’re going to get a lot of money for the NotRights, and a big fee for me, I think the Not-Rights should go after multinational corporations, like the big three car companies. They’ve been making right-handed cars for over a hundred years.

Whether the gearshift is on the column or

Visit leepittsbooks.org for more from Lee Pitts.

on the floor, it’s meant to be operated with the right hand, ditto the radio and air conditioning. Next time you righties go somewhere, try reaching over with your left hand to put the car in gear, and you’ll see what I mean.

Don’t get me started on desk manufacturers.

Almost every classroom I sat in after the third grade had these desks you entered from the left side so the writing surface would be on the right-hand side. So the Not-Rights were at a huge disadvantage when it came time to taking notes. It’s a wonder they didn’t all flunk out.

Then there’s rodeo.

There have only been a handful of lefties qualify for the National Finals Rodeo in tie down roping over the years. I don’t know what the number of left-handed bulldoggers is, but it can’t be very high.

I could go on and on about discrimination against the Not-Rights.

In cattle showing they are at a total disadvantage because they’re forced to

grasp the lead rope with their right hand.

My lawsuit could go global. In many Asian countries, left-handed people are forced to become righties. When I studied international agriculture in Australia I had a brilliant classmate from Malaysia whose writing was unreadable. When asked why, he explained he was of the royal family, and if he wished to be a leader someday he had to teach himself to be right-handed.

In the early 1900s American doctors said left-handed people were more prone to mental disorders. They are more apt to be schizophrenic. Some societies go so far to think Not-Rights are the devil himself.

It was only last year scientists were able to identify the genes determining if a child will be left or right-handed. Other scientists have studied sonograms of babies in the womb and have found babies in the second trimester will start favoring one thumb over the other.

To this day, I still prefer my right thumb to suck on.

Interestingly, Oprah Winfrey is left handed, as were Napoleon, the Boston Strangler, Jack the Ripper and Billy the Kid. We’ve long known Not-Rights are more rightbrained, which means they’ll be better in the creative arts. This explains the plethora of left-handed cowboy poets. Righthanded people are more controlled by the left side of the brain, which makes them more analytical.

I think you see the conundrum this raises for the Not-Rights. If the left-

ies were to hire an attorney for a class action victimhood case in which the lawyer will end up with all the money, they’d be well advised to hire the more analytical righthanded lawyers, which only enriches right-handers. Lefties shouldn’t sue Bill Gates, either, because he’s left-handed, and that would be like suing themselves.

Finally, did you know, right-handed people live on average nine years longer than left-handed people do? It’s true. So my advice to lefties is, switch over while there’s still time.

Public comments sought on RFID tags The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking public comment on a proposal where APHIS would only approve Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) as the official ear tag for use in interstate movement of cattle that are required to be identified by the traceability regulations.

An official ear tag is defined as an identification tag approved by APHIS that bears an official identification number for individual animals. Regulations allow APHIS to approve tags that can be used as official identification, and both metal and RFID tags are current options.

APHIS is also seeking comment on a proposed time-

line for implementation, which the agency would use if this transition occurs. The timeline would make RFID tags the only option for use in cattle and bison requiring official identification on Jan. 1, 2023. APHIS would grandfather in animals that have metal tags already in place on that date.

Public comments will be accepted through Oct. 5, 2020 at federalregister.gov/d/2020-14463. After reviewing all comments, APHIS will publish a follow up Federal Register notice. This notice will respond to any such comments, announce the decision and, if so, provide the timeline for such a transition.

RIVERTON LIVESTOCK AUCTION Tuesday, July 7, 2020 Market Reports • 468 Head Sold Do you like the IDEA of locally grown HIGH QUALITY FOOD? Processed locally?

Supporting your economy?

Buying Wholesale?

Supporting your YOUTH? Processing & transportation arranged!!! VERY EASY!!

If you answered YES, please attend the Fremont County 4-H Sale on August 1, 2020 at 10:00 AM!!

Steers, Hogs, Lambs & Goats available.

SURROUNDING COUNTY 4-H SALES Big Horn 7/31/20 6:30 PM • Carbon 8/7/20 1:00 PM • Hot Springs 7/31/20 7:00 PM • Lincoln 8/8/20 10:00 AM Natrona 7/11/20 9:00 AM • Park 7/25/20 1:00 PM • Sublette 7/25/20 1:30 PM • Sweetwater 8/1/20 2:00 PM Teton 7/24/20 5:00 PM • Washakie 8/1/20 2:00 PM Thank You to all of our surrounding counties!! Best of luck to all the participants!!

Please attend YOUR LOCAL SALE!!

Representative Sales COWS FARSON 6 Cow, 1410# ........................... $65.00 DANIEL 6 Cow, 1114# ............................ $64.00 RIVERTON 7 Cow, 1165#............................ $63.00 ARMINTO 3 Cow, 1468# ........................... $62.50 RIVERTON 6 Cow, 1393# ........................... $62.00 SHOSHONI 2 Cow, 1542# ........................... $61.50 7 Cow, 1400# ........................... $61.00 SHERIDAN 2 Cow, 1635# ........................... $60.00 DUBOIS 2 Cow, 1387# ........................... $59.00 POWDER RIVER 3 Cow, 1203# ........................... $57.50

BULLS PAVILLION 1 Bull, 1145#............................. $96.00 KEMMERER 1 Bull, 2210# ............................ $92.00 PAVILLION 1 Bull, 2225# ............................ $91.50 CROWHEART 1 Bull, 1720# ............................ $89.50 KINNEAR 1 Bull, 2125# ............................ $87.50 SHOSHONI 2 Bull, 2080# ............................ $87.00 PAVILLION 1 Bull, 1875# ............................ $85.50 BIG PINEY 1 Bull, 1945# ............................ $85.00 STEERS RIVERTON 8 Steer, 429# .......................... $157.50

35 Steer, 544# .......................... $155.00 FARSON 3 Steer, 551# .......................... $150.50 RIVERTON 3 Steer, 611# .......................... $144.00 FARSON 8 Steer, 698# .......................... $136.50 POWELL 3 Steer, 700# .......................... $131.00 RIVERTON 7 Steer, 770# .......................... $129.00 LYSITE 3 Steer, 940# .......................... $128.00 HEIFERS RIVERTON 6 Heifer, 411# ......................... $142.00 36 Heifer, 503# ......................... $136.25 7 Heifer, 574# ......................... $133.00 FARSON 30 Heifer, 648# ......................... $127.00 HEIFERETTES DANIEL 2 Heiferette, 925# ..................... $95.00 FARSON 5 Heiferette, 883# ..................... $92.00 DANIEL 4 Heiferette, 952# ..................... $85.00 3 Heiferette, 1000# ................... $77.50 RIVERTON 2 Heiferette, 1165# ................... $77.00

TUESDAY, JULY 14 NO SALE

TUESDAY, JULY 21 ALL CATTLE CLASSES W/ SHEEP & HORSES START TIME 9:30 AM W/ SHEEP & WEIGH UPS

Early Consignments TUESDAY, JULY 28 NO SALE

TUESDAY, AUGUST 4 ALL CATTLE CLASSES W/ 4-H RESALE START TIME 9:30 AM W/ WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11 NO SALE

TUESDAY, AUGUST 18 ALL CATTLE CLASSES W/ 4-H RESALE & SHEEP & HORSES START TIME 9:30 AM W/ SHEEP & WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25 NO SALE

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 ALL CATTLE CLASSES START TIME 9:00 AM

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 LABOR DAY FEEDER SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 CALF & YEARLING SPECIAL START TIME 9:00 AM W/ WEIGH UPS

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

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