Roundup for 8.12.23

A Look Inside

Quick Bits

WLSB Meeting

The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) has scheduled a public meeting for Aug. 22 beginning at 10 a.m. at the Holiday Inn in Rock Springs. Topics include the approval of June 20 minutes, a director’s report, legislative updates, brand inspection recording and animal health updates, election of officers and more. The public can attend in person or via Zoom. For more information, visit wlsb.state.wy.us or call 307-777-7515.

WWDC Meeting

The Wyoming Water Development Commission (WWDC) will host a water development workshop at 2 Tilden Trail in Cody on Aug. 15 at 1:30 p.m. Livestream is available at wwdc.state. wy.us, and public comment can be provided at this website as well. Additionally, WWDC will hold a joint meeting with the Select Water Committee on Aug. 17 at 8:30 a.m. in the same location. Livestream and public comment submission is available at wyoleg.gov

Plant Closures

U.S. Sens. John Barrasso and Cynthia Lummis (Both R-WY) joined U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and 36 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) urging the withdrawal of its latest set of proposed power plant regulations, which will force the closure of coal and gas-fired power plants.

New Date

Due to poor weather and unsafe venue conditions, the Laramie County Fair had to postpone its popular MicroMania Wrestling event, previously scheduled for Aug. 7. The event will now take place on Aug. 18 at 7 p.m. at the Event Center at the Archer Complex. Tickets that have already been purchased will be valid for the new date. Those unable to attend can contact the Laramie County Events Office at 307-633-4670 for assistance. For more information, visit laramiecountyfair.com

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

Equipment safety considerations vital during haying season

Haying season is in full swing, and regardless of experience with heavy equipment in the hayfield, it’s important producers take caution when harvesting their hay.

“As with many hazards on the farm, perceived risk is often reduced below actual risk level due to familiarity with the operation,” states Clemson University Cooperative Exten-

sion Service Livestock and Forages Agent Amber Starn in an April 14, 2021 article.

“The speed at which equipment operates and with which incidents can occur are often underestimated.

Many times, the operator overestimates their ability to react to the situation.”

For instance, Starn notes a power take-off (PTO) shaft rotating at 540

Please see SAFETY on page 7

A CENTURY OF SUPPORT

Wyoming Department of Agriculture celebrates 100 years of service to the state

For 100 years, the Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA) has been a driving force in promoting and enhancing the state’s agriculture and natural resources sectors.

On Aug. 2, the department celebrated their milestone event in Cheyenne as Gov. Mark

Gordon signed a proclamation recognizing WDA’s century worth of contributions to two of the state’s most important industries.

“Agriculture is the super structure on which everything else works. It’s what’s

Please see WDA on page 8

ABOVE: Celebrating a century – One hundred years ago, during the 17th session of the Wyoming Legislature, 25 members of the Senate and 60 members of the House passed House Bill 230, which created the Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA). On Aug. 2, WDA celebrated their milestone anniversary in Cheyenne. Courtesy photo

CHECK OUT THE 2023-24 WYOMING SEEDSTOCK DIRECTORY INSIDE!

CWC opens ag facility

Riverton – On Aug. 26, Central Wyoming College (CWC) will cut the ribbon on the new Rustler Ag Equine Complex, an 85,000 square-feet facility which will house the college’s agriculture and equine programs, as well as the livestock judging, rodeo and ranch horse teams.

“We have been building out CWC’s agriculture program and added meat processing, small-scale farming, agriculture entrepreneurship, ranch management and more,” reads a CWC press release.

“We believe the Rustler Complex will be an economic driver for Fremont County and the region, and we are excited to explore all of the ways we can continue to grow business in the agriculture and equine areas, as well as other sectors,” the release continues.

The grand opening

The public is invited to the complex’s grand opening event, which will take place from 10 a.m. to noon and will feature a ribbon cutting, tours of the new facility, live music, food trucks, giveaways and more.

Those in attendance will have the chance to explore new classrooms and labs, as well as CWC’s rodeo, ranch horse and livestock judging team exhibitions.

Families are also encouraged to bring their brands for an opportunity to add them to artwork, which will be displayed in the facility.

Additionally, the grand opening will take place in conjunction with the Fourth Annual Rendezvous City Beef Round-Up, a celebration in which beef producers across the nation gather to compete for the title of Best Beef in

Fifth annual event

Watch the extraordinary journey of building trust with a wild horse during the Meeker Mustang Makeover

Kate Logan and her husband Bruce, have purchased four mustangs – Peaches, Gus, Jackpot and Maloca –over the past several years at the Meeker Mustang Makeover. When asked why, Kate noted they bought the mustangs because they love horses and they like to rescue animals.

“The wild horse population is a problem with so many in holding pens, so we thought, let’s do something to help with the problem, rather than going out and buying a registered horse,” she said. “We want to be part of the solution, and these animals need a permanent home.”

Kate said, “Confident and beautiful, other than size they are very similar to my quarter horses. I’ve never had to shoe my mustangs thanks to their strong feet. When I do take them through rocky trails and through trees they are very sure footed. They can both follow or lead, they are confident, sturdy horses.”

The Meeker Mustang Makeover

Started by a group of citizens from smalltown Meeker, Colo. five years ago, this event has grown every year, adding more

Please see MUSTANG on page 9

Options for wet hay outlined

Nebraska Extension Educators Hannah Greenwell Smith, Ben Beckman and Connor Biehler address concerns and offer solutions for hay with high moisture content in the latest University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) Aug. 1 BeefWatch newsletter.

As most parts of the West continue to receive rain, hay producers had to quickly adjust from dry conditions to extremely wet weather this year.

Hay that gets rained on while still in the windrow will lose nutritional value, and if it’s put up too wet or has been sitting in water, it will need special consideration.

Hay combustion

The UNL educators explain a major concern with wet hay is hay combustion.

When hay is baled above 20 percent moisture content, plant tissue begins to break down through microbes and mold begins to grow. This biological activity creates heat and the possibility of combustion.

“If producers end up with hot hay too wet to bale, store it away from other bales and outside to limit the risk of fire spreading,” the team advises. “Bale combustion can begin at temperatures as low as 190 degrees Fahrenheit, especially in

Please see HAY on page 20

The truth is plant-based or alternative protein products calling themselves meat, are still not meat. Some are advertising their products as having whole muscle texture and other meat-like qualities.

For beef, lamb, pork, poultry and other meat producers, the good news is these “alt-meat companies,” as they like to be called, have seen a decrease in capital raised by 42 percent in 2022 compared to 2021.

The bad news is the alternative protein movement is still moving forward as fast as they can with more products, research and promotion. And, the government is helping them.

During a recent panel discussion at a Future Food Tech Alternative Proteins Conference, Joshua Ayers, a senior program analyst with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), said the path is pretty straight forward.

“We’ve spent the past two or three years building up the regulatory framework,” he stated. “The big takeaway moving forward is we consider these products to be meat and poultry products, and we regulate them much the same way as we regulate any other meat and poultry product. This applies to imported cultivated meat as well.”

Ayers said the international equivalency process will be the same for both cultivated and conventional products.

There is a big push to come up with alternative seafood products as well to satisfy some conservation and animal rights groups.

While there are members of Congress working to pass legislation which doesn’t allow these alternative protein products to be labeled as meat or seafood, the process can’t move fast enough.

The dairy industry was hit with a lot of alternative milk products years ago, and now look at the alternative products in the milk case at the grocery store labeled as milk.

Personally, I don’t care if all of these alternative products are out on the shelves, they do have a right to be there, but I don’t think they should be called meat or milk products. Meat, seafood and milk producers can compete easily with these alternative products as long as they are not labeled the same.

We are starting to see some alternative meat products in high-end restaurants lately. I have heard of alternative steaks, mainly filet mignon, in some restaurants for close to the price of real steaks. And, I have heard of some products advertised as steaks selling at cheaper prices, which turned out to be plantbased or cultivated.

I’ve have also read research from a number of universities around the nation which are researching alt-proteins and getting a lot of money to do so. Remember, there are numerous wealthy people backing the alternative protein movement and buying out farmland.

Other countries, such as Israel, China and Brazil, are establishing markets for alt-proteins as well. For most people in the world, eating meat is a choice, but for some 2.7 billion people of Jewish, Muslim or Hindu faith, dietary laws are central and dictated by their faith.

At the moment, many of these individuals are waiting for their religious leaders to provide guidance on the issue. How these faiths deal with the issue, especially with cultivated proteins and not so much with plant-based proteins, will be interesting.

As meat producers, we need to join the fight and protect our meat and milk labeling.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup

GUEST OPINIONS

Public Lands Grazing Vital to the Rural West

Chances are, when one thinks of the West, images of cattle and horses and the ranchers who manage them are top of mind.

For centuries, grazing livestock has been at the heart of rural economies across what is now the Western U.S. Through these many generations, ranchers have contributed far more than their job titles indicate.

They are county commissioners, teachers, bankers, truck drivers, energy workers, hunters, sportsmen and more – contributing directly to the stability and

By Daniel Munch

longevity of the communities in which they live.

Background

The federal government owns roughly 640 million acres of the 2.27 billion acres of land in the U.S. –just over 28 percent of total land.

The percentage of federally-owned land in each state varies widely, from 0.3 percent in Connecticut and Iowa to nearly 80 percent in Nevada. Federal ownership of land is heavily concentrated in the West, with 61.3 percent of Alaska federally owned, along with 46.5 percent of the 11 next western-

most states.

In comparison, the federal government owns 4.2 percent of land in the remaining 38 states.

Five major federal agencies administer 620 million acres of federally-owned land, led by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) at 248.3 million acres, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) at 193 million acres, the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) at over 90 million acres, the National Park Service (NPS) at 80 million acres and the Department of Defense (DOD) at just over 11 million acres.

Residents of heavily federally-owned states which utilize lands for commerce have to abide by these federal agencies’ regulations – a challenge much of the rest of the country does not encounter.

Grazing permits

Agencies administer permits which allow ranchers to graze livestock on specified public lands for a fee. Grazing fees through BLM in 2023, for example, cannot fall below $1.35 per animal unit month (AUM), and any fee increase or decrease cannot exceed

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Lease removals proposed

On Aug. 2, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) released a draft Resource Management Plan and Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement which intends to remove over one million acres of federal land from future use in oil and gas leases on the Western Slope of Colorado.

In an effort to assuage the legal challenges from environmental groups, the proposal would also designate new protected Areas of Critical Concern on more than 100,000 acres of BLM land.

The proposal provides several alternatives for amending oil and gas leases in Colorado. However, BLM formally recommended “Alternative E” which would eliminate future leases on land with “no-known, low and medium oil and gas development” within the Colorado River Valley Field Office (CRVFO) – Garfield, Eagle, Pitkin, Routt and Rio Blanco counties – and the Grand Junction Field Office (GJFO) – Delta, Garfield, Mesa, Pitkin and Rio Blanco counties.

Chelsie Miera, executive director of the West Slope Colorado Oil and Gas Association, explained removing this land for industry use will not only impact consumers, but will take away jobs from “hardworking women and men in the industry.”

If Alternative E were accepted, 568,300 acres in the CRVFO would be closed to fluid mineral leasing, which would leave 143,000 acres open. In the GJFO’s jurisdiction, 998,000 acres would be closed to future leases, leaving 239,000 acres open.

In both cases, BLM’s proposal argues positive impacts of this alternative includes “reduced indirect impacts on public health and safety alongside fewer impacts on other resources such as vegetation, wildlife, soils, surface water and cultural resources and on non-consumptive resource uses such as recreation.”

The comment period for the proposed rule closes Nov. 1.

To read the entire proposal or submit comments, visit eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2016085/510

Comments can also be mailed to BLM Upper Colorado River District, Attn: Supplemental EIS, 2518 H Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81506.

Shively Hardware Co.

WWGAux gives updates

The Wyoming Wool Growers Auxiliary (WWGAux) is proud to announce the scholarship winners for the 2023-24 school year.

The winner of the Gene and Joy Hardy Memorial Scholarship is Karina Myss-Bassett of Clearmont. She is the daughter of Pete and Ashlea Bassett. She owns a flock of Hampshire/Suffolk sheep. Karina will be attending Casper College majoring in agribusiness and marketing.

The winner of the WWGA scholarship is John Phillip Werner of Douglas. John is the son of John and Connie Werner. He will be studying diesel mechanics and ag studies at Sheridan College.

The WWGAux sponsors and runs the Sheep Lead Contest at the Wyoming State Fair (WSF). The contest will be held this year on Aug. 18 at 4 p.m.

A $15 entry fee payable to the WSF is due no later than Aug 11 by 5 p.m. There will be a late fee of $10, payable to the WWGAux, for entries received between Aug. 11-17, in addition to the $15. No entries will be accepted the day of the show.

The rules for the contest are on page 71 of the fair book with the entry form on page 149. Questions can be directed to Sande Snyder at crafty.stamper25@gmail. com or 307-680-2453.

This year’s Wyoming State Make It with Wool Contest will be held in Casper in conjunction with the Wyoming Stock Growers (WWGA) and Wyoming Wool Growers State Winter Convention on Dec. 3-4. The national contest will be in Denver, Colo. on Jan. 11-13, 2024.

Contestants must compete in a district contest to be eligible to attend the state contest. There are district contests in Laramie, Buffalo, Gillette, Powell, Cheyenne, Carbon County, Casper and Douglas.

For more information, visit wyowool.com or contact Marcia Federer of the WWGA.

NJHA elects leaders

National Junior Hereford Association (NJHA) members elected four new leaders to serve on the NJHA board of directors at the 2023 VitaFerm Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE). The four newly elected NJHA directors were recognized during an emotional maroon jacket ceremony on July 13, as four NJHA board members retired after fulfilling their terms.

Sam Birdsall of Torrington; Lauren Gatz of Fairview, Kan.; Salem Sifford of Goldvein, Va. and Harlee Watson of Flemingsburg, Ky. stepped into their roles as newly elected NJHA directors.

Two delegates from each state junior Hereford association voted for the young people they felt would best lead the organization. The NJHA board consists of 12 directors, who serve a three-year term to govern the organization of more than 4,000 members.

Additionally, six junior members are elected to serve on the National Junior Angus Board (NJAB) each year, where they further develop their leadership skills and represent Angus youth. The new directors were announced during the awards ceremony at the 2023 National Junior Angus Show on July 7 in Grand Island, Neb.

The newly elected board members will serve two years on the NJAB – the first year as directors and the second as officers.

They include Jonwyn Ayres of Powers, Ore.; Suter Clark of Gretna, Va.; Kyli Kraft of Fort Collins, Colo.; Alli Perry of Fayetteville, Tenn.; Sawyer Styles of Brentford, S.D. and Mary Wood of Willow Spring, N.C.

Hageman introduces bill

Wyoming Congresswoman Harriet Hageman recently introduced the Country of Origin Labeling Enforcement Act of 2023.

The bill, which is co-led by Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA), seeks to prohibit beef retailers from designating foreign beef as an American-made product by defining U.S.-produced beef as coming from animals “exclusively born, raised, slaughtered and packaged in the U.S.”

Processors who do not comply with country of origin labeling requirements will be assessed a fine of $5,000 per pound of beef illegally labeled as “Made in the USA.”

Discussing the bill, Hageman stated, “Beef is a key product of the American West, and enhanced country of origin labeling guidance is vital to protecting small-scale farmers and ranchers who must compete with mega meatpacking conglomerates. Clarifying what it means to be ‘Made in the USA’ will give consumers greater confidence in what they feed their families, support local farmers and economies and crack down on deceptive labeling practices by the big four meatpackers.”

In addition to bipartisan support in the House of Representatives, multiple stakeholder groups have applauded this bill, including R-CALF, the U.S. Cattlemen’s Association and the Farm Action Fund.

ALB adds third holiday season

The American Lamb Board (ALB) continues to work to increase usage of lamb during the summer season with outdoor cooking campaigns since most consumers associate lamb with holidays and special occasions.

This summer’s campaign, Backyard BaaaBQ, is designed to make lamb an approachable choice for summer parties and to educate consumers about outdoor cooking techniques such as grilling and smoking.

From June to August, ALB is using a number of digital strategies to launch its Backyard BaaaBQ promotion, featuring American lamb burgers, kabobs and chops. Backyard BaaaBQ is reaching consumers through social media posts and ads, e-mail newsletters and food blogs.

“An ALB strategic marketing goal is to get people thinking about lamb outside of the usual holiday times,” said Peter Camino, ALB chairman from Buffalo. “We’re introducing a new promotion this summer to extend our successful adventurous, simple and approachable eating theme.”

Horse poisoning suspected

The Bright family from Shawnee is mourning the loss of four horses on July 30 due to a suspected poisoning incident on their ranch in Converse County. The Wyoming Livestock Board (WLSB) is currently conducting an investigation into the matter.

On the day of the incident, the Bright family observed their horses Snickers, Max, Cash, Doc and Amigo behaving normally. The horses were located near their corral, only 100 feet away from the family’s home. However, security camera footage captured Joe Bright’s children running into the house, screaming at around 7:50 p.m.

Immediately, Joe contacted the sheriff’s office and a veterinarian, and by 8:03 p.m. four of the horses had died. Amigo, Joe’s wife’s horse, was in critical condition and was quickly transported to Colorado State University for emergency treatment. He is expected to make a full recovery.

Joe believes this is not a random act, but a personal act of hate. He mentioned there have been previous incidents of missing items and tampering in the past few months, suggesting a pattern of targeted actions. Investigations are ongoing, including running lab tests to determine the exact cause of the horses’ deaths.

The Bright family is offering a $10,000 reward for any information leading to the conviction of the culprit. They urge anyone with information to report it to the Converse County Sheriff’s Office or WLSB.

Partnership announced

Sysco, the global leader in foodservice distribution and Certified Angus Beef (CAB), a brand known for its commitment to quality beef, has entered a strategic partnership aimed at promoting animal welfare and beef sustainability.

The collaboration will focus on providing Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) training and certification to 1,000 farmers and ranchers through nine training events between August 2023 and June 2024.

“We’re proud to partner with CAB, a brand led and owned by farmers and ranchers and known for its commitment to excellence,” said Henry Fovargue, Sysco’s vice president of sustainability. “Through this initiative, we hope to support and strengthen the livelihoods of family farmers and ranchers who are dedicated to producing high-quality beef and prioritizing the welfare of animals and the environment.”

“Through this partnership, we can continue to foster a culture of cattle care and with BQA certifications, communicate ranchers’ commitment to doing the right thing,” says John Stika, president of CAB.

The Cattle Care Partnership between Sysco and CAB highlights the shared commitment of both companies to support farmers and ranchers and the beef community as a whole. By investing in BQA training, the partnership elevates the industry’s work to address consumer concerns, reinforce trust and ensure future demand for beef.

25 percent of the previous year’s levels.

An AUM is the amount of forage needed to sustain one cow and her calf, or one horse, or five sheep or goats for a month.

Actively permitted AUMs in 2022 ranged from a low of 254 in South Dakota to 2.1 million in Nevada, with a total of 10.8 million across the country. Active permits ranged from four in Oklahoma to 3,813 in Montana, with a national total of 17,911.

Any U.S. citizen or validly licensed business can apply for a BLM grazing permit if they buy or control private property, known as a base property, which has been legally recognized as having preference for use of public lands grazing or acquire property that can serve as a base property and then apply to BLM to transfer a grazing preference from an existing property to the acquired property.

There are different types of permits, the most common being the term permit, which may be issued for up to 10 years. Term permits describe the season of use, number of AUMs authorized and the kind and class of livestock which can be grazed on a specified area of federal lands.

Temporary permits may be issued for a period not to exceed one year and are sparingly used. Livestock-use permits are issued for a primary use other than grazing livestock for a year or less and are commonly used in research circumstances.

The Congressional Research Service reported of the 248 million acres administered by the BLM, 154 million acres or 62 percent are available for grazing, though only 139 million acres or 56 percent are in use.

Of the 193 million acres managed by the USFS, more than 95 million acres are available for grazing –49 percent – and 77 million or 40 percent are actively grazed.

There is also some grazing on NPS land, though this number is comparatively small. Of the approximately 640 million acres of federally-owned land, about 35 percent is actively permitted for grazing purposes.

Direct effects

In this analysis, “direct effects” refers to the portion of monetary value of livestock sales linked to forage produced and utilized on public lands.

Typically, ranching of cattle, sheep and goats uses a combination of private and public grazing lands, as well as grazed forage and purchased forage and/ or grain.

This means while a finished steer that ultimately ends up at market somewhere in the Midwest may have started on public lands forage, many other sources

of forage contributed to its final market weight.

In a recent study by USFS, researchers focused on quantifying economic contributions of federal grazing at the state and national level by adjusting sales values reported by the census of agriculture by active AUM numbers. This methodology allows us to estimate the value of end livestock sales directly attributable to public lands forage.

In total, over $1 billion in livestock sales value is attributable to public lands forage.

States like New Mexico, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana all come in at over $100 million each. The small values calculated for some Eastern states is linked to small cattle grazing allotments under the USFS. NPS grazing was not estimated.

The value of cattle sales attributed to public lands forage was also evaluated. Close to 90 percent of the estimated total livestock value, or $893 million, is linked to cattle production.

Idaho at $122 million, New Mexico at $119 million and Wyoming at $100 million are the top public lands cattle states.

As far as the value of sheep and goat sales attributed to public lands forage, there is nearly $110 million estimated in total value. Colorado leads at $38 million, followed by Utah at $21 million and Wyoming at $14 million.

These direct sales values contribute to the income basis for thousands of rural families in these states.

Economic modeling specific to Idaho, Oregon and Nevada showed the loss of 5,389 active grazing permits resulted in an average 60 percent decline in cattle sales, 50 percent decline in labor income, a 65 percent decline in personal income – from $33,940 to $11,812 – per operation and billions in downstream economic losses.

Additionally, the tax revenue received on these sales supports public safety, education and infrastructure in locations which are often already underserved and don’t otherwise receive tax revenue from federallyowned land.

Indirect effects

There is a wide array of indirect economic effects associated with public lands grazing.

Notably, ruminants like cattle, sheep and goats utilize forage on otherwise marginal lands to convert low-quality forage into high-quality nutrients humans can consume.

Ranchers who can pair private land forage and purchased feed with public lands forage lower their input costs, helping make margins workable, especially during periods of high feed costs.

Though the direct sales

value of livestock weight gained on public lands is a little over $1 billion, the value of cattle and calves produced in the 13 westernmost states sits at over $16 billion.

In 2021 alone, states with large swaths of public land like Colorado, California and Idaho yielded $4.2 billion, $3.1 billion and $1.6 billion in total cattle and calf sales, respectively.

Many of the cow/calf pairs and yearlings raised in these states spent some time grazing on public lands, meaning those lands contributed to the lifecycle and final marketable value of these animals.

Removing the option of public lands would further pressure private lands to produce additional forage and feed, increasing input costs for producers and food costs for consumers. Not to mention, many communities reliant on grazing systems are often isolated in remote locations making them difficult to access.

In many cases, federal land often crisscrosses and even divides private property into what geographically looks like abstract checkerboards of federal and private land.

A decrease in the ability to feed livestock on rangeland which exists near or adjacent to a rancher’s own property often shifts demand to offsite feed resources which can be expensive and difficult to receive, potentially undermining the viability of the ranch operation.

Grazing also provides indirect economic benefits by helping preserve regional ecosystems.

Properly managed rangelands can increase soil organic matter, improving soil structure and contributing to increased water

storage capacity and filtration, which is important for reducing the severity of drought conditions.

Grazing ruminants feed off of perennial forage, promoting complex roots structures, which minimize soil erosion and increase carbon sequestration. They also help maintain distinctive plant communities necessary to support certain threatened and endangered species.

General wildlife habitat, open space and recreation opportunities are just a few of the many other benefits retained when land is used for grazing. These benefits are often not present in alternative land uses and are difficult to replace with human-made services.

In a University of Wyoming study, researchers estimated the value of some ecosystem services generated by cattle grazing on both private and public lands.

Researchers identified four different types of ecosystem services – provisioning, such as production of food and water; regulating, such as control of climate and disease; supporting, such as nutrient cycles and crop pollination and cultural, such as spiritual and recreation benefits.

Though many of these services are difficult to put a monetary value on because they are not sold or traded, estimates were generated for forage production, general services –intended to capture conservation and climate-related benefits – and wildlife values – focused on wildlife preservation and recreation.

Nationally, it was estimated federal rangelands contribute $3.7 billion in ecosystem services which translated to $20.15 per public acre grazed. For

comparison, after adjusting for the approximately $26 million ranchers pay in grazing fees each year, taxpayers support appropriations for rangeland management programs at about 30 cents per acre.

Excluding all other benefits of public lands grazing, consumers have a net return of $19.85 per 30 cents spent to support federal lands grazing. Utah and Oregon had the highest ecosystem service values at $610 million and $575 million, respectively.

An often-overlooked benefit of public lands grazing is the land stewardship benefits offered by ranchers, their families and their employees.

The federal government employs thousands of conservation scientists, foresters, rangeland management specialists, forest and conservation technicians and others tasked with helping manage and conserve land appropriately. Most ranchers do a portion of these tasks free of charge to taxpayers as part of their everyday role as rangeland operators.

Median government salaries reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics for these positions range from a low of $39,180 for entry-level technicians to well over $64,010 for more specialized positions.

A hypothetical removal of public lands grazing would shift the burden of ground-level management of millions of acres currently shared by private ranchers and their employees to government agencies.

To grasp the extent of this cost, the replacement value of public lands permittee operators, their spouses and two hypothetical workers was calculated.

At the $64,010 rate for operators and their spouses and $39,180 for each of the workers, each ranching operation would, conservatively, cost the government $206,380 to replace.

Between 2002 and 2016, the number of operators with grazing permits was averaged to 15,755 operators. This means, in total, the labor replacement value of these ranching operators would be at least $3.25 billion annually.

The highest replacement costs would appear in Montana at $692 million and Wyoming at $528 million – both very sparsely populated states where rural residents take on the brunt of rangeland management responsibilities.

Conclusion

Cattle, sheep and goat producers across the Western U.S. have partnered with federal agencies for generations to manage hundreds of millions of acres of land.

As a result, consumers across the country have benefited from a more resilient and economical domestic food supply, countless ecosystem and climaterelated gains of ruminant grazing and open lands preservation and the effective and careful management of public lands.

With each dollar produced by an agricultural community multiplying through downstream channels into many billions in economic value, public lands grazing is a vital part of the Western economy, and its loss could threaten the livelihoods and traditions of thousands of rural communities.

Daniel Munch is an economist for the American Farm Bureau Federation. He can be reached at dmunch@fb.org.

CWC continued from page 1

Wyoming and Best Beef in the West.

The ultimate goal

CWC explains the new ag complex was built to help share generations of knowledge from Wyoming’s farmers, ranchers and other ag personnel.

“CWC’s Rustler Ag and Equine Complex will research and teach the best of traditional prac-

Legislation introduced

tices alongside new livestock production and health methods and technologies,” the college states. “It will explore new techniques in farm-to-table food production, agribusiness and entrepreneurship.”

By leveraging local resources, CWC says their new ag facility will educate and equip the agriculture workforce, train lead-

OBITUARIES

Rudolph George Stanko, fondly known as Rudy “Butch” Stanko, who always blazed his own trail throughout a legendary life, passed away peacefully on Aug. 2 surrounded by loved ones at his side.

Rudy was born in Sheridan County on Feb. 16, 1947, the son of Rudy Stanko, Sr.

and Elizabeth Legerski Stanko. All of his grandparents emigrated from Poland. He was raised a Catholic, served as an altar boy and attended Catholic schools.

Rudy graduated in 1965 from Natrona County High School in Casper and was named Student of the Year in sales. He then attended

For more information on CWC’s Rustler Ag Equine Complex or the grand opening event, visit cwc. edu or call 307-855-2000.

ers essential for building a robust agriculture economy in the region, attract regional events to enhance existing agriculture and equine operations and be a catalyst for opportunities within Fremont County’s tourism corridor for local

food, culinary agriculture and equine economic development.

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

On July 27, Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) introduced a bill to limit farm bill payments.

The Farm Program Integrity Act would create a hard cap of $250,000 in total commodity support for any one farm operation and require beneficiaries of the system spend at least 50 percent of each year engaged in farm labor or management.

Currently, just 10 percent of farm operations receive 70 percent of all yearly farm payment subsidies.

“It isn’t right to send bloated farm payments to people who are more familiar with an office chair than a tractor seat,” Grassley said. “This bill brings honesty to the farm payment system and prioritizes farming families over mega farms. Hard-earned tax dollars should only be sent to hardworking farmers – those with calluses on their hands and dirt under their fingernails.”

The Farm Program Integrity Act is supported by Taxpayers for Common Sense, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, R Street Institute, U.S. Public Interest Research Group, National Taxpayer Union, Environmental Working Group, Farm Action Fund, Regenerate America, Kiss the Ground and the Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association.

Full text of the legislation can be found at grassley.senate. gov/download/farm-program-integrity-act-of-2023

the University of Wyoming (UW) on a full-ride wrestling scholarship. Rudy was a tough and gritty UW Cowboy, both in the ring and in business.

A light-heavyweight

wrestler in college and trained as a boxer by his father, he went undefeated in the Toughest Man in Wyoming contest.

As a third generation meatpacker, “Buffalo Butch” built a meatpacking business powerhouse in the 80s, with plants in Nebraska, Colorado and Montana. In 1984, after his businesses were closed, Rudy went to Australia to write his autobiography, “The Score,” which chronicles his experience in the meatpacking industry.

In 1998, he took his fiery drive to the court room. Representing himself, he suc-

cessfully challenged Montana’s no speed limit before the Montana Supreme Court, using his stock car racing trophies as evidence.

A fervent defender of Constitutional Rights, he baffled many seasoned lawyers, prosecutors and jailers as a relentless pro se litigant. His e-mail signature was “Common Law Rudy.”

In his later life, at 68 years old, Rudy set an American weight lifting record with a 391-pound bench press and became a champion poker player in Deadwood, S.D.

Rudy was a true original, one of a kind, and he will be remembered best through one of his life mottos, “You’ve got to blaze your own trail.”

He was a presence in any room he walked into, and he never compromised on doing things his own way.

Fiercely driven, Rudy always brought out the best in his competition – whether it was the wrestling ring, the race track, the sale barn, the courtroom or at the poker table.

He was an outspoken freedom fighter and creator of jobs for thousands of workers in need.

Most importantly, Rudy did all of this while being an incredibly loyal son to his mother Betty and a generous provider to his family.

Blk/1 Rwf) Strs, 825-850#, Complete Vac. Program, Knife Cut, Coming off grass, Home

Raised Nelson & Hodge 40 Blk Hfr, 950-975#, PTO @ ranch, Complete Vac. Program, BV, Coming off grass, Home Raised

Marjie Schmitt 33 Blk/Rd Hfrs, 700#, Guaranteed Open, Spring Shots: Bovi-Sheild Gold 5, Poured, Coming off grass

Ruckas Livestock 32 Blk Hfrs, 600-650#, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass

Richard & Barb Pearson 25 Blk Strs & Hfrs, 700-750#, Heifers Guaranteed Open, Shots at Birth: 7-way, CalfGuard, Coming off grass, Home Raised

Ryler Lerwick 8 Red/Blk Strs, 1250#, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass, Producer All Natural Red Butte Cattle Co. LLC 7 Red Hfrs, 750#, All Shots, Coming off grass

Linda Nichol 4 Red Angus Hfrs, 1000#, PTO @ ranch (off replacement heifers), Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass, Home

Raised Calves Brad Foos 22 Mostly Blk Strs, 500-675#, Weaned a long time, 3 Rounds of Shots, Hay Fed

FRIDAY, AUGUST 18 - ALL CLASSES

Through a storybook, colorful and legendary life, Rudy blazed his trail through the West with a hard-nosed work-ethic, maverick ingenuity, a sharp eye and a tenacious entrepreneurial spirit.

He is survived by his children Christine Stanko, Cara Dodson, Michael Scott Stanko, Lisa Martin and Cati McQueen; former wife Jean Stanko and by his 100-plus year old mother Elizabeth “Betty” Stanko.

A Celebration of Life will was held Aug. 12 at the American Legion Hall in Gordon, Neb.

46TH ANNUAL PRQHBA HORSE SALE

Sept. 3, 2023 * Broadus MT. Powder River County Fairgrounds

revolutions per minute has a wrap rate of seven feet per second; a baler traveling just three miles per hour will pull forage in at the rate of four feet per second and belts, chains and pulleys operating on many pieces of haying equipment have a pull-in rate of 66 feet per second.

“A person can never win a race with a machine,” says Starn.

Getting to the field

Prior to getting out in the hayfield, producers need to review operators’ manuals and follow equipment maintenance guidelines. Cleaning, lubrication and replacement of worn parts can also reduce risk of injury and downtime during hay harvest.

As producers transport equipment to the hayfield, they also need to ensure it is roadworthy.

“Ensure lights, flashers and turn signals are in working order and slow moving vehicle (SMV) emblems are clean, clearly visible and in the proper location on equipment,” says Starn. “Make sure the extremities of balers, mowers, rakes, etc., have reflectors or reflective tape to alert motorists to the width of the farm equipment traveling on the road.”

Starn reminds individuals to always return equipment to “roadway position” before leaving a field so it is as narrow as possible when driving down the road with other traffic.

Lastly, Starn recommends planning a route to avoid peak traffic hours and congested roadways and to avoid traveling during times of the day when there is limited visibility.

Mower safety

Before starting up their mower, it is highly recommended individuals walk the

meadow to ensure there isn’t any debris or other obstacles that could clog mowers or balers. Additionally, they should evaluate crop density and condition, as this will affect operating speed.

“A heavy crop, poor drying conditions and too high of operating speeds can cause plugging or clogging, and each time a person leaves the operator’s seat to deal with plugging or clogging issues, they potentially put themselves at risk,” says Starn.

She notes cutter bar incidents, usually from unplugging clogs or servicing equipment while not following recommended safety protocol, can result in lacerations and even amputations.

Therefore, it is good practice when using any kind of heavy equipment to disengage the PTO and turn off the tractor.

For disc mowers, conditioners or mower-conditioner combos, it is important to properly mount window guards, since they run the risk of throwing objects, such as rocks. It is also important to keep other individuals away from the back of this equipment during operation.

Proper baler operation

Since balers are increasingly complex machines, posing a long list of potential hazards – entanglement, pull-in hazards, wrap points, pinch points and crush points, just to name a few – it is essential the individual operating the baler has in-depth knowledge of the equipment they are using.

While operating balers, it is important to make sure all protective devices are in place and in working order.

Operators should never attempt to clean, lubricate or adjust their baler unless the tractor is turned off, the igni-

tion key is removed, the PTO is disengaged and all moving parts have stopped turning. They should also never attempt to unplug or clean out their baler while it is operating.

“Make sure there are no bystanders when raising or lowering the rear gate or ejecting bales. Do not eject round bales on slopes where they can roll. Discharge round bales only on level ground,” Starn suggests. “Never stand under a raised rear gate or bale chamber gate, and always ensure the safety lock is in place when inspecting or working on the baler while the back gate or bale chamber gate is raised.”

Handling, hauling and stacking

Today, many producers put their hay up as round bales or large squares. Handling, hauling and stacking these bales, which is often done with a front-end loader, can also pose potential safety risks.

“Use an attachment designed for handling round bales, such as a grappling hook or bale spear,” states Starn. “These attachments, if properly used, will reduce the potential for bales to roll back on loader arms or the operator.”

She also encourages individuals to be mindful of pinch and crush points when using a front-end loader and to pay close attention to overhead power lines.

“The center of gravity of a tractor changes – moving upwards – when bales are raised, increasing the chances of overturns. Use counterweights to improve stability when handling big bales, and remember the watchwords – go slow and keep the load low,” she says.

When transporting bales, individuals should be sure to use an appropriate size of tractor and wagon or trailer

to handle the weight. When using a pickup truck, they should ensure it has the necessary braking power to stop the load.

“Make sure hitch pins and safety chains are of proper size

and securely attached. If transporting on public highways, follow all traffic laws regarding wide loads and properly secure loads. Ensure all SMV emblems are clearly visible and consider using an escort

vehicle with wide loads,” Starn concludes.

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

always been here, it’s what’s always held us together and it’s what knits us,” Gordon told Wyoming News Now during the anniversary event.

“To have this tradition carry on for 100 years through all of the things we have seen is a remarkable achievement,” he added.

In the beginning

In a guest opinion column published in the April 8 edition of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup, WDA Director Doug Miyamoto explained WDA was established in 1923 during the 17th session of the Wyoming Legislature, in which 25 members of the Senate and 60 members of the House passed House Bill 230.

This bill, which was signed into law by Gov. William Bradford Ross on March 3, 1923, created the Board of Agriculture, assigned to oversee WDA activities and to hire the first Commis-

sioner of Agriculture.

It also transferred duties from the Immigration Department and the Dairy, Food and Oil Department to WDA, along with the supervision of Wyoming State Fair.

“This legislation also required the commissioner to hire deputies from the University of Wyoming (UW) for technical scientific training and expert advice, while paying one-half of their salary to serve in these positions. These deputies would continue to act as faculty at UW, while also serving as employees of the State Department of Agriculture,” wrote Miyamoto.

A century of support

Since then, WDA has continued to support and regulate agriculture in Wyoming, which is not always an easy thing to do for an industry continuously under fire.

“Our producers have

to be tougher than average just to be able to compete,” Miyamoto told Wyoming News Now. “And, they have been able to do this year after year for centuries now. This is something we’re very proud of, and we’re happy to try and support them in any way we can.”

In his guest opinion, Miyamoto wrote, “Over the past 100 years, there have been 19 commissioners and/or directors of agriculture, including myself, and as time has rolled on, the duties, structure and statutory responsibilities of WDA have shifted and grown with the times and the needs of the ag industry and the state.”

“While there have been changes over the years for WDA, the protection, regulation and enhancement of the agriculture industry in Wyoming has always been the driving force,” he continued.

In order to accomplish this, the department encompasses five divisions – administration, analytical

services, technical services, health services and natural resources and policy.

Looking to the future

One hundred years of service is a huge accomplishment and something WDA is incredibly proud of.

However, the department is by no means hung up in the past. With 100 years under their belt, they are simply more excited about what is to come in the future.

“There are a lot of technologies coming down the line that I think can give an advantage to Wyoming producers who haven’t had it before,” stated Miyamoto during the celebration. “There are a lot of precision agriculture technologies coming online now, which I think are going to negate some of the challenges we face.”

“There is research being done at UW for Plenty, Inc., which is going to be able to deliver local produce yearround in a controlled climate,” said Gordon. “All of

these things mean Wyoming is at the tip of technology in the future and really seizing the day.”

“It has been a good century here at WDA, and we look forward to the work we do over the next century for

the state of Wyoming,” concluded Miyamoto.

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

horses, including a youth division with 10 yearlings.

Horses compete through an obstacle course, moving cows and in a freestyle event, in which each trainer uses their own creativity – a highlight of the event.

Each youth participant who completes the obstacle course receives a $500 scholarship check. All trainers receive one-half of the proceeds of their sale, with the remainder going to the next year’s event.

Two clinics are provided for each set of trainers to help them through the challenges of training a wild horse in only 120 days.

Steve Mantle of Mantle Ranches, one of the most experienced mustang trainers in the West, stated, “I have been and still am involved in a lot of mustang training events, and the reason I think this one is so special is everyone is in it for the horse. A long time ago a friend of mine told me as long as it’s about the horse everything will be okay.”

Steve’s clinics are very popular, and he helps trainers overcome big, early obstacles like haltering and loading. He is known to take up to two hours with a trainer to help them through these important first steps.

The Meeker Mustang Makeover is committed to helping its trainers through-

out, and the clinics are designed to help when they need it. Trainers are encouraged to reach out to family, friends and professionals for maximum success for themselves and their horse.

This year’s event

This year, the event will take place Aug. 26 and will include activities for all ages, including face painting; pony rides; photo ops with an authentic, old stagecoach; roping stations to learn to rope and local historical society volunteers sporting costumes from the 1800s.

The Mustang Mingle, where trainers, bidders and the public can get together to visit, features “Mustang Margaritas,” invented by the local Lions Club, with Western dancing, music and a competition for the best Western outfit.

All events are open to the public.

Trainers of all walks of life come from all over the West.

This year, Lucia Vanoplinus, a 16-year-old from Boulder, is training a sorrel yearling mustang named Cedar. She trained her first mustang when she was 14.

“I love working with mustangs,” she shared. “They are good at so many things, and working with an untouched mustang is so special.”

In the past, the event has

For more information on the event or to register for bidding, visit meekermustangmakeover.org.

drawn a remarkable 20,000 views on the auction site, attracting 67 buyers.

Those interested in this year’s event can sign up now to bid for their own started mustang.

Longhorn Video Auctions Owners Kail Mantle and Denise Dodge will be this year’s auctioneers, and livestream is provided by Level Head Audio with Cimarron Communications, so the public can watch the event and bid on the horses.

The livestream helps the

event reach viewers and bidders from around the world, and horses have sold from $150 to $10,000, giving every buyer a chance to take home a horse with 120 days of training.

Transportation can be arranged for buyers who are unable to attend the event, but buyers must register in advance.

Deirdre Macnab is the president of the Meeker Mustang Makeover and can be reached at deirdremacnab@ gmail.com.

Livestream sale – The Meeker Mustang Makeover Sale is livestreamed, so viewers and bidders from around the world have a chance to take home a trained horse. Courtesy photo

A permanent home – Instead of buying registered horses, Kate and Bruce Logan have purchased mustangs through the Meeker Mustang Makeover for several years and given the animals a permanent home. Pictured is Kate on her mustang Gus. Courtesy photo

Featuring all trainers – Horse trainers of all walks of life are featured at the Meeker Mustang Makeover. Courtesy photo

Getting Started in Ag: You CAN Farm Wyoming

Starting out as a new farmer, rancher or agribusiness person can be tough. There is so much to learn that often must be picked up through experience. To put yourself on a pathway to success and minimize learning “the hard way,” take advantage of resources that share the experience and insight of those who have been through it themselves.

You CAN Farm Wyoming is a web based resource developed by Custom Ag Solutions and the University of Wyoming Extension. This online community offers a platform where new or aspiring producers can find support, training, and educational resources, as well as mentorship opportunities.

Educational Resources

You CAN Farm provides educational resources on a wide range of topics relevant to beginning producers. Subject areas include business and strategic planning, farm financial management, marketing plans and strategies, and risk management. While many of the topics, like writing a business plan or compiling accurate financial statements, do not represent the glamourous side of farming and ranching, they are often crucial to long term success.

Another key aspect of learning is gaining firsthand experience. You CAN Farm helps connect new and beginning farmers and ranchers with mentors, providing a wealth of experience and advice.

You CAN Farm Talks

You CAN Farm Talks is a video podcast series where producers and agricultural professionals share their insights and experience on topics they feel are most relevant to those starting out in production agriculture. Guests share their background stories and are asked about the “one thing” they feel is important for beginning farmers and ranchers to know. Several guests from a wide range of agricultural backgrounds have already offered great advice to new producers; many more are scheduled to appear this fall.

Cindy Garretson Weibel is a business development consultant for Leading Edge Consulting and has advocated for Wyoming agriculture throughout her career in various leadership, marketing and communications roles. In her 2023 You CAN Farm talk, she emphasized the importance of communication at all levels of your business and organization. Developing good communication and networking skills can

Photo by Ken Kistler

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

open up numerous opportunities for your business and foster important professional relationships.

Guest speaker Todd Fornstrom is a farmer, agribusiness owner and current president of the Wyoming Farm Bureau Federation. Fornstrom has served the agricultural community in many capacities in addition to his work with Farm Bureau and emphasizes that connections are all important to building a successful farm business and continuing to learn.

His main message for new and beginning producers is to get involved in the agricultural community, whether through producer associations, local community groups, professional societies or other avenues. Engaging with advocacy groups can help build relationships and offer educational opportunities, as well as providing service to others.

Like Fornstrom and Garretson Weibel, Keith Kennedy advises new and beginning producers to continue learning as much as possible and to cultivate relationships with people who can help move their business forward. Kennedy is the owner and manager of Agrimind, a consulting company providing executive director services to the Wyoming Ag Business Association and the Wyoming Wheat Marketing Commission. He also lobbies for a variety of ag groups.

Kennedy urges new producers to embrace the financial aspects of their

FOR MORE INFORMATION

business. To successfully manage both the input and output side of agriculture, it is critical to know where your business stands financially. This means regularly constructing and analyzing financial statements and making adjustments accordingly.

Guest speaker Amanda Winchester is an agriculture and meat science instructor at Central Wyoming College in Riverton. In her 2023 talk, she provided suggestions for producers looking to use direct and alternative marketing to promote their products, as well as opportunities to capitalize on small meat processing options to add value to their livestock enterprises. Amanda’s “one thing” is to develop a local focus that benefits both the operation and the local community. There are numerous opportunities for producers to market their livestock locally, opening up a larger potential market, increasing the profit potential per animal, and benefiting the local community by providing a high quality product and food security.

To view the archived You CAN Farm Talks and other podcasts, visit ycfwyo. com/you can farm talks. The Talks tab offers the option to become a member and participate in live forums as well as interact with the guest speakers and post comments. Additional talks are scheduled to begin in September and run through the winter months.

Visit You CAN Farm Wyoming at ycfwyo.com to view a series of interviews with individuals involved in different facets of the ag industry, each offering advice for those beginning their journey in the field. Educational resources and information about potential support and mentorship opportunities

are also available, providing access to a wealth of information and experience for new and beginning producers.

NIFC issues wildfire outlook for late summer, no significant threat in Wyoming

On Aug. 1, the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) issued the National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook for August through November, which highlights increased fire activity in July, especially during the last two weeks as the national preparedness level increased from two to three – on a scale of one to five – on July 21.

“Much of the significant fire activity was in the Southwest Geographic Area, but the Northern Rockies and Northwest Geographic Areas have multiple long-duration incident management team wildfires on the landscape,” reads the report.

“Initial attack increased across much of the West throughout July, including in the Southern Geographic Area late in the month, with new large wildfires also emerging,” NIFC continues.

Current wildfire activity

According to NIFC’s website, 83 large fires have burned 519,654 acres across 12 states, as of Aug. 8.

Eight new large or

To read the full National Significant Wildland Fire Potential Outlook, visit nifc.gov/nicc-files/predictive/ outlooks/monthly_seasonal_ outlook.pdf.

emergency response wildfires were recently reported – two in Oregon and New Mexico and one in Alaska, Arizona, Colorado and Washington – and four fires have been contained.

To date, 32,186 wildfires have burned 1,364,123 acres, with nearly 27,900 caused by human activity and 2,935 caused by lightening. These numbers fall below the 10-year-average of 35,808 wildfires and 4,066,534 acres burned.

According to the Fire, Weather and Avalanche Center, Wyoming reported 14 active fires and 19 contained fires, as of Aug. 8.

Five of the active wildfires in the state are small, burning less than one acre.

These include the Green Mountain Fire, initially reported 17.7 miles northeast of Driggs, Idaho, burning 0.1 acres; the Rock Springs Fire, initially

reported 3.8 miles northwest of Moose, burning 0.1 acres; the Gray Reef Fire, initially reported 23.8 miles southwest of Paradise Valley, burning 0.1 acres; the Station Creek Fire, initially reported 23.8 miles southwest of Milford, burning 0.2 acres and the North Loop Fire, initially reported 1.9 miles west of Casper, burning 0.2 acres.

Active fires burning over one acre include the Johnson Lateral Fire, initially reported 7.4 miles northwest of Bar Nunn, burning 1.2 acres; the Pine Fire, initially reported 7.9 miles southeast of Powder River, burning 1.5 acres; the Old Barnum Fire, initially reported 46.7 miles northwest of Antelope Hills, burning 1.5 acres; the Odegard Fire, initially reported 38 miles north of Gillette, also burning 1.5 acres and the Rouch Fire, initially

Austin Snook • 307-290-2161

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Dan Catlin • 406-671-7715

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

Market Report

reported 39.4 miles north of Gillette, burning 3.1 acres.

Larger fires in the state include the Tower Fire, initially reported 7.4 miles southeast of Douglas, with 100 acres burned; the West Wind Fire, initially reported 0.6 miles northwest of Bar Nunn, with 143 acres burned; the Chaffie Fire, initially reported 40.6 miles east of Sheridan, with 400 acres burned and the Pine Ridge Fire, initially reported 16.1 miles north-

Weston Garrett • 605-210-1629

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August 9, 2023

west of Torrington, with 563 acres burned.

Rocky Mountain wildfire outlook

When taking a look into the future, NIFC’s report notes the Rocky Mountain Area (RMA), which includes the state of Wyoming, is expected to continue seeing normal fire potential from August through November.

“The monsoon has been late to arrive, but monsoonal moisture will become more prevalent in early August. This will help to keep fire potential closer to normal,” explains NIFC. “It should be noted with El Niño conditions continuing, the monsoon could still be more intermittent than normal. Thus, brief periods of increased fire potential are possible.”

NIFC further notes year-over-year drought indicators continue to show improvement for the majority of the RMA, except for parts of Kansas and Nebraska, and long-term outlooks show above normal temperatures and below

normal precipitation for the Western half of the region. Areas of the RMA that saw cooler and wetter than usual conditions are seeing above normal fuel loading and moisture.

“Western Colorado into Southwestern Wyoming have seen fuels responding quickly to the hot and dry conditions, with most areas seeing fuel moistures dropping below normal and recently started exceeding minimum values,” reads the report.

It concludes, “The outlook for the RMA depicts normal significant fire potential across the geographic area through November. There may be periods of enhanced fire potential based on the potential for a weaker monsoon given the EL Niño pattern and local fuel conditions, but the larger scale picture favors normal significant fire potential.”

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

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

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OBITUARIES

We welcome obituaries. Obituaries are printed free of charge and can be sent to roundup@wylr.net.

Ellen Strang Nieslanik

Dec. 10, 1962 – April 24, 2023

she reconnected with Joe Nieslanik, the freckled kid she’d known since middle school.

they sold the farm, retired from full-time ranching and headed home to Meeker.

From then, through the conclusion of her life, Ellen still found ways to invigorate her passions for farming, animals and the natural world.

improved her quality of life.

fondest memories as a family.

After a 25-plus years battle with scleroderma and other autoimmune conditions, Ellen Strang Nielslanik, age 61, passed away peacefully on April 24 at her home in Waldport, Ore. surrounded by family.

Ellen Lathrop Strang was born in Glenwood Springs, Colo. on Dec. 10, 1962, the second of four daughters, to Mary and Bart Strang. She grew up on registered Hereford ranches near Carbondale, Colo. before her family relocated to their longtime ranch in Meeker, Colo. in 1973.

Ellen’s childhood was colored vividly by Hereford cattle, Junior Hereford Associations, bull sales in Kremmling, Colo. and the carload show at the National Western Stock Show in Denver.

She was a lifelong supporter and member of the livestock industry and all that surrounded it.

In 1984, Ellen graduated at the top of her class from Colorado State University with a degree in ag business and animal science. She took a job on her uncle Mike Strang’s successful Congressional campaign.

Though nepotism disallowed Ellen for working in Mike’s administration, she followed him to Washington, D.C. and became a staffer for Arizona Congressman Jim Kolbe. A naive ranch kid from the middle of nowhere, Ellen’s experiences in Washington, D.C. reframed her perspective for the rest of her life.

In July of 1986, Ellen, at the age of 24, returned home from Washington, D.C. to Meeker for a few days over the Fourth of July. There,

They were married on May 28, 1988 and had three children – Meg in 1991, Jake in 1992 and Sam in 1998. After one short stint in Riddle, Ore., chasing the dream of sheep ranching full time, Ellen and Joe settled in Meeker in late 1999 to raise their family.

Ellen’s favorite jobs were ranching and parenting, though neither was very lucrative. So for over 20 years, she kept a side gig as a paralegal on criminal defense cases, most often with the Office of the Alternate Defense Counsel.

In her words, she’d shepherd by day and solve murder by night.

In 2005, Ellen was hired as the executive and trial director at the Meeker Classic Sheepdog Championship Trials – the premier sheep dog trial in the U.S. As a dog trialer and sheep rancher herself, Ellen was a natural in this role.

She revolutionized the Meeker Classic, including implementing a dog-sponsorship fundraising program which is now replicated at almost every major sheepdog trial across the world.

Ellen retired in 2010, and spent one final year as the trial director role for the National Sheepdog Finals hosted in Carbondale, Colo. in 2011.

By this time, Ellen’s health was in a noticeable decline, and she felt deeply if she wanted to make her lifelong dream of ranching full time a reality, it was now or never. She and Joe bought a 160-acre farm in Scio, Ore., where they ran 350 ewes, 200 pasture-raised ducks for harvesting eggs and hosted farmto-table parties in their stunning rustic barn.

With green grass as far as the eye could see, it was truly Ellen’s heaven.

But, in late 2016 Ellen’s health took another turn, and in the heartbreak of her life,

Inaugural meeting set

In 2022, a group of irrigation staff and board members recognized the need for a dedicated voice to uphold and protect the water rights of Wyoming’s citizens. Recognizing these rights as invaluable assets, they acted.

In March 2023, over 20 stakeholders from across Wyoming convened in Casper to discuss the establishment of an association. The outcome was clear – Wyoming’s water rights require strong representation at both state and federal levels.

As a result, the Wyoming Association of Irrigation Districts (WAID) was officially established in July 2023, complete with a board of directors, a mission statement and bylaws.

WAID invites anyone with water rights – individuals and districts – to join as either voting or non-voting members. Businesses affiliated with this cause are also welcome to join.

WAID’s inaugural annual meeting is scheduled for Nov. 8-9 at the Ramkota Hotel in Casper.

For further details, e-mail waid.wyoming@gmail.com or call 307-439-3597.

She founded Intuitive Dog Training – training dog owners, more than their dogs, to achieve harmony in the pet and owner relationship. She fostered and rehomed border collies who were retired or deemed unfit to herd sheep.

In the fall of 2020, Ellen and her pup Charlotte relocated to the milder climate and lower elevation of the Oregon coast, which greatly

She opened “Seals Landing,” an AirBnB in Waldport, Ore., baking fresh muffins and leading crabbing, clamming and beach adventure tours for guests, including her favorite guest, Joe, who would visit from Meeker every few weeks.

Ellen contracted COVID19 in June of 2022, which eventually led to the rapid acceleration of her long-time autoimmune conditions. On March 15, she entered hospice care in Waldport.

Ellen, Joe, Meg, Jake and Sam were together during her last six weeks, which they will remember as some of their

Ellen prepared for death with the same enthusiasm, honesty and tender-hearted love she summoned every day to fully live her life. Always gracious and never afraid, she approached every hand she was dealt with curiosity and gusto.

Ellen is preceded in death by her father Stephen Bartow (Bart) Strang, who passed away in 2009.

She is survived by her husband Joe Nieslanik, 61; children Meg Nieslanik, 32, Jake Nieslanik, 30 and Sam Nieslanik, 25; her mother Mary Strang, 84 and three sisters, Mary Cunningham,

Sarah Hjelm and Lisa Walsh. Ellen’s life was celebrated on May 12 in Meeker. She will be missed by many, but her memory and legacy lives on in all that she knew and all that she did.

In lieu of flowers, Ellen wished memorial donations be made in her name to the following organizations: Meeker Classic Sheepdog Championship Trials, PO Box 1394, Meeker, CO 81641 and/ or the National Scleroderma Foundation, 300 Rosewood Drive, Suite 105, Danvers, MA 01923.

Condolences can be sent to PO Box 2624, Meeker, CO 81641.

Aug. 14-15 Western Video Market, Little America, Cheyenne, 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com

Aug. 21-22 Northern Livestock Video Auction Early Fall Preview, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com

Aug. 21-25 Superior Livestock Auction Big Horn Classic, Sheridan, 800-422-2117, superiorlivestock.com

Aug. 25-26 11th Annual Montana Horse Progress Days Auction, Reuben Miller Farm, Moore, Mont., 406-366-4667, montanahorseprogressdays.com

Aug. 11-13 Fourth Annual Tom Horn Days Cowboy Rendezvous, Bosler. For more information, visit tomhorndays.com

Aug. 15 Cowboy Cornhole Tournament, 1:30 p.m., Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information or to register, visit wyoffafoundation.com/cornhole or call 307851-4392.

Aug. 15 Wyoming Ranch Rodeo Finals and Calcutta, 5 p.m., Wyoming State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, e-mail waive.yager@yahoo.com.

Aug. 15 Wyoming Water Development Commission Workshop, 1:30 p.m., 2 Tilden Trail, Cody or online. Livestream available at wwdc.state.wy.us

Aug. 15-16 Wyoming Society for Range Management Summer Field Tour, Saratoga. To register, visit bit.ly/wysrmsummertour2023. For more information, e-mail Russell Burton at russell@y2consultants.com or Bree Burton at bree@y2consultants.com.

Aug. 15-19 111th Wyoming State Fair, State Fairgrounds, Douglas. For more information, visit wystatefair.com

Aug. 16 Wyoming Agriculture Hall of Fame Award Ceremony and Picnic, 5 p.m., Riverside Park, Douglas. For more information, call the Wyoming Livestock Roundup at 307234-2700.

Aug. 16 Beef Quality Assurance Training, 1-3:30 p.m., Wyoming State Fair Conference Room, Douglas. For more information or to reserve a spot, e-mail Gary Gwin at gary. gwin1@wyo.gov or call 307-777-7396.

Aug. 17 Wyoming Water Development Commission and Select Water Committee Joint Meeting, 8:30 a.m., 2 Tilden Trail, Cody or online. Livestream available at wyoleg.gov

Aug. 18 MicroMania Wrestling, 7 p.m., Archer Complex, Cheyenne. For more information, visit laramiecountyfair.com

Aug. 19 Opening Day at Sweetwater Downs, Sweetwater Events Complex, Rock Springs. For more information, visit horsepalace.win/live-racing

Aug. 22 Wyoming Livestock Board Public Meeting, 10 a.m., Holiday Inn, Rock Springs. For more information, visit wlsb.state.wy.us or call 307-777-7515.

Aug. 24 National Pork Producers Delegate Body and Wyoming Pork Producers Association Meeting, 6 p.m. Grace Werner Ag Pavilion, Casper. For more information, contact Jeremy Burkett at 307-630-6267.

Aug. 25-27 2023 Sheepherders Rendezvous, 10 a.m. daily, Glenrock City Park, Glenrock. For more information, call Rita Redig at 307-262-0513.

HUMBLE RANCH

Immediate Yak Herd Sale

125 Healthy Yaks: 10 Newborns • Yearlings Cows • Bulls • 2 Sires

$60,000 for entire herd (70% DISCOUNT!)

Owner must transport from Steamboat Springs, CO

Ed Trousil: ed@humbleranch.com

Jay Trousil: jaytrousil@gmail.com

www.humbleranch.com

2 Blk Cows, avg. 1438# $10450

Baird, Jack - Thermopolis

1 Blk Cow, 1235# $10400

Simon, Deborah - Thermopolis

1 Blk Cow, 1260# $9850

Tharp, Steven - Worland

2 Blk Cows, avg. 1358# $9650

HEIFERS Riley, Michael - Burlington

3 Red Hfrs, avg. 900# $22200

7 Red Hfrs, avg. 1004# $21000

STEERS

Roman, Daniel - Riverton

2 XBred Strs, avg. 420# $28750

Bentley, Larry - Thermopolis

Aug. 25-26 Meeker Mustang Makeover Live & Online Auction, Rio Blanco Fairgrounds, Meeker, Colo., 406-570-6818, longhornvideoauctions.com

Aug. 26 Nebraska Quarter Horse Classic Performance Horse Sale, Ogallala Livestock Auction Market, Ogallala, Neb., 319-795-4649, 308-289-2508, 308-458-9685

Aug. 26 25th Annual Come To The Source Production Sale, Laramie, 307-742-4669, 970215-6137, 307-760-1452, cometothesource.com

Aug. 26-29 Lauing Mill Iron L Ranch 2023 QH Production Sale, online only, prohorseservices. com/internet-auctions/, 605-347-6193, 605-280-0698, 605-280-0398, lauingmillironlranch.com

Aug. 27 RQHBA Horse Sale, Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, Belle Fourche, S.D., 605-347-3294, 605-639-9482, rqhba.com

Sept. 2 Proffit Ranch 22nd Annual Labor Day Horse Sale, Diamond X Ranch, Evanston, 307-723-5857, proffitranch.blogspot.com

The Educational Value of the Wyoming State Fair

An article by G. W. Hervey in the September 1910 issue of the Wyoming Industrial Journal, in part, notes:

The agricultural fair from its earliest inception was based upon the principle of comparison and the exhibition of the best.

This incentive to a friendly rivalship in contest has been the stimulating influence, which has given the agricultural fair its educational bearings and has placed a premium upon excellence in quality as a just recognition of merit.

The ambition of man to excel in ownership and production is only exceeded by his ambition to acquire knowledge.

The agricultural fair and exposition is the setting forth of things acquired, the presentation of principles in animal and plant breeding, growth and development involving improvement.

The fair is the great demonstration station where experimenters and experts in various lines of agricultural and industrial enterprise, congregate annually to report their achievements and measure by comparison for the degree of merit to which each is entitled.

The fair is the prompter, or the promoter, in fact, which sows the seed of contest in the mind of man and creates ambition within the ambitious to become aggressive rivals in production of the very best that the skill and ingenuity of intelligent man can cause to be brought forth as breeder, grower or manufacturer.

The agricultural fair is becoming more and more a community necessity.

The agriculture fair stands for thrift, industry, enterprise and all that means advancement, progress and the building up of

the commercial and manufacturing interests of the country or community in which it is located.

The agricultural fair might be said to represent the outgrowth of intelligence and agricultural progress which this particular community has attained.

The agricultural fair, to be true to its name and purpose, should be an educational exhibition in all of its departments and features. The tendency now throughout all agricultural communities is toward education – not exactly education in the knowledge of books, but in a knowledge of things and in the operation of methods and their results.

The agricultural fair should be so planned and so directed in all of its exhibition features as to present the instructive and educational aspect of the display to the eye of the public. The trained exhibitor will always present most prominently the suggestive features of his display in order to enlist the attention of the visitor, the sightseer and/or the inquirer for information.

The agricultural fair in all its departments should be suggestive of the possibilities of the highest degree of excellence to be attained in the particular branch or line

of product displayed. The agricultural fair built upon the principles outlined and conscientiously guarded in every feature and form of exhibit and concession, so nothing admitted to the fairgrounds or remains on exhibition or in operation under its sanction is not meritorious as a clean and creditable amusement or entertainment feature, cannot but merit and receive the commendation and approval of intelligent people.

The educational influence the fair is exerting upon the mind of the public is a strong factor in support of this principle of training. The fair is increasing in popularity among the people because of the advantages it is capable of offering in the higher ideals of excellence in every form of production and manufacture.

In order to obtain the greatest educational advantage from the agricultural fair, it is necessary every feature of exhibition, amusement and entertainment introduced upon the fairgrounds be of an educational tendency, of a character and influence capable of appealing to the finer sensibilities of its patrons.

Each department on the fairgrounds should become educational within itself by being under the supervision of a skilled and trained instructor in the special work or industry in charge, thus affording visitors the advantage of capable and qualified persons to answer intelligently any and all questions pertaining to the work or industry.

This is the foundation principle upon which the educational fair is built.

2 XBred Strs, avg. 603# $26550

Simon, Deborah - Thermopolis

3 Blk Strs, avg. 812# $23600 Richardson, Dana - Powell

3 Blk Strs, avg. 842# $23400 Big Horn Basin Livestock - Worland

1 Red Str, 930# $23050 PAIRS Snell, Raymond - Lovell

2 BWF Pairs $2300/Hd.

Lusk’s community agricultural exhibit at the 1909 Wyoming State Fair. Photo from Sept. 1910 issue of the Wyoming Industrial Journal. Historical Reproductions by Perue

MARKETS

from USDA Market News Service information and other sources

FOR THE WEEK ENDING August 11, 2023

FOR THE WEEK ENDING May 24, 2019

WEEKLY SHEEP AUCTIONS

Equity Coop: no sales. Replacement Ewes: Medium and Large 1-2

San Angelo: hair ewe lambs 123 lbs 168.00/cwt; yearling hair 80-115 lbs 160.00-183.00/cwt; young hair 85-115 lbs 118.00154.00/cwt.

Ft. Collins: no test.

South Dakota: yearlings 220.00/head; ewes and lambs 50.00/ head.

Billings: ewe lambs 118 lbs 165.00/cwt; young 135-155 lbs 71.00-78.00/cwt.

Source:

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

National Sheep Summary

As of August 4, 2023

Compared to last week traditional slaughter lambs 9.00-10.00 higher, others mostly steady to 10.00 higher, except at San Angelo 5.00-10.00 lower. Slaughter ewes mostly steady to 20.00 higher. Feeder lambs not well tested. At San Angelo, TX 5,991 head sold. No sales in Equity Cooperative Auction.

In direct trading slaughter ewes and feeder lambs not tested.

3,504 lamb carcasses traded with no trend due to confidentiality. All sheep sold per Hundred weight (CWT) unless specified.

Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 2-3

San Angelo: wooled and shorn 110-140 lbs no test.

Ft. Collins: wooled and shorn 100-145 lbs 190.00-217.50.

South Dakota: wooled and shorn 100-150 lbs 182.00-212.00, few 216.00; 155-170 lbs 185.00-205.00.

Equity Coop: no sales.

Slaughter Lambs: Choice and Prime 1-2

San Angelo: hair 40-60 lbs 199.00-226.00; 60-70 lbs 193.00218.00; 70-80 lbs 180.00-198.00, few 208.00; 80-90 lbs

180.00-197.00; 90-100 lbs 161.00-188.00, few 205.00. wooled and shorn 58 lbs 204.00; 60 lbs 198.00; 70 lbs 181.00; 80-90

Sheep and lambs slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 32,000 compared with 32,000 last week and 32,000 last year.

Source: USDA AMS Market News, San Angelo, Texas

National Wool Review

As of July 14, 2023

Special Note: Australia will be entering their annual three week summer recess. No data will be available. This report will also shut down during that time period. The next available report will be Friday, August 11, 2023.

Wyoming Hay Summary

As of August 10, 2023

Compared to last week all reported bales sold steady. Demand was mostly light to moderate. Light rain showers in some areas of the state but on a whole mostly dry weather allowing producers to cut down second cutting of alfalfa. Many are hoping for a few days of dry weather to put up some green, high RFV testing hay. Good, non-rained on hay still in demand and so far has been in short supply this year across the reporting region.

Eastern Wyoming

Alfalfa - Good Large Square 3x4 200

Alfalfa - Utility/Fair Large Square 3x4 150-175

Alfalfa Pellets 15% Suncured 380

Alfalfa/Forage Mix Large Square 3x4 165 Straw (Wheat) Large Square 115

Western Wyoming

Alfalfa - Premium Small Square 3 Tie 300-325

Alfalfa - Good/Premium Medium Square 3x3 225

Alfalfa - Good Large Square 3x4 175-190

Alfalfa - Fair/Good Large Square 3x4 165 Small Square 250

Alfalfa Cubes 400

Alfalfa/Orchard Mix - Premium Small Square 300

Grass - Good Small Square 250

AREA WEEKLY WEIGHTED CATTLE PRICE

flesh)

68.00-88.00, hair 79.00-105.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 66.00, hair

64.00-90.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) 40.00; hair 50.00-

60.00; Cull 1 20.00-40.00.

Ft. Collins: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 127.50; Good 2-3 (fleshy)

80.00-137.50; Utility 1-2 (thin) 52.00-70.00; Cull 1 25.00-55.00.

South Dakota: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 50.00-70.00; Good

(fleshy) 40.00-75.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 35.00-55.00; Cull 1

Billings: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 52.00-60.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy)

Utility 1-2 (thin) 49.00-60.00; Cull 1 32.00-41.00.

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

Nebraska Hay Summary

As of August 10, 2023

Compared to last week bales of alfalfa sold steady to 10.00 lower. Grass hay sold unevenly steady. Ground and delivered hay and alfalfa pellets sold steady. Demand was light to moderate for all forage products. Quite a lot of rained on hay across the western two thirds of the state. Producers in the east working on third cutting of alfalfa with producers in the panhandle just starting second cutting. Many producers in the west hope to get three cuttings of alfalfa this year. There is a huge supply of cane or millet that has been planted across the state just waiting for the right time to cut, bale or silage this product.

Notice Help Wanted

Public Notice - Wyoming Pork Producers Association and the National Pork Board

The election of pork producer delegate candidates for the 2024 National Pork Producers (Pork Act) Delegate Body will take place at 6 p.m., Aug. 24, 2023 in conjunction with a Board of Directors meeting of the Wyoming Pork Producers Association at the Grace Werner Ag Pavilion, 125 College Drive, Casper, WY. All Wyoming pork producers are invited to attend. Any producer, age 18 or older, who is a resident of the state and has paid all assessments due may be considered as a delegate candidate and/ or participate in the election. All eligible producers are encouraged to bring with them a sales receipt proving the hogs were sold in their name and the checkoff deducted. For more information, contact Jeremy Burkett, state executive for Wyoming Pork Producers Association, 125 College Drive, Casper, WY 82601, (307) 630-6267.

NOTICE: Publication in this newspaper does not guarantee the legitimacy of any offer or solicitation. Take reasonable steps to evaluate an offer before you send money or provide personal/financial information to an advertiser. If you have questions or believe you have been the victim of fraud, contact the Wyoming Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Unit, 109 Capitol Building, Cheyenne, WY 82002, 307-7776397

Notice Events

UP IN ARMS, LLC FLEA MARKET AND GUN SHOW SEPT. 1-3, Gillette, WY at the CAMPLEX. Open to the public. Fri., Sept. 1, 3 p.m.-7 p.m. Sat., Sept. 2, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., Sept. 3, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Giving away a .22 pistol Sunday at 2 p.m., must be present to win, 21 years of age and able to pass background check. Buy, sell, trade. Adults $6, children 12 and under free (when accompanied by an adult). For more information, contact Lisa, 208-420-2295 8/26

Help Wanted

FALL CATTLE AND HARVEST HELP WANTED: Blue Barn Land & Cattle is hiring. Rural location, south of Haviland, KS. Thirteen week job: Sept. 10-Dec. 10. Excellent pay. Housing provided. Job responsibilities include: Processing and doctoring cattle, building fence, assisting with harvest work and other related farm tasks. If you have your own horse and tack, we will provide a place to board your horse. Call Bill Roenbaugh at 620-546-3913 or send your information to bill@roenbaugh.com 8/26

SUNDANCE CUSTOM STEEL

IS NOW HIRING TRIM SHOP OPERATORS. Clean, fast paced and friendly environment. Apply in person at 301 South 27th St., Sundance, WY 82729 or call the office at 307-283-1820 8/19

Warren Transport is looking for Truck Drivers! Family friendly with flexible scheduling, bonuses, benefits and competitive wages. We are an established company

Swift Creek Outfitters & Teton Horseback Adventures

Help wanted in the Tetons: Trail Ride Wranglers, Fall Pack in Camp Cook, Fall Mule Packer ( 307) 730- 8830 OR (307) 856-1226

Check Out Our Website www.horsebackadv.com

MTC LOGISTICS HAS PARTTIME DRIVER POSITIONS AVAILABLE FOR DRIVER CLASS B & A CDL WORLAND TO CASPER AND CODY TO CASPER. ALSO, for the downtown area in Casper, WY. Must have clean driving record, no felony record and able to pass extensive background check and drug test. Class B license also required, $28/hour. E-mail resumes to dingoboy6342@yahoo.com or call Matt, 801-6414109 8/19

HOT SPRINGS COUNTY WEED & PEST DISTRICT IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE POSITION OF RANGE MANAGER: The position is in Thermopolis, WY. Send letter of application, resume and 3 references to: Hot Springs County Weed & Pest District, PO Box 543, Thermopolis, WY 82443. For additional information, call 307921-0574. Hot Springs County Weed & Pest is an EOE 8/19

FORTRESS DEVELOPMENT SOLUTIONS NOW HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING

AGRI-ONE FINANCIAL: Farm/ ranch and all commercial loans. RATES AS LOW AS 5%. We have been helping with all aspects of agricultural, commercial financing and management for years. LET US HELP YOU on a consulting level with management to increase profitability, deal with and fix credit problems and for all your financing needs. WE CARE AND HAVE WORKING PROGRAMS designed for the farmer/rancher and not the banker. Please call Steve, 303-773-3545 or check out our website, www.agrionefinancial.com. I will come to you and get the job done!! 8/12

HUMBLE RANCH IMMEDIATE YAK HERD SALE!! 125 healthy yaks: Yearlings, cows, bulls, 2 sires and 10 newborns. $60,000 for entire herd (70% discount). Owner must transport from Steamboat Springs, CO. E-mail Ed Trousil at ed@ humbleranch.com or Jay Trousil at jaytrousil@gmail. com or visit www.humbleranch.com 9/2

Dogs

ADORABLE PUPPIES: Family raised TOY/MINIATURE AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD PUPS, born April 1, one male and 1 female available. CINCH MINIATURE QUEENSLAND BLUE HEELER born March 3, mom blue 23 lbs., dad blue 20 lbs. All pups bred for health/disposition/smarts. UTD pup vaccines/ dewormings. All pups come with pup package. For more information, pricing/delivery options call 406-581-7586. ALSO, older mini Australian shepherd pups/dogs at reduced/rehoming prices. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 8/12

LRC, single iron, dues paid to March 1, 2027, iron available. $10,000. 307-575-0681 8/19

Brands Angus

FOR SALE KELPIE/ENGLISH SHEPHERD CROSS PUPPIES: One male and 7 females born July 6. Both parents are working dogs and friendly with children. Asking $300. Call 605-866-4882 8/12

Angus

BULLS FOR SALE

Dogs

RED ANGUS

2-YEAR-OLD

FORAGE BULLS FOR SALE:

Bulls for heifers and cows. Smaller framed, efficient, easy fleshing, good dispositions. Not fat, but in great shape and ready to go to work. Have been worked with dogs, on foot and horseback. Raised in rugged, rough, steep, rocky, high elevation country. Red Fork Red Angus, Ken & Cheri Graves, Kaycee, WY, phone 307-7382247, cell 307-267-0724, email gravesredfork@rtconnect.net 8/12

AKC LAB PUPPIES: All colors available, whites, blacks, yellows, dark chocolates and dark reds. Excellent hunters, family companions. Full AKC registration. Shots, wormed, dewclaws removed. All puppies are cute, but it’s what they grow into that counts. Not all Labs are the same. Proud to own!! Been raising quality AKC Labradors for 25-plus years. Look at the rest but buy the best. Both parents on site for viewing. Will sell quickly!! $200 deposit, picking order is when the deposit is received. Doug Altman, Mitchell, S.D. Call/text 605999-7149, click the our Labs tab on the website for pictures, www.southdakotayellowlabs. com. WILL DISCOUNT!! 8/19

Dogs

YOUR FAMILY AND PROPERTY PROTECTORS ARE WAITING!! We have beautiful guardians just wanting and waiting to make you their priority!! Please don’t postpone your next best friend, companion and protector. $1,000. ALSO, new litter ready mid-August. Have been raising these fantastic LGD for 48 years. For more information, call 406207-7674 8/26

WORKING BORDER COL-

LIE PUPPIES FOR SALE: Born March 30. Located in Powell, WY. Parents onsite. Asking $300. For pictures or more information, call 307-899-3533 8/12

BASSET HOUND PUPPIES: Ranch and tracking lineage. AKC registered. Good with kids and very sweet. Free delivery. Ready now, $750-$1,200. Call 719-2178054 8/12

BORDER COLLIE PUPPIES:

Born May 23. Out of ranch raised, working parents. Only 1 male left. Good with kids. Need homes where they can work cattle and/or sheep. Have had second shots and wormer. Ken & Cheri Graves, Kaycee, WY, phone 307-738-2247, e-mail gravesredfork@rtconnect. net 8/12

AIREDALE/BERNESE MOUN-

TAIN DOG PUPPIES: Excellent predator control and hunting background. Good with sheep and cattle. Excellent children and family dogs. Shots and wormed. Free delivery. Call 719217-8054 8/12

AKC SHELTIE SABLE/WHITE

PUPPIES: All first shots, dewormings, dewclaws removed and microchipped. Call or text 605-680-2571. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 8/19

Custom

Feeding

CALF BACKGROUNDING, PASTURE AND feedlot options available. ALSO, seeking cows on shares from now until 2024. Hemingford, NE. Call Ian, 307421-9116 9/2

CUSTOM FEEDING, BACKGROUNDING, HEIFER DEVELOPMENT AND COW WINTERING, bedded pens. Billings, MT. Call Ryan at 406696-0104 11/11

Pasture Wanted

PASTURE WANTED for 2,000 yearlings and 500 pairs. Can split into smaller bunches. Call 701-523-1235 9/23

Ranch/Pasture

Lease Wanted

LOOKING FOR RANCHES/

PASTURES TO LEASE: Experienced stockman and rangeland management professional. Land will be used for a custom grazing business using intensive grazing practices. I can make improvements and add value to leased land. Please contact Andrew at 830-446-9378, e-mail amainini24@gmail.com 8/12

Horses

BLONDE 12-YEAR-OLD

HAFLINGER GELDING: Broke to drive single and double, 15 HH, good traveler and sound, $3,600. Call David, 307-467-5651, if no answer please leave a message 8/12

RANCHERS QUARTER HORSE

BREEDERS ASSOCIATION

SALE AUG. 27: Located at Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, Belle Fourche, S.D. Selling 67 head. Yearling Futurity $3,000 added.

*NEW* this year, yearling trail class!! All 2023 foals eligible to win in 2024. Ranch Horse Futurity, added money, open to 2- and 3-year-olds sold through the sale. Invitational saddle horse session, have 14 riders and 5 yearlings. Online bidding available day of sale with pre-approval through Tri-State Livestock at www.thestockshow.hibid.com/auction/

current For more information, call Gary Mailloux, 605-3471964 or Susan Riesland, 605639-9482, www.rqhba.com “The Sale Where You Can Buy With Confidence!” 8/19

Saddles & Tack

GET READY FOR STATE FAIR AT MOSS SADDLES, BOOTS AND TACK!! Ride with pride, LARGE selection of TOP brand names and QUALITY tack!! 20% off boots!!

HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! WE CAN ship!! Shop Moss Saddles, Boots and Tack, 4648 West Yellowstone Highway, Casper, WY; 307472-1872. Our family serving yours for 50 years!! Check us out on Facebook or our website 8/12

Leatherwork

LS CUSTOM LEATHER: Belts, tack, cell phone cases and much more!! Contact Lester, 307-631-1053, leave a message. Located in Riverton, WY 8/12

Sheep

RAFTER 7 MERINOS 19.3 FLEECE 138 ewes: Two & 3 years old with lambs

EWE & MARCH/JUNE LAMB UNIT $475 each OBO 970-710-1659

LAMB SCAN

SHEEP & GOAT ULTRASOUND TODD REINESCH

605-680-4719

25317 364th Avenue Kimball, SD 57355 rchoice@midstatesd.net

FINE WOOL TARGHEE YEARLING BUCKS FOR

SALE: 35 big, growthy, open faced, all natural, not pushed and range raised. Born May 2022. ALSO, 150 HEAD TARGHEE YEARLING EWES, approximately 135-150 lbs., fine wool, open faced, range raised and growthy, born May 2022. For more information, call 605-866-4828 (home) or 605-892-5872 (cell) if no answer leave message 9/2

GERDES HAMPSHIRES HAS 30 REGISTERED PUREBRED HAMPSHIRE RAMS: Born in the fall of 2022 and winter of 2023. Our rams are fast growing with plenty of depth, muscle and bone. These are wether-type Hampshires without excessive leg length but possess tremendous thickness of loin and leg. Rams are sired by stud rams that we purchased from leading Hampshire sheep breeders at national sales and are sired by sons of Unicorn and Jackalope. For more information, call 402-760-0104. To view photos, go to www.wylr. net in the classifieds 8/12

Seed

TRITICALE SEED FOR SALE: Great cover crop. Call 719-8501143 8/12

GRASS SEED FOR SALE: Manifest wheatgrass, Manska wheatgrass, cache meadow brome, good germination, $3.90/lb. Call Big Horn Seed Company, 307-202-0704 or 307-645-3322 TFN

Hay & Feed

ALFALFA/GRASS: Quality round bales, approximately 1,500 lbs., put up dry, $150/ ton. Sundance, WY. Call 307290-0406 9/2

HAY FOR SALE: 2023 alfalfa, alfalfa/grass mix, oat/pea mix and intermediate grass. ALSO, two loads of 2022 CRP grass mix, cut early, good green. All in net-wrapped round bales. Semi load delivery available. Call for pricing, 701-690-8116, send a text if no answer or keep trying 9/2

LOTS AND LOTS OF HAY FOR SALE!!! 1 ,350 lb. round bales, net wrapped. Grass/alfalfa mix, native grass, brome grass, straight alfalfa… Sheridan, WY area. Come and get it!! For pricing, call the ranch, 307-737-2680 or 702-5014243 (cell) 9/2

2023 LARGE ROUND

BALES: Grass hay, good quality, tight bales 1,500+ lbs. Will deliver. Call for pricing 605-224-6100 (home) or 605280-3879 (cell), if no answer leave message 9/2

GRASS HAY, certified weed free, big squares 4x4x8. We are located in Worland, WY. Hay is in Cora, WY. Discount for semi loads. Delivery possible later in the season. Must take semi load for delivery. If you pick it up, any size or amount is fine. We will load you, $185/ton. Call or text 208-610-0425 or 208-6101855 8/26

VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: New crop alfalfa and oat hay available. Go to www.valleyvideohay.com or call Barry McRea, 308-2355386 8/26

HAY FOR SALE: Grass hay, mixed hay, straight alfalfa. Rounds and 3x4 squares. Located near Bozeman/Manhattan, MT. Delivery available. Call Doug at 406-581-4124 8/12 2023 ALFALFA AND ALFALFA/GRASS MIX HAY, 3x3 bales barn stored. Call 307350-0350 Farson, WY 8/19

HAY BARLEY FOR SALE: Three-way beardless barley, oats and peas, round bales, about 1,200 lbs. each, $170/ ton. ALSO, alfalfa hay, round bales, $190/ton. Hardin, MT. Call 406-665-7521 8/19

2023 FIRST CUTTING GRASS HAY, meadow brome and orchard grass. Certified weed-free, small squares. $275/ton, Cody, South Fork, WY. Call 307-272-4354 8/12

HAY FOR SALE: 2023 winter rye grass, 5’x6’ large rounds at an 1,100 lb. average, net wrapped, approximately 250 tons available, $125/ton. Near Nisland, S.D. Call Jake at 605-892-5218 for more information 8/12

Crop Cleanup

BENNY HERNANDEZ IS IN THE AREA AND HAS PLENTY OF HELP TO CLEANUP AND HOE YOUR CROPS. Call 307-431-7160 8/12

Fire Extinguishers

The most POWERFUL FIRE EXTINGUISHING TECHNOLOGY is here!! FIRE PRO Extinguishers feature a concentrate used for over 30 years by fire departments, race tracks and the military. This formula is a non-toxic, powerful cooling liquid with foam and requires no maintenance!! Economical, do-it-yourself refill kits are also available. Choose the best for your equipment today!! For more information, call Arlen Coblentz at 307-8509663 8/26

Vehicles & Trailers Equipment

FOR SALE: Rawhide large portable corral, WW hydraulic chute. ALSO, 2021 John Deere C500 MoCo, only cut 60 acres. R2800 Vermeer hydraulic rake. Kramer 14 bale retriever. Call 605-842-5515 8/26

Equipment Equipment

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE:

Agco 7444 4x4 baler; New Holland 1075 balewagon; Massey Ferguson 2190 4x4 baler; Freeman pull type 3 string balers; Vermeer R23 rake; 3 John Deere 9600 combines; CIH 1010 25’ header; CIH 1015 pick-up header; Challenger MT655C tractor; Komatsu WA500 loader; CIH MX150 loader tractor; New Holland 145 bi directional tractor; White 30’ disk; John Deere 960 26’ cultivator; New Holland 357 grinder mixer; Modern Mill (mix mill) feed mill; IHC grain truck; Freightliner sleeper truck; WS sleeper truck; Kenworth crane truck, 18 ton, 82’; WS 90 bbl vac truck, Pete 80 bbl vac truck; IHC 80 bbl vac truck; Wilson 53x102 tri axle cattle pot; Cat 262D skid steer; Mobile Tech 9 yd. volumetric concrete mixer; Degelman 570 rock picker. View equipment at www.bigskyeb.com. Call 406-254-1254 8/19

FOR SALE: Rowse 3 pt. 9’ sickle mower. Rowse double 9’ sickle mower. Hesston/ AGCO Allis 5556 big round baler, wide pickup, net wrap/ twine. Nine wheel pull type finger rake. 7’ 3 pt. rotary mower. John Deere 2155 diesel tractor, wide front, 3 pt., runs great. H&S 7+4 17’ chuckwagon with tandem 14 ton running gear. John Deere 714A and 716A chuckwagons with John Deere running gear and bunk feeding extensions, been shedded, nice condition. J&M 325 gravity box with 12 ton gear and roll tarp. Meyerink 12’ box scraper with tilt. All in very nice condition!! Call 605-999-5482 8/12

Livestock Equipment

SIOUX CORNERLESS CATTLE CROWDING TUB with catwalk, enclosed sides with crowding alleys and squeeze chute, inline gate, cleated floor and brisket bar. ALSO, 40-bushel hog feeder. Call 970-630-9512 8/19

VERMEER 605N SELECT

ROUND BALER: Excellent shape, $30,000. Call for more information, 701-690-8116, send a text if no answer or keep trying 9/2

2019 JOHN DEERE 560M

ROUND BALER: In good working condition, has 9,000 bales on it. Large flotation tires. Net wrap and twine tie options included. $35,000 OBO. Near Pinedale, WY. Call 307-3609386 8/26

HAY EQUIPMENT: 38 John

Deere 9’ mower, $1,200; Hesston 5580 round baler, good condition, bales hay, $1,800; New Holland 56 side delivery rake, $1,200. Keystone, S.D., delivery possible. Call 605-5936637 8/12

MONTANA RAILROAD SERVICES: Railroad ties, switch ties and other railroad materials for fencing and landscaping. Best pricing and quality in the region. Call 406-962-3514, Silesia, MT. Located 10 miles south of Laurel, MT (off of Clarks River Rd., the old highway). Visit our website, www.mtrrservices.com 8/12

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

Pipe Pipe

Property for Sale Property for Sale

OILFIELD PIPE: RPJ Enterprises, Inc. 2 3/8, 2 7/8, 3.5, 5.5, and 3/4” sucker rod is available. Used for fencing, corrals, cattle guards, etc. 2 3/8 and 2 7/8 are on average 31.5’ long per joint.

3.5” and 5.5” are 42+ lengths. Pierce, CO. Call for details, 970324-4580 8/26

Irrigation

PIPE FOR SALE!! 2 7/8, 3 1/2 tubing, 4” drill pipe, 4 1/2 casing, 5” casing, 7” casing. Rods 3/4, 7/8 and 1” located in Montana, can ship anywhere. Call Mike, 602-758-4447. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 11/8

Irrigation Systems

REDUCED: MO. Flats Ranch: Hot Springs County, Wyoming. 655+ acres located 12 miles west of Thermopolis with paved road access. Approximately 140 irrigated acres with an additional 50 adjudicated. Nearly 2 miles of Owl Creek frontage, four pastures, and three wells. 40’x84’ metal building with concrete floor, water and power. This is a great setup for a base property and great value. Price: $1,540,000

Crippled Spider RV and Arena: Hot Springs County, Wyoming. 76+ acres with 3,656 square feet very nice home, 300’x125’ metal indoor riding arena, 26 acres under pivot, and a new RV park with 38 units. Terrific horse property with great income from the commercial business. Just 4 miles North of Thermopolis near the Big Horn River. Price: $1,650,000 South Muddy Farm: Fremont County, Wyoming. Top quality 146+ acre farm with 129 acres in excellent alfalfa hay production. Located in the Midvale Irrigation District, it includes a four bed, two bath home and a 40’x60’ pole barn. Very productive hay farm in a great area. Price: $1,070,000

Hunting & Fishing

RANGE HUNTING SCOPE: Brand Tangent Theta. Model TT315H. 3-15x50mm MRAD, 800102-0304. Brand new never mounted. $3,900. For more information, call 307-8994128 8/19 Hunting & Wanted

WANTED: PROPERTY TO ARCHERY HUNT IN THE NORTH PLATTE RIVER REGION BETWEEN GUERNSEY, WY AND THE NEBRASKA

The choice is simple. Big Horn

Hooked on the River: Hot Springs County, Wyoming. Custom log home and horse barn on 59.6 acres with ¾ of a mile of Big Horn River Frontage. 28 acres of irrigated land and sub-irrigated pasture on a great stretch of one of the most popular fly fishing rivers in Wyoming.

Copper wire is being stolen from electrically powered pivot systems world-wide. Many growers have resorted to 24-hour guards, razor wire, floodlights and daily disassembly to protect themselves. T-L’s hydraulically powered pivot systems can be designed with little or no wire to steal. Stop theft and discover T-L’s reliability, simplicity and low maintenance cost. T-L irrigation systems are easier on you - for life.

Killebrew Irrigation

Your one stop shop for all irrigation needs

Lander, WY • (307) 332-3044

• Reinke center pivot sales and field design

• Parts for most major irrigation systems

• Underground and Surface PVC pipe and fittings

• Pumps and Motors

• Phase Converters

Property for Sale Property for Sale

RANCH AT MELVILLE, MT,

SWEET GRASS VALLEY: Beneath the majestic Crazy Mountains lies 1,410 acres that have been under the same ownership for over 90+ years. 840 acres irrigated. Sweet Grass Creek flows through the ranch providing cover for wildlife and fishing. A full complement of improvements plus 2 homes. Call for pricing. Sidwell Land & Cattle Co., Richard Sidwell, 406-861-4426, 406-3224425 or e-mail sidwell@sidwellland.com 8/19

HUNTINGTON SPRINGS

RANCH: 3,654+ deeded acres in Scottsbluff County, NE & Goshen County, WY. Eleven pastures with stock water. Corrals. Exceptional blend of meadow grass and hard grass. Private and serene. Trees and live water. Prime condition. $3,200,000. Casey Essert, Land Broker; Empire Realty, Torrington, WY, 307-532-1750 8/12

Wyoming Horse Racing will hold opening day at Sweetwater Downs on Aug. 19, when its 2023 horse racing season gallops into action at the Sweetwater Events Complex.

In its 13th year, races at Sweetwater Downs will draw horses and their jockeys from all over the West-

Price: $1,400,000

Roy Ready - Broker Frank Sanford - Sales Associate • Amy Ready - Sales Associate Clay Schafer – Sales Associate • Rees Ready - Office Manager Office: 307-234-2211

Roy Ready - Broker: 307-921-0170

www.westernland.net

2023 Apprentice Lineman Scholarship

OREGON RANCH, Baker City, Baker County, OR. The Alder Creek pasture contains over 2,000 acres of native spring, summer and fall pasture. The rangeland is situated just east of Baker City, OR. The property is in good condition and has good perimeter fencing. The range is gently south facing slope with a variety of native grass. FIRST TIME OFFERING at just over $500 per acre for deeded and contiguous ownership, $1,095,000. Give us a call at 541-523-4434, Intermountain Realty, Inc., Greg Sackos, Principal Broker, James Dunlap, Broker, www.intermountainland.com 8/12

Mineral

Mineral Rights

Three Crown Petroleum P.O. Box 774327 • Steamboat Springs, CO 80477 We Buy or Lease Minerals 970-756-4747

66.856 ACRES, JUST NORTHWEST OF RED LODGE, MT BORDERING THE GOLF COURSE: This property is presently agriculturally zoned, current use is hay and pasture and it is fenced and cross fenced. Enjoy views of several mountain ranges and lots of water, including Spring Creek frontage, mature trees and lush grass. Could be zoned commercially, allowing for development of a number of homesites and/or other commercial ventures. This property is simply loaded with possibilities. Access is off Willow Creek Road. DNRC Right Nos. 43D 216331-00 and 43D 200020-00, Pryde Ditch and West Fork of Rock Creek. $2,300,000. Property to be shown by appointment only and listing agent shall accompany all showings. Sellers ask that prospective buyers respect their privacy. Call Bill at 406-698-9266 for a tour of this parcel 8/26

2023 Polaris Ranger 1000 Side-by-Side OR

Mule Deer Hunt at Crook County D-Ranch Drawing will take place Saturday, August 26 during the PRECorp Annual Meeting in Buffalo. Participants do not need to be present to win. Second drawing gets remaining prize. Winner of hunt must be eligible to hunt in Wyoming and is responsible for purchasing appropriate state licensing. Winner of side-by-side is responsible for applicable federal tax. For tickets, call Rick at 307.283.4930 or PRECorp at 1.800.442.3630

www.precorp.coop

Sweetwater Downs set to open Aug. 19

ern U.S. The 2023 race season will continue on weekends through Oct. 1 and will again offer more than $1.1 million in total purse payments for horsemen during the meet.

The season will feature intense rivalries as racing at Sweetwater Downs will determine year-end

honors for the Wyomingbred racehorses. Additionally, Sweetwater Downs will hold numerous festivities and events throughout the season, including family-friendly activities, food and drinks.

Fans will be able to wager on up to nine races daily, including the $10,000

Horse Palace Stakes and enter the Derby Hat Festival. Daily pony stick races will be held for kids, and the traditional season highlights will include the Governor’s Handicap and the John Schiffer Memorial Race.

Gates open at noon on Saturdays and Sundays, with post times set for 1 p.m.

Races will also be held on Sept. 8 and Sept. 15. Post times for these dates is 4 p.m.

Sweetwater Downs is located within the Sweetwater Events Complex at 3320 Yellowstone Road in Rock Springs. Tickets cost $5 per person.

For those unable to join the horse races in per-

son, Wyoming Horse Racing offers betting at any of the eight Horse Palace locations, including sites in Casper, Cheyenne, Evanston, Gillette, Green River, Rock Springs and Sheridan.

For more information on live racing at Sweetwater Downs, visit horsepalace.win/live-racing

Northern Livestock Video Auction (NLVA) just hosted its largest ever Summertime Classic Sale July 24-27, where nearly 160,000 head of cattle and over 20,000 head of sheep were marketed and sold.

According to figures provided by Kurt Kangus, American Angus Association regional manager, every category of steers sold at the NLVA sale saw substantial increases compared to last year.

The heaviest steers, weighing 1,000 to 1,050 pounds, averaged $2,396.37 per head, which equates to $236.43 per hundredweight (cwt). Compared to 2022, this class saw a 35.4 percent increase in price per head and a nearly $64 per cwt increase.

Smaller steers, ranging from 400 to 449 pounds saw the greatest dollar per cwt increase from 2022 with a $113.4 per cwt increase and

a $507.50 per head increase – nearly 48 percent.

The greatest volume of steers were represented by three categories ranging from 500 pounds to 649 pounds. The weight classes in this range accounted for 59,217 head sold.

The heifers also saw increases across the board, with 405 lightweight heifers, ranging from 300 to 399 pounds, averaging $361.75 per cwt, which translates to $1,293.26 per head. This was a 46 percent increase in dollars per cwt and 44.8 percent for dollars per head.

The next weight class, 400 to 449 pounds, averaged the second largest dollars per cwt at $319.08, a 42 percent increase from 2022, and also penned an average of $1,342.81 per head, a 41.8 percent increase.

Heifers ranging from 850 to 899 pounds had the most head represented,

with 10,834 head selling for an average of $239.80 per cwt or $2,090.15 per head.

Historically, the final day of the NLVA Summertime Classic features high volumes of sheep marketed by influential operations from across the region.

This year, 20,795 total head sold, which NLVA Representative Henry Hollenbeck said was right on par with last year’s August sale. However, much like the cattle, Hollenbeck said the sheep were about “60 cents higher than a year ago this time.”

JRB Ranch, south of Evanston, sold 1,500 feeder lambs, with a base weight of 94 pounds, for $215.50 per cwt. The Southern Nevada Water Authority’s 1,500 head consignment, at a base weight of 90 pounds, brought $215 per cwt.

On the heavier side, the MP Sheep Company, LLC,

out of Wyoming, sold 1,260 head of 115 base weight feeders for $198 per cwt.

tune in to upcoming NLVA sales, visit northernlivestockvideo.com

THE

RANCH Laramie, Albany County, Wyoming

$5,250,000

Cory Clark at (307) 334-2025 or Mark McNamee (307) 760-9510

$2,700,000

INDIAN HILLS RANCH

Leach

at (307) 331-9095

Gillette, Campbell County, Wyoming 640± deeded acres of grass with seasonal live water, two reservoirs, streams and additional water from pipeline. Owner-rated at 30 cow/calf pairs year-round

IT'S THE PITTS

by Lee Pitts

Without A Net

The government and insurance companies often issue lists of the most dangerous jobs in America based on deaths per thousand. I have a sharp and dangerous ax to grind with such lists because a job can still be extremely dangerous, without killing you.

Logging is usually the most dangerous job in America, and I have no objection with this assessment. I take no offense with the inclusion of roofers, iron workers and underground miners. It’s when they get around to agriculture I start to dispute their placings.

Most lists lump ranching and farming together

in one category, which usually falls around number 10 on the lists of the most dangerous jobs. But, I see absolutely no reason why delivery truck driving should be considered more dangerous than bull riding. So, to put right this great injustice, I have made my own list of the 10 most dangerous jobs.

10. Farrier Baseball catchers have the most dangerous job in baseball and are often considered for inclusion in the dangerous job category, but not so the lowly farrier.

The catcher gets to wear all sorts of protective equipment, including a cup, but

HAY continued from page 1

coarse hays like sorghumsudangrass hybrids.”

The educators further note coarse-stemmed bales allow for greater oxygen flow, which elevates the risk for combustion, and moving hot bales could increase oxygen flow through the bales, providing fuel for combustion.

The UNL team advises producers to check temperatures periodically on wet hay bales by using a longstem compost thermometer or driving a metal pipe into the bale and dropping in a nonmercury thermometer attached to a string.

Bales at 170 degrees Fahrenheit or higher should be closely monitored as heating will continue to

occur when they reach this temperature.

Mold and mycotoxins

However, if hay bales do not get to the point of combustion, they will continue to decline in quality.

“Mold growth uses plant tissues as an energy and protein source,” the team of educators explain. “Hot temperatures denature cell structures, which changes proteins and carbohydrates, making them unavailable for animal digestion.”

Mold can produce mycotoxins which can be deadly to animals if the levels are high enough.

The educators state, “The best way to use moldy hay is to spread out the bales and let the animals pick

when a horseshoer catches a high, hard and fast one in the groin, he is totally defenseless.

This is why most elderly horseshoers are jumpy, grumpy and walk hunched over.

9. Large animal vet

These folks live life on the edge. There are just too many ways a vet can be injured, from catching anthrax or rabies to getting hit in a vehicular accident because he or she nodded off at the wheel from a lack of sleep.

Too many knives, scalpels and needles are involved to say this occupation is less dangerous than airplane pilots and trash collectors.

8. Cowboys

Carpenters are always listed amongst the top 10 most dangerous jobs but not cowboys.

I’d bet cowboys are missing more digits than hammer jockeys are. Cow-

boys dicker with death every day, from trying to stay out of the wire to riding knot-headed horses that can bury a person in a variety ways.

And, there’s usually no emergency room or med stop for 100 miles.

7. Slaughterhouse worker

Working in a slaughterhouse is like sleepwalking into an airplane propeller. There are booby traps everywhere, and the sharp knives are slippery from blood, water and assorted entrails.

Being a truck driver is NOT more dangerous than working in a slaughterhouse.

6. Auction market owner

For those questioning my judgement here, they’ve probably never sorted mad cows or been run over by one-ton bulls in a sorting alley.

If a person survives that wreck, there’s always the strain associated with a big buyer going broke and leav-

For more information from the BeefWatch newletter, visit beef.unl. edu/beefwatch.

through it, with a second source of clean hay for them to select from as well. Mold often reduces palatability, and animals will avoid especially bad chunks.”

Testing hay will be important this year, as hay quality is vital for meeting nutritional needs for animals to sustain through the winter. As bales cool off and moisture content decreases, hay quality will also decrease.

Options for wet hay

“If weather conditions do not allow for hay to dry and cure, baleage or other highmoisture harvesting techniques can be an option,” the educators advise.

Baleage is similar to traditional dry hay because it can be put up in a square or round bale, but baleage is traditional hay which is too wet to store safely and it is wrapped or sealed in plastic. Baleage can be fermented as individual bales or in a tube or inline.

Iowa State University Extension and Research suggests wrapping wet hay as soon as possible after baling to decrease nutrient loss. Adding silage film to the bale will stop the loss of nutritional value because it’s not exposed to sunlight except for the outside edges.

According to North

ing one with a seven-figure bad check.

5. Bulldogger

Death sits in the saddle every time a bulldogger lowers himself down from a speeding horse on to a rack of horns belonging to a four-footed bovine track star.

And keep in mind, every time they lean over to “take the bull by the horns,” they are working without a net.

4. Bull rider

When bull riding begins, the ambulance goes on full alert for a “load and go” or a “scoop and scoot.”

I’m really glad bull riders started wearing Kevlar vests and catcher’s masks, but they still face the possibility of going on the “long sleep” every time they willingly fasten themselves to a one-ton, man-killing machine.

3. Rodeo clown

I went back and forth on which job is more dangerous, riding a bull or playing

tag with one. Let’s call it a tie. Talk about a moth that falls in love with a flame.

I fail to see the attraction here.

2. Hole blocker

This person, almost always your wife, is the person who jumps up and down frantically waving her hands to stop cattle from escaping through a hole or gap in a fence or corral.

She plays the ultimate game of chicken with an outraged herd of oncoming bovines.

On average, I’d say she wins about half the time.

1. Cattle feeder

There’s no one more courageous and no occupation as dangerous as being an independent cattle feeder.

If they don’t get run over by a banker, gored by regulators or driven to drink by greedy packers, they’ll probably end up stroking out at 50 from all the stress.

Dakota State University research, preserving forage by ensiling it under anaerobic conditions may be an alternative. But if producers cannot, they can preserve forage by spraying it with organic acids as it is harvested.

Preservatives can reduce the growth of aerobic microbes in wet hay, allowing the hay to be baled at a

higher moisture content. However, hay preservatives do not improve nutritional quality. They prevent deterioration of quality caused by excessive aerobic microbial action by heat buildup.

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

WYLR photo