September 16, 2023

RMP price hikes leave Wyoming residents frustrated Page 2

NASDA Honor Award recipients announced Page 6

Historic game laws reviewed in Postcard from the Past, just in time for hunting season

Page 10

Yellow starthistle discovered in Natrona County for the first time Page 15

Quick Bits

FEMA Disaster

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Wyoming to supplement recovery efforts in areas affected by flooding on June 15. Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by flooding in Natrona County.

Crop Prices

Corn basis bids were steady to mixed across the central U.S. on Sept. 12 after trending as much as 15 cents higher at a Nebraska elevator and as much as 20 cents lower at an Ohio River terminal. Soybean basis bids were steady to mixed across the central U.S. after tracking as much as 35 cents higher at an Iowa processor and as much as 10 cents lower at an Illinois River terminal.

Milk Loss

On Sept. 6, the U.S Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced Milk Loss Program (MLP) assistance for eligible dairy operations for milk that was dumped or removed without compensation from the commercial milk market due to qualifying weather events, which inhibited delivery or storage of milk during calendar years 2020-22. Signup will run through Oct. 16.

Conference

The DEQ Water Quality Division (WQD) invites the public to attend the First Annual Wyoming Water Quality Conference at the University of Wyoming Conference Center in Laramie Oct. 17-18. Participants will learn how WQD fulfills its mission of protecting and restoring Wyoming’s water quality for current and future generations. For more information or to register, visit deq.wyoming. gov/water-quality/waterquality-conference

Bridging gap between conservation and productivity discussed

Cheyenne – During their annual meeting, held Sept. 10-13, the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) hosted a panel discussion with five experts represent-

ing different segments of the industry on what they are doing to bridge the gap between conservation and productivity to build a more sustainable future for agriculture.

“I am really excited about who we have here with us today and what they represent in terms of the supply chain,” stated Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship Secretary

Mike Naig. “I love NASDA in the sense we are all from different places with very different agriculture experiences, which brings in a lot of perspective.”

New Frontiers in Agriculture

Wyoming hosts NASDA meeting, looks at forging paths forward in the industry

Cheyenne – The Little America Hotel and Resort hosted individuals from across the U.S. ag industry for the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Annual Meeting, held Sept. 10-13.

Themed “Old West, New Frontier,” the Cowboy State provided visitors a well-blended taste of its rich Western heritage and forward-thinking spirit.

“I appreciate everyone making the effort to be here,” stated Wyoming Department of Agriculture Director and NASDA President Doug Miyamoto during his welcome speech. “We are happy to host you all here in Wyoming. Hopefully, you have already gained a sense of the ranching and Western culture and heritage

engrained in this state.”

“It is an honor to welcome you all here today,” added Wyoming Gov. Mark Gordon. “I think the theme of an old Western frontier is still very applicable today. I also think it is important to focus on the opportunities ahead of us and the knowledge agriculture can provide at this time.”

Overcoming challenges, forging forward

To kick off the week-long meeting, Gordon shared some of his experiences while ranching in the state and offered insight into the challenges Wyoming producers face.

Please see NASDA on page 4

Sage grouse

SGIT discusses progress at working group meeting

Gillette – The Sage Grouse Implementation Team (SGIT) is comprised of representatives from state and federal agencies, as well as industry and non-governmental organizations.

SGIT members, appointed by Gov. Mark Gordon, work collaboratively to protect the Greater sage grouse under the state of Wyoming’s Sage Grouse Executive Order (EO) and held a public meeting on Sept. 11 at the Pronghorn Center at Gillette College.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is in the process of reviewing and modifying its 2015 sage grouse management plans as ordered by a federal district court.

Additionally, SGIT has been updating the state of Wyoming’s sage grouse core area map and will present the map as part of the proposed Wyoming alternative for the BLM to consider in their modified sage grouse management plan. SGIT updates

“The mapping process is done, and SGIT has modified the draft sage grouse core area map after considering public comment,” stated SGIT Chair Bob

NASDA provides African swine fever update Wyo. State Ram Sale a success

Douglas – The 95th Annual Wyoming State Ram Sale, held at the Wyoming State Fairgrounds on Sept. 12, had another successful year.

“Thank you to all of our consignors, buyers, bidders and sponsors. Because of you, the 95th Wyoming State Ram Sale was a great success. We cannot think of a better way to celebrate the integrity and tradition of this amazing sale,” wrote the Wyoming Wool Growers Association (WWGA) in a Sept. 13 Facebook post.

WWGA notes a total of 239 rams sold for an average of $1,294 per head. There were 12 no sales.

Additionally, a ewe donated by Hageman Sisters Rambouillet brought nearly $6,000. Proceeds were given to WWGA.

Top-selling white-faced rams

According to WWGA, the high-selling ram overall was a yearling Targhee, lot 68B, consigned by Von Krosigk Family Targhees. This ram sold for $5,000 to Harlan Ranch.

The high-selling certified Rambouillet buck was Rabel Brothers’ lot two, which sold to Netz Ranch for $3,800, and the high-selling Rambouillet yearling was lot 49, consigned by Forbes, Rabel and McGivney and purchased by Jeff Jacobs for $3,600.

Lot 91 was the top-selling Targhee fall lamb, bringing $1,100. This lamb was consigned by Nielsen Targhees and purchased by Stirling Moore.

Purchased by Bauer Land and Livestock for $1,200, lot 92C was the high-selling Targhee/Rambouillet/South African Meat Merino cross. This ram was consigned by Borcher Sheep Company.

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) held its annual meeting Sept. 10-13 in Cheyenne, and Associate Director of Public Policy Stephanie McBath presented on African swine fever (ASF) during the convention.

McBath joined NASDA in 2022 and staffs the Animal Agriculture and Natural Resources and Environment Policy committees. Before joining NASDA, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Cornell University in animal science and minored in business.

ASF is a highly contagious and deadly viral disease, affecting both domestic and feral swine of all ages. It is not a threat to

human health, as it cannot be transmitted from pigs to humans, and therefore, is not a food safety issue.

However, it can quickly spread between swine populations and humans can transfer the disease through contact with clothing, farming equipment or by transporting uncooked pork products, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

ASF background and overview

USDA reports ASF is found around the world, but recently, it has been detected in the Dominican Republic and Haiti in 2021.

“ASF has also been found in areas of

New frontiers – National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) President and Wyoming Agriculture Director Doug Miyamoto moderated a panel discussing new frontiers in agriculture during the opening session of the NASDA annual meeting held in Cheyenne Sept. 10-13. Pictured left to right are Miyamoto, Wyoming Business Council CEO Josh Dorrell, University of Wyoming Vice President for Research and Economic Development Parag Chitnis and Plenty Chief Science Officer Nate Storey.

Beef. It's What's For Dinner

There are numerous articles circulating around lately concerning beef, which is good news for beef producers who are finally getting their due, as cattle prices rise.

But for the most part, these rising prices are wiped out due to the high cost of inputs. Producers and consumers are both feeling inflation.

GUEST OPINIONS

Not in the Public's Interest

By Rep. Jon Conrad

Dennis Sun

In some areas of cattle country, drought persists, and so far, it looks to continue for a while. Across the country, cattle producers are reluctant to rebuild their herds as hay and pastures are in short supply and getting to be expensive in some areas.

Producers are also going to continue to sell cows and heifers because of higher interest rates and input costs. This will make for less calves and fat cattle in coming years.

Meatpackers are looking worldwide for cattle to process to meet beef demand in the U.S. and for the growing world. This will also keep beef prices high as demand stays strong.

A recent study conducted by researchers at Tulane University found 12 percent of Americans are responsible for eating one-half of all the beef consumed on any given day. I question this study as it was funded by groups against cattle grazing.

An interesting read from Drovers on the “Five Emerging Types of Consumer: A Breakdown of Meat Eaters,” is worth sharing.

Surveying a national sample of 1,300 U.S. adult consumers who had eaten and purchased meat or poultry in the past three months, Midan Marketing determined five new meat consumer segments and the percentage of consumers in each category.

Fourteen percent were “connected trendsetters,” who are adventurous, love meat and look to try new things. The main influencer of this group is the internet, and with an average age of 37, this is the youngest of the categories.

The “claim seekers” represent 24 percent and want to buy organic, grass-fed, antibiotic-free, humanely-raised meat. The group wants to buy meat they consider healthy for their bodies, the animals and the planet, and they are willing to pay more for the meat.

The “convenience cravers,” at 17 percent, find meat is hard to cook perfectly, use online shopping for quick meals and look for value-added meats. They depend on apps to research recipes and promotions, along with information on the meat counter.

Next is the “committed carnivores,” at 23 percent, who sit down with their family to eat and are found to have a love of meat that drives their cooking decisions – not label claims or other statements.

They like to cook from scratch and usually shop at traditional retailers. Ninety-six percent say their entire family enjoys meat, and 85 percent of them can’t imagine giving up the taste of meat. They are more likely to live in the Midwest or rural areas of the country.

The last category, at 22 percent, are the “classic palates.” This group is defined by habit and is used to having meat in their meals, so they usually stick to what they know.

However, 57 percent of this group thinks meat is currently too expensive, leading some to only buy meat when it’s on promotion or sale. Forty-four percent of the group say nothing would influence them to change their mind once in-store.

Take a minute to see what category you are. Meat producers of America thank you for buying their products.

Wyoming Livestock Roundup

“I can’t afford this” was the sentiment on display in Casper the evening of Aug. 24 at the Public Service Commission’s hearing on Rocky Mountain Power’s (RMP) proposed electric rate increases – a hearing that went two hours beyond its scheduled time and saw estimates of 200 people expressing their frustration, and in many instances, desperation.

It was also reiterated the next day at the Joint Corporations Committee hearing in Douglas, and it’s what I commonly hear from people in my district and across Wyoming.

I traveled to Casper and Douglas to oppose RMP’s proposals because my phone hasn’t stopped ringing since spring when these rate increases were announced.

Wyoming families are at a breaking point. Rate increases are supposed to be “just and reasonable.” I believe RMP’s proposed increases are neither just, nor reasonable.

RMP is seeking two rate increases.

The energy cost adjustment mechanism (ECAM) is seeking to raise rates an average of 7.4 percent or $50.3 million for energy cost overruns. The general rate increase looks to raise rates an average of 21.6 percent or $140 million.

Combined, the company is asking the Wyoming Public Service Commission (PSC) to authorize an increase of $190 million.

RMP asserts “net power costs” are a major driver in the need to raise rates. The company claims this is due to high coal and natural gas prices. Shockingly, RMP is also asking the PSC for the ability to shift 100 percent of fuel cost overruns onto the customer, instead of sharing in the expense.

Currently, fuel cost overruns are split with customers paying 80 percent and RMP paying 20 percent. Not long ago, the ratio was 70 to 30.

I not only suggested to

the PSC to reject RMP’s proposal, but to return to the 70 to 30 ratio. I’ve previously called these rate increases “disappointing,” but it’s more than disappointing. It’s blatantly offensive.

According to a Wall Street Journal article dated Aug. 9, electricity bills are projected to decline because of decreasing coal and natural gas prices. RMP asserts the opposite in their rate cases. Something doesn’t compute.

We’ve repeatedly heard renewable energy will result in lower electric bills. It’s becoming obvious the fuel source may be zero cost, but there is an enormous expense to build out the infrastructure to support renewable energy.

The infrastructure building frenzy may be good for shareholders as RMP looks to capitalize on federal subsidies and green energy policy, but it’s going to cripple Wyoming families and businesses.

Management deci-

sions to accelerate the energy transition and meet aggressive targets from other states have led RMP to buy more power on the open market. This is necessary because the transition to green energy, otherwise known as intermittent power, isn’t as reliable as firm power from coal or natural gas generation.

Management and shareholder decisions have caused this predicament, not Wyoming customers, and this is who should be on the hook to pay the price. Please join me in saying enough is enough.

RMP’s aggressive transition plans aren’t in the public’s interest. Wyoming can’t afford this increase, be it families or industry.

For more information or to submit comments, contact the Wyoming PSC at 307-777-7427 or wpsc_ comments@wyo.gov.

Jon Conrad is a Republican Representative of House District 19. He can be reached by visiting wyoleg.gov

Checkoff dollars support culinary programs like Family Career Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and Pro Start, by providing educational materials as well as sponsoring annual competitions where beef is cooked and judged.

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Corn production reported

Corn production for grain is forecast at 13.9 billion bushels, down three percent from the previous forecast and down eight percent from 2021. Based on conditions as of Sept. 1, yields are expected to average 172.5 bushels per harvested acre, down 2.9 bushels from the previous forecast and down 4.5 bushels from last year.

Acreage updates were made in several states based on a thorough review of all available data. Total planted area, at 88.6 million acres, is down one percent from the previous estimate and down five percent from the previous year.

Area harvested for grain is forecast at 80.8 million acres, down one percent from the previous forecast and down five percent from the previous year.

Soybean production for beans is forecast at 4.38 billion bushels, down three percent from the previous forecast and down one percent from 2021. Based on conditions as of Sept. 1, yields are expected to average 50.5 bushels per acre, down 1.4 bushels from the previous forecast and down 0.9 bushel from 2021.

Total planted area, at 87.5 million acres, is down one percent from the previous estimate but up less than one percent from the previous year. Area harvested for beans in the U.S. is forecast at 86.6 million acres, down one percent from the previous forecast but up less than one percent from 2021.

All cotton production is forecast at 13.8 million 480pound bales, up 10 percent from the previous forecast but down 21 percent from 2021. Based on conditions as of Sept. 1, yields are expected to average 843 pounds per harvested acre, down three pounds from the previous forecast but up 24 pounds from 2021.

Upland cotton production is forecast at 13.4 million 480pound bales, up 10 percent from the previous forecast but down 22 percent from 2021. Pima cotton production is forecast at 460,000 bales, up 13 percent from the previous forecast and up 39 percent from 2021.

All cotton area harvested is forecast at 7.88 million acres, up 10 percent from the previous forecast but down 23 percent from 2021.

All cotton planted area totaled 13.8 million acres, up 11 percent from the previous forecast and up 23 percent from 2021.

NASDA students welcomed

The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Foundation welcomes NASDA’s Next Generation class of 2023, featuring 13 students from 10 states.

The purpose of NASDA Next Generation is to advance future leaders’ understanding of agriculture policy and the role of state departments of agriculture in ensuring a healthy and thriving food system for all. Through the NASDA Next Generation programming, students learn about pressing food and agricultural policy issues, NASDA’s mission and careers in public service.

“The agriculture industry is in need of strong leadership in the next generation, and we are excited to welcome this year’s NASDA Next Generation class to our annual meeting,” NASDA Chief Executive Officer Ted McKinney said. “This cohort of students represents the wide variety of experience and dedication to agricultural excellence which will enable the industry to thrive and impact the entire food system moving forward.”

The NASDA Next Generation class of 2023 includes Alexandra Mason and Samuel Hadacek of South Dakota State University (SDSU), Ava Barajas and Charlotte Brockman of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), Esther Oginni of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Etinosa Ignubor of Westen Colorado University and Grace Dunham of Cornell University.

Other members are Mateo Rull Garza of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Meredith Halweg of the University of Wyoming, Ryan Bake of Utah State University, Sarah Curley of Oklahoma State University and Tahirah Jones and Jelani Christmas of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

Student awarded scholarship

The Wyoming Natural Resource Foundation (WNRF) has selected this year’s recipient of the Beach Scholarship – Dan Coles, a senior at the University of Wyoming (UW).

Coles is majoring in wildlife and fisheries biology and management and is working towards another bachelor’s degree in botany. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in invasive plant ecology or is considering studying natural area restoration upon graduation.

His long-term goal is to become an educator in order to enable him to continue research as an instructor.

Coles attended Eastern Wyoming College until 2018 before transferring to UW to continue his education. In addition to his studies, Coles was hired by the Wyoming Invasive Plant Informatics Lab as a research and outreach assistant.

Under the supervision of Dr. Kelsey Brock, Coles assists the lab director by performing data analysis pertaining to certain projects. Coles is set to begin an individual project where he will assess if smartphone plant identification applications can be used to identify early invasive species.

The Gary Beach Scholarship was created in 2006 by the WNRF in honor of Gary Beach, a longtime employee of the Department of Environmental Quality. Beach was instrumental in working with local conservation districts to establish a grassroots driven watershed planning effort to address Wyoming’s impaired waters.

WNRF offered this $1,650 Gary Beach Memorial Scholarship to UW students enrolled at junior status or higher. Students studying natural resource management or related fields were encouraged to apply, and students planning to live and work in Wyoming after graduation were given preference during selection.

For more information, visit wynaturalresourcefoundation.com

Jeanette Rae and Nels Jensen Smith

unteering with local organizations or just talking to friends, new and old, in which they would offer “suggestions” that made the world a better place.

However, what they will be remembered for most is their unwavering love for each other and their family.

Jeanette Rae Smith, daughter of George and Adelaide Keener, was born on Jan. 20, 1938 in Newcastle. Nels Jensen Smith, son of Peter and Helen Smith, was born just over a year later on Jan. 29, 1939 in Newcastle.

They lived a full life, side by side, including when they left to be with our Lord and Savior on Sept. 1.

Together, Nels and Jeanette were pillars of their community, not only in Crook County, but the across entire state of Wyoming.

They shared a love for ranching in the West and serving the Cowboy State, whether it was through politics and committees, vol-

Nels and Jeanette’s lives will be forever cherished by their family – their sons Doug (Pam) Smith and Garrett Smith; their seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, along with Jeanette’s brother Doug Keener, longtime friend Maureen Hill and sister Sally (Patrick) Morton.

A private burial will be followed by a memorial service on Sept. 19 at Ranch A, 501 Sand Creek Road, Beulah, WY at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Nels and Jeanette Smith Memorial c/o Isburg Funeral Home, PO Box 487, Spearfish, S.D. 57783, which will be presented to an Autism charity at a later date.

Online condolences may be written at fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com

He noted these challenges range from utilizing water and irrigation efficiently, to dealing with harsh weather conditions, to adopting new sustainable practices such as carbon sequestration.

“Wyoming is the first state to blatantly say they are setting up for a carbon-

FEEDERS

negative future,” he shared.

“Many other states have talked about it, but they also attach it to a long deadline. There is an urgency about what to do to address the climate situation, and here in Wyoming, we are doing it a number of ways.”

“First, we understand how important it is to have

vital and healthy forests,” he continued. “Dead and dying forests give off carbon dioxide (CO2). They will either decompose biologically or oxidize, both of which produce CO2, so we need to ensure our forests are well managed.”

Gordon noted programs at the University of Wyoming (UW) have also been dedicated to providing ranchers and farmers a bet-

ter understanding of what is happening in their soil and are looking into programs where producers will be rewarded for investing in the carbon-negative solution.

“The biggest challenge we have, however, is we don’t have a market for carbon. When looking at the demand for CO2, there is none. It is dependent entirely on administra-

Lex Madden 307-532-1580

Chuck Petersen 307-575-4015 Lander Nicodemus 307-421-8141

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 - FEEDER/CALF SPECIAL

Barney Ranches 510 Mxd Strs, 735-910#, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass, Home Raised

Matt & Stephanie Strand 225 Mostly Blk/Char-x few Red Hfrs & Strs, 800-900#, PTO @ ranch, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass

5 W Livestock 103 Fancy Blk/Bwf Hfrs, 800#, Spayed, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass

J Reverse J 90 Mostly Blk few Red Strs & Hfrs, 850-950#, Complete Vac. Program, Off grass, Home Raised, Spayed

Adam Tregemba 83 Blk Strs, 850#, Complete Vac. Program, Off grass, Purchased from One Ranch as Calves

Keith Lankister 83 Blk Hfrs, 800-900#, PTO @ ranch on Aug. 22, Complete Modified Live Vac. Program, Pre-breeding Shots, Off grass, Originated from Hester, Vollman and Falls Ranch as calves

Wind River Livestock 75 Mx Strs & Hfrs, 800-950#, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass

Casey Kremers 65 Blk/Bwf Hfrs, 950-975#, Spayed, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass

88 Ranch Land and Livestock 50 Blk Hfrs, 950-1000#, PTO @ ranch, Complete Vac. Program as calves, Bangs Vac., Spring Shots, Off grass, Home Raised

Hilltop Grazing 50 Blk Strs, 900-+950#, Full Vac. Program, Coming off grass

Bryan & Linda Sidwell 16 Blk/Bwf Hfrs, 900-925#, PTO @ ranch, Complete Vac. Program, Coming off grass

Joe Dona 18 Blk Strs, 800-830#, Shots before going to grass, Coming off grass

Duane & Dottie Packard 10 Blk (1 Rwf) Strs, 950#, Complete Vac Program as calves, Booster Shots in Feb

Rusty Sturgeon 3 White Park Strs, 650#, All Shots, Coming off grass

CALVES

Scissors Ranch 250 Blk Strs & Hfrs, 500-600#, Branding Shots: Cattlemaster 4, 7-way, No Implants, Steers are knife, Home Raised

Lawn Creek Ranch 40 Red Angus-x Strs & Hfrs, 385-425#, Branding Shots: 5-way, Bovi-Shield

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 - ALL CLASSES

tive action or some sort of taxation,” he stated. “So, we need to figure out a way we can help develop a marketplace, in which we use private sector solutions and free enterprising to solve the climate crisis.”

Finding new frontiers in Wyoming ag

Following Miyamoto’s welcome and Gordon’s presentation, the meeting hosted a panel titled “New Frontiers in Agriculture,” featuring Nate Storey, chief science officer of Plenty; Josh Dorrell, chief executive officer of the Wyoming Business Council (WBC) and Dr. Parag Chitnis, vice president of research and economic development at UW.

Miyamoto served as the panel moderator.

Storey began the panel discussion by explaining how Plenty, an indoor vertical farming company, has forged a path forward for the state of Wyoming.

In February, the State Loan and Investment Board approved a grant to support the development of the world’s largest and most advanced vertical farming research center through Plenty.

“I started in the greenhouse industry while studying at UW. I was looking at different ways to increase productivity in the greenhouse itself, which rapidly evolved – in the same way agriculture has evolved since the beginning of time – to get more productivity out of less space,” he explained. “Specifically, in a greenhouse we are looking at how to get more productivity out of less volume, which became a big challenge for me in developing all of the technology that would ultimately lead to Plenty.”

grown before,” Storey stated. “It has been a fantastic joint effort, and it is really exciting how we are bridging the gap.”

Chitnis further noted UW is continuing to work closely with the Wyoming Innovation Partnership, community colleges and government agencies to build more greenhouses for university students to study this innovative trade.

Utilizing partnerships to make change

Dorrell expressed although Wyoming’s size may come with its challenges, he also thinks it is a huge advantage when it comes to making change happen in the state.

“We don’t have a lot of people or a lot of overhead to make things happen, so in this state, we move pretty quickly. We can get things done,” he stated.

Through his position with WBC, Dorrell explained one of the changes he is pushing for is diversifying the state’s economy to create resilient communities and avoid the traditional boom-and-bust cycle many Wyoming towns face.

“How do we take the wonderful resources we have, not just in agriculture and tourism, but in energy and natural resource extraction, so we have an ‘and economy’ and not an ‘or economy?’” he asked. “We work closely with our partnerships to develop a system allowing our communities to face challenges and to provide them with a framework to work through challenges when they arise.”

Contact us to receive email updates. 307-532-3333 mindy@maddenbrothers.com

Because indoor vertical farming requires capitalintensive equipment, Storey further explained, with the help of like-minded individuals, he set up shop in San Francisco and raised money to build farms and accelerate technical development.

Today, Plenty is focused on expanding across multiple crops and looking into growing unique produce one wouldn’t usually find growing in the states.

“Plenty builds on existing capacity and opens doors to growing crops in the U.S. that we haven’t

“We have to make the right investments as a state, make sure we have the right policy in place and elect strong leaders so we can utilize our network, align our team and move forward,” he continued.

“The challenge new frontiers bring is people assume we have to choose between ‘Old West’ or ‘New Frontier,’ but it doesn’t,” Dorrell concluded. “What we are so excited about here in Wyoming, is it means taking the legacy that has been built and continuing with it in new ways. This way we can work together to build something even bigger.”

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

TORRINGTON

LIVESTOCK AREA REPS

Michael Schmitt - Torrington, WY 307-532-1776

Cody Thompson - Lusk, WY 307-340-0150

Ty Thompson – Lusk, WY 307-340-0770

Zach Johnson Lingle, WY –307-575-2171

Jeff Ward – Laramie, WY 307-399-9863

Tam Staman – Crawford, NE 308-631-8513

Lander Nicodemus – Cheyenne, WY 307-421-8141

Danny Nicodemus – Cheyenne, WY 307-632-4325

Chris Williams - Greybull, WY 307-272-4567

Justin Smith - Lusk, WY 307-340-0724

Nolan Brott - Lusk, WY - 307-216-0033

Scott Redden - Burns, CO 970-596-3588

Ben Kukowski - Kaycee, WY 307-217-1472

We welcome

Jon Clement Nicolaysen

Oct. 23, 1946 – Sept. 5, 2023

work and doing whatever it takes to get the job done –traits he carried with him and utilized throughout his life.

Jon attended the Choate School in Connecticut and then the Colorado College, where he was an outstanding college athlete, lettering in soccer, lacrosse and hockey and where he met best friends for life.

table and a deck of cards waiting to be shuffled.

Jon and Mary brought out the best in each other and their love and combined sense of humor blessed everyone around them.

In Casper, Jon and Mary devoted their lives to the family ranch, Cole Creek Sheep Company, and under Jon’s leadership, the ranch doubled in size and significantly diversified its operations.

invested in oil properties in central Wyoming. His depth of knowledge of the land and understanding of the landowners’ perspective assisted him in the oil business and throughout his many business endeavors.

tion campaign in Casper. Although he considered a career in politics, he preferred a quieter life in Wyoming with his family and ranch and serving his local community.

workers, college and hunting buddies and cousins. He was loyal, generous and kind to those close to him.

Jon was born in Casper to Mary (Lathrop) Hester and Gerald “Gerry” Gifford Nicolaysen. He was the descendant of four pioneer families of Casper – the Nicolaysens, the Evans, the Lathrops and the Gov. Bryant Butler Brooks families.

Jon grew up on the family ranch northeast of Casper, which was homesteaded by his grandparents P.C. Nicolaysen and Clementina Sara Evans.

Jon loved the outdoors and spent much of his youth outside at the encouragement of his mother. With his brother G.G. and sister Karen by his side, he explored many of Wyoming’s wildest and most scenic locations.

Growing up on the ranch, Jon learned the value of hard

After graduation in 1968, Jon and his first wife Priscilla Pelton moved to Laramie, where their first child Kirsten was born. Jon joined the U.S. Army Reserve and earned an MBA at the University of Wyoming. After returning to Casper to manage the family ranch, their two sons Peter and Jon II (Kem) were born.

In September of 1989, Jon married the love of his life Mary L. Burgess Wyatt and gained his beautiful stepdaughter Tracey Ross. Mary brought out the laughter in Jon, and the two spent over three decades seizing life and sharing their generous spirits.

Holidays with Jon and Mary were epic – Halloween was their favorite – and they loved decorating their home. It was a gathering place, and there was always plenty of food, an extra chair at their

ASF continued from page 1

China, Mongolia, Vietnam and parts of the European Union, but it has never been found in the U.S., and at NASDA, we want to keep it this way,” stated McBath. “An ASF outbreak could cripple the entire U.S. agricultural industry with longlasting effects impacting the economy and swine production.”

According to NASDA, “Timely prevention, identification, control and when appropriate, eradication of animal diseases is essential to U.S. agricultural production, food security, public health, animal welfare and international market access.”

“NASDA is working closely with other federal and state agencies, the swine industry and pork producers to take necessary actions to protect our nation’s pigs and keep this disease out of the U.S. through preparedness and response,” McBath noted.

“Many individuals have heard of the USDA ASF response plan, “The Red Book,” and it is a great resource, but there are some potential gaps NASDA can help fill,” she continued.

NASDA survey

Recently, NASDA sent out a nationwide survey at the end of August to gather information and assess each state’s ASF preparedness.

McBath encouraged NASDA members to com-

In his decades on the ranch, Jon learned to fix almost anything and had a vision and foresight that made the operation the success it is today. He embodied a “get the job done” ethic, but loved to have fun with his family and everyone he worked with. From wild softball games at the end of each docking, ATV rides with multiple grandchildren clinging to him, to stories that can’t be repeated, he knew how to have a good time.

Jon taught and gave so much to his family and those he worked with on the ranch.

The ranch was not, however, Jon’s only vocation. He recognized early on the economics of agriculture in the 1980s required diversification.

As the U.S. lamb and wool markets shrank amid globalization, he became licensed both as a real estate agent and a big game outfitter. He also began working in the energy industry in the 1980s, and over the years, Jon managed, operated and

Jon’s love for Wyoming and his dedication to his community was evident in his leadership positions and volunteer work, including being past president of the Board of Directors of the Casper Y.M.C.A. and the Nicolaysen (NIC) Art Museum. Jon was part of the team that helped organize the NIC’s transformation and move into the beautiful downtown building from which it operates today.

Jon was a member of Wyoming Stockgrowers Association and Wyoming Wool Growers Association and served on the Natrona County Predator Board. He was a member of the inaugural class of the Wyoming Leadership, Education and Development program and a fellow of the Atlantic-Pacific Businessman’s Exchange, traveling to Hong Kong and the Netherlands.

Jon was a Master Mason of Casper Lodge 15. He was an active member of the Republican Party and sat with President Ronald Reagan during Reagan’s reelec-

Sept.

plete the survey and distribute it to state staff and animal officials, noting the survey deadline is Oct. 1.

“Current statistics from 20 surveys revealed 60 percent of respondents agreed to update their response plan, but most agreed they have some form of plan in place,” she stated.

“Another survey question was on traceability, and over 68 percent of state respondents agreed they have some process to keep track of pigs within their state,” she added. “A question pertaining to the methods of depopulation and disposal along with supply issues was also surveyed, and in an overwhelming response, it was discovered many states rely heavily on the USDA stockpile for assistance.”

McBath concluded, “It’s important to have everyone on the same page, and NASDA is excited to coordinate between USDA APHIS Veterinary Services and regional state alliances to improve communication and the nation’s animal health network through an integrated approach to prevention, preparedness, response and recovery to livestock disease outbreaks of national significance.”

According to USDA, “There is no treatment or vaccine available for this disease, and if ASF were to hit the U.S., the National

Pork Board estimates it could cost the nation’s pork industry as much as $8 billion a year.”

McBath reiterated, “This is why NASDA is committed to being a partner, working with governmental agencies and industry stakeholders to foster a collaborative approach to fill gaps and be there to support state needs.”

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

Jon was an avid outdoorsman, and the pack trips with Kirsten, Peter and Kem when they were young will never be forgotten. Bird hunting was a favorite pastime as it meant an opportunity to be with friends, family and his beloved Welsh springer spaniels.

Jon was a passionate traveler who enjoyed connecting with extended family in Denmark. He and Mary traveled the world, but he always remarked at the end of any journey, home looked best.

Jon and Mary traveled to Alaska many times and were fortunate to have one final trip there with family before he was diagnosed with cancer.

Mary was Jon’s constant companion and caregiver while he fought a brutal battle with cancer this last year in Houston. Jon’s wish to come home, to the place he loved the most, was granted, and he passed away in Casper just a few days shy of his 34th anniversary with Mary.

Jon treasured his lifelong friends, who included co-

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He is survived by his beloved wife Mary Nicolaysen of Casper; children Kirsten (Tim) Parker Nicolaysen of Walla Walla, Wash., Peter (Pam Brondos) Nicolaysen and Jon C. “Kem” (Shelly) Nicolaysen II, all of Casper; stepgrandson Alex Ross; grandchildren Maren, Emma and Lucas Nicolaysen, Brooks and Tobias Parker and Gwen, Jane and Soren Nicolaysen; sister Karen (Sid) Overton; sister-in-law Adrienne Bonnet; brother-in-law and sister-in-law David and Kathy Bowers; brother-in-law and sister-in-law Michael and Sondra McCoy and nephews and nieces that he loved dearly.

He is preceded in death by his parents Gerry and Mary Hester, his brother G.G. and his step-daughter Tracey Ross.

He was a force of life and will be so missed.

Services will be held in Casper at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Sept. 23 at 2 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church or the Nicolaysen Art Museum.

Proceeds from this year’s corn maze will benefit Natrona County local non-profits

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IT'S THE PITTS

by Lee Pitts

Mind Your Manners

Many people celebrated the 100th anniversary of Emily Post’s book titled “Etiquette” last year, but not me. The book was published in 1922, and it laid down a set of rules we are expected to live by today, despite the fact she never even mentioned proper cell phone etiquette.

There have been 19 editions of the book, subtitled “The Blue Book of Social Usage,” and it seems the first rule is every house should have one, thereby enriching Emily. I don’t know who

gave Emily the right to make the rules, other than she was a snobbish socialite.

In our house, we have the ninth edition, and on a lark, I read the 671-page book. I have never laughed so hard in my life, as she addressed such burning issues as how to talk to your servants, how to enter a restaurant, how many servants there should be in a wellappointed house, how high a man should lift his hat to other members of the privileged class and how to “take leave” from a bridge party.

First of all, I’ve never “taken leave” from any place I know of, nor do I play bridge. I’ve never attended a formal dinner party with more than one fork and one spoon per table setting, and I’ve never packed for a picnic, dressed in tails to attend the opera or received an invitation to a ball of any kind.

Nor have I ever employed a butler, parlor maid, private secretary or footman – whatever that is. I don’t know how to bow or curtsy, never dated a debutante nor have I gone anywhere with a chaperone, other than my wife.

It’s obvious we need a new rulebook because Emily’s book doesn’t even address proper cowboy etiquette. Who better to write this new rulebook than a man who has lived his life

surrounded by cowboys, truck drivers, roustabouts and roughnecks? Yes, that’s right, I nominate myself to be the next Emily Post for the 21st Century.

A lot of our rules were written centuries ago when men shook hands merely to show they didn’t have a gun or sword in their hand. They rose from their seat when a stranger entered the room because they couldn’t draw their sword from a sitting position.

So, why are we still doing these things when most of us don’t own a sword nor do we usually bring a gun to the dinner table? After COVID-19, no one shakes hands anymore anyway – we’ve replaced the handshake with the fist or elbow bump.

I suppose I reluctantly

approve, but I simply cannot abide the use of all these secret handshakes ballplayers do after a touchdown, three-point shot or home run because they are hard to remember and one could easily throw their shoulder out of place performing them.

The only idea I liked in Emily’s book was when she talked about calling cards, which were credit card-sized pieces of expensive stationery with one’s name on it, which they presented to people of the same caste upon seeing them.

In the “Age of Alzheimers,” I think they’d be a great idea because while I can remember names okay, I don’t always pair them up with the right person.

Seeing the profit potential in becoming high society’s next Emily Post, I’ve

started a list of proper cowboy manners such as never take a beer cooler to church; don’t put your spurs on the host’s sofa; never ride your horse on a busy sidewalk; after you’re married it’s not necessary to open the door for your wife anymore; always drink your beer directly from the bottle to show you’re not drinking Bud Light; if you’re a close relative who expects to be mentioned prominently in the will, don’t drive a U Haul to the funeral just to rub it in; don’t eat chicken with a knife and fork – in fact, never eat chicken at all – and finally, never take your cowboy hat off except for the American flag, unless a utility company wants to lease your chrome dome for use as a solar panel or at the funeral of an honest to God cowboy or cowgirl.

2023 NASDA Honor Award recipients announced at annual meeting

Cheyenne – At the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) 2023 Annual Meeting, exemplary employees of state departments of agriculture were honored for their service, communication and administration on behalf of their state.

“We are proud to recognize public servants in our state agriculture departments each year through the NASDA Honor Awards,”

Wyoming Department of Agriculture and NASDA President Doug Miyamoto said. “Outstanding employees like our award recipients this year enable state agriculture departments to best serve farmers, ranchers and communities across

our states.”

This year, NASDA will also present the NASDA Public-Private Partnership Award in recognition of an organization that has positively impacted states.

James A. Graham Award for Outstanding Service

Keith Rogers, chief of staff for Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Ryan Quarles at the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, is the recipient of the James A. Graham Award for Outstanding Service.

This award is given in recognition of remarkable work in providing service to farmers and ranchers.

Rogers has served in his current position for more than seven years. He leads over 200 state staff and

serves as the department’s point of contact for farmers, ranchers and agricultural organizations in Kentucky.

His tireless efforts advancing well-made agricultural policies and ensuring the well-being of farmers have left a lasting mark on the industry.

Dougless-Irving Administration Award

Arkansas Department of Agriculture Deputy Secretary Cynthia Edwards has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Dougless-Irving Administration Award, which honors an individual whose contributions to their agency resulted in improved efficiency and impact.

Since joining the department in 2011, Edwards

has shaped the department to provide better services to farmers and ranchers through reorganizing independent agencies and divisions into one department.

Edwards continues to use her expertise and vast experience to advance the agriculture industry in Arkansas and maximize state resources.

Communications Award

Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry Communications Director Jim Britt has been named the 2023 Communications Award recipient. This award recognizes outstanding work in media and public communications resulting in improved understanding of agriculture.

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Britt has used multiple communications channels to effectively relay critical information on issues such as highly pathogenic avian influenza and to share farmers’ stories. Britt has led his department’s social media pages to experience 100 percent growth while also forging connections with local and national media outlets.

Britt’s continued leadership and communications initiatives have helped advance the understanding and awareness of agriculture, both in Maine and on a national level.

Britt also serves as the 2022-23 Communication Officers of the State Departments of Agriculture President, joining state agriculture department communications leaders from across the U.S. to better serve all of agriculture.

NASDA Public-Private Partnership Award

The NASDA Public-Private Partnership Award is

presented to Merck Animal Health, a company which exemplifies the transformative potential of collaborations between public and private entities.

Merck Animal Health has been a longstanding partner with NASDA and the NASDA Foundation, with continuous support of and engagement with NASDA Next Generation and Agricultural Policy Summit student programs. Their constant support of the next generation of agriculture along with their commitment to partnering with states continues to help advance the U.S. agricultural industry and secure the future of agriculture.

NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association which represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors of the departments of agriculture in all 50 states and four U.S. territories. To learn more about NASDA, visit nasda.org

Crop insurance workshop set

Nebraska Extension will host a crop insurance workshop for agricultural producers and agribusiness professionals from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 19, at the Heartland Events Center in Grand Island, Neb.

The event will help attendees improve risk management strategies and boost their understanding of crop insurance. Crop and livestock producers, insurance agents, marketing consultants, agricultural educators and other risk management service providers are encouraged to attend.

“Understanding crop insurance can give producers a financial advantage,” said Cory Walters, associate professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. “Failure to understand how it works can leave producers financially stressed and at a financial disadvantage.”

The workshop will include updates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency, market outlooks for crops and livestock and sessions on annual forage and livestock risk protection programs, climate trends, stress and resiliency, the 2023 farm bill and strategies for margin protection. Lunch will be provided.

The workshop is presented as part of a series produced in collaboration between Nebraska Extension, Kansas State University Research and Extension and Colorado State University Extension.

Registration costs $100 and is required by Oct. 14. A late fee of $20 applies after Oct. 14. Registration can be completed at cropinsure.unl.edu. For questions, contact Walters at cwalters7@unl.edu or call 402-472-0366.

PANEL continued from page 1

“And, despite our differences, there is a lot of commonalities in U.S. agriculture, which unites us and allows us to speak together with one voice,” he continued.

Building a sustainable future for farmers and ranchers

To begin, the panel introduced themselves and explained what they are doing in each of their respective sectors to build a sustainable future in ag.

Shaun Sims, a Wyoming producer who owns and operates Sims Sheep Company, went first. Sims explained he runs both sheep and cattle on his historic operation, headquartered in Evanston.

There, Sims has implemented numerous conservation projects on his ranch including pipeline water development and sagebrush manipulation.

“When I look at these projects, I want to make sure they are going to be economical and increase production. I would say a lot of them have been really good in this sense,” Sims said.

Amanda De Jong of Pivot Bio represented the farming and fertilizer sectors during the discussion.

“It doesn’t matter what state one is from, nitrogen is the most critical crop input, but also the most unpredictable in how it lives in our ecosystem,” she stated. “It is a highly volatile molecule – it moves and it leaches – and in all of our different roles, we are looking at how to slow this down.”

De Jong explained Pivot Bio has been on the commercial market since 2018, with a mission to pro-

duce better nitrogen that is always available and will stay with the plant. Today, Pivot Bio has operations from coast to coast – California to Massachusetts and everywhere in between.

“Essentially, what we manufacture is microbes, and those microbes adhere to the plant root to feed the crop nitrogen,” she said.

“This is important when thinking about conservation and sustainability because the fact of the matter is, unlike crop protection or genetics, we haven’t seen a lot of evolution in this space in the last 80 years.”

This is why Pivot Bio has made it their mission to provide a more sustainable source of nitrogen to further crop productivity, De Jong noted.

Bridging the gap across all sectors

Leah Ford of NatureWorks explained the textile manufacturing segment of the industry has also taken steps to bridge the gap between conservation and productivity.

“NatureWorks is the first commercial-scale and the largest marketer of poly lactic acid, which we call Ingeo,” she noted. “Poly lactic acid is made when dextrose from field corn is used to make lactic acid, which we are able to use to create a polymer similar to polyester fiber.”

Ford noted NatureWorks started in 1989 as a research project through Carghill, which looked at alternative uses for dextrose.

“They figured out how to manufacture it economically so it could compete with all types of plastic on the market,” she said. “What has resulted is a bio-based material made

RAMS continued from page 1

To round out the white-faced bucks, Roger and Bonnie Ballou purchased the top-selling Columbia yearling, lot 94, for $1,100. This ram was consigned by Russell and Kathy Bell.

John Brown purchased the high-selling Columbia ram lambs – lots 98A, 98B, 99A, 99B and 99C – for $400 per head. These lambs were consigned by Roath Columbias.

The top-selling Rambouillet/Columbia cross yearling was lot 101, consigned by Rickwood Sheep Farm. This ram brought $400 and was purchased by Roger and Bonnie Ballou.

Top-selling black-faced rams

Lot 107A, a Suffolk/ Hampshire cross yearling, started the blackfaced division off strong, bringing $1,600. This ram was consigned by J and A Phillips and sold to Nine Mile Sheep Company.

from annually renewable resources with a very low carbon footprint compared to other plastics. It is recyclable, compostable and very safe, and we have seen a lot of interest in it.”

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Under Secretary Robert Bonnie noted government agencies, particularly those housed under USDA, are also working toward a more sustainable future.

“Wyoming is central to one of the most important conservation efforts we are working on – the Greater sage grouse initiative, which is a voluntary, incentive-based approach to getting people like Shaun to continue managing their lands in a way which will benefit sage grouse and other species of wildlife,” he said.

Regardless of what kind of working lands conservation project they are implementing – from climate change, wildlife, water quality and/or water quantity – Bonnie shared it is critical these programs are voluntary and producers are rewarded for utilizing them.

“So, everything we are doing at USDA is focused on this approach,” he stated. “We are also bolstering efforts in Wyoming to protect big game migration corridors and recognizing, in order to do this, we need to keep ranchers ranching, farmers farming and folks who use forest lands managing the forests.”

He noted USDA, in partnership with Climate Smart Commodities, has made nearly 100 agreements with producers to combat the climate crisis and committed almost $3.1 billion projects around the country.

“We are looking at

how to get more producers involved and to reward them for their efforts, while creating new markets,” he explained. “Also, at the end of this month, we will commit about $850 million in additional research to conservation programs, so we will need to build partnerships with states. We have a lot going on at USDA.”

Keeping up with a growing market, measuring success

Although operations across all sectors of the U.S. ag industry have implemented innovative strategies in their pursuit of sustainability, Ford noted one challenge NatureWorks is facing is their ability to keep up with the evergrowing market.

“The marketplace is growing rapidly,” she stated. “For example, we have capacity to manufacture about 330 million pounds of poly lactic acid per year, but compared to the greater plastic industry,

“When I look at these projects, I want to make sure they are going to be economical and increase production. I would say a lot of them have been really good in this sense.” – Shaun Sims, Sims Sheep Company

bio-based materials barely make up two percent of the market share.”

“Downstream markets are looking for sustainability – consumers want to be able to make the most sustainable choice – so there is a lot of work to put in to reach 300 million metric tons from a share of two percent,” she continued.

“This is a very small percent, but it means the opportunities are large,” Ford concluded.

Despite these challenges, De Jong explained it is important to be proud of the progress the industry has made so far, even if this means measuring success a little differently than most are used to.

“Yield is so important because productivity is how our operations remain in business. But for the past 80 years, we have only ever measured success by our yields,” she said.

“We all know there is more to the onion than the calories we are eating. We care so much about the air we breathe and the water we drink. As producers we want to leave the land in better shape than when we inherited it, so maybe sustainability can be another measure of our success,” she added.

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

The high-selling Suffolk/Hampshire cross lambs were lot 116A and 116B. Consigned by Yetter Show Sheep, these lambs were bought by Simms Sheep Company for $1,600 per head.

Lot 120, which included two head of Suffolk yearlings, was the top seller in the division. These rams were consigned by Dry Sandy Sheep Company and sold to Chris Schmeltzer for $1,900 per head.

Consigned by Maneotis Ranch and purchased by TJ Livestock for $700, lot 128A was the top-selling Suffolk lamb.

TJ Livestock also purchased lot 130A, the high-selling Hampshire yearling consigned by Smith Sheep and Stuff, for $1,100.

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

Getting Started in Ag: Adding Value To Livestock

Today, many popular trends in the livestock business focus on capturing more value for the producer. Options such as farm to table, producer-owned processing and other direct marketing options are gaining momentum for a variety of reasons, mainly to help producers increase the bottom line for their livestock enterprises.

For someone new to the business, these options are something to consider; however, they are often unaffordable and present a challenge for livestock producers with limited resources. For example, an operator does not need to be a part-owner of a slaughter plant to net more profit on their livestock. There are many simple and cost-effective options available that can be relatively easy to implement, and add real value to your livestock sales. Regardless of the approach, the goal should be to add value through an increase in the return on investment.

Most of the suggestions listed in this article pertain to cattle; however, many can be applied to other types of livestock enterprises as well. Every livestock operation is unique, but chances are that at least one of these value-added approaches may be a good fit for your business.

Shoot for Uniformity

Livestock buyers, especially cattle buyers, prefer animal lots (often regardless of head counts) to be uniform in size, color, body conditioning and other characteristics. In a commercial livestock setting, typically the more individualized the livestock for sale are, the lower the price they will bring compared to a uniform lot.

Achieving uniformity is challenging and does not happen overnight. It takes

years of careful selection and breeding to attain the long-term goal of developing better uniformity, but the efforts can yield substantial returns when it comes to sale time.

Vaccine and Preconditioning Programs

Following a comprehensive vaccination program is one of the simplest and most cost-effective strategies a producer can implement. Preconditioning is defined as giving one or more doses of vaccine before, at and after weaning. In addition to making your livestock more attractive to buyers and increasing the overall health and performance of your livestock, vaccine programs can be viewed as a form of risk management. By vaccinating your livestock, you reduce your risk of substantial expenses associated with a major disease outbreak.

Many livestock marketers, such as sale barns, video and online auctions, have a preferred list of vaccinations and timing schedule that buyers look for. Preconditioning, from a cattle producer’s perspective, is giving vaccinations before

weaning as a way for the calf to gain an increased immune response to better deal with the increased stress associated with weaning.

Data suggests that buyers are willing to pay a premium for livestock they know are vaccinated. Ken Odde at Kansas State University looked at sale data on 393,600 head for Superior Livestock from 2020, showing a difference of up to $9.88/cwt or $57.30/head total for cattle that were preconditioned and weaned at 60 days versus cattle that were vaccinated at branding and sold off the cow (Drovers Magazine, December 3, 2020). Work with a veterinarian to develop a vaccine program that fits your operation and marketing plan.

Weaning and Backgrounding

After implementing a preconditioning program, another area to consider is the weaning program. Weaning time can be stressful for any livestock. One of the best ways to minimize stress on animals is to wean at home, rather than by transporting, sometimes long distances, to a remote

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.

Photo by J.P. Hewlett

feeding location. Weaning at home can also add considerable value.

The research referenced above shows cattle that were at a minimum weaned before sale were worth $8.19/cwt or $47 per head more than cattle sold straight off the cow. Livestock that have been weaned even a short time (30-45 days) are almost always worth more at sale time.

Backgrounding refers to weaning and feeding to a set weight. This can be a way to market farm-raised feed through livestock in the form of weight gain. The desired weight varies depending on individual operations and their resources. This option is more time consuming and may require additional equipment to process, handle and feed.

Certification Programs

This type of value-added approach involves using a third party to verify certain handling and other aspects of the livestock to add value. These programs vary in the amount of documentation required. However, for a home-raised livestock operation, these programs can provide substantial premiums for minimal documentation, or for practices you may have already implemented.

For example, a cow-calf producer who sells only home-raised calves that do not leave the farm and who keeps records on an individual cow/calf basis can easily qualify for age and source verification. Furthermore, if this same producer does not administer any growth hormones and

is willing to provide documentation, the nonhormone treated cattle (NHTC) program would be another source of value-added revenue.

Examples of third-party certification programs for cattle:

• Beef Quality Assurance Program (BQA)

• Non-Hormone Treated Cattle (NHTC)

• Certified All Natural

• Age and Source Verified

• Certified Organic

• Breed Specific, e.g. Certified Angus Beef

Retained Ownership

Retained ownership generally refers to a strategy in which the livestock are owned by the same individual from birth through slaughter. This approach has the potential for capturing substantial additional value. However, it involves taking on substantially greater risk as well. Capital requirements are high, depending on the length of time the livestock remain on feed. This strategy also eliminates options to sell earlier when commitments to feed all the way to slaughter have already been made. More extensive risk management planning and a good relationship with a banker are often required to make this strategy profitable.

Photo by J.P. Hewlett

Flickr/Creative Commons:

Sept. 16-Oct. 31 Green Acres Corn Maze, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, Casper. For more information, visit greenacrescornmaze.net or call 307-797-8796.

Sept. 21 Mark Lee Gardener Book Presentation, 7 p.m., Rockpile Museum, Gillette. For more information, visit rockpilemuseum.com or call 307-682-5723.

Sept. 23 Making Fort Bonneville Presentation, 1 p.m., National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, Casper. For more information, visit blm.gov/learn/interpretivecenters/national-historic-trails-interpretive-center or call 307-261-7700.

Sept. 26 Bureau of Land Management Public Meeting, 3-6 p.m., Big Piney and Marbleton Town Hall, Big Piney. For more information, contact Kimberlee Foster, field manager at the Rock Springs Field Office, at 307-352-0201.

Sept. 27 Bureau of Land Management Public Meeting, 3-6 p.m., Rock Springs Field Office, Rock Springs. For more information, contact Kimberlee Foster, field manager at the Rock Springs Field Office, at 307-352-0201.

Sept. 30 Timber Dan Fall Toy Show and Sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., First National Bank Exhibition Building, Larimer County Fairgrounds, Loveland, Colo. For more information, visit lovelandlionsclubs.org/sites/ToyShow.htm

Oct. 2-4 Montana State University Extension Pesticide Education Program, Northwest Montana. For more information, visit montana.edu/extension/pesticides/ events/2023pmt.html or call 406-994-5067.

Oct. 4-8 Annual Trailing of the Sheep Festival, Ketchum, Idaho. For more information, visit trailingofthesheep.org

Oct. 13-14 32nd Annual Old West Days and Nebraska Cowboy Poetry Gathering, Valentine, Neb. For more information and tickets, visit oldwestdays.net or call 1-833-693-7638.

Oct. 16-19 International Dairy Federation 2023 World Dairy Summit, Chicago, Ill. For more information, visit idfa.org

Oct. 17-18 First Annual Wyoming Water Quality Conference, University of Wyoming Conference Center, Laramie. For more information or to register, visit deq. wyoming.gov/water-quality/water-quality-conference

Oct. 19 Nebraska Extension Crop Insurance Workshop, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Heartland Events Center, Grand Island, Neb. For more information or to register, visit cropinsure.unl.edu or call 402-472-0366.

Oct. 19-20 American Hereford Association Annual Meeting, Kansas City, Mo. For more information, visit hereford.org

Nov. 2 Nebraska Ranch Practicum, Whitman, Neb. For more information or to register, visit nebraskaranchpracticum.unl.edu, e-mail Troy Walz at troy.walz@unl. edu or call 308-872-6831.

Nov. 2-4 West Central States Wool Growers Convention, Boise, Idaho. For more information, visit sheepusa.org

Nov. 3-6 2023 Angus Convention, Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel, Orlando, Fla. For more information or to register, visit angusconvention.com

Nov. 4 16th Annual Tribute to the Great American Cowboy PRCA Rodeo, 7 p.m., Central Wyoming Fairgrounds, Casper. For more information or to buy tickets, visit greatamericancowboyrodeo.com

Nov. 8-9 Inaugural Wyoming Association of Irrigation Districts Annual Meeting, Ramkota Hotel, Casper. For more information, e-mail waid.wyoming@gmail. com or call 307-439-3597.

Nov. 9-10 30th Annual Wyoming Women in Ag Symposium and Diversity Tour, Worland. For more information, visit wywomeninag.org

Big horn Basin

Worland, WY

Visit Cattle USA for broadcasting and online bidding – auctions.cattleusa.com

21 –

Sheep

25 – Bawl of the Fall Feeder & Yearling Special

• Customer Appreciation Day

Sept. 28 – All Class Cattle

Oct. 5 – All Class Cattle

Monday, Oct. 9 – Bawl of the Fall Feeder Special

Oct. 12 – All Class Cattle

Consignments

September 21 – All Class Cattle, Sheep & Goat

Melissa Hefenieder – 17 WF, SF lambs, 90-110#. 1 SF yearling ewe.

Hamilton Ranch – 10 Hampshire breeding bucks, purebred, ready for breeding.

Dan Bates – 1 6-YO Jersey milk cow, bred for April/May, halter broke and gentle, can hand milk.

September 25 – Bawl of the Fall • Feeder & Yearling Special

Bonita Ranch – 160 mixed black, 500-600#, complete vacc at branding, high elevation.

Kenny & Karl Price – 150 mixed black calves, 400-450#, all natural.

Brewster Ranch – 120 black/BWF steers, 525-575#, complete vacc at branding, high elevation, all natural.

Bud & Kathy Arnold – 100 mixed black, 550-650#, complete vacc at branding, fancy calves.

Sept. 17 21st Annual Sugar Bars Legacy Sale, Sheridan County Fairgrounds, Sheridan, 406-812-0084, sugarbarslegacy.com

Sept. 18 Northern Livestock Video Auction Fall Premier, 866-616-5035, northernlivestockvideo.com

Oct. 6-7 National Ram and Ewe Sale, Heber, Utah, nationalramsale.com

Oct. 7 Full House Horse Sale Big Horn Edition, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307-746-5690, 307-684-0789, fullhousehorsesale.com

Oct. 13-15 26th Annual Fall Colt & Yearling Catalog Sale & Futurity, Farmers and Ranchers Livestock Commission Co., Salina, Kan., 785-826-7884, 785-4932901, 785-825-0211

Oct. 21 Basin Angus Ranch A Lasting Legacy Elite Female Sale, Billings Livestock Commission, Billings, Mont., 406-350-0350, 406-350-2332, 406-366-3612, basinangus.com

Oct. 25 Micheli Ranch Bull Sale, at the ranch, Ft. Bridger, 307-252-0437, 307-7477786, 307-747-3897, 307-780-8232, micheliranch.com

Nov. 5 Triangle J Ranch Harvest Select Female Sale, at the ranch, Miller, Neb., 308-457-2505, 308-627-5085, trianglejranch.com

Nov. 6 Pharo Cattle Company Sale, Burlington, Colo., 800-311-0995, pharocattle.com

Nov. 13 Ludvigson Stock Farms Elite Bred Angus Females Sell, Billings, Mont., 406-601-9192, ludvigsonstockfarms.com

Nov. 18 Redland Angus Annual Production Sale, Buffalo Livestock Auction, Buffalo, 307-250-1548, redlandangus.com

Nov. 18 Pharo Cattle Company Sale, Three Forks, Mont., 800-311-0995, pharocattle.com

Nov. 21 Paint Rock Angus Annual Fall Sale, at the ranch, Hyattville, 307-469-2206, 307-271-2000, 307-272-5332, 307-578-7392, paintrockangus.com

Nov. 28 Ward Livestock Fifth Annual Red White & Blue Bull Sale, at the ranch, Laramie, 307-399-9863

Dec. 2 T-Heart Ranch High Altitude Female Sale, at the ranch, LaGarita, Colo., 719-850-3082, 719-850-3083, t-heartranch.com

Dec. 4 Pharo Cattle Company Sale, Valentine, Neb., 800-311-0995, pharocattle.com

Dec. 5 ZumBrunnen Angus Annual Bull & Female Production Sale, at the ranch, Lusk, 307-216-0198, 307-334-2265, zbangus.com

Dec. 5 Western Video Market, Silver Legacy, Reno, Nev., 530-347-3793, wvmcattle.com

Dec. 8 Bowman Cattle Ranch-Ready Rugged 2-Year-Old Bull Sale, Sugar Valley Stockyards, Gering, Neb., 307-287-6503, 307-575-4992, bowmancattle.com

Dec. 12 Rock Lake Angus Production Sale, at the ranch, Wheatland, 307-331-1175, 406-600-7514, rocklakeangus.com

Jan. 13 Rafter T Angus Annual Bull Sale, Buffalo Livestock Marketing, Buffalo, 307736-2415, 307-299-4569, raftertangus.com

Jan. 16 Ken Haas Angus 43rd Annual Right Combination Bull Sale, at the ranch, LaGrange, 307-834-2356, kenhaasangus.com

Jan. 20 Redland Angus Annual Range Calved-Range Raised Age Advantaged Calving Ease Production Sale, Buffalo Livestock Auction, Buffalo, 307-2501548, redlandangus.com

POSTCARD from the Past

Compiled by Dick Perue rrichardperue@gmail.com

Review of Game Laws

From 1898

Author’s note: As I head to the mountains for a month of hunting, fishing, camping and enjoying fall colors, I usually review game laws to see what changes have been made. While doing some research on when we first had rules governing game and fish in Wyoming, I discovered the following directive from 1898.

To all of those who hunt and fish our great state – enjoy, stay safe and obey the law. 

Extract from Wyoming game laws – in force July 1, 1898

The male animals only of deer, elk, moose, mountain sheep, mountain goat or antelope may be killed for food purposes during the months of September, October and November of each year.

transportation any carcass, or part of carcass, except mounted heads or stuffed birds or animals killed, in accordance with law, may be transported to any point within or without the state.

Partridges, pheasant, prairie chicken, prairie hen or grouse may be shot from Aug. 15 to Dec. 1 of each year. Sage chicken may be shot from July 15 to Oct. 1. Wild duck, brant, geese and swan may be shot from Sept. 1 to May 1.

Speckled trout, landlocked salmon, grayling or California trout can be caught with fishing tackle only consisting of a rod or pole, line and hook during

the months of May, June, July, August and September.

It is unlawful to seine, trap or snare any fish or to use any explosive substance or poison in any of the waters of this state for the purpose of securing or killing fish.

Any person or persons having in their possession and offering for sale, or causing to be offered for sale, any game, game fish or game fowl killed within the boundaries of the state of Wyoming shall be fined not to exceed $100.

Non-residents of Wyoming may hunt the male animals mentioned above during the months of September, October and November, upon procuring a license from a Justice of the Peace, for which a fee of $20 is charged.

As of September 2023, there is page after page of game regulations which can only be found online and is a real burden for seasoned, old hunters trying to obey the law while still enjoying the pursuit of their next meal.

Dwight Lyman – 78 mixed black, 450-550#, shots at branding, high elevation.

Jediah Risch – 40 mixed black, 500-600#, complete vacc at branding, fancy calves.

Clayton Galloway – 38 spayed yearling heifers, black and red, 750-800#, implanted, home raised.

Rick Redd & Neil Christofferson – 35 mixed red, 450-550#.

Brost & Martin – 15 black steers, 475-525#. 5 black and red heifers, 475-525#. Two rounds of shots, poured, weaned Sept. 1, all natural.

LB Farms – 13 black steers, 650#, two rounds of shots, poured.

Star Whitt – 30 mixed SimX, 475-525#, shots at branding.

Luke Foss – 60 mixed black, 475-525#, shots at branding, high-quality calves.

Mike Goton – 30 mixed black, 550-600#, complete vacc at branding.

October 9 – Bawl of the Fall • Feeder Cattle

Mark Hoyt – 110 black steers, 500-550#, shots at branding, fancy, home raised.

Layne Weber – 40 mixed black calves, 550-600#, complete vacc at branding, steers knife cut, Paint Rock and SO bulls. Advertisement in the April 23, 1896 issue of

Danny Vigil • Owner and Northern Livestock Represenative Layne Weber

Field

& Auctioneer

(307) 331-2222

It is unlawful to trap any of the above-named animals or to use dogs for the purpose of running or coursing them. It is unlawful to obtain by barter or buy any green, tanned or un-tanned hides or horns of any of the animals mentioned above, and it is unlawful for any railway, stage or express company to receive for

MARKETS

Compiled from USDA Market News Service information and other sources

FOR THE WEEK ENDING SEPTEMBER 15, 2023

FOR THE WEEK ENDING May 24, 2019

WEEKLY

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

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

National Sheep Summary

As of September 8, 2023

Compared to last week traditional slaughter lambs steady to 10.00 lower, others mostly steady to 20.00 higher. Slaughter ewes steady to 15.00 higher. Feeder lambs steady to 15.00 lower with the decline on lambs over 60 lbs. At San Angelo, TX 4,821 head sold. Equity Cooperative Auction sold 335 slaughter lambs in North Dakota. In direct trading slaughter ewes and feeder lambs not tested. 2,921 lamb carcasses traded with no trend due to confidentiality. All sheep sold per hundred weight (CWT) unless specified.

144.00/cwt..

Ft. Collins: no test.

South Dakota: ewe lambs 80-90 lbs 233.00-238.00/cwt; middle age 175.00/head..

Billings: no test.

Sheep and lambs slaughter under federal inspection for the week to date totaled 28,000 compared with 33,000 last week and 31,000 last year.

Source: USDA AMS Market News, San Angelo, Texas

National Wool Review

As of September 8, 2023

Domestic wool trading had no confirmed trades reported this week. Prices reflect trades FOB warehouse in original bag or square pack, bellies out, some graded, and 76 mm or longer. No allowance made for coring, freight, or handling fees at the warehouse level to reflect net grower prices. Wools shorter than 75 mm typically discounted .10-.20 clean. Classed and skirted wools usually trade at a .10-.20 premium to original bag prices.

5 AREA WEEKLY WEIGHTED CATTLE PRICE

As

September 8, 2023

Compared to last week: Alfalfa hay steady to weak. Moderate demand for alfalfa currently as producers are showing resistance to asking prices. CRP haying has put some pressure on the overall hay market, yet supplies of high testing alfalfa is limited this year as the drought and heat curtailed growth. Very hot weather over the weekend as temps were on either side of 100 degrees, gave way to more seasonal weather by midweek. Corn silage harvest is finishing up, soybeans starting to turn, and corn continues to dry down rather quickly.

Alfalfa - Good Large Square 3x4 250

Alfalfa - Fair/Good Large Round 200

Alfalfa - Fair Large Square 3x5 200

Alfalfa Pellets 17%

58.00-86.00, hair 66.00-86.00; Utility and Good 1-3 (medium

flesh) 74.00-90.00, hair 70.00-90.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) 54.00-

64.00, hair 64.00-80.00; Cull and Utility 1-2 (very thin) 50.00, hair 54.00-55.00; Cull 1 30.00-48.00.

Ft. Collins: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 100.00-160.00; Good 2-3 (fleshy) 60.00-95.00; Utility 1-2 (thin) no test; Cull 1 no test South Dakota: Good 3-4 (very fleshy) 95.00-105.00; Good

Suncured 330

Alfalfa/Grass Mix - Good Large Round 185

Grass - Good Large Round 180-185

Millet - Good Large Round 150

Straw (Wheat) Large Square 160 Round 160

Wheat Small Square 6/bale

Source: USDA Livestock, Poultry & Grain Market News, Worthing, SD

Montana Hay Summary

As of September 8, 2023

Compared to last week: Hay prices traded generally steady. Demand for hay remains light for local hay and mostly moderate for hay to ship out of the state. Most of the hay in squares was purchased by out of state buyers again this week. Several Canadian buyers purchased hay to ship north this week. Most of these buyers were purchasing hay in the northern half of the state due to freight costs, but have showed interest in buying hay in central Montana if prices are agreeable. Canadian buyers have mostly been interested in higher quality hay, but are willing to take poorer quality blending hay, at the right price level. Market activity continues to improve as more participation and sales seem to occur each week. Producers continue to keep

asking prices $180-200 a ton for green clean hay in squares and sales are occurring in that price range. Hay in rounds remains a large discount to hay in squares as heavy supplies continue to be seen. Late season rains have made it difficult to finish putting up hay for the season. Some central Montana hay producers are still trying to wrap up second cutting with some trying to start on 3rd however a pattern of daily showers is making that task difficult. Demand for straw is moderate. No new sales were seen this week, however asking prices remain around 60.00-65.00 per ton. According to the drought monitor 39.59% of the state is in Moderate drought or worse, up 0.80% from last week. 26.29% of the state is in an Severe drought or worse, unchanged from last week. 9.91% of the state is in Extreme drought or worse, up 1% from last week. 0% of the state is in Exceptional drought, unchanged from last week.

The latest markets data can be found by visiting USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service at https://www.ams.usda.gov/market-news

Financial Services

ALL TYPES OF EQUIPMENT AND VEHICLE FINANCING. Great service!! Great rates!! Call Chuck Brown at C.H. Brown Co., WY LLC, 307-3223232 (office), 307-331-0010 (cell) or e-mail chuckbrown@ wyoming.com 9/16

Notice Events

Help Wanted Help Wanted

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 TFN

THE 32ND ANNUAL OLD WEST DAYS AND NEBRAKSA

COWBOY POETRY GATHERING TAKES PLACE IN VALENTINE, NE ON OCT. 13 AND 14: Free Western trade show and many free performances at Valentine High School. Tickets available for the following shows ($15 each). Fri., 7:30 p.m.: Don Schauda, Secret Entertainment, Caitlyn Taussig. Sat. 1:30 p.m.: Don Schauda, Ken Cook, Paul Larson. Sat., 7:30 p.m.: Caitlyn Taussig, Ken Cook and The Campfire Concerto. Reserve tickets online at www.oldwestdays.net or call 1-833693-7638 9/16

HUNTING CAMP COOK WANTED SEPT. 20 TO NOV. ER 15: Modern facilities, days on interspersed with days off between hunting groups. Included duties are hosting, cooking, cleaning, washing bedding etc., to keep pleasant environment for hunters. Located one hour north of Casper, WY. References required. $3,000/ month. Call 307-437-9219 or 307262-4503 9/23

Events

TIMBER DAN TOY SHOW & SALE, LOVELAND, CO SEPT. 30, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The Loveland Lions Club fall Timber Dan Toy Show and Sale of vintage, antique and collectible toys will be held Sat., Sept. 30, at the First National Bank Exhibition Building, Larimer County Fairgrounds (The Ranch, 5280 Arena Circle, Loveland, CO). 200+ tables and over 70 dealers from 9 different states. Admission $5. Early entry before public from 7-9 a.m., $10. For more information contact Sherlyn Sampson, 970-663-9392, e-mail sks80538@gmail.com or visit website at www.lovelandlionsclubs.org/sites/ToyShow.htm or Facebook at Loveland Lions Clubs/events

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

WEAVE Got Your Back!

DEVILS TOWER FOREST

PRODUCTS INC., A LUMBER MANUFACTURER IN HULETT, WY, IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FULL-TIME DAY PLANER, SAWMILL AND BOILER POSITIONS: Benefit package includes company paid medical and dental insurance (including dependents), life insurance, company-matching 401(k) retirement program, safety incentives, holiday pay and paid vacation. As an added incentive you will receive a $500 “signing bonus” after 180 days, attendance and safety conditions apply to sign on bonus. Mandatory employment and random drug testing is conducted. DOE. Contact Joe Ortner at 307467-5252 you can also send your application (wwww.neimanenterprises.com) with resume to Joe.Ortner@devilstowerfp. com E.O.E 9/23

HELP WANTED: Five years plus cattle handling experience. All aspects of ranch operations: Irrigation, haying, feeding, cattle stewardship and horseback skills. Housing, benefits and salary. Only serious, committed candidates should apply. Eastern Oregon cow/calf operation. Send resumes to lisa.steele@pvranch. com 9/23

FORTRESS DEVELOPMENT SOLUTIONS NOW HIRING FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

Brands

WYOMING BRAND FOR SALE: Quarter circle reverse four, LSC, LSH. Renewal fee paid to December 2032. Irons are included, $4,000. Call 307-674-9092 10/7

WYOMING BRAND FOR SALE: LHC, dues paid to 2033, no irons, $2,500. Call 307-7465557 9/16

If interested, apply at www.weaveind.com or call 406-245-8833

FULL-TIME POSITION AVAILABLE ON A WELL-ESTABLISHED FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED COW/CALF OPERATION IN THE SOUTHERN BIG HORNS OF WYOMING: Duties include calving, feeding, care and management of livestock, irrigating, operating haying equipment, fencing and general ranch duties. Housing provided. Competitive wage. Must have experience and references. Call/text Ann, 307431-0594 9/16

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 307-921-0574. Hot Springs County Weed & Pest is an EOE 9/16

CR 60 1/2, Greeley, CO 80631, 970353-6666, griselda.islas@fortressds.com, www.fortressds. com 9/16

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!! 10/7

REGISTERED WYOMING BRAND: LRC,

CAUCASIAN SHEPHERD

PUPS FOR SALE: One male and 1 female. Ready to go. Protect your family, property, livestock with this ancient, herding, guard dog!! Call 406210-4807 9/23

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 605-999-7149, click the "Our Labs" tab on the website for pictures, www.southdakotayellowlabs. com. WILL DISCOUNT!! 9/23

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 now. Have been raising these fantastic LGD for 48 years. For more information, call 406-207-7674 9/23

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A REALLY NICE SET OF BLACK BRED HEIFERS, WE HAVE SOME FOR YOU!! These girls have spent the summer on good, high elevation grass in Daniel, WY. They are bred to Vermillion heifer bulls for 60 days to start calving the 20th of March. At the end of September they will be ultrasound tested in 30 day cycles, receive vaccinations and bled so they are guaranteed to be brucellosis free. Pick up in Riverton, WY in November. $2,800/head. 400 available. Feeding options available. Call 307-709-2375 with any questions. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 9/30

BLACK CALVES FOR SALE:

1,000 head of 400 weight black steers and heifers. These calves spent the summer in Cora, WY. They have had all of their shots at branding: Enforce 3, One Shot, Vision 7 with Somnus, Multilin 90 and poured with Dectomax. They will be weaned the end of September and will get all of these shots again along with a shot of Draxin. Pick up in Riverton, WY in November. Feeding options available. Call 307-709-2375 with any questions. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 9/30

Angus Angus Hay & Feed

BULLS FOR SALE

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

Clay Creek Angus • 307-762-3541

200 BLACK ANGUS BRED

HEIFERS: South Dakota origin, OCVD, exposed to proven LBW Black Angus bulls for 45 days. Start calving Feb. 1, 2024. References available. Call 785-3941955 (cell), 785-394-2374 (home) or 785-731-5067 9/23

300 BRED BLACK ANGUS 3-TO 4-YEAR-OLDS: $3,000/head. Ready to ship in November from Riverton, WY. Guaranteed bred at shipping. These girls have spent the summer on good, high elevation grass in Cora, WY raising a great set of calves. In October the calves will be weaned and the cows will be ultrasound tested, receive vaccinations and bled so they are guaranteed to be brucellosis free. Bred to Black Angus bulls for 60 days to start calving the 20th of March. Feeding options available. Call 307-709-2375 with any questions. To view photos, go to www.wylr.net in the classifieds 9/30

HIGH-QUALITY, YEARLING

TARGHEE RAMS FOR SALE:

High-quality wool, high carcass merit. Not raised in a corral. Will thrive on grass. For more information, contact JD, 307247-2296 or Karen, 307-9391393 9/30

ALFALFA/OAT HAY FOR SALE: No rain. $150/ton, Byron, WY. Call 307-631-4104 9/16

HAY FOR SALE: 2023 alfalfa, alfalfa/grass mix, oat/pea mix, intermediate grass and CRP. 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, 701-6908116, send a text if no answer or keep trying 9/30

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) 9/30

1,000 LARGE ROUND

GRASS BALES: No rain, $130/ton. Call Pete Bertolino at Roberts, MT, 406-4251351 9/30

2023 CUTTING HAY CROP: Put up dry in large round bales, several tons available. $180/ ton, Bar Cross Ranch. Call Katie, 307-699-7375, please leave message 9/30

FIRST, SECOND AND THIRD

CUTTING ALFALFA HAY: No rain, big, heavy net-wrapped round bales. Delivery available. Call 605-848-1563 9/16

BARLEY STRAW: Small bales or big round bales. ALSO, horse hay, small bales or big rounds. West Billings, MT. Call 406-656-6896 9/30

Equipment

Cannonball

Cannonball Bale Beds

FOR SALE: 11-year-old, light sorrel Belgian stallion. Sire is Final CD Mike and Dam’s sire is Belle Planes Rocky. Worked on farm, well broke. Non-carrier of JEB.

$9,000. Call Samuel Hershberger, 307-271-1881 9/23

FOR SALE: PEPPYDOCS SHINEY NIC. Four-year-old registered palomino Quarter Horse mare, 14 HH, 90 days of professional training with reined cow horse trainer. Still green and needs work, stands for baths and farrier. $5,500 OBO. Call for complete details, 970616-2311 9/16

TUCKER OLD WEST TRAIL

SADDLE: 17.5 in seat size. Wool contoured saddle pad. Bridle, bit, reins, breast strap. Western skirt, wide tree, brown. KING RANCH wooden saddle stand. Never been used, mint condition. ALSO, 1 very old hand carved yoke for oxen and 1 very old hand carved yoke for cattle, acquired in Spain. Cody, WY. For more information, call 307-272-8520 9/23

Semen

Saddles & Tack

ARE YOU IN NEED OF A NEW HERDER CAMP OR A PERSONAL RANGE CAMP FOR YOUR FAMILY? Contact us at Western Range Camps and see what we can build for you. We specialize in quality, handcrafted camps built to your specifications. Contact us today to design the camp just right for you. Western Range Camps, 435-462-5300, heidi@ wrcamps.com, 1145 S. Blackhawk Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, UT 84647 9/16

PUREBRED TARGHEE BUCKS:

Reputation genetics, fertility tested, B. ovis negative. $350/head. Call 307-254-5115 10/7

FINE WOOL TARGHEE YEAR-

LING 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 135150 lbs., fine wool, open faced, range raised and growthy, born May 2022. For more information, call 605-866-4828 (home) or 605892-5872 (cell), if no answer leave message 9/30

SUFFOLK AND SUFFOLK/ HAMPSHIRE CROSS RANGE RAMS: Yearling rams available. B. ovis and scrapie free. Vet checked and semen tested. Ready to work, $600/head. Raised in eastern Montana for nearly 30 years. Delivery options. Call or text Gibbs Range Rams, Pat, 406-9772852, Jordan, MT 9/30

YEARLING RAMS FOR SALE. Call Russell Bell at 307-680-4950 9/16

Hay & Feed

HAY FOR SALE: Premium quality, high elevation grass hay, loaded with Timothy red top, later orchard grass and meadow brome. 1,000 3x3x8 bales weighing over 800 lbs. each. No rain, $90/bale. Murray Ranch, Robertson, WY. Call 307-780-6862 or 307-7806519 10/7

ROUND BALED GRASS HAY FOR SALE: Cody, WY area, 1,000 lb. net-wrapped bales, $70/bale. Call, don’t text, Anthony at 307-254-2645 9/23

WANTED!!! High Valley Feed Mill, Antonito, CO is looking for 30 SEMI LOADS OF WHOLE CORN for 2024. Will pickup if needed. Call 719843-0182 9/30

PREMIUM LARGE NETWRAPPED ROUND BALES NORTH PARK TIMOTHY

HAY: Semi load quantities. Call 303-681-0646 or 970723-4431 9/30

VALLEY VIDEO HAY MARKETS, LLC: New crop alfalfa and oat hay available. Go to www.valleyvideohay.com or call Barry McRea, 308-2355386 9/23

CERTIFIED BARLEY STRAW FOR SALE, 3x4 bales. Cody, WY. Call 307-899-1952 TFN 2023 ALFALFA AND ALFALFA/GRASS MIX HAY, 3x3 bales barn stored. Call 307-350-0350, Farson, WY 9/16

HAY BARLEY FOR SALE: Three-way beardless barley, oats and peas, round bales, about 1,370 lbs. each, $150/ ton. ALSO, alfalfa hay, round bales, $180/ton. Hardin, MT. Call 406-665-7521 9/16

installing dealer.

WINTERING COWS IN FOR-

SYTH, MT: Developing heifers and backgrounding calves. Call Joe at 406-930-2645 9/30

CALF BACKGROUNDING, PASTURE AND feedlot options available. ALSO, seeking cows on shares from now until 2024. Hemingford, NE. Call Ian, 307421-9116 9/30

CUSTOM FEEDING, BACKGROUNDING, HEIFER DEVELOPMENT AND COW WINTERING, bedded pens. Billings, MT. Call Ryan at 406-696-0104 11/11

WELL STOCKED FOR ARENA, RANGE AND ABOVE THE PLAINS!! Great prices!! LARGE selection of SADDLES, headstalls, REINS and saddle pads. HONDO, BOULET, JUSTIN WORK BOOTS, TWISTED X (boots and shoes) and more!! WE CAN ship!! Shop Moss Saddles, Boots and Tack, 4648 West Yellowstone Highway, Casper, WY, 307-472-1872. Our family serving yours for 50 years!!

BARLEY STRAW: Certified weed-free small squares, $4/bale. ALSO, 5x6 round bales, $125/ ton. Greybull, WY area. Call 307762-3878 or 307-899-4714, leave message 10/7

HAY FOR SALE: Grass, grass/alfalfa mix and wheat hay. Cow and barn stored hay. Delivery available!! Call 307630-3046 10/7

ROUND BALE BARLEY STRAW AND OAT STRAW FOR SALE: Clean, dry and weed released. Long stem from conventional combine. $100/ton. FOB Powell, WY. Call 307-254-5115 or 406480-1248 10/7

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 307-850-9663 9/23

bale/dump beds.

Stocking and installing dealer. One day turn around!

One day turn around! In stock now!

Ainsworth Motors Ainsworth, NE 800-210-1681

www.ainsworthmotors.com

Ainsworth Motors Ainsworth, NE 800-210-1681

www.ainsworthmotors.com

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 9/23

FOR SALE BY SEALED BID: 2016 John Deere 15’ no-till drill. Bids must be received by Dec. 1 Call East Pennington Conservation District at 605-279-2451, ext. 3, PO Box 308, Wall, S.D. 57790 9/16

GRAHAM HOEME CHISEL

PLOW: 12’, 12 double spring shanks with cylinder and hoses, $3,000. 24-FOOT JOHN DEERE 1100 CULTIVATOR 3-point hookup, $3,750. INTERNATIONAL 5100 12’ single disc drill with small seed box, $4,000. Call 307-6749092 10/7

FOR

Rawhide large portable corral. WW hydraulic chute. Kramer 14 bale retriever. Call 605-842-5515 9/23

Sheep

Semen

Equipment Equipment

BOLINGER INC.

Roof Coating

TANK COATINGS ROOF COATINGS

307-684-5515, Buffalo, WY • www.bolingerinc.com

307-684-5515, Buffalo, WY • www.bolingerinc.net

Hydra-Bed Bale Beds 30 Series in Stock Reliable and Easy to operate Remote Options Available

** Also specializing in Bolinger flatbeds and custom trailers **

Livestock Equipment

Livestock Equipment

24' Free Standing Panels

5’ High 7 Rail

5’6” High 8 Rail

Delivery and Truckload Prices Available

Big Horn Livestock Services, Inc. 307-851-1634 • www.bighornlivestock.com

Hay Equipment

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 9/30

NEW HOLLAND 560 ROLL

BELT BALER, bale count 178 bales, in shop every night, $55,000 firm. 2001 MACDON 9250 SWATHER with 922 auger head, 1,771 hours on tractor, 1,384 hours on head, $45,000 firm. Area fields are being subdivided. Call 307674-9092 9/30

Solar Equipment

MORE ELECTRIC INCREASES? 5 KW SOLAR SYSTEM, ready to install yourself, expandable to 12 KW. Retail $27,000, selling for $15,000. All new!! Delivery options available, Lovell, WY. For more information, call 307-250-9663 9/23

Equipment Decals Fencing

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

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 970-3244580 2/10

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

The choice is simple.

Big Horn Truck and Equipment

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

PLACE YOUR AD HERE

Pipe

Advertising

Available for METAL, composition shingles or tar roofs. Long lasting and easy to apply. We also manufacture tank coatings for concrete, rock, steel, galvanized or mobile tanks.

Property for Sale

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

Property for Sale

3 TUBS RANCH: 3,316+ deeded acres in the treed canyons of 66 Mountain, LaGrange, WY. Lush meadows and mountain outcroppings. Deer, antelope, turkey and sage grouse. Run cows through 12 pastures, plus improvements. Excellent calving facilities. $5,100,000. Casey Essert, Land Broker; Empire Realty, Torrington, WY, 307532-1750 9/16

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 9/16

FIND IT IN THE ROUNDUP CLASSIFIEDS

Property for Sale

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 10/7

Call for our free catalog: Scan the QR Code with your mobile device to visit our website!

VIRDEN PERMA-BILT CO. 806-352-2761 www.virdenproducts.com

Wanted to Buy

WE WILL PICK UP SCRAP

IRON: On-site processing and removal. Receive $$$ top dollar $$$ For your junk!! Call for details: Pacific Steel and Recycling, 307-234-6006. Casper/ central Wyoming 9/16

Miscellaneous

TIRED OF HIGH HEAT BILLS?

BARREL STOVE BY SOTZ with unique cooktop, 50 gallon, takes a 6” stove pipe. In excellent condition, $400. Lovell, WY. For more information, call 307250-9663 9/23

Property for Sale

BLM announces winners of the 2023 Rangeland Stewardship and Innovation awards

On Sept. 7, during the Public Lands Council (PLC) Annual Meeting in Pendleton, Ore., the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced winners of the 2023 Rangeland Stewardship and Rangeland Innovation awards to recognize exemplary management and outstanding accomplishments in restoring and maintaining the health of public rangelands.

PLC and BLM have partnered for 18 years to honor BLM livestock grazing permittees and lessees who demonstrate exceptional management, collaboration and communication to restore, conserve or enhance public lands and recognize their accomplishments at a gathering of their peers.

“The health and resiliency of Western land-

scapes depend on federal lands ranchers more than anything else, and these awards recognize the excellence of these ranchers, who continually produce more and conserve more with less,” said PLC President Mark Roeber.

“PLC is proud to partner with the BLM to build up and promote the vital work these ranchers do to protect critical wildlife habitat, improve the health of native grass stands and reduce catastrophic wildfires,” he added. “I want to congratulate the award recipients for their tireless efforts in livestock production and conservation – this is not an easy job and these ranchers are always striving to get better at what they do.”

“The spirit of these awards honor generations of American ranchers who

have promoted healthy public lands for the benefit of current and future generations,” said BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning. “The addition this year of the Rangeland Innovation Award builds on this legacy by encouraging new grazing methods and technologies on public lands necessary for adapting to the challenges of a changing climate.”

Rangeland Stewardship awards

The Rangeland Stewardship awards recognize the demonstrated use of beneficial management practices to restore, protect or enhance rangeland resources while working with the BLM and other partners.

The 2023 Rangeland Stewardship Award – Permittee Category winner is Sam and Jeremy Larson

with Larson Angus Beef, LLC, nominated by the St. George Field Office of BLM Utah.

Larson Angus Beef was recognized for their grazing management and investments in watershed function, wildlife habitat, forage diversity and habitat resilience.

The 2023 Rangeland Stewardship Award – Collaborative Team Category winner is the Arizona Game Management Unit 18A Project led by the Arizona Game and Fish Department Region Three and nominated by the Kingman Field Office of BLM Arizona.

The group was recognized for their successful mechanical treatments in mule deer habitat which are anticipated to improve habitat across 250,000 acres of the state.

Rangeland Innovation awards

The Rangeland Innovation awards recognize outstanding examples of demonstrated creativity, willingness to embrace change and/or a modified perspective or approach to persistent rangeland stewardship challenges, in addition to the accomplishments meriting the Rangeland Stewardship Award.

The 2023 Rangeland Innovation Award – Permittee Category winner is Bill and Dana Milton with Milton Ranch, nominated by the Billings Field Office of BLM Montana/Dakotas.

Milton Ranch was recognized for their adaptive management across challenging range and weather conditions.

The 2023 Rangeland Innovation Award – Collaborative Team Category

winner is Range Monitoring Group (RMG), cofounded by BLM grazing allotment permittees Coulter Family Ranch, Joe C. King and Sons Ranch and Milton Ranch, nominated by the Billings, Lewistown and Miles City field offices of BLM Montana/ Dakotas.

RMG was recognized for their innovative pilot in Montana which utilizes rangeland monitoring to improve land management.

PLC represents public lands ranchers in Washington, D.C. Since 1968, PLC has worked with Congress and the federal land management agencies to maintain a stable business environment in which livestock producers can conserve the West and feed the nation and world. Visit publiclandscouncil.org to learn more.

Budd. “This is a nutsand-bolts meeting, and we will walk through where we need to be. For those who want to sign up for a task, we have 11 days to deliver.”

The next scheduled SGIT public meeting is set for Sept. 22 in Lander, and if need be, a final meeting is set for Sept. 29 in Cheyenne.

Delivery of the final draft to Gov. Mark Gordon will take place midOctober.

Budd continued by reviewing the SGIT EO history and the reason for the 2023 updates, including nine key groups.

A few topics covered during the SGIT meeting, where teams and action plans were assigned, include predator management, invasives, reclamation and restoration.

Budd noted, “Another EO issue is to add additional public members, and additional members should come from weed and pest and the mineral industry.”

“All SGIT plans have been built on sound science and will continue to be built on science, building cohesive plans,” he added. “SGIT has done remarkable and commendable work, and I encourage landowners, industry stakeholders and the general public to provide public comment.”

SGIT will review comments, make a recommendation and submit the updated sage grouse EO and core area map as part of Wyoming’s alternative to the BLM’s plan.

In November, Consultant and Owner of ABNOVA Ecological Solutions Michael Curran, PhD was appointed to gather data on land restoration.

During the meeting, Curran reported back his findings, noting he is creating a database from various white paper key items including soil type, weed invasion, seeding processes and where there are knowledge gaps and clusters in Wyoming.

Focus areas

Budd and the team addressed multiple focus items and invited team members to generate a deep dive and report back to the team during the Riverton meeting.

Individual teams volunteered to review data, regulations and any new information which may have been gathered from 2019-23, and may affect the EO in focus areas including habitat, BLM grazing regulations, renewables and definition of rights-ofway, adaptive management and areas of concern including standard principles.

Budd concluded the meeting by fielding questions from the group and encouraged the public to comment, further reiteraating every agency involved is working collaboratively to protect sage grouse under the state’s EO.

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

WEED & PEST COUNCIL Wyoming

Yellow Starthistle Discovered in Natrona County for First Time

Yellow starthistle, a highly invasive weed, was discovered on private land in Natrona County in August.

The Natrona County Weed and Pest District (NCWP) is currently overseeing the management and eradication of the weed. Now, the area is fenced off to keep most wildlife and all livestock out.

The infestation was less than an acre, and all visible plants were pulled and removed from the area. The district estimates between 500 and 600 pounds of the weed were collected. The weeds will sun rot and ferment in a secure location

on NCWP property, then be burned in the winter.

It was crucial for NCWP to remove the plant and continue toward eradication because of its negative impact on the environment.

Yellow starthistle infestation

Yellow starthistle can quickly overwhelm native plants, which can decrease forage for livestock and wildlife, damage native plant diversity and impact recreational activities.

Additionally, the plant can cause neurological disease or death in horses if they consume it in very high amounts.

“This plant doesn’t have any competition from existing plants – no Achilles heel,” said NCWP District Supervisor Brian Connely. “Therefore, it can really decimate functioning ecosystems.”

Yellow starthistle is a prolific seed producer, and a healthy plant can produce up to 15,000 seeds, causing outbreaks to spread quickly.

Because of this, NCWP plans to continually treat and monitor the area with the goal of eradicating the invasive weed.

“We’ll use all of the tools available – chemical control, biocontrol, fencing, prevention and education,” Connely stated. “We’re hoping if we can get every plant controlled, we’ll be about six to eight years from eradication.”

Stop the spread

The best way to avoid infestations is to “PlayCleanGo,” and there are six easy steps to stop the spread of invasive species.

These include cleaning shoes, clothes, packs and pets before and after exploring and staying on

Austin Snook • 307-290-2161

Taylor Snook • 307-290-2273

Craig Deveraux • 307-746-5690

Dan Catlin • 406-671-7715

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

designated trails; cleaning horses’ hooves and feeding them weed-free certified hay before adventuring and cleaning, draining and drying watercraft and angling equipment to stop aquatic hitchhikers.

It is also advised not to move firewood – buy it where you burn it, buy certified heat-treated firewood or gather onsite when permitted.

Before traveling to new areas, inspect and clean trailers, off-road and recreational vehicles with water or compressed air to remove mud, plant parts and hidden pests.

Lastly, take the PlayCleanGo Pledge and invite family and friends to do the same at playcleango.org

Wyoming Weed and Pest Council is comprised of 23 weed and pest districts in the state of Wyoming. The council works closely with the Wyoming Department of Agriculture and the University of Wyoming to keep current with the latest technology and research available in the ongoing management of noxious weeds and pests.

Weston Garrett • 605-210-1629

Casey Sellers • 307-217-2614

Jim Forbes • 307-351-5932

Tye Curuchet • 307-351-8666

Daniel Escoz • 307-217-1440

Kade Kinghorn • 307-620-0525

Market Report • September 13, 2023

Had a great turnout for our annual Customer Appreciation BBQ Special, selling 1855 head of cattle to a crowd of 15 buyers with a very strong market. Thank you to all of our great consigners and we are looking forward to the fall run. Thank you and we appreciate your business!

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

Charlene Diana (Charlie D.) Stevenson passed into the presence of her Savior at her home in Wheatland with her family by her side in the late evening of Sept. 9.

Charlie was born Dec. 11, 1958 to Dwane and Irene (Cady) Neu-Schultz in Casper. She was born before improvements in ultrasound could let parents know

details about their children before they were born. Her parents were, therefore, prepared with names for both a

boy and a girl. To their surprise, they were presented with twin girls.

Charlie’s slightly older sister received the girl’s name Darlene (Dolly). The boy’s name they had chosen was Charles, so they altered it to Charlene for the birth certificate, but ended up calling her Charlie anyway.

Charlie graduated from Natrona County High School in Casper in 1976 and later took classes at Casper College. Since her mother Irene worked at several hotels and restaurants, she was very much at home in a commercial kitchen.

Irene bought the Goose Egg Inn, southwest of Casper, and of course, Charlie ended up working there. The Goose Egg had a reputation for serving the best prime rib in the area. In 1989, Randy Stevenson stopped in for their famous prime rib. By the time he left, he had developed an interest in more than just the food.

Randy will testify he thinks Charlie’s prime rib was always better than her mother’s. Charlie and Randy were married on July 12, 1992.

Charlie brought her two daughters, Jennifer and Andrea, into the family, and they established their home west of Wheatland, where

Tuesday, September 12 Market Report

Great performing, powerful calves!

they built and operated a farm and feedlot. Charlie put herself into the operation of the feedlot – driving a feed truck, processing cattle, doctoring sick ones, milking her cow, tending her chickens or whatever was called for.

But, she was also very much at home in the kitchen.

In 1997, Oakley was added to the family.

In 2011, Charlie’s life changed. It was June 19, Father’s Day. As she had previously on very few occasions, she attended church at First Baptist in Wheatland. As a part of the message of the day Pastor Phil explained the Gospel from First Corinthians 15, how Christ’s work in His death for our sins, His burial and His resurrection was completely sufficient for salvation from sins.

Charlie heard the message and believed God’s promise for herself. She was later baptized (immersed) as was Randy, and they became members of the First Baptist Church of Wheatland family.

Not long afterward, Charlie received a diagnosis of breast cancer. Through treatment of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation she depended on God’s strength to endure, always mindful of the certainty of her salvation and her eternal destination.

522 Head Sold

Flagstone Ranch – 225 Mostly Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 425475#. Rec Bovishield Gold 5 & 7-way @ Branding. One Iron & High desert!

Ultimately, the cancer went into remission, and Charlie kept living her life based on the certainties of God’s promises.

Then a few months ago, Charlie got another cancer diagnosis, this time in her bones and liver. A few rounds of chemotherapy were ineffective. In spite of a bad prognosis, medically speaking, she continued to live her life, looking forward to whatever God had planned for her.

Not a hint of bitterness or disappointment, but a clear demonstration of what it means to be a genuine Christian living in this world.

Besides her husband Randy, she leaves behind her daughters Jennifer Morrison and Andrea (Shane) Sparby; son Oakley and grandchildren Jacob Redding, Cady Sparby, Kyler Heath and Kealyn Morrison. Charlie was predeceased by her parents; brother Robert Forsberg and sister Kathy Carpenter.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made in Charlie’s name to the First Baptist Church of Wheatland building fund.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 23 at the Agriplex on 59 Antelope Gap Road in Wheatland.

YEARLINGS

Pope Ranch – 80 Blk Ang Yrlng Strs & Hfrs 650-750#.

K Diamond Ranch – 23 Blk Ang Yrlng Strs & Hfrs 825#

CALVES

Arapahoe Ranch – 300 Blk AngX Strs & Hfrs 400-500#.

100% all natural. High elevation. No hormones. Sired by Diamond Peak & small % Colyer Hereford bulls. Very high quality!

Lucinda Calvert – 28 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 450-550#. Rec

Vision 7 @ branding. All natural, one iron calves!

WEIGH COWS

Steve Ward – 80 weigh cows

YEARLINGS

Linden Cattle Co. – 400 Blk Ang & AngX Spayed Hfrs 900#. Rec Pyramid 5 + Presponse, 7-way w/Somnus, wormed w/Safeguard & poured. Fancy, Green, High Desert yearling heifers!

CALVES

Wyoming Honor Farm – 135 Blk Ang Strs 475-550# 45 Blk Ang Hfrs 450-500#. Comp vacc @ Birth & Branding (Vision 8 w/ Somnus & Once PMH IN). Sired by Hancock & Northwest Angus Association Blk Ang bulls. Powerful, stout calves! White Acorn Ranch – 100 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 450-550#. Rec Nasalgen & 7 way @ branding. Sired by registered Blk Ang bulls. High elevation, reputation calves!!

YEARLINGS

RR Ranch – 200 Predom. Blk Ang, few Red/RWF Yrlng Strs 900-925# 220 Spayed Yrlng Hfrs 875-900#. High elevation! Eastfork Livestock – 245 Ang & Ang/HerefordX Yrlng Strs 850-925#. 110 Ang & Ang/HerefordX Spayed Yrlng Hfrs 800-850#. 2 rounds of Vision 7 w/Somnus, Pneumonia Vista Once & 1 shot of Multi Min. One brand, one raising, powerful, high elevation! Reputation yearling steers & heifers!

CALVES

Ranch

70 Yrlng Strs 900-950#. High elevation,

Weston & Sons – 16 Blk Ang Yrlng Strs & Hfrs

Ranch – 300 Blk AngX Strs & Hfrs 400-500#.

all natural. High elevation. No hormones. Sired by Diamond Peak & small % Colyer Hereford bulls. Very

quality!

Ellis Ranch – 150 Blk Ang & AngX Strs 550-600#

100 Blk Ang & AngX Hfrs 500-550#. Rec Ultrachoice 7 & Bovishield Gold One Shot @ Branding. High elevation.

Joe & Deanna Crofts – 300 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 400-475#. Rec Virashield 6, Vision 8 w/Somnus+spur. Year-round mineral program. Sired Powerful Blk Ang bulls. One iron, high desert, green & Fancy!

Jack & Amy Robinson – 170 Blk AngX Strs & Hfrs 550600#. Rec One shot Ultra & 8-way @ Branding. Run above 7,500 ft. Sired by Sim/Ang bulls. Powerful, choice calves! Wanda Miller – 120 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 500-575#. Comp vacc @ Branding. High elevation. Sired by good Blk Angus bulls, great performing calves!

CALVES

Martin Land & Livestock – 500 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 525-550#. Rec Vista Once SQ & 7-way w/ Somnus @ Branding. Sired by Sitz Blk Ang bulls. AI sons of SAV Resource, Connealy Investment & Connealy Arsenal. Cowherd Sitz genetics for multiple generations! Bull battery w/ high WW, YW & $Beef. Reputation, high desert.

Osborne & Campbell – 220 Red Ang & Red AngX Strs & Hfrs 450-525#. Rec’d Vista Once SQ, Nasalgen 3, 7-way w/spur @ branding. Sired by Beckton Red Ang bulls. Hfrs are replacement quality. Run @ 8,500 ft. High desert!

Shane & Chris Eberline – 200 Blk Ang & AngX Strs & Hfrs 450-550#. Rec C & D @ Birth; Vista Once SQ & 7-way @ Branding. Sired by Lucky 7 & Popo Agie Blk Ang bulls. Reputation, high elevation! Green! Ramon Walker – 60 Blk Ang Strs & Hfrs 500-600#. 8 way @ branding. Long time registered cow herd. Lots of genetics! Fancy!