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Governor Greg Gianforte (R-MT) visited Central Avenue Meats and highlighted the state’s investments in building a stronger workforce to support the meat processing industry in Montana. “By investing in value-added processing and manufacturing in Montana, our producers are able to keep pace with a transforming agricultural industry, expand their production, and create more good-paying jobs,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Now that we’ve built more butcher shops, it’s time to strengthen investments to build up our workforce and meet the needs of employers.” In 2020, the governor approved American Rescue Plan Act Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program awards with over .3 million awarded... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/governor-gianforte-highlights-increased-support-for-montana-meat-processors/
Today, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) thanked the U.S. Senate for passing a resolution to block Paraguayan beef imports. The resolution comes in response to a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) rule that lifted the longstanding ban on Paraguayan beef imports despite the country’s concerning animal health track record. “Thank you to the strong bipartisan group of senators who voted to overturn the harmful decision to allow Paraguay beef imports into the United States,” said NCBA President and Wyoming rancher Mark Eisele. “Our animal health standards are second to none, and we must be vigilant in protecting the U.S.... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/ncba-applauds-senate-vote-to-block-paraguayan-beef-imports/
The U.S. Senate passed, S.J. Res. 62a joint resolution of disapproval regarding the Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s (APHIS) final rule allowing beef imports from Paraguay. The rule went into effect on November 14, 2023. In late February, U.S. Sens. Jon Tester (D-MT) and Mike Rounds (R-SD) filed a joint resolution under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), seeking to overturn the rule. On March 8, the resolution was discharged from its committee and sent to the floor of the Senate for a vote. On the floor, the senators addressed that the United States has blocked... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/r-calf-usa-praises-senate-reversal-of-usda-paraguayan-beef-import-rule/
Dennis Deppe always knew he wanted to raise bulls. After college graduation, he bought a few Angus cows from the Mill Coulee herd and settled on his wife, Jennifer’s, home farm in Waverly, Iowa, to begin the Deppe Angus herd. “We started from scratch, raising a handful of bulls and selling to local customers,” Deppe explained. Two years later, Deppe decided to enter a bull in the Iowa Cattlemen’s Bull Test to see how their genetics were stacking up to other operations. Deppe Angus bulls soon became top indexing and/or high sellers at the three sale location sites. In 2013,... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/deppe-angus-marks-25-years-of-performance-testing/
For 62 years, the Midland Bull Test has drawn consignments from across the country in order to truly see how industry-leading genetics stack up against each other, and as a result, it has been a must-attend event from a wide array of buyers and breeders. While everything that the Midland Bull Test is can be attributed to the ambition and vision of Leo McDonnell and now his son, Steve Williams, the entire operation is an undertaking that wouldn’t be possible without an outstanding crew working behind the scenes. With nearly 2,000 head on feed at the Midland Bull Test location... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/the-crew-behind-the-scenes-what-sets-the-midland-bull-test-apart/
We are at the stage in our lives where we find ourselves in the bleachers every Saturday for elementary intramural basketball, because we would never miss a game of grandson basketball. Where else can you watch your grandson celebrate an assist with a breakdance move that would have made Issei swoon? (No, I do not know who Issei is, but I do know how to type into the Google search bar, “Who is the best break dancer in the world?”) Unfortunately, we have no video of Jasper bustin’ a breakdance move on the basketball court in the middle of a... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/cooking-kindergarten-basketball/
Timber Acord of Westin, Wyoming, is pictured here working with her Hancock gelding. The nine-year-old wants to be an artist when she grows up. Photo courtesy of Acacia Acord. Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/agri-kid-of-the-week-timber-acord/
Why do those without a job to do with their horses often take too long to make progress, and those having a job to do with their horses often rush the progress instead of taking the necessary time? I commonly see these two extremes in my work with horses and their owners. As with most things, it’s important to recognize the tendencies and try to find a balance. There is a tension between these ideas of purpose and progress. Without a specific task or actual job to do, many well-meaning owners take inordinate amounts of time to make progress with... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/true-west-horsemanship-purpose-vs-progress/
In order to promote beef and continue to educate the public about agriculture, the Oregon Cattlewomen are preparing for their second annual Ranch Run, which will take place in Madras, Oregon, on March 30, 2024. This family-inclusive event isn’t just your average run; it’s a celebration of fitness, community, and education about the journey from pasture to plate. Along the racecourse, there will be facts about beef and the runners will be greeted by volunteers from several grassroots organizations, in support of beef advocacy, at the aid stations ready to cheer them on. There will be a 5K (3.1 miles),... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/oregon-cattlewomen-promote-agriculture-at-annual-team-beef-event/
7.2 million. That’s the number of illegal immigrants who have illegally crossed our southern border since President Biden took office in 2021, according to CBP reports. This number includes 20,000 Chinese nationals and 58 individuals on the terrorist watch list. To put it into perspective, that is greater than the population of 36 states, including but not limited to: Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. This raises the obvious concern that we don’t know the number of drugs, human trafficking victims, criminals, and even terrorists that have crossed our border. A reasonable person might assume that our federal... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/reality-check-trafficking-greenhouse-gases/
A letter to the editor by Ken Morris of the Montana Beef Council took issue with a statement in my February 22 column that “the NCBA sponsored Beef Checkoff Program is a national marketing and research program funded by producers to increase the demand for beef at home and abroad.” “In reality,” Morris stated, “the Beef Checkoff system funds the NCBA, or in other words, sponsors NCBA…” I asked for clarification from Shalene McNeill, PhD, RDN, Executive Director for Nutrition Science, Health, & Wellness at NCBA. She responded, “NCBA is a contractor to The Beef Checkoff and is awarded funding... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/cowgirl-nutrition-keeping-up-with-the-research/
On April 15, 2024, thousands of the world’s most elite runners will convene in Boston, Massachusetts, for the 127th Annual Boston Marathon (26.2 miles), and among those athletes this year will be first-time qualifier, Jason Taylor, a rancher and father of eight from Torrington, Wyoming. Of all the marathons that are run around the globe each year, only six have earned the title of “World Marathon Major,” including the Tokyo Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, the New York City Marathon, and the Boston Marathon. For the 41-year-old, qualifying for the Boston Marathon has been a lifelong dream that... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/wyoming-rancher-to-run-in-boston-marathon/
How do you know a bull you are purchasing will add quantifiable value to your herd? The University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) beef economics team has created a free, Excel tool that producers can use to quickly evaluate bulls called the “Bull Value Cow-Q-Lator.” The tool was developed to help bull buyers compare the potential, long-term costs of a prospective purchase with the costs to produce a calf with an existing herd bull. Matt Stockton, professor and agriculture economist with UNL, described that the goal of the Cow-Q-Lator is to understand your biggest cost items, interest rates, and EPDs... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/quantify-your-bull-purchases/
Adding to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) conversation in Colorado, Senate Bill 24-171 went before the Ag & Natural Resources Committee on March 21, 2024, with the goal of reintroducing wolverines to the state. The North American wolverine, which was listed as threatened under the ESA in November of 2023, requires legislative approval prior to reintroduction. According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), wolverines are the largest member of the weasel family. Once native to Colorado, the last confirmed sighting of a wolverine in Colorado was in 1919 despite “12 survey efforts from 1979-1996.” Current, viable populations of wolverines within... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/colorado-senate-bill-seeks-to-reintroduce-wolverines/
While I’m none too pleased with some folks in Washington, D.C. right now – the likes of Debbie Stabenow and her liberal compatriots in the House – who are holding up the passage of a much-needed Farm Bill, I was excited to see the conservative, bicameral introduction of the “Protect America’s Lands Act.” Back in January, I voiced my stark opposition to the proposed amendment to the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, which would have allowed Natural Asset Companies, or NACs, to be traded on the New York Stock Exchange. To provide a quick refresher, Natural Asset Companies would... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/editors-perspective-natural-asset-companies-a-saga/
Some pretty big news, in my opinion, came out early last week at the National Farmers Union Annual Convention in Arizona. While speaking at the convention, Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack made the announcement finalizing a rule mandating that all meat products sold with the “Product of USA” label must be from animals born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S. As most all of you know, prior to this announcement, packers could import whole cuts of foreign beef, then cut them up and package them, and slap the “Product of USA” label on them. I have always thought it... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/comments-by-the-publisher-43/
The Bureau of Land Management has opened a 30-day public scoping period to gather public input on 20 oil and gas parcels --totaling 3,173 acres-- that may be included in an October 2024 North Dakota lease sale. The comment period ends April 10, 2024. Information on the parcels, as well as maps and a venue for submitting comments is available on the BLM’s ePlanning website at: https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/project/2031460/510. As authorized under the Inflation Reduction Act, the BLM will apply a 16.67 percent royalty rate for production on any new leases from this sale. Revenues are split between the state where the... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/blm-seeks-public-comment-for-october-2024-north-dakota-oil-and-gas-lease-sale/
Montana Fish, Wildlife, & Parks will host a series of bear educational programs in central Montana this spring, addressing the biology and status of bears in the area, along with focused discussion and hands-on examples of how to prevent conflicts on the farm and ranch, at home, and when recreating outdoors. “As grizzly bears continue expanding their range in central Montana, FWP wants to engage with more communities and outdoor recreationists to increase human safety and conflict prevention awareness,” said Chad White, bear management specialist in Choteau. Dates and locations: April 16 – Cascade, Wedsworth Library, 13 Front St North,... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/fwp-to-host-bear-educational-workshops-in-central-montana/
Purina Animal Nutrition, along with the Land O’Lakes Foundation, has opened its scholarship program designed to assist students with experience in agriculture and livestock production in pursuing their passions and furthering their educations. Now, along with undergraduate students, current high school seniors who have experience raising and caring for small or large livestock, equine and/or poultry, are eligible to apply for one of four ,000 scholarships. Along with the impact animal agriculture has had on their lives, desired applicants will be able to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, community involvement and have a clear vision for their future. ... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/purina-animal-nutrition-is-offering-20000-in-scholarships/
Vitamin A is one of the most important keys to a healthy immune system in newborn calves. Colostrum is the only way calves can get the vitamin A they need to fight off bacteria that will make them sick, said Mary Drewnoski, University of Nebraska—Lincoln beef systems specialist and associate professor. But not all colostrum contains enough vitamin A, and recent research suggests that “enough” is more than previously thought. Calves need vitamin A for healthy eyes, skin, respiratory systems and digestive tracts. “Calves are born deficient in vitamin A and depend on colostrum from the mom to provide what... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/vitamin-a-levels-at-calving-can-have-a-big-impact-on-calf-health/
For more than 60 years KELO Radio’s Bill Zortman has been giving rural citizens a voice. And today, March 11, National Farmers Union (NFU) recognized Zortman for his coverage of agriculture issues, presenting him with the Milt Hakel Excellence in Agricultural Journalism Award during the organization’s national convention held in Scottsdale, Arizona. “This man has helped cover the story of agriculture and he has done a lot for us,” said Doug Sombke, President of South Dakota Farmers Union who presented the award to Zortman. Reflecting on his long broadcast career, Zortman said his focus at 78 remains the same as... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/kelo-radios-bill-zortman-receives-excellence-in-agricultural-journalism-award-from-national-farmers-union/
The University of Wyoming Extension will host a one-day conference on season extension and small-scale food production at Sheridan College Saturday, April 6. The conference, which is supported by the Wyoming Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Program, is part of UW Extension’s Harvest Wyoming initiative. Event partners include the Barnyards & Backyards team, Wyoming Food Coalition, Sheridan College and UW’s Growing Beginning Farmers and Ranchers program. Workshops will highlight season extension structures, pest management, hydroponics, Wyoming soils, pollinator habitats, a producer panel and more. Weather permitting, attendees will also have the option to participate in a low tunnel build in... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/uw-extension-to-host-season-extension-and-food-production-conference-in-sheridan-april-6/
Registration is now open for the three-day 406 Grazing Academy, an annual workshop aimed at ranchers seeking to hone their grazing management skills and learn new strategies. This year’s event will be held June 11-13 in Miles City, and registration is open until April 26. Registration costs 0 per person and includes materials, a range monitoring kit, and lunch and dinner each day of the workshop. Those interested in attending can register at https://svc.mt.gov/doa/opp/DNR406GrazingAcademyRegistration/cart. Montana State University Extension will host the workshop alongside the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, with support from the Dan Scott Ranch Management Program in MSU’s... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/registration-open-for-2024-edition-of-406-grazing-academy/
The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) is accepting applications for its premier leadership program, the Montana Stockgrowers M Bar Academy. The 18-month leadership program, designed to grow and develop leadership skills for individuals active in Montana’s ranching industry, will welcome its second cohort in June 2024. Individuals who work in the ranching industry are encouraged to apply. Candidates should submit their information by April 30, 2024. “We are excited to welcome our next cohort of individuals for the M Bar leadership academy. We believe it is of the utmost importance to continue to build a pipeline of leaders that will honor... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/msga-opens-applications-for-its-premier-leadership-program-the-m-bar-academy/
Montana Agri-Women (MAW) is pleased to announce that a gift basket will be presented to the first (human) baby born in Montana on National Agriculture Day, Tuesday, March 19, 2024. Help MAW know of any baby born on March 19th [between 12:01 a.m. and 11:59 p.m.] by sending a text to 406-939-1890 to notify MAW of the baby. Include name and contact information of parents, the time of birth, the baby’s name, and a photo of the baby if possible. The earliest-born baby of which MAW is notified will be the recipient of a basket of goodies and gift certificatesfrom... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/montana-agri-women-announces-ag-baby-contest-and-prize/
At the opening banquet of the 122nd Anniversary Convention, National Farmers Union (NFU) presented Rodney Allebach of Minnesota, Linda Jones Borton of Ohio, and Dennis Rosen of Wisconsin with Awards for Meritorious Service to Farmers Union and to American Agriculture, the highest honor presented by Farmers Union. “The 2024 class of Meritorious Service Award recipients represents lifelong commitment to Farmers Union,” NFU President Rob Larew said. “I commend all three of these members and leaders on their passion and support for family farmers and our communities, and I challenge the next generation of Farmers Union leaders to be as engaged... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/nfu-awards-highest-honor-to-leaders-from-minnesota-ohio-and-wisconsin-at-122nd-anniversary-convention/
Last week Banjo and Tuff had an inkling that there might be something else behind the new raccoon’s recent welcoming to the ranch, and sure enough they saw her with the band of coyotes at the caverns. What is Ruby up to hanging around with these renegades and what else will Banjo find along the way? His whistling was a harmony that filled the still air. Rascal was on cloud nine. “This is going to deflate him like a full balloon,” Banjo said to himself. “And then when he lets go, he’s going to fly and fizzle in every direction... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/banjo-rubys-true-identity/
In the February 22, 2024, issue of Western Ag Reporter, Barbara Intermill, author of “Cowgirl Nutrition,” stated that “the NCBA sponsored Beef Checkoff Program is a national marketing and research program funded by producers to increase the demand for beef at home and abroad.” I feel I must correct that statement. In reality, the Beef Checkoff system funds the NCBA, or in other words, sponsors NCBA, to the tune of ,720,000 in 2023, not the other way around. By the way, I like how the NCBA/Beef Checkoff annual meeting is called “Cattle Con.” Does that mean that NCBA is against the... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/letter-to-the-editor-cowgirl-nutrition-beef-checkoff-correction/
Family farmers and ranchers from across the nation elected Aberdeen farmer, Jeff Kippley to serve a second term as the National Farmers Union Vice President, March 11, during the organization’s national convention held in Scottsdale, Arizona. “There is more work to do, and I am eager to continue to work hard for you,” Kippley said. President of South Dakota Farmers Union Doug Sombke agreed. “Jeff Kippley has been such a great addition to National Farmers Union,” said Sombke, who also serves as Treasurer of National Farmers Union. “His background as a farmer and an accountant is valuable... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/aberdeen-farmer-elected-second-term-as-nfu-vice-president/
Ranchers and cattle producers interested in learning about the latest research in range livestock production from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln are encouraged to register for the 2024 Nebraska Ranch Practicum offered by Nebraska Extension. The practicum will be held during eight sessions over the course of three seasons to cover the production cycle of livestock and forage resources. Participants will learn about a variety of topics, including the effective use of decision support tools to evaluate management and marketing alternatives, plant identification, range condition and grazing strategies, wildlife management, evaluation of cow body condition scores, and beef cattle production systems.... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/register-now-for-the-nebraska-ranch-practicum/
