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Registration is open for a free fur handling clinic in Columbia Falls on April 1. The clinic is hosted by the Montana Trappers Association and Montana Fur Harvesters. The clinic will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 287 Midnight Lane in Columbia Falls. It is open to all ages and anyone interested in learning about fur handling techniques, ethics, and safety. Participants should bring a chair and dress warmly. Lunch will be available for . To register for this outdoors skills course, visit https://fwp.mt.gov/hunt/education/advanced-education. For more information, contact Tom Fieber at (406) 250-3386. Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/fur-handling-clinic-scheduled-for-april-1-in-columbia-falls/
The South Dakota FFA Association will host the 95th Annual South Dakota State FFA Convention on April 16-18th, on South Dakota State University’s campus in Brookings, South Dakota. The 95th State FFA Convention with the theme of “Reflect, Take Action,” will be led by the State FFA Officers which includes President, Ella Stiefvater, Salem; Vice President, Megan Sanders, Oral; Secretary, Kathryn Rausch, Hoven; Treasurer, Jacob Olson, Aberdeen; Reporter, Sidney Peterson, Sturgis; Sentinel, Caleb McGregor, Webster. The State FFA Convention is like the “state championship” of FFA, which highlights the successes of South Dakota’s FFA members. Throughout the three-day convention, over... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/south-dakota-ffa-extends-invite-to-annual-convention/
Wyoming may be well positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for products made with ancient grains, a new study by the University of Wyoming Extension suggests. The publication, titled “Growing Einkorn, Emmer, and Spelt in Wyoming,” analyzes the results of four years of trials conducted on Wyoming farms and agricultural experiment stations. These experiments tested the viability of producing three types of ancient wheat suitable for Wyoming growing conditions. “These ancient grains provide an alternative to malt barley and wheat grown in the Bighorn Basin and in southeast Wyoming,” Caitlin Youngquist, UW Extension educator and co-author of the publication,... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/ancient-grains-may-offer-new-opportunities-for-wyoming-producers/
The Jim Baldridge Outstanding Leadership Award was designed to recognize one outstanding National Junior Angus Association (NJAA) member each year. In 2023, the scholarship awarded by the Angus Foundation will increase from ,500 to ,000. This prestigious award honors an NJAA member who exemplifies excellent leadership and character through their Angus involvement and beyond. In 2013, Bill and Betty Werner of Werner Angus, Cordova, Illinois donated ,000 to the Angus Foundation to sustain a permanent endowment fund for the recipient of the Outstanding Leadership Award, in memory of Jim Baldridge. Since then, this NJAA award has been known as the... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/jim-baldridge-outstanding-leadership-award-scholarship-increases-for-2023/
Anne Marie Roerink from 210 Analytics presented the latest Power of Meat (POM) Study – a consumer study on meat usage, attitudes, and trends – at the Annual Meat Conference in Dallas, Texas. This 18th annual study reflects on another unusual year, disrupted by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and supply chain challenges. Leveraging the long trendlines, the 2023 study aims to understand how and what changed in shoppers’ perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors of meat consumption, buying, and preparation. According to the report, in 2022, meat sales soared 5.7 percent versus a year ago and almost 87 percent of all... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/power-of-meat-research-released/
New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA) announced Macklee Cain of Mountainair, New Mexico as the 2022 recipient of the NMCGA Statewide Heritage Contest during the Joint Stockmen’s Convention held in December 2022. Honored for her reflection and commitment to her roots in New Mexico’s ranching industry, Macklee received a commemorative Torrance County Heritage belt buckle, a one-year junior membership to NMCGA, and a [post_excerpt],000 scholarship funded by the NMCGA Promotions and Marketing Committee. Macklee is a fifth-grade Mountainair Mustang who is active in 4-H and loves everything about ranching, except building fence. A portion of her winning essay reads, “As... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/cain-receives-cattle-growers-honor-annual-heritage-showcase-is-back/
During its annual National Sales Meeting, Zoetis and Folds of Honor celebrated a successful first year with a 8,000 donation from Zoetis based upon fourth-quarter 2022 sales of select Zoetis products. This brings the total donation from Zoetis to 5,000 for Folds of Honor based on sales of select Zoetis products in 2022. Based in Owasso, Oklahoma, Folds of Honor provides academic scholarships to the spouses and children of men and women who have fallen or been disabled while serving in the U.S. armed forces or as first responders. “With our 2022 contribution, Zoetis helped support 141 scholarships for the... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/zoetis-supports-more-than-140-scholarships-through-folds-of-honor/
“The mama seems to be enjoying the elementary classes coming for a ranch visit,” Banjo said. “After all she was a teacher when she first moved to the ranch.” He smiled, watching the trail of Kindergarteners making their way to the lambing shed. “Really?” Tuff said. “I didn’t know that.” “Probably a lot you don’t know about the mama and papa,” Banjo said. “Maybe there’s another mystery to be solved by none other than a MIA field agent, per say?” Tuff smirked. Banjo smiled. “I don’t think it’s that much of ‘a lot’ you don’t know about them, but I... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/banjo-cyber-security/
Instead of just saying evil things about beef I wish the government would just go ahead and outlaw it so we could all make some money. The surgeon general put his warning on cigarettes and sales of the cancer sticks skyrocketed. Marijuana was outlawed and the "grass" farmers are the only kind feeling good about things. They have the only cash crop. Its human nature, tell somebody they cant have something, and they will pay dearly for it. People want what they cant have. Tell them the speed limit is 55 and theyll drive 65. If its 65 theyll drive... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/its-the-pitts-underground-beef/
Independent Cattlemen of Wyoming (ICOW) has submitted comments to the federal register and urge all Wyoming producers to go to www.regulations.gov to submit their comments. ICOW is a producer, grass roots organization organized to protect and promote the future viability of the Wyoming Family Livestock and Ranching Industries. ICOW is the John Wayne among cattlemen - strong, no-nonsense, common sense, and straight forward. It is a powerful organization that provides a check and balance for Wyoming producers when other organizations get heavy at the top and forget their members. The bureaucrats of USDA have pursued mandatory ID tags for over... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/reader-opinion-mandated-tags-are-usda-overreach/
The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) sent its annual letter of support for Wildlife Services to congressional leaders during the week of March 16. More than 200 agriculture and trade associations signed on to call for continued funding of the program. “Wildlife causes more than .8 billion in damage each year to natural resources, public infrastructures, private property, and agriculture,” read the letter to committee leaders in the Senate. A similar letter was also submitted to U.S. House committee heads. “USDA Wildlife Services works to prevent, minimize, or manage this damage and to protect human health and safety from conflicts... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/asi-leads-coalition-support-for-wildlife-services/
Registration Open for 2023 Stockmanship & Stewardship Events Registration is now open for six Stockmanship & Stewardship regional events in five states this spring and summer, with an additional virtual event to be held in November. During each event producers can become Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) certified, network with fellow cattlemen and women, participate in hands-on demonstrations led by animal handling experts including Curt Pate and Dr. Ron Gill, and learn cutting-edge operation techniques. 2023 Stockmanship & Stewardship dates and locations: May 10-12, Farmington, New Mexico June 13-14, Norfolk, Nebraska June 15, McCook, Nebraska August 18, Fort Collins, Colorado September... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/registration-open-for-2023-stockmanship-stewardship-events/
The Montana Arts Council is proud to announce three new additions to the Montana Circle of American Masters, including saddle maker Marc Brogger of Three Forks. The Montana Circle of American Masters (MCAM) recognizes Montana folk and traditional artists for artistic excellence in their work, along with their role in preserving and passing on their knowledge. Brogger is joining 46 previous honorees in an illustrious group that represents some of the most skilled and respected tradition bearers in Montana. The new inductees will be honored at a public ceremony in the Capitol Rotunda on May 19 in Helena, Montana. “MCAM... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/montana-circle-of-american-masters-named/
Now that Saint Patricks Day is over, my Easter decorations are calling me from the closet, but I am trying to ignore their call. It doesnt seem worth it to drag out all of those tubs of decorations if they are only going up for a couple weeks, so I guess I should answer the call to optimize the decor time. Instead, I find myself checking out Pinterest for decorating ideas. I absolutely love Pinterest, because I can spend hours pinning and admiring thousands of cutesy ideas and avoid getting out the ladder and tubs and getting to work. If... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/cooking-lazy-people-easter-hacks/
Brindle Simmons, five-years-old, in the back of the canoe, and Roan Simmons, three-years-old, in the front of the canoe, helped their neighbors Boe and Jennifer Kottwitz canoe their calves across the Mule Creek river before being pulled back up the hill from the creek. Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/agri-kid-of-the-week-brindle-and-roan-simmons/
Many riders have never had to worry about the farrier/trimmer having trouble handling their horses. Their horses have had positive experiences with trimming or shoeing many times in the past and in most cases are quite content to cooperate with the procedure. However, what happens if you have a young or inexperienced horse or one that has picked up an unfortunate habit when it comes to handling their legs and feet? (Please note to following recommendations are a generalization of an approach that can vary in many different ways. Always assess your skills and abilities in relation to what your... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/horsemanship-the-farrier-shy-horse/
Brent Cheyne was elected President of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG). Brent farms with his son Rodney near Klamath Falls, Oregon, where they raise wheat, barley, oats, alfalfa, and Angus cattle. In 2011, Brent began his time with the Oregon Wheat Growers League as the Oregon president before accepting the position of NAWG Secretary in 2015. “It is an honor to have been elected President of NAWG during this Farm Bill year. NAWG’s purpose is to advocate for all wheat growers and we have an excellent opportunity to do just that with the 2023 Farm Bill. I hope... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/nawg-elects-new-officers-with-brent-cheyne-as-president/
In this second part of our “Reality Check” interview with Congressman Matt Rosendale (R-MT), we discussed all things ESA, WOTUS, and the potential of a Ukrainian Peace deal and the ramifications this could have on global ag commodities and trade. Enjoy. Question #1 Speaking of conservation efforts and being good stewards of the land as you know, weve been dealing with this ridiculous, WOTUS rule again, that the “Biden administration officials” are trying to bring out. Congressman Rosendale- Yes, and, I have met with many organizations, and I continue to stress to them, that unfortunately, this is never going away. We... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/reality-check-whats-going-on-in-d-c-a-conversation-with-congressman-rosendale-part-ii/
The University of Wyoming’s (UW) annual ram test will conclude with a field day at the Laramie Research and Extension Center (LREC) Saturday, April 1. This year’s test is the largest yet, with 142 rams from five states delivered to LREC in the fall, LREC Sheep Unit Manager, Kalli Koepke reported. The five-month test evaluates rams on average daily gain, wool quality, carcass data, visual scores, and more. The goal is to provide sheep producers with reliable data that will help improve the genetics of their flocks. Test results are presented at the upcoming field day, which is free and... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/laramie-research-and-extension-center-to-host-ram-test-field-day-april-1/
The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) submitted comments to the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest concerning the Notice to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (84 FR 22432) – Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest; Washington; Forest Plan Amendment for Planning and Management of Domestic Sheep and Goat Grazing Within the Range of Bighorn Sheep. Comments read: “ASI has supported appropriations language as cited in the Federal Register notice, specifically directing the Forest Service and other land management agencies to use the best scientific understanding of pathogen transmission in cooperation with the USDA Agricultural Research Service to guide decisions to ensure both the health of the... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/asi-submits-comments-on-forest-grazing/
At the tail end of a harsh winter that brought above average snowfall to many areas across Reporter Country, it’s exciting to think about the green grass that is around the corner. Even for folks who received the heaviest snowfall this year, with more to hopefully come as we transition to spring, extension specialists for the University of Nebraska – Lincoln (UNL) urged caution when it comes to turnout times and grazing schemes during a March 16 “BeefWatch” webinar. Jerry Volesky, PhD, Extension Range and Forage Specialist at UNL, expressed that this is a pivotal year for producers to get “those pasture... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/experts-say-delaying-turnout-will-help-pastures-recover-in-2023/
Dr. Robert Cope - known simply as “Cope” to friends and acquaintances - passed away December 28, 2022. He will be greatly missed by his many ranch clients who were also his friends. Just about anyone you talk to in Lemhi County, Idaho has some good memories about Cope, who served his clients well during the 44 years he was here. Even after cancer went into his spine and left him confined to a wheelchair (in early 2022) Cope continued going to various ranches (with help from people to drive his van and do the physical part of the work)... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/ranchers-reflect-on-vets-selfless-service-and-tenacity/
The winter of 2023 has been one to remember for Humboldt County California farmers and ranchers as they have endured snow and rain as they have never seen before. Over the course of two weeks in March, Humboldt County ranchers received an unprecedented five-feet of snow, which is now taking its sweet time melting. As a result, the National Guard has been called in to help producers get hay to their animals. Kneeland, California rancher, Lauren Sizemore stated that this is the largest snowfall they have ever seen, easily surpassing the winter storm of 1989 where they received about “five... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/harsh-california-winter-to-impact-ranchers-for-many-months/
For those of you who take the time to read my column each week – aside from my family members who understand the unspoken requirement to do so – you probably have gathered that I am a sports nut. Along with the end of football season, one of the saddest parts of the year is the conclusion of college basketball. So right now, I’m taking in every March Madness game I can, and boy has it been fun this year! Despite the fact that I want my brackets to do well, I will root for any upset, even if I... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/editors-perspective-the-real-march-madness-colorado-wolves-kill-dogs/
For 61 years and counting, the McDonnell Family has helped move the cattle industry forward with the Midland Bull Test (MBT); through three generations of leadership, the MBT has provided producers with invaluable data that either reaffirms or helps redirect their programs on a larger scale. However, the MBT’s influence can also be traced through the buyers who recognize the immense quality of the offering each year and the subsequent progeny that help build and lead programs. Joe Nelson has been a regular buyer at the MBT for roughly 20 years, and for him, “Its like going to the Superbowl.”... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/consigners-and-buyers-reap-benefits-at-the-midland-bull-test/
Whether it be an added bonus for management practices already implemented on a ranch or funding to help create infrastructure to improve range utilization, there is potential to add a “carbon” revenue stream to many of today’s ranch operations. However, this emerging market has yet to be perfected, so there are many important factors to consider before signing the dotted line. 1. It is a complex and evolving market. “When you’re trying to package a partially imaginary exchange value, the packaging gets very complicated,” Peter Donovan, founder of the Soil Carbon Coalition, said, largely summing up the complexity of the... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/panelists-provide-guidance-for-carbon-contracts/
Les and Dawn Craft have always had their sites set on raising Angus cattle in the heart of Reporter Country, and that goal was realized when the couple moved from northern Indiana to the outskirts of Columbus, Montana. Les grew up around cattle and the ag industry as his father owned and operated a 300-head feedlot in northern Indiana. It wasn’t until he was 12-years-old that his dad bought their first registered Angus heifers which became the foundation of the Les Craft Angus Ranch herd. “He bought that first little group of Angus Heifers in 1963 and that was my start... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/les-and-dawn-craft-find-continued-success-at-midland/
Welcome to the largest issue of the year of the Western Ag Reporter. We are only a little way past the half-way mark in the Spring 2023 season, but this week’s issue will definitely be the largest of 2023 and then it will start shrinking gradually from now until the end of April when sale season will be nearing its end. I have a fantastic staff here in the office that did an amazing job of getting the Special Midland Bull Test Section put together and this week’s paper put out on time. The editors did masterful work with the... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/comments-from-the-publisher-97/
As part of its inaugural high altitude bull test and sale, the University of Wyoming (UW) will host an educational field day and private treaty sale at the Laramie Research and Extension Center (LREC) Saturday, April 1. Launched in January 2023, the UW High Altitude Bull Test and Sale evaluates potential sires on their ability to serve producers at high altitudes and provides students with hands-on experience in production agriculture. The new program culminates in the upcoming field day and bull sale in Laramie, Wyoming. The event is free and open to the public and all ages are welcome. Educational... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/uw-high-altitude-bull-test-culminates-in-educational-field-day/
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on March 9 an investment of more than million in meat and poultry processing research, innovation, and expansion in support of its ongoing efforts to transform the food system at every stage along the supply chain. This investment is funded through the American Rescue Plan and the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI). As part of this total investment, the University of Arkansas was awarded a million grant from the AFRI Center of Excellence for Meat and Poultry Processing and Food Safety Research and Innovation (MPPFSRI). In addition, .9 million in... Article Link https://www.westernagreporter.com/articles/usda-invests-43-million-investment-to-meat-and-poultry-processing-research/
