Colorado

Back to Normal: JBS Greeley Restores Stability with Two-Year Labor Agreement

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 15:58:20 GMT

JBS USA has reached a new collective bargaining agreement with UFCW Local 7 , allowing the Greeley beef production facility to return to normal operations and providing team members with clarity and stability after weeks of uncertainty.

The tentative agreement comes after a three-week unfair labor practice (ULP) strike.

Read more about the strike:

JBS Greeley Strike Ends: Workers Return to Plant Monday

What Does the JBS Strike Mean to Beef Producers?

According to a press release distributed by JBS, “The agreement, which runs through April 2028, reflects the same economic framework JBS USA presented in its ‘Last, Best and Final Offer’ — an offer that remained unchanged economically throughout the bargaining process. While JBS USA is pleased that an agreement has finally been reached, the company expressed disappointment that UFCW Local 7 leadership chose to eliminate the historic pension benefit that was part of the national agreement negotiated last year in partnership with UFCW International.”

As part of the agreement, Local 7 is also withdrawing seven alleged ULP charges. JBS says this further underscores this was a strike about the economics of the deal, not to stop ULPs as the union repeatedly claimed. Despite this, Local 7 continued to make public statements that did not reflect the facts and contributed to unnecessary confusion among team members.

According to a press release distributed by the union, “The tentative agreement represents a contract with all gains, countless improvements and not a single concession — a direct reflection of the power built by Local 7 members who refused to accept anything less than the fair treatment and working conditions they deserve.”

🚨 PRESS RELEASE🚨 pic.twitter.com/Oj0qhKojNw
— UFCW Local 7 (@UFCW_7) April 12, 2026

“This tentative agreement is a testament to the incredible resolve of our members at the JBS Greeley plant,” says Kim Cordova, UFCW Local 7 president. “These workers stood together on the picket line for three weeks, through extreme weather, because they knew their worth and refused to be disrespected. Today, that sacrifice has been rewarded. This is what union power looks like.”

The union summarizes the new agreement secures JBS-leading wage increases, defends workers against increases in health care costs and protects workers from having to pay for personal protective equipment that should be paid for by the company.

“By standing together, workers secured wage increases over the next two years some 33% higher in this tentative agreement than JBS had offered Greeley workers in its pre-strike final offer,” the union press release says.

The JBS USA release explains the strike ultimately ended without any major changes to the company’s offer and the final agreement remains entirely within the economic framework JBS USA presented months ago, with no economic terms added or expanded from the company’s “Last, Best and Final Offer.” Instead, UFCW Local 7 opted to reallocate pension contributions to wages, resulting in the following structure:

Key Terms of the Agreement

Term: July 21, 2025 to April 2028
Base Wage Increases:

$0.70 at ratification (no retroactive pay)
$0.40 in July 2026
$0.40 in July 2027

(All increases above the company’s Last, Best and Final offer were due to shifting the pension contributions)

Bonuses:

$750 one-time payment at ratification
$500 one-time payment in April 2027 (Eligibility requires employment at ratification and at time of payment)

Retirement:

No pension
Continuation of legacy 401(k) plan

“The company is relieved to move forward and restore stability for team members,” a JBS USA spokesperson says. “At the same time, JBS USA strongly disagrees with Local 7 leadership’s decision to forgo the historic pension that was secured for workers at other major JBS facilities across the country. The pension was designed in partnership with UFCW International to strengthen long-term retirement security for the workforce. Instead, Local 7 chose to shift those dollars into short-term wage increases — an approach that appears to prioritize the Local 7 leadership’s immediate agenda over the long-term financial future of team members.”

JBS USA notes workers at other JBS beef facilities across the country have already accepted and are benefiting from the historic pension and other enhancements negotiated in partnership with UFCW International. The company reiterated that the strike at Greeley could have been avoided entirely had Local 7 leadership allowed its members to vote on the same offer presented months earlier.

“The company’s goal has always been to provide a strong, competitive package that supports families today while protecting retirement security for the future,” a JBS USA spokesperson explains.

The company says it never refused to meet and never conditioned bargaining on the strike ending.

“With the agreement now finalized, JBS USA looks forward to restoring stability, supporting its workforce, and continuing to invest in the Greeley facility for the future,” the JBS USA spokesperson summarizes.

Building for the Long Haul: The Hermes Strategy for Premium Bred Heifers

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:07:56 GMT

Selecting and managing highly desirable heifers is Anton Hermes’ specialty. He offers various services to develop heifers on a custom basis for customers and markets his own bred heifers.

Alongside his brother, Derek, who runs Hermes Genetics, Hermes manages Hermes Livestock, and the brothers work hand-in-hand to breed sale and customer cattle. They travel and breed around 10,000 to 12,000 head a year with their artificial insemination (AI) services. For his own herd of commercial mother cows, Hermes will purchase heifers from AI customers or ranches the brothers do business with.

“The customers bring their heifers to our grow yard where we feed and develop them, and later artificially inseminate them, then send them back to the customers pregnant,” Hermes explains.

(Hermes Family)

Steps to Developing a Bred Heifer

The heifer selection process starts with their home-raised females and then buying load lots of females, often from Colorado, Nebraska and Wyoming ranches. Then they do pelvic measurements, bangs vaccinations and sort non-breeders into grass cattle groups.

“We prefer to buy heifers when they’re 500 to 600 lb. in the fall, but we will buy some later in the spring if we have pasture available,” Hermes says. “About 200 of these heifers would be grown in our own herd.”

Hermes Livestock’s heifer program consists of Red Angus, F1 red baldies, black Angus and F1 black baldies. Hermes says he prefers the Hereford influence in their F1 heifers but also breeds purebred Angus and Red Angus.

When sorting heifers to the top of the group to develop and market as bred females, he looks for the feminine, moderate-framed heifers with adequate temperament.

“That’s what we’re after, and that’s what our customers are after,” Hermes says. “A lot of times there will be 500 head, and we want to sort 150 off the top to keep for us to breed. We look for something that’s structurally put together, that can walk miles out here in eastern Colorado or Oklahoma or Wyoming or wherever they will end up, and really maternal. We want these cows to live to be 12 years old and still be productive in the cow herd. We’re trying to build the cow herd in the U.S. right now, so maternal longevity is very important. We strive to develop these problem-free cattle that function in any environment.”

Once heifers are sorted, they synchronize them at the grow yard and breed heifers using AI. If they don’t show a heat, he will synchronize and AI again, so every heifer gets a chance to get bred on the AI cycle. After, they are turned out with bulls on grass.

Hermes chooses the bulls he’s going to breed customer heifers to by using them on his herd first.

“I test all the bulls on my own cows. I’ll find a young, up-and-coming sire that I really like and I’ll use them on my own heifers,” Hermes explains. “We’ll calve them out and if they pass the test we’ll use those the next year on the commercial groups. Typically, it’s all ABS genetics. They have an exceptional lineup of calving-ease bulls. We have some mainstays that we’ve used for four years in a row now that are just so popular that we can’t get away from them.”

Other bull selection criteria are liking the bull’s phenotype. Many of the bred heifers sold will go on to produce replacement females for producers so phenotype is important to Hermes.

“We’ll sell somewhere between, depending on the year, 600 to 1,100 head and we’ll market them through a couple different sales of our own as well as private treaty,” he says.

(Photos provided by the Hermes family)

Selling Across the States

Hermes helped start the Maternal Merit Sale Group with Dan Warner of Warner Beef Genetics and Don Maclennan with Valhalla Ranch. The sale offers bred heifers through live auction twice a year in Arapahoe, Neb., and Denver, Colo., at the National Western Stock Show. The Nebraska sale sells heifers in groups based on breed, size and AI- or bull-bred sire. He hopes to add another sale in Colorado this fall.

“We identify the sire groups then; we sort off by size and docility. We are especially picky on the heifer’s docility,” Hermes says of the heifers selected for the sale. “If they’ve got too much fire, then we sort them off. We don’t put them through our sales or private treaty large groups. We’ll sort them by breed and size, and then we’ll market them through that sale, and they usually go to about nine to 13 different states; we will deliver them right from there.”

The sale has offered up to 700 head between Anton, Warner and Maclennan.

The Denver Maternal Merit Sale started after a meeting with Warner, Maclennan and Bobby Strecker, ABS Global district manager. After which Hermes wrote the National Western Stock Show a letter in 2020 and asked if they would add a commercial heifer sale to the lineup at the new facility when it was done.

“We are trying to bring a commercial element back to the National Western and this sale gave us an excuse to do that,” Hermes explains.

Maclennan says it’s given them a platform to show commercial producers the quality of heifers brought to the sale.

“We are very particular on quality and after the first year, people saw that,” Maclennan says. “They have supported us quite nicely since then. We have had nothing but repeat buyers coming and either buying or at least bidding.”

Starting with around 400 Red Angus heifers selected in May, Maclennan will sort off the top 50 or 60.

“Throw them through so many hoops that by the time Denver comes, we’ll have 15 to 20 that are just the elite,” Maclennan says. “They’ve got excited about it and we had a really good crowd.”

The strategy in Denver differed from Arapahoe in that they were showcasing their programs developing heifers and offering programing for commercial producers at a major stock show.

“We’re really just trying to showcase the front end of our commercial genetics as a marketing tool and to bring the basic commercial element of the cattlemen back to Denver,” Hermes adds. “It’s a good tool for us to use for marketing, but it’s also been a good tool for the public. We have since added speakers and educational panels addressing current industry topics.”

A large portion of the private treaty sales tend to come from southern customers in Texas and Oklahoma.

“We have a big following where they’re really looking to improve genetics,” Hermes says. “Some of our best customers for the last five years have been south. We had a ranch last year where about 300 head of bred heifers went to in south Texas.”

His advice to marketing bred heifers is to start with a high-quality animal.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re selling five over 500,” Hermes says. “Sort through them and don’t just breed every one of them. Make sure you get them pelvic-measured, and tract-scored. Do a quality sort for docility and phenotype. If you’re planning to AI them or if you’re going to buy a bull, use a sire that is really current and recognizable. Everybody really likes to know what the cattle are bred to, so I recommend finding a calving ease sire. If you buy them as replacements find out as much information as you can about the genetics.”

His best marketing tactic has been repeat buyers and word of mouth.

“We get more and more phone calls from repeat buyers and their neighbors and that’s how we’ve done a majority of our marketing,” Hermes concludes. “We have grown our brand and sales through positive feedback.”

Your Next Reads:

JBS Greeley Strike Ends: Workers Return to Plant Monday

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 02:28:27 GMT

Workers at the JBS meatpacking plant in Greeley , Colo., will return to work Monday without a new agreement in place.

In a news release , United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 announced its members at Greeley’s Swift Beef Company, owned by JBS, will return to work after JBS agreed to return to the negotiating table. The strike originally began at 5:30 a.m. on Monday, March 16.

According to the union, thousands of workers have joined the picket lines every day, with workers demanding JBS return to the table and negotiate fairly.

UFCW Local 7 President Kim Cordova says JBS has agreed to meet on April 9 and 10 to resume contract negotiations, and as such, workers will return to work for shifts starting at or after 5 a.m. on April 7.

“This decision by the union comes without any new agreement or change to company’s original offer,” says Nikki Richardson, JBS corporate communications. “Throughout this process, we have remained committed to good-faith negotiations and to operating our facility safely, responsibly and in compliance with all regulatory standards.”

She adds, “Our last, best and final offer remains on the table. This comprehensive proposal includes meaningful wage increases, a pension and other valuable benefits designed to support our team members and their families. We believe this is a strong and competitive package, and we hope employees will have the opportunity to review and vote on it soon.”

Cordova says, “Workers remain united and will continue to fight until JBS fully ends its unfair labor practices and gives workers a contract offer that protects them, shows workers the respect they deserve, and pays them a livable wage. This fight will continue and workers can take strength from the community members, farmers and ranchers, and elected officials who have joined them in this battle. We will not stop until JBS rectifies the suffering it has brought on these workers and the American people as a whole.”

The union press release states the JBS agreed to meet on April 9 and 10 to resume contract negotiations.

“We are pleased to welcome our team members back and are preparing to resume and ramp up operations at the Greeley plant next week,” Richardson says. “Our focus remains on ensuring a smooth and safe return to work for all employees while continuing to meet the needs of our customers and community.”

Dave Weaber, Terrain senior animal protein analyst, says, “I’m not sure slaughter changes much after we got back to early March levels last week. Mostly depends on packers getting beef to rally post Easter.”

Your Next Read: Cattle Market Volatility: Is the Ride Just Getting Started?

A Seat at the Table: How Robbie LeValley Bridges the Gap Between Science and Stewardship

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:34:16 GMT

As the world recognizes 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer (IYWF), U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (USRSB) is turning the spotlight on the women shaping agriculture every day here in the U.S. From innovative land management strategies to raising livestock with care and precision, women are vital contributors to our food systems and communities.

From Wyoming Roots to Colorado Stewardship

A fourth-generation rancher, Robbie LeValley is a passionate advocate for public lands and sustainable beef production.

LeValley operates a diversified cow-calf operation in western Colorado, where her work reflects a deep commitment to stewardship and the long-term viability of both land and livestock. Her story reflects resilience and a strong belief that agriculture can, and must, balance productivity with environmental care.

LeValley’s connection to ranching began in northwest Wyoming, where she grew up on a cow-calf operation south of Cody. From an early age, she experienced firsthand the realities of working lands that blended private acreage with federal grazing allotments, a model that continues to shape her approach today.

After attending junior college, she transferred to Colorado State University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in animal science. Shortly after, in 1989, a career opportunity in livestock extension enabled her to remain in Colorado, the same year she became part of the LeValley Ranch through marriage.

Since then, LeValley has helped build and sustain a multigenerational operation alongside her family, blending tradition with innovation to ensure the ranch’s long-term success.

(Photo Provided By Robbie LeValley)

The “Power of And": Balancing Production and Conservation

Today, the LeValley Ranch is a diverse and dynamic operation. In addition to running a cow-calf herd, the ranch integrates multiple business components, including grazing management across public and private lands, a USDA-inspected processing facility, retail beef sales, and recreational opportunities.

Central to LeValley’s work is a commitment to conservation and land stewardship. Through years of rangeland monitoring, she has helped document improvements in both vegetation and overall ecosystem function. Her science-based approach allows her to demonstrate that well-managed grazing can support both livestock production and wildlife habitat.

“It’s not about choosing one or the other,” LeValley explains. “It’s about the ‘and.’ It’s about livestock and wildlife, production and conservation.”

This philosophy has not only guided the ranch’s management decisions but has also positioned it for collaboration. LeValley regularly welcomes producers, policymakers, environmental groups and members of the public onto the ranch to see the science in action and the outcomes firsthand.

In 2023, the LeValley Ranch was recognized with the prestigious Leopold Conservation Award, honoring its dedication to sustainable land management and environmental stewardship.

(Photo Provided By Robbie LeValley)

Data-Driven Decisions: Grazing as the Solution

Beyond the ranch, LeValley’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to education and service.

From 1989 to 2012, she served as a Tri River Area extension agent, working directly with producers and communities to strengthen agricultural practices and outreach. Today, she continues to support research and innovation through her involvement in agricultural and meat science initiatives.

Her background in science plays a critical role in how she approaches ranching. By collecting and interpreting data on rangeland conditions, LeValley is able to make informed decisions and communicate the positive impacts of well-managed grazing systems.

That ability has proven especially important in conversations around public lands, where misconceptions about agriculture can persist.

“Too often, grazing is seen as the problem,” she says. “But when you have the data, you can show it’s part of the solution.”

Advocacy in Action: Ensuring the Producer’s Voice is Heard

LeValley’s influence extends across the beef industry through her involvement in numerous organizations at the local, state and national levels. She has dedicated countless hours to ensuring that the voice of producers is represented in policy discussions and industry initiatives.

Her leadership roles include past service with the Public Lands Council, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Society for Range Management and Colorado Beef Council.

For LeValley, this involvement is not optional; it is essential.

“If we’re not at the table, we don’t have a voice,” she explains. “The infrastructure, policies and opportunities we have today exist because previous generations stepped up. It’s our responsibility to do the same.”

Her commitment to collaboration is also evident in her mentorship of the next generation. Whether working with young producers or early-career ranchers, she emphasizes the importance of strong relationships and thoughtful decision-making.

(Photo Provided By Robbie LeValley)

Leading in Action

As a woman in agriculture, LeValley has witnessed both challenges and progress throughout her career. Her perspective is grounded not in titles or recognition, but in action.

“Leadership doesn’t always mean being out front,” she says. “Sometimes it means supporting others, and that’s just as important.”

She hopes young women entering agriculture will see that leadership is demonstrated through daily work and integrity, not just words.

Her advice is simple but powerful:

Work hard.
Build relationships.
Find mentors.
Lead by example.

“Work hard in silence,” she adds. “Let success make the noise.”

Continuing the Story

LeValley’s impact reaches far beyond her own operation. She is helping shape the future of ranching and the role of women in agriculture.

Her work demonstrates that stewardship and productivity are not opposing goals; they are interconnected. By embracing both, she is advancing the beef industry and ensuring its resilience for years to come.

As the International Year of the Woman Farmer continues, stories like LeValley’s highlight the leadership of women across agriculture.
They remind us that ranching is more than a livelihood; it is a legacy shaped by care for the land and a strong sense of purpose for the future.

Learn more about sustainable beef and producer leadership by visiting U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef and Public Lands Council websites.

Your Next Reads:

What Does the JBS Strike Mean to Beef Producers?

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:25:46 GMT

Union workers at the JBS packing plant in Greeley, Colo., have gone on strike Monday morning. This is the first walkout at a U.S. beef slaughterhouse since the 1980s.

According to The Colorado Sun and the UFCW Local 7 , union workers were picketing early this morning. The workers are calling for higher wages, safer working conditions and respect on the job .

After months of disrespect and unfair labor practices, the workers at JBS Greeley are done waiting.

The line is drawn. The strike has begun.

UFCW Local 7 members are standing up for dignity, safety, and the contract they deserve. ✊#jbsulpstrike #greeleyco #ufcw7 #unionstrong pic.twitter.com/nBPsazGyF8
— UFCW Local 7 (@UFCW_7) March 16, 2026

According to a union press release , the unfair labor practice (ULP) strike at the JBS-owned Swift Beef plant was set to start at 5:30 a.m. Monday, March 16.

JBS spokesperson Nikki Richardson says, “This morning, many JBS Greeley team members chose to report to work rather than participate in the strike called by UFCW Local 7, and we expect that number to continue increasing in the days ahead. Our team members want stability, they want to support their families, and they deserved the opportunity to vote on the company’s historic offer — an opportunity the union leadership has denied them. We are paying all team members who come to work, and we are operating the facility to the best of our ability this week.”

The union says workers hoped a recent bargaining session would have led to a breakthrough in negotiations with JBS, but instead JBS sent the workers a clear message that the company is putting profits ahead of its people.

“The Union’s member-led bargaining committee has met more than two dozen times with the company in an effort to reach a mutually agreeable contract. JBS is failing to listen to the 99% of its workers who authorized a ULP strike,” the union says in the release. “The Company needs to give them an offer that takes life saving safety equipment seriously, provides wages which meet the rising cost of living in Colorado and ensures rising health care costs do not consume workers’ wages. The Company committed numerous Unfair Labor Practices which are preventing an agreement. The Company continues to threaten to withhold both a proposed bonus and lump-sum pension payment if workers strike. The Company also retaliated against workers who have stood up for their rights and co-workers.”

The union represents 3,800 workers at the plant.

The Greeley plant did not harvest cattle the week of March 9.

“To ensure continuity for our customers and partners, we are temporarily adjusting production across our network as needed,” Richardson explains. “By utilizing available capacity at other JBS facilities, we can maintain supply, protect the long‑term stability of the beef chain and minimize disruption for consumers and retailers. Our priority is to keep product moving while we work toward a resolution in Greeley.”

She summarizes, “We remain focused on supporting our team members, and any employee who reports for their scheduled shift will have work available and will be paid. We will continue scaling operations this week as more team members return.”

Markets Lack Reaction

Live and feeder cattle futures opened higher on Monday morning. Brad Kooima with Kooima Kooima Varilek says there are a couple of reasons why the market ignored the strike and the biggest are the higher equity markets and lower crude oil. However, he says it is also tied to the fact the strike news was already priced into the market.

Don Close, senior animal protein analyst at Terrain Ag, joined Chip Flory on AgriTalk Thursday, summarizing the strike will increase packer leverage and help reduce negative margins.

He says even with Greeley down, the industry still has excess slaughter capacity.

“Even with Greeley, with the limited cattle supply we’re dealing with, we still have excess slaughter capacity,” he stresses. “It’s going to give way more leverage to the packers, but it will help them shore up their negative margins.”

Close adds the biggest headache to the industry will be additional freight and added shrink from the extra haul to a different plant.

Glynn Tonsor, Kansas State University professor of agricultural economics, agrees with Close. “Any disruption in labor availability has largest impacts on producers operating closest to involved plants. In aggregate, I do not expect large fed cattle price impacts as the industry is operating with excess physical capacity, relative to available cattle supplies.”

From an industrywide standpoint, Close downplays the potential disruption to supply.

“From the industry as a whole, the supply of product going out to meet our demand side of the market should be fine,” he says.

John Nalivka, Sterling Marketing Inc. president, says it is hard to predict the impact on the market.

“We have had Tyson’s closure of Lexington [in Nebraska] and a shift taken off the Amarillo plant [in Texas], tariffs, the current Iran situation and oil back to $100/barrel with little to no impact on the market,” he summarizes. “Supplies are tight and demand is strong. These are the overriding factors impacting this beef market. I would not be comfortable with predicting the impact of an impending strike.”

Hyrum Egbert, Riverbend Meats vice president of strategy, sales, accounting, HR, FSQA, logistics, purchasing and warehousing — who authors the biweekly The Big Bad Beef Packer newsletter, which takes a look at packinghouse truths, trends and tough questions — predicts if Greeley goes dark, even temporarily, the immediate reaction is cattle backup fear.

“A potential strike at JBS Greeley is loud ... but it’s not automatically structural,” he says. “Yes, it’s a big plant. But in 2026, cattle availability is the governor, and packers have already been living in ‘under-utilized capacity’ land for a while.”

Egbert summarizes, “This is likely more of a pricing/psychology event than a true supply collapse ... unless it turns into a long, messy, multi-plant labor domino.”

Your Next Read: Can Cattle Recover and is the Greeley Strike Priced In? Row Crops Follow Oil

Why the Southern Plains Became a ‘Perfect Recipe’ for Wildfires

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 21:29:09 GMT

Farmers and ranchers across the Plains are dealing with the aftermath of devastating wildfires .

According to Drovers , fast-moving Ranger Road Fire has already scorched more than 283,000 acres in northern Oklahoma and southern Kansas since last week. The Oklahoma Department of Agriculture said Monday it’s now 65% contained, but the devastation has charred thousands of pasture and farmland, also killing an unknown number of cattle.

Flames spread across Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Colorado and New Mexico since last week. While March through April is typically wildfire season in Kansas, conditions across the Plains are creating conditions that are fueling the flames.

According to Brian Bledsoe of Brian Bledsoe Weather, the devastation is the result of a “worst-case scenario” pattern that has been building for months.

A Windy Season Meets Dry Fuels

Bledsoe says in order to understand why conditions are so ripe for wildfires this year, the calendar alone raises red flags.

“From February through early to mid-April, that’s traditionally when we see some of these higher-end wind events,” he explains. “But it’s not just about the wind. It’s about what the wind and fire combine to burn.”

The Southern Plains experienced adequate to above-average moisture over parts of the region during the past year. However, that broader window masks a sharp turn toward dryness in recent months.

When looking at the last 180 days, moisture held on in portions of the Oklahoma Panhandle and southwest Kansas. But conditions deteriorated quickly moving south into the Texas Panhandle. Over the past 90 days, dryness expanded northward into the heart of the wildfire zone.

90-day precip map for the Plains

(Brian Bledsoe, Brian Bledsoe Weather )

Zooming in further, the last 30 days tell the most concerning story. Some locations in the Oklahoma Panhandle and southwest Kansas have received just 5% to 20% of average precipitation.

That rapid drying followed a warm-season growing period that produced ample vegetation. Once cured and left without additional moisture or snow cover, those grasses became prime fuel.

“You grow up all that vegetation during the warm season, then you dry it out and don’t get anything else to keep it somewhat wet so it doesn’t burn. It’s a perfect recipe,” Bledsoe says.

Precipitation over the past 30 days.

(Brian Bledsoe, Brian Bledsoe Weather)

Wildfires in the Plains

The setup isn’t without precedent. In late February 2024, the Smokehouse Creek Fire burned more than a million acres in the Canadian River Valley of the Texas Panhandle under similar conditions, which were strong winds, above-average warmth and critically dry fuels.

“This is not unprecedented for the Western High Plains this time of year,” Bledsoe notes. “It’s just the worst-case scenario when you put all those things together.”

Little Relief in the Forecast

Unfortunately for producers hoping for moisture, the near-term outlook offers limited help.

Over the next 10 days, much of the U.S. is expected to trend drier than average. The only notably wet areas are projected to be in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest. Meanwhile, above-average temperatures are likely to persist across much of the Plains, with colder air remaining locked in Canada.

The short-term forecast shows little relief for much of the U.S.

(Brian Bledsoe, Brian Bledsoe Weather)

Above normal temperatures could also pose a problem for producers in the West and Plains.

(Brian Bledsoe, Brian Bledsoe Weather)

“This pattern is not going to be that favorable to grace those areas that we’re dealing with the wildfires with any real significant moisture,” Bledsoe says. “In fact, you see a pretty good chunk of the U.S. that will likely see just drier than average conditions for that 10-day period. Not necessarily dry for everybody, but drier than average. The only really wet areas will be in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest. And we’re going to revert back to the warmth too.”

Looking ahead to March, extended European model guidance suggests a continuation of the pattern: dry conditions across California, Arizona, New Mexico and much of Texas and the Southwest High Plains, with wetter conditions developing farther east.

The extended forecast shows little relief across the Plains.

(Brian Bledsoe, Brian Bledsoe Weather)

March is often a volatile month, Bledsoe says, bringing sharp contrasts between “haves” and “have-nots” in terms of precipitation.

“You’re going to the haves farther east, and then areas farther south and west that have been kind of shut out are probably going struggle a little bit. And time, I know it only takes one storm to change this narrative here in the Western High Plains to cover the ground with snow or put more moisture in the ground or kind of turn the corner,” he says. “But right now this pattern is not conducive to bringing one of those significant storms into the fray.”

Bledsoe knows more than anyone that the forecast can change, but the set-up right now doesn’t look favorable for moisture in the Plains through March.

“It only takes one storm to change the narrative, to cover the ground with snow or put meaningful moisture back into the soil,” he says. “But right now, this pattern is not conducive to bringing one of those significant storms into the fray.”

For livestock producers and farmers across the High Plains, that means continued vigilance. With cured grasses, persistent wind and limited precipitation in the forecast, wildfire risk may remain elevated as the region moves deeper into its traditional spring wind season.

Producer-to-Producer: That’s a Wrap on CattleCon 2026

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 18:57:56 GMT

As beef producers pack up and leave Nashville, Tenn., they are returning home with new strategies, renewed optimism and memories from a memorable CattleCon 2026.

Thank you to the five producers who were our boots on the ground and shared their perspective this week:

Jenna Fitzsimmons, Cunningham, Kan.
Rachel Gray , Blackduck, Minn.
Ken Odde , Pollock, S.D.
Logan Pribbeno , Imperial, Neb.
Kim Rounds, Johnstown, Colo.

Here are their final thoughts about this year’s event:

Fitzsimmons: “My first CattleCon was a great experience! I really enjoyed the overall positive energy at CattleCon that could be felt from meetings, discussions, presentations and interactions I experienced.

“My biggest highlights were the region and policy meetings, Cattlemen’s College sessions and the [National Cattlemen’s Beef Association] State of the Industry Town Hall. These felt the most impactful to me because they allowed producers’ voices to be heard, covered industry issues, expanded my knowledge, inspired me to be a leader and challenged me to improve my operation.

“I love learning and will always be a lifelong learner. CattleCon offered many various learning opportunities for any topic a producer could want. I was able to attend a few sessions I was interested in and even a couple that surprised me by providing knowledge I didn’t realize I needed.

“It is important to go outside of your comfort zone when learning because you never know what you might pick up to improve yourself and your operation. Learning also comes from networking, producer-to-producer.

“I was able to visit with several producers from all across the U.S. and Canada! Everyone was so genuine and kindhearted! Now, you have to take the next step and apply what you have learned, even if it can be daunting. It is pertinent to keep learning and improving as a beef producer for the benefit of the cattle and the consumer. This allows the industry to pave the way and move forward into the future.

“The beef industry is excited, passionate and ready to support the world.”

Gray: “I finished Wednesday attending some Cattleman’s College events. I learned a lot from the ranchers who were part of the legacy panel. Both gentlemen suggested Ranching For Profit and other classes. I am glad to hear the focus on education.

“Thursday, I enjoyed hearing U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. speak and getting his thoughts on dietary guidelines . I then headed to the plane to return home for bull sales and calving.”

Odde: The biggest highlight for me was the education and celebration associated with the change in dietary guidelines. I think the change in dietary guidelines has long-term support for demand.

Pribbeno: “The biggest highlight was having [Kennedy] speak at the afternoon general session. He was greeted with a standing ovation. National Cattlemen’s Beef Association President Buck Wehrbein said it was the most packed he has seen a convention setting.

“Kennedy says he eats beef twice a day, and his favorite cut was the strip. He also touched on how and why he and his team rebuilt the food pyramid and the science behind putting proteins at the base.

“The early morning CattleFax session is a perennial favorite. I had an associate tell me that the CattleFax session alone is worth the trip to Nashville. Randy [Blach] and the team presented on a theme that I would call cautious optimism.

“After the CattleFax session, we hit the trade show floor for some networking.”

Rounds: “My biggest takeaway was that I spent the majority of my day with emerging leaders and leadership, and I’m so excited and positive about the future of the beef industry and knowing that our futures are in these kids’ hands.

“They are so hungry, and they want it so bad. Every single conversation that I had yesterday blew me away, and I know that we have a lot of fun and exciting things on the horizon.

“And, of course, the networking. The beef industry is full of the best people, and when we all get together in a room like we did yesterday, you can’t help but have so much fun.”

A Life Built on Cattle, Grounded on Family and Rooted in Service

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 22:33:01 GMT

From his earliest days in northeast Colorado, Kent Bamford has been rooted in cattle and agriculture. He built a life defined by cattle feeding, family and service to the beef industry.

“Kent has loved the cattle business and agriculture his entire life,” says his wife, Naida. “He dedicated a lot of his personal time to being on various state and local and even national committees to try to be sure that laws and policies were favorable to our industry.”

Bamford’s impact on the cattle-feeding industry was celebrated Feb. 4 when he was inducted into the 2026 Cattle Feeders Hall of Fame during CattleCon in Nashville, Tenn.

Kent Bamford with Eric Farmer.

(Bamford family)

From 4-H to Feedyard Owner

His journey began with 4-H projects, where “the cattle industry got a hold of” him. That early interest led him to Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins, where he earned a degree in agricultural business in 1974.

“The best thing that happened to me in college was meeting my wife, Naida,” Bamford says. “We’ve been married ever since.”

After college, the couple returned home to Haxtun, Colo. Kent and his brother bought their parents cattle and farming operation, expanding the business to include a feedyard in northeast Colorado.

Bamford Feedyard was started as a small yard, growing to 15,000-head capacity. Growth included utilizing additional feedyards, stocker operations in Colorado and Wyoming, a diversified farming and trucking operation and a feed additive company.

Over time, the brothers separated their interests, and he continued to build the Bamford operation into a family-run, diversified enterprise that includes a substantial farming component.

Kent and Naida Bamford

(Angus Journal)

Family is central to Bamford’s story. His wife has played an integral part of the business, serving as office manager. Their two sons, Chad and Cody, are both now involved in the family businesses.

A Servant Leader

Early in his feeding career, Bamford joined the board of the Colorado Cattle Feeders Association, where he realized the need to reach beyond the industry.

“Dad was very passionate about industry advocacy and leadership,” explains his son Chad. “He wanted people to understand the story of the cattle industry.”

That conviction and passion helped inspire the creation of the Colorado Livestock Association (CLA), bringing together all species. He eventually became president of CLA, using that platform to promote and protect livestock producers statewide. His vision for the CLA was ahead of its time, recognizing that a unified voice for all livestock species would be a more powerful tool for the industry.

He also served on the Colorado Beef Council and then the Cattlemen’s Beef Board, where he spent two terms “promoting beef on a national level.”

In 2012, he served as president of CattleFax. He is a longtime National Cattlemen’s Beef Association member, serving as a committee chairman and a participant in Young Cattlemen’s Conference.

He has served on several CSU committees and Colorado governor-appointed committees, being chairman of one. He is presently president of his local hospital board and scholarship chairman of the Haxtun Methodist Church.

He was a 4-H leader for years along with serving on the Phillips County Fair Board and eventually as president. In addition, he helped coach numerous FFA livestock and horse judging teams.

“Everybody talks about beef and agriculture in general, the need to advocate for what we do, but that’s all they do,” says son Cody. “They don’t actually do anything about it. And Dad, he did do something about it. And I think that this award is a huge testament to the fact that he did.”

After 47 years in the cattle-feeding business, Bamford sold the feedyard to slow down and enjoy his grandchildren. Even then, his passion never wavered.

“I love what I do, and I probably never will completely retire,” he says.

The family now operates two businesses — a farming operation managed by Chad and Inco Digestive, a feed company led by Cody.

Bamford’s legacy is a lifelong passion for cattle, a family-centered operation and decades of leadership and advocacy at the state and national levels.

Producer-to-Producer: The Lessons We've Learned During CattleCon

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 21:26:52 GMT

It’s day two of CattleCon 2026. It’s been an exciting day of educational sessions, time on the trade show floor learning about new products, live AgriTalk broadcasts and taping of U.S. Farm Report.

To help us provide a producer’s perspective, we’ve invited five CattleCon attendees to be our boots on the ground and help us capture highlights from their experiences in Nashville, including:

A first-time CattleCon attendee, Jenna Fitzsimmons, from Cunningham, Kan.
Rachel Gray of Little Timber Farms, Blackduck, Minn., who specializes in developing heifers, is attending her fifth convention.
Ken Odde , South Dakota commercial cow-calf producer from Pollock, who has attended more than 30 NCBA Conventions and Trade Shows.
Commercial cow-calf producer Logan Pribbeno of Wine Glass Ranch, Imperial, Neb., will be attending his third CattleCon this year and is bringing his entire family to experience the event.
Kim Rounds, Five Rivers manager of talent acquisition and social media, is looking forward to her seventh CattleCon.

Tuesday morning two of our producers — Pribbeno and Gray — joined Chip Flory on “AgriTalk” for the Farmer Forum.

Congratulations to Pribbeno and his family on being named the 2025 Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) national winner on Tuesday evening.

Here’s what the producers have to say about their CattleCon experience thus far:

What have you attended since you arrived in Nashville?

Fitzsimmons: I attended the NCBA policy meetings on Monday and Tuesday, specifically “Live Cattle Marketing” and “Cattle Health & Well-Being”. I also attended the opening general session and the trade show. I highly enjoyed being part of the policy discussion. The specialist speakers within the policy meetings offered great insight. The grassroots discussions throughout this week are so important to the future of the industry. The opening general session with Dale Earnhardt Jr. was very inspiring. I appreciated how he advised those who are at a beginning stage to enjoy it, because you won’t have that time again, and it has its own uniqueness. I loved seeing exhibitors in the trade show of businesses of all kinds and sizes. I cannot wait to learn more about what they all have to offer.

Gray: I attended the opening general session featuring Earnhardt. I’ve also been going to some cattle chats and the learning lounge sessions.

Odde: Probably the session I spent the most time at Tuesday was international trade, and it was a very good session. I learned a number of things. I also thought the BQA producer forum was really good. The BQA program has now gotten much stronger legs than what it actually had earlier in my career. I could really see that at the session, especially taking on the transportation issues, you know, taking this issue far beyond how we use animal health products.

Pribbeno: We went to the Dale Earnhardt Jr. session and turnout was great. I’ve been busy with ESAP discussions following last night’s award ceremony. I am speaking on a panel later this afternoon, and I’m going to the AI (artificial intelligence) Cattleman’s College session. I do think it’s going to be kind of a game changer. So, I’m looking forward to going to that and seeing how to more fully use AI.

Rounds: I spent most of the morning today preparing for my Cattlemen’s College presentation “Work that Works,” where I discussed finding jobs and keeping employees. So, I haven’t actually had a chance to attend too many informational meetings. The majority of my time here has been catching up with my connections I only see here and really seeing what the advocacy side of the industry looks like right now.

Big takeaways so far?

Fitzsimmons: The specialist speakers within the policy meetings offered great insight. I was very impressed with how they were beyond excited for producers to be involved with their processes. These specialists want to make sure what they are doing is working correctly for the producers they serve.

Veterinarian Dr. Sierra Guynn, from Clemson University, presented on the Asian Longhorn Tick (ALHT) in the “Cattle Health & Well-Being” policy meeting. Something I found very interesting was that, unlike most all ticks, the AHLT is resilient in the way that they will go back to feed on a host even if they were knocked off already. Guynn offered several ways of practical tick prevention and control that producers should already be doing through cattle and environment. Within our beef operation, we already are completing those steps through the cattle side. After Guynn’s presentation, I am inspired and challenged to add the environmental prevention and control to our operation plan. I am looking forward to attending her Cattlemen’s College session on New World screwworm on Thursday.

Gray: My key takeaway from Earnhardt’s comments was when he was talking about taking risks and using innovation. It’s okay to be a little bit of a risk taker. The educational sessions on trace minerals were good. It makes me wonder if we are paying enough attention to that in our rations. I will go home and check that.

Odde: No. 1 is the situation we’re in with regard to trade, and particularly the loss of the China market. I think we all kind of know that happened but didn’t really maybe understand the magnitude of that effect. That’s really a big deal for our industry. Our industry will be working hard over the next several years to see if we can recapture that China market.

No. 2 is the importance of the change in dietary guidelines . I’m old enough to remember the war on fat in the ‘80s. And what we started learning, especially in the ‘90s, is that it’s really not fat. It’s really sugar. Sugar is the big, bad, evil item associated with diet. I think this change in the pyramid is a really big deal. It’s not just a big deal for Americans — it’s a big deal globally.

Pribbeno: Earnhardt did a really good job talking about his career and when he knew to hang it up and focus on family. I really appreciated that as a high-performing athlete, and he just at a certain age decided to completely shift his focus, and now he’s really into the people development — his team and the cars that he runs. He’s not about getting the victories anymore. He’s about getting people into their prime positions and outside of his company and developing people. He did a really nice job.

Rounds: I’m always curious to see what the messages are being shared by the advocates of our industry, and that’s kind of where I’ve been focused so far today.

Turning Empty Feedlot Pens Into Opportunity: Five Rivers Offers Heifer Development Program

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 19:48:08 GMT

At a low in the cattle cycle, Five Rivers Cattle Feeding is betting on heifer development. By opening select yards to replacement heifers, the company aims to fill pens while helping producers develop more females.

The January Cattle on Feed report released last week included the quarterly inventory of steers and heifers in feedlots. Heifers as a percentage of feedlot inventories increased to 38.7%, the highest level in the last year.

Derrell Peel, Extension livestock marketing specialist from Oklahoma State University, says heifers continue to make up an above average share of total cattle on feed and suggest limited heifer retention thus far. USDA will release the cattle report on Jan. 30 and provide data on cattle inventories, including the inventory of replacement heifers.

“Low culling rates have allowed producers to sell more heifers in the last three years, but additional heifer retention is needed going forward just to maintain the productivity of the current low cow inventory,” Peel says.

As producers consider consider cow herd expansion, key expenses to consider are the cost of buying versus the price of developing their own replacements . Lingering drought continues to limit forage availability in key regions while high interest rates and the substantial capital required to develop or purchase bred females further suppresses expansion. Many producers also remain wary of a repeat of the post-2014 market correction, adding a layer of caution. Other key concerns for producers considering heifer retention and development are facilities and labor.

To help producers with the facilities, feed and management details and to fill open pen space, Five Rivers Cattle Feeding is offering a heifer development program. Kim Rounds, Five Rivers manager talent acquisition, says the program grew out of both market conditions and industry stewardship — a way to help rebuild the cow herd.

“We are at an all-time cattle cycle low, and so we have the pen space right now,” Rounds explains. “We’re like a hotel. We operate best when full. The more cattle we have in pens, the better, and there aren’t cattle to be bought right now.”

“We obviously want the cow herd to grow, so incentivizing, encouraging, finding ways for people to retain more heifers is going to be better for our industry in the long term,” she adds.

Five Rivers has 13 locations in six states. They are offering the heifer development program at three locations: Gilcrest Feeders, LaSalle, Colo.; Grant County Feeders, Ulysses, Kan.; and Coronado Feeders, Dalhart, Texas.

What Services Are Provided?

Rounds says Five Rivers development program will include:

Customized nutrition plans developed by nutritionist to hit optimal body condition score for breeding.
Professional cattle handling by staff who are BQA trained and certified.
Health and growth monitoring, including valuable data to help set up heifers for a lifetime of productivity.

The program can be as simple or as full-service as the customer wants.

She explains optional services include:

Medicine and chute fees at cost
DNA collection
Facility use for synchronization, artificial insemination and ultrasound
EID placement
Buy back option for heifers that don’t meet replacement standards
Options for cows and feeder steers

At this time, Five Rivers will not offer artificial insemination services, they will provide the facilities where producers can synchronize and breed.

Pen sizes are flexible.

“We have smaller pens — 50 to 100 head,” Rounds says. “Or we can obviously take up to thousands, depending on how you want to have them sorted out and what groups you want them in.”

Other Program Benefits

Rounds says another objective of the program is building long-term relationships.

“If you’ve ever had an interest in retaining ownership of feeder steers, I think this is a really safe way to get a taste of what that looks like,” she explains.

If there are heifers in the development program that don’t meet the producer’s performance or breed, Five Rivers will buy them.

“If you decide I don’t want to keep them, I didn’t like their performance, we will buy them back and put them on feed as feeders,” Rounds says.

She acknowledges the emotional and financial leap producers make when they hand cattle over to someone else to manage.

“That’s your livelihood that you have in somebody else’s hands, but our teams are amazing, and they’re super specialized,” she notes, explaining Five Rivers has dedicated staff for pen riding, feed delivery, facility maintenance and to support animal health and nutrition.

What Are Some Key Questions About the Program?

Rounds says there has been two key questions from producers interested in the service.

“I think the biggest concern is that we’re going to get them over fat and mess up breeding,” she says.

She counters these concerns emphasizing their specialized nutrition expertise and cost competitiveness.

“We have two phenomenal nutritionists, and they understand the requirements for a feeder steer getting fat and a heifer going back to breeding are going to be very different, so they’re going to custom build a ration for the heifers,” she explains. “The next is cost, and we’re pretty competitive on yardage. And if you are going to have to feed cows over the winter anyway, it’s going to be really good.”

To learn more about the program, call 970-408-0174 or visit fiveriverscattle.com .

Your Next Read — Developing Heifers: Expectations for the Next Generation

Apply Now: Legacy Landscapes Program Opens New Round of Funding and Technical Support

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:06:55 GMT

An update to last year’s Legacy Landscapes Program is set to put even more value into ranchers’ pockets, according to program partners at Nestle Purina PetCare, AgriWebb, National Grazing Lands Coalition and Regrow.

Currently working with cow-calf producers in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico and Texas, the program is seeking to correlate land stewardship and profitability through financial and technical assistance. Ranchers enrolled in the program receive more than $70,000 in valued assistance, ranging from financial assistance for new practice adoption, ranch managment software and technical advice.

During a recent AgriWebb webinar, producer Eric Yates, owner and operator of Yates Family Farms, spoke about the impact Legacy Landscapes has had on his operation in the year since his enrollment, specifically the program’s ability to de-risk conservation change and innovation.

“It’s no risk at all,” he explains. “You either win, because the practice made you better, or you fail at the practice, but you have very limited financial costs invested in it, and you learn something.”

For Yates, the ability to capitalize on AgriWebb to organize his ranch record keeping was a key driver for his enrollment in the program.

“Traditionally we’ve done Excel sheets and pieces of paper, written on the back of a feed tag,” he says. “Then when we need to look at it, it’s a full week of compiling data.”

Through the program, Yates has been able to organize his ranch data, identify grazing patterns and make better operational decisions for his herd and his business.

“At its core, data is the catalyst that allows a producer and their adviser to build a road map and actually see the impact of every management decision,” says John Fargher, cofounder and chief strategy officer at AgriWebb. “By turning daily records into clear insights, ranchers can confidently work toward their specific goals while maintaining total ownership and control of their information. We believe that when a producer truly understands how their decisions are moving the needle on their operation, they can build a more resilient and profitable legacy.”

The program is currently accepting applications for producers. Find more information or sign up by visiting grazinglands.org/legacy-landscapes .

Legislation to Delist the Mexican Wolf Advances

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 22:11:58 GMT

The House Natural Resources Committee advanced the Enhancing Safety for Animals Act of 2025 (H.R. 4255) with bipartisan support. The bill would remove federal ESA protections for the Mexican wolf, restoring commonsense wildlife management authority and providing much-needed relief to cattle producers and rural communities across the Southwest. The next step for the bill is to be presented to the full House for a vote.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and Public Lands Council (PLC) strongly support H.R. 4255, which would reduce regulatory barriers that have prevented effective management to safeguard livestock and rural communities from this abundant apex predator.

“For decades, cattle producers have borne the cost of federal policies that prioritize paperwork over practical wildlife management. The Mexican wolf population has grown well beyond recovery goals, yet producers are left without the tools needed to protect their livestock, their families and their livelihoods,” says Oregon rancher and NCBA Policy Division Chair Skye Krebs. “This isn’t just a producer issue — it’s a rural community issue. When predators cannot be responsibly managed, it puts people at risk and undermines the stewardship efforts of those who live and work on the land every day. Delisting the Mexican wolf would allow wildlife professionals to use proven, science-based management tools to reduce conflict and restore balance.”

Because of its ESA status, Mexican wolf management remains heavily restricted, even in areas where wolf populations have expanded significantly. Producers face ongoing livestock depredation, disrupted grazing operations, and delayed or denied responses to problem animals — often with little to no compensation for losses.

“Whether it is Mexican wolves, grey wolves or grizzly bears, ranchers across the West face daily challenges with recovered species protected by the Endangered Species Act. This bill is a step toward alleviating the challenges southwestern producers face and would recognize the realities on the ground,” says Colorado rancher and PLC President Tim Canterbury. “This legislation is grounded in established science and restores commonsense in the listing determination. The Mexican wolf has recovered, now is the time for Congress to finish the job and pass this legislation.”

NCBA and PLC commend the House Natural Resources Committee for advancing this legislation and thank Rep. Paul Gosar for introducing a bill that recognizes conservation success while standing up for the men and women who help feed Americans.

Read More about Wolves:
House Approves Gray Wolf Protection Removal in a Victory for Cattlemen
Nightly Battles and Big Losses: Ranchers Demand Reform as Wolves Continue to Wreak Havoc
Wolves Are Not Going Away: Ranchers Push for Practical Management Tools
The Cost of Coexistence With Wolves

Tradition Reimagined: The National Western Stock Show Enters a New Era

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:08:17 GMT

Legacy, tradition, the place to be in January — the National Western Stock Show (NWSS).

When I reflect on my younger years and the early days of my career, there’s no doubt I valued my annual trip to Denver for the NWSS. I looked forward to the chance to see some of the best beef genetics from across the U.S. and Canada. There was nothing like standing on the catwalk in the Yards and taking in the impressive view of pen after pen of bulls on display. And on the Hill, it was the Super Bowl of cattle shows.

NWSS was a chance to network with some of the leading seedstock and commercial producers, as well as chance to see some of the hot new sires.
While I understand and respect the showring does not reflect the commercial industry today, at one time NWSS was an elite event where commercial producers came in droves to purchase bulls from the Yards.

Today, the NWSS is a 16-day livestock show with more than 25 different cattle breeds and many other species of livestock. With more than 12,000 head of livestock moving in and out of the gates each year, visitors can watch traditional competitions including breeding, market and showmanship, or those primarily aimed for recreation or companionship — llamas, alpacas, poultry and stock dogs.

Last week, I had a chance to attend NWSS with my dad. It was an annual trip for us when I worked for the Angus and Hereford associations. Each year, he would hitch a ride with me and take in the activities on the Hill and in the Yards.

I’ll be honest, I’ve not been to Denver since COVID. My work and family schedules did not allow for my annual trip to the Mile High City.

(Angie Stump Denton)

New Facilities, New Perspective

Arriving at the facilities on Thursday, I was stunned and speechless. Where once was the history and tradition of the Denver yards is an impressive, state-of-the-art, beautiful new facility.

According to the NWSS website , the facilities beyond NWSS activities will host concerts and festivals, farmers markets, sporting events, trade shows and conventions, as well as office space, business incubators, classes, public art, cultural events, family activities and shops. Just two miles north of downtown Denver, the site is a unique opportunity to connect the rural and urban economies and become the new epicenter of innovative agribusiness.

Throughout the weekend while catching up with beef industry friends, including exhibitors and spectators, the common theme was: “Wow.”

This was the fourth year for the Stockyards Event Center and the updated Yards . While I admit I miss the famous catwalk and the chance to gaze over the pens, the updated pen space and showring are a welcome upgrade for exhibitors and spectators.

Opening for the 2026 event was the Sue Anschutz-Rodgers Livestock Center with a 17,760 sq. ft. arena. The new arena was spacious with amazing lighting, screens and sound. The cattle were exhibited on green turf. The stall area was also updated with many exhibitors commenting on the air quality in the barns, adequate electricity and good wash racks — the important things to cattle exhibitors.

Also new this year was the Legacy building. This building serve as the home to all members of the National Western family. It was built to be a gathering place, gallery and a watering hole for friends, cowboys and art lovers alike. This building was breathtaking .

Historical photos from the Yards and the Hill.

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National Western Stock Show

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National Western Stock Show

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National Western Stock Show

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National Western Stock Show

Times Change, Yet Tradition Continues

While NWSS exhibitors and spectators were excited about the updated facilities and the newness of the showring, you could still feel the tradition and legacy of the NWSS as you watched the show and walked through the Yards.

Since the first Stock Show in 1906, it has been a place where generations of beef producers have spent time reuniting with friends, learning about new genetics and techniques and doing business, year after year.

I can’t wait to watch my sons and future grandkids exhibit in the new facilities as it hosts future NWSS and junior nationals.

Cargill Invests in Beef Business and Employees

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:48:09 GMT

Cargill continues to invest in its beef business and its employees despite challenging market conditions. The company hosted a ribbon cutting Tuesday for its $40 million workforce housing initiative, which includes 27 townhomes and an 81-unit apartment complex.

By addressing housing shortages, the company’s strategy is to reduce commute times and improve employee living options. Cargill’s investment is both strategic — to support workforce stability — and supportive of broader community improvement.

Jarrod Gillig, senior vice president of Cargill’s North American beef business, says Cargill’s commitment to nourishing the world is truly setting its employees and communities up for the future.

Cargill’s Fort Morgan employees have an opportunity to rent 27 townhomes that were built by the company to address the housing shortage near the plant.

(Provided by Cargill)

“One of the biggest issues we had is when new employees came to Fort Morgan, there just wasn’t housing available,” he says. “This was a huge opportunity for us, to make a better life for the employees. Nobody wants to sit on a bus for 45 minutes to an hour before and after work.”

Gillig says Cargill partnered with the community and businesses on a similar housing project near its Schuyler, Neb., plant. He explains the Fort Morgan project was undertaken by Cargill due to the “urgent need” and immediate impact on employees’ quality of life.

Located less that 10 minutes from the plant, the housing project reflects Cargill’s belief that employee well-being directly correlates to productivity, retention and overall organizational success. Gillig summarizes the project isn’t just about building housing options. It’s about building a supportive community and improving employees’ quality of life.

Cargill invested in its employees by building an 81-unit apartment complex and 27 townhomes in Fort Morgan.

(Angie Stump Denton)

Johanna Hernandez, Cargill’s Fort Morgan general manager, describes the housing project as transformative, noting around 60% of her team members come from outside of the Fort Morgan area.

Hernandez personally highlighted the project’s significance, noting her own experience of “struggling to find a place” when she moved to Fort Morgan in 2024 and seeing this as a way Cargill “puts people first” and embraces its core values.

Features of the apartment complex includes:

One-, two- and three-bedrooms plus some studios and suite-type apartments
ADA accessible apartments are available
1,700 sq. ft. of common area
Basketball area
Laundry facilities
Electric car charging stations
Nearby amenities include a gas station, fast food, school and hospital
A sidewalk from the complex goes under the highway and connects the housing project to a nearby park with a playground, city pool, baseball fields and tennis courts

Hernandez says the townhomes and apartments are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The complex is managed by Evergreen, an experienced third-party property management company, and employees must apply for rental.

Kevin Lindell, mayor of Fort Morgan, during the ribbon cutting emphasized the project’s importance, stating it epitomizes Cargill’s community commitment and helps solve the critical housing problem in small towns.

Cargill has also provided more than $500,000 in grants to local Fort Morgan nonprofits for childcare access and housing-related support.

In June, Cargill announced plans to invest nearly $90 million in automation and technology at its Fort Morgan beef plant over the next several years as part of its broader Factory of the Future initiative aimed at improving operational efficiency, yield and worker safety.

The company has already put $24 million into technology upgrades at the plant since 2021.

“The current market conditions remain challenging due to the cattle cycle and ongoing pressure on cattle numbers,” Gillig says. “However, we view this period as a pivotal opportunity to invest in our facilities for the future.”

Your Next Reads:
Cargill’s Fort Morgan Plant to Shut Down for 10 Days
Investing in the Future: Cargill Announces $90-Million Investment in Automation and Technology

Ranching Parched Land: Strategies for Drought Resilience

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 10:32:35 GMT

Drought has reshaped the cattle industry in recent years, but according to the Drovers State of the Beef Industry survey, an increasing proportion of producers are opting to take some type of action to mitigate their risks. While the impact of drought persists for several years, likewise an increasing number of producers who report they reduced their herd size indicate they plan to begin restocking next year.

(Farm Journal)

Despite the high percentage of producers answering they have been impacted by drought, very few operators considered leaving the cattle business because of dry years.

(Farm Journal)

For producers who took action to help mitigate the effects of drought, the most common choices were reducing herd numbers, selling equipment and selling land. One of the other ways producers have mitigated drought effects is through written grazing management plans (GMP) .

Weathering Droughts

LeValley Ranch is a fourth generation cow-calf operation located in western Colorado between Gunnison and Grand Junction — an area where irrigation is dependent on snowpack. Current conditions have reached extreme drought.

Environmental Stewardship Award Program 2024 Region VI Winner LeValley Ranch, Hotchkiss, Colorado

(Baxter Communications Inc. for NCBA/ESAP)

Robbie LeValley, who runs the ranch with her husband and sons, says this is the fourth drought they have weathered since 2000.

“Early on in April and May, when we weren’t getting the late snow and we knew what the reservoirs were measuring at, we made the hard decision to not hay the larger fields and just hay a few of the smaller fields — concentrating on keeping the majority of the fields wet,” LeValley says. “We could keep the grass and the alfalfa alive, but certainly not enough to produce a hay crop as well as graze.”

In normal years, LeValleys take one cutting to concentrate on grazing. They only provide hay from the middle of March to May, this year they had to purchase two-thirds of the hay they typically put up to get them through the winter.

Their grazing timeline changed as well.

“We have a very measured grazing rotation plan in several public land allotments and private leases, which are dependent upon water availability,” LeValley says. “Those ponds have dropped significantly, so we are moving cattle quicker through the rotation — about three to four weeks earlier than normal.”

There will be portions, allotments and whole leases left ungrazed because there is no water there. The cattle drink from natural ponds created by runoff and rain.

Environmental Stewardship Award Program 2024 Region VI Winner LeValley Ranch, Hotchkiss, Colorado

(Baxter Communications Inc. for NCBA/ESAP)

Virtual Fencing Aids During Drought

The LeValleys use virtual fencing in their grazing plan and have expanded areas this year to allow cattle to pick and choose to meet their nutrition needs.

In addition to making grazing adjustments, the family has also culled some of their older females.

LeValley says the grazing plan has been invaluable in being prepared for times of drought.

“The grazing rotation is definitely our insurance policy, and that’s why we’ve had grazing rotation plans in place since 1995,” LeValley says. “We modify it significantly when we have these drought times. But having that additional root mass, even in these drought times, allows for the feed to be relatively good and provides that nutrition the animals need. Having roots to respond when there is moisture is critical for the long-term sustainability moving forward when Mother Nature does decide to provide additional rain.”

Mark and Robbie LeValley

(Baxter Communications Inc. for NCBA/ESAP)

Recognized for Stewardship Efforts

The LeValley family was recognized by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) as a regional winner of the 2024 Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP).

“The LeValley’s willingness to discuss differing ideas, problem solve complex issues and explore new ideas to improve management have led to positive and lasting rangeland conservation,” says Ken Holsinger, ecologist with the Bureau of Land Management-Uncompahgre Field Office. “The LeValley Ranch is deserving of this award for their proven commitment to the stewardship and conservation of their public land permits and for their cooperative efforts in working with agency partners and other landowners.”

For five generations, the LeValley family has been stewards of the land and they achieve their goals through an overall philosophy of land health and management that concentrates on allowing time to rest, grazing moderately and creating pastures where they are utilized in a different rotation in consecutive years.

“Healthy rangelands are important for the productivity of our ranch, and we wouldn’t be in business if we didn’t care for the land.” explains Mark LeValley. “If you manage the land right everything flourishes, and it is going to be here for the next generation.”

The State of the Beef Industry Report includes input from nearly 500 beef producers. The annual report provides information to help producers when making decisions. Click here to download the full report.

For more insights to the report as well as producer and economist perspectives, watch the State of the Beef Industry Webinar exclusive on FarmJournal.tv . The panel includes Ken Odde, a South Dakota cattle producer, along with Matt Perrier, Angus seedstock producer from Kansas, and Lance Zimmerman, RaboResearch senior beef industry analyst. You won’t want to miss their thoughts on the beef industry today and in the future.

Your Next Read: 15 Insights on the State of the Beef Industry

The Cost of Coexistence With Wolves

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 16:52:24 GMT

Wolves continue to cause ranchers havoc, including significant income loss. Recent research estimates the wolves are causing some impacted ranchers in the Southwest to lose 28% of their income potential.

“While the expansion of gray and Mexican gray wolf populations is often hailed as a conservation success, the consequences for ranching families can be gruesome, costly and complex,” says Daniel Munch, American Farm Bureau Federation economist. “They are threatening the safety of ranch families and their pets and livestock, as well as the long-term survival of multigenerational ranches and the rural economies they anchor.”

Munch summarized a recent University of Arizona study that focused on the Mexican gray wolf and analyzed both direct livestock depredation and indirect effects such as stress-induced weight loss and elevated management costs based on 2024 cattle prices. Findings are based on survey responses from impacted ranchers, modeling of herd-level financial outcome and county-level livestock performance trends.

“In areas with wolf presence, even a moderate level of impact, such as 2% calf loss, 3.5% weight reduction and average management costs, can reduce annual ranch revenue by 28%,” Munch says.

While the study focuses on Mexican gray wolves in the Southwest, the core challenges it identifies — livestock depredation, herd stress and weight loss, increased management costs and difficulties accessing timely compensation — are not unique to that region. Ranchers across the northern Rockies, Pacific Northwest and Great Lakes states report similar experiences as wolf populations have expanded.

“Because these economic stressors stem from common predator-prey dynamics and livestock production systems, the study’s findings provide a credible framework for estimating broader impacts,” he says. “This Market Intel draws on that foundation to illustrate the tangible financial risks associated with predator recovery and highlight the need for responsive, producer-informed wildlife policy in all regions affected by wolf activity.”

Key statistics shared by Munch in his article, “ Wolves and the West: The Cost of Coexistence ,” include:

$1,336 average value loss per calf due to wolves. Whether the calf was a day old or nearly ready for market, the rancher loses its full market value, estimated at $1,336 in 2024 for a 525 lb. calf.
A 2% loss of calves could reduce a 367-head ranch’s net income by 4%, or about $5,195, for that year. At higher loss levels, such as 14% of calves, net income could fall by as much as 34%, or roughly $42,599, in that same year.

When a cow is killed, the financial hit extends over multiple years.

“The operation not only loses that year’s calf, but also future offspring, along with the revenue and herd stability that cow would have provided,” Munch explains. “Ranchers then have to retain or buy replacements. This means fewer animals are available for sale, working capital must be used to buy additional replacements and herd development is ultimately delayed. Excluding these long-term impacts, the revenue loss associated with the loss of a single cow was estimated at $2,673.”

(Data: American Farm Bureau Federation)

Figure 2 displays the calculated value of calves lost under this scenario, assuming each calf is valued at $1,336. This generates a loss of 13,514 calves out of an inventory of 1.87 million calves valued at $18 million in wolf-occupied counties. The states with the highest number of calf depredations under this scenario are Montana ($3 million; approximately 2,307 calves) and Idaho ($2.7 million; approximately 2,044 calves).

Keep in mind this method assumes static wolf presence at the county level. Wolves regularly traverse dozens of miles per day, crossing county and state borders, so county-level presence can vary widely year to year.

58% of those surveyed had stress- or depredation-related wolf impacts on their operation (compared to just 38% reporting depredation).
3.5% reduction in average calf weaning weight (18.4 lb.). According to Munch a figure supported by published field research — can significantly reduce revenues across an entire herd.

At the $2.54 per lb. value reference in the study ($1,336/525 lb. average), a ranch that markets 80 head would lose out on $3,738 in marketable weight value.

“Weight loss can be much higher in regions with elevated wolf activity,” Munch says. “If that same ranch experienced a 10% reduction in weaning weight, the loss would exceed $10,600 before even factoring in additional impacts like reduced conception rates.”

(Data: American Farm Bureau Federation)

Using these assumptions about ranch exposure to wolf presence and average weight loss, Figure 3 presents the estimated revenue loss by state. In total, more than $50 million in potential calf weight value was lost due to wolf presence, including $8.6 million in Montana and $7.6 million in Idaho alone.

Ranchers reported an average cost of $79 per cow for conflict avoidance measures and associated labor.

Wolf presence forces ranchers to change the way they manage their operations — often at a steep cost. In wolf-occupied areas, ranchers routinely implement additional strategies to deter predation, respond to attacks and monitor herds across expansive rangelands.

“These management efforts are both labor- and resource-intensive,” Munch says.

Even before accounting for any depredation or stress-related weight loss, these management expenses alone reduced net returns for the average ranch by 19%. Through interviews and surveys, producers indicated they spent anywhere from several thousand dollars to over $150,000 per year on these efforts.

“For our analysis, we convert the $79 per cow figure to $55.30 per calf based on their 70% calf crop assumption,” he explains. “We then apply this per-calf cost to estimate statewide wolf-management expenses, using the study’s finding that 58% of ranchers in wolf-occupied counties experience wolf-induced stressors. Based on these assumptions, ranchers nationwide spend over $60 million each year on efforts to mitigate the impacts of gray wolves.” (Figure 4)

(Data: American Farm Bureau Federation)

All combined, on a ranch experiencing a modest 2% calf depredation and 3.5% weight loss that also spends the average reported amount on conflict avoidance, annual ranch revenues are reduced by 28% ($34,642). These combined costs, reflecting $128 million in annual costs to U.S. ranchers, are displayed in Figure 5.

(Data: American Farm Bureau Federation)

45% drop in the ranch’s long-term earning potential. The study projected what repeated losses from wolves would do to a ranch’s profitability over 30 years. Even a moderate level of impact — losing 2% of calves and 3.5% lower weights — would reduce the ranch’s net present value by more than $191,000.

“In plain terms, that’s a 45% drop in the ranch’s long-term earning potential,” Munch says.

The study estimates that, without wolf impacts, the ranch would generate about $420,000 in long-term profits (in today’s dollars). With average wolf-related losses, that shrinks to $228,000.

“While a single year’s loss might seem manageable, the effects compound over time,” Munch says. “Smaller calf crops mean fewer replacements and fewer animals to sell, while lower weights reduce revenue year after year. These cumulative impacts ripple through herd management and finances, steadily eroding profitability and increasing the odds that the operation may not be financially sustainable in the long run.”

Munch summarizes if predator recovery efforts are to be economically sustainable, they must be accompanied by policies that recognize the people on the front lines: those whose livelihoods now depend not only on their animals but also on a system that values and supports the cost of coexistence.

“That’s the heart of the issue,” Munch explains. “For many ranching families, the return of wolves is not just a wildlife management question, it’s a daily reality shaped by decisions made in distant urban centers, often by voters and officials who will never have to look into the eyes of a mother cow searching for her calf. Ranchers are the ones bearing the real-world costs of policies shaped far from the range. And they’re doing so while continuing to care for livestock, steward the land and feed a growing world.”

Perseverance and Adaptability: Keys to Success for Five Generations

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 19:32:34 GMT

Since 1898, the Price family has managed cattle in the high-desert plains near Deer Trail, Colo., building a remarkable legacy for five generations that exemplifies both perseverance and adaptability in an ever-changing industry. Today, John Price manages the day-to-day operations alongside his wife, Karen, and their sons, Conner and Dylan.

The Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) presented Price Ranch the 2025 BIF Commercial Producer of the Year Award on June 11 during the group’s annual research symposium in Amarillo, Texas. This national award is presented annually to recognize a producer’s dedication to improving the beef industry at the commercial level.

(Red Angus Association of America)

Price Ranch’s 850-head cow herd is exclusively Red Angus, with a small number of composite Simmental bulls. With a strong maternal focus, the Prices retain nearly 50% of their heifer crop annually. DNA testing is central to identifying top-tier replacements. Heifers are selected with a focus on maternal traits and acceptable carcass quality. They must rank in the top third for at least two Red Angus indices and avoid falling into the bottom third of the third index.

Price Ranch has an intensive EPD selection criteria that informs all bull selection decisions, prioritizing strong growth potential and exceptional carcass traits to ensure the calves perform for the feeders who buy them.

“The Price family represents the best qualities of commercial cattle producers: multigenerational dedication to agriculture, continual improvement in genetics and herd health and stewardship of natural resources for future ranchers,” says Maclaine Shults-Mauney, Red Angus Association of America editor and written content specialist. “Price Ranch exemplifies commercial production at its finest, with its openness to innovation and genuine engagement with stakeholders embodying the ideals that will carry the beef industry forward.”

The Prices use synchronization and artificial inseminate 150 heifers and 200 cows each year. Consistent ultrasound use and strict culling practices allows Price Ranch to maintain a tight calving season — selling bred heifers and cows that fall outside their preferred calving window. Calving season starts in late January and generally lasts 45 days to 50 days.

Using Available Tools to Improve Efficiency

“From its early beginnings, Price Ranch has stood the test of time by embracing forward thinking technologies and modern management strategies,” Shults-Mauney says. “Over the years, they have welcomed new developments such as DNA testing, electronic identification systems and rotational grazing, all while maintaining a strict focus on delivering high-quality cattle.”

Price Ranch continuously strives to improve operational efficiency. Short-term goals revolve around refining key traits like feed conversion, stayability and heifer pregnancy through DNA testing. Price Ranch strives to maximize time spent on pasture — nature allowing — while also transitioning to total mixed ration feeding to maximize feed resources. The operation is beginning to increase use of precision-farming techniques to strengthen the farming side of the business.

“Their ability to pivot quickly — be it through innovative breeding programs, enhanced record keeping or the integration of value-added programs — has allowed them to thrive in a region marked by limited rainfall and fluctuating market demands,” she adds. “These innovations have not only improved the productivity of their herd but have also helped them consistently meet the evolving demands of the commercial cattle industry.”

With a strong maternal focus, the Prices retain nearly 50% of their heifer crop annually. DNA testing is central to identifying top-tier replacements.

(Red Angus Association of America)

Price Ranch leverages several value-added programs including verified natural, NHTC, the Red Angus Association’s FCCP, CARE and a targeted vaccination program. These programs help maximize returns on the calf crop and maintain high standards of herd health.

Long-term objectives center on ensuring a smooth transition of leadership to the next generation, maintaining financial stability and further enhancing sustainability practices. Price Ranch intends to leave the land in better condition than they found it, preserving both natural resources and the family’s ranching legacy for the future.

Another cornerstone of Price Ranch’s success is the family’s unwavering commitment to building meaningful relationships with fellow producers and customers alike. John, Karen and their sons have forged a reputation for reliability and leadership in commercial cattle production by sharing knowledge and data-driven insights.

The Commercial Producer of the Year award is presented by BIF and sponsored by Drovers. For more information about this year’s symposium, including additional award winners and coverage of the meeting and tours, visit BIFSymposium.com.

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One Wolf Can Cause Up To $162,000 in Losses Due To Reduced Growth and Pregnancies

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 19:33:23 GMT

Long believed extinct in California, a lone gray wolf was seen entering the Golden State from Oregon in 2011, and a pack was spotted in Siskiyou County in 2015. By the end of 2024, seven wolf packs were documented with evidence of the animals in four other locations. As wolves proliferated, ranchers in those areas feared they would prey on cattle.

Tina Saitone, a University of California, Davis professor and cooperative Extension specialist in livestock and rangeland economics, sought to quantify the direct and indirect costs after the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) launched a pilot program to compensate ranchers for wolf-related losses.

“There’s not really any research in the state on the economic consequences of an apex predator interacting with livestock,” Saitone says in a release from UC Davis about the project .

Results from the study include:

One wolf can cause between $69,000 and $162,000 in direct and indirect losses from lower pregnancy rates in cows and decreased weight gain in calves
Total indirect losses are estimated to range from $1.4 million to $3.4 million depending on moderate or severe impacts from wolves across the three packs
72% of wolf scat samples tested during the 2022 and 2023 summer seasons contained cattle DNA
Hair cortisol levels were elevated in cattle that ranged in areas with wolves, indicating an increase in stress

According to the Public Lands Council , “The recovery of the gray wolf is a success story for the Endangered Species Act, and the time is now to recognize that success. Delist wolves now.”

They encourage producers to contact their members of Congress and ask them to support H.R. 845, The Pet and Livestock Protection Act of 2025 .

In the press

The “Los Angeles Times” published an article on April 21 “ Beautiful, deadly: Wolves stalk rural California. ” Cattleman Joel Torres was interviewed for the article and shared how wolves are tearing into baby calves and yearlings.

In the article, Torres explained what the apex predators do to the cattle in his care at Prather Ranch, an organic farm in Siskiyou County dedicated to raising beef in a natural, stress-free environment.

Wolves often attack from behind and rip victims apart while they’re trying to flee. Once they bring a cow or calf to the ground, the pack will pick around, eat the good stuff, particularly the rectum and udders, and then leave them and go to the next one, Torres says.

There’s no saving the calves that have been attacked by the wolves. He explains he’d like to shoot the wolves, at least a few, to teach the pack that there are “consequences to coming around here and tearing into our cattle.”

But the predators remain on the state’s endangered species list, and aggressive measures to control their behavior are strictly forbidden.

Not just California
Wolf attacks are not confined in California. Since wolves were reintroduced in Colorado in December 2023, ranchers have also been dealing with depredation of calves.

As reported by Drovers, the wolves released in Colorado were from packs in Oregon that were known to have killed livestock in 2022 and 2023.

Your Next Read: Ranchers Concerned Over Six Confirmed Wolf Kills in Colorado

Grit, Grease, and Gears: Meet the Colorado Teen Breathing New Life into Old Tractors

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 15:58:17 GMT

Colorado teenager Tyson Hansen is a shining example of that old saying “If you start them young…”

That’s because Hansen, 17, has cultivated a rare passion for buying and restoring classic tractors. It is a passion passed down from his great grandfather, who started the Hansen family farm and pieced together a massive tractor fleet over the years.

“He had over 200-some tractors, mostly two-cylinder, and when he passed, they had the big auction and my dad bought one to remember him by, and well now it’s our family tractor,” Hansen remembers. “My dad still talks about the first day he let me drive it, and he always says since that first ride, I was just hooked.”

The tractor that launched his lifelong love for tractors - the 1934 John Deere GP in all its glory.

(Photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions)

That first taste of classic tractor heaven was on the hardened steel green seat of a 1934 John Deere GP, a popular two-plow row crop setup John Deere built and sold from 1928 to 1935.

The high school junior says he’s wrenched on about 16 to 17 classic tractors at this point, all while participating in his high school FFA program and wrestling for the varsity team. And it’s not a hobby he tackles alone in a dusty, dark barn – his dad, stepmom, and brother all pitch in and help out. Because everyone knows nothing brings a family closer than bonding over busted knuckles and stripped chassis bolts.

Tyson says his family is “pretty much a John Deere family” but that he has started to feel the pull from other legacy brands.

“I started out as a John Deere guy, but I don’t even actually own any John Deeres,” he says, adding that right now his personal collection consists of two classic Case IH tractors and two Farmalls.

That doesn’t mean a young man can’t dream big, though, and Tyson’s big dream restoration project is to someday fix up a John Deere Model R.

He purchased his latest tractor, a Case 400 Super Diesel Western Special Edition with a hand clutch – one of only eight ever built, he says – with the goal of fixing it up and flipping it to raise enough cash to make that dream a reality.

“Once I got that tractor I went online and looked up some Facebook groups where the guys are all about Case, and I didn’t know anything about them at the time, so I just started asking guys for help and next thing I know within an hour I had about seven or eight texts from guys asking to buy that thing off me,” he says. “That’s when I realized that 400 is a little rarer than I figured it would have been.”

His Case 400 is also going to end up helping his fellow students in the FFA program. Tyson’s FFA teacher has asked him to bring the 400 in and is going to let the young man lead his classmates through a lesson on how diesel engines work.

Work is a key word in any farming family, and the Hansen family is no different.

“I don’t know why, my dad always tells me I won’t like it when I am out of high school, but I like to work,” Hansen says. “I guess I’ve just got a working mindset – I’m not the biggest fan of sitting in the house.”

Check out Tyson Hansen’s latest Tractor Tales spotlight below, where the teen shows off his rebuilt Case 400 tractor. And subscribe to the Farm Journal YouTube channel to get all of the latest Tractor Tale videos.

Also keep an eye on U.S. Farm Report every Saturday morning for the debut of the newest Tractor Tales feature.

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State of Grazing Management: To Plan or Not to Plan

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 16:53:21 GMT

Rotational grazing is critical to maintaining the health of a herd and the overall stewardship of land and natural resources. Successfully managing a grazing plan year after year, balancing stable elements with shifting factors like weather, forage, rainfall and labor can be a juggling act that, when done correctly, could yield enhanced profitability, stewardship and legacy.

Despite the benefits, an overwhelming majority of ranchers and farmers who raise beef still do not maintain yearly rotational grazing plans in a written or digital form, opting for a free-for-all flow of grazing information or, most commonly, a grazing plan honed over years that exists only in the minds of the operators who manage it.

Bought In
For Steve Wooten, owner and operator of Beatty Canyon Ranch, a cow-calf operation in southeast Colorado, tackling a growing season or even a single day managing his overall operation without consultation of their digital grazing plan is unthinkable.

“Could you do the budget of a multi-million-dollar business in your head?” he says. “If you did, could you tell which parts of the business are helping you and which are hurting you?”

Beatty Canyon Ranch is currently managed by two generations of Wooten family members. Steve Wooten says their written grazing management plan keeps everyone on the same page and aligned with operational and resource goals

(Photo Courtesy of Beatty Canyon Ranch)

Wooten knows that managing the daily operational needs and the overall operational goals of Beatty Canyon Ranch are exactly what it takes to keep his business running. Every single day, the multi-generational family analyzes the environmental resources available on their 27,000-acre home ranch, the additional 25,000-acre state land lease contracts they manage and the health of their 600-head herd. All of this is on top of managing their overall business, actively led by two generations of Wootens, and keeping their additional wildlife enterprises afloat.

“Writing down the plan helps you remember it and gets everybody engaged with it,” he says. “Everybody has a say in it and you’re more apt to hold those trigger points.”

On the Fence
In South Texas at Running V Ranch, Suzanne Schuchart hasn’t needed a formal, written plan to tell her what she knows about her land, her herd and her resources.

Schuchart is the fourth generation in her family to manage this land, taking over from her grandparents.

“We have 5,200 acres of mixed South Texas brush land and 500 acres of open coastal Bermuda fields where we run our cow-calf herd of 175 head,” she says.

The land is broken into 30 different tracts where she and husband, Pat, can graze their herd. Like Wooten, Running V Ranch also manages a wildlife enterprise, capturing opportunity for seasonal hunters to hunt deer, turkey, hogs, quail and dove.

Running V Ranch in Texas is made up of a variety of tracts where owner Suzanne Schuchart can rotate her herd for forage. Until this year, Schuchart has not kept a formal written grazing management plan.

(Photo courtesy of Running V Ranch)

“Running a balance between cattle and wildlife is important to us,” she says. “We make sure we aren’t overgrazing to get a mix of open land and native grassland for wildlife.”

This past year Schuchart finally put pen to paper, working working with a consultant to establish a formal written grazing management plan for Running V. She combined all of the information she knew from daily management and the conservation projects they had done over her three-decade career.

“The biggest thing for us was to get it down on paper so it’s visual,” she says. “I didn’t have a visual grazing chart or plan because I just know my rotation in my mind. Now I have a nice grazing chart where I pencil in whenever the cows have been in one pasture or another.”

Adversity Sharpens the Pencil
Both Wooten and Schuchart learned the art of stewardship at the knee of their grandmothers and mothers, but the challenges that their modern-day ranches face are far from the ones their matriarchs saw.

Wooten and his wife, Joy, started rotational grazing when they took over Beatty Canyon Ranch.

“We experimented with trying to come around to pastures twice a year and realized, in our low rainfall, semi-arid climate, our best expectation for resiliency is to go through pastures one time a year and try to have pastures that don’t get grazed at all in in the growing season,” he says.

But then tragedy struck.

And in that tragedy, Wooten says he saw a new philosophy as their only path forward.

“In 2000 we had a six-year drought, and we completely destocked this ranch and leased a place in Kansas for a few years,” he recalls. “We came back with the decision that we were going to stop feeding hay to mature cows.”

Even with their average yearly rainfall hovering around 11 inches, they were able to cut hay by 70% and supplemental cake by 50% and made a five-year transition of the cows starting to live with forage.

This new philosophy required that Wooten ramp up his grazing management, moving from a paper copy to spreadsheets to record movements.

Over his career, Steve Wooten has transitioned from rudimentary paper data and maps to sophisticated web-based applications and software that analyzes high-resolution imagery of his pastures to track the impact of his grazing management plan on his resources and profitability.

(Photo courtesy of ESAP/NCBA)

“Ultimately we began to use pasture map and Agriwebb as our web-based data storage and now we use Enriched Ag high-resolution cameras that we drive through pastures, catching a picture of our route every six seconds,” he says. “Now we are working with Noble Research Institute to do soil probes to get a baseline of what our carbon level is in our soils.”

All of the data that Wooten collects adds up to an enhanced ability to manage the resources on his land, which can help Beatty Canyon mitigate weather stressors.

On Running V Ranch, Schuchart also knows a thing or two about dwindling rainfall averages.

“Water is a big deal with us not having a lot of rainfall here or very irregular rainfall,” she says.

Back in 1988, she says they had grass but no water, so they began running water lines to help ensure that they could keep their inventory consistent.

Running V has 30 ponds and 30 water troughs across the ranch. From their seven water wells, they pipe water across the whole ranch.

Their freshly completed grazing management plan takes that water into account.

“By mapping out all the water sources, we could see where additional water would diversify grazing or shorten travel distance to water for cattle and wildlife,” she says. “That was helpful.”

With yearly rainfall averages that are nearing single digits, both Wooten and Schuchart utilize water sources on-ranch to ensure that their herd is well-managed.

(Photo courtesy of Beatty Canyon Ranch)

Wooten believes that his intensive rotational grazing is building resilience on Beatty Canyon Ranch, helping him to ensure that another prolonged drought won’t lead to tragedy. They can see the evidence of this when they ride their pastureland and gather data on its health and vitality. He says they have noticed more moisture has made a difference this year already.

“What will happen is the quick, rapid response of healthy plants with deep roots,” he says. “When they do get moisture, they grow rapidly. That alone means that we’re quicker to be able to get cattle back on the ranch and using pastures and get our stock back up again to numbers that are better in our budget.”

Managing the Future
Schuchart is entering her first season armed with the grazing management plan binder and rotational analysis chart at her disposal. She has been penciling in with colored pencils where her cattle have been grazing, using the data to plan their next move.

She has high hopes for the plan and its benefits to Running V.

“It will help with grazing rotation and setting goals of getting water to some other areas that aren’t as well-watered,” she says.

Through grazing management planning, Schuchart learned that her current stocking rate is accurate, but she is hoping that a well-managed grazing system can open up opportunity to increase inventory on Running V Ranch.

(Courtesy of Running V Ranch)

While the planning process revealed that her stocking rate is on-point, she’s hoping that by combining data around grazing, water and brush management, she will be able to increase her herd size.

“Hopefully the plan will help me with forage cover and better land management overall,” she says.

Meanwhile, Wooten, Joy and his children are taking a hard look at their plan for the season.

“We may not make an adjustment this year at all, but we’ve already been talking about it, about which pastures we think we want to try to leave rested this year and that, and then our target dates are still going to stay the same for liquidation or management numbers,” he says.

The plan and the daily management of it are one way in which Wooten says he’s helping to secure the legacy of Beatty Canyon Ranch, which now is under ownership of his daughter and son-in-law.

“You can’t believe how rewarding it is when you hand it over to these young people that you raised, taught and trained,” he says. “We have confidence in them, and they’re going to take care of it because they love it as much as we do.”

Steve and Joy Wooten have officially transitioned management of Beatty Canyon Ranch to the next generation of Wootens. Their grazing management plan is helping them to build the data needed for success into the future.

(Photo courtesy of Beatty Canyon Ranch)

“They might have ideas that they’re willing to take a risk on that maybe at my age, I’m not willing to take,” he says. “They see things different, and they’ve got foresight that comes from their years of experience.”

This article is part of an ongoing State of Grazing Management series brought to you by Trust In Food and U.S. Roundtable for Sustainable Beef. You can learn more by visiting www.trustinfood.com or www.usrsb.org .

McDonald’s Rules Out Beef Patties As Source of E. coli Outbreak

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 18:59:36 GMT

McDonald’s said Sunday that beef patties in its Quarter Pounder burgers aren’t the source of the E. coli outbreak which has killed one and sickened about 75 .

The fast food chain says it’s certain that any contaminated food has been removed from its supply chain, and is no longer in restaurants.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture said all samples of McDonald’s beef patties tested negative for E. coli.

The department of agriculture added that beef testing is done, and they don’t expect more samples.

U.S. fast-food chains have removed fresh onions from their menu after they were identified as the likely source of the outbreak.

E. coli is killed in beef when cooked properly, but the McDonald’s Quarter Pounder includes raw, sliced onions.

Affected restaurants are now serving the burgers without those onions.

Since the incident, McDonald’s has removed the Quarter Pounder from about 20% of its U.S. restaurants.

Previous E. coli outbreaks have hurt sales at big fast-food chains as customers stay away from affected outlets.

McDonald’s said it would soon start serving Quarter Pounders again, and they should be in all restaurants over the coming week.

(Reporting by Kanjyik Ghosh; Editing by Nick Zieminski)

Gov. Polis Releases Wolves in Covert Ceremony

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:02:26 GMT

One might think Colorado Governor Jared Polis would scale back his anti-agriculture campaign – at least publicly – after his tone-deaf proclamation of Meat-Out Day on the first day of spring in 2021. But despite that PR fiasco, the governor has again thumbed his nose at Colorado ranchers with last week’s covert wolf reintroduction.

Colorado voters approved the reintroduction of gray wolves via a ballot measure in 2020, so the release of five wolves on Dec. 18 into the wilderness of Grand County was legal. But if it was legal, why was it done secretly? And that’s not the only question Colorado ranchers are demanding the governor answer.

To date, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials have released 10 gray wolves – four males and six females – at two locations on state-owned land in Grand and Summit counties. Wolves were eradicated from Colorado in the 1940s, and the controversial ballot measure (Proposition 114) passed with a slim 51% to 49% margin.

The state’s ranchers campaigned against the ballot measure, and the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association and the Gunnison County Stockgrower’s Association filed a last-ditch lawsuit last month in federal court against Colorado Parks and Wildlife and U.S. Fish and Wildlife. The ranchers argued the reintroduction of wolves should be reviewed under the National Environmental Policy Act and they asked the federal court to block wolf releases until the complaint is reviewed. That request was denied.

That decision paved the way for the first reintroduction of the wolves, and the governor’s unusual photo opportunity. Colorado Public Radio’s Sam Brasch was one of just three reporters selected to be onsite when the first five wolves were set free.

Brasch told Aspen Public Radio’s Elanor Bennett he received the mystery invite on Monday morning of last week. The reporters met Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials at a rest stop and were then driven to the release site.

“The agency had flown five wolves from Oregon earlier that morning. And when we got there, each one was in these dark metal crates in the backs of pickup trucks,” Brasch said. “They were then driven to a small clearing where there were about 45 invited guests who wanted to watch the releases — that included CPW officers, Governor Polis, his husband, and top wolf advocates from around the state. Then we watched the governor help open each crate. Three of the wolves bolted up over a snow-covered road into the woods immediately. You know, two others took their time before just kind of sauntering out of their crates and running into the woods.”

Notably missing, according to Brasch’s description of the guests, were any representatives from Colorado’s ranching community, which might have included some top wolf opponents. Yet that omission is likely because the wolves released already had rap sheets as members of packs with known livestock kills in Oregon. Wowza!

You read that right. The wolves released in Colorado come from packs that have already killed livestock. Could CPW have chosen wolves for relocation that hadn’t already appeared on a naughty wolf list? Maybe. Except Wyoming, Idaho and Montana refused to allow Colorado to adopt any of their wolves.

Some have viewed that refusal as a political wedge issue as Wyoming, Idaho and Montana are Red states and Colorado a Blue state. But Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon’s comments to the Wyoming State Daily earlier this year sound like the decision was made for more practical reasons.

“Our border with Colorado is an unsuitable area for wolves, and that would mean more human conflicts. Resolution of conflicts is almost always deadly to wolves,” Gordon said.

In any case, Colorado found some adoptable wolves in Blue state Oregon.

Reporting for The Fence Post last week, Rachel Gabel reviewed the rap sheets of the relocated wolves . Two of the wolves, a juvenile male and a juvenile female, come from Five Points Pack. Gabel noted that the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Livestock Depredations Investigations found “Five Points Pack wolves injured one calf and killed another in separate depredations in July of 2023; killed a cow on Dec. 5, 2022; and injured a 900-pound yearling heifer on July 17, 2022.”

USDA killed four wolves from that pack by August 4, 2023.

(Gabel’s reporting on the controversial wolf reintroduction has drawn the ire of the state’s official first gentleman, Marlon Reis, who attacked Gabel on Facebook. His comments did not sit well with the editors at The Gazette. )

The other three wolves released into Colorado under Governor Polis’ supervision, also come from packs with confirmed livestock kills. Gabel reported another juvenile male and female came from the Noregaard Pack which was involved in the killing of a calf on June 15. The fifth wolf, an adult male, came from the Wenaha Pack involved in the killing of a 7-mont-old calf on Sept. 18, and a cow on Oct. 25.

But that’s just the first five wolves! The second batch of five wolves had a similar record of misbehavior. Cowboy State Daily columnist Cat Urbigkit accurately describes why Colorado ranchers are so angry.

“Colorado released a total of 10 wolves – all but one from confirmed cattle-killing packs, according to information from Oregon wolf depredation records. What on earth could be wrong with that?

“Over the last two years the message to Colorado livestock producers has been to do all they can to reduce the risk of livestock depredation, and producers have been stepping up to do that. The words ‘conflict minimization’ are repeated 176 times in Colorado’s wolf plan. So, when the same agency then takes an action that appears to increase the risk of conflict to livestock producers, what message does that relay?”

The answer, as Urbigkit writes, is that “Colorado put its own livestock producers into a higher risk situation than it needed. Bringing in wolves from packs that are already known as livestock killers raises the risk for repeat performance.”

Interestingly, Urbigkit’s opinion is shared by Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Technical Working Group’s (TWG) final recommendations to the agency : “No wolf should be translocated that has a known history of chronic depredation, and sourcing from geographic areas with chronic depredation events should not occur.”

That important tidbit, however, was missing from news releases documenting the wolf release, as was any apparent wolf pardon granted during Governor Polis’ photo opportunity.

And that’s why the covert wolf release was another in a long string of botched PR episodes from Colorado’s current governor.

Six Members of Copper Creek Wolf Pack Captured in Colorado

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 19:27:07 GMT

Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced Sept. 9 they had completed the capture of wolves from the Copper Creek wolf pack, according to an agency release. The adult male and female were part of the original wolves released in December 2023 . In addition, four pups were captured. CPW announced in August they would attempt the capture and relocation of the wolves due to repeated livestock depredation in the area the wolves were inhabiting. According to a CPW report , wolves have killed or injured at least nine sheep and 15 head of cattle in 2024.

The Colorado Wolf Restoration and Management Plan states that CPW will not relocate wolves with depredation histories into the wild within Colorado, stated the release.

“The plan also calls for flexibility,” says CPW Director Jeff Davis, “and it may not at times account for every unique situation the agency and our experts encounter. This spring, after a pair of wolves established a den in Middle Park, the male adult wolf was involved in multiple depredations. Removing the male at that time, while he was the sole source of food and the female was denning, would likely have been fatal to the pups and counter to the restoration mandate.”

Davis says the CPW worked closely with internal and external wildlife biologists, agency wildlife veterinarians, federal partners, and ranchers to create a plan to deal that was in the best interest of the wolves and Grand County producers.

“We are still in the early stages of the restoration plan,” Davis says. “Our legal obligation to Colorado voters is to continue working towards a sustainable population. We also must continue our efforts to minimize losses to our producers and to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of the wolves as we work towards a viable gray wolf population.”

Timeline:

On Thursday, Aug. 22, CPW began the operation to capture and relocate wolves from the depredating Copper Creek wolf pack, with technical support from federal partners.

The adult female 2312-OR was captured on Sunday, August 25.
The adult male 2309-OR was captured on Thursday, August 29 and died on Tuesday, September 3.
The male pup 2401 was captured on Tuesday, September 3.
Male pups 2403 and 2405 were captured on Wednesday, September 4.
The female pup 2402 was captured on Thursday, September 5.

After three more days of operations, CPW felt confident there were no additional pups on the landscape. For the safety of these animals and staff, CPW will not be sharing the location of the pack.

The agency stated the adult male wolf, 2309-OR who was captured following the capture of 2312-OR, was found in poor condition, with several injuries to his right hind leg, unrelated to the capture. The wolf’s body weight was nearly 30% lower than it was when he was released in December. CPW staff administered antibiotics in an effort to address infections from his injury. Four days after transport, CPW’s wolf team biologists received a mortality signal from 2309-OR’s collar and the animal was confirmed to be deceased. CPW staff believes that it was unlikely the wolf would have survived for very long in the wild. A full necropsy will be conducted. Pups 2401, 2403, 2405, and 2402 were captured over the course of three days, with capture operations concluding on Sept. 8 and were underweight and otherwise healthy.

CPW further stated the agency will continue to assess the female and pups’ health and advance plans to re-release them, as they will be adult-sized and able to hunt on their own or together in a pack. This approach gives CPW the opportunity to release them into the wild together so they can contribute to wolf restoration in Colorado. CPW will have conversations with local elected officials and landowners in possible release areas before a release occurs.

“We will take the lessons we’ve learned here and apply them as we continue to build out a strong program alongside our federal and state partners, and both the wolf restoration advocacy and ranching communities,” Davis says. “The more we’re able to listen to understand one another and increase cooperation, the better off we’ll all be in the long run. Our focus in this case now is on a healthy release of the remaining members of the Copper Creek pack.”

Read more:
Ranchers Concerned Over Six Confirmed Wolf Kills in Colorado
First Calf Killed by Wolves Since Colorado’s Reintroduction

Cargill Invests $1 Million in Research on Methane Reduction in Cattle

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 17:10:00 GMT

In an effort to help fund research studying sustainable animal agriculture practices and reducing the environmental impact of the beef industry, Cargill has issued a $1 million grant to Colorado State University and the university’s AgNext research program.

“Working closely with industry partners like Cargill, researchers and producers, AgNext is helping develop innovative, scalable solutions that move the livestock industry toward a more sustainable future,” said Dr. Kim Stackhouse-Lawson, director of AgNext and Co-Pl. “An important part of that is developing robust baseline greenhouse gas emissions from cattle.”

In a release from the company, Cargill states the $1 million grant will address a critical agricultural challenge: enteric methane emissions from feedlot cattle, which are naturally produced during the digestive process.

While current USDA guidelines rely on assumptions about the effects of different feeding strategies on methane emissions, such as grain processing combined with other feed additives, AgNext will conduct several experiments to collect empirical data to support those assumptions.

Studies will take place at Colorado State University’s Climate Smart Research Facility during the next two years.

The research will help determine the impact of different ingredients and additives in cattle diets on enteric methane emissions in beef steers fed typical finishing rations. It will also explore the additive effect of these ingredients and additives to determine if additional methane reduction is possible.

“Cargill is committed to working with researchers, farmers and ranchers to advance creative sustainability ideas and accelerate best-in-class conservation practices within the industry,” said Eliza Clark, Cargill Protein & Salt Sustainability Leader. “The knowledge generated from this innovative research will pave the way for testing new technologies in cattle feeding and continue to improve the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the beef supply chain.”

Ranchers Concerned Over Six Confirmed Wolf Kills in Colorado

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 04:29:18 GMT

Since the beginning of April, six wolf depredations of cattle have been confirmed in north central Colorado, five in Grand County and one in Jackson County.

Letters were sent from the Middle Park Stockgrowers Association, North Park Stockgrowers Association, and the Larimer County Stock Growers to the office of Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) and to Gov. Jared Polis showing support for affected ranchers and urging the state to provide lethal removal of depredating wolves.

The letters stated ranchers have been using non-lethal methods to deter the wolf depredation including fox lights, maintaining a presence throughout the night, implementing carcass management strategies, hazing, guardian animals and utilizing cracker shells.

The Middlepark Stockgrowers’ letter stated, “We urge CPW and USFWS to collaborate on a plan for the responsible removal of these specific wolves, adhering to Colorado’s wolf management plan and federal guidelines.”

That request was not approved by CPW Director Jeff Davis who denied removing any wolves at this time citing that the likely wolf in the incidents is part of a pair currently thought to be in breeding season.

Within the letters and the response, all parties share they want to work together to make sure wolves are properly managed.

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission will be considering whether it is advisable to modify the plan to quantitatively define chronic depredation, and if so what that definition should be, at the Commission meetings this summer, added Davis.

Read more:

First Calf Killed By Wolves Since Colorado Reintroduction

Like Oil and Water, Wolves and Livestock Do Not Mix

First Calf Killed By Wolves Since Colorado Reintroduction

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 16:18:12 GMT

Colorado officials have confirmed the first wolf depredation of a calf since gray wolves were reintroduced in the state in December 2023.

A Grand County rancher found the dead calf April 2 and wildlife officials began a field investigation and confirmed the wolf kill on Wednesday April 3.

“The results of this investigation indicated wounds consistent with wolf depredation,” said Colorado Parks and Wildlife Area Wildlife Manager Jeromy Huntington. “The field investigation found multiple tooth rake marks on the calf’s hindquarters and neck, and hemorrhaging under the hide, consistent with wolf depredation. Wolf tracks were also found nearby.”

CPW also confirmed the wolf or wolves involved were part of the 10 animals that were reintroduced in December.

The wolves released in Colorado were from packs in Oregon that were known to have killed livestock in 2022 and 2023.

“The incident, which resulted in the loss of livestock, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by ranchers in managing conflicts between livestock and wildlife,” Tatum Swink, spokesperson for Colorado Cattlemen’s Association said in a statement.

Related stories:

Five Gray Wolves Released in Colorado

Gov. Polis Releases Wolves in Covert Ceremony

'Fitbit' for Cows to Debut at National Western Stock Show

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 04:13:16 GMT

Shoot Em Up, a well-known Texas longhorn from Ellicott, was ready for his Twitter performance during the National Western Stock Show parade. The weather, however, was not.

That didn’t faze Melissa Brandao, the woman behind the Longmont startup HerdDogg. The company has developed a small, rugged Bluetooth-enabled device designed to improve herd health and profitability by giving ranchers an easy-to-use, affordable tracking and data gathering system.

Instead of the parade, which was clearly going to be a snowy challenge, HerdDogg systems will debut with Shoot Em Up’s assistance at the Wild West Show on Jan. 14 and 15 at the National Western.

At the same time, Brandao and her small team of tech gurus are pushing hard to send out the first batch of commercially available smart tags this spring. She describes them as the equivalent of a Fitbit, except for very large, non-verbal mammals, reported the Daily Camera .

Social media savvy steers

When Shoot Em Up, who weighs nearly 1 ton, shows off the new technology during the National Western Stock Show, he’ll be sending out tweets letting the audience know, for instance, how fast he’s walking, how many steps he’s taking and his internal temperature, among other things.

This information once was collected manually by ranchers as they physically inspected their animals — often multiple times a day — looking for those who were ailing or who were preparing to give birth.

The advent of Bluetooth technologies, which allow data to be gathered and stored locally, and cellphones have changed all that, according to Brandao.

Now, using HerdDogg, a cow with one of the young company’s tags implanted in its ear can walk up to a watering trough in a far-flung pasture and take a drink of water. While the animal drinks, the data from the HerdDogg tag is being gathered by a device attached to the trough, which the young company calls a dog bone. The data stays at the trough in the rugged, plastic, bone-shaped device, ready for a rancher to collect it via an app on a cellphone.

If the rancher is standing in a field, he or she simply taps the icon on the cellphone that reflects the numbered tag of the cow being monitored, and information on that cow appears. In addition, an LED light in the tag lights up.

“Our goal is to create a technology that is rancher friendly,” Brandao said. “The data is stored and transmitted when the rancher needs it.”

Ranch animals have been tagged for years. In the early days, the simple plastic tags held a number that was the animal’s ID. Then, as production became more sophisticated, the United States Department of Agriculture, began requiring radio ID tags.

But HerdDogg is helping take the ag tag into a new world of precision agriculture, where animals can be tracked remotely, around the clock, without the use of tall radio towers or expensive networks. With more data, producers can make better-informed decisions that should help them improve herd health and profitability.

Brandao said she believes the technology can allow small- and medium-sized producers to grow their herds without having to add staff, a critical factor in an industry in which family farms are shrinking in number and consolidation is rampant.

Healthier cows, greener pastures

Ryan Rhoades, who is Colorado State University’s statewide extension specialist for beef producers, said devices such as the HerdDogg tag can help ranchers finely tune their operations, improving the health of herds and saving money by reducing the need for expensive drugs and veterinary visits required when animals go from simply feeling poorly to actually being sick.

They can also help improve the sustainability of ranching by, for instance, helping ranchers track which areas of pasture land cattle are using for grazing, and then redistributing the cattle to ensure lands aren’t overgrazed.

“Producers are looking for strategies to be more sustainable,” Rhoades said, “to increase their efficiency and to increase the bottom line. They’re also looking for tools to improve herd management and health.”

Antibiotic resistance and medication use in feedlots is a big issue, Rhoades said.

“Historically, we’ve not been very good at diagnosing sickness,” he said. “There is a consumer perception that we’re treating everything and mass medicating. This kind of tech allows us to be much more precise. With the price of drugs these days, there is probably a significant reduction in medication cost as well.”

The White House and reality TV

Shoot Em Up isn’t the only one who has been tracking HerdDogg’s progress, of course. The young company, which relocated to Longmont last summer after launching in Oregon in 2013, has already raised $750,000 and is seeking another $1 million to $2 million this year.

It spent much of last year participating in an agriculture-based Techstars program in Minneapolis and Brandao and her team won a visit to the White House in 2015 as part of a demo-days program. They were also featured on Intel’s reality TV show, “America’s Greatest Makers,” in 2015.

Rob Schultz is managing partner of Champaign, Ill.-based Serra Ventures, a venture capital company with an interest in ag technologies.

Schultz and his partners invested $500,000 in HerdDogg and plan to participate in the next finance round as well.

Prior to backing HerdDogg, Serra had invested in a data-gathering technology used on tractors, an investment that paid off when the company was acquired by the giant Monsanto Corp.

“That was all about creating data sets to allow farmers to be more precise and improve yields. The next great frontier is livestock,” Shultz said.

“Imagine you’re a rancher. All of your assets are roaming around outside your immediate access and control, and you have very little information on them. Being here in the Midwest, I talked to friends who are farmers and ranchers and was able to get their perspective. If they could save one cow or even detect illness earlier and treat it with one antibiotic shot rather than a vet visit, these are big deals for these farmers.”

Pilot projects and social media

As with all startups, much work lies ahead. For now, the chips that go into the tags are manufactured in Brooklyn, N.Y., and quality control is being done in Longmont.

New algorithms are being developed almost weekly, including those that will measure how often a cow is eating, chewing and swallowing, or “ruminating” as they say in the ag world.

The technology is being tested in California, Oregon, Colorado and Brazil and HerdDogg has several notable partners, including Land O’ Lakes and Shoot Em Up’s home operation, the Silverado Ranch east of Colorado Springs in Ellicott.

Gary Lake, who owns Silverado Ranch with Stan Searle, has 10 Texas longhorns in the pilot program. The full herd — 150 strong — graze on roughly 2.5 square miles of open pasture and Lake has attached the plastic dog-bone devices on watering troughs through the range area.

While he’s impressed with the biometric data the tags gather, he loves the novelty of its interface with social media apps such as Twitter and Instagram.

“Most people who buy Texas longhorn cattle have just a few head. They love them for their color and horns. These are the kind of people who will really enjoy getting a tweet from a cow as she is heading up to the house from the pasture,” Lake said.

While Brandao is a big believer in social media, she has her eye on the worldwide livestock market, which is 2 billion animals strong.

“I’m not a rancher,” she said. “But it is so exciting to be around animals who’ve never had a voice. Maybe this will help ranching become more common again.”