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New Mexico State Fair Open Sheep Show
2023 New Mexico State Fair
Open Sheep Breed Show
Superintendent: Katy Lente
Assistant Superintendent: Don Bixby DVM
Judge: AOP Breeds - Donald Martinez Jr., NM
Navajo Churro’ - Nikyle Begay, AZ
Start Arrival: 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 14, 2023
Arrival: By 5:00 p.m., Friday, September 15, 2023
Check In: ONLY between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., Friday, September 15, 2023
Show: 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 16, 2023
**Entries Open July 1, 2023**
**Entries Close August 15, 2023**
Open Sheep Breed Show
Superintendent: Katy Lente
Assistant Superintendent: Don Bixby DVM
Judge: AOP Breeds - Donald Martinez Jr., NM
Navajo Churro’ - Nikyle Begay, AZ
Start Arrival: 1:00 p.m., Thursday, September 14, 2023
Arrival: By 5:00 p.m., Friday, September 15, 2023
Check In: ONLY between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m., Friday, September 15, 2023
Show: 1:00 p.m., Saturday, September 16, 2023
**Entries Open July 1, 2023**
**Entries Close August 15, 2023**
| 2023_open_sheep_beed_show.pdf |
September 21, 2022: Nominations Sought for Livestock Inspector of the Year
The New Mexico Cattle Growers Association (NMCGA) is seeking nominations for its annual Livestock Inspector of the Year Award. Each year, the NMCGA honors an inspector employed by the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) for outstanding service to the livestock industry.
“NMLB inspectors are a tremendous asset,” said Loren Patterson, NMCGA President. “Their presence in our communities and on our highways aid in fighting theft and disease, and they serve as our first defense in emergency situations, responding to the needs of all animals both large and small.”
Nominations should include the name and address of the inspector, as well as a brief narrative on why the nominee is deserving of the award. Please direct submissions to the NMCGA, P.O. Box 7517, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87194 or via email to nmcga20@gmail.com . The deadline for submission is November 22, 2022. The award will be presented during the 2022 Joint Stockmen's Convention, slated for December 14-17 at Hotel Albuquerque Old Town. For further information, please contact the office at (505) 247-0584.
The 2021 recipient of the award was Cathy Truby, who has served San Juan and Rio Arriba counties for 19 years, beginning as a Deputy Brand Inspector in 2003 and advancing to a full-time Inspector in 2013.
“NMLB inspectors are a tremendous asset,” said Loren Patterson, NMCGA President. “Their presence in our communities and on our highways aid in fighting theft and disease, and they serve as our first defense in emergency situations, responding to the needs of all animals both large and small.”
Nominations should include the name and address of the inspector, as well as a brief narrative on why the nominee is deserving of the award. Please direct submissions to the NMCGA, P.O. Box 7517, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87194 or via email to nmcga20@gmail.com . The deadline for submission is November 22, 2022. The award will be presented during the 2022 Joint Stockmen's Convention, slated for December 14-17 at Hotel Albuquerque Old Town. For further information, please contact the office at (505) 247-0584.
The 2021 recipient of the award was Cathy Truby, who has served San Juan and Rio Arriba counties for 19 years, beginning as a Deputy Brand Inspector in 2003 and advancing to a full-time Inspector in 2013.
September 15, 2022: New Mexico Paid Sick Leave (Healthy Workplaces Act)
In June at our Mid-Year Meeting held in Ruidoso, we learned more about New Mexico's Paid Sick Leave from Rob Black at the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce.
New Mexico Paid Sick Leave (Healthy Workplaces Act) of 2021 is now a law requiring all private employers in New Mexico to allow employees to accrue and use a benefit called earned sick leave. The law took effect on July 1, 2022.
Learn more here https://www.dws.state.nm.us/NMPaidSickLeave
New Mexico Paid Sick Leave (Healthy Workplaces Act) of 2021 is now a law requiring all private employers in New Mexico to allow employees to accrue and use a benefit called earned sick leave. The law took effect on July 1, 2022.
Learn more here https://www.dws.state.nm.us/NMPaidSickLeave
September 8, 2022: Western Ag Network
Wool LDP Available to Producers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Marketing Assistance Loan and Loan Deficiency Payment programs could provide welcome assistance for wool producers.
Currently, the ungraded LDP program offers a 40-cent LDP (per pound grease). This has been the going rate for the past two years for ungraded wools, as graded wools have varied from week to week per grade. This week, there is a higher LDP payment – $1.22 per pound clean – for graded wools between 23.6 and 25.9 micron. There’s also a 9-cent (per pound clean) LDP available for wools between 20.6 and 22 micron.
Current rates are posted on the American Sheep Industry Association website each Tuesday afternoon. Producers with questions about the Wool LDP Program can contact their local Farm Service Agency office.
Click Here for more details and current rates.
Source: Western Ag Network via American Sheep Industry Association – September 7, 2022.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Marketing Assistance Loan and Loan Deficiency Payment programs could provide welcome assistance for wool producers.
Currently, the ungraded LDP program offers a 40-cent LDP (per pound grease). This has been the going rate for the past two years for ungraded wools, as graded wools have varied from week to week per grade. This week, there is a higher LDP payment – $1.22 per pound clean – for graded wools between 23.6 and 25.9 micron. There’s also a 9-cent (per pound clean) LDP available for wools between 20.6 and 22 micron.
Current rates are posted on the American Sheep Industry Association website each Tuesday afternoon. Producers with questions about the Wool LDP Program can contact their local Farm Service Agency office.
Click Here for more details and current rates.
Source: Western Ag Network via American Sheep Industry Association – September 7, 2022.
August 3, 2022: American Lamb Board News
New Lamb Market Monthly Summary Released
The American Lamb Board announces the introduction of a new monthly lamb market summary to provide the industry with increased data and analysis.
ALB has engaged the American Sheep Industry Association to prepare the monthly Lamb Market Summary. The report includes:
The July summary says, “Consumer prices continued to rise in June with the Consumer Price Index posting a higher than expected 9.1 percent year-over-year increase driven by higher prices for gasoline, housing and food. The Food Index has steadily increased each month since January and has risen 10.4 percent over the past year. While prices for fuel have moderated some in recent weeks, prices are expected to remain at elevated levels which inevitably will increase the cost of food. Consumers appear to be managing food price inflation for now, but expectations for continued inflation and an impending economic slowdown are likely to challenge consumer demand.”
The Lamb Market Summary, Weekly USDA market reports, and year-in-review reports can be found at www.lambresourcecenter.com/market-reports.
Source: American Lamb Board
The American Lamb Board announces the introduction of a new monthly lamb market summary to provide the industry with increased data and analysis.
ALB has engaged the American Sheep Industry Association to prepare the monthly Lamb Market Summary. The report includes:
- Sheep and lamb slaughter;
- Lamb imports;
- Sheep and lamb prices;
- Market forecast.
The July summary says, “Consumer prices continued to rise in June with the Consumer Price Index posting a higher than expected 9.1 percent year-over-year increase driven by higher prices for gasoline, housing and food. The Food Index has steadily increased each month since January and has risen 10.4 percent over the past year. While prices for fuel have moderated some in recent weeks, prices are expected to remain at elevated levels which inevitably will increase the cost of food. Consumers appear to be managing food price inflation for now, but expectations for continued inflation and an impending economic slowdown are likely to challenge consumer demand.”
The Lamb Market Summary, Weekly USDA market reports, and year-in-review reports can be found at www.lambresourcecenter.com/market-reports.
Source: American Lamb Board
August 2, 2022: Dept. of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Agriculture-related wildfire recovery meeting set for Aug. 10 in Sierra County
For Immediate Release: August 2, 2022
WINSTON, N.M. – A wildfire recovery meeting for the agriculture community affected by the Black Fire will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10 at the Winston Community Center, 387 Grafton Rd., in Winston, New Mexico.
Representatives from local, state and federal agencies will be in attendance to answer questions and address concerns about agriculture and natural resources impacted by the fire, including:
Employees from New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service, United States Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency and United States Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service will make brief presentations.
“The agriculture community is vital to New Mexico, as farmers and ranchers bring food to our plates, and we appreciate everything they do,” said New Mexico Agriculture Secretary Jeff Witte. “However, the way of life for many ranchers and farmers in the Black Fire area has been impacted, and the state and its partners are committed to helping this community recover.”
The goals of the meeting are to:
For more information, email pio@nmda.nmsu.edu.
For Immediate Release: August 2, 2022
WINSTON, N.M. – A wildfire recovery meeting for the agriculture community affected by the Black Fire will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10 at the Winston Community Center, 387 Grafton Rd., in Winston, New Mexico.
Representatives from local, state and federal agencies will be in attendance to answer questions and address concerns about agriculture and natural resources impacted by the fire, including:
- Agriculture disaster assistance programs
- Livestock and natural resource programs
- Soil health and watershed management
- Agriculture producer mental health needs
- Water quality/wells
- Reforestation
- Livestock inspections and movement
- Lost or estray livestock
- Livestock grazing alternatives
Employees from New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service, United States Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency and United States Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service will make brief presentations.
“The agriculture community is vital to New Mexico, as farmers and ranchers bring food to our plates, and we appreciate everything they do,” said New Mexico Agriculture Secretary Jeff Witte. “However, the way of life for many ranchers and farmers in the Black Fire area has been impacted, and the state and its partners are committed to helping this community recover.”
The goals of the meeting are to:
- Promptly detect and identify threats to New Mexico agriculture and food systems.
- Identify and provide resources for agriculture and food protection.
- Assist in the recovery of impacted systems to mitigate economic impacts to communities.
For more information, email pio@nmda.nmsu.edu.
August 2, 2022: What's so special about wool?
Wool's physical cell structure is complex. Each layer has a function.
This unique structure gives wool its natural ability to breathe, absorbing and releasing humidity. That's how wool is capable of adjusting to situations, keeping you warm when the weather is cool, and cool when the weather is warm.
In addition wool is super safe. Wool's high water and nitrogen content make it naturally flame retardant.
And wool absorbs unhealthy carbons in the atmosphere providing a better environment – especially indoors.
This unique structure gives wool its natural ability to breathe, absorbing and releasing humidity. That's how wool is capable of adjusting to situations, keeping you warm when the weather is cool, and cool when the weather is warm.
In addition wool is super safe. Wool's high water and nitrogen content make it naturally flame retardant.
And wool absorbs unhealthy carbons in the atmosphere providing a better environment – especially indoors.
July 28, 2022: NMWGI CALL TO ACTION!
Contact: Wendy Mason
Acting Public Information Officer, EMNRD
Wildfire Prevention & Communications Coordinator
wendy.mason@state.nm.us | 505-690-8210
Public Input Requested on the Future of Conservation in New Mexico
New Mexico 30 by 30 Advisory Committee announces public engagement survey
Santa Fe, NM – Today the New Mexico 30 x 30 Advisory Committee announces a public Request for Information (RFI) to gather broad input on the conservation activities most important to New Mexicans. The RFI solicits ideas for a “uniquely New Mexico” vision for conservation.
In August 2021 Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed Executive Order 2021-052 (E.O.), Protecting New Mexico’s Lands, Watersheds, Wildlife, and Natural Heritage. The E.O. established the 30 by 30 Advisory Committee, comprised of seven state agencies and the State Land Office. Agencies are directed to individually review and utilize existing programs, funding, and authorities to reach the ambitious conservation targets of conserving at least 30 percent of all lands in New Mexico by 2030, with an additional 20 percent of lands designated as climate stabilization areas. Benefits include supporting our economy, sustaining traditional ways of life, providing drinking water, ensuring food security, preserving biodiversity, and providing recreational opportunities for all New Mexicans.
“We welcome public input that will help us identify conserved lands and climate stabilization areas,” said Committee Chair and Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department Secretary Sarah Cottrell Propst. “This year, one of the most important tasks before the 30 by 30 Committee is to develop statewide definitions that will be used to measure progress and help identify conservation opportunities that make the most sense for New Mexico.”
Following the RFI, the Committee will release draft definitions and hold a separate public comment period before proposing final definitions in its Annual Report, to be released in December.
Respond by filling out the EMNRD SURVEY HERE.
Must be submitted by August 25, 2022.
Acting Public Information Officer, EMNRD
Wildfire Prevention & Communications Coordinator
wendy.mason@state.nm.us | 505-690-8210
Public Input Requested on the Future of Conservation in New Mexico
New Mexico 30 by 30 Advisory Committee announces public engagement survey
Santa Fe, NM – Today the New Mexico 30 x 30 Advisory Committee announces a public Request for Information (RFI) to gather broad input on the conservation activities most important to New Mexicans. The RFI solicits ideas for a “uniquely New Mexico” vision for conservation.
In August 2021 Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed Executive Order 2021-052 (E.O.), Protecting New Mexico’s Lands, Watersheds, Wildlife, and Natural Heritage. The E.O. established the 30 by 30 Advisory Committee, comprised of seven state agencies and the State Land Office. Agencies are directed to individually review and utilize existing programs, funding, and authorities to reach the ambitious conservation targets of conserving at least 30 percent of all lands in New Mexico by 2030, with an additional 20 percent of lands designated as climate stabilization areas. Benefits include supporting our economy, sustaining traditional ways of life, providing drinking water, ensuring food security, preserving biodiversity, and providing recreational opportunities for all New Mexicans.
“We welcome public input that will help us identify conserved lands and climate stabilization areas,” said Committee Chair and Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department Secretary Sarah Cottrell Propst. “This year, one of the most important tasks before the 30 by 30 Committee is to develop statewide definitions that will be used to measure progress and help identify conservation opportunities that make the most sense for New Mexico.”
Following the RFI, the Committee will release draft definitions and hold a separate public comment period before proposing final definitions in its Annual Report, to be released in December.
Respond by filling out the EMNRD SURVEY HERE.
Must be submitted by August 25, 2022.
July 19, 2022: NMWGI CALL TO ACTION!
S. 2980 WILDLIFE/LIVESTOCK CONFLICT RESOLUTION ACT
Sponsored by Senator Martin Heinrich and Co-Sponsored by Senator Ben Ray Luján
Scheduled to be Heard
by the Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee Public Lands, Forests, and Mining this THURSDAY, July 21, 2022 at 10:00am Eastern Time.
Call the committee today and request that they VOTE NO!
Background
This bill directs the Department of the Interior, for public land, and the Department of Agriculture, for National Forest System land, to accept the donation of any valid existing leases or permits authorizing grazing on such lands in New Mexico beginning in FY2022. For each permit or lease donated, the department concerned shall (1) terminate the grazing permit or lease; and (2) except as provided below, ensure a permanent end to grazing on the land covered by the permit or lease. If the land covered by a permit or lease that is donated also is covered by another valid grazing permit or lease that is not donated, the department concerned shall not allow the total grazing use on the land to exceed the average actual grazing use under the other valid grazing permit or lease for the five-year period preceding the date of the donation.
Talking Points
• New Mexico Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Lujan have introduced Senate Bill 2980 (S2980), the Wildlife Conflict Resolution Act, to authorize the voluntary donation of grazing permits and leases only in the State of New Mexico
• S2980 allows for donation of US Forest Service permits and requires that those grazing allotments be permanently retired
• S2980 will negatively impact New Mexico’s rural communities and economies by eliminating jobs and removing livestock from county tax bases that would otherwise generate funding for local education, law enforcement, roads and other infrastructure projects
• S2980 targets one of the poorest states in the nation that is ranked #1 in childhood hunger, worst in the nation in education, and nearly worst in the nation in many other indices of social and economic welfare
• This is a land grab just like 30 X 30.
• Removal of grazing will be a detriment to New Mexico lands, grazing is a useful and necessary tool - our number one defense against wildfire.
Committee Contacts
Senator Catherine Cortez, D- Nevada Chair – 202-224-3542
Senator Ron Wyden, D – Oregon – 202-228-2717
Senator Martin Heinrich, D- NM – 202-224-5521
Senator Mazie K Hirono, D – Hawaii – 202-224-6361
Senator Angus King, D- Maine – 202-224-5344
Senator Mark Kelly, D- Arizona – 202-224-2235
Senator John W Hickenlooper, D –Colorado – 202-224-5941
Senator Mike Lee, R – Utah – 202-224-5444
Senator James E Risch, R- Idaho- 202-224-2752
Senator Steve Daines, R – Montana 202-224-2651
Senator Lisa Murkowski, R- Alaska 202-224-6665
Senator James Lankford, R- Oklahoma 202-224-5754
Senator Bill Cassidy, R –Louisiana 202-224-5824
Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, R – Mississippi 202-224-5054
Senator Joe Manchin III, D- West Virginia 202-224-3954
Senator John Barroso, R- Wyoming 202-224-6441
Sponsored by Senator Martin Heinrich and Co-Sponsored by Senator Ben Ray Luján
Scheduled to be Heard
by the Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee Public Lands, Forests, and Mining this THURSDAY, July 21, 2022 at 10:00am Eastern Time.
Call the committee today and request that they VOTE NO!
Background
This bill directs the Department of the Interior, for public land, and the Department of Agriculture, for National Forest System land, to accept the donation of any valid existing leases or permits authorizing grazing on such lands in New Mexico beginning in FY2022. For each permit or lease donated, the department concerned shall (1) terminate the grazing permit or lease; and (2) except as provided below, ensure a permanent end to grazing on the land covered by the permit or lease. If the land covered by a permit or lease that is donated also is covered by another valid grazing permit or lease that is not donated, the department concerned shall not allow the total grazing use on the land to exceed the average actual grazing use under the other valid grazing permit or lease for the five-year period preceding the date of the donation.
Talking Points
• New Mexico Senators Martin Heinrich and Ben Lujan have introduced Senate Bill 2980 (S2980), the Wildlife Conflict Resolution Act, to authorize the voluntary donation of grazing permits and leases only in the State of New Mexico
• S2980 allows for donation of US Forest Service permits and requires that those grazing allotments be permanently retired
• S2980 will negatively impact New Mexico’s rural communities and economies by eliminating jobs and removing livestock from county tax bases that would otherwise generate funding for local education, law enforcement, roads and other infrastructure projects
• S2980 targets one of the poorest states in the nation that is ranked #1 in childhood hunger, worst in the nation in education, and nearly worst in the nation in many other indices of social and economic welfare
• This is a land grab just like 30 X 30.
• Removal of grazing will be a detriment to New Mexico lands, grazing is a useful and necessary tool - our number one defense against wildfire.
Committee Contacts
Senator Catherine Cortez, D- Nevada Chair – 202-224-3542
Senator Ron Wyden, D – Oregon – 202-228-2717
Senator Martin Heinrich, D- NM – 202-224-5521
Senator Mazie K Hirono, D – Hawaii – 202-224-6361
Senator Angus King, D- Maine – 202-224-5344
Senator Mark Kelly, D- Arizona – 202-224-2235
Senator John W Hickenlooper, D –Colorado – 202-224-5941
Senator Mike Lee, R – Utah – 202-224-5444
Senator James E Risch, R- Idaho- 202-224-2752
Senator Steve Daines, R – Montana 202-224-2651
Senator Lisa Murkowski, R- Alaska 202-224-6665
Senator James Lankford, R- Oklahoma 202-224-5754
Senator Bill Cassidy, R –Louisiana 202-224-5824
Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, R – Mississippi 202-224-5054
Senator Joe Manchin III, D- West Virginia 202-224-3954
Senator John Barroso, R- Wyoming 202-224-6441
July 18, 2022: Announcement - Northeast NM Livestock Assn
PLEASE ATTEND THIS SPECIAL BUSINESS MEETING TO ELECT NEW OFFICERS:
NORTHEASTERN NEW MEXICO LIVESTOCK ASSOCIATION
We will begin at 1:00 with a Hamburger Cookout, followed by our Business Meeting
Please bring veggies, side dishes, or desserts to enhance burgers
ROY COMMUNITY BUILDING SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2022, at 1:00 PM
Unfortunately
Debbie Sauble 675.375.2686
Tom Sidwell 575.403.6903
Tony Martinez 575.207.7575
Friends and Guests Are Always Welcome!
NORTHEASTERN NEW MEXICO LIVESTOCK ASSOCIATION
We will begin at 1:00 with a Hamburger Cookout, followed by our Business Meeting
Please bring veggies, side dishes, or desserts to enhance burgers
ROY COMMUNITY BUILDING SUNDAY, AUGUST 14, 2022, at 1:00 PM
Unfortunately
- our President, Vice-President, and Secretary have all resigned their positions
- therefore, we need to elect new officers to begin a new two-year term
- if anyone is interested or knows of anyone Interested in one of these positions, as well as, the Treasurer position, please contact a member of our most recent Nominating Committee listed below:
Debbie Sauble 675.375.2686
Tom Sidwell 575.403.6903
Tony Martinez 575.207.7575
Friends and Guests Are Always Welcome!
July 11, 2022: Around the State
Gila cattle slaughter lawsuit settled
The New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association and others announced today that they have settled the lawsuit filed to prevent the United States Forest Service from shooting cattle from a helicopter in the Gila Wilderness.
In February, the USFS shot 63 head of estray cattle, and have now withdrawn the decision memorandum on which it relied to authorize that shooting campaign. Under the terms of the settlement, USFS agreed it will give 75 days’ notice before commencing any future helicopter sniper operations. It may only do so if it satisfies the procedural and substantive requirements to justify such an action.
“The Forest Service has agreed it won’t be able to continue shooting cattle without first being accountable for complying with the law,” said Loren Patterson, President NMCGA. “New Mexico’s producers want to have a permanent seat at the table regarding such decisions, we believe this settlement is progress in the right direction.”
The New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association and others announced today that they have settled the lawsuit filed to prevent the United States Forest Service from shooting cattle from a helicopter in the Gila Wilderness.
In February, the USFS shot 63 head of estray cattle, and have now withdrawn the decision memorandum on which it relied to authorize that shooting campaign. Under the terms of the settlement, USFS agreed it will give 75 days’ notice before commencing any future helicopter sniper operations. It may only do so if it satisfies the procedural and substantive requirements to justify such an action.
“The Forest Service has agreed it won’t be able to continue shooting cattle without first being accountable for complying with the law,” said Loren Patterson, President NMCGA. “New Mexico’s producers want to have a permanent seat at the table regarding such decisions, we believe this settlement is progress in the right direction.”
June 24, 2022: Around the State
Governor appoints former state senator from Jal as new game commissioner
Former New Mexico senator, Jal cattle rancher and oilman Gregg Fulfer is the newest state game commissioner.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s latest commission appointment was announced at a June 17 meeting in Santa Fe.
The former Lea County commissioner also served on the state Environmental Improvement Board for eight years.
Fulfer runs Fulfer Oil and Cattle Co. in Jal and Delaware Water Co.
“Water is one of my favorite topics,” he said. “We’re cleaning about 1 million and a half gallons a day of produced water and reusing it for the fracking and drilling operations.”
Fulfer received an electrical engineering degree from New Mexico State University.
As a Republican state legislator representing a corner of southeast New Mexico from 2018 to 2020, he supported a law that made it easier for surveyors and engineers licensed in Texas or New Mexico to work in either state.
Fulfer helped secure road repairs for an oil field highway in his district and supported a forest and watershed restoration law.
“I’m learning a lot right now, but hunting and fishing have always been one of my big interests,” Fulfer said. “It’s important to create growth of that industry and protect hunting, fishing and wildlife.”
The commissioner said he enjoys fly-fishing at a family lodge in Colorado just north of Chama.
“Ranching is a big part of my life,” he said. “We raise beef cattle, and do a lot of taking care of the country here for birds and quail.”
Fulfer voted against a law that funded Game and Fish to work with the Transportation Department on a wildlife corridors action plan.
He also voted against a wildlife trafficking law and a law that banned coyote-killing contests.
The seven-member Game Commission now has two vacancies.
The board sets state hunting and fishing rules and oversees the Department of Game and Fish’s budget.
In recent years, the commission has waded into issues like stream access and elk hunting licenses for residents and out-of-state landowners.
Fellow commissioner Deanna Archuleta said Fulfer is a “delightful individual who really gets things done.”
Other game commissioners are:
— Sharon Salazar Hickey, former Los Alamos National Laboratory employee, appointed 2020
— Roberta Salazar-Henry, former Game and Fish employee, appointed 2019
— Tirzio Lopez, Rio Arriba County farmer, appointed 2019
— Deanna Archuleta, ExxonMobil senior director for federal relations, appointed February 2022
The commission’s next meeting is on July 22 at 9 a.m. in Ruidoso.
Former New Mexico senator, Jal cattle rancher and oilman Gregg Fulfer is the newest state game commissioner.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s latest commission appointment was announced at a June 17 meeting in Santa Fe.
The former Lea County commissioner also served on the state Environmental Improvement Board for eight years.
Fulfer runs Fulfer Oil and Cattle Co. in Jal and Delaware Water Co.
“Water is one of my favorite topics,” he said. “We’re cleaning about 1 million and a half gallons a day of produced water and reusing it for the fracking and drilling operations.”
Fulfer received an electrical engineering degree from New Mexico State University.
As a Republican state legislator representing a corner of southeast New Mexico from 2018 to 2020, he supported a law that made it easier for surveyors and engineers licensed in Texas or New Mexico to work in either state.
Fulfer helped secure road repairs for an oil field highway in his district and supported a forest and watershed restoration law.
“I’m learning a lot right now, but hunting and fishing have always been one of my big interests,” Fulfer said. “It’s important to create growth of that industry and protect hunting, fishing and wildlife.”
The commissioner said he enjoys fly-fishing at a family lodge in Colorado just north of Chama.
“Ranching is a big part of my life,” he said. “We raise beef cattle, and do a lot of taking care of the country here for birds and quail.”
Fulfer voted against a law that funded Game and Fish to work with the Transportation Department on a wildlife corridors action plan.
He also voted against a wildlife trafficking law and a law that banned coyote-killing contests.
The seven-member Game Commission now has two vacancies.
The board sets state hunting and fishing rules and oversees the Department of Game and Fish’s budget.
In recent years, the commission has waded into issues like stream access and elk hunting licenses for residents and out-of-state landowners.
Fellow commissioner Deanna Archuleta said Fulfer is a “delightful individual who really gets things done.”
Other game commissioners are:
— Sharon Salazar Hickey, former Los Alamos National Laboratory employee, appointed 2020
— Roberta Salazar-Henry, former Game and Fish employee, appointed 2019
— Tirzio Lopez, Rio Arriba County farmer, appointed 2019
— Deanna Archuleta, ExxonMobil senior director for federal relations, appointed February 2022
The commission’s next meeting is on July 22 at 9 a.m. in Ruidoso.
June 21, 2022: Around the State
Town Halls for Agricultural Lessees with Commissioner of Public Lands Stephanie Garcia Richard and State Land Office Staff
In-person meetings with virtual (Zoom Meeting) and call-in options.
July 14, 2022 - Clayton, NM Location: Union County Courthouse - Annex Meeting RoomAddress: 200 Court Street, Clayton, NM 88415
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Zoom Meeting ID: 841 1679 0016, Passcode: 912703 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
July 18, 2022 - Clovis, NM Location: Clovis-Carver Public Library - Ingram Room
Address: 701 N Main Street, Clovis, NM 88101
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Zoom Meeting ID: 897 7645 4008, Passcode: 944027 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
July 19, 2022 - Hobbs, NM Location: New Mexico State Land Office - Hobbs District Office
Address: 914 N Linam Street, Hobbs, NM 88240
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Zoom Meeting ID: 842 3886 7433, Passcode: 631696 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
July 21, 2022 - Moriarty, NM Location: New Mexico State Land Office - Moriarty District Office
Address: 2506 Route 66, Moriarty, NM 87035
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Zoom Meeting ID: 811 3500 3862, Passcode: 848659 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
The purpose of these events is for Commissioner Garcia Richard to speak with, listen to, and answer questions from the agricultural community. In addition, Land Office staff will explain changes to the GS series agricultural lease and the agricultural lease renewal process for 2022. Reminder: Staff will also be available at the New Mexico State Land Office from Monday through Friday to assist you with your Agriculture Lease Renewal and documents.
The New Mexico State Land Office
310 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe, New Mexico
505-827-5760
In-person meetings with virtual (Zoom Meeting) and call-in options.
July 14, 2022 - Clayton, NM Location: Union County Courthouse - Annex Meeting RoomAddress: 200 Court Street, Clayton, NM 88415
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Zoom Meeting ID: 841 1679 0016, Passcode: 912703 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
July 18, 2022 - Clovis, NM Location: Clovis-Carver Public Library - Ingram Room
Address: 701 N Main Street, Clovis, NM 88101
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Zoom Meeting ID: 897 7645 4008, Passcode: 944027 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
July 19, 2022 - Hobbs, NM Location: New Mexico State Land Office - Hobbs District Office
Address: 914 N Linam Street, Hobbs, NM 88240
Time: 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Zoom Meeting ID: 842 3886 7433, Passcode: 631696 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
July 21, 2022 - Moriarty, NM Location: New Mexico State Land Office - Moriarty District Office
Address: 2506 Route 66, Moriarty, NM 87035
Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Zoom Meeting ID: 811 3500 3862, Passcode: 848659 or call 1 (720) 928-9299
The purpose of these events is for Commissioner Garcia Richard to speak with, listen to, and answer questions from the agricultural community. In addition, Land Office staff will explain changes to the GS series agricultural lease and the agricultural lease renewal process for 2022. Reminder: Staff will also be available at the New Mexico State Land Office from Monday through Friday to assist you with your Agriculture Lease Renewal and documents.
The New Mexico State Land Office
310 Old Santa Fe Trail
Santa Fe, New Mexico
505-827-5760
June 20, 2022: Sheepman of the Year
Cooper named Sheepman of the Year
John W. “Punk” Cooper was raised on the family sheep ranch near Arabela. He grew up learning to be a sheep and cattle rancher and a steward of the land from his father, John A. Cooper, and his grandfather, T.J. McKnight. With their guidance, he developed his own 4-H flock of champion fine wool ewes. He was active in Boy Scouts and was an Eagle Scout, attending the National Boy Scout Jamboree in 1964.
Punk was a member of 4-H for 9 years, showing sheep at county and state fairs, winning an all-expense paid trip to National 4-H Congress in Chicago, IL for 4-H Record Book competition and being selected as the winner of the New Mexico Santa Fe Award, sponsored by the Santa Fe Railway.
Punk received a degree in Animal Science from NMSU, where he was a member of the Wool and Livestock Judging teams, competing at the National level in both, and winning the livestock competition. Punk spent a year in Brazil as part of the International Farm Youth Exchange program (IFYE), an agricultural program to help people in other countries learn modern agricultural practices and learn about their methods. As a part of that experience he became pretty fluent in Brazilian Portuguese. He was an active member of Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), and after college graduation, he was commissioned a second lieutenant and served on active duty as a helicopter pilot in Korea. While attending college, Punk met his wife, Charlanne, and after active duty, Punk and Charlie returned to the family ranching business to raise their daughter, Jenny. He is a partner in Cooper Brothers, which now includes both sheep and cattle ranches. He has served on many committees, including the Lincoln County and Otero County Fair Boards, and is active in church youth activities. Punk and Charlie have one daughter, Jenny Lively, a granddaughter, Alicia Briggs, and a great-granddaughter, Aubrey.
Over the decades he and the family have garnered an abundance of trophies and awards for their livestock and wool production, including among them the Grand Champion Fleece twice at the National Western Stock Show in Denver.
Punk has always had an interest in art, beginning with charcoal sketches, progressing to limited-edition bronze sculptures depicting sheep, cattle, and other western themes, and his latest success, has been plein air painting. While Punk considers it a hobby, his art has become popular, with his works now in personal and business collections and art gallery exhibits. His charcoal sketches were printed as greeting cards for a Wool Growers fundraiser. A bronze sculpture titled “Ewe and Lamb” was featured on the covers of the New Mexico Stockman and the National Wool Growers Magazine.
Punk’s family and friends consider him a strong leader, with solid Christian values and a love of the land and animals that he has spent his life caring for. Punk was honored during the 2022 New Mexico Wool Growers Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, June 13th in Ruidoso, New Mexico.
John W. “Punk” Cooper was raised on the family sheep ranch near Arabela. He grew up learning to be a sheep and cattle rancher and a steward of the land from his father, John A. Cooper, and his grandfather, T.J. McKnight. With their guidance, he developed his own 4-H flock of champion fine wool ewes. He was active in Boy Scouts and was an Eagle Scout, attending the National Boy Scout Jamboree in 1964.
Punk was a member of 4-H for 9 years, showing sheep at county and state fairs, winning an all-expense paid trip to National 4-H Congress in Chicago, IL for 4-H Record Book competition and being selected as the winner of the New Mexico Santa Fe Award, sponsored by the Santa Fe Railway.
Punk received a degree in Animal Science from NMSU, where he was a member of the Wool and Livestock Judging teams, competing at the National level in both, and winning the livestock competition. Punk spent a year in Brazil as part of the International Farm Youth Exchange program (IFYE), an agricultural program to help people in other countries learn modern agricultural practices and learn about their methods. As a part of that experience he became pretty fluent in Brazilian Portuguese. He was an active member of Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), and after college graduation, he was commissioned a second lieutenant and served on active duty as a helicopter pilot in Korea. While attending college, Punk met his wife, Charlanne, and after active duty, Punk and Charlie returned to the family ranching business to raise their daughter, Jenny. He is a partner in Cooper Brothers, which now includes both sheep and cattle ranches. He has served on many committees, including the Lincoln County and Otero County Fair Boards, and is active in church youth activities. Punk and Charlie have one daughter, Jenny Lively, a granddaughter, Alicia Briggs, and a great-granddaughter, Aubrey.
Over the decades he and the family have garnered an abundance of trophies and awards for their livestock and wool production, including among them the Grand Champion Fleece twice at the National Western Stock Show in Denver.
Punk has always had an interest in art, beginning with charcoal sketches, progressing to limited-edition bronze sculptures depicting sheep, cattle, and other western themes, and his latest success, has been plein air painting. While Punk considers it a hobby, his art has become popular, with his works now in personal and business collections and art gallery exhibits. His charcoal sketches were printed as greeting cards for a Wool Growers fundraiser. A bronze sculpture titled “Ewe and Lamb” was featured on the covers of the New Mexico Stockman and the National Wool Growers Magazine.
Punk’s family and friends consider him a strong leader, with solid Christian values and a love of the land and animals that he has spent his life caring for. Punk was honored during the 2022 New Mexico Wool Growers Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, June 13th in Ruidoso, New Mexico.
June 3, 2022: NM Dept. of Homeland Security and Emergency Management
Agriculture, natural resources fire assistance open house set for June 9 in Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS – An open house for the agricultural community affected by the wildfires will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, June 9 at the San Miguel County Chambers, 500 W. National Avenue in Las Vegas.
The goals of the open house are to:
Representatives will be available to answer questions and address concerns about agriculture and natural resources impacted by the fire, including:
Representatives from the following entities will be in attendance:
For more information, email pio@nmda.nmsu.edu.
LAS VEGAS – An open house for the agricultural community affected by the wildfires will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, June 9 at the San Miguel County Chambers, 500 W. National Avenue in Las Vegas.
The goals of the open house are to:
- Promptly detect and identify threats to New Mexico agriculture and food systems.
- Identify and provide resources for agriculture and food protection.
- Assist in the recovery of impacted systems to mitigate economic impacts to communities.
Representatives will be available to answer questions and address concerns about agriculture and natural resources impacted by the fire, including:
- Agriculture disaster assistance programs.
- Livestock and natural resource programs.
- Soil health and watershed management.
- Agriculture producer mental health needs.
- Water quality/wells.
- Reforestation.
- Livestock inspections and movement.
- Lost or estray livestock
- Livestock grazing alternatives.
Representatives from the following entities will be in attendance:
- New Mexico Department of Agriculture.
- New Mexico State University Cooperative Extension Service.
- New Mexico Livestock Board.
- United States Department of Agriculture – Farm Service Agency (FSA).
- United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).
- United States Department of Agriculture – Rural Development (RD).
- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
For more information, email pio@nmda.nmsu.edu.
May 25, 2022: Rabies found in SW New Mexico
NMDOH has confirmed rabies in five wild animals in southwest New Mexico. All rabid animals were reported at or near a residence and acted aggressively towards people. They include: a fox and a bobcat both in reserve preservation land areas, a bobcat near Mimbres in Grant County, a fox from the Kingston area in Sierra County, and a fox near Datil in Catron County.
Additional information can be found here: https://www.nmhealth.org/news/disease/2022/5/?view=186
Additional information can be found here: https://www.nmhealth.org/news/disease/2022/5/?view=186
May 23, 2022: Wolf program ignores citizen input
The US Fish and Wildlife Service’s recent final 10(j) decision on the Mexican wolf reads like a death warrant for the many who live, visit and work in New Mexico’s rural communities. On numerous occasions, leaders of New Mexico Cattle Growers' Association have asked FWS to modify its proposed rule to reflect its on-the-ground threats and costs. FWS has refused to do so.
The Service’s Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement, a 241 page document, reflects the concerns that producers in Arizona and New Mexico have voiced since the 1980’s. FWS recognizes that removing the population cap will result in more livestock kills, the cost of the program will decrease profitability of all ranches found within the expanded geographic area and the impacts from the change will not be sustainable for some family operations. FWS further admits that current compensation programs address only approximately one-quarter of the losses that cattle producers even now experience from wolves.
Turning a blind eye, the Service intends to move forward with its proposed plan. The wolf recovery area will now encompass all of New Mexico and Arizona south of I-40 from the Texas border and will include even part of southern California. The population limit of 325 wolves will be removed, as well as the producer take provision. Despite FWS request to the public to provide the best available data in their submissions, FWS acknowledges but has chosen to disregard the facts.
“It is disheartening to supply data that in turn is not utilized,” said Loren Patterson, President NMCGA. “The decision is a punch in the gut to hard working cattle producers and rural communities across the West.”
Removing the population limit and expanding the recovery area mean more cattle will be fed to wolves instead of entering the local, US and world food supply chain. The wolf program is broken and is being wielded as a tool to remove people from the landscape. The decision proves the government’s commitment to wolves over human life. Terror awaits the many recreationalists, hunters, and families who will encounter wolves while trying to enjoy their hike, ride or time spent camping and discovering the Land of Enchantment.
Federal and state governments are now spending close to $4 million each year to recover wolves. That’s approximately $20,000 per wolf per year, without ever an attempt to make affected parties whole. Rural New Mexicans should not bear the disproportionate share of the cost of this failed government program.
The Service’s Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement, a 241 page document, reflects the concerns that producers in Arizona and New Mexico have voiced since the 1980’s. FWS recognizes that removing the population cap will result in more livestock kills, the cost of the program will decrease profitability of all ranches found within the expanded geographic area and the impacts from the change will not be sustainable for some family operations. FWS further admits that current compensation programs address only approximately one-quarter of the losses that cattle producers even now experience from wolves.
Turning a blind eye, the Service intends to move forward with its proposed plan. The wolf recovery area will now encompass all of New Mexico and Arizona south of I-40 from the Texas border and will include even part of southern California. The population limit of 325 wolves will be removed, as well as the producer take provision. Despite FWS request to the public to provide the best available data in their submissions, FWS acknowledges but has chosen to disregard the facts.
“It is disheartening to supply data that in turn is not utilized,” said Loren Patterson, President NMCGA. “The decision is a punch in the gut to hard working cattle producers and rural communities across the West.”
Removing the population limit and expanding the recovery area mean more cattle will be fed to wolves instead of entering the local, US and world food supply chain. The wolf program is broken and is being wielded as a tool to remove people from the landscape. The decision proves the government’s commitment to wolves over human life. Terror awaits the many recreationalists, hunters, and families who will encounter wolves while trying to enjoy their hike, ride or time spent camping and discovering the Land of Enchantment.
Federal and state governments are now spending close to $4 million each year to recover wolves. That’s approximately $20,000 per wolf per year, without ever an attempt to make affected parties whole. Rural New Mexicans should not bear the disproportionate share of the cost of this failed government program.
May 17, 2022: Relief programs available to agriculturalists impacted by wildfire
USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers assistance to agriculturalists impacted by wildfire – including multiple programs to help during recovery and to mitigate risk on your operation.
To learn more about your options and how to enroll please contact your county FSA agent. New Mexico’s directory can be accessed online at https://www.fsa.usda.gov/contact-us under ‘FSA County Offices’.
There are an array of options when looking to enroll to receive emergency relief payments. Some programs to inquire about when you call in include:
Emergency Relief Program (ERP)
Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP)
Emergency haying and grazing of Conversation Reserve Program acres
Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP)
Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP)
Details and further programs can be found at https://www.farmers.gov/protection-recovery/wildfire
Why should you look into these programs and report losses? Designed to help those impacted get back on their feet, the FSA mission is to deliver timely, effective programs and services to America's farmers and ranchers to support them in sustaining our Nation's vibrant agricultural economy. Payments and criteria for assistance are determined by the impacts and averages of loss reported during previous disasters. If New Mexico’s producers choose not to enroll and file their losses, FSA programs won’t have access to accurate data to base their future payments.
To learn more about your options and how to enroll please contact your county FSA agent. New Mexico’s directory can be accessed online at https://www.fsa.usda.gov/contact-us under ‘FSA County Offices’.
There are an array of options when looking to enroll to receive emergency relief payments. Some programs to inquire about when you call in include:
Emergency Relief Program (ERP)
Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP)
Emergency haying and grazing of Conversation Reserve Program acres
Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP)
Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP)
Details and further programs can be found at https://www.farmers.gov/protection-recovery/wildfire
Why should you look into these programs and report losses? Designed to help those impacted get back on their feet, the FSA mission is to deliver timely, effective programs and services to America's farmers and ranchers to support them in sustaining our Nation's vibrant agricultural economy. Payments and criteria for assistance are determined by the impacts and averages of loss reported during previous disasters. If New Mexico’s producers choose not to enroll and file their losses, FSA programs won’t have access to accurate data to base their future payments.
May 2, 2022: New Mexico Department of Game & Fish
Deer, elk and exotics hunting rules topic of public meetings
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866
Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027
SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the deer, elk and exotics (Barbary sheep, oryx, Persian ibex) rules which opened at the State Game Commission meeting on April 11, 2022.
For deer, the Department is seeking input on adjustments to license numbers and hunt dates and adding some new hunt opportunities. Additionally, the Department is proposing creating an October youth hunt in GMUs 2A and 2B and moving the majority of licenses out of the current November hunt period.
For elk, the Department is seeking input on creating several new hunt opportunities, “Primary Management Zone” expansion in some southwestern GMUs, designating GMUs 34 and 46 as “Secondary Management Zone” and changes to sales procedures for youth encouragement hunts statewide.
For Barbary sheep, the Department is proposing changes to season dates, hunt structure, opening some new hunt areas and increasing licenses. The Department is considering some license increases for oryx. For ibex, considerations include decreasing license numbers and shifting season dates.
The Department is also looking for public input on modifying the definition of a muzzleloader to include only those muzzleloading firearms that do not have a scope for all big game species.
To gather public comments, four hybrid public meetings have been scheduled for the following dates and locations:
COMMENTS on the proposed changes can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Attn: Big Game Rule Development, 1 Wildlife Way, Santa Fe, NM 87507; by email, DGF-Deer-Rule@state.nm.us, DGF-Elk-Rule@state.nm.us or DGF-Exotics-Rule@state.nm.us; or in person at one of the meetings listed above.
These topics will also be discussed at several State Game Commission meetings over the summer and autumn of 2022. Meeting details and additional information will be available online.
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866
Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027
SANTA FE – The Department of Game and Fish is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to the deer, elk and exotics (Barbary sheep, oryx, Persian ibex) rules which opened at the State Game Commission meeting on April 11, 2022.
For deer, the Department is seeking input on adjustments to license numbers and hunt dates and adding some new hunt opportunities. Additionally, the Department is proposing creating an October youth hunt in GMUs 2A and 2B and moving the majority of licenses out of the current November hunt period.
For elk, the Department is seeking input on creating several new hunt opportunities, “Primary Management Zone” expansion in some southwestern GMUs, designating GMUs 34 and 46 as “Secondary Management Zone” and changes to sales procedures for youth encouragement hunts statewide.
For Barbary sheep, the Department is proposing changes to season dates, hunt structure, opening some new hunt areas and increasing licenses. The Department is considering some license increases for oryx. For ibex, considerations include decreasing license numbers and shifting season dates.
The Department is also looking for public input on modifying the definition of a muzzleloader to include only those muzzleloading firearms that do not have a scope for all big game species.
To gather public comments, four hybrid public meetings have been scheduled for the following dates and locations:
- May 10, 2022: Las Cruces 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Attend in person at 2715 Northrise Drive, Las Cruces, NM
Register in advance to attend virtually - May 11, 2022: Roswell 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Attend in person at 1615 West College Boulevard, Roswell, NM
Register in advance to attend virtually - May 12, 2022: Raton 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Attend in person at 215 York Canyon Road, Raton, NM
Register in advance to attend virtually - May 16, 2022: Albuquerque 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Attend in person at 7816 Alamo Rd. NW, Albuquerque, NM
Register in advance to attend virtually
COMMENTS on the proposed changes can be provided by mail: New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, Attn: Big Game Rule Development, 1 Wildlife Way, Santa Fe, NM 87507; by email, DGF-Deer-Rule@state.nm.us, DGF-Elk-Rule@state.nm.us or DGF-Exotics-Rule@state.nm.us; or in person at one of the meetings listed above.
These topics will also be discussed at several State Game Commission meetings over the summer and autumn of 2022. Meeting details and additional information will be available online.
April 5, 2022: In the News
This circular provides information on the processing events that occur from the birth of a lamb through the weaning process. Lambing season is an exciting time in the sheep industry, and one that requires a significant amount of attention and producer input provided to both ewes and lambs. Read more here https://aces.nmsu.edu/pubs/_circulars/CR703.pdf
March 15, 2022: In the News
SHEEP BREEDS BEST SUITED FOR ARID CLIMATES
(https://bit.ly/3Dw7Olc): Sheep are versatile animals that can be used in many capacities. They can be the primary source of farm income, help diversify an agricultural operation, or simply provide additional income for those who only have a few acres. There are over 200 breeds of sheep worldwide, but only a certain few are acclimated to thrive in arid climates. Also read, "Sheep and Goat Vaccine and Health Management Schedule", (https://bit.ly/3wvt5In) and "Sheep Nutrition", (https://bit.ly/3Bj4eZs).
(NMSU infographic on sheep breeds for arid climates by Baylee Banks.)
(https://bit.ly/3Dw7Olc): Sheep are versatile animals that can be used in many capacities. They can be the primary source of farm income, help diversify an agricultural operation, or simply provide additional income for those who only have a few acres. There are over 200 breeds of sheep worldwide, but only a certain few are acclimated to thrive in arid climates. Also read, "Sheep and Goat Vaccine and Health Management Schedule", (https://bit.ly/3wvt5In) and "Sheep Nutrition", (https://bit.ly/3Bj4eZs).
(NMSU infographic on sheep breeds for arid climates by Baylee Banks.)
March 14, 2022: American Sheep Industry News
Time to apply for the $3,000 Sheep Heritage Fund Scholarship.
The Sheep Heritage Foundation Memorial Scholarship offered through the American Sheep Industry Association, provides $3,000 in financial support for a graduate student pursing a sheep-related study that will support the advancement of the U.S. sheep industry, lamb and wool.
Eligibility:
Application Deadline: May 31, 2022. Late applications will not be accepted.
Find application here: https://www.sheepusa.org/researcheducation-scholarship.
The Sheep Heritage Foundation Memorial Scholarship offered through the American Sheep Industry Association, provides $3,000 in financial support for a graduate student pursing a sheep-related study that will support the advancement of the U.S. sheep industry, lamb and wool.
Eligibility:
- Any graduate student involved in sheep and/or wool research in such areas as animal science, agriculture economics or veterinary medicine.
- Applicants must be enrolled in a graduate school in the U.S.
- Applicants must be a U.S. citizen
- Completed application
- Two letters of reference
- Proof of graduate school acceptance/enrollment
Application Deadline: May 31, 2022. Late applications will not be accepted.
Find application here: https://www.sheepusa.org/researcheducation-scholarship.
March 2, 2022: In the News
NM Supreme Court rules non-navigable water rule is unconstitutional
The New Mexico Supreme Court ruled unanimously on Tuesday in favor of recreation groups who sued over access to waterways running through private property. Read More Here
The New Mexico Supreme Court ruled unanimously on Tuesday in favor of recreation groups who sued over access to waterways running through private property. Read More Here
February 23, 2022: Around the State
February 18, 2022: In the News
Sheep Industry Takes on Climate Change
Climate change has become a global priority and the U.S. sheep industry has an important story to tell about animal agriculture’s carbon footprint.
“In my opinion, we should really take an honest role in reducing our footprint on the environment while producing the food we produce and do a much better job communicating with the public at large,” said UC Davis Air Quality Specialist Professor Dr. Frank Mitleohner. “Especially the younger generation who want to know where the food comes from.”
Over the years, environmental concerns about livestock production have gained traction and that’s why sheep producers like the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) president Susan Schultz say it’s so important to tell their story.
“We have to change the narrative because we can do things like targeted grazing and managed grazing,” said Schultz. “We have the ability with our sheep to just do wonderful things for the soil. But we're not telling that story and we have to get better at it.”
Despite repeated attacks from radical environmental groups, Dr. Mitleohner says agriculture actually reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
“Oftentimes, agriculture is portrayed as a net source of greenhouse gases, only leading to climate change,” said Mitleohner. “But what's really interesting is that one greenhouse gas so-called methane can be an important avenue for solutions. If you manage to either keep methane stable or even better reduce methane, then you're actually pulling carbon out of the air. And when you reduce carbon, when you reduce methane, you reduce warming. You induce what's called negative warming, that's cooling. So, if we reduce methane by 10, 20, 30 percent, we're actively pulling carbon from the atmosphere much as if we were to plant forests that do the same during photosynthesis. And that is where I want the agricultural sector to go. To find their role and understand their role and be part of the solution.”
Along with the work ASI is doing, the American Lamb Board is also working with Michigan State University to evaluate the environmental footprint of the U.S. sheep industry in order to have accurate and robust data to contribute to this important issue.
The initial focus of the study defines a comprehensive model of greenhouse gas emissions for the diverse array of American sheep production systems such as range, farm flock, pasture, intensive and feedlot. A blueprint for producer education strategies to address these priorities will wrap up the project.
Source: Montana Ag Network and Western Ag Network
Climate change has become a global priority and the U.S. sheep industry has an important story to tell about animal agriculture’s carbon footprint.
“In my opinion, we should really take an honest role in reducing our footprint on the environment while producing the food we produce and do a much better job communicating with the public at large,” said UC Davis Air Quality Specialist Professor Dr. Frank Mitleohner. “Especially the younger generation who want to know where the food comes from.”
Over the years, environmental concerns about livestock production have gained traction and that’s why sheep producers like the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) president Susan Schultz say it’s so important to tell their story.
“We have to change the narrative because we can do things like targeted grazing and managed grazing,” said Schultz. “We have the ability with our sheep to just do wonderful things for the soil. But we're not telling that story and we have to get better at it.”
Despite repeated attacks from radical environmental groups, Dr. Mitleohner says agriculture actually reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
“Oftentimes, agriculture is portrayed as a net source of greenhouse gases, only leading to climate change,” said Mitleohner. “But what's really interesting is that one greenhouse gas so-called methane can be an important avenue for solutions. If you manage to either keep methane stable or even better reduce methane, then you're actually pulling carbon out of the air. And when you reduce carbon, when you reduce methane, you reduce warming. You induce what's called negative warming, that's cooling. So, if we reduce methane by 10, 20, 30 percent, we're actively pulling carbon from the atmosphere much as if we were to plant forests that do the same during photosynthesis. And that is where I want the agricultural sector to go. To find their role and understand their role and be part of the solution.”
Along with the work ASI is doing, the American Lamb Board is also working with Michigan State University to evaluate the environmental footprint of the U.S. sheep industry in order to have accurate and robust data to contribute to this important issue.
The initial focus of the study defines a comprehensive model of greenhouse gas emissions for the diverse array of American sheep production systems such as range, farm flock, pasture, intensive and feedlot. A blueprint for producer education strategies to address these priorities will wrap up the project.
Source: Montana Ag Network and Western Ag Network
February 14, 2022: In the News
Flashtags for Protecting Livestock. APHIS-Wildlife Services is partnering with Utah State University and livestock producers in several states to evaluate the effectiveness of a new light deterrent (also known as a flashtag) that is attached to the ear of livestock to protect them from predation. The nonlethal device only activates when it is dark and the animal is in rapid motion. This large-scale study will provide more information about the device’s effectiveness and limitations for deterring livestock predation by wolves, coyotes, and other predators. Results are expected later this year. In 2021, prototype flashtags were developed and tested on a band of sheep in Idaho. Those trials showed promising results— the ear tags were durable and undisruptive to the sheep, and may have deterred some predation.
A new light deterrent called a flashtag is being tested on sheep and cattle to help prevent predation. Photos by WS.
A new light deterrent called a flashtag is being tested on sheep and cattle to help prevent predation. Photos by WS.
January 6, 2022: In the News
Lamb Checkoff Reaches Consumers Through Digital Platforms
The American Lamb Board (ALB) provides educational resources and information to consumers largely through digital platforms. Traditional print brochures serve as a foundation of checkoff-funded information, but many key audience targets are seeking information on a digital device in the palm of their hand.
"Videos, photos and virtual events allow us to engage with consumers in the digital space," says Gwen Kitzan, ALB chair. "We have a great story to share, and these social media platforms offer a way to provide that narrative about our product that consumers are seeking."
The YouTube platform provides a familiar space for consumers to watch videos about selecting and cooking American Lamb. Another way ALB connects with consumers through this video-based platform is sharing the story of those who raise American Lamb. The library of videos on the American Lamb channel features producers, chefs, food bloggers and many more.
With more than two billion monthly users worldwide, Instagram is a highly relevant platform to reach a large segment of key audiences. ALB recipes and messages reach consumers with seasonal promotions and contests through images and digital stories.
One of the more traditional digital platforms that stands the test of time is ALB's consumer website, AmericanLamb.com. The site has evolved over time to stay relevant to consumers' needs and ALB's objectives. This space provides a home for a collection of consumer resources such as cooking information, nutrition facts, knowledge for chefs and more.
ALB will continue working through these digital platforms to engage with consumers and share information to build demand for American Lamb.
The American Lamb Board (ALB) is an industry-funded national research, promotion and information checkoff program that works on behalf of all American producers, feeders, seedstock producers, direct marketers and processors to build awareness and demand for American Lamb. One of its long-term goals is to collaborate and communicate with industry partners and stakeholders to expand efforts to grow, promote, improve and support American Lamb.
Learn More HERE
The American Lamb Board (ALB) provides educational resources and information to consumers largely through digital platforms. Traditional print brochures serve as a foundation of checkoff-funded information, but many key audience targets are seeking information on a digital device in the palm of their hand.
"Videos, photos and virtual events allow us to engage with consumers in the digital space," says Gwen Kitzan, ALB chair. "We have a great story to share, and these social media platforms offer a way to provide that narrative about our product that consumers are seeking."
The YouTube platform provides a familiar space for consumers to watch videos about selecting and cooking American Lamb. Another way ALB connects with consumers through this video-based platform is sharing the story of those who raise American Lamb. The library of videos on the American Lamb channel features producers, chefs, food bloggers and many more.
With more than two billion monthly users worldwide, Instagram is a highly relevant platform to reach a large segment of key audiences. ALB recipes and messages reach consumers with seasonal promotions and contests through images and digital stories.
One of the more traditional digital platforms that stands the test of time is ALB's consumer website, AmericanLamb.com. The site has evolved over time to stay relevant to consumers' needs and ALB's objectives. This space provides a home for a collection of consumer resources such as cooking information, nutrition facts, knowledge for chefs and more.
ALB will continue working through these digital platforms to engage with consumers and share information to build demand for American Lamb.
The American Lamb Board (ALB) is an industry-funded national research, promotion and information checkoff program that works on behalf of all American producers, feeders, seedstock producers, direct marketers and processors to build awareness and demand for American Lamb. One of its long-term goals is to collaborate and communicate with industry partners and stakeholders to expand efforts to grow, promote, improve and support American Lamb.
Learn More HERE
January 5, 2022: In the News
Solar grazing: Sheep tidy up at solar farms
E&E Greenwire – In solar energy fields from Oregon to New York, a curious sight — grazing sheep — could become a lot more common.
That, at least, is the hope of groups like the Center for Rural Affairs, a Nebraska policy organization that's pushing solar grazing, or putting sheep or other livestock on fields that house solar panels.
The center, which advocates for various farm and other rural policies, recently put out a fact sheet promoting the practice, which it said benefits project developers looking for an alternative to mowing, and helps farmers looking for new sources of income.
“Using livestock to manage vegetation at solar sites can enhance site value by keeping land in agricultural use, providing new income streams for local farmers, and adding environmental benefits such as decreased erosion and enhanced soil health,” said Heidi Kolbeck-Urlacher, senior policy associate at the center, in a news release.
E&E Greenwire – In solar energy fields from Oregon to New York, a curious sight — grazing sheep — could become a lot more common.
That, at least, is the hope of groups like the Center for Rural Affairs, a Nebraska policy organization that's pushing solar grazing, or putting sheep or other livestock on fields that house solar panels.
The center, which advocates for various farm and other rural policies, recently put out a fact sheet promoting the practice, which it said benefits project developers looking for an alternative to mowing, and helps farmers looking for new sources of income.
“Using livestock to manage vegetation at solar sites can enhance site value by keeping land in agricultural use, providing new income streams for local farmers, and adding environmental benefits such as decreased erosion and enhanced soil health,” said Heidi Kolbeck-Urlacher, senior policy associate at the center, in a news release.
December 20, 2021: From the Archives
“Boy holding wool between a shaved and unshaved sheep”
📷: Charles Belden University Of Wyoming Archives
📷: Charles Belden University Of Wyoming Archives
December 6, 2021: Allied Industry News
Guide to Lambing Season Success
By Mark Johnson, Sheep Field Specialist
Lambing is the most important activity that occurs in the sheep flock each year. Success or failure during lambing season is the largest single factor affecting the profitability of the sheep flock. Producers need to help stack the deck to ensure a successful lambing season.
As lambing season approaches, the ewes that are closest to lambing should be sorted out as they will require more attention. This is determined by using the breeding dates and physical appearance of the ewes. If there is enough room, this pen of ewes should be locked up at night. Never put ewes into lambing pens if they have not lambed as they may not have enough room to get the lamb out. Be sure they are finished lambing before putting ewes into lambing pens.
Read More HERE
By Mark Johnson, Sheep Field Specialist
Lambing is the most important activity that occurs in the sheep flock each year. Success or failure during lambing season is the largest single factor affecting the profitability of the sheep flock. Producers need to help stack the deck to ensure a successful lambing season.
As lambing season approaches, the ewes that are closest to lambing should be sorted out as they will require more attention. This is determined by using the breeding dates and physical appearance of the ewes. If there is enough room, this pen of ewes should be locked up at night. Never put ewes into lambing pens if they have not lambed as they may not have enough room to get the lamb out. Be sure they are finished lambing before putting ewes into lambing pens.
Read More HERE
December 1, 2021: Did you know?
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WOOL - The Facts
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November 30, 2021: Around the State
Legislative Council Service Announces Capitol Building Policies for Upcoming Sessions
Raúl Burciaga, Director of New Mexico Legislative Council, announced Capitol building policy updates for the upcoming special session in early December and regular session commencing on January 18.
“Given the high number of COVID-19 cases across the state and the strain this continues to put on state resources, it is incumbent on us to protect everyone in the Capitol complex while conducting the state’s business,” says Director Burciaga. “I believe the measures being taken for the special and regular sessions will allow for the work to get done while greatly minimizing the risk for COVID spread.”
Policies include:
• The Roundhouse will remain open to members of the public for the special and regular
sessions.
• Proof of full vaccination will be required for any member of the public to enter
the Capitol.
• The Rotunda will not be used for displays, booths, presentations, special days, etc.
• Pages will not be used by the House or Senate.
• No tours will be conducted or allowed in the Capitol.
• Masks will continue to be required throughout the Capitol Complex.
In addition, per a new policy adopted by the Legislative Council earlier this month, carrying weapons into the Roundhouse is prohibited effective December 6. All members of the public will be subject to magnetometer screening (or bag search) when entering the building.
COVID-19 mitigation policies are subject to change based on the latest guidance from CDC and other health officials.
Raúl Burciaga, Director of New Mexico Legislative Council, announced Capitol building policy updates for the upcoming special session in early December and regular session commencing on January 18.
“Given the high number of COVID-19 cases across the state and the strain this continues to put on state resources, it is incumbent on us to protect everyone in the Capitol complex while conducting the state’s business,” says Director Burciaga. “I believe the measures being taken for the special and regular sessions will allow for the work to get done while greatly minimizing the risk for COVID spread.”
Policies include:
• The Roundhouse will remain open to members of the public for the special and regular
sessions.
• Proof of full vaccination will be required for any member of the public to enter
the Capitol.
• The Rotunda will not be used for displays, booths, presentations, special days, etc.
• Pages will not be used by the House or Senate.
• No tours will be conducted or allowed in the Capitol.
• Masks will continue to be required throughout the Capitol Complex.
In addition, per a new policy adopted by the Legislative Council earlier this month, carrying weapons into the Roundhouse is prohibited effective December 6. All members of the public will be subject to magnetometer screening (or bag search) when entering the building.
COVID-19 mitigation policies are subject to change based on the latest guidance from CDC and other health officials.
November 22, 2021: Around the State
November 8, 2021: In the News
$550B INFRASTRUCTURE BILL HEADS TO BIDEN’S DESK AFTER MONTHS OF DELAY
The US House has finally passed the bipartisan infrastructure package which in the ag industry call crucial to Rural America.
Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says this is a historic investment for America that will make significant progress in closing the digital divide, it will repair crumbling roads and bridges, and make much-needed investments in ports, waterways, and rail transit.
Kip Eideberg with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says he’s optimistic this money will be put to use quickly. “It will also help unleash investments and streamline permitting to lower costs and accelerate project delivery,” he says. “And that is key, because we have been here before.” He tells Brownfield the passage is crucial as the country continues to grapple with supply chain disruptions. “There is $42-billion for ports and airports,” he says. “That is a significant amount of money that will go to modernizing ports and modernizing the infrastructure around the ports so that our ports will be better equipped to handle the flow of goods.”
US Senator Mike Braun of Indiana did not support the legislation that moved through the Senate earlier this year, because of the funding. However, he says he was supportive of the policies within it.
“That is hard, tangible infrastructure,” he says. “Roads, bridges, air, rail, and waterways. Rural broadband, which is an important part of it, and water and sewage treatment plants.”
Kevin Scott, a soybean farmer from South Dakota and president of the American Soybean Association says this bill is a win for everyone in the country and this package will bolster the US economy, especially with investment priorities for the soy industry – from surface transportation and waterways funding to investments in rural broadband and new opportunities for soy-based products.
American Farm Bureau president Zippy Duvall says Farm Bureau appreciates Congress finally passing the critical legislation, but was disappointed in the unnecessary delays in the House of Representatives. He says bipartisan efforts like this provide commonsense solutions to the nation’s infrastructure challenges.
In addition to the provisions outlined earlier, Allison Rivera, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s executive director of government affairs says she is pleased to see the additional 150 air-mile exemption for livestock haulers on the destination of hauls. She says it provides much-needed flexibility under current hours-of-service regulations.
There were only 13 Republicans who voted for the bill while 6 Democrats voted against it. The bill passed the Senate in August with a 69-30 vote and now heads to the President’s desk for signature.
Read Full Story HERE
The US House has finally passed the bipartisan infrastructure package which in the ag industry call crucial to Rural America.
Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack says this is a historic investment for America that will make significant progress in closing the digital divide, it will repair crumbling roads and bridges, and make much-needed investments in ports, waterways, and rail transit.
Kip Eideberg with the Association of Equipment Manufacturers says he’s optimistic this money will be put to use quickly. “It will also help unleash investments and streamline permitting to lower costs and accelerate project delivery,” he says. “And that is key, because we have been here before.” He tells Brownfield the passage is crucial as the country continues to grapple with supply chain disruptions. “There is $42-billion for ports and airports,” he says. “That is a significant amount of money that will go to modernizing ports and modernizing the infrastructure around the ports so that our ports will be better equipped to handle the flow of goods.”
US Senator Mike Braun of Indiana did not support the legislation that moved through the Senate earlier this year, because of the funding. However, he says he was supportive of the policies within it.
“That is hard, tangible infrastructure,” he says. “Roads, bridges, air, rail, and waterways. Rural broadband, which is an important part of it, and water and sewage treatment plants.”
Kevin Scott, a soybean farmer from South Dakota and president of the American Soybean Association says this bill is a win for everyone in the country and this package will bolster the US economy, especially with investment priorities for the soy industry – from surface transportation and waterways funding to investments in rural broadband and new opportunities for soy-based products.
American Farm Bureau president Zippy Duvall says Farm Bureau appreciates Congress finally passing the critical legislation, but was disappointed in the unnecessary delays in the House of Representatives. He says bipartisan efforts like this provide commonsense solutions to the nation’s infrastructure challenges.
In addition to the provisions outlined earlier, Allison Rivera, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association’s executive director of government affairs says she is pleased to see the additional 150 air-mile exemption for livestock haulers on the destination of hauls. She says it provides much-needed flexibility under current hours-of-service regulations.
There were only 13 Republicans who voted for the bill while 6 Democrats voted against it. The bill passed the Senate in August with a 69-30 vote and now heads to the President’s desk for signature.
Read Full Story HERE
November 8, 2021: Upcoming Event
November 2, 2021: Have you voted today?
Local elections are just as important as federal. Change of any kind starts at the grassroots level, in your community! By participating in local elections YOU are doing your part to protect the future of agriculture.
October 29, 2021: In the News
US Proposes Changes to Mexican Gray Wolf Management
Federal wildlife officials are proposing to change the way Mexican gray wolves are managed in the American Southwest.
Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Federal wildlife officials are proposing to change the way Mexican gray wolves are managed in the American Southwest, saying removing population limits and setting goals for genetic diversity will help the endangered species recover.
The proposal also would allow more wolves to be released into the wild in New Mexico and Arizona, and place restrictions on permits issued to ranchers or state wildlife agencies that allow the killing of wolves if they prey on livestock, elk or deer.
Management of the predators has spurred numerous legal challenges over the decades by both ranchers and environmentalists. The latest proposal follows one of those court fights. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said the proposed changes would better align with revisions made to the species' recovery plan.
The Mexican gray wolf, the rarest subspecies of the gray wolf in North America, has seen its population nearly double over the last five years. A survey done earlier this year showed at least 186 Mexican gray wolves in New Mexico and Arizona. Ranchers and rural residents have argued that's an undercount and a more accurate number is needed.
Environmental groups consider the proposed changes a step in the right direction but say more needs to be done to ensure a viable population of Mexican wolves.
They say the boundaries established by the Fish and Wildlife Service for recovery of the wolves in New Mexico and Arizona are among the limiting factors. If the animals travel beyond the boundaries, they can be trapped and relocated, returned to captivity or potentially killed.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department captured a wolf in August that was roaming near Flagstaff outside the recovery project's boundaries and relocated it to an area near the Arizona-New Mexico border.
Environmentalists said the wolf known as m2520 has trekked back. Arizona Game and Fish spokesman Tom Cadden said late Thursday that the department is monitoring the wolf's location and behavior.
Environmentalists also have called for reforms aimed at limiting conflicts with livestock and releasing more captive packs into the wild.
"We stand ready to return to court on behalf of lobos (wolves) if the final rule is insufficient to conserve this critically imperiled species,” said Kelly Nokes, an attorney for the Western Environmental Law Center.
Ranchers in the mountainous regions of southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico where the wolves roam say livestock deaths due to predation are escalating as the population grows. The latest report from wildlife managers put the number of confirmed livestock deaths for the year at 95.
The wolf recovery team uses feeding caches to draw wolves away from cattle, but ranchers say the wolves are becoming more brazen and that efforts to scare them away using range riders on horseback or flagging along fence lines hasn't worked. They also say they don't receive timely compensation for livestock lost to wolves.
“It is an incredible management hurdle for those of us on the ground to deal with the wolves," said Tom Paterson, who ranches along the New Mexico state line and is a member of the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association. “Even if we put our cattle on private pastures where we are every day going around and looking, they still kill our cattle.”
Paterson has lost several cows and calves this year. He described a trail of blood that stretched 150 feet (46 meters) along a creek and cases in which cattle were attacked and their unborn calves eaten.
“This is a broken program,” he said.
The Fish and Wildlife Service is planning virtual public hearings and information sessions on the proposed changes. The public will have 90 days to comment.
Once common throughout the U.S. Southwest and northern Mexico, the Mexican wolf was all but eliminated by the 1970s, prompting the U.S. government to develop a captive breeding program. There are about 350 Mexican wolves in more than 55 zoos and other facilities throughout the United States and Mexico.
Read Full Story HERE
Federal wildlife officials are proposing to change the way Mexican gray wolves are managed in the American Southwest.
Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Federal wildlife officials are proposing to change the way Mexican gray wolves are managed in the American Southwest, saying removing population limits and setting goals for genetic diversity will help the endangered species recover.
The proposal also would allow more wolves to be released into the wild in New Mexico and Arizona, and place restrictions on permits issued to ranchers or state wildlife agencies that allow the killing of wolves if they prey on livestock, elk or deer.
Management of the predators has spurred numerous legal challenges over the decades by both ranchers and environmentalists. The latest proposal follows one of those court fights. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said the proposed changes would better align with revisions made to the species' recovery plan.
The Mexican gray wolf, the rarest subspecies of the gray wolf in North America, has seen its population nearly double over the last five years. A survey done earlier this year showed at least 186 Mexican gray wolves in New Mexico and Arizona. Ranchers and rural residents have argued that's an undercount and a more accurate number is needed.
Environmental groups consider the proposed changes a step in the right direction but say more needs to be done to ensure a viable population of Mexican wolves.
They say the boundaries established by the Fish and Wildlife Service for recovery of the wolves in New Mexico and Arizona are among the limiting factors. If the animals travel beyond the boundaries, they can be trapped and relocated, returned to captivity or potentially killed.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department captured a wolf in August that was roaming near Flagstaff outside the recovery project's boundaries and relocated it to an area near the Arizona-New Mexico border.
Environmentalists said the wolf known as m2520 has trekked back. Arizona Game and Fish spokesman Tom Cadden said late Thursday that the department is monitoring the wolf's location and behavior.
Environmentalists also have called for reforms aimed at limiting conflicts with livestock and releasing more captive packs into the wild.
"We stand ready to return to court on behalf of lobos (wolves) if the final rule is insufficient to conserve this critically imperiled species,” said Kelly Nokes, an attorney for the Western Environmental Law Center.
Ranchers in the mountainous regions of southeastern Arizona and southwestern New Mexico where the wolves roam say livestock deaths due to predation are escalating as the population grows. The latest report from wildlife managers put the number of confirmed livestock deaths for the year at 95.
The wolf recovery team uses feeding caches to draw wolves away from cattle, but ranchers say the wolves are becoming more brazen and that efforts to scare them away using range riders on horseback or flagging along fence lines hasn't worked. They also say they don't receive timely compensation for livestock lost to wolves.
“It is an incredible management hurdle for those of us on the ground to deal with the wolves," said Tom Paterson, who ranches along the New Mexico state line and is a member of the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association. “Even if we put our cattle on private pastures where we are every day going around and looking, they still kill our cattle.”
Paterson has lost several cows and calves this year. He described a trail of blood that stretched 150 feet (46 meters) along a creek and cases in which cattle were attacked and their unborn calves eaten.
“This is a broken program,” he said.
The Fish and Wildlife Service is planning virtual public hearings and information sessions on the proposed changes. The public will have 90 days to comment.
Once common throughout the U.S. Southwest and northern Mexico, the Mexican wolf was all but eliminated by the 1970s, prompting the U.S. government to develop a captive breeding program. There are about 350 Mexican wolves in more than 55 zoos and other facilities throughout the United States and Mexico.
Read Full Story HERE
October 28, 2021: In the News
Service Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Changes to Mexican Wolf Management Rule
Proposed revisions align with Mexican wolf recovery strategy and ESA delisting criteria
Aislinn Maestas, US Fish and Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing changes to the management regulations for Mexican wolves (Canis lupus baileyi) in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) in Arizona and New Mexico under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
“We believe these changes to the Mexican wolf 10(j) rule will allow us to recover Mexican wolves more effectively in the wild,” said Amy Lueders, the Southwest Regional Director for the Service. “The revision process presented an opportunity to work closely with our partners in aligning our regulatory framework with the science-based management recommendations in the 2017 revised recovery plan.”
The Mexican wolf, once common across the southwest, was all but eliminated in the wild by the 1970s. The species was placed on the endangered species list in 1976, a year later the Service began developing a binational captive breeding and release program with Mexico that has increased Mexican wolf numbers to approximately 350 in the wild. These recovery efforts included the designation of the MWEPA in 1998 to reintroduce Mexican wolves in Arizona and New Mexico as a nonessential experimental population under section 10(j) of the ESA.
The Service is proposing revisions to modify the population objective, establish a genetic objective and temporarily restrict three allowable forms of take of Mexican wolves in the MWEPA that were established in the 2015 10(j) rule. The proposed changes to the rule will bring the management of the wild population in line with recovery criteria for the species as identified in the 2017 revised Mexican wolf recovery plan.
The proposed change to the population objective removes the population limit from the 2015 10(j) rules, which currently allow a maximum of 300-325 Mexican wolves. Removing this limit aligns the population goal with the recovery criteria in the 2017 recovery plan. The Service is also proposing the establishment of a genetic diversity objective within the MWEPA, with a goal of 22 released wolves surviving to breeding age by 2030, and the temporary restriction of three forms of allowable take until the genetic diversity goals are met.
In 2018, the U.S. District Court of Arizona remanded the 2015 final MWEPA 10(j) rule to the Service to revise the designation of the MWEPA in Arizona and New Mexico. The ruling directed the Service to redress several components of the rule to ensure the experimental population contributes to long-term Mexican wolf conservation and recovery.
Following the court order, the Service also reconsidered the nonessential experimental designation for the U.S. population of Mexican wolves. The Service has determined a change to the nonessential experimental population designation is not warranted. In addition, the proposal does not include any changes to the MWEPA geographic boundaries.
Accompanying the rule is a draft supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (DSEIS) that analyzes how the proposed revisions will impact biological resources, land use, environmental justice, human health and public safety, and economic activities such as ranching and big game hunting. Information from a public scoping period conducted from April 15, 2020, to June 15, 2020, was incorporated into the DSEIS and the proposed rule.
In keeping with the Service’s mission to work with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people, the Service collaborated closely with the states of Arizona and New Mexico, as well as our federal, local and Tribal partners, throughout this process.
The Service will hold a series of virtual public hearings and information sessions regarding the proposed changes and DSEIS during the 90-day public comment period. Information on dates and how to register can be found at https://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/mexicanwolf/10j-revision.
The proposed rule and DSEIS will publish on Friday October 29, 2021 and will be available for review at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2021-0103. Public comments will be accepted 90 days from the date of publication in the Federal Register and may be submitted through http://www.regulations.gov by searching the docket number.
Proposed revisions align with Mexican wolf recovery strategy and ESA delisting criteria
Aislinn Maestas, US Fish and Wildlife Service
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing changes to the management regulations for Mexican wolves (Canis lupus baileyi) in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area (MWEPA) in Arizona and New Mexico under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
“We believe these changes to the Mexican wolf 10(j) rule will allow us to recover Mexican wolves more effectively in the wild,” said Amy Lueders, the Southwest Regional Director for the Service. “The revision process presented an opportunity to work closely with our partners in aligning our regulatory framework with the science-based management recommendations in the 2017 revised recovery plan.”
The Mexican wolf, once common across the southwest, was all but eliminated in the wild by the 1970s. The species was placed on the endangered species list in 1976, a year later the Service began developing a binational captive breeding and release program with Mexico that has increased Mexican wolf numbers to approximately 350 in the wild. These recovery efforts included the designation of the MWEPA in 1998 to reintroduce Mexican wolves in Arizona and New Mexico as a nonessential experimental population under section 10(j) of the ESA.
The Service is proposing revisions to modify the population objective, establish a genetic objective and temporarily restrict three allowable forms of take of Mexican wolves in the MWEPA that were established in the 2015 10(j) rule. The proposed changes to the rule will bring the management of the wild population in line with recovery criteria for the species as identified in the 2017 revised Mexican wolf recovery plan.
The proposed change to the population objective removes the population limit from the 2015 10(j) rules, which currently allow a maximum of 300-325 Mexican wolves. Removing this limit aligns the population goal with the recovery criteria in the 2017 recovery plan. The Service is also proposing the establishment of a genetic diversity objective within the MWEPA, with a goal of 22 released wolves surviving to breeding age by 2030, and the temporary restriction of three forms of allowable take until the genetic diversity goals are met.
In 2018, the U.S. District Court of Arizona remanded the 2015 final MWEPA 10(j) rule to the Service to revise the designation of the MWEPA in Arizona and New Mexico. The ruling directed the Service to redress several components of the rule to ensure the experimental population contributes to long-term Mexican wolf conservation and recovery.
Following the court order, the Service also reconsidered the nonessential experimental designation for the U.S. population of Mexican wolves. The Service has determined a change to the nonessential experimental population designation is not warranted. In addition, the proposal does not include any changes to the MWEPA geographic boundaries.
Accompanying the rule is a draft supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (DSEIS) that analyzes how the proposed revisions will impact biological resources, land use, environmental justice, human health and public safety, and economic activities such as ranching and big game hunting. Information from a public scoping period conducted from April 15, 2020, to June 15, 2020, was incorporated into the DSEIS and the proposed rule.
In keeping with the Service’s mission to work with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people, the Service collaborated closely with the states of Arizona and New Mexico, as well as our federal, local and Tribal partners, throughout this process.
The Service will hold a series of virtual public hearings and information sessions regarding the proposed changes and DSEIS during the 90-day public comment period. Information on dates and how to register can be found at https://www.fws.gov/southwest/es/mexicanwolf/10j-revision.
The proposed rule and DSEIS will publish on Friday October 29, 2021 and will be available for review at http://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2021-0103. Public comments will be accepted 90 days from the date of publication in the Federal Register and may be submitted through http://www.regulations.gov by searching the docket number.
October 27, 2021: In the News
Biden Administration Rolls Back Trump Endangered Species Act Reforms
Western Ag Network
The Biden administration issued a proposal to rescind several regulatory changes to the Endangered Species Act finalized by the Trump administration, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service announced on Tuesday.
In August 2019, the Trump administration finalized three rules. Most notably, the USFWS removed its blanket rule in the ESA that automatically grants the same protections for threatened species that are available for endangered species.
The final rules did not affect protections for species currently listed as threatened but instead receive protections tailored to species' individual conservation needs.
"The Endangered Species Act is one of the most important conservation tools in America and provides a safety net for species that are at risk of going extinct," Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz said in a news release.
"If finalized, today's proposed actions will bring the implementation of the act back into alignment with its original intent and purpose -- protecting and recovering America's biological heritage for future generations."
Farmers and ranchers across the country face challenges in managing their land when critical habitats are present.
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said in a statement that turning back ESA reforms will hurt farmers and ranchers.
"AFBF is now equally disappointed that in the space of three weeks, the Biden administration has proposed three different changes to these regulations, signaling a return to complicated and burdensome rules that do little to advance conservation goals," he said in a statement.
Read More HERE
Western Ag Network
The Biden administration issued a proposal to rescind several regulatory changes to the Endangered Species Act finalized by the Trump administration, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service announced on Tuesday.
In August 2019, the Trump administration finalized three rules. Most notably, the USFWS removed its blanket rule in the ESA that automatically grants the same protections for threatened species that are available for endangered species.
The final rules did not affect protections for species currently listed as threatened but instead receive protections tailored to species' individual conservation needs.
"The Endangered Species Act is one of the most important conservation tools in America and provides a safety net for species that are at risk of going extinct," Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz said in a news release.
"If finalized, today's proposed actions will bring the implementation of the act back into alignment with its original intent and purpose -- protecting and recovering America's biological heritage for future generations."
Farmers and ranchers across the country face challenges in managing their land when critical habitats are present.
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said in a statement that turning back ESA reforms will hurt farmers and ranchers.
"AFBF is now equally disappointed that in the space of three weeks, the Biden administration has proposed three different changes to these regulations, signaling a return to complicated and burdensome rules that do little to advance conservation goals," he said in a statement.
Read More HERE
October 18, 2021: In the News
Will Farmers and Ranchers be Taxed Out of Agriculture?
Katherine E. Merck Budd-Falen Law Offices, LLC
As the Biden administration’s inevitable changes to the tax policy take shape, one thing remains constant: agriculture is under attack.
The House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over taxation, released draft legislation on September 13, 2021. As written, the proposed legislation would lower the amount that a person can transfer by gift or through an estate before incurring taxes, a change that will disproportionately impact agriculture.
Currently, a person may transfer a total of $11.7 million by gift or through their estate essentially tax-free and any amount above that is taxed by the federal government. This amount was raised by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and is set to sunset in 2026, meaning that the exemption level would revert to $5 million per person, adjusted for inflation to about $6 million per person. The currently proposed legislation, however, would move the date of the reduction up to January 1, 2022. The tax on the portion of an inherited farm or ranch estate that is over the exemption level is 40% and must be paid within 9 months of death.
Although this amount is often discussed simply in terms of estate taxes, it also includes any gifts above the annual gift exemption. Currently, a person may annually gift $15,000 each to an unlimited number of recipients without being taxed. Any amount above that uses up part of the lifetime exemption. For example, a gift of $20,000 to a person in a single year will diminish the total lifetime gift and estate tax exemption by $5,000.
While these numbers may seem high at first glance, especially for those familiar with the low liquidity of agriculture operations, they include the value of land and other non-liquid assets such as equipment. In other words, this amount includes the total value of a farm or ranch, not just the money in the bank. Generally, the most valuable asset of a farm or ranch is the land itself, which typically continues to appreciate over time. In many parts of the country, hot real estate markets are inflating the price of land to a point that a lowered exemption level is likely to trigger gift and estate taxes upon transfer through gift or inheritance.
Another major concern for agriculture under this administration is a change to step up in basis, and advocates for agriculture throughout the country collectively breathed a sigh of relief when the proposed legislation did not contain such a change. The proposed legislation is still subject to multiple rounds of debate and revision, so the threat of a change to step up in basis is by no means gone.
“Step up in basis” means that when property is passed at death, its value is adjusted to the current fair market value. When a property is sold, the owner is taxed on the difference between the current market value and their “basis” in the property, meaning the value of the property at the time they acquired it. This difference is referred to as a capital gain or loss, which is then federally taxed. A step up in basis reduces the capital gains realized by the inheriting generation because the calculation is based on the appreciation of the land during their ownership rather than since the original family purchase. Since land typically appreciates over time, an elimination of or tax on step up in basis would disproportionately impact generational transfers in agriculture.
Despite the proposed legislation not including this change, it is not completely off the table. The proposed legislation is not set in stone yet and such a change may easily be added back through the extensive revision process prior to congressional approval. Additionally, Biden’s “American Families Plan” released on April 28, 2021, supports limitations on the existing step up in basis.
Although the current elimination of changes to step up in basis are a move in the right direction, changes negatively impacting the generational transfer of farms and ranches are inevitable under the current administration. Estate taxes can bankrupt an operation, so farmers and ranchers need to reassess their estate plans to protect their operations for future generations. Hopefully, our country will realize the disastrous implications of taxing agriculture out of business before it is too late. In the meantime, estate planning is one of the most powerful tools we can use to keep the industry alive for the next generation.
Katherine E. Merck Budd-Falen Law Offices, LLC
As the Biden administration’s inevitable changes to the tax policy take shape, one thing remains constant: agriculture is under attack.
The House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over taxation, released draft legislation on September 13, 2021. As written, the proposed legislation would lower the amount that a person can transfer by gift or through an estate before incurring taxes, a change that will disproportionately impact agriculture.
Currently, a person may transfer a total of $11.7 million by gift or through their estate essentially tax-free and any amount above that is taxed by the federal government. This amount was raised by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and is set to sunset in 2026, meaning that the exemption level would revert to $5 million per person, adjusted for inflation to about $6 million per person. The currently proposed legislation, however, would move the date of the reduction up to January 1, 2022. The tax on the portion of an inherited farm or ranch estate that is over the exemption level is 40% and must be paid within 9 months of death.
Although this amount is often discussed simply in terms of estate taxes, it also includes any gifts above the annual gift exemption. Currently, a person may annually gift $15,000 each to an unlimited number of recipients without being taxed. Any amount above that uses up part of the lifetime exemption. For example, a gift of $20,000 to a person in a single year will diminish the total lifetime gift and estate tax exemption by $5,000.
While these numbers may seem high at first glance, especially for those familiar with the low liquidity of agriculture operations, they include the value of land and other non-liquid assets such as equipment. In other words, this amount includes the total value of a farm or ranch, not just the money in the bank. Generally, the most valuable asset of a farm or ranch is the land itself, which typically continues to appreciate over time. In many parts of the country, hot real estate markets are inflating the price of land to a point that a lowered exemption level is likely to trigger gift and estate taxes upon transfer through gift or inheritance.
Another major concern for agriculture under this administration is a change to step up in basis, and advocates for agriculture throughout the country collectively breathed a sigh of relief when the proposed legislation did not contain such a change. The proposed legislation is still subject to multiple rounds of debate and revision, so the threat of a change to step up in basis is by no means gone.
“Step up in basis” means that when property is passed at death, its value is adjusted to the current fair market value. When a property is sold, the owner is taxed on the difference between the current market value and their “basis” in the property, meaning the value of the property at the time they acquired it. This difference is referred to as a capital gain or loss, which is then federally taxed. A step up in basis reduces the capital gains realized by the inheriting generation because the calculation is based on the appreciation of the land during their ownership rather than since the original family purchase. Since land typically appreciates over time, an elimination of or tax on step up in basis would disproportionately impact generational transfers in agriculture.
Despite the proposed legislation not including this change, it is not completely off the table. The proposed legislation is not set in stone yet and such a change may easily be added back through the extensive revision process prior to congressional approval. Additionally, Biden’s “American Families Plan” released on April 28, 2021, supports limitations on the existing step up in basis.
Although the current elimination of changes to step up in basis are a move in the right direction, changes negatively impacting the generational transfer of farms and ranches are inevitable under the current administration. Estate taxes can bankrupt an operation, so farmers and ranchers need to reassess their estate plans to protect their operations for future generations. Hopefully, our country will realize the disastrous implications of taxing agriculture out of business before it is too late. In the meantime, estate planning is one of the most powerful tools we can use to keep the industry alive for the next generation.
October 14, 2021: In the News
New Mexico Buys Ranch To Expand Wildlife Habitat
Greg Henderson, Drovers
New Mexico’s lesser prairie chicken and other grassland wildlife now have an expanded habitat, thanks to a public-private partnership that purchased the 7,560-acre Pipkin Ranch for management by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish (NMDGF).
Last month, NMDGF announced the purchase of the ranch which will connect two existing Department properties, creating over 10,000 continuous acres dedicated to the state’s grassland wildlife. The purchase was made possible through a public-private partnership with NGL Energy Partners and funds generated through the sale of fishing and hunting licenses.
The sale price was not revealed, though an online real estate advertisement listed the price at $3.28 million. Broker’s comments noted the ranch’s stocking rate at 177 cows year-round (15 cows per section), or about 450 yearlings for six months. The ranch is located about 40 miles southeast of Fort Sumner in southeast New Mexico.
Read Full Story HERE
Greg Henderson, Drovers
New Mexico’s lesser prairie chicken and other grassland wildlife now have an expanded habitat, thanks to a public-private partnership that purchased the 7,560-acre Pipkin Ranch for management by the New Mexico Department of Game & Fish (NMDGF).
Last month, NMDGF announced the purchase of the ranch which will connect two existing Department properties, creating over 10,000 continuous acres dedicated to the state’s grassland wildlife. The purchase was made possible through a public-private partnership with NGL Energy Partners and funds generated through the sale of fishing and hunting licenses.
The sale price was not revealed, though an online real estate advertisement listed the price at $3.28 million. Broker’s comments noted the ranch’s stocking rate at 177 cows year-round (15 cows per section), or about 450 yearlings for six months. The ranch is located about 40 miles southeast of Fort Sumner in southeast New Mexico.
Read Full Story HERE
October 12, 2021: In the News
USDA Announces First Installment of Farm Service Agency and Rural Development State Directors
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12, 2021 – Following a press release from President Joe Biden announcing the appointment of several regional appointments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the appointments of five Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Directors and seven Rural Development (RD) State Directors.
“These twelve individuals are incredible public servants who have a proven track record when it comes to their commitment to advance their states and communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Each will serve on the frontlines, carrying out USDA’s mission at the state level and ensuring the voice of each and every USDA customer is heard. We are fortunate to have each of these talented individuals at this critical time for farmers and producers and rural communities across America.”
FSA State Executive Directors oversee Farm Service Agency operations and agricultural policy implementation in the state. Each State Executive Director works with the State Committee to administer FSA programs and County office operations, develops and maintains stakeholder relationships with customers and other agencies and governments.
Read Full Release HERE
WASHINGTON, Oct. 12, 2021 – Following a press release from President Joe Biden announcing the appointment of several regional appointments, the U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the appointments of five Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Directors and seven Rural Development (RD) State Directors.
“These twelve individuals are incredible public servants who have a proven track record when it comes to their commitment to advance their states and communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Each will serve on the frontlines, carrying out USDA’s mission at the state level and ensuring the voice of each and every USDA customer is heard. We are fortunate to have each of these talented individuals at this critical time for farmers and producers and rural communities across America.”
FSA State Executive Directors oversee Farm Service Agency operations and agricultural policy implementation in the state. Each State Executive Director works with the State Committee to administer FSA programs and County office operations, develops and maintains stakeholder relationships with customers and other agencies and governments.
Read Full Release HERE
October 6, 2021: Around the State
New Mexico Cattle Growers and Wool Growers are proud to support the Eastern New Mexico State Fair! Hear our association ads by tuning in to 92.9 The Brand and 106.5 Roswell's Talk FM.
Pecos Valley Broadcasting will also be live streaming the following events during the fair.
Tune in here: https://www.ksvptv.com/2021-eastern-new-mexico-state-fair/
Pecos Valley Broadcasting will also be live streaming the following events during the fair.
Tune in here: https://www.ksvptv.com/2021-eastern-new-mexico-state-fair/
- Wednesday, 10/6 - Market Lamb
- Thursday, 10/7 - Breeding Heifer, Market Beef, #NMCGA Showmanship Contest
- Friday, 10/8 - Natural Fibers & Wool Lead
- Saturday, 10/9 - Jr. Livestock Sale
October 5, 2021: In the News
Bighorn Sheep Test Positive for Deadly Bacteria After Some Spotted Sick Near Wenatchee
Jason Taylor, KPQ-AM
Washington State is working to protect bighorn sheep from a deadly pneumonia after sheep were reported sick near Wenatchee.
Tests by the state Department of Fish and Wildlife show one Bighorn lamb is positive for the bacteria that causes the fatal pneumonia.
The department has confirmed the bacteria is now present in all of the bighorn herds it manages in the region.
Past outbreaks of the deadly pneumonia have been linked to interaction between wild bighorns and domestic sheep and goats, which the department says its working to prevent.
Domestic sheep or goats carry the bacteria (known as Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, or Movi), but are unaffected by it.
But pneumonia caused by the Movi bacteria can be fatal in bighorn sheep and can reduce the survival rate of lambs for many years after the initial outbreak. There is no treatment for Bighorn sheep, and no preventative vaccine.
Full Story HERE
Jason Taylor, KPQ-AM
Washington State is working to protect bighorn sheep from a deadly pneumonia after sheep were reported sick near Wenatchee.
Tests by the state Department of Fish and Wildlife show one Bighorn lamb is positive for the bacteria that causes the fatal pneumonia.
The department has confirmed the bacteria is now present in all of the bighorn herds it manages in the region.
Past outbreaks of the deadly pneumonia have been linked to interaction between wild bighorns and domestic sheep and goats, which the department says its working to prevent.
Domestic sheep or goats carry the bacteria (known as Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, or Movi), but are unaffected by it.
But pneumonia caused by the Movi bacteria can be fatal in bighorn sheep and can reduce the survival rate of lambs for many years after the initial outbreak. There is no treatment for Bighorn sheep, and no preventative vaccine.
Full Story HERE
October 4, 2021: Around the State
Learn more here: https://chihuahuansc.nmsu.edu
October 4, 2021: Federal Register
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 90-Day Finding for Two Petitions To List the Gray Wolf in the Western United States
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Notification of petition findings and initiation of status reviews.
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 90-day finding on a petition to add the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in the Northern Rocky Mountains and a petition to add the gray wolf in western North America to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). Based on our review, we find that the petitions present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted. Therefore, with the publication of this document, we announce that we plan to initiate a status review to determine whether the petitioned actions are warranted. To ensure that the status review is comprehensive, we are requesting scientific and commercial data and other information regarding the species and factors that may affect its status. Based on the status review, we will issue a 12-month petition finding, which will address whether or not the petitioned actions are warranted, in accordance with the Act.
DATES:The findings announced in this document were made on September 17, 2021. As we commence our status review, we seek any new information concerning the status of, or threats to, the gray wolf, or its habitats in the Northern Rocky Mountains and/or Western United States. Any information we receive during the course of our status review will be considered.
View HERE
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Notification of petition findings and initiation of status reviews.
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 90-day finding on a petition to add the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in the Northern Rocky Mountains and a petition to add the gray wolf in western North America to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). Based on our review, we find that the petitions present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted. Therefore, with the publication of this document, we announce that we plan to initiate a status review to determine whether the petitioned actions are warranted. To ensure that the status review is comprehensive, we are requesting scientific and commercial data and other information regarding the species and factors that may affect its status. Based on the status review, we will issue a 12-month petition finding, which will address whether or not the petitioned actions are warranted, in accordance with the Act.
DATES:The findings announced in this document were made on September 17, 2021. As we commence our status review, we seek any new information concerning the status of, or threats to, the gray wolf, or its habitats in the Northern Rocky Mountains and/or Western United States. Any information we receive during the course of our status review will be considered.
View HERE
October 4, 2021: In the News
Agricultural Estate Planning: A Prenup Could Save the Ranch
Katherine E. Merck, Budd-Falen Law Offices, LLC
The term “estate planning” brings to mind wills, trusts, and complicated tax implications, but it also includes protecting yourself and your family from the worst circumstances. Unfortunately, prenuptial agreements are a tool that must be considered to protect yourself and your family.
While most farmers and ranchers are not eager to discuss what will happen after their death, they are even less eager to diminish the joy of their wedding preparations with talk of a prenuptial agreement. This uncomfortable discussion is far less awkward, however, than dividing or losing the family ranch due to divorce or remarriage.
Divorce and remarriage can be extremely difficult to deal with in any family business, particularly a closely held, multi-generational business like an agricultural operation. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are powerful tools for protecting assets in divorce and remarriage. A prenuptial agreement is essentially a contract entered into prior to marriage that allows for a predetermined distribution of assets. Postnuptial agreements, on the other hand, are the same type of agreement, simply made after the couple is legally married.
Most states have statutes that dictate the distribution of assets upon divorce or death, but a prenuptial agreement may be used to waive statutory elective shares and community property rights. In community property states, including Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin, property acquired during marriage is owned equally by each spouse. While property that is inherited or gifted is not considered community property, property that is purchased during the marriage, including land and assets that contribute to the existing inherited ranch, are considered community property. This has the potential to lead to a sticky situation in the event of divorce.
Although prenuptial agreements are often considered to protect the parties in the event of a divorce, they can also be used to protect the farm or ranch in the case of a death or remarriage. In the case of a blended family, for example, the second spouse may be entitled to a portion of the ranch upon the death of the owner, even when the owner intended for the entire ranch to pass to his or her children from the first marriage. The second spouse may then transfer their share of the ranch to his or her kids from a prior marriage, dividing the ranch between two families rather than between siblings as intended. Therefore, it is important for a landowner to understand statutory estate distributions that would occur without any type of estate planning, which may include the distribution to a second spouse against the landowner’s wishes.
Nuptial agreements can be used to essentially opt out of statutory community property rights, which should be considered in blended family situations. Divorces and marriages that blend together families with children become even more complicated in situations involving multiple rights and encumbrances such as easements and federal grazing permits. In such cases, nuptial agreements should specifically address ownership of different property rights including mineral rights and water rights, as well as any entitlement to income from leases and other encumbrances.
As with all aspects of estate planning, it is essential that you have clear, long-term goals in mind. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are important tools that can be used for the benefit of keeping the ranch viable and ensuring that it remains in the family for future generations.
Katherine E. Merck, Budd-Falen Law Offices, LLC
The term “estate planning” brings to mind wills, trusts, and complicated tax implications, but it also includes protecting yourself and your family from the worst circumstances. Unfortunately, prenuptial agreements are a tool that must be considered to protect yourself and your family.
While most farmers and ranchers are not eager to discuss what will happen after their death, they are even less eager to diminish the joy of their wedding preparations with talk of a prenuptial agreement. This uncomfortable discussion is far less awkward, however, than dividing or losing the family ranch due to divorce or remarriage.
Divorce and remarriage can be extremely difficult to deal with in any family business, particularly a closely held, multi-generational business like an agricultural operation. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are powerful tools for protecting assets in divorce and remarriage. A prenuptial agreement is essentially a contract entered into prior to marriage that allows for a predetermined distribution of assets. Postnuptial agreements, on the other hand, are the same type of agreement, simply made after the couple is legally married.
Most states have statutes that dictate the distribution of assets upon divorce or death, but a prenuptial agreement may be used to waive statutory elective shares and community property rights. In community property states, including Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin, property acquired during marriage is owned equally by each spouse. While property that is inherited or gifted is not considered community property, property that is purchased during the marriage, including land and assets that contribute to the existing inherited ranch, are considered community property. This has the potential to lead to a sticky situation in the event of divorce.
Although prenuptial agreements are often considered to protect the parties in the event of a divorce, they can also be used to protect the farm or ranch in the case of a death or remarriage. In the case of a blended family, for example, the second spouse may be entitled to a portion of the ranch upon the death of the owner, even when the owner intended for the entire ranch to pass to his or her children from the first marriage. The second spouse may then transfer their share of the ranch to his or her kids from a prior marriage, dividing the ranch between two families rather than between siblings as intended. Therefore, it is important for a landowner to understand statutory estate distributions that would occur without any type of estate planning, which may include the distribution to a second spouse against the landowner’s wishes.
Nuptial agreements can be used to essentially opt out of statutory community property rights, which should be considered in blended family situations. Divorces and marriages that blend together families with children become even more complicated in situations involving multiple rights and encumbrances such as easements and federal grazing permits. In such cases, nuptial agreements should specifically address ownership of different property rights including mineral rights and water rights, as well as any entitlement to income from leases and other encumbrances.
As with all aspects of estate planning, it is essential that you have clear, long-term goals in mind. Prenuptial and postnuptial agreements are important tools that can be used for the benefit of keeping the ranch viable and ensuring that it remains in the family for future generations.
September 29, 2021: In the News
Western Livestock Journal – California sheep and goat producers are concerned over a new overtime law set to go into effect on Jan. 1, 2022, saying it could cost their business.
The wage order, signed by then-Gov. Jerry Brown (D) in 2016 and amended without comment or industry input from agriculture organizations in 2019, requires sheepherders to be paid for a 168-hour workweek, or 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
According to Monica Youree, executive director of Western Range Association, the new wage rules will immediately result in a 119 percent increase in sheepherder wages. Monthly salaries would go from $1,955 to $4,286. According to the California Farm Bureau (CFB), the increase will bring CA sheepherders’ wages to “more than twice what is paid to similar workers in 11 other sheep and wool-producing states.”
Read Full Story HERE
The wage order, signed by then-Gov. Jerry Brown (D) in 2016 and amended without comment or industry input from agriculture organizations in 2019, requires sheepherders to be paid for a 168-hour workweek, or 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
According to Monica Youree, executive director of Western Range Association, the new wage rules will immediately result in a 119 percent increase in sheepherder wages. Monthly salaries would go from $1,955 to $4,286. According to the California Farm Bureau (CFB), the increase will bring CA sheepherders’ wages to “more than twice what is paid to similar workers in 11 other sheep and wool-producing states.”
Read Full Story HERE
September 28, 2021: In the News
U.S. sheep industry opposes UK lamb imports
Carol Ryan Dumas, Capital Press
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s statement that the U.S. is lifting its decades-long ban on lamb imports from the United Kingdom surprised the U.S. sheep industry.
U.S. farmers have opposed reopening the U.S. market to British lamb and sheep meat since it was first proposed in 2016.
Johnson made the statement on Sept. 22, after he met with President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C., to discuss a post-Brexit trade deal.
The U.S. administration has been oddly quiet on the issue, and the American Sheep Industry Association only heard about it through the media, said Chase Adams, the association’s senior policy and information director.
“Our position has been to prioritize export opportunities and breaking down barriers for U.S. producers before we let more lamb in,” he said.
The U.S. market is already import-heavy with about half of the total lamb and mutton supplies coming from Australia and New Zealand, he said.
Read Full Story HERE
Carol Ryan Dumas, Capital Press
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s statement that the U.S. is lifting its decades-long ban on lamb imports from the United Kingdom surprised the U.S. sheep industry.
U.S. farmers have opposed reopening the U.S. market to British lamb and sheep meat since it was first proposed in 2016.
Johnson made the statement on Sept. 22, after he met with President Joe Biden in Washington, D.C., to discuss a post-Brexit trade deal.
The U.S. administration has been oddly quiet on the issue, and the American Sheep Industry Association only heard about it through the media, said Chase Adams, the association’s senior policy and information director.
“Our position has been to prioritize export opportunities and breaking down barriers for U.S. producers before we let more lamb in,” he said.
The U.S. market is already import-heavy with about half of the total lamb and mutton supplies coming from Australia and New Zealand, he said.
Read Full Story HERE
September 24, 2021: Shear Wisdom
Behind the Scenes at New Mexico Youth Livestock Expo
Taylor Riggins, New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc
Last week young showmen had the opportunity to showcase their livestock projects at the New Mexico Youth Livestock Expo (NMYLE). The Expo was relocated from Albuquerque to the Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds (ENMSF) in Roswell after Governor Michelle Lujan-Grisham announced a vaccine mandate in August.
Young people involved in 4-H and FFA work all year long for the chance to present their projects at the local and state levels, investing both time and money to showcase their best. Before entering the show ring numerous hours were spent in the barn at home. Over the course of their show career these youth become well versed in the nutritional needs of their animals, they learn to manage their money when purchasing feed, supplies and when adding to their savings accounts for the following year’s project. The responsibility of caring for livestock at an early age gives one tangible life skills to carry into adulthood and future careers. The price of being a champion is the dedication of time and character both in and out of the show ring.
A championship attitude was all to be found in Roswell last week from showmen to parents, staff, volunteers, spectators and judges. The ENMSF came alive in the short time it took for agriculture leaders and volunteers to willingly coordinate and staff the Expo.
“I have lived in the Roswell area all of my life and I have never seen the fairgrounds that full of trailers, kids and livestock,” said Bronson Corn, Immediate Past-President NMWGI. “The way things fell together is no doubt because of the many people willing to help on such short notice.”
New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc recognizes James Duffy, President and Shad Cox, Second Vice President for the commitment of their time and efforts. James and Shad worked tirelessly alongside numerous other families, supporters and agricultural leaders to ensure that our youth had a destination to showcase their best. A co-chair of the show, James is also a former New Mexico State University cooperative extension agent and former chairman of the Chaves County Board of Commissioners. In addition Shad is the Superintendent of Corona Range and Livestock Research Center. A big “Hats Off” and thank you to James and Shad as they continue to lead our organization by example embodying our goal to keep the legacy of wool alive and well by being of service to the industry.
Taylor Riggins, New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc
Last week young showmen had the opportunity to showcase their livestock projects at the New Mexico Youth Livestock Expo (NMYLE). The Expo was relocated from Albuquerque to the Eastern New Mexico State Fairgrounds (ENMSF) in Roswell after Governor Michelle Lujan-Grisham announced a vaccine mandate in August.
Young people involved in 4-H and FFA work all year long for the chance to present their projects at the local and state levels, investing both time and money to showcase their best. Before entering the show ring numerous hours were spent in the barn at home. Over the course of their show career these youth become well versed in the nutritional needs of their animals, they learn to manage their money when purchasing feed, supplies and when adding to their savings accounts for the following year’s project. The responsibility of caring for livestock at an early age gives one tangible life skills to carry into adulthood and future careers. The price of being a champion is the dedication of time and character both in and out of the show ring.
A championship attitude was all to be found in Roswell last week from showmen to parents, staff, volunteers, spectators and judges. The ENMSF came alive in the short time it took for agriculture leaders and volunteers to willingly coordinate and staff the Expo.
“I have lived in the Roswell area all of my life and I have never seen the fairgrounds that full of trailers, kids and livestock,” said Bronson Corn, Immediate Past-President NMWGI. “The way things fell together is no doubt because of the many people willing to help on such short notice.”
New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc recognizes James Duffy, President and Shad Cox, Second Vice President for the commitment of their time and efforts. James and Shad worked tirelessly alongside numerous other families, supporters and agricultural leaders to ensure that our youth had a destination to showcase their best. A co-chair of the show, James is also a former New Mexico State University cooperative extension agent and former chairman of the Chaves County Board of Commissioners. In addition Shad is the Superintendent of Corona Range and Livestock Research Center. A big “Hats Off” and thank you to James and Shad as they continue to lead our organization by example embodying our goal to keep the legacy of wool alive and well by being of service to the industry.
September 23, 2021: In the News
US lifting ban on imports of British lamb, says Boris Johnson
The United States is lifting its decades-old ban on imports of British lamb, Boris Johnson has announced.
The PM, who is in the US for talks with UN leaders and President Joe Biden, said the ban was "unjustified".
But he admitted the UK was now focused on making "incremental steps" on US trade access, rather than aiming for a full agreement.
Mr Biden appeared to play down the chances of a wider deal during a meeting with Mr Johnson on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Mr Johnson said the Biden administration "is not doing free trade deals around the world right now".
But he added he had "every confidence that a great deal is there to be done".
Read Full Story HERE
The United States is lifting its decades-old ban on imports of British lamb, Boris Johnson has announced.
The PM, who is in the US for talks with UN leaders and President Joe Biden, said the ban was "unjustified".
But he admitted the UK was now focused on making "incremental steps" on US trade access, rather than aiming for a full agreement.
Mr Biden appeared to play down the chances of a wider deal during a meeting with Mr Johnson on Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Mr Johnson said the Biden administration "is not doing free trade deals around the world right now".
But he added he had "every confidence that a great deal is there to be done".
Read Full Story HERE
September 21, 2021: In the News
Bureau of Land Management Seeks Advisory Council Nominations for the Southern New Mexico Resource Advisory Council
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The Bureau of Land Management announces that it is seeking public nominations for vacant positions on its Southern New Mexico Resource Advisory Council (RAC), which advises the BLM on public land issues within the Las Cruces and Pecos District Offices and Socorro Field Office. As advertised in the Federal Register, the BLM will consider nominations until Oct. 21, 2021.
The Southern New Mexico RAC, composed of citizens chosen for their expertise in natural resource issues, helps the BLM carry out its stewardship of more than 10.4 million acres of public lands. The RAC consists of 12 members with an interest or expertise in public land management, including such individuals as conservationists, ranchers, outdoor recreationists, state and local government officials, Tribal officials, and academics. The membership of the RAC helps ensure that BLM land managers get varying perspectives to achieve their mission, which is to manage the public lands for multiple use. Learn more about the RAC at https://www.blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council.
“The BLM Resource Advisory Councils serves as a forum for the community conversation, which is a component of public land management,” said BLM Las Cruces District Manager Bill Childress. “RAC members provide a valuable service to the Bureau by delving into topics and proposing solutions on a wide variety of land and resource use issues.”
Individuals may nominate themselves or others to serve on an advisory council. Nominees, who must be residents of the State of New Mexico, will be selected based on their training, education, and knowledge of the RAC’s geographical area. Nominees should also demonstrate a commitment to consensus building and collaborative decision-making. All nominations must be accompanied by letters of reference from any represented interests or organizations, a completed RAC application, and any other information that speaks to the nominee’s qualifications. This is the second call for nominations. If you have already applied, you do not need to reapply.
The Southern New Mexico RAC is soliciting applications for one vacancy in Category One and two vacancies in Category Three (one of whom must be an Elected Official). Members are appointed for 3-year terms. The categories represent the following interests:
LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The Bureau of Land Management announces that it is seeking public nominations for vacant positions on its Southern New Mexico Resource Advisory Council (RAC), which advises the BLM on public land issues within the Las Cruces and Pecos District Offices and Socorro Field Office. As advertised in the Federal Register, the BLM will consider nominations until Oct. 21, 2021.
The Southern New Mexico RAC, composed of citizens chosen for their expertise in natural resource issues, helps the BLM carry out its stewardship of more than 10.4 million acres of public lands. The RAC consists of 12 members with an interest or expertise in public land management, including such individuals as conservationists, ranchers, outdoor recreationists, state and local government officials, Tribal officials, and academics. The membership of the RAC helps ensure that BLM land managers get varying perspectives to achieve their mission, which is to manage the public lands for multiple use. Learn more about the RAC at https://www.blm.gov/get-involved/resource-advisory-council.
“The BLM Resource Advisory Councils serves as a forum for the community conversation, which is a component of public land management,” said BLM Las Cruces District Manager Bill Childress. “RAC members provide a valuable service to the Bureau by delving into topics and proposing solutions on a wide variety of land and resource use issues.”
Individuals may nominate themselves or others to serve on an advisory council. Nominees, who must be residents of the State of New Mexico, will be selected based on their training, education, and knowledge of the RAC’s geographical area. Nominees should also demonstrate a commitment to consensus building and collaborative decision-making. All nominations must be accompanied by letters of reference from any represented interests or organizations, a completed RAC application, and any other information that speaks to the nominee’s qualifications. This is the second call for nominations. If you have already applied, you do not need to reapply.
The Southern New Mexico RAC is soliciting applications for one vacancy in Category One and two vacancies in Category Three (one of whom must be an Elected Official). Members are appointed for 3-year terms. The categories represent the following interests:
- Category One – Public land ranchers and representatives of organizations associated with energy and mineral development, the timber industry, transportation or rights-of-way, off-highway vehicle use, and commercial recreation.
- Category Two – Representatives of nationally or regionally recognized environmental organizations, archaeological and historical organizations, dispersed recreation activities, and wild horse and burro organizations.
- Category Three – Representatives of state, county, or local elected office; representatives and employees of a state agency responsible for the management of natural resources; representatives of Indian Tribes within or adjacent to the area for which the RAC is organized; representatives and employees of academic institutions who are involved in natural sciences; and the public-at-large.
September 20, 2021: October Regional Meeting Flyer
September 17, 2021: In the News
USDA Extends Deadline to Apply for Pandemic Assistance to Livestock Producers with Animal Losses
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2021— The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing additional time for livestock and poultry producers to apply for the Pandemic Livestock Indemnity Program (PLIP). Producers who suffered losses during the pandemic due to insufficient access to processing may now apply for assistance for those losses and the cost of depopulation and disposal of the animals through Oct. 12, 2021, rather than the original deadline of Sept. 17, 2021. PLIP is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative.
“Livestock and poultry producers were among the hardest hit by the pandemic,” said Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “We want to ensure that all eligible producers have the opportunity to apply for this critical assistance. The October 12 deadline also aligns with the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 2 deadline.”
PLIP provides payments to producers for losses of livestock or poultry depopulated from March 1, 2020 through Dec. 26, 2020, due to insufficient processing access as a result of the pandemic. Payments are based on 80% of the fair market value of the livestock and poultry and for the cost of depopulation and disposal of the animal. Eligible livestock and poultry include swine, chickens and turkeys.
Read Full Story HERE
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16, 2021— The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is providing additional time for livestock and poultry producers to apply for the Pandemic Livestock Indemnity Program (PLIP). Producers who suffered losses during the pandemic due to insufficient access to processing may now apply for assistance for those losses and the cost of depopulation and disposal of the animals through Oct. 12, 2021, rather than the original deadline of Sept. 17, 2021. PLIP is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative.
“Livestock and poultry producers were among the hardest hit by the pandemic,” said Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Zach Ducheneaux. “We want to ensure that all eligible producers have the opportunity to apply for this critical assistance. The October 12 deadline also aligns with the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program 2 deadline.”
PLIP provides payments to producers for losses of livestock or poultry depopulated from March 1, 2020 through Dec. 26, 2020, due to insufficient processing access as a result of the pandemic. Payments are based on 80% of the fair market value of the livestock and poultry and for the cost of depopulation and disposal of the animal. Eligible livestock and poultry include swine, chickens and turkeys.
Read Full Story HERE
September 14, 2021: Federal Register
Eagle Permits; Incidental Take
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Advance notice of proposed rulemaking; request for comments.
SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service, or we) seeks public and regulated-community input on potential approaches for further expediting and simplifying the permit process authorizing incidental take of eagles. This document also advises the public that the Service may, as a result of public input, prepare a draft environmental review pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended. We are furnishing this advance notice of proposed rulemaking to advise other agencies and the public of our intentions and obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the environmental review. Public and regulated community responses will be used to improve and make more efficient the permitting process for incidental take of eagles in a manner that is compatible with the preservation of bald and golden eagles.
DATES: You may submit comments on or before October 29, 2021. We will consider all comments on this advance notice of proposed rulemaking, including the scope of the draft environmental review, that are received or postmarked by that date. Comments received or postmarked after that date will be considered to the extent practicable.
Full Listing HERE
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Advance notice of proposed rulemaking; request for comments.
SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service, or we) seeks public and regulated-community input on potential approaches for further expediting and simplifying the permit process authorizing incidental take of eagles. This document also advises the public that the Service may, as a result of public input, prepare a draft environmental review pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended. We are furnishing this advance notice of proposed rulemaking to advise other agencies and the public of our intentions and obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the environmental review. Public and regulated community responses will be used to improve and make more efficient the permitting process for incidental take of eagles in a manner that is compatible with the preservation of bald and golden eagles.
DATES: You may submit comments on or before October 29, 2021. We will consider all comments on this advance notice of proposed rulemaking, including the scope of the draft environmental review, that are received or postmarked by that date. Comments received or postmarked after that date will be considered to the extent practicable.
Full Listing HERE
September 14, 2021: In the News
H-2A program doubles in size from 2010 to 2019
Tom Karst, The Packer
The H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers Program more than doubled in size in less than ten years, and fruit, vegetable and nut growers were a big reason for the growth.
The H-2A program allows agricultural employers in the U.S. to bring in foreign farmworkers to fill seasonal labor contracts lasting less than a year.
A new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service said that, between 2010 and 2019, H-2A positions certified by the U.S. Department of Labor increased more than 220%.
Read Full Story HERE
Tom Karst, The Packer
The H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers Program more than doubled in size in less than ten years, and fruit, vegetable and nut growers were a big reason for the growth.
The H-2A program allows agricultural employers in the U.S. to bring in foreign farmworkers to fill seasonal labor contracts lasting less than a year.
A new report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service said that, between 2010 and 2019, H-2A positions certified by the U.S. Department of Labor increased more than 220%.
Read Full Story HERE
September 8, 2021: In the News
USDA Expands Assistance to Cover Feed Transportation Costs for Drought-Impacted Ranchers
WASHINGTON, September 8, 2021-- In response to the severe drought conditions in the West and Great Plains, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today its plans to help cover the cost of transporting feed for livestock that rely on grazing. USDA is updating the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP) to immediately cover feed transportation costs for drought impacted ranchers. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will provide more details and tools to help ranchers get ready to apply at their local USDA Service Center later this month at fsa.usda.gov/elap.
“USDA is currently determining how our disaster assistance programs can best help alleviate the significant economic, physical and emotional strain agriculture producers are experiencing due to drought conditions,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The duration and intensity of current drought conditions are merciless, and the impacts of this summer’s drought will be felt by producers for months to come. Today’s announcement is to provide relief as ranchers make fall and winter herd management decisions.”
ELAP provides financial assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybees, and farm-raised fish for losses due to disease, certain adverse weather events or loss conditions as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture.
ELAP already covers the cost of hauling water during drought, and this change will expand the program beginning in 2021 to cover feed transportation costs where grazing and hay resources have been depleted. This includes places where:
Read Full Release HERE
WASHINGTON, September 8, 2021-- In response to the severe drought conditions in the West and Great Plains, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today its plans to help cover the cost of transporting feed for livestock that rely on grazing. USDA is updating the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honey Bees and Farm-raised Fish Program (ELAP) to immediately cover feed transportation costs for drought impacted ranchers. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will provide more details and tools to help ranchers get ready to apply at their local USDA Service Center later this month at fsa.usda.gov/elap.
“USDA is currently determining how our disaster assistance programs can best help alleviate the significant economic, physical and emotional strain agriculture producers are experiencing due to drought conditions,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The duration and intensity of current drought conditions are merciless, and the impacts of this summer’s drought will be felt by producers for months to come. Today’s announcement is to provide relief as ranchers make fall and winter herd management decisions.”
ELAP provides financial assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybees, and farm-raised fish for losses due to disease, certain adverse weather events or loss conditions as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture.
ELAP already covers the cost of hauling water during drought, and this change will expand the program beginning in 2021 to cover feed transportation costs where grazing and hay resources have been depleted. This includes places where:
- Drought intensity is D2 for eight consecutive weeks as indicated by the U.S. Drought Monitor;
- Drought intensity is D3 or greater; or
- USDA has determined a shortage of local or regional feed availability.
Read Full Release HERE
September 2, 2021: NMCGA New Event
September 1, 2021: Shear Wisdom
Governors Executive Order Places Crosshairs on Rural New Mexico
Bronson Corn, New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc
In the interest of following a Biden Administration political priority, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham ordered all divisions of state government to implement policy to conserve 30 percent of water and 30 percent of land within the state by the year 2030. In a state that is already heavy with the burden of Federal and State administered land and light with economic opportunity, this Executive Order might be detrimental to Agriculture endeavors , Energy Industries and Rural Communities.
“There is nothing more valuable than water in a thirsty land, nor anything more sacred than opportunity to the American Dream,” said James Duffy, New Mexico Wool Growers President. “Both come under the crosshairs in the Governors newest executive order.”
Executive Order 2021-052 titled ‘Protecting New Mexico’s Lands, Watersheds, Wildlife, and Natural Heritage’ usurps legislative authority, rural representation and public debate. It firmly puts decision making authority in the hands of unelected and appointed bureaucrats. NMWGI and its membership understand the benefits of wide scale soil, erosion, energy and watershed projects as well as the need for state and federal by-in and funding. Nonetheless, those projects should be judged on merit and funded through the legislative process with elected representation and not a single executive or appointed bureaucrat dictating policy.
“The mission of NMWGI will continue to be protecting the industry and private property rights,” said Duffy. “Executive Order (2021-052) has the potential of being misused. Twelve counties have passed resolutions in opposition to the 30 X 30 Biden plan and more will follow. We hope the state legislature will take measures to protect their constitutionally recognized authority.”
NMWGI encourages everyone to take a draft resolution to their county commissioners and ask that they pass it in opposition to the radical agenda set forth by 30x30. Draft resolutions can be found by accessing the American Stewards of Liberty Guide to Fight at https://americanstewards.us/how-to-fight-the-30-x-30-program/ or by contacting the NMWGI office at 505-247-0584.
Bronson Corn, New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc
In the interest of following a Biden Administration political priority, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham ordered all divisions of state government to implement policy to conserve 30 percent of water and 30 percent of land within the state by the year 2030. In a state that is already heavy with the burden of Federal and State administered land and light with economic opportunity, this Executive Order might be detrimental to Agriculture endeavors , Energy Industries and Rural Communities.
“There is nothing more valuable than water in a thirsty land, nor anything more sacred than opportunity to the American Dream,” said James Duffy, New Mexico Wool Growers President. “Both come under the crosshairs in the Governors newest executive order.”
Executive Order 2021-052 titled ‘Protecting New Mexico’s Lands, Watersheds, Wildlife, and Natural Heritage’ usurps legislative authority, rural representation and public debate. It firmly puts decision making authority in the hands of unelected and appointed bureaucrats. NMWGI and its membership understand the benefits of wide scale soil, erosion, energy and watershed projects as well as the need for state and federal by-in and funding. Nonetheless, those projects should be judged on merit and funded through the legislative process with elected representation and not a single executive or appointed bureaucrat dictating policy.
“The mission of NMWGI will continue to be protecting the industry and private property rights,” said Duffy. “Executive Order (2021-052) has the potential of being misused. Twelve counties have passed resolutions in opposition to the 30 X 30 Biden plan and more will follow. We hope the state legislature will take measures to protect their constitutionally recognized authority.”
NMWGI encourages everyone to take a draft resolution to their county commissioners and ask that they pass it in opposition to the radical agenda set forth by 30x30. Draft resolutions can be found by accessing the American Stewards of Liberty Guide to Fight at https://americanstewards.us/how-to-fight-the-30-x-30-program/ or by contacting the NMWGI office at 505-247-0584.
August 26, 2021: In the News
The New Mexico Youth Livestock Expo has been finalized! It will take place in Roswell, NM Sept 14-17. All New Mexico livestock exhibitors are welcome. The sale will be Friday 1 pm. Please plan on attending, and show support for NM youth. Rules and details to follow.
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August 26, 2021: NMSF Update & Refund Application
2021 Junior Livestock Show Refund Application
Submit your refund request by Friday, September 3, 2021. Requests will be processed as soon as possible.
FORM FOUND HERE
Submit your refund request by Friday, September 3, 2021. Requests will be processed as soon as possible.
FORM FOUND HERE
August 16, 2021: NMSU dean wins lifetime achievement award from STEM organization
Rolando A. Flores Galarza, dean and chief administrative officer of New Mexico State University’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, has received a lifetime achievement award from Great Minds in STEM, the organization announced Aug. 11.
Flores Galarza was among 22 STEM professionals selected by a peer-review committee to receive the 2021 HENAAC Awards from Great Minds in STEM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting STEM careers, especially in underserved communities.
“Dean Flores Galarza is an outstanding educator, and we’re so fortunate to have him at our university,” NMSU Chancellor Dan Arvizu said. “He has dedicated his entire career to ensuring students are equipped not just with knowledge in the STEM disciplines, but also with important, foundational skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and creativity. I congratulate him on this well-deserved national recognition.”
The awards honor the achievements of America’s top engineers and scientists from the Hispanic community. Flores Galarza received the organization’s lifetime achievement award for education. He and the other award winners will be recognized at the 2021 Great Minds in STEM conference, set to take place virtually Oct. 11-22.
“This award humbles and fills me with gratitude for all the students, who in one way or another, I have contributed to moving them through the education process,” Flores Galarza said. “I am grateful to my beloved family for their patience, support and love, to all the colleagues and staff I have worked with, and to the ones who nominated me. Education is fundamental to the growth of an individual, and without it, our society will not move forward. I have been blessed to have the opportunity to contribute to this rich endeavor.”
Flores Galarza, a food scientist, joined NMSU in 2016 to serve as dean and chief administrative officer of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.
Flores Galarza has dedicated his career to advancing food science and technology and cultivating the next generation of food scientists and engineers. He also has conducted pioneering research in waste and byproduct utilization.
Flores Galarza was among 22 STEM professionals selected by a peer-review committee to receive the 2021 HENAAC Awards from Great Minds in STEM, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting STEM careers, especially in underserved communities.
“Dean Flores Galarza is an outstanding educator, and we’re so fortunate to have him at our university,” NMSU Chancellor Dan Arvizu said. “He has dedicated his entire career to ensuring students are equipped not just with knowledge in the STEM disciplines, but also with important, foundational skills such as critical thinking, problem solving and creativity. I congratulate him on this well-deserved national recognition.”
The awards honor the achievements of America’s top engineers and scientists from the Hispanic community. Flores Galarza received the organization’s lifetime achievement award for education. He and the other award winners will be recognized at the 2021 Great Minds in STEM conference, set to take place virtually Oct. 11-22.
“This award humbles and fills me with gratitude for all the students, who in one way or another, I have contributed to moving them through the education process,” Flores Galarza said. “I am grateful to my beloved family for their patience, support and love, to all the colleagues and staff I have worked with, and to the ones who nominated me. Education is fundamental to the growth of an individual, and without it, our society will not move forward. I have been blessed to have the opportunity to contribute to this rich endeavor.”
Flores Galarza, a food scientist, joined NMSU in 2016 to serve as dean and chief administrative officer of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.
Flores Galarza has dedicated his career to advancing food science and technology and cultivating the next generation of food scientists and engineers. He also has conducted pioneering research in waste and byproduct utilization.
August 2, 2021: In the News - NMDA
Ag businesses may apply for internship funding through NMDA’s Agricultural Workforce Development Program
Program’s goal is to create opportunities that lead to careers in agriculture
LAS CRUCES – New Mexico-based agricultural businesses may apply for internship funding through the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) Agricultural Workforce Development (AWD) Program.
The goal of the AWD Program is to create opportunities for young and beginning farmers and ranchers, including students, to gain work experience in agriculture that can turn into careers and thus support New Mexico’s agricultural future. The program provides incentives to New Mexico agricultural businesses to hire interns.
An “agricultural business” is defined in the New Mexico Agricultural Workforce Development Program Act as business of a food or agricultural nature, including agriculture production or processing. Examples of agricultural businesses eligible to participate in the AWD Program include – but are not limited to – farms and ranches; facilities at which raw agricultural commodities are processed into finished products; and food and beverage manufacturing facilities. The act was passed in 2019, and the pilot program ensued in 2020.
New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte said it’s imperative to train the next generation of agriculturists in this state.
“New Mexico has the second-highest average age of producers in the U.S. at 59.8, behind Hawaii, according to the most recent Census of Agriculture,” said Witte. “Programs such as the Agricultural Workforce Development Program are key to ensuring our ag industry’s future is in the hands of capable people.”
NMDA will reimburse a participating agricultural business up to 50% of the actual cost to employ the intern(s), not to exceed $5,000 per intern. A business may hire up to three interns in one year and the internship must consist of at least 130 hours. The application period opened Aug. 2, 2021 and will continue until funds are fully allocated or by Dec. 7, 2021, whichever comes first. Funds will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis and must be fully expended by June 15, 2022.
All payments for qualified internships will be made on a cost-reimbursable basis following the end of the internship. The business is required to pay at least minimum wage and must carry workers’ compensation insurance for all interns. Interns must be at least 18 years of age at the start of their AWD Program internship. It is preferred that interns be New Mexico residents, but it is not a requirement.
NMDA will not match businesses with interns. Each business is responsible for finding an intern or interns to employ and must include the interns’ information in the AWD application.
For more information about the AWD Program, its criteria, its requirements, allowable expenses, the application process and intern eligibility, please visit www.nmda.nmsu.edu/agricultural-workforce-development-program, emailawd@nmda.nmsu.edu or call NMDA at 575-646-2642.
Program’s goal is to create opportunities that lead to careers in agriculture
LAS CRUCES – New Mexico-based agricultural businesses may apply for internship funding through the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) Agricultural Workforce Development (AWD) Program.
The goal of the AWD Program is to create opportunities for young and beginning farmers and ranchers, including students, to gain work experience in agriculture that can turn into careers and thus support New Mexico’s agricultural future. The program provides incentives to New Mexico agricultural businesses to hire interns.
An “agricultural business” is defined in the New Mexico Agricultural Workforce Development Program Act as business of a food or agricultural nature, including agriculture production or processing. Examples of agricultural businesses eligible to participate in the AWD Program include – but are not limited to – farms and ranches; facilities at which raw agricultural commodities are processed into finished products; and food and beverage manufacturing facilities. The act was passed in 2019, and the pilot program ensued in 2020.
New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture Jeff Witte said it’s imperative to train the next generation of agriculturists in this state.
“New Mexico has the second-highest average age of producers in the U.S. at 59.8, behind Hawaii, according to the most recent Census of Agriculture,” said Witte. “Programs such as the Agricultural Workforce Development Program are key to ensuring our ag industry’s future is in the hands of capable people.”
NMDA will reimburse a participating agricultural business up to 50% of the actual cost to employ the intern(s), not to exceed $5,000 per intern. A business may hire up to three interns in one year and the internship must consist of at least 130 hours. The application period opened Aug. 2, 2021 and will continue until funds are fully allocated or by Dec. 7, 2021, whichever comes first. Funds will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis and must be fully expended by June 15, 2022.
All payments for qualified internships will be made on a cost-reimbursable basis following the end of the internship. The business is required to pay at least minimum wage and must carry workers’ compensation insurance for all interns. Interns must be at least 18 years of age at the start of their AWD Program internship. It is preferred that interns be New Mexico residents, but it is not a requirement.
NMDA will not match businesses with interns. Each business is responsible for finding an intern or interns to employ and must include the interns’ information in the AWD application.
For more information about the AWD Program, its criteria, its requirements, allowable expenses, the application process and intern eligibility, please visit www.nmda.nmsu.edu/agricultural-workforce-development-program, emailawd@nmda.nmsu.edu or call NMDA at 575-646-2642.
July 30, 2021: In the News
Valencia County Fair returns with new activities
BELEN — Get your cowboy boots and belt buckles ready because the Valencia County Fair will again allow in-person attendance with music, a parade, chile cook-off and eating contests.
“It’s a lot better; now people can come and see the fair,” Danny Goodson, president of the Valencia County Fair Board said since last year was whittled down to only livestock events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Last year we couldn’t have any public at all. Everyone has been itching to get out and do something.”
While the livestock show kicks off on Monday with several new livestock events on Aug. 2, many of the activities the fair is known for start on Thursday, Aug. 5, when the commercial booths and the exhibit hall opens to the public.
On Friday, Aug. 6, the fair will hold a recognition for veterans and on Sunday, Aug. 8, will be Senior Day, “with all kinds of things for the seniors that day,” Goodson said.
Instead of holding the junior livestock show on Sunday, this year the board decided to hold it on Saturday night in hopes to improve attendance and engagement. The sale takes place at 6:30 p.m.
Full Schedule HERE
BELEN — Get your cowboy boots and belt buckles ready because the Valencia County Fair will again allow in-person attendance with music, a parade, chile cook-off and eating contests.
“It’s a lot better; now people can come and see the fair,” Danny Goodson, president of the Valencia County Fair Board said since last year was whittled down to only livestock events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Last year we couldn’t have any public at all. Everyone has been itching to get out and do something.”
While the livestock show kicks off on Monday with several new livestock events on Aug. 2, many of the activities the fair is known for start on Thursday, Aug. 5, when the commercial booths and the exhibit hall opens to the public.
On Friday, Aug. 6, the fair will hold a recognition for veterans and on Sunday, Aug. 8, will be Senior Day, “with all kinds of things for the seniors that day,” Goodson said.
Instead of holding the junior livestock show on Sunday, this year the board decided to hold it on Saturday night in hopes to improve attendance and engagement. The sale takes place at 6:30 p.m.
Full Schedule HERE
July 29, 2021: In the News
Lamb Fabrication Demo at NAMI Center of the Plate Training
The American Lamb Board gave a presentation and Texas A&M professors fabricated a lamb carcass at the North American Meat Institute’s Center of the Plate Training held at Texas A&M University in College Station last week.
The presentation included information on the American Lamb industry, the lamb consumer, retail sales of lamb during COVID and foodservice use of lamb.
Attendees included representatives from meat companies as well as meat buyers from foodservice distribution and retail companies.
American Lamb Board information and recipes were distributed at the training.
About the American Lamb Board HERE
The American Lamb Board is funded by the American Lamb Checkoff and is charged with building awareness and expanding demand for American Lamb and strengthening its position in the marketplace, thereby increasing the potential long-range economic growth of all industry sectors.
The American Lamb Board gave a presentation and Texas A&M professors fabricated a lamb carcass at the North American Meat Institute’s Center of the Plate Training held at Texas A&M University in College Station last week.
The presentation included information on the American Lamb industry, the lamb consumer, retail sales of lamb during COVID and foodservice use of lamb.
Attendees included representatives from meat companies as well as meat buyers from foodservice distribution and retail companies.
American Lamb Board information and recipes were distributed at the training.
About the American Lamb Board HERE
The American Lamb Board is funded by the American Lamb Checkoff and is charged with building awareness and expanding demand for American Lamb and strengthening its position in the marketplace, thereby increasing the potential long-range economic growth of all industry sectors.
July 28, 2021: In the News
Service Extends Comment Period on Proposal to List Lesser Prairie-Chicken under Endangered Species Act
Aislinn Maestas, USFWS
ALBUQUERQUE — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is extending the deadline for public comment on the proposal to list two distinct population segments (DPS) of the lesser prairie-chicken under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The extension notice is expected to publish in the Federal Register on July 30, 2021 and will extend the public comment period by 30 days. The new deadline for public comment on this proposal is September 1, 2021.
The Service is committed to transparent, inclusive decision making in all of our science-based determinations under the ESA. The extended comment period will allow additional opportunities for public and stakeholder review and engagement in this proposed action.
The lesser prairie-chicken is a species of prairie grouse commonly recognized for its colorful spring mating display and stout build. Once numbering in the hundreds of thousands, its population has declined, largely due to habitat loss and fragmentation across the southern Great Plains. The lesser prairie-chicken currently occupies a five-state range that includes portions of Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
The Service’s scientific review of past, present and future threats to the lesser prairie-chicken and ongoing conservation efforts found the Southern DPS is in danger of extinction, and the Northern DPS is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
The Service’s proposal to list the Southern DPS as endangered under the ESA and the Northern DPS as threatened with a 4(d) rule was published in the Federal Register on June 1, 2021, with the 60-day comment period scheduled to end on August 2, 2021.
n addition to soliciting public comments, the Service held public hearings with information sessions on July 8, 2021, and July 14, 2021. Recordings of those hearings, along with frequently asked questions and additional information on the proposed rule can be found at www.fws.gov/southwest/es/LPC.html.
Public comments may be submitted by one of the following methods:
(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter FWS-R2-ES-2021-0015-0001, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the Search button. On the resulting page, in the Search panel on the left side of the screen, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service News Release Public Affairs Office PO Box 1306 Albuquerque, NM 87103 505/248-6911 505/248-6915 (Fax) under the Document Type heading, check the Proposed Rule box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on “Comment.”
(2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R2-ES-2021- 0015, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: PRB/3W, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041- 3803.
We request that you send comments only by the methods described above. We will post all comments on http://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we will post any personal information you provide us (see Information Requested, below, for more information).
America’s fish, wildlife, and plant resources belong to all of us, and ensuring the health of imperiled species is a shared responsibility. We’re working to actively engage conservation partners and the public in the search for improved and innovative ways to conserve and recover imperiled species. In the last 10 years, nearly 45 species were precluded from being listed, were downlisted, or were delisted completely in part due to the proactive conservation efforts of partners in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona.
FEDERAL REGISTER
Aislinn Maestas, USFWS
ALBUQUERQUE — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is extending the deadline for public comment on the proposal to list two distinct population segments (DPS) of the lesser prairie-chicken under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The extension notice is expected to publish in the Federal Register on July 30, 2021 and will extend the public comment period by 30 days. The new deadline for public comment on this proposal is September 1, 2021.
The Service is committed to transparent, inclusive decision making in all of our science-based determinations under the ESA. The extended comment period will allow additional opportunities for public and stakeholder review and engagement in this proposed action.
The lesser prairie-chicken is a species of prairie grouse commonly recognized for its colorful spring mating display and stout build. Once numbering in the hundreds of thousands, its population has declined, largely due to habitat loss and fragmentation across the southern Great Plains. The lesser prairie-chicken currently occupies a five-state range that includes portions of Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas.
The Service’s scientific review of past, present and future threats to the lesser prairie-chicken and ongoing conservation efforts found the Southern DPS is in danger of extinction, and the Northern DPS is likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.
The Service’s proposal to list the Southern DPS as endangered under the ESA and the Northern DPS as threatened with a 4(d) rule was published in the Federal Register on June 1, 2021, with the 60-day comment period scheduled to end on August 2, 2021.
n addition to soliciting public comments, the Service held public hearings with information sessions on July 8, 2021, and July 14, 2021. Recordings of those hearings, along with frequently asked questions and additional information on the proposed rule can be found at www.fws.gov/southwest/es/LPC.html.
Public comments may be submitted by one of the following methods:
(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter FWS-R2-ES-2021-0015-0001, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the Search button. On the resulting page, in the Search panel on the left side of the screen, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service News Release Public Affairs Office PO Box 1306 Albuquerque, NM 87103 505/248-6911 505/248-6915 (Fax) under the Document Type heading, check the Proposed Rule box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on “Comment.”
(2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R2-ES-2021- 0015, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: PRB/3W, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041- 3803.
We request that you send comments only by the methods described above. We will post all comments on http://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we will post any personal information you provide us (see Information Requested, below, for more information).
America’s fish, wildlife, and plant resources belong to all of us, and ensuring the health of imperiled species is a shared responsibility. We’re working to actively engage conservation partners and the public in the search for improved and innovative ways to conserve and recover imperiled species. In the last 10 years, nearly 45 species were precluded from being listed, were downlisted, or were delisted completely in part due to the proactive conservation efforts of partners in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona.
FEDERAL REGISTER
July 27, 2021: In the News
Eddy County asks feds to extend comment period for lesser prairie chicken listing
Mike Smith, Carlsbad Current-Argus
Eddy County’s Board of County Commissioners approved a letter asking the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to extend the public comment period for the listing of the lesser prairie chicken as a potential endangered species.
Commissioners approved the letter Tuesday signed by Commission Chairperson Steve McCutcheon.
“The proposed rule is hundreds of pages long and is a very complex document which will require a large amount of time to collect the most current and best available science to ensure that the comments submitted will provide the Service with the most accurate information available for a basis to the listing decision,” read the letter.
The Fish and Wildlife Service announced in May results of a 12-month study and proposed listing the bird for protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Commissioners asked Fish and Wildlife Service to remove an Aug. 2 deadline for comment submissions.
“The extension of the listing decision is that much of the pertinent information (and) science that will be admitted won’t be able to be acquired until next spring,” said Jerry Fanning, public affairs director for Eddy County.
“We want to extend that, so we have that current information in for consideration of the listing,” he said.
Eddy County Manager Allen Davis said there are portions of eastern Eddy County that fall within the chicken’s occupied habitat.
“The County would have a standing for those who have grazing and (oil and gas) operations over there. That’s the reason we wanted to make a comment,” he said.
Read More HERE
Mike Smith, Carlsbad Current-Argus
Eddy County’s Board of County Commissioners approved a letter asking the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to extend the public comment period for the listing of the lesser prairie chicken as a potential endangered species.
Commissioners approved the letter Tuesday signed by Commission Chairperson Steve McCutcheon.
“The proposed rule is hundreds of pages long and is a very complex document which will require a large amount of time to collect the most current and best available science to ensure that the comments submitted will provide the Service with the most accurate information available for a basis to the listing decision,” read the letter.
The Fish and Wildlife Service announced in May results of a 12-month study and proposed listing the bird for protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).
Commissioners asked Fish and Wildlife Service to remove an Aug. 2 deadline for comment submissions.
“The extension of the listing decision is that much of the pertinent information (and) science that will be admitted won’t be able to be acquired until next spring,” said Jerry Fanning, public affairs director for Eddy County.
“We want to extend that, so we have that current information in for consideration of the listing,” he said.
Eddy County Manager Allen Davis said there are portions of eastern Eddy County that fall within the chicken’s occupied habitat.
“The County would have a standing for those who have grazing and (oil and gas) operations over there. That’s the reason we wanted to make a comment,” he said.
Read More HERE
July 23, 2021: In the News
CONSUMER DEMAND FOR LAMB CONTINUES TO RISE
Northern Ag Network
Consumer demand for lamb increased considerably during 2020. While all meat sales grew in 2020 as more meals were consumed at home, lamb sales grew at a larger percentage than total meat sales overall. That’s the word from the latest US Retail Sales Report commissioned by the American Lamb Board (ALB).
The 2021 Q1 report assesses the US lamb market by comparing 4-week, 12-week, and 52-week intervals to one year prior 2020 saw a 24.7 % increase in lamb dollar sales from 2019 and a 17.7% increase in pounds sold from 2019. Sales of rack exploded in Q3 and Q4 of 2020. Compared to 2019, rack sales increased 52.8% in terms of pounds sold. Sales of ground lamb also saw considerable growth – ground lamb saw a 23.7% increase in volume sales.
As a region, California has seen the most growth since 2019 in terms of both dollar sales (30.6% increase) and pounds sold (29.6% increase). Nonetheless, the Northeast remains the highest selling region by a significant margin – accounting for 29% of all lamb sales in the US.
Lamb retail sales remained strong into the first quarter of 2021. Sales of lamb in Q1 outperformed the same 12 weeks a year ago by a sizable margin: dollar sales increased 19.8 % and volume sales increased 11.8%. Rack sales grew significantly during Q1 (no holidays), increasing by 53.8% in volume sales.
All cuts of lamb other than loin chops saw double digit growth in dollar sales during Q1 2021 versus a year ago. Loin chops saw only a 5.4% increase and its market share of total sales dropped from 31% a year ago to 27% in 2021 (only two percentage points more than ribeye).
“The report clearly reflects that as consumers gained kitchen confidence during Covid, their willingness to try new products and new recipes increased,” says American Lamb Board Chairman Gwen Kitzan. “Cooking and sharing meals with loved ones has become a form of entertainment for many consumers and many people will continue to prepare more meals at home even as restaurants open up,” said Gwen Kitzan, ALB Chairman. “We will continue to focus on educating new lamb consumers by sharing simple recipes, information about nutritional benefits, ease of preparation, versatility of cuts and cooking techniques, and how American Lamb is raised.
Northern Ag Network
Consumer demand for lamb increased considerably during 2020. While all meat sales grew in 2020 as more meals were consumed at home, lamb sales grew at a larger percentage than total meat sales overall. That’s the word from the latest US Retail Sales Report commissioned by the American Lamb Board (ALB).
The 2021 Q1 report assesses the US lamb market by comparing 4-week, 12-week, and 52-week intervals to one year prior 2020 saw a 24.7 % increase in lamb dollar sales from 2019 and a 17.7% increase in pounds sold from 2019. Sales of rack exploded in Q3 and Q4 of 2020. Compared to 2019, rack sales increased 52.8% in terms of pounds sold. Sales of ground lamb also saw considerable growth – ground lamb saw a 23.7% increase in volume sales.
As a region, California has seen the most growth since 2019 in terms of both dollar sales (30.6% increase) and pounds sold (29.6% increase). Nonetheless, the Northeast remains the highest selling region by a significant margin – accounting for 29% of all lamb sales in the US.
Lamb retail sales remained strong into the first quarter of 2021. Sales of lamb in Q1 outperformed the same 12 weeks a year ago by a sizable margin: dollar sales increased 19.8 % and volume sales increased 11.8%. Rack sales grew significantly during Q1 (no holidays), increasing by 53.8% in volume sales.
All cuts of lamb other than loin chops saw double digit growth in dollar sales during Q1 2021 versus a year ago. Loin chops saw only a 5.4% increase and its market share of total sales dropped from 31% a year ago to 27% in 2021 (only two percentage points more than ribeye).
“The report clearly reflects that as consumers gained kitchen confidence during Covid, their willingness to try new products and new recipes increased,” says American Lamb Board Chairman Gwen Kitzan. “Cooking and sharing meals with loved ones has become a form of entertainment for many consumers and many people will continue to prepare more meals at home even as restaurants open up,” said Gwen Kitzan, ALB Chairman. “We will continue to focus on educating new lamb consumers by sharing simple recipes, information about nutritional benefits, ease of preparation, versatility of cuts and cooking techniques, and how American Lamb is raised.
July 23, 2021: Federal Register
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Revision of the Critical Habitat Designation for the Jaguar in Compliance With a Court Order
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Final rule.
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are issuing this final rule to comply with a court order to vacate Unit 6 and the New Mexico portion of Unit 5 from the March 5, 2014, final rule designating approximately 764,207 acres (309,263 hectares) of land in New Mexico and Arizona as critical habitat for the jaguar (Panthera onca) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In compliance with the court order, this final rule removes approximately 110,438 acres (44,693 hectares) of land within New Mexico from the designation of critical habitat for the jaguar.
DATES: This rule is effective July 22, 2021. However, the court order had legal effect immediately upon being filed on January 27, 2021.
Read more HERE
AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.
ACTION: Final rule.
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are issuing this final rule to comply with a court order to vacate Unit 6 and the New Mexico portion of Unit 5 from the March 5, 2014, final rule designating approximately 764,207 acres (309,263 hectares) of land in New Mexico and Arizona as critical habitat for the jaguar (Panthera onca) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In compliance with the court order, this final rule removes approximately 110,438 acres (44,693 hectares) of land within New Mexico from the designation of critical habitat for the jaguar.
DATES: This rule is effective July 22, 2021. However, the court order had legal effect immediately upon being filed on January 27, 2021.
Read more HERE
July 21, 2021: URGENT - Member Action Required!
Please submit your comments TODAY requesting an extension of time. The proposed rule is hundreds of pages long and is a very complex document which will require a large amount of time to collect data that is current and best available science.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), is proposing to list two Distinct Population Segments (DPSs) of the lesser prairie-chicken
(Tympanuchus pallidicinctus), a grassland bird known from southeastern Colorado, western Kansas, eastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma, and the
Texas Panhandle under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act).
“This determination also serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list the lesser prairie-chicken. After a review of the best available scientific and
commercial information, we find that listing the Southern DPS as endangered is warranted, and that listing the Northern DPS as threatened is warranted. Accordingly, we propose to list the Southern DPS as an endangered species under the Act and the Northern DPS as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act.”
Comments for the Lesser Prairie Chicken listing are due on August 2, 2021. We are asking that all members submit a request for an extension of time.
Please find below and attached a template for the request for extension of time, with directions on how to submit.
Please find below a letter template to fill out for the request of extension of time on the Lesser Prairie Chicken comments. Once you have completed the letter, please submit your comments by clicking the “COMMENT” button located left hand side located directly below the title.
https://www.regulations.gov/document/FWS-R2-ES-2021-0015-0001/comment?postedDateFrom=2021-04-14&postedDateTo=2021-07-12.
If you have any questions on submitting please feel free to call the NMCGA office at 505-247-0584.
************************************************************************************************************************
Date
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Public Comments Processing
MS, PRB/3W, 5275 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, Va. 22041-3803
Attention: FWS-R2-ES-2021-0015-0003
Dear USFWS,
I request an extension of the August 2, 2021 deadline for submitting comments on the USFWS proposal to list the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act. A 90-120 day extension of the comment period is necessary for adequate time to research and prepare fully informed comments regarding the proposed listing.
Respectfully,
Name
Address
City State Zip
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), is proposing to list two Distinct Population Segments (DPSs) of the lesser prairie-chicken
(Tympanuchus pallidicinctus), a grassland bird known from southeastern Colorado, western Kansas, eastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma, and the
Texas Panhandle under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act).
“This determination also serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list the lesser prairie-chicken. After a review of the best available scientific and
commercial information, we find that listing the Southern DPS as endangered is warranted, and that listing the Northern DPS as threatened is warranted. Accordingly, we propose to list the Southern DPS as an endangered species under the Act and the Northern DPS as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act.”
Comments for the Lesser Prairie Chicken listing are due on August 2, 2021. We are asking that all members submit a request for an extension of time.
Please find below and attached a template for the request for extension of time, with directions on how to submit.
Please find below a letter template to fill out for the request of extension of time on the Lesser Prairie Chicken comments. Once you have completed the letter, please submit your comments by clicking the “COMMENT” button located left hand side located directly below the title.
https://www.regulations.gov/document/FWS-R2-ES-2021-0015-0001/comment?postedDateFrom=2021-04-14&postedDateTo=2021-07-12.
If you have any questions on submitting please feel free to call the NMCGA office at 505-247-0584.
************************************************************************************************************************
Date
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Public Comments Processing
MS, PRB/3W, 5275 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, Va. 22041-3803
Attention: FWS-R2-ES-2021-0015-0003
Dear USFWS,
I request an extension of the August 2, 2021 deadline for submitting comments on the USFWS proposal to list the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act. A 90-120 day extension of the comment period is necessary for adequate time to research and prepare fully informed comments regarding the proposed listing.
Respectfully,
Name
Address
City State Zip
July 19, 2021: In the News
Wildlife Officials Issue Warning on the Dangers of Mixing Domestic Livestock with Our Wild Bighorn Sheep Herds
Jason Clay, High Country Shopper
ESTES PARK, Colo. - The use of domestic goats and sheep for hobby livestock or commercialized purposes employed by municipalities and landowners for weed and vegetation control has wildlife officials issuing a warning of potential implications that could impact our wild Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep populations.
These large groups of domestic animals do quick work on weed control, but there is another side of the equation that conveniently gets left out of the overall picture.
Wildlife officials have concerns with these weed-control domestic goat battalions descending on Estes Park this week. The reason - potential interaction with three different Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep herds in and around Estes Park - may have detrimental impacts.
Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep historically existed in tremendous numbers in the western United States. Reduced to near extirpation, bighorn sheep have made strong recoveries due to dedicated western wildlife management agencies and forward thinking conservation groups. However, bighorn sheep still face significant threats, especially from diseases transmitted by domestic sheep and goats.
Read More HERE
Jason Clay, High Country Shopper
ESTES PARK, Colo. - The use of domestic goats and sheep for hobby livestock or commercialized purposes employed by municipalities and landowners for weed and vegetation control has wildlife officials issuing a warning of potential implications that could impact our wild Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep populations.
These large groups of domestic animals do quick work on weed control, but there is another side of the equation that conveniently gets left out of the overall picture.
Wildlife officials have concerns with these weed-control domestic goat battalions descending on Estes Park this week. The reason - potential interaction with three different Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep herds in and around Estes Park - may have detrimental impacts.
Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep historically existed in tremendous numbers in the western United States. Reduced to near extirpation, bighorn sheep have made strong recoveries due to dedicated western wildlife management agencies and forward thinking conservation groups. However, bighorn sheep still face significant threats, especially from diseases transmitted by domestic sheep and goats.
Read More HERE
July 13, 2021: In the News - USDA
USDA to Provide Pandemic Assistance to Livestock Producers for Animal Losses
Farm Service Agency Will Begin Taking Applications for indemnity program July 20th
Press Release No. 0155.21Contact: USDA Press Email: press@usda.gov
WASHINGTON — Livestock and poultry producers who suffered losses during the pandemic due to insufficient access to processing can apply for assistance for those losses and the cost of depopulation and disposal of the animals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Vilsack announced the Pandemic Livestock Indemnity Program (PLIP) in [recorded] remarks at the National Pork Industry Conference in Wisconsin Dells, WI. The announcement is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative. Livestock and poultry producers can apply for assistance through USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) July 20 through Sept. 17, 2021.
Read More HERE
Farm Service Agency Will Begin Taking Applications for indemnity program July 20th
Press Release No. 0155.21Contact: USDA Press Email: press@usda.gov
WASHINGTON — Livestock and poultry producers who suffered losses during the pandemic due to insufficient access to processing can apply for assistance for those losses and the cost of depopulation and disposal of the animals. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Vilsack announced the Pandemic Livestock Indemnity Program (PLIP) in [recorded] remarks at the National Pork Industry Conference in Wisconsin Dells, WI. The announcement is part of USDA’s Pandemic Assistance for Producers initiative. Livestock and poultry producers can apply for assistance through USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) July 20 through Sept. 17, 2021.
Read More HERE
July 12, 2021: Livestock Inspector of the Year Nominations Sought
The New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA) is seeking nominations for their annual Livestock Inspector of the Year Award. The 2021 recipient will be recognized during the associations Joint Stockmen’s Convention in December to be held in Albuquerque.
The NMCGA honors a livestock inspector employed by the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) for outstanding service to the livestock industry with a personalized belt buckle.
“The NMLB protects our livestock industry from theft and ensures a safeguard against disease,” said Tracy Drummond, NMCGA Theft & Livestock Committee Chairman. “Inspectors work hard to help facilitate livestock movement control and we want to say thank you by giving out this award.”
The 2020 recipient was Justin Gray, a NMLB District Supervisor from the Roswell area. Gray has served the board since 2014 and was nominated by New Mexico State Police Officer, Trent Eby.
Do you work closely with or know of a deserving livestock inspector? Nominations will be accepted until September 20, 2021! Nominations should include the name and address of the inspector, as well as a brief narrative on why you think the nominee is deserving of the award. Nominations should be directed to the NMCGA at PO Box 7517, Albuquerque, NM 87194 or via email to nmcga20@gmail.com. For additional questions please contact the NMCGA office at 505-247-0584.
The NMCGA honors a livestock inspector employed by the New Mexico Livestock Board (NMLB) for outstanding service to the livestock industry with a personalized belt buckle.
“The NMLB protects our livestock industry from theft and ensures a safeguard against disease,” said Tracy Drummond, NMCGA Theft & Livestock Committee Chairman. “Inspectors work hard to help facilitate livestock movement control and we want to say thank you by giving out this award.”
The 2020 recipient was Justin Gray, a NMLB District Supervisor from the Roswell area. Gray has served the board since 2014 and was nominated by New Mexico State Police Officer, Trent Eby.
Do you work closely with or know of a deserving livestock inspector? Nominations will be accepted until September 20, 2021! Nominations should include the name and address of the inspector, as well as a brief narrative on why you think the nominee is deserving of the award. Nominations should be directed to the NMCGA at PO Box 7517, Albuquerque, NM 87194 or via email to nmcga20@gmail.com. For additional questions please contact the NMCGA office at 505-247-0584.
July 12, 2021: In the News - NMDA
Agriculture industry photos sought for “NM Ag Never Stops” display at New Mexico State Fair
NMDA to highlight stories of resilience during pandemic
LAS CRUCES – The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is seeking photos from the state’s agriculture industry for its display at the New Mexico State Fair in Albuquerque in September.
Titled “NM Agriculture Never Stops,” the display will feature photos and captions of those in the agriculture and food industry who demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Food and agriculture-related businesses are “essential” every day, and the pandemic emphasized the importance of the local food supply. The state’s Public Health Order recognized the importance of the food and agriculture sector, ensuring that its operations could continue. And New Mexico producers never stopped.
Anyone interested in submitting a photo (high resolution only) should email it to pio@nmda.nmsu.edu by Wednesday, July 28. Please include a caption of 200 words or fewer describing the photo.
New Mexico Agriculture Secretary Jeff Witte said this is the perfect opportunity to highlight the state’s agriculture industry for its effort and fortitude during the pandemic.
“During a pandemic, agriculture does not just stop,” said Witte. “People and animals still need food, crops still need to be harvested, cows need to be milked, and food still needs to be processed. New Mexico’s farmers, ranchers, processors, retailers – and the entire ag community – found ways to continue to deliver for fellow citizens. This display will allow us to tell the story of how ag never stopped.”
The New Mexico State Fair runs Thursday, Sept. 9 through Sunday, Sept. 19. The “NM Ag Never Stops” display will be located adjacent to the Country Store in the Agriculture Building, located west of the Manuel Lujan building.
NMDA cannot guarantee all submitted photos will be used, as space is limited.
For more information, please call the NMDA Marketing Division at 575-649-4929.
NMDA to highlight stories of resilience during pandemic
LAS CRUCES – The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is seeking photos from the state’s agriculture industry for its display at the New Mexico State Fair in Albuquerque in September.
Titled “NM Agriculture Never Stops,” the display will feature photos and captions of those in the agriculture and food industry who demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Food and agriculture-related businesses are “essential” every day, and the pandemic emphasized the importance of the local food supply. The state’s Public Health Order recognized the importance of the food and agriculture sector, ensuring that its operations could continue. And New Mexico producers never stopped.
Anyone interested in submitting a photo (high resolution only) should email it to pio@nmda.nmsu.edu by Wednesday, July 28. Please include a caption of 200 words or fewer describing the photo.
New Mexico Agriculture Secretary Jeff Witte said this is the perfect opportunity to highlight the state’s agriculture industry for its effort and fortitude during the pandemic.
“During a pandemic, agriculture does not just stop,” said Witte. “People and animals still need food, crops still need to be harvested, cows need to be milked, and food still needs to be processed. New Mexico’s farmers, ranchers, processors, retailers – and the entire ag community – found ways to continue to deliver for fellow citizens. This display will allow us to tell the story of how ag never stopped.”
The New Mexico State Fair runs Thursday, Sept. 9 through Sunday, Sept. 19. The “NM Ag Never Stops” display will be located adjacent to the Country Store in the Agriculture Building, located west of the Manuel Lujan building.
NMDA cannot guarantee all submitted photos will be used, as space is limited.
For more information, please call the NMDA Marketing Division at 575-649-4929.
July 8, 2021: Meet the New Executive Director
June 30, 2021: NENMLA 2021 Summer Meeting
June 29, 2021: In the News
Australian Market on the Rise Once Again
Source: AWEX
The Australian wool market continued to trend higher, recording an overall increase for the sixth consecutive selling series. Fremantle did not hold a sale this week. With only Melbourne and Sydney selling, 33,330 bales were available to the trade – 9,166 bales fewer than the previous series. This was the smallest national offering since October of last year.
The smaller offering came under heavy buyer pressure. Buyers fought hard from the outset in an attempt to secure meaningful quantity of the reduced selection. The strongest buyer sentiment occurred on the first selling day, and this is where most of the rises were felt. The individual Merino fleece Micron Price Guides added between 4 and 50 cents for the day. These rises – combined with rises in all other sectors of the market – helped push the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator up by 24 cents for the day. The buoyant market resulted in only 4.1 percent of the day’s offering failing to meet seller reserve.
The second selling day demand was still strong – although the bidding was more subdued – and the market recorded very little change. The MPGs for 17 through to 22 micron moved between -11 and +8 cents for the day. Only the 16.5-micron MPG recorded any significant change, adding 20 and 40 cents in Sydney and Melbourne, respectively.
The result of these movements – combined with small losses in some crossbred and oddment types – resulted in a 4-cent drop in the EMI for the day. These daily movements ended with a weekly rise in the EMI of 20 cents, closing the week at 1,468 Australian cents.
Fremantle returns to the selling program next week. This return combined with this week’s price rises enticed more sellers to the market, and pushed the national offering higher as 44,406 bales are expected to be offered with all three centers in operation.
Source: AWEX
The Australian wool market continued to trend higher, recording an overall increase for the sixth consecutive selling series. Fremantle did not hold a sale this week. With only Melbourne and Sydney selling, 33,330 bales were available to the trade – 9,166 bales fewer than the previous series. This was the smallest national offering since October of last year.
The smaller offering came under heavy buyer pressure. Buyers fought hard from the outset in an attempt to secure meaningful quantity of the reduced selection. The strongest buyer sentiment occurred on the first selling day, and this is where most of the rises were felt. The individual Merino fleece Micron Price Guides added between 4 and 50 cents for the day. These rises – combined with rises in all other sectors of the market – helped push the AWEX Eastern Market Indicator up by 24 cents for the day. The buoyant market resulted in only 4.1 percent of the day’s offering failing to meet seller reserve.
The second selling day demand was still strong – although the bidding was more subdued – and the market recorded very little change. The MPGs for 17 through to 22 micron moved between -11 and +8 cents for the day. Only the 16.5-micron MPG recorded any significant change, adding 20 and 40 cents in Sydney and Melbourne, respectively.
The result of these movements – combined with small losses in some crossbred and oddment types – resulted in a 4-cent drop in the EMI for the day. These daily movements ended with a weekly rise in the EMI of 20 cents, closing the week at 1,468 Australian cents.
Fremantle returns to the selling program next week. This return combined with this week’s price rises enticed more sellers to the market, and pushed the national offering higher as 44,406 bales are expected to be offered with all three centers in operation.
June 29, 2021: In the News
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack Announces Randy Moore as New Forest Service Chief
Source: USDA Forest Service
Washington - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that Randy Moore will serve as the 20th Chief of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service.
Regional Forester Moore will work with current Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen to transition into this position until she steps down on July 26, 2021. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) issued the following statement upon this announcement:
“Regional Forester Randy Moore is a great fit for this position and will help lead the paradigm shift called for in our forest management. His years of service at the USFS have given him the experience to successfully lead the agency, especially as we head into a busy fire season in the West. I look forward to working with him closely on all things concerning Montana's national forests.”
“Randy Moore has been a catalyst for change and creativity in carrying out the Forest Service’s mission to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations,” said Secretary Vilsack. “In his role as Regional Forester, Randy has been a conservation leader on the forefront of climate change, most notably leading the Region’s response to the dramatic increase in catastrophic wildfires in California over the last decade. His proven track record of supporting and developing employees and putting communities at the center of the Forest Service’s work positions him well to lead the agency into the future at this critical time in our country.”
Upon swearing in, Moore will serve as the first African American to hold the role of Chief of the Forest Service.
Current Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen will step down from her role on July 26. Chief Christiansen and Regional Forester Moore will continue to collaborate on an intentional leadership transition between now and then as the Forest Service gears up for a tough summer of predicted elevated fire activity across the Western United States.
Background:
Randy Moore has been serving as Regional Forester in the Pacific Southwest Region in California since 2007 where he has responsibility for 18 national forests, covering one-fifth of the state on 20 million acres of land. Additionally, he oversees State and Private Forestry programs in Hawaii and the U.S. affiliated Pacific Islands.
Previously, Moore served as the Regional Forester for the Eastern Region headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisc., for five years.
Moore started his career in conservation in 1978 with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in North Dakota. His Forest Service career began on the Pike and San Isabel National Forests in Colorado and the Comanche and Cimarron National Grasslands in Kansas. He served as Deputy Forest Supervisor on the National Forests of North Carolina and the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri before serving as Forest Supervisor of the Mark Twain National Forest. Moore also has national-level experience in Washington, D.C., serving as acting Associate Deputy Chief for the National Forest System and the National Deputy Soils Program Manager.
Moore earned a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He and his wife Antoinette have two sons, a daughter-in-law, and two grandsons.
Source: USDA Forest Service
Washington - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that Randy Moore will serve as the 20th Chief of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Forest Service.
Regional Forester Moore will work with current Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen to transition into this position until she steps down on July 26, 2021. Senator Steve Daines (R-MT) issued the following statement upon this announcement:
“Regional Forester Randy Moore is a great fit for this position and will help lead the paradigm shift called for in our forest management. His years of service at the USFS have given him the experience to successfully lead the agency, especially as we head into a busy fire season in the West. I look forward to working with him closely on all things concerning Montana's national forests.”
“Randy Moore has been a catalyst for change and creativity in carrying out the Forest Service’s mission to sustain the health, diversity and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations,” said Secretary Vilsack. “In his role as Regional Forester, Randy has been a conservation leader on the forefront of climate change, most notably leading the Region’s response to the dramatic increase in catastrophic wildfires in California over the last decade. His proven track record of supporting and developing employees and putting communities at the center of the Forest Service’s work positions him well to lead the agency into the future at this critical time in our country.”
Upon swearing in, Moore will serve as the first African American to hold the role of Chief of the Forest Service.
Current Forest Service Chief Vicki Christiansen will step down from her role on July 26. Chief Christiansen and Regional Forester Moore will continue to collaborate on an intentional leadership transition between now and then as the Forest Service gears up for a tough summer of predicted elevated fire activity across the Western United States.
Background:
Randy Moore has been serving as Regional Forester in the Pacific Southwest Region in California since 2007 where he has responsibility for 18 national forests, covering one-fifth of the state on 20 million acres of land. Additionally, he oversees State and Private Forestry programs in Hawaii and the U.S. affiliated Pacific Islands.
Previously, Moore served as the Regional Forester for the Eastern Region headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisc., for five years.
Moore started his career in conservation in 1978 with USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service in North Dakota. His Forest Service career began on the Pike and San Isabel National Forests in Colorado and the Comanche and Cimarron National Grasslands in Kansas. He served as Deputy Forest Supervisor on the National Forests of North Carolina and the Mark Twain National Forest in Missouri before serving as Forest Supervisor of the Mark Twain National Forest. Moore also has national-level experience in Washington, D.C., serving as acting Associate Deputy Chief for the National Forest System and the National Deputy Soils Program Manager.
Moore earned a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He and his wife Antoinette have two sons, a daughter-in-law, and two grandsons.
June 28, 2021: In the News
Legislation Introduced to Combat Anticompetitive Practices
United States Cattlemen's Association
On June 23rd, 2021, Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02) and Abigail Spanberger (VA-07) introduced the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act. This bipartisan and bicameral bill would tackle anticompetitive practices in the meat and poultry industries that threaten the American food supply and U.S. national security.
This legislation is the House companion to S. 2036, which was introduced earlier this month by Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).
The bill would establish a new “Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters” within the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Packers and Stockyards Division. This new USDA special investigator would focus on preventing and addressing anticompetitive practices in the meat and poultry industry, allowing the USDA to both investigate difficult issues facing American producers and hold bad actors in the industry accountable.
Under the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act, the new USDA special investigator would have access to a team of investigators — with subpoena power — focused on enforcing the nation’s antitrust laws. Specifically, this investigator would coordinate and act in consultation with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, as well as build a channel of communication between the USDA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to protect the security of the nation’s food supply and address potential threats.
“Anticompetitive practices in the meatpacking industry are a threat to both our food supply and national security. Iowa producers are losing money even though consumers are paying higher prices at the store,” said Miller-Meeks. “The Packers and Stockyards Act must be strictly enforced to address the rampant anticompetitive practices in our meat and poultry industries, and our Meat Packing Special Investigator Act will do just that. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan and bicameral legislation with Congresswoman Spanberger to support Iowa’s farmers, ranchers, and producers.”
United States Cattlemen's Association
On June 23rd, 2021, Reps. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02) and Abigail Spanberger (VA-07) introduced the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act. This bipartisan and bicameral bill would tackle anticompetitive practices in the meat and poultry industries that threaten the American food supply and U.S. national security.
This legislation is the House companion to S. 2036, which was introduced earlier this month by Sens. Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Jon Tester (D-MT), and Mike Rounds (R-SD).
The bill would establish a new “Office of the Special Investigator for Competition Matters” within the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Packers and Stockyards Division. This new USDA special investigator would focus on preventing and addressing anticompetitive practices in the meat and poultry industry, allowing the USDA to both investigate difficult issues facing American producers and hold bad actors in the industry accountable.
Under the Meat Packing Special Investigator Act, the new USDA special investigator would have access to a team of investigators — with subpoena power — focused on enforcing the nation’s antitrust laws. Specifically, this investigator would coordinate and act in consultation with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, as well as build a channel of communication between the USDA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to protect the security of the nation’s food supply and address potential threats.
“Anticompetitive practices in the meatpacking industry are a threat to both our food supply and national security. Iowa producers are losing money even though consumers are paying higher prices at the store,” said Miller-Meeks. “The Packers and Stockyards Act must be strictly enforced to address the rampant anticompetitive practices in our meat and poultry industries, and our Meat Packing Special Investigator Act will do just that. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan and bicameral legislation with Congresswoman Spanberger to support Iowa’s farmers, ranchers, and producers.”
June 25, 2021: In the News
USDA Invests $55.2 million in Grants to Increase Capacity and Expand Access in Meat and Poultry Inspection Operations
WASHINGTON, June 21, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced $55.2 million in competitive grant funding available through the new Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grant (MPIRG) program. The new program is funded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
“We are building capacity and increasing economic opportunity for small and midsized meat and poultry processors and producers across the country.” Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “Through MPIRG, meat and poultry slaughter and processing facilities can cover the costs for necessary improvements to achieve a Federal Grant of Inspection under the Federal Meat Inspection Act or the Poultry Products Inspection Act, or to operate under a state’s Cooperative Interstate Shipment program.”
USDA encourages grant applications that focus on improving meat and poultry slaughter and processing capacity and efficiency; developing new and expanding existing markets; increasing capacity and better meeting consumer and producer demand; maintaining strong inspection and food safety standards; obtaining a larger commercial presence; and increasing access to slaughter or processing facilities for smaller farms and ranches, new and beginning farmers and ranchers, socially disadvantaged producers, and veteran producers. Eligible meat and poultry slaughter and processing facilities include commercial businesses, cooperatives, and tribal enterprises.
Read More HERE
WASHINGTON, June 21, 2021 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced $55.2 million in competitive grant funding available through the new Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grant (MPIRG) program. The new program is funded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021.
“We are building capacity and increasing economic opportunity for small and midsized meat and poultry processors and producers across the country.” Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “Through MPIRG, meat and poultry slaughter and processing facilities can cover the costs for necessary improvements to achieve a Federal Grant of Inspection under the Federal Meat Inspection Act or the Poultry Products Inspection Act, or to operate under a state’s Cooperative Interstate Shipment program.”
USDA encourages grant applications that focus on improving meat and poultry slaughter and processing capacity and efficiency; developing new and expanding existing markets; increasing capacity and better meeting consumer and producer demand; maintaining strong inspection and food safety standards; obtaining a larger commercial presence; and increasing access to slaughter or processing facilities for smaller farms and ranches, new and beginning farmers and ranchers, socially disadvantaged producers, and veteran producers. Eligible meat and poultry slaughter and processing facilities include commercial businesses, cooperatives, and tribal enterprises.
Read More HERE
June 23, 2021: In the News
Comment period for Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water Extended
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866
Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027
tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us
SANTA FE – At the New Mexico State Game Commission meeting held Friday, June 18, 2021 at the New Mexico State Capitol (Roundhouse), agenda item 6, Applications for Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water, was tabled until the August 12, 2021 Commission meeting, allowing additional time for public input.
At the August 12, 2021 State Game Commission Meeting, to be held in Santa Fe, a hearing and final decision on applications of Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water will be included in the agenda. Applications can be found on our website and include:
All comments or proposed documentary evidence related to the hearing and final decision on applications of Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water must be provided in a written format by email to NonNav.Comments@state.nm.us or to the Office of the Director, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, P.O. Box 25112, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87504, to allow it to be included electronically in the record. Interested participants can view the hearing rule and procedures online.
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Public contact, Information Center: (888) 248-6866
Media contact, Tristanna Bickford: (505) 476-8027
tristanna.bickford@state.nm.us
SANTA FE – At the New Mexico State Game Commission meeting held Friday, June 18, 2021 at the New Mexico State Capitol (Roundhouse), agenda item 6, Applications for Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water, was tabled until the August 12, 2021 Commission meeting, allowing additional time for public input.
At the August 12, 2021 State Game Commission Meeting, to be held in Santa Fe, a hearing and final decision on applications of Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water will be included in the agenda. Applications can be found on our website and include:
- Rancho Del Oso Pardo, Inc.
- River Bend Ranch, LLC
- Chama II, LLC, dba Canones Creek Ranch
- Fenn Farm
- Three Rivers Cattle Ltd. Co
All comments or proposed documentary evidence related to the hearing and final decision on applications of Landowner Certification of Non-Navigable Water must be provided in a written format by email to NonNav.Comments@state.nm.us or to the Office of the Director, New Mexico Department of Game and Fish, P.O. Box 25112, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87504, to allow it to be included electronically in the record. Interested participants can view the hearing rule and procedures online.
June 22, 2021: Shear Wisdom
Annual Meeting Recap
By: Taylor Riggins, NM Wool Growers, Inc
The New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc (NMWGI) held its annual meeting in conjunction with New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA), New Mexico CowBelles (NMCB) and New Mexico Federal Lands Council (NMFLC) at the Ruidoso Convention Center, June 6-8, 2021.
A big thank you goes out to our sponsors: First American Bank, Roswell Livestock & Farm Supply, Farm Credit of New Mexico, Hall-Gnatkowski, Vaca Flaca, CA Bar Land & Cattle, LLC, Paul’s Veterinary Supply, Bar M Real Estate, LLC and Chaves County Farm & Livestock Bureau!
The NMWGI Board of Directors met together on June 7th. During that time donations, grants awarded and newly elected officers were announced by Bronson Corn, Past President, Roswell.
This year’s grants were awarded to the New Mexico Bred Lamb Association and Sheep to Shawl. A donation was also made to the American Sheep Industry Association Guard Dog Fund.
Wool Growers new officers include: James Duffey, President, Roswell; Antonio Manzanares, 1st Vice President, Tierra Amarilla; Shad Cox, 2nd Vice President, Corona; and Denton Dowell, Secretary/Treasurer, Clovis. Be sure to extend a congratulations to our new leadership by making a quick call or by dropping them an email!
Looking at the rest of this year and into 2022, here are several dates to add to your calendars:
2021 Joint Stockmen’s Convention, December 14-17, Hotel Albuquerque, Albuquerque
2022 New Mexico Legislature, January 18 – February 17, Santa Fe
2022 American Sheep Industry Convention, January 19-23, San Diego, California
2022 Roundhouse Feed, February 15, Santa Fe
2022 Ag Fest, TBA
By: Taylor Riggins, NM Wool Growers, Inc
The New Mexico Wool Growers, Inc (NMWGI) held its annual meeting in conjunction with New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA), New Mexico CowBelles (NMCB) and New Mexico Federal Lands Council (NMFLC) at the Ruidoso Convention Center, June 6-8, 2021.
A big thank you goes out to our sponsors: First American Bank, Roswell Livestock & Farm Supply, Farm Credit of New Mexico, Hall-Gnatkowski, Vaca Flaca, CA Bar Land & Cattle, LLC, Paul’s Veterinary Supply, Bar M Real Estate, LLC and Chaves County Farm & Livestock Bureau!
The NMWGI Board of Directors met together on June 7th. During that time donations, grants awarded and newly elected officers were announced by Bronson Corn, Past President, Roswell.
This year’s grants were awarded to the New Mexico Bred Lamb Association and Sheep to Shawl. A donation was also made to the American Sheep Industry Association Guard Dog Fund.
Wool Growers new officers include: James Duffey, President, Roswell; Antonio Manzanares, 1st Vice President, Tierra Amarilla; Shad Cox, 2nd Vice President, Corona; and Denton Dowell, Secretary/Treasurer, Clovis. Be sure to extend a congratulations to our new leadership by making a quick call or by dropping them an email!
Looking at the rest of this year and into 2022, here are several dates to add to your calendars:
2021 Joint Stockmen’s Convention, December 14-17, Hotel Albuquerque, Albuquerque
2022 New Mexico Legislature, January 18 – February 17, Santa Fe
2022 American Sheep Industry Convention, January 19-23, San Diego, California
2022 Roundhouse Feed, February 15, Santa Fe
2022 Ag Fest, TBA
June 21, 2021: In the News
Colorado Supreme Court Agrees That Livestock Initiative 16 (PAUSE) Can't Proceed
Colorado Cattlemen's Association
Great job Coloradans for Animal Care! We are proud of our team and counsel. In a 7-0 decision, the Colorado Supreme Court decided today that Initiative #16 violates the single subject requirement by combining together the treatment of livestock and changing the laws relating to sexual abuse of all animals. If the proponents want to try again, they’ll have to redraft their measure, submit it to legislative council, wait 2 weeks for their hearing, submit the new measure to Title Board, wait about another 2 weeks for a Title Board hearing, etc. etc.
More information about (PAUSE) at Colorado Cattlemen's by clicking HERE
Colorado Cattlemen's Association
Great job Coloradans for Animal Care! We are proud of our team and counsel. In a 7-0 decision, the Colorado Supreme Court decided today that Initiative #16 violates the single subject requirement by combining together the treatment of livestock and changing the laws relating to sexual abuse of all animals. If the proponents want to try again, they’ll have to redraft their measure, submit it to legislative council, wait 2 weeks for their hearing, submit the new measure to Title Board, wait about another 2 weeks for a Title Board hearing, etc. etc.
More information about (PAUSE) at Colorado Cattlemen's by clicking HERE
June 16, 2021: Congratulations!
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Congratulations to the Sandhill Cattle Co./ McMillen Ranch for winning the WRCA Working Ranch Cowboys Association Ranch Rodeo in Fort Sumner last weekend!
Our New Mexico own Singleton Ranches took second place honors as well! We were proud to help sponsor the event and support the De-Baca County 4-H to bring the rodeo to town! This is how we #nmwgi! 
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June 16, 2021: In the News
Lamb: A nutritious summer grilling option
Story by Jaelyn Quintana, SDSU Extension
It’s that time of year again to fire up the grill for summertime favorites. How about American lamb? South Dakota sheep producers are dedicated to putting delicious, nutrient-rich lamb on the table while caring for the land and local communities. Packed with protein and vitamins and minerals, one serving of lamb can keep you healthy and your taste buds happy.
Lamb is lean, high in protein and healthy fats, plus is good for your immune system. A 3-ounce serving of lamb can provide nearly 50 percent of your daily protein needs and has essential omega-3 fatty acids equivalent to 15 ounces of beef.
The same serving of lamb fits well within dietary guidelines for fat and cholesterol. Additionally, 57 percent of the fat in lamb is monosaturated fat, a heart-healthy fat that can help lower bad cholesterol. Did you know lamb is also a great source of zinc, selenium, iron and vitamins B6 and B12? These vitamins and minerals support immune function, help reduce inflammation, and repair cell damage.
Read More HERE
Story by Jaelyn Quintana, SDSU Extension
It’s that time of year again to fire up the grill for summertime favorites. How about American lamb? South Dakota sheep producers are dedicated to putting delicious, nutrient-rich lamb on the table while caring for the land and local communities. Packed with protein and vitamins and minerals, one serving of lamb can keep you healthy and your taste buds happy.
Lamb is lean, high in protein and healthy fats, plus is good for your immune system. A 3-ounce serving of lamb can provide nearly 50 percent of your daily protein needs and has essential omega-3 fatty acids equivalent to 15 ounces of beef.
The same serving of lamb fits well within dietary guidelines for fat and cholesterol. Additionally, 57 percent of the fat in lamb is monosaturated fat, a heart-healthy fat that can help lower bad cholesterol. Did you know lamb is also a great source of zinc, selenium, iron and vitamins B6 and B12? These vitamins and minerals support immune function, help reduce inflammation, and repair cell damage.
Read More HERE
June 14, 2021: National Flag Day
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Happy National Flag Day! I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands; one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all. #nmcga #nmcattlegrowers #nationalflagday |
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June 14, 2021: In The News
New Mexico ranchers sue state Game and Fish department over elk herds
Story by Algernon D'Ammassa, Las Cruces Sun-News
RESERVE, N.M. - Fences reaching eight or nine feet in height surround numerous homes and pastures near the village of Reserve and neighboring Catron County communities such as Apache Creek, Aragon and Cruzville.
Fences lower than that can be jumped by adult elk, and when they can't or when calves need to pass through, the animals may batter the fencing until posts come out of the ground, wires fall and the elk make their way from parched hillsides and bluffs to any water, grass or leaf they can find.
Since the first 25 head of Rocky Mountain elk were introduced into the Gila National Forest in 1936, the population has expanded, at rates reportedly accelerating in recent decades.
Herds regularly infiltrate area ranches and even make their way around the Reserve village center. At the Reserve Combined School on Mountaineer Road, the school district recently added an additional wire over chain-link fencing around the grounds in a bid to keep out the elk, whose droppings are all around the student dropoff area.
Read more HERE
Story by Algernon D'Ammassa, Las Cruces Sun-News
RESERVE, N.M. - Fences reaching eight or nine feet in height surround numerous homes and pastures near the village of Reserve and neighboring Catron County communities such as Apache Creek, Aragon and Cruzville.
Fences lower than that can be jumped by adult elk, and when they can't or when calves need to pass through, the animals may batter the fencing until posts come out of the ground, wires fall and the elk make their way from parched hillsides and bluffs to any water, grass or leaf they can find.
Since the first 25 head of Rocky Mountain elk were introduced into the Gila National Forest in 1936, the population has expanded, at rates reportedly accelerating in recent decades.
Herds regularly infiltrate area ranches and even make their way around the Reserve village center. At the Reserve Combined School on Mountaineer Road, the school district recently added an additional wire over chain-link fencing around the grounds in a bid to keep out the elk, whose droppings are all around the student dropoff area.
Read more HERE
June 14, 2021: In The News
U of M Extension Goat and Sheep Nutrition Webinar
The University of Minnesota Extension Service will be hosting a Goat and Sheep Nutrition webinar on Tuesday June 15, 2021 beginning at 7:30 pm. Dr. Kelly Froehlich South Dakota State University Extension Sheep and Goat Specialist "will provide insight on internal parasites including deworming and fecal egg counts for goats and sheep." This webinar is especially for 4-Hers, farmers and professionals who work with farmers.
There is no charge to watch the webinar but you do have to pre-register so the Zoom link can be emailed to you. You can pre-register at: z.umn.edu/GoatSheepParasite. In addition if you are interested in watching the webinar but have a conflict the program can be emailed to you later. If you have questions you can email Colleen Carlson at trax1042@umn.edu.
The University of Minnesota Extension Service will be hosting a Goat and Sheep Nutrition webinar on Tuesday June 15, 2021 beginning at 7:30 pm. Dr. Kelly Froehlich South Dakota State University Extension Sheep and Goat Specialist "will provide insight on internal parasites including deworming and fecal egg counts for goats and sheep." This webinar is especially for 4-Hers, farmers and professionals who work with farmers.
There is no charge to watch the webinar but you do have to pre-register so the Zoom link can be emailed to you. You can pre-register at: z.umn.edu/GoatSheepParasite. In addition if you are interested in watching the webinar but have a conflict the program can be emailed to you later. If you have questions you can email Colleen Carlson at trax1042@umn.edu.
June 14, 2021: Thank you Annual Meeting Sponsors!
June 3, 2021: Annual Meeting Sponsor
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Will we be seeing YOU in Ruidoso in 3 DAYS for our Annual Meeting? Today's Sponsor Highlight is Farm Credit of New Mexico, ACA! Helping Generations for Generations. Since 1916, we’ve been here to help New Mexico ranchers with financial tools and services they can rely on. We know that every business is a family business, built on the hopes and hard work of those caring for a legacy. Let us show you how we can help protect what matters most. Farmcreditnm.com #farmcreditnm |
June 3, 2021: In the News
JBS hit by cybersecurity attack
Story by Krissa Welshans, BEEF Magazine
JBS USA, the world’s largest meat company, announced Monday that over the holiday weekend an organized cybersecurity attack affected some of the servers supporting its North American and Australian IT systems.
The company took immediate action, “suspending all affected systems, notifying authorities and activating the company's global network of IT professionals and third-party experts to resolve the situation.” Backup servers were not affected, it added.
JBS said is actively working with an Incident Response firm to restore its systems as soon as possible.
“The company is not aware of any evidence at this time that any customer, supplier or employee data has been compromised or misused as a result of the situation.”
Reports indicated the event impacted operations at numerous Canadian and U.S. plants t as well as stopped all beef and lamb kills across Australia.
JBS said resolution of the incident will take time, “which may delay certain transactions with customers and suppliers.”
A White House spokesperson said Tuesday that the attack likely originated from Russia, saying it is engaging directly with the country to hold the hackers accountable.
“JBS notified the administration that the ransom demand came from a criminal organization, likely based in Russia,” White House principal deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday aboard Air Force One. “The White House is engaging directly with the Russian government on this matter and delivering the message that responsible states do not harbor ransomware criminals,” she added.
Read More HERE
Story by Krissa Welshans, BEEF Magazine
JBS USA, the world’s largest meat company, announced Monday that over the holiday weekend an organized cybersecurity attack affected some of the servers supporting its North American and Australian IT systems.
The company took immediate action, “suspending all affected systems, notifying authorities and activating the company's global network of IT professionals and third-party experts to resolve the situation.” Backup servers were not affected, it added.
JBS said is actively working with an Incident Response firm to restore its systems as soon as possible.
“The company is not aware of any evidence at this time that any customer, supplier or employee data has been compromised or misused as a result of the situation.”
Reports indicated the event impacted operations at numerous Canadian and U.S. plants t as well as stopped all beef and lamb kills across Australia.
JBS said resolution of the incident will take time, “which may delay certain transactions with customers and suppliers.”
A White House spokesperson said Tuesday that the attack likely originated from Russia, saying it is engaging directly with the country to hold the hackers accountable.
“JBS notified the administration that the ransom demand came from a criminal organization, likely based in Russia,” White House principal deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters Tuesday aboard Air Force One. “The White House is engaging directly with the Russian government on this matter and delivering the message that responsible states do not harbor ransomware criminals,” she added.
Read More HERE
June 3, 2021: In the News
Beef + Lamb New Zealand Sees Growing U.S. Appetite for Grass-fed and Sustainably Raised Meat
Rising consumer demand and increased retail availability contributed to double digit growth in 2020
LOS ANGELES, June 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Beef + Lamb New Zealand, which represents New Zealand's beef and sheep farmers, reported strong growth and increased demand for its grass-fed, pasture-raised beef and lamb. Despite significant export and supply chain disruptions, New Zealand's red meat exports reached a record high of $9.2 billion last year, with the U.S. leading beef export volume growth across all key global markets.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand saw double-digit percentage increases in quantity (15%) and value (34%) of grass-fed beef exported to the U.S. in 2020, signifying high demand and growing preference for New Zealand grass-fed beef.
"The global meat sector faced unprecedented challenges last year, but the tremendous growth we achieved is a testament to the agility of our farmers and processors, and growing demand," said Nick Beeby, General Manager Market Development, Beef + Lamb New Zealand. "Throughout the pandemic, consumers sought safe, nutritious and sustainable food choices, and many selected New Zealand grass-fed beef and lamb from our trusted brand partners."
In addition to growing consumer awareness and preference for grass-fed beef and lamb from New Zealand, several market trends also contributed to strong performance in 2020, including a surge in at-home meal consumption due to COVID-19 and a focus on healthy eating and immunity-boosting foods. According to IRI data, "100% Grass-fed" was one of the top 10 product claims consumers looked for in 20201. The overall fresh meat category also saw growth in 2020. Fresh meat sales were up 35%, and fresh meat led to fresh aisle growth at 18%2.
Read More HERE
Rising consumer demand and increased retail availability contributed to double digit growth in 2020
LOS ANGELES, June 2, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Beef + Lamb New Zealand, which represents New Zealand's beef and sheep farmers, reported strong growth and increased demand for its grass-fed, pasture-raised beef and lamb. Despite significant export and supply chain disruptions, New Zealand's red meat exports reached a record high of $9.2 billion last year, with the U.S. leading beef export volume growth across all key global markets.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand saw double-digit percentage increases in quantity (15%) and value (34%) of grass-fed beef exported to the U.S. in 2020, signifying high demand and growing preference for New Zealand grass-fed beef.
"The global meat sector faced unprecedented challenges last year, but the tremendous growth we achieved is a testament to the agility of our farmers and processors, and growing demand," said Nick Beeby, General Manager Market Development, Beef + Lamb New Zealand. "Throughout the pandemic, consumers sought safe, nutritious and sustainable food choices, and many selected New Zealand grass-fed beef and lamb from our trusted brand partners."
In addition to growing consumer awareness and preference for grass-fed beef and lamb from New Zealand, several market trends also contributed to strong performance in 2020, including a surge in at-home meal consumption due to COVID-19 and a focus on healthy eating and immunity-boosting foods. According to IRI data, "100% Grass-fed" was one of the top 10 product claims consumers looked for in 20201. The overall fresh meat category also saw growth in 2020. Fresh meat sales were up 35%, and fresh meat led to fresh aisle growth at 18%2.
Read More HERE
June 1, 2021: In the News
Producing Top Quality Wool
Story by: Eric Davis, Rangelands and Restoration
From the sweater you wear, to airplane carpets, wool is one of the most incredible fibers in the world. It can keep you warm, its ability to absorb almost a third of its weight in water can keep you dry, and its low level of combustion can even keep you safe. Each year, American sheep producers deliver more than 23 million pounds of wool to ensure you have access to this miracle fiber.
In addition to our everyday use, wool is also a key component in the U.S. military uniforms. We all recognize our servicemembers in the sharp looking uniforms. We honor them for protecting us and our way of life. We recognize their uniform as a symbol of safety and protection. For the servicemembers themselves, the uniform needs to be comfortable and durable to allow them to carry out their duties with minimum distractions. To make a comfortable uniform, high-quality sheep wool is required, and that’s where the USDA Forest Service comes in.
The quality of wool is strongly dependent on the breed of sheep and the sheep’s diet. In the western states, the lands we manage provide for seasonal movement of millions of sheep to high quality forage throughout the grazing season. Moving up the mountain in the summer, and back down the mountain in the fall provides a steady level of nutrition for the sheep and yields quality wool with no nicks or breaks from lower nutrition forage.
Read More HERE
Story by: Eric Davis, Rangelands and Restoration
From the sweater you wear, to airplane carpets, wool is one of the most incredible fibers in the world. It can keep you warm, its ability to absorb almost a third of its weight in water can keep you dry, and its low level of combustion can even keep you safe. Each year, American sheep producers deliver more than 23 million pounds of wool to ensure you have access to this miracle fiber.
In addition to our everyday use, wool is also a key component in the U.S. military uniforms. We all recognize our servicemembers in the sharp looking uniforms. We honor them for protecting us and our way of life. We recognize their uniform as a symbol of safety and protection. For the servicemembers themselves, the uniform needs to be comfortable and durable to allow them to carry out their duties with minimum distractions. To make a comfortable uniform, high-quality sheep wool is required, and that’s where the USDA Forest Service comes in.
The quality of wool is strongly dependent on the breed of sheep and the sheep’s diet. In the western states, the lands we manage provide for seasonal movement of millions of sheep to high quality forage throughout the grazing season. Moving up the mountain in the summer, and back down the mountain in the fall provides a steady level of nutrition for the sheep and yields quality wool with no nicks or breaks from lower nutrition forage.
Read More HERE
May 27, 2021: In the News
Agriculture and forestry coalition moves to defend gray wolf delisting
The Fence Post
This week, a coalition of agriculture and forestry groups — including the American Farm Bureau Federation, the American Forest Resources Council, the American Sheep Industry Association, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and the Public Lands Council — filed motions in court in defense of delisting the gray wolf under the Endangered Species Act.
Three cases filed by environmental and animal welfare groups in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California challenge the final delisting rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Nov. 3, 2020. The coalition is defending the delisting because it recognizes the successful recovery of the wolf, and enables responsible wildlife management and protection of private property by farmers, ranchers, and forest resource users.
The coalition provided the court with personal stories that illustrate the harm inflicted by unchecked wolf populations on livestock ranchers and farmers, natural ecosystems, and other wildlife. Cattle producer Joe Wilebski from Kittson County, Minnesota, states that he lost 26 calves to gray wolves in a single year, and other cattle have been permanently maimed by wolf attacks.
Read More HERE
The Fence Post
This week, a coalition of agriculture and forestry groups — including the American Farm Bureau Federation, the American Forest Resources Council, the American Sheep Industry Association, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, and the Public Lands Council — filed motions in court in defense of delisting the gray wolf under the Endangered Species Act.
Three cases filed by environmental and animal welfare groups in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California challenge the final delisting rule issued by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on Nov. 3, 2020. The coalition is defending the delisting because it recognizes the successful recovery of the wolf, and enables responsible wildlife management and protection of private property by farmers, ranchers, and forest resource users.
The coalition provided the court with personal stories that illustrate the harm inflicted by unchecked wolf populations on livestock ranchers and farmers, natural ecosystems, and other wildlife. Cattle producer Joe Wilebski from Kittson County, Minnesota, states that he lost 26 calves to gray wolves in a single year, and other cattle have been permanently maimed by wolf attacks.
Read More HERE
May 27, 2021: Annual Meeting Sponsor
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A big thank you goes out to our Audio Sponsors for the 2021 Annual Meeting! By offering this year's event in a hybrid format, we hope to include everyone from near and far. How ever you decide to join us, we are here to welcome you! |
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May 26, 2021: In the News
Plan to relocate wolves stirs debate in rural New Mexico
Story by Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) – Monday marked the last day for people to comment on plans by U.S. wildlife managers to relocate a pair of wolves and their pups to one of Ted Turner’s properties in New Mexico as part of a decades-long effort to return the endangered predators to the American Southwest.
Environmental groups have been being pushing for the release. They used a recent meeting of the New Mexico Game Commission to make public their support and urged followers via emails and social media to join the campaign and send letters to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before the deadline.
But ranchers have concerns given the wolf pair’s previous conflicts with livestock. Some have sent their own letters to the federal agency, voicing frustrations that they did not learn about the plan until recently and that ranchers and residents who will be affected were not adequately notified.
The New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association said it contacted a few dozen of its members in the area and not one had received notice from federal officials about the plan.
The group contends that the two adult wolves were removed from other ranching areas due to multiple instances of cattle and horse deaths.
“Translocating wolves with this kill history is a threat to New Mexico livestock and is disingenuous to producers and other citizens,” the group wrote in a letter to the Fish and Wildlife Service. “Translocating wolves with this history to private lands will only increase the animosity between producers and the Fish and Wildlife Service over its management of the Mexican gray wolf program.”
Read More HERE
Story by Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) – Monday marked the last day for people to comment on plans by U.S. wildlife managers to relocate a pair of wolves and their pups to one of Ted Turner’s properties in New Mexico as part of a decades-long effort to return the endangered predators to the American Southwest.
Environmental groups have been being pushing for the release. They used a recent meeting of the New Mexico Game Commission to make public their support and urged followers via emails and social media to join the campaign and send letters to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before the deadline.
But ranchers have concerns given the wolf pair’s previous conflicts with livestock. Some have sent their own letters to the federal agency, voicing frustrations that they did not learn about the plan until recently and that ranchers and residents who will be affected were not adequately notified.
The New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association said it contacted a few dozen of its members in the area and not one had received notice from federal officials about the plan.
The group contends that the two adult wolves were removed from other ranching areas due to multiple instances of cattle and horse deaths.
“Translocating wolves with this kill history is a threat to New Mexico livestock and is disingenuous to producers and other citizens,” the group wrote in a letter to the Fish and Wildlife Service. “Translocating wolves with this history to private lands will only increase the animosity between producers and the Fish and Wildlife Service over its management of the Mexican gray wolf program.”
Read More HERE
May 24, 2021: Ladder Ranch and US Fish & Wildlife to Reintroduce Problem Wolves
According to an email, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Mexican Wolf Recovery Program intends to translocate two Mexican gray wolves and their pups to private property on the Ladder Ranch in Sierra County, New Mexico. The translocation would take place early to mid June 2021.
The two adult wolves have a history of cattle and horse killings in Catron County, which has resulted in multiple relocations of the pair. The Ladder Ranch is approximately 15 miles from their previous known location. The proposed translocation of known livestock killers causes concern to New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA) and its members.
Currently, Sierra County has in place Ordinance 94-001. Section 1 of the ordinance strictly prohibits within the boundaries of Sierra County the release into the wild of any animal of the genera Canis, Ursus, or Felis.
The Program emailed a notice ‘to the public’ May 3rd telling of the translocation and the opportunity for comments in response lasting 20 days. NMCGA was only made aware of the announcement after being notified by the Sierra County Commission. Upon receipt the Association began contacting members in Sierra and Catron counties. Out of 50 contacts, not one producer in the area was aware of the initiative or knew about the open comment period. The Association feels that notification was not adequately distributed to the surrounding communities or groups that represent the agricultural sector.
New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association submitted a letter of concern to the Program on May 17th.
“The release of the Mexican gray wolves will negatively impact our livestock producers. Open lines of communication needs to exist on all levels in accordance to this issue,” said Randell Major, NMCGA President.
Comments can be directed towards the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program until May 24, 2021. Please email responses to mexicanwolfcomments@fws.gov.
When redistributing this press release always include:
Taylor Lock
New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association
The two adult wolves have a history of cattle and horse killings in Catron County, which has resulted in multiple relocations of the pair. The Ladder Ranch is approximately 15 miles from their previous known location. The proposed translocation of known livestock killers causes concern to New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association (NMCGA) and its members.
Currently, Sierra County has in place Ordinance 94-001. Section 1 of the ordinance strictly prohibits within the boundaries of Sierra County the release into the wild of any animal of the genera Canis, Ursus, or Felis.
The Program emailed a notice ‘to the public’ May 3rd telling of the translocation and the opportunity for comments in response lasting 20 days. NMCGA was only made aware of the announcement after being notified by the Sierra County Commission. Upon receipt the Association began contacting members in Sierra and Catron counties. Out of 50 contacts, not one producer in the area was aware of the initiative or knew about the open comment period. The Association feels that notification was not adequately distributed to the surrounding communities or groups that represent the agricultural sector.
New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association submitted a letter of concern to the Program on May 17th.
“The release of the Mexican gray wolves will negatively impact our livestock producers. Open lines of communication needs to exist on all levels in accordance to this issue,” said Randell Major, NMCGA President.
Comments can be directed towards the Mexican Wolf Recovery Program until May 24, 2021. Please email responses to mexicanwolfcomments@fws.gov.
When redistributing this press release always include:
Taylor Lock
New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association
May 21, 2021: Annual Meeting Sponsor
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May 18, 2021: In the News
FUNDING APPROVED FOR NEW MONTANA WOOL LAB
Montana House Bill 14 was signed into law in early May by Governor Greg Gianforte in a ceremony at the University of Montana. This signing was a huge win for Montana’s sheep producers, securing $5 million of funding to build a new Wool Lab on Montana State University’s Bozeman campus.
The remaining 1 million dollars for the project will be collected through fundraising efforts. The Montana Wool Lab is one of many projects funded through HB14.
The current Montana Wool Lab building sits on the north end of Bozeman’s campus on South 11th Avenue. The Montana Legislature approved funding to build the structure in 1945, with the completion of the current building in 1947.
Read More HERE
Montana House Bill 14 was signed into law in early May by Governor Greg Gianforte in a ceremony at the University of Montana. This signing was a huge win for Montana’s sheep producers, securing $5 million of funding to build a new Wool Lab on Montana State University’s Bozeman campus.
The remaining 1 million dollars for the project will be collected through fundraising efforts. The Montana Wool Lab is one of many projects funded through HB14.
The current Montana Wool Lab building sits on the north end of Bozeman’s campus on South 11th Avenue. The Montana Legislature approved funding to build the structure in 1945, with the completion of the current building in 1947.
Read More HERE
May 11, 2021: In the News
Wolves to find new home at Ted Turner's New Mexico ranch
Story by Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — One of Ted Turner’s ranches in southern New Mexico will be the new home for a pair of Mexican gray wolves and their pups as federal wildlife managers look at more options for boosting the genetic diversity of the endangered species.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is teaming up with the Ladder Ranch for the project. While the ranch has been involved over the years with captive breeding efforts and other endangered species work, this will mark the first time a translocation of Mexican gray wolves has been done on private land.
Read More HERE
Story by Susan Montoya Bryan, Associated Press
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — One of Ted Turner’s ranches in southern New Mexico will be the new home for a pair of Mexican gray wolves and their pups as federal wildlife managers look at more options for boosting the genetic diversity of the endangered species.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is teaming up with the Ladder Ranch for the project. While the ranch has been involved over the years with captive breeding efforts and other endangered species work, this will mark the first time a translocation of Mexican gray wolves has been done on private land.
Read More HERE
May 7, 2021: In the News
GOP slams 30x30: 'Dense on tag lines ... light on content'
Story by Emma Dumain & Jennifer Yachnin, E & E News
E&E Daily – The Biden administration's rebranding of a sweeping conservation effort and attempts to reassure property owners that they won't be subject to mass federal "land grabs" have done little to quell anxiety among conservatives on Capitol Hill.
Congressional Republicans remain skeptical about the goal of conserving 30% of all U.S. lands and waters by 2030 — a road map now being called the "America the Beautiful" initiative that had long been known more simply as "30x30."
Indeed, yesterday's release of a 24-page report outlining the administration's strategy for moving forward with the framework left Republicans demanding more details.
Read more HERE
Story by Emma Dumain & Jennifer Yachnin, E & E News
E&E Daily – The Biden administration's rebranding of a sweeping conservation effort and attempts to reassure property owners that they won't be subject to mass federal "land grabs" have done little to quell anxiety among conservatives on Capitol Hill.
Congressional Republicans remain skeptical about the goal of conserving 30% of all U.S. lands and waters by 2030 — a road map now being called the "America the Beautiful" initiative that had long been known more simply as "30x30."
Indeed, yesterday's release of a 24-page report outlining the administration's strategy for moving forward with the framework left Republicans demanding more details.
Read more HERE
May 4, 2021: In the News
10 Facts About Sheep
More info available HERE
- A sheep was one of the first-ever successful blood donors
- Artificial heart valves were engineered using lambs and sheep
- Sheep are particularly used as models for endocrinology, reproduction and pregnancy and foetal development
- Sheep were used to develop a vaccine for Schmallenberg virus - a disease leading to deformities in offspring of sheep and cattle
- Sheep were the first mammal to be cloned from an adult cell. 'Dolly' is the world's most famous clone.
- Sheep do not have front teeth on their upper front jaw
- Sheep have 360 degree vision
- A sheep was one of the first-ever hot air balloon passengers
- In early 2014, sheep were instrumental in the development of womb transplants, which have since been successful in women
- Sheep use their brains to save water
More info available HERE
April 30, 2021: In the News
Thune, Sinema Introduce Bill to Prevent Regulation of Livestock Emissions
Story by Carrie Stadheim, Tri-State Livestock News
WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) today introduced legislation to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing permits related to livestock emissions. The Livestock Regulatory Protection Act would amend the Clean Air Act to prohibit the EPA from issuing permits for any carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, water vapor, or methane emissions resulting from biological processes associated with livestock production.
“Livestock producers are working to improve efficiency and reduce emissions from their operations,” said Thune. “They should not be subject to onerous regulations and costly permit fees for their animals’ emissions, which could ultimately lead to higher food costs for consumers. I’m grateful for Senator Sinema’s partnership on the Livestock Regulatory Protection Act, which would provide producers long-term certainty on this issue.”
Read More HERE
Story by Carrie Stadheim, Tri-State Livestock News
WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) today introduced legislation to prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from issuing permits related to livestock emissions. The Livestock Regulatory Protection Act would amend the Clean Air Act to prohibit the EPA from issuing permits for any carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, water vapor, or methane emissions resulting from biological processes associated with livestock production.
“Livestock producers are working to improve efficiency and reduce emissions from their operations,” said Thune. “They should not be subject to onerous regulations and costly permit fees for their animals’ emissions, which could ultimately lead to higher food costs for consumers. I’m grateful for Senator Sinema’s partnership on the Livestock Regulatory Protection Act, which would provide producers long-term certainty on this issue.”
Read More HERE
April 28, 2021: In the News
New American Wool Website Entices Consumers
The American Wool Council has unveiled its new consumer-based American Wool website americanwool.org. The site offers sections on performance, style and fashion, and home decorating and enhancement. It also gives insight into the science, production methods, and animal welfare of American Wool.
The American Wool Council has unveiled its new consumer-based American Wool website americanwool.org. The site offers sections on performance, style and fashion, and home decorating and enhancement. It also gives insight into the science, production methods, and animal welfare of American Wool.
WOOL
Written by Tink Strydom
Wool is an amazing natural fibre. Composed of proteins, its complexity provides many features and benefits that man-made fibres could never replicate, offering complete flexibility and superior performance characteristics.
Fire resistant
Wool is difficult to ignite due to high water and nitrogen content. If you hold a match to wool, it will smolder and then go out. It doesn’t melt, drip or give out poisonous fumes. And this means it’s considered one of the safest fibers for flooring and fabrics – the perfect choice for the family home.
Hard-wearing
Wool is an incredibly complex natural fiber, which means natural attributes that plastic fibers just can’t match. Wool has a left and right handed helix at its core, which works likes a spring, meaning it can continuously resist pressure and flattening. It can be bent many thousands of times and still spring back! And this is why wool is such a great fiber in carpets.
Easy to care for
Wool’s natural oils and scaled structure trap dust and dirt at the top layers of the fiber, so it couldn’t be easier to keep clean with a quick vacuum around! The scales on wool are another amazing feature - they cause liquids to bead up and stay on the surface, helping to keep wool stain free. So if you’re quick, that red wine won’t leave a single mark!
Sustainable
Wool is grown naturally on sheep. They live on and from the land, roaming freely in the countryside, and re-grow their fleece every year. This is in direct contrast to synthetic fibers, which need oil and refineries to be produced. Sheep grow wool continuously, and can be shorn every 6-12 months, meaning wool is rapidly and readily available. As long as there is grass for sheep to eat, wool can be produced.
Hypoallergenic
Wool contributes to healthier air indoors by helping to absorb pollutants, like VOC’s, from the air. Allergens, such as dust, are also trapped in the outer scales at the top layer of the fiber, so instead of floating around and aggravating allergies, they can simply be vacuumed away.
Wool is an amazing natural fibre. Composed of proteins, its complexity provides many features and benefits that man-made fibres could never replicate, offering complete flexibility and superior performance characteristics.
Fire resistant
Wool is difficult to ignite due to high water and nitrogen content. If you hold a match to wool, it will smolder and then go out. It doesn’t melt, drip or give out poisonous fumes. And this means it’s considered one of the safest fibers for flooring and fabrics – the perfect choice for the family home.
Hard-wearing
Wool is an incredibly complex natural fiber, which means natural attributes that plastic fibers just can’t match. Wool has a left and right handed helix at its core, which works likes a spring, meaning it can continuously resist pressure and flattening. It can be bent many thousands of times and still spring back! And this is why wool is such a great fiber in carpets.
Easy to care for
Wool’s natural oils and scaled structure trap dust and dirt at the top layers of the fiber, so it couldn’t be easier to keep clean with a quick vacuum around! The scales on wool are another amazing feature - they cause liquids to bead up and stay on the surface, helping to keep wool stain free. So if you’re quick, that red wine won’t leave a single mark!
Sustainable
Wool is grown naturally on sheep. They live on and from the land, roaming freely in the countryside, and re-grow their fleece every year. This is in direct contrast to synthetic fibers, which need oil and refineries to be produced. Sheep grow wool continuously, and can be shorn every 6-12 months, meaning wool is rapidly and readily available. As long as there is grass for sheep to eat, wool can be produced.
Hypoallergenic
Wool contributes to healthier air indoors by helping to absorb pollutants, like VOC’s, from the air. Allergens, such as dust, are also trapped in the outer scales at the top layer of the fiber, so instead of floating around and aggravating allergies, they can simply be vacuumed away.