Sandhills Task Force • WOTUS Update • Farm Bill Priorities Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Lincoln, NE Permit No. 445 September 2023 • Volume 79 • Issue 7 Nebraska Cattleman The ONLY publication dedicated to the Nebraska cattle industry.
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4 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman The ONLY publication dedicated to the Nebraska cattle industry. Volume 79 • Issue 7 • September 2023 Every Issue 8 NC Partners 38 Consider This 39 NC Events 46 NC in Action 47 Ad Index 47 Calendar Features 10 Sandhills Task Force: 30 Years of Partnership-Building Get an inside look at the mission of the Sandhills Task Force. 18 Nebraska Hosts National Stockmanship & Stewardship Events Nebraska event offered producers a unique experience featuring cattle handling demonstrations, facility design sessions and a variety of educational sessions. 22 Behind the Scenes at Nebraska Cattlemen Sydney Wellsandt shares about her experience as an NC intern. 28 Bridging the Gap Unified Showing empowers Nebraska youth with disabilities to learn about and show livestock. 32 USDA Grant Helps Farm Family Travis and Jordan Classen build their business with help from Value-Added Producer Grant. Columns 6 EVP Perspective Helping each other brings out the best in all of us. 34 Issues Update NCBA holds EPA accountable after Supreme Court WOTUS ruling. 36 IANR New faces and educational opportunities at UNL. 38 Guest Editorial Continuing Nebraska's agricultural legacy through the 2023 Farm Bill. 40 NCIG Workers' compensation insurance is a valuable investment. 42 Inside Track Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen recaps his recent trade mission to Vietnam. On The Cover Cows welcome a new day as the sun rises over buttes near Harrisburg. Photo courtesy of Abby Durheim, Abby D Photography. 28 18 46 22 10
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 5 The First Hydraulic Corral and still the Largest! Rawhide Processor • Pull on highway at speed limit. • Fits through any gate your pickup will. • Stable on uneven terrain. • Permanent sheeted adjustable alley. • Transport wheels are permanent, no sliding off the axles and rolling out of the way. • Wheels on each panel and electric over hydraulic jack eliminates lifting— saves time. • Frame gates for sorting. Rawhide Portable Corral 900 NORTH WASHINGTON ST., ABILENE, KS 67410 785.263.3436 www.rawhideportablecorral.com 3 Sizes Available! by John McDonald the
6 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 The Nebraska Cattleman magazine is published for and by the Nebraska Cattlemen association. PRODUCTION BluePrint Media LLC (970) 498-9306 PO Box 427 | Timnath, CO 80547 Editor | Lisa Bard Managing Editor | Jessie Topp-Becker Copy Editor | Larisa Willrett Designer | Megan Sajbel Field Materials Coordinator | Megan Sajbel Field Administration | Leslie McKibben CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bill Coe | Kristian Rennert Meghan Anderson | Bob Rooney STATE REGIONAL ADVERTISING Amber Coleman Mobile (402) 340-1588 acoleman@necattlemen.org NATIONAL ADVERTISING The Powell Group | Wendy McFarland (334) 271-6100 4162-B Carmichael Ct. Montgomery, AL 36106 LINCOLN 4611 Cattle Drive | Lincoln, NE 68521 (402) 475-2333 | NCmag@necattlemen.org LAKESIDE 1179 296th Trail | Lakeside, NE 69351 (308) 760-6464 Nebraska Cattleman is published monthly, except for May and July, by the Nebraska Cattlemen, 4611 Cattle Drive, Lincoln, NE 68521 – (402) 475-2333. Manuscripts and advertisements are welcome. Nebraska Cattlemen reserves the right to edit and refuse advertisements. Readers are welcome to submit letters to the editor. Full name and address of writer must accompany all letters. Letters are accepted with the understanding that they may be condensed to fit the magazine format and edited for accuracy and clarity. Letters contain the opinion of the writer and not that of the Nebraska Cattlemen. Nebraska Cattleman You can get Nebraska Cattleman via email. Receive each issue even before the Post O ice ships the printed edition. Just send an email to us at NCmag@necattlemen.org and put “Email NC Magazine” in the subject line. We assure you we will not share your email address with anyone! Please visit our website www.nebraskacattlemen.org EVP Perspective By Laura Field NC Executive Vice President Bringing out the Best in Us At the end of my summer, I had two key events happen the same week – the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) Summer Business Meeting and the Saunders County Fair. Both were first-time events for me. It was my first time attending NCBA since assuming the role of NC executive vice president, and it was the first time our 11-year-old twins exhibited breeding cattle at the county fair. As I’ve reflected on the highlights from both events, themes of strength, resilience, camaraderie, and greatness of the cattle industry and of cattle people top those reflections. Cattlemen and women came together in San Diego this summer for the NCBA Summer Business Meeting. Seeing friends and fellow cattle producers was a high point of the summer, and I’m reminded that it is a true honor to serve Nebraska’s cattle producers. Nebraska Cattlemen has strong and talented members serving in NCBA leadership roles, and that leadership is key to future representation on important issues. Sitting in the back of a room during a policy discussion, the time spent adopting policy to guide the work of the association was time well spent. Policymaking isn’t always fast or easy, but it is key to what we do as membership organizations. We must have direction and guidance on matters members care about most. The final wording often takes many rounds of discussion, deliberation, amendments and compromise. I firmly believe our voices are much stronger together than when we are divided, and even if it takes time and compromise, getting to a place of speaking with a unified voice is very important to the industry’s success. While I was in San Diego, my husband and kids moved into the county fair. The kids have spent months getting ready, and the excitement built as we started getting things loaded to head to the fairgrounds even before I left. I returned Thursday night in time to see them show Friday. The heat indexes during the week were in excess of 115° F. The heat was most definitely on, and staying cool and collected mattered. We had reminded our kids for weeks ahead of the fair that 4-H participation is about learning, having fun, growing and doing your very best. There were smiles, tears, lots of sweat and lots of water to replenish those lost fluids. Our kids got to learn from so many about what they were doing well and what they could improve on next year. Kids helped other kids, club leaders organized them, parents and grandparents cheered them on, and judges made selections and gave out ribbons and banners. The lessons our kids learned that week are going to impact them for years to come. The beef cattle community is at its best when we lift each other up. Whether we are supporting our colleagues in other states as they bring forward important policies or carrying a water bucket for a young person whose calf needs a drink before the championship drive, helping each other brings out the best in all of us! NC
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 7 Layton Auction Service, LLC Dustin Layton (405) 464-2455 Chisolm Kinder (405) 747-4683 www.laytonauction.com Sale Manager THURSDAY // 12 NOON CST OCT 5, 2023 At the ranch in Brownell, KS GPS Address: 18869 DD Road, Brownell, KS 67521 SPRING CALVING FEMALES To receive a sale book call or text the owner or sale manager. OF THE The Complete Dispersal 275 PLUS HEAD SELL! Every female that is safe in calf and due to calve in the spring of 2024 along with their spring 2023 born heifer calves sell! The spring 2023 born bull calves will be retained and sold in the Annual Bull Sale Friday, February 23, 2024. Russ Smith 11102 Chisholm Trl Dodge City, KS 67801 Cell: 620.338.0069 Email: russ@rsangus.com Website: rsangus.com ANGUS RSA BLACKCAP 1225 Reg: *20236388 DOB: 02-06-2021 Sire: +*Deer Valley Growth Fund MGS: *SandPoint J Edgar Hoover CED +9 BW +1.9 WW +98 YW +172 MILK +26 CW +78 Marb +.17 REA +.78 $M +60 $B +146 $C +249 RSA EVER ENTENSE 0317 Reg: *19902806 DOB: 01-30-2020 Sire: +*G A R Ashland MGS: +*Boyd Revere 4147 CED +16 BW -1.0 WW +82 YW +138 MILK +30 CW +52 Marb +1.02 REA +.96 $M +76 $B +159 $C +282 RSA FOREVER LADY 853 Reg: +*19373019DOB: 02-01-2018 Sire: #+*S A V Resource 1441 MGS: #+*G A R Prophet CED +3 BW +3.0 WW +81 YW +152 MILK +25 CW +59 Marb +.69 REA +1.14 $M +49 $B +147 $C +240 853 is the dam of RSA Ball of Fire. Her natural heifer calf sired by Wildcat and 2 ET heifers sired by Veracious sell! RSA BALL OF FIRE Full sib embryos to Ball of Fire will sell. RSA RITA 2251 Reg: *20523482 DOB: 02-27-2022 Sire: *K C F Bennett Exponential MGS: #+*G A R Prophet CED +14 BW -.3 WW +75 YW +126 MILK +27 CW +64 Marb +1.46 REA +.91 $M +89 $B +202 $C +351 RSA DIXIE ERICA 2234 Reg: *20523471 DOB: 02-07-2022 Sire: +*DVAR Huckleberry 871 MGS: +*EXAR Resistol 5924B CED +5 BW +2.8 WW +67 YW +117 MILK +31 CW +53 Marb +1.14 REA +1.14 $M +87 $B +185 $C +327 Stellar Phenotype with a top tier Marb and RE combination. Combination female that offers an elite EPD profile with elite phenotype. Feature Donor Feature 2-year-old with exceptional phenotype and elite performance. Elite calving-ease with value-added performance and carcass merit.
8 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT: Steve Hanson*, Elsie, (308) 289-0225 PRESIDENT ELECT: Jerry Kuenning*, Lemoyne, (308) 883-8382 VICE PRESIDENT: Dick Pierce*, Miller, (308) 440-2489 TREASURER: Laura Field, Lincoln, (402) 475-2333 SECRETARY: Lee Weide, Lincoln, (402) 475-2333 PAST PRESIDENT: Brenda Masek, Purdum, (308) 539-5533 MEMBER SERVICES VICE CHAIR BY REGION 1 – Terryn Drieling, Ashby, (308) 262-5051 2 – Kat Kennedy, Purdum, (308) 645-7036 3 – Allan Louthan, Stanton, (402) 841-6601 4 – John Ecklund, Atkinson, (408) 602-5905 5 – Jim Edwards, Ord, (308) 750-0881 6 – Chuck Gra , Ogallala, (308) 289-5841 7 – Rod Keil, Plattsmouth, (402) 297-9321 8 – Allen Bruntz, Friend, (402) 525-2651 9 – Quentin Dailey*, Lexington, (308) 293-1144 COW-CALF COUNCIL Chair | Al Atkins, North Platte, (308) 645-9046 Vice Chair | Travis Chrisman, Wauneta, (308) 883-6781 FARMER-STOCKMAN COUNCIL Chair | Marc Hanson, Morrowville, Kan., (402) 729-7174 Vice Chair | Dwight Dam, Hooper, (402) 720-4250 FEEDLOT COUNCIL Chair | Mike Briggs, Seward, (402) 641-0117 Vice Chair | Ryan Danehy, Manhattan, Kan., (308) 440-8267 SEEDSTOCK COUNCIL Chair | Reiss Bruning, Bruning, (402) 768-3332 Vice Chair | Krista Dybdal, Newcastle, (402) 841-8091 ANIMAL HEALTH AND NUTRITION COMMITTEE Chair | Jared Walahoski, Overton, (308) 746-1965 Chair-Elect | Je Heldt, Scottsblu , (308) 641-5781 BRAND AND PROPERTY RIGHTS COMMITTEE Chair | Brock Terrell, Hay Springs, (308) 430-1213 Chair-Elect | Matt Blackford, Brownlee, (402) 322-1377 EDUCATION AND RESEARCH COMMITTEE Chair | Marcus Urban, Leigh, (402) 276-3830 Chair-Elect| Suzanne Jagels, Davenport, (402) 469-3374 MARKETING AND COMMERCE COMMITTEE Chair | Joe Eisenmenger, Humphrey, (402) 920-0665 Chair-Elect | Chance McLean, Stromsburg, (402) 366-2254 NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE Chair | Eric Hansen*, North Platte, (308) 530-3899 Chair-Elect | Sam Drinnin, Grand Island, (402) 910-0233 TAXATION COMMITTEE Chair | Fred Meyer, St. Paul, (308) 750-0031 Chair-Elect | Scott Peterson, Valentine, (402) 322-0225 MEMBER SERVICES Chair | Quentin Dailey*, Lexington, (308) 293-1144 ALLIED INDUSTRIES COUNCIL Andrew Dorn, Minden, (308) 830-0356 NEBRASKA LIVESTOCK MARKETING ASSOCIATION Bryce Dibbern, Interior, S.D., (308) 293-7766 UNL EXTENSION Erin Laborie, Beaver City, (419) 494-3872 UNL REPRESENTATIVE Tom Burkey, Lincoln, (402) 472-6423 * member of the Executive & Finance Committee NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN STAFF LINCOLN OFFICE 4611 Cattle Drive, Lincoln, NE 68521 Phone (402) 475-2333 | Fax (402) 475-0822 Email nc@necattlemen.org | www.nebraskacattlemen.org Executive Vice President | Laura Field lfield@necattlemen.org Vice President of Operations | Lee Weide Vice President of Marketing | Je Stolle Director of Communications | Libby Schroeder Director of Marketing | John Roberts Director of Producer Education | Bonita Lederer Director of Membership-Retention | Jessica Rudolph Director of Membership-Recruitment | Steven Stettner Executive Assistant | Patty Goes Vice President of Policy Engagement | Melody Benjamin 1179 296th Trail, Lakeside, NE 69351 (308) 760-6464 | mbenjamin@necattlemen.org PLATINUM PARTNERS GOLD PARTNERS SILVER PARTNERS BRONZE PARTNERS COPPER PARTNERS Nebraska Cattlemen appreciates the support of these partners. Their dedication to Nebraska's cattle/beef industry and this organization does not go unnoticed. If you would like more information about the benefits of being a partner, please email nc@necattlemen.org or call (402) 475-2333. NC Arrow Seed Co. Karavas & Kranz, P.C. Kent Nutrition Group Kunafi n Lamson Dugan & Murray LLP Midwest PMS Oak Barn Beef Overton Veterinary Clinic Poet Sioux Automation Western Nebraska Bank Younes Hospitality NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN PARTNERS
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 9
10 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 S T F 30 Years of Partnership-Building By Shelly Kelly, Executive Director, Sandhills Task Force It’s not uncommon for distrust and disagreements to ruin relationships for generations. Most often, those issues could be resolved with honest and direct conversations. This is exactly how the Sandhills Task Force (STF) was formed 30 years ago. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, there was conflict between Sandhills ranchers and conservation agencies and organizations for various reasons, some of which included anti-cattle sentiments, federal land acquisition and new federal wetland legislation. In the midst of all of this, forward-thinking folks from Nebraska Cattlemen and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service got together to have honest and direct conversations. Each party discovered that their goals were nearly all the same, they just talked about them differently. The Sandhills Task Force was created so that the conversations would continue and to build partnerships for the benefit of private, profitable ranching and conservation in the Sandhills region. The Nebraska Sandhills were recently rated as the world’s most intact temperate prairie. It encompasses more than 19,000 square miles in the north-central part of the state. Originally home to several Native American tribes, including various Lakota (Sioux) bands, Cheyenne, Comanche, Arapaho, Pawnee and Plains Apache, the Sandhills were settled by ranchers in the late 1800s. The primary use today remains cattle production because of the abundant forage and water supply. The High Plains Aquifer meets the surface to form freshwater wetlands, springs and seeps that feed streams and rivers. Because of the high water table, sub-irrigated wet meadows are common in many valleys, which provides an important hay resource. The abundant lakes and marshes are one of the most important wetland complexes in the mid-continent for migrating and nesting waterbirds since it sits right in North America’s Central Flyway. The contiguous grassland is home to many grassland bird species and a wide variety of wildlife. Ranchers have been good stewards of the land because they realize a healthy native ecosystem is a resilient and productive system that allows for cattle production success even in drought years. In 1993, the Sandhills Task Force, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, was formed to implement projects that benefit ranching, wildlife, vegetative diversity and water. STF founders recognized that a strong private ranching economy and community in the Sandhills required a healthy climate and disturbance-resilient grasslands. For the organization’s model to be successful, it would need to be embraced across the region through cooperation among neighbors, local CONTINUED ON PAGE 12
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 11
groups, organizations and state, local and federal subdivisions of government. This cooperative approach continues to be an STF cornerstone. In the spirit of consensus building among adjoining landowners, community leaders and governments, STF has a record of getting work done in a landscape where land stewards are often reluctant to work with government agencies. This grassroots success is often attributed to STF’s vision as well as the make-up of the STF Board of Directors, which is mostly ranchers. Also as a results of this, STF is viewed as a credible organization that represents the needs and goals of ranchers and other partners involved. The Sandhills Task Force’s credibility allows the partnership to find innovative solutions to complex ecological issues. Since its inception, the organization has completed more than 200 projects with individual ranchers. What began as a volunteer-run group has grown to an organization now hiring its fifth team member. The Sandhills Task Force has grown quickly in the last five years due in part to a diversification of funding sources as well as a desire to help ranchers in new ways. Conservation projects have been completed that address eastern red cedar encroachment with prescribed burning and mechanical clearing, wetland and stream restoration, lake renovation and grazing system improvements. In the last three years, projects or technical assistance has impacted more than 215,000 acres. Ashley Garrelts, STF project coordinator, works with many partners to plan and implement these projects. It’s very common to partner with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Pheasants Forever and the Natural Resources Conservation Service on projects, but sometimes the land steward is more comfortable working only with SANDHILLS TASK FORCE • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 CONTINUED ON PAGE 14 12 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 The Sandhills Task Force works to build consensus among land stewards, community leaders and governments. Since its inception, the organization has completed more than 200 projects with individual ranchers. The Sandhills Task Force's involvement with the Nebraska Youth Range Camp is one of the ways the organization works to teach students about rangeland management, conservation and more. The Nebraska Sandhills encompasses more than 19,000 square miles in the north-central part of the state. Cattle production remains its primary use because of the abundant forage and water supply.
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14 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 WE HAVE YOUR BACKS, BARNS AND BOTTOM LINES. LIPHATECH.COM 800.351.1476 WE HEART YOUIt takes a farmer to understand a farmer. And here at Liphatech Ag, we have the farming and ranching backgrounds to know what you’re up against every day. Your dedication, grit and selflessness don’t go unnoticed. Our team is here to support you in every way we can. the Sandhills Task Force. Partnership with other agencies and organizations provides for a diverse funding pool and holistically planned projects. Sandhills Stewards In 2021, the Sandhills Task Force developed a new program to help with the business side of ranching. The Sandhills Stewards program was designed to help ranches identify goals for improvement and get connected with resources that can help them reach those goals. Program Coordinator Cody Trump meets with ranchers, sets up and promotes workshops, interviews Sandhills ranchers for his Sandhills Stories podcast and facilitates peer meetups where ranchers can share information among themselves. Sandhills Ranch Internship Program A common concern among ranchers is that there are no young people interested in ranching. To address this concern, the Sandhills Task Force launched the Sandhills Ranch Internship Program in 2023. This year, five young people were placed on ranches throughout the Sandhills. Grant funds were raised to pay for a portion of the experience, and ranchers had to agree to several terms set forth by the program, including participating in a full three-month internship, providing lodging and some meals, being willing to share how decisions are made on production and financial decisions, participating in mentor training and exposing the intern to various tasks. The Sandhills Task Force takes care of advertising, collects the applications, facilitates interviews, provides contract drafts and follows up with both ranchers and interns throughout the experience. This program is just getting started and is already slated to expand in 2024. The quality of interns and the applications received prove there are many young people interested in ranching, they just need help making connections. The new outreach programs augment efforts that have been in place for CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 SANDHILLS TASK FORCE • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 The Sandhills Stewards program was designed to help ranches identify goals for improvement and get connected with resources that can help them reach those goals.
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 15 DEFEND OUR GRASSLANDS PREVENT AND REMOVE EASTERN REDCEDAR ----The Great Plains Grassland Initiative ---- VISIT YOUR LOCAL NRCS OFFICE OR A PARTNER BELOW FOR DETAILS. BEFORE AFTER Images courtesy of USDA-NRCS EASTERN REDCEDAR TREE REMOVAL Apply Now! USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. © ® www.dodgemfg.com Call Today! 402-693-2221 2023 Nebr. Cattlemen 3.578” x 4.75” Call Today! 402-693 Brute Bud Tub 2221 Farmers and ranchers, the world relies on you. And you deserve a bank that’s rooted in the details and dedicated to helping you do more. Overlooking nothing. Ready for everything. /agribusiness
16 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 decades, like supporting the Nebraska Youth Range Camp that educates 30 to 50 high school students each summer on ranching and natural resource management, funding toward a Grazing Livestock Systems scholarship at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, support of the Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award and many other workshops and tours hosted each year. Funding for the Sandhills Task Force comes from grants, cooperative agreements and donations. As STF’s executive director, I am responsible for securing funding, managing the grants and taking care of the organizational business. Grants from the Nebraska Environmental Trust, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, North American Wetland Conservation Act, the Natural Resources Conservation Service and more have allowed the Sandhills Task Force to continue helping land stewards and the Sandhills ecosystem. More information can be found on our website at www.SandhillsTaskForce.org. NC SANDHILLS TASK FORCE • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14 VISION An intact rolling prairie landscape intermixed with wetlands, meadows and streams, where diverse native plant and animal life prospers along with robust communities supported by a thriving ranching economy. MISSION To partner with Sandhill ranchers; local communities, groups and organizations; and local, state and federal agencies to identify, prioritize, plan and implement mutually acceptable projects that benefit private ranching, wildlife and vegetative diversity, and associated water supplies. GOAL To enhance the Sandhill wetland-grassland ecosystem in a way that sustains profitable private ranching, wildlife and vegetative diversity, and associated water supplies.
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 17 –Clay Alexander, Weems Creek Cattle Co. There’s no way to make money planting them, I’ve yet to see one grow. We background calves, have a history in the cow/calf side, and have a finish feed yard in a GAP4 environment. For the last feeding year period, we handled 5,800 to 6,000 head through here. I just finished doing my audit back in early October and I had 27 treatment records. Endovac was recommended to me by a fellow who feeds and starts quite a number of cattle. He had good luck with it in his system. His system was more high risk than ours. We adopted it into our program because of the immune boost of it. The fact that it makes the vaccines work that we give means we simply just don’t treat cattle. For us, receiving cattle is when we set the tone for the production of our farm. Everything we do from the minute that calf walks off the truck, we will reap the benefit on the other end if we do it properly, or we will be backing up the whole time. Cattle health is extremely important in this process because a treated calf is just costly for us. But if you have a known product, the immune booster, is valid. It is what it is. We also know that the most important thing to cattle when moving is water. You would see a definite difference if you provide fresh clean water or if you don’t. We do, so we don’t know what life is like without it. Same with the Endovac–we use the immune booster. We can’t necessarily tell you that this exact number of calves responded better than others from it, however, we know it is an important component in what we do just as much as fresh water or fresh clean feed to that calf when it is going through a stressful time. The Immune Plus is a huge benefit and we see it from there on throughout the feeding period of that calf remaining healthy, never coming off feed, doesn’t have to be treated, doesn’t fall out of our market share, or simply just never falls behind on a sick day or feeling off. We set the cattle up the best we know how from day one to perform. We can attribute that to Endovac and the process that we use in trying to cover all those bases. 100%... the responsibility where Endovac is in our system, it works, and it helps the other vaccines we use work better. It’s a no brainer for us! Find your nearest rep at EndovacBeef.com 1-800-944-7563 l 6080 Bass Lane l Columbia, MO 65201
18 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 N H N S & S E By Jesse Fulton, M.S., Extension Educator – Director, Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance Hosted by the Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance Program (BQA), the National Stockmanship & Stewardship regional events were a unique educational experience featuring low-stress cattle handling demonstrations, facility design sessions and a wide variety of educational sessions. The goal was for producers to learn something they could take back to their operations that will make them either more profitable or more sustainable or encourage them to make improvements toward their stockmanship and animal welfare practices. Each regional event was made possible through awarded grants funded by Merck Animal Health and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). Nebraska was fortunate to be awarded funding to conduct two Stockmanship & Stewardship events in Nebraska. “The Stockmanship & Stewardship program provides fantastic opportunities for producers to learn and network with their fellow producers and industry leaders,” says Michalea Clowser, director of producer education for NCBA. “The program's objective is to support cattle producers in their continuous improvement with the focus on beef quality assurance principles. At a majority of our Stockmanship & Stewardship events, the topics generally range from nutrition to risk management to grazing. We have some great and supportive sponsors of this program. Merck Animal Health has long supported this program, and we appreciate their partnership in spreading the BQA message.” This summer, Nebraska hosted more than 150 Nebraska producers over the course of two single-day Stockmanship & Stewardship events in Norfolk and McCook. These events allow us to bring the latest in industry-relevant production practices, information and education to ensure that cattle producers of Nebraska and surrounding states are well informed. Sessions offered this year were curated so that participating attendees would not only learn from a variety of industry experts, but also receive Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) certification at the event’s conclusion. Each event kicked off with a cattle market update from ShayLe Stewart who serves as a livestock market analyst for DTN and is the founder of Cattle Market News. Stewart gave producers an insight on where the 2023 cattle market may be headed, shedding light on possible opportunities for producers but also challenges that may arise. Attendees also participated in breakout sessions where they learned about grazing management during and after a drought, animal health and husbandry procedures that affect cattle value, and how to improve their bottom line while not having to add infrastructure or add new products to their production practices. After the breakouts, attendees participated in educational “speed rounds.” These 20-minute educational sessions were jam packed with information relating back to BQA. Topics focused on why herd health practices matter, how to design cattle handling facilities, comMore than 150 Nebraska producers were hosted over the course of two single-day Stockmanship & Stewardship events. The events bring the latest in industry-relevant production practices, information and education to ensure that cattle producers are well informed. CONTINUED ON PAGE 20
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 19 WE’RE NO.1. AND THAT’S NO BULL. NEBRASKA IS NO. 1 IN RED MEAT PRODUCTION, BUT OUR LEADERSHIP DOESN’T END THERE. AGRICULTURE HAS A $21.4 BILLION IMPACT ON THE NEBRASKA ECONOMY, AND YOUR NEBRASKA SOY CHECKOFF IS DIALED INTO IT TO ENSURE YOUR NEBRASKA SOYBEANS ARE A MAJOR PLAYER. FOOD, FEED, INDUSTRIAL USES ANYWHERE THERE IS A NEED FOR MEAL AND OIL, NEBRASKA SOYBEANS ARE FINDING A PLACE AT THE TABLE. Source: Nebraska Department of Agriculture. ©2021 United Soybean Board. [61078-10 7/21] #CROPPORTUNITY NEBRASKASOYBEANS.ORG
20 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 mon mistakes when designing facilities and evaluating animal condition prior to marketing. Additionally, attendees learned from Tim Parks, DVM, beef cattle technical service veterinarian at Merck Animal Health, about the new regulations producers will face related to cattle implanting practices and producers’ ability to purchase medically important antibiotics that are used in animal medicine. Dusty Abney, Ph.D., cattle nutritionist at Cargill Animal Nutrition, presented common nutrition myths producers must navigate to avoid misunderstandings that may be negatively affecting their ability to be economically sustainable. Something that separated the Nebraska Stockmanship & Stewardship events from other regional events this year was the partnership with Certified Angus Beef and Cargill Fresh Meats. For lunch, attendees enjoyed a Certified Angus Beef strip steak lunch as they heard from Kirsten Nickles, Ph.D., sustainability and animal care scientist at Certified Angus Beef about their latest “Cut the Bull” initiative and their commitment to the beef industry. Following Nickles’ presentation, she was joined by a panel of industry representatives as they discussed the importance of quality assurance programs such as BQA. Presenters outlined how the industry can utilize the BQA program to tell the story of cattle producers and their commitment to ensuring proper animal care practices and ensuring the production of safe, wholesome, quality beef and beef products for everyday consumers. "At Certified Angus Beef, we take pride in cattle producers’ commitment to cattle care. We are appreciative of the opportunity to be a part of the Nebraska Stockmanship & Stewardship events and work alongside Nebraska cattle producers,” Nickles says. “The brand is using BQA to get farmers and ranchers the credit they deserve for prioritizing cattle care, while simultaneously using BQA as a way to increase consumer trust in what producers do to bring high-quality beef to the table. We were excited to be a part of these events and look forward to continuing our BQA efforts with Nebraska in the future.” As with all the National Stockmanship & Stewardship regional events, stockmanship experts Curt Pate, Ron Gill and Dean Fish performed live cattle handling demonstrations on a variety of topics from basic cattle handling to horsemanship and more! The stockmen discussed the basic principles of cattle handling such as point of balance, flight zone and utilizing handler pressure to move animals, and demonstrated these principles on foot and horseback. “A highlight at the events is always the emphasis on live cattle handling with our experts and clinicians Dr. Ron Gill, Curt Pate and Dr. Dean Fish,” Clowser says. “All three have decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge they share at each event. What makes the Stockmanship & Stewardship events so unique is that they are tailored to that specific region of the country.” Another feature that made the Nebraska events unique was that most of the sessions were offered with Spanish translation. This bilingual opportunity opened the door for operations with Hispanic employees to participate in additional in-depth education related to cattle care and handling. I assure you this isn’t the last of these spectacular events here in Nebraska. Being the “Beef State,” we play a pivotal role in the beef industry. This status requires our cattle producers to be proactive and progressive. It is the role of beef educators in the state to ensure that cattle producers here have every resource and educational opportunity available to them. Producers should keep an eye on our calendar of events to stay in the know on what other opportunities we have coming up across Nebraska. We work hard to make sure you have the latest research and information available to you. Producers can find out more about future events and additional resources at https://bqa.unl.edu/ or https://beef. unl.edu/. NC NEBRASKA HOSTS NATIONAL STOCKMANSHIP & STEWARDSHIP EVENTS • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 Curt Pate performs a live cattle handling demonstration. Along with Ron Gill and Dean Fish, the three covered a variety of topics from basic cattle handling to horsemanship and more. Jesse Fulton shares about BQA, including why herd health practices matter, how to design cattle handling facilities, common mistakes when designing facilities and evaluating animal condition prior to marketing.
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22 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 B S N C By Sydney Wellsandt, NC Intern Hello everyone, I’m Sydney Wellsandt, and I’ve been interning with Nebraska Cattlemen (NC) since February. This fall, I will be a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln where I’m studying animal science with minors in agribusiness, Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars and Engler Entrepreneurship. I grew up on an acreage in Unadilla where I was actively involved in my local 4-H and FFA programs. On our acreage stands a silver show barn where I spent many summers with my sister working with our steers that we’d take to local and state-level shows. Through these activities, I grew a deep passion for the beef industry and became dedicated to finding ways to give back to it. As I went onto college, I knew I wanted to build on this passion and I looked for an internship offering the opportunity to do so. After hearing about this NC position, I crossed my fingers and sent my resume to Libby Schroeder, NC director of communications. Our email exchanges led to an interview, which turned into a unique college experience. My internship began in February with the goal of gaining a broad understanding of each department within the association and how they all contribute toward the success of beef producers. Since then, you may have received a call from me as I contacted current members to discuss renewing their memberships and all other aspects of NC. In March, I attended the Nebraska FFA State Convention where I had the chance to speak with high school students about opportunities for them to get involved in the beef industry, including my own internship at NC. At the convention, I also spoke with Rural Radio Network about my experience as an NC intern on the weekly radio report. In April, I attended Cattlemen at the Capitol for the first time. I felt like a fish out of water throughout the day since it was my first time back to the Nebraska State Capitol since my fifth grade field trip. I enjoyed watching senators debate and the intricate process unfold as everyone ran a mile a minute. We also received a guided tour of the capitol and even got into the Warner Legislative Chamber, where Jacy Schafer, former NC vice president of government affairs, described it as walking into a time capsule. Starting my internship in February allowed me to assist with the process leading up to the 2023 Midyear Meeting in North Platte and the execution of the event. From my first day in the office, Libby chucked Midyear tasks at me like an intense game of dodgeball, and the term “fast-paced environment” gained a new meaning to me. I’ve seen each step of the process, from advertising through email blasts and social media posts to receiving sponsorship dollars and the subtle art of being humbled by a name tag printer. This was my first year attending the two-day event, where I enjoyed meeting beef producers from across the state. My favorite aspect of the Midyear Meeting was attending Witnessing this change, and the grit that emerged from it, has led me to grow a deeper understanding and appreciation for what goes on behind the scenes within an association like Nebraska Cattlemen. CONTINUED ON PAGE 26
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 23 Cattlebuyercoverage Throughoutthe State CONTACT YOUR AREA SALES MANAGER: KEVIN GLAUBIUS | (816) 752-2234 (CELL) | KGLAUBIUS@BIOZYMEINC.COM
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26 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 Rod’s Power Sports Lincoln, NE • 800-898-9411 www.rodspowersports.com Own the best. Period. •Rugged yet easy-towing •All-aluminum; built to last •Unmatched versatility and strength •Unrivaled resale value 24’ 8127 Gooseneck Trailer Your Featherlite Livestock Trailer Superstore 16’ 8107 Bumper Pull Trailer Great selection, great prices! • Rugged yet easy-towing • All aluminum; built to last • Unmatched versatility and strength • Unrivaled resale value IN STOCK NOW! New 2023 Featherlite and Sundowner Gooseneck Livestock Trailers Lincoln, NE • CALL or TEXT (402) 423-6230 1/3 Rectangle Nebraska Cattleman 4 color Rod’s Power Sport March 2023 the local business tours and learning how they are involved in Nebraska agriculture. On these tours you could have found me running around and taking a few too many pictures. In the last six months, Nebraska Cattlemen has seen a great deal of change, from a new executive vice president to the adoption of an improved database and website. Witnessing this change, and the grit that emerged from it, has led me to grow a deeper understanding and appreciation for what goes on behind the scenes within an association like Nebraska Cattlemen. I look forward to continuing my work with Nebraska Cattlemen staff as a student within the Krutsinger Beef Industry Scholars program and as a member of the Young Nebraska Cattlemen-Lincoln Board of Directors. I’m thankful to have had this opportunity to work with Nebraska Cattlemen staff and beef producers across the state. I also look forward to a future career in the beef industry and continued membership in an organization that proves there will always be a place for me within it. If my experience interests you, contact lschroeder@necattlemen.org to learn more about how you can get involved. NC BEHIND THE SCENES AT NEBRASKA CATTLEMEN • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22 KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN Sterile selenium, manganese, copper and zinc injection for ca le CAUTION: FEDERAL LAW RESTRICTS THIS DRUG TO USE BY OR ON THE ORDER OF A LICENSED VETERINARIAN ACTIVE SUBSTANCES PER ML: Z nc 60 m /mL Mn nese 10 m /mL Selen um 5 m /mL Copper 15 m /mL OTHER SUBSTANCES: Benzl Alcohol 1% v/v (s preservt ve) Packaged in 100 mL & 500 mL size NDC No 49920-006-01 NDC No 49920-006-05 MANUFACTURED FOR MULTIMIN® NORTH AMERICA, INC. Fort Coll ns, CO 80528 DOSAGE RECOMMENDATIONS: CALVES Up to 1 er 1mL/per100lbs bodwe ht CATTLE From 1-2 ers 1mL/per150lbs bodwe ht CATTLE Over 2 ers 1mL/per200lbs bodwe ht Store Between 15°C nd 30°C (59°F nd 86°F) Subcut neous n ect on n m ddle of s de of nec BULLS 1300 1400 ANIMAL WEIGHT (lbs) 50 100 150 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 - - CALVES UP TO 1 YEAR 1 mL/100 lb BW 0 5 mL 1 mL 1 5 mL 2 mL 3 mL 4 mL 5 mL 6 mL 7 mL - - - - - - - CATTLE 1 - 2 YEARS 1 mL/150 lb BW - - - - - - - - - 5 3 mL 6 mL 6 6 mL - - 6 5 mL 7 mL CATTLE > 2 YEARS 1 mL/200 lb BW - - - - - - - - - - - 5 mL 5 5 mL 6 mL BEEF COWS DAIRY COWS CALVES HEIFERS 3 t mes per e r (pror m ves pl nned d tes th t c n be v r ed to su t m n ement pror ms) 4 wees before breed n 4 wees before c lv n 4 wees before c lv n 4 wees before nsem n t on t dr-off t b rth t 3 months nd/or we n n ever 3 months – espec ll 4 wees before breed n SUPPLEMENTATION PROGRAM DOSAGE TABLE PRECAUTIONS: Selen um nd copper re tox c f dm n stered n excess Alw s follow recommended l bel dose Do not overdose It s recommended th t ccur te bod we ht s determ ned pr or to tre tment Do not use concurrentl w th other n ect ble selen um nd copper products Do not use concurrentl w th selen um or copper boluses Do not use n em c ted c ttle w th BCS of 1 n d r or 1-3 n beef Consult our veter n r n CAUTION: Sl ht loc l re ct on m occur for bout 30 seconds fter n ect on A sl ht swell n m be observed t n ect on s te for few d s fter dm n str t on Use st nd rd sept c procedures dur n dm n str t on of n ect ons to reduce the r s of n ect on s te bscesses or les ons Me t 14 d s M l zero w thdr w l DIRECTIONS: Th s product s onl for use n c ttle Mult m n® 90 s to be ven subcut neousl (under the s n) ONLY It s Y It s recommended to dm n ster the product n ccord nce w th Beef Qu l t Assur nce (BQA) u del nes M n mum d st nce between n ect on s tes for the Mult m n 90 product nd other n ect on s tes should be t le st 4 nches In ect under the loose s n of the m ddle of the s de of the nec M x volume per n ect on s te s 7 mL
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 27 e $100 standard listing fee* e Multiple auctions held every week e No transportation or preparation cost e We handle post auction payment/titles e ALL EQUIPMENT IS SOLD “AS IS, WHERE IS” purplewave.com 866.608.9283 *fees may vary based on equipment volume and value Multimin® 90 is a one-of-a-kind trace mineral injection which, when administered in the third trimester, is research-proven to support the vital transfer of trace minerals from mother to calf. It improves colostrum quality when used with a scours vaccine, and supports growth and development. Optimize your calving ROI with Multimin 90. See corresponding page for prescribing information. Proven to support cow-to-calf trace mineral transfer* www.multiminusa.com *Data on file. © 2023 MULTIMIN® USA YOUR BEST SHOT AT HEALTHY CALVING
28 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 BRIDGING THE GAP By Allison Walbrecht, Lincoln The average American is three generations removed from agriculture, which creates a unique challenge for cattle producers when defending our industry in the court of public opinion. As a proud fifth-generation rancher from the outskirts of Lincoln, I experience the consequences of the divide between urban Nebraskans and producers daily. From explaining the difference between beef and dairy cattle, to defending the quality of care my animals receive, stepping off the ranch is eye opening. Advocating for agriculture from a young age developed my passion as I realized a lot of people are willing to learn more about our way of life but lack the opportunity to do so. I believe in creating these opportunities to enhance understanding and embrace differences. Growing up, you could always find me in the barn. Whether I was working with my show calves or just helping my dad, I could never get enough. During one of my many trips to the Nebraska State Fair, I had a rare moment of free time, so I went to the ring with my friends to watch other exhibitors. Standing ringside and simply observing is out of my comfort zone as a competitor, but it gave me the opportunity to witness a showman living with a disability demonstrate her passion for showing and see how the values of a showman live in all of us. I left the ringside overwhelmed by inspiration and wanting everyone to feel welcome in the show family. This epiphany then led to the creation of Unified Showing, a program dedicated to empowering youth with disabilities through learning about and showing livestock. Each week our showmen come to my farm to practice animal husbandry and showmanship skills in preparation for the county fair. Being able to start this incredible journey Unified Showing buddies Bailey Selvage, left, and Mackenzie Mlnarik, right, help showman Joslyn Grotrian, center, exhibit at the Gage County Fair. Through Unified Showing, participant Davian Bice, left, is able to show at the county fair after practicing all summer long with helper Aca Andrew, right. CONTINUED ON PAGE 30
September 2023 Nebraska Cattleman 29 Will Harsh, Regional Manager Colorado Nebraska Power of Angus. A reliable business partner is difficult to come by. Contact Will Harsh to locate Angus genetics, select marketing options tailored to your needs, and to access American Angus Association® programs and services. Put the business breed to work for you. © 2022-2023 American Angus Association 3201 Frederick Ave. | St. Joseph, MO 64506 816.383.5100 | www.ANGUS.org Contact Regional Manager Will Harsh: Cell: 740-272-1386 wharsh@angus.org LAND FOR SALE BURDICK RANCH 2,404± acres • $3,030,000 Ainsworth, NE SIGNAL BUTTE RANCH 12,135± acres $13,890,000 Gering, NE TINKHAM RANCH 1,138± acres $2,222,000 Johnstown, NE LashleyLand.com Scan to view our listings! 1/4 Vertical • Sept. 2023 Taking space reservations for the November Conventon Preview issue of Nebraska Cattleman until Sept. 25. FEATURING: • Special recognition for NC Trade Show participants. • Editorial on policy issues, production tips, industry advancements and innovations and more! • Convention registration forms and information – a must read! Nebraska Cattleman The ONLY publication dedicated to the Nebraska cattle industry. “This is hands down one of the best magazines in the industry.“ – Nebraska Cattleman reader RESERVE SPACE IN THE NOVEMBER ISSUE BY SEPT. 25! CONTACT NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN SALES REPRESENTATIVE Amber Coleman acoleman@necattlemen.org | (402) 340-1588
30 Nebraska Cattleman September 2023 at 15 and continuing for the past four years has brought me immeasurable joy. Helping kids experience agriculture for the first time and seeing how much of a fire it lights inside of them is what keeps us going. Because of their love and hard work, Unified Showing currently has more than 40 participants, is a sanctioned show in three Nebraska counties and, for the very first time this September, will have a class at the Nebraska State Fair. Year after year, I have watched our showmen come back to the program and continue improving their skills. Unfortunately for some, they are aging out of 4-H but still desire to continue growing in their love for agriculture. For example, Claire Bruns has been a participant since the very beginning and is quickly approaching the end of her show career. I am fortunate enough to have watched her meticulousness in cleaning the water buckets, her improvements in setting feet correctly and answering in-depth showmanship questions, and I am even luckier to hear her sing to calm down her animal before walking into the arena. She gives a whole new light to what it means to love and appreciate agriculture. Since I knew Claire had developed a love for livestock as strong as anyone else in the ring and only had a few more years left, I raced to find a way she could continue to invest in our industry. Together, Claire and I are proud to announce the inaugural year of Unified Agriculture, a direct-to-consumer beef operation employing job-aged people with disabilities. As fifth- and first-generation producers we are eager to follow our passions within the beef industry through raising eight steers and providing the highest quality beef cuts directly to our customers. Our product offering includes individual cuts, bundles and bulk orders to fit every need and occasion. This summer, Claire and I kept ourselves plenty busy running our little farm, getting BQA certified, repairing fences, moving hay bales and delivering feed rations. We invite you to follow our journey on our website unifiedagriculture.com and social media platforms. In mid-September we will load up our steers and haul them to the locker. We hope you can stock your freezer with some of our fantastic beef! These past four years have taught me that the livestock community is a place for everyone. Whether showing livestock or producing beef, embracing our differences is ultimately what keeps this industry going, and I am beyond honored to be a part of that. As always, support youth in agriculture and buy beef! NC BRIDGING THE GAP • CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28 McCook, NE 308-345-5115 www.cappelsales.com MC4500 Mower Conditioner R2800 Twin Rake Vermeer Net Wrap Providing Solutions that Enable our Customers to be More Productive and Efficient!
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