ICOW convention successful
Casper – The 2021 Independent Cattlemen of Wyoming (ICOW) annual convention was held Sept. 10-11. ICOW was organized in 2007 to “protect and promote the future viability of the Wyoming family livestock and ranching industries.”
Members of the organization are actively engaged in organizing, educating and representing independent ranchers across Wyoming, holding authorities accountable and protecting our rights in accordance with the Constitution of the United States.
The convention kicked off with Bill Bullard, CEO of R-CALF USA, presenting current legislative updates and R-CALF involvement in mandatory country of origin labeling (MCOOL) legislative efforts, as well as meat packer purchasing practices and beef import implications on prices to cattle producers and feeders.
University of Wyoming Extension Director and Associate Dean Kelly Crane and Lucy Pauley of the Wyoming Department of Agriculture presented information relating to education, assistance programs and resources available throughout the state to benefit and support agriculture producers and partner industries. Crane also discussed the realignment of different degree programs within the multiple colleges at the University of Wyoming such as business and environmentally focused programs.
Karina Jones, R-CALF USA, provided an update on the progress as well as the challenges facing the petition drive for a referendum vote on the beef checkoff program. Marti Halverson provided legislative policy information on ag-related bills which are likely to be considered in the upcoming Wyoming legislative session.
Panel discussions and seminars were presented by Taylor Haynes, Ellie Cushman and Larry Bentley on topics of grass fed direct beef marketing opportunities, prairie dog invasive issues, wild horse impacts on ranching ecosystems and improvements, as well as grazing practices and native grass range management.
Dennis Hermesch, staff veterinarian for Mountain Vet Supply, presented two interactive animal health seminars on vaccines, bovine nutrition and best practices for calving and reproductive health in cattle that were very popular and beneficial to all in attendance.
John Hanson, retiring director from District Four, was presented with a jacket in recognition of his service to the organization. Marti Halverson was recognized with a special gift for her excellent legislative work on behalf of the organization, and a banquet with entertainment provided by Darron Little was enjoyed by all in attendance.
The annual business meeting to vote on policies and amend constitution and by-law details was held at the conclusion of the convention.
Annual elections for board of director officers were held at the director meeting Nov. 8, 2021, in Casper. The 2021-22 officers are as follows: Larry Bentley, Thermopolis, president; Hugh Turk, Kaycee, vice president; Howard Jones, Rozet, secretary; and Chris Bentley, Thermopolis, treasurer.
This release is courtesy of ICOW. For more information, visit the ICOW website at newsite.icowwy.org or the ICOW Facebook page.
