Good Agricultural Leadership is Required 

Leadership is arguably the most crucial part of success in any industry. In Wyoming, where agriculture and livestock are central to both the economy and way of life, strong leadership is especially important. 

Agriculture in Wyoming is more than just a profession. It is a lifestyle rooted in hard work, integrity and perseverance. It demands individuals who are willing to make sacrifices, embrace challenges and uphold the values which have inspired generations of agricultural participants.

Leaders in agriculture set the stage for their teams, ensuring operations run smoothly, efficiently and ethically. The values of honesty, grit and responsibility are not just personal qualities, they are fundamental to the industry itself. 

Leaders in agriculture must make difficult decisions every day while balancing economic pressures, unpredictable weather and ever-evolving demands of consumers.

Key responsibilities

One of the key responsibilities of a leader in agriculture is to lead by example. Hard work and dedication are not just expected but demonstrated by leaders. Those who follow will adopt these same values, creating a culture of purpose and respect. 

However, when leadership fails to uphold these core values, people will take notice.

Employees, partners and community members will ultimately reflect the leadership they see and receive, and if they do not resonate with it, they will spend their time or resources elsewhere.

A leader will look different from operation to operation. It may be a family member, feedlot manager or ranch manager. Regardless of the type or label of the leadership role, a leader’s actions directly impact the morale and success of those they lead. 

A true leader also recognizes the importance of mentorship and camaraderie. 

Agriculture is an industry built on generational knowledge, passed down from one group to the next. Good leaders ensure the next generation is prepared, instilling in them not only technical skills but also the values necessary for success. 

By investing in the development of young agricultural participants, leaders help secure the future of one of Wyoming’s most cherished industries. 

Good leadership ensures employees are seen, heard and appreciated for their work, ensures criticism is instilled constructively and holds themselves to the same – or even higher – standards as their employees. 

Leaders are responsible for ensuring a healthy work environment both physically and mentally. No job is perfect or without its stressors. But, if a leader can foster an environment where people are passionate about and take pride in their work, the entire operation benefits.

Accomplishing this requires leaders to make employees feel appreciated, while simultaneously pushing them to set goals and aspirations for their job as related to operational success.

Community leaders

Beyond individual operations, Wyoming’s agricultural community relies on leadership in many ways. 

Organizations such as the Wyoming Stock Growers Association and 4-H programs provide leadership opportunities which shape the industry’s future. Strong leadership in these areas helps advocate agricultural interests, promote sustainable practices and ensures the values of Wyoming’s agricultural communities are preserved. 

Furthermore, community leadership fosters collaboration. 

In agriculture, an industry faced with many unique challenges, leaders must unite stakeholders, encourage innovation and create solutions that benefit all. 

Agricultural leaders must not only focus on their own operations but also contribute to the success of the industry as a whole. 

Encouraging training and education on positive leadership qualities in the workplace can be helpful for agricultural operations.

Leadership in Wyoming’s agriculture industry is about more than making decisions – it is about embodying the values which define the state and its people. Hard work, integrity and resilience are at the heart of effective leadership. 

Whether on the ranch, in the field or within community organizations, strong leaders inspire those around them. Good leadership is not optional – it is required.

Brenna Litynski is the University of Wyoming Extension agriculture and natural resources educator serving Albany County. She can be reached at blitynsk@uwyo.edu or 307-721-2571.