The farmer [rancher] has to be an optimist or he wouldn’t still be a farmer [rancher]. – Will Rogers
Howdy Folks,
It is getting to be that time of year that we reap our rewards and prepare for another season. Many ranchers have already shipped, culled, and planned for the upcoming year.
I pray that you received enough moisture to sustain you through the winter. This may be one of those years that our children will remember in old age. I am thankful for the rains that did fall in parts of the state and for no more fires than we had. I hope we all pray for our Texas neighbors that are still being hit with the drought and the continued fires that are burning in their state.
The Fall Board Meeting was well attended and many stayed over for the drought insurance meeting held afterwards. Hopefully some good will come out of that meeting. The State Fair was busy as normal for the youth, CowBelles, exhibitors, and the staff at the office. The NMCGA Showmanship contest had twenty six exhibitors from Novice to Seniors. Hats off to the Young Cattleman’s Leadership Committee and everyone else that took the time to represent us at the Fair.
We must keep a constant vigil on the rules and regulations that come down from all the federal and state agencies that affect our lives and our rights. The Wildearth Guardians are again trying to force a ban on trapping in New Mexico. They and other similar organizations have no pity on the rural people of the West and would love to see us all just fold up and leave. They keep a steady pressure on the federal government to add more and more plants and animals on the endangered species list. There is no concern for any of the citizens of America by these folks. One good change, though, in a regulation is the ability to again haul large round bales on semi trailers. It does require a permit and an oversized load banner on the rig, but at least this should help by giving more places to obtain hay.
Tod Stevenson is retiring this month as Director of the Department of Game and Fish. It was a pleasure to work with Tod. He always had time to visit about concerns of his Department. I hope that his replacement will be as receptive to our problems as Tod.
Again, the time is creeping up upon us to gather in Albuquerque for the annual convention. The staff has already been busy getting booths and sponsors for the meeting. Be sure to think about items for the silent auction. The money raised goes to expenses for the legislative session. We have a good rapport with the most of the legislators and we desperately need to keep our presence seen and heard at the Roundhouse. We also need to help in some way to bolster the kitty for our litigation fund. I know this has been a tough year for most of us, but I do believe what Will Rogers said years ago: “The rancher has to be an optimist.”
Have a great October, and don’t let the gremlins get you on Halloween.
May your gracious Spirit lead me forward
On a firm footing
— Psalm 143:10 NLT