TSCRA Talk

Bill Fox, central region program manager for National Grazing Lands Coalition, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to share about the programs NatGLC offers, including Legacy Landscapes.  The mission of the National Grazing Lands Coalition (NatGLC) is dedicated to providing voluntarily ecologically and economically sound management of all grazing lands for their adaptive uses and multiple benefits to the environment and society through science-based technical assistance, research and education. Learn more at grazinglands.org.  

Mike Turner, manager of Blue Ranch located near Dumas, Texas, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss their holistic resource management approach. Turner shares how the conventionally grazed ranch was transformed into a rotational grazing system with focus on forage, wildlife, water and soil health.  The Blue Ranch received the 2024 Texas Outstanding Rangeland Stewardship Award and the 2024 NCBA Region IV Environmental Stewardship Award. 

Dr. Kate Rogers, executive director of the Alamo Trust, the non-profit organization responsible for the daily operations of the Alamo historic site, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the ties of ranching in Texas and the Alamo as well as The Alamo Statewide Stampede.  The public fundraising challenge among the 254 counties in Texas is accepting financial donations as well as proceeds from livestock sales. Learn more at www.thealamo.org/livestock.  

Macy Ledbetter, wildlife biologist and president of Spring Creek Outdoors, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, the best practices, challenges and strategies for landowners looking to balance livestock and wildlife management. Ledbetter brings his experience with Texas Parks and Wildlife as well as years of consulting for landowners across the state of Texas, to the conversation.  

Sarah Franklin, Texas Farm Credit vice president branch manager in Pleasanton, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the basics of an ag loan. Franklin outlines both long-term loans and short-term loans such as operating loans, as well as documentation needed for the application process.  She shares the five C's they take into consideration when evaluating a loan – character, capacity, capital, collateral and conditions, in addition to valuable insight on the loan process.  Additional information can be found at texasfarmcredit.com/resources/.  

As produced water management and filtration have evolved, so have opportunities for financial incentives. The question of ownership of the produced water now stands with the Texas Supreme Court. Attorney Jim Bradbury joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, with insight into the changing landscape of produced water.  

This thing is legendary! Matt Brockman, director of communications, and Stefan Marchman, livestock show director, both with the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, join TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to share about the history of the FWSSR, which included cattle shows during the Texas Cattle Raisers Association convention in the early 1900s.  Additionally, Brockman and Marchman discuss the growth of the Will Rogers Memorial Center with the addition of Dickie's Arena plus renovations taking place in the swine and sheep barns.  Be sure to keep an eye out for the email to TSCRA members about the 2025 FWSSR commemorative pins and details on the pick-up party prior to the Best of the West Ranch Rodeo.    

Utilizing yearling bulls allows the opportunity for accelerated genetic gain and extended working life of a bull.  Dr. Jason Banta, beef cattle specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to explain bulls growth from puberty through sexual maturity and breeding readiness, specifically focused on yearling bulls being turned out with cows at 13-15 months of age. Body condition throughout the bulls life is a key factor that he discusses that impacts successful breeding. Additionally, Banta breaks down considerations for yearling bulls by pre-, mid- and post-breeding season to ensure proper care and safety.  

A USDA survey revealed Texas landowners lose more than $200 million annually in crop damage and livestock production due to feral hogs. The 87th Texas Legislature tasked Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to determine the effectiveness of warfarin-based toxicant on feral hog; John Tomeček, associate professor of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management at Texas A&M and Texas A&M AgriLife Research, joins TSCRA Talk to share the findings of the study.   Episode 57 is brought to you by Invora Rangeview. Learn more at Invora.com.   

A USDA survey revealed Texas landowners lose more than $200 million annually in crop damage and livestock production due to feral hogs. The 87th Texas Legislature tasked Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to determine the effectiveness of warfarin-based toxicant on feral hog; John Tomeček, associate professor of Rangeland, Wildlife and Fisheries Management at Texas A&M and Texas A&M AgriLife Research, joins TSCRA Talk to share the findings of the study.  Episode 57 is brought to you by Invora Rangeview. Learn more at Invora.com.

Dagan Lynn, executive chef for the Beef Checkoff-funded Beef. It's What's For Dinner brand, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, with fresh insight when it comes to cooking beef. He shares the versatility of beef as consumers re-create meals from around the world at home. And he touches on a classic recipe that sparked online debate as every family has their special touch which they feel quite strongly for.  Tune in for inspiration and visit www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com for recopies as well as nutrition information. 

As the Texas Beef Checkoff celebrates 10 years of establishment, TSCRA Talk host Kristen Brown gleans the history of the state Checkoff from former executive vice president of the Texas Beef Checkoff, Richard Wortham. Wortham worked for the Texas Beef Council for 30 years, 23 of which he served in the role of executive vice president. He shared the initial spark of conversation of a state Checkoff that took place in 2004, which then lead to state organizations moving forward to create and establish the additional assessment. Wortham discussed the impact the increased funding has had over the past 10 years.  In the second half of the special episode, Molly McAdams, the current executive vice president of the Texas Beef Council discussed current programs and initiatives that are possible due to the additional funds generated by the Texas Beef Checkoff. McAdams shared about the research that has impacted the quality of beef that is produced in the United States as well as research in the areas of nutrition and ongoing consumer preferences.   To learn more about the Texas Beef Checkoff, visit https://www.texasbeefcheckoff.com and also check out https://beeflovingtexans.com.    

Gilly Riojas, board member of the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown to discuss the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation Working Grant Program.  As the application is open May 1-31 and November 1-30, Riojas shares the importance of investing in the future of the beef industry and providing working capital to do just that. Texans and Oklahomans who are involved in ranching, from veterinary clinics to packing plants, are invited to apply.  Additionally, Riojas talks about the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation encompassing educational opportunities and professional development for youth and college students through internships and summer programs.   To learn more and view the application, visit https://tscra.org/what-we-do/leadership-development-foundation/.   

Carly Ray Polk, TSCRA President, from Lufkin, Texas, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss his insight in the current challenges of ranching and the future of TSCRA. Polk's passion for providing educational opportunities for cattlemen to thrive in the industry is evident. Two top priorities for Polk during his two-year tenure is to provide value for members is number one, keeping a close eye on numbers – both cattle inventory numbers and TSCRA membership numbers.  Additionally, Polk shares about the TSCRA Disaster Relief Program that is currently accepting applications to support the recent wildfire victims as well as the TSCRA Leadership Development Foundation Working Grant Program.  

The latest research shows that consumers love beef! Jessica Finck, Ph.D., who works in the value chain and consumer affairs area of Merck Animal Health, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the latest trends with consumers and beef.  Finck discusses key factors that impact consumer buying decisions and how they have shifted in the current economic climate. She also breaks down top label claims that different generations look for at the grocery store. Specifically looking at the price of beef, consumers are seeking out cost-saving opportunities.  In the comparison of beef and other proteins, Finck says that beef is still king. Wrapping up the episode, they discuss the market share of plant-based meats and eating styles including vegetarians and vegans.  View the latest consumer research at https://www.merck-animal-health-usa.com/about-us/value-chain-and-consumer-affairs.   

Frank McLelland, vice president of the executive committee at the National Ranching Heritage Association, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to share about the museum and the latest addition – the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center.  The museum encompasses 19 acres and includes 55 historic structures that capture the history of ranching for the past 200 years. McLelland shares that John R. Erickson and Hank the Cowdog serve as tour guides in the Ranch Life Learning Center, which gives visitors a hands-on experience of ranching.   Additionally, McLelland shares a variety of events hosted by the National Ranching Heritage Association throughout the year that bring awareness to the ranching way of life as well as honoring ranchers and cattlemen who have significantly impacted the industry.   

Dr. Nathan Canaday, 6666 ranch horse division manager and resident veterinarian, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the importance of properly caring for horses at the ranch which includes routine vaccination programs as well as hoof and teeth care. He emphasizes the value of working with a trusted veterinarian to make a management plan tailored to the work and goals of the ranch.   Additionally, Canaday shares insight into cold and warm weather care which both include keeping horses well hydrated. Closing out the show he talks about tips for traveling with horses such as taking a vet bag of supplies and ensuring the pickup and trailer are in proper working order.    

Scott Williamson, TSCRA Executive Director of Law, Brand and Inspection Services, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss opportunity and awareness around the upcoming total solar eclipse taking place on April 8, 2024. As some ranches will open their gates to welcome visitors, he explains the importance of properly communicating expectations as well as having liability forms signed and the proper insurance in place. For those who do not plan to have guests at their ranch, Williamson discusses securing the property.   While Williamson stresses the importance of not being fearful, he does share about the importance of having an emergency management plan that is communicated to employees and family, which can be put into place during weather emergencies or events that put a strain on resources.   Additionally, Williamson encourages listeners to stay up-to-date on specific information from their area through their local city and county officials.    

James Clement, III, with EarthOptics joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, for a high-level discussion on the impact of carbon on the cattle industry. As a multi-generational rancher, Clement shares his experience with carbon sampling on a variety of land types during his time at the King Ranch which sparked his interest carbon and soil sampling.Clement goes into the detail about the different segments involved in the carbon conversation. Through the conversation he shares how the misconception and negative view of cattle and the environment is shifting as large corporations have a strong interest in how and why cattlemen do what they do in taking care of the land and cattle, which is measured with facts through soil sampling and other technology.As the carbon partnership with cattlemen and landowners continues to develop, Clement encourages cattlemen and landowners to engage in learning about carbon and joining the conversations to help develop the role of cattle in the carbon industry.

Kent Rollins, renowned chuck wagon cook, along with his wife, Shannon, join TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown to discuss their path in taking the history and heritage of ranching and beef to a national audience. Raised on the Red River near Hollis, Okla., Kent grew up working cattle with area cowboys and learned the art of cooking with his mother at a young age.  As opportunities arose, Kent cooked for cowboys on open fire across the U.S. which eventually led to numerous tv appearances on shows including Throwdown with Bobby Flay, Chopped Grill Masters and NBC's Food Fighters. Kent and Shannon continue to share the cowboy way of life to the world through their YouTube channel and cookbooks.  

TSCRA executive director of government relations, Melissa Hamilton, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, with insight on three Propositions on the ballot for the November 7 election. Hamilton encourages cattlemen and landowners to vote yes on Propositions 1, 6 and 8. Hamilton shares that Proposition 1 - protecting the right to engage in farming, ranching, timber production, horticulture and wildlife management – is vital to the future of our industry and, ultimately, the survival of our country. She stresses the importance of Texans making it a constitutional right, especially in the current environment of the changing demographics in the state. Proposition 6 – creating the Texas Water Fund to assist in financing water projects – has been a work in progress for many years Hamilton says, and will also be important to the future of cattlemen and landowners. Additionally, Proposition 8 – creating the Broadband Infrastructure Fund to expand high-speed access and assist in financing connectivity projects – is another topic that has been in the works for many years and continues to grow in importance with the growth and dependence on technology Hamilton explains. Hamilton stresses the importance of having conversations with family and friends about the upcoming election. Additional resources: 

Emily Lochner, executive director of engagement and education at Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and a seedstock producer, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, for an in-depth conversation about EPDs.   Lochner shares the background on EPDs and how they have continued to evolve as gene technology improves through DNA analysis. She discusses the importance of evaluating the goals of the operation to know which EPDs will be impactful in the progeny.   Additionally, Lochner goes into very practical information by detailing ways to evaluate EPDs of different breeds of cattle and using the Dollar Value Indexes to encompass end goals. 

Curt Pate, a renowned livestock handling clinician, join TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to share about his experiences that led him down the path of stockmanship at the ranch as well as his insight on the impact it has to the ranchers bottom line.   Pate describes his childhood as incredible as he shares about growing up in Montana with family in a variety of segments of the livestock industry. He says he has always had a sensitive spot for animals and is always up for an adventure which led him to opportunities such as working on the set of the movie Horse Whisperer.   He goes on the discuss the added value that comes to the rancher when proper cattle handling is common practice at the ranch. “Good cattle handling isn't just the right thing to do, it's the only thing to do.”   https://curtpatestockmanship.com/about/ 

Aljoe says that the grazing principles are the most beneficial management tool in managing forages, lands and grazing landscape. He goes into detail about soil management, forage care, human involvement as well as profitability. Aljoe emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach, it all has to come together. Rest and recovery, while often lumped together, he explains there is a key difference when it comes to grazing. Additionally, Aljoe talks about how to implement regenerative grazing practices on ranches of all sizes.  

Cattlemen and corn grower Wesley Spurlock visits with TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown about the interdependence of cattle and corn on each other. Spurlock farms and runs cattle throughout the Texas Panhandle and is a past president of the National Corn Growers Association.     Spurlock discusses how the growth of feedyards and cattle production increased the need for corn and how that relationship continues to grow, touching on dry distillers grain. He says the two industries are tied so closely together and emphasizes the importance of working together. “Every pound of beef exported out of the U.S. is an amount of corn that is being exported also,” Spurlock says.   Spurlock discusses a recent study released by the U.S. Meat Export Federation that shared good news for both cattleman and corn growers.    

Compass Ag Solutions' Bryan Vasseur, chief operating officer, and Garren Bellis, business and risk management consultant, join TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, for a high-level discussion on the cattle market.   Vasseur starts by explaining the fundamentals that impact and drive the market, going in-depth on seasonals and the cyclical pattern of the markets that create the highs and lows of the year. He discusses similarities and differences between the cash and futures markets.   Bellis shares about market disrupters including slower changes through drought but also overnight shifts from black swan events. Additionally, they discuss the importance of a risk management plan saying there is a lot to protect but also a lot to gain.  

Scott Williamson, TSCRA Executive Director of law enforcement and theft prevention, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss a prevalent issue on the rise – fraud. Williamson discusses how utilizing the internet, while convenient, opens the door for misrepresentation of the items such as cattle, horses or hay. Williamson emphasizes the importance of utilize credible sources to locate commodities which could be a trusted website that specializes in selling the item or find a reference that you know and trust to inspect the item prior to purchase.  Additionally, he mentions phishing schemes and says if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. He shares other tips to keep your animals and property secure as well as remembering the ‘neighborhood watch' mentality. 

Tucker Brown, NCBA 2022 Beef Advocate of the Year, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to share about his social media platforms. A sixth-generation rancher, Brown has more than 176,000 followers on Tik Toc and 52,000 plus on Instagram and received a combine 5-6 million views per month on average. Brown shares how the R.A. Brown Ranch in Throckmorton, Texas has historically hosted student tours throughout the year; however, during the 2020 COVID pandemic when the students were not traveling they decided to get creative and connect in a new way. He found that through creating entertaining videos and posts about the every-day life on the ranch he has been able to build trust with a large audience. “Edu-tainment” is a phrase that Brown said is his goal – to entertain while also providing factual information. Additionally, Brown talks about questions he receives and how he handles the critics. 

Attorney Jim Bradbury joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the importance of ranching operations being set up as a separate legal entity, diving specifically into limited liability companies. Bradbury comments on the advantages including liability protection and ease of use. He encourages the listeners to take their business seriously by taking the time to set up the LLC and being diligent in maintaining the paperwork, especially when there are partnerships. Additionally, Bradbury offers suggestions of points to consider and have written down prior to meeting with an attorney to save time, which in turn saves money, including the proposed owners/members and a list of assets.

Will Durrett, rancher and Superior Livestock rep, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss value-added opportunities for ranchers to maximize profits.Durrett shares insight on value-added opportunities starting with a comprehensive vaccination program, backgrounding calves and being BQA certified. Additionally, heal so discusses producer-verified programs and, going a bit deeper, programs that require a third-party audit.

Miranda Skaggs of Bryan, Texas and Emmie Bertoni of Yoakum, Texas join TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to share about their experience this past summer at the inaugural Cattle Raisers Roundup.  The group of – 15 youth from across the state of Texas spent five days touring all aspects of the cattle industry including TCU Ranch Management, R.A. Brown Ranch, Texas Tech University Red Raider Meats, H-E-B, Lubbock Impact, Caviness Packers, Bar G Feedyard, Wrangler Feedyard, Timber Creek Veterinarian Hospital, Snack Pak 4 Kids, WTAMU Caviness Meat Lab, T-Bar Ranch, and Tarleton State University.  Skaggs and Bertoni share about their favorite parts and most memorable experiences from the week. Additionally, each participant drew a speech topic and gathered information throughout the week and gave a presentation to close out the Roundup. Skaggs and Bertoni were selected to each receive a $1,000 scholarship as the top two presentations. 

In episode 34 of TSCRA Talk, host Kristen Brown visits with 92 year-old Jimmie Powell of Fort McKavett. Powell shares stories of working cattle horseback from a young age out of necessity during the war. He tells of riding his pony and training horses as he got older. Additionally, Powell talks of how ranching has changed over the years and the importance of being involved with agriculture organizations and specifically the legislative aspect. Thank you to our sponsor, the Texas Department of Agriculture. 

Chad McNutt, co-founder of Livestock Wx, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, for a high-level discussion on drought.  A biologist by trade, McNutt has experience working for National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and a livestock background to provide cattle raisers valuable insight on the situation. McNutt shares the duration of a drought is key as it impacts grass production, soil moisture and tank levels.  He offers comments on the current situation in Texas, with a dry spring and summer, reinforcing the drought. According to McNutt, trend of summer temperatures across the country getting hotter, which causes a drought to intensify quickly when there is a deficit of precipitation. Additionally, he says livestock producers should keep in mind that dry conditions are always  operating somewhere, and regardless of duration, they all have different impacts to factor in when managing a ranch. A special thank you to our sponsor - the Texas Department of Agriculture. 

Hannah Fuerniss, manager of nutrition and health with the Texas Beef Council, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the role of beef in a balanced diet. Fuerniss discusses the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, a joint report from USDA and the Health and Human Services Department, which is meant for nutrition and health professionals who can then make decisions and recommendations with the intention of improving overall health for individuals and family in the U.S. She shares that there is great news for beef as the report recognizes that lean meat can support a healthy lifestyle, and that the nutrients found in beef are essential at every life stage. The latest guidelines are segmented into life stages with more specific recommendations provided for each group. Fuerniss highlighted that several life stages such as pregnant women, babies and toddlers, teen girls and older adults are at risk of deficiency of many nutrients that are readily available in beef such as iron, zinc, protein, B vitamins and choline. Through the conversations Fuerniss goes into detail about feeding beef to babies as a first food, consuming beef during the adolescent years and the importance of beef for adults as well. 

Coleman Locke and his son, John Locke, of the J.D. Hudgins ranch in Hungerford, TX join TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss operating a multi-generational ranch. As a fifth-generation family member at the ranch, Coleman likens working with different generations of family to a marriage – communication is vital. John, who is part of the sixth generation working on the ranch, says that succession and transition of the business is one of the biggest challenges in agriculture. He encourages listeners to step outside of themselves and into the other persons shoes as each person is in a different stage of life and has had different experiences. Learn the family customs, Coleman encourages; understand the history of the ranch, the things that have worked and the things that haven't worked, and become very acquainted with what is going on to see how it can be improved upon. Similarly, John shares that with the current challenges to ranching the energy and creativity of the young people can prove beneficial. Additionally, John notes the value of seeking out professional help with lawyers and accountants but also a mediator to help walk through family dynamics.  A special thanks to our sponsor – Redd Summit Advisors. Links: tscra.org mydryranch.com 

Jay Evans, chair of the TSCRA water subcommittee, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, with an update on important topics for cattlemen and landowners concerning water. Evans starts by commenting that drought tends to put a spotlight on water and the need for clean, usable water. He talks about the Texas Produced Water Consortium formed during the 2019 Texas Legislative Session, which is focused on studies to use produced water, and the conversations around the ownership of the groundwater.  Additionally, Evans discusses the Texas Supreme Court's decision around jurisdiction to decide disputes over ownership of water rights, the proposed construction of Lake Ringgold and critical habitat. Closing out the episode, Evans talks about the United States Supreme Court's decision to hear Sackett v. EPA, allowing the court to re-examine its decision from the Rapanos case in 1986; this could be the final say in the WOTUS definition and simultaneously take WOTUS out of the hands of the Executive Branch. 

In episode 29 of TSCRA Talk, Brent Smith, Kinney County Attorney and third-generation rancher, joins host, Kristen Brown, to share his experience both personally and professionally with the crises on the border.Smith describes the current state in the county as an active invasion with the high-speed smuggling cases, bailouts and helicopters flying day and night trying to apprehend illegal immigrants. He notes that the border patrol's report for the month of April included 234,000 apprehensions which is estimated to be only 10-12% of the total people who crossed the border.Everyday life of the area ranchers has drastically changed he says as trespassing is a daily occurrence, which means the ranchers must check fence constantly as well as ensure their livestock water has not been vandalized. Additionally, hunting leases have been impacted by the foot traffic and the lack of safety on the ranches.As a solution to the current problem, Smith encourages that Governor Abbott evoke the power of article 1 in the constitution which provides governors the power to protect their own borders when the federal government fails to do so; doing so would force all entries to go through a port as is supposed to be done.Smith shares, “It's like Texas is on the operating table with a gunshot wound and we are trying to put Band-Aids on it, and we are bleeding out."

Jon DeClerk, a cattle consulting nutritionist for Purina Animal Nutrition, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the planning that goes into a successful breeding season. DeClerk highlights the fact that reproduction is the number one factor that effects profitability at the ranch. He discusses having the right nutrition available for cows throughout the year to increases the opportunity for the cow to be successfully bred and raise her calf. When it comes to bulls, he encourages a year-round mindset and planning ahead to ensure they are in top shape to do their job during breeding season. Additionally, DeClerk discusses the importance of a defined breeding season of 60-90 days to optimize production efficiency and ensure resources are going to the cows that are most productive. Along those lines, he also mentions the importance of good record keeping as the memory isn't always reliable. 

AgriLife Extension assistant professor and economist Justin Benavidez joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the ins and outs of selling beef directly to consumers. He shares that there are risks and rewards for producers who engage in the direct selling process, which he goes into detail about through the conversation. Benavidez recommends starting with a business plan that first outlines the goals of the producer in order for success to be measured and to ensure the production model can fulfill the goals. Additionally, the business plan should include the partners to work with throughout the supply chain and specific licenses that will be required, which he discusses in detail. Benavidez says that to be in this business profitably, planning is vital before any steps are taken to execute the plan.  The conversation includes Benavidez sharing his insight on starting small and simple as well as building to a large scale and the considerations that need to be made through the process. Benavidez, along with Tiffany Dowell Lashmet, AgriLife Extension agricultural law specialist, are in the final stages of producing a book that will cover the legal and economic aspects of direct marketing beef. They will also be hosting workshops on the topic as well later in 2022. 

TSCRA Special Ranger Marvin Wills joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to share a few of his most memorable cases over the last 14 years, as well as tips to prevent cattlemen from becoming the victim of a crime.Wills explains the importance of staying vigilant with livestock and property, which includes keeping a record of all equipment VIN numbers and having contracts on all partnerships. He stresses the importance of knowing your neighbors–have their phone number and contact them if something out of the norm is noticed. As technology has increased so have the crimes committed through online transactions Wills says. He encourages cattlemen to talk to the real person who is selling livestock or equipment online and to not provide payment until it has been delivered and inspected. Wills reminds listeners to brand their cattle. Tune in to hear about the crimes committed by two criminals who devised a plan after meeting in prison.

Dr. Ben Espy, a veterinarian with an extensive equine-focused practice, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss equine wellness tips. In addition to being the King Ranch veterinarian, Espy cares for professional roughstock and timed event horses. For 25 years, he has served as  the head of veterinary services at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. He was awarded the Pro Rodeo Cowboy Association's Veterinarian of the Year award for 2021.Espy discusses the importance of a vaccination program for all horses at the ranch, especially if some horses are leaving for competitions and then returning without a quarantine period. Hoof care and teeth floating are also discussed, with Espy suggesting that a variety of factors be considered when it comes to human intervention. When it comes to equine nutrition and body condition he shares that a horse can only gain three pounds per day and it takes about 100 pounds of body weight to see a change in the horse; therefore, time must be given to the horse for the change to happen. Wrapping up the episode, Grace Dunham, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association's executive director of events and partnerships, joins Brown to discuss the upcoming Cattle Raisers Convention and Expo. The event will be held March 25-27 in Fort Worth. Dunham shares President George W. Bush will be the keynote speaker in a fireside chat with Red Steagall. Additionally, there are new components being added to the convention including a graduate research poster showcase and a learning lounge where speakers from the School for Successful Ranching will be available to answer additional questions. Another new event is the After Party Saturday night for the young and young at heart to continue to visit and two-step. To learn more about the Cattle Raisers Convention and Expo, visit cattleraisersconvention.com. 

Sustainability expert Myriah Johnson joins TSCRA Talk host Kristen Brown to discuss three components that make up the broad scope of sustainability — environmental, economics and social. Later in the conversation, Johnson shares about ongoing research to continue to strive for improvement in terms of sustainability.Digging deeper into the environmental pillar of sustainability, Johnson explains it includes greenhouse gases, water, ecosystems but, often, each topic overlaps with another pillar. The economic pillar focuses on the financial viability of each level of the industry but also includes how the local economy is impacted by the beef industry as well as the generational transfer of cattle operations which keeps working lands working. The social pillar encompasses health and nutrition of beef as well as the mental health component of beef producers.Johnson shares that a lot of current research is focused on the social pillar as that has been an under-studied area. Community security is a specific topic that is being evaluated as researchers look at the ways in which ranchers contribute to their communities and, in turn, what ranchers need from a community.Wrapping up the episode, Johnson says that continued conversations about sustainability are important because consumers are asking questions and it is also a great way to continue to improve the industry. Resources to learn more include beefitswhatsfordinner.com and beefresearch.org.

Jeremy Fuchs, director of policy communications and government relations at Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, joins TSCRA Talk host Kristen Brown to discuss the legislative happenings in 2021. Fuchs shares that the second and third special legislative session in Texas produced productive funding for border security and COVID relief funds to help with rural broadband infrastructure and rural hospitals. Redistricting was an important component and Fuchs says with the growing populations of Texas in urban areas it's important for rural communities to keep their voice. Additionally, Fuchs discusses the government relations team's work monitoring state and federal agencies rules and regulatory framework that has been proposed. Two significant items include the infrastructure bill that passed and has been signed by President Biden and the Build Back Better plan, which, as of recording time, had not yet moved to the Senate. Fuchs debunks a tax myth about the Build Back Better plan and says that the bill has already been cut down to about half the original cost which eases a lot of concerns about taxes. With the change in administration this year Fuchs talks about a variety of other issues that they have been monitoring. Closing out the episode, Brown asks Fuchs to share two topics that cattlemen and landowners need to be aware of in 2022. Tune in to hear his response. 

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Executive Director Carter Smith joins TSCRA Talk host Kristen Brown to discuss Chronic Wasting Disease, or CWD. Smith shares the background on CWD being identified in the state of Texas and the monitoring taking place through both mandatory and voluntary testing. He says  early detection and containment are vital to prevent the disease from being spread. With the value hunting brings to rural land, Smith says that it is important that landowners know that their wildlife are healthy. Next, James Oliver, chair of Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association's natural resources and wildlife committee, explains how the association has been involved in the Chronic Wasting Disease Taskforce with Texas Animal Health Commission and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. He emphasizes the financial impact that hunting brings to cattle operations and the importance of minimizing the effects of the disease.  

Justin Sexten, farm boy turned ranch tech expert, joins TSCRA Talk host Kristen Brown to discuss utilizing technology at the ranch. Sexten says the best advancements provide the user with a simpler experience, saving them time. He says technology offers a lot of opportunity in converting data points into usable information to visualize in a valuable way, ultimately leading to making fact-based decisions no matter the size or scope of your operation. For cattlemen who are already collecting data and information digitally, Sexten encourages continued development of the data by evaluating what questions cannot be answered about the cattle and what data is needed to meet that need. Additionally, he shares insight into the latest and greatest technology that producers are currently using and what he anticipates will be the next advancements. 

In this episode, Radale Tiner joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss  buying and selling at seedstock cattle sales. For cattlemen in the market for bulls, Tiner recommends knowing what your end goal is with the calves that will be produced and make a game plan accordingly. Tiner also recommends communicating with the seedstock producer as they will want to help their customers be successful in finding the bull that is going to best fit the operation and the producer's goals. On the producer side of the sale, Tiner encourages good customer service by being available to answer questions but also proactively reaching out and staying in touch with buyers. 

Jeff Goodwin, conservation stewardship leader and senior pasture and range consultant with the Noble Research Institute, joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss regenerative ranching. Goodwin explains it is the process of restoring the degraded grazing lands using practices based on ecological principles. He shares how both ecology and economics flourish jointly on the ranch. Additionally, Goodwin explains the importance of the right mindset —  seeing opportunities where a challenge once might have been perceived.   

Risk management analyst Casey Mabry joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss basics of risk management for cattlemen. On the episode he discusses tools for managing risk looking at both the downside and the upside of the market. A key factor he says is building a plan and then working through the plan with a long-term vision in place, which helps keep emotions from taking over. Mabry goes on to explain Livestock Risk Protection insurance, which is underwritten by USDA, protect downside risk but it doesn't limit upside growth. Closing out the episode Kaleb McLaurin, TSCRA's executive director of government and public affairs, joins Brown with a brief update on the 87th Texas Legislative session. McLaurin shares that quite a few pieces of good legislation passed this session. “Anytime the legislature comes to town and doesn't do harm that is a good thing,” McLaurin says. He touches specifically on the eminent domain reform bill says they are considering it a “net zero bill” because it didn't change drastically but it does set minimum easement terms with the passage of the bill. Two special sessions called by Gov. Abbott are expected this year to address winter storm Uri legislation and redistricting. 

Texas Beef Council Executive Vice President Molly McAdams joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss consumer trends over the past 15 months (and share which ones are sticking around). McAdams shares that during the pandemic consumers were learning to cook at home and turned to their online platforms for information. She explains how the Texas Beef Council  team focuses on meeting consumers where they are with the information they are seeking. As sustainability continues to be top-of-mind for both producers and consumers, McAdams shares the importance of producers sharing their story to build trust and transparency. Have you ever heard of a flexitarian? Tune in to find out what it is. Thanks to LANDVisor by Corteva Agriscience for sponsoring this episode. Links mentioned:landvisor.corteva.combeeflovingtexans.comtexasbeefcheckoff.comtscra.org 

Texas AgriLife Extension Agricultural Law Specialist Tiffany Lashmet joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss the importance of properly setting up a hunting lease. Lashmet shares a variety of topics that need to be included in the written hunting lease as well as who needs to sign the lease. Landowner liability protection is another important factor when it comes to having people on the land, according to Lashmet. "You never think it will happen to you.” Lashmet says, “And the odds are probably that it won’t. But if it does, taking the time to really prepare ahead of time ... is money really well spent." Later, Grace Dunham, TSCRA's executive director of events and partnerships, joins Brown to discuss Cattle Raisers Convention and Expo, which will be held July 23-25 in Fort Worth. The event will include 30 hours of educational opportunities, live cattle demonstrations, more than 250 trade show exhibitors, evening receptions and a dinner and dance featuring Jake Hooker and the Outsiders. Registration is open now with early bird pricing available until June 1. This episode of TSCRA Talk is sponsored by LANDVisor from Corteva Agriscience.     Links:tscra.orgcattleraisersconvention.com agrilife.org/texasaglawlandvisor.corteva.com

More than 7,000 bills have been filed for the 86th legislative session in Texas this year. Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Director of Government Relations Kaleb McLaurin joins TSCRA Talk host, Kristen Brown, to discuss top priorities for TSCRA as well as how COVID-19 has shifted many aspects of the session. The conversation covers eminent domain, rural broadband, animal import/export facilities, truth in labeling, farm animal liability act as well as other legislation. Additionally, McLaurin shares about how producers can stay up-to-date and the importance of engaging with their local representative.This episode of TSCRA Talk is sponsored by LANDVisor from Corteva Agriscience.