Rancher, First Lady Jennie Gordon keynote speaker at free Gillette agricultural symposium

First Lady Jennie Gordon will present “The Significance of Women in Wyoming Agriculture Production” as the lunch keynote speaker at the free Excellence in Agriculture symposium Wednesday, May 1, in Gillette.

Industry updates, workshops and recognizing women in agriculture are part of the program at the Cam-plex energy building. “Heart of Agriculture” awards presented at the symposium recognize current and historic farm and ranch contributions of women to Wyoming. Additional sponsorships have made the event free to attend.

            Gordon, with husband Gov. Mark Gordon, are the owners/operators of the Merlin Ranch, a cow‐calf and heifer development operation near Buffalo.

Research and issue updates of concern to central and northeast Wyoming producers are symposium topics, said Scott Cotton, University of Wyoming Extension educator, one of the symposium’s planners.

“I think this is a rare opportunity,” said Blake Hauptman, UW Extension educator, also a planner for the event. “You get to hear from some of the most respected livestock industry professionals and public office holders working on behalf of Wyoming ranchers.  Also, you get a good meal and plenty of time to meet and greet with other attendees.”     

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. with presentations starting at 9 a.m. Those include

“Beef Quality Assurance,” with Steve Paisley, UW Extension, or “Difficult Conversations: How do We Discuss what Really Matters,” with John Hewlett and Caleb Carter, UW Extension.

            The next breakout sessions are “Livestock Health and Disease Updates,” with Dr. Jim Logan, Wyoming State Veterinarian, or “Livestock and Predators,” with Cat Urbigkit, Wyoming rancher and author.

Jim Magagna, executive vice president of the Wyoming Stock Growers Association, will provide an update on agricultural issues.

             The program concludes with recognition of Wyoming “Heart of Agriculture” award winners. Nominations for the awards need to be submitted to Cotton at Scotton1@uwyo.edu before April 22. Information must include name, county of operation, description of the efforts by the producer and a photo if possible. All materials submitted will be held confidential by UW Extension.

            Attendees must register by Friday, April 26, by going to bit.ly/heartofag. For more information, contact Cotton at Scotton1@uwyo.edu or 307-235-9400 or Hauptman at bhaupma@uwyo.edu or 307-283-1192.