JACKSON, Wyo. — March 21 is National Agriculture Day, also called Ag Day, which celebrates one of the top three industries in Wyoming.
According to the most recent data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Wyoming has the largest average size of farms and ranches in the United States and cattle production is the largest agricultural commodity in the state.
“Because of the way Wyoming is situated and the types of soils largely present across the state, not many things can grow that can be considered suitable to the human diet,” says the Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA) in a special article for Ag Day. “Luckily, a lot of the grasses that can grow in those areas are an effective source of food for livestock.”
According to the WDA, the Wyoming agricultural landscape is especially unique. Since more than half of the land mass in Wyoming is owned by state and federal government, grazing allotments are a critical part of producer operations. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the US Forest Service (USFS) work closely with producers paying for grazing permits to establish plans for trailing routes for livestock, rotational grazing and the number of head that meet the desired resource conditions.
Navigating limitations or reductions in federal multi-use areas while trying to utilize allotments is a challenge producers face, in addition to the harsh winters that also characterize Wyoming’s unique landscape. As seen this past winter when Governor Gordon requested disaster designation for all 23 counties, weather throughout the state can create huge losses for the agriculture industry.
WDA has resources available specifically for the agriculture community to help manage stress from weather, costs and regulatory burdens. There is an AgriStress HelpLine (833-897-2474) for Wyoming producers and rural families seeking mental health support that offers free, professional service 24/7.
“The AgriStress HelpLine for Wyoming is supported by a grant from the USDA that was awarded to the WDA to carry out programming to address farmer stress and suicide,” says the WDA. “Many of our producers take pride in their ability to handle all challenges that come their way and consequently, there can be a stigma around seeking help for mental health issues.”
Wyoming agricultural producers can also now apply for conservation funds to manage their land for livestock, wildlife and migration corridors through the USDA-Wyoming Big Game Conservation Partnership. According to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, the program will offer producers a variety of funding opportunities and additional land support.
