This year seemed to fly by, but not without some ups and down along the way. The Nevada livestock industry faced a drought like many of us have never seen before. If there was a silver lining, it seemed that the drought was so bad that our fire season was much less severe than in past years and that is something to be thankful for. The storms that much of Nevada saw at the end of October and again in December were much needed and hopefully continue through the winter.
I can’t write a recap of 2021 without mentioning COVID-19. It’s hard to fathom, but the first case in the U.S. was reported on January 20, 2020. I never thought we would still be experiencing its impact nearly two years later. While in-person meetings and events seem to be slowly but surely coming back, there is no doubt that “normal” is taking its sweet time. As things remain out of whack, the NCA has taken to heart the unofficial Marine Corps mantra “improvise, adapt and overcome”. I’m proud of the work that NCA has done through it all. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
Over the past year NCA held a successful 55th Annual Fallon All-Breeds Bull Sale. Sixty-four bulls went through the sale at an average of $4,245. In conjunction with the sale, the Stock Dog Trials also had another successful year as well. I’d like to thank our Fallon Bull Sale Committee for all the work they put into hosting a top-notch event and look forward to the 56th Annual Sale on February 19th, 2022.
We also survived the 81st Session of Nevada’s Legislature. This year’s session was unlike any other with much of the Legislative Session being conducted virtually. The format proved to be difficult for everyone involved. While we didn’t win every battle, I’m happy to report that the livestock industry came out the other side relatively unscathed. I’d like to thank our lobbyist, Neena Laxalt, Legislative Affairs Committee Chair, Davy Stix, and NCA’s Board of Directors and Officers for their work during this year’s session. It was an all hands-on-deck operation, and we are lucky to have the group that we do.
NCA was also engaged on several different issues throughout the year with our federal and state partners. Whether it be federal tax code, animal disease traceability, habitat conservation, brand inspections or the many other topics that arose; NCA had a seat at the table to ensure that we can continue doing what we love, raising high qualify beef. We also had representation in Nashville, Tennessee for the NCBA Cattle Industry Convention and the Public Lands Council Annual Meeting held earlier this fall. Both of which provided an opportunity for livestock producers to come together to learn new things and create paths forward regarding many of the issues the industry is facing today.
One last thank you goes out to outgoing NCA President, Tom Barnes. Tom took the reins of the Association during a tumultuous time and has led the charge with poise and grace. We recognize and appreciate all of his countless hours spent for the betterment of Nevada’s beef industry.
As we move into 2022 there will undoubtedly be new challenges. Now more than ever it’s important that we protect, promote, and preserve our heritage and the ranching way of life. We encourage you to invite your friends, neighbors, and associates to join the Nevada Cattlemen’s Association and learn more about our association and what we do.
Please feel free to contact the NCA office for more information at 1-775-738-9214 or visit nevadacattlmen.org.
I look forward to seeing you all in 2022!
by Martin Paris | NCA Executive Director | O: 775-738-9214